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In order to find an answer, a thorough examination of every aspect of Venus is necessary, including how its appearance has changed over time. While Earth has plate tectonics which shapes its landscape with moving tectonic plates, Venus does not have this process. However, a recent study suggests that Venus may have a unique variation of plate tectonics where blocks of its surface have shifted and twisted, altering their surroundings. These dancing blocks, which are thin and flat slices of rock known as campi (derived from the Latin word for "fields"), vary in size from as small as Ireland to as large as Alaska. They were discovered using data collected during NASA's Magellan orbiter mission, the agency's final exploration of Venus. In the early 1990s, the mission utilized radar to penetrate the planet's dense atmosphere and create a comprehensive map of its surface. Upon revisiting these maps, researchers identified 58 campi spread out across the volcanic plains of the planet. These campi are surrounded by lines of small mountain ranges and grooves, which have been altered and damaged over time. According to Paul Byrne, a planetary scientist at North Carolina State University and the lead author of the study, the campi on Venus were created by being moved around by the flowing mantle below, similar to how pack ice moves. Campi moving towards stationary land would create mountains while those moving away would stretch the land and create grooves. Campi moving side-to-side would leave strain marks and etchings along boundaries. The fact that this deformation occurred in the lowlands of Venus is important. The lava covering these landscapes ranges in age from 750 to 150 million years old, making them some of the youngest on the planet. The tectonic activity that created these campi occurred relatively recently in the history of the solar system. NASA's VERITAS and Europe's EnVision missions will investigate whether this tectonic activity is still ongoing. By using advanced radar systems, these orbiters will provide high-resolution images of the campi, helping scientists determine if any have moved since the time of Magellan. If evidence is found that Venus is tectonically active, it would support the idea that Venus may not be as active as Earth, but still has some level of tectonic activity. In the past, Venus may have had a large amount of water for billions of years, which could have allowed for plate tectonics to occur. Plate tectonics involve the breaking, bending, and flowing of plates, which is facilitated by liquid water. This process helps regulate climate by burying and erupting carbon, preventing runaway global warming that could make planets uninhabitable. However, it is possible that multiple volcanic events caused Venus to become dry and inhospitable, leading to the shutdown of its plate tectonics. Therefore, over the past billion years, the surface of the entire planet has been a solitary, stagnant, and mostly unchanging plate. However, this does not mean that the planet is devoid of movement. Previous missions such as Magellan have identified fault networks, rift zones, and mountain ridges, which are evidence of both ancient and more recent tectonic activity. If the findings of this new study are accurate and large areas of Venus have been recently experiencing movement, it suggests that the planet's surface is more dynamic than previously believed, according to Joseph O'Rourke, a planetary scientist at Arizona State University. Understanding the reasons behind Venus's unexpected tectonic activity would have significant implications. There are numerous Earth-sized and Venus-sized planets in the universe, and how their tectonic activity unfolds will play a crucial role in their destinies. According to O'Rourke, it is essential to comprehend Earth and Venus in order to understand other rocky planets in our solar system and beyond. Venus, with its many unexpected characteristics, poses a challenge to this endeavor. | 5 |
Due to a geomagnetic storm caused by a recent solar outburst, 40 out of 49 newly launched Starlink satellites have been disabled and are now reentering Earth's atmosphere to be burned up. This event underscores the risks involved for companies aiming to deploy thousands of small satellites for internet service in space. There is a possibility that future solar outbursts could also disrupt these orbital transmitters, as the sun operates on an 11-year cycle of activity. At the moment, the sun is increasing in activity and is expected to reach its peak around 2025. This recent solar outburst was considered mild compared to previous events. Hugh Lewis, a space debris expert, believes that a more severe event is likely to occur during the next solar cycle. If a relatively weak solar event can disrupt 40 Starlink satellites, a stronger solar event could cause even more damage to the satellite constellations of companies like SpaceX. SpaceX announced the potential loss of up to 40 satellites in a blog post on Tuesday. The company stated that following the launch, the satellites were placed into their designated orbit, which is approximately 130 miles above Earth. This specific altitude was selected in part to avoid potential collisions with other satellites in the future. If the satellites experience issues after being deployed at this altitude and are unable to adjust their orbits to safer levels, they will be quickly reclaimed by the atmosphere, according to Lewis, providing a good safety precaution. However, on Jan 29, before the launch of these satellites, a powerful eruption from the sun containing highly energetic particles and magnetism, known as a coronal mass ejection, was observed. This ejection reached Earth around Feb 2, causing a geomagnetic storm within Earth's magnetic field. The intense storm added energy to particles in Earth's atmosphere, causing it to expand and increase in density. This increased drag on objects moving through the atmosphere, including satellites, causing their orbits to shrink and bringing them closer to the lower atmosphere where they would burn up. SpaceX reported that during a recent Starlink deployment, the storm caused atmospheric drag to increase by up to 50% compared to previous launches, leading to the eventual loss of 40 out of 49 satellites. Currently, there are a total of 1,915 Starlink satellites orbiting in space, so losing up to 40 of them is not a significant issue for SpaceX according to Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at Harvard and the Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. However, Lewis mentioned that this loss could potentially amount to $100 million in hardware costs, including the launch expenses. The dangers posed by solar outbursts and geomagnetic storms to objects in low-Earth orbit are well-documented, with potential risks including electrical damage and disruptions to communications. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration categorizes geomagnetic storms on a scale from minor to extreme, with the most recent storm being classified as "moderate" and capable of causing changes in atmospheric drag that may affect orbits. With these risks in mind, it raises the question of whether SpaceX considered this hazard during the deployment of Starlink satellites. Samantha Lawler, an astronomer at the University of Regina in Canada, expressed her surprise at the situation, stating she was dumbfounded. McDowell also found it unexpected and mentioned that they should have been prepared for it. A SpaceX media representative mentioned that the team was unavailable to answer questions due to a demanding time. The fact that the satellites are entering the atmosphere quickly and do not pose a threat to anyone on the ground is seen as a positive development. Lewis stated that the system performed as expected in terms of safety, with the satellites de-orbiting without posing any risk. While most satellites orbit at higher altitudes and can avoid atmospheric expansion hazards, those at lower altitudes remain vulnerable. This raises concerns about SpaceX's ability to continue deploying spacecraft at low altitudes. Lewis explained that as the sun becomes more active, it emits more extreme ultraviolet radiation, which is absorbed into our atmosphere, causing it to expand significantly. The anticipated result is a substantial increase in atmospheric density by one or two orders of magnitude. Many astronomers have expressed concern about Starlink and other satellite constellations, as they reflect sunlight and may disrupt telescope research on Earth. Some view this incident as indicative of SpaceX's approach to issues in low-Earth orbit, with a focus on fixing problems after they occur rather than preventing them in advance. According to Lewis, the destruction of these satellites serves as a tough lesson for SpaceX. Lawler stated that the outcome is in their hands and expressed a hope that they will gain some understanding from the situation. | 5 |
Growing speculation suggests that Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard may be removed from her position by her party before the end of the year. Senior ministers showed their support for her on Friday following a difficult start to 2012. Despite media reports hinting at a potential leadership challenge from Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd, Defense Minister Stephen Smith and other cabinet ministers have backed Gillard. Many political analysts now believe that Gillard is unlikely to lead the party into the next election in the second half of 2013, with a potential move against her more likely in the latter part of this year. Monash University political analyst Nick Economou stated, "MPs are starting to think the boat is going down, and they're starting to panic," adding, "I don't think she'll lead the Labor Party to the next election." The initial major opinion polls for 2012 revealed that government backing was stuck at historically low levels, while online bookmakers Sportsbet announced on Friday that the odds of Rudd becoming leader by the end of the year had decreased to $1.20 for a $1.00 bet. "I am a firm supporter of the Prime Minister. I believe she is handling a very difficult situation very well," Smith stated in an interview with Australian television from Brussels. He was joined by Climate Change Minister Greg Combet, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy, and Regional Affairs Minister Simon Crean, who have all urged an end to party discord, with Crean stating that Rudd was not a team player. Despite being seen as working independently by his Labor colleagues and being removed as prime minister in a party room coup due to struggles in passing reforms, polls indicate that Rudd remains popular with voters. The government's dilemma is compounded by the fact that Gillard relies on support from two independents and the Greens, and any leadership change could potentially result in a change of government or an early election if the new leader is unable to secure similar support. This means that a leadership spill could lead to a change in government, with the conservative opposition vowing to repeal a new 30 percent mining tax and a carbon tax set to take effect on July 1. Despite rumors of discontent, Gillard remains focused on implementing effective policies and dismisses media speculation. Gillard ended 2011 on a strong note, with an increase in her parliamentary majority due to an opposition lawmaker defecting to become parliamentary speaker. However, she has had a difficult start to 2012. She lost the backing of an independent in January due to breaking a promise to alter gambling laws, and also had a staff member resign after their involvement in a protest against Opposition Leader Tony Abbott that posed a security risk. This has put the government back at square one, only holding a one seat majority in parliament and with one lawmaker facing scrutiny for potentially using union funds to pay for escorts. Despite this, there is hope for Gillard if the central bank reduces interest rates as predicted. Australian Financial Review political editor Laura Tingle noted a shift in support away from Gillard in the past week, although many Labor members still hold animosity towards Rudd. Tingle wrote on Friday that there has been a significant shift in attitude towards Julia Gillard, with a silent but strong threat. Economou mentioned that any action against Gillard would probably not happen until July, after the carbon tax and mining tax take effect. This timing would give Labor the opportunity to present their budget in May and focus on campaigning for the Queensland state election on March 24, where polls indicate that Labor may lose. Economou expressed concern that the situation could become critical after the carbon tax is implemented, and if there is no improvement by then, Gillard may be forced to step down. | 5 |
Oscar voters have a strong appreciation for good dramas, but at the Toronto International Film Festival, dramas were not as prevalent on screen as they were behind the scenes. The festival, known for being a starting point for movie awards, opened with the Charles Darwin drama "Creation" which was looking for a US distributor. Many of the films at the festival were still seeking distribution, including titles like "Chloe" and "Dorian Gray." Due to the recession, audiences have been more interested in escapist fantasies and comedies, causing distributors to focus on those genres and leaving serious dramas struggling for attention. According to industry insiders, fans of quality dramas still exist, and the genre is not dead. They believe the problem is more related to marketing and cost rather than a lack of creative content. However, filmmakers like Jon Amiel are finding it tough to produce movies like "No Country for Old Men," which won an Oscar for Best Film in 2007. Amiel, whose film "Creation" explores Charles Darwin's struggles with evolution in the 1850s, described "drama" as the new undesirable term in Hollywood. He mentioned that even indie distributors are hesitant to purchase films about obscure historical figures like a deceased, bald Englishman in today's market. Many American movies that are not viewed by audiences can be considered box office failures. This can be seen in the lower earnings of successful art house films like "The Hurt Locker" compared to more mainstream romantic comedies like "(500) Days of Summer." According to entertainment attorney Steven Beer, dramas are considered risky in today's market due to a conservative attitude. However, industry experts believe that dramas can still attract fans and be profitable. The key is to develop an appropriate production and marketing strategy that aligns with the current movie industry landscape. This often involves grassroots campaigns targeting specific audience groups, such as fans of science and period pieces for films like "Creation." Additionally, production costs need to be reduced to accommodate lower box office revenue and declining DVD sales, which have decreased significantly due to competition from other forms of home entertainment. Despite the challenges, dramas have always been difficult to produce and will continue to be so. Tom Ortenberg, president of theatrical films at The Weinstein Co., stated that the current economic climate is challenging, which is why there needs to be a change in the models used by distributors. David Poland of MovieCityNews.com also mentioned that the decrease in DVD sales has made distributors hesitant to invest in expensive dramas, although there is still demand for the genre. Distributors are now more selective when choosing dramas, making it harder for a breakout film like "Slumdog" at Toronto 2009 to emerge. Tom Bernard, co-president of Sony Pictures Classics, added that buyers at Toronto are now more cautious compared to previous years. | 5 |
Mohsin passed away while undergoing treatment at Dhaka's Combined Military Hospital at 9:30am on Monday, according to Selina Haque, an additional secretary to the defence ministry. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed deep sorrow over Mohsin's death and extended her condolences to his family. Mohsin, who tested positive for coronavirus, was admitted to CMH on June 2 and later transferred to intensive care where he received plasma therapy as his condition worsened. He was promoted to the rank of senior secretary on June 14 while still in the hospital. Mohsin was the younger brother of former principal secretary Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury. Mohsin was born in Cumilla in 1963 and obtained an MSc in Soil Science from Dhaka University. He then went on to complete an MA in Governance Studies from Northern University in Dhaka. As a member of the 1985 BCS batch, Mohsin held various positions in the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industries, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Prime Minister's Office. Prior to working at the defense ministry, he served as the secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. | 5 |
There were a total of 19 fatalities across multiple states due to the storm. It was the third largest snowstorm in New York City history, with a snowfall accumulation of at least 25.1 inches (63.7 cm), and was also significant in Washington. Thirteen individuals lost their lives in weather-related car accidents in Arkansas, North Carolina, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia. In addition, one person died in Maryland and three in New York City while clearing snow. Officials in Virginia reported that two individuals died from hypothermia. The storm that brought nearly two feet of snow to Washington unexpectedly gained strength as it moved north towards the New York metropolitan area, home to around 20 million people. The storm was forecasted to continue through the night, with snow accumulations of 24 to 28 inches expected in New York City, northern New Jersey, and western Long Island, accompanied by winds gusting up to 45 mph. The statue of Pierre Charles L'Enfant in Washington was covered in snow during the winter storm on January 23, 2016. Visibility was anticipated to be very low, at one-quarter of a mile or less. The statue of Pierre Charles L'Enfant is covered with snow during a winter storm in Washington on January 23, 2016. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency, along with 10 other state governors. He also issued a ban on all travel on roads in the New York City area and on Long Island, except for emergency vehicles, from Saturday afternoon until 7am on Sunday. Subways running above ground and trains operated by the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North stopped service at 4pm due to heavy snowfall, with ploughs unable to keep up. The impact of the travel ban on New York's financial services industry was deemed minimal over the weekend, and it was uncertain how much the snow would affect Wall Street's reopening on Monday. However, on Broadway, the effect was quickly felt. The mayor's recommendation led theatres to cancel Saturday matinee and evening shows, causing a rare silence in the typically busy city of 8.5 million people. Both tourists and locals took to the streets of Manhattan, with some even skiing in Central Park's snow-covered grounds. Many others chose to build snowmen or engage in friendly snowball fights. The area around the Washington Monument was blanketed in snow during a winter storm in Washington on January 23, 2016. Authorities in New York and New Jersey stopped public transportation, while the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority decided to suspend operations through Sunday in the capital. Mayor Muriel Bowser stated at a press conference that the snow was expected to stop late that night or early in the morning, but emphasized that it was still hazardous. We anticipate strong winds will persist in the area, leading to poor conditions and visibility. FlightAware.com reported that over 5,100 flights were cancelled on Saturday and more than 3,300 on Sunday. United Airlines announced it would not be operating at Washington-area airports over the weekend, but would gradually resume service on Monday. The airline plans to have limited operations at its Newark, New Jersey hub and other New York area airports on Sunday afternoon. The blizzard first hit Washington, where snow accumulated outside the White House and on the city's famous monuments, before moving on to the New York City area. "We are excited to make snow angels in front of the White House," stated Robert Bella Hernandez, 38. "We plan to explore the snow-covered DC landmarks and head back inside when it becomes unsafe. The record snowfall in Washington was 28 inches in 1922, with the most recent significant snowfall being 17.8 inches in 2010. High winds reaching 70 mph from North Carolina to New York caused coastal flooding higher than during Sandy." National Weather Service meteorologist Greg Gallina reported. A man is seen walking near the Washington Monument in Washington during a winter storm on January 23, 2016, as reported by Reuters. The storm also affected Baltimore and Philadelphia in the Mid-Atlantic region, leading to power outages for about 150,000 customers in North Carolina and 90,000 homes in New Jersey. High tides, surpassing those seen during Superstorm Sandy three years earlier, caused flooding along the Jersey Shore and Delaware coast, with record levels in Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware. Evacuations were reported along the New Jersey Shore, where residents had to leave their homes during the destructive 2012 storm. Linda Gilmore, the public information officer for the county, reported that the barrier islands close to Atlantic City were facing notable tidal flooding. Meteorologists explained that a storm originating from the Gulf Coast brought snow to Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky on Friday. The winter system formed when warm, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean mixed with cold air along the coast. | 5 |
The October issue of GQ features Paul McCartney, who usually relies on old Beatles stories but in this interview, he appeared unprepared, indecisive, and less concerned about his image. He shared a story about the Beatles' teenage experiences that led to a provocative headline in the New York Post. This revelation was both intriguing for fans and a humanizing moment for McCartney, who is often seen as larger than life. It required him to be open and vulnerable, unlike Beyoncé in the September issue of Vogue. The article titled "Beyoncé in Her Own Words" is not a profile, but rather a collection of brief comments on various topics like motherhood, body acceptance, and touring. Anna Wintour describes it as a "powerful essay" written by Beyoncé herself, with minimal outside influence from the journalist who was present during the process. This lack of outside perspective may not bother Beyoncé's fans, but it is concerning for those who value celebrity journalism for its ability to provide context and depth to the fame economy through interactions between interviewer and interviewee. The situation is not unique. Many popular musicians, like Taylor Swift, Drake, and Frank Ocean, have been avoiding interviews with traditional media outlets for extended periods of time. Instead, they are sharing their stories and messages through social media platforms. A monologue, rather than a dialogue, is posing a threat to the traditional role of the celebrity press. In-depth interviews have been essential for creating stars since the 1960s, as well as for maintaining the image of high-profile celebrities. Even after reaching the peak of fame, artists continued to fulfill their media obligations by answering questions. This was how the most intriguing cultural figures, such as John Lennon, Tupac Shakur, and Courtney Love, explained themselves in moments of significance. It was enlightening for fans and a point of pride for celebrities, especially during confrontational conversations. Stars like Ice Cube and Madonna thrived in these situations, showing themselves to be thoughtful, unafraid of challenges, and aware of their public image. However, this was in a time when print media held more power and the internet and TMZ had not yet taken over the narrative. As celebrities' every move became constantly documented, they became more hesitant. This shift alone wouldn't mean the end of celebrity journalism as it has been known for years. However, the pressure faced by celebrity journalism from higher-ups may not be as significant as the threat emerging from below. A new generation of celebrities, including YouTube stars and SoundCloud rappers, are sharing personal details on social media at a rapid pace, without needing to adhere to the traditional constraints of interviews. This generation values all-access hyper-documentation, rendering the traditional focus of celebrity journalism on intimate perspectives and behind-the-scenes access irrelevant. For example, rapper Lil Xan has been involved in various online dramas recently, such as discussing his health issues and conflicts with his management on Instagram live, as well as dating and breaking up with Noah Cyrus. Instead of waiting for traditional media to catch up, he is taking control of his narrative by announcing his projects directly on Instagram without going through traditional channels. At times, social media posts now serve the same purpose as tell-all interviews once did. Celebrities like Ariana Grande, XXXTentacion, and Logan Paul have used platforms like Instagram and YouTube to share personal stories and apologies, reaching a large, supportive audience without the scrutiny of traditional journalism. This shift has created a dilemma for celebrity journalism, as established stars ignore it and up-and-comers find it less relevant in the age of social media. As time passes, the middle ground may disappear completely. Additionally, there has been a variety of content creation, making it challenging for consumers to distinguish between original reporting and aggregated content, journalistic outlets and brand-created content. This lack of clarity pushes celebrities towards non-traditional media platforms where they have more control over the final product. With the decline of traditional media, the new media landscape is often seen as a solution or a noisy diversion. For example, Selena Gomez is featured on the cover of Elle this month, with a relatively harmless accompanying story. However, when the interview was posted online, she responded with a lengthy Instagram post expressing her frustration. She explained that it was difficult for her to speak openly for over an hour only to have her words turned into paid content by someone else. As she grows older, she desires more control over her own voice. She then outlined the specific topics she had hoped to discuss in the interview and criticized the focus on her personal life and church. With the balance of power shifting in favor of celebrities over the media, publications are forced to make compromises in order to maintain access to these famous individuals. This has led to celebrities being given the opportunity to edit special issues of magazines. Swift was featured on the cover of Harper's Bazaar this year, but in the article, she acted as the interviewer for rock muse Pattie Boyd. Similarly, in 2015, Rihanna took a photo of herself for the cover of The Fader, with the help of a professional photographer. This act served as a commentary on celebrity fame and the concept of a cover star capturing their own image. If these options are not feasible, magazines can have a friend of the celebrity conduct the interview instead. In the magazine Elle, Jennifer Lawrence interviewed Emma Stone, while Blake Lively conducted Gigi Hadid's Harper's Bazaar May cover interview. Katy Perry's March Glamour cover interview was done by Instagram affirmation specialist Cleo Wade. Interview, a magazine known for featuring conversations between celebrities, has recently been brought back. In the comeback issue, Raf Simons talks with George Condo (with occasional input from a journalist) and Jennifer Jason Leigh speaks with Phoebe Cates. The friend being interviewed doesn't even have to be famous. In a recent article in Rolling Stone, the writer reveals himself as a close friend of the usually private pop star Sia. Similarly, New York magazine's recent interview with Soon-Yi Previn, Woody Allen's wife, was conducted by a long-time friend of Allen, causing criticism on Twitter. These articles rely on personal connections with subjects rather than independent journalism, ignoring the traditional role of the press as impartial observers. Celebrity profiles usually promise that the journalist represents the reader, not the subject, but in the pursuit of exclusivity, ethical standards are often ignored. Friendship should not be a requirement, but rather something that disqualifies someone from getting an interview. This is unfair to fans who miss out on the insights that come from challenging conversations, rather than just agreeing with everything the interviewee says. Imagine how enlightening it would be to have probing discussions with Beyoncé about "Lemonade" or Swift about "Reputation", allowing for a deeper understanding of the artists. Unfortunately, these stars have isolated themselves instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue. It is a loss, as we will never learn the answers to questions left unasked. Copyright 2018 New York Times News Service. | 5 |
Rafiq, a former captain of the England Under-19s and of Pakistani descent, revealed last year that he felt like an outsider at Yorkshire and even considered taking his own life. Hutton, in his resignation letter, criticized the Yorkshire board and senior management for their unwillingness to apologize and address racism within the club. Hutton, who joined the board after Rafiq had left, also apologized to Rafiq and acknowledged that the club should have taken the allegations of racism more seriously. "I regret that we were unable to convince the executive members of the board to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and demonstrate concern and remorse." The England cricket board (ECB) has suspended Yorkshire EB from hosting international or major matches, but Hutton mentioned that the ECB was hesitant to take action when approached. "I want to make it clear that as soon as I learned of Azeem Rafiq's allegations, I immediately contacted the ECB to request their assistance and involvement in conducting a thorough investigation," Hutton stated. "I was disappointed when they declined to assist, as I believed it was a matter of significant importance for the sport as a whole. It is on record that I have consistently expressed my frustration with the ECB's reluctance to take action." The CEO of the ECB, Tom Harrison, explained that the ECB was invited to participate in a Yorkshire panel of inquiry, but they could not do so as they are the regulator. Harrison disagreed with the suggestion that the ECB had declined to help, stating that it would go against their role to be both a regulator and a member of an investigation. The ECB had previously stated that it would ensure Yorkshire is held responsible for their actions and would potentially impose penalties. Rafiq and other high-ranking Yorkshire officials have been summoned to testify before a parliamentary Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) panel on November 16th. | 5 |
Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen has declared a state of emergency on his team's World Cup campaign ahead of their match against Denmark in Group E. After losing to Japan and with both teams needing a win to stay in the competition, Le Guen was straightforward in his evaluation of the situation. He noted the impact of the loss on his African players and emphasized the importance of their upcoming game. I prefer individuals to be highly motivated and informed about the current state of emergency." Rumors have circulated about in-fighting among Cameroon's players after a recent defeat, but captain Samuel Eto'o strongly denied this. He emphasized during a press conference that there has never been any in-fighting within the group and there never will be as long as he is captain and his team, coach, and country have faith in him. Despite the players' mindset, it is certain that Le Guen will make significant changes. He announced that he will replace three players for their next game without providing specific details. He mentioned that the team did not perform well in the previous game and that changes need to be made. As the coach, he takes his responsibility seriously and is willing to make adjustments for the benefit of the team. He emphasized that he is not stubborn and is open to change. I alter things when I notice they are not effective. During the match against Japan, I attempted to place the players in their usual club positions, except for Stephane Mbia. If this strategy does not produce results, I make adjustments. This remark appears to be directed at the criticism he received for playing Eto'o on the right side, a position he played for Inter Milan under Jose Mourinho. Eto'o himself expressed his dissatisfaction with this decision, stating on French TV channel Canal Plus that he performs best in the central position. Eto'o clarified that he was not attempting to sway his coach's decisions and expressed his willingness to follow instructions. He emphasized that Paul Le Guen is responsible for making decisions, while also urging his teammates to embody the spirit of the Indomitable Lions. Le Guen emphasized the importance of players understanding their responsibilities and rekindling the team's spirit, encouraging them to reconnect with the essence of the Lions. | 5 |
It exemplifies the type of compromise that has been made by some employees of the Kremlin propaganda machine - individuals who appreciated the steady employment and creative challenges, even if they did not agree with the organization's objectives. Recently, Likin resigned as the art director for Channel 1, a major player in the Russian state television network and Kremlin's propaganda apparatus, following President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. Likin, who stated he was not a politician, felt that the invasion aligned him with a harmful agenda. He noted that Russian television is primarily consumed by individuals who are either too lazy to seek alternative sources of information or lack education and critical thinking skills. The invasion of Ukraine has prompted some Russian government employees to sever ties with the regime, indicating a struggle within the Kremlin to maintain full societal support for the war. Thousands have been arrested protesting the invasion of Ukraine, with tens of thousands fleeing the country. Anatoly Chubais, Putin's climate envoy, resigned on Wednesday, becoming the first senior government official to do so since the invasion on Feb 24. Several high-profile resignations have also occurred at Russia's state television channels, which are crucial to Putin's control over domestic politics. Marina Ovsyannikova's live protest on Channel 1, where she unfurled an anti-war poster, was particularly notable. Other resignations, such as Likin's, have been quieter but still reveal the turmoil within Putin's system and the significant influence of television on how Russians perceive the war. Zhanna Agalakova, a Channel 1 correspondent who resigned recently, described her colleagues as "clinically depressed." Many intelligent individuals are feeling a sense of guilt and there seems to be no way out. Merely asking for forgiveness is not sufficient. Despite the decline in influence due to the popularity of YouTube and social media, Russia's national television networks, controlled by the Kremlin, remain the primary source of news for the public. According to surveys by the Levada Center, about two-thirds of Russians relied on state television for news in the past year, a decrease from 90% in 2014. State television channels have portrayed the conflict in a way that is vastly different from Western perspectives, depicting Russians as the heroes bringing liberation to Ukrainian lands occupied by neo-Nazis supported by the West. Images of deceased civilians and destroyed homes are incorrectly labeled as either fake or the result of Ukrainians bombing themselves. A Channel 1 reporter stated that local residents in Mariupol believe the Ukrainian military is intentionally targeting residential buildings. Polls show that most Russians believe the narrative presented on state television, which portrays the war as a natural progression of longstanding grievances against the West. Despite some journalists leaving their positions, many have remained and are intensifying the message of Russia fighting for its right to exist. Former NTV anchor Liliya Gildeyeva, who left her job, admitted that she had compromised her values before realizing the extent of her actions when the war began. "She mentioned that when you slowly give in to yourself, you may not realize how far you have fallen. The shock of the war has led to a significant number of Russians leaving the country in recent weeks, on flights to destinations like Turkey and Armenia. Among those leaving are journalists, activists, tech workers, young professionals, and even some members of Russia's elite. One notable departure was Chubais, the Kremlin's climate envoy, who resigned over the war in Ukraine and left Russia." The Kremlin has confirmed that Chubais has resigned. He was considered one of the few liberal officials left in Putin's government, and his key role in the economic reforms of the 1990s in Moscow made him unpopular among many Russians. It is uncertain if the discontent among some of the elite could pose a threat to Putin's government. Likin, the former art director of Channel 1, expressed his belief that individuals like himself who are willing to resign based on their principles are a small minority in Russia. Agalakova, the former correspondent of Channel 1, commented that many of her former colleagues who chose to stay did not work for a particular ideal. People who leave their jobs at state television, especially those who speak out, are unsure about their future. Agalakova, who was a correspondent based in Paris, mentioned that some people she knew stopped talking to her after she left. Likin, on the other hand, plans to stay in Russia and continue his career as an architect, but is open to returning to television if it changes its narrative. Government polls suggest that most Russians support Putin's invasion, but analysts believe that people may not be truthful in surveys during times of war. Agalakova now understands that years of propaganda on Russian television have influenced public opinion and support for the current government's policies. Agalakova stated that when the idea of Nazism is mentioned in society, particularly in relation to Ukraine, people react immediately, in response to the Kremlin's false claims of Russia fighting Nazis in Ukraine. She described this as a deceitful and shameless tactic. With the spread of propaganda, Russians who are skeptical of television have limited sources for accurate news. The Echo of Moscow radio station and TV Rain independent television channel have been shut down, while access to Facebook and Instagram has been blocked by the government. Additionally, journalist Alexander Nevzorov is under criminal investigation for sharing information about the Russian bombing of Mariupol on his Instagram page. The most recent attempt to instill fear in critics of the war involves promoting a new law that could result in up to 15 years in prison for straying from the official narrative of the conflict in Ukraine. Denis Volkov, the director of the Levada polling center, believes that the true test of Russian public opinion will come as the economic consequences of Western sanctions are felt. Despite this, Volkov thinks that the Kremlin's narrative of the West undermining Ukraine and Russia heroically defending its people abroad has become deeply rooted in the minds of television viewers and is unlikely to be challenged in the near future. Many Russians tend to accept news that aligns with the television narrative and dismiss anything that contradicts it, regardless of its truthfulness. | 5 |
Viktor Yanukovich of Ukraine was inaugurated as president on Thursday and promised to address corruption, poverty, and political instability in order to regain foreign support for the struggling economy. Despite a disputed election and deep divisions in the country, Yanukovich's inauguration marked a significant comeback from the events of the 2004 Orange Revolution. In his speech to officials and foreign dignitaries, Yanukovich acknowledged the challenges facing Ukraine, including debt, poverty, corruption, and economic collapse, and emphasized the need for a forward-thinking strategy to move the country in a positive direction. He mentioned the lack of foreign investment in Ukraine, the uncertain business environment, and his efforts to improve political stability, eliminate corruption, and establish clear rules for the relationship between the government and businesses. These steps were necessary for building trust among investors and international financial institutions in Ukraine. The country's economy has suffered from the global economic downturn, impacting its important exports of steel and chemicals and causing the hryvnia to lose half of its value against the dollar in the past 18 months. Ukraine relies on a $16.4 billion IMF bailout program, but lending was halted last year and will likely only resume once stability is restored. The finance ministry announced that an IMF technical team will visit on April 7th. This often results in a full visit from IMF officials, who will then determine whether to resume the program. Yanukovich, a former mechanic supported by wealthy industrialists, had a difficult childhood in eastern Ukraine and was convicted twice for petty crimes, including assault. He is expected to improve relations with Russia, Ukraine's former Soviet leader, after five years of estrangement during Viktor Yushchenko's pro-Western leadership. Yanukovich has suggested potential compromises with Moscow regarding the Black Sea fleet in Ukraine's Crimean peninsula and has proposed a consortium involving Russia to manage the country's gas pipelines. However, he aims to renegotiate a 10-year-old gas supply agreement with Russia, which was negotiated by Tymoshenko and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. He has also stated his intention to pursue a well-balanced foreign policy and has promised to work towards strengthening relationships with the European Union. In a speech given on Thursday, he emphasized his commitment to maintaining positive and mutually beneficial relationships with Russia, the EU, and the United States in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for Ukraine. His official website later confirmed that he will be visiting Brussels next week, with EU officials confirming the visit will take place on Monday. Additionally, he plans to visit Moscow within the first 10 days of March, according to his Regions Party. Yanukovich narrowly defeated Prime Minister Tymoshenko by 3.5 percentage points, gaining the support of only one-third of the 37 million eligible voters. The voting results showed a clear divide between Russian-speaking voters in the eastern and southern regions who supported Yanukovich, and Ukrainian-speaking voters in the western and central regions who voted for Tymoshenko. Tymoshenko gave up her legal challenge to Yanukovich's election last Saturday, but she still believes he was not rightfully elected. She and most of her bloc in parliament boycotted Thursday's ceremony, making it seem insincere. Despite Yanukovich's call for a competent executive power, Tymoshenko is refusing to step down as prime minister, leading to ongoing political tension in the short-term. She is working to rally her allies in parliament, while Yanukovich's party and supporters are trying to break up her coalition and form a new one. Creating a coalition involves complex negotiations and may take a significant amount of time. If Yanukovich is unable to form a new coalition, he will be forced to organize new parliamentary elections, leading to even more uncertainty. | 5 |
The renaming of India's tech hub and other cities coincided with Karnataka's 59th formation day. An official stated that the state government notified late Friday that Bangalore and 11 other cities across the state will be pronounced and spelt in Kannada from Nov 1, following approval by the central government to rename them in the local language. Bangalore, as the fifth largest city in the country, gained global attention over the last decade due to its successful IT industry, talented workforce, pleasant climate, and cosmopolitan culture. Other well-known cities like Mysore will be pronounced and spelt Mysuru, Mangalore as Mangaluru, Belgaum as Belagavi, Bellary as Ballari, Hubli as Hubballi, and Gulbarga as Kalaburgi. The remaining five cities will also be renamed. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed pride in the state's 60 million people being able to pronounce the names of a dozen cities in Kannada and use them officially. He mentioned plans to rename other cities and towns in the state gradually. Despite many people speaking and writing Bengaluru in Kannada, they still use Bangalore in English conversations or writing. We have no option but to follow and become accustomed to it. "US Secretary of State John Kerry was the first politician to use the term "Bangalored" during the 2008 presidential election to draw attention to how Indian software companies were taking away many technology jobs from the US due to the increasing trend of outsourcing services. Renaming states and cities is not a new concept, as seen in other states such as Maharashtra renaming Bombay to Mumbai, Madras to Chennai, Calcutta to Kolkata, Poona to Pune, Baroda to Vadodara, and Orissa to Odisha. Our aim is to promote the original names of our cities and show respect for the sentiments of the people." The process of renaming began in 2006 when the state's first coalition government between Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) proposed the idea to celebrate the state's 50th anniversary in response to demands from various social, cultural, and political groups. During the previous BJP administration, the state legislature also approved the change. The state government will issue orders on Monday for corporations, departments, and institutions to update their nameplates and stationary accordingly. Chief secretary Kaushik Mukherjee stated that private companies or organizations will not be required to alter their registered names if they reference any of the 12 cities. | 5 |
Southern African leaders will convene an urgent meeting in the capital of Swaziland, Mbabane, on Wednesday to address the crisis in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has called on the United Nations to isolate President Robert Mugabe and has emphasized the need for a peacekeeping force in Zimbabwe. Despite the U.N. Security Council's recent condemnation of violence against the opposition and declaration that a free and fair presidential election is impossible, Mugabe remains defiant. The meeting in Mbabane has been organized by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in response to growing international pressure for Mugabe to resolve the political and economic crisis in Zimbabwe. The leaders of Tanzania, Angola, and Swaziland will participate in the meeting in their roles within the SADC's troika organ on politics, defense, and security, according to a statement from the Tanzanian government. The statement mentioned that the current SADC chairman, President Levy Mwanawasa of Zambia, and the SADC mediator for Zimbabwe, President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, have been invited to attend the meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss how the SADC and its troika organ on politics, defense, and security can assist Zimbabwe in resolving its current state of conflict. Tsvangirai, who has sought refuge in the Dutch embassy in Harare after withdrawing from the election, expressed concern that Zimbabwe would be in dire straits if the international community did not intervene. He called on the United Nations to take more decisive action, including isolating President Mugabe and deploying a force to protect the people. Tsvangirai stated that while armed conflict is not desired, the people of Zimbabwe require global leaders to support their words of condemnation with the ethical use of military force. This force would act as peacekeepers, separating the oppressed from their oppressors and protecting the democratic process that Zimbabwe aspires to. Pressure on Mugabe has intensified from various sources, including within and outside Africa, due to Zimbabwe's political and economic turmoil. The West and the opposition attribute the crisis to the 84-year-old president, who has been in power for 28 years. The United States has called on SADC to denounce both the election and Mugabe's government as illegitimate. According to Angola's state-run ANGOP news agency, SADC executive secretary Tomaz Salomao stated that foreign ministers agreed at a meeting on Monday that there was a "climate of extreme violence" in Zimbabwe and that the government needed to protect the people. The election scheduled for Friday was supposed to be a run-off between Mugabe and Tsvangirai, with the opposition leader winning the first round in March but not achieving an outright victory according to official figures. Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change also won a parallel parliamentary election in March, marking the first defeat for Mugabe's ZANU-PF party since independence from Britain in 1980. Both Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade and the leader of South Africa's ruling African National Congress called for the postponement of Friday's election following Tsvangirai's withdrawal. Zuma, who is considered one of the most influential figures in South Africa alongside Mbeki, has requested immediate action from the United Nations and SADC due to the worsening situation in Zimbabwe. While Mbeki's administration has favored a strategy of "quiet diplomacy" with Mugabe and resisted using economic power over Zimbabwe, Zuma has been more vocal in criticizing Mugabe since taking over as ANC leader. Despite pressure from the West, Mugabe remains defiant and insists that the election will proceed as planned. Mugabe stated that the elections will proceed, and those who choose to acknowledge the government's legitimacy may do so, while those who do not wish to recognize it should refrain from doing so. Mugabe has overseen a decline into economic turmoil, with 80 percent unemployment and the world's highest inflation rate of at least 165,000 percent. He attributes his country's economic troubles to Western sanctions. | 5 |
It cautioned the Socialist administration that the European soccer competition starting in France on June 10 might face disruptions if it did not compromise. Demonstrators filled the streets as workers halted operations at oil refineries, nuclear power plants, and railways in response to the union's call, while also setting up roadblocks and setting fires at key ports and distribution centers. Prime Minister Manuel Valls stood firm on the law, stating that there could be adjustments to the reforms but not to any major components. The CFDT trade union supported this stance. The protests, prompted by a reform aimed at simplifying hiring and firing procedures, were seen as a crucial moment to determine the strength of the CGT-led opposition. Scores of participants from a youth protest movement known as Nuit Debout joined the street marches, which were closely monitored by police due to the potential for violence. Previous rallies had resulted in injuries to both police officers and protesters, as well as numerous arrests. When asked if their union was considering disrupting the Euro 2016 football contest, CGT chief Philippe Martinez suggested that the government could prevent such action by taking action. FO union leader Jean-Claude Mailly compared the situation to a football game, stating that it was time for the prime minister to reconsider his decisions. Despite calls to change course, Prime Minister Valls remained steadfast in his support of the controversial labor law, which allows companies to bypass certain national labor regulations with approval from a majority of employees. The SNCF national train company reported that around two-thirds of national, regional, and local rail services were operational, indicating that the impact of rail workers' strikes was less severe compared to the previous week when half of the trains were not running. Following police action to remove blockades at refineries and fuel distribution centers, Prime Minister Valls stated that 20-30 percent of fuel stations were experiencing shortages. Transport Minister Alain Vidalies expressed that the situation has improved, with fuel deliveries from depots to gas stations on the rise. The number of fuel stations experiencing shortages in the Loire-Atlantique region decreased from 140 on Wednesday to 83 on Thursday. The French nuclear power capacity has been reduced by up to five gigawatts because of stoppages, which accounts for just over six percent of the country's total production capacity. Experts in the power industry believe that the nuclear plant strike is unlikely to cause major blackouts due to legal restrictions on strike actions and the ability to import power from other countries. However, the strike usually leads to higher operating costs for the EDF power utility. In addition to the nuclear plant strike, there are also dockers striking at the southern port of Marseille, causing a backlog of ships waiting to offload oil, gas, and chemicals. A protest over pension reform in 2010 ended after police dispersed picketers at supply depots and railworkers faced disruptions that affected their paychecks. Total SA, a major oil company, stated that almost all of its fuel distribution depots are operational, but noted that two out of its five refineries in France are currently not operating and two more are expected to stop in the near future. The CGT union is facing a more isolated fight this time. Laurent Berger, leader of the CFDT union which supports the proposed labor reform, expressed concerns about the tense political and industrial relations environment, urging for a more peaceful approach. | 5 |
Manager Alex Ferguson stated on Tuesday that Manchester United is looking to add one more player for the upcoming season, but they do not intend to make significant changes to their squad despite losing the Premier League title. Ferguson mentioned during a news conference that there might be just one signing. | 5 |
The Embassy stated in a confidential cable that they believe Tarique is responsible for serious political corruption that has negatively impacted US national interests, particularly in relation to democratic institutions and foreign assistance goals. However, they made it clear they did not want to impose similar restrictions on Tarique's wife, daughter, or mother, who is a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The cable provided a thorough explanation for their recommendation, citing Bangladesh's history of systemic corruption and the current government's efforts to combat it. Doubts about the Government's ability or willingness to hold corrupt leaders accountable are still prevalent. Concerns regarding corruption continue to erode trust, hindering private sector investments and diminishing public confidence in a democratic future. A cable referred to Tarique Rahman as the feared son of ex-Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, highlighting his release on bail and departure to the UK for medical treatment in 2008. The cable portrayed Tarique as notorious for demanding bribes in government dealings and political appointments, symbolizing corrupt governance and violent politics in Bangladesh. Despite facing numerous corruption charges, he was released, further tarnishing the reputation of the former prime minister's son. Having strong political connections up to the highest level of the court system, Tarique successfully influenced the legal proceedings to secure his bail despite efforts by the Caretaker Government to prevent it. It is believed that Tarique possesses multiple passports, one of which was issued by the UK in September and another containing a five-year multiple-entry B1/B2 visa issued in May 2005. Authorities suspect that one of his passports is being held by the government. Reports suggest that Tarique has amassed a significant amount of illicit wealth amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars. He is facing multiple extortion charges based on the testimony of several well-known business owners he took advantage of. In one instance, Tarique allegedly threatened the owner of Al Amin Construction, Amin Ahmed, with shutting down his company unless he was paid 150,000 USD. Other business leaders such as Mohammad Aftab Uddin Khan of Reza Construction, Ltd, Mir Zahir Hossain of Mir Akhter Hossain Ltd., and Harun Ferdousi have also accused Tarique of engaging in a pattern of extortion involving millions of dollars. In addition to these charges, he is also facing allegations of hiding illegally obtained wealth and tax evasion. Tarique's corrupt activities extended beyond extorting local businesses. The ACC has found evidence of bribery involving both foreign and local firms and individuals. For example, in the case of Siemens, a witness claimed that Tarique received a bribe of around two percent on all deals in Bangladesh. The DOJ Asset Forfeiture and FBI are currently investigating this case. In another case involving the Harbin Company, it is reported that they paid $750,000 to Tarique to open a plant. Monem Construction also allegedly paid a bribe of $450,000 to Tarique to secure contracts. The ACC has evidence indicating that Tarique accepted a 210 million taka bribe to obstruct the prosecution of a murder case against Sanvir Sobhan, the son of the chairman of the Bashundura Group. Sanvir was accused of killing Humayun Kabir, a director at Bashundura Group. In addition to bribery and extortion, the ACC investigation revealed that Tarique was also involved in a complex embezzlement scheme that was highly profitable. With the assistance of multiple accomplices, Tarique managed to steal 20 million taka (300,000 USD) from the Zia Orphanage Trust fund. According to a source from the ACC, Tarique, who is one of the co-signers of the trust fund account, utilized the funds for purchasing land in his hometown. Additionally, he gave signed checks from the orphanage fund accounts to BNP party members for their 2006 election campaigns. Tarique's corrupt actions have had negative impacts on the US interests outlined in the Proclamation. His behavior has undermined public trust in the government and destabilized democratic institutions. Tarique's well-known disregard for the rule of law poses a direct threat to the objectives of US financial assistance aimed at reforming legal systems, promoting good governance, and preventing judicial misconduct. The culture of bribery, embezzlement, and corruption that Tarique has fostered in Bangladesh has negatively impacted US businesses and hindered political stability in the country. Additionally, his actions have impeded US efforts to establish a stable democratic government in the region, undermining key objectives. Tarique's corruption has also jeopardized specific goals of the US Mission in Bangladesh, including promoting democratization, development, and counterterrorism efforts. Tarique's extremely corrupt actions put all three at risk. His history of stealing money, forcing payments, and interfering in legal processes weakens the legal system and poses a threat to the US objective of a secure, democratic Bangladesh. The culture of dishonest business practices and request for bribes that Tarique promoted obstructed US attempts to stimulate economic growth by deterring necessary foreign investments and making it harder for US companies to operate internationally. Additionally, his blatant disrespect for the law has created fertile ground for terrorists to establish a presence in Bangladesh, as well as worsening poverty and undermining democratic institutions. In essence, much of the issues in Bangladesh can be attributed to Tarique and his associates. The cable concludes by suggesting that applying a 212(f) finding to Tarique Rahman aligns with the US's firm stance against corruption in Bangladesh. The Embassy advises that Tarique Rahman should be deemed subject to Presidential Proclamation 7750 for his involvement in public official corruption as outlined in Section 1, Paragraph (c) of the Proclamation. After six years, significant changes have occurred. | 5 |
Egyptians will be voting on Saturday in a referendum regarding constitutional changes aimed at facilitating free and fair elections, however, these changes have caused division within the reform movement that ousted Hosni Mubarak. There is a split in opinion among Egyptians, with some arguing for more extensive constitutional amendments while others believe the current amendments are sufficient. A large voter turnout is expected for the referendum. The Muslim Brotherhood, an organized Islamist group, supports the amendments, putting them at odds with secular groups and prominent reformers such as Mohamed ElBaradei and Amr Moussa, both presidential candidates. The military council, which took power from Mubarak, hopes the amendments will be approved so that they can proceed with their plan for parliamentary and presidential elections, ultimately transferring power to an elected government. Ahmed Saleh, who is currently coordinating ElBaradei's presidential campaign, described the upcoming vote as a significant moment. He mentioned that there is a strong desire among the people to participate in the voting process and that a sense of change is evident. The military council, which took over power from Mubarak on Feb. 11, has emphasized the importance of a high voter turnout for the referendum. The main objective of the referendum is to create a favorable environment for future parliamentary and presidential elections. The council highlighted the importance of Egyptian citizens voicing their opinions and participating in the democratic process. To achieve this goal, the council has tasked a judicial committee with drafting amendments that include limiting the presidency to two terms, with a maximum of eight years in office, in order to prevent a leader from holding power for an extended period like Mubarak did for thirty years. The council will have to reconsider its strategy and extend a transitional period if the amendments are rejected, which they aim to keep as brief as possible. However, these reforms do not meet the expectations of reformists who are calling for a complete rewriting of the constitution. The amendments have been criticized by youth groups who led protests against Mubarak, who see them as an attempt to undermine the revolution. There are concerns about the tight timetable set by the military for elections, as it may not allow enough time for political parties to recover from years of repression, potentially giving an advantage to the Muslim Brotherhood and remnants of Mubarak's regime. General Ismail Etman, a member of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, stated that amending the constitution is the best, though not ideal, solution. In an interview with Al Gomhuria newspaper published on Thursday, he stated that if the amendments are approved, it would result in the creation of new laws that would allow for more political openness, including the removal of restrictions on forming political parties. There has been a lively discussion in newspapers, television stations, and social media on how to vote on the amendments. The "No" campaign continued to push its message on Friday with a full-page advertisement in Al Masry Al Youm, a popular Egyptian newspaper. One of the objections listed was, "How can I agree to a significant decision without enough time or information?" This was accompanied by images of actors, politicians, religious leaders, and businesspeople who are urging voters to reject the amendments. On the following page, a leader of the Muslim Brotherhood presented a contrasting opinion: "Backing the constitutional changes is a step towards fulfilling the demands of the revolution ... those who oppose them have not put forth a clear alternative." Nearly half of Egypt's population of 80 million, totaling up to 45 million people, are eligible to participate in the voting process and a large voter turnout is anticipated from individuals who are familiar with past elections marked by violence and corruption during Mubarak's rule. "I will definitely cast my vote. I have never felt that my vote would have as much significance as it will this Saturday," expressed 35-year-old Ahmed Adel, who stated that he would support the amendments in order to help steer his country in the right direction. "We urgently need a parliament and president." Activist Ziad el-Elemi expressed a differing opinion, stating that they are conducting workshops nationwide to educate the public on the fact that constitutional amendments alone are insufficient. | 5 |
Experts believe that if Barack Obama were a corporate CEO, he would receive high praise for his management style. His calm and steady approach, which has earned him the nickname "No Drama Obama," is seen as a valuable trait for business leaders to emulate. According to management consultant Paul Reagan, Obama's clear values and consistent follow-through on his promises have established him as a credible and effective leader. Paul Copcutt, a personal brand strategist from Dundas, Ontario, pointed out that one aspect of Obama's leadership style that business leaders may not share is his keen awareness of his own strengths and weaknesses. Copcutt noted that Obama's choice of cabinet members reflects this self-awareness, as he selects experts to compensate for his own lack of experience. Copcutt emphasized that instead of focusing on weaknesses, good leaders should prioritize their strengths and delegate tasks they are not proficient in. Obama's selection of cabinet members like Hillary Clinton and Robert Gates demonstrates his effort to build a diverse coalition of voices, even those that may challenge his own beliefs. Chief executives often create a close-knit group of advisors who may not represent all necessary voices within the organization, according to a business historian from Harvard Business School. While President Obama has shown some skill in selecting cabinet members and pushing for an economic stimulus plan, the true test will come when he assumes office in January. Reagan cautioned that a management style like Obama's, which has wide appeal, carries the risk of disappointing many people. He suggested that Obama may have promised too much change and lacked clarity in his vision, leading to unmet expectations. Koehn recommended that current executives learn from Obama's handling of challenges during his presidential campaign, noting his emotional competence in difficult situations. This skill, she argued, is particularly valuable in today's uncertain economic climate, where leaders must address fears of job loss and concerns about organizational performance. She stated that business leaders should pay close attention to elements within their workforce and company that go beyond simple metrics like tangible resources, head count, market share, and customer base. CEO coach Deb Dib has identified a number of qualities in Obama, such as caring, confident, consistent, commanding, and calm, which she believes are important for business executives to possess. She emphasizes that effective CEOs often exhibit these traits, regardless of political affiliation, and encourages others to learn from Obama's example. | 5 |
The conservative state is currently one of the few EU members that do not allow same-sex marriage or civil partnerships. However, supporters of a proposal, such as the Orthodox Church and almost all parliamentary parties, want to amend the constitution to define marriage exclusively as between a man and a woman. This is to prevent same-sex couples from being able to marry in the future. Many human rights groups are urging people to boycott the vote, warning that approving the change could lead to further erosion of minority rights and a move towards populism and authoritarianism. A recent poll indicated a turnout of 34 percent, with 90 percent in favor of the change. The Coalition for the Family gathered 3 million signatures in support of the amendment. The lower house of parliament approved the referendum last year, followed by the senate in September, which was the final step needed. Some campaign posters from the Coalition encouraged people to vote "Yes" to protect family values and prevent gay couples from taking or adopting their children. Another advertisement suggested that a "No" vote would allow a man to marry a tree. The leader of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, expressed concerns about the possibility of legalizing marriage between a man and an animal, citing examples from other countries. In the days leading up to the vote, the government loosened anti-fraud measures and restricted opportunities to challenge the outcome, while the broadcasting regulator removed the deadline for campaigning. The independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR) stated that there are no effective methods to verify fraud in the referendum, leading to a lack of trust in the fairness of the process. Some opposition figures believe the ruling party is using the vote to distract from its leader's legal issues and conflicts with the European Commission. Former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos suggested that the government is trying to foster anti-European sentiment in Romania. Meanwhile, the government denies these claims and the Orthodox Church has endorsed a "Yes" vote as Christian, democratic, and patriotic. Romania decriminalized homosexuality in 2001, lagging behind neighboring countries, and LGBT discrimination remains prevalent. Photograph title: Romania 1+2 Caption: Romanian religious leaders participate in a demonstration advocating for a "Yes" vote on the imminent referendum, which suggests amendments to the constitution to prohibit the recognition of same-sex marriages in the future, in Draganesti, Romania, on October 4, 2018. REUTERS. | 5 |
Last week, the United States accused China of increasing tensions in the South China Sea by potentially deploying surface-to-air missiles on a disputed island. China has not confirmed or denied this. When asked if this issue would be discussed during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang's meeting with Secretary of State John Kerry, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying stated that the US should not use military facilities on the islands as an excuse to cause trouble. Hua emphasized that the South China Sea dispute should not involve the United States. In response, the US State Department expressed the need for China to deescalate and halt militarization in the region, calling for a diplomatic solution to resolve territorial disputes peacefully. Wang is scheduled to meet with Kerry on Tuesday to discuss various topics, including the international response to North Korea's recent nuclear test and rocket launch, cyber security, and climate change. China hopes that the US will uphold its promises to remain neutral in the dispute and refrain from escalating tensions, particularly regarding China's military presence in the region. According to Hua, China's deployment of defensive facilities on its own territory is similar to the United States defending Hawaii. Hua also stated that the increased regional tensions are a result of US ships and aircraft conducting frequent and close-in patrols and surveillance in recent years. The biggest reason for the militarization of the South China Sea is highlighted in this statement. It is hoped that the United States will not confuse right and wrong or apply double standards in this matter. Australia was encouraged to conduct "freedom-of-navigation" naval operations within 12 nautical miles of disputed islands in the South China Sea, following the lead of the US. China asserts ownership of most of the South China Sea, a crucial waterway for global trade worth over $5 trillion annually. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines, and Taiwan also have competing claims in the region. Beijing has caused concern by engaging in construction and reclamation activities on the islands it controls, although it claims these actions are primarily for civilian purposes. The China Southern Power Grid Company, a state-owned entity, will establish a power grid management station in Sansha City (located on Woody Island in the Paracels), which will have the capability to connect to microgrids on 16 other islands, as stated by China's top regulator of state-owned assets. In the future, this station will have the ability to remotely oversee power distribution for multiple islands in the area, although it did not specify which islands. Wang is set to visit the United States from Tuesday to Thursday. Hua mentioned that the minister will also address North Korea during the visit, and reiterated China's disapproval of the potential US deployment of an advanced missile defense system in response to North Korea's recent rocket launch. | 5 |
The Norwegian Ambassador, Sidsel Bleken, stated that they frequently communicate with the government about the challenges their businesses encounter in Bangladesh. However, obtaining approval is a slow and complicated process. Bleken expressed a desire for more Norwegian companies to invest in Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of an easier business environment. She shared these thoughts after meeting with Norwegian businesses in Dhaka, where questions about the business climate are commonly raised to the embassy. The Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, Kazi M Aminul Islam, expressed confidence that with an improving investment climate, more companies will be attracted to the market, presenting a significant opportunity. He listened to the concerns of Norwegian companies such as Grameenphone, Jotun Group, Sactec Solar, Bergen Engines, and Poly ConCrete, and encouraged them to voice any issues they may have and assured them that they will be addressed. Additionally, he mentioned that they now hold meetings every week to address these concerns. He stated that he believes there are no ongoing cases, emphasizing his strong commitment to promoting ease of doing business. Toufique Imrose Khalidi, the Editor-in-Chief of bdnews24.com, also attended the breakfast meeting and discussed his experiences as a news publisher, noting similarities with challenges faced by foreign companies. The bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Norway are reported to be positive, with Norway establishing diplomatic ties with Bangladesh shortly after its independence in 1972. Norway's engagement in Bangladesh has primarily focused on development cooperation. However, as Bangladesh's economy has grown over time, aid has been gradually replaced by a stronger focus on trade and business. The biggest Norwegian presence in Bangladesh is Telenor, which holds a 55.8 percent stake in Grameenphone, the country's largest mobile operator serving over 70 million customers. In the textile sector, the Varner group is a key player, while Norwegian software company Cefalo has established its own office in Dhaka. Bergen Engines (Rolls Royce Power Systems) has also expanded its business operations in the country. The company is involved in multiple new power plant initiatives and operates a local office in Dhaka with a staff of 20 individuals. Other Norwegian businesses in Bangladesh include Jotun Group, Poly Concrete, FireSafe, and Hexagon. Scatec Solar also has a presence in Bangladesh. In 2017, Bangladesh exported goods worth NOK 2.2 billion to Norway, primarily clothing, while importing NOK 286 million worth of machinery and finished products. Political relations between the two countries have strengthened in recent years. The first Norwegian Foreign Minister, Børge Brende, visited Bangladesh in February 2017. During the visit, the ambassador mentioned that they regularly engage in business dialogue. The main topics of discussion included repatriation of dividends and other issues related to facilitating business operations. The ambassador noted that while laws may be in place, there is often a lack of professional institutions to enforce them, highlighting the importance of institutional strengthening. Foreign investors typically follow the rules and regulations of a country when repatriating their profits. Similar to other nations, Bangladesh has established policies regarding repatriation and foreign exchange regulations which are overseen by the central bank, Bangladesh Bank. Various procedures exist for different forms of repatriation, and entrepreneurs often seek foreign consultants for their expertise and technical knowledge. These consultants must be compensated with payments that must be remitted in foreign currency. However, officials from Norwegian companies expressed difficulties with both the inflow and outflow of funds during a recent meeting. "It is difficult for a new company," stated one official, highlighting the challenge of making consultancy payments based on revenue earnings in accordance with Bangladesh's law. This poses a problem for new companies without previous revenue when it comes to making foreign payments for essential technology consultants. The official also criticized the bureaucratic approval process. Another official pointed out that repatriating dividends, which is permitted by law, presents significant challenges. Inward funds and outward funds from investments are meant to flow freely, but the official noted that their experiences in this regard have been negative. Whenever money is sent, it undergoes an approval process, according to Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer Michael Foley. He emphasized the importance of the rule of law for businesses to operate comfortably in foreign markets. Foley mentioned how authorities sometimes use discretion in situations not covered by the law, which he believes is incorrect. He also discussed Grameenphone's significant market power status, which he feels goes against competition laws. Despite this, he reassured that they are managing the situation. "We are happy to operate in this country, but it is important to ensure that the rule of law is maintained and that it is easier for people to do business here," stated Khalidi, the editor-in-chief of bdnews24.com. He expressed support for BIDA's efforts to attract foreign investments, which are currently difficult to secure. Khalidi urged the government to address these longstanding issues, acknowledging that they have been discussed for many years, including in editorials he wrote in the 1990s on improving investment opportunities. "Bureaucrats need to alter their mindset." | 5 |
Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara is emphasizing the importance of "mental strength and fortitude" for his team at the Twenty20 World Cup following the traumatic incident in Lahore earlier this year. He acknowledges that there is never a guarantee of complete safety in life, but stresses the need for his team to remain resilient and focused on playing cricket. Sangakkara also highlights the importance of security measures in the current world climate, stating that all teams face threats and that their mental comfort depends on having proper security measures in place. Six members of the Sri Lanka team, including Sangakkara, were injured when gunmen attacked their team bus on the way to the Gaddafi Stadium for the second test against Pakistan in March. The incident resulted in the deaths of six Pakistani policemen and the bus driver carrying match officials. The Sri Lanka team is in regular communication with a national police intelligence unit responsible for security during the upcoming World Cup in England, beginning on Friday. Security measures have significantly increased since the Lahore attack, according to World Twenty20 tournament director Steve Elworthy, who previously held the same position during the 2007 World Twenty20 in South Africa. Elworthy informed Reuters that the situation has changed significantly and the landscape is now completely different. He mentioned that the incident made them more aware of the dangers faced by cricketers and officials. Despite having a security plan in place for the event, they went back to review and reassess everything. Both the tournament organizers and the ICC believe they have taken all possible measures to ensure the safety of the players, including providing police convoys for all teams and dedicated security staff for each side. Elworthy mentioned that he was unable to disclose specific information regarding team security. Leading the event's security is John Evans, the former chief constable of Devon and Cornwall in south-west England, who has also provided advice on security to the Football Association (FA). Reg Dickason, the head of security for the England team, and the ICC's independent security consultants are also involved. Despite the heightened security measures, Sangakkara stated that his team has not been distracted from cricket, feeling that it is just another tournament with everything being kept low key. "We are able to solely focus on cricket, which is a pleasant opportunity." | 5 |
Three years ago, a purchase was made in Exeter with the promise of turning the community into a major hub for Canada's legal pot industry, bringing high-paying jobs. However, before any of the 200 anticipated jobs were filled or a single marijuana seed was planted, it was clear that Canada was producing more marijuana than the market demanded. After sitting unused for two years, the 1-million-square-foot greenhouse was sold for a fraction of its original price. Exeter's experience with the greenhouse reflects the broader Canadian trend of high hopes followed by disappointment in the legal pot business. Analysts attribute the failure of optimistic forecasts to Canada's tightly regulated distribution system that restricts advertising and marketing. The slow opening of stores in certain provinces, especially Ontario, is contributing to the delay. Additionally, surveys have indicated that a significant number of Canadians are not enthusiastic about trying a new habit. "We were excited about it," stated Mayor George Finch, while standing outside Exeter's historic Town Hall. "It seemed almost too good to be true, right? It's unfortunate." "When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government legalized marijuana in 2018, the primary goal was to promote a fairer justice system rather than to create a significant new industry. However, investors had a different perspective, and leading up to legalization, there was a surge of investment in companies looking to capitalize on the Canadian market and potentially expand to the US market as well. This led to a 'green rush' on the Toronto Stock Exchange, with money flowing into start-ups and existing companies. Old greenhouses were renovated and sold at high prices, and new indoor growing facilities were established nationwide. Newspapers, which had been downsizing, hired journalists to cover the emerging marijuana industry." Similar to the plastics industry in the film "The Graduate," marijuana appeared to be on track to become Canada's next big industry. The enthusiasm for investments in marijuana stocks mirrored the excitement of the dot-com stock boom of the late 1990s, but ultimately led to a similar crash. Despite a slight rebound due to increased legalisation in the United States, with New York recently legalising marijuana and four states voting for legalisation in November, a major marijuana stock index remains down by 70% from its peak in 2018. Even 2 1/2 years after legalisation, many marijuana producers in Canada are still experiencing significant financial losses. A significant new rival is on the horizon; Mexico recently passed a law allowing recreational marijuana use. This could make the competitive landscape even more difficult for Canada's cannabis producers. Kyle Murray, vice dean at the University of Alberta School of Business, predicts that there may be a series of industry shakeouts as a result. The situation is reminiscent of the dot-com boom and subsequent bust. Canopy Growth, Canada's biggest producer, reported a loss of CA$1.2 billion, or approximately $950 million, in the first nine months of its current fiscal year. The industry has experienced layoffs, with large producers merging to increase their size and strength. Many greenhouses in various provinces have permanently closed. Analysts had high hopes for the marijuana industry in Canada, expecting sales to follow the same trend as liquor sales in the US after Prohibition. However, the industry has not progressed as quickly as anticipated, according to Brendan Kennedy, the CEO of Tilray, a major grower based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, which incurred a $272 million loss last year. Kennedy, a prominent figure in Canada's marijuana industry, has faced challenges competing with the illicit market due to strict regulations. Despite many industry pioneers being ousted as losses mounted and stocks fell, Kennedy will continue as a director after a planned merger between Tilray and Aphria creates the world's largest cannabis company. In Ontario, initial plans to sell marijuana through government-owned liquor stores were scrapped by a new Conservative government in 2018, leaving only online sales through a provincial website. The province's plans have changed twice since then, resulting in a uneven introduction of privately owned shops. Ontario has only approved 575 shops, despite a recent increase in licensing, while Alberta, with about one-third of Ontario's population, has 583 shops. Although initial expectations for marijuana profits were too high, Murray believes that a successful business will eventually emerge, as evidenced by the increasing number of Ontario shops. The fact that prices are now closer to street prices should also boost legal sales. Murray stated that the slow start does not indicate a bad market, attributing it to the initial influx of money and companies. He believes that in time, there will be successful companies that will become global leaders. A positive development is the growth of sales in legal marijuana stores in British Columbia, which was once the center of Canada's illegal marijuana industry, with a 24% increase from June to October 2020. In Quebec, the government-owned cannabis store operator, Société Québécoise du Cannabis, initially faced losses of nearly CA$5 million in its first fiscal year, but has since turned a profit. Despite disappointment among some of the larger Canadian growers, who are looking to foreign markets, particularly for medical marijuana, for growth opportunities, many analysts are doubtful. Brent McKnight, a professor at McMaster University, believes that Mexico's recent steps toward creating a large legal market could threaten Canada's marijuana industry due to lower labor costs and a more favorable climate. Trade agreements may prevent Canada from restricting imports from Mexico, further complicating the situation. He stated that this would definitely cause prices to go down for local growers. With Canada's industry having to consolidate in order to survive, there are concerns about who will be negatively impacted as large, publicly traded companies take over. Before marijuana was legalized, many of the initial shops that went against Canadian laws were nonprofit "compassion clubs" that sold to those using cannabis for medical reasons. Dr. Daniel Werb, a public health researcher and drug policy analyst at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, noted that the current system, which prioritizes large corporate growers and profits, has excluded many individuals from minority communities from participating in the industry. Werb, part of a research group, has found that there is a lack of diversity in the leadership of the new legal suppliers. Vendors in Indigenous communities have been left in a state of uncertainty, not facing police raids but also operating outside of the legal system. Ontario has started licensing shops in some of these communities, but there are concerns about the lack of diversity and imagination in the cannabis industry. This missed opportunity could have allowed for a more creative approach to the industry, according to Werb. | 5 |
Ugandan police discovered an unexploded suicide belt and made multiple arrests following the death of 74 soccer fans in two bomb attacks during the World Cup final. Somali Islamists associated with al Qaeda claimed responsibility for the attacks. The opposition in Uganda has called for the withdrawal of peacekeepers from Somalia. A government spokesperson confirmed the discovery of the unexploded suicide belt in a different location in Kampala, the day after the bombings at two bars packed with soccer fans. Arrests were made after the discovery of the belt in the Makindye area. He did not provide details on the number or origin of those arrested. Coordinated attacks like these are typically associated with al Qaeda and groups connected to Osama bin Laden's militant network. The al Shabaab militants have issued threats of further attacks unless Uganda and Burundi remove their peacekeepers from AMISOM in Somalia. The FDC party in Uganda has called on President Yoweri Museveni to bring back his soldiers, stating that there is no peace to maintain in Somalia and that Uganda has no strategic interest there. FDC spokesman Wafula Oguttu told Reuters that they are sacrificing their children for no reason, with the objective of withdrawing troops immediately after gaining power. AMISOM stated that the explosions would not impact its mission in Somalia, where it protects the presidential palace and secures the airport and port in Mogadishu. The FBI is investigating the coordinated blasts, which mark the first time al Shabaab has extended its violent pursuit of power internationally. Analysts warn that the group's threats must be taken seriously, as they have demonstrated the intent and capability to carry out attacks abroad. Foreign direct investment in the third largest economy in East Africa has increased significantly due to oil exploration near the western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Analysts believe that a sustained bombing campaign could harm Uganda's investment climate, but a single attack is unlikely to deter major companies like British hydrocarbons explorer Tullow Oil from investing. An American was killed in the attack, and the United States has offered assistance in the investigation, with three FBI agents currently collecting evidence on the ground and another team on standby to deploy to the country. Opolot stated that there was no indication that the African Union summit scheduled to be held in Uganda this month would be called off in light of the bombings. | 5 |
Her aspiration is challenging, but if she accomplishes it, she will become the first Bangladeshi to conquer the seven highest peaks on each continent, totaling 113,102 feet of climbing. This feat includes two peaks in extremely cold and uninhabited regions. Historically, it has been men who have attempted or completed the seven summits, followed by women from the same country. Wasfia Nazreen's achievement would also make her a trailblazer in the record books. The Bangladesh on Seven Summits initiative is endorsed by the Liberation War Museum to commemorate Bangladesh's 40 years of independence. It pays homage to the individuals who faced significant obstacles in establishing the nation. In terms of financing, Wasfia mentioned to bdnews24.com that she liquidated all her mother's jewelry and her own inherited property to kickstart the campaign. Mutual Trust Bank & Renata Limited sponsored Wasfia for her Elbrus expedition. She is now urging all national companies to support her in her mission to place Bangladesh's flag on the highest point of every continent. Wasfia has left her job to focus on achieving this goal within the next year, and is determined to succeed even if it takes a decade. Her first step towards this goal was conquering Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, on July 3. Since February, the south side of the mountain, which is the usual route to the European summit, has been closed due to several terrorist attacks. As a result, her team had to change their plans and attempt the climb from the North side, which is more dangerous and uncharted territory with more crevasses. On July 10, Wasfia and her team made their first summit push but faced severe weather changes such as thunderstorms, strong winds, and poor visibility. Finally, on July 12, the team got within 300 meters of the summit. However, because of extreme weather conditions and a deadline to descend by mid-day, they had to retreat. She plans to return to Elbrus to finish the last 300 meters once the situation improves. Wasfia expressed her thoughts through a satellite message from nearly the top of Europe, urging the youth of her country to lead Bangladesh forward and showcase its beauty to the world. In September, she will embark on her next challenge, Kilimanjaro, as part of her Seven Summits plan. Situated in the north-eastern region of Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa, standing at 19,341 feet. Wasfia plans to climb Aconcagua in December, which is the highest peak in South America at 22,841 feet, located in the Argentinian Andes. Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, is the highest peak in North America at 20,320 feet in Alaska, United States, and is also on Wasfia's list. She plans to conquer this challenging peak around June-July 2012. Wasfia considers Denali to be one of the toughest mountains to climb, with only an 18 percent summit success rate and a high number of accidents and fatalities. In April-May 2012, Wasfia will attempt to reach the highest point on Earth. If she is successful, she will become the third Bangladeshi person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, known as Sagarmatha or Chomolungma by the Nepalese and Tibetans, respectively. Located 750 miles from the South Pole, Vinson Massif rises to 16,066 feet in the frigid cold of Antarctica. In February 2012, Wasfia plans to brave the sub-zero temperatures to plant a Bangladeshi flag at its peak. Her final challenge will be Puncak Jaya, also known as the Carstensz Pyramid, a mountain in the central highlands of Indonesia. Puncak Jaya, standing at 16,024 feet, is the highest mountain in Oceania and the tallest island peak in the world. Wasfia plans to travel to the location in September or October of 2012. She described the journey as dangerous, as getting to the base camp involves overcoming red tape and climbing difficult rock surfaces requiring technical skills. Wasfia mentioned that she requires sponsorship for climbing mountains on all continents, but she prefers sponsors from Bangladesh to achieve national ownership in her accomplishments. She stated that big foreign companies would be her last option for sponsorship. | 5 |
The protests started earlier this week with high school students protesting against the second fare increase of the year by jumping subway turnstiles. However, on Friday night, demonstrators escalated their actions by setting fire to numerous subway stations, banks, buses, and the headquarters of the country's largest electricity provider, Enel. Looters also targeted supermarkets, stores, and pharmacies. One student was reportedly killed by the police, and another was injured by rubber bullets during the protests, which disrupted the tranquility of one of Latin America's most prosperous and well-organized capitals. President Piñera declared a state of emergency, imposing restrictions on citizens' freedom of movement and assembly while granting the army authority over internal security. He justified the measure as necessary to restore order following the chaos caused by protesters, whom he referred to as "delinquents." The fare increase, announced on October 6, sparked anger in a time when the cost of living for poor and middle-class families has been increasing while wages remain stagnant. Isabel Mora, an 82-year-old retiree with a monthly pension of $62, expressed frustration at the unfairness of rising costs for transportation, electricity, gas, and other expenses, coupled with low salaries. Piñera had promised to address the increasing transportation fares, which now stand at around $1.20 for rush hour rides. The protests against the fare hike escalated on Friday, with hundreds of people entering subway stations without paying. Special police units responded by using tear gas, beating demonstrators, and forcefully removing people from subway cars for arrest. The subway system halted service on multiple lines, eventually shutting down the entire network by nighttime, leaving hundreds, if not thousands, of people stranded on the streets. Many were unable to catch crowded buses and had to walk for hours to reach home. Government officials labeled the protesters as "organised vandals" and "criminals" and stated they would implement a law allowing higher penalties for crimes. Residents in the capital protested by banging pots and pans throughout the city on Friday night. As individuals stole goods from supermarkets and constructed barricades, it seemed that the police had withdrawn to their stations. The demonstrations took place as Chile gets ready to hold two significant global gatherings: an APEC summit in mid-November and the UN Climate Change Conference in December. | 5 |
A senior member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and ally of ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif, interior minister Ahsan Iqbal, was shot by a gunman on Sunday while leaving a constituency meeting in Punjab province. Iqbal is currently recovering in hospital from a bullet wound, with Minister of state for interior affairs Talal Chaudhry stating that he is stable and in good spirits. Leaders from Pakistan's main opposition parties have all condemned the assassination attempt. However, a prominent official from Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opposition party suggested that Sharif's large rallies protesting his removal by the Supreme Court last July may have contributed to creating a backdrop for the attack. Naeem ul Haq, chief of staff for former cricket star Khan, strongly criticized Nawaz Sharif for making wild accusations against his opponents, which he believes is creating tension and anger in Pakistan's political climate. Haq warned that if Sharif continues to spread negativity, more incidents like this will occur. Despite being disqualified as prime minister last July for unreported income, Sharif's party still holds a majority in parliament. Sharif has accused rival Khan of conspiring against him and has portrayed him as a puppet of the military establishment, which has a history of interfering in Pakistani politics. Khan refutes allegations of colluding with the army, while the military denies involvement in politics. The recent attack on Sunday has caused increased anxiety leading up to the upcoming election in late July. Reports indicate that the attacker may have ties to a new Islamist political party that advocates for strict sharia law and the death penalty for blasphemy. Despite initial reports linking the attacker to the Tehreek-e-Labaik party, the party's spokesman has denied any affiliation with the gunman. "We do not have weapons. We are engaged in a non-violent fight. Those plotting against Tehreek-e-Labaik will not achieve success." Khadim Hussain Rizvi, the leader of the party, denounced the attack on Iqbal, stating that Labaik was striving peacefully to establish the Prophet's religion. According to police, Iqbal was shot in the right arm, with the bullet then entering his groin. The suspected shooter, identified as 21-year-old Abid Hussain, has not had a motive officially disclosed by authorities. Minister of state Chaudhry stated that religious radicalism is a part of his background and that police were investigating groups that could have influenced the attack. He emphasized that radicalism is not an individual problem but rather a social issue, as such individuals are influenced and prepared by others ideologically. Labaik, a movement that emerged from a protest supporting Mumtaz Qadri, who killed the governor of Punjab in 2011 over blasphemy laws, shut down the country's capital for three weeks last year. The attempt on Iqbal's life has raised concerns about potential pre-election violence by Islamists, similar to incidents during past elections including the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto in 2007. | 5 |
Kuwait will mandate that incoming travelers quarantine at their residence for a period of 10 days, unless they can provide a negative PCR test for COVID-19 taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival. | 5 |
Despite the vaccines' strong protection against COVID-19, reports of breakthrough infections and new guidelines about vaccinated individuals wearing masks have caused confusion and concern. Recent studies indicate that vaccinated people can still get infected with high levels of the virus, but these cases are rare compared to unvaccinated individuals who are more likely to spread the virus. It is important to remember that being vaccinated is the most crucial step in keeping oneself and others safe. Even though vaccinated individuals have more freedom, it is not the same as pre-pandemic times. No vaccine can guarantee complete protection, including against the Delta variant. Erin Bromage, a biology professor at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, compares vaccine antibodies to a sea wall that protects a town from a storm surge. While most of the time the wall is effective, a powerful hurricane like the Delta variant can overwhelm it, allowing some water to get through. Vaccinations provide additional protection, but when faced with a significant challenge, such as being near an unvaccinated person with a high viral load, the protection may not be sufficient. Fortunately, the current vaccines in the United States are highly effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death. Over 97 percent of individuals hospitalized with COVID-19 are not vaccinated. Recent data from Singapore indicates that vaccinated patients hospitalized with delta breakthrough infections are less likely to require supplemental oxygen and clear the virus faster than unvaccinated patients. Breakthrough infections, while rare, do make the news. Although the CDC stopped tracking all breakthrough cases in May, approximately half of states provide some data on these occurrences. The Kaiser Family Foundation conducted an analysis of state-reported data and discovered that breakthrough cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are uncommon occurrences among individuals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. According to the analysis, the rate of breakthrough cases among fully vaccinated individuals is less than 1 percent in all reporting states, with figures ranging from 0.01% in Connecticut to 0.29% in Alaska. However, many breakthrough infections may go unreported because infected individuals either do not exhibit symptoms or only experience mild symptoms that resolve before they consider getting tested. Dr. Asaf Bitton, executive director of Ariadne Labs at Brigham and Women's Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, emphasized that while breakthrough infections are rare, the true extent of their rarity remains unknown without a population-based sample. It is possible that many individuals with a mild scratchy throat for a few days may have experienced breakthrough cases, but this is not a failure of the vaccine. Estimates suggest that 100,000 to 200,000 deaths have been prevented since the start of the vaccine campaign. The risk of a breakthrough infection increases with more exposure to the delta variant. Large events, such as the July 4 celebration in Provincetown, Massachusetts, or the Lollapalooza concert in Chicago, pose a greater risk for vaccinated individuals to come into contact with someone carrying a high viral load. The level of risk also depends on the local situation. In the near future, there may be a surge in Lollapalooza outbreaks due to the close proximity of people, creating an ideal environment for the delta variant to spread. The CDC has a color-coded map indicating COVID-19 outbreak levels in the US, with blue and yellow zones having low infection rates and orange and red zones having higher rates. The agency recommends wearing masks in orange and red zones, which currently include around 80 percent of US counties. Infection rates are currently low in many parts of the Northeast and Upper Midwest, but the delta variant has led to a significant increase in cases in Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida. The issue with relying on a map for case counts is that numbers are changing quickly, and outbreaks may occur in your area before the map is updated. Even if you believe your community is highly vaccinated with low case counts, it is important to also consider neighboring communities as viruses can easily spread across state and county lines. Many health experts recommend not wearing a mask outdoors if you are not in a crowded area and are at least 6 feet away from individuals whose vaccination status is unknown. However, it is still considered risky to attend a crowded outdoor event, and if you choose to do so, wearing a mask is recommended. J Alex Huffman, an aerosol scientist and associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Denver, recommends wearing a mask indoors when around people whose vaccination status is unknown, especially if close proximity or prolonged exposure is expected. While he no longer wears a mask in all indoor situations due to being fully vaccinated, he opts for an N95 mask in public indoor spaces. For optimal protection, upgrading to a high-quality medical mask like an N95, KN95, or KF94 from Korea is advised, although ensuring authenticity is important. Double masking with a surgical mask under a cloth mask can also provide strong protection if a medical mask is not available. Wearing a mask with an exhale valve is not recommended because it can allow viral particles to escape, and counterfeit masks may have faulty valves that let germs in. It is important to choose the right mask based on the situation. For example, a cloth mask may be sufficient for a short visit to a vacant convenience store in a highly vaccinated area. However, a better quality mask is more appropriate for air travel or crowded places like grocery stores, especially in areas with low vaccination rates and high case counts. Masks with straps or ties around the back of the head provide a tighter seal compared to masks with ear loops. Huffman emphasized the need for improved mitigation efforts, including the use of high-quality masks that fit tightly to the face, to combat the delta variant. It is important to ensure that the mask is sealed well around the edges to effectively protect against the virus. Vaccinated individuals face minimal risk when interacting without masks with other vaccinated friends and family members, according to Huffman. While wearing a mask is not considered crucial in small indoor gatherings with vaccinated individuals, precautions may be needed in certain situations. Although the chances of a vaccinated person transmitting the virus to another vaccinated individual are slim, it is still a theoretical possibility. Those who frequent crowded places or COVID hot spots pose a greater risk compared to those who limit their exposure to crowds and primarily socialize with other vaccinated individuals. With the delta variant spreading, Bitton recommends prioritizing outdoor gatherings, especially for families with unvaccinated children or high-risk family members. Hosting events in a backyard or patio and reducing time spent indoors can decrease the risk of exposure. Being with a smaller group of vaccinated friends is safer than attending a large party, even if everyone there is vaccinated. Opening windows for ventilation when indoors is also advised. For individuals at very high risk, such as elderly or immunocompromised individuals, it is reasonable to request even vaccinated individuals to get tested before visiting. A quick and easy at-home test can be provided to guests to ensure everyone is free of COVID before dining together. Whether or not you can still dine at restaurants depends on factors such as local conditions, your comfort with risk, and the health status of those around you. The lowest risk is in communities with high vaccination rates and minimal case counts. For example, dining at a restaurant in Vermont, where two-thirds of the population is vaccinated, is safer than dining indoors in Alabama or Mississippi, where only one-third of residents are vaccinated. Parents of unvaccinated children and individuals with compromised immune systems, who may not receive as much protection from vaccines according to studies, may choose to order takeout or eat outdoors as an extra safety measure. Is it advisable to travel? Should I avoid peanuts and water and continue wearing my mask? While airplanes are usually well-ventilated and not a significant source of outbreaks, taking precautions is still recommended. The risk of coming into contact with an infected person may be higher in the airport terminal, while dining at airport restaurants or bars, or going through security screening. On airplanes, the air is exchanged every two to three minutes, which is more frequent than in grocery stores and other indoor environments. Passengers are required to wear masks, but they can remove them to eat or drink. Airplane ventilation systems limit airflow to a few rows to prevent circulation throughout the cabin, meaning that an infected passenger poses the highest risk to those nearby. Experts recommend using a high-quality medical mask, such as an N95 or KF94, when flying. If you do not possess one, it is recommended to wear two masks. For those who have been vaccinated, the risk of briefly removing a mask to eat or drink during a flight is low, but it is advisable to keep it on as often as possible. The CDC suggests that it is safest for unvaccinated individuals, including children, to avoid air travel. Bromage mentioned that he recently flew and briefly removed his mask to drink a beverage, but kept it on for the majority of the flight. He expressed that he would feel more at ease taking off his mask to eat if he knew the individuals next to him were vaccinated. He expressed greater concern if the person beside him did not follow COVID precautions or wore the mask incorrectly. He emphasized the importance of keeping the mask on, especially when sitting next to a talkative person. Despite being vaccinated, it is still recommended to wear a mask on buses, subways, and trains as they reduce the risk of viral exposure. The risk of exposure increases with longer rides and crowded train cars or buses, even for vaccinated individuals. Many individuals rely on public transportation to commute to work or school, and it is advised to wear a properly fitting medical mask or double mask. When using public transit is not necessary, one should consider local vaccination rates and the trend of case counts before deciding to ride. Questions about hugging and visiting older relatives or unvaccinated children arise. While vaccinated individuals can typically safely hug and spend time together without masks, parents of unvaccinated children need to weigh more risks, especially when visiting elderly relatives. In areas where there are few COVID cases and many people are vaccinated, it is generally considered safe for unvaccinated children from one household to visit vaccinated grandparents. However, as the delta variant spreads and children go back to school, the risk of close contact also increases for older or immunocompromised individuals who are more susceptible to severe illness from COVID-19, even if they are vaccinated. When families plan to visit a high-risk relative, it is advisable to limit other exposures by avoiding dining out or going to the gym in the week leading up to the visit. Even though the chances of a vaccinated person spreading COVID-19 are low, vaccinated grandparents should also reduce their own exposure when spending time with unvaccinated children. Huffman, the aerosol scientist, mentioned that he has not been wearing masks indoors with his elderly parents because he is cautious about wearing masks in public places. "If I had more interactions that increased my overall risk of exposure, I would strongly consider wearing a mask when indoors with vulnerable individuals. Rapid home tests are an additional precaution to take when visiting grandparents or immune-compromised family members. It is recommended to take a test a few days before the visit and on the day of the visit. Home tests are a great option for those feeling anxious about the virus at the moment. By testing before coming together, everyone can ensure they are clear of the virus and enjoy their time together. How can I determine if I have the delta variant?" If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 in the US, it is highly likely that you have the delta variant, which now accounts for over 82 percent of cases in the country according to the CDC. The delta variant is also dominant in many other countries, with the World Health Organization reporting that it makes up 75 percent or more of cases in countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Denmark, India, Indonesia, Israel, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK. However, standard COVID tests cannot determine if your infection is specifically caused by the delta variant or another variant of the virus. Health departments may utilize genomic sequencing to determine the prevalence of various variants within a population, but this data is generally not disclosed to individuals. It is still important for individuals to isolate and consult a healthcare professional if they experience low blood oxygen levels, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms. | 5 |
Contrary to previous reports, it is not Elon Musk's SpaceX that is expected to create a crater on the moon's surface, but rather a piece of a rocket launched by China's space agency. Bill Gray, creator of Project Pluto, revealed that the upper stage of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket was on a trajectory that would intersect with the moon's path. This rocket had launched the Deep Space Climate Observatory for NOAA in February 2015. Gray had been monitoring this rocket part for years, and in January it passed near the moon's surface, potentially leading to a crash on a subsequent orbit. Reports from amateur astronomers who witnessed the object passing by Earth once again confirmed that it was heading towards an impact within the Hertzsprung crater. However, a new development arose when Jon Giorgini, an engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, sent an email on Saturday. Giorgini, who manages the Horizons online database that provides information on the locations and orbits of nearly 1.2 million objects in the solar system, including around 200 spacecraft, decided to investigate the object in question after a user inquired about its connection to the DSCOVR rocket. He discovered that the orbit did not match the trajectory of DSCOVR and reached out to Gray. Gray recalled his initial confidence in his calculations but decided to review his old emails to refresh his memory about when the object was first observed in March 2015, shortly after DSCOVR's launch. Typically, new objects spotted in the sky are assumed to be asteroids, and the same assumption was made for this object, which was designated as WE0913A. However, it was discovered that WE0913A was actually orbiting Earth, not the sun, suggesting it likely originated from Earth. Gray suggested it could be a part of the rocket that launched DSCOVR, and further data confirmed that WE0913A passed the moon two days after DSCOVR was launched, supporting this theory. Gray now understands his mistake in assuming DSCOVR was headed towards the moon to use its gravity to reach its final destination, as Giorgini clarified that DSCOVR was launched on a direct path that did not involve passing the moon. Gray admitted that he regretted not reviewing something before making an announcement in January. After Jon Giorgini brought it to his attention, Gray realized he had made a mistake. SpaceX did not comment on whether WE0913A was their rocket stage, but it is likely they were not tracking it. Typically, the second stage of a Falcon 9 rocket is burned up in the atmosphere, but in this instance, all propellant was needed to deliver DSCOVR to its destination. However, the second stage, without power or control, was in an orbit that was not likely to pose a threat to any satellites, so it was probably not being monitored. Gray suggested that it would be helpful if the companies launching these boosters into high orbits would share information about what they are sending up there, rather than leaving it up to individuals like himself to investigate. Gray then began to investigate other recent launches, specifically focusing on those bound for the moon. He noted that there were not many launches in that category. The leading candidate for the mission was a Long March 3C rocket, which launched China's Chang'e-5 T1 spacecraft on October 23, 2014. This spacecraft circled the moon and returned to Earth, releasing a small return capsule that landed in Mongolia. This was a test for the Chang'e-5 mission in 2020, which successfully collected moon rocks and dust for study on Earth. A computer simulation of the orbit of WE0913A showed that it would have made a close pass by the moon on October 28, just five days after the Chinese launch. Additionally, orbital data from a cubesat attached to the rocket's third stage closely matched WE0913A, according to Gray. "It's a case that could potentially result in a conviction if taken to a jury," said Christophe Demeautis, an amateur astronomer from northeast France. Recent observations have slightly adjusted the timing and location of the predicted impact of the object on the moon, but it is still expected to occur at approximately 7:26 am Eastern time. However, since the impact will be on the far side of the moon, it will not be visible from Earth's telescopes and satellites. The search continues for the Falcon 9 part, with efforts focused on locating the DSCOVR second stage." It is most likely that the object ended up in orbit around the sun rather than the Earth, making it currently out of view. There have been instances of pieces of old rockets resurfacing, such as a mystery object discovered in 2020 that was part of a rocket launched in 1966 for NASA's Surveyor missions to the moon. | 5 |
Rogozin announced on his Telegram channel that Roskosmos is suspending cooperation with European partners on space launches from Kourou and withdrawing technical staff from French Guiana in response to EU sanctions. The European Union downplayed the impact of Russia's pullout, stating that it would not affect the quality of service for its satellite networks Galileo and Copernicus. Galileo is Europe's global navigation satellite system used in mobile phones, cars, railways, and aviation, while Copernicus provides earth observation data for documenting climate change. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, in charge of space issues, stated on Twitter that necessary decisions will be made in time for the development of the second generation of these two sovereign space infrastructures. "We are ready to work decisively with member states to safeguard critical infrastructures in the event of an attack, and to further advance Ariane 6 and VegaC to ensure strategic independence in terms of carrier rockets." | 5 |
According to a poll conducted by Galaxy for The Sunday Telegraph newspaper and SBS television, Australian Prime Minister John Howard is facing a significant defeat in the upcoming election, with high-profile former television presenter Maxine McKew leading him by 53 percent to 46 percent in votes distributed to the two major parties. McKew, who was recruited by the rival Labor Party to challenge Howard, is also tied with the veteran prime minister in terms of who would do the best job for the seat of Bennelong, which Howard has held since 1974. The poll was conducted following a recent decision by Australia's central bank to raise interest rates to a decade high of 6.50 percent in order to combat inflation caused by strong domestic demand, low unemployment, and rapid global growth. Howard, who won his fourth election in 2004 under the slogan "Keeping interest rates low," has been negatively affected by the increase in interest rates. The central bank has raised interest rates five times, which is impacting support for Howard's Liberal-National coalition in key suburban areas where voters are struggling with high mortgages and a credit binge fueled by low-interest rates. Additionally, Howard is facing challenges in his own constituency due to changes in demographics and policies that have upset immigrant families. Despite this, Senior Labor lawmaker Bob McMullan believes it will be difficult to remove Howard from office, regardless of polling data. "We are approaching the end of the three-year term and the public is considering the possibility of change. However, I believe their voting preferences are not fixed and may change," stated a television interviewee. Foreign Minister Alexander Downer expressed confidence in Prime Minister Howard's wisdom and experience, suggesting it would secure his victory. Downer criticized opposition leader Kevin Rudd for lacking a clear plan for Australia's future. Downer acknowledged the controversies surrounding the incumbent, stating that it is a common occurrence in politics."I don't want to appear overly optimistic," Downer added. Paraphrased text = I am a person who remains calm and composed despite the challenges that are to come. | 5 |
At the opening of a Whole Foods Market in Washington's Glover Park neighborhood, an enthusiastic Amazon employee greeted me and asked if I wanted to start shopping by scanning the QR code in my Amazon app. I opted to use my palm instead, scanning both hands on a kiosk and linking them to my Amazon account in less than a minute. I then used my right palm to enter the technologically advanced grocery store and spent the next 30 minutes shopping. I purchased a bag of cauliflower florets, grapefruit sparkling water, strawberries, and organic chicken sausages. Cameras and sensors tracked my selections and created a virtual shopping cart in real time. I exited the store without needing a cashier, as Amazon would charge my account later. Whole Foods was bought by Amazon for $13 billion over four years ago. The grocery chain's transformation into an Amazon-owned entity is now fully evident with the renovated Whole Foods store in Glover Park. Despite initially making only minor changes to over 500 stores in the US and Britain, Amazon has now significantly increased its influence with the introduction of discounts, free delivery for Prime members, and the implementation of tracking and robotic technology in the 21,000-square-foot store in Georgetown. Another prototype store in Los Angeles, set to open this year, will further showcase Amazon's innovative approach to grocery shopping. The technology, called Just Walk Out, utilizes numerous cameras to monitor customers from above. Sensors are placed beneath each item in the store to track shopping patterns and improve accuracy of charges. This technology is similar to what is used in autonomous vehicles, as it can detect when a customer takes a product and automatically charges them when they leave the store. Anyone with an Amazon account, not just Prime members, can use this technology to shop without going through a traditional cash register. Amazon has been testing this automated shopping experience for over four years, starting with Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores. The palm-scanning technology, called Amazon One, is also being used by other businesses, including a convenience store at Dallas Love Field Airport and Shaquille O’Neal’s restaurant in Seattle. According to Dilip Kumar, Amazon's vice president of physical retail and technology, these stores have been valuable experiments. The company sees Whole Foods as another step in its expansion of technology into retail stores. "We identified areas of friction for customers and worked diligently to find ways to reduce that friction," Kumar stated. He noted that customers dislike waiting in checkout lines and explained that this led to the development of the Just Walk Out concept. He did not disclose if Amazon intended to implement this technology in all Whole Foods stores. According to my colleague Karen Weise, who covers Amazon from Seattle for The New York Times, the company has a long-term approach, with the resources and patience to make slow progress in transforming labor, retail, and logistics. The Whole Foods in Glover Park has been a key part of the neighborhood for over two decades, located within walking distance of Embassy Row and the vice president's residence. Despite a closure four years ago due to a dispute with the landlord and a rat infestation, Amazon has announced plans to reopen the store as a Just Walk Out pilot project. While the rats may have been eradicated, the community still has concerns. The renovated store has caused a lively debate among local residents, who are discussing the store's futuristic feel and advanced technology on platforms like Nextdoor and a neighborhood email list. Some neighbors fondly remember when the store used to offer free samples and blueberry pancakes on weekends, encouraging people to hang out. One long-time resident, Alex Levin, believes that instead of rejecting the store's changes, people should embrace the benefits and drawbacks of technology and use it to their advantage. He shared a story of trying to trick the store's cameras and sensors by placing chicken nuggets in his shopping bag, but Amazon's system caught on and he wasn't charged for the item. Others have mentioned that they discovered mistakes in their bills and were unhappy about the switch from pricing produce by weight to pricing it per item, bundle, or box. Some were sad about the elimination of the checkout line, where they used to browse magazines and impulse items. A lot of people were concerned about the tracking technology, with one retired librarian comparing it to George Orwell's '1984'. Amazon stated that it did not intend to utilize video and other customer information from Whole Foods for advertising or its recommendation system. Customers who do not wish to participate in the new technology can simply enter the store without signing in and pay at self-checkout kiosks using a credit card or cash. As a loyal customer of the Whole Foods in Glover Park, I was looking forward to seeing the changes in the store after missing its previous dark, cramped, and chaotic atmosphere. However, my feelings became mixed as I encountered a palm scan and saw six-pack banana bundles. I also observed a sign near the entrance prohibiting shoppers from taking photos or videos inside the store. I looked up at the ceiling and saw numerous small black plastic boxes hanging from the rafters. An employee informed me that these were cameras that would track me during my shopping trip. The entrance was bustling with workers assisting customers with check-in, and others were stationed at the seafood counter, cheese station, and produce areas. Kumar assured me that the stores would continue to have human employees, but I couldn't help but wonder for how much longer. Amazon, which has faced criticism for its treatment of workers, stated that employees' duties may evolve to involve more customer interaction for answering inquiries. There were indications of a trend towards self-service. In a bakery, I sought assistance in cutting my $4.99 Harvest loaf and was directed to a professional bread slicer for customers, with a cautionary label about sharp blades and moving parts. Kumar refused to provide information on the accuracy of the Just Walk Out technology, so I decided to test it myself. I purposely placed an organic avocado on a stack of nonorganic avocados and walked around the store. Upon returning to the avocado, I expected the cameras and sensors to detect the misplaced item and charge me accordingly. When it was time to leave, I had the choice of using a self-checkout kiosk or skipping the process. I chose the second option and waved my hand over an exit turnstile. The turnstile's arms opened. An employee at the exit told me that I should expect to receive my receipt within two to three hours. I walked out feeling uncomfortable, as if I might be wrongly accused of shoplifting. I received an email notification from Amazon in my email inbox an hour later. The email contained a link that directed me to my Amazon account for more information. According to the email, my shopping session lasted 32 minutes and 26 seconds, with a total bill of $34.35. I was accurately charged for the organic avocado. | 5 |
A former militia leader, Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, was released on bail by a Nigerian court on Thursday in response to demands from armed groups causing disruptions in the Niger Delta. Asari, who is facing charges of treason, was granted bail after rebel groups in the region released hostages, announced a ceasefire, and expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the new government under President Umaru Yar'Adua. Despite these peace efforts, the recent killing of eight suspected militants by troops in Bayelsa state has raised concerns about the situation. Asari's bail was granted on health grounds and was not opposed by prosecutors, indicating that he is not seeking attention. Justice Peter Olayiwola stated that the accused would be released on health grounds. However, the judge also imposed restrictions on Asari, prohibiting him from holding political rallies or engaging in any political activities. Additionally, Asari's movements must be reported to the security services. Asari had been denied bail by the Supreme Court last Friday, with prosecutors arguing that he posed a threat to national security. Activists involved in peace negotiations between the government and delta rebels believed that Thursday's court decision was the outcome of a political agreement. Asari has been held in custody since September 2005, with his trial repeatedly delayed. Despite numerous failed efforts by elders of his Ijaw community to negotiate his release, the situation shifted following Yar'Adua's inauguration. The new president's call for a ceasefire in the delta prompted influential state governors to publicly advocate for Asari's freedom. Thursday's decision, according to Ijaw activists, is expected to support initiatives aimed at calming armed insurgents seeking greater autonomy over oil profits and redress for environmental damage in the impoverished delta region. Ifeanyi Jonjon, the leader of the Ijaw Youth Council, expressed satisfaction with the progress made in meeting their demands. He believes that using Asari to communicate with freedom fighters can help steer them away from violence and towards peace. Despite Asari's absence in court and his reported mistreatment by the State Security Services, his supporters were jubilant. Emmanuel Diffa, an Ijaw elder advocating for Asari's release, stated that this development is positive for those with businesses in the Niger Delta as it will help calm the situation and Asari is crucial for bringing peace to the region. | 5 |
Pakistan completed a series sweep of Zimbabwe in all three formats of the game, winning the second Twenty20 with a thrilling last-ball finish in Harare. Zimbabwe struggled to build momentum in their chase due to Pakistan's controlled bowling, but Tatenda Taibu's aggressive batting in the final over gave them hope. Needing 20 runs off six balls, Taibu hit a six off the first ball and then ran well to leave himself needing six off the final delivery. Sohail Khan remained calm under pressure and bowled a wide low full toss outside off stump. Taibu retreated to the leg side and was unable to make a shot, resulting in an underwhelming conclusion to a chase that Zimbabwe allowed to become too difficult for them. Vusi Sibanda and Chamu Chibhabha started off well, with Sibanda hitting a beautiful straight drive for four. Despite scoring boundaries in the first four overs, they did not rotate the strike enough, causing the required run-rate to increase. Chibhabha attempted to free himself when Saeed Ajmal came on by trying to hit over long on, but was caught by Yasir Shah just outside the circle. Ajmal's first wicket maiden slowed down Zimbabwe's chase, which continued until the final over. Sibanda became increasingly frustrated and was caught by Hafeez at point while trying to make a big hit. Hafeez showed his skill with both bat and ball, bowling out Cephas Zhuwao with a straight delivery. He also took the wickets of Hamilton Maskadza, who gave him a catch in his follow through, and Brendan Taylor, caught by Misbah-ul-Haq at midwicket. As Zimbabwe's chase fell apart, Charles Coventry swung his bat at the first three deliveries from Junaid Khan. Two batsmen scored four runs each, while the third player accidentally hit the ball onto his stumps. Elton Chigumbura managed to hit some powerful shots, but struggled against the strong bowling. Despite the pressure, Pakistan's bowlers remained calm until the last over. Taibu had to lead both Prosper Utseya and himself, but Sohail ultimately made the decisive play. Zimbabwe showed improvement in fielding, bowling accurately, and catching well to restrict Pakistan to under 150 runs. Taylor made creative changes to his bowling lineup, starting with a spinner and then bringing in Chibhabha in the third over. Chibhabha quickly made an impact by taking a wicket when Asad Shafiq attempted a big shot and was caught by Chigumbura. Rameez Raja was also dismissed shortly after, caught at short fine leg. Kyle Jarvis, who had improved his bowling lengths from previous matches, got a wicket by delivering a short ball that Raja couldn't resist pulling and was caught by Ray Price. The hosts continued their early success by getting Shoaib Malik out caught behind off Chigumbura after he played at a wide delivery. Hafeez batted well against the spinners, allowing Umar Akmal to be cautious while facing Chigumbura's slower balls. However, Hafeez was eventually dismissed by Price after attempting to hit a six but falling short. Following Hafeez's departure, Pakistan's scoring rate slowed down significantly, with only 36 runs scored in the last five overs. Akmal was run out trying to take a second run, and Tanvir was bowled by Jarvis. Jarvis was consistent in the final overs and effectively utilized yorkers, a type of delivery he is very close to mastering. | 5 |
Daschle, who was new to his job, was struck by the reversal of protocol when Bob Dole insisted on coming to his office instead of the other way around. Despite Daschle's protests, Dole humorously pointed out that he could decide when the meeting was over if he visited Daschle. This interaction exemplified Dole's witty and straightforward nature and served as a reminder of his upbringing and values from Kansas. During the next 35 years, spanning his time in the House, Senate, and multiple runs for president, he thrived in a Washington environment that suited his skills as a negotiator. While it may seem cliche to look back on a supposedly more civil era in politics, Bob Dole was able to work with politicians from both parties to pass important bipartisan legislation, such as bills to save Social Security, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and reforms to the welfare system. One of his proudest achievements was collaborating with Democrat George McGovern to improve the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. After leaving the Senate, they continued to collaborate on nutrition issues. Senator Patrick J Leahy, who considered Dole a friend, praised their commitment to working together and keeping their promises. Leahy also highlighted the strong relationship between George J Mitchell Jr and Dole, noting that they had a close partnership and never surprised each other. Additionally, they had dedicated phone lines on their desks for direct communication. This level of collaboration and trust is rare in today's political landscape. The button proved to be useful in November 1994 when the Republicans regained the majority. Mitchell, who was not seeking reelection, requested that Dole be informed he was coming to his office to congratulate him. Dole replied quickly that he didn't want Mitchell to make the trip and instead went to his office to meet him, a gesture that Mitchell and his team appreciated as considerate. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole excelled at working across party lines, a concept that was more popular during his time in politics. Dallek noted that Dole was skilled at bipartisanship despite also holding conservative beliefs. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House known for his role in sparking partisan conflict in Washington, collaborated with Dole on tax cuts and defeating President Bill Clinton's healthcare plan. In a recent interview, Gingrich compared Dole to current Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, noting their tactical skills and ability to block or pass legislation. Despite their effective teamwork, Dole did not fully endorse Gingrich's confrontational approach. When Gingrich and House Republicans refused to pass federal spending bills, leading to a government shutdown in 1995, Dole expressed his frustration on the Senate floor. Dole believed it was time to put an end to the situation, calling it ridiculous from his perspective as a senator. In Washington, Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were considered a powerful couple, representing the city's institutions. Robert Dole symbolized World War II and the Greatest Generation, embodying an era of dignity and honor. He played a key role in the creation of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall and often greeted veterans there. Dallek, the historian, described him as a representative of America with his roots in the heartland and embodiment of common values. In 1996, Dole stepped down from the Senate after serving for over 25 years to pursue the presidency amidst a changing political landscape with Gingrich's influence and Clinton's impeachment over the Monica Lewinsky scandal adding to the growing partisan divide. When Dole, the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader at the time, gave a speech announcing his departure, the traditional customs of the Capitol remained. Despite Dole's decision to run against Bill Clinton, Democratic senators showed their respect by standing and applauding after his speech. | 5 |
Numerous architects are upset about the decision to demolish the red building, which enhanced the beauty of the street alongside a park. A heritage activist is urging authorities to protect the building due to its historical importance. A contractor named Shakil has already started dismantling parts of the building's roof, stating that he secured the job through a tender eight months prior and plans to complete the demolition in four days. When asked for his opinion, the Director General of the Department of Agricultural Expansion, Md Golam Maruf, stated to bdnews24.com that the decision to demolish the building was made by the government. He chose not to provide further comments, noting that the building no longer fell under his department's jurisdiction, despite its historical significance in agricultural research. He recommended contacting the Cotton Development Board (CDB), the current owner of the building. However, when contacted by phone, CDB Executive Director Md Farid Uddin was in a meeting and requested a callback in an hour. Subsequently, he did not respond to further calls from bdnews24.com. Taimur Islam, the CEO of Urban Study Group, an organization dedicated to preserving Dhaka City's architectural heritage, has expressed disapproval of the recent demolitions of buildings. He highlighted that over 2,500 unlisted buildings are at risk of being demolished, with only around 100 currently protected. Islam emphasized the need to preserve more buildings that are not currently on the heritage list. Taimur stated that the building holds significance due to its historical and architectural importance. He mentioned that a Famine Commission was established following a famine in Odisha during the mid-18th century, and some structures were built in Dhaka's Farmgate region as part of efforts to promote agriculture. The buildings were expanded when Bengal was divided in 1905, according to Taimur. Additionally, he noted that the building possesses great architectural value. "It resembles the courts and DC council buildings that were built during the colonial era." "Additionally, agriculture holds great significance in Bangladesh as the most crucial sector. However, we are currently erasing our agricultural history." Taimur expressed the belief that the entire area should have been conserved due to its connection to a significant chapter in our history. The technological advancements in agriculture were observed in these buildings, of which there were seven to eight. It is believed that these buildings should have been protected under the UNESCO Convention. During the demolition process, architects hurried to the site in an effort to save the building. Qazi Muhammad Arif, the General Secretary of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), expressed the desire for the building to be preserved due to its historical importance. Numerous buildings like this exist across the country, and it is the responsibility of the government to protect them. As experts in the field, we believe that historic buildings worth preserving should be maintained. Regarding the building in Khamarbarhi, Arif mentioned that there are plans for a high-rise office building to be constructed there, but measures could be taken to protect the old buildings instead. "The Vice-President of the institute, Jalal Ahmed, expressed to bdnews24.com that it appears to be too late now. He mentioned that there was no design of the building known to him and that the demolition work has progressed too far. He also commented that the building did not seem to be in such poor condition that it needed to be torn down. Associate Professor Shehzad Zahir of the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology stated that the advancement of Bangladesh's agriculture sector was achieved through scientific research." He stated that this building served as the laboratory where agricultural research in Bangladesh began, making it a pioneer in the country's agricultural development. Therefore, he emphasized the need to immediately halt the demolition and implement measures to preserve the building, as it is a late colonial period structure. He said that the beautiful shedding devices in front of the windows have connected our local architecture to that of Europe. BRAC University's Assistant Professor architect Sajid-Bin-Doza also mentioned that the building is well-suited for Bangladesh's tropical climate. He expressed disappointment and sadness over the lack of preservation of traditional designs in the building, stating that it reflects a lack of respect for our heritage. The speaker believes that the authorities should have taken pictures of the building before it was damaged, so that future generations could see it. However, he also mentioned that preserving the building now would be expensive due to the damage it has suffered from being bludgeoned with a hammer. | 5 |
Law minister Shafique Ahmed has raised doubts about the ability of local institutions to effectively govern the development of their communities. However, during a seminar on Thursday, other speakers, including members of parliament, politicians, and economists, expressed support for a strong local government and proposed the establishment of a local government commission. Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, president of the Bangladesh Unnayan Parishad and co-chair of the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust, stated that he believed the ruling Awami League would fulfill its election promise to create such a commission. Mujahidul Islam Selim, general secretary of the Bangladesh Communist Party, criticized the local government ministry for the methods it uses to maintain control over local governments, calling it unconstitutional. The government is required by the constitution to provide five levels of public representation, but currently only two are functioning - at the Upazila and union levels. Local representatives believe that these elected bodies cannot operate independently due to the influence of Members of Parliament (MPs). Abdul Majid, president of a group of Upazila chairmen and vice-chairmen, stated that the Upazila councils are not functioning properly and everything is controlled by the MPs. He mentioned that the Upazila chairman follows the instructions of the local MP. Meher Afroz Chumki, a Member of Parliament representing Gazipur, emphasized the need for a shift in mindset. She advocated for granting more authority to local government while attributing the hindrance of sincere government efforts to bureaucratic red tape. Chumki believes that empowering local governments will enable them to assume greater responsibility, but she pointed out that a closed mindset is currently preventing this progress. Hasanul Haq Inu, President of the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal and also an MP, stressed the importance of clearly defining the roles of both local and central government in order to outline the extent of their respective duties. He observed that discrimination against local representatives was to be expected in a system with strong dualism. He emphasized the importance of public representatives in development plans, stating that initiatives should be centered around local government. Shafique Ahmed, concluding the discussion, expressed support for decentralization and agreed with the other speakers. The technocrat minister added that it is necessary to assess if local agencies are capable of handling the responsibility. The Governance Advocacy Forum organized a seminar presided over by Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, where over 400 chairmen and vice-chairmen held a hunger strike in Muktangan on Jan 22, presenting a ten-point demand for empowerment. Their demands included the cancellation of a law that required the corresponding MP to be appointed as advisor to the Upazila council. They also called for 70 percent budget allocation, separate budgets for local government, and the authority for chairmen to assess all government employees under the council. Additionally, the local leaders requested control of 13 offices under 10 ministries in accordance with the Upazila Parishad Act, the ability for local government organizations to create their own annual and five-year plans, restructuring of district councils, establishment of a local government commission, and a comprehensive law for local government organizations. The strike was postponed to March 28 after receiving guarantees from MPs Rashed Khan Menon and Hasanul Haque Inu that the demands would be met. | 5 |
Bruce Springsteen, who endorsed Biden in a TV ad during the campaign, announced Time magazine's choice at the end of a one-hour special on NBC. Biden, the former vice president under President Obama, and Harris, a US senator from California who made history as the first Black woman and Indian American vice president-elect, will be featured together on the magazine's cover on Dec 21. They were chosen over frontline health care workers, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the racial justice movement, and President Trump. Time revealed the four finalists on the "Today" show earlier, with editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal noting the magazine's historical connection to the presidency. Felsenthal pointed out that it was the first time the magazine had decided to include the vice president as a person of the year, emphasizing that the title is not just a reflection of the past year but also a look towards the future. He mentioned that the upcoming four years will be a significant test for them and the nation to see if they can deliver on the unity they promised. Biden, appearing on the show via a recorded message, stated that if Trump had been reelected, it would have had a long-lasting impact on the American identity. He described the recent election as a crucial moment. Harris, who initially ran for president, acknowledged the challenges she and Biden would encounter. "We are currently facing a convergence of multiple crises," she explained. Despite the struggle of weekly print magazines to stay relevant in today's media landscape, Time magazine continues to generate excitement with its annual tradition of naming a Person of the Year. This tradition dates back to 1927 when aviator Charles Lindbergh was the first recipient of the honor. Over the years, Time has awarded this distinction to a variety of individuals, including presidents, peacemakers, astronauts, popes, Queen Elizabeth II, American women, and the Earth itself. However, some of the individuals chosen in the past have been controversial, such as Adolf Hitler in 1938 and Josef Stalin in 1939 and 1942." Time's selection process is not based on popularity, but rather on the person who has had the most impact on the news and our lives, whether positive or negative. Last year, Greta Thunberg was chosen as Time's person of the year over other notable figures. This decision, which angered Trump, was in recognition of Thunberg's activism and environmental efforts. In 2018, the magazine chose a group of journalists, which included murdered Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, as its person of the year to highlight the dangers faced by independent journalists. The journalists honored also included the staff of The Capital Gazette newspapers in Maryland, where five people were killed in a shooting in June 2018. The previous year, Time recognized the "silence breakers," a group of women who sparked the Me Too movement by coming forward to accuse powerful men of sexual harassment and assault. President Trump claimed on Twitter before the announcement in 2017 that he had been told he would likely be chosen again but said he declined the recognition. Time quickly issued a statement refuting the president's claim. Despite his surprising win over Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election, Trump was named Time's person of the year for that year. Previous presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, who all served two terms unlike Trump, were each chosen as Time's person of the year twice during their presidencies. Nine presidents have received this honor more than once, with Dwight D. Eisenhower being the first in 1944 for his role in leading the Allies to victory in World War II and Franklin D. Roosevelt being named person of the year three times. Text from around 2020 belonging to The New York Times Company. | 5 |
The upcoming mobile phone film project, "Overheated Symphony," has the potential to either become a popular "hot chick flick" or a powerful statement against global warming. Female filmmakers from around the world are encouraged to participate in this project as part of the Birds Eye View film festival in London, showcasing women's voices in cinema. Participants are asked to create a short film between 40 seconds and four minutes on their mobile phones, with the only requirement being the theme "Overheated." The films will be compiled by a London-based director to create a diverse cinematic experience. The project's website states that they welcome submissions from women regardless of their location or background if they have something interesting to share. Sarah Turner, the British film director in charge of editing the final product, drew inspiration from the 1927 film "Berlin - Symphony of a Great City" by Walter Ruttmann, which used a variety of still images to depict urban life. Similar to that film, "Overheated Symphony" will be abstract and allow contributors to exchange ideas with women worldwide. Turner believes that because the films are created by women, themes and issues important to women will be a key component of the finished product. Turner is collecting mobile films before the March 2 deadline for a live edit of the symphony to be shown on March 9 at London's Institute of Contemporary Arts. Rachel Millward, director of the Birds Eye View festival, in its third year, believes the film explores the intersection of new technology, women, and intense emotions. She stated that the direction film and media are heading is towards more interactivity and multi-platform projects. They wanted to create a project in line with this trend, as well as one with a playful, game-like feel where everyone can participate. They aim to showcase the voices of women worldwide and challenge the stereotype that women are not tech-savvy. Contributors are encouraged to upload their films on the festival's YouTube channel for editing. Despite the uncertain outcome, Millward is optimistic that the final product will be greater than the individual contributions. She mentions that the unpredictability of the film is its best aspect. It has the potential to address various topics such as climate change and passion, and she believes it will encompass all of these themes and more. | 5 |
Rival Premier League managers Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger showed their support for Kevin Keegan and Alan Curbishley, who both resigned from their positions on points of principle two weeks ago. Keegan left Newcastle due to interference from directors, while Curbishley left West Ham, claiming the board undermined him over transfers. Ferguson praised both men for standing up for their principles at a League Managers Association dinner at Wembley Stadium, stating that they resigned because they were no longer in control of their teams. He mentioned that players were being sold without their input. That is not deemed appropriate. It is not the reason you embarked on becoming a manager, at the mercy of a chairman. Arsenal manager Wenger expressed: "If you have no authority, yet are held accountable for the success or failure, that is awful." The manager is the key figure at the club, so why dismiss the manager when things are not going well? Ferguson, who has led Manchester United for almost 22 years, and Wenger, who is approaching 12 years at Arsenal, are the two longest-serving managers in the Premier League. Ferguson stated that in the current era of youthful and wealthy chairmen, success is crucial and the management challenges have evolved since the beginning of his and Arsene's careers. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect and acknowledged the financial limitations faced by managers. Ferguson supported the decision of managers to leave when faced with sudden changes mid-season. The conversation also touched on the influx of overseas investment in the Premier League, particularly with the Abu Dhabi United Group's acquisition of Manchester City and their intention to pursue signings like Cristiano Ronaldo and Cesc Fabregas. Wenger expressed his belief that significant financial investment could create instability in the league. He noted that there is a shift in the motivations of new club owners, with a previous generation aspiring to buy their dream club, whereas now individuals may be motivated by money or seeking glory. Having more money in the League can be beneficial, but an excess of money can lead to inflationary pressure and destabilize other clubs by putting a strain on their resources. Despite being fierce rivals, Wenger and Ferguson shared smiles and jokes, indicating a newfound understanding and mutual respect between them. They have even shared wine and meals at coaching conferences in Geneva, further solidifying their respect for each other. We both have excellent teams and have experienced intense competition over the past ten years. | 5 |
Text = What is the name of this? | 5 |
In order to find an answer about Venus, it is necessary to thoroughly examine all aspects of the planet, including how its surface has changed over time. Unlike Earth, which has plate tectonics causing the movement of continent-sized pieces of land, Venus does not have this process. However, a recent study suggests that Venus may have a unique variation of this process, where blocks of its surface have shifted and twisted, altering their surroundings in the process. These dancing blocks, which are thin and flat slices of rock known as campi (Latin for "fields"), can range in size from as small as Ireland to as large as Alaska. They were discovered using data from NASA's Magellan orbiter mission, the agency's final exploration of Venus. In the early 1990s, radar technology was used to penetrate the planet's dense atmosphere and create a detailed map of its entire surface. Upon revisiting these maps, researchers identified 58 campi spread across the planet's lava-covered plains. These campi are surrounded by lines of small mountain ranges and grooves, which have been altered and marked by the passage of time. According to planetary scientist Paul Byrne from North Carolina State University, the campi on Venus were likely created by being pulled by the flowing mantle below, causing them to move like pack ice. This movement resulted in the formation of mountains when campi moved towards immobile land, grooves when moving away, and strain marks and etchings along boundaries when moving side-to-side. The fact that this deformation occurred in Venus' lowlands is important. The lava covering the landscapes is between 750 and 150 million years old, making them some of the youngest on the planet. This suggests that the tectonic activity in these areas occurred relatively recently in the history of the solar system. NASA's VERITAS and Europe's EnVision missions will investigate whether this tectonic activity is still ongoing. These missions will use advanced radar systems to closely study the landscapes and determine if any movement has occurred since the time of Magellan. If evidence shows that Venus is tectonically active, it will support the idea that Venus was once capable of plate tectonics due to having a significant amount of water in the past. This process of plate tectonics helps regulate the climate by cycling carbon and preventing extreme global warming. However, catastrophic events, such as volcanic eruptions, may have caused Venus to become a dry, inhospitable planet with inactive plate tectonics. Therefore, over the past billion years, the surface of the entire planet has been a single, motionless plate. However, this does not mean that the planet is completely still. Scientists, through missions like Magellan, have identified fault networks, rift zones, and mountain ridges - evidence of both ancient and more recent movement. If the findings of this new study are accurate and parts of Venus have been recently moving, it suggests that the planet's surface is more dynamic than previously thought. Joseph O'Rourke, a planetary scientist at Arizona State University, who was not involved in the study, stated that understanding why Venus has this unexpected tectonic activity would have significant implications. There are many Earth- and Venus-sized planets in the universe, and their tectonic activity will play a role in shaping their destinies. Understanding Earth and Venus is crucial in order to understand other rocky planets in our solar system and beyond, according to O'Rourke. Venus, with its many unexpected features, presents a challenge in this task. | 5 |
Due to a geomagnetic storm caused by a recent solar outburst, 40 out of 49 newly launched Starlink satellites have been disabled and are currently reentering Earth's atmosphere to be burned up. This event underscores the risks faced by companies looking to deploy thousands of small satellites for internet service from space, as future solar outbursts could potentially disrupt more of these satellites. The sun operates on an 11-year cycle of activity and inactivity. At the moment, the sun is increasing in activity and is expected to reach its peak around 2025. This recent solar event was considered mild compared to what the sun is capable of. Hugh Lewis, a space debris expert, believes that a more severe event is likely to occur during the next solar cycle. If a minor solar flare can damage 40 Starlink satellites, a stronger one could cause even more harm to SpaceX and other companies with megaconstellations. SpaceX confirmed the potential loss of 40 satellites in a recent blog post. The company stated that following the launch, the satellites were released into their planned orbit, situated approximately 130 miles above Earth. This height was selected in part to prevent potential collisions with other satellites in the future. If the satellites experience issues after being deployed at this altitude and are unable to raise their orbits to more secure levels, "the atmosphere quickly reclaims the failed technology," according to Lewis. This serves as a good safety precaution. However, on Jan 29, prior to the launch of these satellites, a powerful eruption of highly energetic particles and magnetism from the sun, known as a coronal mass ejection, was observed. This ejection reached Earth around Feb 2, leading to a geomagnetic storm in Earth's magnetic field. The intense storm added energy to particles in Earth's atmosphere, causing it to expand and increase in density. This increased drag on objects moving through the atmosphere, including satellites, causing their orbits to shrink and draw closer to the lower atmosphere where they would burn up. During a recent Starlink deployment, SpaceX reported that the storm caused atmospheric drag to increase by up to 50% compared to previous launches, resulting in the loss of 40 out of 49 satellites due to gravity. Currently, there are 1,915 Starlink satellites in orbit, so losing up to 40 is not a major concern for SpaceX, according to Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at Harvard and the Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. However, Lewis estimates that the loss could be up to $100 million in hardware costs. The risks of solar outbursts and geomagnetic storms to objects in low-Earth orbit are well documented, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration categorizing storms from minor to extreme. The recent "moderate" storm could potentially alter orbits due to changes in atmospheric drag. Given these risks, it raises the question of whether SpaceX considered this hazard during the Starlink deployment. "I am surprised," said Samantha Lawler, an astronomer at the University of Regina in Canada. "Did they really not anticipate this?" Jonathan McDowell also expressed his surprise, stating, "It is unexpected. One would have assumed they were prepared for this." A SpaceX media representative, when reached by email, mentioned that the team was too busy to respond to questions. The fact that these satellites are entering the atmosphere quickly rather than staying in low-Earth orbit is actually positive, and they do not pose any danger to people on the ground. Lewis stated that the system functioned correctly in terms of safety, with the satellites de-orbiting without posing any risk. Most satellites orbit at higher altitudes, which helps them avoid potential dangers caused by atmospheric expansion. However, satellites orbiting at lower altitudes are still at risk, raising concerns about SpaceX's ability to continue deploying spacecraft at this altitude. Lewis explained that as the sun becomes more active, it emits more extreme ultraviolet radiation, which is absorbed into our atmosphere. This will cause the atmosphere to expand significantly, leading to an expected increase in atmospheric density by one or two orders of magnitude. Many astronomers have criticized Starlink and other satellite constellations for potentially interfering with telescope research on Earth due to their reflection of sunlight. This incident is seen as representative of SpaceX's approach to issues in low-Earth orbit, where they address failures and improve in the future. This event serves as a lesson for SpaceX, according to Lewis. Lawler stated that the outcome is in their hands, and he expressed a hope that this situation will make them see reason. | 5 |
There is growing speculation that Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard may be removed from her position by her party before the end of the year. Despite a rough start to 2012, senior ministers have come out in support of Gillard, including Defense Minister Stephen Smith, amidst media reports suggesting she may face a challenge from Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd. Political analysts now believe Gillard is unlikely to lead the party into the next election in 2013, with a potential move against her expected later in the year. According to Monash University political analyst Nick Economou, some MPs are starting to worry and believe a change in leadership may be necessary. The initial major opinion polls for 2012 showed that government support was stuck at historically low levels. Online bookmakers Sportsbet stated that the odds of Rudd becoming the leader again by the end of the year had decreased to $1.20 for a $1.00 bet. Despite this, some members of the party, such as Smith, expressed strong support for the current Prime Minister, believing she is handling challenging situations well. Other ministers, including Combet, Conroy, and Crean, have called for unity within the party and criticized Rudd for not being a team player. Despite being ousted as prime minister due to difficulties passing reforms, Rudd still maintains popularity among voters. The government is facing a dilemma as Prime Minister Gillard relies on support from two independents and the Greens, and any change in leadership could potentially lead to a change in government or an early election if the new leader cannot secure similar support. This could result in the conservative opposition abolishing a new mining tax and carbon tax scheduled to begin on July 1. Gillard dismissed recent rumors, stating that she is focused on implementing effective policies and not concerned with media speculation. Gillard ended 2011 on a positive note after gaining additional support in parliament, strengthening her majority. However, her year did not start off well in 2012. She lost the backing of an independent in January because she failed to keep her promise to change gambling laws. Additionally, she lost a staff member who resigned due to his involvement in a protest against Opposition Leader Tony Abbott that created a security threat. As a result, the government's majority in parliament is now just one seat, with one lawmaker facing scrutiny in a police investigation regarding the use of union funds for prostitutes. Despite this, there is a possibility for relief if the central bank reduces interest rates next week. Australian Financial Review political editor Laura Tingle noted a shift in support away from Gillard in the past week, although many Labor lawmakers remain strongly opposed to Rudd. Tingle wrote on Friday that there has been a shift in sentiment against Julia Gillard. Economou mentioned that any action against Gillard is unlikely until July, when the carbon tax and mining tax come into effect. This will give Labor time to present their budget in May and campaign for the Queensland state election on March 24. Economou warned that the real threat to Gillard will come after the carbon tax is implemented, and if conditions do not improve by then, she may need to step down. | 5 |
Oscar voters are known to appreciate a good drama, but at the Toronto International Film Festival, dramas are struggling to secure distribution due to a shift towards escapist fantasies and comedies among audiences. Despite the festival's reputation as a launching pad for award-winning films, many dramas are lacking distribution deals, including notable titles like "Chloe" and "Dorian Gray." This trend reflects the challenges faced by serious-minded films in the current film industry climate. Industry insiders believe that the audience for quality dramas still exists, and that the genre is far from dead. They view the issue as more of a cyclical trend related to marketing and production costs rather than a lack of creative content. However, it is acknowledged that creating successful films like "No Country for Old Men" in today's market is a challenging task. Director Jon Amiel, known for his film "Creation" about Charles Darwin, expressed that "drama" has become a taboo word in Hollywood, with even indie distributors hesitant to invest in movies with unconventional subjects. There are numerous movies that American viewers will not have the opportunity to see. The declining interest is evident in box office numbers. Two successful films in the art house genre last summer were "The Hurt Locker," which made $12 million, and "(500) Days of Summer," which earned around $29 million. According to entertainment attorney Steven Beer, there is a cautious approach towards dramas in the current market. Despite challenges such as lower box office returns and declining DVD sales, industry insiders believe that dramas can still attract fans and generate profits. The key lies in developing an appropriate production and marketing strategy that aligns with the current movie-going landscape. Effective marketing often involves grassroots campaigns that target specific audience groups, such as science and period drama enthusiasts for films like "Creation." To remain viable, production costs need to be reduced to accommodate the changing market conditions. Competition from other home entertainment options has contributed to the decrease in DVD sales, making it essential for the industry to adapt in order to succeed with these types of films. Tom Ortenberg, president of theatrical films at The Weinstein Co., emphasized the need for models to change in a difficult economic climate. Industry expert David Poland noted that the decrease in DVD sales has made distributors hesitant to invest in costly dramas, although there is still a demand for them. Distributors are being more selective in their choices, making it challenging for a film to have the same impact as "Slumdog" did at Toronto 2008. Tom Bernard, co-president of Sony Pictures Classics, acknowledged that buyers at Toronto 2009 are approaching the festival with caution compared to previous years. | 5 |
Mohsin passed away while receiving treatment at Dhaka's Combined Military Hospital at 9:30am on Monday. Selina Haque, additional secretary to the defence ministry, confirmed this news. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her deep sorrow at Mohsin's death and extended her condolences to his grieving family. Mohsin had been admitted to CMH on June 2 after testing positive for COVID-19. As his condition worsened, he was moved to intensive care and received plasma therapy. Mohsin, who was the younger brother of former principal secretary Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury, was promoted to the rank of senior secretary on June 14 while he was still in the hospital. Mohsin, born in Cumilla in 1963, obtained an MSc in Soil Science from Dhaka University and later completed an MA in Governance Studies from Northern University in Dhaka. A member of the 1985 BCS batch, he served in various capacities at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industries, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Prime Minister's Office. Prior to his role in the defence ministry, he was the secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. | 5 |
In total, there were a minimum of 19 fatalities across multiple states due to the storm. It was ranked as the third highest snowfall accumulation in New York City history, with at least 25.1 inches (63.7 cm), and was also one of the largest storms in Washington, according to the National Weather Service. Thirteen individuals lost their lives in weather-related car accidents in Arkansas, North Carolina, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia. One person passed away in Maryland and three in New York City while clearing snow. Officials in Virginia reported that two people died from hypothermia. The storm, which dumped nearly two feet of snow on the Washington area overnight, unexpectedly gained strength as it moved northward towards the New York metropolitan area, where approximately 20 million people live. The storm was predicted to continue through the night, with snow accumulations expected to reach between 24 and 28 inches in New York City, northern New Jersey, and western Long Island, accompanied by winds gusting up to 45 mph. The statue of Pierre Charles L'Enfant in Washington was covered in snow during the storm. Visibility was forecasted to be very low, at one-quarter of a mile or less. The statue of Pierre Charles L'Enfant is covered in snow during a winter storm in Washington on January 23, 2016. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has declared a state of emergency, along with 10 other state governors. He has also implemented a ban on all travel on New York City area roads and on Long Island, with the exception of emergency vehicles, from Saturday afternoon until 7am on Sunday. At that time, all bridges and tunnels into the city from New Jersey will also reopen. Subways that run above ground and trains operated by the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North stopped service at 4pm due to heavy snowfall. The impact of the travel ban on New York's financial services industry was considered minimal over the weekend, and it is unclear how much the heavy snow will affect Wall Street's reopening on Monday. On Broadway, the response was swift. The mayor's recommendation led to the cancellation of Saturday matinee and evening shows. The typically lively city of 8.5 million people fell into a peaceful silence. Tourists and locals wandered the streets of Manhattan, some even skiing in Central Park. Snowmen were built and friendly snowball fights broke out among the residents. The area around the Washington Monument was blanketed in snow during a winter storm on January 23, 2016. Authorities in New York and New Jersey stopped public transportation, while the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority decided to suspend operations through Sunday in the capital. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser stated at a press conference that the snow is expected to stop late tonight or early tomorrow morning, but the situation remains hazardous. The area will continue to experience strong winds which will result in poor conditions and visibility. FlightAware.com reported over 5,100 flight cancellations on Saturday and over 3,300 on Sunday. United Airlines announced that they would not operate at Washington-area airports over the weekend, with plans to gradually resume service on Monday. Limited operations are expected to start on Sunday afternoon at Newark and other New York airports. The blizzard first hit Washington, where snow accumulated outside the White House and on the city's monuments, before moving on to the New York City area. "We have yet to make snow angels, but we are excited to do so in front of the White House," said Robert Bella Hernandez, 38. "We plan to stroll around and admire the snow-covered landmarks of DC. If it becomes unsafe, we may retreat indoors for a brief period." Washington's record snowfall of 28 inches (71.1 cm) dates back to 1922, with a recent significant snowfall of 17.8 inches (45.2 cm) in 2010. High winds, reaching 70 mph (112.5 km) in Wallops Island, Virginia, caused coastal flooding along the East Coast from North Carolina to New York, with tides higher than during Sandy. National Weather Service meteorologist Greg Gallina provided this information. A man is seen walking near the Washington Monument during a winter storm in Washington on January 23, 2016. The storm also impacted the Mid-Atlantic cities of Baltimore and Philadelphia, resulting in power outages for about 150,000 customers in North Carolina and 90,000 homes in New Jersey that Saturday. The high tides, exceeding those of Superstorm Sandy three years prior, flooded roads along the Jersey Shore and Delaware coast, breaking records in Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware, according to NWS meteorologist Patrick O'Hara. Some evacuations were necessary along the New Jersey Shore, where residents had to leave their homes due to the storm in 2012. Linda Gilmore, the county's public information officer, reported that the barrier islands close to Atlantic City were facing notable tidal flooding. The storm originated along the Gulf Coast and brought snow to Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky on Friday. Meteorologists explained that the winter system resulted from warm, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean clashing with cold air along the coast. | 5 |
The October issue of GQ features Paul McCartney, who usually relies on familiar Beatles stories in interviews. However, in this issue, McCartney appears more open and less concerned about his image, even sharing a story about the Beatles' teenage adventures. This added a new dimension to his public persona and made him more relatable to fans. McCartney's willingness to be transparent in the interview was a refreshing change from his usual reserved self. In contrast, not all high-profile interviews require this level of openness, as seen in the September issue of Vogue featuring Beyoncé. The article accompanying this text is titled "Beyoncé in Her Own Words," and it is not a profile but a collection of short commentaries on various topics such as motherhood, family, body acceptance, and touring. Anna Wintour describes it as a "powerful essay" written by Beyoncé herself, with only a credit at the end indicating that a journalist was present at some point. This erases outside perspectives and the usual dynamic between interviewer and interviewee in celebrity journalism, which could be concerning for those who value context and depth in the fame economy. This is not a rare occurrence and is seen frequently in the world of pop music. Many well-known artists, like Taylor Swift, Drake, and Frank Ocean, have chosen to avoid the press in recent years. Instead, they communicate with their fans through social media or remain silent altogether. A monologue, not a dialogue, is changing the role of celebrity press. In-depth interviews have been important for creating and maintaining stars since the 1960s. Even at the height of fame, artists still engaged with the media by answering questions. This was how they shared their thoughts and feelings about important events, such as John Lennon discussing the Beatles' breakup, Tupac Shakur speaking from jail, or Courtney Love after Kurt Cobain's death. It was enlightening for fans and a source of pride for celebrities, especially during confrontational interviews. Stars like Ice Cube and Madonna excelled in these situations, showing their thoughtfulness, willingness to be challenged, and awareness of their public image. However, this was in a time when print media held more power compared to the internet and TMZ. As celebrities' every move began to be constantly reported, they became more reserved. While this shift may not necessarily mean the end of traditional celebrity journalism, it does mark a significant change in the industry. However, the pressure on celebrity journalism coming from higher authorities may not be as significant as the threat emerging from younger generations of celebrities who are active on social media platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud. These new celebrities share their lives on their own terms, swiftly and decisively, without the constraints of traditional interviews. This generation values hyper-documentation and has rendered the traditional promise of celebrity journalism, which focuses on providing intimate perspectives and behind-the-scenes access, largely obsolete. For example, the rapper Lil Xan has been involved in several online dramas recently, sharing personal struggles and relationship issues without waiting for traditional media to cover his story. He even announced a series for Netflix on Instagram without going through traditional platforms. At times, social media posts have replaced the traditional tell-all interview, with celebrities like Ariana Grande, XXXTentacion, and Logan Paul using platforms like Instagram and YouTube to share their personal stories. These posts provide a one-sided narrative with limited scrutiny, creating a safe space for young celebrities to connect with their fans. With the widespread reach and targeted audience of social media, traditional celebrity journalism faces challenges in staying relevant. The most famous celebrities have moved away from it, while newer celebrities have grown up in a time where traditional journalism is less important. As time passes, the middle ground may disappear completely. Additionally, there is now a wide range of content being created, making it hard for consumers to distinguish between original journalism and brand-created content. This lack of clarity encourages celebrities to move away from traditional media, where they have less control over the final product. As traditional media outlets face extinction, the new media landscape is often seen as a correction or a noisy distraction. For example, Selena Gomez is featured on the cover of Elle this month, with a relatively harmless accompanying story. When the interview was published online, she responded with a lengthy Instagram post expressing her frustration. She mentioned that it was difficult for her to speak candidly for over an hour only to have someone else turn her words into a paid article. As she gets older, she desires for her voice to truly be her own. She then outlined the specific topics she had hoped to discuss in the interview, and expressed disappointment that the focus was shifted to her personal life and church instead. This imbalance in power between celebrities and the press has led publications to compromise their integrity in order to maintain access to famous individuals. This has resulted in celebrities taking on the role of guest editor for magazines, further blurring the lines between control and access. While Swift was featured on the cover of Harper's Bazaar this year, she actually interviewed rock muse Pattie Boyd in the accompanying article. Rihanna also took her own photograph for the cover of The Fader in 2015, with the help of a professional photographer. This act was a commentary on fame and the cover star taking control of their own image. If these options are not possible, magazines can have a friend of the celebrity conduct the interview instead. In an issue of Elle, Jennifer Lawrence had a conversation with Emma Stone, while Blake Lively interviewed Gigi Hadid for Harper's Bazaar. Cleo Wade, an Instagram affirmation specialist, conducted Katy Perry's cover interview for Glamour. Interview magazine, known for its celebrity interviews, recently made a comeback with Raf Simons chatting with George Condo and Jennifer Jason Leigh speaking with Phoebe Cates, with a journalist occasionally joining in. The magazine shows that the friend being interviewed doesn't necessarily have to be famous. The current Rolling Stone feature with the usually private pop star Sia and the recent New York magazine interview with Woody Allen's wife, Soon-Yi Previn, were both conducted by long-time friends of the subjects. These stories rely on the close relationships between the journalists and their subjects to provide insight, rather than maintaining objectivity. Celebrity profiles are meant to act as a bridge between the reader and the subject, but in the pursuit of exclusivity, ethical boundaries are often ignored. Friendship should not be a requirement for interviews, as it can limit the depth and objectivity of the conversation. Fans are deprived of the insight that comes from challenging questions, rather than just agreeing with the interviewee. It would have been fascinating to have probing discussions with Beyoncé about "Lemonade" or Swift about "Reputation", allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the artists. However, instead of embracing these types of conversations, these celebrities have become closed off. It is unfortunate that we will never get the answers to the unasked questions. Copyright 2018 New York Times News Service. | 5 |
Rafiq, a former captain of the England Under-19s of Pakistani descent, revealed last year that he felt like an outsider at Yorkshire and even considered suicide. Hutton, in his resignation letter, criticized the Yorkshire board and senior management for their failure to address racism and change the club's culture. He also apologized to Rafiq for the club's failure to address the serious allegations of racism when he was there. "I regret that we were unable to convince the top members of the board to understand the seriousness of the situation and demonstrate concern and remorse." The England Cricket Board (ECB) has suspended Yorkshire ECB from hosting major matches, but Hutton mentioned that the ECB was hesitant to take action when approached. Hutton stated, "I want to clarify that as soon as I learned of Azeem Rafiq's allegations, I immediately contacted the ECB to request their assistance and involvement in conducting a thorough investigation." Hutton expressed disappointment when the ECB refused to assist, as he believed it was a significant issue for the sport as a whole. It is well-documented that Hutton has repeatedly voiced his frustration with the ECB's unwillingness to take action. The CEO of the ECB, Tom Harrison, explained that the organization was invited to participate in a Yorkshire panel of inquiry, but they were unable to do so as they are the regulator. He clarified that it would be inappropriate for them to be both regulator and part of the investigation. Harrison disagreed with the suggestion that the ECB had declined to assist with the investigation. The ECB had previously stated that it would ensure Yorkshire is held responsible for their actions and may impose penalties. Rafiq and other high-ranking Yorkshire officials are required to provide testimony in front of a parliamentary Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) panel on November 16. | 5 |
Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen has announced a state of emergency for his team's World Cup campaign ahead of their match against Denmark. Both teams are in desperate need of a win to stay in contention for the knockout stages after losing their opening games. Le Guen is not holding back in his evaluation of his team's performance so far. "I prefer for people to be highly motivated and aware of the emergency situation," said Cameroon's players are rumored to have been involved in some internal conflict following the defeat, but captain Samuel Eto'o emphasized that this was not the case. "I want to make it clear that there has never been any internal conflict within the team and there never will be," he stated at the conclusion of Friday's press conference. "As long as my teammates, my coach, and my country have confidence in me, there will never be any internal conflict." Despite the players' mindset, one thing is certain - Le Guen will make changes. He announced that he will make changes for the next game by replacing three players. He mentioned that the team did not perform well and will be making adjustments to improve. He emphasized that he will fulfill his responsibilities as a coach and team selector, and is open to making changes for the benefit of the team. I alter things when I notice they are not functioning properly. During the game against Japan, I attempted to place the players in their club positions, except for Stephane Mbia. If that strategy does not yield results, I make adjustments. This statement appears to be a direct mention of his past choice to position Eto'o on the right side, a decision that was criticized, including by Eto'o himself who stated on French TV that he performs best in the center. Eto'o clarified that he was not attempting to influence his coach and stated that he will follow instructions. He emphasized that Paul Le Guen is the one responsible for making decisions, while the players are there to represent their country and follow his guidance. Le Guen, in addition to discussing his own duties, urged his players to live up to their nickname of Indomitable Lions. He acknowledged his role in selecting the team and setting tactics but stressed the importance of the players also embodying a certain spirit, suggesting that they need to reconnect with the spirit of the Lions. | 5 |
This is an example of the type of compromise that has long been made by some employees of the Kremlin's propaganda machine. These individuals value the steady work and creative challenge, even if they do not agree with the mission of their workplace. Recently, Likin, who had been the art director for Channel 1, a major player in the Kremlin's propaganda apparatus, resigned following President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. Likin, who claimed he was not a politician, felt that the invasion aligned him with a "life-exterminating" agenda. He criticized Russian television for catering to those who are too lazy to seek alternative sources of information, lacking education or the habit of analysis. The invasion of Ukraine has prompted some Russians who previously worked for the government to sever ties, indicating the Kremlin's struggle to maintain full societal unity behind the war. There have been numerous arrests and mass exodus from Ukraine in protest of the invasion, with high-profile resignations at Russia's state television channels, including Putin's climate envoy Anatoly Chubais. Marina Ovsyannikova's bold act of protest during a live news broadcast has garnered attention, while others like Zhanna Agalakova have quietly resigned, reflecting the internal turmoil within Putin's system and the significant influence of television on public perception of the war. Many thoughtful individuals are feeling a sense of their own wrongdoing. There is no way out, you see? Merely seeking forgiveness is not sufficient." The Kremlin controls all of Russia's national television networks, and while their impact has decreased with the popularity of YouTube and social media, they remain the primary source of news for the public. According to surveys by the Levada Center, an independent Moscow pollster, around two-thirds of Russians relied on state television for news last year, a decrease from 90% in 2014. Throughout the war, state television channels have presented Russians with a narrative of the conflict that contrasts sharply with what is seen in the West: Russians are portrayed as the heroes, similar to their role in World War II when they fought Nazi Germany and liberated Ukrainian territories from neo-Nazis supported by the dominant West. Images of deceased civilians and destroyed homes are inaccurately labeled as either fabricated or the result of Ukrainians bombing their own areas. According to a Channel 1 reporter in Mariupol, some locals claim that the Ukrainian military is intentionally targeting residential buildings, while others believe that nationalists were instructed to inflict maximum damage on the city before retreating. Pollsters suggest that many Russians believe the narrative presented on their television, which portrays the war as a continuation of longstanding animosity and grievances towards the West. Despite this, most state television journalists have remained in their positions, intensifying the message of Russia fighting for its survival. Liliya Gildeyeva, a former anchor at NTV, admitted that she had compromised her principles before realizing the extent of her actions only after the war had begun. She mentioned that when one starts to give in to oneself slowly, they may not realize how far they have fallen. The shock of the war has caused a significant number of Russians to leave the country in recent weeks, flying to destinations such as Turkey and Armenia. Among those leaving are journalists, activists, tech workers, and young professionals who no longer see a future for themselves in Russia. Even some members of Russia's elite, like Chubais, the Kremlin's climate envoy, have left the country due to the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin confirmed that Chubais had resigned. He was considered one of the few officials with liberal views left in Putin's government, and his key role in the economic reforms of the 1990s in Moscow made him unpopular among many Russians. It is uncertain whether the dissatisfaction among some of the elite could pose a threat to Putin's government. Likin, the former art director of Channel 1, believed that those who were willing to step down based on their principles were a small minority in Russian society. Agalakova, the former correspondent of Channel 1, commented that many of her former colleagues who chose to stay did not work for a specific cause. People who leave their jobs at state television, especially those who speak out, face an uncertain future as they have families, loans, and a need to survive. Agalakova, who was a correspondent based in Paris, mentioned that some of her acquaintances stopped speaking to her after she quit. Likin, on the other hand, plans to continue his career as an architect in Russia and may consider returning to television if it changes its agenda. Government-sponsored polls suggest that most Russians support Putin's invasion, but analysts warn that people may not answer surveys truthfully during wartime. Agalakova now realizes that years of propaganda on Russian television have influenced public opinion and support for the current Kremlin policies by distorting the memory of the country's World War II sacrifices. Agalakova stated that the mention of Nazism in relation to Ukraine causes an immediate reaction in society, due to the Kremlin's false claims about Russia fighting Nazis in Ukraine. She described this as a shameless and fraudulent game. As propaganda continues, Russians who are skeptical of television have fewer sources for accurate news. The Echo of Moscow radio station and TV Rain television channel have been shut down, and access to Facebook and Instagram has been blocked. Additionally, journalist Alexander Nevzorov is under criminal investigation for posting about the Russian bombing of Mariupol on his Instagram page. The most recent attempt to instill fear in critics of the war involved promoting a new law that could result in up to 15 years in prison for going against the official narrative of the conflict in Ukraine. Denis Volkov, from the Levada polling center, believes that the true test of Russian public opinion will come once the economic hardships caused by Western sanctions start affecting society. Despite this, Volkov thinks that the Kremlin's narrative of the West undermining Ukraine to harm Russia, and Russia bravely protecting its people abroad, has become deeply ingrained in the minds of television viewers and is unlikely to change soon. Many Russians tend to accept news that aligns with the television narrative and reject anything that doesn't, regardless of its truthfulness. | 5 |
Viktor Yanukovich of Ukraine was inaugurated as president on Thursday and immediately vowed to combat corruption and poverty, as well as restore political stability in order to regain foreign support for the struggling economy. The ceremony, which was subdued, underscored the contentious nature of the election, still disputed by his opponent Yulia Tymoshenko, and exposed deep divisions within the nation. Despite this, Yanukovich's inauguration represented a comeback from the 2004 Orange Revolution, where mass protests overturned a rigged election in his favor. In his address to officials, lawmakers, and foreign dignitaries, Yanukovich acknowledged Ukraine's significant challenges, including massive debts, poverty, corruption, and economic collapse. He emphasized the need for an innovative strategy to move the country forward, which he claimed his team had already developed. He addressed the lack of foreign investment in Ukraine, acknowledging the country's unstable business climate. He expressed his intention to restore political stability, eliminate corruption, and establish clear rules for the relationship between the government and businesses in order to build trust with investors and international financial institutions. Ukraine's economy has been severely impacted by the global economic downturn, leading to a decline in exports and a significant decrease in the value of its currency. The country is relying on a $16.4 billion IMF bailout program, which was suspended recently and will likely resume once stability is restored. The finance ministry announced that an IMF technical mission is scheduled to visit on April 7th. This often results in a thorough visit from IMF officials who will then determine whether to resume the program. Yanukovich, a former mechanic with support from wealthy industrialists, had a difficult upbringing in eastern Ukraine and a history of minor criminal convictions. He is expected to improve relations with Russia, Ukraine's former Soviet ruler, following a period of estrangement under Viktor Yushchenko. Yanukovich has suggested potential compromises with Moscow regarding the Russian Black Sea fleet in Crimea and has proposed a joint consortium with Russia to manage Ukraine's gas pipelines. However, he aims to renegotiate a decade-old gas supply agreement between Ukraine, Tymoshenko, and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. He also mentioned that he intends to have a balanced foreign policy and is committed to strengthening relationships with the European Union. During his speech, he stated that he is willing to maintain good relations with Russia, the EU, and the United States in order to benefit Ukraine. His website confirmed that he plans to visit Brussels next week and Moscow in early March. Yanukovich defeated Prime Minister Tymoshenko by 3.5 percentage points, but only received the support of one-third of the 37 million voters. The voting results showed a clear divide between Russian-speaking voters in the eastern and southern industrial regions who supported Yanukovich, and Ukrainian-speaking voters in the western and central areas who voted for Tymoshenko. Tymoshenko withdrew her legal challenge to Yanukovich's election last Saturday, but maintains that he was not rightfully elected. She and most of her parliamentary bloc did not attend the ceremony on Thursday, making it seem empty. Despite Yanukovich's call for a capable executive power, Tymoshenko is still resisting efforts to remove her as prime minister, indicating ongoing political tension in the short term. She is working to rally her allies in parliament to support her, while his party and its influential supporters are trying to break up her coalition and form a new one. Creating a coalition involves delicate negotiations and may take a long time. If Yanukovich is unable to form a new coalition, he will have no choice but to hold new parliamentary elections, leading to more uncertainty. | 5 |
The renaming of India's tech hub and other cities was done to coincide with Karnataka's 59th formation day. An official stated that the state government notified that Bangalore and 11 other cities in the state will now be pronounced and spelled in Kannada starting from Nov 1, following approval by the central government. Bangalore, being the fifth largest city in the country, has gained global attention over the past decade due to its successful IT industry, talented workforce, pleasant climate, and diverse culture. Other well-known cities like Mysore will now be known as Mysuru, Mangalore as Mangaluru, Belgaum as Belagavi, Bellary as Ballari, Hubli as Hubballi, and Gulbarga as Kalaburgi. The remaining five cities will also have their names changed to reflect the local language. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed pride in the 60-million people of the state being able to use the Kannada names of these cities officially. He also mentioned plans to rename more cities and towns in the state in the future. Despite many locals already using the Kannada names for these cities, some feel that the renaming has taken away the charm and fame of the city's Anglican name. We must accept and adapt to the renaming of states and cities, as US Secretary of State John Kerry first used the term "Bangalored" in 2008 to emphasize how Indian software firms were taking American tech jobs. Other states like Maharashtra have also renamed cities, such as Bombay to Mumbai and Madras to Chennai, in order to respect historical names and sentiments. Karnataka began its renaming process in 2006 to commemorate the state's golden jubilee in response to various demands. The state legislature also approved it during the previous BJP administration. On Monday, the state government will instruct corporations, departments, and institutions to update their nameplates and stationery as needed. Chief secretary Kaushik Mukherjee stated that private firms or organizations will not be required to change their registered names if they reference any of the 12 cities. | 5 |
Officials have announced that Southern African leaders will convene in Swaziland's capital Mbabane on Wednesday for an urgent meeting to address the crisis in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has called on the United Nations to isolate President Robert Mugabe and deploy a peacekeeping force in the country. Despite the U.N. Security Council's recent condemnation of violence against opposition members and declaration that a free and fair presidential election on Friday was not possible, Mugabe remains defiant. The meeting in Mbabane has been organized by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as pressure mounts on Mugabe to address the political and economic challenges facing Zimbabwe. The leaders of Tanzania, Angola, and Swaziland will attend the meeting in their capacity as the SADC's troika organ on politics, defense, and security. The statement mentioned that the current SADC chairman, President Levy Mwanawasa of Zambia, and the SADC mediator for Zimbabwe, President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, have been invited to attend the meeting. The main agenda of the meeting is to discuss how the SADC and its troika organ on politics, defense, and security can assist Zimbabwe in resolving its current state of conflict. Tsvangirai, who has sought refuge in the Dutch embassy in Harare after withdrawing from the election, expressed concern that Zimbabwe would face dire consequences if the international community did not intervene. He called for the U.N. to take stronger action, including actively isolating President Mugabe, and emphasized the need for a protective force to safeguard the people. Tsvangirai stated that while armed conflict is not desired, the people of Zimbabwe require global leaders to not only speak out against the situation but also take action through military force. This force would act as peacekeepers, protecting the people from their oppressors and ensuring a safe environment for the democratic process. Pressure on Mugabe has increased from various sources, both within and outside of Africa, due to Zimbabwe's political and economic crisis. The United States has called on SADC to denounce both the election and Mugabe's government as illegitimate. Angola's state-owned ANGOP news agency reported that SADC executive secretary Tomaz Salomao stated that foreign ministers agreed during a meeting on Monday that there was a "climate of extreme violence" in Zimbabwe and that the government needed to protect its people. The scheduled run-off election on Friday was supposed to be between Mugabe and Tsvangirai. Tsvangirai had won the first round in March, but official results did not give him a clear victory. In the March parliamentary elections, Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change defeated Mugabe's ZANU-PF party, marking the first time since independence from Britain in 1980 that ZANU-PF had been defeated. Both Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade and the leader of South Africa's ruling African National Congress called for the postponement of Friday's election following Tsvangirai's withdrawal. Zuma, who is seen as one of the most influential figures in South Africa, has urged for immediate involvement from the United Nations and SADC, stating that the situation in Zimbabwe is spiraling out of control. While Mbeki's approach has been one of quiet diplomacy with Mugabe and resisting the use of economic influence over Zimbabwe, Zuma, who replaced Mbeki as ANC leader, has been more vocal in his criticism of Mugabe. Despite pressure from the West, Mugabe remains defiant and has declared that the election will proceed as planned. Mugabe stated that elections will continue, and those who choose to acknowledge the legitimacy of his government can do so, while those who do not want to should refrain. Mugabe has overseen a decline in the economy, with 80 percent unemployment and inflation rates surpassing 165,000 percent, which he attributes to Western sanctions. | 5 |
It was cautioned by the Socialist government that the European football tournament beginning on June 10 in France may face disruptions if it did not compromise. Tens of thousands of protesters were seen on the streets, with workers responding to the union's call by halting work at oil refineries, nuclear power plants, and railways. Additionally, they set up roadblocks and burned materials at ports and distribution centers. Prime Minister Manuel Valls stood firm on the government's decision to uphold the law, promising to dismantle refinery blockades and suggesting potential adjustments to the reforms without altering its main components. The CFDT, another major trade union in the country, supported this stance. The ongoing protests, triggered by a reform aimed at simplifying hiring and firing procedures, were closely monitored to assess the strength of the opposition led by the CGT. Scores of participants from the Nuit Debout youth protest movement joined the street marches, prompting police to take measures to prevent potential violence. Recent rallies have resulted in injuries to both police officers and protesters, as well as numerous arrests. CGT leader Philippe Martinez suggested that the government could resolve the situation by pausing the implementation of the controversial labour law. FO union leader Jean-Claude Mailly likened the situation to a football match, urging the prime minister to reconsider his stance. Despite calls for changes to the law, Prime Minister Valls remained firm in his decision not to back down, insisting that adjustments could be made but the core provisions would remain intact. The SNCF national train company stated that around two-thirds of national, regional, and local rail services were operational, indicating that the strikes by railworkers were causing less disruption compared to the previous week when half of the trains were not running. Following police action to remove blockades at refineries and fuel distribution centers, Prime Minister Valls reported that 20-30 percent of gas stations were either out of fuel or low on certain types. Transport Minister Alain Vidalies mentioned that the situation had improved, with fuel deliveries from depots to gas stations getting better. The number of gas stations experiencing shortages decreased from 140 on Wednesday to 83 on Thursday in the Loire-Atlantique region of western France. French nuclear power capacity has been reduced by up to five gigawatts because of stoppages, which is approximately six percent of the country's total production capacity. Although power industry experts believe that the nuclear plant strike will not lead to major blackouts due to legal limits on strike action and power imports from other countries, it is expected to increase running costs for the EDF power utility. Meanwhile, dock workers are on strike at the southern port of Marseille, causing the number of ships waiting at sea to offload oil, gas, and chemicals to increase to 21, when it would typically be around five, according to the port authority. In 2010, a protest over pension reform ended after police dispersed picketers at supply depots and rail workers faced stoppages that affected their pay. Total SA, a major oil company, announced that most of its fuel distribution depots are operational, but two out of its five refineries in France are currently not functioning and two more are expected to stop soon. The CGT union is facing a more isolated struggle this time, as the head of the CFDT union, Laurent Berger, who supports the proposed labor reform, expressed concerns about the intense political and industrial environment and called for a more peaceful approach. | 5 |
Manchester United is looking to add another player for the upcoming season, but they do not intend to make significant changes to their squad even though they lost the Premier League title. Manager Alex Ferguson mentioned during a news conference that there might be one new signing. | 5 |
The Embassy believes that Tarique is responsible for severe political corruption that has negatively impacted US national interests related to democratic stability and foreign assistance goals. They do not wish to impose a similar ban on his wife, daughter, or mother. The cable provided background information to support their recommendation, citing Bangladesh's history of systemic corruption and efforts by the current government to address this issue. Cynicism remains high regarding the Government's ability to hold corrupt leaders accountable. Concerns about corruption continue to erode trust, hindering private sector investment and undermining public confidence in a democratic future. A cable described Tarique Rahman as the feared son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, noting his release on bail and departure to the UK for medical treatment in 2008. The cable also accused Tarique of frequently demanding bribes and being a symbol of corrupt government and violent politics in Bangladesh. Despite facing multiple pending cases of corruption, extortion, bribery, embezzlement, and tax evasion, Tarique was released. Due to his strong political connections that extend to the highest court in the country, Tarique was able to influence the legal system and successfully bypass a united attempt by the Caretaker Government to prevent his release on bail. It is believed that Tarique possesses multiple passports, one of which was recently granted a visa by the UK in September. Another passport holds a five-year multiple-entry B1/B2 visa issued on May 11, 2005, which is suspected to be in the possession of the government. Reports suggest that Tarique has amassed a significant amount of illicit wealth, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. He is facing multiple extortion charges based on the testimonies of various well-known business owners who were victimized by him. One case involves Tarique allegedly threatening Al Amin Construction owner Amin Ahmed with shutting down his company unless he paid $150,000. Other local business leaders, such as Mohammad Aftab Uddin Khan of Reza Construction, Ltd, Mir Zahir Hossain of Mir Akhter Hossain Ltd., and Harun Ferdousi, have also accused him of engaging in a systematic pattern of extortion on a large scale. In addition to extortion, the ACC has charged him with hiding illicitly obtained wealth, and the National Board of Revenue has accused him of tax evasion. His corrupt activities extended beyond extorting local companies. The ACC has discovered evidence of bribery involving both foreign and local firms and individuals in several cases:
A. Siemens: A witness revealed that Tarique received a bribe of approximately two percent on all Siemens deals in Bangladesh, paid in US dollars. This case is currently being investigated by the DOJ Asset Forfeiture and the FBI.
B. Harbin Company: ACC sources claim that the Chinese construction company, Harbin Company, paid 750,000 USD to Tarique to open a plant. One of Tarique's associates received the bribe and transferred it to Singapore to deposit with Citibank.
C. Monem Construction: An ACC investigator informed Embassy officials that Monem Construction paid a bribe of 450,000 USD to Tarique in order to secure contracts. The ACC has evidence indicating that Tarique accepted a 210 million taka bribe to prevent the prosecution of a murder case against Sanvir Sobhan, the son of the chairman of the Bashundura Group. Sanvir was accused of killing Humayun Kabir, a director of the Bashundura Group. In addition to bribery and extortion, ACC's investigation revealed that Tarique was also involved in a complex embezzlement scheme that was highly profitable. With the assistance of multiple accomplices, Tarique managed to steal 20 million taka (equivalent to 300,000 USD) from the Zia Orphanage Trust fund. According to a source from the ACC, Tarique, who is a co-signer on the trust fund account, used the funds for purchasing land in his hometown. Additionally, he distributed signed checks from the orphanage fund accounts to members of the BNP party for their 2006 election campaigns. Tarique's corrupt actions have had damaging consequences on the US interests outlined in the Proclamation. His behavior has undermined public trust in the government and destabilized democratic institutions. Tarique's well-known disregard for the rule of law poses a direct threat to US financial aid goals aimed at reforming legal systems, promoting good governance, and preventing judicial misconduct. The corruption and dishonest practices that Tarique has promoted in Bangladesh have had a detrimental impact on US businesses, leading to missed opportunities. His embezzlement of public funds has also destabilized the political landscape in this Muslim-majority country and hindered US efforts to establish a stable democratic government, a crucial objective in this important region. Furthermore, Tarique's blatant corruption has jeopardized key priorities of the US Embassy in Dhaka, including promoting democratization, development, and countering terrorism. Tarique's blatantly corrupt behavior puts all three at risk. His record of stealing, blackmailing, and interfering in legal proceedings weakens the legal system and challenges the US objective of a stable, democratic Bangladesh. The culture of corruption and bribery that Tarique encouraged has hindered US efforts to boost economic growth, deterring foreign investment and complicating American companies' operations overseas. Additionally, his blatant disrespect for the law has created a breeding ground for terrorists in Bangladesh, worsening poverty and undermining democratic institutions. Ultimately, much of Bangladesh's problems can be attributed to Tarique and his associates. The cable concludes by stating that applying a 212(f) finding to Tarique Rahman aligns with the US's firm stance against corruption in Bangladesh. The Embassy suggests that Tarique Rahman should be considered subject to Presidential Proclamation 7750 for his involvement in public official corruption as outlined in Section 1, Paragraph (c) of the Proclamation. Six years later, there have been noticeable developments. | 5 |
Egyptians will be voting on Saturday in a referendum regarding constitutional changes that aim to enable fair elections, but these changes have caused a rift within the reform movement that overthrew Hosni Mubarak. The vote has split the country between those who believe more significant constitutional changes are necessary and those who think the amendments are sufficient for now. It is anticipated that there will be a high voter turnout. The Muslim Brotherhood, an organized Islamist group, supports the amendments, putting them at odds with secular groups and prominent reform advocates such as Mohamed ElBaradei and Amr Moussa, who are both running for president. The military council, which Mubarak transferred power to on Feb. 11, is hoping the amendments will be approved so that they can proceed with their plans for parliamentary and presidential elections, ultimately transitioning power to an elected government. "This vote will be a turning point," stated Ahmed Saleh, an activist currently overseeing ElBaradei's campaign for president. "There is a strong desire among the people to vote and there is a sense of change in the air." The military council that took power from Mubarak on Feb. 11 has encouraged a high voter turnout. According to the council, the main objective of the referendum is to create a suitable environment for future parliamentary and presidential elections. The focus is not only on the outcome, but on the participation of Egyptians and their voices being heard. The council has requested a judicial committee to propose amendments, including a limit of two terms for the presidency, thus restricting the time a leader can hold office to a maximum of eight years, as opposed to the three decades Mubarak served. Rejecting the amendments will require the council to reconsider its strategy and lengthen a transitional period that it hopes to keep brief. However, the reforms do not meet the expectations of reformists who seek a complete overhaul of the constitution. Youth groups who led protests against Mubarak believe the amendments are an effort to undermine the revolution. There are concerns that the tight election schedule set by the military will not allow parties enough time to recover from years of repression, giving an advantage to the Muslim Brotherhood and remnants of Mubarak's regime. General Ismail Etman, a member of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, stated that amending the constitution is the best, although not the most ideal, solution. In an interview with Al Gomhuria newspaper published on Thursday, he mentioned that the approval of the amendments would result in the creation of new laws that would allow for more political freedom, such as the removal of restrictions on forming political parties. The media has been buzzing with discussions on how to vote, with the "No" campaign continuing their efforts in Al Masry Al Youm newspaper. One of the objections raised by the campaign was the lack of time and information given to make such a significant decision, as highlighted by various public figures urging voters to reject the amendments. A Muslim Brotherhood leader expressed his support for the constitutional amendments on the following page, stating that it is a necessary step towards fulfilling the revolution's demands. He also noted that those who oppose the amendments have not presented a viable alternative. With up to 45 million eligible voters in Egypt, a significant turnout is anticipated, especially from voters familiar with past elections tainted by violence and fraud during the Mubarak era. One voter, Ahmed Adel, emphasized the importance of his vote in the upcoming election, expressing his intention to vote for the amendments in order to help steer his country in the right direction towards establishing a parliament and president promptly. Activist Ziad el-Elemi expressed a differing opinion, stating that workshops are being conducted nationwide to educate citizens on the fact that constitutional amendments alone are insufficient. | 5 |
Experts say that if Barack Obama were a corporate CEO, he would be receiving praise for his management style. His calm and steady demeanor, which has earned him the nickname "No Drama Obama," is seen as a valuable trait that business leaders could learn from. According to management consultant and Wayne State University senior lecturer Paul Reagan, Obama's clear values and consistent follow-through on his promises have earned him high credibility, positioning him as a respected corporate leader. Paul Copcutt, a personal brand strategist based in Dundas, Ontario, pointed out that one aspect of Obama's style that business leaders may not share is his keen awareness of his own strengths and weaknesses. Copcutt noted that Obama's cabinet selections reflect this awareness, as he has chosen veterans to provide expertise in areas where he may be lacking. Copcutt emphasized the importance of focusing on one's strengths as a leader and delegating tasks that align with one's weaknesses. Obama's cabinet choices, which include individuals like Hillary Clinton and Robert Gates, demonstrate an effort to build a coalition with diverse voices, according to Reagan. Chief executives often create a close-knit group of advisors who may not provide a diverse range of perspectives necessary for leading the entire organization, according to a business historian and professor at Harvard Business School. While President Obama has shown some skill in selecting key cabinet members and advocating for an economic stimulus plan, it is still unclear how successful he will be once he takes office in January. Reagan pointed out that while a management style like Obama's, which appeals to many different groups, has its benefits, it also carries the risk of disappointing a wide range of people. He mentioned that there is a possibility that Obama may have promised too much change, leading to confusion or the inability to fulfill expectations. Koehn suggested that chief executives could learn from how Obama handled challenges during his presidential campaign, such as his loss in the New Hampshire primary and the controversy surrounding his former pastor Jeremiah Wright. She highlighted Obama's emotional competence in these situations as a valuable skill for leaders facing challenges in today's uncertain financial climate, such as fear of job loss or concerns about organizational performance. She stated that it is important for business leaders to be aware of the intangible aspects of their people and organization, beyond just focusing on tangible resources, head count, market, and customers. CEO coach Deb Dib can identify a number of characteristics she sees in Obama that she believes are important for business executives to possess. These traits include being caring, confident, consistent, commanding, and calm. Dib believes that effective CEOs often exhibit many of these attributes, regardless of their political affiliation. She feels that there is something to be learned from Obama's leadership style. | 5 |
The conservative state is currently one of the few EU members that prohibits marriage or civil partnerships for same-sex couples. However, supporters of the proposal, including the Orthodox Church and all but one parliamentary party, want to further amend the constitution to define marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman to prevent gay couples from marrying in the future. Numerous human rights groups are urging people to boycott the vote, warning that approval could lead to more attempts to undermine minority rights and push Romania towards a populist, authoritarian path. A recent poll by CURS showed a projected turnout of 34 percent, above the required 30 percent threshold, with 90 percent in favor of the change. The Coalition for the Family gathered 3 million signatures to support the amendment. The lower house of parliament approved the referendum last year, followed by the senate in September, making it the final step needed. Campaign posters from the Coalition urged people to vote "Yes" to protect family values and prevent gay couples from adopting children. Another ad suggested that voting "No" would allow a man to marry a tree. The ruling Social Democrat Party leader, Liviu Dragnea, expressed concerns about legalizing marriage between a man and an animal, stating that similar laws in other countries could be adopted in Romania. The government loosened anti-fraud monitoring and limited options for challenging the result just before the vote, while the broadcasting regulator removed a cut-off date for campaigning. According to the independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR), there are currently no effective methods to verify fraud in the referendum. This lack of mechanisms has led to a sense of distrust in the fairness of the process. Some opposition figures believe that the ruling PSD party is using the referendum as a distraction from their leader's legal issues and conflicts with the European Commission. Former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos believes the government is trying to create anti-European sentiment in Romania to support their agenda. The Orthodox Church has expressed support for a "Yes" vote, calling it Christian, democratic, and patriotic. Romania decriminalized homosexuality in 2001, significantly later than neighboring countries, and discrimination against the LGBT community remains prevalent. Photograph title: Romania 1+2 Caption: Clergymen from Romania participate in a rally advocating for a "Yes" vote on the impending referendum. The referendum seeks to amend the constitution to prohibit the recognition of same-sex marriages in the future. The event took place in Draganesti, Romania on October 4, 2018. Source: REUTERS. | 5 |
Last week, the United States accused China of increasing tensions in the South China Sea by potentially deploying surface-to-air missiles on a disputed island. China has not confirmed or denied this accusation. When asked if the South China Sea and the missiles would be discussed during Wang's meeting with Secretary of State John Kerry, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying stated that Washington should not use the military facilities on the islands as a reason to cause trouble. Hua emphasized that the South China Sea dispute should not become a problem between China and the United States. The US State Department plans to urge China to reduce tensions and halt militarization in the South China Sea. They believe that China's militarization activities only worsen tensions and that a diplomatic solution is needed to peacefully settle territorial claims. Wang is scheduled to have a meeting with Kerry on Tuesday to discuss various topics including the international response to North Korea's recent nuclear test and rocket launch, cyber security, and climate change. Toner stated in a news briefing that China hopes the US will keep its promise not to take sides in the dispute and to stop escalating tensions, particularly regarding China's military presence in the region. Hua also mentioned that China's deployment of defensive facilities on its own territory is similar to the United States defending Hawaii. Hua also stated that the increased regional tensions are a result of US ships and aircraft conducting frequent patrols and surveillance in the area. The main reason for the militarization of the South China Sea is highlighted in this statement. The hope is that the United States will not mix up right and wrong or apply double standards in this matter. It was suggested on Monday that Australia and other nations should emulate the US by carrying out "freedom-of-navigation" naval activities within 12 nautical miles (18 km) of disputed islands in the South China Sea. China asserts ownership over a large part of the South China Sea, which sees over $5 trillion in global trade annually. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines, and Taiwan also have conflicting territorial claims in the region. Beijing has caused concern by building and reclaiming land on the islands it controls, although it claims these actions are mainly for civilian purposes. The state-owned China Southern Power Grid Company will establish a power grid management station in what China refers to as Sansha City on Woody Island in the Paracels. This station will be able to control microgrids on 16 other islands, according to China's top regulator of state-owned assets. In the future, the station will be able to remotely manage power for multiple islands in the area, but it did not specify which islands. Wang will be in the United States from Tuesday to Thursday, where he is expected to discuss North Korea. China also reiterated its opposition to the potential deployment of an advanced US missile defense system by the US following North Korea's recent rocket launch. | 5 |
Norwegian Ambassador Sidsel Bleken stated that she regularly discusses the challenges Norwegian businesses encounter in Bangladesh with the government. However, she noted that the approval process is slow and cumbersome. Bleken expressed a desire for more Norwegian companies to invest in Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of an easier business environment. She mentioned that the questions received by the embassy from Norwegian companies are mainly about the business climate. The Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, Kazi M Aminul Islam, expressed confidence that as the investment climate improves, more companies will come to take advantage of the huge market and opportunities available in Bangladesh. He listened to the concerns of Norwegian companies such as Grameenphone, Jotun Group, Sactec Solar, Bergen Engines and Poly ConCrete, urging them to communicate any issues they may have so that they can be resolved. He mentioned that weekly meetings are now being held to address these concerns. He stated that he does not believe there are any unresolved cases and expressed his strong attachment to improving the ease of doing business. Toufique Imrose Khalidi, the Editor-in-Chief of bdnews24.com, who attended the breakfast meeting, discussed his experiences as a news publisher and noted similarities with challenges faced by foreign companies. It is reported that the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Norway are positive, with Norway establishing diplomatic ties with Bangladesh shortly after its independence on April 14, 1972. Norway has historically been involved in development cooperation in Bangladesh. With the economic development of Bangladesh over the years, the focus has shifted from aid to trade and business. Telenor, the largest Norwegian company in Bangladesh, owns a majority stake in Grameenphone, the leading mobile operator in the country. The Varner group is a key player in the textile industry, while Cefalo, a Norwegian software company, has established its presence in Dhaka. Bergen Engines (Rolls Royce Power Systems) has also expanded its business operations in the country. The company is involved in multiple new power plant projects and has established a local office in Dhaka with a staff of 20. Other Norwegian companies operating in Bangladesh include Jotun Group, Poly Concrete, FireSafe, and Hexagon. Scatec Solar is also present in Bangladesh. In 2017, Bangladesh exported goods worth NOK 2.2 billion to Norway, primarily clothing, and imported NOK 286 million, mainly machinery and finished products. The political ties between the two countries have strengthened in recent years. The first Norwegian Foreign Minister, Børge Brende, visited Bangladesh in February 2017. During the visit, they engaged in business dialogue and discussed various issues, including the repatriation of dividends and the ease of doing business. The ambassador noted that while laws may be adequate, there is a need for professional institutions to effectively implement them. She emphasized the importance of institutional strengthening in ensuring that foreign investors can repatriate their profits in accordance with local regulations. Bangladesh, like many other nations, has established repatriation policies and foreign exchange guidelines overseen by its central bank, Bangladesh Bank. Various processes exist for different types of repatriation, with entrepreneurs often requiring foreign consultants for expertise and technical knowledge. These consultants must be paid in foreign currency, leading to complications for Norwegian company officials in managing both inflow and outflow of funds. "It is difficult for a new company," stated one official. "According to Bangladesh's laws, consultancy payments must be made based on revenue earnings. How can a new company without previous revenue make foreign payments for essential consultants with technology expertise?" Another official added, "The approval process is excessively bureaucratic." The challenges faced in repatriating dividends, as allowed by law, are significant, with inward funds supposed to be free and outward funds from investment profits also meant to flow freely. However, our experiences in this regard have not been positive." Each time money is sent, there is a process of approval involved, according to Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer Michael Foley. Foley emphasized the importance of the rule of law for businesses to operate comfortably in foreign markets. He criticized the use of "discretion" by authorities when there are no clear laws on a matter, stating that it is incorrect. Foley also mentioned that Grameenphone's significant market power status goes against the competition law of 2012, but they are managing the situation. "We are happy to operate in this country, but it is important to ensure that the rule of law is upheld and that conditions are favorable for business operations," said Khalidi, the editor-in-chief of bdnews24.com. He expressed support for BIDA's efforts to attract foreign investments, which are currently difficult to secure. Khalidi also urged the government to address longstanding issues that hinder investment, noting that these concerns have been discussed for many years, including in editorials he wrote in the 1990s. "Bureaucrats need to adjust their mindset." | 5 |
Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara is emphasizing the importance of "mental strength and fortitude" for his team at the Twenty20 World Cup following the traumatic incident in Lahore earlier this year. Sangakkara stressed that in the current world climate, security is a concern for all teams, and they must be mentally prepared to focus on playing cricket despite potential threats. He expressed satisfaction with the security measures put in place so far. Six members of the Sri Lanka team, including Sangakkara, were injured when gunmen opened fire on their team bus while on their way to the Gaddafi Stadium for the second test against Pakistan in March. The attack resulted in the deaths of six Pakistani policemen and the bus driver. In response to the incident, the Sri Lanka team is in close contact with a national police intelligence cell dedicated to ensuring security for the upcoming World Cup in England. Steve Elworthy, the tournament director for the World Twenty20, noted that security measures have significantly increased following the Lahore attack. Elworthy informed Reuters that the situation has shifted, creating a new and different landscape. This change has heightened awareness of the dangers that cricketers and officials face. While the security plan for the event was already well-developed, the incident prompted a thorough review and reassessment of all strategies. Tournament organizers and the ICC are confident that they have taken necessary measures to ensure the safety of players. Teams are provided with police convoys for transportation to and from matches, as well as dedicated security personnel for each team. Elworthy stated that he was unable to disclose the specific information regarding team security. Leading the event's security is John Evans, the former chief constable of Devon and Cornwall in south-west England, who has also provided advice to the Football Association (FA) on security issues. Reg Dickason, head of security for the England team, is also involved, along with independent security consultants from the ICC. Despite the heightened security measures, Sangakkara noted that his team has not been distracted from cricket, as the tournament has been kept low key. We have the chance to solely focus on cricket, which is quite enjoyable. | 5 |
The purchase of a greenhouse in Exeter three years ago was expected to bring high-paying jobs and establish the community as a major player in Canada's legal marijuana industry. However, before any jobs were filled or marijuana seeds were planted, it became clear that Canada was already producing more marijuana than the market could support. After two years of sitting empty, the greenhouse was sold for a significantly lower price than it was originally purchased for. This experience in Exeter reflects the overall challenges faced by Canada's legal pot industry, with analysts attributing the lack of success to the strict regulations on distribution that limit advertising and marketing opportunities. The slow opening of stores in certain provinces, especially Ontario, is a contributing factor. Surveys have indicated that a significant number of Canadians are not interested in trying out a new habit. The mayor, George Finch, expressed disappointment outside Exeter's historic Town Hall, saying, "We were excited about it, it sounded almost too good, didn't it? It's unfortunate." When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government legalized marijuana in 2018, the primary intention was to create a fairer justice system rather than to establish a thriving new industry. However, investors saw the potential for profit, leading to a surge of interest in marijuana-related companies on the Toronto Stock Exchange. This "green rush" resulted in a flurry of investment in companies looking to serve the Canadian market as well as eyeing opportunities in the US, where more states were also legalizing marijuana. Greenhouses that had been dormant were renovated and sold for high prices, and new indoor growing facilities sprang up nationwide. Newspapers, which had been downsizing, began hiring journalists to cover the emerging marijuana industry. Just like plastics in the movie "The Graduate," marijuana appeared to be on track to become Canada's next big trend. The frenzy of investments resembled the dot-com stock boom of the late 1990s, ultimately resulting in a similar crash. Despite a slight recovery due to increased legalization in the United States, with New York and four other states legalizing marijuana recently, a marijuana stock index remains down about 70% from its peak in 2018. Even 2 1/2 years after legalization, many marijuana producers in Canada are still experiencing significant losses. A significant new rival is emerging with Mexico's recent legalization of recreational marijuana use. This could potentially make the business environment more difficult for Canadian marijuana growers. According to Kyle Murray, vice dean at the University of Alberta School of Business, there may be a series of consolidations in the industry as a result. The situation is likened to the dot-com boom and subsequent bust, with Canopy Growth, Canada's largest producer, experiencing losses of CA$1.2 billion in the first nine months of its current operating year. Mass layoffs have affected the industry, leading to major producers merging in order to increase their strength through size. Many greenhouses in multiple provinces have permanently closed down. Analysts had predicted that the marijuana industry in Canada would experience a significant increase in sales similar to the liquor industry in the United States after Prohibition ended. However, the expected growth did not materialize, as stated by Brendan Kennedy, the CEO of Tilray, a prominent grower based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, which reported a loss of $272 million last year. Kennedy is one of the few remaining leaders in Canada's marijuana industry, facing challenges in competing with the illicit market due to strict regulations. Despite losses and stock declines leading to many pioneers being ousted, Kennedy will continue as a director after the planned merger between Tilray and Aphria, expected to create the world's largest cannabis company. In Ontario, sales were initially planned to be handled through government-owned liquor stores, similar to Quebec, but were canceled by a new Conservative government in 2018, leaving only online sales through a provincial website. The province has altered its plans twice since then, resulting in a uneven rollout of privately owned shops. Despite an increase in licensing, Ontario has only approved 575 shops, while Alberta, with one-third of Ontario's population, has 583 shops. Although initial expectations for profits from marijuana were too high, Murray believes a successful business will eventually emerge, as indicated by the growing number of shops in Ontario. The decrease in prices closer to street prices should also boost legal sales. Murray suggested that despite the poor start, it does not indicate a bad market overall. He believes that with time, there will be successful companies that become global leaders. British Columbia, once a hub for illegal marijuana, has seen a positive growth in legal store sales from June to October 2020. In Quebec, the government-run cannabis store operator, Société Québécoise du Cannabis, initially lost nearly CA$5 million in its first fiscal year but has since turned a profit. Despite disappointment in the domestic market, some major Canadian growers are looking to foreign markets, particularly for medical marijuana, as their next opportunity. However, many analysts are doubtful. Brent McKnight, a professor at McMaster University, believes that Mexico's recent steps towards creating the world's largest legal market could pose a significant threat to marijuana cultivation in Canada. Trade agreements may prevent Canada from restricting imports from Mexico, and Mexico's lower labor costs and warmer climate could give it a competitive edge. He mentioned that this would definitely decrease prices for local growers. With the industry in Canada needing to consolidate in order to survive, there are concerns about the impact on smaller players as large, publicly traded companies take over. Before legalization, many of the first shops selling marijuana in defiance of Canadian laws were nonprofit "compassion clubs" serving medicinal users. The current system, focused on big corporate growers and profits, has marginalized many individuals from minority communities in the industry, according to Dr. Daniel Werb, a public health researcher and drug policy analyst at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. Werb's research group has found a lack of diversity in the leadership of legal suppliers. Vendors in Indigenous communities are also in a state of uncertainty, not typically targeted by police raids but operating outside of the legal framework. Ontario has started licensing shops in some Indigenous communities, but there is still a lack of diversity and creativity in the industry according to Werb. | 5 |
Ugandan police discovered an unexploded suicide belt and made multiple arrests following the deaths of 74 soccer fans in twin bomb attacks during the World Cup final. Somali Islamists with ties to al Qaeda claimed responsibility for the attacks. Uganda's opposition has called for the withdrawal of peacekeepers from Somalia. A government spokesperson reported the discovery of the unexploded suicide belt in Kampala, following the explosions at two bars on Sunday. Arrests were made after the belt was found in the Makindye area. He did not provide details on the number or origin of the people who were arrested. Coordinated attacks like these are often associated with al Qaeda and groups connected to Osama bin Laden's militant network. The al Shabaab militants have threatened further attacks unless Uganda and Burundi remove their peacekeepers from the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia (AMISOM). The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) in Uganda has called on President Yoweri Museveni to withdraw his soldiers and stated that they would do so if they were to win the upcoming elections in early 2011. They believe that there is no peace to be kept in Somalia and that Uganda has no strategic interest in the region. FDC spokesman Wafula Oguttu told Reuters that they are sacrificing their children for no reason and their goal is to remove their troops as soon as they take power. AMISOM stated that the explosions will not impact their mission in Somalia, where they protect the presidential palace from insurgent attacks and secure Mogadishu's airport and port. The FBI is investigating the coordinated blasts, which mark the first time al Shabaab has extended its violent quest for power beyond Somalia. Analysts warn that the group's threats should be taken seriously, as they have shown the capability and determination to carry out attacks abroad. Foreign direct investment in the third largest economy in East Africa has increased significantly, largely due to oil exploration near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Analysts believe that a sustained bombing campaign could harm Uganda's investment environment, but a one-time attack is unlikely to deter major companies like British hydrocarbons explorer Tullow Oil. An American was killed in the attack, and the United States has offered assistance with the investigation, with three FBI agents already on the ground collecting evidence and another team ready to deploy if needed in the east African nation. Opolot stated that there was no indication that the African Union summit scheduled to be held in Uganda this month would be called off in light of the bombings. | 5 |
Her dream is challenging, but if she achieves it, she will become the first Bangladeshi to conquer the seven summits of the world. This feat requires climbing a total of 113,102 feet across seven continents, including two in extremely cold and uninhabited regions. Historically, it has been men who have attempted or completed the seven summits, followed by women from the same country. If Wasfia Nazreen accomplishes this goal, she will also make history. Bangladesh on Seven Summits is an initiative endorsed by the Liberation War Museum to commemorate 40 years of Bangladesh's Independence. The project pays homage to individuals who faced significant obstacles to establish the nation. When questioned about funding, she mentioned to bdnews24.com that she had sold all the jewelry left by her mother. Additionally, Wasfia sold the small property she had inherited, providing the initial funds for the campaign. Mutual Trust Bank and Renata Limited provided sponsorship for Wasfia to conquer Mount Elbrus. She is now urging national companies to support her in her mission to place Bangladesh's flag on top of every continent. Wasfia has left her job in order to achieve this goal within the next year, and she is determined to succeed even if it takes a decade. Her first step towards this goal was to conquer Mount Elbrus in Europe. Since February, the usual climbing route to the European summit on the south side of the mountain has been closed due to terrorist attacks. As a result, her team had to change their plan and climb the more dangerous and unexplored North side, which is home to more crevasses. On July 10, Wasfia and her team attempted their first summit push but faced severe weather changes, including thunderstorms, strong winds, and poor visibility. Finally, on July 12, the team got within 300 meters of the summit. However, they had to turn back due to the harsh weather conditions and a deadline to descend by mid-day. She plans to return to Elbrus to finish the last 300 meters once the situation improves. Wasfia, speaking from nearly the top of Europe via satellite message, urged the youth of Bangladesh to continue moving the country forward and showcase its beauty on the world stage. She also mentioned her upcoming challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro in September as part of her Seven Summits Plan. Located in the north-eastern region of Tanzania, Kilimanjaro stands as the tallest mountain in Africa, reaching a height of 19,341 feet. Wasfia is planning to climb Aconcagua in December, which is the highest peak in South America at 22,841 feet and is situated in the Argentinian Andes. Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, is the highest peak in North America at 20,320 feet and is on Wasfia's list of climbs for June-July 2012. According to Wasfia, Denali is considered one of the toughest climbs with a summit rate of only 18 percent and a high number of accidents and deaths. In April-May 2012, Wasfia will attempt to conquer the highest point in the world. If she is successful, she will become the third person from Bangladesh to reach the summit of Everest, also known as Sagarmatha or Chomolungma by the Nepalese and Tibetans. Vinson Massif, located just 750 miles from the South Pole in Antarctica, stands at 16,066 feet. In February 2012, Wasfia plans to brave the extreme cold to plant the Bangladeshi flag at its peak. The final mountain on her list is Puncak Jaya, also known as the Carstensz Pyramid, situated in the central highlands of Indonesia. Puncak Jaya, at 16,024 feet, is the highest mountain in Oceania and the tallest island peak in the world. Wasfia plans to travel to the destination in September or October of 2012. She described the journey as dangerous, noting that reaching the base-camp involves navigating through red-tape and climbing a challenging rock surface that requires technical skills. Wasfia mentioned that she is seeking sponsorship for her mountain climbing endeavors on all continents, and she expressed a preference for Bangladeshi sponsors in order to create a sense of national pride in her accomplishments. She stated that she would only consider large foreign companies as a last resort for sponsorship. | 5 |
The protests started earlier in the week with high school students protesting against the second fare increase of the year by jumping subway turnstiles. However, on Friday night, demonstrators escalated by setting fire to multiple subway stations, banks, buses, and the headquarters of the largest electricity provider in the country, Enel. Looters also targeted supermarkets, stores, and pharmacies. One student was reportedly killed by the police and another was injured by rubber bullets during the protests, which caused chaos in one of Latin America's most prosperous cities. President Piñera declared a state of emergency, restricting citizens' movement and giving the army control over internal security to restore order after the violent demonstrations. The fare increase announcement on October 6th sparked anger, especially as the cost of living continues to rise for poor and middle-class families while wages remain stagnant. "Isabel Mora, an 82-year-old retiree receiving a monthly pension of around $62, expressed frustration at the unfairness of the situation, noting the rising costs of transportation, electricity, gas, and other expenses alongside low salaries. President Piñera had pledged to address the issue of increasing transportation fares, which now stand at about $1.20 for rush hour rides. The protests escalated on Friday, with hundreds of people entering subway stations without paying, leading to clashes with special police units who used tear gas, violence, and arrests to control the situation." The subway system halted service on multiple lines and ultimately had to close down the entire network by nighttime, leaving hundreds if not thousands of people stranded on the streets. Many were unable to catch crowded buses and had to walk for hours to reach their homes. Government officials labeled the protestors as "organized vandals" and "criminals" and declared they would enforce a law allowing for harsher penalties. On Friday night, residents in the capital city protested by banging pots and pans. People were seen stealing from supermarkets and building barriers, while it seemed that the police had withdrawn to their stations. These protests took place as Chile gets ready to hold two important global meetings: an APEC summit in November and the UN Climate Change Conference in December. © 2019 New York Times News Service. | 5 |
A senior member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and ally of ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, was shot by a gunman on Sunday while leaving a constituency meeting in Punjab province. Iqbal is currently recovering in the hospital from a bullet wound, with Minister of State for Interior Affairs Talal Chaudhry stating that he is stable and in good spirits. Leaders from Pakistan's main opposition parties have all condemned the assassination attempt, while a prominent official from Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opposition party suggested that Sharif's large rallies protesting his removal by the Supreme Court last July may have contributed to creating the backdrop for the attack. Naeem ul Haq, chief of staff for former cricket star Khan, strongly criticized Nawaz Sharif for making baseless accusations against his opponents and fueling tension and anger in the political climate. He warned that if Sharif continues to spread lies, such incidents will persist. Despite being disqualified as prime minister by Pakistan's Supreme Court last July for a minor financial discrepancy, Sharif's party still holds a majority in parliament. Sharif has accused the court ruling as a conspiracy orchestrated by rival Khan, portraying him as a puppet of the military establishment known for interfering in politics. Khan refutes allegations of collusion with the army, while the military denies involvement in politics. The attack on Sunday has increased tensions leading up to the upcoming election in late July. Initial reports suggest that the attacker may have ties to a new Islamist political party that advocates for the death penalty for blasphemy and the implementation of strict sharia law. However, the Islamists deny any connection to the attacker, according to a local administrator's report seen by Reuters. Party leader Khadim Hussain Rizvi emphasized that they are engaged in a peaceful struggle and those working against Tehreek-e-Labaik will not be victorious. He condemned the attack on Iqbal, stating that Labaik is striving to establish the Prophet's religion without the use of weapons. The police revealed that Iqbal was shot in the right arm and the bullet entered his groin. The suspected shooter, identified as Abid Hussain, 21, has not had a motive officially confirmed. Minister of state Chaudhry stated that religious radicalism is a part of the suspect's background, and mentioned that other individuals have been arrested and police are investigating groups that may have influenced the attack. He emphasized that radicalism is not just an individual issue, but a social problem that is instigated by others. Labaik, the group responsible for the attack, originated from a protest movement in support of Mumtaz Qadri, who murdered the governor of Punjab in 2011 over his stance on blasphemy laws. The movement caused significant disruptions, including shutting down the country's capital for three weeks, and is now linked to the recent assassination attempt on Iqbal, sparking concerns of potential violence by Islamists leading up to the upcoming elections. | 5 |
Kuwait will mandate that incoming travelers must quarantine at their residence for a period of 10 days unless they can provide a negative PCR test for COVID-19 that was taken within 72 hours of their arrival. | 5 |
Even though vaccines are highly effective against COVID-19, recent reports of breakthrough infections and updated guidelines on mask-wearing for vaccinated individuals have caused confusion and anxiety. While it is possible for vaccinated individuals to still get infected with high levels of the virus, such cases are rare compared to the unvaccinated population. Vaccination remains crucial for protecting oneself and others, according to Gregg Gonsalves, an epidemiology professor at Yale. It's important to remember that no vaccine provides complete immunity, so precautions are still necessary, especially with the emergence of variants like Delta. Erin Bromage, a comparative immunologist and biology professor at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, compares vaccine antibodies to a sea wall that protects a town from a storm surge. While the wall is usually effective, a powerful hurricane like Delta can overwhelm it, allowing some water to seep through. Despite the increased infectiousness of Delta compared to earlier forms of the virus, vaccines still provide additional protection. However, in situations of high viral load, such as being near an unvaccinated person, the protection may not be as effective. Fortunately, the current vaccines in the United States are highly successful in preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death. Over 97 percent of COVID-19 hospitalizations are in unvaccinated individuals. In Singapore, vaccinated patients hospitalized with delta breakthrough infections are less likely to need supplemental oxygen and clear the virus faster than unvaccinated patients. Breakthrough infections are rare, with only some states reporting data since the CDC stopped tracking all cases in May. The Kaiser Family Foundation recently conducted an analysis of state-reported data and discovered that breakthrough cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are uncommon among individuals who have received the full COVID-19 vaccination. The rate of breakthrough cases among fully vaccinated individuals is below 1 percent in all states, with percentages ranging from 0.01% in Connecticut to 0.29% in Alaska, according to the Kaiser analysis. However, many breakthrough infections may go unreported as infected individuals may not show symptoms or only experience mild symptoms that resolve before seeking testing. Dr. Asaf Bitton, executive director of Ariadne Labs at Brigham and Women's Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, noted that while breakthrough infections are rare, the true rarity is unknown without a population-based sample. Many individuals who experience a mild sore throat for a couple of days may have contracted breakthrough cases, but the vaccine is not to blame for this. It has been estimated that the vaccine campaign has prevented 100,000 to 200,000 deaths. The risk of a breakthrough infection increases with more exposure to the delta variant. Large gatherings like the July 4 celebration in Provincetown, Massachusetts, or the packed Lollapalooza concert in Chicago, increase the likelihood of vaccinated individuals coming into contact with someone carrying a high viral load. The more people you interact with, the higher the risk, depending on the local risk level. In the near future, there may be a significant increase in cases at events like Lollapalooza due to the close proximity of people, making it an ideal situation for the spread of the delta variant. The CDC recommends wearing a mask in areas designated as orange or red on their color-coded map of COVID-19 outbreaks, which includes about 80 percent of counties in the United States. The Northeast and Upper Midwest have low infection numbers, while states like Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Florida are experiencing a surge in delta cases. The issue with relying on maps for case counts is that the numbers are changing quickly, and cases could spike in your area before the map updates. Even if you live in a highly vaccinated community with low case counts, it's important to consider neighboring communities' numbers and vaccination rates, as viruses can easily spread across state and county lines. Experts suggest that wearing a mask outdoors is not necessary if you're not in a crowd and can maintain a safe distance from others. However, attending a crowded outdoor event is still risky, and wearing a mask is recommended in such situations. J Alex Huffman, an aerosol scientist and associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Denver, recommends wearing a mask indoors when around people whose vaccination status is unknown, especially if you will be close to them for an extended period of time. While fully vaccinated individuals like himself may not wear a mask in all indoor situations, he opts for an N95 mask when entering public spaces. For optimal protection, it is advised to use a high-quality medical mask such as an N95, KN95, or KF94, with the latter being less likely to have counterfeit versions. If a medical mask is not available, double masking with a surgical mask underneath a cloth mask can still provide strong protection. Wearing a mask with an exhale valve is not recommended as it can allow viral particles to escape, and counterfeit masks may have faulty valves that can let germs in. It is recommended to choose your mask based on the situation. A cloth mask may be sufficient for a brief visit to a deserted convenience store in a highly vaccinated area. However, a higher-quality mask is more appropriate for air travel or in a crowded grocery store, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates and high case counts. Masks that have straps or ties around the back of the head provide a tighter seal compared to masks with ear loops. Huffman emphasized the need to enhance previous mitigation efforts in order to combat the delta variant, including the use of masks. He advised individuals to consider upgrading to masks with high filter quality that fit snugly on the face, ensuring a tight seal around the edges. Huffman stated that the most important factor is to ensure the mask is sealed well all around the nose bridge, cheeks, and under the chin, stating that a tightly fitting mask is more effective than a loose-fitting one. Vaccinated individuals have a very low risk of contracting the virus when they are with other vaccinated friends and family without masks. Wearing a mask indoors with a small group of vaccinated individuals is not considered essential, according to Huffman. However, certain situations may call for additional precautions. Although rare, there is a theoretical possibility of a vaccinated person spreading the virus to another vaccinated individual. Those who socialize in crowded venues or travel to high-risk areas pose a greater risk than those who avoid large gatherings and primarily interact with vaccinated individuals. Bitton recommends prioritizing outdoor gatherings, especially for families with unvaccinated individuals or those at high risk due to the spread of the delta variant. Hosting events in backyard or patio settings and minimizing indoor time can reduce the risk of exposure. It is safer to spend time with small groups of vaccinated friends rather than attending large parties, even if all attendees are believed to be vaccinated. Opening windows for better ventilation when indoors is also advised. If someone in the group is particularly vulnerable due to age or compromised immune system, it is reasonable to request that even vaccinated individuals get tested before visiting. A basic and quick home test can be provided to guests to ensure that everyone is free of COVID. Whether or not you can dine at restaurants depends on factors such as local conditions, your willingness to take risks, and the health status of those around you. The risk is minimal in areas with high vaccination rates and low case numbers. For example, dining at a restaurant in Vermont, where two-thirds of the population is vaccinated, is safer than eating indoors in Alabama or Mississippi, where only one-third of residents are vaccinated. Parents of unvaccinated children and individuals with weakened immune systems, who studies indicate may have reduced vaccine efficacy, may opt to order takeout or eat outside for an extra layer of protection. Is traveling safe? Should I avoid snacks and beverages and continue wearing my mask? Although airplanes are usually well ventilated and not a significant source of outbreaks, it is still wise to take precautions. The risk of coming into contact with an infected individual may be higher in airport terminals, while dining in airport establishments, or going through security. Text = Air on airplanes is exchanged every two to three minutes, which is more frequent than in grocery stores and other indoor places. Passengers must wear masks but can remove them to eat or drink. Airplane ventilation systems limit airflow to a few rows to prevent it from circulating throughout the cabin, meaning an infected passenger primarily poses a risk to those nearby. Experts recommend using a high-quality medical mask, such as an N95 or KF94, when flying. If you do not possess a mask, it is recommended to wear two masks. While the risk of a vaccinated individual briefly removing their mask to eat or drink during a flight is low, it is preferable to keep it on as much as possible. The CDC advises that unvaccinated individuals, including children, should avoid flying. Bromage shared that he recently flew and briefly removed his mask to drink a beverage, but kept it on for the majority of the flight. He mentioned that he would feel more at ease removing his mask to eat if he knew that the individuals next to him were vaccinated. He stated that he would be more worried if the individual beside him did not seem to be concerned about COVID precautions or wore their mask incorrectly. He emphasized the importance of keeping a mask on, especially when sitting next to a talkative person. The safety of buses, subways, and trains for vaccinated individuals is dependent on various factors such as the duration of the ride and the level of crowding. Although most public transportation systems still mandate mask-wearing, which reduces the risk, the longer the ride and the more crowded the vehicle, the higher the risk of viral exposure, despite the protection provided by vaccination. Many individuals rely on public transportation to commute to work or school, and it is advisable to wear a properly fitted medical mask or double mask while doing so. When deciding whether to use public transit, it is important to take into account local vaccination rates and the trend of rising case counts. As for hugging and visiting older relatives or unvaccinated children, while it is generally safe for vaccinated individuals to do so without masks, parents of unvaccinated children should be cautious, especially when visiting older relatives. In communities where there are few cases of COVID-19 and many people are vaccinated, it is generally considered safe for unvaccinated children from one household to visit their vaccinated grandparents. However, with the spread of the delta variant and children returning to school, there is an increased risk for older or immunocompromised individuals who are more susceptible to severe illness from COVID-19, even if they are vaccinated. When families plan to visit a high-risk relative, it is recommended to limit other exposures, such as avoiding dining out or going to the gym in the week leading up to the visit. While the risk of a vaccinated person transmitting COVID-19 is low, vaccinated grandparents should also minimize their own exposure when spending time with unvaccinated children. For example, aerosol scientist Huffman mentioned that he still wears masks in public settings, but has not been wearing them indoors with his elderly parents. "If I had more interactions that increased my risk of exposure, I would strongly consider wearing a mask when indoors with vulnerable individuals. Rapid home tests are an additional precaution to take when visiting grandparents or immune-compromised family members. It is recommended to take a test a few days before the visit and also on the day of the visit. Home tests are a great option for those feeling anxious about the virus, as testing before coming together can provide peace of mind and allow for enjoyable time spent together. How can I determine if I have the delta variant?" If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 in the United States, it is highly likely that you have the delta variant, according to the CDC. The delta variant has also become dominant in several other countries, with the World Health Organization reporting that it accounts for a high percentage of cases in countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, Botswana, China, Denmark, India, Indonesia, Israel, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK. However, regular COVID tests do not indicate whether your infection is specifically caused by the delta variant or another strain of the virus. Health departments can use genomic sequencing to determine the prevalence of various variants in a population, but this data is not usually disclosed to individuals. It is still important for individuals to isolate and consult a healthcare professional if they experience low blood oxygen levels, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms. | 5 |
It has been discovered that contrary to previous reports, including those by The New York Times, Elon Musk's SpaceX is not responsible for the potential crater on the moon's surface. Instead, it is likely that a piece of a rocket launched by China's space agency will be the cause. Bill Gray, creator of Project Pluto, software used for astronomical calculations, recently announced that the upper stage of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is on a trajectory that could intersect with the moon's path. This rocket had launched the Deep Space Climate Observatory for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 2015. Gray has been monitoring this rocket part for several years, noting that in early January it came within 6,000 miles of the moon's surface, with the moon's gravity potentially causing it to crash on a subsequent orbit. Reports from amateur astronomers who witnessed the object passing Earth once again confirmed the expected collision within the Hertzsprung crater. However, a Saturday email from Jon Giorgini, an engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, provided new information. Giorgini manages Horizons, an online database that can provide information on the locations and orbits of nearly 1.2 million objects in the solar system, including around 200 spacecraft. After being asked by a Horizons user about the object's connection to the DSCOVR rocket, Giorgini decided to investigate further. He discovered that the orbit did not match the path that DSCOVR had taken, so he reached out to Gray. Gray initially thought he had it correct but then went back through his old emails to refresh his memory on when the object was first observed in March 2015, approximately one month after DSCOVR was launched. Typically, newly spotted objects in the sky are asteroids, and this was also assumed for this particular object, which was labeled WE0913A. However, it was discovered that WE0913A was orbiting Earth instead of the sun, suggesting it originated from Earth. Gray suggested it could be a part of the rocket that launched DSCOVR, and further data showed that WE0913A passed the moon two days after DSCOVR's launch, confirming the identification. Gray realized his mistake in assuming DSCOVR was heading towards the moon for a gravity assist to reach its final destination, but Giorgini clarified that DSCOVR was actually launched on a direct path not passing the moon. Gray admitted that he regretted not reviewing the information before making his January announcement. After Jon Giorgini brought it to his attention, Gray realized his mistake. SpaceX did not comment on the issue, but it is likely that they were not monitoring the second stage of the rocket, as it is usually burned up in the atmosphere. The rocket needed all of its propellant to deliver DSCOVR to its destination. However, the unpowered and uncontrolled second stage of the rocket was in an orbit that was not a threat to satellites, so it was likely not being monitored. Gray expressed a wish for more transparency from companies launching boosters into high orbits, as he had to do research to determine what was in orbit. Gray then began examining other recent launches, particularly those bound for the moon, but found limited information in that category. The top candidate for the mission was a Long March 3C rocket which launched China's Chang'e-5 T1 spacecraft on October 23, 2014. The spacecraft orbited the moon and returned to Earth, releasing a return capsule that landed in Mongolia as a test for the upcoming Chang'e-5 mission in 2020. A computer simulation of the orbit of WE0913A revealed that it would have passed close to the moon on October 28, just five days after the Chinese launch. Additionally, data from a cubesat attached to the rocket's third stage closely matched that of WE0913A, according to Gray. "It's a case that could likely result in a conviction if brought before a jury," remarked amateur astronomer Christophe Demeautis from northeast France, after further observations this month adjusted the projected time and location of the object's impact on the moon. The crash is still expected to occur around 7:26 am Eastern time, but it will not be visible from Earth due to its location on the far side of the moon. The search for the missing Falcon 9 part, specifically the DSCOVR second stage, is ongoing. The most likely scenario is that it is now orbiting the sun instead of the Earth, and it may still be out there. This would make it currently out of sight. Similar occurrences have happened before with parts of old rockets resurfacing, as seen in 2020 when a mystery object was identified as a component of a rocket launched in 1966 for NASA's Surveyor missions to the moon. | 5 |
Rogozin announced on his Telegram channel that Roskosmos is halting cooperation with European partners on space launches from Kourou and pulling its technical staff from French Guiana in response to EU sanctions. The EU downplayed the impact of Russia's withdrawal, stating that it would not affect the quality of service provided by its satellite networks Galileo and Copernicus. Galileo is Europe's global navigation satellite system used for positioning and timing in various industries, while Copernicus provides earth observation data. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton tweeted that necessary decisions will be made to develop the second generation of these two sovereign space infrastructures. "We are ready to work decisively with member states to defend critical infrastructures in the event of an attack, and to advance the development of Ariane 6 and VegaC to ensure strategic autonomy in terms of carrier rockets." | 5 |
A recent poll showed that Australian Prime Minister John Howard is at risk of losing his Sydney-based seat in the upcoming national election on November 10. The poll, conducted by Galaxy for The Sunday Telegraph newspaper and SBS television, indicated that Howard is trailing behind former television presenter Maxine McKew by 46 percent to 53 percent when votes were distributed to the two major parties. McKew, who was recruited by the rival Labor Party to challenge Howard, is also tied with him in terms of who voters believe would do the best job for the seat of Bennelong, which Howard has held since 1974. The poll was conducted following the recent interest rate hike by Australia's central bank to combat inflation caused by strong domestic demand, low unemployment, and rapid global growth. These interest rate increases have been negatively impacting Howard, who won his fourth election in 2004 with the promise of "Keeping interest rates low." The central bank has increased interest rates five times, impacting support for Howard's Liberal-National coalition in crucial suburbs where voters are struggling with high mortgages and excessive borrowing due to low interest rates. Howard is also facing challenges in his own constituency, which now has a significant Asian population and is among the top 20 electorates with residents who speak a language other than English at home. Some immigrant families are unhappy with Howard's policies requiring new arrivals to embrace Australian values such as "mateship" and "fair go" equality, as well as learn English for faster integration into society. Despite poll predictions, senior Labor lawmaker Bob McMullan believes it will be difficult to defeat Howard. "We are approaching the end of the current three-year term and there is a willingness for change among the people. However, I believe their voting intentions are not fixed, but rather flexible," he stated in an interview with Australian television. Foreign Minister Alexander Downer expressed confidence in Howard's wisdom and experience leading him to victory, while criticizing opposition leader Kevin Rudd for lacking a clear plan for Australia's future. Downer acknowledged the usual controversies surrounding the incumbent's record, stating that he did not want to appear overly optimistic." I am someone who is fairly calm about the challenges that are coming my way. | 5 |
Last week, a friendly Amazon employee asked me if I would like to start shopping by scanning a QR code in the Amazon app at the opening of a Whole Foods Market in Washington's Glover Park neighborhood. I chose to use my palm for scanning and linked it to my Amazon account within a minute before entering the highly advanced grocery store. I shopped for the next 30 minutes. I bought cauliflower florets, grapefruit sparkling water, strawberries, and organic chicken sausages at the store. Cameras and sensors tracked my movements and created a virtual shopping cart for me in real time. I didn't need a cashier, I just walked out and Amazon would bill my account later. Amazon purchased Whole Foods for $13 billion over four years ago. The grocery chain's transformation into an Amazon-owned entity is now fully realized with the renovated Whole Foods store in Glover Park. Previously, Amazon had taken gradual steps to integrate its influence into the hundreds of Whole Foods locations in the US and UK, primarily through discounts and free home delivery for Amazon Prime members. However, the 21,000-square-foot Whole Foods store near Georgetown, along with a forthcoming prototype store in Los Angeles, represents a significant advancement in Amazon's role in the grocery industry. These stores are designed to be predominantly operated by tracking and robotic technology, marking a new era in grocery shopping. The Just Walk Out technology involves numerous cameras that have a comprehensive view of customers, as well as sensors placed under each item in the store. Deep-learning software is used to analyze shopping behavior and improve the accuracy of charges. This technology is similar to what is used in driverless cars, as it can detect when a product is picked up and automatically charge customers when they leave the store. Anyone who has an Amazon account, not just Prime members, can use this method of shopping and avoid a traditional cash register by having the bill charged to their Amazon account. Amazon has been testing this automated technology for over four years, starting with 24 Amazon Go convenience stores and several Amazon Fresh grocery stores nationwide. The palm-scanning technology, called Amazon One, is now being used by other businesses, such as a Hudson convenience store at Dallas Love Field Airport and Shaquille O’Neal's Big Chicken restaurant at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. These stores served as important experiments, according to Dilip Kumar, Amazon's vice president of physical retail and technology. The company sees Whole Foods as another step in its expansion of technology into retail stores. Kumar stated that they identified areas that caused issues for customers and actively worked to find solutions to alleviate those issues. One example was customers not liking standing in checkout lines, which led to the development of the Just Walk Out technology. He did not confirm if Amazon intended to expand this technology to all Whole Foods stores. According to Karen Weise, an Amazon expert at the New York Times, Amazon operates with long-term goals, allowing them to slowly transform various industries over many years. The Whole Foods in Glover Park has been a central part of the neighborhood for over 20 years, serving as a cornerstone for residents near Embassy Row and the vice president's Naval Observatory residence. Despite facing closure four years ago due to a dispute with the landlord and a rat infestation, Amazon has announced plans to reopen the store as a Just Walk Out pilot project. While the rats may be gone, the neighborhood still harbors some concerns. The renovated store has caused a lively local discussion among residents on social media and email groups. Some residents are divided on whether the store's new technology gives off a "dystopian" vibe or is impressive. Some residents fondly remember the store's previous inviting atmosphere with free samples and pancakes. Alex Levin, a long-time resident, believes that people should not reject the store's changes and should instead use the technology to their advantage. He shared an anecdote of trying to trick the store's cameras and sensors but was unsuccessful, as Amazon did not charge him for the items he attempted to steal. However, some people mentioned that they discovered mistakes in their bills and were unhappy about the switch from selling produce by weight to selling it per item, bundle, or box. Some people also lamented the disappearance of the checkout line, where they enjoyed browsing magazines and last-minute impulse purchases. Additionally, many people were wary of the tracking technology, with one retired librarian comparing it to George Orwell's novel "1984." Amazon stated that it did not have any intention of utilizing video and other customer information from Whole Foods for advertising or its recommendation engine. Customers who are not interested in participating in the new technology can simply enter the store without signing in and make their purchases at self-checkout kiosks using a credit card or cash. As a loyal customer of the Whole Foods in Glover Park, I had been looking forward to exploring the changes in the store, which I had previously found to be dark, cramped, and chaotic. However, my feelings became mixed somewhere between the palm scan and the six-pack banana bundles. I became aware of a sign near the entrance that prohibited shoppers from taking photos or videos inside the store. I glanced up at the ceiling and saw many small black plastic boxes hanging from the rafters. An employee informed me that those were the cameras that would track me during my shopping trip. There were workers at the entrance helping customers check in, as well as others at the seafood counter, cheese station, and produce areas. Kumar mentioned that human employees would always be present in the stores, but I couldn't help but wonder for how much longer. Amazon, facing criticism for how it treats its workers, announced that employees may eventually have more customer interaction duties. This indicates a move towards a more self-service model. For example, when I went to the bakery and asked for my $4.99 Harvest loaf to be sliced, I was directed to a professional bread slicer for customers, with a warning label about sharp blades and moving parts. Kumar refused to provide information on the accuracy of Just Walk Out, so I decided to test the technology myself. I took an organic avocado and put it with nonorganic avocados. After shopping, I returned for the same organic avocado. If the cameras and sensors were working correctly, Amazon would detect my actions and charge me for the misplaced organic avocado. At checkout, I could use a self-checkout kiosk or skip the process. I chose the second option and waved my hand over a turnstile to exit. The turnstile opened, and an employee informed me that I would receive my receipt in two to three hours. I left feeling uneasy, as if I could be wrongly perceived as a shoplifter. I received an email from Amazon in my inbox one hour later. The email contained a link that directed me to my Amazon account where I could view the details. According to the email, my shopping session lasted 32 minutes and 26 seconds, and my total bill was $34.35. I was charged the correct amount for the organic avocado. | 5 |
A former militia leader in Nigeria, Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, was released on bail by a Nigerian court on Thursday, in response to demands from armed groups in the Niger Delta who have been causing disruptions in oil production and kidnapping foreign workers. Asari, who is facing charges of treason, was granted bail after rebel groups in the region released hostages, announced a ceasefire, and expressed a willingness to engage in talks with the new government under President Umaru Yar'Adua. However, the peace efforts are still uncertain, particularly in light of recent violence in Bayelsa state where troops killed eight suspected militants during an attempted attack on an oil well. Asari's release on bail was based on health reasons and was not opposed by prosecutors, who believe he is not seeking attention. Justice Peter Olayiwola stated that the accused will be released for health reasons but with certain conditions, including not participating in any political activities or rallies and reporting his movements to security services. The Supreme Court had previously denied bail for Asari, citing national security concerns after a lengthy legal process lasting 20 months. Prosecutors had consistently opposed his release until now. Activists involved in peace negotiations between the government and delta rebels suggested that the court's decision on Thursday was the outcome of a political agreement. Asari has been in detention since September 2005 and his trial has been prolonged due to multiple adjournments. Elders from his Ijaw ethnic group tried unsuccessfully to negotiate his release. The situation changed after Yar'Adua's inauguration, where he called for a ceasefire in the delta. State governors from the region have since publicly advocated for Asari's release. Ijaw activists believe that the recent ruling will help calm armed rebels seeking control over oil revenues and compensation for oil spills in the impoverished delta. Ifeanyi Jonjon, the leader of the Ijaw Youth Council, expressed approval of the recent actions taken, stating that it aligns with their demands. He believes that utilizing Asari to communicate with the freedom fighters could help steer them away from violence towards a peaceful resolution. Despite Asari's absence in court, his supporters were joyful. "This development is positive for those who have businesses in the Niger Delta region. It will help to calm the situation. Asari's involvement is crucial in achieving peace in the delta," stated Emmanuel Diffa, an Ijaw leader who has been advocating for Asari's freedom. | 5 |
Pakistan completed a series sweep of Zimbabwe in all three cricket formats, winning the second Twenty20 in a thrilling last-ball finish in Harare. Zimbabwe struggled to build momentum during their chase, but Tatenda Taibu's aggressive batting in the final over gave them hope. Taibu hit a six off the first ball, followed by two runs off each of the next four deliveries. He needed six runs off the last ball, but Sohail Khan's well-executed delivery secured the win for Pakistan. Taibu, who had moved to the leg side, was unable to make a shot, resulting in an underwhelming conclusion to Zimbabwe's chase. The team allowed the target to become too large for them, despite a promising start by Vusi Sibanda and Chamu Chibhabha. Sibanda kicked off the innings with a beautiful straight drive for four, but they failed to rotate the strike effectively, causing the required run-rate to increase. Chibhabha attempted to accelerate the scoring against Saeed Ajmal, but was caught by Yasir Shah while attempting to hit over long on. Ajmal's first over without conceding any runs while taking a wicket slowed down Zimbabwe's pursuit of the target, which lasted until the last over. Sibanda became increasingly frustrated and was eventually caught by Hafeez at point while trying to hit a boundary. Hafeez's impressive performance continued as he bowled out Cephas Zhuwao with a straight delivery and then took the wickets of Hamilton Maskadza and Brendan Taylor. As Zimbabwe's chances of winning diminished, Charles Coventry took risky shots at the beginning of Junaid Khan's over. Two players scored four runs each, while the third player got out by bottom-edging the ball onto his stumps. Despite Elton Chigumbura playing some powerful shots, he struggled against the quality bowling. Pakistan's bowlers remained calm even in the final over. Taibu had to lead both Prosper Utseya and himself, but Sohail ultimately made the final impact. Zimbabwe showed improvement in their fielding, bowling accurately, and taking all the catches to restrict Pakistan to less than 150 runs. Taylor made creative changes to his bowling lineup, starting with a spinner and then bringing in Chibhabha in the third over. Chibhabha took a wicket by catching Asad Shafiq trying to hit a length ball for six, followed by Rameez Raja getting caught at short fine leg. Kyle Jarvis also performed well by bowling better lengths than in previous matches, resulting in Raja being caught out with a short ball. The hosts continued to put pressure on Pakistan by catching Shoaib Malik behind off Chigumbura after he attempted to hit a wide delivery. Hafeez batted well against the spinners, allowing Umar Akmal to be cautious. Chigumbura bowled a controlled spell with slower balls. Price finally dismissed Hafeez, who tried to hit a boundary but fell short. After Hafeez was out, Pakistan struggled to score boundaries and only managed 36 runs in the last five overs. Akmal was run out while attempting a second run and Tanvir was bowled by Jarvis. Jarvis performed well under pressure towards the end of the match and effectively utilized yorkers, a type of delivery that he is getting very close to mastering. | 5 |
Daschle was pleasantly surprised by the reversal of protocol when Bob Dole insisted on coming to his office instead of the other way around. Dole's witty and straightforward response exemplified his no-nonsense approach, reflecting his Kansas upbringing and values. Throughout the next 35 years, spanning time in the House, Senate, and multiple presidential campaigns, Bob Dole thrived in Washington as a skilled deal maker. While there was certainly partisanship during his time in the Capitol, Dole was known for reaching across party lines to achieve bipartisan successes, including passing legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act and welfare reform. One of his most notable collaborations was with liberal Democrat George McGovern to reform the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Even after leaving the Senate, they continued to collaborate on nutrition issues. Senator Patrick Leahy, who considered Dole a friend, praised their commitment to working together and keeping their promises. Leahy also highlighted the strong relationship between George Mitchell and Dole during their time in the Senate, noting how they would frequently visit each other's offices. Leahy mentioned that both Mitchell and Dole trusted each other and never surprised one another. Additionally, they had dedicated phone lines on their desks for direct communication. The button proved useful in November 1994 when Republicans regained the majority. Mitchell, who was not seeking reelection, wanted to congratulate Dole and requested to visit his office. Dole replied quickly, insisting on visiting Mitchell instead, which was seen as a kind and considerate gesture by Mitchell and his team. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole excelled at working with politicians from both parties, reflecting a time when bipartisanship was valued in politics. This is not to suggest that Dole did not hold strong conservative beliefs. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House, is known for his role in introducing partisan warfare in Washington. He worked closely with Dole to pass tax cuts and defeat President Bill Clinton’s health care plan. In a recent interview, Gingrich compared Dole to current Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, noting their tactical skills and ability to get things done. However, Dole did not fully support Gingrich's confrontational approach. When Gingrich and House Republicans refused to pass federal spending bills, causing the government to shut down in 1995, Dole expressed his frustration on the Senate floor. He believed the situation had become ridiculous and urged for it to end. In Washington, Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were viewed as a powerful couple representing the city's institutions. Dole symbolized World War II and the Greatest Generation, embodying dignity and honor from a bygone era. He played a key role in the creation of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall and frequently greeted veterans there. Dallek, the historian, described Dole as a representation of America with his roots in the heartland and his embodiment of shared values. Dole left the Senate in 1996 after serving for over 25 years to pursue a presidential campaign during a time of political change in Washington, with Gingrich's influence and Clinton's impeachment over the Monica Lewinsky scandal adding to growing partisan tensions. When Dole, who was the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader, announced his departure in a speech at the chamber, the traditional ways of the Capitol were still evident. Despite his decision to run against Bill Clinton, Democratic senators gathered on the floor to listen to him speak. After he finished, they all stood and applauded him. | 5 |
Numerous architects are upset about the decision to demolish the red building, which enhanced the beauty of the street alongside a park. A heritage activist is urging authorities to save the building due to its historical importance. Recently, a contractor named Shakil began demolishing parts of the building's roof, stating that he was awarded the job through a tender eight months ago and plans to complete the demolition in four days. When approached for a statement, DAE Director General Md Golam Maruf stated to bdnews24.com that the decision to demolish the building was made by the government. He chose not to provide further details, indicating that the building no longer fell under his department's jurisdiction despite its historical importance in agricultural research. Maruf suggested contacting the Cotton Development Board (CDB), the current owner of the building, for more information. CDB Executive Director Md Farid Uddin initially asked to be called back in an hour due to being in a meeting, but subsequently did not respond to bdnews24.com's attempts to reach him. Taimur Islam, CEO of Urban Study Group in Dhaka City, has spoken out against the recent demolition of buildings, highlighting that over 2,500 unlisted heritage buildings are at risk. He emphasized the importance of preserving these buildings to protect the city's architectural heritage. Taimur stated that the building holds significance due to its historical and architectural importance. He mentioned that a Famine Commission was established after the famine in Odisha during the mid-18th century, and some structures were built in Dhaka's Farmgate area to support agricultural expansion. The building was further developed when Bengal was divided in 1905. Taimur emphasized the architectural value of the building. Taimur expressed that the courts and DC council buildings built during the colonial period are similar to the current situation in Bangladesh, where agriculture is being neglected despite being the most vital sector. He believes that the entire area should have been conserved as it holds significant historical value. The agricultural sector has seen technological advancements over time, with seven to eight buildings that should have been protected according to the UNESCO Convention. Architects hurried to the site when demolition work began, with the Institute of Architects Bangladesh General Secretary Qazi Muhammad Arif advocating for the preservation of the building due to its historical importance. There are numerous buildings like this across the country, and it is the responsibility of the government to protect them. As professionals, we believe that the buildings that can be saved should be saved." Arif mentioned that there are plans to construct a tall office building at Khamarbarhi, but there may be ways to safeguard the old buildings. Now it appears that it is too late. The Vice-President of the institute, Jalal Ahmed, stated to bdnews24.com that he was unaware of any plans for the building. He also mentioned that the demolition work had progressed too far and that the building did not seem to be in such poor condition as to warrant being torn down. Associate Professor Shehzad Zahir of Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology commented that the advancement of Bangladesh's agriculture sector was achieved through scientific research. He explained that the laboratory building was where agricultural research began in Bangladesh, making it a key player in the country's agricultural development. He urged for the demolition to be halted immediately and for steps to be taken to protect and preserve the building, as it dates back to the late colonial period. The attractive shedding devices in front of the windows have connected our local architecture to that of Europe, according to BRAC University's Assistant Professor architect Sajid-Bin-Doza. He also mentioned that the building is well-suited for Bangladesh's tropical climate. Sajid expressed disappointment and concern over the lack of preservation of traditional designs in the building. The speaker suggested that the authorities should have taken photographs of the building before it was damaged so that future generations could see it. However, he noted that it would be expensive to restore the building now that it has been severely damaged by a hammer. | 5 |
Law Minister Shafique Ahmed has raised doubts about the ability of local institutions to effectively govern the development of their constituents. However, other participants at a seminar on Thursday, including members of parliament, politicians, and economists, expressed support for strong local governance and proposed the creation of a local government commission. Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, president of the Bangladesh Unnayan Parishad and co-chair of the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust, stated that he believed the ruling Awami League would fulfill its election promise to establish such a commission. Mujahidul Islam Selim, general secretary of the Bangladesh Communist Party, criticized the local government ministry for unlawfully maintaining control over local governance, deeming it unconstitutional. The government is required by the constitution to provide five layers of public representation, but only two of these layers are currently functioning at the Upazila and union levels. Local representatives believe that these elected bodies cannot operate independently due to the interference of MPs. Abdul Majid, president of a group of Upazila chairmen and vice-chairmen, stated that the Upazila councils are not functioning properly as everything is controlled by the MPs. He mentioned at a meeting that the Upazila chairman follows the instructions of the local MP. Meher Afroz Chumki, a Member of Parliament from Gazipur, emphasized the importance of changing one's mindset. She advocated for empowering local government but criticized bureaucratic obstacles for hindering genuine government efforts. Chumki believes that by giving more authority to local governments, they will be able to assume more responsibility, but she thinks that closed-mindedness is preventing this from occurring. Hasanul Haq Inu, President of the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal and also an MP, stressed the need for clearly defined roles for both local and central government to delineate their respective responsibilities. He observed that discrimination against local representatives was to be expected in a system with clear dualism. He emphasized the importance of public representatives in development plans, stating that development initiatives should be centered around local government. Shafique Ahmed, concluding the discussion, expressed his support for decentralization and agreed with the views of the other speakers. He also raised the question of whether local agencies are capable of handling the responsibility. The Governance Advocacy Forum organised a seminar presided over by Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, where over 400 chairmen and vice-chairmen held a hunger strike at Muktangan in the capital on Jan 22. They presented a ten-point demand for empowerment, including the cancellation of a law requiring the corresponding MP to be appointed as advisor to the Upazila council. The demands also included a 70 percent budget allocation, separate budgets for local government, and giving chairmen the authority to evaluate all government employees under the council. Additionally, they requested to be given control of 13 offices under 10 ministries in accordance with the Upazila Parishad Act, the ability for local government organizations to create their own annual and five-year plans, reforming district councils, the formation of a local government commission, and an integrated law for local government organizations. The strike was postponed to March 28 after receiving a guarantee from MPs Rashed Khan Menon and Hasanul Haque Inu that the demands would be met. | 5 |
Bruce Springsteen, who endorsed Biden in a campaign ad, announced Time magazine's choice during a television special on NBC. Biden, the former vice president under Obama, and Harris, a US senator from California, will be featured on the magazine's cover on Dec 21. They beat out health care workers, Dr. Fauci, the racial justice movement, and Trump for the honor. Time revealed the finalists on the "Today" show and the editor-in-chief noted the magazine's historical ties to the presidency. Felsenthal pointed out that this was the first time the magazine had selected the vice president as a person of the year. He emphasized that the choice of person of the year is not just a reflection of the past year, but also an indication of the future. He mentioned that the next four years will be a significant test for Vice President Harris and President Biden to see if they can deliver on their promise of unity. Biden, speaking in a prerecorded segment, expressed his belief that if Trump had been reelected, it would have had a lasting impact on the American identity. Harris, who initially ran for president, acknowledged the challenges they would face. "We are currently facing multiple crises that have come together," she stated. Despite the decline of weekly print magazines in the media industry, Time magazine's marketing of their annual distinction continues to generate excitement. The tradition dates back to 1927, when aviator Charles Lindbergh was named the first "man of the year." Time has honored presidents, peacemakers, astronauts, popes, Queen Elizabeth II, American women, and the Earth. However, some of the individuals chosen in the past have been notorious, such as Adolf Hitler in 1938 and Josef Stalin in 1939 and 1942. Time's selection process is not based on popularity, but rather on the person or persons who had the most impact on the news and our lives, whether positive or negative. In 2019, Greta Thunberg was chosen as Time's person of the year, beating out other notable figures such as Nancy Pelosi, Trump, the Ukraine whistleblower, and the Hong Kong protesters. Trump criticized the choice of Thunberg, calling it "ridiculous" on Twitter. In 2018, Time magazine chose a group of journalists, including the murdered Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, as its person of the year to highlight the dangers faced by independent journalists amid widespread disinformation. The journalists honored also included the staff of The Capital Gazette newspapers in Maryland, where five people were killed in a shooting in June 2018. The previous year, Time had recognized the "silence breakers," women who sparked the Me Too movement by coming forward with allegations of sexual harassment and assault against powerful men. In 2017, before Time announced its choice, President Trump claimed on Twitter that he had been told he would likely be selected again and said he had declined the recognition. Time quickly issued a statement refuting the president's claim. Donald Trump was named Time's person of the year for 2016 after defeating Hillary Clinton in the presidential election. Unlike Trump, the last three presidents - Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama - who were re-elected, were each named Time's person of the year twice during their tenure. Nine presidents, including Dwight D. Eisenhower who was recognized in 1944 for his role in World War II, have been selected more than once by the magazine. Franklin D. Roosevelt holds the record for being named person of the year three times. Text from around 2020 belonging to The New York Times Company. | 5 |
Producers of an interactive mobile phone film directed solely by women are creating a project called "Overheated Symphony", which aims to showcase women's voices from around the world. This project, part of the Birds Eye View film festival in London, encourages women to create short films on their mobile phones with the theme of "Overheated" and send them to a London-based film director for compilation. The resulting film could be a "hot chick flick" or a powerful statement on global warming. The project's website states that they want to see hot content and are inviting women from all over to participate. The idea for "Overheated Symphony" was inspired by the 1927 film "Berlin - Symphony of a Great City" by German filmmaker Walter Ruttmann, which used a montage of still pictures to depict city life. The final edit will be created by British film director Sarah Turner, who describes the project as abstract and a dialogue of ideas with women globally. Turner believes that women's themes and issues will be a significant aspect of the finished piece. Turner will collect the mobile films before the March 2 deadline and create a live edit of the symphony to be shown on March 9 at London's Institute of Contemporary Arts. Rachel Millward, director of the Birds Eye View festival, now in its third year, believes the film is about women, heat, and new technology. She anticipates some intense reactions due to the nature of the project. She stated that the trend in film and media is moving towards interactivity and multi-platform projects. They wanted to create a project with a game-like feel where everyone can participate. Creating a film with voices from women around the world is not only beautiful but also challenges the stereotype that women are not tech-savvy. Participants are invited to upload their films on the festival's YouTube channel. Although the final outcome is uncertain, Millward believes it will be greater than the individual contributions. She mentions that the film is unpredictable and could potentially cover various themes such as climate change and passion. She anticipates that it will encompass a range of topics. | 5 |
Rival Premier League managers Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger came together to show support for Kevin Keegan and Alan Curbishley, who both resigned from their positions two weeks ago due to issues of principle. Curbishley left West Ham, citing concerns about the board undermining his authority on transfers, while Keegan departed Newcastle, citing interference from directors as the primary reason for his resignation. Ferguson praised both men for standing up for their principles and refusing to continue in roles where they felt they were no longer in control of their teams. That is not something that can be accepted. It is not the reason you became a manager, to be at the mercy of a chairman's whims. Arsenal manager Wenger stated that it is terrible to be held accountable for success or failure without having control. He emphasized that the manager is the most crucial figure at a club, as evidenced by the fact that managers are often sacked when things are not going well. Ferguson, who has been leading Manchester United for almost 22 years, and Wenger, who is approaching 12 years at Arsenal, are the two managers with the longest tenure in the Premier League. Ferguson emphasized the challenges faced by modern managers, with a focus on the increased influence of young and wealthy chairmen. He acknowledged the financial constraints in the industry, but also expressed support for managers who leave due to changes halfway through the season. The conversation also touched on the influx of overseas money in the Premier League, exemplified by the Abu Dhabi United Group's acquisition of Manchester City and their reported interest in signing Cristiano Ronaldo and Cesc Fabregas. Wenger expressed concern that substantial investments could disrupt the league, noting that there has been a shift in the motivations of club owners in England from fulfilling a dream to potentially seeking financial gain or recognition. Having an increased amount of money in the League can be beneficial, but an excess of money can create inflationary pressure and destabilize other clubs by putting a strain on their resources. Despite being competitors, the two men shared smiles and jokes, indicating a better understanding and mutual respect between them. Wenger mentioned that they have even shared a glass of wine and a meal at coaching conferences in Geneva, highlighting the respect they have for each other. We both have strong teams and have had intense competition for the past ten years. | 5 |
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In order to find an answer, all aspects of Venus must be thoroughly examined, including how its surface has changed over time. While Earth has plate tectonics which shapes its features, Venus does not have this process. However, a recent study suggests that Venus may have a unique variation of plate tectonics, with certain parts of its surface made up of blocks that have moved and twisted, altering their surroundings. These dancing blocks, which are thin and flat slices of rock known as campi (which means "fields" in Latin), vary in size from as small as Ireland to as large as Alaska. They were discovered using data from NASA's Magellan orbiter mission, the agency's final mission to Venus. In the early 1990s, radar technology was used to penetrate the planet's thick atmosphere and create a detailed map of its entire surface. Upon revisiting these maps, researchers identified 58 campi scattered across the volcanic lowlands of the planet. These campi are surrounded by lines of small mountain ranges and grooves, which have also been altered and marked over time. According to Paul Byrne, a planetary scientist at North Carolina State University and the lead author of the study, the reason for the formation of the campi on Venus is that they were essentially being dragged around by the flowing mantle below. Byrne compares the movement of the campi to pack ice shimmying around. When campi moved towards immobile land, it would cause the ground to form mountains, while moving away would stretch the land and create grooves. The side-to-side movement of campi along boundaries would leave strain marks and etchings. The fact that this deformation occurred in the lowlands of Venus is significant. The lava covering the landscapes is estimated to be between 750 and 150 million years old, making them some of the youngest on the planet. The tectonic activity that created these landscapes occurred relatively recently in the history of the solar system. NASA's VERITAS and Europe's EnVision missions will investigate whether this tectonic activity is still ongoing. Using advanced radar systems, these orbiters will provide high-resolution images of the landscapes, allowing scientists to determine if any movement has occurred since the time of Magellan. If evidence is found, it will confirm the belief that Venus is still geologically active, although not as much as Earth. Venus may have once had a large amount of water, which could have allowed for plate tectonics to occur. This process helps regulate the climate by moving carbon, preventing extreme global warming. However, Venus may have experienced catastrophic events, such as volcanic eruptions, that led to its current barren and inactive state. Therefore, over the past billion years, the surface of the entire planet has been relatively motionless and unchanging. However, this does not mean that Venus is completely stable. Previous missions like Magellan have revealed fault networks, rift zones, and mountain ridges that show evidence of past movements. If this new study is accurate and shows that large areas of Venus have recently been shifting, it suggests that the planet's surface is more dynamic than previously thought. Joseph O'Rourke, a planetary scientist at Arizona State University not involved in the study, stated that understanding why Venus has this unexpected tectonic activity could have significant implications. There are numerous Earth- and Venus-sized planets in the universe, and how their tectonic activity influences their destinies is crucial to comprehend. According to O'Rourke, if we cannot understand Earth and its closest neighbor, we cannot claim to understand any rocky planet within or beyond our solar system. Venus, with all its unexpected features, presents a significant challenge in this regard. | 5 |
Due to a geomagnetic storm caused by a recent solar outburst, 40 out of 49 newly launched Starlink satellites have become inoperable and are now reentering Earth's atmosphere to be destroyed. This event underscores the risks faced by companies intending to launch thousands of small satellites for internet service from space. There is a possibility that future solar outbursts could also disrupt these orbital transmitters, as the sun goes through an 11-year cycle of activity levels. Currently, the sun is increasing in activity and is predicted to reach its peak around 2025. This recent solar event was considered mild compared to previous ones. Hugh Lewis, an expert on space debris, believes that a more intense solar event is likely to occur during the next cycle. If a relatively weak solar flare can damage 40 Starlink satellites, a stronger one could cause even more harm to SpaceX and other companies' satellite constellations. SpaceX has already announced the potential destruction of 40 of its satellites due to this solar activity. The company stated that once the satellites were launched, they were placed in their intended orbit approximately 130 miles above Earth in order to reduce the risk of future collisions with other satellites. If the satellites experience issues at this altitude and cannot be moved to a safer orbit, they are quickly absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere as a safety precaution. However, before the satellites were launched on Jan 29, a powerful coronal mass ejection from the sun sent energetic particles and magnetism towards Earth, resulting in a geomagnetic storm around Feb 2. The intense storm increased the kinetic energy of particles in Earth's atmosphere, causing it to expand and become denser. This increased drag on objects moving through the atmosphere, including satellites, causing their orbits to shrink and bringing them closer to the lower atmosphere where they burn up. SpaceX reported that during a recent Starlink deployment, the storm caused atmospheric drag to increase by up to 50% compared to previous launches, leading to the loss of 40 out of 49 satellites due to gravity. Currently, there are 1,915 Starlink satellites in orbit, so losing up to 40 is not a major concern for SpaceX, according to Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. However, Lewis estimates that this loss could amount to up to $100 million in hardware costs. The dangers of solar outbursts and geomagnetic storms to objects in low-Earth orbit are well-documented, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration categorizing geomagnetic storms from minor to extreme. A recent "moderate" storm could potentially affect orbits by changing atmospheric drag. Given these risks, it raises the question of whether SpaceX considered this hazard during the Starlink deployment. Samantha Lawler, an astronomer at the University of Regina in Canada, expressed her surprise at the situation, stating that she was dumbfounded by the lack of preparation. McDowell also found it unexpected and believed that they should have been more prepared. When reached out to for comment via email, a SpaceX media representative mentioned that the team is currently occupied with other tasks. The fact that the satellites are entering the atmosphere quickly and not lingering in low-Earth orbit is seen as positive, and they do not pose any danger to people on the ground. Lewis stated that the system worked correctly in terms of safety, with the satellites de-orbiting without risking anything else. Satellites at higher altitudes are generally safe from atmospheric expansion risks, but those at lower altitudes still face dangers. This raises concerns about SpaceX's ability to continue deploying spacecraft at low altitudes. Lewis explained that as the sun becomes more active, it emits more extreme ultraviolet radiation that is absorbed into our atmosphere, causing it to expand significantly. This is expected to increase atmospheric density by one or two orders of magnitude. This event represents a much larger change than what was previously observed. Many astronomers have expressed criticism towards Starlink and other satellite constellations for potentially interfering with telescope research on Earth due to their reflection of sunlight. Some view this incident as indicative of SpaceX's approach to issues in low-Earth orbit - addressing failures and improving in the future rather than anticipating problems. The destruction of these satellites serves as a tough lesson for SpaceX, according to Lewis. Lawler suggested that the outcome is in their hands and expressed hope that this situation will help them see things more clearly. | 5 |
There is increasing speculation that Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard may be removed from her position by her party before the end of the year. This has led senior ministers to publicly show their support for Gillard following a challenging start to 2012. Despite media reports suggesting that Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd may challenge her leadership, Defense Minister Stephen Smith and other cabinet ministers have expressed their backing for Gillard. Many political analysts now believe it is unlikely that Gillard will lead her party into the next election, scheduled for the second half of 2013, with a potential leadership change expected later in the year. According to Monash University political analyst Nick Economou, some MPs are beginning to worry and believe that Gillard's leadership may not last until the next election. The initial major opinion polls for 2012 showed government backing at a standstill near all-time lows. Online bookmakers Sportsbet revealed that the odds of Rudd becoming leader again by the end of the year have decreased to $1.20 for a $1.00 bet. Smith, who expressed strong support for the Prime Minister, stated that she is performing well despite challenging circumstances. Other ministers, including Greg Combet, Stephen Conroy, and Simon Crean, have also urged an end to party discord, with Crean criticizing Rudd for not being a team player. Despite being ousted as prime minister due to his government's struggles with reforms, polls indicate that Rudd remains popular with voters despite being viewed as a lone operator by his Labor colleagues. The government is facing a dilemma because Gillard governs with support from two independents and the Greens, and any leadership change could result in a change of government or an early election if a new leader cannot negotiate similar support. This means that a leadership spill could lead to a change of government, with the conservative opposition planning to abolish a new 30 percent mining tax and a carbon tax set to begin on July 1. Gillard dismissed the recent rumors on Friday, stating that she is focused on delivering good policy and does not pay attention to media chatter. Despite a challenging end to 2011, Gillard's position was strengthened as a disaffected opposition member became parliamentary speaker, increasing her majority from one vote to three. However, her performance in 2012 has been lackluster. She lost the backing of an independent in January due to breaking a promise to alter gambling laws, and later had a staff member resign for his involvement in a disruptive protest against Opposition Leader Tony Abbott. This has left the government with a slim majority in parliament and facing scrutiny over a lawmaker involved in a police investigation regarding union funds and prostitution. Additionally, economic challenges such as declining house prices and job cuts persist, but there may be some relief if the central bank lowers interest rates as predicted. While there has been a shift in support away from Gillard, many Labor lawmakers remain strongly opposed to Rudd. Tingle wrote on Friday that there has been a shift in sentiment against Julia Gillard, with a quiet but strong threat. Economou mentioned that any action against Gillard is not expected until July, when both the carbon tax and mining tax are implemented. This timeline would give Labor the opportunity to present its budget in May and focus on campaigning for the Queensland state election on March 24, where polls indicate Labor may lose power. Economou warned that the real challenge for Gillard will come after the carbon tax is in effect, and if there is no improvement by then, she may have to step down. | 5 |
Oscar voters have a strong preference for dramas, but at the Toronto International Film Festival, there was a lack of dramas on screen as many struggled to find distribution. The festival, known as a key stop for Hollywood awards, opened with the Charles Darwin drama "Creation" seeking a US distributor. Over 330 films were shown during the 10-day festival, with about a third still lacking distribution. The recession has caused audiences to prefer escapist fantasies and comedies, leaving serious dramas struggling to find distributors. According to industry insiders, fans of quality dramas still exist and the genre is not dead. They believe the problem lies more in marketing and cost rather than the creative content itself. However, creating successful movies like "No Country for Old Men" from 2007, which won an Oscar for best film, is becoming increasingly challenging. Director Jon Amiel, whose film "Creation" depicts Charles Darwin's struggles with evolution in the 1850s, referred to "drama" as the new taboo term in Hollywood. Amiel noted that even indie distributors are not interested in films about obscure historical figures like a deceased, bald Englishman. There are numerous movies that American viewers are unlikely to watch, as evidenced by declining box office numbers. Two successful art house films from the previous summer were "The Hurt Locker," which made $12 million, and "(500) Days of Summer," which earned approximately $29 million. Entertainment attorney Steven Beer noted a prevailing cautious attitude towards dramas in the current market. However, industry professionals believe that dramas can still attract audiences and generate profits. The crucial factor is developing a suitable production and marketing strategy that aligns with the current movie industry landscape. Often, these strategies involve grassroots marketing campaigns that focus on specific demographics, such as fans of science and historical dramas for a film like "Creation." Additionally, production costs need to decrease to accommodate the decreased box office revenue and declining DVD sales, which have been affected by the rise of alternative forms of home entertainment. Despite the challenges, these types of films have always faced difficulties and will continue to do so. Tom Ortenberg, president of theatrical films at The Weinstein Co., acknowledges that the current economic climate is challenging and models need to change. David Poland of MovieCityNews.com believes that the decline in DVD sales has made distributors hesitant to support expensive dramas, although there is still demand for the genre. Distributors are now more selective when considering dramas, which may impact the potential for a breakthrough film like "Slumdog" at Toronto 2009. Tom Bernard, co-president of Sony Pictures Classics, agrees that buyers at Toronto are more cautious now than in the past. | 5 |
Mohsin died while undergoing treatment at Dhaka's Combined Military Hospital on Monday at 9:30am, as confirmed by Selina Haque, an additional secretary to the defence ministry. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her deep sorrow over Mohsin's passing and extended her condolences to his family. Mohsin had been admitted to CMH on June 2 after testing positive for COVID-19, and was later transferred to the intensive care unit and received plasma therapy as his condition worsened. He was promoted to the rank of senior secretary on June 14 while still in the hospital, and was the younger brother of former principal secretary Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury. Mohsin, who was born in Cumilla in 1963, obtained an MSc in Soil Science from Dhaka University and later a MA in Governance Studies from Northern University in Dhaka. A member of the 1985 BCS batch, Mohsin held various positions in the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industries, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Prime Minister's Office. He served as the secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change before moving to the defence ministry. | 5 |
There were a total of 19 fatalities in multiple states due to the storm. It was the third largest snowstorm in New York City history with at least 25.1 inches of snow, and also one of the biggest in Washington. Thirteen deaths were caused by weather-related car accidents in various states, while one person died in Maryland and three in New York City while clearing snow. Officials in Virginia reported that two people succumbed to hypothermia. The storm, which brought nearly two feet (60 cm) of snow to the Washington area, unexpectedly intensified as it moved north towards the New York metropolitan area, where about 20 million people reside. The storm was predicted to continue throughout the night, accumulating between 24 and 28 inches (60 to 71 cm) of snow in New York City, northern New Jersey, and western Long Island, with winds reaching speeds of up to 45 mph (72 kph). Visibility was expected to be limited to one-quarter of a mile (400 meters) or less. The statue of Pierre Charles L'Enfant in Washington was covered in snow during the winter storm on January 23, 2016. The statue of Pierre Charles L'Enfant is covered in snow during a winter storm in Washington on January 23, 2016. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has declared a state of emergency, along with 10 other state governors. He has also implemented a travel ban on all roads in the New York City area and Long Island, except for emergency vehicles, from Saturday afternoon until 7am on Sunday. Subways running above ground and trains operated by the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North have stopped service at 4pm due to heavy snowfall. The impact of the travel ban on New York's financial services industry over the weekend was minimal, and it is uncertain how much the heavy snow will affect Wall Street's reopening on Monday. On Broadway, there was an immediate response as theatres canceled Saturday performances following the mayor's recommendation. The bustling city of 8.5 million, the largest in the United States, suddenly became eerily quiet. Tourists and locals wandered the streets of Manhattan, with some even skiing in the snowy Central Park. Others enjoyed building snowmen or engaging in friendly snowball fights. During a winter storm in Washington on January 23, 2016, the grounds around the Washington Monument were covered in snow. While public transportation was halted in New York and New Jersey, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority took the rare step of suspending operations through Sunday in the capital. Mayor Muriel Bowser stated at a press conference that although the snow was expected to end late that night or early the next morning, it was still dangerous. We anticipate ongoing strong winds in the region, which will continue to result in poor conditions and visibility. FlightAware.com reported that more than 5,100 flights were cancelled on Saturday and over 3,300 on Sunday. United Airlines announced that it would not be operating at Washington-area airports over the weekend, with plans to gradually resume service on Monday. Limited operations are expected to begin on Sunday afternoon at its Newark hub and other New York area airports. The storm initially hit Washington, where snow accumulated outside the White House and famous monuments were covered in snow, before moving on to the New York City area. "We are excited to make snow angels in front of the White House," said Robert Bella Hernandez, 38. "We plan to explore the snow-covered landmarks of DC and retreat indoors when it becomes unsafe. The record snowfall in Washington is 28 inches (71.1 cm) from 1922, with the most recent significant snowfall being 17.8 inches (45.2 cm) in 2010. The East Coast experienced high winds, reaching 70 mph (112.5 km) in Wallops Island, Virginia on Friday, causing coastal flooding." National Weather Service meteorologist Greg Gallina said. A man is walking near the Washington Monument in Washington during a winter storm on January 23, 2016, as reported by Reuters. The storm also affected Baltimore and Philadelphia in the Mid-Atlantic, causing power outages for about 150,000 customers in North Carolina and 90,000 homes in New Jersey. Record-high tides, higher than those seen during Superstorm Sandy three years earlier, led to flooding along the Jersey Shore and Delaware coast, with Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware, setting new records. Some evacuations were necessary along the New Jersey Shore, where residents had to leave their homes during the 2012 storm. Linda Gilmore, the county's public information officer, reported that the barrier islands close to Atlantic City were facing considerable tidal flooding. The storm, which originated along the Gulf Coast, brought snow to Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky on Friday. Meteorologists explained that the winter system was formed when warm, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean mixed with cold air on the coast. | 5 |
In the October issue of GQ, Paul McCartney is featured and reveals a more unguarded side of himself during several long conversations. He appears less concerned with maintaining his image and even shared a story about the Beatles' teenage adventures, leading to a cheeky headline. This level of transparency was refreshing for both fans and McCartney himself, who is often seen as more of an icon than a person. This openness required him to answer questions and engage in give and take, unlike other big stories such as the September issue of Vogue featuring Beyoncé. The article accompanying this text is titled "Beyoncé in Her Own Words", which is not a profile but rather a collection of brief commentaries on various topics such as motherhood, family, body acceptance, and touring. Anna Wintour describes the article as a "powerful essay" written by Beyoncé herself, suggesting that this is a positive aspect. While a journalist was involved in the process, the piece is credited as "as told to" at the end, erasing outside perspectives. This may not be concerning for Beyoncé fans, but for those interested in celebrity journalism that adds depth and context to the fame economy, this could be seen as a problem. Many well-known performers in pop music are avoiding the press, with Taylor Swift and Drake not granting interviews for at least a year or more. Frank Ocean has also been largely absent. Instead of traditional media access, artists are often choosing to communicate through social media or maintaining complete silence. A monologue, rather than a dialogue, is changing the dynamics of celebrity journalism. In-depth interviews have been important for creating stars since the 1960s, but also for maintaining their image. Celebrities used to continue engaging with the media even after reaching the height of fame, as answering questions was seen as part of their job. This was a way for cultural figures to explain themselves, such as John Lennon discussing the Beatles' breakup, Tupac Shakur speaking from jail, or Courtney Love after Kurt Cobain's death. It used to be enlightening for fans and a point of pride for celebrities, especially when the discussions were challenging. Stars like Ice Cube and Madonna thrived in these situations, showing themselves to be thoughtful, unafraid of criticism, and aware of their public image. This was during a time when print media held a lot of power, before the internet and TMZ took control of the narrative. As celebrities' every move began to be constantly documented, they became more hesitant. This shift alone wouldn't necessarily mean the end of traditional celebrity journalism. The pressure on celebrity journalism from higher authorities may not be as significant as the threat emerging from below, where a new generation of celebrities, such as YouTube stars and SoundCloud rappers, are sharing extensively on social media on their own terms. This generation moves quickly and decisively without the need for patience and pushback they might face in traditional interviews. They prioritize all-access hyper-documentation over the promise of celebrity journalism, which focuses on intimate perspectives and behind-the-scenes access. An example of this shift is seen in rapper Lil Xan, who has played out various online dramas without waiting for traditional media to catch up to his story. In today's world, social media posts have replaced traditional tell-all interviews for celebrities. Ariana Grande, XXXTentacion, and Logan Paul have all used platforms like Instagram and YouTube to share their stories without facing much scrutiny. These platforms have become safe spaces for young celebrities, as their direct social media audience can reach more people than traditional publications. This shift has left celebrity journalism facing a difficult challenge, as the most famous celebrities no longer rely on it, and the newly famous grew up in a time when it was not as important. As time passes, the middle ground may disappear completely. Additionally, there is now a wide range of content being created, making it hard for consumers to distinguish between original reporting and aggregated content, journalistic outlets and branded content. This lack of clarity pushes well-known figures away from traditional media, where they have less control over the end result. As traditional media outlets face extinction, the new media landscape is often seen as a way to correct or divert attention. For example, Selena Gomez is featured on the cover of Elle this month, with a relatively harmless accompanying story. When the interview was published online, she responded with a lengthy Instagram post expressing her frustration. She mentioned how difficult it was for her to speak for over an hour and have someone else turn those thoughts into paid content. As she gets older, she wants her voice to be heard more clearly. She listed the specific topics she wanted to discuss in the interview and expressed disappointment that her personal life and church received more attention. With the power dynamic leaning towards celebrities, publications have had to resort to finding ways to trade control for access in order to stay afloat. This has led to celebrities guest editing special issues of magazines. Swift was featured on the cover of Harper's Bazaar this year, but instead of being interviewed, she was the one asking questions to Pattie Boyd. Similarly, Rihanna took her own photograph for the cover of The Fader in 2015, with the help of a professional photographer. This act served as a commentary on fame and the cover star taking control of their own image. As an alternative, magazines can have a friend of the celebrity conduct the interview if the star is not available for an interview. The magazine Interview is known for featuring conversations between celebrities, such as Jennifer Lawrence interviewing Emma Stone in Elle. Recently, the magazine was revived and in the new issue, Raf Simons talks with George Condo and Jennifer Jason Leigh talks to Phoebe Cates, with a journalist occasionally chiming in. The magazine also features interviews with non-famous friends. For example, Blake Lively interviewed Gigi Hadid for Harper's Bazaar and Katy Perry's interview for Glamour was conducted by Instagram affirmation specialist Cleo Wade. In a recent Rolling Stone article featuring the usually private pop star Sia, the author reveals himself as a close friend of hers. Similarly, a recent interview with Soon-Yi Previn, Woody Allen's wife, in New York magazine was conducted by a longtime friend of Allen, sparking criticism on Twitter. These articles rely on the idea of friendship to provide insight, instead of maintaining objectivity as journalists should. The unspoken agreement in celebrity profiles is that the journalist represents the reader, not the subject. However, in the pursuit of exclusive access, ethical boundaries are often ignored. Friendship should not be a requirement in journalism, as it prevents critical and probing conversations that could be enlightening for both fans and the interview subjects. Instead of pushing back and asking tough questions, many stars have become closed off, missing out on opportunities to showcase their complexity. It is unfortunate that we may never learn the answers to the unasked questions. Text = Copyright 2018 New York Times News Service. | 5 |
Rafiq, a cricketer of Pakistani descent and former captain of the England Under-19s, revealed last year that he felt isolated at Yorkshire and even considered suicide. Hutton, in his resignation letter, criticized the Yorkshire board and senior management for their reluctance to acknowledge and address racism at the club. He admitted that during his time at the club, he witnessed a resistant culture that did not welcome change or criticism. Hutton, who joined the board after Rafiq's departure, also issued a sincere apology to the 30-year-old player, acknowledging that the club should have taken the allegations of racism more seriously. "I regret that we were unable to convince the executive members of the board to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and demonstrate concern and remorse." The England cricket board (ECB) has suspended Yorkshire EB from hosting international or major matches, but Hutton mentioned that the ECB was hesitant to take action when approached. "I want to clarify that as soon as I learned of Azeem Rafiq's allegations, I immediately contacted the ECB to request their assistance and involvement in conducting a thorough investigation," Hutton stated. "I was disappointed when they refused to assist, as I believed it was a matter of significant importance for the entire sport. It is on record that I have consistently voiced my frustration with the ECB's reluctance to take action." The CEO of the ECB, Tom Harrison, mentioned that the ECB was invited to participate in a Yorkshire panel of inquiry, but they could not do so as they are the regulator. Harrison clarified that being both a regulator and part of an investigation goes against their role, and he disagreed with the suggestion that the ECB had declined to assist. The ECB previously stated that it would investigate Yorkshire's actions and potentially impose penalties. Rafiq and other high-ranking Yorkshire officials have been summoned to appear before a parliamentary DCMS panel on November 16 to provide testimony. | 5 |
Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen has declared a state of emergency for his team's World Cup campaign ahead of their match against Denmark. Both teams are in desperate need of a victory after losing their opening games. Le Guen was straightforward in acknowledging the challenges his team has faced since their loss to Japan. I prefer people to be highly motivated and aware of the state of emergency. There have been rumors of in-fighting among Cameroon's players after a recent defeat, but captain Samuel Eto'o strongly denied this, stating that there has never been any in-fighting in the group. He emphasized his role as captain and expressed his commitment to ensuring unity within the team. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the players' mindset, it is certain that coach Le Guen will make significant changes. He stated that he plans to substitute three players for their upcoming game without providing specifics. He expressed dissatisfaction with their performance, stating that they were not up to standard. He mentioned that he will introduce three new players to the starting lineup and make some adjustments. As the coach and team selector, he acknowledged his duties and emphasized that he is willing to make changes. He also noted that he is not inflexible. When I notice that things are not going well, I make adjustments. In the game against Japan, I attempted to place the players in their usual club positions, except for Stephane Mbia. If that strategy does not succeed, I make changes. This statement appeared to be a direct mention of his past choice to position Eto'o on the right flank, a role in which Jose Mourinho utilized him during his time at Inter Milan the previous season. Le Guen has faced significant backlash for this decision, including criticism from Eto'o himself, who stated on French television channel Canal Plus that his preferred position was in the center. Eto'o emphasized that he was not attempting to sway his coach's decisions and stated that he will follow instructions. "Paul Le Guen is responsible for making these choices, our job is to represent our country and I will play in any position he assigns me," Eto'o stated. While Le Guen acknowledged his own duties, he also urged his players to uphold their reputation as the Indomitable Lions. "I must remind them of their duties; I have mine in selecting the team and tactics, but they must rekindle a certain spirit," he explained. "There is much talk about the Lions' spirit, and I have urged them to find that again." | 5 |
The text provides an example of employees of the Kremlin propaganda machine who have historically valued their work and the challenges it presents, despite not necessarily agreeing with the mission of their workplace. Recently, after President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, Likin, who had been the art director for Channel 1, resigned from his position. He stated that he was not a politician but felt that the invasion aligned him with a harmful agenda. Likin expressed that Russian television caters to those who rely on it due to laziness or lack of access to alternative sources of information. The invasion of Ukraine by Putin has prompted some long-time government workers in Russia to sever ties with the regime, indicating a struggle within the Kremlin to maintain complete societal unity in support of the war. Thousands of people have been arrested for protesting against the invasion of Ukraine, with tens of thousands fleeing the country. Putin's climate envoy, Anatoly Chubais, resigned on Wednesday, making him the first senior government official to do so since the invasion began on Feb 24. Several high-profile resignations have also occurred at Russia's state television channels, which play a crucial role in Putin's control over domestic politics. Marina Ovsyannikova, a Channel 1 staff member, made a bold protest by interrupting a live news broadcast to display an anti-war poster. Other resignations have been more quiet, shedding light on the unrest within Putin's system and highlighting the significant influence of television in shaping public perception of the war. Zhanna Agalakova, a Channel 1 correspondent who resigned recently, described her colleagues left behind as "clinically depressed" due to the situation. Many intelligent individuals are feeling their own sense of guilt, with no way out. Merely asking for forgiveness is not sufficient. While Russia's national television networks are under Kremlin control, their impact has decreased with the popularity of YouTube and social media. However, they remain the primary source of news for the public. Approximately two-thirds of Russians relied on state television for news last year, a decrease from 90% in 2014, according to surveys conducted by the Levada Center, an independent pollster in Moscow. Throughout the war, state television channels have portrayed a narrative of the conflict that contrasts sharply with what is seen in the West, portraying Russians as the heroes fighting against neo-Nazis supported by the Western powers. Pictures of dead civilians and destroyed homes are being wrongly labeled as either fake or the result of Ukrainians shelling themselves. According to a Channel 1 reporter broadcasting from Mariupol, some locals believe the Ukrainian military is intentionally targeting residential buildings, while others claim nationalists were ordered to destroy the city before retreating. Polls show that many Russians believe the narrative presented on state television, which portrays the war as a continuation of longstanding grievances against the West. Despite the propaganda, some journalists have left their positions, with one anchor admitting to compromising her values before realizing the extent of her actions once the war began. "When you start to give in to yourself gradually, you may not realize how far you have fallen," she explained. The aftermath of the war seemed to be the driving force behind the significant number of Russians leaving the country in recent weeks, with many booking flights to destinations like Turkey and Armenia. While some of these individuals were journalists and activists escaping potential arrest, others included tech workers and young professionals who felt that there was no longer a promising future for them in Russia. Even members of Russia's elite have chosen to leave, with the most notable departure being Chubais, the Kremlin's climate envoy, who resigned due to the war in Ukraine and departed the country. The Kremlin confirmed that Chubais had resigned. He was viewed as one of the few officials in Putin's government with liberal views, and his significant role in the economic reforms of the 1990s in Moscow made him unpopular in many parts of Russian society. It is not certain if the complaints from some of the elite could have any impact on destabilizing Putin's government. Likin, the former art director of Channel 1, stated that those like him who were willing to step down based on their beliefs were a small proportion of Russia's population. Agalakova, the former correspondent of Channel 1, commented that many of her former colleagues who chose to stay did not work for a particular idea. "People have obligations to their family, debts to pay, and a need to survive. Those who leave their jobs at state television, especially if they speak out, face an uncertain future. Agalakova, who was a correspondent based in Paris, mentioned that some of her acquaintances stopped talking to her after she left. Likin, on the other hand, plans to stay in Russia and continue his career as an architect. He mentioned that he would consider returning to television if it shifts its focus to promoting life instead of promoting death. Government-sponsored surveys suggest that most Russians support Putin's invasion, although analysts warn that people may not be truthful in surveys during times of war. Agalakova now realizes that years of propaganda on Russian television have influenced public opinion and prepared the way for war by distorting Russians' memory of their country's sacrifices in World War II to align with the Kremlin's current policies." Agalakova expressed that when the concept of Nazism is falsely linked to Ukraine by the Kremlin, causing reactions from society, it is a deceitful and shameless game. Amid the spread of propaganda, Russians who are skeptical of television news sources have limited options for obtaining accurate information. The Echo of Moscow radio station and TV Rain independent television channel have been shut down, while access to Facebook and Instagram has been blocked by the government. Additionally, a popular journalist, Alexander Nevzorov, is under criminal investigation for posting about the Russian bombing of Mariupol on his Instagram page. The most recent attempt to instill fear in critics of the war involved promoting a new law that can result in up to 15 years in prison for going against the official narrative of the conflict in Ukraine. Denis Volkov, from the Levada polling center, believes that the true test of Russian public opinion will be seen as the economic difficulties caused by Western sanctions begin to affect society. Despite this, Volkov thinks that the Kremlin's narrative of the West trying to undermine Russia by supporting Ukraine and Russia fighting to protect its people abroad has become deeply ingrained in the minds of television viewers and is unlikely to change soon. Many Russians seem to accept news that aligns with the television narrative and reject anything that doesn't, regardless of its truthfulness. | 5 |
Viktor Yanukovich of Ukraine was inaugurated as president and immediately promised to address corruption, poverty, and political instability in order to regain foreign support for the struggling economy. The low-key ceremony reflected the contentious election and deep divisions in the country, with his rival Yulia Tymoshenko disputing the results. Despite this, his inauguration marked a comeback from the 2004 Orange Revolution, where mass protests overturned a rigged election in his favor. Yanukovich acknowledged the challenges of colossal debts, poverty, corruption, and economic collapse, stating that his team has developed a strategy for progress. He mentioned the lack of foreign investment in Ukraine and the unstable business climate, emphasizing the need for political stability, anti-corruption measures, and clear regulations for the relationship between the government and businesses. These factors are essential for building trust with investors and international financial institutions. Ukraine's economy has been severely impacted by the global economic downturn, particularly affecting its steel and chemical exports and causing a significant devaluation of its currency. The country is relying on a $16.4 billion IMF bailout program, but lending has been halted and will likely only resume once stability is restored. The finance ministry announced that an IMF technical mission is scheduled to visit on April 7th. This often results in a thorough visit from IMF officials who will then determine whether to resume the program. Yanukovich, a former mechanic with strong support from wealthy industrialists, had a difficult upbringing in eastern Ukraine and a history of minor criminal offenses. He is anticipated to strengthen relations with Russia, Ukraine's former Soviet ruler, following five years of distance during Viktor Yushchenko's pro-Western leadership. He has suggested potential compromises with Moscow regarding the status of Russia's Black Sea fleet in Crimea and has proposed a consortium with Russia to manage Ukraine's gas pipelines. However, he aims to revise a decade-old gas supply agreement negotiated by Tymoshenko and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. He also mentioned his intentions to have a well-balanced foreign policy and expressed his commitment to strengthening relations with the European Union. During his speech on Thursday, he stated that he would maintain open options and strive for equal and mutually beneficial relationships with Russia, the EU, and the United States in order to achieve maximum benefits for Ukraine. His website later confirmed his upcoming visit to Brussels next week, with EU officials scheduling the visit for Monday. Additionally, he plans to visit Moscow in the first 10 days of March, as announced by his Regions Party. Yanukovich defeated Prime Minister Tymoshenko by a margin of 3.5 percentage points, but only a third of the 37 million voters supported him. The voting results showed a clear divide between Russian-speaking voters in the eastern and southern regions who supported Yanukovich, and Ukrainian-speaking voters in the western and central areas who voted for Tymoshenko. Tymoshenko gave up her legal challenge to Yanukovich's election just last Saturday, but she maintains that he was not rightfully elected. She and most of her bloc in parliament did not attend the ceremony on Thursday, making it seem empty. Despite Yanukovich's call for the formation of a capable executive power, Tymoshenko is still resisting efforts to remove her as prime minister, indicating ongoing political tension in the short-term. She is trying to rally her allies in parliament, while his party and its influential supporters are trying to sway deputies from her coalition and create a new one. Creating a coalition involves complex negotiations and may take a considerable amount of time. If Yanukovich is unable to form a new coalition, he will have no choice but to hold new parliamentary elections, leading to even more uncertainty. | 5 |
The renaming of Bangalore and 11 other cities in Karnataka to their Kannada names coincided with the state's 59th formation day. The state government officially announced the change, approved by the central government, starting from November 1. Bangalore, known for its IT industry, talent pool, climate, and cosmopolitan culture, will now be known as Bengaluru. Other cities like Mysore, Mangalore, Belgaum, Bellary, Hubli, and Gulbarga will also be renamed. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed pride in using the Kannada names officially and announced plans to rename more cities in the future. Despite the change, many still use the English names when speaking or writing in English. We are left with no option but to accept and become accustomed to it. US Secretary of State John Kerry was the first to use the term "Bangalored" during the 2008 presidential election to bring attention to how Indian software companies were taking away tech jobs through outsourcing. Renaming cities and states is not a new concept, as seen in Maharashtra changing Bombay to Mumbai, Madras to Chennai, Calcutta to Kolkata, Poona to Pune, Baroda to Vadodara, and Orissa to Odisha. This was done to honor the original names of cities and show respect for the sentiments of the people. The renaming process began in 2006 when the state's first coalition government between Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) proposed the idea to commemorate the state's golden jubilee in response to demands from various organizations. During the previous BJP administration, the state legislature also approved it. On Monday, the state government will instruct corporations, departments, and institutions to update their nameplates and stationery. Chief secretary Kaushik Mukherjee stated that private companies or organizations will not be required to change their registered names if they reference any of the 12 cities. | 5 |
Officials have announced that Southern African leaders will convene an emergency meeting in Swaziland's capital Mbabane on Wednesday to address the crisis in Zimbabwe. Prior to this, Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai called on the United Nations to isolate President Robert Mugabe and emphasized the need for a peacekeeping force in Zimbabwe. Despite the U.N. Security Council's recent condemnation of violence against the opposition and declaration that a free and fair presidential election on Friday was not possible, Mugabe has disregarded the decision. The meeting in Mbabane, organized by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), comes as international pressure mounts on Mugabe to address the political and economic challenges facing Zimbabwe. Leaders from Tanzania, Angola, and Swaziland will participate in the meeting as representatives of the SADC's troika organ on politics, defense, and security, according to a statement from the Tanzanian government. The statement mentioned that President Levy Mwanawasa of Zambia, the current SADC chairman, and President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, the SADC mediator for Zimbabwe, have been invited to attend the meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss how the SADC and its troika organ on politics, defense, and security can assist Zimbabwe in resolving its current conflict. Tsvangirai, who has sought refuge in the Dutch embassy in Harare, expressed concern that Zimbabwe would face further difficulties without international intervention. He called for the United Nations to take stronger action against President Mugabe, including isolating him and deploying a force to protect the people. Tsvangirai stated that while they do not desire armed conflict, the people of Zimbabwe require global leaders to follow their words of condemnation with the moral integrity of military intervention. This force would act as peacekeepers, separating the people from their oppressors and protecting the democratic process that Zimbabwe seeks. Pressure on Mugabe has grown from within Africa and beyond due to Zimbabwe's political and economic turmoil, which is attributed by the West and opposition to the 84-year-old president's nearly three-decade-long rule. The United States has called on SADC to denounce both the election and Mugabe's regime as illegitimate. According to Angola's state-run ANGOP news agency, SADC executive secretary Tomaz Salomao stated that foreign ministers agreed at a meeting on Monday that there was a significant level of violence in Zimbabwe and that the government needed to protect its citizens. The election on Friday was supposed to be a run-off between Mugabe and Tsvangirai, with the opposition leader winning the first round in March. Despite official figures not giving him an outright victory, Tsvangirai's Movement for Democratic Change also won a parallel parliamentary election in March, marking the first defeat for Mugabe's ZANU-PF party since 1980. Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade and the leader of South Africa's ruling African National Congress both called for the postponement of Friday's election following Tsvangirai's withdrawal. Zuma, who is considered one of the most powerful figures in South Africa alongside Mbeki, has urged the United Nations and SADC to intervene urgently, stating that the situation in Zimbabwe has spiraled out of control. While Mbeki's administration has favored a policy of "quiet diplomacy" with Mugabe and resisted using South Africa's economic influence over Zimbabwe, Zuma, who replaced Mbeki as ANC leader in December, has been increasingly vocal in his criticism of Mugabe. Despite mounting pressure, Mugabe remains defiant, stating at a rally in western Zimbabwe that the upcoming election will proceed as planned, dismissing criticism from the West. Mugabe stated that the elections will continue, and those who wish to acknowledge their legitimacy can do so, while those who do not want to, should not. Mugabe has overseen a decline into economic turmoil, with 80 percent unemployment and the world's highest inflation rate of at least 165,000 percent. He attributes his country's economic difficulties to Western sanctions. | 5 |
It was cautioned by the Socialist government that the European football tournament beginning in France on Jun 10 could face disturbances if the government did not give in. Demonstrators flooded the streets while workers heeded the union's call by halting work at various facilities such as oil refineries, nuclear power plants, and railways. They also set up obstacles on roads and set fire to wooden pallets and tires at critical ports like Le Havre and near vital distribution centers. Prime Minister Manuel Valls asserted that the government would not retract the law and would dismantle refinery blockades, suggesting that there could be minor adjustments to the reforms but not to any fundamental aspects. The country's major trade union, CFDT, supported his stance. Following months of ongoing protests triggered by a reform aimed at simplifying hiring and firing procedures, the strikes and demonstrations on Thursday were being closely monitored to determine the strength of the CGT-led opposition movement. Scores of participants from a youth protest movement called Nuit Debout (Night Rising) joined the street marches. Police were present to prevent any potential violence, as similar rallies in recent weeks had resulted in injuries to both police officers and protesters, as well as numerous arrests. Philippe Martinez, the head of the CGT union, suggested that the government could resolve the situation by halting the implementation of the controversial law. Jean-Claude Mailly, leader of the FO union, also expressed dissatisfaction with the government's response, stating that it was time for the prime minister to make a change. Despite calls to modify the law, Prime Minister Valls remained firm in his stance and refused to eliminate the provision that had sparked the protests. This particular section of the law would allow companies to bypass national labor regulations if they establish agreements on wages and working conditions with the majority of their employees. The train company SNCF reported that around two-thirds of national, regional, and local rail services were running despite ongoing strikes by railworkers. The impact of the strikes was less severe compared to the previous week when half of the trains were not running. Following police intervention to clear blockades at refineries and fuel depots, Prime Minister Valls stated that 20-30 percent of fuel stations were experiencing shortages. Transport Minister Alain Vidalies mentioned that the situation was improving, with fuel deliveries from depots to petrol stations getting better. In the Loire-Atlantique department of western France, the number of fuel stations experiencing shortages decreased from 140 on Wednesday to 83 on Thursday. The French nuclear power capacity has been reduced by up to five gigawatts due to stoppages, which is approximately six percent of the total production capacity. While experts believe that the strike at the nuclear plant is unlikely to cause major blackouts due to legal restrictions and power imports, it typically increases running costs for EDF power utility. Additionally, a strike by dockers at the port of Marseille has led to an increase in the number of ships waiting to offload oil, gas, and chemicals. A protest over pension reform in 2010 ended after police dispersed picketers at supply depots and railworkers faced disruptions that affected their paychecks. Total SA, a major oil company, announced that almost all of its fuel distribution depots are operational, with only one exception. However, it cautioned that two out of its five refineries in France are currently not operating, and two more are expected to stop production soon. The CGT union is facing a more isolated fight this time around. Laurent Berger, leader of the CFDT union and supporter of the proposed labor reform, expressed concerns about the intense political and industrial atmosphere, urging for a more peaceful approach. | 5 |
Manchester United is looking to add one more player for the upcoming season, but they do not anticipate making significant alterations to their squad even though they lost the Premier League title, according to manager Alex Ferguson's remarks at a news conference on Tuesday. | 5 |
The Embassy believes that Tarique is responsible for severe political corruption that has negatively impacted US national interests, specifically the stability of democratic institutions and US foreign assistance goals as outlined in Section 4 of the proclamation. The Embassy, while labeling the cable as 'confidential', stated that they did not want to impose a similar ban on Tarique's wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, their daughter Zaima, or Tarique's mother Khaleda Zia, who is a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The cable provided a detailed explanation to support its recommendations, citing Bangladesh as a developing nation with widespread corruption. The current Caretaker Government, which came into power in January 2007 after months of political turmoil, has promised to combat corruption and eliminate the pervasive kleptocracy that has plagued the poverty-stricken nation. Corruption has been identified as a major factor in reducing Bangladesh's growth rate by two percent per year, according to experts. There is a high level of skepticism regarding the Government's ability to hold corrupt leaders accountable, which continues to fuel concerns about corruption and erode trust in the private sector and confidence in a democratic future. A cable described Tarique Rahman as the feared son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, highlighting his reputation for demanding bribes and involvement in corrupt activities. Despite facing multiple charges including corruption, extortion, bribery, embezzlement, and tax evasion, Tarique was released on bail and left Bangladesh for medical treatment in the UK in 2008. Due to his strong political connections, Tarique was able to influence the legal system and successfully bypass attempts by the Caretaker Government to prevent him from obtaining bail. It is believed that Tarique possesses multiple passports, one of which was issued by the UK in September and another with a five-year multiple-entry visa issued in May 2005. There are suspicions that one of his passports is being held by the government. It has been reported that Tarique has amassed a significant amount of illegal wealth amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars. He is facing multiple extortion charges based on the testimonies of various prominent business owners who he preyed upon and manipulated. One instance involves Tarique allegedly blackmailing Amin Ahmed, owner of Al Amin Construction, threatening to shut down his company unless he paid $150,000. Other local business figures, such as Mohammad Aftab Uddin Khan of Reza Construction, Ltd., Mir Zahir Hossain of Mir Akhter Hossain Ltd., and Harun Ferdousi, have also accused Tarique of engaging in a systematic extortion scheme involving millions of dollars. Additionally, the ACC has charged him with hiding illicit wealth, and the National Board of Revenue has accused him of tax evasion. Tarique's corrupt actions extended beyond extorting local businesses. The ACC has discovered evidence of bribery cases involving both foreign and local firms and individuals. One case involves Siemens, where Tarique allegedly received a two percent bribe on all deals in Bangladesh. Another case involves the Harbin Company, which reportedly paid $750,000 to Tarique to open a plant. Monem Construction also allegedly paid a bribe of $450,000 to Tarique to secure contracts. These cases are currently being pursued by the DOJ and the FBI. The ACC has evidence that Tarique accepted a 210 million taka bribe to prevent the prosecution of a murder case against Sanvir Sobhan, the son of the chairman of the Bashundura Group. The murder case involved the killing of Humayun Kabir, a director of the same group. In addition to bribery and extortion, the ACC also found that Tarique was involved in an elaborate embezzlement scheme. With the help of multiple associates, Tarique successfully stole 20 million taka (300,000 USD) from the Zia Orphanage Trust fund. An ACC source revealed that Tarique, who is a co-signer on the trust fund account, utilized the funds for purchasing land in his hometown. Additionally, he gave signed checks from the orphanage fund accounts to BNP party members for their 2006 election campaigns. Tarique's corrupt actions have negatively impacted the interests of the US as outlined in the Proclamation, as they have diminished public trust in the government and undermined the strength of democratic institutions. Tarique's well-known disregard for the rule of law poses a direct threat to the United States' financial assistance objectives aimed at reforming legal systems, promoting good governance, and preventing judicial abuses. The culture of corruption, bribery, and embezzlement that Tarique has perpetuated in Bangladesh has significantly hindered US businesses, leading to missed opportunities. His embezzlement of millions of dollars in public funds has destabilized the political landscape in this Muslim-majority nation and hindered US efforts to establish a stable democratic government in a crucial region. Additionally, Tarique's corruption has jeopardized specific goals of the US Mission, including promoting democratization, fostering development, and combating terrorism in Bangladesh. Tarique's brazenly corrupt actions put all three at risk. His track record of stealing, blackmailing, and interfering with the legal system undermines the rule of law and poses a threat to the US objective of a stable, democratic Bangladesh. The culture of corruption and bribery that Tarique encouraged hindered US efforts to boost economic growth by deterring foreign investment and complicating the operations of American companies abroad. Additionally, his blatant disregard for laws has created a fertile ground for terrorists to infiltrate Bangladesh, as well as worsening poverty and weakening democratic institutions. In essence, much of Bangladesh's problems can be attributed to Tarique and his associates. The cable concludes by stating that applying a 212(f) finding to Tarique Rahman aligns with the US's firm stance against corruption in Bangladesh. The Embassy suggests that Tarique Rahman should be considered subject to Presidential Proclamation 7750 for his involvement in public official corruption as outlined in Section 1, Paragraph (c) of the Proclamation. Six years later, significant developments have taken place. | 5 |
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