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Our pets are costing NJ families more than we think
I had to take our dog to the vet today. He’s a mixed breed lovable little guy that we got from a rescue. Well, it turns out he has allergies and they get bad enough that he sometimes needs shots. His skin turns an angry, itching red. I feel awful for him.
So the vet told me what I expected to hear. Seasonal allergies once again. Needed the shot I was expecting. Was put on 14 days of antibiotics. And I have to give him Zyrtec all season. Was also told I could switch him to a food that "helps with allergies." You guessed it, the food is by prescription only. No idea what that would cost.
Oh, also he’s going to need his teeth cleaned which means sedation. In preparation for this he had to have blood drawn.
The total cost for all of this today? $280. The cost for when he goes back for the teeth? At least $500. Could be higher.
I remember the beagle we had when I was a kid. Back then it seemed you only took a pet to the vet when it was really sick. You didn’t bring them in for micro-chipping or for frequent check-ups. We didn’t hear about doggy anxiety meds. As veterinary care has gotten better the cost of keeping a pet has gotten bigger.
After the vet visit today it got me curious as to what lifetime financial commitment pet owners are making. I looked it up. The lifetime cost of owning a dog can run from $20,000 to $55,000. For a cat? $15,000 to $45,000. It was a study based on 1,200 pet owners and 100 veterinarians. You can read more about it here.
Is it worth it? That’s up to each family to decide. But I know I would have a hard time looking my daughter in the eye and telling her "no pets."
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Jeff Deminski only.
You can now listen to Deminski & Doyle — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite afternoon radio show any day of the week. Download the Deminski & Doyle show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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| 2022-04-07T11:10:28
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Plan to bust NJ ‘bracket creep’ income tax inflation inches ahead
TRENTON – State lawmakers are considering a bill that would help people avoid paying higher income taxes as their salaries rise along with inflation, pushing them into a higher tax bracket.
It’s a concept called ‘bracket creep’ that critics say acts as a hidden tax hike, applying the state’s progressive tax rates onto taxpayers with increasingly modest incomes.
The state last adjusted most of its tax brackets in 1996, except for changes to the top, marginal rate. At that time now over a quarter-century ago, the tax rate on an individual’s income over $75,000 was set at 6.37%. That threshold hasn’t changed – but $75,000 today is the equivalent of around $41,500 in 1996.
Calculated the other way: If brackets had been adjusted each year to keep up with inflation, the 6.37% bracket would apply at around $135,000 of individual income.
Sen. Anthony Bucco, R-Morris, said the federal government has been adjusting tax brackets for inflation for 40 years, just as a majority of states do.
“A person gets a cost-of-living raise in their salary, and that raise pushes them into the next tax bracket, where they pay more, but yet inflation is giving them less buying power, as we’ve seen most recently when you pull up to the pumps or at the food store,” Bucco said.
“This impact of inflation and the loss of buying power, coupled with paying more in taxes, really sets our residents behind even though they got a raise in their salary,” he said.
For individuals, New Jersey’s tax brackets start at $0, $20,000, $35,000, $40,000, $75,000, $500,000 and $5 million, with the rate starting at 1.4% and reaching 10.75%. For married couples, the brackets start at $0, $20,000, $50,000, $70,000, $80,000, $150,000, $500,000 and $5 million.
“By giving them this small break, it will give them some hope, especially those in the lower- and middle-income tax brackets that get hit the hardest,” Bucco said.
Christopher Emigholz, vice president of government relations for the New Jersey Business and Industry Association, said the biggest help would be for middle-income taxpayers – families whose tax rates jump from 1.75% on income under $50,000 to 2.45%, 3.5% and then 5.525% on income over $80,000.
“A lot of times when you look at tax policy, you see that there are tax policies that the left-leaning advocates like and tax policies that right-leaning advocates like. Interestingly, here you see a tax policy that is supported by both left and right,” Emigholz said.
But the bill, S676, has some skeptics, including three Democrats who voted to abstain when the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee endorsed it recently.
And its prospects remain unclear. The Senate held two voting sessions after it was released from the committee but didn’t take up the bill. The Assembly version of the bill – which unlike the Senate one includes no Democratic co-sponsors – has not gotten a hearing.
Nonpartisan fiscal analysts estimate that the bill could cost the state $150 million to $440 million once it’s fully in effect, then compounding annually with inflation. Revenue from the income tax goes toward property tax relief, so Sen. Teresa Ruiz, D-Essex, said people could just wind up paying more if schools and towns receive less aid for their budgets.
“Even though that household may be getting $100 extra for the year, then the municipality and/or the school district has to raise their tax levy and then that gets passed on to them again,” Ruiz said.
“Like with many things, sometimes it looks really good but when you look close, it’s not as good as it appears to look,” said Sen. Sandra Cunningham, D-Hudson.
Sheila Reynertson, a senior policy analyst at New Jersey Policy Perspective, said that while it’s true that without indexing that a greater share of income becomes subject to higher tax rates, the change carries “an enormous price tag that would only grow over time.”
She said the change could amount to a “very small tax cut for everyday families” that winds up slashing aid to schools and municipalities, leading to layoffs, brutal cuts or higher property taxes, fines and fees.
“We may have a substantial budget surplus now, but it is temporary given that the infusion of the federal funds are going to expire soon. To assume that economic growth will make up those differences, wishful thinking,” Reynertson said.
Reynertson said the state could limit the impact on its revenues by not adjusting the top bracket, like California and Oregon. She said it could also index for inflation the personal exemption and standard deduction, which similarly decline in value and are of particular benefit to lower-income residents.
Michael Symons is the Statehouse bureau chief for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at michael.symons@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
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| 2022-04-07T11:10:34
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Putin’s name covered on 9/11 Teardrop monument in Bayonne, NJ
BAYONNE — The name of Russian President Vladimir Putin has been covered on Bayonne’s Sept. 11 Teardrop Memorial.
The 175 ton bronze-and-glass memorial at the former Military Ocean Terminal was a gift from the Russian people and designed by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli. Putin attended the groundbreaking in 2005. His name is included on two plaques written in English and Russian.
Its formal name is “To the Struggle Against World Terrorism."
Mayor Jimmy Davis said he ordered Putin's name be covered up because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
"I want to be clear, we will NEVER take down this monument! We have, however, taken steps to cover the name of Putin, due to his recent actions against the people of Ukraine," Mayor Jimmy Davis wrote on his Facebook page. “I directed this action to be taken so that we don’t deface this honoring of the victims and families of 9/11/01, and we show our support with the people of Ukraine."
Davis made it clear that the action was a statement against Putin and not the Russian people.
"We remain grateful to the Russian people for the memorial. They did not start the war. Mr. Putin did. The memorial will stay in place on our waterfront. It is not going anywhere," Davis said in a statement.
The 10-story statue was opened in 2006 but the Port Authority threatened to move it to make room for a container facility in 2010. A petition by cab driver Robert "Captain Bob" Terzi convinced the agency to keep the statue in place.
A 4-foot section of the World Trade Center was placed next to the statue in 2011.
Dan Alexander is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at dan.alexander@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
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| 2022-04-07T11:10:41
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They sold cocaine and crack from Seaside Heights, NJ home, cops say
A Seaside Heights couple dealing drugs out of a borough residence were arrested after investigators found cocaine, crack and a loaded gun, prosecutors said.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer announced the culmination of a two-month-long investigation into drug distribution in the community.
The probe led investigators to the doorsteps of a borough residence where Jimmey Bryant Jr., and Ceeyanna Pringle, were running a drug operation, prosecutors said.
On Friday, the Ocean County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit executed a search warrant at the residence, where detectives seized 20 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of crack cocaine, a loaded 9-mm handgun, a conducted energy device and a digital scale.
Investigators also searched a nearby residence, where detectives seized a semi-automatic handgun with a loaded 30-round magazine.
The 22-year old Bryant Jr. and 18-year-old Pringle are charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of more than an ounce of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine, possession of a weapon while committing a drug crime, possession with intent to distribute drugs within 1,000 feet of school property and within 500 feet of a park, and possession of paraphernalia.
In addition to all those charges, Bryant Jr. was wanted on charges of aggravated assault with a weapon in connection with an unrelated incident that occurred in Seaside Heights last March.
Bryant is now in the Ocean County Jail, pending a detention hearing.
Pringle was released pending a further court appearance.
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| 2022-04-07T11:10:47
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Second suspect arrested in weekend home invasion near Rutgers
NEW BRUNSWICK — A second suspect who police said fled the scene of a home invasion near Rutgers University over the weekend has been arrested.
The home invasion occurred on Sunday, March 13 around 11:15 p.m. at a private residence in the area of Delafield and Courtlandt Streets, according to Rutgers police.
At the time of the incident, 21-year-old Michael O. Bryant, of New Brunswick, was arrested by New Brunswick police after being detained by the house residents. He was charged with robbery and burglary. But a second robber fled the scene.
Police now say 23-year-old Anthony J. Blakey Jr., of South Brunswick, has been caught, also charged with robbery and burglary.
Jen Ursillo is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach her at jennifer.ursillo@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
New Jersey's new legislative districts for the 2020s
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| 2022-04-07T11:10:53
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Spirit Airlines adds more direct flights from Newark and bonus Kentucky Derby route
NEWARK — As people begin to book their summer travel plans, Spirit Airlines has news to share.
The discount airline announced four new routes at Newark-Liberty International Airport, with daily nonstop flights to Los Angeles, starting May 5, to Indianapolis and Pittsburg on June 22, and Oakland beginning Aug. 10.
As a bonus, Spirit will also add a temporary route to Louisville to give New Jersey travelers easy access to the Kentucky Derby. The flights will only operate on May 5 and May 8.
"We know people are eager to travel this summer, and we're happy to add new, high-value options for guests looking to visit friends and family in northern New Jersey or those seeking affordable options to travel from the Garden State across the country," said John Kirby, vice president of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines.
Spirit will offer 24 departures on peak days at Newark, doubling in size compared to 2019.
After only six years of serving Newark, Spirit now ranks as the fourth-largest carrier at the airport.
Jen Ursillo is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach her at jennifer.ursillo@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
St Peters enters NCAA Sweet 16, NJ gets Peacock Fever
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| 2022-04-07T11:10:59
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JERSEY CITY — A 17-year-old teenager is charged with murder for allegedly shooting another boy slightly younger than himself to death.
15-year-old Devin Bryant was gunned down earlier this year on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 12.
Jersey City police officers found him on Myrtle Avenue shot in the torso after a report of shots fired. Less than an hour after they responded, Bryant passed away at Jersey City Medical Center.
Now an unnamed male teen is charged with pulling the trigger. As the alleged killer is under 18 years old, the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office would not release any information on his identity.
The teen was arrested Wednesday in Jamaica, Queens by the US Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. He is in custody in New York awaiting extradition, according to prosecutors.
Along with a murder charge, the male teen is also facing related firearms offenses.
Answers to 25 common COVID-19 vaccine questions
Vaccinations for COVID-19 began being administered in the U.S. on Dec. 14, 2020. The quick rollout came a little more than a year after the virus was first identified in November 2019. The impressive speed with which vaccines were developed has also left a lot of people with a lot of questions. The questions range from the practical—how will I get vaccinated?—to the scientific—how do these vaccines even work?
Keep reading to discover answers to 25 common COVID-19 vaccine questions.
The 10 Most Stolen Vehicles In New Jersey
Answers to 25 common COVID-19 vaccine questions
Vaccinations for COVID-19 began being administered in the U.S. on Dec. 14, 2020. The quick rollout came a little more than a year after the virus was first identified in November 2019. The impressive speed with which vaccines were developed has also left a lot of people with a lot of questions. The questions range from the practical—how will I get vaccinated?—to the scientific—how do these vaccines even work?
Keep reading to discover answers to 25 common COVID-19 vaccine questions.
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| 2022-04-07T11:11:06
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The best cheesesteaks in New Jersey, according to our listeners
March 24 is National Cheesesteak Day! It's a day I circle on my calendar every year. Any excuse to eat cheesesteaks is a good excuse where I'm concerned.
You always hear how Philadelphia has the market cornered on cheesesteaks. I've worked in the City of Brotherly Love for over 30 years and have been fortunate enough to sample their fine cheesesteaks but I've got to say, when it comes to cheesesteaks, New Jersey can more than hold its own.
The secret to a great cheesesteak, along with the meat which should be ribeye, is the bread. When you've got a great roll for which the delicious steak, cheese and whatever else you want to add in the way of peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc., you've got a great cheesesteak. So where are the great cheesesteaks in New Jersey?
Here are our listeners' suggestions for the best cheesesteak in New Jersey:
Denise DeHaut Brown
The Original Steaks in Seaside Heights
Jeri Fitzgeorge LaMothe
Meatheadz in Lawrenceville
John Crowley
Midway Steakhouse on the Seaside boardwalk
Andy Rehorn
Shore Good Eats and Treats in Neptune City
Thomas Evans
Royal Crowne in Hammonton, The Graziano Special specifically
Ed Farmer
Donkey's Palace in Camden.. It's been true for 40 years or longer
Jim Nedler
Chick's in Cherry Hill and Sal's in Marlton
Matte Kane
Chicks Deli in Cherry Hill
Rick Verso
Trust me on this.... Piccolo's in Hoboken! Pat uses a thin ribeye steak on great Italian bread with just the right amount of sautéed onions with American cheese! You can thank me later!
Janice Wilson
Bagliani's in Hammonton, The Tailgate
Jay El Payaso Watkins
White House in Atlantic City
Teddy Maturo
Pat's Pizza on Route 88 in Point Pleasant
Jim Trampe
Cockadoodle Dans in Palmyra
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Steve Trevelise only. Follow him on Twitter @realstevetrev.
You can now listen to Steve Trevelise — On Demand! Discover more about New Jersey’s personalities and what makes the Garden State interesting . Download the Steve Trevelise show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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https://nj1015.com/the-best-cheesesteaks-in-new-jersey-according-to-our-listeners/
| 2022-04-07T11:11:12
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This part of NJ is most upset about the direction of our state (Opinion)
It should be no surprise that a clear majority of New Jersey residents believe that the state is headed in the wrong direction.
That expected result is from a recent poll conducted by Rutgers-Eagleton. Turns out that residents of South Jersey and the Jersey Shore are the MOST unhappy about the direction of the state with nearly two-thirds saying we're headed in the wrong direction.
Here's the pullquote from the New Jersey Globe:
More than half of New Jerseyans who identify themselves as independents (55%) say the state is on the wrong track, with 33% viewing things headed in the right direction. Among Democrats, it’s 64% right direction, 26% wrong track; 82% of Republicans say New Jersey is on the wrong track, while 13% view it as moving in the right direction.
Most people in South Jersey (59%-35%) and along the Jersey shore (61%-29%) say the state is on the wrong track. More men (52%) and women (51%) say wrong; so do White residents (57%). It’s 50%-33% among Black residents; among Hispanics, right direction/wrong track is nearly split at 43%-41%).
Given all of this angst among residents, the Republican so-called opposition failed to defeat the incumbent in November. One of the main reasons is their candidate was the product of the backroom bosses selecting him at county conventions and excluding the voices of average New Jerseyans.
We heard several voices on the show Tuesday morning that reflect the changing dynamics of politics in this state. Although I am often labeled a "conservative talk show host," I found common ground with the Biden supporting candidate for mayor in Newark, Sheila Montague.
When your shared goals are to help people with practical solutions, it's very easy to move past party affiliation.
We also heard from a 22-year-old voter named Serena who is planning on leaving New Jersey along with many of her contemporaries because of the affordability issue.
This is not a partisan issue at all. I never asked who she supports or affiliates with because it doesn't matter. Republicans, Democrats, unaffiliated voters, black, white, and brown, men and women, ALL feeling the crush of the affordability crisis in New Jersey. Add to the failing school system in so many areas, the push for sexualizing class curriculum and critical race theory and you have the perfect storm for an exodus.
My solution is simple. We need to nominate political leaders who believe in common-sense solutions and fighting for people's rights as parents, business owners, and employees.
We need to fix the function of government, especially the Department of Labor, Education, and Motor Vehicles. We need to focus on our transportation and energy infrastructure. We need to reduce bloated government bureaucracies. Because the bigger the government, the WORSE the service delivery to taxpayers seems to be.
As you know, I launched the Common Sense Club to address these issues and help educate people and candidates. I'm happy to be a sponsor for a big event coming up in April where all are welcome to exchange ideas and participate in the conversation to move our state forward.
Remember the old adage about the definition of insanity, keep doing the same thing expecting different results.
If you are an unaffiliated voter, you have an opportunity to show up on June 7 and vote in the GOP primary. The Democrats have held the majority in this state for a couple of decades and things are getting worse, not better. The GOP continues to push failed professional politicians too weak to take a stand for you and your kids.
Entitled insiders like Tom Kean, Jon Bramnick, and Jack Ciattarelli continue to define the minority party. They continue to celebrate their weakness and pretend that their way is the only way. I'm here to tell you that they are wrong. We have two decades of GOP failure to point to. Remember the old adage about the definition of insanity, keep doing the same thing expecting different results.
I'm urging all New Jerseyans especially those registered as "unaffiliated" to join me in voting in the upcoming June 7 Republican primary. Reject the elite insiders who don't speak for you. Vote for the outsiders, shake up the only political party with the opportunity to challenge and defeat the current majority wrecking our state and trampling on your economic, civil, and medical freedom. Common ground and solutions start with common-sense policies, not partisan rhetoric and talking points. Join me.
The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Bill Spadea. Any opinions expressed are Bill's own. Bill Spadea is on the air weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m., talkin’ Jersey, taking your calls at 1-800-283-1015.
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| 2022-04-07T11:11:19
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Too little, too late for disapproval of ‘King’ Murphy (Opinion)
If crushing small businesses and taking the individual rights from ordinary citizens wasn't enough for people to vote Murphy out a few months ago, something has apparently changed. For the first time since his first election to governor, Murphy's approval rating is finally in the negative.
What could possibly have changed peoples' minds and what took so long?
Don't say that anything nefarious went on in the vote-counting process. That will get you ostracized from decent society for suggesting such a thing. The Democratic Party would never engage in unfair practices in elections. Shame on you!
Why then in the last four months have the opinions of our wonderful governor turned sour? It could be that the polls favored him so much that many people were discouraged and stayed out of the voting process.
About 33% of residents have a favorable impression of the governor, compared to 50% in November. About 38% of respondents to the recent poll have an unfavorable view of Murphy. That's decent progress in hopes that people here, the ones who haven't fled, are finally seeing the light.
Murphy had pretty good numbers during the pandemic. People were afraid and he gave the impression of being in control and "following the science." Tell that to the families of all the seniors who died in long-term care facilities under his direction.
He has a professional and controlled demeanor. People found that comforting during COVID. They also found cloth masks a comfort too.
Neither one was effective or look too good now that the panic is over.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.
You can now listen to Dennis & Judi — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite best friends anytime, anywhere and any day of the week. Download the Dennis & Judi show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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https://nj1015.com/too-little-too-late-for-disapproval-of-king-murphy-opinion/
| 2022-04-07T11:11:25
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Two new bars coming to Atlantic City casinos
Two of Atlantic City’s casinos have unveiled plans for new bars, including an indoor/outdoor beer hall and a balcony sportsbook bar.
Bally’s will open The Yard: Beer, Eats, and Bears. According to NJ.com, it will be a beer garden atmosphere on the outside with a retractable glass roof and sides. It will lead inside where Harry’s Oyster Bar used to be.
There will be seating for 150 and a selection of 24 craft beers, including one made by Spellbound Brewing of Mount Holly exclusively for Bally’s, along with arcade games and both an indoor and outdoor stage. It’s scheduled to be open by Memorial Day.
Ocean Casino Resort has announced its new facility called The Gallery Bar, Book, and Games. According to a press release, the new facility will be 12,000 square feet and will open this summer.
The Gallery will feature a 100-foot elevated bar and lounge, including 59 seats and 12 slot machines. A mix of blackjack and roulette tables will surround the perimeter of the bar, while 140 feet of LED walls will line the venue. A 17-foot open-air staircase will connect to Balcony Bar, a mezzanine bar and lounge where guests will enjoy the ultimate VIP sportsbook experience.
Bally’s says that they have spent over $100 million on renovations to the casino and resort, while Ocean Casino Resort says that they have spent $25 million on casino floor improvements. With the lifting of COVID restrictions and people starting to go out again, AC is hoping for a big return on those investments.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Bill Doyle only.
You can now listen to Deminski & Doyle — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite afternoon radio show any day of the week. Download the Deminski & Doyle show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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| 2022-04-07T11:11:31
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Updated: Every NJ pizzeria Barstool’s Dave Portnoy has reviewed
You never know when Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy is going to walk into your neighborhood pizzeria, and since we originally published this compilation back in late 2020, there is a handful more to add to the list.
Reviews by Portnoy can be kingmakers. Back in January, he reviewed DeLucia's Brick Oven Pizza in Raritan Borough. This place has been a long-time favorite of locals. But the new publicity brought crowds that the small business had never seen before. There were lines out the door and down the block and they reported selling out several times in a single week.
Also in January, he swung by Chimney Rock Inn in nearby Bridgewater, although they didn't get the same glowing reivew as DeLucia's.
Below is a complete list of every New Jersey pizza joint reviewed by the Barstool founder. As more and more NJ establishments are reviewed, this list will be updated.
Every NJ pizza joint Barstool's Dave Portnoy has reviewed
The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 producer, writer, and host Joe Votruba. Any opinions expressed are his own.
Questions, corrections, or comments? Send Joe Votruba an email. Follow Joe on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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| 2022-04-07T11:11:38
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Westfield, NJ to consider open container areas
During the pandemic, when restaurants were forced to seat people outdoors, the question of allowing alcohol to be served and consumed outdoors became an issue. Cape May, Atlantic City and North Wildwood allowed for seasonal open carry and consumption.
Atlantic City had allowed for people to purchase alcohol within the designated zones and drink openly on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, as well as within other sections of the city's tourism district, including the Orange Loop.
Earlier this year, Gov. Murphy signed into law a bill that allows municipalities in the rest of the state to designate outdoor areas where people can drink alcoholic beverages, and now some towns are looking to apply that law. Towns are allowed to designate the entire municipality or a section of it, such as a park or a few blocks of a downtown, as an “open container area," a pocket where people over 21 can carry and drink open containers of alcoholic beverages.
Westfield is one of those towns. According to TapInto Westfield, the executive committee of Downtown Westfield agreed unanimously that some areas should be designated as open container areas. One of those areas is the pedestrian plaza Open Quimby.
Downtown Westfield Corporation Executive Director Bob Zuckerman told TapInto, “Not only will it help the restaurants and the licensed establishments, who have mostly all suffered during COVID, but we think it will be a nice attribute for these specified areas within our downtown and will help attract more people downtown.”
Now it’s up to Westifeld’s town council to consider the measure.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Bill Doyle only.
You can now listen to Deminski & Doyle — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite afternoon radio show any day of the week. Download the Deminski & Doyle show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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https://nj1015.com/westfield-nj-to-consider-open-container-areas/
| 2022-04-07T11:11:44
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Why NJ is finally considering self-serve gas (Opinion)
For the past couple of decades, legislators in New Jersey have been afraid to pass or even propose self-service gasoline. Even though the 49 other states allow it, politicians here were for a long time of the belief that women don't want it and it was political suicide.
Here's how politics works in New Jersey and most other places in America: Lobbying.
Gasoline retailers have been having a tough time getting employees to operate their pumps, even at up to $20 an hour in some parts of our state. Many of their pumps sit idle with orange cones blocking the lanes.
This past weekend I visited a Wawa with 20 pumps and less than half were available with what seemed like only two guys working them. This new proposed law would allow for stations with at least four pumps to allow you to pump your own gas.
A little background: In 1948, an enterprising businessman in NJ opened the first-ever self-serve gas station with 24 pumps and was able to sell his gas 3 cents cheaper than his competitors (an inflation-adjusted difference of $0.35 per gallon in 2022 dollars). His competitors didn't like that and lobbied the Legislature to make pumping your own gas illegal in the state of New Jersey back in 1949.
Lobbyists for the Gasoline Retailer's Association had to find a way to overcome the idea that women wouldn't want to pump their own gas. Previous attempts to just allow it for a two-year test period had failed just a couple of years ago. So, if you get a couple of female legislators in the majority party to co-sponsor the measure, perhaps you can make some progress.
This is where we are today and why this proposed bill may have the best chance to pass.
Whether it's skillful lobbying, the New Jersey Legislature finally coming to its senses, or the fact that Steve Sweeney, a powerful force in blocking previous attempts is gone, you can take your pick. There are many people in the state, in particular women, who don't want to pump their own gasoline.
With this new law, they won't have to.
One of the two people working at a station with 20 pumps, where orange cones currently block most of them, will pump your gas, while others who don't want to wait can finally pump their own at the freed-up pumps.
Yay, everybody wins. Can we now get on with this and end the 73 years of prohibition born out of typical New Jersey corruption? I sure hope so.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.
You can now listen to Dennis & Judi — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite best friends anytime, anywhere and any day of the week. Download the Dennis & Judi show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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https://nj1015.com/why-nj-is-finally-considering-self-serve-gas-opinion/
| 2022-04-07T11:11:50
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https://nj1015.com/why-nj-is-finally-considering-self-serve-gas-opinion/
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Win Cash Official Rules Spring 2022
WIN CASH
Spring 2022 - RULES
Sweepstakes Name: “Win Cash” (Or insert your local sweepstakes name (the “Sweepstakes”)
Sweepstakes Entry Period Dates: April 4, 2022 to April 29, 2022
Station(s): New Jersey 101.5 WKXW-FM (the "Station(s)")
Townsquare Media, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliated companies (together, the "Company"), will conduct the Sweepstakes substantially as described in these rules, and by participating, each participant agrees as follows:
The Company may conduct the Sweepstakes concurrently and simultaneously on several participating stations owned and or operated by the Company and/or owned and operated by other companies, and in various states, and the Company may add or remove participating stations or change call letters of any participating station at any time during the Sweepstakes as announced on the affected station. For a current list of participating stations, send a request with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: "WIN CASH" SWEEPSTAKES, TOWNSQUARE MEDIA CONTESTING, 1 Manhattanville Rd, Suite 202, Purchase, NY 10577.
1. Description of Sweepstakes/Participation.
1A. How to Enter:
The sweepstakes is open to legal residents of Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming who are at least 18 years old as of the date of entry.
Daily Prizes - Code Words Multiplier Entry: To receive an entry in a drawing for a Daily Prize (as defined below), the entrant must submit the code words that have been announced on-air by a participating station during the Sweepstakes entry period as defined above. Participating radio stations will announce code words each weekday, April 4, 2022 to April 29, 2022, between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time. There will be up to ten code words announced daily per participating station. Times of code word announcements will be determined by each station in its discretion. Each station may in its discretion announce fewer than ten code words on any weekday during the entry period. When the code words are announced, listeners will be directed to go to the station’s website or mobile app and enter the code word on the sweepstakes page. To constitute a valid entry, the code word must be entered on the applicable station’s sweepstakes page by no later than 11:59 p.m. local time on the same day that the code word was announced on-air. Each valid Daily Prize entry will also be included in the drawing for the Grand Prize (as defined below).
Grand Prize - Entry via Multiplier Button: Participants who wish to enter the Grand Prize drawing but have not completed a valid Daily Prize entry, as described above, may obtain a Grand Prize entry via one of the many non-code word multiplier buttons available on the sweepstakes entry page of a participating station’s website. Participant will be prompted to take further action in order to enter, which may include, for example, visiting the station’s Facebook page, joining the station’s mailing list, subscribing to the station on YouTube, following the station on Twitter, sharing links to the sweepstakes on social media, and visiting advertiser websites (together, the “Custom Multipliers”). Completion of the above steps will enter you in to the Grand Prize drawing (“Grand Prize Entry”). Only one Grand Prize Entry per person will be valid during the sweepstakes.
1B. Winner Selection:
Daily Prize Winner. One Daily Prize winner will be selected with respect to each weekday during the Sweepstakes entry period. Each Daily Prize winner will be selected at random on the following business day. For example, participants who submit their codes works on Tuesday will be entered into a random drawing which will occur on Wednesday. Only one Daily Prize winner will be selected from among all of the Daily Prize entries (i.e. entries via code word submission) across all participating stations received on the applicable weekday.
Grand Prize Winner. After the conclusion of the Sweepstakes entry period, one Grand Prize winner will be selected from among all Grand Prize entries, across all participating stations, received during the Sweepstakes entry period.
Prize(s) are subject to availability and other sweepstakes rules. Odds of winning a prize depend on the number of eligible entries with respect to the applicable drawing.
1C. Technical Issues
Should a technical problem or other issue (such as, without limitation, computer error, human error or transmitter difficulties) result in a code word airing at the incorrect time, the Company will have the right not to accept entries associated with such code word. Station(s) and Company will not be responsible or liable for any technical problems or other issues.
2. Prize(s).
A total of twenty (20) Daily Prize packages, each consisting of $2,000 (awarded via a payment method determined by Company) (each a “Daily Prize”), will be awarded. As noted above, the selection of Daily Prize packages will come from the collective pool of all participating station Daily Prize entries.
In addition, one (1) grand prize, consisting of $10,000 (awarded via a payment method determined by Company) (the “Grand Prize”) will be awarded to one single Grand Prize entrant. The Grand Prize winner will be selected from the collective pool of all participating station Grand Prize entries.
Approximate total retail value of all prizes collectively is fifty thousand dollars ($50,000). Each potential winner will be notified by phone or email. If chosen as a winner, entrant must return the station’s call or email within 48 hours or risk forfeiture of prize. If station is unable to connect with entrant within 48 hours, company reserves the right to choose another winner or increase the value of future prizes. After being chosen, winner must fill out all paperwork (including verification of eligibility and a liability and publicity release) and claim his/her prize from the Company within 2 weeks from the date winner returns the station’s call or email notifying winner that he/she has won, or winner risks forfeiture of the Prize. In the Company’s discretion, winners may be required to receive the prize via mail, to pick up the prize at the participating station or to receive the prize via another method specified by the Company. Failure to claim the Prize within the time frame above constitutes forfeiture of the Prize. If forfeited, the Prize will be awarded to an alternate winner. Prizes are not transferable or exchangeable for any other prize or equivalent prize.
3. Conditions and Limitations.
Company reserves the right to refuse to award a prize to a selected winner in the event of noncompliance with these rules. Winners are subject to a verification process to include winner's name, address, home phone number, work/cell phone number, and social security number. If a winner is disqualified, Company reserves the right to determine an alternate winner in its sole discretion. Only one (1) prize can be claimed per household for the duration of the Sweepstakes. Winners are eligible to win only once per lifetime in a Townsquare Media Inc. nationwide and/or group contest or sweepstakes. Employees of the Company, the Sweepstake's participating sponsors and their advertising agencies, employees of other radio or television stations, and members of the immediate family of any such persons are not eligible to participate and win. The term "immediate family" includes spouses, siblings, parents, children, grandparents, and grandchildren, whether as in-laws or by current or past marriage(s), remarriage(s), adoption, co-habitation or other family extension, and any other persons residing at the same household whether or not related.
4. Disclaimer.
The Company is not responsible for, and disclaims all liability for, any inability of a participant to complete an entry due to equipment malfunction, internet connection issues, inadvertent disconnections, acts beyond the Company's control, or any other error, failure or defect of any kind. The Company disclaims all liability for any delays, mis-delivery, loss, or failure in the delivery of any item sent by mail, courier, express, electronic transmission, or other delivery method. Entries must be made as detailed herein. No photocopies or mechanical reproductions of entry forms are permitted. The Company is not responsible for human, mechanical, technical, electronic, communications, telephone, computer, hardware or software errors, malfunctions or failures of any kind, including: failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed transmission of online entries, traffic congestion on telephone lines, the Internet or at any website or lost or unavailable network connections which may limit an online entrant's ability to participate in the Sweepstakes, and any injury or damage to entrant's or any other person's computer related to or resulting from participating in or downloading any information necessary to participate in the Sweepstakes.
5. Publicity; Use of Personal Information.
By participating, all participants and winners grant the Company permission to use their names, characters, photographs, voices, and likenesses in connection with promotion of this and other sweepstakes, participating station(s) and participating sponsor(s), and waive any claims to royalty, right, or remuneration for such use. By participating in the Sweepstakes, participants agree that the Company may disclose personal information obtained from participants in the Sweepstakes to third parties and use such information for marketing and other purposes on a worldwide basis in perpetuity.
6. Release and Indemnity.
By participating in the Sweepstakes, each participant and winner (i) waives any and all claims of liability against the Company, its parent, related, affiliated and subsidiary companies and the employees and agents of each (collectively, the “Company Released Parties”), the Sweepstake's sponsors, and their parent, related, affiliated and subsidiary companies and their respective employees and agents (collectively, the “Sponsor Released Parties,” together with the Company Released Parties, the “Released Parties”), for any loss, claim or cause of action or personal injury which may arise out of the conduct of, or participation in, the Sweepstakes, or from the use of any prize including, but not limited to: (a) unauthorized human intervention in the Sweepstakes; (b) technical errors related to computers, software applications, mobile devices, servers, providers, or telephone or network lines; (c) printing errors; (d) lost, late, postage-due, misdirected, or undeliverable mail; (e) errors of any kind in the promotion or administration of the Sweepstakes or the processing of entries; or (f) injury (up to and including death) or damage to persons or property which may be caused, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, from entrant's participation in the Sweepstakes or receipt or use of any prize, including travel, and (ii) agrees to indemnify Released Parties from any and all liability resulting or arising from the Sweepstakes and does hereby acknowledge that Released Parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation, or guarantee, express or implied, in fact or in law, relative to prize, including express warranties provided exclusively by prize supplier that are sent along with the prize. Each participant further agrees that in the event of any claim, the Released Parties’ liability will be limited to the cost of entering and participating in the Sweepstakes, and in no event shall the Released Parties be liable for attorney's fees. Each participant waives the right to claim any damages whatsoever, including, but not limited to, punitive, consequential, direct, or indirect damages.
7. Taxes.
Any valuation of the prize(s) stated above is based on available information provided to the Company, and the value of any prize awarded to a winner may be reported for tax purposes as required by law. Each winner is solely responsible for reporting and paying any and all applicable taxes. The Company and Sponsor reserve the right to withhold and deduct taxes and charges from the prize if and to the extent required by law. Each winner must provide the Company with valid identification and a valid taxpayer identification number or social security number before any prize will be awarded. Prizes are not transferable, redeemable for cash or exchangeable for any other prize. Any person winning over $600 in prizes from the Stations will receive an IRS form 1099 at the end of the calendar year and a copy of such form will be filed with the IRS.
8. Conduct and Decisions.
By participating in the Sweepstakes, participants agree to be bound by the decisions of Company, which are final and binding. Persons who violate any rule, gain unfair advantage in participating in the Sweepstakes, or obtain winner status using fraudulent means will be disqualified. Unsportsmanlike, disruptive, annoying, harassing or threatening behavior is prohibited. The Company will interpret these rules and resolve any disputes, conflicting claims or ambiguities concerning the rules or the Sweepstakes and the Company's decisions concerning such disputes shall be final and binding. If the conduct or outcome of the Sweepstakes is affected by human error, any mechanical or technical malfunctions or failures of any kind, intentional interference or any event beyond the control of the Company, or if for any other reason the Company determines that the Sweepstakes cannot be run as planned, the Company reserves the right to terminate the Sweepstakes, or make such other decisions regarding the outcome as the Company deems appropriate. The Company may waive any of these rules in its sole discretion. ANY ATTEMPT BY A PARTICIPANT OR ANY OTHER INDIVIDUAL TO DELIBERATELY CIRCUMVENT, DISRUPT OR DAMAGE ORDINARY AND NORMAL OPERATION OF THIS SWEEPSTAKES, TELEPHONE SYSTEMS OR WEBSITE, OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES IS A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, THE COMPANY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES FROM ANY SUCH PARTICIPATION TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.
9. Miscellaneous.
Each winner must submit proof of eligibility and sign the Company's release form to claim the prize. No purchase necessary to participate or win. Void where prohibited. The Company may substitute prizes, amend the rules or discontinue the Sweepstakes at any time. The Company disclaims any responsibility to notify participants of any aspect related to the conduct of the Sweepstakes. Written copies of these rules are available during normal business hours at the business offices of the Stations and by mail upon written request with a stamped, self- addressed envelope. All entries become the property of the Company and will not be returned. To be removed from our direct mail, email or fax lists, visit the main office of the Station during regular business hours, or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with sweepstakes name to Townsquare Media, 1 Manhattanville Rd, Suite 202, Purchase, NY 10577. To request the name of the winners, send a separate, self-addressed stamped envelope with sweepstakes name to Townsquare Media, 1 Manhattanville Rd, Suite 202, Purchase, NY 10577. Requests for winners’ lists must be received within sixty (60) days of the end of the Sweepstakes dates first listed above.
10. Compliance with Law.
The conduct of the Sweepstakes is governed by the applicable laws of the United States of America, which take precedence over any rule to the contrary herein.
11. Participating Radio Stations
The Company may conduct the Sweepstakes concurrently and simultaneously on several participating stations owned and/or operated by the Company, and in various states, and the Company may add or remove participating stations or change call letters of any participating station at any time during the Sweepstakes as announced on the affected station. Station participation in this sweepstakes during the sweepstakes dates may vary from day to day. Each station will announce participation. Stations participating in this sweepstakes may include all or some stations owned or operated by Townsquare Media, Inc. and/or other stations owned and/or operated by other companies.
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https://nj1015.com/win-cash-official-rules-spring-2022/
| 2022-04-07T11:11:57
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https://nj1015.com/win-cash-official-rules-spring-2022/
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What?! New Jersey about to release another 850 inmates (Opinion)
By all indications, the extreme caution due to the pandemic is over. Kids are back in most schools without masks. Vaccine passports and mask mandates for business and government offices have been lifted.
This past Sunday, New Jersey let 852 inmates out of prison. It was part of a pandemic-related law that gives what they called "public health emergency credits" to certain inmates. This allows prisoners to take 122 days off their sentence for each month they served during the public health emergency.
During the "public health emergency" in 2020 when this legislation was passed and signed by the governor, businesses were shut down. Barbers and hairstylists couldn't make a living. Restaurants had to close their doors, some never made it back. Gym owners who dared to allow healthy people to maintain their heath were shut down and harassed.
The entire pandemic era was rife with bad decisions by our leaders and this one benefited people who made bad decisions in life. That's how they ended up in jail. Thankfully a few of your representatives in Trenton noticed this absurdity and are calling out the Murphy administration.
Assemblywomen Marilyn Piperno and Kim Eulner called on Gov. Phil Murphy to halt his administration’s release of 852 inmates Sunday.
Their efforts of course fell on deaf ears because Murphy doesn't care. He cares more about catering to the people who've made bad choices in life than those of us who play by the rules. It absolutely sends the wrong message, but Murphy doesn't care. He's on a mission to assuage his guilt for being an obnoxiously wealthy guy for producing nothing.
Who pays the price for this misguided altruism? We do.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.
You can now listen to Dennis & Judi — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite best friends anytime, anywhere and any day of the week. Download the Dennis & Judi show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
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https://nj1015.com/wtf-new-jersey-about-to-release-another-850-inmates-opinion/
| 2022-04-07T11:12:03
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https://nj1015.com/wtf-new-jersey-about-to-release-another-850-inmates-opinion/
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People around the country will crack open a cold one for National Beer Day on April 7. But if you’re someone who prefers wine or liquor, you can still toast to National Beer Day — just bake instead!
Kylee Scales is making an orange cardamom beer cake in Kylee’s Kitchen. According to Kylee, baking with beer results in a more tender crumb and imparts flavor. Beer is also a natural leavening agent. The more you know!
Orange cardamom beer cake
Yield: One 8 1/2″ loaf cake
Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients for the cake
- 240 grams (2 cups) cake flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
- 117 grams (1/2 cup) beer
- 30 grams (2 Tablespoons) orange juice
- 248 grams (1 1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- Zest from 1 orange
- 113 grams (8 Tablespoons) Challenge unsalted butter, room temperature
- 100 grams (2 large) eggs
- 28 grams (2 large) egg yolks
Ingredients for the glaze
- 227 grams (2 cups) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 30 grams (2 Tablespoons) beer
- 30 grams (2 Tablespoons) orange juice
Directions for the cake
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease 8 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ loaf pan and line with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom together. Set aside.
- Combine beer and orange juice. Set aside.
- In large mixing bowl, mix together sugar and orange zest for about 30 seconds or until orange zest is fragrant.
- Add butter and cream at high speed until mixture appears light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time on low speed, making sure batter absorbs each egg before adding another.
- Scrape down bowl and add half of dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Then add half of beer/orange juice mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Mix on low speed until batter is just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for about 45 minutes, or until cake pulls away from edges and registers around 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from oven and let cool for at least an hour before icing.
Directions for the glaze
- Add beer to powdered sugar and mix. Then add orange juice and mix until smooth. Icing should be thick, but still pourable.
- Remove cake from loaf pan and drizzle top with icing.
- Wait for icing to set before cutting and serving cake.
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https://fox59.com/morning-news/kylees-kitchen/kylees-kitchen-baking-with-beer-for-national-beer-day/
| 2022-04-07T11:16:44
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https://fox59.com/morning-news/kylees-kitchen/kylees-kitchen-baking-with-beer-for-national-beer-day/
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INDIANAPOLIS — Police say a man was seriously hurt in a suspected drug deal in downtown Indianapolis overnight.
Just after midnight, IMPD was notified of a person shot in the 500 block of Hudson Street right near E. Michigan Street.
A man was found lying in the street and suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. He was taken to the hospital in serious but stable condition.
Police say evidence found at the scene indicated the shooting was the result of a drug deal.
“There is indication from what we found here on the scene that there may have been some sort of marijuana transaction going on during this incident,” said IMPD Capt. Kerry Buckner.
A witness told police a vehicle drive off right after the shooting. The suspect’s vehicle is believed to be a gray Chevy Impala or Malibu. Police say the victim may have been getting in or out of it when he was shot.
“It looks like he may have been either getting out the vehicle or leaving the vehicle when this happened. So it appears that the shooting may have occurred from the vehicle,” said Buckner.
IMPD believes the suspect may have been headed toward the east side of the city, although officers will continue to investigate downtown.
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https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/impd-man-shot-downtown-in-suspected-drug-deal/
| 2022-04-07T11:16:50
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https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/impd-man-shot-downtown-in-suspected-drug-deal/
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WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal prosecutors on Wednesday charged two men they say were posing as federal agents, giving free apartments and other gifts to U.S. Secret Service agents, including one who worked on the first lady’s security detail.
The two men — Arian Taherzadeh, 40, and Haider Ali, 36 — were taken into custody as more than a dozen FBI agents charged into a luxury apartment building in Southeast Washington on Wednesday evening.
Prosecutors allege Taherzadeh and Ali had falsely claimed to work for the Department of Homeland Security and work on a special task force investigating gang and violence connected to the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. They allege the two posed as law enforcement officers to integrate with actual federal agents.
Taherzadeh is accused of providing Secret Service officers and agents with rent-free apartments — including a penthouse worth over $40,000 a year — along with iPhones, surveillance systems, a drone, flat screen television, a generator, gun case and other policing tools, according to court documents.
He also offered to let them use a black GMC SUV that he identified as an “official government vehicle,” prosecutors say. In one instance, Taherzadeh offered to purchase a $2,000 assault rifle for a Secret Service agent who is assigned to protect the first lady.
Prosecutors said four Secret Service employees were placed on leave earlier this week as part of the investigation.
The plot unraveled when the U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating an assault involving a mail carrier at the apartment building and the men identified themselves as being part of a phony Homeland Security unit they called the U.S. Special Police Investigation Unit.
Prosecutors say the men had also set up surveillance in the building and had been telling residents there that they could access any of their cellphones at any time. The residents also told investigators they believed the men had access to their personal information.
Taherzadeh and Ali are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday. It was not immediately clear if they had lawyers who could comment on the allegations.
Authorities did not detail what, if anything, the men were aiming to accomplish by posing as law enforcement officers or by providing the gifts. Prosecutors said the investigation remains ongoing.
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https://www.wane.com/news/men-posed-as-federal-agents-gave-free-apartments-to-secret-service-officers-prosecutors-say/
| 2022-04-07T11:23:27
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https://www.wane.com/news/men-posed-as-federal-agents-gave-free-apartments-to-secret-service-officers-prosecutors-say/
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ESMERALDA COUNTY, Nev. (KLAS) – Family members of an Indiana couple that had been missing for more than a week are trying to figure out how they got lost in Nevada’s high desert. Beverly Barker survived, but her husband Ronnie Barker didn’t.
Authorities say the 72-year-old was dead when a search team reached the couple Tuesday about 177 miles northwest of Las Vegas. They also say 69-year-old Beverley Barker was airlifted to a Reno hospital where she’s reported in good shape.
They pair been traveling from Oregon to Arizona. A nephew says Beverly’s text message pleading for help was delayed and didn’t go through until Tuesday night, after the Barkers had already been found.
A long social media post from Ronnie and Beverly Barker’s nephew Travis Peters tells the story of what happened and how his Uncle Ronnie died. The story was told to Peters directly from his Aunt Beverly, who he said has been released from a Reno hospital.
Peters says it was the couple’s GPS that told them to take a road that would eventually point them up a mountain west of Silver Peak, Nevada, about 30 miles west of Goldfield. Beverly said the ‘highway’ option in the GPS setting was not selected and that led it to point them to a county road.
“Bev recalls they they saw other cars, I believe she even mentioned another motorhome was seen,” Peters wrote. “The directions had them making turns and they knew they were going up a mountain, but I don’t think they ever had a fear that they were doing anything wrong. Bev said that the RV was doing just fine on the road other than the fact that they had to slow down because the trailer dolly that was bouncing around if they went too fast. Eventually the motorhome became stuck in the gravel and sand.”
Once they knew they were stuck the couple decided to just sleep in the RV and go for help in the morning. Then on the morning of Monday, March 28 they unhooked the Kia Soul they were towing and began driving to get help. Beverly Barker said they took a wrong turn and quickly became stuck. This is where the two would spend the next week.
Beverly told her family the two remained in relatively good spirits, reading the bible they had with them, watching planes fly overhead, marveling at the clear night sky, and melting snow for water. Eventually Ronnie began having breathing problems, according to Beverly, and she was left to provide water.
Beverly said she would balance against her walker and use a N-95 face mask to scoop snow to bring back to Ronnie. The pair were also taking turns honking the horn in a SOS pattern.
“Ronnie blamed himself for getting them into the situation, but I do not think that there was any blame for him to shoulder,” Peters wrote. “Eventually peace came upon the both of them and Ronnie Barker passed away at 3:12 p.m. on Monday April 4.”
Beverly said she remained in the car with Ronnie for the next day and a half until they were found Tuesday afternoon.
Travis Parker also released a statement on behalf of the family:
“The family of Ronnie and Beverly Barker wish to thank those who participated in the search and rescue operations to locate our beloved family members. The outpouring of support was nothing short of incredible by the members of the local community. Our hearts are full because of the efforts that were put forth to help us bring Ron and Bev back home again to Indiana.
While the loss of Ronnie Barker is tragic, we are grateful that Beverly was found alive and can now begin her recovery from this tragic ordeal. We are grateful that Beverly will be able to fill in the blanks and give us the answers that we all so desperately seek.
Ronnie Barker loved his family and loved his country. He served our nation proud over his 26 year career in the United States Air Force. Ronnie was a believer in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was proud of his faith and was always willing to give to others. He was funny, witty, and was the spark of energy that everyone gravitated toward. People just loved and wanted to be around Ron Barker.
Our family grieves over this news, and we question the roadblocks that seemed to stifle the search from the moment we were made aware of their disappearance. It’s our hope that Ronnie Barker’s legacy will be changing policy that will allow for a more expeditious approach to locating missing persons of all ages for both non-residents and residents of the state of Nevada. We call upon the citizens of Nevada to stand up and demand that changes be made at ALL levels of Public Safety to avoid the hurdles that our family faced as we attempted to bring resources into the search of our loved ones.
Fly high MSgt Ronnie E. Barker, you served us all well.
Ronnie Ercel Barker 11/21/1949 – 4/4/2022″
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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https://www.wane.com/news/missing-couple-survived-alone-in-car-for-7-days-before-death-and-rescue-survivor-tells-family/
| 2022-04-07T11:23:33
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https://www.wane.com/news/missing-couple-survived-alone-in-car-for-7-days-before-death-and-rescue-survivor-tells-family/
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Brenda Perez set to break glass ceiling, color line as Brockton's next police chief
BROCKTON — Mayor Robert Sullivan has tapped city native Lt. Brenda Perez to be the next chief of Brockton Police.
If confirmed by City Council, as is expected, Perez would be the first woman to lead the city's police force, and first person of color to do so.
"Having lived in Brockton my entire life and served as a Brockton Police Officer for 22 years, I am honored to have been selected by Mayor Sullivan to be the Chief," Perez said in a Wednesday email to The Enterprise.
"I look forward to working with him, the rest of the city government, and the community to build a better Brockton for all in the city."
Sullivan named Perez acting chief on Monday. Sullivan had interviewed five people for the job, all of them Brockton cops:
- Sgt. Michael Skinner
- Lt. Donald J. Mills Jr.
- Lt. Paul Bonanca
- Lt. Brenda Perez
- Sgt. Michael Livingston
Out of that group, Bonanca, Perez and Livingston made it as finalists, according to Daveson Perez, a spokesperson for the mayor's office.
Is crime down in Brockton?:District attorney shares stats for city, Plymouth County
The acting chief, in addition to her two decades-plus as patrol officer, sergeant and lieutenant, has a military background. She has served 24 years in the Army Reserves, according to an announcement of her appointment on the department's Facebook page.
Perez also holds a master's degree in criminal justice from Curry College.
Top 10 salaries:Which Brockton employees made the most in 2020?
Captain Steven Williamson had been serving as interim chief since Chief Emanuel "Manny" Gomes retired in January, citing health concerns. It was Williamson's second stint in the role, having also performed it in 2020.
BPD, which is diverse by the standards of other Bay State cities but still lags Brockton's overall demographics, has sought to increase its minority representation, especially at the higher levels.
Send your news tips to reporter Chris Helms by email at CHelms@enterprisenews.com or connect on Twitter at @HelmsNews. Thank you, subscribers. You make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Brockton Enterprise.
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We've come to the end of an unprecedented, fractious and, at times, sloppy legislative session.
Both chambers of the Mississippi Legislature adjourned sine die on Tuesday, and some lawmakers couldn't leave Jackson fast enough.
Some lawmakers left happy, others angry and one even threw a stack of bills across the chamber out of frustration.
But one thing everyone can agree on: This session was one of the busiest in recent history.
Lawmakers reached historic compromises on teacher pay raises, tax cuts and federal money.
But one thing that people were buzzing about as the left the Capitol dome is what they didn't accomplish -- restoring the initiative process.
"The voters are going to eat us alive if we don't get a handle on that," Rep. Jerry Turner, R-Baldwyn said as he was getting ready to head back to the hills of Northeast Mississippi.
And most lawmakers feel the same way. If citizens don't have a way to directly place items on a statewide ballot for consideration, voters will likely pitch a fit during the next year's election cycle.
The hangup happened in the conference process over the signature threshold.
The House argued that the number of signatures should be equal to 12% of the people who voted during the last statewide election for governor.
The Senate wanted the signatures to be equal to 12% of the registered voters - including those who did not vote – on the day of the last presidential election, which is a much higher threshold.
House Speaker Philip Gunn believes their number is a more fair target for citizens to hit.
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann contends that the higher benchmark will keep frivolous initiatives away from the ballot box and make sure only serious proposals get on the ballot.
Regardless of how intentional and thoughtful Hosemann's skepticism of an initiative process may be, the Senate may end up on the losing end of a future finger pointing war if he isn't careful.
The good thing for the Legislature is the final hurdle over the initiative can't be cleared until the next election cycle anyway.
Whatever change the lawmakers agree to, it must go before the citizens on a statewide ballot anyway for final approval.
So the Capitol leaders get a pass this session, but the heat will likely be turned up even more next session -- right before the statewide ballot.
And if a repeat scenario happens next year, the citizens could likely focus their anger on the body that insisted on a higher signature threshold.
Regardless, this won't be the last time we hear about the initiative process.
On a more personal note, I want to thank all of you for reading along the past three months. This has been a fun, but tiring legislative session.
But this isn't over.
You'll see some version of this newsletter very soon because we're in the process of determining how this type of analysis can best be delivered outside of the session, so that you can continue have up-to-date insider info about state politics year round.
Best from the Daily Journal
Gov. Tate Reeves has signed the largest tax cut in Mississippi's history into law, significantly reducing the revenue of a state with abject poverty, vast health disparities, underfunded public schools, crumbling infrastructure and embattled state agencies.
Both chambers of the state Legislature have approved a final version of a bill that would permit the construction of “freestanding” emergency rooms — ERs unattached to hospitals — in rural counties without one.
Both chambers recently passed House Bill 1510, which allows Mississippi’s election management system to cross-reference voter registration information with state driver’s license systems at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to see if a noncitizen is registering to vote.
Best from other outlets
Mississippi is the latest Republican-led state to ban election offices from accepting donations from private groups for voting operations — a movement fueled by conservatives’ suspicion of donations by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in 2020. (The Associated Press)
Mississippi is on the verge of scuttling a state song with racist roots, two years after it retired a Confederate-themed state flag. (The Associated Press)
Former Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant used the authority of his office, the weight of his political influence and the power of his connections to help his friend and retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre boost a fledgling pharmaceutical venture. (Mississippi Today)
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An upcoming auction will allow you to bring home an heirloom from America’s late honorary grandmother.
Betty White’s estate will hit the auction block later this year, confirms Julien’s Auctions.
It will feature items from both her personal and professional life including:
- the wedding band from White’s marriage to Allen Ludden
- a solid gold watch engraved with her mother’s initials
- a mahogany piano from White’s California home
- numerous The Golden Girls memorabilia including the original director’s chair from the set, a script from the series’ pilot episode and a script signed by White, Rue McClanahan, Bea Arthur, and Estelle Getty.
Before the auction, the 1,500-item collection will be part of a traveling public exhibit making stops in Chile, Ireland, and the United States.
White died on December 31, 2021 at the age of 99. She would have turned 100 on January 17, 2022. She was best known for playing Rose on NBC’s The Golden Girls from 1985 to 1992, as well as her dedicated work as an animal advocate.
During her career spanning more than eight decades, White’s honors include 21 Primetime Emmy nominations with five wins and one Hall of Fame honor, a Grammy award, inductions into the Television Hall of Fame in 1988 and 1995, and a Guinness Book of World Record in 2013 for longest TV career for a female entertainer.
The auction will take place online and live in Beverly Hills from September 23 to 25. You can see a complete list of items featured in the upcoming auction here.
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WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Senate is expected to confirm Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson on Thursday, securing her place as the first Black woman on the high court and giving President Joe Biden a bipartisan endorsement for his historic pick.
Three Republican senators have said they will support Jackson, who would replace Justice Stephen Breyer when he retires this summer. While the vote will be far from the overwhelming bipartisan confirmations for Breyer and other justices in decades past, it will still be a significant bipartisan accomplishment for Biden in the narrow 50-50 Senate after GOP senators aggressively worked to paint Jackson as too liberal and soft on crime.
"It will be a joyous day," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer as he announced Thursday's vote late Wednesday evening. "Joyous for the senate, joyous for the Supreme Court, joyous for America."
Jackson, a 51 year-old federal appeals court judge, would be just the third Black justice, after Thurgood Marshall and Clarence Thomas, and the sixth woman. She would join two other women, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, on the liberal side of a 6-3 conservative court. With Justice Amy Coney Barrett sitting at the other end of the bench, four of the nine justices would be women for the first time in history.
After a bruising hearing in which Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee aggressively interrogated Jackson on her sentencing record, three GOP senators came out and said they would support her. The statements from Maine Sen. Susan Collins, Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski and Utah Sen. Mitt Romney all said the same thing - they might not always agree with Jackson, but they found her to be enormously well qualified for the job.
Collins and Murkowski both decried the increasingly partisan confirmation process, which Collins called "broken" and Murkowski called "corrosive" and "more detached from reality by the year."
Biden, a veteran of a more bipartisan Senate, said from the beginning that he wanted support from both parties for his history-making nominee, and he invited Republicans to the White House as he made his decision. It was an attempted reset from three brutal Supreme Court battles during President Donald Trump's presidency, when Democrats vociferously opposed the nominees, and from the end of President Barack Obama's, when Republicans blocked Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland from getting a vote.
Before the Senate Judiciary Committee last month, the Jackson said her life was shaped by her parents' experiences with lawful racial segregation and civil rights laws that were enacted a decade before she was born.
With her parents and family sitting behind her, she told the panel that her "path was clearer" than theirs as a Black American. Jackson attended Harvard University, served as a public defender, worked at a private law firm and was appointed as a member of the U.S. Sentencing Commission in addition to her nine years on the federal bench.
"I have been a judge for nearly a decade now, and I take that responsibility and my duty to be independent very seriously," Jackson said. "I decide cases from a neutral posture. I evaluate the facts, and I interpret and apply the law to the facts of the case before me, without fear or favor, consistent with my judicial oath."
Once sworn in, Jackson would be the second youngest member of the court after Barrett, 50. She would join a court on which no one is yet 75, the first time that has happened in nearly 30 years.
Jackson's first term will be marked by cases involving race, both in college admissions and voting rights. She has pledged to sit out the court's consideration of Harvard's admissions program since she is a member of its board of overseers. But the court could split off a second case involving a challenge to the University of North Carolina's admissions process, which might allow her to weigh in on the issue.
Republicans spent the hearings interrogating her sentencing record on the federal bench, including the sentences she handed down in child pornography cases, which they argued were too light. Jackson pushed back on the GOP narrative, declaring that "nothing could be further from the truth" and explaining her reasoning in detail. Democrats said she was in line with other judges in her decisions.
The GOP questioning in the Judiciary committee stuck for many Republicans, though, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who said in a floor speech Wednesday that Jackson "never got tough once in this area."
Democrats criticized the Republicans' questioning.
"You could try and create a straw man here, but it does not hold," said New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker at the committee's vote earlier this week. The panel deadlocked on the nomination 11-11, but the Senate voted to discharge it from committee and moved ahead with her confirmation.
In an impassioned moment during the hearings last month, Booker, who is also Black, told Jackson that he felt emotional watching her testify. He said he saw "my ancestors and yours" in her image.
"But don't worry, my sister," Booker said. "Don't worry. God has got you. And how do I know that? Because you're here, and I know what it's taken for you to sit in that seat."
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Alexandria Zoo Honors Beloved Tigers
Ever year the Friends of the Zoo Organization hosts events for the community.
The Alexandria Zoo has fun activities and events throughout the year.
Max Lakes is excited to host Zoo Brew to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
His goal is to raise funds for the tiger habitat.
He is grateful to be a part of preserving the tiger species.
Lakes says 20 percent of each ticket sale is going towards the tiger habitat.
Tigers Hannah and Jamu lived to be over 20 years old.
Lakes encourages people to support the tiger legacy.
Adults 21 and over can relax, socialize, and listen to music.
They will see some the animals of the zoo at night.
The fundraiser can bring back tigers and help their species survive.
The Zoo Brew is on Friday, April 8th starting at 6 pm. Buy your tickets on alexandriazoo.com/zoobrew.
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Community News Cenla Gun Violence: Mental Health professionals discuss teen gun violence in Cenla April 6, 2022April 6, 2022 Miranda Thomas 0 Comments Tweet Tweet
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Community News CLTCC students prepare for SKILLS USA competition April 6, 2022 Jacque Murphy 0 Comments Tweet Tweet
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Possible tornado leaves damage in Palm Beach Gardens
A team from the National Weather Service in Miami is expected to be in Palm Beach Gardens Thursday. They will assess damage left behind by a strong storm that blew through Wednesday afternoon.
Video from near Palm Beach Gardens High School shows strong winds, heavy rain, and a possible funnel cloud sweeping through the area. Parts of the playground off Holly Drive were damaged. Large trees and bushes were also damaged by the strong winds.
NWS are required to assess the damage before confirming a tornado, but meteorologists from NWS are saying the videos show "tornadic circulation."
RELATED: Tornado Alley is expanding, hitting more Southern states than ever
Parents of students at Palm Beach Gardens High School say it was a traumatic scene when the winds picked up.
"The first tornado touched down on Military [Road] right before I pulled into the parking lot," AJ Saunder said. "And all the debris went across the street."
Folks went into Palm Beach Gardens High School to take cover. No injuries were reported.
Trees at PGA National Golf Club were also damaged in the storm.
Four brush fires were sparked by the severe storms as they blew through the area, police said.
WPTV meteorologists are calling for more storms Thursday evening.
Scripps Only Content 2022
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Senate to vote on revoking Russia’s trade status, oil ban
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate will take up legislation Thursday to end normal trade relations with Russia and ban the importation of its oil, ratcheting up the U.S. response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine amid reports of atrocities. Both bills have languished in the Senate.
“It’s a big, big deal that we are finally getting them done,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday. “Now, I wish this could have happened sooner, but after weeks of talks with the other side, it’s important that we have found a path forward.”
It’s been three weeks since the House passed the trade suspension measure that paves the way for President Joe Biden to enact higher tariffs on certain Russian imports. At the time, the legislation was billed as sending a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies about the economic isolation Russia will face for invading Ukraine.
The House vote in mid-March came one day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Congress in a virtual speech that “new packages of sanctions are needed constantly every week until the Russian military machine stops.”
“They cannot just go kill a bunch of people, destroy cities, kill women and children, and then go back and have business as usual,” Ukrainian-born U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, a Republican from Indiana, said as the trade bill was debated in the House.
WARNING: Video contains graphic content.
Reports of civilians being tortured and killed in Ukraine, with streets on the outskirts of Kyiv being strewn with corpses, had some lawmakers this week questioning why the Senate had not yet taken action on the bill.
“What I’m telling the senators is that all this foot-dragging in the face of the atrocities that everybody saw this weekend is just really beyond imagination,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
House lawmakers concurred.
“It sends a message of weakness,” said Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, on the Senate’s inaction. “It seemed like a pretty bipartisan, easy thing to do, just like not importing Russia energy, so it’s disappointing.”
There is overwhelming support for suspending preferential trade treatment for Russia. But Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has objected to speedy consideration of the bill over concerns that its language on who can be sanctioned for human rights abuses is too broad, leaving it ripe for abuse. He blocked a request for a voice vote on the bill, which requires consent from all 100 senators. Schumer opted to let senators work it out rather than chew up floor time to overcome the filibuster.
Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., said, practically speaking, the impact of the delay on the trade bill is minimal “because there’s virtually no trade right now coming in from Russia.” Still, he said passage is important.
“Messaging is important here and showing action is important,” Cardin said. “You’ve got the Ukrainians on the battlefield every day. The least we can do is get these bills passed.”
Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Republican in the Senate, said the delay in the Senate was hard to explain. But he placed the onus on Schumer.
“I think part of it really is just having leadership in the Senate that is going to manage the floor and is willing to do what it takes to get this thing done,” Thune said. “If this had been a priority, I think it would have been done.”
Democrats counter that going the route Thune suggested requires dedicating precious floor time for a bill that passed 424-8 in the House.
Rep. Kevin Brady, the ranking Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over trade, said it was important for Schumer to get senators together and get the bill passed.
“We’ve been watching these atrocities. America needs to weigh in now and stop funding the war,” Brady said. “President Zelenskyy asked a month ago for this and here we are — still fussing around.”
The House also passed the oil ban about a month ago. The bill would codify restrictions on Russian oil that Biden has already put in place through executive action.
Schumer said Putin needed to be held accountable for what he said were war crimes against Ukraine. He also said Putin was guilty of genocide.
“Formally revoking normal trade relations with Russia is precisely the right thing for the Senate to do because it will land another huge blow to Putin’s economy,” Schumer said. “It’s a key part of any strategy for holding Putin accountable for his savage attacks on innocent civilians.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Turkey suspends trial of Saudi suspects in Khashoggi killing
ISTANBUL (AP) — A Turkish court ruled Thursday to suspend the trial in absentia of 26 Saudis accused in the gruesome killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi and for the case to be transferred to Saudi Arabia.
Khashoggi, a United States resident who wrote critically about Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed on Oct. 2, 2018, at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul. He had gone into the consulate for an appointment to collect documents required for him to marry his Turkish fiancee, Hatice Cengiz. He never emerged from the building.
Turkish officials alleged that Khashoggi was killed and then dismembered with a bone saw inside the consulate by a team of Saudi agents sent to Istanbul. The group included a forensic doctor, intelligence and security officers and individuals who worked for the crown prince’s office. His remains have not been found.
The Istanbul court’s decision comes despite warnings from human rights groups that turning the case over to the kingdom would lead to a cover up of the killing, which has cast suspicion on the crown prince.
It also comes as Turkey, which is in the throes of a deep economic downturn, has been trying to repair its troubled relationship with Saudi Arabia and an array of other countries in its region. Some media reports have claimed that Riyadh has made improved relations conditional on Turkey dropping the case, which had inflamed tensions between two countries.
The move would pave the way to a resolution of disputes between the two regional heavyweights since the 2011 Arab Spring, including Turkey’s support for Islamist movements like the Muslim Brotherhood, which Riyadh considers a terrorist group. Turkey also sided with Qatar in a diplomatic dispute that saw Doha boycotted by Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Last week, the prosecutor in the case recommended that it be transferred to the kingdom, arguing that the trial in Turkey would remain inconclusive. Turkey’s justice minister supported the recommendation, adding that the trial in Turkey would resume if the Turkish court is not satisfied with the outcome of proceedings in the kingdom. It was not clear, however, if Saudi Arabia, which has already put some of the defendants on trial behind closed doors, would open a new trial.
During Thursday’s hearing, lawyers representing Cengiz asked the court not to move proceedings to Saudi Arabia, the private DHA news agency reported.
“Let’s not entrust the lamb to the wolf,” the agency quoted lawyer Ali Ceylan as telling the court, using a Turkish saying. “Let’s protect the honor and dignity of the Turkish nation.”
The court however, ruled to halt the trial in line with the Justice Ministry’s “positive opinion,” DHA reported. It also decided to lift arrest warrants issued against the defendants and gave the sides seven days in which to lodge any opposition to the court’s decisions.
Human rights advocates had also urged Turkey not to transfer the case to Saudi Arabia, arguing that justice for Khashoggi would not be delivered by Saudi courts.
“It’s a scandalous decision,” said Emma Sinclair-Webb, the Turkey director for the New York-based Human Rights Watch, asserting that the court had “rubber stamped” a political decision that would allow the government to repair its ties with Saudi Arabia.
“In the interest of realpolitik, Turkey is ready to sacrifice justice for an egregious crime on its own soil,” she told The Associated Press. “(The decision) opens the way for other countries to commit assassinations on Turkish territory and get away with it.”
Cengiz said she would continue to seek justice.
“We will continue this (judicial) process with all the power given to me, as a Turkish citizen,” she told reporters outside the courthouse.
“The two countries may be making an agreement, the two countries may be opening a new chapter ... but the crime is still the same crime,” she said. “The people who committed the crime haven’t changed. Governments and states must have a principled stance.”
At the time of the crime, Turkey apparently had the Saudi Consulate bugged and shared audio of the killing with the CIA, among others.
The slaying sparked international outrage and condemnation. Western intelligence agencies, as well as the U.S. Congress, have said that an operation of such magnitude could not have happened without knowledge of the prince.
Turkey, which had vowed to shed light on the brutal killing, began prosecuting the defendants in absentia in 2020 after Saudi Arabia rejected requests for their extradition. The defendants included two former aides of the prince.
Some of the men were put on trial in Riyadh behind closed doors. A Saudi court issued a final verdict in 2020 that sentenced five mid-level officials and operatives to 20-year jail terms. The court had originally ordered the death penalty, but reduced the punishment after Khashoggi’s son Salah, who lives in Saudi Arabia, announced that he forgave the defendants. Three others were sentenced to lesser jail terms.
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Fraser reported from Ankara, Turkey.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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US Navy intends to decommission some of its newest warships
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Navy that once wanted smaller, speedy warships to chase down pirates has made a speedy pivot to Russia and China — and many of those recently built ships could be retired.
The U.S. Navy wants to decommission nine ships in the Freedom-class of littoral combat ships — warships that cost about $4.5 billion to build.
The Navy contends in its budget proposal that the move would free up $50 million per ship annually for other priorities. But it would also reduce the size of the fleet that’s already surpassed by China in sheer numbers, something that could cause members of Congress to balk.
Adm. Mike Gilday, chief of naval operations, defended the proposal that emphasizes long-range weapons and modern warships, while shedding other ships ill-equipped to face current threats.
“We need a ready, capable, lethal force more than we need a bigger force that’s less ready, less lethal, and less capable,” he said Monday at the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space symposium in Maryland.
All told, the Navy wants to scrap 24 ships, including five cruisers and a pair of Los Angeles-class submarines, as part of its cost-cutting needed to maintain the existing fleet and build modern warships. Those cuts surpass the proposed nine ships to be built.
Most of them are older vessels. However, the littoral combat ships that are targeted are young. The oldest of them is 10 years old.
The littoral combat ship program was announced after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ships topped 50 mph (80 kph) — fast enough to chase down pirates — and were highly maneuverable, even in shallow water, thanks to steerable waterjets instead of propellers.
The ships were supposed to be made versatile through plug-and-play mission modules for surface combat, mine-sweeping operations or anti-submarine warfare. But those mission modules were beset by problems, and the anti-submarine capability was canceled in the new budget.
And what about that speed? The fastest ship can’t outrun missiles, and firing up those marine turbines for an extra burst of speed turned the ships into gas guzzlers, analysts said. Early versions also were criticized as too lightly armed and armored to survive combat.
The speedy Freedom-class ships proposed for decommissioning feature a traditional steel hull. That entire class of ships suffers from a propulsion defect that will be costly repair. The Navy proposes keeping a second variant, the aluminum Independence class.
U.S. Senate Armed Services Chair Jim Inhofe said the program was plagued by troubles from the start, and that “moving forward the Navy must avoid similar acquisition disasters.”
U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria, D-Virginia, was more blunt, tweeting that it “sucks” to be decommissioning so many ships, especially newer ones.
“The Navy owes a public apology to American taxpayers for wasting tens of billions of dollars on ships they now say serve no purpose,” she said.
Some detractors proclaimed littoral combat ships to be the Navy’s “Little Crappy Ship,” but that’s not fair, said defense analyst Loren Thompson.
“It’s not a little crappy ship. It does what it was supposed to do. What it was supposed to do isn’t enough for the kind of threats that we face today,” said Thompson, from the Lexington Institute.
In the Navy’s defense, threats shifted swiftly from the Cold War to the war on terror to the current Great Power Competition in which Russia and China are asserting themselves, he said.
In the end, the Navy may be content with smaller numbers of Freedom-class ships for maritime security and small surface combatant operations, said Bryan Clark, defense analyst at the Hudson Institute.
Congress must sign off on the Navy’s proposal to decommission ships ahead of their projected service life.
The House Armed Services Committee on Tuesday grilled Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the proposal.
U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Virginia, suggested the ship cuts were “grossly irresponsible” when the U.S. Navy has dipped from 318 ships to 297, while the Chinese fleet has grown from 210 to 360 ships over the past two decades.
Milley said it’s important to focus on the Navy’s capabilities rather than the size of its fleet.
“I would bias towards capability rather than just sheer numbers,” he said.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Q: As great as Tyler Herro has been this season, he needs to cut down on his turnovers (eight against the Raptors and five against the Hornets in the last two games). Sloppy turnovers have been an issue with him all season, as well as the entire team. This can’t happen in the playoffs. — Joel.
A: But I also doubt he will be charged with nearly as much playmaking during the postseason. The eight turnovers in Toronto came with Jimmy Butler and Gabe Vincent out. The five turnovers against the Hornets came with Kyle Lowry given the night off. Without back-to-back games in the playoffs and gaps between games and series, I would expect the majority of the ballhandling and playmaking to be handled by Kyle and Jimmy. What the Heat will need from Tyler is shot creation, as in his own shot creation. Before the 13 turnovers the past two games, there were a total of five the previous three games. And before Tyler missed two games with his knee sprain, there were five total turnovers over his previous six games. So he knows how to keep them down, an objective easier to meet when the rotation is whole.
Q: Ira, should the Heat sit it’s older players for the remaining games in an effort to have them as fresh and healthy as possible for the playoffs? — Gabriel, Miami.
A: Once No. 1 is clinched? Sure. But also keep in mind, the Heat (and every top-six team in each conference) will be idle from April 11-15, and possibly a day longer, depending on the first day of a playoff series. So you also want to keep your players sharp. As always, it likely comes down to the individual player, as well as the recommendations of the training staff. With Kyle Lowry, the Heat brain trust decided that giving him Tuesday night off trumped all, just as they did with Jimmy Butler on Sunday in Toronto. P.J. Tucker now assuredly will get time off with his latest injury. For the Heat, Friday will come down to whether it has an impact on their playoff seeding. But it certainly could be a skeleton crew Sunday in Orlando, with a lineup that could feature the likes of Javonte Smart, Mychal Mulder, Haywood Highsmith and anyone else who raises their hands when it comes to Saturday’s issuance of boarding passes.
Q: I certainly like the tweaks to the rotation Erik Spoelstra has made. One adjustment I would like to see going into the playoffs is having Victor Oladipo take Duncan Robinson’s minutes off the bench. His defense and athleticism will be much more valued than the spacing you mention Duncan provides. What are your thoughts? — Cooper, Miami.
A: My thoughts are that spacing very much matters on that second unit. And if you are going to play Victor Oladipo over Duncan Robinson, then your spacing could be considerably limited, considering you also will have Dewayne Dedmon and, likely, Jimmy Butler cycled in alongside that unit. That basically would make it Tyler Herro or bust from deep. No, what Duncan offered Tuesday was a reminder of how much spacing, and 3-point shooting, matter.
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| 2022-04-07T12:17:04
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It’s time once again to answer all readers’ burning questions about restaurants.
This time, I answer queries about quiet restaurants, pre-show eats, and minority- and women-owned restaurants. I also get stumped by a reader question — maybe you can help!
As always, send your questions to eat@pioneerpress.com. I’ll do my best to answer.
Q. I’m looking for a gluten-free fish fry. Any suggestions?
A. If you prefer your fish fried, there are just a few places that I know of — one of which is temporarily closed. Birchwood Cafe in Minneapolis is known for its gluten-free walleye fish fry, but they are temporarily closed and there’s no word on when they’re opening again.
Randy’s Pizza (6030 N. 50th St., Oakdale; randyspizzaonline.com), the gluten-free spot in Oakdale, also offers a Lenten fish fry on Fridays.
Q. My daughter loves trying different versions of macaroni and cheese. Would you be able to recommend a couple of restaurants with this option?
A. Lucky for you, mac and cheese is my favorite childhood comfort food, so I have tried quite a few around town!
Here are a few of my favorites:
Chef Justin Sutherland’s creamy mac, topped with flaming hot Cheetos at Handsome Hog (173 N. Western Ave., St. Paul; 651-219-4013; handsomehog.com)
The Velveeta-like — but fully house-made! — mac and cheese, created by chef Mike DeCamp at St. Paul’s Parlour Bar (267 W. Seventh St., St. Paul; 651-207-4433; parlourbar.com)
The three-cheese mac at Brunson’s Pub (956 Payne Ave., St. Paul; 651-447-2483; brunsonspub.com), which is topped with smoky braised bacon
The textbook-perfect mac at Revival (525 Selby Ave., St. Paul; 651-340-2355; revivalrestaurants.com), which has a crisp lid consisting of more cheese.
Q. We have tickets to see a show at the Guthrie. Can you recommend a place for appetizers and drinks after a 7 p.m. showing — something trendy and fun but not night-clubish?
A. That’s a tall order — there isn’t much in the way of late-night spots near the Guthrie. If they are open late enough that day, I’d suggest EaTo, formerly Eastside (305 Washington Ave. S., Minneapolis; 612-208-1638; eatompls.com), on Washington Avenue for good cocktails, pizzas, and Italian-themed snacks.
I also like Day Block Brewing (1105 S. Washington Ave., Minneapolis; dayblockbrewing.com) if there’s not live music there for casual but good bar snacks.
Q. I would like a list of minority- and women-owned restaurants that have been featured in stories in the Pioneer Press recently. I am a resident of Episcopal Homes and will promote supporting them to residents and their families/friends.
A. I love this!
St. Paul has so many wonderful options, but here are just a few that I can heartily recommend to your residents:
Chip’s Clubhouse (272 S. Snelling Ave., No. 200, St. Paul; 651-330-1617; visitchips.com) is owned by two women who are really living their dream of working together and having fun. Tara Coleman also owns Hot Hands Pie & Biscuit (272 S. Snelling Ave., No. 100, St. Paul; 651-330-1617; hothandspie.com) next door.
Afro Deli (5 W. Seventh Place, St. Paul; 651-888-2168 or 720 Washington Ave. S.E., Minneapolis; 612-871-5555; afrodeli.com) is one of my favorite fast-casual spots. I love the chapati wraps and chicken fantastic.
I love Nashville Coop (300 S. Snelling Ave., St. Paul; nashvillecoop.com) for Nashville hot (or totally mild) chicken tenders.
At La Boulangerie Marguerite (1279 Randolph Ave., St .Paul, 651-699-9292; la-marg.com), chef Francois Kiemde is turning out some lovely pastries as well has homey baked goods.
If they are looking for something fancy, chef Karyn Tomlinson is serving some of the most beautiful dishes in the Twin Cities right now at Myriel (470 S. Cleveland Ave., St. Paul; 651-340-3568; myrielmn.com).
Probably my favorite spot right now for traditional Ethiopian food is Bole Ethiopian (1341 N. Pascal St., St. Paul; 651-330-2492; boleethiopiancuisine.com) in the Como neighborhood.
Lastly, Grand Catch (1672 Grand Ave., St. Paul; 651-348-8541; grandcatchmn.com), owned and operated by chef Thien Ly and award-winning chef Sameh Wadi (World Street Kitchen and Milkjam), is the place for excellent seafood, including twists on the seafood boil. There’s also one of my favorite chicken sandwiches in the cities.
Q. I love to take my mom out for nice dinners where we can have a conversation without fighting the typical wall-bouncing cacophony of most places today. The Lex and Jensen’s Supper Club are great for this, but we also love variety, so it would be fabulous to add to our shortlist.
We live in the east metro, but a great dinner can be worth a drive.
A. It is super hard these days to find a place that is quiet, but I do have a few more suggestions for you.
W.A. Frost (374 Selby Ave., St. Paul; 651-224-5715; wafrost.com), if you are seated in the dining room area, tends to be quieter. There is carpet and padding to help soak up the noise.
Axel’s (1318 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Mendota; 651-686-4840; axelsrestaurants.com/locations/mendota) in Mendota is also great for quiet dining — in fact, when I did a decibel-level test, it was the quietest restaurant I found, even with a full dining room.
Another suggestion: Moscow on the Hill (371 Selby Ave., St. Paul; 651-291-1236; moscowonthehill.com), but ask to sit closer to the windows.
I would also like to point out that many places will be willing to help you find the most out-of-the-way, quiet table they have if you call them. They understand it can be hard to hear for older people!
Q. Enjoyed your article today about dumplings. Well done. Wondering if you have info on where one can dine or purchase German dumplings? I have good memories of my parents preparing two kinds of dumplings. One kind were flat dough, the circumference of a hockey puck. The other were called drop dumplings, thicker and round … no filling in either. Both were prepared with chicken in broth. Would love to experience them again. Talk about cold-weather comfort! Thank you.
A. My grandma made chicken soup with homemade drop dumplings sort of like what you’re talking about. Unfortunately, I don’t know of anywhere around here that sells either of those types of dumplings. Maybe our readers can help? Send suggestions to eat@pioneerpress.com.
Q. We are in Chippewa Falls, Wis., and we are staying at the Renaissance Hotel in Minneapolis for our 10th wedding anniversary. We plan to have our celebration dinner Friday evening and with friends Saturday. My wife is gluten-free and not the best for walking long distances. We see the hefty prices downtown, but are willing to pay if it’s worth it. Saturday would be preferably a restaurant/ brewery because we are beer snobs.
A. I’m going to recommend you spend your time in the North Loop, which would be a very short Uber ride from where you are staying. Like less than $5.
Here are some of my favorites in that neighborhood:
For a brewery, I like Freehouse (701 N. Washington Ave. #101, Minneapolis; 612-339-7011; freehousempls.com). It has a full menu, full bar, good food and reasonable prices.
For a fancy dinner, I have a few recommendations, depending on what you like:
Spoon and Stable (211 N 1st St, Minneapolis; 612-224-9850; spoonandstable.com) is cheffy, fancy and trendy, and chef Gavin Kaysen is well-known nationwide.
Bar La Grassa (800 N. Washington Ave., Minneapolis; 612-333-3837; barlagrassa.com) has really great Italian food. Get your reservation now — they book up quickly.
Smack Shack (603 N. Washington Ave., Minneapolis; 612-259-7288; smack-shack.com) is a little less formal but is known for its great seafood if that’s your thing. It also has a really fun atmosphere.
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| 2022-04-07T12:17:10
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Horrific scenes of mass murder on the outskirts of Kyiv should appall everybody and surprise nobody.
The brutalization of civilians has been the Putin regime’s calling card since its inception — from the Moscow apartment bombings of 1999, where the weight of circumstantial evidence points the finger at Vladimir Putin and his security service henchmen, to the murders of Anna Politkovskaya, Alexander Litvinenko, Sergei Magnitsky and Boris Nemtsov to Russia’s atrocities in Grozny, eastern Ukraine, Aleppo and now Bucha.
Mostly, the world has found it easier to make excuses to get along with Putin than to work against him. One example: In 2015, Germany got about 35% of its natural gas from Russia. In 2021, the figure had jumped to 55%. Berlin is now a major diplomatic obstacle to imposing stiffer sanctions on Russia, and Germany continues to buy Russian gas, oil and coal, to the tune of $2 billion a month.
To put this in simplified but accurate terms, Germany — having fiercely resisted years of international pressure to lessen its dependence on Russian gas — finds itself in the position of funding the Russian state. That is money that helps keep the ruble afloat and the Kremlin’s war machine going. Surely this can’t be the role that Berlin wishes to play.
But this requires a clear articulation of Western aims in this crisis. Do we want peace now — or at least as soon as possible? Do we want Ukraine to achieve an unmistakable victory over Russia? And do we want Putin to go?
The advantage of peace now — a cease-fire followed by a negotiated settlement — is that it would end both the immediate fighting and the risk of a wider war. These are not small things, and the temptation to seize them will be great, especially if Putin hints at an escalation that terrifies the West. An added temptation is to suppose that Russia has already suffered a “strategic defeat,” as Antony Blinken argued on CNN Sunday, on the pretense that a truce would represent a victory for both Ukraine and the West while giving Putin the “offramp” he supposedly needs.
Problems with this course of action? It would consolidate most of Russia’s territorial gains in the war. It would allow Russian forces to continue terrorizing their captive Ukrainian subjects. It would give Putin the chance to present himself as a victor to his domestic audience. And it would provide him with the option to restart the conflict at a future date — an exact replay of what happened after Russia’s first Ukraine invasion, in 2014.
The second option is to help Ukraine seek a decisive military victory. That would mean more than simply beating back Russian troops in the vicinity of Kyiv. It would also mean clearing them out of every other area they’ve seized since February, if not of what Russia seized in 2014.
This would require months of bloody fighting, a small but real risk of wider war and the long-term economic consequences of trying to wean the West from Russian energy. It would also require the West to supply Ukraine with the kinds of weaponry it needs to win: anti-ship missiles, high-altitude anti-aircraft missiles, mine-resistant armored personnel carriers and so on.
Critics will argue that this option would put Ukraine’s long-term interests ahead of the West’s immediate ones. But the West also has a profound interest in seeing Russia lose decisively. It would salvage the principle that sovereign borders cannot be changed by force. It would deter similar forms of adventurism, above all a Chinese attempt to take Taiwan. It would send the illiberal nationalists quietly or not so quietly rooting for Putin, from Tucker Carlson at Fox News to Marine Le Pen in France, back to their fever swamps.
It could also seriously undermine Putin’s political grip. To argue that the West has no compelling interest in wanting to see him fall is to pretend that this time, he will slink back into his corner and leave the world alone.
This opens the broader question of what else the West can do to accelerate Putin’s exit. Broaching the topic always risks mindless accusations of seeking regime change, as if anyone seriously contemplates deploying the 82nd Airborne to take the Kremlin.
But there is a range of options the West has not yet touched when it comes to Putin. We could turn Russia’s frozen foreign reserves and other assets into an escrow account for Ukrainian reconstruction, rearmament and refugee resettlement. We could counter the Kremlin’s dezinformatsiya campaigns in the West with informational campaigns for Russian citizens, particularly when it comes to highlighting their leaders’ ill-gotten wealth. We could set an ambitious date for placing sanctions on all Russian energy imports. Brussels could invite Kyiv into a formal accession process into the European Union as a sign of moral solidarity.
None of these may be a silver bullet when it comes to toppling Putin’s regime. But regimes that face military defeat, economic impoverishment and global pariahdom — as the Soviet Union did by the mid-1980s and Argentina did after its failure in the Falklands — are the ones likeliest to fall. The task for the Biden administration is to persuade our allies to pursue all three while the horrors of Bucha remain fresh in our minds.
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https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/07/bret-stephens-biden-is-still-right-putin-has-to-go/
| 2022-04-07T12:17:16
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A former college football player has been arrested in the slaying of a Portland State University student, who authorities believe he previously dated.
Amara Marluke, a 19-year-old activist with dreams of making music, was found fatally shot near the college campus early Monday and identified by authorities the following day. She’d been pursuing a degree in Sonic Arts & Music Production when she was killed.
On Tuesday, deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office tracked down Keenan Harpole at a family property in Bend more than 100 miles away from the school. The 20-year-old, who once played running back for the PSU football team, agreed to turn himself into authorities and is facing charges of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon.
Authorities said he is cooperating with investigators, who believe the killing is likely a domestic violence incident.
According to her Marluke’s family, she and Harpole were in an on-again, off-again relationship that started at the beginning of her freshman year, in summer 2021.
“They kept finding their way back to each other,” Amara’s aunt, Melanie Henricksen, told People. “He was her first love, but there were a lot of destructive elements, early.”
Harpole has pleaded not guilty to the slaying and is being held without bail at the Multnomah County Detention Center.
A statement from the university’s president, Stephen Percy, confirmed both Marluke and Harpole were students at PSU.
“Amara was an artist and an activist and a vibrant member of our community. Her death is mourned by all of us,” Percy said.
“I am profoundly affected by the sheer tragedy of this loss. My heart breaks for Amara’s family and for everyone who knew her. I offer my deepest sympathies. We will work together as a campus community to heal.”
Marluke also served as copresident of the school’s Black Student Union and would often post about Black Lives Matter in addition to other social justice issues on social media, the Oregonian reported.
“You couldn’t meet Amara and not want to join what cause she was fighting for because she could bring everybody together,” her mother, Amy, said.
“She was endlessly patient. She was always willing to teach with compassion. You could talk through [conversations] and you would learn. I will forever miss those conversations with my girl.”
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| 2022-04-07T12:17:22
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Go after the hated rich, make up phony stories, hit them hard with taxes on their wealth, listen to the applause, figure on Democrats now winning the midterm elections and pretend it’s all about debt reduction and compassion for the average American. That’s President Joe Biden for you, skipping the parts about governmental exploitation and possible economic wreckage. He is not always confused after all, just another sly politician.
With maybe a wink if you looked carefully enough, Biden said at a televised press conference (no questions allowed) that billionaires in this country were paying taxes on just 8.2 percent of their income. That’s not true. Biden is counting stock gains not yet converted to money as income. They are therefore not income and, whatever they are worth on the day of collection, they could be worth a fraction of that or nothing the next day. His human targets are not just billionaires, as he wants you to believe, but everyone worth $100 million or more, and he plans to take at least 20 percent of “income” with the possibility of more hanky-panky.
Taxes on such assets as stocks are known not as income taxes by anyone educated in the subject, but as wealth taxes. That’s what always overreaching Elizabeth Warren cheered for during the Democratic presidential primary even though they have not worked in Europe where most countries have abandoned them. One issue is that they would cause both foreigners and Americans to invest less money in these United States. The consequence could be less capital needed to expand, create jobs, pay employees more and charge consumers less.
And, believe it or not, we right now have the most progressive tax system in the developed world except for tiny Luxembourg. That means the rich in the United States pay higher taxes as a percentage of income per capita and the middle class pay a lot less than in Europe, a model for the left.
It is true as Biden has pronounced, with tears contemplating a run down his cheeks, that our middle class is shrinking, but that has been because people are making more money and moving up in economic status, not because they are making less and moving down. Something else to keep in mind is that 57 percent of our workers paid no federal income tax at all last year, while the top 10 percent, bringing in less than 50 percent of all income, paid 70 percent of all the taxes.
Our poorer citizens also get a lot more benefits of varied sorts from government than the high and mighty, meaning monetary inequality is nowhere near what it is often said to be.
Of course, average folks still pay a lot in payroll and state and local taxes, the COVID virus has left a mess and our deficit could someday ruin us, but there is good news out there. It is that jobs increased by 431,000 last month as wages grew and unemployment went down to 3.6 percent. Biden contends his shaky plan would reduce the threatening deficit by $1 trillion over the next decade, but a far more effective plan would be to cut spending, especially given the return of earmarks, also known as pork. This is the practice whereby a member of Congress sells his vote on some issue or the other to get more money for a local project benefitting him or her politically while often being wasteful.
Not a few government programs take more than they give, and reform can reduce deficits, help fight inflation, spur the economy and offer Americans better lives and our children more secure futures.
I would suggest Biden and his executive colleagues sweat their way through identifying what spending can and should go away instead of making our amazing country less amazing. If they don’t, the Supreme Court may save us. The words of the Constitution only allow federal taxation on real income, as literacy informs us.
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| 2022-04-07T12:17:28
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As the Ramsey County Commissioners continue to mull over options for redevelopment of The Ponds at Battle Creek for yet a third year, they’ve decided to shutter the property this summer while forgoing income of over $300,000. The course was closed prior to the end of the golf season last year.
No on-going business would let an asset sit idle while moving through a protracted decision-making process demanding so much attention and effort.
If contracts were signed and development was being mobilized, then it would be understandable to hold off on opening the golf course this summer. Short of that, not maintaining the course, ignoring the income and not allowing east side residents the ability to enjoy this beautiful golf course for another season just doesn’t seem logical.
Greg Sharpe, Woodbury
More windfall money?
It’s been reported that Minnesota’s budget surplus is approximately $9.25 billion. I won’t be surprised, due to high inflation, if even more sales taxes will have been collected, making this budget surplus higher than what was reported.
It’s been reported now that the Democrats want to spend $2 billion to $3 billion of this surplus on education. They have manufactured a justification of their proposal saying that there’s “racial inequity” and throwing money at the problem will solve the problem. Really?
Looking at our 2022 Ramsey County Property Tax Statement, approximately $1,400 or 38% of our tax bill is already going to the Saint Paul school district. I presume that the Saint Paul school board has already addressed “racial inequity” in their funding request of Ramsey County property taxpayers for 2022.
Why are the Democrats countermanding our elected school board officials? Implying that our local school board didn’t request enough through property taxation.
Therefore, the Democrats want to send our school board even more windfall money on top of what was already requested from Ramsey County property taxpayers. Is this a fiscally responsible action multiplied across 2,400+ schools in Minnesota? Do they all have racial inequity problems in education?
No decisions have been made yet about not taxing social security which is one of the reasons for the $9.25 billion surplus. Now the Democrats want to take more money away from seniors with this inane education proposal.
Minnesota taxpayers want their money back. Listen to your constituents. Make it happen.
Barry Siebert, St. Paul
Partner with all our communities
I appreciated the recent reporting of the Minnesota graduation rates in Josh Verges’ March 30 article. Citizens must be kept aware of our students’ progress toward achieving the number one goal in public school k-12 education.
Unfortunately, the goal of 100% will never consistently be reached until schools form partnerships with the community and solicit their help. I say “never” because educators (myself included) have been trying to achieve a 100% goal without success for decades and decades.
Yes, there have been slight gains, but they are not nearly adequate especially regarding students of color — not even close.
Despite the optimism of the Commissioner of Education, Dr. Mueller, which I applaud, she needs to include every city council, every board of county commissioners, and every chamber of commerce as partners and ask for their help.
Beltrami County has undertaken to do just that. We are confident that by making graduating from high school part of our culture and mindset, we can accomplish our county-wide goal of a 100% graduation rate. No other county in our state has such a goal.
Commissioner Mueller needs to request the same partnership with every county in the state. When this happens, and only when this happens, will a goal of 100% be achieved. And, guess what? It doesn’t cost a dime.
John R. Eggers, Bemidji
Less education?
l read in the Pioneer Press that stating that the St. Paul high school students had to earn 98 credits including 28 elective credits in order to graduate. Now, electives have been lowered to 20 credits.
The lower bar represents a 22 percent reduction in credits to earn a diploma. Failing grades were changed to passing grades in 2020.
What is going on in the St. Paul Public School system? I thought the object of a school was to educate not to pad graduation numbers. It is an insult to the taxpayers that we have to support a school system that now encourages and supports failure.
G. Mertz, St. Paul
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https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/07/letters-why-let-this-golf-course-sit-idle-while-they-decide-what-to-do/
| 2022-04-07T12:17:34
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Many high school seniors have been opening emails over the past weeks that tell them whether they got into the colleges of their choice. Even as they do so, the criticisms of published college rankings that may have guided their preferences are cropping up — again.
A math professor at Columbia University is challenging the data that the Ivy League school reported to U.S. News & World Report, which earned it the No. 2 ranking this year. The University of Southern California, which seems almost incapable of staying out of trouble for more than a few months at a time, pulled its graduate school of education out of the rankings this year after discovering a “history of inaccuracies” in the data it reported.
A couple of weeks ago, in what must be the granddaddy of fake-data scandals, the ousted dean of Temple University’s business school received a 14-month sentence after he was convicted in federal court of sending bogus information to U.S. News & World Report to boost the school’s prestige. Claremont McKenna College, The George Washington University and many other schools have tweaked data to boost rankings.
But the ultimate issue with the rankings doesn’t lie with the cheaters. The problem is the rankings themselves. They can be a counterproductive way for families to pick schools — for example, a much less expensive school might offer an equal or better education than a more highly ranked but costlier one.
Probably few college applicants are aware that the single biggest factor U.S. News uses to rank schools is their reputation among officials at other colleges, who might or might not have deep knowledge of the schools. That accounts for 20% of the score.
The second biggest factor is six-year graduation rates. But since low-income students are far less likely to graduate within that time period — or ever — than middle-class students, this is more an indication of student affluence than academic excellence. In fact, it can have the perverse effect of discouraging colleges from accepting more low-income students, lest it worsen their graduation rates.
An extensive Gallup Poll found in 2017 that alumni who attended prestigious schools are only slightly happier with their choice of college than those who attended schools lower on the list. The biggest factor in student satisfaction with college was whether they had ended up in debt, though U.S. News only gives student debt a 5% weight in the rankings.
U.S. News has made some positive changes in recent years. It dropped student acceptance rate as one of the criteria, which had led colleges to heavily market to students even if they had almost no chance of acceptance. Lower acceptance rates equaled higher rankings. The rankings started including the percent of Pell grant students who graduated within six years — a meaningful statistic indicating whether colleges were helping low-income students complete their education.
But many other factors used in ranking the schools have little meaning to a student’s experience. The rankings use alumni donations as a proxy for students’ happiness with their alma mater. That’s a pretty meager way to measure satisfaction.
What most high school students and parents need to know is whether a college offers a rich choice of courses with good instructors; whether graduates will leave with a load of debt; whether students will feel comfortable and engaged on campus; and whether they’ll be prepared for a fulfilling career.
College administrators bemoan the rankings but they continue participating. They should stop going along with the charade and insist on being partners in drawing up more valid ways to evaluate higher education. What should matter most is how satisfied students and alumni were with their choice. Using the data from the 2017 poll, Jonathan Rothwell, an economist at Gallup, published a study in which he devised an alumni-satisfaction ranking but published only the 25 schools with the highest satisfaction marks. Many of them were among the top-rated in any published ranking, but there were some surprises, including the University of La Verne and Azusa Pacific in Southern California. Rothwell’s study also found that the price of a college didn’t necessarily correlate with how happy alumni were with it.
If colleges and ranking organizations joined forces, though, they could create a uniform polling process for students and alumni that would be far more useful and a better reflection of colleges’ worth, combined with other factors.
A new approach could include specific issues students might find useful, for example: Which schools are more arts-oriented? Which ones specialize in experiential learning? Which ones have lots of extracurriculars, or a friendly, accepting campus environment?
Despite years of criticism, U.S. News and other college rankings publications aren’t going to give up on one of their popular and profitable annual features. It’s up to colleges to stand up and refuse to go along with rankings that fall short, and collaborate on a method that gives students worthwhile information to navigate the bewildering task of picking a college.
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https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/07/other-voices-college-rankings-are-misleading-so-why-do-we-still-use-them/
| 2022-04-07T12:17:40
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We can forgive the theme park fans calling out for a group hug. Walt Disney World has announced that up-close character meet-and-greets will be returning after a two-year absence that was prompted by the pandemic. The comeback will happen at Disney parks “as early as April 18,” the company says.
Over the months, attractions have devised nontraditional ways for visitors to stay (kind of) close to the characters without coming face-to-face with them, masked or unmasked.
Initially, Disney introduced the character cavalcade, a sort pop-up mini-parade. The idea was to keep folks from gathering in bunches and waiting for extended stretches within a breath of one other. Some fans liked that they weren’t hefty time investments.
There was experimentation as conditions remained in flux. Some folks on stilts were masked; some were not. Some wore costume masks plus face coverings. The parks created multiple stations where simple barriers or raised platforms helped everyone keep their distance. Universal Studios opened DreamWorks Destination, which melded a continuous dance party with socially distanced characters for photo ops.
We’ve noted five meet-up variations that could deserve to hang around as pandemic conditions fade.
Space cases
At Epcot, there have been multiple buffer zones between guests and characters, particularly princesses. The formats are simple. Snow White stands behind a row of potted flowers in the Germany pavilion. Walkways in alcoves at Japan and China are roped off to give Jasmine and Mulan, respectively, ample elbow room. This may have been maddening for the youngest youngsters to be so close and yet so denied, but overall it was an improvement over the horse-drawn carriage cavalcades for princesses. That idea sounds great, sure, but it caused pedestrian confusion, especially on days when World Showcase was jammed.
Epcot also used the buffer system near its entrance with bushes adjacent to Spaceship Earth. A landscaped patch showcased characters such as Goofy, Pluto and Daisy Duck. Even better and downright bucolic: Winnie the Pooh frolicking in a grassy, fenced-off area near Journey Into Imagination With Figment.
On an adventure
One of the last character cavalcades introduced by Disney sports an adventure theme. It was also one of the most populated groupings — about 30 actors on floats or on foot — practically warming up for the return of the Festival of Fantasy Parade, which came back to Magic Kingdom on essentially the same route March 9.
The adventurers included both old school and modern characters, from Clarabelle Cow to Princess Elena.
Scooby snack alert
In the early days of pandemic, Universal Studios guests could see the entire Scooby-Doo gang in front of Mel’s Drive-In. Each of the five characters stood together on elevated platforms, so folks could spy them from afar, and a line on the ground indicated how close they could get for a photo op (along with a park worker on the job).
The piped-in music sometimes gave it a groovy atmosphere and made it easier to ignore the face masks on Fred, Daphne, Velma and Shaggy.
As recently as this week, Universal used roped off and gated sections for characters such as Krusty the Clown, Doc Brown of “Back to the Future” fame, the Knight Bus driver outside Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hashtag the Panda near the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon attraction.
Antics upstairs
A recurring theme for Disney characters has been use of upper levels, spots that were unused previously in many cases. Visitors could spot Country Bears atop the porches of Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland, Cinderella’s stepsisters up on the back side of the castle and assorted characters on a balcony above the restrooms — it’s cooler than that sounds — near the entrance of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Perhaps the star of the upper levels has been the Walt Disney World Railroad station near the gate for Magic Kingdom. Folks might get quality time with various characters while coming and going, including royal promenades of princesses plus concerts by the Dapper Dans. Arrivals and departures of the Disney luminaries via a ramp on the City Hall side of Main Street also has become its own thing to experience and post on social media.
Not all wet
Of all the Disney cavalcades, the version for Animal Kingdom has been most unique and refreshing. The park used flat boats on its Discovery River to haul around characters in safari drag plus one vessel featuring drummers. It worked as intended: Visitors heard a change in music, then stepped to the nearest bridge or similar vantage point to see characters float by, so there was almost no time wasted by waiting but still plenty of waving. Guests then could go back to their park plan for the day.
It’s a keeper. Disney announced this week that the floating interactions will continue at Animal Kingdom, sharing time on the water with the “Disney KiteTails” show.
Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. Want more theme park news? Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters or the Theme Park Rangers podcast at orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-podcast
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Senate to vote on revoking Russia’s trade status, oil ban
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate will take up legislation Thursday to end normal trade relations with Russia and ban the importation of its oil, ratcheting up the U.S. response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine amid reports of atrocities. Both bills have languished in the Senate.
“It’s a big, big deal that we are finally getting them done,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday. “Now, I wish this could have happened sooner, but after weeks of talks with the other side, it’s important that we have found a path forward.”
It’s been three weeks since the House passed the trade suspension measure that paves the way for President Joe Biden to enact higher tariffs on certain Russian imports. At the time, the legislation was billed as sending a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies about the economic isolation Russia will face for invading Ukraine.
The House vote in mid-March came one day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Congress in a virtual speech that “new packages of sanctions are needed constantly every week until the Russian military machine stops.”
“They cannot just go kill a bunch of people, destroy cities, kill women and children, and then go back and have business as usual,” Ukrainian-born U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, a Republican from Indiana, said as the trade bill was debated in the House.
WARNING: Video contains graphic content.
Reports of civilians being tortured and killed in Ukraine, with streets on the outskirts of Kyiv being strewn with corpses, had some lawmakers this week questioning why the Senate had not yet taken action on the bill.
“What I’m telling the senators is that all this foot-dragging in the face of the atrocities that everybody saw this weekend is just really beyond imagination,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
House lawmakers concurred.
“It sends a message of weakness,” said Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, on the Senate’s inaction. “It seemed like a pretty bipartisan, easy thing to do, just like not importing Russia energy, so it’s disappointing.”
There is overwhelming support for suspending preferential trade treatment for Russia. But Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has objected to speedy consideration of the bill over concerns that its language on who can be sanctioned for human rights abuses is too broad, leaving it ripe for abuse. He blocked a request for a voice vote on the bill, which requires consent from all 100 senators. Schumer opted to let senators work it out rather than chew up floor time to overcome the filibuster.
Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., said, practically speaking, the impact of the delay on the trade bill is minimal “because there’s virtually no trade right now coming in from Russia.” Still, he said passage is important.
“Messaging is important here and showing action is important,” Cardin said. “You’ve got the Ukrainians on the battlefield every day. The least we can do is get these bills passed.”
Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Republican in the Senate, said the delay in the Senate was hard to explain. But he placed the onus on Schumer.
“I think part of it really is just having leadership in the Senate that is going to manage the floor and is willing to do what it takes to get this thing done,” Thune said. “If this had been a priority, I think it would have been done.”
Democrats counter that going the route Thune suggested requires dedicating precious floor time for a bill that passed 424-8 in the House.
Rep. Kevin Brady, the ranking Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over trade, said it was important for Schumer to get senators together and get the bill passed.
“We’ve been watching these atrocities. America needs to weigh in now and stop funding the war,” Brady said. “President Zelenskyy asked a month ago for this and here we are — still fussing around.”
The House also passed the oil ban about a month ago. The bill would codify restrictions on Russian oil that Biden has already put in place through executive action.
Schumer said Putin needed to be held accountable for what he said were war crimes against Ukraine. He also said Putin was guilty of genocide.
“Formally revoking normal trade relations with Russia is precisely the right thing for the Senate to do because it will land another huge blow to Putin’s economy,” Schumer said. “It’s a key part of any strategy for holding Putin accountable for his savage attacks on innocent civilians.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Turkey suspends trial of Saudi suspects in Khashoggi killing
ISTANBUL (AP) — A Turkish court ruled Thursday to suspend the trial in absentia of 26 Saudis accused in the gruesome killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi and for the case to be transferred to Saudi Arabia, raising fears of impunity for a crime that sparked international outrage.
Khashoggi, a United States resident who wrote critically about Saudi Crown Prince Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed on Oct. 2, 2018, at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul. He had gone into the consulate for an appointment to collect documents required for him to marry his Turkish fiancee, Hatice Cengiz. He never emerged from the building.
Turkish officials alleged that Khashoggi was killed and then dismembered with a bone saw inside the consulate by a team of Saudi agents sent to Istanbul. The group included a forensic doctor, intelligence and security officers and individuals who worked for the crown prince’s office. His remains have not been found.
The Istanbul court’s decision comes despite warnings from human rights groups that turning the case over to the kingdom would lead to a cover up of the killing, which has cast suspicion on the crown prince.
It also comes as Turkey, which is in a deep economic downturn, has been trying to repair its troubled relationship with Saudi Arabia and an array of other countries in its region. Some media reports have claimed that Riyadh has made improved relations conditional on Turkey dropping the case, which had inflamed tensions between two countries.
The move would pave the way to a resolution of disputes between the two regional heavyweights since the 2011 Arab Spring, including Turkey’s support for Islamist movements like the Muslim Brotherhood, which Riyadh considers a terrorist group. Turkey also sided with Qatar in a diplomatic dispute that saw Doha boycotted by Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Last week, the prosecutor in the case recommended that it be transferred to the kingdom, arguing that the trial in Turkey would remain inconclusive. Turkey’s justice minister supported the recommendation, adding that the trial in Turkey would resume if the Turkish court is not satisfied with the outcome of proceedings in the kingdom. It was not clear, however, if Saudi Arabia, which has already put some of the defendants on trial behind closed doors, would open a new trial.
During Thursday’s hearing, lawyers representing Cengiz asked the court not to move the proceedings to Saudi Arabia, the private DHA news agency reported.
“Let’s not entrust the lamb to the wolf,” the agency quoted lawyer Ali Ceylan as telling the court, using a Turkish saying. “Let’s protect the honor and dignity of the Turkish nation.”
The court however, ruled to halt the trial in line with the Justice Ministry’s “positive opinion,” DHA reported. It also decided to lift arrest warrants issued against the defendants and gave the sides seven days to lodge any opposition.
There was no immediate reaction from Saudi Arabia to the court’s decision.
Human rights advocates had also urged Turkey not to transfer the case to Saudi Arabia, arguing that justice for Khashoggi would not be delivered by Saudi courts.
“It’s a scandalous decision,” said Emma Sinclair-Webb, the Turkey director for the New York-based Human Rights Watch, asserting that the court had “rubber stamped” a political decision that would allow the Turkish government to repair its ties with Saudi Arabia.
“In the interest of realpolitik, Turkey is ready to sacrifice justice for an egregious crime on its own soil,” she told The Associated Press. “(The decision) opens the way for other countries to commit assassinations on Turkish territory and get away with it.”
Cengiz said she would continue to seek justice.
“We will continue this (judicial) process with all the power given to me, as a Turkish citizen,” she told reporters outside the courthouse.
“The two countries may be making an agreement, the two countries may be opening a new chapter ... but the crime is still the same crime,” she said. “The people who committed the crime haven’t changed. Governments and states must have a principled stance.”
At the time of the crime, Turkey apparently had the Saudi Consulate bugged and shared audio of the killing with the CIA, among others.
The slaying sparked international condemnation. Western intelligence agencies, as well as the U.S. Congress, have said that an operation of such magnitude could not have happened without knowledge of the prince.
Turkey, which had vowed to shed light on the brutal killing, began prosecuting the defendants in absentia in 2020 after Saudi Arabia rejected requests for their extradition. The defendants included two former aides of the prince.
Some of the men were put on trial in Riyadh behind closed doors. A Saudi court issued a final verdict in 2020 that sentenced five mid-level officials and operatives to 20-year jail terms. The court had originally ordered the death penalty, but reduced the punishment after Khashoggi’s son Salah, who lives in Saudi Arabia, announced that he forgave the defendants. Three others were sentenced to lesser jail terms.
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Fraser reported from Ankara, Turkey.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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US Navy intends to decommission some of its newest warships
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Navy that once wanted smaller, speedy warships to chase down pirates has made a speedy pivot to Russia and China — and many of those recently built ships could be retired.
The U.S. Navy wants to decommission nine ships in the Freedom-class of littoral combat ships — warships that cost about $4.5 billion to build.
The Navy contends in its budget proposal that the move would free up $50 million per ship annually for other priorities. But it would also reduce the size of the fleet that’s already surpassed by China in sheer numbers, something that could cause members of Congress to balk.
Adm. Mike Gilday, chief of naval operations, defended the proposal that emphasizes long-range weapons and modern warships, while shedding other ships ill-equipped to face current threats.
“We need a ready, capable, lethal force more than we need a bigger force that’s less ready, less lethal, and less capable,” he said Monday at the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space symposium in Maryland.
All told, the Navy wants to scrap 24 ships, including five cruisers and a pair of Los Angeles-class submarines, as part of its cost-cutting needed to maintain the existing fleet and build modern warships. Those cuts surpass the proposed nine ships to be built.
Most of them are older vessels. However, the littoral combat ships that are targeted are young. The oldest of them is 10 years old.
The littoral combat ship program was announced after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ships topped 50 mph (80 kph) — fast enough to chase down pirates — and were highly maneuverable, even in shallow water, thanks to steerable waterjets instead of propellers.
The ships were supposed to be made versatile through plug-and-play mission modules for surface combat, mine-sweeping operations or anti-submarine warfare. But those mission modules were beset by problems, and the anti-submarine capability was canceled in the new budget.
And what about that speed? The fastest ship can’t outrun missiles, and firing up those marine turbines for an extra burst of speed turned the ships into gas guzzlers, analysts said. Early versions also were criticized as too lightly armed and armored to survive combat.
The speedy Freedom-class ships proposed for decommissioning feature a traditional steel hull. That entire class of ships suffers from a propulsion defect that will be costly repair. The Navy proposes keeping a second variant, the aluminum Independence class.
U.S. Senate Armed Services Chair Jim Inhofe said the program was plagued by troubles from the start, and that “moving forward the Navy must avoid similar acquisition disasters.”
U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria, D-Virginia, was more blunt, tweeting that it “sucks” to be decommissioning so many ships, especially newer ones.
“The Navy owes a public apology to American taxpayers for wasting tens of billions of dollars on ships they now say serve no purpose,” she said.
Some detractors proclaimed littoral combat ships to be the Navy’s “Little Crappy Ship,” but that’s not fair, said defense analyst Loren Thompson.
“It’s not a little crappy ship. It does what it was supposed to do. What it was supposed to do isn’t enough for the kind of threats that we face today,” said Thompson, from the Lexington Institute.
In the Navy’s defense, threats shifted swiftly from the Cold War to the war on terror to the current Great Power Competition in which Russia and China are asserting themselves, he said.
In the end, the Navy may be content with smaller numbers of Freedom-class ships for maritime security and small surface combatant operations, said Bryan Clark, defense analyst at the Hudson Institute.
Congress must sign off on the Navy’s proposal to decommission ships ahead of their projected service life.
The House Armed Services Committee on Tuesday grilled Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the proposal.
U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Virginia, suggested the ship cuts were “grossly irresponsible” when the U.S. Navy has dipped from 318 ships to 297, while the Chinese fleet has grown from 210 to 360 ships over the past two decades.
Milley said it’s important to focus on the Navy’s capabilities rather than the size of its fleet.
“I would bias towards capability rather than just sheer numbers,” he said.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Windy and colder with showers possible Thursday
LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - Very windy conditions will continue on Thursday with even colder temperatures expected in eastern Nebraska. A few scattered rain showers will be possible with a few flurries mixed in across northern and eastern sections of the state. Friday will not be as windy, but still blustery with cool temperatures continuing. The weekend will be warmer with more sunshine.
High wind warning until Thursday evening for much of central and all of western Nebraska. Wind gusts between 50 and 60 mph will be common with a few gusts over 60 mph. Wind advisory for eastern Nebraska until Thursday evening for wind gusts between 45 and 55 mph.
Becoming mostly cloudy, windy and colder Thursday with the chance for a few scattered light rain showers or sprinkles this afternoon. A few flurries could be mixed in with the showers. Highs in the mid 40s with a northwest wind 25 to 35 with gust 45 to 50 mph.
A few evening sprinkles or flurries this evening. Mostly cloudy, windy and chilly Thursday night into Friday morning. Lows in the lower 30s with a northwest wind 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph this evening, 10 to 20 mph after midnight.
Mostly cloudy skies Friday morning and cold. Partly sunny, breezy and continued cool Friday afternoon. Highs in the lower 50s with a northwest wind 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.
Saturday will be sunnier and warmer with seasonal temperatures Saturday afternoon. Highs in the lower 60s and a Southeast wind in the afternoon 10 to 20 mph.
Sunday will be breezy and milder with a scattered clouds and a small chance of rain. Monday will be in the mid 60s with an isolated shower possible. A thunderstorm will be possible on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Copyright 2022 KOLN. All rights reserved.
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Former Vikings defensive lineman Doug Sutherland dies at 73
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Former Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Doug Sutherland, a member of the Purple People Eaters, has died. He was 73.
The team released a statement saying Sutherland died Tuesday, but did not provide a cause of death.
“Doug Sutherland was one of our proudest legends,” Vikings owner Zygi Wilf and Owner/President Mark Wilf said in a joint statement. “His humble nature did not allow for him to talk much about his own playing career, but Doug was a key member of some of the best defenses in NFL history and three Super Bowl teams. Doug was also the consummate teammate after football. He was one of the most active members of Vikings legends events and didn’t miss a chance to help out at a community event or lend a hand where needed. Our thoughts are with Doug’s friends and family.”
Sutherland played 12 seasons in the NFL from 1970-81 with New Orleans, Minnesota and Seattle. Drafted by the Saints in the 14th round, he was traded to the Vikings the following season and played 10 years in Minnesota. Sutherland registered 29 sacks in 164 career games.
Sutherland replaced defensive tackle Gary Larsen after he retired, and became part of a feared defensive line that featured Pro Football Hall of Famers Alan Page and Carl Eller, and Jim Marshall.
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More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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New Ulm police investigator charged with criminal sexual conduct
WARNING: Allegations in this story are sexually graphic and may be triggering for readers
WASECA, Minn. (KEYC) — An investigator with the New Ulm Police Department has been charged with two felony counts of criminal sexual conduct.
WARNING: Allegations in this story are sexually graphic and may be triggering for readers
Eric Alan Gramentz was arrested by Brown County Sheriff’s officials and booked into the Waseca County Jail early Tuesday morning.
Gramentz is listed as an investigator with the New Ulm Police Department.
A criminal complaint states that Gramentz had a “significant relationship” with the alleged victim in the past when they were a preteen.
Gramentz allegedly suggested the victim commit sexual acts on themselves to help with stomach pain.
The complaint also alleges Gramentz admitted to a “pattern of coaching” over the course of two months, which, according to the complaint, would include touching the victim’s genitals. He told investigators that he continued the behavior because it was risky and sexually “something different.”
According to the victim’s statement to law enforcement, on at least one occasion, Gramentz placed his genitals in the victim’s hand while they slept.
Gramentz told the victim to not tell anyone about their interactions according to the complaint.
He agreed to turn himself into authorities after being confronted by another adult about the allegations, the complaint states.
According to a release from the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Gramentz was taken to the Waseca County Jail during the initial investigation to avoid any potential conflict of interest.
The sheriff’s office says he will be transferred back to Brown County Jail following his first appearance in court April 11 in Brown County.
Gramentz faces felony charges of first and second-degree criminal sexual conduct.
If convicted, first-degree criminal sexual conduct carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $40,000 fine, or both in Minnesota. Second-degree criminal sexual conduct carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison, a $35,000 fine, or both.
The City of New Ulm released a statement Wednesday evening confirming that Gramentz is currently on leave from employment with the city.
Copyright 2022 KEYC. All rights reserved.
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Senate to vote on revoking Russia’s trade status, oil ban
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate will take up legislation Thursday to end normal trade relations with Russia and ban the importation of its oil, ratcheting up the U.S. response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine amid reports of atrocities. Both bills have languished in the Senate.
“It’s a big, big deal that we are finally getting them done,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday. “Now, I wish this could have happened sooner, but after weeks of talks with the other side, it’s important that we have found a path forward.”
It’s been three weeks since the House passed the trade suspension measure that paves the way for President Joe Biden to enact higher tariffs on certain Russian imports. At the time, the legislation was billed as sending a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies about the economic isolation Russia will face for invading Ukraine.
The House vote in mid-March came one day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Congress in a virtual speech that “new packages of sanctions are needed constantly every week until the Russian military machine stops.”
“They cannot just go kill a bunch of people, destroy cities, kill women and children, and then go back and have business as usual,” Ukrainian-born U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, a Republican from Indiana, said as the trade bill was debated in the House.
WARNING: Video contains graphic content.
Reports of civilians being tortured and killed in Ukraine, with streets on the outskirts of Kyiv being strewn with corpses, had some lawmakers this week questioning why the Senate had not yet taken action on the bill.
“What I’m telling the senators is that all this foot-dragging in the face of the atrocities that everybody saw this weekend is just really beyond imagination,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
House lawmakers concurred.
“It sends a message of weakness,” said Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, on the Senate’s inaction. “It seemed like a pretty bipartisan, easy thing to do, just like not importing Russia energy, so it’s disappointing.”
There is overwhelming support for suspending preferential trade treatment for Russia. But Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has objected to speedy consideration of the bill over concerns that its language on who can be sanctioned for human rights abuses is too broad, leaving it ripe for abuse. He blocked a request for a voice vote on the bill, which requires consent from all 100 senators. Schumer opted to let senators work it out rather than chew up floor time to overcome the filibuster.
Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., said, practically speaking, the impact of the delay on the trade bill is minimal “because there’s virtually no trade right now coming in from Russia.” Still, he said passage is important.
“Messaging is important here and showing action is important,” Cardin said. “You’ve got the Ukrainians on the battlefield every day. The least we can do is get these bills passed.”
Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Republican in the Senate, said the delay in the Senate was hard to explain. But he placed the onus on Schumer.
“I think part of it really is just having leadership in the Senate that is going to manage the floor and is willing to do what it takes to get this thing done,” Thune said. “If this had been a priority, I think it would have been done.”
Democrats counter that going the route Thune suggested requires dedicating precious floor time for a bill that passed 424-8 in the House.
Rep. Kevin Brady, the ranking Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over trade, said it was important for Schumer to get senators together and get the bill passed.
“We’ve been watching these atrocities. America needs to weigh in now and stop funding the war,” Brady said. “President Zelenskyy asked a month ago for this and here we are — still fussing around.”
The House also passed the oil ban about a month ago. The bill would codify restrictions on Russian oil that Biden has already put in place through executive action.
Schumer said Putin needed to be held accountable for what he said were war crimes against Ukraine. He also said Putin was guilty of genocide.
“Formally revoking normal trade relations with Russia is precisely the right thing for the Senate to do because it will land another huge blow to Putin’s economy,” Schumer said. “It’s a key part of any strategy for holding Putin accountable for his savage attacks on innocent civilians.”
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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US Navy intends to decommission some of its newest warships
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Navy that once wanted smaller, speedy warships to chase down pirates has made a speedy pivot to Russia and China — and many of those recently built ships could be retired.
The U.S. Navy wants to decommission nine ships in the Freedom-class of littoral combat ships — warships that cost about $4.5 billion to build.
The Navy contends in its budget proposal that the move would free up $50 million per ship annually for other priorities. But it would also reduce the size of the fleet that’s already surpassed by China in sheer numbers, something that could cause members of Congress to balk.
Adm. Mike Gilday, chief of naval operations, defended the proposal that emphasizes long-range weapons and modern warships, while shedding other ships ill-equipped to face current threats.
“We need a ready, capable, lethal force more than we need a bigger force that’s less ready, less lethal, and less capable,” he said Monday at the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space symposium in Maryland.
All told, the Navy wants to scrap 24 ships, including five cruisers and a pair of Los Angeles-class submarines, as part of its cost-cutting needed to maintain the existing fleet and build modern warships. Those cuts surpass the proposed nine ships to be built.
Most of them are older vessels. However, the littoral combat ships that are targeted are young. The oldest of them is 10 years old.
The littoral combat ship program was announced after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ships topped 50 mph (80 kph) — fast enough to chase down pirates — and were highly maneuverable, even in shallow water, thanks to steerable waterjets instead of propellers.
The ships were supposed to be made versatile through plug-and-play mission modules for surface combat, mine-sweeping operations or anti-submarine warfare. But those mission modules were beset by problems, and the anti-submarine capability was canceled in the new budget.
And what about that speed? The fastest ship can’t outrun missiles, and firing up those marine turbines for an extra burst of speed turned the ships into gas guzzlers, analysts said. Early versions also were criticized as too lightly armed and armored to survive combat.
The speedy Freedom-class ships proposed for decommissioning feature a traditional steel hull. That entire class of ships suffers from a propulsion defect that will be costly repair. The Navy proposes keeping a second variant, the aluminum Independence class.
U.S. Senate Armed Services Chair Jim Inhofe said the program was plagued by troubles from the start, and that “moving forward the Navy must avoid similar acquisition disasters.”
U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria, D-Virginia, was more blunt, tweeting that it “sucks” to be decommissioning so many ships, especially newer ones.
“The Navy owes a public apology to American taxpayers for wasting tens of billions of dollars on ships they now say serve no purpose,” she said.
Some detractors proclaimed littoral combat ships to be the Navy’s “Little Crappy Ship,” but that’s not fair, said defense analyst Loren Thompson.
“It’s not a little crappy ship. It does what it was supposed to do. What it was supposed to do isn’t enough for the kind of threats that we face today,” said Thompson, from the Lexington Institute.
In the Navy’s defense, threats shifted swiftly from the Cold War to the war on terror to the current Great Power Competition in which Russia and China are asserting themselves, he said.
In the end, the Navy may be content with smaller numbers of Freedom-class ships for maritime security and small surface combatant operations, said Bryan Clark, defense analyst at the Hudson Institute.
Congress must sign off on the Navy’s proposal to decommission ships ahead of their projected service life.
The House Armed Services Committee on Tuesday grilled Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the proposal.
U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Virginia, suggested the ship cuts were “grossly irresponsible” when the U.S. Navy has dipped from 318 ships to 297, while the Chinese fleet has grown from 210 to 360 ships over the past two decades.
Milley said it’s important to focus on the Navy’s capabilities rather than the size of its fleet.
“I would bias towards capability rather than just sheer numbers,” he said.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Windy with snow showers today and Friday; sunshine finally returns this weekend
Minor snowfall accumulation will be possible through early Friday
ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – Cold winds and pesky snow showers will continue to make our weather feel more like late winter than early spring today. The same storm system that has been impacting the area for the past two days is still slowly wobbling eastward toward the Great Lakes today, producing thick clouds with snow and rain chances lingering in the region to go with gusty winds. Expect snow showers today with a coating to half an inch of accumulation possible during the daylight hours, especially on grassy surfaces and rooftops. A little slush will be possible on some untreated roads and overpasses as well. Rain showers will mix in at times in the midday hours with temperatures climbing to the upper 30s. Wind chill values will only be in the 20s all day because of those harsh, gusty northwest winds that will reach 30 miles per hour at times.
The largest batch of snow on the backside of the storm system looks to rotate into the area during the evening commute through midnight and up to an inch of fresh snowfall will be possible, again primarily on grassy surfaces. Winds will remain gusty tonight, keeping wind chill indices in the teens and 20s.
A few light snow showers will be possible early Friday with just a minor coating of less than half an inch possible once again. Skies will be gray until early in the evening while raw, gusty northwest winds will reach 25 miles per hour throughout the day. High temperatures will be in the mid and upper 30s, so wind chill values will be in the 20s similar to those levels we’ve been experiencing for the past couple of days.
High pressure from the west will bring abundant sunshine and much lighter winds to the region on Saturday. After a cold start to the day, temperatures will warm quickly to the upper 40s in the afternoon. There will be a few more clouds on Sunday with a gusty south breeze, but high temperatures will be a bit warmer, mainly in the mid and upper 50s.
A couple of storm systems will move through the region early next week, the first will bring spotty rain showers late Sunday night and Monday with a second system bringing more widespread rain and even some thunder to the area from late Tuesday through Wednesday. High temperatures will be in the mid-50s through the middle of the week.
A few flurries or sprinkles will be possible next Thursday morning on the backside of the midweek storm system. Gusty winds will usher in cooler air for the latter part of the week and high temperatures Thursday and Friday will be in the 40s.
Copyright 2022 KTTC. All rights reserved.
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WASHINGTON TWP. (Gloucester) — The Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office is asking potential victims to come forward after a township man was accused of taking video of juvenile females using a bathroom at his residence.
Robert McKinley, 52, was arrested at that Washington Township home on Tuesday, according to a release from the prosecutor's office, following the execution of a search warrant by the GCPO High-Tech Crimes Unit, township police, and the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
McKinley is charged with first-degree endangering the welfare of a child by manufacturing child pornography and third-degree possession of child sexual abuse material.
An investigation revealed that McKinley retained the images he recorded via a Dropbox account linked to his email address, as alleged by the prosecutor's office.
McKinley was remanded to the Salem County Correctional Facility following his arrest, pending court proceedings.
The prosecutor's office urged anyone who believes they may have been a victim of McKinley, had questionable contact with him, or have information relevant to their investigation to contact their Special Victims Unit at cacgc@co.gloucester.nj.us.
Furthermore, individuals wishing to report instances of child sexual exploitation were instructed to notify the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST or cybertipline.org.
Patrick Lavery is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at patrick.lavery@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.
These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey
A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.
From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.
Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the
American Hiking Society.
If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.
Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.
You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.
Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.
If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.
Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.
I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:
Every NJ city and town's municipal tax bill, ranked
A little less than 30 cents of every $1 in property taxes charged in New Jersey support municipal services provided by cities, towns, townships, boroughs and villages. Statewide, the average municipal-only tax bill in 2021 was $2,725, but that varied widely from more than $13,000 in Tavistock to nothing in three townships. In addition to $9.22 billion in municipal purpose taxes, special taxing districts that in some places provide municipal services such as fire protection, garbage collection or economic development levied $323.8 million in 2021.
School aid for all New Jersey districts for 2022-23
The state Department of Education announced district-level school aid figures for the 2022-23 school year on Thursday, March 10, 2022. They're listed below, alphabetically by county. For additional details from the NJDOE, including specific categories of aid,
click here.
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NJ’s drought-buster continues: Rain and t-storms return Thursday
The Bottom Line
On Wednesday, parts of New Jersey (mainly to the south) picked up a solid inch or two of rainfall.
On Thursday, parts of New Jersey (mainly to the north) are also expected to get an inch or two of rainfall.
Given our precipitation deficit since the start of the year and spiraling drought concerns, the wet weather is a very good thing. Although with the ground and waterways becoming increasingly saturated, there could be some ponding and minor flooding issues.
After several hours of miserable weather on Thursday, our weather turns considerably less soggy and unsettled heading into the weekend.
Looking for a big warmup? We should see 70s (at least) by the middle of next week.
Thursday
It will not be a "total washout". In fact, we should make it through the entire morning rush with dry weather.
Expect 40s, clouds, and some fog as you step out the door Thursday morning.
Scattered rain will start to light up radar again by late Thursday morning, spreading from southwest to northeast between about 8 a.m. and Noon. (It is possible that Shore points stay dry until the afternoon, based on the trajectory of this first round of raindrops.)
The most widespread, steadiest, and potentially heaviest rain will arrive Thursday afternoon, through the evening hours. There could be some downpours, leading to ponding and minor flooding issues. Rumbles of thunder are possible. It will be breezy, if not windy, too.
High temperatures will be limited to the lower to mid 50s Thursday. That is below normal for early April. (Average highs are now at 60 degrees.) But you have to admire Mother Nature's consistency - this will be the sixth day in a row with temperatures basically in that 50s zone.
Thursday evening will remain pretty wet, with rain coming to an end by about Midnight. Skies will clear overnight, with cool low temperatures in the mid 40s.
Friday
A much happier forecast.
I can't rule out a stray shower or two, mainly early or late. Otherwise, I'm pleased to lean optimistic on Friday's forecast. Mostly sunny skies. Mild temperatures, peaking in the lower 60s. A light southwest breeze.
Saturday
We move into the weekend cooling down again. However, it won't be entirely unpleasant.
A few sprinkles may push through New Jersey for the first half of Saturday. Otherwise, expect a mix of sun and clouds with highs in the seasonable upper 50s.
Sunday
The cooler, although brighter, day of the weekend. Partly sunny, breezy, and lower 50s.
The Extended Forecast
All signs are pointing toward a warmup for the first half of next week. My latest outlook puts Monday in the 60s and Tuesday in the 70s. (FYI, New Jersey's last day of widespread 70s was March 19th.)
The temperature forecast gets muddled starting Wednesday. The GFS model favors the introduction of an on-shore breeze, pulling temperatures downward again. However, the Euro goes full-on blast furnace, pushing thermometers into the 80s. Quite the difference of opinion there.
And that's an excellent example of why I only publish a 5 day forecast here on the web and in our app. Too much uncertainty to look 7-10 days out with any kind of specificity or accuracy.
Dan Zarrow is Chief Meteorologist for Townsquare Media New Jersey. Follow him on Facebook or Twitter for the latest forecast and realtime weather updates.
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INDIANAPOLIS — Johnette Cruz, owner of The Studio by JC, shows us how to get in shape for summer using weights as light as 2 pounds.
The key is repetition, working each muscle to fatigue, and incorporating full-body movements.
Cruz also has a special offer for her 8-week fitness and nutrition program: just $48.
The Elevated Summer Fitness Program includes online workouts, meal plans, nutrition and mindset education, live weekly virtual classes and more.
Head to her website for more information or to sign up, and use the discount code ‘LMSSUMMER’ to get the special price.
You can also reach out to Cruz on Facebook at The Studio by JC, via Instagram at @thestudiobyjc or @elevatedbyjc, or by email at johnette@elevatedbyjc.com.
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WASHINGTON -- Federal prosecutors on Wednesday charged two men they say were posing as federal agents, giving free apartments and other gifts to U.S. Secret Service agents, including one who worked on the first lady's security detail.
The two men - Arian Taherzadeh, 40, and Haider Ali, 36 - were taken into custody as more than a dozen FBI agents charged into a luxury apartment building in Southeast Washington on Wednesday evening.
Prosecutors allege Taherzadeh and Ali had falsely claimed to work for the Department of Homeland Security and work on a special task force investigating gang and violence connected to the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. They allege the two posed as law enforcement officers to integrate with actual federal agents.
Taherzadeh is accused of providing Secret Service officers and agents with rent-free apartments - including a penthouse worth over $40,000 a year - along with iPhones, surveillance systems, a drone, flat screen television, a generator, gun case and other policing tools, according to court documents.
He also offered to let them use a black GMC SUV that he identified as an "official government vehicle," prosecutors say. In one instance, Taherzadeh offered to purchase a $2,000 assault rifle for a Secret Service agent who is assigned to protect the first lady.
Prosecutors said four Secret Service employees were placed on leave earlier this week as part of the investigation.
The plot unraveled when the U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating an assault involving a mail carrier at the apartment building and the men identified themselves as being part of a phony Homeland Security unit they called the U.S. Special Police Investigation Unit.
Prosecutors say the men had also set up surveillance in the building and had been telling residents there that they could access any of their cellphones at any time. The residents also told investigators they believed the men had access to their personal information.
Taherzadeh and Ali are scheduled to appear in court on Thursday. It was not immediately clear if they had lawyers who could comment on the allegations.
Authorities did not detail what, if anything, the men were aiming to accomplish by posing as law enforcement officers or by providing the gifts. Prosecutors said the investigation remains ongoing.
US: 2 posed as agents, gave gifts to Secret Service officers
By Michael Balsamo
Copyright © 2022 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
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4th day of deliberations starts in Gov. Whitmer kidnap plot
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) — Jurors got a quick pep talk from a judge as they entered a fourth day of deliberations Thursday in the trial of four men charged with coming up with a scheme to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
“We don’t have a lot to do except ring the opening bell and send you back to complete the work you’ve started or get as far as you can on it until you need us next,” U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker said. “We wish you all the very best.”
The jury so far this week has not signaled how its deliberations are progressing, asking only for a definition of “weapon” and requesting trial transcripts, sticky notes and paperclips. Transcripts were turned down as is custom.
Adam Fox, Barry Croft Jr., Daniel Harris and Brandon Caserta are charged with a kidnapping conspiracy. Three of them also face additional charges, including conspiracy to use a weapon of mass destruction, namely an explosive.
The trial has covered 19 days since March 8, including 13 days of testimony.
The evidence included testimony from undercover agents, a crucial informant and two men who pleaded guilty to conspiracy and pointed a finger at the others. Prosecutors said the group was steeped in anti-government extremism and angry over Whitmer’s COVID-19 restrictions.
The men trained with a crudely built “shoot house” to replicate her vacation home in September 2020, according to testimony.
Defense lawyers, however, said any scheme was the creation of government agents who were embedded in the group and manipulated the men.
Croft is from Bear, Delaware, while the others are from Michigan.
Whitmer, a Democrat, rarely talks publicly about the plot, though she referred to “surprises” during her term that seemed like “something out of fiction” when she filed for reelection on March 17.
She has blamed former President Donald Trump for fomenting anger over coronavirus restrictions and refusing to condemn right-wing extremists like those charged in the case.
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Find AP’s full coverage of the Whitmer kidnap plot trial at: https://apnews.com/hub/whitmer-kidnap-plot-trial
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White reported from Detroit.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Michigan governor sues to secure abortion rights, vacate ban
LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer sued Thursday to protect abortion rights, asking a Michigan court to recognize a right to abortion under the state constitution and to overturn a 176-year-old ban in the state that may take effect if the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling is vacated.
The Democratic governor’s preemptive lawsuit, which was filed in Oakland County against prosecutors in 13 counties with an abortion clinic, came as the U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority considers allowing states to ban abortion much earlier in pregnancy and potentially overturning the right.
The governor, who is up for reelection this year, was expected to request that the Michigan Supreme Court quickly take the case rather than let it wind through lower trial and appellate courts. A favorable decision could enable abortions to continue in Michigan after the federal high court rules.
“It was important for us to take action now, to ensure that women and providers across the state of Michigan know whether abortions will still be available in the state because it impacts their lives and our health care providers’ practices. It’s crucial that we take this action now to secure and ensure that the Michigan Constitution protects this right that we have had available for 49 years,” Whitmer told The Associated Press, saying nearly 2.2 million women may lose access to a safe, legal medical procedure.
Michigan is among eight states with an unenforced abortion ban that was enacted before the 1973 Roe decision legalized abortion nationwide. States on both sides of the abortion issue have been taking a variety of steps to prepare for Roe being eroded or rescinded.
Michigan’s 1931 law, which dates to an 1846 ban, makes it a felony to use an instrument or administer any substance with the intent “to procure the miscarriage” of a woman unless necessary to preserve her life.
Whitmer wants the Michigan Supreme Court to declare a state constitutional right to abortion and to strike down the 1931 law, which could go back into effect if Roe is overturned or weakened. The lawsuit argues that the law is invalid under the due process and equal protection clauses of the state constitution.
Michigan could soon be left with a near-total ban without even exceptions for rape and incest — “one of the most extreme laws in the country,” Whitmer said. Her call to repeal the law has gone nowhere in the Republican-controlled Legislature.
The state high court has four Democratic and three Republican justices.
Whitmer will ask that the court intervene in part to avoid legal uncertainty when the federal high court issues its ruling on Mississippi’s ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
The complaint says that while the Michigan Supreme Court in 1973 ruled that Roe limited the effect of the state ban, the right to abortion has been undermined over 50 years of litigation in federal courts. The state’s high court has not said whether the state constitution protects the right. The Michigan Court of Appeals, in 1997, ruled there is no state constitutional right to abortion — a reason the Michigan Supreme Court should step in immediately, according to her office.
The lawsuit points to “substantial ambiguity” about what the state ban prohibits.
Abortion rights advocates have launched a ballot drive to enshrine the right to abortion in the state constitution but need about 425,000 voter signatures to put the initiative on the November ballot.
Also Thursday, seven Democratic county prosecutors who were named in the lawsuit pledged to not enforce the anti-abortion law.
“We cannot and will not support criminalizing reproductive freedom or creating unsafe, untenable situations for health care providers and those who seek abortions in our communities,” said the elected prosecutors in Wayne, Oakland, Genesee, Washtenaw, Ingham, Kalamazoo and Marquette counties. “Instead, we will continue to dedicate our limited resources towards the prosecution of serious crimes and the pursuit of justice for all.”
The other six elected prosecutors who were sued are Republicans.
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Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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PALM BEACH, Fla. - Former president Donald Trump and a coterie of his top allies, donors and paying club members gathered at his palatial beachfront club Tuesday night for a reunion of sorts: to sip Trump-branded wine, snack on an amuse-bouche of fried shrimp and pastry-wrapped hot dogs on the Mar-a-Lago patio and, most importantly, relitigate parts of the 2020 election that he lost 17 months ago.
The fraud fete on a sweltering spring night showed how much Trump and the ecosphere around him remain focused on the last election and his false claims of fraud - and how he now inhabits a cosseted club life where he is the roundly cheered, and rarely challenged, star who everyone pays to see. As he traversed the club, he repeatedly asked guests and members about fraud in certain states and offered vague claims of explosive findings that he said were still to come.
The occasion: The debut of a 42-minute film called "Rigged: The Zuckerberg Funded Plot to Defeat Donald Trump" from Citizens United President and Trump ally David Bossie that stars a range of Trump advisers and alleges Facebook helped Democrats by pouring money into states for voter turnout and education efforts. A hyperbolic poster advertising the movie, with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg devilishly grabbing cash, was perched by the pool for a cinematic sunset as guests strutted about clinking glasses.
Nothing has animated Trump over the past two years like his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and he seemed particularly ebullient before watching the film, saying he was looking forward to its screening more than "Citizen Kane," Titanic" and "Gone with the Wind."
"Would you like some Trump wine?" a Mar-a-Lago employee cooed to every guest as they entered the patio.
Guests walked past Trump's private quarters as they moved from one small, crystal-chandelier-packed ballroom for dinner through an outdoor concourse, past Trump's private residence, to another crystal-chandelier-packed, larger ballroom for the movie screening. A makeshift wall separated the makeshift movie theater from the ballroom dining area, where employees cleaned up from the nightly dinner for the club's paying members.
As guests strolled through, they posed for pictures with Trump, who grinned widely. Trump drew lusty standing applauses every time he walked in - and before and after every time he spoke - and made money from every guest there.
Trump's false claims about the election have unsettled American democracy and driven much of his party not to trust the results in 2020. They, at least in part, fueled the deadly attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. And they have been largely debunked - with even many Republicans urging him to move forward and focus on President Joe Biden.
At the gilded Mar-a-Lago, where an Air Force One model sat on a table and hundreds of photos and tributes to Trump hung on the wall, there was no talk of the Jan. 6 commission probing the pro-Trump mob that ransacked the Capitol after his false claims of fraud. No one challenged any of Trump's claims about the election. The outside world - where he has often struggled to break 40% in popularity, and his grip on the Republican Party has faded some - seemed planets away from the mangrove bushes, palm trees and ostentatiously gold rooms of Mar-a-Lago.
"Some of the people here say we shouldn't be talking about 2020," said Bossie, the convener of the evening. "I think it's vital that we do. If we don't prove what happened in 2020, how can we stop it from happening again."
A who's who of prominent advisers and election deniers and prominent challengers in his campaign to overturn the 2020 election gathered for the affair - along with random donors at the club for another event who spilled in, some hangers-on and Washington operatives looking for business, and candidates seeking his endorsement or help. Kari Lake, a prominent Republican candidate for Arizona governor and supporter of Trump's claims, approached members reporters and called the "mainstream media" the "enemy of the people," urging them to quit and expose their owners.
There was lawyer Cleta Mitchell, who closely worked with Trump's White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to push fraud claims after the 2020 election and appeared with Trump on the call in which he demanded Georgia's election officials "find" votes to overturn the results. That is now under criminal investigation in Georgia.
Michael Gableman, the retired Wisconsin Supreme Court justice who oversaw a criticized voter audit in that state, appeared in person and on film. "Michael, you've been unbelievable," Trump said, thanking Gableman and bringing applause. Guests swelled to greet Gableman. His inquiry has made little pretense of neutrality and was led by figures who have shown allegiance to Trump or embraced false claims of fraud, and its findings were criticized.
When Peter Navarro, the former Trump adviser who posited some of the most extreme theories on overturning the election and is now under contempt proceedings by the House of Representatives, barreled into the room late, longtime Trump adviser Corey Lewandowski hollered out "Doctor!" and embraced him.
"Oh that vote," Navarro said dismissively of the contempt proceedings against him, as he walked into the ballroom for the screening before all other guests, seeming a man without a care in the world.
Trump spoke both at the dinner and before the premiere - repeatedly telling the crowd that Russia would not have invaded Ukraine if he was president, that there would be fewer civilian deaths, and that inflation and gas prices would be lower if the election was not "rigged."
"It just would have never happened," he said, after describing grim civilian deaths in Ukraine that he had seen on television and saying the "rigged" election fueled it. He attacked Republicans for not doing enough to help him on the election results and ticked through a number of theories about the election and claims about various states, such as Wisconsin and Arizona.
Trump promised that next week, the crowd would see levels of "ballot harvesting they never thought possible" as part of a report from an outside group. It was unclear what he meant, but he said his advisers had been working with the project. He credited Susie Wiles, who runs his PAC, and Reince Priebus, his former chief of staff, for working on the issue, among others.
When he came to the second room, he gave a similar but shorter speech to largely the same audience.
The video shows how a foundation partially run by Zuckerberg funded efforts that were designed to drive up turnout and help with coronavirus protections related to the election. It does not accuse Zuckerberg of doing anything illegal but says instead that he packed his foundation with prominent partisan Democrats, giving examples. "Zuckerbucks," person after person on the film said, describing his money.
Bossie and others said they were not attempting to litigate some of Trump's more incendiary theories, such as the falsehoods about Dominion voting machines. Instead, they said, the film showed that many of the money from the Zuckerberg foundation went to areas where Biden won, and turnout climbed in the 2020 election. The movie repeatedly referenced how the coronavirus led state officials to change voting laws.
Bossie was the main emcee of the video. He said the budget for the film was about $500,000.
Zuckerberg said in a statement last week to Fox News, through a spokesperson: "When our nation's election infrastructure faced unprecedented challenges in 2020 due to the pandemic, and the federal government failed to provide adequate funds to allow states and localities to conduct elections, Mark Zuckerberg and [his wife] Priscilla Chan stepped up to close that funding gap with two independent, nonprofit organizations to help the American people vote."
Trump, in the film, alleged that Zuckerberg was afraid of his employees and people on the left. Trump once bragged about having a close relationship with Zuckerberg - who has taken considerable criticism from the left for not doing more to temper Trump's rhetoric on Facebook - and even had him for dinner at the White House.
Among those starring in the project and attacking Zuckerberg: Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who lost to Trump in a vicious 2016 primary in which Trump insulted his wife's appearance, and former House speaker Newt Gingrich.
The evening marked a homecoming of sorts for some Trump aides, who angled to see the boss and greet one another - such as former spokesman Hogan Gidley, with a caramel tan, who said he was at Mar-a-Lago for the first time in a year. He now works on "election integrity" efforts for a Trump-related group.
Hope Hicks, one of Trump's longest-serving advisers who reportedly broke with him over election fraud claims in 2020 and resigned before he left office, was present for the event, sitting near the front of the ballroom and chatting with Priebus and hugging others. Trump credited her from the podium. "We love Hope!" he said. Hicks has lobbied Trump to endorse David McCormick, a Senate candidate she is working for in Pennsylvania, and has partially returned to his orbit. She declined to speak on the record.
Kellyanne Conway, who starred in the movie, stood near the front of the ballroom and playfully ribbed other Trump advisers about how they might come off negatively in her upcoming book, scheduled to be released this spring. "A tickle," she said to one, promising him the ribbing would be "gentle." "Should I curtsy?" she said walking into the premiere, before doing so.
Conway and Priebus stood around afterward and could be overheard discussing who shivved who in the Trump White House. "It could be scorched earth, baby," Bossie said, with a laugh, of her book.
Lewandowski, who was ousted temporarily from Trump's orbit after allegations of inappropriate conduct from a Trump donor last year, engaged in fiery television hits from the back of the ballroom with Newsmax and Steve Bannon's podcast - and was greeted warmly by Trump and others.
Devin Nunes, the CEO of the struggling Truth Social, Trump's new social media platform, walked through the room and was later spotted on the patio with Priebus. Christina Bobb, the One America News anchor who has pushed some of Trump's claims and regularly talked to Trump, mingled with guests without a camera.
Trump repeatedly signaled to the crowd he might run for president again, and they whooped and hollered. "We'll make America great again, again," he said.
Bossie repeatedly introduced him as the "45th and 47th president of the United States."
As the movie ended, Trump greeted throngs of guests who waited for him on a red rope line and walked the few steps to his quarters, his Secret Service retinue in tow.
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/back_page/2020-election-claims-dominate-lively-night-for-trump-allies-at-mar-a-lago/article_1ddcc0bd-b2f2-5f55-b8f9-973cbba22e15.html
| 2022-04-07T13:52:50
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At the beginning of last Thursday's Palm Springs, Calif., City Council meeting, Jacob Rostovsky was unsure if the measure he was supporting would pass. The executive director and founder of Queer Works, a local nonprofit that provides support to transgender, nonbinary and intersex residents in the city, Rostovsky thought the meeting would go by quickly, and had prepared a pot of spaghetti to tuck into as soon as the remote session was over.
The item he had attended for was the last one of the night, but one that would be a huge first step for the city: a proposal to develop a guaranteed income pilot program for low-income transgender and nonbinary residents.
The council considered the measure for an hour and a half. As the clock ticked to 9 p.m. -- close to his bedtime -- Rostovsky grew increasingly unsure of how the vote would go. "I was like, my pasta is getting cold," he joked.
When the vote -- which was unanimous -- came in, Rostovsky said he "almost passed out."
The council voted to allocate $200,000 to Queer Works and DAP Health, another nonprofit, to develop a pilot program that will be pitched to state lawmakers and private donors for funding. The proposal comes as statehouses across the country have passed bills curbing the rights of gay and trans people: Last week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, R, signed a bill that limits the discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation for younger students; in Arizona, Gov. Doug Ducey, R, signed two bills that would restrict gender-affirming care for trans youths and prohibit them from playing girls' sports.
The Palm Springs proposal could be the first guaranteed basic income program specifically for low-income transgender and nonbinary people to be implemented in the country.
Christy Holstege, a Palm Springs City Council member who helped conceive the proposal, highlighted the Southern California city's history in advancing LGBTQ rights.
"We are a beacon in the country and in the world, a place where LGBTQ people have fled for decades to seek sanctuary and safety and their own community," she said. "And so I think it's really important for Palm Springs to be on the front lines of supporting the trans community . . . especially when they're under attack throughout the country."
Palm Springs has long been known for its LGTBQ inclusivity. According to Holstege, it was early to mandate gender-neutral bathrooms and require that employment benefits be offered equally to workers regardless of their gender identity. The city, whose mayor is a trans woman, has also funded queer and trans organizations within the community.
But, as with many other U.S. cities, it has also been the site of worsening income inequality. Seen by many outsiders as a playground for the rich - spas, golf courses and the Coachella music festival are just some of its attractions - there is an "undercurrent of poverty" in the area, Holstege said. That includes seniors living on fixed income, minimum-wage workers in the tourism and hospitality industry, and those experiencing homelessness, she added.
While concerns have been mounting about how to address housing instability in the city, the cost of a home has surged in recent years. The median cost of a typical Palm Springs home is now $657,171, a 34.6 percent increase over the previous year, according to the real estate website Zillow.
In general, transgender and nonbinary people are overrepresented among the housing insecure: One 2020 UCLA study found that 8 percent of transgender adults experienced homelessness in the previous year, compared with 3 percent of gay, bisexual and genderqueer adults, and 1 percent of straight cisgender adults.
Rostovsky said he's seen a similar pattern in Palm Springs in the past five years. The Coachella Valley in particular has attracted more trans and nonbinary people from surrounding areas, like Los Angeles, who are houseless -- many are drawn to the city's services and relative safety, he said.
For people with low incomes, regular, unrestricted cash payments are a "huge benefit," Rostovsky added, giving them the power to eliminate difficult financial choices and focus on other parts of their life. This is especially true for transgender and nonbinary people, he said.
"Most of my community is trying to decide if they should eat that night, have somewhere safe to sleep, be able to afford their hormone care of therapy," said Rostovsky, who is trans. "They're making decisions constantly, daily, that many cisgender individuals don't even think about, and that includes homeless or housing unstable cisgender individuals."
As more cities grapple with mounting economic inequality, elected officials and policymakers have increasingly turned to guaranteed basic income programs, which provide cash assistance to targeted populations, as a potential solution. (A universal basic income, on the other hand, would apply to everyone in a given municipality, state or country.) The money, which is unrestricted and given to people on a regular basis, is meant to help cover the basic cost of living and allow recipients to establish a greater sense of financial security.
While proponents of guaranteed basic income (GBI) programs argue that it's the best way to end poverty, critics of such programs say they could discourage people from working, hobbling the economy in turn.
But one 2021 study focused on a universal basic income experiment in Stockton, Calif., found that full-time employment rose among residents who were part of the program, boosting not just their financial health but their physical and emotional health, as well.
Palm Springs Mayor Lisa Middleton, despite backing the proposal, expressed reservations about a potential GBI program. While trans and nonbinary people are "very deserving of assistance," she said she is concerned that the program, which will support only a very small group of people, "will struggle to be perceived as fair by those who are not included."
"In general, these are programs that are going to struggle to scale up to the level of the issues that are before us," she said. "There are a significant number of disadvantaged people of color in Palm Springs that I would also like to provide help for."
Council member Holstege said she was drawn to experimenting with a GBI program during her tenure as mayor last year (Palm Springs rotates its mayorship yearly among its city council members), joining the national coalition Mayors for a Guaranteed Income. While she was doing outreach to various community organizations, DAP Health, an LGBTQ-led nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive health-care services, flagged that it was seeing higher rates of negative health outcomes among trans and nonbinary residents, and that they could benefit from a cash assistance program, she said.
Palm Springs's GBI proposal is first and foremost an anti-poverty policy, according to Holstege, but one that focuses on transgender and nonbinary people because of the higher rates of homelessness and discrimination they face.
Queer Works and DAP Health will develop the program proposal -- ensuring that it will "be built by and for trans and nonbinary folks," Holstege said. Rostovsky said they haven't landed on exact numbers yet, but he noted that other GBI pilot programs have ranged between $600 and $900 in direct funding per month for about 20 individuals, for a period of 18 months.
Last year, California earmarked $35 million to go toward GBI programs in the state for pregnant people and young adults who recently left foster care. Queer Works and DAP Health are hoping to tap into that fund, as well as attracting private donors, Rostovsky said. If all goes well, he hopes applications for program participants could be open by the fall.
As with other GBI programs, the pilot will also collect data to measure how the funding affects people's lives -- recipients will be compared with a control group who are already receiving the same social services as program participants, but without the cash payments, Rostovsky said. "There is a lot of power in having numbers, not just anecdotes," he said.
As an activist who has been advocating for trans communities for 18 years, Rostovsky said it was an "incredible" and "validating" moment to see the proposal pass the city council.
For a very long time, he said, small trans-led organizations have been doing this work: "No one has given us much thought. No one has given us much credence, particularly when it comes to proposals aimed at protecting and bolstering their communities."
He sees Palm Springs the same way -- a little city that no one gives much thought to now "doing something huge" in simply acknowledging the needs of transgender and nonbinary communities, and striving to do something about it, he said.
As a little celebration after the council's decision, Rostovsky helped himself to that spaghetti -- and watched "90 Day Fiancé." The next day, he was at work with DAP on the proposal, he said: "We're not wasting any time."
"I hope that whatever happens, if this pilot gets picked up -- whatever happens -- there's a trans person somewhere that reads this and says, OK, at least there's a city that's trying," Rostovsky said. "I can exist somewhere that is safe for me."
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The young professionals honored as the 2022 class of “40 Under Forty” were celebrated at a ceremony at the Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord on Wednesday.
40 Under Forty recognizes the younger leaders in New Hampshire, across sectors and around the state.
“The recognition is really important whether you thought no one was paying attention to your accomplishments, or you were in a more visible arena,” said Jeremy Hitchcock, a Manchester businessman who was one of the award presenters.
The honorees include a firefighter, a pharmacist, nonprofit leaders, attorneys and business leaders, as well as people who have served in local elected office.
Though the ceremony was held indoors, and few wore masks as they mingled in the theater lobby, the pandemic still cast a shadow on the awards.
COVID-19 will leave a mark on this generation of workers, but some found opportunity, and others found themselves in leadership roles through difficult times — and finding they had what it took to help their organizations through.
Like firefighter Ryan Bump of the Derry Fire Department, who helped run the town’s Emergency Operations Center during the chaotic early weeks of the pandemic. Or Crystal-Lee Thompson, who got into business for herself at the beginning of the pandemic and found a way to make her business thrive.
Or Tricia Zahn, who helped Cheshire Medical Center find space for an overflow unit in case hospitals were overwhelmed.
With more than 20 classes of awardees in New Hampshire — 840 people total — the careers of past 40 Under Forty honorees have added shine to the award.
“I know a lot of people that have won this award,” said Janelle Gorman of Bedford, chief financial officer of York IE.
She had hoped one day to be named to the list — and 2022 was Gorman’s year.
“To be actually honored feels pretty great,” Gorman said.
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/business/40_under_forty/40-under-forty-award-ceremony-brings-together-honorees/article_cdebd9b5-1e55-5fe3-b7d9-495a56bdbfb5.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:02
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/business/40_under_forty/40-under-forty-award-ceremony-brings-together-honorees/article_cdebd9b5-1e55-5fe3-b7d9-495a56bdbfb5.html
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PALM BEACH, Fla. - Former president Donald Trump voiced regret Wednesday over not marching to the U.S. Capitol the day his supporters stormed the building, and he defended his long silence during the attack by claiming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and others were responsible for ending the deadly violence.
"I thought it was a shame, and I kept asking why isn't she doing something about it? Why isn't Nancy Pelosi doing something about it? And the mayor of D.C. also. The mayor of D.C. and Nancy Pelosi are in charge," Trump said of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot in a 45-minute interview with The Washington Post. "I hated seeing it. I hated seeing it. And I said, 'It's got to be taken care of,' and I assumed they were taking care of it."
The 45th president has repeatedly deflected blame for stoking the attack with false claims that the 2020 election was stolen, and in the interview, he struck a defiant posture, refusing to say whether he would testify before a congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6 assault. Trump said he didn't remember "getting very many" phone calls that day, and he denied removing call logs or using burner phones.
Trump also said he had spoken during his presidency with Virginia "Ginni" Thomas, the wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. A seven-hour gap in Trump's phone records on Jan. 6, and Thomas's texts to then-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows urging the White House to fight the election results, have both come under scrutiny by the Jan. 6 committee.
During the attack, Trump watched television, criticized then-Vice President Mike Pence and made calls pushing lawmakers to overturn the election as the violent mob of his supporters ransacked the Capitol. He was eventually persuaded by lawmakers, family members and others to release a video asking his supporters to go home - 187 minutes after he urged them to march to the Capitol during a rally near the White House. He was described by advisers as excited about the event.
Trump, speaking Wednesday afternoon at his his palatial beachfront club, said he did not regret urging the crowd to come to Washington with a tweet stating that it would "be wild!" He also stood by his incendiary and false rhetoric about the election at the Ellipse rally before the rioters stormed the Capitol. "I said peaceful and patriotic," he said, omitting other comments that he made in a speech that day.
In fact, Trump said he deserved more credit for drawing such a large crowd to the Ellipse - and that he pressed to march on the Capitol with his supporters but was stopped by his security detail. "Secret Service said I couldn't go. I would have gone there in a minute," he said.
The former president praised organizers of the rally, some of whom have now received subpoenas from federal authorities, and repeatedly bragged about the size of the crowd on the Ellipse, when questioned about the events of Jan. 6.
"The crowd was far bigger than I even thought. I believe it was the largest crowd I've ever spoken to. I don't know what that means, but you see very few pictures. They don't want to show pictures, the fake news doesn't want to show pictures," he said. "But this was a tremendous crowd."
On at least a dozen occasions in the interview, Trump blamed Pelosi for the events of Jan. 6. On that day, Pelosi was taken to a secure location and worked with some of Trump's top military officials and others to help secure the building. Trump supporters stormed her office and vowed to hurt her, with some shouting for her by name.
Pelosi does not have total control over the Capitol Police, as Trump alleged, but shares control of the Capitol with the Senate majority leader. Most decisions on securing the Capitol are made by a police board. He also blamed the D.C. mayor, whose advisers furiously tried to reach Trump's team that day.
"The former president's desperate lies aside, the speaker was no more in charge of the security of the U.S. Capitol that day than Mitch McConnell," said Drew Hammill, a spokesman for Pelosi.
Trump said he had not been contacted by the Jan. 6 committee and added that he didn't know what he would do if he were. "It depends what the request is," he said. He has repeatedly invoked executive privilege in a bid to block the committee from seeing documents.
He said the committee's interview with his daughter Ivanka Trump for eight hours this week was a "shame and harassment," though he insisted he did not know what she had told the members. He said he also did not know what her husband, Jared Kushner, had told the committee, and that he had offered the couple "privilege" if they wanted it. They declined, Trump said.
Trump said he had not destroyed any call logs from the afternoon of Jan. 6 and took part in no phone calls on "burner phones," even though there is a large gap in his White House phone logs. Trump said that he remembered talking to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, and other people during that period. He said he had a "very good" memory but could not say exactly who he talked to that afternoon, or when.
"From the standpoint of telephone calls, I don't remember getting very many," he said, later adding, "Why would I care about who called me? If congressmen were calling me, what difference did it make? There was nothing secretive about it. There was no secret."
Trump said he had talked at times during his presidency with Ginni Thomas, whose texts with Meadows urging him to overturn the election were obtained by The Washington Post and CBS News. But Trump said he wasn't aware of her electoral efforts. He declined to say whether he thought Meadows should have handed over the text messages to the Jan. 6 committee.
"First of all, her husband is a great justice. And she's a fine woman. And she loves our country," he said.
Trump emerged Wednesday in his ornate and gilded Mar-a-Lago living room with the sun beaming into the couches alongside two advisers - Susie Wiles, who occasionally suggested it was time for the interview to end, and David Bossie, whose family stood nearby. After he asked four times, loud music piping into the ballroom was turned down. He wore a blazer with no tie and carried a Diet Coke as he sat near a toy Air Force One.
He meandered during the interview and stonewalled questions with long answers. He appeared to be in a good mood, aside from when he faced a series of questions about Jan. 6.
At one point, Trump was greeted by Scott Atlas, his White House coronavirus adviser who clashed with the medical community. Atlas strolled in from the patio to see him on the couch.
"Doc!" Trump said, before complimenting Atlas on losing weight. "Look who we have here!"
"This is the center of the universe," he said, shortly after Atlas walked away. "Come back later," he hollered after him.
Trump also delved into foreign policy, lashing into NATO for not doing more to help Ukraine - Trump has repeatedly lampooned the organization - and said he'd threatened NATO leaders during a 2018 meeting in Brussels, a notion his advisers denied vigorously at the time.
"A lot of people are a little bit surprised, I think they're very impressed with Ukraine, but they're not impressed with what NATO is doing, because a lot of people think NATO could be doing more," Trump said, speaking in general terms.
When asked whether he had changed his mind on Ukraine, a country he regularly criticized as president, he began speaking about his impeachment trial that was launched after he asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate Biden's son Hunter Biden and find an email server.
"I liked Zelensky from the beginning for one reason. When we had the impeachment hoax, based on a perfect phone call, he totally backed me up, and I didn't ask him to do that. They asked him, and he said, he absolutely did nothing wrong," Trump said. "He said there was no quid pro quo. He didn't even know what his people were talking about. He thought they were crazy. ... So I gained great respect for him there."
Trump offered few ideas for what he would do to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. He said he thought Russian President Vladimir Putin was a savvy negotiator for sending troops to the Ukrainian border but thought he "overplayed his hand" by invading the country.
Some top Republicans have distanced themselves from Trump's continued praise of Putin. Trump said he had not spoken to Putin since leaving office.
"Now, it's a hard situation. What they should do is lower the price of oil. Because you need money to fight wars. At $150 a barrel and going up to more, you look at it, it's going up to numbers that nobody has ever seen, it's already the highest it's ever been in history. The first thing they should do is lower the price of oil by using the liquid gold we have underneath our feet," he said, asked about the Biden administration's response.
The former president also had a lot to say about domestic matters. Trump declined to relinquish the fantastical idea he could be reinstated as president after he lost the election, a notion that has been roundly mocked by Republicans and even some of his advisers. Trump bristled that he asked Rep. Mo Brooks, R-Ala., to help in his bid to be reinstated, as Brooks said last month after Trump rescinded his endorsement of him in Alabama's U.S. Senate race. Brooks was trailing in the polls and encouraged the former president and the party to move past the 2020 election.
"I didn't ask him to do it. He's in no position to do it. I certainly didn't ask him to do it. But I believe when you see massive election fraud, I can't imagine that somebody who won the election based on fraud, that something doesn't happen? How has it not happened? If you are a bank robber, or you're a jewelry store robber, and you go into Tiffany's and you steal their diamonds and get caught, you have to give the diamonds back," he said.
Trump repeated unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud, saying new findings from Georgia would emerge next week. He said they would be released by a group called True the Vote and would show millions of illegal votes, but he offered no proof.
The former president also refused to say whether he would ever endorse a Republican candidate who did not accede to his election fraud demands. "Some of them are more into it than others," he said. "But the ones who are into it, they are really into it. They have no doubt."
He sought during much of the interview to tout his political supremacy inside the Republican Party, which remains strong but has faded in recent months. Trump appeared preoccupied with the notion that his grip on the GOP is not as strong as it once was, beginning the interview with a long riff about how popular he was within the GOP. Unprompted, he decried news coverage that indicated otherwise and crowed about how many people wanted his endorsement, while vowing to stop the Republicans who favored impeaching him.
"Our numbers are higher than ever," he said, without presenting evidence.
Other Republicans, such as Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former secretary of state Mike Pompeo, would not want to run against him in a 2024 Republican presidential primary season, he said. None of them have ruled out challenging him.
"If I ran, I can't imagine they'd want to run. Some out of loyalty would have had a hard time running. I think that most of those people, and almost every name you mentioned, is there because of me. In some cases, because I backed them and endorsed them. You know Ron was at 3%, and the day I endorsed him, he won the race," he said. Asked if he thought he "made" DeSantis, Trump said he knew he did. "As soon as I endorsed him, the race was over," Trump claimed.
Trump later allowed that DeSantis had been a good governor, particularly on handling the coronavirus - because Trump allowed him to make decisions on whether to keep the state open. "Federalist," he said. "I gave them the right to do what they wanted to do."
The former president also said he agreed with DeSantis signing a recent bill that bans teachers from teaching students in early grades about gender identity and sexual orientation. "I do think it was a good move," he said, but declined to elaborate.
"I have a good relationship with Ron, I have a good relationship with all the names you mentioned. Would they run against me? I doubt they would run against me. I doubt it," Trump reiterated.
A DeSantis spokesman declined to comment.
Asked about candidates he endorsed that were struggling, such as gubernatorial hopeful David Perdue in Georgia, he repeatedly downplayed their lagging polls and moved the conversation to other states, where GOP members of Congress who voted to impeach him were retiring and under fire. "What are you hearing?" he said of Perdue, the former senator, after saying it would be difficult to topple Republican Brian Kemp, whom he loathes.
Out on the patio, he said, was David McCormick, the Pennsylvania GOP Senate candidate and hedge fund honcho who wanted his endorsement. McCormick met with Trump later Wednesday. Trump asked a reporter if he should endorse McCormick or Mehmet Oz and said he would be making a decision in "about a week," noting that he was torn. "They all come here," he said.
Trump also discussed his post-presidential interactions with foreign leaders. Earlier this week, Trump claimed, Viktor Orban, the prime minister of Hungary, called him to thank him for endorsing him and to credit Trump with the win. "After I endorsed him, he went up like a rocket ship," Trump claimed of his unusual endorsement.
Other world leaders regularly call him because they like him so much, Trump claimed. He declined to say if he'd spoken to President Xi Jinping of China or Kim Jong Un of North Korea.
"These other leaders, they want endorsements," he said. "I'm the king of endorsements. It's more than just this country. It's other countries."
He declined to specify which other world leaders had pressed him for an endorsement - or whether he would be giving more. "You'll see," he said.
Trump said it was true he had told advisers that his health would factor into whether he would run again in 2024 but that he was currently in good health.
"You always have to talk about health. You look like you're in good health, but tomorrow, you get a letter from a doctor saying come see me again. That's not good when they use the word again," he said.
"I don't want to comment on running, but I think a lot of people are going to be very happy by my decision," he said, adding: "Because it's a little boring now."
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/crime/trump-deflects-blame-for-jan-6-silence-says-he-wanted-to-march-to-capitol/article_fd1481b2-3de1-5673-9f77-c90fd2bbe442.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:08
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ISTANBUL - A Turkish court decided Thursday to move the trial of 26 suspects linked to the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi to Saudi Arabia, in what was widely seen as a concession by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the Saudi government as the two countries try to mend their strained relations.
Thursday's decision, in Istanbul criminal court, amounted to a stunning reversal by Turkey, which in the years after the killing of Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, went to extraordinary lengths to publicize the Saudi government's role in the plot. More recently though, Erdogan's government has tried to improve ties with the kingdom as Turkey weathers one of its worst economic crises in decades.
The court ruling was roundly criticized Thursday by human rights groups as well as Hatice Cengiz, Khashoggi's fiancee, who first alerted the world after the journalist disappeared after entering the Saudi Consulate on an October afternoon. In the years since, she has traveled around the world, speaking to parliaments, politicians and the news media in her quest to hold the perpetrators accountable.
"We are not going to give up just because of a legal judgment," she told reporters outside the massive Istanbul court complex Thursday. "We cannot continue as if nothing happened."
Much is known about what happened to Khashoggi, thanks to Turkey. Before his death, Khashoggi was contributing columns to The Washington Post, some of which were sharply critical of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler.
Turkey released recordings, surveillance footage and other material revealing that a team of Saudi operatives had traveled to Istanbul and waited for Khashoggi, then killed and dismembered him. His remains were never found. Erdogan, who called Khashoggi a friend, appeared outraged, saying that the killing was ordered at the "highest levels" of the Saudi government.
The kingdom, which faced worldwide condemnation over the killing, held its own trial behind closed doors but never named the suspects it was prosecuting. It announced in September 2020 that eight people had been convicted, but it has yet to provide any evidence that anyone has been imprisoned or that any high officials have faced punishment.
"The transfer of this file to a country where there is no justice is an example of irresponsibility against the Turkish people," Gokmen Baspinar, a lawyer representing Cengiz, said in court Thursday, referring to Saudi Arabia. His colleague, Ali Ceylan, asked the judge to "protect the honor and dignity of the Tu"kish nation" by refusing to send the trial to the Saudis.
"Let's not entrust the lamb to the wolf," he said.
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/crime/turkish-court-transfers-khashoggi-murder-case-to-saudi-arabia/article_2e75ba5e-af06-52d3-bcdd-22c6dbd1c16c.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:14
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/crime/turkish-court-transfers-khashoggi-murder-case-to-saudi-arabia/article_2e75ba5e-af06-52d3-bcdd-22c6dbd1c16c.html
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The crowd at Warsaw's Royal Castle was still jubilantly waving Polish and American flags when President Joe Biden's aides realized they had a serious problem.
Biden had just delivered a forceful speech March 26 in Poland's capital - seeking to rally the world against Russia's war in Ukraine - before careening off-script in the final minute of his remarks to seemingly call for the removal of Russian President Vladimir Putin: "For God's sake, this man cannot remain in power."
Offstage - as their motorcade idled, waiting to spirit the U.S. president back to Air Force One and back to Washington - Biden's team raced to clean up his ad-lib.
National security adviser Jake Sullivan took the lead as the group debated its options, including just letting Biden's comments stand, with no walk-back. Biden himself - who ended his remarks at 6:43 p.m. - also helped workshop and sign off on a statement.
At 7:20 p.m., aides blasted out a clarification: The president's point, they said, "was that Putin cannot be allowed to exercise power over his neighbors or the region. He was not discussing Putin's power in Russia or regime change."
The 37-minute scramble to clarify Biden's nine-word gaffe, details of which have not been previously reported, illustrates the singular role Biden has played during Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine - at times emotional and freewheeling, at other times carefully choreographed and deliberate, but frequently a central player in helping to marshal the West's response to Russia.
As the war enters its seventh week Thursday, Biden has left his distinct imprint on the crisis - in ways both intentional and not, and in ways that have both clarified and complicated the situation.
The president is considered a foreign-policy hand - the former chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee - with a broad aversion to military adventurism. Early in his presidency, he unilaterally pulled out of the 20-year war in Afghanistan. And with Ukraine, he has certain clear lines he hasn't crossed - a no-fly zone above Ukraine, or U.S. combat troops on the ground in the country. He has said repeatedly that he does not want the conflict to escalate into a direct military confrontation between the United States and Russia - a possibility he likens to "World War III."
But Biden's response to the crisis has also been deeply emotional. It led him to make off-the-cuff comments, as he did in Warsaw. And it led him, earlier in March in Washington, to get ahead of his own administration - and the international community - when he dubbed Putin a "war criminal."
"For Biden, this is personal," said Alina Polyakova, president and CEO of the Center for European Policy Analysis. "He spent a huge amount of time working on Ukraine when he was vice president. I think he's deeply invested personally in the future of the country, and I think he personally sees this as his major test for his presidency."
And in a few instances - such as his March 8 decision to ban Russian oil and gas imports and impose new trade restrictions on Russia - Biden has been nudged into a decision he previously opposed under pressure from Congress or international allies.
This portrait of Biden at war is the result of interviews with 24 senior White House officials, lawmakers, congressional aides, diplomats and foreign policy experts, many of whom requested anonymity to share candid insights.
In Warsaw, hours before he veered off-script, Biden met with Ukrainian refugees newly arrived in Poland. He held a young, pink-clad girl aloft, wrapping his arms around her legs, and later spoke of "the depth and strength of the human spirit" before calling Putin "a butcher."
Back in Washington after his trip, Biden was asked about his call for Putin to leave power. He claimed he was not articulating a new U.S. policy during the speech, nor was he walking back anything afterward.
"I was expressing the moral outrage that I feel," Biden said, "and I make no apologies for it."
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When House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. was asked during a March 3 news conference about a proposed halt to Russian oil and gas imports, she answered quickly: "I'm all for that - ban it."
There was one big sticking point: Biden and his team were publicly opposed to the idea.
One week after Russia invaded Ukraine, the top Democratic and Republican leaders heading the House and Senate finance committees had begun discussing how to craft a bipartisan deal that would hurt Russia economically after negotiations on sanctions fell apart in the Senate.
In announcing her support for an oil and gas ban, Pelosi was breaking with the Democratic president and his team. Administration officials were worried about skyrocketing gas prices as well as the possible ramifications of such a policy without the support of their European allies, who are much more reliant on Russian energy.
At the time, the legislation also included measures to restrict trade with Russia, and the White House was hoping to delay or kill the effort. Though Biden and his advisers had privately decided they were fine supporting the Russian energy import ban, they were still more skittish when it came to the trade portions of the bill, officials said.
Executive staff had already begun expressing their concern to the relevant committees about passing such a bill without the administration's approval, and urged them to hold off until they could ensure the international community would support their provisions.
But momentum was rapidly shifting away from the White House.
Two days later, a Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky virtually addressed members of Congress. For roughly an hour, the Ukrainian leader pleaded with lawmakers to send military support in the form of weapons, antitank and anti-air missile systems, and asked for the U.S. to institute a no-fly zone over Ukraine. He also requested that the United States start hitting Putin where it hurt, asking for direct sanctions on the Russian president and the banning of oil imports.
Lawmakers left the meeting with Zelensky eager to the support the Ukrainian president. That Monday, committee leaders announced a rare bipartisan deal - a proposal that would ban Russian oil and gas imports in the United States; limit trade relationships with Russia and its neighboring ally Belarus; and force U.S. trade representatives to begin looking into how they could temporarily suspend Russia's participation in the World Trade Organization.
Later that same day, Biden picked up the phone.
In an evening call with Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., Biden asked the Democratic leaders to stand down on the legislation, which still included the trade restrictions. Pelosi, however, made clear how important it was to show Congress's support for Ukraine through a rare bipartisan deal that both chambers could agree on, three people familiar with the call said.
Pelosi also told Biden that, politically, it was important to get Republicans to support the energy ban because it would make it harder for them to blame Biden for any future gas price hikes, these people said.
She said she was open to discussing removing some of the trade provisions - the part of the legislation that most concerned Biden - but said limits on Russian energy would get a vote no matter what, these people added.
"We're going forward," Pelosi told the president, one of these people said.
The next day, Biden announced he would support a ban on energy imports even without the backing of the international community.
"We will not be part of subsidizing Putin's war," Biden said, announcing the ban from the Roosevelt Room.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, White House aides had been working to alert allies to their change in plans.
Victoria Nuland, the undersecretary of state for political affairs, had initially told G-7 allies that the United States was still exploring a ban on Russian oil and gas, according to two people familiar with the meeting. Nuland reconvened the allies to inform them that Biden would be announcing a ban after all.
And Barbara Pompili, France's minister of ecological transition, said later that Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm had called "to warn me a few days before the announcement, because they don't want to put us in a difficult situation."
Finally, late on Wednesday, March 9 - six days after Pelosi first announced her support - the House approved the legislation banning Russian oil and gas imports, as well as directing the U.S. Trade Representative to use "the voice and influence of the United States" at the WTO to condemn Russian aggression in Ukraine and encourage it to force Russia out of trade relations.
Later in the week, Pelosi began her remarks to reporters attending a Democratic retreat in Philadelphia by applauding the president for supporting the provisions.
"I want to commend the president for his extraordinary leadership," she said.
The comment - like so many asides from Biden - was impromptu and unplanned.
Speaking March 16 at an event to celebrate the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, Biden turned and responded to a reporter's shouted question about Putin.
Yes, Biden affirmed, "I think Putin is a war criminal."
The next day, Biden doubled down, calling Putin "a murderous dictator, a pure thug, who is waging an immoral war against the people of Ukraine."
But the administration at that point had not made an assessment on whether Russian forces had committed war crimes, which would come six days later.
It was emblematic of Biden's approach to the Ukraine crisis, where his deliberate machinations have frequently been upended by his tendency to speak from a place of emotion.
At the time, asked about Biden's "war criminal" assertion, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said, "He was speaking from his heart and speaking from what we've seen on television, which is barbaric actions by a brutal dictator through his invasion of a foreign country."
The approach has served to personalize the crisis, in ways that can cause complications. Moscow immediately condemned Biden's war criminal remark as "unacceptable and unforgivable." Similarly, Biden's later remarks about Putin not remaining in power may have fed the Russian leader's paranoia in a way that U.S. officials had sought to avoid.
For Biden, however, the crisis in Ukraine is deeply personal. As President Barack Obama's No. 2, Biden served as the administration's point person on Ukraine, having visited the country six times during that period and developing an especially close relationship with former leader Petro Poroshenko, with whom he had at least 50 calls and meetings.
He devotes much of the epilogue of his 2017 memoir, "Promise Me, Dad," to a speech he delivered to Ukraine's parliament, the Rada, at the end of 2015, after Russia annexed Crimea and Ukraine was still working to become a fledgling Western democracy.
Calling it "as important a speech as I had ever made in Europe," Biden writes, "I told them they had arrived at a moment of being able to create a real, independent, and sustainable democracy in Ukraine that was akin to America's own revolutionary moment more than two hundred years earlier."
Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said Biden's personalization of the conflict with Russia can also be an asset.
"I think it galvanizes the attention of the world about how horrific the actions [are] that Putin's been taking here: the war crimes that are being committed, the inhumanity that is being exhibited," Menendez said. "President Biden is a very soulful person. He's a man of deep faith, and I'm sure he sees these atrocities and he ultimately speaks as to what's in his heart, and in some respects that's refreshing."
As the war in Ukraine approached the end of its first month, aides say, Biden realized the crisis was only going to get harder.
The devastating images from Eastern Europe that had rallied the world in moral outrage against Russia could lose their shock value, and the adrenaline and momentum that had launched the Western alliance into fierce action might start to fade. Fissures and new challenges were likely to emerge.
The allies, Biden decided, needed to gather in person.
Biden's team, knowing there was already a European Council meeting scheduled in Brussels in late March, sprang to action. Julianne Smith, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, organized a NATO meeting in Belgium's capital for the same day, and Biden advisers also decided to try to pull the G-7 nations together for a meeting. Germany, the current chair of the G-7, invited Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to fly in for the gathering, and he agreed.
"Biden said, 'I'm coming to NATO on this day,' and we were all like, 'Great, we'll come, too,'" said one European diplomat, explaining how the United States spearheaded the day of meetings in Brussels on March 24.
The goal was both to discuss NATO's role in deterrence and security assistance for Ukraine, as well as the E.U. role in sanctions and export controls - and, equally important, to keep the allies unified against Russia.
In some respects, Biden's handling of the crisis has been a success story for his administration. He came to office promising to restore America's credibility on the global stage and, unlike under former president Donald Trump - who repeatedly threatened to dismantle NATO - foreign leaders and diplomats say the military alliance is stronger than it has been in decades. Biden has even found some spots of rare bipartisan agreement at home.
From the beginning, Biden has been generally clear about U.S. strategic objectives, and his leadership has helped define the contours of the conflict. Before Russia invaded, Biden signed off on a decision to declassify intelligence and share it widely, both with allies and the public.
He also outlined steps he was unwilling to take, because he feared such actions would put the United States on a path to direct military confrontation with Russia. He has said he will not send U.S. combat troops into Ukraine, nor will he support a no-fly zone there.
And it was Biden who, after consulting with military leaders and the intelligence community, made the decision not to help send Polish MiG fighter jets to Ukraine through the U.S. Ramstein Air Base in Germany, fearing it would be seen by Moscow as direct U.S. involvement.
"The amount of time that the president is spending on this, the meetings that they're having every day - frequently late at night - this is not somebody who's deferring big pieces of this policy to his Cabinet," said Ian Bremmer, president of the Eurasia Group, a global risk consultancy. "I think he's very involved."
Alongside allies in Brussels, Biden announced a plan to reduce Europe's reliance on Russian fossil fuels, which includes working to increase liquefied natural gas exports to Europe by at least 15 billion cubic meters this year. And he said the United States would take in 100,000 Ukrainian refugees, as well as provide $1 billion in new humanitarian aid.
In Brussels, the G-7 also released a sharply worded statement warning Russia of the consequences of using chemical, biological or nuclear weapons in the conflict. But diplomats and U.S. officials said there was little discussion of specific scenarios - or hypothetical responses from the West - should Russia go ahead with such a move.
The Biden administration has stood up a second "Tiger Team" to internally game out different attacks and responses, but has been especially cautious about sharing any possible repercussions publicly.
"We've had the opportunity to coordinate with our allies. We've had the opportunity to get organized internally. We've been clear publicly that Russia would pay a severe price," Sullivan told reporters, flying from Brussels to Poland on Air Force One. "And beyond that, I'm not going to speak further to the issue."
Part of the reticence is because officials warn it is hard to know how to respond without knowing the form and scale of what Russia might do. A massive chemical attack on a residential area in Kyiv, for instance, is different than a targeted attack against the Ukrainian military in a less populous area. The United States and its allies believe Russia is likely to try to first test their resolve with a smaller attack on Ukrainian troops, several people familiar with the discussions said.
But in Brussels, another subtext for not wanting to draw a red line with Russia over chemical weapons was also clear, these people said. As president, Obama famously threatened to enforce a red line against such weapons in Syria, but then failed to act when the country's leader used chemical weapons on his own people.
"The main thing was learning lessons from Obama," said the European diplomat. "We don't want to set a red line and not stick to it."
Already, some of the challenges Biden predicted when he gathered the NATO allies are starting to emerge. New evidence of Russian atrocities in Ukraine - including gruesome images from Bucha of dead bodies in the streets and evidence of executions and torture - have horrified much of the world, but Europe remains divided on how much it can pare back its use of Russian energy in response.
And despite Ukraine beating back the Russian military far more successfully than most anticipated, the fighting is expected to drag on. Speaking in the White House briefing room Monday, Sullivan said the administration believes "Russia is revising its war aims" and repositioning its forces in the eastern and southern parts of the country.
He said he expected Russia to focus its efforts on the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, but also warned that Moscow will continue air and missile strikes across the country - "frankly, to cause terror," he said - in cities like Kharkiv, Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa.
Zelensky has tried to offer off-ramps to Russia, saying he could do so if he had certain security guarantees from the United States and other Western allies. But even if the West was willing to offer such assistance, one person familiar with the discussions said, there is skepticism that Putin would accept such an outcome.
Administration officials and diplomats now talk about the war - which they once hoped to prevent - in terms of months, if not years.
For Biden, Putin's escalation tactics have only reaffirmed his early assessment of the Russian leader. On Monday, the president said the West still needs to provide Ukraine the weapons they need to fight the Russians and gather information on the atrocities to have a war crimes trial.
"You may remember I got criticized for calling Putin a war criminal," Biden said. "Well, the truth of the matter - you saw what happened in Bucha. This warrants him - he is a war criminal."
He concluded: "This guy is brutal. And what's happening in Bucha is outrageous, and everyone's seen it."
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/military/biden-at-war-inside-a-deliberate-yet-impulsive-ukraine-strategy/article_70d1ce61-1688-53e7-b42f-23d97377c6d8.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:20
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/military/biden-at-war-inside-a-deliberate-yet-impulsive-ukraine-strategy/article_70d1ce61-1688-53e7-b42f-23d97377c6d8.html
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A funeral service employee looks at bodies of civilians, collected from streets to local cemetery, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Bucha, outside Kyiv, Ukraine April 6, 2022.
SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB Police investigators work with bodies of civilians, collected from streets to local cemetery, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Bucha, outside Kyiv, Ukraine April 6, 2022.
Funeral service employees and police investigators work with bodies of civilians, collected from streets to local cemetery, as Russia?s attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Bucha, outside Kyiv, Ukraine April 6, 2022.
A funeral service employee looks at bodies of civilians, collected from streets to local cemetery, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Bucha, outside Kyiv, Ukraine April 6, 2022.
REUTERS/Oleg Pereverzev
SENSITIVE MATERIAL. THIS IMAGE MAY OFFEND OR DISTURB Police investigators work with bodies of civilians, collected from streets to local cemetery, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Bucha, outside Kyiv, Ukraine April 6, 2022.
REUTERS/Oleg Pereverzev
Funeral service employees and police investigators work with bodies of civilians, collected from streets to local cemetery, as Russia?s attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Bucha, outside Kyiv, Ukraine April 6, 2022.
BERLIN - Germany's foreign intelligence service claims to have intercepted radio communications in which Russian soldiers discuss carrying out indiscriminate killings of civilians in Bucha.
Scenes from the town, near the Ukrainian capital, have become a symbol of the war's atrocities and galvanized calls for probes into possible war crimes. The findings, first reported by the German magazine Der Spiegel and confirmed by three people briefed on the information, further undermine claims by Russia that the killings were carried out after its soldiers had left the Kyiv suburb.
The foreign intelligence agency, known as the BND, was able to match signal intelligence with videos and satellite images to make sense of specific killings, two people told The Washington Post.
In one radio communication, a soldier speaks of shooting someone off a bicycle, consistent with videos showing Russian tanks appearing to open fire on a cyclist, the two people said. The radio traffic is also said to indicate that members of the Wagner Group, the private military unit with close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies, played a role in the attacks on civilians while Russian forces were in control of the town.
The BND on Wednesday briefed two parliamentary committees on the findings, according to people familiar with the process. One person said additional radio messages are likely to provide greater insight into similar atrocities in other towns north of Kyiv that had been held by Russian soldiers.
"The reported cruelties have affected the members of the respective committees where it was reported very strongly," said one of the people briefed on the intelligence. Another person said the agency had high confidence in the findings, though it was not specific about how it obtained the radio communication.
The BND did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A government spokesman, Steffen Hebestreit, made an elliptical reference Wednesday there were "credible indications" that Russian forces in Bucha were interrogating prisoners "who were subsequently executed." He cited only "insights that we have."
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/military/germany-intercepts-russian-conversations-on-killing-civilians-in-bucha/article_f7f0e639-6e2f-5612-9f86-03cafc3a204b.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:27
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/military/germany-intercepts-russian-conversations-on-killing-civilians-in-bucha/article_f7f0e639-6e2f-5612-9f86-03cafc3a204b.html
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BRUSSELS - Ukraine's top diplomat made a pointed appeal to NATO on Thursday to drop reservations about providing additional arms to Ukrainian forces that he said were urgently needed to prevent further Russian atrocities against civilians.
Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba traveled to Brussels to address a gathering of his counterparts from across the Western alliance, saying he had a threefold agenda: "weapons, weapons, weapons."
"The more weapons we get, and the sooner they arrive in Ukraine, the more human lives will be saved," Kuleba said ahead of the meeting. "The more cities and villages will not be destructed. And there will be no more Buchas," he said, referencing the city outside Kyiv where the withdrawal of Russian troops revealed scenes of horrific human suffering, including apparently tortured and executed civilians.
"I call on all allies to put aside their hesitations, their reluctance to provide Ukraine with everything it needs," Kuleba continued. "Because, as weird as it may sound, but today weapons serve the purpose of peace."
He said Kyiv, struggling to gain an upper hand against a larger, better armed Russian force, faced a particular need for aircraft, armored vehicles, anti-ship missiles and additional air defense systems. NATO nations have provided an increasing array of arms since Russia's invasion began on Feb. 24, including anti-aircraft missiles, tanks and kamikaze drones, but alliance members, nervous that Russia might launch a retaliatory attack, have stopped short of sending fighter jets or establishing a no-fly zone over Ukraine.
Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg echoed the need for NATO countries to provide additional light and heavy weaponry to Ukrainian forces, whose stiff resistance helped force Russia to pull back from positions around Kyiv and turn toward southern and eastern Ukraine.
Kuleba characterized the distinction that some NATO members have made between offensive and defensive weapons as "hypocritical," and he criticized the argument that expanding support could pull NATO into a direct conflict with Russia. Ukraine is not a NATO member.
"I think the deal that Ukraine is offering is fair. You give us weapons; we sacrifice our lives, and the war is contained in Ukraine," he said. "This is it."
Kuleba's blunt appeal echoed the approach that other Ukrainian leaders, particularly President Volodymyr Zelensky, have taken as they seek to rally the world against Russian President Vladimir Putin's assault: direct and vocal criticism of anything less than full support for Ukraine and a singling out of nations that fail to meet that mark.
Kuleba named Germany as an example of nations that had held back from giving as much military support as they might provide. "While Berlin has time, Kyiv doesn't," he said.
Divisions among Western nations about how far to go with military aid to Ukraine are also visible in the economic arena, as some countries call for more drastic action to deprive Russia of energy income, while others balk at steps that could increase the burden felt by European consumers.
While the European Union this week proposed a ban on Russian coal imports, the bloc has yet to halt purchases of Russian oil and gas that continue to provide Moscow a valuable inflow of cash. Ukraine has condemned that position and has called for, on top of a slew of global sanctions already in place, all Russian banks to be cut off from the global financial system.
The Biden administration on Wednesday announced new measures targeting Putin's adult children and additional Russian banks.
"I hope we will never face a situation again when to step up the sanctions pressure, we need atrocities like Bucha to be revealed and to impress and to shock other partners to the extent that they sit down and say, 'Okay, fine‚ we will introduce new sanctions,' " Kuleba said.
Images of mass graves and civilian corpses strewn on the streets of Bucha have prompted international outrage. Even before, the Biden administration announced last month a formal assessment that Russian forces were committing war crimes in Ukraine.
In a further sign of global anger at Russia's actions, the NATO meeting was also attended by ministers from non-NATO nations Japan, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, Georgia, Finland and Sweden.
Kuleba is expected to meet later in the day with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
In remarks posted Wednesday on the State Department's Telegram channel, as part of an attempt to reach the Russian audience, Blinken said arms provided by Western nations had been instrumental in blocking Russia's failed attempt to seize Kyiv.
The Biden administration has announced a series of weapons transfers to Ukraine, including most recently $100 million in Javelin antitank missiles.
"What we're focused on is making sure that we get to Ukraine the systems that they can use now and use effectively," Blinken said. "At the same time, we're looking at other systems - some of them larger, more sophisticated - that may be useful and important going forward, but where, for example, Ukrainians need to be trained, because some of these systems, you can't just turn them over and have them be used immediately."
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/military/ukraine-presses-nato-for-more-aid-weapons-weapons-weapons/article_2dae8418-fba9-52f8-9113-b029a4994d9c.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:33
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/military/ukraine-presses-nato-for-more-aid-weapons-weapons-weapons/article_2dae8418-fba9-52f8-9113-b029a4994d9c.html
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The state Executive Council gave initial approval last Wednesday to build a 15-acre veterans residential campus in Franklin.
The head of the state office dispensing pandemic aid walked away from the council meeting with permission to continue negotiating a $23 million contract to build the campus. Councilors said they support the intent of the project, but want more information about it and the state’s plans for a contract with Easterseals NH.
In February, during his State of State address, Gov. Chris Sununu announced exciting plans for the veterans’ campus, which would be a collaborative partnership between the state, Easterseals NH and the veterans nonprofit group Swim With A Mission.
The campus will offer affordable housing for veterans and their families, and be a hub for services offered to veterans.
The campus would be on Holy Cross Road along the Northern Rail Trail and is a short distance from the Merrimack River.
If the project is approved, Easterseals NH will manage day-to-day operations and use the property’s existing buildings to create 21 apartments and units for both permanent and transitional veteran housing, and 16 “retreat” beds for shorter stays.
The campus will have onsite mental health and substance misuse treatment, home care services, a fitness center, and equine and pet therapy.
Swim With A Mission is working with veterans service organizations to get involved in the project. The goal is to bring all of the state’s veterans service organizations together to facilitate programs and services at the campus.
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/veterans/executive-council-signals-approval-for-residential-campus-for-vets-in-franklin/article_2d6f3915-9b4d-5b9f-b4e7-b79fa15d7308.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:39
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/veterans/executive-council-signals-approval-for-residential-campus-for-vets-in-franklin/article_2d6f3915-9b4d-5b9f-b4e7-b79fa15d7308.html
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Pets beaten to death. Parents forced to separate from their children. Elderly folks unable to access medical care. Locked-up residents chanting "we want to eat" and "we want freedom."
As much of the world moves on from the pandemic, the desperate scenes seeping out of China's most global city have shocked even citizens who were once staunch supporters of President Xi Jinping's Covid Zero strategy to eliminate the virus. The struggle to obtain daily necessities like food and medical care has triggered rare pushback from residents, with some saying the Communist Party's cure is worse than the disease.
"In this country it's not the virus that scares us, but the chaotic anti-Covid measures that have caused risks to the well-being of the elderly, the children and companion animals," said Lily Chen, who lives in Shanghai with her three cats. "I now realize we can only rely on ourselves -- not the government -- to protect our own families."
Another Shanghai resident, Regina Li, said she had long supported the government and even defended the strict measures at the start of the lockdown, which began in parts of the city on March 28 before spreading to cover nearly everywhere. But the widespread difficulties of vulnerable people started to change her mind, and she broke down in tears after seeing social-media posts of a virus-control worker beating a dog to death.
"I feel I no longer know the city," Li said. "The only thing in my mind is to protect my dogs. Anyone who wants to kill them, come kill me first."
The growing angst risks becoming one of the biggest challenges to Xi perhaps since he took power in 2012, and comes just months before he's expected to secure a precedent-breaking third term at a twice-a-decade party congress later this year. The outbreak has virtually paralyzed one of China's most sophisticated and recognizable cities, with businesses shuttered and factories of companies like Tesla halting production.
Although the Communist Party remains firmly in control, the rare grassroots criticism undercuts Xi's ability to trumpet his Covid-19 strategy as evidence of China's superior model of governance -- a key justification for him to stay in power. China's Foreign Ministry has regularly blasted the U.S. and Europe for allowing so many deaths, while saying Xi's policy was "beyond reproach."
Greater pushback by residents in Shanghai could also inspire other cities to resist lockdowns and other stringent measures used by China to fight the virus. The northeastern province of Jilin, an automaking and farming hub, has also been locked down for nearly a month, prompting residents to complain on social media about running out of food, cancer medication and baby formula.
The situation could still get worse in other parts of the country. China's outbreak is surpassing a level not seen since February 2020, when a one-day correction in the way it tracked cases pushed daily infections past 15,000, largely in Wuhan.
"There is the risk of a slow-burn discontent if lockdown measures spread across China," said Chen Shih-Min, an associate political science professor at National Taiwan University. "And if its virus strategy goes out of control and heavily affects its economy, this will not look good as Xi attempts a third term. At that point, Xi will have no choice but to ramp up his nationalism agenda."
The Communist Party is feeling the heat. On Wednesday it issued a rare call imploring rank-and-file members to help contain the coronavirus in Shanghai, where daily cases rose to more than 19,900.
"We must dare to draw our swords and fight against all kinds of behaviors that interfere with and undermine the overall situation of the fight against the epidemic," the party's top branch in Shanghai wrote to members in an open letter. It urged them to "take the initiative to speak out against all kinds of noises, especially rumors, to clarify right and wrong, and to unite a strong force to overcome the difficulties together."
China Censors Shanghai Protest Videos as Lockdown Anger Grows
Shanghai officials are also racing to reassure residents they can access essential supplies in a city home to top banks and the biggest stock exchange in the world's No. 2 economy. The lockdowns and virus-containment measures threaten to slow China's growth this year to below the government's 5.5% target, according to Bloomberg Economics.
Deputy Mayor Chen Tong on Thursday pledged to "unlock" wholesale markets, fulfillment centers, e-commerce warehouses and central kitchens to ease the supply crunch for goods like infant formula. At the same briefing, Meituan Vice President Mao Fang said the food delivery company would bring in 1,000 sorting workers from outside the city to speed up deliveries.
Officials have ramped up assistance in recent days. Some residents have begun receiving food packs from the government that include eggs, milk, vegetables and luncheon meat. In certain places, those locked in have joined together to sing patriotic songs like "Me and My Motherland" from their balconies and chant "Shanghai, Keep Fighting."
The letter from the Communist Party committee in Shanghai on Wednesday appealed to patriotism. "Today, we communists in Shanghai must carry forward the founding spirit of the party, and let the party flag stand high on the front line of the fight against the epidemic," it said.
Still, even that was met with scorn from some internet users.
"Where's the party flag? Where's your fortress and vanguard?" Weibo user Ah Dai Is Speechless wrote. "We don't see anything but chaos, disorder and discrimination."
'No Humanity Left'
The government has tried to censor the unrest, with Bloomberg reporting last week that videos of a rare protest in a locked-down housing compound were deleted from a social media platform by tech giant Tencent Holdings Ltd. Other incidents that have gone viral on Chinese social media platforms are still accessible on places like Twitter and YouTube.
One in particular captured an older man who said that Shanghainse people are practically being put in prison. "Really shame on you. Treat us like animals," the man said in the clip. "In other countries, you can't even treat a cat or a dog like this. There is no humanity left."
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/world/shanghai-lockdown-risks-becoming-biggest-crisis-of-xis-tenure/article_7b031528-be9e-572a-8687-64e994e00cef.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:45
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/world/shanghai-lockdown-risks-becoming-biggest-crisis-of-xis-tenure/article_7b031528-be9e-572a-8687-64e994e00cef.html
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PORTLAND, Maine — With daytime temperatures barely cracking 50 degrees and their nighttime counterparts still dipping into the 30s, it may not feel like it's time for baseball just yet.
But it is.
The sun is getting brighter, the grass is thinking about greening up and the Sea Dogs are back in town.
Portland's Double-A baseball team, affiliated with the Boston Red Sox, is set to kick off its 28th season on Friday at 6 p.m. when they take on the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at Hadlock Field.
The local weather is a far cry from Florida's sunny warmth, where team members spent recent weeks in spring training. Still, infielder Hudson Potts summed up the clubhouse mood in three short words.
"Spring is good," Potts said.
Sea Dogs President and General Manager Geoff Iacuessa started at the club as an intern in 2001. Now, starting his 22nd year with the team, he said opening day still gets him excited.
"It never gets old," Iacuessa said. "If it ever does, it'll be time to pack it in."
Sitting in front of their adjacent lockers in the clubhouse, pitchers Brandon Walter and Darin Gillies both said they were looking forward to the season getting underway.
Walter, a lefty, is brand new to the Sea Dogs after splitting his time between the Greenville Drive and Salem Red Sox in 2021. He finished last season with a 5-4 record and a 2.92 ERA. He started 14 games and appeared in relief in 11 more. Walter is the Red Sox's overall number nine prospect.
"I'll be trying to adjust to this level of competition," Walter said. "They say that Double-A is the biggest separator in professional baseball.
Gillies spent last year in the Texas and Pacific Coast Minor Leagues.
"I'm going to focus on winning as many baseball games as possible," he said. "This is my seventh year in professional baseball and I always have more fun when we win."
The Sea Dogs' opening day roster includes five of their parent club's top 30 prospects and 16 returning players from last season.
Notable players suiting up for Friday's game include right-handed pitcher Brayan Bello, who is the Red Sox's top pitching prospect and rated number five overall in the organization. Bello was promoted to Portland in 2021 after going 5-0 with a 2.27 ERA down south with the Greenville Drive. Bello then made 15 starts in Portland, finishing the season with a 2-3 record and 4.66 ERA. He also struck out 87 in his 63.2 innings of work.
Returning left-handed pitcher Chris Murphy was named Double-A Northeast League Pitcher of the week twice in 2021, hurling for the Sea Dogs. The number 11 prospect was promoted to Portland last summer on July 31, then made six starts for the Sea Dogs. Murphy held opposing hitters to a .242 batting average and struck out 47 in 33 innings.
Infielder Christian Koss is brand new to the team after playing for Greenville last year. In 104 games in 2021, Koss hit .271 with 18 doubles, seven triples and 15 home runs while driving in 55 runs. He was acquired in a trade with the Colorado Rockies for Yoan Aybar in 2020.
Infielder David Hamilton is making his Red Sox organization debut this week. Hamilton was acquired by the Red Sox from Milwaukee, along with Portland alumni Jackie Bradley Jr. and Alex Binelas, for Hunter Renfroe in 2021. Like Bradley, Hamilton is known for his speed, having the fifth-most stolen bases and third-most triples in all minor league levels last year.
In the outfield, 2021 Sea Dogs Pedro Castellanos and Wil Dalton are returning while Tyler Dearden and Isranel Wilson are making their debuts. Dearden led Greenville in home runs last year with 24. Signed as a free agent in 2022, Wilson spent 2021 with the Rocket City Trash Pandas in California, hitting .247 with eight doubles and 21 home runs.
Manager Chad Epperson is new to the job this year after spending the last 12 seasons as the Red Sox's catching coordinator. Though it's been a while, this is not his first time managing in the minors leagues.
Prior to his coaching stint in Boston, Epperson managed Red Sox club affiliates in Augusta, Greenville, Wilmington, Lancaster and Salem.
Epperson said he's looking forward to helping members of his team develop to their full potential this season.
"We have a very talented group and they're a lot closer to the big leagues than most of them realize," he said.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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https://www.unionleader.com/sports/red_sox/top-red-sox-baseball-prospects-are-reporting-to-maine-this-week/article_c6b8b1f4-44de-5b11-8fe7-b2267bd9cc61.html
| 2022-04-07T13:53:51
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https://www.unionleader.com/sports/red_sox/top-red-sox-baseball-prospects-are-reporting-to-maine-this-week/article_c6b8b1f4-44de-5b11-8fe7-b2267bd9cc61.html
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There is plenty to discuss relating to the 86th Masters Tournament, from course changes to Tiger Woods' chances. In this Golf Central Podcast presented by Callaway Golf, senior writers Ryan Lavner and Rex Hoggard cover those areas and more.
But what's a Lavner and Hoggard podcast without talking food? Privy to all the sandwiches for free in the press building, they rank their favorite Masters foods.
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https://www.golfchannel.com/news/golf-central-podcast-masters-changes-tigers-chances-and-ranking-food
| 2022-04-07T13:56:39
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https://www.golfchannel.com/news/golf-central-podcast-masters-changes-tigers-chances-and-ranking-food
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/living/amory-nettleton-hosting-citywide-yard-sales/article_d42f6abe-fb73-5eed-a573-eaffe13b7641.html
| 2022-04-07T13:59:20
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/living/amory-nettleton-hosting-citywide-yard-sales/article_d42f6abe-fb73-5eed-a573-eaffe13b7641.html
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Illinois University senior Kaylee Heines and North Carolina State University professor Matthew Parker prepare to release a weather balloon from the Prairie Industrial Park ahead of March 30's severe weather front that swept through the region. The two of them, along with Illinois University student Jessica Skocinski, launched several weather balloons that day as part of a federally funded study to better predict storms.
Dr. Vanna Chmielewski, a research scientist with the Cooperative Institute for Severe and High-Impact Weather Research and Operations NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory, sets up a mobile storm tracking unit at Amory's Concord Fields to monitor last week's storm front. The station is capable of tracking storm data for a radius of 10 miles.
Illinois University senior Kaylee Heines and North Carolina State University professor Matthew Parker prepare to release a weather balloon from the Prairie Industrial Park ahead of March 30's severe weather front that swept through the region. The two of them, along with Illinois University student Jessica Skocinski, launched several weather balloons that day as part of a federally funded study to better predict storms.
Dr. Vanna Chmielewski, a research scientist with the Cooperative Institute for Severe and High-Impact Weather Research and Operations NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory, sets up a mobile storm tracking unit at Amory's Concord Fields to monitor last week's storm front. The station is capable of tracking storm data for a radius of 10 miles.
Last week’s severe storm front prompted both storm chasers and scientific researchers to different places throughout Monroe County and the region.
The National Weather Service did confirm a tornado struck Monroe County from the system.
As teams associated with a federally funded severe weather research project were scattered across parts of north Mississippi and Alabama last week, a couple of Monroe County sites helped them compile to data.
The Cooperative Institute for Severe and High-Impact Weather Research and Operations’ National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) has recently sent teams of research scientists to the area from its home base in Norman, Oklahoma to study patterns of the severe weather in the area.
The team, which also includes college students and professors, is under the direction of Dr. Vanna Chmielewski.
“We are collaborating with several other research teams and universities. In order to make sure we’re all coordinating with each other, we have daily weather briefings and discuss the forecast of potentially severe events days ahead of time," she said.
Chmielewski said the goal of the collaborating teams is to come to a consensus on the general area most likely to be in the path of tornadic squall lines, which is the primary research focus.
“We make this call a couple of days ahead so teams can travel in,” she said.
Chmielewski and an assistant set up a mobile weather station at Concord Fields in Amory March 29 to track severe weather that swept though the area the following day.
As the storm front was crossing the Mississippi River, a separate team, which included North Carolina State University professor Matthew Parker and Illinois University students, Kaylee Heines and Jessica Skocinski, launched weather balloons from the Prairie Industrial Park to gather data.
“We decide to come when forecasts look favorable and, of course, our forecasts aren’t perfect. Sometimes what we think will be good isn’t and vice versa. For this day, there is a fair amount of instability," Parker said, who added the research is helping to better understand tornadoes in the southeast.
He said various pieces of monitoring equipment used through the study help provide data to compile a complete story about particular storms.
A NSSL team was in the area south of Columbus two weeks ago to track the storms that resulted in an EF-1 tornado that left damage in Clay and Monroe counties.
Managing editor Ray Van Dusen contributed to this story.
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/news/monroe-county-falls-in-the-path-of-severe-weather-research/article_fa4cbe2e-b26c-56ba-8b88-d52246b78363.html
| 2022-04-07T13:59:26
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/news/monroe-county-falls-in-the-path-of-severe-weather-research/article_fa4cbe2e-b26c-56ba-8b88-d52246b78363.html
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While the return of accountability ratings is on the horizon for school districts across the state, there is an effort to ask for relief, given ongoing challenges posed through the COVID-19 pandemic’s adverse impact on education.
In a letter from the North MS Education Consortium to the State Board of Education and State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carey Wright, superintendents are requesting more time before accountability ratings are put back into place.
“The North Mississippi superintendent group is basically asking for consideration of holding districts harmless from the accountability grade assignments this year due to the continued pandemic this year. The consideration of using banked scores from ninth grade that was given during the pandemic will not be a true representation of our students’ capabilities. The accountability grade assignments for this year will not be a true reflection of our teachers’ efforts or our students’ skills,” said Monroe County School District Superintendent Brian Jernigan.
Jernigan thinks the Mississippi Department of Education could exercise some flexibility by revisiting benchmark requirements such as the third-grade reading test, which paves the way for students to advance to fourth grade.
“Our third-graders have not had a formal school year all the time that they have been in school,” Jernigan said.
He anticipates many school districts will face decreases in achievement levels due to the lack of face-to-face instruction brought on by the pandemic.
“Our communities and stakeholders need to be aware of this,” he said.
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/news/superintendents-consortium-asks-for-reprieve-to-accountability-ratings/article_6286b5a3-168e-5cc7-b2c4-abac1293061d.html
| 2022-04-07T13:59:32
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/news/superintendents-consortium-asks-for-reprieve-to-accountability-ratings/article_6286b5a3-168e-5cc7-b2c4-abac1293061d.html
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Amory's Sasha Burdine signed to play volleyball with Mississippi University for Women last Wednesday. Pictured sitting, from left: Samone Burdine, Sasha Burdine, Shana Burdine. Back, from left: Shuntina Roberts, coach Shay Ashford, Steven Burdine.
Multi-sport athlete Sasha Burdine signed her letter of intent to play volleyball for Mississippi University for Women on Wednesday morning.
Burdine said that she was at a crossroads between either playing basketball or volleyball in college, but her love for the game of volleyball led her to sign with the W.
“I really love sports, and I had to make a choice between volleyball or basketball,” Burdine said. “Volleyball really stole my heart, and the W was just there for me and wanted to sign me. I love their new coach because he’s very nice, and I love their campus.”
During her senior season for the Lady Panthers, Burdine finished with 49 kills and 13 aces as she helped lead Amory to the second round of the playoffs.
First-year Amory coach Shay Ashford said that Burdine’s leadership and athleticism led the Lady Panthers to a successful season, and she believes that her skills will transfer over to the next level.
“Sasha (Burdine) played a big role in being a leader for us this year,” she said. “A lot of players really looked up to her not only for that leadership role but also for her athleticism. She was probably by far one of the most athletic players on the team, and she loved doing everything. She definitely brought that leadership that we needed with our younger group, and with me being the new coach coming in, she helped everyone get adapted to me. With her top-notch athleticism and effort, I know she’ll succeed at the next level.”
Burdine plans to carry over her leadership skills to the W and hopes to have a winning season during her freshman year.
“I want to improve on my overall skills, be a good teammate and take on more responsibilities for myself,” she said. “My goals coming in are to just have a winning season and be there for support as a freshman.”
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/amory-s-burdine-signs-with-muw-volleyball/article_dc4efe7a-0c51-5ff4-bf1e-f3c786b7d4ee.html
| 2022-04-07T13:59:38
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/amory-s-burdine-signs-with-muw-volleyball/article_dc4efe7a-0c51-5ff4-bf1e-f3c786b7d4ee.html
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This year’s girls' and boys' powerlifting state championship saw 12 lifters from area schools make the podium on Friday and Saturday led by three seniors in Amory's JaTavious Ward, Nettleton's Emma Mask and Smithville's Jake Jarrett took home first place honors.
Ward dominated the scene at Jackson in Saturday’s Class 3A state championship as he placed first in the 132-weight class, and he also set a new state record for the squat.
“I’ve been coming in second for the past few years, so for me to break a record and come in first place is a big accomplishment for me,” Ward said. “My teammates really helped me get to this point because we always work out together and push each other to be the best we can be.”
Ward’s record for squat was 440, breaking the original record of 430, while his best on deadlift was 435 and for bench was 175.
"Last year, JaTavious (Ward) finished second in his class, and with him being a returning senior, I had really high expectations for him," Amory coach Zack Stephenson said. "He's met those expectations all year because every meet he's competed in he's finished first, and I'm super happy for him."
Smithville senior and returning state champion Jarrett walked away with his second straight first-place medal, this time in the 123-weight class on Saturday after lifting a total of 765 pounds.
"Jake (Jarrett) won in the 114 class last year, and to move into a different weight class and win it this year is very impressive," Smithville coach Chad Collums said.
On the day, Jarrett’s best on squats was 300, on deadlift was 315 and on bench was 150.
“Winning again means a lot because I started my sophomore year, and I’ve been doing it for a while and working out all year round since seventh grade because of football,” Jarrett said. “I’ve put a lot of work into this, and I’m a little upset that it’s over. I had a good run, and I’m happy with everything I’ve achieved through the years.”
On Friday, Mask claimed her first-place medal in the 132-weight class, finishing with a max deadlift of 310, a max squat of 295 and a max bench of 115.
“I never imagined myself getting the opportunity to go to state because in my past years of powerlifting, I’ve faced so many defeats,” Mask said. “I think those defeats have only made me work harder, and this was like God’s grace for me to get to go. I loved being in the element and just being in the coliseum was just amazing. I’ve had to work hard behind the scenes and in the offseason, and I’m so very thankful that I had been granted this one opportunity to get to go to state and by God’s grace, I was able to win.”
Nettleton also had four other ladies place in the top three as Savannah Harlow placed second in the 105-weight class, Marley Ford placed third in the 97-weight class, Autumn Jones placed third in the 132-weight class and K’Lee Capps placed third in the 114-weight class.
Nettleton's Morgan Braylock also placed fifth in her weight class.
“This is huge for our program,” Nettleton coach Seth Lee said. “We took six girls, and almost all of them made the podium. We also finished third as a team at state, so that was a pretty big deal because that was the first time that’s been done in about ten years.”
Amory’s boys also had two others make the podium with Ron Jenkins placing second in the 114-weight class, and Nathaniel Walker also placing second in the 181-weight class.
"Ron is the type of guy that you want around in any program that the school has to offer," Stephenson said. "He stepped in and has done everything that we asked him to do, and it paid off for him because he had his best day at state. Nathaniel has been first or second in every meet, so he was right on par where we thought he'd finish at state."
In the 198-pound weight class in Class 1A, Hamilton senior Gavin Lee placed second, finishing with a total weight of 1,120 pounds.
"He's worked extremely hard all year since finishing fourth at the state championship last year," Hamilton coach Wade Tackett said. "He's pushed himself every week to try to increase his numbers, and he was able to post his highest competitive numbers to date at this year's championship."
Aberdeen senior Taniya Morris placed third in the 242-weight class, setting a personal best 250 on squat.
"After all the hype we had surrounding Taniya going to state, I was afraid that the extra pressure would start weighing on her, but it didn't effect her too much," Aberdeen coach Elisabeth Oliver said. "When they called her name, it was an amazing moment. The rest of our team screamed so loud that it seemed like the whole coliseum was cheering for Taniya. She has not only set the bar, but she has raised it for this program.
Smithville senior Tyler Bair placed third in the 165-weight class, lifting a total weight of 925 on Saturday.
"Tyler has gotten strong and better at every meet," Collums said. "We're trying to build our program up, and these younger guys seeing Tyler and Jake (Jarrett) compete at state and be successful will help us out in the long run."
Amory’s La’Kiereni Kelly on the girls' side and Jalyn Nathan and Jarquez Ivy on the boys' side also represented the Panthers at state.
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/seniors-shine-at-powerlifting-state-champs-twelve-make-podium/article_2caa8e3e-ae87-58e7-a125-76107697c0c3.html
| 2022-04-07T13:59:44
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https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/seniors-shine-at-powerlifting-state-champs-twelve-make-podium/article_2caa8e3e-ae87-58e7-a125-76107697c0c3.html
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We've come to the end of an unprecedented, fractious and, at times, sloppy legislative session.
Both chambers of the Mississippi Legislature adjourned sine die on Tuesday, and some lawmakers couldn't leave Jackson fast enough.
Some lawmakers left happy, others angry and one even threw a stack of bills across the chamber out of frustration.
But one thing everyone can agree on: This session was one of the busiest in recent history.
Lawmakers reached historic compromises on teacher pay raises, tax cuts and federal money.
But one thing that people were buzzing about as the left the Capitol dome is what they didn't accomplish -- restoring the initiative process.
"The voters are going to eat us alive if we don't get a handle on that," Rep. Jerry Turner, R-Baldwyn said as he was getting ready to head back to the hills of Northeast Mississippi.
And most lawmakers feel the same way. If citizens don't have a way to directly place items on a statewide ballot for consideration, voters will likely pitch a fit during the next year's election cycle.
The hangup happened in the conference process over the signature threshold.
The House argued that the number of signatures should be equal to 12% of the people who voted during the last statewide election for governor.
The Senate wanted the signatures to be equal to 12% of the registered voters - including those who did not vote – on the day of the last presidential election, which is a much higher threshold.
House Speaker Philip Gunn believes their number is a more fair target for citizens to hit.
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann contends that the higher benchmark will keep frivolous initiatives away from the ballot box and make sure only serious proposals get on the ballot.
Regardless of how intentional and thoughtful Hosemann's skepticism of an initiative process may be, the Senate may end up on the losing end of a future finger pointing war if he isn't careful.
The good thing for the Legislature is the final hurdle over the initiative can't be cleared until the next election cycle anyway.
Whatever change the lawmakers agree to, it must go before the citizens on a statewide ballot anyway for final approval.
So the Capitol leaders get a pass this session, but the heat will likely be turned up even more next session -- right before the statewide ballot.
And if a repeat scenario happens next year, the citizens could likely focus their anger on the body that insisted on a higher signature threshold.
Regardless, this won't be the last time we hear about the initiative process.
On a more personal note, I want to thank all of you for reading along the past three months. This has been a fun, but tiring legislative session.
But this isn't over.
You'll see some version of this newsletter very soon because we're in the process of determining how this type of analysis can best be delivered outside of the session, so that you can continue have up-to-date insider info about state politics year round.
Best from the Daily Journal
Gov. Tate Reeves has signed the largest tax cut in Mississippi's history into law, significantly reducing the revenue of a state with abject poverty, vast health disparities, underfunded public schools, crumbling infrastructure and embattled state agencies.
Both chambers of the state Legislature have approved a final version of a bill that would permit the construction of “freestanding” emergency rooms — ERs unattached to hospitals — in rural counties without one.
Both chambers recently passed House Bill 1510, which allows Mississippi’s election management system to cross-reference voter registration information with state driver’s license systems at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety to see if a noncitizen is registering to vote.
Best from other outlets
Mississippi is the latest Republican-led state to ban election offices from accepting donations from private groups for voting operations — a movement fueled by conservatives’ suspicion of donations by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in 2020. (The Associated Press)
Mississippi is on the verge of scuttling a state song with racist roots, two years after it retired a Confederate-themed state flag. (The Associated Press)
Former Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant used the authority of his office, the weight of his political influence and the power of his connections to help his friend and retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre boost a fledgling pharmaceutical venture. (Mississippi Today)
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https://www.djournal.com/news/state-news/the-session-failure-to-agree-on-the-initiative-process-doesnt-bode-well-for-lawmakers/article_5489faf3-1243-5593-8937-38ca235951a9.html
| 2022-04-07T13:59:50
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https://www.djournal.com/news/state-news/the-session-failure-to-agree-on-the-initiative-process-doesnt-bode-well-for-lawmakers/article_5489faf3-1243-5593-8937-38ca235951a9.html
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More than a million birds have avian flu in Minnesota
Published 8:22 am Thursday, April 7, 2022
ST. PAUL — Minnesota animal health officials say more than a million birds across the state have now been infected with bird flu.
The latest cases reported Wednesday include two commercial poultry flocks in Morrison County and one each in Big Stone, Meeker, Stearns and Waseca counties.
Avian flu has now been found in 21 poultry flocks across 11 Minnesota counties. They include four commercial flocks in Kandiyohi and Morrison counties, three in Stearns County, two in Meeker County and one each in Becker, Big Stone, Dodge, Lac qui Parle, Le Sueur and Waseca counties, as well as backyard flocks in Mower and Stearns counties.
The state Board of Animal Health says most of the affected operations are commercial turkey flocks. The birds are euthanized to keep the virus from spreading.
Minnesota’s turkey industry includes nearly 700 farms that raise about 40 million birds a year. Nine million birds were euthanized during an outbreak of avian flu in Minnesota in 2015.
The first of the state’s cases in this latest outbreak was confirmed on March 25. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said the latest strain of avian influenza is a low risk to the public.
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https://www.austindailyherald.com/2022/04/more-than-a-million-birds-have-avian-flu-in-minnesota/
| 2022-04-07T14:10:33
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https://www.austindailyherald.com/2022/04/more-than-a-million-birds-have-avian-flu-in-minnesota/
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The Cade: Video and arcade gaming bar includes a side of trivia
People weary of the pandemic have expanded the already large numbers of video and arcade gamers. They're upping their time spent playing as well, and Bloomingtonians are part of the trend. One local place to play is the Cade.
NBA Jam, Ms. Pac-Man, Donkey Kong. Golden Tee, Off road, Atari Star Wars — and other arcade and video games — await players Tuesday through Saturday evenings in this retro-style venue.
All the games are free to play, and Tuesdays and Wednesdays there's not even a cover charge at the 217 N. Walnut St. bar.
Video games, entertainment options inside a computer, come in many forms. Some are movies that let participants interact. Others are sports, such as NBA Jam's basketball. Some are board and card games. Some mimic a day in the life; some enable artistry.
Gaming nostalgia
In 1940, "Nim" became the world's first video game. Visitors to the New York World's Fair in 1939-40 stood in lines to play the Nimitron, a non-programmable computer connected to two miles of copper wire. Its sole intention was to entertain people weary of the Great Depression.
More:Drone light show, Trashion Refashion event, music movies on tap
According to MorganStanley.com, the increase in gamers has created an international market, with people playing one another in foreign countries as well as their own.
AlphaWise, Morgan Stanley's survey and data department, has recently discovered that not only all ages but all demographics have taken to gaming. Half of the surveyed U.S. residents said they had played a video game after the pandemic began. Some used a personal computer; others used gaming consoles or their mobile devices.
"This is my favorite place in Bloomington to play video games," said Trenton "Moosy" Musch, a local artist. He entered the Cade late last month with two friends, conversed a little, then picked up a fake gun. He pointed at the machine to which it was affixed, took aim, and in an instant was wholly focused on his electronic prey.
A couple of decades ago, gaming was considered almost asocial, with one person sitting for hours clutching a console and yelling at a screen, alone.
That has changed. The strongest motivator, like the Nimitron at the World's Fair, is still amusement, but almost a third of the gamers surveyed replied that, by playing, they are looking for social circuits. And particularly for gamers who are younger. More than a quarter of the surveyed participants under 35 believed gaming to be more effective than social media at connecting them with others.
The vibe at the Cade
The Cade's retro vibe makes entering feel like stepping into a 1970s movie or bar.
"Even our younger customers like the nostalgic vibe, and they actually prefer to play our older video games," said Hannah Rennels, the Cade's bartender and assistant general manager. She studied environmental management at Indiana University and had nearly finished her degree when the Cade's owner offered her a good job. The drink she makes and serves most often, she said, is the Mario Tart, with its "secret vodka."
Rennels has been employed full-time at the Cade since it opened in 2017. She likes working for a family-owned business, "where I can talk with my bosses." Her personal favorite drink is the Pixel Faded, into which she pours whiskey, triple sec — and secrets.
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The Cade's location, steps north of the Bloomington square, brings in plenty of age 21-plus IU students, she said, but also older patrons and date-night couples.
The consoles, and all the games, are free to play. The newest console is Nintendo Switch. Nintendo 64 is a hit too, and so is Sony Computer Entertainment's console PlayStation 1.
PlayStation, with its 32-bit consoles, sent Sony soaring in the gaming scene. Games such as Ridge Racer attracted players, and by 2005 the PlayStation was the first console to sell 100 million.
Game consoles, computer systems that let one or more participants play games, work either with a screen such as a TV or come as held-held games with built-in displays. Unlike a personal computer, which can play many types of games, the console depends on particular game software.
The Cade also offers themed trivia nights every other Wednesday starting at 8 p.m. Past themes have included TV shows such as the police comedy “Brooklyn Nine-Nine," along with "The Office," "Pokémon" and "Bob’s Burgers." The next trivia competition (topic to be announced) will be 8-10 p.m. April 20. Hannah Rennels writes the trivia questions.
The Cade offers space for private events, too.
If neither video games nor trivia appeals, next door the same owner runs the Video Saloon, featuring a pool table and dart boards.
If you go
WHAT: The Cade, a Bloomington video and arcade gaming bar and events space for those 21 and older.
WHEN: Opens at 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.
WHERE: The Cade, 217 N. Walnut St., 812-287-7181, thecade812.com.
HOW MUCH: No cover charge Tuesdays and Wednesdays; cover is $2 Thursdays, $3 Friday and Saturday.
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Monroe County, state shifting approach to COVID-19 testing, vaccination as cases stay low
Coronavirus testing and vaccinations will look a bit different moving forward as the pandemic shifts toward being endemic.
In Monroe County, the use of specialized state or community COVID-19 test sites is diminishing. Instead, people will go to a medical provider or pharmacy for testing.
According to Monroe County Health Department administrator Penny Caudill, the testing situation has changed over the course of the pandemic as the framework for testing expanded.
Previous:One nursing home in Bloomington had more COVID deaths than the two Trilogy-owned homes
"We don't need a lot of specialized testing sites because you can go to your provider and get tested," Caudill said. "You can go to a pharmacy or a minute clinic-type facility and get tested. Then you have home tests. So it's much more like we do for other (illnesses). You have routine places, and we don't need those specialized ones."
Caudill said the various state testing locations like the already-closed Gravity-operated site on Cook Medical property west of Bloomington will be shut down by the end of April. Other community test sites around Indiana may linger for a few more months, she said.
Reported COVID cases continue to be at a low ebb in Indiana, with only 3 cases per 100,000 in Monroe County last week, and 0-4 cases in other counties around the state, according to the Indiana Department of Health's COVID-19 dashboard. In January, Monroe County had 1,081 cases per 100,000 residents. Testing is also down significantly.
Over the past month, three deaths of Monroe County residents who had active COVID cases were reported on the dashboard as of Wednesday. For the past year, the county death total is 107, with 273 documented Monroe County COVID deaths since the pandemic began.
Monroe County officials will continue to communicate with Bloomington, IU Health and Indiana University leaders to monitor transmission rates in the community, Caudill said. Utilities workers are still monitoring levels of the virus in Bloomington's wastewater to help track the level of COVID transmission in the city, especially as more people use at-home tests where results are not reported to the state.
2-year anniversary:22,000 Hoosiers have died in the pandemic. How did we get here?
If infection rate start trending the wrong way, Caudill said the health department could then tweak its policies or messaging to remind people to wear masks and take other precautions during any surge.
Few expect COVID-19 to go away completely, but Caudill thought the general response to it might eventually resemble measures taken with influenza. While not every case of the flu is reported, flu-related deaths are reported and lab testing is used to determine what type of influenza is active. Future efforts with the coronavirus will likely be centered on limiting spikes in transmission and deaths, while monitoring the latest data and research.
Caudill said the county's experience with the pandemic so far has left it better prepared if another strong wave of COVID, or some other highly infectious disease, hits the area. The team at the health department have a better sense of where testing sites and vaccination clinics should be located, though funding and approval of any action plan would still be necessary.
"One of the things that we're embarking on now is kind of that after-action report and an evaluation of what went well, what were the things that we did well or that other agencies maybe did well ... and then what are our opportunities to do better next time," Caudill said.
The county health administrator urged people to not get rid of their mask supplies just yet. She also has noticed that experiencing the pandemic has prompted many people to incorporate masks into their own routine measures to prevent sicknesses such as the flu or to minimize seasonal allergies.
At least one form of state testing will likely continue. Caudill noted the state government still has mobile testing units at their disposal. If coronavirus numbers and concerns start to rise again in Monroe County, Caudill said the county health department could request such a mobile unit to provide testing.
"So there are options available still for testing," Caudill said. "Testing isn't going away. It's just changing."
Contact Patrick McGerr at pmcgerr@heraldt.com, 812-307-5636, or follow @patrickmcgerr on Twitter.
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/2022/04/07/covid-19-testing-vaccination-changes-coming-monroe-county/7215897001/
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Who are these people? Indianapolis photographer seeks to ID people in old 8mm home movies
Reels of 8 mm film purchased for five bucks at Bloomington Antique Mall offered Leah Tribbett a glimpse into a family's life captured on home movies shot decades ago.
The Indianapolis photographer is always on the lookout for vintage photo items. When she saw the gallon-sized plastic bag with five reels of film inside for sale at a booth last month, she grabbed it.
"I figured either this film is blank, or there is actually something on here. And I have the ability to convert it," Tribbett said.
She took the reels home, ran the 10 minutes of film through a digitizer and realized she was in the possession of someone's preserved memories.
She spliced together a 46-second preview from the film and posted it on social media, hoping to locate someone in the family depicted. It can be viewed on Tribbett's Facebook page at https://bit.ly/3J5dS5L.
Reconnected:Grandson receives Bible found next to dumpster 15 years after woman's death
What's in the home movie clips?
The first home movie clip features a woman with curlers in her hair who runs off, ducking behind a bush when she realizes a movie camera is focused on her. There's a family picnicking alongside a creek and a large outdoor gathering that appears to be a summer family reunion.
Then it cuts to two people bobbing in a lake, ropes in hand and with the tips of their water skis sticking up. They rise and stand as the ski boat speeds ahead.
Then, an old pickup appears, parked. The truck bed is full of children, probably cousins. There are 10 of them; one little boy is wearing a Superman T-shirt.
There are aerial images of a farm, switching to a woman dancing around, swaying a milk bottle with one hand and holding a baby on her hip with the other. Kids running and playing in a creek, with water up past their ankles, are seen in another clip.
Then the camera fixes on a girl who looks about 4 years old. She's wearing a red dress; it may be velvet. She's sitting in a purple upholstered chair — there's a clue — and she's looking though a family photo album with a lady who has a sort-of beehive hairdo.
The final images show a baby outside in the sunshine, a toddler who likely is now in his or her 40s, balancing its stance by holding tight to stroller. The toddler then sits in a lawn chair, the old-fashioned kind made from wide durable fabric strips woven together.
"I'd really like to get this back to the family," Tribbett said.
The family search continues
On Sunday, she thought the mystery had been solved. "There was a woman who saw it on Facebook, and she was like, 'That's my grandma, she always had curlers in her hair. And there's my mom, there's Aunt Jenny,' so I figured that was it," Tribbett said.
It wasn't, the woman relayed later in a text message. "She said that after looking at it further, it was not her family."
Still looking:Bloomington woman seeking owner of gold locket found in IU parking garage 2 years ago
So the search is still on. "Even if the people on the film have moved away, maybe they have family members still in the area who will see this and recognize them."
If you have information about these home movies or can identify anyone in them, contact Tribbett at: leah@leahtribproductions.com.
Contact reporter Laura Lane at llane@heraldt.com, 812-331-4362 or 812-318-5967.
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/local/2022/04/07/antique-store-bloomington-mall-indianapolis-photography-8-mm-film-camera/7252032001/
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At the library: Big Spring Book Sale, sign language stories, movies and more
Monroe County Public Library provides opportunities for local residents to read, learn, connect and create. The downtown library is at 303 E. Kirkwood Ave. and the Ellettsville branch is at 600 W. Temperance St. All events are free of charge. Event funding is provided by the Friends of the Library Foundation.
Friends of the Library book sale
Choose from thousands of items at half off the bookstore prices this weekend at the Friends of the Library Big Spring Book Sale. Fiction, biography, politics, cooking, history, children’s, DVDs, music and more are in good supply, with new material added every day. All proceeds support library services and events. The sale is in meeting rooms 1B/C at the downtown library.
- Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (all books $0.38-$1.50)
- Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (all books $0.38-$1.50)
- Sunday: Noon-6 p.m. (fill a Friends tote bag for $8; fill a box for $10)
- Monday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (all remaining items are free)
American Sign Language storytime
Learn targeted vocabulary in American Sign Language through stories, songs and games. For ages 3-6 and caregivers, but all are welcome. It’s 10:30-11 a.m. Friday in the children’s program room at the downtown library. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
After-hours movie watch party
The library will provide the big screen, snacks, crafts and lots of movie choices. The popular vote will decide what to start with. For ages 12-19. It’s 7-9:30 p.m. Friday in Ellettsville meeting room a/b combo. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
1950 census release and drop-In discovery
It's that time again. Every 72 years the U.S. Census Bureau releases an old census, which gives family historians, house history sleuths and genealogists a glimpse into what life was like for our ancestors and neighborhoods. Drop in to meeting room 2A of the downtown library between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday to check it out and share what you discover. For ages 18 and older. A partnership between Monroe County History Center and the library.
Tween Book Club: 'The Dreaded Cliff'
Get to know other tweens through crafts and activities at this book club. Join us to chat about "The Dreaded Cliff" by Terry Nichols, the story of a packrat named Flora. Flora loves her home and her life in her treasure-packed nest, but tragedy strikes when Flora falls into a faraway canyon. There she must find a way to get back home and survive in a strange land full of predators. For ages 8-12. It’s 2-3 p.m. Saturday in Ellettsville meeting room B. Register at mcpl.info/calendar. Pick up your book club copy (yours to keep) at the Ellettsville information desk after registering. Visit mcpl.info/bookclub for additional book clubs for all ages.
All-Ages Day at the teen space
Curious about The Ground Floor teen space, but you aren’t a teen? Patrons of all ages are invited to check it out on the second Sunday of the month — there's a DIY design studio, video games, virtual reality and more. It’s noon-6 p.m. Sunday at the downtown library.
Indian Musician Saraswathi Ranganathan: A Lotus Blossoms event
Saraswathi Ranganathan, an award-winning veena artist, brings inclusive energy to her music and life with the goal of uniting artists and listeners together as one community through this traditional South Indian stringed instrument. For all ages. It’s 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday in the auditorium of the downtown library. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Dine Out for the library at Uptown
Dine Out for the Friends of the Library at the Uptown Cafe. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday, April 12. Show your flyer and Uptown will donate 20% of your bill to the Friends of the Library. You enjoy great tasting food, and you get to feel great knowing you are making life-enriching programming available for everyone in our community. Download the flyer at mcpl.info/dineout.
Blackout Poetry
Make an entirely new work of poetry and art using old books and sharpies. For ages 12–19. It’s 3:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Ellettsville Teen Space. Drop in.
Talking Tacos
Come to chat about relationships, dating and other tough topics, stay for the tacos. For ages 12-19. It’s 4-4:30 p.m. Tuesday in The Ground Floor teen space at the downtown library. A partnership between Middle Way House and the library.
Video titles in Adobe Premiere: A Level Up Workshop
Learn how to make sleek, fiery, futuristic or fine art video titles in Adobe Premiere. For ages 12 and older. It’s 7-8 p.m. Tuesday in Level Up, the digital creativity space at the downtown library. Drop in.
Wonderful 1s and Terrific 2s
Families with kids from infants to age 3 can play, sing, read and talk together with other little ones — then enjoy toy time. It’s 9:30-10:15 a.m. (infants-18 months) and 10:30-11:15 a.m. (18 months-3 years) Wednesday in the children’s program room at the main library. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Miniature Painting 101
The library provides the minis, paints, brushes and know-how — come try your hand at miniature painting. All skill levels are welcome. For ages 12-19. It’s 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Ellettsville Teen Space. Drop in.
Monroe County veterans affairs client appointments
Steven Miller, veterans affairs officer for Monroe County, will be onsite offering assistance to veterans, their dependents and survivors. Learn how to file claims for VA benefits, obtain military records and access U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs services. It’s 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday in the Ellettsville conference room. To schedule an appointment, call the Monroe County Veterans Affairs Office at 812-349-2537. For ages 18 and older. Appointments are required.
Preschool storytime and discovery
At preschool storytime, stories, songs and rhymes get your preschooler talking, singing and playing with books and words, followed by preschool discovery — fun, open-ended art experiences, STEAM adventures and letter exploration. It’s 10-10:25 a.m. and 10:30-11:15 a.m. Thursday in Ellettsville meeting rooms A and B. For ages 3-6 and caregivers. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
Crafts in the stacks
Come hang out and try new hands-on DIY projects as you learn new crafting skills each month. Supplies are provided. For ages 7-10. It’s 6-7 p.m. Thursday in the Tween Space at the downtown library. Register at mcpl.info/calendar.
April is Poetry Month
Every April, the world celebrates poetry. The month is a reminder that poets play an integral role in culture and that poetry matters. To celebrate, the library has opportunities to read, listen, connect and create with poetry in a variety of ways. Learn more about their poetry listening station and events at mcpl.info/poetry.
More events online
This is a sampling of this week’s library events. For the full calendar, visit mcpl.info/events.
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Krull: With friends like Clarence Thomas, the court doesn't need enemies
INDIANAPOLIS — One of the saddest things about this era has been the slow, steady demolition of the U.S. Supreme Court and the judicial branch.
One of the stabilizing forces in American history has been a belief in the rule of law and the dispassionate administration of justice. For most of the nearly 250 years we Americans have had a nation, we viewed the courts — and particularly the high bench — with reverence.
That we held the legal system in such high regard was deliberate.
Much of the reason America’s courtrooms are high-ceilinged spaces that resemble cathedrals with almost airy perches for judges to sit was that we wanted to inspire fealty to the law.
This is especially true for the Supreme Courts of both the nation and the states. The rooms in which the justices operate are supposed to overwhelm those who appear and argue there with the majesty of the law.
Perhaps this reverence for the courts, even the U.S. Supreme Court, always was an illusion. The judicial branch, after all, is a human institution and judges, even U.S. Supreme Court justices, are susceptible to the same faults and frailties as the rest of us.
But it was a useful illusion, one that often provided the glue necessary to hold together a country that seemed determined to fly apart.
That is why those who do damage to the judicial branch’s reputation for non-partisan administration of justice do grave harm to the nation itself.
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is doing just that right now.
The justice’s wife — Virginia “Ginni” Thomas — was in steady communication with former President Donald Trump’s White House while rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol and attempted to block the peaceful and lawful transfer of political power following the 2020 presidential election. In a series of texts, she urged Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows to help the then-president to stand firm, defy the law and implement a coup.
Ginni Thomas is a pure product of these times, a conservative activist whose political beliefs put her to the right of Genghis Khan. Ideologically, she lives and works, to use one of my grandfather’s memorable phrases, “out there where the trains don’t run.”
Because there already has been litigation regarding the Jan. 6 insurrection to land before the Supreme Court — and, in that litigation, Thomas was the only justice to side with the Trump administration’s arguments — and more is coming, critics have argued that Thomas should recuse himself.
Those critics are right.
In no other profession would a person whose spouse has been so actively and intimately involved in an activity be expected to act impartially about either the activity or the spouse.
But it’s at best even money that the justice will do so.
That’s because partisans have done such a superb job of politicizing both the high court and Americans’ notions of how the judicial branch should operate.
Thomas is a prime example.
When he was nominated to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court 30 years ago, he hadn’t amassed a record of legal scholarship or judicial excellence that would justify such an elevation. No, his primary recommendation was a history of Republican partisanship, a willingness to do dirty work for the GOP.
That was part of the reason the fight over his nomination was so brutal.
The same is true of Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Before he put on a judge’s robe, he spent much of his time as an unrepentant and unrelenting political hatchet man.
Republicans complain about the treatment Clarence Thomas and Kavanaugh received while their nominations were being considered. In the process, the GOP partisans neatly overlook the fact that Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett, who had strong records as scholars and jurists, were treated more gently, even though they both are rigidly conservative.
They just didn’t carry the baggage of partisan hackery that both Thomas and Kavanaugh did and do.
Republicans, one would assume, would be just as savage if a Democratic president tried to put James Carville or some other political gut-puncher on the bench.
The Thomas imbroglio illustrates the damage done to what once was the most respected branch of our government.
That damage already is lasting.
The only question that remains is whether it is permanent.
John Krull is director of Franklin College's Pulliam School of Journalism and publisher of TheStatehouseFile.com.
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/opinion/columns/guest/2022/04/07/friends-like-clarence-thomas-court-doesnt-need-enemies/9483076002/
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Letter: Attack on Ukraine needs to end
The images of war are weighing heavily on our collective hearts all around the world. Watching innocent civilians being slaughtered is too much for us to bear. The malice we feel toward this Russian president has become intolerable. We want to slay the monster that’s causing so much devastation to innocent people in Ukraine.
This ruthless autocrat has an insane stockpile of nuclear weapons pointed in every conceivable direction. We seem to be playing a game of “chicken” with Putin as we keep ratcheting up the sanctions, threatening no-fly zones, and offering up some of our most sophisticated weaponry to the Ukrainians. We watch them gallantly hold off the Russian army. But It might be time to take a step back and give much more consideration regarding how bad this all could get.
Of course, we would want for Russian President Vladimir Putin to suffer a humiliating defeat or have someone inside his government take him out, but those ideas are probably wishful thinking. It’s much more likely he’ll need some sort of face-saving result before this ends.
Whatever will make this end needs to come before the escalation of this conflict gets completely out of control.
Scott Thompson, Bloomington
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/opinion/letters/2022/04/07/letter-attack-ukraine-needs-end/7144996001/
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Letter: Houston South forest logging opposed
One of my favorite things to do in the Bloomington area is to go on a hike. I especially love the beautiful Hoosier National Forest for its many miles of hiking trails. I am grateful to be near this forest that boasts 165 caves and several lakes and ponds.
I have known about the devastation that the state’s logging has done to nearby forests such as Yellowwood and Morgan-Monroe state forests, but did not expect this to happen in our treasured Hoosier National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service has a proposal to log Houston South, which is a 21-square-mile section of the forest that adjoins the Charles Deam Wilderness. The proposal is to log, burn and build roads in this area. This would increase sediment runoff and pollute Lake Monroe, which is the sole drinking water supply for 120,000 people in Monroe and surrounding counties. The damage to the ecosystem of the forest would also be deeply harmful.
If you would like to know more about this proposal and ways you can help stop this threat to this forest gem, go to the Indiana Forest Alliance website.
Viola Kadish, Bloomington
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/opinion/letters/2022/04/07/letter-houston-south-forest-logging-opposed/7196053001/
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Letter: Questioning of judge was cruel
The Herald-Times
I was appalled by the questioning of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson by Sens. Ted Cruz and Lindsey Graham. I came away with the impression that both of them presented racist tendencies. Their questioning was absolutely cruel.
I was also disappointed that Mitch McConnell said that he would vote against Judge Jackson. I hope that she is appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court.
James Faber, Bloomington
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/opinion/letters/2022/04/07/letter-questioning-judge-cruel/7263887001/
| 2022-04-07T14:27:35
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Letter: School meals fight child hunger
As we continue to grapple with the pandemic, 1 in 6 kids could be facing hunger in Indiana. Luckily, we have a powerful tool to make sure kids don’t start their day with an empty stomach. School breakfast provides the nutrition kids need to learn, grow and reach their full potential.
The Indiana Partnership for Hunger-Free Students coordinates statewide efforts to ensure that no Hoosier child goes hungry, and is composed of groups like school nutrition professionals, community advocates, health systems, and university partners.
For example, thanks to support from Purdue Extension’s Nutrition Education Program and guidance from their school nutrition team, School City of Hammond was able to provide an additional 64,550 school breakfasts to students. And Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corp. worked with Ascension St. Vincent Evansville Hospital to increase breakfast participation by launching a grab-and-go breakfast program in some of their schools that allows students to take their meals to the classroom.
As we celebrate National Nutrition Month, we’re grateful for all those working to provide nutritious school breakfasts and other healthy school meals to kids throughout Indiana. Feeding kids today is one of the best ways we can ensure they’re ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Tarrah Westercamp, Greenwood Indiana school manager for No Kid Hungry
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/opinion/letters/2022/04/07/letter-school-meals-fight-child-hunger/7149900001/
| 2022-04-07T14:27:41
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Bloomington North standout named to boys Indiana Junior All-Star team
Bloomington North's JaQualon Roberts had long hoped to follow in the footsteps of former Cougar standout Musa Jallow when it came to being named a Indiana Junior boys' all-star.
Wednesday, it was revealed Roberts was one of six players named to the Red Group that will join the Core Group for a game against the Kentucky Junior All-Stars on Monday, June 6, at Bedford North Lawrence.
"I feel completely honored," Roberts said. "It was one of my goals coming into high school. Musa and I were close and we'd do workouts together.
"And seeing him being a Junior All-Star at North, I wanted to do that, too. Ultimately, I put in the work to improve and it's just a complete honor."
The remaining Red players are Joey Brown of North Central, Jermaine Coleman of Park Tudor, David Meriwether of Indianapolis Metropolitan, Jaylen Mullen of North Daviess and Sam Orme of Carmel.
More:Winning drives Herald-Times Boys' Basketball Player of the Year
More:Bloomington North pair honored by IBCA as All-State, other area players honorable mention
Who was selected
Those selected to the six-player Core Group include Xavier Booker of Cathedral, Markus Burton of Penn, Myles Colvin of Heritage Christian, Zane Doughty of Ben Davis, Joey Hart of Linton-Stockton and Logan Imes of Zionsville.
The Blue Group players, who will be part of a game against the Indiana Senior All-Stars on June 8 at a yet-to-be-determined location, are Cade Brenner of NorthWood, Cooper Farrall of Culver Academy, Mason Jones of Valparaiso, Jaron Tibbs of Cathedral, Brandon Trilli of Munster and Ashton Williamson of Gary 21st Century.
Marc Urban of Class 4A state runner-up Chesterton will be the head coach of the 2022 boys Junior All-Stars. He will be assisted by Ben Rhoades of Mt. Vernon (Fortville).
Roberts deserving of honor
Roberts averaged 14.4 points and a team high 9.1 rebounds per game, and led the team in blocks (24) and steals (31). He was named to the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association's Underclass Supreme 15. So he showed the committee in charge of choosing the roster what they wanted to see.
"The main thing was consistency," Roberts said. "I wanted to make sure I produced the same way every game. And bringing a lot of energy to the court and to the bench as well.
"I want to make sure my teammates are locked in and focused. It's the little things I do which is what impacts the game."
Roberts is the first Cougar to make the Junior All-Stars since Jallow in 2017. Since then, South's Chance Coyle (2017), Noah Jager and Anthony Leal (2019) and Connor Hickman (2020) have been honored. Leal was the last to make the Core Six.
"It's an opportunity a lot of people don't get a chance to fulfill," Roberts said. "I'm going to have fun. It'll be great seeing those guys and the talent that will be there will be something special."
North has not had an Indiana Senior All-Star since Bil Duany in 2004. And it is with that next big step in mind that Roberts decided not to run track again this year, focusing on basketball in the offseason with Indiana Elite 2023.
"I'll continue to work," Roberts said. "And a couple of my (Elite) teammates, Logan Knight (from Florida) and Jaron Tibbs (Cathedral), we're definitely going to be competitive with each other. It's going to be a fun ride."
Contact Jim Gordillo at jgordillo@heraldt.com and follow on Twitter @JimGordillo.
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https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/sports/2022/04/07/bloomington-north-standout-named-indiana-junior-all-star/9487158002/
| 2022-04-07T14:27:47
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WASHINGTON — Fewer Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week as layoffs remain at historically low levels.
Jobless claims fell by 5,000 to 166,000 for the week ending April 2, the Labor Department reported Thursday. The previous week's number was revised down a whopping 31,000 claims. In recent weeks, claims have hovered at more than 50-year lows. First-time applications for jobless aid generally represent the pace of layoffs.
The four-week average for claims, which compensates for weekly volatility, fell by 8,000 to 170,000 from the previous week's 178,000, which was revised down by 30,500.
In total, 1,523,000 Americans were collecting jobless aid for the week ending March 26, an increase of 17,000 from the previous week, which was the lowest in more than 50 years.
Last week, the Labor Department reported that U.S. employers extended a streak of robust hiring, adding 431,000 jobs in March and pushing the unemployment rate down to 3.8%. Despite the inflation surge, persistent supply bottlenecks, damage from COVID-19 and now a war in Europe, employers have added at least 400,000 jobs for 11 straight months.
Job openings hovered at a near-record level in February, little changed from the previous month, continuing a trend that Federal Reserve officials see as a driver of inflation. There were 11.3 million available jobs last month, matching January’s figure and just below December’s record of 11.4 million, the Labor Department reported last week.
The number of Americans quitting their jobs was also historically high, at 4.4 million, up from 4.3 million in January. More than 4.5 million people quit in November, the most on records dating back two decades.
The Fed launched a high-risk effort last month to tame the worst inflation since the early 1980s, raising its benchmark short-term interest rate and signaling up to six additional rate hikes this year. The minutes from that mid-March meeting, released Wednesday, revealed aggressive Fed officials saying that half-point interest rate hikes, rather than traditional quarter-point increases, “could be appropriate” multiple times this year.
Last week, an inflation gauge closely monitored by the central bank jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, with sharply higher prices for food, gasoline and other necessities squeezing Americans’ finances. Other measures have shown prices rising close to 8% in the past year.
Fed policymakers have projected that inflation will remain elevated at 4.3% through 2022.
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https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/us-jobless-claims-stay-at-historically-low-levels/507-ac2fe4f0-a745-4685-9891-2749d88418fe
| 2022-04-07T14:27:56
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ASHLEY-HUDSON, Ind. (WANE) — A 19-year-old Waterloo man has been charged with child molesting.
Andrew L. Weber faces a Level 3 felony charge of Child Molesting.
According to Ashley-Hudson Police, officers launched an investigation after receiving a tip about an alleged child molesting incident that happened in November 2021 at a home in Ashley.
DeKalb County prosecutors charged Weber on Monday, and Weber was arrested on an arrest warrant.
No details about the alleged incident have been released.
A no-contact order was granted in DeKalb Superior Court.
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https://www.wane.com/news/crime/waterloo-man-19-jailed-on-child-molesting-charge/
| 2022-04-07T14:35:47
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FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — The fire at a southwest Fort Wayne apartment building that displaced some 50 residents Saturday night was caused by cigarette butts.
Fort Wayne Fire Department Deputy Chief Adam O’Connor told WANE 15 on Thursday that the cause of the fire at Hunt Club Apartments was determined to be “improperly disposed of cigarette butts on a deck.” The fire was ruled accidental, O’Connor said.
- 40 firefighters contain flames in 40 minutes at Fort Wayne apartment
- Hunt Club resident fears for safety after apartment fire
Fire crews were called around 9:20 Saturday night to a building on Saddleback Court in the complex off Illinois Road west of Hadley Road, and arrived to find flames pushing out of the top two floors and the roof, according to a report.
Firefighters attacked the fire from all four sides of the building and from above, and brought the fire under control in 40 minutes, the report said. The building sustained heavy fire and water damage and moderate smoke damage.
All told, six engines, three ladder trucks and 40 firefighters responded to the blaze.
More than 50 residents were able to get out of the building and no injuries were reported. Fire officials said 23 of the building’s 24 units had been rented.
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https://www.wane.com/news/local-news/cigarette-butts-blamed-for-fort-wayne-apartment-building-fire/
| 2022-04-07T14:35:53
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PARIS (AP) — Luxury fashion brand Chanel says it has stopped selling its clothes, perfumes and other luxury goods to Russian customers abroad if they plan to take the products back home — a bold response to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine that some say goes too far.
The move, which some Russians have decried, comes after the Parisian company shuttered its boutiques in Russia. Many companies across all industries have halted business in the country in response to the war.
This further step, Chanel said Wednesday, is simply a case of complying with trade sanctions imposed on Russia by the European Union, Switzerland and others that prohibit transactions with designated individuals.
“The most recent EU and Swiss sanction laws include a prohibition on the ‘sale, supply, transfer or export, directly or indirectly, of luxury goods to any natural or legal person, entity or body in Russia or for use in Russia,’” Chanel said in a statement.
It concerns products valued at over 300 euros ($328) — which is the majority of Chanel’s design output.
“We have rolled out a process to ask clients for whom we do not know the main residency to confirm that the items they are purchasing will not be used in Russia,” Chanel said, without elaborating on what that process looks like.
It’s a difficult measure to enforce, yet some Russian social media influencers have already said they are being asked for identification and denied the ability to buy goods at Chanel boutiques from Paris to the United Arab Emirates.
Russian socialite Anna Kalashnikova said last week that she had seen “Russophobia in action” after not being allowed to purchase earrings and a Chanel bag in an outlet in Dubai.
Fashion insiders say the brand’s decision would not have been easy because they are set to take a financial hit.
“It’s bold for Chanel — this is almost unprecedented. The house is putting its principles above the buck,” said Long Nguyen, a prominent fashion critic.
“Russia is one of their biggest luxury markets, and Chanel is certain to suffer financially from this choice,” he said. “But it’s also political for the brand — as it wants to appeal to Gen Z clients who are largely opposed to the war.”
Nguyen said Chanel’s move represents “more than a mere application of the sanction laws.”
Qing Wang, professor of marketing and innovation at Warwick Business School and a luxury brands expert, said, “Taking a bold political stand like this is not without risks.”
She cited research by PR firm Clutch that found consumers mainly think brands should stay silent on political issues.
“Nearly two-thirds of those surveyed (63%) said they were likely to continue shopping at businesses that stayed silent on issues they care about,” Wang said in a statement. “People’s true opinion on whether Chanel’s actions are appropriate, or a step too far that borders on Russophobia (which could be damaging to the brand), remain to be seen.”
Luxury giants Kering and LVMH did not immediately respond to requests for comment about whether they also plan to curb sales to Russians.
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https://www.wane.com/news/chanel-restricts-sales-to-russians-abroad-amid-ukraine-war/
| 2022-04-07T14:48:49
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DOVER, Del. (AP) — Following a three-week trial, a Delaware judge began hearing closing arguments Wednesday in the Boy Scouts of America bankruptcy case.
Judge Laura Selber Silverstein must decide whether to approve a reorganization plan the BSA negotiated over the past two years. It would compensate tens of thousands of men who say they were sexually abused as children in Scouting, while allowing the Boy Scouts to continue as an ongoing enterprise.
The Boy Scouts, based in Irving, Texas, petitioned for bankruptcy protection in February 2020 in an effort to halt hundreds of individual lawsuits and create a settlement trust for abuse victims.
Although the organization faced 275 lawsuits at the time, more than 82,000 sexual abuse claims have been filed in the bankruptcy case.
The reorganization plan calls for the Boys Scouts, its 250 local councils, and certain insurance companies and troop sponsoring organizations to contribute some $2.6 billion in cash and property into a compensation fund for abuse victims.
In return for those contributions, and the assignment of insurance rights to the compensation fund, those contributing parties would be released from further liability.
The plan faces opposition from several non-settling insurance companies, as well as the U.S. bankruptcy trustee, who acts as a watchdog in Chapter 11 cases to ensure compliance with bankruptcy laws. The insurance companies contend that the procedures for distributing funds to abuse claimants would violate their rights under policies they issued and would allow payment of claims that would not win damages in civil lawsuits.
The trustee, meanwhile, has argued that the proposed liability releases for non-debtor third parties — including the local BSA councils, insurers and troop-sponsoring organizations — violate the due process rights of abuse claimants and are not authorized under the bankruptcy code.
Wednesday’s arguments did not address those issues but instead mostly involved supporters defending the plan as having been developed in “good faith,” and the trust distribution procedures as appropriate. Opponents of the plan will present counterarguments Thursday.
Attorneys for the Boy Scouts began Wednesday by acknowledging why the BSA sought bankruptcy protection and explaining the steps it has taken to improve youth protection measures.
“It’s a tragic part of the past of Scouting…. Our organization is deeply sorry,” BSA attorney Michael Andolina said of decades of child sexual abuse.
The Boys Scouts and its supporters maintain that the judge must make several specific findings for the plan to be confirmed. Among them is that the plan was proposed in good faith, and that the procedures for compensating victims provide for a fair and equitable settlement of their claims. They also are asking the judge to find that the proposed starting claim values for various types of abuse — ranging from penetration to abuse that involves no physical contact — are based on, and consistent with, the BSA’s pre-bankruptcy abuse settlements and litigation results.
But Silverstein pushed back repeatedly on plan supporters, questioning what provisions of the bankruptcy code would apply to the findings they seek. She noted that she is not being asked to approve any specific claim settlement, as is often done in bankruptcies, and suggested that the plan supporters’ arguments instead involve treatment of claims, which is a different issue with a different approval standard.
“There’s no good way to resolve 82,000 claims, … but what’s this trust supposed to do … and why do I have to find that it’s consistent, or fair, or equitable?” she asked.
Silverstein also wondered if she could reject the plan if she thought the BSA’s pre-bankruptcy history of handling abuse claims wasn’t fair or appropriate.
“I don’t know that any one of the settlements that the debtors entered into prepetition were fair,” she said. ”… I have no facts to make a finding like that.”
Under the plan, the Boys Scouts and its roughly 250 local councils would contribute up to $786 million in cash and property and assign certain insurance rights to the victims fund. The BSA’s two largest insurers, Century Indemnity Co. and The Hartford, would contribute $800 million and $787 million, respectively, while other insurers have agreed to contribute about $69 million.
The organization’s former largest troop sponsor, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church, would contribute $250 million for abuse claims involving the church. Congregations affiliated with the United Methodist Church have agreed to contribute $30 million.
Abuse claimants also would be allowed to sue insurance companies and local troop-sponsoring organizations, such as churches and civic groups, that do not enter into settlements within one year of the reorganization plan taking effect.
As it presently stands, the compensation fund would total more than $2.6 billion, which would be the largest aggregate sexual abuse settlement in U.S. history. The average recovery per claimant, however, would be significantly less than in other settlements of sex abuse scandals involving large numbers of victims.
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https://www.wane.com/news/closing-arguments-begin-in-boy-scouts-bankruptcy-case/
| 2022-04-07T14:48:56
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MIAMI (AP) — Democrats in Congress are sounding the alarm over what they claim is mounting evidence that Mexico’s chief prosecutor — a vital partner of U.S. law enforcement — is assailing the nation’s independent judiciary and selectively targeting for prosecution opponents of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
In a harshly worded letter sent Wednesday to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Attorney General Merrick Garland, Sen. Bob Menendez, the powerful chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and three colleagues call on the Biden administration to raise their concerns directly with their Mexican counterparts.
“López Obrador’s tenure has been marked by an increasing pattern of seemingly selective prosecutions disproportionately targeting government critics,” according to the letter, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press. “President López Obrador’s efforts to advance legitimate accountability initiatives must strengthen, not dismantle, democratic institutions and the rule of law.”
The letter, which is bound to stir the ire of López Obrador and his allies, focuses on a number of questionable actions and what they consider “personal vendettas” pursued by Attorney General Alejandro Gertz Manero.
The top prosecutor, a close ally of the leftist president, first caught the attention of American officials after the Trump administration dropped criminal narcotics changes against former Defense Minister Salvador Cienfuegos and returned him to Mexico on promises he would be investigated at home.
But the probe against Cienfuegos was quickly closed and Gertz Manero later threatened to press charges of his own against U.S. prosecutors accustomed to working hand-in-glove with Mexican law enforcement to dismantle the country’s powerful cartels.
“We urge you to give serious consideration to the risk of a weakened, politicized justice system in Mexico,” according to the letter, whose signatories include Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy, chairman of the appropriations committee, and Senators Benjamin Cardin of Maryland and Jeffrey Merkley of Oregon.
López Obrador was elected in 2018 on a promise to sweep clean Mexico’s notoriously corrupt politics and likes to tout his commitment to austerity by taking commercial flights and living in a modest apartment instead of the luxurious presidential residence.
But critics say such moves are populist stunts and distract from a worrisome accumulation of power, failure to deliver on campaign promises and repeated attacks on opponents that undermines the rule of law in the U.S.’ second largest trade partner. This Sunday, his supporters are expected to give him another boost when they head to the polls for a first-of-its-kind referendum on whether he should be allowed to finish his six-year term — something that has never been in doubt and which many see as a sideshow.
The Democrats in their letter fault López Obrador for publicly attacking a judge who ruled against his energy policies, pushing a seemingly unconstitutional plan to extend the term of a sympathetic Supreme Court chief justice and calling for the resignation of Mexico’s top electoral court.
They also raise concerns about criminal charges pressed against Ricardo Anaya, a prominent conservative opponent of López Obrador.
Anaya, who finished second in the 2018 presidential election, was accused last year with money laundering in connection to an alleged bribe he took in exchange for his support on an energy reform bill. The charges are based on the testimony of the former head of Mexico’s state run oil company, who claims that on the instructions of López Obrador’s predecessor he paid lawmakers, including $525,000 to Anaya, to vote for the overhaul.
Some have questioned the strength of the evidence, given that the alleged bribe was paid months after the reform was approved, when Anaya had already left office. Anaya has since fled Mexico and is living in the U.S.
López Obrador has dismissed claims of score settling in the Anaya and other cases as “lies” and “falsehoods” promoted by opponents to weaken his rule.
There was no immediate response from either his or the attorney general’s office when the AP sent them a copy of the letter.
Under Gertz Manero’s leadership, the Mexican prosecutor’s office has also failed to seriously investigate allies of the president, according to the letter. These include allegations of money laundering and finance law violations against the president’s brother, who was caught on video receiving cash from a campaign supporter. López Obrador has defended the contributions as legitimate.
The Democrats also accuse Gertz Manero of pressing personal matters while in office.
These include trying to lock up 31 scientists in a maximum security prison because he claims they improperly received about $2.5 million in government funding years ago. The laws at the time allowed such funding, and the researchers say it wasn’t misspent. Critics say the charges are payback for the researchers’ refusal to recognize Gertz Manero’s own academic credentials.
The attorney general also can be heard in a recently leaked recording of a conversation with a colleague cursing a Supreme Court justice. In the recording, Gertz Manero claims the judge won’t heed to demands that the top court keep in jail a niece he blames for the death of his older brother, who died while in her care.
Gertz Manero has acknowledged obtaining an advance copy of a proposed Supreme Court opinion recommending the relative be released — something that struck many as a potential conflict of interest.
But he claims he received the court ruling because he was taking action in the case as a family member of the deceased, not as attorney general.
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AP Writer Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report.
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https://www.wane.com/news/democrats-blast-mexicos-president-for-assailing-judiciary/
| 2022-04-07T14:49:03
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NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A former Louisiana sheriff was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years in prison for a federal bribery conviction, to be served at the same as his four life sentences for earlier convictions for raping boys.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo also ordered Rodney J. “Jack” Strain to pay a $10,000 fine, federal prosecutors said in a news release Wednesday.
Strain pleaded guilty to one of 16 federal charges against him on Dec. 1, 2021, and prosecutors dropped the others.
The plea came weeks after a St. Tammany Parish jury convicted Strain on eight charges including four counts of aggravated rape against children less than 13 years old — a crime which carries an automatic life sentence.
Strain, who served five terms before losing the 2015 election, admitted using his authority as sheriff to steer profits from a $1 million work-release contract to himself, his family and two of his top deputies.
His sworn statement in federal court said he hid the deputies’ involvement in the scheme.
One man who pleaded guilty in the federal case told the state court jury that Strain molested him when he was a child, gave him a job when he was deeply in debt and later pressured him to join the work-release scheme.
Strain was sentenced in February on the state charges. Judge Bruce A. Simpson added 30 years for crimes against two of Strain’s relatives and ordered him to pay $30,000 in fines and nearly $28,000 for the costs of his prosecution, news agencies reported.
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https://www.wane.com/news/ex-sheriff-bribery-gets-10-years-already-has-life-for-rapes/
| 2022-04-07T14:49:10
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As Native Americans cautiously welcome Pope Francis’ historic apologyfor abuses at Catholic-run boarding schools for Indigenous children in Canada, U.S. churches are bracing for an unprecedented reckoning with their own legacies of operating such schools.
Church schools are likely to feature prominently in a report from the U.S. Department of the Interior, led by the first-ever Native American cabinet secretary, Deb Haaland, due to be released later this month. The report, prompted by last year’s discovery of hundreds of unmarked graves at former residential school sites in Canada, will focus on the loss of life and the enduring traumas the U.S. system inflicted onIndigenous children from the 19th to mid-20th centuries.
From Episcopalians to Quakers to Catholic dioceses in Oklahoma, faith groups have either started or intensified efforts in the past year to research and atone for their prior roles in the boarding school system, which Native children were forced to attend — cutting them off from their families, tribes and traditions.
While the pontiff’s April 1 apology was addressed to Indigenous groups from Canada, people were listening south of the border.
“An apology is the best way to start any conversation,” said Roy Callison, a Catholic deacon and Cherokee Nation member helping coordinate the Oklahoma Catholic Native Schools Project, which includes listening sessions for those affected by the boarding school legacy. “That’s the first step to trying to get healing.”
In his meeting with Canada’s Indigenous delegations, Francis asked forgiveness “for the role that a number of Catholics … had in all these things that wounded you, in the abuses you suffered and in the lack of respect shown for your identity, your culture and even your spiritual values.”
Francis “did something really important, which is name the importance of being indignant at this history,” said Maka Black Elk, executive director of truth and healing for Red Cloud Indian School on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
That history “is shameful, and it is not something we should accept,” said Black Elk, who is Oglala Lakota.
Red Cloud, affiliated with the Catholic Jesuit order, was for generations a boarding school for Lakota children. It’s now a day school incorporating Lakota leadership, language and traditions. Black Elk is guiding a reckoning process that includes archival research and hearing the stories of former students.
Canada underwent a much-publicized Truth and Reconciliation process in recent years. The issue gained unprecedented attention last year after a researcher using ground-penetrating radar reported finding about 200 unmarked probable burial sites at a former school in British Columbia.
That discovery, followed by others across Canada, prompted Haaland to commission her department’s report.
“This history in the United States has not been addressed in the same way it has been addressed in Canada,” Black Elk said. The Interior report “will be an important first step about the work that needs to happen in this country.”
Church leaders are getting ready. The report “will likely bring to light some very troubling information,” said a letter circulated last fall to members of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops from two colleagues who chaired committees related to the issue. The letter urged bishops to build relationships with local Indigenous communities and engage “in a real and honest dialogue about reactions to the report and what steps are needed to go forward together.”
Conditions varied at boarding schools in the United States, with some described as unsafe, unsanitary and scenes of physical or sexual abuse. Other former students recall their school years as positive times of learning, friendship and extracurricular activities.
Indigenous groups note that even the better schools were part of a project to assimilate children into a predominately white, Christian society and break down their tribal identities, customs and languages — what many Indigenous groups call a cultural genocide.
“The very process of boarding schools is violent and damaging,” said Bryan Rindfleisch, an expert in Native American history at Marquette University who is helping Catholics in Oklahoma research their school legacy.
There were at least 367 boarding schools across the United States in the 19th and 20th centuries, according to the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, a Minneapolis-based advocacy group.
Most were government-run; many others were run by Catholic and Protestant churches.
The national healing coalition called Pope Francis’ comments a historic first step, but urged the Vatican to repatriate Indigenous artifacts in its museum collections and called on religious organizations to open their school archives.
In listening sessions held through the Oklahoma Catholic Native Schools Project, many participants told positive stories of school experiences, Callison said, though the church is committed to documenting the traumatic ones too. “You’re going to hear things you don’t want to hear,” he said.
The project will also include archival research and individual interviews with those affected. At least 11 Catholic boarding schools operated in Oklahoma.
“We need to get to the truth before we can deal with whatever hurt or celebrate whatever success” the schools achieved, Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul Coakley said.
Several church groups — including Quakers, Methodists and some Catholic religious orders — are backing pending legislation in Congress that would go beyond the Interior report. It would create a truth and healing commission, modeled on Canada’s, to investigate the boarding school legacy.
The New England Yearly Meeting of Friends — a regional group of congregations — issued an apology last year for Quakers’ historic sponsorship of such schools, acknowledging they were undertaken with “spiritual and cultural arrogance.”
“We are deeply sorry for our part in the vast suffering caused by this system and the continuing effects,” the New England group said.
It’s important for Quakers to accept such responsibility, said Paula Palmer, a Quaker from Colorado whose research has identified about 30 Native American boarding and day schools that were run by Quakers.
“The yearly meetings voted to support, operate and finance” the schools, she said. “So it’s really the yearly meetings who have the responsibility to respond. They were the ones who also participated in the whole project of forced assimilation of Indigenous children.”
The Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States has hired an archival researcher to document its own boarding school history.
The order is “committed to examining and sharing the truth of our history, even where that is difficult,” said the Rev. Ted Penton, secretary of the Jesuit conference’s Office of Justice and Ecology.
The Episcopal Church’s General Convention in July is expected to vote on a statement that would “acknowledge the intergenerational trauma caused by genocide, colonialism” and the operation of boarding schools and “other systems based on white supremacy.”
The convention will also consider authorizing a “comprehensive and complete investigation” of the church’s operation of such schools. The proposals came from a group appointed by denominational leaders.
Such measures are strong, but local dioceses also need to research their own histories and advocate for Indigenous peoples, said the Rev. Rachel Taber-Hamilton, rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Everett, Washington. Taber-Hamilton, whose heritage includes the Shackan First Nation of Canada, is an Episcopal Church representative to the worldwide Anglican Indigenous Network.
“It’s not enough to say, ‘I’m sorry, and here’s some money,’” she said. “We first have to do some very hard work of listening to the pain.”
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Associated Press religion coverage receives support from the Lilly Endowment through The Conversation U.S. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
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| 2022-04-07T14:49:18
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MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Republican-backed candidates in local school board races came out as big winners in the Milwaukee suburbs that are critical for the Wisconsin GOP in statewide elections, but they had mixed results in other parts of the battleground state.
The school board elections Tuesday in Wisconsin were among the earliest nationwide this year and are the latest sign of how politicized typically nonpartisan races for local offices are becoming across the country.
Former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, a Republican candidate for governor, took the unusual step of endorsing 48 school board candidates. Of those, 34 won including eight incumbents, based on preliminary results. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, a former teacher, school administrator and state superintendent, did not endorse in any race.
“The pattern was traditional GOP areas, the endorsed candidates did well,” said Michael Ford, an associate professor of public administration at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh who studies school board races. “Places where it’s more ideologically balanced it didn’t seem to matter all that much.”
Ben Wikler, chairman of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, was buoyed by the results, saying Republicans should have performed better in a year that is supposed to favor them. They needed to perform better in swing parts of the state, he said.
“What we saw last night is a sharply divided state that’s likely to come down to the wire in the fall,” Wikler said.
Conservative candidates picked up school board seats in Waukesha, Wausau and Kenosha, but lost races in Beloit and the western Wisconsin cities of La Crosse and Eau Claire.
The results reinforce the idea that the goal of Republicans getting behind school board candidates in a way they haven’t in the past was to reinforce their base ahead of the midterm elections, Ford said. It also shows that key voters in Milwaukee’s suburbs, who were uncomfortable voting for Donald Trump, swung back and voted for conservatives in the school board races, he said.
That could be a good sign for Republicans heading into the fall, when Evers and Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson are up for reelectionin November. Johnson last year talked about the importance of local elections heading into the midterm and encouraged constituents to “take back our school boards, our county boards, our city councils.”
Republicans also saw wins beyond school board races. The Republican-backed candidate for a state appeals court seat in southeastern Wisconsin, Maria Lazar, defeated a sitting judge who was appointed by Evers. And Republican state Rep. Samantha Kerkman won the race for Kenosha County executive, replacing a Democrat. Republicans also touted wins in other Democratic parts of the state, including winning two of three seats on the Green Bay City Council and flipping majority control of seven county boards.
Kleefisch has made education one of her top issues and said Wednesday the wins “show that Wisconsinites are fed up and want to take back control of their communities, schools and courts.”
The GOP-backed school board candidates largely focused their campaigns on the response to COVID-19 in schools, like mask mandates and vaccination requirements, and on exerting more control over what can be taught, particularly as it relates to race, sex and gender issues.
Ballotpedia, which tracks election data, found that there were 53 school board elections in Wisconsin in which candidates took a stance on how race is taught, how schools or districts responded to the pandemic, or school-related sex and gender issues.
Here’s a look at some of the more noteworthy races:
— Three Waukesha School Board candidates endorsed by the Republican Party and Kleefisch won, defeating a slate of candidates backed by the statewide teachers union. That was part of a near county-wide sweep by conservative backed candidates for school board.
— Scarlett Johnson, one of the organizers of an unsuccessful school board recall electionlast fall in the suburban Milwaukee district of Mequon-Thiensville, lost her bid for the board along with another conservative candidate.
— Eau Claire school board candidate Marquell Johnson, who was backed by Democrats, won. Johnson, who is Black, made public an email he received during the campaign calling for a “Thank You White People Day.”
— Eau Claire school board president Tim Nordin, who urged his community not to “cede to fear,” won. He received a death threat after three conservative candidates for school board seats criticized a teacher training program that they claimed could exclude parents from conversations about their children’s gender identity or sexual orientation.
— In the small town of Holmen, a social media post in February showed a flyer asking voters to contact two conservative candidates for school board to “Keep Holmen Schools White and Christian.” Both of the named candidates who were also endorsed by Kleefisch — Josh Neumann and Chad Updyke — lost. They decried the postcard, which has not been connected to them. They ran as critics of the school district’s COVID-19 restrictions and against the teaching of a “divisive curriculum.”
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This story has been corrected to reflect that Scarlett Johnson is not an incumbent.
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https://www.wane.com/news/gop-backed-school-board-candidates-win-in-milwaukee-suburbs/
| 2022-04-07T14:49:25
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ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) — A federal judge has ordered the immediate release of a computer hacker who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for helping the Islamic State, and accused the Justice Department of trumping up charges against him to keep him in jail.
The April 1 order from U.S. Judge Leonie Brinkema includes a harsh rebuke of the Justice Department’s conduct against Ardit Ferizi. The native of Kosovo is the first person convicted in the U.S. of both computer hacking and terrorism charges.
He pleaded guilty back in 2016 and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. He admitted hacking a private company and pulling out the names, email passwords and phone numbers of about 1,300 people with .gov and .mil addresses and turning the data over to the “Islamic State Hacking Division.” The Islamic State published the names with a threat to attack.
In 2020, in the earliest stages of the pandemic, Ferizi sought compassionate release, citing his asthma and obesity as placing him at greater risk of contracting COVID-19.
Brinkema initially denied his request. But Ferizi renewed his request when an outbreak spread through his prison, and Brinkema granted him compassionate release over prosecutors’ objections.
Brinkema’s ruling resulted in Ferizi’s transfer to immigration authorities for deportation. Before he could be deported, though, federal prosecutors in California brought new charges against Ferizi. The criminal complaint accused him of identity theft and wire fraud by coordinating with a family member to preserve access to email accounts that included large amounts of stolen data.
Ferizi’s lawyers filed to have the new charges dismissed, accusing the Justice Department of vindictive prosecution because agents were upset by Ferizi’s early release.
On March 22, just before a court hearing was scheduled in California to consider the accusation of vindictive prosecution, the new charges against Ferizi were all dropped.
In her April 1 order, Brinkema said prosecutors in California built their case on information from a fellow inmate of Ferizi with a history of unreliability.
She wrote that the circumstances of the case lead her to conclude that “there were elements within the Department of Justice who were so dissatisfied with this Court’s decision to release defendant … that they purposely tried to evade these decisions by filing very weak new charges against the defendant.”
Prosecutors have argued that, now that the pandemic has subsided, the rationale for compassionate release no longer exists.
Brinkema, though, said “it would set a terrible precedent to reverse the decision to release a defendant based on a change of circumstances caused by the government’s manipulation of the criminal justice system.”
Prosecutors, who filed an appeal with the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond the first time Brinkema ordered Ferizi’s release, have not yet indicated if they plan to appeal her most recent order.
Ferizi was among a relatively small number of inmates who successfully sought early release from prison under the pandemic. According to the U.S. Sentencing Commission, more than 12,000 inmates filed motions for compassionate release in 2020 because of the pandemic. About 21% of those requests — a little more than 2,500 inmates — were granted.
A public defender representing Ferizi and a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia each declined comment.
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| 2022-04-07T14:49:32
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WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Wednesday acquitted a New Mexico man of misdemeanor charges that he illegally entered the U.S. Capitol and engaged in disorderly conduct after he walked into the building during last year’s riot.
U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden issued the verdict from the bench after hearing testimony without a jury in the case against Matthew Martin. McFadden, who was nominated by former President Donald Trump, acquitted Martin of all four counts for which he was charged.
McFadden said it was reasonable for Martin to believe that outnumbered police officers allowed him and others to enter the Capitol through the Rotunda doors on Jan. 6, 2021. The judge also said Martin’s actions were “about as minimal and non-serious” as anyone who was at the Capitol that day.
Martin is the third Capitol riot defendant whose case has been resolved by a trial. He is the first of the three to be acquitted of all charges that he faced. The first two Capitol riot trials ended with convictions, although McFadden acquitted one of those defendants of a disorderly conduct charge after a bench trial last month.
In the same courthouse where Martin was acquitted, a fourth trial continued on Wednesday for a former Virginia police officer who is charged with storming the Capitol with another off-duty officer. Jurors heard testimony from the fellow officer, who pleaded guilty to a riot-related charge and agreed to be a witness for prosecutors.
Martin, whose bench trial started Tuesday, testified that a police officer waved him into the building after the riot erupted. A prosecutor dismissed that testimony as “nonsense.”
The judge, however, said video shows two police officers standing near the Rotunda doors and allowing people to enter as Martin approached. One of the officers appeared to lean back before Martin placed a hand on the officer’s shoulder as a possible sign of gratitude, the judge said.
McFadden described Martin’s testimony as “largely credible.” The judge said it was not unreasonable for him to believe that officers allowed him to enter the Capitol, even though alarms were blaring and broken glass was strewn about the floor.
Martin was charged with four misdemeanor counts: entering and remaining in a restricted building, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building, violent entry and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building.
The judge said Martin appeared to be a “silent observer of the actions of others.” McFadden didn’t find any evidence that Martin intended to disrupt Congress from certifying President Joe Biden’s electoral victory.
Dozens of Capitol riot defendants have pleaded guilty and been sentenced, but Martin is the first to testify at a trial. His acquittal could embolden others to gamble on a bench trial, although McFadden so far is the only judge to preside over one and decide a case.
Martin said he “went with the flow” as he approached the Capitol and testified that he saw a police officer wave him into the building. Martin remained inside the Capitol for about 10 minutes after entering the building through the Rotunda doors, according to prosecutors.
Martin said he “enjoyed the day” of the riot.
“It was a magical day in many ways,” he testified on Tuesday before adding, “I know some bad things happened.”
“You understand that police officers died?” Justice Department prosecutor Michael Romano asked Martin.
At least nine people died in the riot or its aftermath. One officer died after he collapsed hours after being sprayed with bear spray and other officers who tried to quell the riot died by suicide in the months following the attack.
Prosecutors said Martin, an engineer, worked for a government contractor at the National Laboratory in Los Alamos, New Mexico, and held a top-secret security clearance on Jan. 6. Martin said he actually worked at a different facility in Los Alamos.
Defense attorney Dan Cron said Martin saw another person shake a police officer’s hand after entering the Capitol. Martin placed his hand on an officer’s shoulder “as a gesture of thanks and of good will,” Cron said.
Romano, the Justice Department prosecutor, said Martin joined the mob in crowding police officers who were trying to disperse the crowd. The prosecutor said Martin knew that he wasn’t allowed to be in the Capitol.
“The idea that he thought he had permission to do that is nonsense,” Romano said.
Other riot defendants have claimed police waved them in or said they could enter.
McFadden presided over a bench trial last month for Cuoy Griffin, a county official in New Mexico. The judge on March 22 convicted Griffin of illegally entering restricted U.S. Capitol grounds but acquitted him of engaging in disorderly conduct.
On March 8, a jury decided the first Capitol riot trial by convicting a Texas man, Guy Reffitt, of storming the Capitol with a holstered handgun.
After Martin’s acquittal Wednesday, a jury in a different courtroom heard a second day of testimony for the trial of former Rocky Mount, Virginia, police officer Thomas Robertson. The town fired Robertson and another officer, Jacob Fracker, who joined him at the Capitol on Jan. 6.
Fracker was scheduled to be tried alongside Robertson before he pleaded guilty last month to a conspiracy charge and agreed to testify against somebody who was his mentor and a father figure.
“I absolutely hate this,” Fracker said. “I’ve always been on the other side of things, the good guys’ side so to speak.”
Fracker testified that he and Robertson both believed the 2020 presidential election had been stolen from Trump. Fracker said they both wore gas masks as they joined a mob in storming the Capitol.
Asked why he went to the Capitol that day, Fracker said he wanted to play a part in overturning the election results.
“I felt like we had maybe been heard by whoever it was we needed to be heard by,” Fracker said.
He said he has grown ashamed of his actions on Jan. 6.
“That’s not the person I am,” he said. “I wasn’t raised like that.”
Fracker is due to be cross-examined by one of Robertson’s lawyers on Thursday.
Prosecutors plan to call two more witnesses, a police officer and FBI agent. A defense attorney said Robertson may testify. Jurors could hear attorneys’ closing arguments as soon as Friday.
More than 770 people have been charged with riot-related federal crimes. Over 240 of them have pleaded guilty, mostly to misdemeanors, and over 140 of them have been sentenced.
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| 2022-04-07T14:49:40
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BRUSSELS (AP) — NATO would quickly welcome Finland and Sweden into its ranks with open arms if they decided to apply, the military alliance’s top civilian official said Wednesday, as Russia’s war on Ukraine spurs public support in the two Nordic countries for membership.
The military organization might also be ready to provide security guarantees to the countries if any potential membership bid angers Russia, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.
A poll last month by Finnish broadcaster YLE showed that, for the first time, more than 50% of Finns support joining the Western military alliance. In neighboring Sweden, a similar poll showed that those in favor of NATO membership outnumber those against.
“If they decide to apply, I expect that all allies will welcome them,” Stoltenberg told reporters in Brussels, as NATO foreign ministers met to discuss the war in Ukraine. “We know that they can easily join this alliance if they decide to apply.”
Before launching the war on Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin demanded that the 30-nation military organization stop expanding and pull its troops back from Russia’s borders. So the prospect of neighboring Finland, and Sweden, joining is unlikely to be welcomed in Moscow.
To shield them, Stoltenberg said NATO member countries might be prepared to provide a security guarantee to cover the two neutral nations from when they announce a possible membership bid until their applications are endorsed.
Once members, they would benefit from NATO’s collective defense clause, which obliges all members to come to the aid of any ally that comes under attack.
“I am certain that we will find ways to address concerns they may have regarding the period between the potential application and the final ratification,” Stoltenberg said. He declined to speculate about what those security guarantees might involve.
Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto said his country’s lawmakers are due this month to debate a government white paper on security, including an option for NATO accession. He said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has changed public opinion.
“In three or four weeks we have a majority, first time ever” in favor of joining, Haavisto said.
He said Finland knows that “Russia is ready to take bigger risks, as we can see in Ukraine, bigger risks also for its own security. We can also see that Russia is capable of gathering more than 100,000 men against just one country, even without touching its reserves.”
Haavisto added that “the threshold has been lowered, at least in the debate,” on Russia’s possible use of tactical nuclear or chemical weapons.
He too was reluctant to go into detail about any security guarantee that Finland might need, particularly as debate about joining continues at home. But Haavisto did say it’s something that his country would want to discuss with “key” NATO members, and that Finnish leaders have been in contact with U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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https://www.wane.com/news/nato-chief-says-finland-sweden-welcome-to-apply-to-join/
| 2022-04-07T14:49:47
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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota prosecutors declined to file charges Wednesday against a Minneapolis police SWAT team officer who fatally shot Amir Locke while executing an early morning no-knock search warrant in a downtown apartment in February.
Locke, 22, who was Black, was staying on a couch in his cousin’s apartment when authorities entered it on Feb. 2 without knocking as part of an investigation into a homicide in neighboring St. Paul.
Prosecutors said body camera video showed that Locke pointed a gun at Officer Mark Hanneman, justifying his use of deadly force. Locke’s family has disputed that, arguing that the footage suggests Locke was startled awake and that he grabbed for a gun he was licensed to carry.
Locke’s mother, Karen Wells, said she was disgusted by the decision. At a news conference in New York with attorney Ben Crump and civil rights leader the Rev. Al Sharpton, she vowed to keep up pressure on Minneapolis city leaders and spoke directly to Hanneman.
“This is not over. You may have been found not guilty, but in the eyes of me, being the mother who I am, you are guilty,” Wells said. “And I’m not going to give up. Continue to have your restless nights, because I know you do.”
Locke was shot seconds after officers entered the apartment. The body camera footage shows that Locke was holding a gun before he was shot.
Attorney General Keith Ellison and Hennepin County Attorney Michael Freeman, whose offices reviewed the case, said Locke might never have been shot if not for the no-knock warrant. But they said there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Hanneman violated the state statute governing when police can use deadly force.
“It would be unethical for us to file charges in a case in which we know that we will not be able to prevail because the law does not support the charges,” Ellison said.
Locke’s death came as three former Minneapolis police officers were on trial in federal court in St. Paul in George Floyd’s killing. It sparked protests and a reexamination of no-knock search warrants. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced an immediate moratorium on such warrants, and on Tuesday, he formalized a new policy requiring officers to knock and wait before entering a residence, with limited exceptions. Some lawmakers have been pushing for a statewide ban on no-knock warrants, except in rare circumstances.
The department issued a statement from Interim Chief Amelia Huffman saying that Hanneman returned to active duty on Feb. 28 but is no longer on a SWAT team. She did not comment directly on Hanneman’s actions but said, “Officers never want to face split-second decisions that end in the loss of life.”
Locke’s family was angry that police initially described him as a suspect, which police later said was a mistake.
“Our investigation found no evidence that he had any role in the homicide investigation that brought the police to his door at 6:48 on Feb. 2,” Ellison said. “Amir was a victim. He never should have been called a suspect.”
In their applications for search warrants of the Minneapolis apartment and other locations, authorities said a no-knock warrant was necessary to protect the public and officers as they looked for guns, drugs and clothing worn by people suspected in a violent killing. Authorities asked that officers be allowed to conduct the search without knocking, and outside the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m., because the suspects being sought in the Jan. 10 killing of Otis Elder had a history of violence.
Locke was killed seconds after the SWAT team entered the apartment at 6:48 a.m. Body camera video shows an officer using a key to unlock the door and enter, followed by at least four officers in uniform and protective vests. As they enter, they repeatedly shout, “Police, search warrant!” They also shout “Hands!” and “Get on the ground!”
The video shows an officer kicking a sectional sofa, and Locke is seen wrapped in a comforter, holding a pistol. Three shots are heard and the video ends.
“I was convinced that the individual was going to fire their handgun and that I would suffer great bodily harm or death,” Hanneman wrote in his statement to investigators. “I felt in this moment that if I did not use deadly force myself, I would likely be killed.”
Ellison and Freeman said they spoke with Locke’s parents on Wednesday before announcing they wouldn’t file charges.
“They, like us, are very frustrated with no-knock warrants. They, like us, believe that if a no-knock warrant hadn’t been used Amir Locke might well be here today,” Freeman said, declining to give further details about their conversation.
Sharpton said the family will demand that the U.S. Justice Department review the case. Crump faulted police for creating a life-or-death situation, and said gun rights groups should join with the family in demanding an end to no-knock warrants.
He connected Locke’s death with that of Breonna Taylor, who was killed in a botched police raid in Kentucky in 2020 in which her boyfriend shot at officers first as they broke into her apartment.
“Because if it can happen to Amir, it can happen to Breonna Taylor, it could happen to your children, too,” Crump said.
Although Locke was not named in the warrant, his then-17-year-old cousin, Mekhi Camden Speed, was named and has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder in Elder’s killing.
Elder, a 38-year-old father, was found shot and laying in the street in what police believe was an apparent robbery. Drugs and money were found in Elder’s SUV, according to court documents.
The police department hired Hanneman in 2015. City records show there were three complaints made about him and that all were closed without him being disciplined, but they give no details. Data on the website of the citizen group Communities United Against Police Brutality shows a fourth complaint, in 2018, that remains open. No details were given.
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Associated Press writer Amy Forliti contributed to this report.
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Find the AP’s full coverage of the death of Amir Locke: https://apnews.com/hub/amir-locke
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| 2022-04-07T14:49:54
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Ormond man guilty of first-degree murder in infant son's killing, faces possible death sentence
An Ormond Beach man was found guilty Wednesday of first-degree murder and other charges for beating his infant son to death and next week the jury will decide whether to recommend he be sentenced to death.
Calib Justice Scott, 26, was indicted on a charge of first-degree murder in the death of his son, Daemon, who was not quite 5 months old and weighed about 12 pounds when prosecutors said he was fatally beaten by his father.
A jury of six women and six men deliberated for more than five hours before returning guilty verdicts against Scott on the charges of first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse and child neglect causing great harm.
The penalty phase of the trial will begin on Monday when the jurors will recommend that Scott be sentenced to death or that he spend the rest of his life in prison.
The jury recommendation for death must be unanimous for Circuit Judge Dawn Nichols to have the option of sentencing Scott to death. If the jurors do not unanimously agree on a death recommendation, then Nichols must sentence Scott to a mandatory life in prison without parole on the murder count.
Scott did not testify during the trial.
State Attorney R.J. Larizza issued a statement after the verdict.
"Baby Damon suffered through five months of hell and ultimately died at the hands of his father. What he suffered is unimaginable. How could a father be so selfish and cruel?" Larizza stated in the release. "We will remain dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable and precious members of our community as we prepare for the sentencing phase of the trial."
The investigation in Ormond Beach began after Scott called 9-1-1 early on the morning of June 11, 2019 to his mobile home at 19 N. Yonge St. after he said he noticed his son, Daemon, was having difficulty breathing, a report said.
The child was taken to Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach and was later pronounced dead.
An autopsy found that Daemon had suffered a “subdural hematoma,” according to the charging affidavit. A subdural hematoma is bleeding on the brain often caused by a severe head injury.
The child's mother, Stephanie Holly, 36, who was at work when police were called, was charged with neglect of a child causing great bodily harm, failure to report child abuse/neglect and culpable negligence. She has a hearing set for May 3 before Nichols.
Assistant State Attorneys, Heatha Trigones and Andrew Urbanak, in their closing statements told jurors that they should convict Scott as charged.
Scott sat mostly looking straight ahead as the prosecutors made their arguments and described the numerous injuries to the infant or how Scott told police he smacked the child.
“You saw the interview of Calib Scott and you saw his admission that he smacked the (expletive) out of his child that he slammed him down that he picked him up by the throat,” Urbanak told jurors.
Scott told police he did that to distract the child from crying, Urbanak said.
“You've got a grown man slapping the (expletive) out of a child that weighs 12 pounds,” Urbanak said.
He said that Scott admitted picking the child up by his neck and slamming him down but those actions do not account for all the injuries, Urbanak said.
“There were a lot more injures to that child in the 24 hours before his death than Mr. Scott talked about,” Urbanak said.
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Trigones recalled how Scott said he picked the infant up by the throat. She said the infant did not accidentally fall, the infant was thrown, was slammed, Trigones said.
‘You don’t pick a baby up by its neck. That's anger, there’s intent to harm,” Trigones said.
Trigones recalled how Scott described hitting his infant son to knock his teeth down his throat.
She recalled testimony from a doctor who said the infant had lost tissue from his nose and another injury to his lips. The infant also had bruises on his head and other injuries.
“You cannot inflict those types of injuries on a person, let alone an infant, and not have an evil intent and ill will,” Trigones said.
She told jurors that a doctor testified that the child was dehydrated and the only thing in the infant's stomach was his own mucous.
The medical examiner testified that among the injuries the child suffered a circular burn mark on one ear caused by a cigarette, Trigones said.
Assistant Public Defender Larry Avallone, who along with Rosemarie Peoples and Brian Smith represented Scott, said that Scott was guilty of manslaughter but not first-degree murder or second-degree murder.
“You should find him guilty of what he said he did and what the evidence proves, which is manslaughter,” Avallone said.
He added that that he was not saying Scott was blameless.
“Am I getting up here today and saying Calib Scott did nothing wrong. I'm not saying that. We would never say that,” Avallone said.
He asked jurors not to make a decision based on anger and referred to photos of the child’s body shown during the trial.
“Anger is an easy emotion to give into when you look at all those photographs. Don't make a decision based on anger,” Avallone said
He said Scott did not purposely kill his son.
Avallone said that Scott worked on resuscitating the baby, called 911 for help, waited outside for ambulance as instructed, was in a panicked state as he handed the baby over to first responders and tried to ride in the ambulance with the child to the hospital.
Avallone said that the anger Scott showed in the interview was an emotional expression in response to a failed attempt at a new life in Florida and finding himself alone far away from home with no family or support system.
He said Scott lied to police initially to protect the baby’s mother, Stephanie Holly. He recalled how a witness had testified earlier in the trial that Holly had admitted to accidentally burning the child with a cigarette.
He said Scott wrote letters of apology about the baby’s death.
“In those letters he said that he did not mean to kill that baby,” Avallone said. “Those are not the words and actions of a man that set out with the purpose of killing that child.”
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https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/courts/2022/04/07/ormond-beach-man-faces-possible-death-sentence-killing-infant-son/9476955002/
| 2022-04-07T14:49:55
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VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis on Wednesday kissed a battered Ukrainian flag that he said was brought to him from the “martyred” Ukrainian city of Bucha as he denounced the “massacre” there and called again for an end to the war.
Francis held the flag as he welcomed a half-dozen Ukrainian refugee children up to the stage of the Vatican audience hall at the end of his Wednesday general audience and gave them each a giant chocolate Easter egg. He urged prayers for them and for all Ukrainians.
“The recent news from the war in Ukraine, instead of bringing relief and hope, brought testimony of new atrocities, like the massacre in Bucha, even more horrendous cruelty carried out against civilians, defenseless women and children,” he said.
“They are victims whose innocent blood cries up to the sky and implores that this war be stopped, and that the weapons be silenced. Stop disseminating war and destruction.”
He held up a dirtied Ukrainian flag that he said had arrived Tuesday at the Vatican from Bucha, where evidence has emerged since the Russians pulled out of what appears to be intentional killings of civilians.
Kissing it, the pope said: “This flag comes from the war, from that martyred city Bucha. … Let us not forget them. Let us not forget the people of Ukraine.”
And gesturing to the children, Francis said: “These children had to flee to arrive in a safe place. This is the fruit of war.”
Francis has amplified his outrage at the Russian invasion after his initial tepid response, though he has refrained from citing Russia or President Vladimir Putin by name in keeping with Vatican diplomatic tradition.
Francis has sought to keep open a path of dialogue with the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, the Putin-allied Patriarch Kirill. Speaking to reporters en route home from Malta last weekend, Francis said he was working on organizing a second meetingwith the patriarch, who has seemingly justified the war by evoking Russians and Ukrainians as “one people” and describing the conflict as a “metaphysical” battle against the West and its “gay parades.”
He said a Mideast location was possible, and the Vatican confirmed Tuesday that a June visit to Lebanon was under study, suggesting a possible encounter there.
During his weekly catechism lesson, Francis lamented that the war made clear the failure of the United Nations and the post-World War II international system of peace and security.
“After the Second World War they tried to lay the foundations for a new history of peace, but unfortunately — we do not learn — the old story of competing great powers continued,” he said. “And, in the current war in Ukraine, we are witnessing the impotence of United Nations organizations.”
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https://www.wane.com/news/pope-francis-kisses-ukrainian-flag-from-martyred-bucha/
| 2022-04-07T14:50:01
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Take cover: Tornado warning in effect for Flagler County till 10:45 a.m.
A tornado warning is in effect for northeastern Florida including Flagler County until 10:45 a.m.
At 10:33 a.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Palm Coast, moving east at 35 mph. According to the National Weather Service, radar indicated rotation.
This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of northeastern Flagler County, including the following locations... Beverly Beach and Espanola.
Forecasters say to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
Northeastern Florida storms:More severe storms expected Tuesday night, into Wednesday, in Tallahassee area and Leon County
Check back for more updates.
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https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/weather/2022/04/07/florida-tornados-flagler-county-northern-florida-under-warning/9495478002/
| 2022-04-07T14:50:02
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