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https://www.trtworld.com/magazine/how-prophet-muhammad-and-his-companions-experienced-the-first-ramadan-56000 | In the vicinity of deserts, where food and water sources were scarce, the first Muslims in Medina learned to fast all day long under Prophet Muhammad’s guidance.
Many Muslims around the world are preparing themselves for another Ramadan, a fasting month in Islam, which will mark the 1,398th anniversary of the first holy month this year.
Dating back to 624 BCE, the first ever Ramadan was observed in the city of Medina in today's Saudi Arabia, according to the Gregorian calendar.
The date also marked the second year of the Hijrat, or migration in English, which played a crucial role in Islamic history. Under paganist pressure, this small community of Muslims were forced to leave the city of Mecca and move to Medina for refuge in 622.
Following Prophet Muhammad’s instructions to go for Hijrat, his companions, the first Muslims, chose to start their own calendar with the starting date of Hijrat, a profound transformative event, marking its beginning.
The first Ramadan for Muslims happened to be in March, a spring month, in which temperatures in the Arabian Peninsula including Medina were milder compared to summertime, when intense hot weather hits both desert and urban areas.
“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you — as it was for those before you — so perhaps you will become mindful [of Allah],” said the Quran, instructing Muslims to fast as other believers of God who preceded them did in previous times.
The verses were revealed to Prophet Muhammad in February 624 BCE, or in the month of Shawwal in the second year of Hijrat, according to Kasif Hamdi Okur, a professor of Islamic divinity at the Hitit University.
While Prophet Muhammad and some Muslims fasted some days in particular months in Mecca prior to the Quran’s Ramadan verses, fasting 30 or sometimes 29 days straight without any interruption was an extraordinary experience for the first Muslims, Okur tells TRT World.
“There are records from Prophet Muhammad’s time, which indicate that even the first Muslims had some difficult times to get used to Ramadan fasting in the first year,” he says, signalling that it is one of the Quranic measures to create a unique spiritually disciplined Muslim society (umma), which can brace both psychological and physical difficulties.
A short time prior to the revelation of Ramadan verses, Muslims also changed their prayer direction (Kiblah) from Jerusalem (Quds in the Quran) to Mecca’s Kaaba, the cubic structure built by Prophet Abraham to pray to the one God, according to Muslim understanding. All these changes happened after the Prophet’s followers established a strong base in Medina.
By changing prayer direction and fasting in an uninterrupted way for a month, the first Muslims deeply felt that they were a different religious community from other monotheistic groups, Christians and Jews, members of whom were living alongside them in Medina, developing a strong self-consciousness about their own identity, according to Okur.
Also the first Ramadan remarkably coincided with the first crucial military engagement, the Battle of Badr, between Medina-based Muslims and Mecca-led paganists, he adds. While the total participants of the battle for both sides did not exceed 1,200 fighters, its end result favouring Muslims ensured the new monotheistic religion’s historical survival, allowing it to flourish across the world over centuries.
But fasting is not imposed on everyone without exceptions. The Quran, which has always promised to maintain a middle path for believers to make their life straightforward and fair, brought exceptions to people like the very old, sick, pregnant women and children to exempt themselves from fasting, the professor says.
If a Muslim adult has legitimate reasons not to fast, he or she should feed a poor person for one day for each day he or she could not fast, according to Quran.
Ramadan: a moral marathon
Despite the difficulties of fasting, which tests a Muslim’s physical endurance as well as his/her psychological strength, like the feeling of the huge relief of finishing a marathon running, Ramadan brings a lot of blessings and forgiveness from God, Prophet Muhammad pledged.
“‘Woe unto the servants who have reached this month of Ramadan and cannot be forgiven,’ says Prophet Muhammad,” Okur says.
In Islamic thinking, fasting is not just banning yourself from food and drinks but attempting to purify yourself from your wrongdoings, says Ali Celik, the dean of the divinity faculty of Dumlupinar University, who has extensively written about Ramadan and fasting.
“In the practice of the Prophet, fasting is not just a form of worship consisting of starvation. The Messenger of Allah (SAW: May Allah honour him and grant him peace) sees fasting as a shield that protects Muslims from evil. Being more patient in relations with people, avoiding bad words are among the basic characteristics of the fasting person,” Celik tells TRT World.
"Allah does not need a man who does not abandon bad words and actions, to abandon eating and drinking," says a hadith recorded by Muhammed al Bukhari, a Muslim scholar, emphasising the spiritual side of Ramadan fasting. Hadiths are sayings of Prophet Muhammad.
As a result, the Prophet and his companions would increase other worships in Ramadan.
“Particularly, in the last 10 days of Ramadan, he would prefer to engage in worship by entering Itikaf in the mosque,” Celik says. Itikaf means to separate yourself from others, devoting your time to worship rather than worldly affairs to get a better understanding of your life’s direction.
Every human activity was also arranged according to Ramadan’s rituals because the first Muslims saw Ramadan as a period that was “centric” to their spiritual life, says Okur. “When people in Türkiye express their love for old Ramadans, it usually refers to pre-modern times, where working hours were also arranged according to the fasting month’s rituals.”
But worshipping and fasting do not mean giving up all work and other practices of daily life, Celik observes. “The Messenger of Allah (SAW) would try not to interrupt his daily life in Ramadan, and if he had to do something while fasting, he would do it. He would not delay any work that had to be done on the pretext of fasting,” says Celik.
Interestingly, even during the march for the Battle of Badr, which coincided with Ramadan, the Prophet, who was also the military commander of the Muslims, fasted, says the professor. In Islam, fighting for a just cause is also considered a religious duty like fasting during Ramadan.
The Muslim March towards Mecca, which ended up conquering the native city of the Prophet from the paganist rule, also happened during Ramadan, Celik underlines, showing the Prophet’s hard-working attitude even during the fasting month.
What was their food?
There is some serious distance between today’s Muslims and the first Muslims in terms of not only morality but also their fast-breaking attitudes.
“There are serious differences between us and the Prophet's companions in terms of Ramadan food. The first Muslims had no opportunity to have food like we do now in terms of its diversity and quantity,” says Okur.
Muslims call their fast-breaking iftar and their pre-dawn meal suhur. “During their suhur, they were probably eating a couple of dates alongside some water. That was it,” the professor says, describing a kind of suhur which is right now almost unthinkable for many Muslim households.
”Our Prophet's fast-breaking meal was extremely simple, far from luxury and waste,” says Celik. If they found one type of food, they would be happy to have it in their iftar, says Okur. During today’s iftars, there are various types of food from soup to rice and other dishes added such as fruits and desserts.
“Their iftars and suhurs were so simple. They were crushing a date mixing with either some flour or water to make their own food. Or they were mixing roasted flour with some olive oils to make another food,” he says.
But there were also people who did not even have such food in Medina back in 624. “As a result, Prophet Muhammad urged financially better conditioned Muslims to invite other Muslims with no food on their iftar table,” paving the way for developing the strong Muslim tradition of inviting friends, relatives and poor to share their food on common iftar tables.
Particularly people like Suffah, who were homeless and unmarried companions of the Prophet, migrated from Mecca to Medina and dedicated their lives to gaining religious knowledge from the Prophet, were too poor to afford such meals. “The Prophet incentivised other Muslims to host people of Suffah and not to leave them behind on their iftar tables,” Okur says.
The Prophet, who was more generous than other times in Ramadan, would also invite believers in need to her table at iftar as well as at suhur and offer them treats, says Celik.
“But at the end of the day, despite its simplicity, their iftars and suhurs were both healthier and more humble than ours today,” Okur concludes. | 0 | 15,612 | 0.577344 | https://islamonline.net/en/ramadan-and-fasting-2/ | 2022-07-21 12:10:58+00:00 | In Ramadan, Muslims everywhere in the world enter into a season of intensive worship, which is characterized by fasting, praying, and training for self-control and discipline, in order to become a better and spiritually purified human being. This season is the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month in the lunar calendar. A sacred month when the Glorious Qur’an, Allah’s word, was revealed to the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) for the first time around 610 CE.
Muslims have been fasting in Ramadan for more than 1420 years since they were ordered by God Almighty through the Glorious Qur’an: [Oh you who believe! Fasting is decreed for you as it was decreed for those before you, so that you may learn self-restraint] (Al-Baqarah 2:183). This verse shows clearly that the Muslims were not the first ones to fast. Allah prescribed fasting on many nations before Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) was sent as a prophet. The Qur’an tells us that when Zakariyah (peace and blessings be upon him) prayed and asked Allah to give him offspring, he was commanded to fast three days by abstaining from talking. Likewise, Maryam the mother of Jesus (peace and blessings be upon him) was also ordered by Allah to fast the same way when she became pregnant. Our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) told us that David (peace and blessings be upon him) used to fast every other day. Jesus (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have fasted forty days and forty nights in Matthew 4:2. Fasting had always been one of the observances of pious people.
In Islam, fasting is one of the fundamental ordinances, with its unique moral and spiritual characteristics. The other fundamental ordinances are the following: the testament of faith (to declare none has the right to be worshiped except Allah alone, and Muhammad is his final messenger); the five daily Prayers (dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and night); zakah (alms) which is an obligatory charity that the Muslim must pay once a year (2.5 percent of one’s wealth) to the poor and needy people; and pilgrimage to Makkah once in a lifetime for those who are physically and financially capable of doing so. These religious obligations are stations where the believer charges his soul with love of God and desire for righteousness. As we nurture our bodies with food and drink at different times of the day, we nurture our souls five times a day by praying. We go through the same process when we listen to the Friday sermon once a week and pray collectively in congregation, when we perform the pilgrimage to Makkah once in our life, and when we fast the whole month of Ramadan once a year.
What Is Fasting?
Literally defined, fasting means to abstain completely from eating, drinking, and having intimate intercourse before the break of the dawn till sunset. It is also refraining from committing any kind of sin, whether major or minor, during the month of Ramadan. This does not mean that the act of fasting cannot be performed at other times of the year. There are great virtues in fasting in general, but in this sacred month it is Allah’s commandment, which should be fulfilled by every Muslim who has reached the age of puberty and is, of course, physically able. Those who cannot do it for these reasons can eat and drink, but they still have to control themselves and avoid committing minor and major sins. They, too, live and share the spiritual experience with their fellow Muslims.
The Spiritual Experience
Fasting in Ramadan is a great spiritual experience, an occasion for reflection and spiritual discipline and another chance to express gratitude for Allah’s countless blessings and guidance. It is an occasion to show one’s commitment and submission to Allah Almighty. It is a month of mercy, tolerance, forgiveness, and purification from past sins and mistakes. It is an awareness of human frailty and dependence on Allah. It is an eye-opener and self-experience of what the less fortunate, the poor and the hungry, are enduring and experiencing in everyday life.
Fasting in Ramadan Is a Practical School
In this institution, the faithful learn the principle of sincere love. Fasting also equips the individual with a fervent hope in God. It imbues the person with virtues of effective devotion, honest dedication, and closeness to God. It indoctrinates people in patience and unselfishness. Fasting is also an effective lesson in applied moderation and willpower. It provides a transparent soul to transcend, a clear mind to think, and a light body to move and act. It creates an atmosphere of equality and unity among the fasting people. Fasting also shows us a new way of wise saving and sound budgeting instead of lavish wasting. Indeed, fasting is a school for learning righteousness, self-discipline, and self-control.
Fasting and Self-Control
For eleven months, Muslims eat and drink in moderation as required by Islam, but in this month of Ramadan, they renew self-control and habit modulation in resisting their desires instead of becoming slaves to them. A fasting person must overcome hunger and thirst and must keep all of his desires under control. Many sins and crimes are caused by the failure of people to silence or control their desires, whether they are physical or emotional. Sinners and criminals are usually people who found themselves weak in front of their lusts and desires. The school of Ramadan trains those who fast the proper way to overcome base sensuality.
Fasting and Health
We believe that human beings are bodies and souls. While fasting purifies the soul, it cleanses the body. Fasting has many health benefits, and results in the increase of many advantages for the human body. It gives the digestive system the opportunity to rest. It is often the advice of the physician to the patient to limit meals or decrease quantities of food. This process where fat and excess stored energy are reduced leads to positive weight loss. Fasting is an excellent preventative measure and remedial treatment of the digestive system and the colon where the accumulation of fecal matter causes a lot of problems for many people. In fact, fasting has been proven medically to be effective for some illnesses related to the stomach and the intestines.
Finally
The advent of the month of Ramadan is greeted by Muslims with great joy and its passing away is lamented, with the consolation that the next Ramadan would certainly come the following year.
May Allah bless us and forgive our previous sins in this sacred month! May He give us the strength to make up the fasting the proper way! And May He bless this Ummah of Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him)!
By Imam Hamid Slimi** |
https://www.trtworld.com/magazine/how-prophet-muhammad-and-his-companions-experienced-the-first-ramadan-56000 | In the vicinity of deserts, where food and water sources were scarce, the first Muslims in Medina learned to fast all day long under Prophet Muhammad’s guidance.
Many Muslims around the world are preparing themselves for another Ramadan, a fasting month in Islam, which will mark the 1,398th anniversary of the first holy month this year.
Dating back to 624 BCE, the first ever Ramadan was observed in the city of Medina in today's Saudi Arabia, according to the Gregorian calendar.
The date also marked the second year of the Hijrat, or migration in English, which played a crucial role in Islamic history. Under paganist pressure, this small community of Muslims were forced to leave the city of Mecca and move to Medina for refuge in 622.
Following Prophet Muhammad’s instructions to go for Hijrat, his companions, the first Muslims, chose to start their own calendar with the starting date of Hijrat, a profound transformative event, marking its beginning.
The first Ramadan for Muslims happened to be in March, a spring month, in which temperatures in the Arabian Peninsula including Medina were milder compared to summertime, when intense hot weather hits both desert and urban areas.
“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you — as it was for those before you — so perhaps you will become mindful [of Allah],” said the Quran, instructing Muslims to fast as other believers of God who preceded them did in previous times.
The verses were revealed to Prophet Muhammad in February 624 BCE, or in the month of Shawwal in the second year of Hijrat, according to Kasif Hamdi Okur, a professor of Islamic divinity at the Hitit University.
While Prophet Muhammad and some Muslims fasted some days in particular months in Mecca prior to the Quran’s Ramadan verses, fasting 30 or sometimes 29 days straight without any interruption was an extraordinary experience for the first Muslims, Okur tells TRT World.
“There are records from Prophet Muhammad’s time, which indicate that even the first Muslims had some difficult times to get used to Ramadan fasting in the first year,” he says, signalling that it is one of the Quranic measures to create a unique spiritually disciplined Muslim society (umma), which can brace both psychological and physical difficulties.
A short time prior to the revelation of Ramadan verses, Muslims also changed their prayer direction (Kiblah) from Jerusalem (Quds in the Quran) to Mecca’s Kaaba, the cubic structure built by Prophet Abraham to pray to the one God, according to Muslim understanding. All these changes happened after the Prophet’s followers established a strong base in Medina.
By changing prayer direction and fasting in an uninterrupted way for a month, the first Muslims deeply felt that they were a different religious community from other monotheistic groups, Christians and Jews, members of whom were living alongside them in Medina, developing a strong self-consciousness about their own identity, according to Okur.
Also the first Ramadan remarkably coincided with the first crucial military engagement, the Battle of Badr, between Medina-based Muslims and Mecca-led paganists, he adds. While the total participants of the battle for both sides did not exceed 1,200 fighters, its end result favouring Muslims ensured the new monotheistic religion’s historical survival, allowing it to flourish across the world over centuries.
But fasting is not imposed on everyone without exceptions. The Quran, which has always promised to maintain a middle path for believers to make their life straightforward and fair, brought exceptions to people like the very old, sick, pregnant women and children to exempt themselves from fasting, the professor says.
If a Muslim adult has legitimate reasons not to fast, he or she should feed a poor person for one day for each day he or she could not fast, according to Quran.
Ramadan: a moral marathon
Despite the difficulties of fasting, which tests a Muslim’s physical endurance as well as his/her psychological strength, like the feeling of the huge relief of finishing a marathon running, Ramadan brings a lot of blessings and forgiveness from God, Prophet Muhammad pledged.
“‘Woe unto the servants who have reached this month of Ramadan and cannot be forgiven,’ says Prophet Muhammad,” Okur says.
In Islamic thinking, fasting is not just banning yourself from food and drinks but attempting to purify yourself from your wrongdoings, says Ali Celik, the dean of the divinity faculty of Dumlupinar University, who has extensively written about Ramadan and fasting.
“In the practice of the Prophet, fasting is not just a form of worship consisting of starvation. The Messenger of Allah (SAW: May Allah honour him and grant him peace) sees fasting as a shield that protects Muslims from evil. Being more patient in relations with people, avoiding bad words are among the basic characteristics of the fasting person,” Celik tells TRT World.
"Allah does not need a man who does not abandon bad words and actions, to abandon eating and drinking," says a hadith recorded by Muhammed al Bukhari, a Muslim scholar, emphasising the spiritual side of Ramadan fasting. Hadiths are sayings of Prophet Muhammad.
As a result, the Prophet and his companions would increase other worships in Ramadan.
“Particularly, in the last 10 days of Ramadan, he would prefer to engage in worship by entering Itikaf in the mosque,” Celik says. Itikaf means to separate yourself from others, devoting your time to worship rather than worldly affairs to get a better understanding of your life’s direction.
Every human activity was also arranged according to Ramadan’s rituals because the first Muslims saw Ramadan as a period that was “centric” to their spiritual life, says Okur. “When people in Türkiye express their love for old Ramadans, it usually refers to pre-modern times, where working hours were also arranged according to the fasting month’s rituals.”
But worshipping and fasting do not mean giving up all work and other practices of daily life, Celik observes. “The Messenger of Allah (SAW) would try not to interrupt his daily life in Ramadan, and if he had to do something while fasting, he would do it. He would not delay any work that had to be done on the pretext of fasting,” says Celik.
Interestingly, even during the march for the Battle of Badr, which coincided with Ramadan, the Prophet, who was also the military commander of the Muslims, fasted, says the professor. In Islam, fighting for a just cause is also considered a religious duty like fasting during Ramadan.
The Muslim March towards Mecca, which ended up conquering the native city of the Prophet from the paganist rule, also happened during Ramadan, Celik underlines, showing the Prophet’s hard-working attitude even during the fasting month.
What was their food?
There is some serious distance between today’s Muslims and the first Muslims in terms of not only morality but also their fast-breaking attitudes.
“There are serious differences between us and the Prophet's companions in terms of Ramadan food. The first Muslims had no opportunity to have food like we do now in terms of its diversity and quantity,” says Okur.
Muslims call their fast-breaking iftar and their pre-dawn meal suhur. “During their suhur, they were probably eating a couple of dates alongside some water. That was it,” the professor says, describing a kind of suhur which is right now almost unthinkable for many Muslim households.
”Our Prophet's fast-breaking meal was extremely simple, far from luxury and waste,” says Celik. If they found one type of food, they would be happy to have it in their iftar, says Okur. During today’s iftars, there are various types of food from soup to rice and other dishes added such as fruits and desserts.
“Their iftars and suhurs were so simple. They were crushing a date mixing with either some flour or water to make their own food. Or they were mixing roasted flour with some olive oils to make another food,” he says.
But there were also people who did not even have such food in Medina back in 624. “As a result, Prophet Muhammad urged financially better conditioned Muslims to invite other Muslims with no food on their iftar table,” paving the way for developing the strong Muslim tradition of inviting friends, relatives and poor to share their food on common iftar tables.
Particularly people like Suffah, who were homeless and unmarried companions of the Prophet, migrated from Mecca to Medina and dedicated their lives to gaining religious knowledge from the Prophet, were too poor to afford such meals. “The Prophet incentivised other Muslims to host people of Suffah and not to leave them behind on their iftar tables,” Okur says.
The Prophet, who was more generous than other times in Ramadan, would also invite believers in need to her table at iftar as well as at suhur and offer them treats, says Celik.
“But at the end of the day, despite its simplicity, their iftars and suhurs were both healthier and more humble than ours today,” Okur concludes. | 1 | 82,046 | 0.642742 | https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2022/04/the-spiritual-significance-and-benefit-of-fasting-during-ramadan/ | 2022-04-04 03:01:30+00:00 | Intermittent fasting is now becoming popular, with many promised health benefits. But Muslims have been practising fasting in the lunar month of Ramadan for centuries.
The Ramadan for 2022 will start on Saturday April 2 and go for about 30 days. It is then followed by the three-day celebration of Eid.
Significance of Ramadan in Islamic history
Prior to becoming a messenger of God, Muhammad used to withdraw to the Hira mountain top cave. He would meditate in solitude, away from the polytheistic culture of tribal Mecca for the whole month of Ramadan. We are not sure if this retreat involved fasting at the time.
In 610, when he was 40, he again went to the same mountain top to meditate. Several weeks into the retreat, he experienced an angelic form appearing before him, commanding him to read. He replied he did not know how to read. The angelic form squeezed him tight and repeated the command to read. This continued three times, after which the first five verses of the holy Qur’an was revealed:
Read in the name of your Lord who created humans from a piece of flesh. Read, for your Lord is Most Generous. Who taught humans with the pen. Who taught humans what they do not know.
Muhammad still was not able to read in a conventional way, but he understood that he was being asked to read the book of the universe and learn from it, and also understand that it points to its creator.
This incident marked the beginning of Islam, revelation of the Qur’an and the prophetic mission of Prophet Muhammad.
In 624, when Muslims migrated to Medina to escape persecution, the month of Ramadan was declared holy by virtue of the start of the mission of the Prophet and revelation of the Qur’an. Fasting was instituted in this month as one of the five pillars of Islam as a way for believers to show their thanks to God and reflect on the teachings of the Qur’an and its importance for believers.
Who observes Ramadan fasting?
The Ramadan fasting involves stopping eating, drinking and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset. Practitioners can engage in all these acts once fasting is broken and restart fasting the next dawn. The cycle continues for a whole month.
Ramadan fasting is one of the most observed of all the pillars of Islam, with 70-80% of Muslims practising it. It is obligatory for all Muslims, men and women, from the age of puberty. Parents encourage their children to fast for half a day from the age of ten to condition them to fasting.
There are exemptions. Travellers, elderly, sick, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are exempt from fasting on the condition they make up missing days at a suitable time after Ramadan. The elderly and chronically ill compensate for days not fasted by making a small donation to charity for each day, if they can afford it.
Since fasting is from dawn to sunset, the duration of fasting time changes depending on the season and where a Muslim is located in the world. Near polar regions, fasting can be almost 22 hours in summer or just a few hours in winter.
Spiritual significance and benefits of Ramadan fasting
What may seem to some to be a self-inflicted ordeal has profound meaning for human beings and God, and their reciprocal relationship. God exhibits the perfection of lordship, grace and mercy by making the surface of this Earth a table of blessing, and placing all kinds of sustenance on that table for every creature to enjoy.
In Ramadan, believers show a collective act of worship in the presence of the mighty and universal Mercy as they wait for the divine invitation to the table of blessings at the time of breaking the fast. As the Earth revolves around its axis, the jubilant timeframe is repeated in a continuous manner for the whole month.
Many people forget the fact God is the source of all sustenance. While they readily thank agents of delivery, they forget to remember and thank God as the one who ultimately meets all their needs. God expects the price of thanksgiving for the sustenance he has provided.
True thanksgiving is to know that all sustenance comes directly from God, to acknowledge its value and to feel our own need and dependence on that sustenance.
A fasting person physically feels the value of, and their need for, basic sustenance when they experience the pangs of hunger and thirst. Since a believer fasts for the sake of God, they acknowledge the sustenance, which may be taken for granted, actually comes from God. Therefore, fasting in the Islamic tradition is the best way to show a true and sincere thanksgiving.
Fasting tames the desires. The constant exercise of willpower not to eat, drink or have sexual relations sends a strong message it is the human will, hence the spirit, that is in control.
Fasting is not just about staying hungry or thirsty, it is also to struggle to contain other harmful behaviours. Prophet Muhammad remarked:
Whoever doesn’t give up lying and acting on lies during fasting, then God has no need for him to give up food and drink.
Therefore, the fundamental spiritual benefit of fasting is to exercise the will-power and attain self-control, essential for success in every part of life.
Eid celebrations at the end of Ramadan
Fasting has other personal and social benefits. Through fasting, the rich know what it means to be hungry. Hence, the rich will be more inclined to give charity when they fast. The annual Islamic alms (zakat) are usually paid in Ramadan.
Muslims often invite friends and family members to join in the celebration of the break-fast dinners (iftar). The rich organise dinners for the poor.
In the past few decades, Muslim minorities in western countries have started to invite their non-Muslim friends to iftar dinners. Muslim organisations have annual iftar dinners for their associates and supporters.
In Australia, the NSW premier, for example, has been holding iftar dinners for members of the Muslim community and other faith leaders since 2004. Presidents of the US have also held iftar dinners in the White House.
Ramadan has become a cultural event for everyone.
Ramadan culminates in a three-day celebration (Eid al-Fitr), where Muslims offer a special morning prayer, then visit family and friends. Charity, called fitr, is given to the poor to ensure no one is left out of the celebrations and the joy of success that comes with fasting.
Mehmet Ozalp, Associate Professor in Islamic Studies, Director of The Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation and Executive Member of Public and Contextual Theology, Charles Sturt University
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. |
https://www.trtworld.com/magazine/how-prophet-muhammad-and-his-companions-experienced-the-first-ramadan-56000 | In the vicinity of deserts, where food and water sources were scarce, the first Muslims in Medina learned to fast all day long under Prophet Muhammad’s guidance.
Many Muslims around the world are preparing themselves for another Ramadan, a fasting month in Islam, which will mark the 1,398th anniversary of the first holy month this year.
Dating back to 624 BCE, the first ever Ramadan was observed in the city of Medina in today's Saudi Arabia, according to the Gregorian calendar.
The date also marked the second year of the Hijrat, or migration in English, which played a crucial role in Islamic history. Under paganist pressure, this small community of Muslims were forced to leave the city of Mecca and move to Medina for refuge in 622.
Following Prophet Muhammad’s instructions to go for Hijrat, his companions, the first Muslims, chose to start their own calendar with the starting date of Hijrat, a profound transformative event, marking its beginning.
The first Ramadan for Muslims happened to be in March, a spring month, in which temperatures in the Arabian Peninsula including Medina were milder compared to summertime, when intense hot weather hits both desert and urban areas.
“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you — as it was for those before you — so perhaps you will become mindful [of Allah],” said the Quran, instructing Muslims to fast as other believers of God who preceded them did in previous times.
The verses were revealed to Prophet Muhammad in February 624 BCE, or in the month of Shawwal in the second year of Hijrat, according to Kasif Hamdi Okur, a professor of Islamic divinity at the Hitit University.
While Prophet Muhammad and some Muslims fasted some days in particular months in Mecca prior to the Quran’s Ramadan verses, fasting 30 or sometimes 29 days straight without any interruption was an extraordinary experience for the first Muslims, Okur tells TRT World.
“There are records from Prophet Muhammad’s time, which indicate that even the first Muslims had some difficult times to get used to Ramadan fasting in the first year,” he says, signalling that it is one of the Quranic measures to create a unique spiritually disciplined Muslim society (umma), which can brace both psychological and physical difficulties.
A short time prior to the revelation of Ramadan verses, Muslims also changed their prayer direction (Kiblah) from Jerusalem (Quds in the Quran) to Mecca’s Kaaba, the cubic structure built by Prophet Abraham to pray to the one God, according to Muslim understanding. All these changes happened after the Prophet’s followers established a strong base in Medina.
By changing prayer direction and fasting in an uninterrupted way for a month, the first Muslims deeply felt that they were a different religious community from other monotheistic groups, Christians and Jews, members of whom were living alongside them in Medina, developing a strong self-consciousness about their own identity, according to Okur.
Also the first Ramadan remarkably coincided with the first crucial military engagement, the Battle of Badr, between Medina-based Muslims and Mecca-led paganists, he adds. While the total participants of the battle for both sides did not exceed 1,200 fighters, its end result favouring Muslims ensured the new monotheistic religion’s historical survival, allowing it to flourish across the world over centuries.
But fasting is not imposed on everyone without exceptions. The Quran, which has always promised to maintain a middle path for believers to make their life straightforward and fair, brought exceptions to people like the very old, sick, pregnant women and children to exempt themselves from fasting, the professor says.
If a Muslim adult has legitimate reasons not to fast, he or she should feed a poor person for one day for each day he or she could not fast, according to Quran.
Ramadan: a moral marathon
Despite the difficulties of fasting, which tests a Muslim’s physical endurance as well as his/her psychological strength, like the feeling of the huge relief of finishing a marathon running, Ramadan brings a lot of blessings and forgiveness from God, Prophet Muhammad pledged.
“‘Woe unto the servants who have reached this month of Ramadan and cannot be forgiven,’ says Prophet Muhammad,” Okur says.
In Islamic thinking, fasting is not just banning yourself from food and drinks but attempting to purify yourself from your wrongdoings, says Ali Celik, the dean of the divinity faculty of Dumlupinar University, who has extensively written about Ramadan and fasting.
“In the practice of the Prophet, fasting is not just a form of worship consisting of starvation. The Messenger of Allah (SAW: May Allah honour him and grant him peace) sees fasting as a shield that protects Muslims from evil. Being more patient in relations with people, avoiding bad words are among the basic characteristics of the fasting person,” Celik tells TRT World.
"Allah does not need a man who does not abandon bad words and actions, to abandon eating and drinking," says a hadith recorded by Muhammed al Bukhari, a Muslim scholar, emphasising the spiritual side of Ramadan fasting. Hadiths are sayings of Prophet Muhammad.
As a result, the Prophet and his companions would increase other worships in Ramadan.
“Particularly, in the last 10 days of Ramadan, he would prefer to engage in worship by entering Itikaf in the mosque,” Celik says. Itikaf means to separate yourself from others, devoting your time to worship rather than worldly affairs to get a better understanding of your life’s direction.
Every human activity was also arranged according to Ramadan’s rituals because the first Muslims saw Ramadan as a period that was “centric” to their spiritual life, says Okur. “When people in Türkiye express their love for old Ramadans, it usually refers to pre-modern times, where working hours were also arranged according to the fasting month’s rituals.”
But worshipping and fasting do not mean giving up all work and other practices of daily life, Celik observes. “The Messenger of Allah (SAW) would try not to interrupt his daily life in Ramadan, and if he had to do something while fasting, he would do it. He would not delay any work that had to be done on the pretext of fasting,” says Celik.
Interestingly, even during the march for the Battle of Badr, which coincided with Ramadan, the Prophet, who was also the military commander of the Muslims, fasted, says the professor. In Islam, fighting for a just cause is also considered a religious duty like fasting during Ramadan.
The Muslim March towards Mecca, which ended up conquering the native city of the Prophet from the paganist rule, also happened during Ramadan, Celik underlines, showing the Prophet’s hard-working attitude even during the fasting month.
What was their food?
There is some serious distance between today’s Muslims and the first Muslims in terms of not only morality but also their fast-breaking attitudes.
“There are serious differences between us and the Prophet's companions in terms of Ramadan food. The first Muslims had no opportunity to have food like we do now in terms of its diversity and quantity,” says Okur.
Muslims call their fast-breaking iftar and their pre-dawn meal suhur. “During their suhur, they were probably eating a couple of dates alongside some water. That was it,” the professor says, describing a kind of suhur which is right now almost unthinkable for many Muslim households.
”Our Prophet's fast-breaking meal was extremely simple, far from luxury and waste,” says Celik. If they found one type of food, they would be happy to have it in their iftar, says Okur. During today’s iftars, there are various types of food from soup to rice and other dishes added such as fruits and desserts.
“Their iftars and suhurs were so simple. They were crushing a date mixing with either some flour or water to make their own food. Or they were mixing roasted flour with some olive oils to make another food,” he says.
But there were also people who did not even have such food in Medina back in 624. “As a result, Prophet Muhammad urged financially better conditioned Muslims to invite other Muslims with no food on their iftar table,” paving the way for developing the strong Muslim tradition of inviting friends, relatives and poor to share their food on common iftar tables.
Particularly people like Suffah, who were homeless and unmarried companions of the Prophet, migrated from Mecca to Medina and dedicated their lives to gaining religious knowledge from the Prophet, were too poor to afford such meals. “The Prophet incentivised other Muslims to host people of Suffah and not to leave them behind on their iftar tables,” Okur says.
The Prophet, who was more generous than other times in Ramadan, would also invite believers in need to her table at iftar as well as at suhur and offer them treats, says Celik.
“But at the end of the day, despite its simplicity, their iftars and suhurs were both healthier and more humble than ours today,” Okur concludes. | 2 | 11,077 | 0.645144 | https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/2022/04/06/why-millions-of-muslims-fast-during-ramadan-each-year-and-at-other-times-too/ | 2022-04-06 11:29:27+00:00 | Ramadan began on April 2 this year, prompting millions of Muslims to begin abstaining from eating or drinking from dawn until sunset each day for a month.
As they fast, they are performing one of the central elements of Ramadan and fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam.
These mandatory pillars comprise the basic tenets of Islam and are considered the foundation of life for Muslims. Along with fasting, the pillars include prayer, giving alms or zakat, performing Hajj and the shahada — a declaration of faith when a Muslim professes that there is only one God (Allah) and the Prophet Mohammed is his messenger.
Although fasting takes centre stage during Ramadan, it is not exclusive to the holy month. Many devout Muslims choose to fast each Monday and Thursday, as the prophet recommended, and on Arafat Day, the day before Eid Al Adha.
But fasting is not all that is expected of Muslims during Ramadan. Devotees must also be extra careful not to commit any sins during the holy month, including lying or swearing. Increased piety, tolerance and patience are also key to a successful Ramadan of which the objective is effective self-discipline — where God’s orders are obeyed even when no one is watching.
Why do Muslims fast in Ramadan?
By abstaining from eating all day, Muslims who are able to fast come to understand and empathise with the less fortunate.
"When people feel the hunger of their empty stomachs, they remember their less-fortunate brothers and offer them what they can to make them happy," Dr Ahmed Al Haddad, the Grand Mufti of Dubai, previously told The National.
“Fasting is also healthy and increases well-being, as one organises their food and drink.”
From the perspective of faith, he said, fasting also drew people closer to God.
“The goal of fasting is to protect the self against disobeying God and against following desires blindly,” said another preacher, who preferred not to be identified.
“The more you grant the self its desires, the more it will want regardless of the damage its desires might cause.”
Removing the urge to eat and drink also encourages people to think past impulses, practice patience and focus on issues that feed the soul instead.
When was fasting introduced?
The notion of fasting was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed in a Quranic verse during the second year of the Hijri calendar – the year the prophet moved from Makkah to Madinah.
"Oh you who believe! Prescribed for you is the Fast, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may deserve God's protection (against the temptations of your carnal soul) and attain piety," the Quran says.
From then on, fasting during Ramadan was made mandatory for all Muslims – except in certain circumstances.
When are Muslims exempt from fasting?
Exemption from fasting extends to Muslims who are sick or travelling a long distance. Women are not to fast while they are menstruating and Muslims who have not yet reached puberty are not expected to fast either.
What are the benefits of fasting?
The religious benefits for fasting are said to be vast. The prophet is believed to have said, “whoever fasts Ramadan with good faith and expecting God’s reward, will have their pasts sins erased”.
Dr Al Haddad said fasting is also beneficial to society.
“It unifies Muslims all around the world to fast during this one month,” he said.
While fasting, Muslims are said to feel the unity of the Ummah (community), as they share a purely religious practice away from politics and nationalism.
"Fasting also brings out the good in people, as they gather to do good deeds, be kind to the poor and meet their family members," the Grand Mufti said.
*A version of this story first appeared in The National in May 2019. |
https://www.wivb.com/news/business/house-passes-35-a-month-insulin-cap-as-dems-seek-wider-bill-2/ | WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has passed a bill capping the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for insured patients, part of an election-year push by Democrats for price curbs on prescription drugs at a time of rising inflation.
Experts say the legislation, which passed 232-193 Thursday, would provide significant relief for privately insured patients with skimpier plans and for Medicare enrollees facing rising out-of-pocket costs for their insulin. Some could save hundreds of dollars annually, and all insured patients would get the benefit of predictable monthly costs for insulin. The bill would not help the uninsured.
But the Affordable Insulin Now Act will serve as a political vehicle to rally Democrats and force Republicans who oppose it into uncomfortable votes ahead of the midterms. For the legislation to pass Congress, 10 Republican senators would have to vote in favor. Democrats acknowledge they don’t have an answer for how that’s going to happen.
“If 10 Republicans stand between the American people being able to get access to affordable insulin, that’s a good question for 10 Republicans to answer,” said Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich., a cosponsor of the House bill. “Republicans get diabetes, too. Republicans die from diabetes.”
Public opinion polls have consistently shown support across party lines for congressional action to limit drug costs.
But Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., complained the legislation is only “a small piece of a larger package around government price controls for prescription drugs.” Critics say the bill would raise premiums and fails to target pharmaceutical middlemen seen as contributing to high list prices for insulin.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Democrats could have a deal on prescription drugs if they drop their bid to authorize Medicare to negotiate prices. “Do Democrats really want to help seniors, or would they rather have the campaign issue?” Grassley said.
The insulin bill, which would take effect in 2023, represents just one provision of a much broader prescription drug package in President Joe Biden’s social and climate legislation.
In addition to a similar $35 cap on insulin, the Biden bill would authorize Medicare to negotiate prices for a range of drugs, including insulin. It would penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation and overhaul the Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs for enrollees.
Biden’s agenda passed the House only to stall in the Senate because Democrats could not reach consensus. Party leaders haven’t abandoned hope of getting the legislation moving again, and preserving its drug pricing curbs largely intact.
The idea of a $35 monthly cost cap for insulin actually has a bipartisan pedigree. The Trump administration had created a voluntary option for Medicare enrollees to get insulin for $35, and the Biden administration continued it.
In the Senate, Republican Susan Collins of Maine and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire are working on a bipartisan insulin bill. Georgia Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has introduced legislation similar to the House bill, with the support of Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.
Stung by criticism that Biden’s economic policies spur inflation, Democrats are redoubling efforts to show how they’d help people cope with costs. On Thursday,the Commerce Department reported a key inflation gauge jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, the largest year-over-year rise since January 1982.
But experts say the House bill would not help uninsured people, who face the highest out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Also, people with diabetes often take other medications as well as insulin. That’s done to treat the diabetes itself, along with other serious health conditions often associated with the disease. The House legislation would not help with those costs, either. Collins says she’s looking for a way to help uninsured people through her bill.
About 37 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 6 million to 7 million use insulin to keep their blood sugars under control.It’s an old drug, refined and improved over the years, that has seen relentless price increases.
Steep list prices don’t reflect the rates insurance plans negotiate with manufacturers. But those list prices are used to calculate cost-sharing amounts that patients owe. Patients who can’t afford their insulin reduce or skip doses, a strategy born of desperation, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Economist Sherry Glied of New York University said the market for insulin is a “total disaster” for many patients, particularly those with skimpy insurance plans or no insurance.
“This will make private insurance for people with diabetes a much more attractive proposition,” said Glied. | 0 | 4,702 | 0 | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/house-passes-35-a-month-insulin-cap-as-dems-seek-wider-bill-2/ | 2022-04-01 13:41:54+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has passed a bill capping the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for insured patients, part of an election-year push by Democrats for price curbs on prescription drugs at a time of rising inflation.
Experts say the legislation, which passed 232-193 Thursday, would provide significant relief for privately insured patients with skimpier plans and for Medicare enrollees facing rising out-of-pocket costs for their insulin. Some could save hundreds of dollars annually, and all insured patients would get the benefit of predictable monthly costs for insulin. The bill would not help the uninsured.
But the Affordable Insulin Now Act will serve as a political vehicle to rally Democrats and force Republicans who oppose it into uncomfortable votes ahead of the midterms. For the legislation to pass Congress, 10 Republican senators would have to vote in favor. Democrats acknowledge they don’t have an answer for how that’s going to happen.
“If 10 Republicans stand between the American people being able to get access to affordable insulin, that’s a good question for 10 Republicans to answer,” said Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich., a cosponsor of the House bill. “Republicans get diabetes, too. Republicans die from diabetes.”
Public opinion polls have consistently shown support across party lines for congressional action to limit drug costs.
But Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., complained the legislation is only “a small piece of a larger package around government price controls for prescription drugs.” Critics say the bill would raise premiums and fails to target pharmaceutical middlemen seen as contributing to high list prices for insulin.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Democrats could have a deal on prescription drugs if they drop their bid to authorize Medicare to negotiate prices. “Do Democrats really want to help seniors, or would they rather have the campaign issue?” Grassley said.
The insulin bill, which would take effect in 2023, represents just one provision of a much broader prescription drug package in President Joe Biden’s social and climate legislation.
In addition to a similar $35 cap on insulin, the Biden bill would authorize Medicare to negotiate prices for a range of drugs, including insulin. It would penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation and overhaul the Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs for enrollees.
Biden’s agenda passed the House only to stall in the Senate because Democrats could not reach consensus. Party leaders haven’t abandoned hope of getting the legislation moving again, and preserving its drug pricing curbs largely intact.
The idea of a $35 monthly cost cap for insulin actually has a bipartisan pedigree. The Trump administration had created a voluntary option for Medicare enrollees to get insulin for $35, and the Biden administration continued it.
In the Senate, Republican Susan Collins of Maine and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire are working on a bipartisan insulin bill. Georgia Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has introduced legislation similar to the House bill, with the support of Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.
Stung by criticism that Biden’s economic policies spur inflation, Democrats are redoubling efforts to show how they’d help people cope with costs. On Thursday,the Commerce Department reported a key inflation gauge jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, the largest year-over-year rise since January 1982.
But experts say the House bill would not help uninsured people, who face the highest out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Also, people with diabetes often take other medications as well as insulin. That’s done to treat the diabetes itself, along with other serious health conditions often associated with the disease. The House legislation would not help with those costs, either. Collins says she’s looking for a way to help uninsured people through her bill.
About 37 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 6 million to 7 million use insulin to keep their blood sugars under control.It’s an old drug, refined and improved over the years, that has seen relentless price increases.
Steep list prices don’t reflect the rates insurance plans negotiate with manufacturers. But those list prices are used to calculate cost-sharing amounts that patients owe. Patients who can’t afford their insulin reduce or skip doses, a strategy born of desperation, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Economist Sherry Glied of New York University said the market for insulin is a “total disaster” for many patients, particularly those with skimpy insurance plans or no insurance.
“This will make private insurance for people with diabetes a much more attractive proposition,” said Glied. |
https://www.wivb.com/news/business/house-passes-35-a-month-insulin-cap-as-dems-seek-wider-bill-2/ | WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has passed a bill capping the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for insured patients, part of an election-year push by Democrats for price curbs on prescription drugs at a time of rising inflation.
Experts say the legislation, which passed 232-193 Thursday, would provide significant relief for privately insured patients with skimpier plans and for Medicare enrollees facing rising out-of-pocket costs for their insulin. Some could save hundreds of dollars annually, and all insured patients would get the benefit of predictable monthly costs for insulin. The bill would not help the uninsured.
But the Affordable Insulin Now Act will serve as a political vehicle to rally Democrats and force Republicans who oppose it into uncomfortable votes ahead of the midterms. For the legislation to pass Congress, 10 Republican senators would have to vote in favor. Democrats acknowledge they don’t have an answer for how that’s going to happen.
“If 10 Republicans stand between the American people being able to get access to affordable insulin, that’s a good question for 10 Republicans to answer,” said Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich., a cosponsor of the House bill. “Republicans get diabetes, too. Republicans die from diabetes.”
Public opinion polls have consistently shown support across party lines for congressional action to limit drug costs.
But Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., complained the legislation is only “a small piece of a larger package around government price controls for prescription drugs.” Critics say the bill would raise premiums and fails to target pharmaceutical middlemen seen as contributing to high list prices for insulin.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Democrats could have a deal on prescription drugs if they drop their bid to authorize Medicare to negotiate prices. “Do Democrats really want to help seniors, or would they rather have the campaign issue?” Grassley said.
The insulin bill, which would take effect in 2023, represents just one provision of a much broader prescription drug package in President Joe Biden’s social and climate legislation.
In addition to a similar $35 cap on insulin, the Biden bill would authorize Medicare to negotiate prices for a range of drugs, including insulin. It would penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation and overhaul the Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs for enrollees.
Biden’s agenda passed the House only to stall in the Senate because Democrats could not reach consensus. Party leaders haven’t abandoned hope of getting the legislation moving again, and preserving its drug pricing curbs largely intact.
The idea of a $35 monthly cost cap for insulin actually has a bipartisan pedigree. The Trump administration had created a voluntary option for Medicare enrollees to get insulin for $35, and the Biden administration continued it.
In the Senate, Republican Susan Collins of Maine and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire are working on a bipartisan insulin bill. Georgia Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has introduced legislation similar to the House bill, with the support of Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.
Stung by criticism that Biden’s economic policies spur inflation, Democrats are redoubling efforts to show how they’d help people cope with costs. On Thursday,the Commerce Department reported a key inflation gauge jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, the largest year-over-year rise since January 1982.
But experts say the House bill would not help uninsured people, who face the highest out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Also, people with diabetes often take other medications as well as insulin. That’s done to treat the diabetes itself, along with other serious health conditions often associated with the disease. The House legislation would not help with those costs, either. Collins says she’s looking for a way to help uninsured people through her bill.
About 37 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 6 million to 7 million use insulin to keep their blood sugars under control.It’s an old drug, refined and improved over the years, that has seen relentless price increases.
Steep list prices don’t reflect the rates insurance plans negotiate with manufacturers. But those list prices are used to calculate cost-sharing amounts that patients owe. Patients who can’t afford their insulin reduce or skip doses, a strategy born of desperation, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Economist Sherry Glied of New York University said the market for insulin is a “total disaster” for many patients, particularly those with skimpy insurance plans or no insurance.
“This will make private insurance for people with diabetes a much more attractive proposition,” said Glied. | 1 | 13,391 | 0 | https://www.huffpost.com/entry/us-congress-insulin-costs_n_6246f50be4b007d384551df1 | 2022-04-01 14:20:35+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has passed a bill capping the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for insured patients, part of an election-year push by Democrats for price curbs on prescription drugs at a time of rising inflation.
Experts say the legislation, which passed 232-193 Thursday, would provide significant relief for privately insured patients with skimpier plans and for Medicare enrollees facing rising out-of-pocket costs for their insulin. Some could save hundreds of dollars annually, and all insured patients would get the benefit of predictable monthly costs for insulin. The bill would not help the uninsured.
But the Affordable Insulin Now Act will serve as a political vehicle to rally Democrats and force Republicans who oppose it into uncomfortable votes ahead of the midterms. For the legislation to pass Congress, 10 Republican senators would have to vote in favor. Democrats acknowledge they don’t have an answer for how that’s going to happen.
“If 10 Republicans stand between the American people being able to get access to affordable insulin, that’s a good question for 10 Republicans to answer,” said Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich., a cosponsor of the House bill. “Republicans get diabetes, too. Republicans die from diabetes.”
Public opinion polls have consistently shown support across party lines for congressional action to limit drug costs.
But Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., complained the legislation is only “a small piece of a larger package around government price controls for prescription drugs.” Critics say the bill would raise premiums and fails to target pharmaceutical middlemen seen as contributing to high list prices for insulin.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Democrats could have a deal on prescription drugs if they drop their bid to authorize Medicare to negotiate prices. “Do Democrats really want to help seniors, or would they rather have the campaign issue?” Grassley said.
The insulin bill, which would take effect in 2023, represents just one provision of a much broader prescription drug package in President Joe Biden’s social and climate legislation.
In addition to a similar $35 cap on insulin, the Biden bill would authorize Medicare to negotiate prices for a range of drugs, including insulin. It would penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation and overhaul the Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs for enrollees.
Biden’s agenda passed the House only to stall in the Senate because Democrats could not reach consensus. Party leaders haven’t abandoned hope of getting the legislation moving again, and preserving its drug pricing curbs largely intact.
The idea of a $35 monthly cost cap for insulin actually has a bipartisan pedigree. The Trump administration had created a voluntary option for Medicare enrollees to get insulin for $35, and the Biden administration continued it.
In the Senate, Republican Susan Collins of Maine and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire are working on a bipartisan insulin bill. Georgia Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has introduced legislation similar to the House bill, with the support of Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.
Stung by criticism that Biden’s economic policies spur inflation, Democrats are redoubling efforts to show how they’d help people cope with costs. On Thursday, the Commerce Department reported a key inflation gauge jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, the largest year-over-year rise since January 1982.
But experts say the House bill would not help uninsured people, who face the highest out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Also, people with diabetes often take other medications as well as insulin. That’s done to treat the diabetes itself, along with other serious health conditions often associated with the disease. The House legislation would not help with those costs, either. Collins says she’s looking for a way to help uninsured people through her bill.
About 37 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 6 million to 7 million use insulin to keep their blood sugars under control. It’s an old drug, refined and improved over the years, that has seen relentless price increases.
Steep list prices don’t reflect the rates insurance plans negotiate with manufacturers. But those list prices are used to calculate cost-sharing amounts that patients owe. Patients who can’t afford their insulin reduce or skip doses, a strategy born of desperation, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Economist Sherry Glied of New York University said the market for insulin is a “total disaster” for many patients, particularly those with skimpy insurance plans or no insurance.
“This will make private insurance for people with diabetes a much more attractive proposition,” said Glied. |
https://www.wivb.com/news/business/house-passes-35-a-month-insulin-cap-as-dems-seek-wider-bill-2/ | WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has passed a bill capping the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for insured patients, part of an election-year push by Democrats for price curbs on prescription drugs at a time of rising inflation.
Experts say the legislation, which passed 232-193 Thursday, would provide significant relief for privately insured patients with skimpier plans and for Medicare enrollees facing rising out-of-pocket costs for their insulin. Some could save hundreds of dollars annually, and all insured patients would get the benefit of predictable monthly costs for insulin. The bill would not help the uninsured.
But the Affordable Insulin Now Act will serve as a political vehicle to rally Democrats and force Republicans who oppose it into uncomfortable votes ahead of the midterms. For the legislation to pass Congress, 10 Republican senators would have to vote in favor. Democrats acknowledge they don’t have an answer for how that’s going to happen.
“If 10 Republicans stand between the American people being able to get access to affordable insulin, that’s a good question for 10 Republicans to answer,” said Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich., a cosponsor of the House bill. “Republicans get diabetes, too. Republicans die from diabetes.”
Public opinion polls have consistently shown support across party lines for congressional action to limit drug costs.
But Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., complained the legislation is only “a small piece of a larger package around government price controls for prescription drugs.” Critics say the bill would raise premiums and fails to target pharmaceutical middlemen seen as contributing to high list prices for insulin.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Democrats could have a deal on prescription drugs if they drop their bid to authorize Medicare to negotiate prices. “Do Democrats really want to help seniors, or would they rather have the campaign issue?” Grassley said.
The insulin bill, which would take effect in 2023, represents just one provision of a much broader prescription drug package in President Joe Biden’s social and climate legislation.
In addition to a similar $35 cap on insulin, the Biden bill would authorize Medicare to negotiate prices for a range of drugs, including insulin. It would penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation and overhaul the Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs for enrollees.
Biden’s agenda passed the House only to stall in the Senate because Democrats could not reach consensus. Party leaders haven’t abandoned hope of getting the legislation moving again, and preserving its drug pricing curbs largely intact.
The idea of a $35 monthly cost cap for insulin actually has a bipartisan pedigree. The Trump administration had created a voluntary option for Medicare enrollees to get insulin for $35, and the Biden administration continued it.
In the Senate, Republican Susan Collins of Maine and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire are working on a bipartisan insulin bill. Georgia Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has introduced legislation similar to the House bill, with the support of Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.
Stung by criticism that Biden’s economic policies spur inflation, Democrats are redoubling efforts to show how they’d help people cope with costs. On Thursday,the Commerce Department reported a key inflation gauge jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, the largest year-over-year rise since January 1982.
But experts say the House bill would not help uninsured people, who face the highest out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Also, people with diabetes often take other medications as well as insulin. That’s done to treat the diabetes itself, along with other serious health conditions often associated with the disease. The House legislation would not help with those costs, either. Collins says she’s looking for a way to help uninsured people through her bill.
About 37 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 6 million to 7 million use insulin to keep their blood sugars under control.It’s an old drug, refined and improved over the years, that has seen relentless price increases.
Steep list prices don’t reflect the rates insurance plans negotiate with manufacturers. But those list prices are used to calculate cost-sharing amounts that patients owe. Patients who can’t afford their insulin reduce or skip doses, a strategy born of desperation, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Economist Sherry Glied of New York University said the market for insulin is a “total disaster” for many patients, particularly those with skimpy insurance plans or no insurance.
“This will make private insurance for people with diabetes a much more attractive proposition,” said Glied. | 2 | 14,581 | 0 | https://phl17.com/business/ap-business/house-passes-35-a-month-insulin-cap-as-dems-seek-wider-bill-2/ | 2022-04-01 14:24:56+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has passed a bill capping the monthly cost of insulin at $35 for insured patients, part of an election-year push by Democrats for price curbs on prescription drugs at a time of rising inflation.
Experts say the legislation, which passed 232-193 Thursday, would provide significant relief for privately insured patients with skimpier plans and for Medicare enrollees facing rising out-of-pocket costs for their insulin. Some could save hundreds of dollars annually, and all insured patients would get the benefit of predictable monthly costs for insulin. The bill would not help the uninsured.
But the Affordable Insulin Now Act will serve as a political vehicle to rally Democrats and force Republicans who oppose it into uncomfortable votes ahead of the midterms. For the legislation to pass Congress, 10 Republican senators would have to vote in favor. Democrats acknowledge they don’t have an answer for how that’s going to happen.
“If 10 Republicans stand between the American people being able to get access to affordable insulin, that’s a good question for 10 Republicans to answer,” said Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich., a cosponsor of the House bill. “Republicans get diabetes, too. Republicans die from diabetes.”
Public opinion polls have consistently shown support across party lines for congressional action to limit drug costs.
But Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., complained the legislation is only “a small piece of a larger package around government price controls for prescription drugs.” Critics say the bill would raise premiums and fails to target pharmaceutical middlemen seen as contributing to high list prices for insulin.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said Democrats could have a deal on prescription drugs if they drop their bid to authorize Medicare to negotiate prices. “Do Democrats really want to help seniors, or would they rather have the campaign issue?” Grassley said.
The insulin bill, which would take effect in 2023, represents just one provision of a much broader prescription drug package in President Joe Biden’s social and climate legislation.
In addition to a similar $35 cap on insulin, the Biden bill would authorize Medicare to negotiate prices for a range of drugs, including insulin. It would penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation and overhaul the Medicare prescription drug benefit to limit out-of-pocket costs for enrollees.
Biden’s agenda passed the House only to stall in the Senate because Democrats could not reach consensus. Party leaders haven’t abandoned hope of getting the legislation moving again, and preserving its drug pricing curbs largely intact.
The idea of a $35 monthly cost cap for insulin actually has a bipartisan pedigree. The Trump administration had created a voluntary option for Medicare enrollees to get insulin for $35, and the Biden administration continued it.
In the Senate, Republican Susan Collins of Maine and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire are working on a bipartisan insulin bill. Georgia Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock has introduced legislation similar to the House bill, with the support of Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.
Stung by criticism that Biden’s economic policies spur inflation, Democrats are redoubling efforts to show how they’d help people cope with costs. On Thursday,the Commerce Department reported a key inflation gauge jumped 6.4% in February compared with a year ago, the largest year-over-year rise since January 1982.
But experts say the House bill would not help uninsured people, who face the highest out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Also, people with diabetes often take other medications as well as insulin. That’s done to treat the diabetes itself, along with other serious health conditions often associated with the disease. The House legislation would not help with those costs, either. Collins says she’s looking for a way to help uninsured people through her bill.
About 37 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 6 million to 7 million use insulin to keep their blood sugars under control.It’s an old drug, refined and improved over the years, that has seen relentless price increases.
Steep list prices don’t reflect the rates insurance plans negotiate with manufacturers. But those list prices are used to calculate cost-sharing amounts that patients owe. Patients who can’t afford their insulin reduce or skip doses, a strategy born of desperation, which can lead to serious complications and even death.
Economist Sherry Glied of New York University said the market for insulin is a “total disaster” for many patients, particularly those with skimpy insurance plans or no insurance.
“This will make private insurance for people with diabetes a much more attractive proposition,” said Glied. |
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/No-Democrats-running-for-SD-congressional-seat-17051171.php | PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Democrats have failed to produce a candidate for the state's U.S. House seat for the second consecutive election cycle.
Rep. Dusty Johnson however, will face a Republican primary challenger. The winner of the contest between Johnson and state Rep. Taffy Howard will likely represent South Dakota in the U.S. House. Although independents could still enter the general election race at a later date.
Democrat Ryan Ryder dropped out of the House race earlier this month when his tweets surfaced that contained several disturbing jokes about Republican politicians in South Dakota. Those tweets were sent before Ryder announced his congressional candidacy.
Box Elder Air Force veteran said the tweets were a poor attempt at sarcasm.
State Democratic Party chairman Randy Seiler says a number of candidates considered a run for the office, South Dakota Public Broadcasting reported.
“Ultimately, for a lot of different reasons, the decision was made that they elected not to run," he said. "We’re still hopeful. Our focus, now, will be on the U.S. Senate and the gubernatorial race.”
In the governor’s race, Democrat Jamie Smith, who’s minority leader of the state House, will face the primary election winner between Gov. Kristi Noem and former House Speaker Steve Haugaard.
In the U.S. Senate, several Republicans have shown interest in challenging Sen. John Thune in the primary, but no candidate has been certified. Brian Bengs is running for the seat as a Democrat.
The South Dakota primary election is June 7. The deadline for members of political parties to file nominating petitions was Tuesday. The deadline for independents is April 26. | 0 | 40,836 | 0 | https://www.bigrapidsnews.com/news/article/No-Democrats-running-for-SD-congressional-seat-17051171.php | 2022-04-01 16:20:22+00:00 | PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Democrats have failed to produce a candidate for the state's U.S. House seat for the second consecutive election cycle.
Rep. Dusty Johnson however, will face a Republican primary challenger. The winner of the contest between Johnson and state Rep. Taffy Howard will likely represent South Dakota in the U.S. House. Although independents could still enter the general election race at a later date.
Democrat Ryan Ryder dropped out of the House race earlier this month when his tweets surfaced that contained several disturbing jokes about Republican politicians in South Dakota. Those tweets were sent before Ryder announced his congressional candidacy.
Box Elder Air Force veteran said the tweets were a poor attempt at sarcasm.
State Democratic Party chairman Randy Seiler says a number of candidates considered a run for the office, South Dakota Public Broadcasting reported.
“Ultimately, for a lot of different reasons, the decision was made that they elected not to run," he said. "We’re still hopeful. Our focus, now, will be on the U.S. Senate and the gubernatorial race.”
In the governor’s race, Democrat Jamie Smith, who’s minority leader of the state House, will face the primary election winner between Gov. Kristi Noem and former House Speaker Steve Haugaard.
In the U.S. Senate, several Republicans have shown interest in challenging Sen. John Thune in the primary, but no candidate has been certified. Brian Bengs is running for the seat as a Democrat.
The South Dakota primary election is June 7. The deadline for members of political parties to file nominating petitions was Tuesday. The deadline for independents is April 26. |
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/No-Democrats-running-for-SD-congressional-seat-17051171.php | PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Democrats have failed to produce a candidate for the state's U.S. House seat for the second consecutive election cycle.
Rep. Dusty Johnson however, will face a Republican primary challenger. The winner of the contest between Johnson and state Rep. Taffy Howard will likely represent South Dakota in the U.S. House. Although independents could still enter the general election race at a later date.
Democrat Ryan Ryder dropped out of the House race earlier this month when his tweets surfaced that contained several disturbing jokes about Republican politicians in South Dakota. Those tweets were sent before Ryder announced his congressional candidacy.
Box Elder Air Force veteran said the tweets were a poor attempt at sarcasm.
State Democratic Party chairman Randy Seiler says a number of candidates considered a run for the office, South Dakota Public Broadcasting reported.
“Ultimately, for a lot of different reasons, the decision was made that they elected not to run," he said. "We’re still hopeful. Our focus, now, will be on the U.S. Senate and the gubernatorial race.”
In the governor’s race, Democrat Jamie Smith, who’s minority leader of the state House, will face the primary election winner between Gov. Kristi Noem and former House Speaker Steve Haugaard.
In the U.S. Senate, several Republicans have shown interest in challenging Sen. John Thune in the primary, but no candidate has been certified. Brian Bengs is running for the seat as a Democrat.
The South Dakota primary election is June 7. The deadline for members of political parties to file nominating petitions was Tuesday. The deadline for independents is April 26. | 1 | 43,962 | 0 | https://www.milfordmirror.com/news/article/No-Democrats-running-for-SD-congressional-seat-17051171.php | 2022-04-01 16:35:30+00:00 | PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Democrats have failed to produce a candidate for the state's U.S. House seat for the second consecutive election cycle.
Rep. Dusty Johnson however, will face a Republican primary challenger. The winner of the contest between Johnson and state Rep. Taffy Howard will likely represent South Dakota in the U.S. House. Although independents could still enter the general election race at a later date.
Democrat Ryan Ryder dropped out of the House race earlier this month when his tweets surfaced that contained several disturbing jokes about Republican politicians in South Dakota. Those tweets were sent before Ryder announced his congressional candidacy.
Box Elder Air Force veteran said the tweets were a poor attempt at sarcasm.
State Democratic Party chairman Randy Seiler says a number of candidates considered a run for the office, South Dakota Public Broadcasting reported.
“Ultimately, for a lot of different reasons, the decision was made that they elected not to run," he said. "We’re still hopeful. Our focus, now, will be on the U.S. Senate and the gubernatorial race.”
In the governor’s race, Democrat Jamie Smith, who’s minority leader of the state House, will face the primary election winner between Gov. Kristi Noem and former House Speaker Steve Haugaard.
In the U.S. Senate, several Republicans have shown interest in challenging Sen. John Thune in the primary, but no candidate has been certified. Brian Bengs is running for the seat as a Democrat.
The South Dakota primary election is June 7. The deadline for members of political parties to file nominating petitions was Tuesday. The deadline for independents is April 26. |
https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/No-Democrats-running-for-SD-congressional-seat-17051171.php | PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Democrats have failed to produce a candidate for the state's U.S. House seat for the second consecutive election cycle.
Rep. Dusty Johnson however, will face a Republican primary challenger. The winner of the contest between Johnson and state Rep. Taffy Howard will likely represent South Dakota in the U.S. House. Although independents could still enter the general election race at a later date.
Democrat Ryan Ryder dropped out of the House race earlier this month when his tweets surfaced that contained several disturbing jokes about Republican politicians in South Dakota. Those tweets were sent before Ryder announced his congressional candidacy.
Box Elder Air Force veteran said the tweets were a poor attempt at sarcasm.
State Democratic Party chairman Randy Seiler says a number of candidates considered a run for the office, South Dakota Public Broadcasting reported.
“Ultimately, for a lot of different reasons, the decision was made that they elected not to run," he said. "We’re still hopeful. Our focus, now, will be on the U.S. Senate and the gubernatorial race.”
In the governor’s race, Democrat Jamie Smith, who’s minority leader of the state House, will face the primary election winner between Gov. Kristi Noem and former House Speaker Steve Haugaard.
In the U.S. Senate, several Republicans have shown interest in challenging Sen. John Thune in the primary, but no candidate has been certified. Brian Bengs is running for the seat as a Democrat.
The South Dakota primary election is June 7. The deadline for members of political parties to file nominating petitions was Tuesday. The deadline for independents is April 26. | 2 | 45,228 | 0 | https://www.wiltonbulletin.com/news/article/No-Democrats-running-for-SD-congressional-seat-17051171.php | 2022-04-01 16:40:31+00:00 | PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Democrats have failed to produce a candidate for the state's U.S. House seat for the second consecutive election cycle.
Rep. Dusty Johnson however, will face a Republican primary challenger. The winner of the contest between Johnson and state Rep. Taffy Howard will likely represent South Dakota in the U.S. House. Although independents could still enter the general election race at a later date.
Democrat Ryan Ryder dropped out of the House race earlier this month when his tweets surfaced that contained several disturbing jokes about Republican politicians in South Dakota. Those tweets were sent before Ryder announced his congressional candidacy.
Box Elder Air Force veteran said the tweets were a poor attempt at sarcasm.
State Democratic Party chairman Randy Seiler says a number of candidates considered a run for the office, South Dakota Public Broadcasting reported.
“Ultimately, for a lot of different reasons, the decision was made that they elected not to run," he said. "We’re still hopeful. Our focus, now, will be on the U.S. Senate and the gubernatorial race.”
In the governor’s race, Democrat Jamie Smith, who’s minority leader of the state House, will face the primary election winner between Gov. Kristi Noem and former House Speaker Steve Haugaard.
In the U.S. Senate, several Republicans have shown interest in challenging Sen. John Thune in the primary, but no candidate has been certified. Brian Bengs is running for the seat as a Democrat.
The South Dakota primary election is June 7. The deadline for members of political parties to file nominating petitions was Tuesday. The deadline for independents is April 26. |
https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/when-ali-sethi-pasoori-singer-apologised-to-arijit-singh-for-crooning-an-acoustic-version-of-latters-aayat-song-during-an-insta-live/ | Ali Sethi is a well-known Pakistani singer and writer. He has contributed to the singing world with many songs like Ranjish Hi Sahi, Luddi Hai Jamalo, and many others. Apart from this he also loves to entertain his fans on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and others, by uploading videos or live streams.
In one of the singer’s past Instagram interactions, did you know that Ali once sang Indian singer Arijit Singh‘s Aayat from Bajirao Mastani? Also, he sweetly apologized to the singer for doing so? Here’s what happened.
Advertisement
It so happens that a few months back, when Ali Sethi was holding an Instagram live session on his account he had called out a few account names from the Indian side that are among his fans. Calling out their user IDs, Ali claimed that he would be singing one of Arijit Singh’s songs Aayat from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s superhit Bajirao Mastani. Calling Arijit one of the most versatile and successful singers he talked about how effortlessly the singer gives life to his songs.
Trending
While playing the harmonium, Ali Sethi said, “The sign of a great singer, as supposed to the sign of a very gifted singer or a good singer, the sign of a great singer is that they can make it effortlessly easy, and this is what Arijit Singh does with his song Aayat with which I am obsessed with, which I think is one of the most beautiful songs to emerge from the Indian movie scenes in the years. With apologies to Arijit Singh ha… well not like he cares but I’m sure.”
After this Ali starts singing the song, as he continued to interact with his fans. In a moment we also hear h say, “Jis andaz mai unhone Kiya hai issko, usko jaise kahte hai an, sau toop ki salami Deni chahiye, (The way he (Arijit) has done this, for that he should receive 100 topo ki salami (a phrase for grand salute)).
For more such updates, stay tuned to Koimoi.
Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
Advertisement.
Advertisement | 0 | 117,347 | 0.748785 | https://zeenews.india.com/people/meet-birthday-boy-arijit-singhs-biggest-fan-who-is-a-bollywood-superstar-2457360.html | 2022-04-25 12:25:59+00:00 | New Delhi: On singer Arijit Singh's birthday, we take a look at the singer's biggest fan in Bollywood - Aamir Khan. Yes, you read that right. Aamir, during an online fundraiser last year, expressed that he is a huge fan of Arijit and whenever he performs live, the actor always sits in the front row to cheer him on.
That's not it, Aamir Khan even requested Arijit to sing a song after the event -- Checkmate COVID Celebrity Edition was over. He said to Arijit, "Ek do line gaa k sunao yaar."
Arijit then asked the actor for a song suggestion and Aamir asked him to sing his favourite song. However, Arijit couldn't recall his favourite song so Aamir reminded him that it is 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'.
Talking about his love for Arijit's singing abilities and talent, Aamir said, "He's amazing, he's such an amazing singer. Such an amazing singer. I've seen him live so many times and each time he blows my mind. Toh main sab kuch chhor ke, main ekdum stage k aage baith jaata hun. Ki yeh chance dobara mile kab mile, apun sunte hai bhai."
‘The King of Playback Singing’ Arijit Singh turned a day older on Monday (April 25).
Arijit, who rose to fame after singing for 2013 hit film Aashique 2, has since then given us many hit songs that we love to croon. |
https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/when-ali-sethi-pasoori-singer-apologised-to-arijit-singh-for-crooning-an-acoustic-version-of-latters-aayat-song-during-an-insta-live/ | Ali Sethi is a well-known Pakistani singer and writer. He has contributed to the singing world with many songs like Ranjish Hi Sahi, Luddi Hai Jamalo, and many others. Apart from this he also loves to entertain his fans on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and others, by uploading videos or live streams.
In one of the singer’s past Instagram interactions, did you know that Ali once sang Indian singer Arijit Singh‘s Aayat from Bajirao Mastani? Also, he sweetly apologized to the singer for doing so? Here’s what happened.
Advertisement
It so happens that a few months back, when Ali Sethi was holding an Instagram live session on his account he had called out a few account names from the Indian side that are among his fans. Calling out their user IDs, Ali claimed that he would be singing one of Arijit Singh’s songs Aayat from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s superhit Bajirao Mastani. Calling Arijit one of the most versatile and successful singers he talked about how effortlessly the singer gives life to his songs.
Trending
While playing the harmonium, Ali Sethi said, “The sign of a great singer, as supposed to the sign of a very gifted singer or a good singer, the sign of a great singer is that they can make it effortlessly easy, and this is what Arijit Singh does with his song Aayat with which I am obsessed with, which I think is one of the most beautiful songs to emerge from the Indian movie scenes in the years. With apologies to Arijit Singh ha… well not like he cares but I’m sure.”
After this Ali starts singing the song, as he continued to interact with his fans. In a moment we also hear h say, “Jis andaz mai unhone Kiya hai issko, usko jaise kahte hai an, sau toop ki salami Deni chahiye, (The way he (Arijit) has done this, for that he should receive 100 topo ki salami (a phrase for grand salute)).
For more such updates, stay tuned to Koimoi.
Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
Advertisement.
Advertisement | 1 | 89,476 | 0.770354 | https://english.jagran.com/entertainment/mera-favourite-toh-when-aamir-khan-revealed-that-he-is-a-fan-of-birthday-boy-arijit-singh-watch-10042529 | 2022-04-25 09:36:14+00:00 | New Delhi | Jagran Entertainment Desk: Arijit Singh rules the heart of millions with his mesmerizing and soulful voice. The singer can make you cry and fall in love with his heartfelt songs and can also make you groove to his amazing dance numbers. Arijit is loved by many, but he is also the favourite singer of many celebrities. Superstar and the perfectionist of Bollywood Aamir Khan is also a big fan of Arijit Singh.
In a live stream for the Covid-19 fundraiser on the comedian, Samay Raina's YouTube channel, Aamir Khan and Arijit Singh came together. They were joined by the world champion and grandmaster Vishwanath Anand, Vice President of Xiaomi Manu Kumar Jain, singer Ananya Birla, chess player Tania Sachdev and entrepreneur Prachura PP.
At the end of the live stream, Aamir Khan asked Arijit Singh to sing his favourite song 'Ae Dil Hai Muskil'. Aamir also said that Arijit always blows his mind with his amazing singing, and he always sits in front of the show to listen to him. Then Samay Raina jokingly told Arijit not to sing so well, otherwise, the video will get a copyright strike. After that, Arijit sang a few lines of the song. Aamir Khan was mesmerised by Arijit's singing. Take a look at this video posted by Arijit Music-Sk YouTube channel.
Arijit Singh lent his voice to Aamir Khan's film Dangal. The song Naina became an instant hit among the audience. Arijit made his debut as a playback singer with the song 'Dil Sambhal Jaa Zara' from the film Murder 2. In 2013, his song Tum Hi Ho from Aashiqui 2 became a chartbuster and was a turning point in his career.
In 2020 and 2021, Spotify declared Arijit Singh to be the most streamed Indian artist. He started his career with the reality TV show Fame Gurukul in 2005. Arijit Singh is the voice behind the hit songs like Tera Yaar Hoon Main, Galti Se Mistake, Nashe Si Chadh Gayi, Mast Magan, Khairiyat, and many more.
Posted By: Simran Srivastav |
https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/when-ali-sethi-pasoori-singer-apologised-to-arijit-singh-for-crooning-an-acoustic-version-of-latters-aayat-song-during-an-insta-live/ | Ali Sethi is a well-known Pakistani singer and writer. He has contributed to the singing world with many songs like Ranjish Hi Sahi, Luddi Hai Jamalo, and many others. Apart from this he also loves to entertain his fans on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and others, by uploading videos or live streams.
In one of the singer’s past Instagram interactions, did you know that Ali once sang Indian singer Arijit Singh‘s Aayat from Bajirao Mastani? Also, he sweetly apologized to the singer for doing so? Here’s what happened.
Advertisement
It so happens that a few months back, when Ali Sethi was holding an Instagram live session on his account he had called out a few account names from the Indian side that are among his fans. Calling out their user IDs, Ali claimed that he would be singing one of Arijit Singh’s songs Aayat from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s superhit Bajirao Mastani. Calling Arijit one of the most versatile and successful singers he talked about how effortlessly the singer gives life to his songs.
Trending
While playing the harmonium, Ali Sethi said, “The sign of a great singer, as supposed to the sign of a very gifted singer or a good singer, the sign of a great singer is that they can make it effortlessly easy, and this is what Arijit Singh does with his song Aayat with which I am obsessed with, which I think is one of the most beautiful songs to emerge from the Indian movie scenes in the years. With apologies to Arijit Singh ha… well not like he cares but I’m sure.”
After this Ali starts singing the song, as he continued to interact with his fans. In a moment we also hear h say, “Jis andaz mai unhone Kiya hai issko, usko jaise kahte hai an, sau toop ki salami Deni chahiye, (The way he (Arijit) has done this, for that he should receive 100 topo ki salami (a phrase for grand salute)).
For more such updates, stay tuned to Koimoi.
Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
Advertisement.
Advertisement | 2 | 42,239 | 0.789947 | https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/music/when-arijit-singh-fanboy-aamir-khan-said-he-sits-right-in-front-of-stage-for-his-concerts-sab-kuch-chhor-ke-101650797662378-amp.html | 2022-04-25 02:33:38+00:00 | When Arijit Singh fanboy Aamir Khan said he sits right in front of stage for his concerts, 'sab kuch chhor ke'
Singer Arijit Singh once found a huge fan in actor Aamir Khan, who showered him with praises. Arijit and Aamir Khan were part of a Covid-19 fundraiser where the latter played chess with world champion and Indian grandmaster Vishwanathan Anand. (Also Read | Luv Ju: Arijit Singh fans love the peppy new Bunty Aur Babli 2 song with Siddhant, Sharvari; say ‘Jubin toh gaya')
During the Checkmate COVID Celebrity Edition, Arijit was asked to say something before signing out. He started saying, "Closing thoughts are a big hug to..." but Aamir interrupted saying, "Aese nahi chalega, aese nahi chalega (It won't work this way)." Laughing Arijit asked, "Phir kaese chalega (Then how)?" Aamir replied, "Ek do line gaa k sunao yaar (Sing a few lines)."
When Arijit asked Aamir which song he wanted him to sing, the actor replied, "Mera favourite toh tujhe pata hi hai (You know my favourite song)." At this, Arijit asked him which song he was talking about and Aamir said, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil."
Arjit then asked them to wait for a moment as he got his guitar. Aamir said, "Hann guitar lelo (Ya take your guitar). He's amazing, he's such an amazing singer. Such an amazing singer. I've seen him live so many times and each time he blows my mind. Toh main sab kuch chhor ke, main ekdum stage k aage baith jaata hun. Ki yeh chance dobara mile kab mile, apun sunte hai bhai (I leave everything and sit in front of the stage. Let's listen to him, don't know when I will get a chance again)."
When Arjit started singing, Aamir said, "Wah wah (Wow)." He was also seen nodding his head and humming along with him. As Arijit finished the song, Aamir said, "Superb. Thanks, Arijit."
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016) is directed, produced and written by Karan Johar. The music is composed by Pritam with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Fawad Khan with special appearances by Shah Rukh Khan, Lisa Haydon, and Imran Abbas.
Arijit's career started when he participated in the reality show, Fame Gurukul (2005). He made his Bollywood musical debut with Phir Mohabbat (Murder 2) in 2011. He also sang Raabta from Agent Vinod (2012).
Arijit also sang for Barfi, Aashiqui 2, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express, Ram-Leela, Ludo, Chhichhore, Kalank, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Hichki, Raazi, Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, Veere Di Wedding, 102 Not Out, Baazaar, Kedarnath and Karwaan among many others. He was also honoured with a National Award. |
https://pix11.com/news/local-news/fines-increase-for-loud-illegal-exhaust-systems-as-new-ny-law-goes-into-effect/ | ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A new New York State law to crack down on illegal modification to mufflers or exhaust systems went into effect Friday. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the legislation into law on Oct. 29, 2021.
The new law penalizes drivers and repair shops for illegal modifications by increasing the maximum fine to $1,000. This increase raises the original fine by $850.
Vehicle repair shops making illegal modifications could also risk their businesses. Violation of the law three times within 18 months can result in the loss of inspection and operating licenses.
“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their community, and that includes cracking down on excessively noisy vehicles on our streets,” said Hochul. “This legislation deters drivers from installing illegal vehicle equipment that results in dangerous noise levels that can contribute to hearing loss and increased emissions.”
To pass inspection, cars will need to have a non-modified exhaust system. Motorcycles are also covered under the law and will have to be inspected for illegal exhausts.
“This is a quality of life and public safety issue that plagues our community for no logical reason other than to simply make noise. Now that the SLEEP Act has been signed into law, we can remove these loud and polluting vehicles from our streets once and for all,” said Senator Andrew Gounardes. | 0 | 42,613 | 0.052268 | https://www.news10.com/news/ny-news/nys-law-to-crack-down-on-illegal-exhaust-systems-goes-into-effect/ | 2022-04-01 16:29:16+00:00 | ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A new New York State law to crack down on illegal modification to mufflers or exhaust systems does into effect Friday. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the legislation into law on October 29, 2021.
This new law penalizes drivers and repair shops for illegal modifications by increasing the maximum fine to $1,000. This increase raises the original fine by $850.
Vehicle repair shops making illegal modifications could also risk their businesses. Violation of the law three times within 18 months can result in the loss of inspection and operating licenses.
“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their community, and that includes cracking down on excessively noisy vehicles on our streets,” said Hochul. “This legislation deters drivers from installing illegal vehicle equipment that results in dangerous noise levels that can contribute to hearing loss and increased emissions.”
To pass inspection, cars will need to have a non-modified exhaust system. Motorcycles are also covered under the law and will have to be inspected for illegal exhausts.
“This is a quality of life and public safety issue that plagues our community for no logical reason other than to simply make noise. Now that the SLEEP Act has been signed into law, we can remove these loud and polluting vehicles from our streets once and for all,” said Senator Andrew Gounardes. |
https://pix11.com/news/local-news/fines-increase-for-loud-illegal-exhaust-systems-as-new-ny-law-goes-into-effect/ | ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A new New York State law to crack down on illegal modification to mufflers or exhaust systems went into effect Friday. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the legislation into law on Oct. 29, 2021.
The new law penalizes drivers and repair shops for illegal modifications by increasing the maximum fine to $1,000. This increase raises the original fine by $850.
Vehicle repair shops making illegal modifications could also risk their businesses. Violation of the law three times within 18 months can result in the loss of inspection and operating licenses.
“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their community, and that includes cracking down on excessively noisy vehicles on our streets,” said Hochul. “This legislation deters drivers from installing illegal vehicle equipment that results in dangerous noise levels that can contribute to hearing loss and increased emissions.”
To pass inspection, cars will need to have a non-modified exhaust system. Motorcycles are also covered under the law and will have to be inspected for illegal exhausts.
“This is a quality of life and public safety issue that plagues our community for no logical reason other than to simply make noise. Now that the SLEEP Act has been signed into law, we can remove these loud and polluting vehicles from our streets once and for all,” said Senator Andrew Gounardes. | 1 | 64,083 | 0.052268 | https://www.informnny.com/news/state-news/nys-law-to-crack-down-on-illegal-exhaust-systems-goes-into-effect/ | 2022-04-01 17:52:24+00:00 | ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A new New York State law to crack down on illegal modification to mufflers or exhaust systems does into effect Friday. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the legislation into law on October 29, 2021.
This new law penalizes drivers and repair shops for illegal modifications by increasing the maximum fine to $1,000. This increase raises the original fine by $850.
Vehicle repair shops making illegal modifications could also risk their businesses. Violation of the law three times within 18 months can result in the loss of inspection and operating licenses.
“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their community, and that includes cracking down on excessively noisy vehicles on our streets,” said Hochul. “This legislation deters drivers from installing illegal vehicle equipment that results in dangerous noise levels that can contribute to hearing loss and increased emissions.”
To pass inspection, cars will need to have a non-modified exhaust system. Motorcycles are also covered under the law and will have to be inspected for illegal exhausts.
“This is a quality of life and public safety issue that plagues our community for no logical reason other than to simply make noise. Now that the SLEEP Act has been signed into law, we can remove these loud and polluting vehicles from our streets once and for all,” said Senator Andrew Gounardes. |
https://pix11.com/news/local-news/fines-increase-for-loud-illegal-exhaust-systems-as-new-ny-law-goes-into-effect/ | ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A new New York State law to crack down on illegal modification to mufflers or exhaust systems went into effect Friday. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the legislation into law on Oct. 29, 2021.
The new law penalizes drivers and repair shops for illegal modifications by increasing the maximum fine to $1,000. This increase raises the original fine by $850.
Vehicle repair shops making illegal modifications could also risk their businesses. Violation of the law three times within 18 months can result in the loss of inspection and operating licenses.
“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their community, and that includes cracking down on excessively noisy vehicles on our streets,” said Hochul. “This legislation deters drivers from installing illegal vehicle equipment that results in dangerous noise levels that can contribute to hearing loss and increased emissions.”
To pass inspection, cars will need to have a non-modified exhaust system. Motorcycles are also covered under the law and will have to be inspected for illegal exhausts.
“This is a quality of life and public safety issue that plagues our community for no logical reason other than to simply make noise. Now that the SLEEP Act has been signed into law, we can remove these loud and polluting vehicles from our streets once and for all,” said Senator Andrew Gounardes. | 2 | 41,455 | 0.250547 | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2559095479019/nys-law-to-crack-down-on-illegal-exhaust-systems-goes-into-effect | 2022-04-02 22:34:09+00:00 | NYS law to crack down on illegal exhaust systems goes into effect
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A new New York State law to crack down on illegal modification to mufflers or exhaust systems does into effect Friday. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the legislation into law on October 29, 2021.
Judge throws out NY’s new redistricting mapsThis new law penalizes drivers and repair shops for illegal modifications by increasing the maximum fine to $1,000. This increase raises the original fine by $850.
Vehicle repair shops making illegal modifications could also risk their businesses. Violation of the law three times within 18 months can result in the loss of inspection and operating licenses.
Supporters call for fair pay for home care workers“Every New Yorker deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their community, and that includes cracking down on excessively noisy vehicles on our streets,” said Hochul. “This legislation deters drivers from installing illegal vehicle equipment that results in dangerous noise levels that can contribute to hearing loss and increased emissions.”
To pass inspection, cars will need to have a non-modified exhaust system. Motorcycles are also covered under the law and will have to be inspected for illegal exhausts.
Suozzi criticizes Hochul’s spending for Bills Stadium“This is a quality of life and public safety issue that plagues our community for no logical reason other than to simply make noise. Now that the SLEEP Act has been signed into law, we can remove these loud and polluting vehicles from our streets once and for all,” said Senator Andrew Gounardes.
Copyright 2022 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NEWS10 ABC. |
https://cbs4indy.com/news/indycrime/indy-man-charged-after-dead-dog-2-emaciated-puppies-found-in-yard/ | INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis man was charged with three separate counts of animal cruelty after police found a deceased dog and two other dogs that appeared to be severely underfed at his home.
On February 18, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) sent an officer to a home in the 3300 block of N. Sherman Drive to investigate a report of neglected animals with no food or water.
According to court documents, the officer found two pit bull mix puppies in an enclosed patio area that had no heating source and was not weather-proof. The officer said the temperature at the time of his visit was 15 degrees.
The officer thought one of the puppies was dead at first until it lifted its head and “made a vocal sound.”
When assessed later, both dogs were given a 2 rating on the Purina Body Condition System: “Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.”
A third dog was located in the back yard. Police said it was a deceased pit bull mix with a “heavy tow-chain and a wire connected to a choke chain” around its neck. An IACS sergeant later weighed the chain when it was removed from the dog’s neck. According to that sergeant, the chain weighed 12.5 pounds.
There was also no food or water nearby and no straw or bedding inside a wooden doghouse.
At least one dog was heard from inside the home, but officers were not able to access it.
All three dogs were confiscated and taken to the IACS building.
A probable cause affidavit shows a man identified as James Campbell left a message at IACS, claiming the dogs were his, and he didn’t realize how cold it was when he left them outside to go the grocery store.
IACS stopped by Campbell’s home again on February 19 to check on the welfare of the inside dog. The officer said she observed one dog inside of a wire crate with no bottom. A second dog was inside the residence, but Campbell said it belonged to his brother.
Campbell agreed to surrender the two puppies taken from his home. He told police the other dog had died while he was at the grocery store.
IACS had been to Campbell’s home at least twice before: on January 22, 2022 and July 1, 2020.
In the July 2020 visit, a dog was tied to a tree in the backyard. It had only six inches of movement before it would risk choking itself with a chain. That dog was the one that was found dead during the Feb. 18, 2022 visit.
During the January 2022 visit, a dog was found in the back yard inside a wire crate with no bottom and no available food or water. Another dog was found with a short chain around its neck. It’s unclear if either dog was the one who died in February.
During both of the previous visits, Campbell was told to give the dogs the proper amount (12 feet) of tethering, food, water and shelter. | 0 | 46,047 | 0 | https://www.tristatehomepage.com/news/indiana-news/indy-man-charged-after-dead-dog-2-emaciated-puppies-found-in-yard/ | 2022-04-01 16:43:27+00:00 | INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis man was charged with three separate counts of animal cruelty after police found a deceased dog and two other dogs that appeared to be severely underfed at his home.
On February 18, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) sent an officer to a home in the 3300 block of N. Sherman Drive to investigate a report of neglected animals with no food or water.
According to court documents, the officer found two pit bull mix puppies in an enclosed patio area that had no heating source and was not weather-proof. The officer said the temperature at the time of his visit was 15 degrees.
The officer thought one of the puppies was dead at first until it lifted its head and “made a vocal sound.”
When assessed later, both dogs were given a 2 rating on the Purina Body Condition System: “Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.”
A third dog was located in the back yard. Police said it was a deceased pit bull mix with a “heavy tow-chain and a wire connected to a choke chain” around its neck. An IACS sergeant later weighed the chain when it was removed from the dog’s neck. According to that sergeant, the chain weighed 12.5 pounds.
There was also no food or water nearby and no straw or bedding inside a wooden doghouse.
At least one dog was heard from inside the home, but officers were not able to access it.
All three dogs were confiscated and taken to the IACS building.
A probable cause affidavit shows a man identified as James Campbell left a message at IACS, claiming the dogs were his, and he didn’t realize how cold it was when he left them outside to go the grocery store.
IACS stopped by Campbell’s home again on February 19 to check on the welfare of the inside dog. The officer said she observed one dog inside of a wire crate with no bottom. A second dog was inside the residence, but Campbell said it belonged to his brother.
Campbell agreed to surrender the two puppies taken from his home. He told police the other dog had died while he was at the grocery store.
IACS had been to Campbell’s home at least twice before: on January 22, 2022 and July 1, 2020.
In the July 2020 visit, a dog was tied to a tree in the backyard. It had only six inches of movement before it would risk choking itself with a chain. That dog was the one that was found dead during the Feb. 18, 2022 visit.
During the January 2022 visit, a dog was found in the back yard inside a wire crate with no bottom and no available food or water. Another dog was found with a short chain around its neck. It’s unclear if either dog was the one who died in February.
During both of the previous visits, Campbell was told to give the dogs the proper amount (12 feet) of tethering, food, water and shelter. |
https://cbs4indy.com/news/indycrime/indy-man-charged-after-dead-dog-2-emaciated-puppies-found-in-yard/ | INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis man was charged with three separate counts of animal cruelty after police found a deceased dog and two other dogs that appeared to be severely underfed at his home.
On February 18, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) sent an officer to a home in the 3300 block of N. Sherman Drive to investigate a report of neglected animals with no food or water.
According to court documents, the officer found two pit bull mix puppies in an enclosed patio area that had no heating source and was not weather-proof. The officer said the temperature at the time of his visit was 15 degrees.
The officer thought one of the puppies was dead at first until it lifted its head and “made a vocal sound.”
When assessed later, both dogs were given a 2 rating on the Purina Body Condition System: “Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.”
A third dog was located in the back yard. Police said it was a deceased pit bull mix with a “heavy tow-chain and a wire connected to a choke chain” around its neck. An IACS sergeant later weighed the chain when it was removed from the dog’s neck. According to that sergeant, the chain weighed 12.5 pounds.
There was also no food or water nearby and no straw or bedding inside a wooden doghouse.
At least one dog was heard from inside the home, but officers were not able to access it.
All three dogs were confiscated and taken to the IACS building.
A probable cause affidavit shows a man identified as James Campbell left a message at IACS, claiming the dogs were his, and he didn’t realize how cold it was when he left them outside to go the grocery store.
IACS stopped by Campbell’s home again on February 19 to check on the welfare of the inside dog. The officer said she observed one dog inside of a wire crate with no bottom. A second dog was inside the residence, but Campbell said it belonged to his brother.
Campbell agreed to surrender the two puppies taken from his home. He told police the other dog had died while he was at the grocery store.
IACS had been to Campbell’s home at least twice before: on January 22, 2022 and July 1, 2020.
In the July 2020 visit, a dog was tied to a tree in the backyard. It had only six inches of movement before it would risk choking itself with a chain. That dog was the one that was found dead during the Feb. 18, 2022 visit.
During the January 2022 visit, a dog was found in the back yard inside a wire crate with no bottom and no available food or water. Another dog was found with a short chain around its neck. It’s unclear if either dog was the one who died in February.
During both of the previous visits, Campbell was told to give the dogs the proper amount (12 feet) of tethering, food, water and shelter. | 1 | 60,934 | 0 | https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/indy-man-charged-after-dead-dog-2-emaciated-puppies-found-in-yard/ | 2022-04-01 17:39:03+00:00 | INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis man was charged with three separate counts of animal cruelty after police found a deceased dog and two other dogs that appeared to be severely underfed at his home.
On February 18, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) sent an officer to a home in the 3300 block of N. Sherman Drive to investigate a report of neglected animals with no food or water.
According to court documents, the officer found two pit bull mix puppies in an enclosed patio area that had no heating source and was not weather-proof. The officer said the temperature at the time of his visit was 15 degrees.
The officer thought one of the puppies was dead at first until it lifted its head and “made a vocal sound.”
When assessed later, both dogs were given a 2 rating on the Purina Body Condition System: “Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.”
A third dog was located in the back yard. Police said it was a deceased pit bull mix with a “heavy tow-chain and a wire connected to a choke chain” around its neck. An IACS sergeant later weighed the chain when it was removed from the dog’s neck. According to that sergeant, the chain weighed 12.5 pounds.
There was also no food or water nearby and no straw or bedding inside a wooden doghouse.
At least one dog was heard from inside the home, but officers were not able to access it.
All three dogs were confiscated and taken to the IACS building.
A probable cause affidavit shows a man identified as James Campbell left a message at IACS, claiming the dogs were his, and he didn’t realize how cold it was when he left them outside to go the grocery store.
IACS stopped by Campbell’s home again on February 19 to check on the welfare of the inside dog. The officer said she observed one dog inside of a wire crate with no bottom. A second dog was inside the residence, but Campbell said it belonged to his brother.
Campbell agreed to surrender the two puppies taken from his home. He told police the other dog had died while he was at the grocery store.
IACS had been to Campbell’s home at least twice before: on January 22, 2022 and July 1, 2020.
In the July 2020 visit, a dog was tied to a tree in the backyard. It had only six inches of movement before it would risk choking itself with a chain. That dog was the one that was found dead during the Feb. 18, 2022 visit.
During the January 2022 visit, a dog was found in the back yard inside a wire crate with no bottom and no available food or water. Another dog was found with a short chain around its neck. It’s unclear if either dog was the one who died in February.
During both of the previous visits, Campbell was told to give the dogs the proper amount (12 feet) of tethering, food, water and shelter. |
https://cbs4indy.com/news/indycrime/indy-man-charged-after-dead-dog-2-emaciated-puppies-found-in-yard/ | INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis man was charged with three separate counts of animal cruelty after police found a deceased dog and two other dogs that appeared to be severely underfed at his home.
On February 18, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) sent an officer to a home in the 3300 block of N. Sherman Drive to investigate a report of neglected animals with no food or water.
According to court documents, the officer found two pit bull mix puppies in an enclosed patio area that had no heating source and was not weather-proof. The officer said the temperature at the time of his visit was 15 degrees.
The officer thought one of the puppies was dead at first until it lifted its head and “made a vocal sound.”
When assessed later, both dogs were given a 2 rating on the Purina Body Condition System: “Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.”
A third dog was located in the back yard. Police said it was a deceased pit bull mix with a “heavy tow-chain and a wire connected to a choke chain” around its neck. An IACS sergeant later weighed the chain when it was removed from the dog’s neck. According to that sergeant, the chain weighed 12.5 pounds.
There was also no food or water nearby and no straw or bedding inside a wooden doghouse.
At least one dog was heard from inside the home, but officers were not able to access it.
All three dogs were confiscated and taken to the IACS building.
A probable cause affidavit shows a man identified as James Campbell left a message at IACS, claiming the dogs were his, and he didn’t realize how cold it was when he left them outside to go the grocery store.
IACS stopped by Campbell’s home again on February 19 to check on the welfare of the inside dog. The officer said she observed one dog inside of a wire crate with no bottom. A second dog was inside the residence, but Campbell said it belonged to his brother.
Campbell agreed to surrender the two puppies taken from his home. He told police the other dog had died while he was at the grocery store.
IACS had been to Campbell’s home at least twice before: on January 22, 2022 and July 1, 2020.
In the July 2020 visit, a dog was tied to a tree in the backyard. It had only six inches of movement before it would risk choking itself with a chain. That dog was the one that was found dead during the Feb. 18, 2022 visit.
During the January 2022 visit, a dog was found in the back yard inside a wire crate with no bottom and no available food or water. Another dog was found with a short chain around its neck. It’s unclear if either dog was the one who died in February.
During both of the previous visits, Campbell was told to give the dogs the proper amount (12 feet) of tethering, food, water and shelter. | 2 | 44,940 | 0.246342 | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2559108325744/indy-man-charged-after-dead-dog-2-emaciated-puppies-found-in-yard | 2022-04-02 23:10:36+00:00 | Indy man charged after dead dog, 2 emaciated puppies found in yard
INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis man was charged with three separate counts of animal cruelty after police found a deceased dog and two other dogs that appeared to be severely underfed at his home.
On February 18, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) sent an officer to a home in the 3300 block of N. Sherman Drive to investigate a report of neglected animals with no food or water.
According to court documents, the officer found two pit bull mix puppies in an enclosed patio area that had no heating source and was not weather-proof. The officer said the temperature at the time of his visit was 15 degrees.
The officer thought one of the puppies was dead at first until it lifted its head and “made a vocal sound.”
When assessed later, both dogs were given a 2 rating on the Purina Body Condition System: “Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.”
DOCS: Lebanon man charged in wife’s murder, fatally struck her with flower potA third dog was located in the back yard. Police said it was a deceased pit bull mix with a “heavy tow-chain and a wire connected to a choke chain” around its neck. An IACS sergeant later weighed the chain when it was removed from the dog’s neck. According to that sergeant, the chain weighed 12.5 pounds.
There was also no food or water nearby and no straw or bedding inside a wooden doghouse.
At least one dog was heard from inside the home, but officers were not able to access it.
All three dogs were confiscated and taken to the IACS building.
A probable cause affidavit shows a man identified as James Campbell left a message at IACS, claiming the dogs were his, and he didn’t realize how cold it was when he left them outside to go the grocery store.
IACS stopped by Campbell’s home again on February 19 to check on the welfare of the inside dog. The officer said she observed one dog inside of a wire crate with no bottom. A second dog was inside the residence, but Campbell said it belonged to his brother.
Campbell agreed to surrender the two puppies taken from his home. He told police the other dog had died while he was at the grocery store.
IACS had been to Campbell’s home at least twice before: on January 22, 2022 and July 1, 2020.
In the July 2020 visit, a dog was tied to a tree in the backyard. It had only six inches of movement before it would risk choking itself with a chain. That dog was the one that was found dead during the Feb. 18, 2022 visit.
During the January 2022 visit, a dog was found in the back yard inside a wire crate with no bottom and no available food or water. Another dog was found with a short chain around its neck. It’s unclear if either dog was the one who died in February.
During both of the previous visits, Campbell was told to give the dogs the proper amount (12 feet) of tethering, food, water and shelter.
Copyright 2022 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 59. |
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https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-60953972 | Together Energy asked Warrington Council for funds before collapse
By Kaleigh Watterson
Cheshire political reporter
- Published
An energy firm which was part-owned by a council sought extra funding from the authority in the months before it collapsed, a new report has revealed.
Together Energy, which was 50% owned by Warrington Borough Council, ceased trading in January.
The company asked the authority for funding in September and December, but both times the council refused.
The report by administrators FRP Advisory also said the council should recoup its full loans to the company.
The report said the Labour-run authority was owed £18.8m at the time of FRP Advisory's appointment and the council "should have its outstanding debt paid in full".
However, it said any payment was subject to the final determination of ownership of some of the firm's assets.
Loss of £52m 'inaccurate'
Warrington Borough Council bought a 50% stake in Together Energy for £18m in 2019.
The firm, which had 175,000 customers, was profitable in the year to 31 October 2020, but due to the rising costs of energy, it began to struggle and its expected losses by October 2022 rose from £43m to £181m in December 2021.
The administrators said while the council had "previously indicated a willingness to increase their investment", the authority decided in September 2021 it was "unable to offer the further funding required due to the risk profile of any further investment".
Opposition councillors had called for transparency over the council's dealings weeks before the company delayed paying a £12.4m payment to Ofgem at the end of October 2021.
The following month, it sought new investment or a sale, but more than 10 potential buyers withdrew following the increase in energy prices.
The firm approached the council again on 29 December, but the authority "reconfirmed" it would not provide further support "against the uncertain market backdrop", the administrators said.
It ceased trading in January, with its customers moved to British Gas on 23 January, and administrators were appointed in February.
Council leader Russ Bowden the report showed the authority was "expected to get back all of its loans" and would not have to fund "the guarantee with our energy wholesaler", estimated to be about £29m.
He added that while it was not currently possible to say how much the council will "ultimately receive back, we know with certainty that previous speculation about the council facing a loss of £52m is inaccurate".
- 1 November 2021
- 18 October 2021 | 0 | 67,404 | 0 | https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-manchester-60953972 | 2022-04-01 18:07:21+00:00 | Together Energy asked Warrington Council for funds before collapse
By Kaleigh Watterson
Cheshire political reporter
- Published
An energy firm which was part-owned by a council sought extra funding from the authority in the months before it collapsed, a new report has revealed.
Together Energy, which was 50% owned by Warrington Borough Council, ceased trading in January.
The company asked the authority for funding in September and December, but both times the council refused.
The report by administrators FRP Advisory also said the council should recoup its full loans to the company.
The report said the Labour-run authority was owed £18.8m at the time of FRP Advisory's appointment and the council "should have its outstanding debt paid in full".
However, it said any payment was subject to the final determination of ownership of some of the firm's assets.
Loss of £52m 'inaccurate'
Warrington Borough Council bought a 50% stake in Together Energy for £18m in 2019.
The firm, which had 175,000 customers, was profitable in the year to 31 October 2020, but due to the rising costs of energy, it began to struggle and its expected losses by October 2022 rose from £43m to £181m in December 2021.
The administrators said while the council had "previously indicated a willingness to increase their investment", the authority decided in September 2021 it was "unable to offer the further funding required due to the risk profile of any further investment".
Opposition councillors had called for transparency over the council's dealings weeks before the company delayed paying a £12.4m payment to Ofgem at the end of October 2021.
The following month, it sought new investment or a sale, but more than 10 potential buyers withdrew following the increase in energy prices.
The firm approached the council again on 29 December, but the authority "reconfirmed" it would not provide further support "against the uncertain market backdrop", the administrators said.
It ceased trading in January, with its customers moved to British Gas on 23 January, and administrators were appointed in February.
Council leader Russ Bowden the report showed the authority was "expected to get back all of its loans" and would not have to fund "the guarantee with our energy wholesaler", estimated to be about £29m.
He added that while it was not currently possible to say how much the council will "ultimately receive back, we know with certainty that previous speculation about the council facing a loss of £52m is inaccurate".
- 1 November 2021
- 18 October 2021 |
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-60953972 | Together Energy asked Warrington Council for funds before collapse
By Kaleigh Watterson
Cheshire political reporter
- Published
An energy firm which was part-owned by a council sought extra funding from the authority in the months before it collapsed, a new report has revealed.
Together Energy, which was 50% owned by Warrington Borough Council, ceased trading in January.
The company asked the authority for funding in September and December, but both times the council refused.
The report by administrators FRP Advisory also said the council should recoup its full loans to the company.
The report said the Labour-run authority was owed £18.8m at the time of FRP Advisory's appointment and the council "should have its outstanding debt paid in full".
However, it said any payment was subject to the final determination of ownership of some of the firm's assets.
Loss of £52m 'inaccurate'
Warrington Borough Council bought a 50% stake in Together Energy for £18m in 2019.
The firm, which had 175,000 customers, was profitable in the year to 31 October 2020, but due to the rising costs of energy, it began to struggle and its expected losses by October 2022 rose from £43m to £181m in December 2021.
The administrators said while the council had "previously indicated a willingness to increase their investment", the authority decided in September 2021 it was "unable to offer the further funding required due to the risk profile of any further investment".
Opposition councillors had called for transparency over the council's dealings weeks before the company delayed paying a £12.4m payment to Ofgem at the end of October 2021.
The following month, it sought new investment or a sale, but more than 10 potential buyers withdrew following the increase in energy prices.
The firm approached the council again on 29 December, but the authority "reconfirmed" it would not provide further support "against the uncertain market backdrop", the administrators said.
It ceased trading in January, with its customers moved to British Gas on 23 January, and administrators were appointed in February.
Council leader Russ Bowden the report showed the authority was "expected to get back all of its loans" and would not have to fund "the guarantee with our energy wholesaler", estimated to be about £29m.
He added that while it was not currently possible to say how much the council will "ultimately receive back, we know with certainty that previous speculation about the council facing a loss of £52m is inaccurate".
- 1 November 2021
- 18 October 2021 | 1 | 64,668 | 0.7411 | https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/chester-cheshire-news/warrington-council-faces-possible-18m-24612516 | 2022-07-29 04:39:47+00:00 | The ‘likely maximum exposure’ to Warrington Borough Council following its failed investment into Together Energy is the potential loss of £18 million. The energy company, which the council owned a 50 per cent stake in, announced it was to cease trading immediately back in January.
The issue featured in a report to the audit and corporate governance committee for its meeting last week. It stated that Together Energy was placed into administration due to ‘volatility and challenges in the European energy markets’.
The report said, at the time of going into administration, the council faced a potential liability of £66.17 million – consisting of a £29.32 million Orsted guarantee, £18.85 million of loans and £18 million of preference share capital. It also stated that Together Energy Limited (TEL) was a ‘well hedged’ company.
READ MORE: Cheshire council-backed energy supplier Together Energy goes bust
“Following TEL liquidating its hedge position, it is forecast that TEL will received a substantial net return after full repayment of the Orsted liability over the period to October 2023,” it adds. “The administrators have advised the council that based on current information they anticipate that the council’s loans (£18.850m) will be repaid in full and there should be no call under its guarantee to Orsted.
“However, the administrators cannot assess the potential level of recovery, if any, against the equity investment. Therefore based on information available at this time, the likely maximum exposure to WBC is the potential loss of the £18m equity investment.
“This has been fully budgeted for in the council’s budget, and since the purchase was undertaken using the capital financing regime any potential loss is already funded through the ongoing MRP charges, and therefore, there will be no further impact on the council taxpayer.”
“The council set up a strategic risk reserve to mitigate any under performance of the diversified investment portfolio and makes a yearly contribution to the reserve. During 2021/22 the council contributed £4m to the strategic risk reserve. As at 31 March 2022 the reserve stood at £32.782m.”
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https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-60953972 | Together Energy asked Warrington Council for funds before collapse
By Kaleigh Watterson
Cheshire political reporter
- Published
An energy firm which was part-owned by a council sought extra funding from the authority in the months before it collapsed, a new report has revealed.
Together Energy, which was 50% owned by Warrington Borough Council, ceased trading in January.
The company asked the authority for funding in September and December, but both times the council refused.
The report by administrators FRP Advisory also said the council should recoup its full loans to the company.
The report said the Labour-run authority was owed £18.8m at the time of FRP Advisory's appointment and the council "should have its outstanding debt paid in full".
However, it said any payment was subject to the final determination of ownership of some of the firm's assets.
Loss of £52m 'inaccurate'
Warrington Borough Council bought a 50% stake in Together Energy for £18m in 2019.
The firm, which had 175,000 customers, was profitable in the year to 31 October 2020, but due to the rising costs of energy, it began to struggle and its expected losses by October 2022 rose from £43m to £181m in December 2021.
The administrators said while the council had "previously indicated a willingness to increase their investment", the authority decided in September 2021 it was "unable to offer the further funding required due to the risk profile of any further investment".
Opposition councillors had called for transparency over the council's dealings weeks before the company delayed paying a £12.4m payment to Ofgem at the end of October 2021.
The following month, it sought new investment or a sale, but more than 10 potential buyers withdrew following the increase in energy prices.
The firm approached the council again on 29 December, but the authority "reconfirmed" it would not provide further support "against the uncertain market backdrop", the administrators said.
It ceased trading in January, with its customers moved to British Gas on 23 January, and administrators were appointed in February.
Council leader Russ Bowden the report showed the authority was "expected to get back all of its loans" and would not have to fund "the guarantee with our energy wholesaler", estimated to be about £29m.
He added that while it was not currently possible to say how much the council will "ultimately receive back, we know with certainty that previous speculation about the council facing a loss of £52m is inaccurate".
- 1 November 2021
- 18 October 2021 | 2 | 34,595 | 0.8694 | https://dailybusinessgroup.co.uk/2022/07/founders-of-failed-energy-firm-in-line-for-50m/ | 2022-07-19 10:58:01+00:00 | Payout prospect
Founders of failed energy firm ‘in line for £50m’
Founders of a failed Scottish energy supplier could be in line for a £50 million payout because of insolvency rules that protect shareholders .
The People’s Energy Company, set up by David Pike and Karen Sode, came into being with crowdfunded cash and a pledge to tackle fuel poverty in Britain.
It employed 450 staff across the UK, including 200 in Shawfair south of Edinburgh, as well as in Musselburgh and Selkirk serving 350,000 customers. In 2020 it created East Lothian Energy in a partnership with the council. They hired former Welsh rugby international Gareth Thomas to front a television advertising campaign.
However, the company folded last September, one of about 30 companies that failed as a result of the rising wholesale price of energy.
It was not such bad news for married couple Pike and Sode. Under UK insolvency law shareholders are due any money left after a business’s creditors are paid off. Research by Bloomberg has revealed that they may receive more than £50 million once company creditors are satisfied. In addition, they will not be liable for the £283 million cost of shifting their customers to Centrica’s British Gas.
Blooming states that it is all legal, and shareholders of other bust utilities may also be compensated.
Tony Jordan, an energy industry consultant at Auxilione, told Bloomberg: “You’ve got a large part of the country worrying about how they’ll pay their bills this winter, while a handful of executives are sitting on potential windfalls. It’s unjust.”
Prem Sikka, an accounting professor and a Labour peer in the House of Lords, said: “It’s bad management, bad regulation and bad insolvency laws.”
Some defunct companies, such as People’s Energy and BP-backed Pure Planet, still hold value after selling the contracts for energy they bought in advance — known as hedges — but never delivered.
At least £820 million in assets have been recovered from the firms being wound up, according to calculations by Bloomberg. About £315 million of that is in People’s Energy, according to administrators’ reports.
Pike and Sode launched the company after raising £487,815 from 2,059 supporters in 199 days. The company received its Ofgem licence and began trading in August 2017. They own 25% of the holding company, with the rest held in a nonprofit structure called a community interest company through which they promised to return 75% of profits to customers.
Unlike many other failed suppliers People’s Energy hedged against price fluctuations. Even so, it didn’t prove to be sufficient protection.
Pike told Bloomberg it struggled to attract new customers after raising tariffs but did not have enough cash to pay a trading partner.
“It was absolutely heart-breaking seeing PEC go into administration,” Pike said.
A court hearing in October will determine where much of People’s Energy’s and other firms’ cash will go. In the meantime, Mr Pike is launching an “ethical” shopping site called Ethibuy.com that will raise capital by crowdfunding and by using proceeds from the hedge process. Ethibuy will allow customers to order goods that take account of transportation, materials, fair pay and other ethical considerations.
Sode is now a managing director of UK and Europe for YSC Consulting.
Ofgem is trying to claw back as much as half-a-billion pounds of the remaining assets in a court case to reduce the burden on customers. Resolution may take years, and any money Ofgem recovers will be at the expense of creditors or shareholders. Other failed energy suppliers may return money to shareholders, depending on the outcome of this effort.
Three-quarters of any payout will go to fuel poverty causes through the community interest company, Pike said. The remaining quarter – potentially as much as £58 million – is set to go to Pike and Sode. It is not clear if they intend to re-distribute any of these funds. |
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-60960264 | Animal cruelty: Former PSNI officer sentenced over dog attacks
By Maria McCann
BBC News NI North East Reporter
- Published
A former police officer sacked after pleading guilty to animal cruelty has been told by a judge he narrowly missed serving a custodial sentence.
John Fleming has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years and must serve 200 hours of community service.
He pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his German Shepherd Akita cross-type dog, Ko, and Staffy crossbreed, Alfie.
The incident happened on a country road in Eglinton on 30 January 2021.
A witness's dashcam footage recorded part of the incident in County Londonderry and it was shown to the court.
A prosecuting lawyer said a witness saw that Fleming's dog had "grabbed a Springer Spaniel by the back and was shaking it".
'Slammed onto road'
The court was told that Fleming, whose address was given as c/o Edwards & Co solicitors on Hill Street in Belfast, then kicked his "cowering" German Shepherd a number of times before also picking up his Staffy and slamming it on to the road.
Mr Fleming's dogs Ko, Alfie and another were taken from him following a report to animal welfare officers.
A defence lawyer told Coleraine Magistrates' Court, which was sitting in Ballymena, that Fleming was sacked from his role as a police constable earlier this week as a direct result of the proceedings.
He said his client was a man in his 30s with bright prospects and that appearing in front of the judge was a "penalty in and of itself".
District Judge Peter King said thankfully the animals survived the mistreatment but that "the custody threshold was well and truly crossed".
He said Fleming's guilty plea saved him from immediate custody and ordered him to serve 200 hours of community service.
'Very narrow decision'
Judge King added that sending Fleming to prison "may send a strong message to the community at large that this behaviour will not and could not be accepted", but that jailing him would not be a "fair disposal".
He said it was a "very narrow decision" as to whether Fleming went to custody or not and saw the community service as a direct alternative to three months behind bars.
Supt Claire McGuigan, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's professional standards department, said: "Following information we received about an officer we launched a gross misconduct investigation into this matter.
"The investigation is now concluded and the officer has been dismissed.
"We welcome today's result.
"The former officer's behaviour and conduct fell far short of what the Police Service of Northern Ireland expects, and I hope today's outcome reassures the public that no-one is above the law." | 0 | 67,442 | 0 | https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-60960264 | 2022-04-01 18:07:33+00:00 | Animal cruelty: Former PSNI officer sentenced over dog attacks
By Maria McCann
BBC News NI North East Reporter
- Published
A former police officer sacked after pleading guilty to animal cruelty has been told by a judge he narrowly missed serving a custodial sentence.
John Fleming has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years and must serve 200 hours of community service.
He pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his German Shepherd Akita cross-type dog, Ko, and Staffy crossbreed, Alfie.
The incident happened on a country road in Eglinton on 30 January 2021.
A witness's dashcam footage recorded part of the incident in County Londonderry and it was shown to the court.
A prosecuting lawyer said a witness saw that Fleming's dog had "grabbed a Springer Spaniel by the back and was shaking it".
'Slammed onto road'
The court was told that Fleming, whose address was given as c/o Edwards & Co solicitors on Hill Street in Belfast, then kicked his "cowering" German Shepherd a number of times before also picking up his Staffy and slamming it on to the road.
Mr Fleming's dogs Ko, Alfie and another were taken from him following a report to animal welfare officers.
A defence lawyer told Coleraine Magistrates' Court, which was sitting in Ballymena, that Fleming was sacked from his role as a police constable earlier this week as a direct result of the proceedings.
He said his client was a man in his 30s with bright prospects and that appearing in front of the judge was a "penalty in and of itself".
District Judge Peter King said thankfully the animals survived the mistreatment but that "the custody threshold was well and truly crossed".
He said Fleming's guilty plea saved him from immediate custody and ordered him to serve 200 hours of community service.
'Very narrow decision'
Judge King added that sending Fleming to prison "may send a strong message to the community at large that this behaviour will not and could not be accepted", but that jailing him would not be a "fair disposal".
He said it was a "very narrow decision" as to whether Fleming went to custody or not and saw the community service as a direct alternative to three months behind bars.
Supt Claire McGuigan, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's professional standards department, said: "Following information we received about an officer we launched a gross misconduct investigation into this matter.
"The investigation is now concluded and the officer has been dismissed.
"We welcome today's result.
"The former officer's behaviour and conduct fell far short of what the Police Service of Northern Ireland expects, and I hope today's outcome reassures the public that no-one is above the law." |
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-60960264 | Animal cruelty: Former PSNI officer sentenced over dog attacks
By Maria McCann
BBC News NI North East Reporter
- Published
A former police officer sacked after pleading guilty to animal cruelty has been told by a judge he narrowly missed serving a custodial sentence.
John Fleming has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years and must serve 200 hours of community service.
He pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his German Shepherd Akita cross-type dog, Ko, and Staffy crossbreed, Alfie.
The incident happened on a country road in Eglinton on 30 January 2021.
A witness's dashcam footage recorded part of the incident in County Londonderry and it was shown to the court.
A prosecuting lawyer said a witness saw that Fleming's dog had "grabbed a Springer Spaniel by the back and was shaking it".
'Slammed onto road'
The court was told that Fleming, whose address was given as c/o Edwards & Co solicitors on Hill Street in Belfast, then kicked his "cowering" German Shepherd a number of times before also picking up his Staffy and slamming it on to the road.
Mr Fleming's dogs Ko, Alfie and another were taken from him following a report to animal welfare officers.
A defence lawyer told Coleraine Magistrates' Court, which was sitting in Ballymena, that Fleming was sacked from his role as a police constable earlier this week as a direct result of the proceedings.
He said his client was a man in his 30s with bright prospects and that appearing in front of the judge was a "penalty in and of itself".
District Judge Peter King said thankfully the animals survived the mistreatment but that "the custody threshold was well and truly crossed".
He said Fleming's guilty plea saved him from immediate custody and ordered him to serve 200 hours of community service.
'Very narrow decision'
Judge King added that sending Fleming to prison "may send a strong message to the community at large that this behaviour will not and could not be accepted", but that jailing him would not be a "fair disposal".
He said it was a "very narrow decision" as to whether Fleming went to custody or not and saw the community service as a direct alternative to three months behind bars.
Supt Claire McGuigan, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's professional standards department, said: "Following information we received about an officer we launched a gross misconduct investigation into this matter.
"The investigation is now concluded and the officer has been dismissed.
"We welcome today's result.
"The former officer's behaviour and conduct fell far short of what the Police Service of Northern Ireland expects, and I hope today's outcome reassures the public that no-one is above the law." | 1 | 66,987 | 0.440345 | https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/crime/sacked-psni-officer-guilty-of-brutal-dog-attacks-avoids-jail-3637995 | 2022-04-02 08:41:23+00:00 | Sacked PSNI officer guilty of ‘brutal’ dog attacks avoids jail
A police officer who was sacked after he pleaded guilty to “two absolutely brutal attacks” on his own dogs narrowly escaped a prison sentence yesterday.
With disgraced former officer John Fleming standing in the dock of Coleraine Magistrate’s Court, sitting in Ballymena, District Judge Peter King told the defendant his guilty plea saved him from a prison sentence.
Describing how his offences were so serious that the custody threshold is “well and truly passed”, the judge warned Fleming that his 200 hours of community service was being imposed as a “direct alternative” to a three-month prison sentence, making clear that if he breached it “you will be brought back here and re-sentenced”.
“This was a narrow decision as to whether you went to custody or not,” said DJ King, who banned Fleming from keeping any animal for 10 years and ordered him to pay £2,000 towards the £12,000 the case cost.
Earlier this year Fleming, whose address was given as c/o Edwards & Co solicitors on Hill Street in Belfast, entered guilty pleas to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to his dogs Ko and Alfie.
The offences arose following an incident on the Craigbrack Road, Eglington on January 30 last year which was captured on the dash cam of a concerned member of the public who happened across the incident on the quiet country road.
Opening the facts of the case, prosecuting counsel outlined how the witness saw that Fleming’s Alsatian cross dog Ko had “grabbed a springer spaniel by the back and was shaking it.”
Having kicked Ko until he let go, the Alsatian “cowered before him” but Fleming then bent down, picked it up by its head and slammed the dog “hard onto the ground.”
The lawyer said it was at this stage the witness turned on his jeep’s ignition and recorded the rest of the incident on dash cam during which Fleming is seen “continuing to kick at the Alsatian a number of times before the animal gets up and runs back onto the road.“
With the video played in open court Fleming, wearing a yellow high vis jacket, can be seen swinging five full force kicks at Ko with at least three of them connecting with the animal which runs away.
Striding a short distance down the road after Ko, Fleming seemingly picks up Alfie the staffie by its scruff and hindquarters, raising him above head height before slamming the animal into tarmac.
The video records Fleming doing the exact same thing again.
Defence counsel Eoghan Devlin revealed that just two days ago, Fleming had been dismissed from the PSNI “as a result of these proceedings” so not only had he suffered the ignominy of finding himself in the dock but he has also lost “what was a very promising career.”
Imposing the CSO and the ten year banning order, the judge allowed Fleming six months to pay back the £2,000 costs order. |
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-60960264 | Animal cruelty: Former PSNI officer sentenced over dog attacks
By Maria McCann
BBC News NI North East Reporter
- Published
A former police officer sacked after pleading guilty to animal cruelty has been told by a judge he narrowly missed serving a custodial sentence.
John Fleming has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years and must serve 200 hours of community service.
He pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his German Shepherd Akita cross-type dog, Ko, and Staffy crossbreed, Alfie.
The incident happened on a country road in Eglinton on 30 January 2021.
A witness's dashcam footage recorded part of the incident in County Londonderry and it was shown to the court.
A prosecuting lawyer said a witness saw that Fleming's dog had "grabbed a Springer Spaniel by the back and was shaking it".
'Slammed onto road'
The court was told that Fleming, whose address was given as c/o Edwards & Co solicitors on Hill Street in Belfast, then kicked his "cowering" German Shepherd a number of times before also picking up his Staffy and slamming it on to the road.
Mr Fleming's dogs Ko, Alfie and another were taken from him following a report to animal welfare officers.
A defence lawyer told Coleraine Magistrates' Court, which was sitting in Ballymena, that Fleming was sacked from his role as a police constable earlier this week as a direct result of the proceedings.
He said his client was a man in his 30s with bright prospects and that appearing in front of the judge was a "penalty in and of itself".
District Judge Peter King said thankfully the animals survived the mistreatment but that "the custody threshold was well and truly crossed".
He said Fleming's guilty plea saved him from immediate custody and ordered him to serve 200 hours of community service.
'Very narrow decision'
Judge King added that sending Fleming to prison "may send a strong message to the community at large that this behaviour will not and could not be accepted", but that jailing him would not be a "fair disposal".
He said it was a "very narrow decision" as to whether Fleming went to custody or not and saw the community service as a direct alternative to three months behind bars.
Supt Claire McGuigan, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's professional standards department, said: "Following information we received about an officer we launched a gross misconduct investigation into this matter.
"The investigation is now concluded and the officer has been dismissed.
"We welcome today's result.
"The former officer's behaviour and conduct fell far short of what the Police Service of Northern Ireland expects, and I hope today's outcome reassures the public that no-one is above the law." | 2 | 117,663 | 0.612512 | https://www.northernirelandworld.com/news/crime/man-attacked-his-own-two-dogs-3642607 | 2022-04-06 08:51:00+00:00 | Mr John Fleming, of the Eglinton area, was sentenced at Coleraine Magistrates’ Court on Friday, April 1, after previously pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his own dogs Alf, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Ko, an Akita/German Shepherd Cross.
The charges were brought against Mr Fleming by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council under the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011.
Proceedings followed an investigation by Council’s Animal Welfare Officer after receiving a report that Mr Fleming was captured on video attacking his own two dogs on the Craigbrack Road. On reviewing this footage with the Council’s contracted Vet, Animal Welfare Officers attended Mr Fleming’s home address and removed three dogs from the property.
While the dogs were all in good physical health, Alf, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, had a number of superficial injuries, which the vet believed were consistent with the incident captured on film.
Council made use of the expertise of the Forensic Service of Northern Ireland in the improvement and presentation of the video footage in order to present the best evidence possible in this investigation.
The video shows Mr Fleming kicking at Ko a number of times, before picking up Alf, raising him above his head and slamming this dog into the tarmac. He then kicks at the dog, before lifting it a second time to shoulder height and again slamming the dog onto the road.
Alf and Ko were recently transferred from Council’s care into that of the Dog’s Trust to be rehomed. The third dog has now been signed over to Council.
Fleming previously indicated guilty pleas to two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to animals, contrary to section 4 of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. A pre-sentence report was ordered, with sentencing on April 1.
Whilst District Judge King was satisfied that it was a case in which the custody threshold had been crossed, he took account of the defendant’s clean record and exemplary public service prior to this incident, as well as the early guilty plea and imposed a 200 hour Community Service Order.
In addition, Fleming was also disqualified from keeping all animals for 10 years and ordered to pay costs of £1500 for care and veterinary fees, as well as £500 for legal costs.
Commenting on the case, a spokesperson for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “Council gives a high priority to the welfare of domestic pets and horses and operates a rigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements.
“All complaints are investigated thoroughly and in the most serious of animal welfare offence, such as in this case, Council will prosecute for offences. I hope this serves as a warning to anyone who does not take appropriate care of animals.” |
https://www.dw.com/en/on-the-trail-of-s%C3%A1mi-culture/av-61331582 | Take a look at the beta version of dw.com. We're not done yet! Your opinion can help us make it better.
Reindeer, nature and sub-zero temperatures. The Sámi are Europe’s last indigenous people. Euromaxx reporter Diana Piñeros immerses herself in the Sámi culture in Sweden above the Arctic Circle. | 0 | 13,849 | 0.928711 | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2575925106306/with-s-mi-pavilion-three-indigenous-artists-hope-to-highlight-the-ongoing-struggles-of-their-people-at-the-venice-biennale | 2022-04-20 05:33:55+00:00 | With Sámi Pavilion, Three Indigenous Artists Hope to Highlight the Ongoing Struggles of Their People at the Venice Biennale
Click here to read the full article.
While hurtling for miles and miles across the vast frozen Lake Inari in far northern Finland on a sled driven by reindeer herders on snowmobiles, the landscape opens up to an ethereal vista. Clusters of reindeer trot across the ice in search of food among the snow-laden pines encircling the lake. To all appearances, it is a pristine paradise. But this area is situated in the heartland of Europe’s only Indigenous people, the Sámi, and it is the site of a long and bitter cultural, political, and ecological struggle over land use rights and guardianship.
In this Arctic region, which already intimately feels the accelerated impact of our climate crisis, large swathes of the old-growth surrounding forest have been decimated by aggressive commercial logging for pulp over the past 50 years. This, in turn, has affected the habitat of the reindeer, which feed off lichen that grows on the trees.
Photographic portraits of this haunting landscape and its Indigenous guardians will feature in the performance project that the Sámi artist and activist Pauliina Feodoroff will present during the 2022 Venice Biennale in the Giardini as part of the Nordic Pavilion , which this year has been transformed into the Sámi Pavilion . Her aim is to draw international support for protecting Sámi lands. “It’s hard to think when we’re witnessing such a beautiful day in such quiet, how strong a battle is going on all the time, from each square meter, from each tree, how strong interests are colliding here,” Feodoroff told a group of visiting reporters, bundled in winter survival suits, as they ate reindeer soup and warmed themselves around a fire amid temperatures of around minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Feodoroff is one of three Indigenous artists—the other two are Máret Ánne Sara and Anders Sunna —who will represent Finland, Norway, and Sweden in an unprecedented Sámi takeover of the Nordic pavilion at the Venice Biennale, one of the art world’s main events, with its own complicated history of colonialism.
Katya García-Antón, commissioner and co-curator of the pavilion, called it “a historic moment of decolonization,” adding, “It’s also a very strong story about the ongoing struggles that Sámi society is experiencing today.”
The Sámi’s struggles are related to climate change and land dispossession for mineral extraction, dam building, and the creation of wind turbine farms, among other things. The three artists are staking their claim for the future of their people and share a common message based on Sámi notions of kinship with the land: what happens to the land happens to the people. “Many of those operations are actually funded by European countries so it’s important to realize that the colonialism ongoing today in Norway is deeply connected to Europe,” García-Antón added.
The semi-nomadic Sámi, who number roughly 100,000 across northern Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Russia’s Kola Peninsula (an area they call Sápmi), have been subjected to colonization by all four countries for hundreds of years. They have been forcibly removed from their ancestral lands, seen their culture and language suppressed, and witnessed the persecution of their noaidis , or spiritual shamans.
Although the Nordic Sámi now have their own parliaments and Scandinavian states have recognized some Indigenous rights, racism against them remains rife and the Sámi still have little say over what happens on their land or to their land. Some of these issues are highlighted by the three pavilion artists, for whom art is a last resort in their fight for justice. “We don’t have so many means of resistance,” said Siljá Somby, a Sámi parliamentarian and filmmaker. “Art becomes a way to resist and make sure that the truth will come out.
Sunna, an artist and reindeer herder from the Swedish part of Sápmi, will use his platform at Venice to present a large-scale painting installation detailing 50 years of legal battles between his family and the Swedish authorities, largely around reindeer herding rights. Sunna has created a series of six collaged paintings, each depicting a decade of his family’s ordeals, set within cabinets that will contain some 10,000 photocopied documents of all the court cases. The final, sixth painting will point toward the future. A related sonic landscape will also be on display.
“We have been to trial 30 or 40 times and almost never won anything,” Sunna said in his studio in the Swedish town of Jokkmokk, where two paintings from the Venice series hung on the wall. One depicted a forest standoff, police cars and reindeer against an ominous red dripping sky. “This is from a moment in 2002 when we had heard that they were going to steal our reindeers, this Sámi village that had forced us away,” he explained. “The mayor has a camera and had some other fellows with him who wanted to draw knives against us, but the police came and tried to calm the situation.”
Sara, from Norwegian Sápmi, has also experienced clashes with the state over her family’s reindeer herding. Sara participated in Documenta 14 in 2017, exhibiting a monumental curtain of reindeer skulls as part of a four-year campaign titled Pile O ’ Sápmi around her brother’s ultimately unsuccessful legal fight to prevent the forced culling of his herd. The work has been purchased by the new National Museum of Oslo, where it will confront visitors in the entrance once the doors open in June. “If my work at Documenta was addressing and making visible this maelstrom of Nordic colonialism, Venice is really the aftermath of this,” she said in her studio in Kautokeino, Norway, surrounded by amorphous hanging sculptures.
These are among the works she will show at Venice: a series of sculptures made from reindeer stomachs that speak of the burden of emotional trauma carried by the Sámi, but also celebrate their culture, wisdom, and values—the reindeer being central to the Sámi cosmology and creation story. Sara’s work also connects to the Sámi notion of duodji , which crudely translates as “craft” but embodies a philosophy of life based on a belief in the indivisibility of humans, animals, and nature.
“When I work with the stomach, it’s a combination of knowledge and experiences,” she said. “It’s on the one hand, as if I was standing in the kitchen, preparing intestines for food. On the other, it’s techniques that I learned from my grandparents and parents about traditional handicraft.”
There are many layers of complexity to the Sámi struggle, which pits traditional Indigenous values and expertise against modern Scandinavian practices. The Nordic states enforce regular reindeer culls, ostensibly to prevent overgrazing, and stringent wildlife laws protect predators such as wolverines and eagles which prey on reindeer calves. But compensation for these losses depends on providing proof and the carcasses are often hard to locate. Likewise, state efforts to increase renewable energy through wind turbines disrupt the reindeers’ centuries-old migration routes since the animals tend to avoid the turbines. The Sámi argue that they, not the Nordic governments, are best placed to maintain the ecological balance based on their ancient knowledge systems, which have maintained balance for centuries prior.
The three artists hope that by shining a light on the challenges facing the Sámi at Venice the Nordic states, which are seen internationally as flag bearers for human rights, will be shamed into taking action to protect the rights and culture of their own Indigenous citizens.
“It’s often very easy for Norway, Sweden, and Finland to be the best in the class regarding human rights and Indigenous rights but then these three artists come and tell a totally different story on how they are treated, and that’s very revealing,” said Beaska Niillas, a co-curator of the pavilion, as well as a land guardian and Norwegian Sámi parliament member.
The issue of land is especially close to Feodoroff’s heart since her family in Finnish and Russian Sápmi suffered losses during the early 20th century as part of Soviet collectivization and in the postwar changes in state borders and forced relocations. Much of that land has been devastated by polluting nickel mines. In addition to the photographic portraits of what she calls “land(person)scapes,” she plans to eventually auction off these works with the rights to visit the land every five years.
She hopes to raise enough money to buy privately owned land formerly inhabited by Sámi people so it can be responsibly managed by the Sámi collectively. “It is an act of desperation,” Feodoroff said. “It’s outrageous that we have to buy our own land back. And it’s outrageous that we have to heal the damages that somebody else has done.”
Feodoroff’s Venice presentation will also involve a three-part performance with eight female dancers titled Matriarchy. The first part, First Contact references the brutal power dynamic that resulted from the earliest encounters between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples; the second, Auction, enacts an auction using the photographic portraits as props; and the final part, also titled Matriarchy, focuses on purging the colonized female body in order to reconnect with its surroundings. The whole project can be viewed in opposition to the narrative of land representation in Western painting as a symbol of status, an entity to be conquered, or a romantic wilderness.
Out on the Norwegian tundra, Nils Peder Gaup, a reindeer herder and Sámi politician, echoed the concerns that the artists will address in their works. With global warming, herders are having to buy food for their animals because fluctuating temperatures create layers of ice and snow that trap the moss the reindeer eat. The interdependence between mankind and nature has never been stronger. “Normally the reindeer feed you, but now we have to feed them,” said Peder Gaup, as he watched his herd, some nibbling food pellets from a trough and others pawing the icy ground for moss on the windswept hilltop.
The Sámi Pavilion will offer visitors a reminder of alternative, harmonious ways of living with the land, a sharp contrast for how contemporary capitalist societies have treated the Earth’s most remote regions as an uninhabited outback ripe for exploitation. “They call this area the wilderness of Norway,” said Peder Gaup. “But it isn’t—we’re here. It’s not a wilderness for us.”
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Reindeer, nature and sub-zero temperatures. The Sámi are Europe’s last indigenous people. Euromaxx reporter Diana Piñeros immerses herself in the Sámi culture in Sweden above the Arctic Circle. | 1 | 82,376 | 0.998118 | https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/09/t-magazine/reindeer-arctic-food.html | 2022-06-17 01:08:12+00:00 | Supported by
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In the Arctic, Reindeer Are Sustenance and a Sacred Presence
For the Indigenous communities who herd the animals, safeguarding dying culinary traditions isn’t merely about eating but about protecting a longstanding way of life.
IN NORTHERN SAMI, a language spoken in the uppermost reaches of Norway, Sweden and Finland, eallu is a herd, or more precisely, the herd — of reindeer, always, on whose lives the speakers depend. Between 400 and 500 words may be used to single out each animal within the herd, by coloring, girth, stance, stage of life, branching pattern of antlers, even temperament, from the truculent female who resists the rope (njirru) to the plodder whose hooves hardly leave the ground (slohtur) to the one that keeps its own counsel, hovering at the fringes (ravdaboazu). That this is poetic is incidental; it is knowledge first, essential to survive. Etymologically, “eallu” is kin, via the proto-Uralic root ela, to ealat, which encompasses both a pasture and the conditions that make it good for grazing, and to eallin: life, which the eallu and ealat make possible.
There are 29 Indigenous peoples, the Sami among them, who have herded reindeer, many for centuries. Although the verb puts humans in the position of authority, to herd is in many ways to submit: to accept the dictates of the animals. “We follow them; they don’t follow us,” said Anders Oskal, the 47-year-old secretary-general of the Association of World Reindeer Herders (W.R.H.), based in Guovdageaidnu, a small Sami village in Norway. Some herders follow the reindeer across the treeless tundra, where the subsurface of the soil stays frozen all year, and others through the taiga, thousands of miles of marshy primeval forest just south of the Arctic Circle (66 degrees, 34 minutes north), host to bitter winters and some of the lowest temperatures on Earth. These include a reported drop to minus 89.9 degrees Fahrenheit in 1933 in Oymyakon in eastern Siberia, where the Eveny tend their snow-dusted herds — a depth of cold that the British writer Sara Wheeler memorably described in “The Magnetic North” (2009) as “a level at which trees exploded with a sound like gunfire and exhaled breath falls to the ground in a tinkle of crystals.”
Such places are often considered inhospitable to humans, at least from the perspective of those who cleave to warmer climes. But for the people who make their homes in the highest latitudes, less distinction historically exists between the environment and the lives unspooled within it. As Kathleen Osgood, an American scholar of circumpolar literature, has pointed out, no one term corresponds to the Western concept of “landscape” in the core Sami vocabulary. This is simply practical; only the postlapsarian, who have conceded the wild for modernity’s ease, would see oneness with nature as esoteric ancient wisdom, unmoored from necessity. The American environmental historian William Cronon, in his 1995 essay “The Trouble With Wilderness,” cautioned against romanticizing nature as if it were somehow separate from us, as if “by definition wilderness leaves no place for human beings, save perhaps as contemplative sojourners,” a binary that gives us “little hope of discovering what an ethical, sustainable, honorable human place in nature might actually look like.”
IN PARTS OF the world where we’ve grown distant from the sources of our food, much has been made in recent years of the idea of nose-to-tail eating: of not just taking what we want and discarding the rest. If one of the precepts of sustainability is wasting as little as possible, few animals have been honored so completely, and for so long, as the reindeer. Its bones litter campsites from 12,000 years ago along the river Seine, just south of Paris. It’s built for the cold, warmed by a thick undercoat and outer hairs like hollow tubes that trap air and keep it buoyant swimming across icy lakes and rivers. When the pastures are snowed under and seemingly barren, it uses its hooves to unearth buried lichen, herbs and grasses. In the tundra and the taiga, its fur and skin are sewed into clothes, blankets and tents, with its sinews as stitching, and its antlers are honed into sheaths for knives. (Taiga herders do not eat their domesticated reindeer except in times of extremity, but they do milk and ride them, and hunt their wild counterparts.) The relationship between herder and reindeer is not merely reciprocal; it is symbiotic. Like the whale to the Inuit and the buffalo to the Lakota, the animal is at once everyday fact and sacred presence — not symbolically so, but in the sense that the sacred is immanent in all things, manifest in the world, in the land and the people of it.
Even today, for many herders, reindeer is the daily meal. Its stomach, washed and inverted, may become a pot for cooking or a storage vessel for preserving meat and brackets of vertebrae. Its milk is soured for yogurt and cheese. The meat is lean and as mild as veal, clean and delicate, tasting of pastures and mountain springs. It might be flash-frozen raw and shaved fine, barely melting in the mouth; or hung to dry, smoked, fried, baked in embers or boiled with little more than salt, rye flour, and a crumble of dried, tart cloudberries in shades of orange and red, bearing precious vitamin C. Almost every part of the animal is eaten, not just the great tenderloins but the creamy thymus, the trachea cut in rings, the hooves simmered until they leach jelly, the eyes submerged in soup, the mineral-rich blood reserved for sausages and pancakes and as a dip for raw meat, or drunk warm after a fresh slaughter. To the Nenets, who live on the West Siberian Plain, the heart is revered and must never be cut against the grain or eaten raw. One rule is universal: No one eats the tip of the tongue; the Sami believe it will make you lie.
When we say that what we eat tells us what we are, in keeping with the 19th-century adage of the French epicure Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, most of us speak nostalgically. We might see in ourselves a sum of remembered tastes, each conjuring a time, place, childhood or heritage. For the reindeer herders, food is more immediate, its pursuit an organizing principle of life in spartan regions where vigilance determines survival. These dishes are almost impossible to recreate outside the conditions from which they came. And those conditions are changing: Surface air temperatures are rising faster here, at more than twice the global mean, altering growing seasons, greening the tundra and inviting nonnative species to thrive and compete for the limited resources. The permafrost is thawing, turning summer pastures to sludge. Winter rains sometimes freeze into a shield of ice that the reindeer can’t break through to reach the lichen — itself receding as the soil gets warmer, encouraging shrubs that cast shadows over the lichen, depriving it of sunlight — and so the animals starve. Grazing lands are further threatened by industrial logging, hydroelectric dams, wind farms and roads; by mining for nickel, platinum, diamonds and palladium, ironically a key element in combating climate change, used in making catalytic converters for automobiles to cut down on toxic emissions; and by drilling for oil and natural gas. (Arctic fields account for a tenth of the world’s existing reserves, along with estimated billions of barrels of oil and trillions of cubic meters of natural gas as yet untapped.)
In the past two decades alone, the reindeer population has declined by more than half, to 2.3 million in 2019. And only a fraction of those descended from the original reindeer-herding peoples still work with the animals that kept their ancestors alive. In their number are thousands from the Sami, along with the Chukchi, Evenki, Eveny and Nenets in Siberia. But among the Soyot and Tofalar, near Lake Baikal, only a few dozen remain; and among the Kets in the Yenisei River Basin and the Negidal on the Sea of Okhotsk, almost none at all.
AT ONE IN the afternoon in late September, the sky was pale over Guovdageaidnu, at 69 degrees north. Oskal carried his laptop to the window of his office to show me the view, all the way in New York. He wore a gakti (tunic), royal blue with appliquéd red ribbons, their patterns and placements a kind of heraldic device, designating his family and siida, a community and geographic unit that includes both the physical area covered by his clan’s herds and the relationships of the people within it. The leaves have fallen, he told me. Each night the sun is quicker to bed. But when I asked him when it would stop rising entirely, when the dayless days would begin, he furrowed his brow and for a moment couldn’t remember, despite having spent his entire life above the Arctic Circle. December? January? “We just live it,” he said. He tapped the top of his wrist, which was bare. We think of time differently here, he explained: “Time is not passing. Time is coming.” When you work with the herd, you don’t look at your watch. You work until you are finished.
Oskal, who also serves as the executive director of the International Center for Reindeer Husbandry (I.C.R.), a group funded in part by the Norwegian government to document Indigenous knowledge, was born in a rural county to the west. His was a “stubborn” family, he said, determined to preserve the Sami culture. In early childhood, he and his brother had to take a bus an hour and a half to get to school, where there were few students of Sami descent and even fewer who openly embraced their heritage. Eventually, Sami parents in the area were able to establish a Sami-language school, a victory in a country with a legacy of forced assimilation, from the Lutheran missionaries of the 17th century, who tried to stamp out local shamanism, to the separation of children from their families to send them to boarding schools — a trauma that the Sami share across Fennoscandia and with other Indigenous peoples around the world — which were originally instituted by the church and then taken over by the government in the 19th century and maintained through the 1960s. Oskal was the first in his family to pursue higher education, a path that took him away from the herd, and then returned him to it, as an advocate.
Three years ago, just before the reindeer spring migration, he and his colleagues filed a 161-page report on food security and sovereignty with the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental forum established in 1996 to address issues of environmental change, whose members include representatives from native peoples and the eight nations with borders that extend above the northern tree line: Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, the Russian Federation, Sweden and the United States. (In 2018, China declared itself a “near-Arctic state” with a stake in the fate of the region and, pointedly, in “the exploration for and exploitation of oil, gas, mineral and other non-living resources.”) The report, titled “Eallu: Indigenous Youth, Arctic Change and Food Culture — Food, Knowledge and How We Have Thrived on the Margins,” was in fact a cookbook — a compendium of oral recipes recorded by young people from the tundra and the taiga, in consultation with their elders, as part of a larger project to protect and revive ancient traditions. Formal policy recommendations shared the pages with tips on preserving reindeer meat in buckets of salt and snow and the difference in cooking times for walrus (long) and bearded seal (short).
A diligent reader could learn to prepare seal intestine, preferably from a young seal (“not as stringy”), braided and stuffed with fat, heart, kidney or lungs, and eaten cold with mustard — or, better, hot, when “it almost tastes like corned beef,” advises Lucy Kenezuroff, an Aleut born in 1930 in the Alaska Territory. For a reindeer version of the Russian dish kholodets, the Sami of the Kola Peninsula simmer hooves and tongues for much of a day, then shred the meat and ladle the broth over it to cool and thicken into jelly. Most recipes require just a handful of ingredients, but these might be difficult to come by; as Sandy and Marjorie Tahbone, Inuit from Nome, Alaska, write in an entry on seal blubber and innards, “It is not like you can go to the store and pick up a few pounds of meat and intestines and they are ready to cook.” Half the work is done before the meat arrives in the kitchen: knowing how to choose the right animal to slaughter, and then how to kill it. The Nenets lasso the reindeer by the neck and strangle it swiftly, believing this brings less suffering, spilling none of the treasured blood. The Sami plunge a knife to the heart, so the blood leaks inward, collecting under the ribs.
Instead of shoving the report into a suitcase or handing it off to an underling, the delegates on the council did what was apparently unthinkable: They read it. Oskal recalled Rex Tillerson, then the U.S. secretary of state, asking if he could adapt the recipes for the whitetail deer he hunted back home. Only 70 copies had been printed, and they almost immediately disappeared. The book wasn’t glossy or destined for a coffee table; the photographs — a crowded platter of reindeer eyes, reindeer being butchered in bloodstained snow — were documentarian in approach and intentionally unaestheticized. The young researchers wanted “to show the reality,” Oskal said. “To show everything.”
A YEAR LATER — after the calving and the reindeer shedding their thick coats for summer, after the nubs of their antlers grew back to regal height, after the notching of ears to mark the herds and then the long night of winter and hooves scrabbling at the snow — “Eallu” won the top prize, Best Book of the Year, at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, administered by the Madrid-based Gourmand International. More than 10,000 cookbooks from 216 countries had been submitted for consideration; “Eallu,” which had never been formally published, was up against clothbound volumes from the likes of a chef of a three-Michelin-star restaurant in France. At the outdoor ceremony in Yantai in eastern China, Oskal and nine colleagues, including five teenage contributors, lined up onstage, stunned. Taking the microphone, Oskal said, “The food traditions of Arctic Indigenous peoples are probably among the least explored in world cuisine.”
They are not entirely unknown: A few Arctic ingredients have made their way to balmier zones, via Nordic cooking, which gained 21st-century renown under the banner of René Redzepi’s Noma in Copenhagen, prompting chefs from Cleveland to Houston to experiment with reindeer lichen, a composite organism of fungus and alga, faintly bitter to the taste, that some Indigenous peoples harvest from the stomach of the animal, half-digested. But this ascendance has rested in large part on a celebration of terroir, the unique character of an area’s ingredients, that focuses on the land without necessarily taking into account the people in it, especially those at its fringes.
Magnus Nilsson, the chef of the now shuttered Faviken in western Sweden, broadened that notion of terroir in his weighty testament “The Nordic Cookbook” (2015), for which he traveled across the region, interviewing people and “eating with them in their homes,” he writes, to give his readers context for not only what but “why and how” they eat. Out of more than 700 recipes in his book, three are Sami: reindeer heart stew, thick rye flatbreads plush with reindeer fat and pancakes suffused with golden syrup and reindeer blood. They come from the chef Elaine Asp, a Swede who until this year ran the restaurant Havvi i Glen in a Sami village in Jamtland with her now ex-husband, Thomas Johansson, a reindeer herder, serving a luxe, nine-course tasting menu that once featured salted smoked reindeer meat with crispy elk nose, potato gratin and a pesto of angelica, an herb used in Sami medicine, suggesting a bridge across both cultures and time.
Still, the wonder of “Eallu” lies not in its recipes alone but in the youth of its authors, who are neither trained chefs nor writers, and are as much rescuers as chroniclers. Edouard Cointreau, the French founder of Gourmand, said after the ceremony that “Eallu” was a book that could “change the life of Indigenous families, their nomadic communities and villages,” whose very existence has been a point of contention since outsiders began to encroach on their territory in the 16th century. In Sweden, from the 1920s through the 1950s, the Sami were subjected to medical experiments by the State Institute for Racial Biology; Indigenous remains were taken from burial grounds and tested to support theories of racial difference, and some Sami women were forcibly sterilized. Soviet collectivization policies in the 1930s tried to turn herding into just another job that workers punched in and out of, rather than a way of life. Wheeler writes that during the economic crisis in the Russian Federation in the 1990s, doctors witnessed scurvy among Chukchi who, suddenly bereft of modern food supplies, had “forgotten which berries or whale organs to eat to fulfill their vitamin C requirements.”
More recently, the Norwegian government has called for the culling of herds, ostensibly for environmental concerns, to protect the land from overgrazing, even as controversial mining projects have been allowed to proceed. In 2016, the Sami artist Maret Anne Sara stacked 200 severed heads of freshly killed reindeer on the lawn of the courthouse in Tana in northeastern Norway, in support of her brother, who was suing the government to protest the reduction of his herd; a year later, in front of the Parliament building in Oslo, she hung a curtain of 400 reindeer skulls embedded with bullets — a nontraditional means of slaughter, revealing “the colonial killing system’s disrespect for Indigenous processes that would have preserved and utilized every part of the dead animals,” Katya García-Antón, the director of the Office for Contemporary Art Norway, later wrote — and arranged in weathered tones to evoke the stripes and blocks of color in the Sami flag. Shortly after, Norway’s highest court ruled against the artist’s brother, concluding that his rights had not been violated.
IN EARLY MARCH, Guovdageaidnu was readying for the first Arctic Indigenous Peoples’ Food Congress, organized in part by W.R.H. Then the number of Covid-19 cases in Norway began to rise. There is a history of dangerous illnesses in the Arctic, including the tuberculosis epidemic brought to what is today Alaska by European and American visitors in the late 18th century — as recently as 1934, more than a third of native deaths in the area were because of TB — and the Spanish flu, whose mortality rate in Guovdageaidnu was four times higher than in the rest of the country. Viruses and bacteria may sleep in the ice for centuries; in 2016, scientists theorized that high summer temperatures in Siberia’s Yamal Peninsula had caused the permafrost to thaw and disclose the decades-old carcass of an animal felled by anthrax, releasing spores that infected reindeer by the thousands, along with dozens of their herders. W.R.H. thought it wise to cancel the food event, and shortly after, Norway went into lockdown.
But Oskal still hopes to build on the momentum from the “Eallu” win. “The most important thing about this prize is that it reinforced the faith of our youth in their own cultures, their own knowledge,” he said. One of the cookbook’s 55 authors, Elvira Okotetto, a computer-science and engineering student born into a Nenets reindeer-herding family on the Yamal Peninsula, was astonished that outsiders had even noticed. “I thought it was just us,” she told him. “Just me and my friends who were interested.” Among these unexpected allies from afar is the New Zealand-based chef Robert Oliver, who grew up in Fiji, and who today hosts the TV show “Pacific Island Food Revolution,” a crusade to revitalize Indigenous foodways in the guise of a genial cooking competition. His cookbook “Me’a Kai: The Food and Flavors of the South Pacific” (co-written with Tracy Berno and Shiri Ram) was Gourmand’s 2010 Book of the Year, and at a 2019 Gourmand event at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, he and Oskal announced a culinary north-south alliance — a pact between the regions most vulnerable to climate change. As ice melts in the north, seas grow warm and rise in the south.
To achieve sustainability, Oliver and Oskal agree, they must affirm the resilience of original food systems. W.R.H. is trying to expand the global market for reindeer meat — a product that was promoted with some success in the U.S. in the 1920s, when the Minnesota-born meatpacker Carl Lomen arranged for Santa to ride on a reindeer-drawn sleigh in Macy’s Christmas parades across the country, before the cattle lobby pressured Congress to limit reindeer ownership to Native Americans — although Oskal wonders if this could cause the price to escalate “to the point that people can’t afford to eat their own food anymore,” he said. “Are we going to be producing the best meat but eating industrial sausages?”
Processed foods have increasingly come to replace the old ingredients in both the Arctic and the Pacific, out of convenience and a sense, enforced by the long-imposed hierarchy of native and intruder, that anything modern must be superior to what’s in your own backyard. That attitude is slowly changing, although in the rest of the world, those who preach seasonality and localism are most often those who can pay to do so. In a recent Zoom, late evening in Norway and early morning in New Zealand, Oliver joked that doctors talk about an apple a day when guavas have more than 60 times as much vitamin C. Oskal said simply, “Cloudberries.”
HOW DOES A culture on the world’s periphery survive? “We could all turn around, leave this ancient civilization behind,” Oskal said. “Or we could stay in the tent and close our eyes.” Neither is a solution: “We have to do something in between.”
In the 272nd poem in “The Sun, My Father” (1988), a collection by the Sami multimedia artist Nils-Aslak Valkeapaa, who was born in Enontekio in northwestern Finland, eallu takes shape in the form of words moving across seven and a half pages that are otherwise as white and blank as the tundra. Harald Gaski, a Norwegian professor of Sami literature, notes in the introduction to the book’s 1997 English edition how the words of poem No. 272 denote each reindeer individually, this one inky black and pale-bellied, that one ringed white around the eyes, along with the herders among them and their movements, some inscriptions pure sound, the landscape responding to each hoof and footfall. But the poem exists only in Northern Sami: Valkeapaa requested that it be left untranslated. To those who do not know the language — all but perhaps 25,000 people in the world — it is unreadable, “an ironic commentary upon the inability of the majority language to fully express Sami experience,” Gaski writes.
Yet there is still a possibility of understanding. John M. Weinstock, a professor emeritus at the University of Texas at Austin, has put together an online glossary to accompany an animation of the text, pages scrolling horizontally, first the lead reindeer and herder in single file, then the widening formation, antlers swaying, matching the rumble that is both of hooves and of the tundra below. We meet the herd, but it doesn’t meet us; it moves toward and then away from us, until we are left in its wake, tracks of ellipses drifting across the page. The procession of words is slow, befitting the pace of the migration. Here is the coarse rasp of an angular bell, there the creak of a lumbering, weighed-down sleigh. At times verbs stand in for the animals themselves, as if there were no division between action and being: the desire to get somewhere, the tentative gallop, the sudden bolt. The one that refuses to be held. And late, toward the end, at the snowy edge, the appearance of an unknown reindeer, a stranger to the crowd, which opens nevertheless; which takes it in.
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Reindeer, nature and sub-zero temperatures. The Sámi are Europe’s last indigenous people. Euromaxx reporter Diana Piñeros immerses herself in the Sámi culture in Sweden above the Arctic Circle. | 2 | 18,009 | 1.02494 | https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2022/04/12/culture-camp-unites-community.html | 2022-04-12 20:20:35+00:00 | SIOUX VALLEY — The Wipazoka Wakpa Winter Culture Camp offered three exciting days of in-person activities at Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, bringing the community together in a celebration of culture, traditions and fun.
The Winter Culture Camp was designed to weave together climate change, community and overall wellness, said Wakpa McKay, Sioux Valley Wipazoka Wakpa Climate Change and Environment Wipazoka Wakpa research assistant. The main goal was to integrate culture into family-friendly activities while talking about the environment and Dakota culture.
“It was fantastic. The Winter Culture Camp, it couldn’t have gone any smoother,” McKay said.
Organizers were pleased with the turnout and participation from community members, he said. Nation members’ enthusiasm has spurred the Wipazoka Wakpa working group to create more activities based on the needs of the community.
The Winter Culture Camp offered an important opportunity for people to meet the Wipazoka Wakpa team and hopefully consider becoming a member of the initiative, he said. McKay added he hopes to continue engaging with community members during future events.
One of the highlights of the camp was the Dakota Amazing Race. McKay said it proved popular with the five teams of two competing in a series of different obstacles based on traditional Dakota activities.
Teams began the race with sloshing — walking together using a piece of plywood — 3D archery and finishing off by lighting a fire with flint and steel to warm a cup of tea for an elder.
“We’re going to make the next one even more fantastic,” McKay said. “It was great watching. It was great seeing everyone laughing and smiling.”
Being able to gather as a community during the Culture Camp was a welcomed return to normal, said elder Margaret Roscelli.
“We’ve been apart for so long,” Roscelli said. “We’re a close-knit community. We share in our joys, in our sorrows as a community.”
Social gatherings, powwows and ceremonies have been greatly missed during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, she said.
“Coming together like this is really enjoyable and healthy for us because we’re establishing contact with our friends and our relatives and having an enjoyable time because we’ve come through the pandemic,” Roscelli said.
It has been a challenging time in the community because the experience of trauma and stress has only been heightened by the isolation created by COVID-19.
The Winter Culture Camp marked a time for celebration and healing, she said, with the community coming together to create good and positive energy.
Roscelli enjoyed watching the young people of the community laughing and enjoying themselves exploring the different activities set up by the climate council. She was on hand for the Culture Camp to share stories and traditions with those in attendance.
The goal was to talk to youth passing on Dakota stories, legends and teachings.
This can be a tricky task, she added, because traditionally stories have been passed down in the Dakota language.
“Because of the language barrier, the young people don’t know Dakota. If I tell those stories that have been passed on for generations, it’s usually told in Dakota,” Roscelli said. “We have a very descriptive language, and once you translate it into English, it doesn’t do it justice. It loses its humour completely.”
She adapted to the adversity and shared her experiences of growing up in Sioux Valley, passing on the knowledge she has gained over 70 years. Roscelli spoke about what it was like growing up without electricity, phones and travelling by horse team.
Adele Sinclair and Jonathan Courchene were riding high on Saturday, taking home first place in the Dakota Amazing Race contest and first place in the men’s and women’s hatchet-throwing contest.
Being at the Culture Camp felt like a reunion, Sinclair said, because they were able to reconnect with people they have not seen in two years due to COVID-19 lockdowns.
The duo was especially excited for Saturday’s activities — Sinclair carefully crafted “Amazing Race Sioux Valley” T-shirts in preparation for the big day.
Saturday marked their first day attending the culture camp, Courchene said, and it brought back fond memories of the Sioux Valley Winter Carnival they attended in the past.
They especially enjoyed the Dakota Amazing Race, he said, but it proved to be a challenging task to take on. He added that starting and keeping the fire going to boil water was especially difficult.
Courchene said they got the fire going five times before the blaze finally stayed lit. Courchene even cut his hand in the frantic rush to take home first place during the race.
Sinclair said they loved the Dakota Amazing Race competition, adding they planned their weekend around ensuring they would be able to participate.
“It’s always fun to do activities like this with the whole community,” Courchene said.
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https://who13.com/news/metro-news/how-have-gas-prices-changed-in-des-moines-in-the-last-week/ | Oil prices fell this week as the United States and international partners took steps to meet global oil demand.
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Des Moines, IA metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 31. State gas tax data is from World Population Review. Three states—Connecticut, Georgia, and Maryland—temporarily suspended gas taxes to defray costs for consumers while prices are up.
The Biden administration announced March 31 that it will order the release of an unprecedented 1 million barrels of oil each day for six months from the country’s strategic petroleum supply to lower gas prices.
In an effort to incentivize domestic oil companies to increase production, the White House called on Congress to approve “use-it-or-lose-it” fees. Companies on leased wells or public land that haven’t been used for production in years will be forced to pay fees under the proposed policy.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies met March 31 and confirmed a 432,000-barrels-per-day increase in oil production beginning in May.
Des Moines by the numbers
- Current price: $3.88
- Iowa average: $3.89
- Iowa gas tax: $0.30 per gallon (#21 highest among all states)
- Week change: +$0.08 (+2.2%)
- Year change: +$1.09 (+39.1%)
- Historical expensive gas price: $4.05 (7/16/08)
Metros with the most expensive gas
- San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $6.06
- Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA: $6.04
- Ventura, CA: $6.02
Metros with the least expensive gas
- Amarillo, TX: $3.56
- Joplin, MO: $3.61
- Lawton, OK: $3.62
States with the highest gas tax per gallon
- Pennsylvania: $0.59
- California: $0.53
- Washington: $0.52
States with the lowest gas tax per gallon
- Alaska: $0.0895
- Hawaii: $0.16
- Virginia: $0.162
You may also like: Where people in Des Moines are moving to most
This article has been re-published pursuant to a CC BY-NC 4.0 License. | 0 | 20,384 | 0.363179 | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2538756077638/how-gas-prices-have-changed-in-des-moines-in-the-last-week | 2022-04-04 12:33:21+00:00 | How gas prices have changed in Des Moines in the last week
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How gas prices have changed in Des Moines in the last week
Oil prices fell this week as the United States and international partners took steps to meet global oil demand.
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Des Moines, IA metro area using data from AAA . Gas prices are current as of March 31. State gas tax data is from World Population Review . Three states—Connecticut, Georgia, and Maryland— temporarily suspended gas taxes to defray costs for consumers while prices are up.
The Biden administration announced March 31 that it will order the release of an unprecedented 1 million barrels of oil each day for six months from the country’s strategic petroleum supply to lower gas prices.
In an effort to incentivize domestic oil companies to increase production, the White House called on Congress to approve "use-it-or-lose-it" fees. Companies on leased wells or public land that haven't been used for production in years will be forced to pay fees under the proposed policy.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies met March 31 and confirmed a 432,000-barrels-per-day increase in oil production beginning in May.
Des Moines by the numbers
- Current price: $3.88
--- Iowa average: $3.89
--- Iowa gas tax: $0.30 per gallon (#21 highest among all states)
- Week change: +$0.08 (+2.2%)
- Year change: +$1.09 (+39.1%)
- Historical expensive gas price: $4.05 (7/16/08)
Metros with the most expensive gas
#1. San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $6.06
#2. Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA: $6.04
#3. Ventura, CA: $6.02
Metros with the least expensive gas
#1. Amarillo, TX: $3.56
#2. Joplin, MO: $3.61
#3. Lawton, OK: $3.62
States with the highest gas tax per gallon
#1. Pennsylvania: $0.59
#2. California: $0.53
#3. Washington: $0.52
States with the lowest gas tax per gallon
#1. Alaska: $0.0895
#2. Hawaii: $0.16
#3. Virginia: $0.162
You may also like: Where people in Des Moines are moving to most |
https://who13.com/news/metro-news/how-have-gas-prices-changed-in-des-moines-in-the-last-week/ | Oil prices fell this week as the United States and international partners took steps to meet global oil demand.
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Des Moines, IA metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 31. State gas tax data is from World Population Review. Three states—Connecticut, Georgia, and Maryland—temporarily suspended gas taxes to defray costs for consumers while prices are up.
The Biden administration announced March 31 that it will order the release of an unprecedented 1 million barrels of oil each day for six months from the country’s strategic petroleum supply to lower gas prices.
In an effort to incentivize domestic oil companies to increase production, the White House called on Congress to approve “use-it-or-lose-it” fees. Companies on leased wells or public land that haven’t been used for production in years will be forced to pay fees under the proposed policy.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies met March 31 and confirmed a 432,000-barrels-per-day increase in oil production beginning in May.
Des Moines by the numbers
- Current price: $3.88
- Iowa average: $3.89
- Iowa gas tax: $0.30 per gallon (#21 highest among all states)
- Week change: +$0.08 (+2.2%)
- Year change: +$1.09 (+39.1%)
- Historical expensive gas price: $4.05 (7/16/08)
Metros with the most expensive gas
- San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $6.06
- Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA: $6.04
- Ventura, CA: $6.02
Metros with the least expensive gas
- Amarillo, TX: $3.56
- Joplin, MO: $3.61
- Lawton, OK: $3.62
States with the highest gas tax per gallon
- Pennsylvania: $0.59
- California: $0.53
- Washington: $0.52
States with the lowest gas tax per gallon
- Alaska: $0.0895
- Hawaii: $0.16
- Virginia: $0.162
You may also like: Where people in Des Moines are moving to most
This article has been re-published pursuant to a CC BY-NC 4.0 License. | 1 | 92,814 | 0.403271 | https://thesalinepost.com/g/saline-mi/n/72560/how-gas-prices-have-changed-ann-arbor-last-week | 2022-04-01 19:49:52+00:00 | Oil prices fell this week as the United States and international partners took steps to meet global oil demand.
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Ann Arbor, MI metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 31. State gas tax data is from World Population Review. Three states—Connecticut, Georgia, and Maryland—temporarily suspended gas taxes to defray costs for consumers while prices are up.
The Biden administration announced March 31 that it will order the release of an unprecedented 1 million barrels of oil each day for six months from the country’s strategic petroleum supply to lower gas prices.
In an effort to incentivize domestic oil companies to increase production, the White House called on Congress to approve "use-it-or-lose-it" fees. Companies on leased wells or public land that haven't been used for production in years will be forced to pay fees under the proposed policy.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies met March 31 and confirmed a 432,000-barrels-per-day increase in oil production beginning in May.
Ann Arbor by the numbers
- Current price: $4.16
--- Michigan average: $4.09
--- Michigan gas tax: $0.26 per gallon (#27 highest among all states)
- Week change: -$0.03 (-0.6%)
- Year change: +$1.31 (+46.0%)
- Historical expensive gas price: $4.28 (3/10/22)
Metros with the most expensive gas
#1. San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $6.06
#2. Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA: $6.04
#3. Ventura, CA: $6.02
Metros with the least expensive gas
#1. Amarillo, TX: $3.56
#2. Joplin, MO: $3.61
#3. Lawton, OK: $3.62
States with the highest gas tax per gallon
#1. Pennsylvania: $0.59
#2. California: $0.53
#3. Washington: $0.52
States with the lowest gas tax per gallon
#1. Alaska: $0.0895
#2. Hawaii: $0.16
#3. Virginia: $0.162
You may also like: Where people in Ann Arbor are moving to most
Originally published by Stacker.
The article has been re-published pursuant to a CC BY-NC 4.0 License. |
https://who13.com/news/metro-news/how-have-gas-prices-changed-in-des-moines-in-the-last-week/ | Oil prices fell this week as the United States and international partners took steps to meet global oil demand.
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Des Moines, IA metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 31. State gas tax data is from World Population Review. Three states—Connecticut, Georgia, and Maryland—temporarily suspended gas taxes to defray costs for consumers while prices are up.
The Biden administration announced March 31 that it will order the release of an unprecedented 1 million barrels of oil each day for six months from the country’s strategic petroleum supply to lower gas prices.
In an effort to incentivize domestic oil companies to increase production, the White House called on Congress to approve “use-it-or-lose-it” fees. Companies on leased wells or public land that haven’t been used for production in years will be forced to pay fees under the proposed policy.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies met March 31 and confirmed a 432,000-barrels-per-day increase in oil production beginning in May.
Des Moines by the numbers
- Current price: $3.88
- Iowa average: $3.89
- Iowa gas tax: $0.30 per gallon (#21 highest among all states)
- Week change: +$0.08 (+2.2%)
- Year change: +$1.09 (+39.1%)
- Historical expensive gas price: $4.05 (7/16/08)
Metros with the most expensive gas
- San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $6.06
- Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA: $6.04
- Ventura, CA: $6.02
Metros with the least expensive gas
- Amarillo, TX: $3.56
- Joplin, MO: $3.61
- Lawton, OK: $3.62
States with the highest gas tax per gallon
- Pennsylvania: $0.59
- California: $0.53
- Washington: $0.52
States with the lowest gas tax per gallon
- Alaska: $0.0895
- Hawaii: $0.16
- Virginia: $0.162
You may also like: Where people in Des Moines are moving to most
This article has been re-published pursuant to a CC BY-NC 4.0 License. | 2 | 41,265 | 0.420635 | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/local-news/how-gas-prices-have-changed-in-sioux-city-in-the-last-week-2/ | 2022-04-04 14:10:34+00:00 | (Stacker) — Oil prices fell this week as the United States and international partners took steps to meet global oil demand.
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Sioux City (IA only) metro area using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 31. State gas tax data is from World Population Review. Three states—Connecticut, Georgia, and Maryland—temporarily suspended gas taxes to defray costs for consumers while prices are up.
The Biden administration announced March 31 that it will order the release of an unprecedented 1 million barrels of oil each day for six months from the country’s strategic petroleum supply to lower gas prices.
In an effort to incentivize domestic oil companies to increase production, the White House called on Congress to approve “use-it-or-lose-it” fees. Companies on leased wells or public land that haven’t been used for production in years will be forced to pay fees under the proposed policy.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies met March 31 and confirmed a 432,000-barrels-per-day increase in oil production beginning in May.
Sioux City by the numbers
– Current price: $3.88
— Iowa average: $3.89
— Iowa gas tax: $0.30 per gallon (#21 highest among all states)
– Week change: +$0.03 (+0.8%)
– Year change: +$1.12 (+40.6%)
– Historical expensive gas price: $4.01 (5/21/13)
Metros with the most expensive gas
#1. San Luis Obispo-Atascadero-Paso Robles, CA: $6.06
#2. Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA: $6.04
#3. Ventura, CA: $6.02
Metros with the least expensive gas
#1. Amarillo, TX: $3.56
#2. Joplin, MO: $3.61
#3. Lawton, OK: $3.62
States with the highest gas tax per gallon
#1. Pennsylvania: $0.59
#2. California: $0.53
#3. Washington: $0.52
States with the lowest gas tax per gallon
#1. Alaska: $0.0895
#2. Hawaii: $0.16
#3. Virginia: $0.162
You may also like: Where people in Sioux City are moving to most |
https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/report-us-military-must-do-more-to-avoid-civilian-deaths/ | WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military needs to adjust its planning, training, targeting and use of weapons in order to better avoid widespread civilian deaths and damage such as the devastating 2017 battle to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a new RAND report said Thursday.
The report requested by the Pentagon reflects criticism of the military’s airstrike campaign that, according to some estimates, killed more than 1,600 civilians in Raqqa, as the U.S.-led coalition worked to destroy the Islamic State caliphate that wrested control of large swaths of Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the report, which lays out a series of recommendations to improve military procedures and strategy, will be used as the department develops its own broader plan to reduce civlian harm.
“No other military works as hard as we do to mitigate civilian harm, and yet we still cause it,” said Kirby. ”We’re going to continue to try to learn from past issues.”
RAND concluded that the battle for Raqqa provided important lessons.
Michael McNerney, lead author of the RAND report, called Raqqa “a cautionary tale about civilian harm in urban combat.” He said it “should serve as an extra incentive to the DoD to strengthen its policies and procedures to mitigate, document and respond to civilian harm.”
The RAND report noted that there has been a wide range of estimated civilian casualties during the seige, but also said it believes that 60%-80% of Raqqa was left uninhabitable by the time the city was liberated in October 2017.
Initially the U.S.-led coalition estimted that it was responsible for 38 incidents involving 240 civilian casualties — including 178 who were killed. A consortium of local Syrian and international groups, including Amnesty International and Airwars, put the number of casualties at a “high estimate” of 1,600, but said that about 774 of them could specifically be “verified” by data as the result of coalition action.
The report makes it clear that several thousand more civilians likely died, based on the number of bodies uncovered by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, but many were probably killed by IS or other fighters on the ground.
“Our report focuses on U.S. actions in Raqqa, but the actions of the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian partners undoubtedly contributed far more to civilian harm and suffering in Syria overall,” McNerney said.
The report noted that the challenges in Raqqa were compounded by limits on the number U.S. troops that could be there, as well as where they could be positioned. U.S. troops on the ground could have provided better targeting and civilian information, including on Islamic State militants’ efforts to use civilians as human shields, the report said.
RAND recommended that the U.S. military provide more extensive training and guidance on the need to avoid civilian harm, and plan and execute operations in ways to achieve those goals. Changes could include improved planning, better assessments of potential collateral damage, increased mission rehearsals, improved intelligence gathering, and more selective use of air strikes and munitions that minimize bomb fragmentation. | 0 | 27,786 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/national/report-us-military-must-do-more-to-avoid-civilian-deaths/ | 2022-04-01 15:22:56+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military needs to adjust its planning, training, targeting and use of weapons in order to better avoid widespread civilian deaths and damage such as the devastating 2017 battle to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a new RAND report said Thursday.
The report requested by the Pentagon reflects criticism of the military’s airstrike campaign that, according to some estimates, killed more than 1,600 civilians in Raqqa, as the U.S.-led coalition worked to destroy the Islamic State caliphate that wrested control of large swaths of Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the report, which lays out a series of recommendations to improve military procedures and strategy, will be used as the department develops its own broader plan to reduce civlian harm.
“No other military works as hard as we do to mitigate civilian harm, and yet we still cause it,” said Kirby. ”We’re going to continue to try to learn from past issues.”
RAND concluded that the battle for Raqqa provided important lessons.
Michael McNerney, lead author of the RAND report, called Raqqa “a cautionary tale about civilian harm in urban combat.” He said it “should serve as an extra incentive to the DoD to strengthen its policies and procedures to mitigate, document and respond to civilian harm.”
The RAND report noted that there has been a wide range of estimated civilian casualties during the seige, but also said it believes that 60%-80% of Raqqa was left uninhabitable by the time the city was liberated in October 2017.
Initially the U.S.-led coalition estimted that it was responsible for 38 incidents involving 240 civilian casualties — including 178 who were killed. A consortium of local Syrian and international groups, including Amnesty International and Airwars, put the number of casualties at a “high estimate” of 1,600, but said that about 774 of them could specifically be “verified” by data as the result of coalition action.
The report makes it clear that several thousand more civilians likely died, based on the number of bodies uncovered by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, but many were probably killed by IS or other fighters on the ground.
“Our report focuses on U.S. actions in Raqqa, but the actions of the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian partners undoubtedly contributed far more to civilian harm and suffering in Syria overall,” McNerney said.
The report noted that the challenges in Raqqa were compounded by limits on the number U.S. troops that could be there, as well as where they could be positioned. U.S. troops on the ground could have provided better targeting and civilian information, including on Islamic State militants’ efforts to use civilians as human shields, the report said.
RAND recommended that the U.S. military provide more extensive training and guidance on the need to avoid civilian harm, and plan and execute operations in ways to achieve those goals. Changes could include improved planning, better assessments of potential collateral damage, increased mission rehearsals, improved intelligence gathering, and more selective use of air strikes and munitions that minimize bomb fragmentation. |
https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/report-us-military-must-do-more-to-avoid-civilian-deaths/ | WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military needs to adjust its planning, training, targeting and use of weapons in order to better avoid widespread civilian deaths and damage such as the devastating 2017 battle to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a new RAND report said Thursday.
The report requested by the Pentagon reflects criticism of the military’s airstrike campaign that, according to some estimates, killed more than 1,600 civilians in Raqqa, as the U.S.-led coalition worked to destroy the Islamic State caliphate that wrested control of large swaths of Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the report, which lays out a series of recommendations to improve military procedures and strategy, will be used as the department develops its own broader plan to reduce civlian harm.
“No other military works as hard as we do to mitigate civilian harm, and yet we still cause it,” said Kirby. ”We’re going to continue to try to learn from past issues.”
RAND concluded that the battle for Raqqa provided important lessons.
Michael McNerney, lead author of the RAND report, called Raqqa “a cautionary tale about civilian harm in urban combat.” He said it “should serve as an extra incentive to the DoD to strengthen its policies and procedures to mitigate, document and respond to civilian harm.”
The RAND report noted that there has been a wide range of estimated civilian casualties during the seige, but also said it believes that 60%-80% of Raqqa was left uninhabitable by the time the city was liberated in October 2017.
Initially the U.S.-led coalition estimted that it was responsible for 38 incidents involving 240 civilian casualties — including 178 who were killed. A consortium of local Syrian and international groups, including Amnesty International and Airwars, put the number of casualties at a “high estimate” of 1,600, but said that about 774 of them could specifically be “verified” by data as the result of coalition action.
The report makes it clear that several thousand more civilians likely died, based on the number of bodies uncovered by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, but many were probably killed by IS or other fighters on the ground.
“Our report focuses on U.S. actions in Raqqa, but the actions of the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian partners undoubtedly contributed far more to civilian harm and suffering in Syria overall,” McNerney said.
The report noted that the challenges in Raqqa were compounded by limits on the number U.S. troops that could be there, as well as where they could be positioned. U.S. troops on the ground could have provided better targeting and civilian information, including on Islamic State militants’ efforts to use civilians as human shields, the report said.
RAND recommended that the U.S. military provide more extensive training and guidance on the need to avoid civilian harm, and plan and execute operations in ways to achieve those goals. Changes could include improved planning, better assessments of potential collateral damage, increased mission rehearsals, improved intelligence gathering, and more selective use of air strikes and munitions that minimize bomb fragmentation. | 1 | 38,064 | 0 | https://www.wytv.com/news/ap-top-headlines/report-us-military-must-do-more-to-avoid-civilian-deaths/ | 2022-04-01 16:07:29+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military needs to adjust its planning, training, targeting and use of weapons in order to better avoid widespread civilian deaths and damage such as the devastating 2017 battle to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a new RAND report said Thursday.
The report requested by the Pentagon reflects criticism of the military’s airstrike campaign that, according to some estimates, killed more than 1,600 civilians in Raqqa, as the U.S.-led coalition worked to destroy the Islamic State caliphate that wrested control of large swaths of Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the report, which lays out a series of recommendations to improve military procedures and strategy, will be used as the department develops its own broader plan to reduce civlian harm.
“No other military works as hard as we do to mitigate civilian harm, and yet we still cause it,” said Kirby. ”We’re going to continue to try to learn from past issues.”
RAND concluded that the battle for Raqqa provided important lessons.
Michael McNerney, lead author of the RAND report, called Raqqa “a cautionary tale about civilian harm in urban combat.” He said it “should serve as an extra incentive to the DoD to strengthen its policies and procedures to mitigate, document and respond to civilian harm.”
The RAND report noted that there has been a wide range of estimated civilian casualties during the seige, but also said it believes that 60%-80% of Raqqa was left uninhabitable by the time the city was liberated in October 2017.
Initially the U.S.-led coalition estimted that it was responsible for 38 incidents involving 240 civilian casualties — including 178 who were killed. A consortium of local Syrian and international groups, including Amnesty International and Airwars, put the number of casualties at a “high estimate” of 1,600, but said that about 774 of them could specifically be “verified” by data as the result of coalition action.
The report makes it clear that several thousand more civilians likely died, based on the number of bodies uncovered by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, but many were probably killed by IS or other fighters on the ground.
“Our report focuses on U.S. actions in Raqqa, but the actions of the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian partners undoubtedly contributed far more to civilian harm and suffering in Syria overall,” McNerney said.
The report noted that the challenges in Raqqa were compounded by limits on the number U.S. troops that could be there, as well as where they could be positioned. U.S. troops on the ground could have provided better targeting and civilian information, including on Islamic State militants’ efforts to use civilians as human shields, the report said.
RAND recommended that the U.S. military provide more extensive training and guidance on the need to avoid civilian harm, and plan and execute operations in ways to achieve those goals. Changes could include improved planning, better assessments of potential collateral damage, increased mission rehearsals, improved intelligence gathering, and more selective use of air strikes and munitions that minimize bomb fragmentation. |
https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/report-us-military-must-do-more-to-avoid-civilian-deaths/ | WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military needs to adjust its planning, training, targeting and use of weapons in order to better avoid widespread civilian deaths and damage such as the devastating 2017 battle to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a new RAND report said Thursday.
The report requested by the Pentagon reflects criticism of the military’s airstrike campaign that, according to some estimates, killed more than 1,600 civilians in Raqqa, as the U.S.-led coalition worked to destroy the Islamic State caliphate that wrested control of large swaths of Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the report, which lays out a series of recommendations to improve military procedures and strategy, will be used as the department develops its own broader plan to reduce civlian harm.
“No other military works as hard as we do to mitigate civilian harm, and yet we still cause it,” said Kirby. ”We’re going to continue to try to learn from past issues.”
RAND concluded that the battle for Raqqa provided important lessons.
Michael McNerney, lead author of the RAND report, called Raqqa “a cautionary tale about civilian harm in urban combat.” He said it “should serve as an extra incentive to the DoD to strengthen its policies and procedures to mitigate, document and respond to civilian harm.”
The RAND report noted that there has been a wide range of estimated civilian casualties during the seige, but also said it believes that 60%-80% of Raqqa was left uninhabitable by the time the city was liberated in October 2017.
Initially the U.S.-led coalition estimted that it was responsible for 38 incidents involving 240 civilian casualties — including 178 who were killed. A consortium of local Syrian and international groups, including Amnesty International and Airwars, put the number of casualties at a “high estimate” of 1,600, but said that about 774 of them could specifically be “verified” by data as the result of coalition action.
The report makes it clear that several thousand more civilians likely died, based on the number of bodies uncovered by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, but many were probably killed by IS or other fighters on the ground.
“Our report focuses on U.S. actions in Raqqa, but the actions of the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian partners undoubtedly contributed far more to civilian harm and suffering in Syria overall,” McNerney said.
The report noted that the challenges in Raqqa were compounded by limits on the number U.S. troops that could be there, as well as where they could be positioned. U.S. troops on the ground could have provided better targeting and civilian information, including on Islamic State militants’ efforts to use civilians as human shields, the report said.
RAND recommended that the U.S. military provide more extensive training and guidance on the need to avoid civilian harm, and plan and execute operations in ways to achieve those goals. Changes could include improved planning, better assessments of potential collateral damage, increased mission rehearsals, improved intelligence gathering, and more selective use of air strikes and munitions that minimize bomb fragmentation. | 2 | 44,480 | 0 | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/ap-top-headlines/report-us-military-must-do-more-to-avoid-civilian-deaths/ | 2022-04-01 16:37:57+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military needs to adjust its planning, training, targeting and use of weapons in order to better avoid widespread civilian deaths and damage such as the devastating 2017 battle to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State militants, a new RAND report said Thursday.
The report requested by the Pentagon reflects criticism of the military’s airstrike campaign that, according to some estimates, killed more than 1,600 civilians in Raqqa, as the U.S.-led coalition worked to destroy the Islamic State caliphate that wrested control of large swaths of Iraq and Syria.
Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the report, which lays out a series of recommendations to improve military procedures and strategy, will be used as the department develops its own broader plan to reduce civlian harm.
“No other military works as hard as we do to mitigate civilian harm, and yet we still cause it,” said Kirby. ”We’re going to continue to try to learn from past issues.”
RAND concluded that the battle for Raqqa provided important lessons.
Michael McNerney, lead author of the RAND report, called Raqqa “a cautionary tale about civilian harm in urban combat.” He said it “should serve as an extra incentive to the DoD to strengthen its policies and procedures to mitigate, document and respond to civilian harm.”
The RAND report noted that there has been a wide range of estimated civilian casualties during the seige, but also said it believes that 60%-80% of Raqqa was left uninhabitable by the time the city was liberated in October 2017.
Initially the U.S.-led coalition estimted that it was responsible for 38 incidents involving 240 civilian casualties — including 178 who were killed. A consortium of local Syrian and international groups, including Amnesty International and Airwars, put the number of casualties at a “high estimate” of 1,600, but said that about 774 of them could specifically be “verified” by data as the result of coalition action.
The report makes it clear that several thousand more civilians likely died, based on the number of bodies uncovered by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, but many were probably killed by IS or other fighters on the ground.
“Our report focuses on U.S. actions in Raqqa, but the actions of the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian partners undoubtedly contributed far more to civilian harm and suffering in Syria overall,” McNerney said.
The report noted that the challenges in Raqqa were compounded by limits on the number U.S. troops that could be there, as well as where they could be positioned. U.S. troops on the ground could have provided better targeting and civilian information, including on Islamic State militants’ efforts to use civilians as human shields, the report said.
RAND recommended that the U.S. military provide more extensive training and guidance on the need to avoid civilian harm, and plan and execute operations in ways to achieve those goals. Changes could include improved planning, better assessments of potential collateral damage, increased mission rehearsals, improved intelligence gathering, and more selective use of air strikes and munitions that minimize bomb fragmentation. |
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-60960180 | Dog which fatally attacked boy in Egdon was a Rottweiler
- Published
A dog which fatally attacked a two-year-old at his home was a Rottweiler, police have confirmed.
The boy, who has not been named, died in hospital on Wednesday after being attacked at an address in Egdon, Worcestershire, on Monday.
West Mercia Police has removed three Rottweiler dogs from the property, but could not confirm how many were involved in the attack.
They are currently being securely housed, the force added.
The boy suffered a cardiac arrest after the attack and was taken to hospital for treatment - first at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and then at Birmingham Children's Hospital, where he died.
Supt Rebecca Love said it was "a truly tragic incident".
The boy's family have asked that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time, police said.
Rottweilers are not included on the list of banned breeds.
The death follows a spate of dog attacks, including two other fatal incidents in March.
Seventeen-month-old Bella-Rae Birch died after being mauled by her family's pet dog in St Helens and Kyra Leanne King, who was three months old, died after a dog attack at a Lincolnshire beauty spot.
Two children and a woman were also injured in a dog attack in Cannock, Staffordshire, on 26 March.
Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk | 0 | 64,089 | 0 | https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-60960180 | 2022-04-01 17:52:27+00:00 | Dog which fatally attacked boy in Egdon was a Rottweiler
- Published
A dog which fatally attacked a two-year-old at his home was a Rottweiler, police have confirmed.
The boy, who has not been named, died in hospital on Wednesday after being attacked at an address in Egdon, Worcestershire, on Monday.
West Mercia Police has removed three Rottweiler dogs from the property, but could not confirm how many were involved in the attack.
They are currently being securely housed, the force added.
The boy suffered a cardiac arrest after the attack and was taken to hospital for treatment - first at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and then at Birmingham Children's Hospital, where he died.
Supt Rebecca Love said it was "a truly tragic incident".
The boy's family have asked that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time, police said.
Rottweilers are not included on the list of banned breeds.
The death follows a spate of dog attacks, including two other fatal incidents in March.
Seventeen-month-old Bella-Rae Birch died after being mauled by her family's pet dog in St Helens and Kyra Leanne King, who was three months old, died after a dog attack at a Lincolnshire beauty spot.
Two children and a woman were also injured in a dog attack in Cannock, Staffordshire, on 26 March.
Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk |
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-60960180 | Dog which fatally attacked boy in Egdon was a Rottweiler
- Published
A dog which fatally attacked a two-year-old at his home was a Rottweiler, police have confirmed.
The boy, who has not been named, died in hospital on Wednesday after being attacked at an address in Egdon, Worcestershire, on Monday.
West Mercia Police has removed three Rottweiler dogs from the property, but could not confirm how many were involved in the attack.
They are currently being securely housed, the force added.
The boy suffered a cardiac arrest after the attack and was taken to hospital for treatment - first at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and then at Birmingham Children's Hospital, where he died.
Supt Rebecca Love said it was "a truly tragic incident".
The boy's family have asked that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time, police said.
Rottweilers are not included on the list of banned breeds.
The death follows a spate of dog attacks, including two other fatal incidents in March.
Seventeen-month-old Bella-Rae Birch died after being mauled by her family's pet dog in St Helens and Kyra Leanne King, who was three months old, died after a dog attack at a Lincolnshire beauty spot.
Two children and a woman were also injured in a dog attack in Cannock, Staffordshire, on 26 March.
Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk | 1 | 90,118 | 0.369246 | https://www.itv.com/news/central/2022-04-02/rottweiler-dog-attacked-two-year-old-boy-in-egdon-worcestershire-west-mercia-police-confirm | 2022-04-02 11:47:09+00:00 | Rottweiler fatally attacked two-year-old boy in Worcestershire, West Mercia Police confirm
Police have confirmed a Rottweiler was involved in the death of a toddler at a home in Worcestershire.
The two-year-old boy, who has not been named, suffered injuries after being bitten by the dog at an address in Egdon, Worcestershire, on Monday March 28, 2022.
The young boy suffered a cardiac arrest after the attack and was taken to hospital for treatment - first at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
He was then at the Birmingham Children's Hospital, where he died on Wednesday.
West Mercia Police has removed three Rottweiler dogs from the property - but could not confirm how many were involved in the attack.
They are currently being securely housed, the force added.
Rottweilers are not included on the list of banned breeds.
Earlier this week, Superintendent Rebecca Love said: "This is a truly tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time."
West Mercia Police said: "The boy's family will not be releasing a statement or tribute at this time and request that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time."
The death follows a spate of dog attacks, including two other fatal incidents in March, including three-month-old Kyra Leanne King who was killed in a suspected husky dog attack in Lincolnshire. |
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-60960180 | Dog which fatally attacked boy in Egdon was a Rottweiler
- Published
A dog which fatally attacked a two-year-old at his home was a Rottweiler, police have confirmed.
The boy, who has not been named, died in hospital on Wednesday after being attacked at an address in Egdon, Worcestershire, on Monday.
West Mercia Police has removed three Rottweiler dogs from the property, but could not confirm how many were involved in the attack.
They are currently being securely housed, the force added.
The boy suffered a cardiac arrest after the attack and was taken to hospital for treatment - first at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and then at Birmingham Children's Hospital, where he died.
Supt Rebecca Love said it was "a truly tragic incident".
The boy's family have asked that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time, police said.
Rottweilers are not included on the list of banned breeds.
The death follows a spate of dog attacks, including two other fatal incidents in March.
Seventeen-month-old Bella-Rae Birch died after being mauled by her family's pet dog in St Helens and Kyra Leanne King, who was three months old, died after a dog attack at a Lincolnshire beauty spot.
Two children and a woman were also injured in a dog attack in Cannock, Staffordshire, on 26 March.
Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk | 2 | 114,134 | 0.393714 | https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/dog-fatally-attacked-two-year-old-confirmed-rottweiler/ | 2022-04-01 21:28:44+00:00 | Nick Abbot 10pm - 1am
Dog which fatally attacked two-year-old child confirmed as a Rottweiler by police
1 April 2022, 20:46
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A dog which fatally attacked a two-year-old at his home in Egdon was a Rottweiler, police have confirmed.
The child died in hospital after being attacked by the dog on Wednesday at an address in Worcestershire.
West Mercia Police removed three Rottweilers from the address, but would not confirm how many were involved in the attack. The police said the three dogs are currently being safely housed.
The boy was taken to two hospitals for treatment after suffering a cardiac arrest from the attack. The first being Worcestershire Royal Hospital, and then later transferred to Birmingham Children's Hospital where he died.
A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "At this time we cannot confirm how many dogs were involved in the incident but three Rottweiler dogs have been removed from the property.
"They are being looked after and securely housed.
"The child’s family will not be releasing a statement or tribute at this time and request that their privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time."
Superintendent Rebecca Love said it was "a truly tragic incident".
“We have been informed this morning that the young boy who was injured in an incident on Monday in Egdon, Worcestershire has sadly passed away.
“Officers responded to a report of a two-year-old child in cardiac arrest at approximately 11.20am on Monday 28 March.
“It was quickly established the child had suffered injuries as a result of being bitten by a dog at the address in Worcestershire."
Ms Love added: “The child was transferred from Worcestershire Royal Hospital to Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and despite medical treatment, he has died as a result of his injuries.
“This is a truly tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family at this very difficult time."
Read More: Father jailed over Doncaster dog attack which killed 12-day-old baby
Neighbours reportedly said the family owned at least two Rottweilers.
One local said: "I've seen the owners of the white cottage before, they have Rottweilers.
"You can hear them barking from the fields. I used to see them walking the dogs, one time they got out onto the main road.
"It's all secluded so you don't really see anyone, everyone is kind of hidden away.
"I walk my dog here a lot because of the route and you can hear the dogs barking, lots of barks.”
The Dangerous Dog Act (1991) was a bill that prohibited certain types of dogs and codified the criminal offence of allowing a dog of any breed to be dangerously out of control.
The current list includes: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro. It does not include the Rottweiler breed.
It follows a spate of dog attacks in recent months, including two other fatal incidents in March.
Bella-Rae Birch died after an attack from her family's dog in St Helens, and Kyra Leanne King, a three month old girl, was attacked by an out-of-control dog on 6 March.
Read More: Cost of living crisis: Man killed in blast 'may have bought gas device over soaring bills'
One high profile case included Elon Jase Ellis-Joynes, a 12-day old baby, was killed by a Chow Chow Alsatian-cross at his home in Doncaster last year after his father failed to train the dog properly. |
https://www.wivb.com/news/u-s-headlines/ca-reparations-plan-advances-broader-movement-advocates-say/ | DETROIT (AP) — In the long debate over whether Black Americans should be granted reparations for the atrocity and injustices of slavery and racism, California took a big step this week toward becoming the first U.S. state to make some form of restitution a reality.
The state’s reparations task force tackled the divisive issue of which Black residents should be eligible — it narrowly decided in favor of limiting compensation to the descendants of free and enslaved Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.
Whether Tuesday’s vote by the task force spurs other states and cities to advance their own proposals, and whether they adopt California’s still controversial standard for who would benefit, remains to be seen. Some veteran reparations advocates disagree strongly with proposals to limiting eligibility to only Black people who can prove they have enslaved ancestors, while excluding those who cannot and leaving out victims of other historic injustices, such as redlining and mass incarceration.
Still, one advocate noted California’s move is a step that could lend momentum to stalled reparation proposals elsewhere in the U.S.
“It’s precipitated a debate and it will influence communities,” said Ron Daniels, president of The Institute of the Black World 21st Century and administrator of the National African American Reparations Commission, an advocacy group of scholars and activists.
As to whether others will adopt the same approach to eligibility, Daniels said: “That’s to be decided. … We think that ultimately a more expansive definition will prevail.”
The commission headed by Daniels has taken a position that limiting reparations to slave descendants, or to Americans whose ancestors were free Blacks living during the time of slavery, ignores the effects of racism that persisted for more than a century after emancipation.
“There are always going to be criteria” for reparations, Daniels said. “The problem is the harms have been so gross that almost no Black person is not eligible in some form or another.”
Although there is still debate among historians about when exactly the practice began, chattel slavery in what would become the U.S. dates back to 1619 when about 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia — then a British colony. Over the next two centuries, more than 300,000 men, women and children were forcibly taken from Africa to work on plantations in southern colonies and later the Southern states, according to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and maintained by Rice University.
Slavery in the U.S. officially ended in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. Union Army General William Sherman promised compensation to freed slaves in the form of land and mules to farm it — hence the phrase “40 acres and a mule” — after the North’s victory over the South in the Civil War. But President Andrew Johnson took away the offer.
More than 120 years later, then-Rep. John Conyers, a Detroit Democrat, first introduced H.R. 40, a bill that would create a federal commission to study reparations and make proposals. Conyers reintroduced it in every congressional session until he resigned in 2017. As a candidate, President Joe Biden said he supported creating the commission, but has yet to formally back it as commander-in-chief. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, is currently the lead sponsor of the House bill.
Getting governmental leaders to openly consider slavery reparations has been daunting and taken decades. But progress has been made at both the state and local levels, particularly since the national reckoning on racial injustice that was sparked after the 2020 murder of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis.
In Michigan, legislative proposals submitted earlier this year in the House of Representatives call for $1.5 billion in federal dollars to be placed in a racial equity and reparations fund within the state’s treasury. The funds would be issued to various state departments and agencies to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance for businesses and economic developments that promote the Black community.
The bills have yet to receive a hearing in the House.
Last year, Evanston, Illinois, — the first U.S. city to find a source of funding for reparations — began giving eligible Black residents $25,000 housing grants for down payments, repairs or existing mortgages. The program is meant to atone for the history of racial redlining and housing discrimination. Recipients were selected randomly from among the applicants, Black residents who lived in the city between 1919 and 1969.
And in Providence, Rhode Island, the mayor announced a city commission on reparations in February that will look to atone for the city’s role in slavery and systemic racism, as well as the mistreatment of Native Americans.
For Anita Belle, a grassroots activist in Detroit, where residents in the mostly Black city voted in November to create a city reparations commission, getting to this point in the pursuit of reparations is cause for celebration. But what happens next is worrisome, especially when it comes to who gets what and how much, she said.
“I am happy for all of us who have been doing the groundwork for all these years,” said Belle, founder of the Reparations Labor Union. “We are somewhat afraid that these people who have jumped on the bandwagon are actually there to sabotage it and make reparations $12.62, if that. There will be those saboteurs — people who look like us, but have hidden agendas.”
“You have some of that fear in California where the scope for reparations was narrowed to the people who can prove they were enslaved,” she added. “The people of California will be like ‘why am I paying reparations for someone who was enslaved in Mississippi?’”
In California, the task force is taking the next step with economists to determine the cost of compensating more than 2 million Black residents, although all of them would not be eligible. Following slavery abolition, Black migration to California happened primarily in the immediate decades after World War II, with newly arrived African Americans settling in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Black population there rose from just under a half-million residents, or 4.4% of the population, in 1950 to 1.4 million residents, or 7% of the population, by 1970. Decades later, the 2020 census recorded 2.1 million Black residents in California, or about 5.3% of the state’s population.
While proposals and who would be eligible appear to vary, they still are types of reparations, according to Rashawn Ray, senior fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.
“California chose to focus on enslavement of Black people,” Ray said. “In Evanston, it’s redlining and housing segregation. Both are issues that need restitution to them based on what the wrong is.”
But, Ray added, “Federal reparations — without a doubt and hands-down — that’s what we need. What is happening in California should be happening in Congress.”
As a former alderman for the city of Evanston, Illinois, and a longtime reparations advocate, Robin Rue Simmons said reaching consensus on eligibility can be tough because policymakers should be as expansive and inclusive as possible, while also identifying specific harms that they’re seeking to address.
The big step taken by California could help spur action on reparations proposals in other cities and states, Simmons said, and perhaps add pressure for the federal government to act, which she sees as critical.
She doesn’t expect California’s lineage-based eligibility standard to become the norm.
“I don’t think any community should think that another has figured it out for them,” Simmons said, “because every community is going to have their own priorities and their specific history.”
___
Bynum reported from Savannah, Ga. AP writers Janie Har in San Francisco and Michael Schneider in Orlando contributed to this story. | 0 | 3,585 | 0 | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/national/ca-reparations-plan-advances-broader-movement-advocates-say/ | 2022-04-01 13:36:24+00:00 | DETROIT (AP) — In the long debate over whether Black Americans should be granted reparations for the atrocity and injustices of slavery and racism, California took a big step this week toward becoming the first U.S. state to make some form of restitution a reality.
The state’s reparations task force tackled the divisive issue of which Black residents should be eligible — it narrowly decided in favor of limiting compensation to the descendants of free and enslaved Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.
Whether Tuesday’s vote by the task force spurs other states and cities to advance their own proposals, and whether they adopt California’s still controversial standard for who would benefit, remains to be seen. Some veteran reparations advocates disagree strongly with proposals to limiting eligibility to only Black people who can prove they have enslaved ancestors, while excluding those who cannot and leaving out victims of other historic injustices, such as redlining and mass incarceration.
Still, one advocate noted California’s move is a step that could lend momentum to stalled reparation proposals elsewhere in the U.S.
“It’s precipitated a debate and it will influence communities,” said Ron Daniels, president of The Institute of the Black World 21st Century and administrator of the National African American Reparations Commission, an advocacy group of scholars and activists.
As to whether others will adopt the same approach to eligibility, Daniels said: “That’s to be decided. …We think that ultimately a more expansive definition will prevail.”
The commission headed by Daniels has taken a position that limiting reparations to slave descendants, or to Americans whose ancestors were free Blacks living during the time of slavery, ignores the effects of racism that persisted for more than a century after emancipation.
“There are always going to be criteria” for reparations, Daniels said. “The problem is the harms have been so gross that almost no Black person is not eligible in some form or another.”
Although there is still debate among historians about when exactly the practice began, chattel slavery in what would become the U.S. dates back to 1619 when about 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia — then a British colony. Over the next two centuries, more than 300,000 men, women and children were forcibly taken from Africa to work on plantations in southern colonies and later the Southern states, according to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and maintained by Rice University.
Slavery in the U.S. officially ended in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. Union Army General William Sherman promised compensation to freed slaves in the form of land and mules to farm it — hence the phrase “40 acres and a mule” — after the North’s victory over the South in the Civil War. But President Andrew Johnson took away the offer.
More than 120 years later, then-Rep. John Conyers, a Detroit Democrat, first introduced H.R. 40, a bill that would create a federal commission to study reparations and make proposals. Conyers reintroduced it in every congressional session until he resigned in 2017. As a candidate, President Joe Biden said he supported creating the commission, but has yet to formally back it as commander-in-chief. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, is currently the lead sponsor of the House bill.
Getting governmental leaders to openly consider slavery reparations has been daunting and taken decades. But progress has been made at both the state and local levels, particularly since the national reckoning on racial injustice that was sparked after the 2020 murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
In Michigan, legislative proposals submitted earlier this year in the House of Representatives call for $1.5 billion in federal dollars to be placed in a racial equity and reparations fund within the state’s treasury. The funds would be issued to various state departments and agencies to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance for businesses and economic developments that promote the Black community.
The bills have yet to receive a hearing in the House.
Last year, Evanston, Illinois, — the first U.S. city to find a source of funding for reparations — began giving eligible Black residents $25,000 housing grants for down payments, repairs or existing mortgages. The program is meant to atone for the history of racial redlining and housing discrimination. Recipients were selected randomly from among the applicants, Black residents who lived in the city between 1919 and 1969.
And in Providence, Rhode Island, the mayor announced a city commission on reparations in February that will look to atone for the city’s role in slavery and systemic racism, as well as the mistreatment of Native Americans.
For Anita Belle, a grassroots activist in Detroit, where residents in the mostly Black city voted in November to create a city reparations commission, getting to this point in the pursuit of reparations is cause for celebration. But what happens next is worrisome, especially when it comes to who gets what and how much, she said.
“I am happy for all of us who have doing the groundwork for all these years,” said Belle, founder of the Reparations Labor Union. “We are somewhat afraid that these people who have jumped on the bandwagon are actually there to sabotage it and make reparations $12.62, if that. There will be those saboteurs — people who look like us, but have hidden agendas.”
“You have some of that fear in California where the scope for reparations was narrowed to the people who can prove they were enslaved,” she added. “The people of California will be like ’why am I paying reparations for someone who was enslaved in Mississippi?'”
In California, the task force is taking the next step with economists to determine the cost of compensating more than 2 million Black residents, although all of them would not be eligible. Following slavery abolition, Black migration to California happened primarily in the immediate decades after World War II, with newly-arrived African Americans settling in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Black population there rose from just under a half million residents, or 4.4% of the population, in 1950 to 1.4 million residents, or 7% of the population, by 1970. Decades later, the 2020 census recorded 2.1 million Black residents in California, or about 5.3% of the state’s population.
While proposals and who would be eligible appear to vary, they still are types of reparations, according to Rashawn Ray, senior fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.
“California chose to focus on enslavement of Black people,” Ray said. “In Evanston, it’s red lining and housing segregation. Both are issues that need restitution to them based on what the wrong is.”
But, Ray added, “Federal reparations — without a doubt and hands-down — that’s what we need. What is happening in California should be happening in Congress.”
As a former alderman for the city of Evanston, Illinois, and a longtime reparations advocate, Robin Rue Simmons said reaching consensus on eligibility can be tough because policymakers should be as expansive and inclusive as possible, while also identifying specific harms that they’re seeking to address.
The big step taken by California could help spur action on reparations proposals in other cities and states, Simmons said, and perhaps add pressure for the federal government to act, which she sees as critical.
She doesn’t expect California’s lineage-based eligibility standard to become the norm.
“I don’t think any community should think that another has figured it out for them,” Simmons said, “because every community is going to have their own priorities and their specific history.”
___
Bynum reported from Savannah, Ga. AP writers Janie Har in San Francisco and Michael Schneider in Orlando contributed to this story. |
https://www.wivb.com/news/u-s-headlines/ca-reparations-plan-advances-broader-movement-advocates-say/ | DETROIT (AP) — In the long debate over whether Black Americans should be granted reparations for the atrocity and injustices of slavery and racism, California took a big step this week toward becoming the first U.S. state to make some form of restitution a reality.
The state’s reparations task force tackled the divisive issue of which Black residents should be eligible — it narrowly decided in favor of limiting compensation to the descendants of free and enslaved Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.
Whether Tuesday’s vote by the task force spurs other states and cities to advance their own proposals, and whether they adopt California’s still controversial standard for who would benefit, remains to be seen. Some veteran reparations advocates disagree strongly with proposals to limiting eligibility to only Black people who can prove they have enslaved ancestors, while excluding those who cannot and leaving out victims of other historic injustices, such as redlining and mass incarceration.
Still, one advocate noted California’s move is a step that could lend momentum to stalled reparation proposals elsewhere in the U.S.
“It’s precipitated a debate and it will influence communities,” said Ron Daniels, president of The Institute of the Black World 21st Century and administrator of the National African American Reparations Commission, an advocacy group of scholars and activists.
As to whether others will adopt the same approach to eligibility, Daniels said: “That’s to be decided. … We think that ultimately a more expansive definition will prevail.”
The commission headed by Daniels has taken a position that limiting reparations to slave descendants, or to Americans whose ancestors were free Blacks living during the time of slavery, ignores the effects of racism that persisted for more than a century after emancipation.
“There are always going to be criteria” for reparations, Daniels said. “The problem is the harms have been so gross that almost no Black person is not eligible in some form or another.”
Although there is still debate among historians about when exactly the practice began, chattel slavery in what would become the U.S. dates back to 1619 when about 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia — then a British colony. Over the next two centuries, more than 300,000 men, women and children were forcibly taken from Africa to work on plantations in southern colonies and later the Southern states, according to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and maintained by Rice University.
Slavery in the U.S. officially ended in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. Union Army General William Sherman promised compensation to freed slaves in the form of land and mules to farm it — hence the phrase “40 acres and a mule” — after the North’s victory over the South in the Civil War. But President Andrew Johnson took away the offer.
More than 120 years later, then-Rep. John Conyers, a Detroit Democrat, first introduced H.R. 40, a bill that would create a federal commission to study reparations and make proposals. Conyers reintroduced it in every congressional session until he resigned in 2017. As a candidate, President Joe Biden said he supported creating the commission, but has yet to formally back it as commander-in-chief. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, is currently the lead sponsor of the House bill.
Getting governmental leaders to openly consider slavery reparations has been daunting and taken decades. But progress has been made at both the state and local levels, particularly since the national reckoning on racial injustice that was sparked after the 2020 murder of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis.
In Michigan, legislative proposals submitted earlier this year in the House of Representatives call for $1.5 billion in federal dollars to be placed in a racial equity and reparations fund within the state’s treasury. The funds would be issued to various state departments and agencies to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance for businesses and economic developments that promote the Black community.
The bills have yet to receive a hearing in the House.
Last year, Evanston, Illinois, — the first U.S. city to find a source of funding for reparations — began giving eligible Black residents $25,000 housing grants for down payments, repairs or existing mortgages. The program is meant to atone for the history of racial redlining and housing discrimination. Recipients were selected randomly from among the applicants, Black residents who lived in the city between 1919 and 1969.
And in Providence, Rhode Island, the mayor announced a city commission on reparations in February that will look to atone for the city’s role in slavery and systemic racism, as well as the mistreatment of Native Americans.
For Anita Belle, a grassroots activist in Detroit, where residents in the mostly Black city voted in November to create a city reparations commission, getting to this point in the pursuit of reparations is cause for celebration. But what happens next is worrisome, especially when it comes to who gets what and how much, she said.
“I am happy for all of us who have been doing the groundwork for all these years,” said Belle, founder of the Reparations Labor Union. “We are somewhat afraid that these people who have jumped on the bandwagon are actually there to sabotage it and make reparations $12.62, if that. There will be those saboteurs — people who look like us, but have hidden agendas.”
“You have some of that fear in California where the scope for reparations was narrowed to the people who can prove they were enslaved,” she added. “The people of California will be like ‘why am I paying reparations for someone who was enslaved in Mississippi?’”
In California, the task force is taking the next step with economists to determine the cost of compensating more than 2 million Black residents, although all of them would not be eligible. Following slavery abolition, Black migration to California happened primarily in the immediate decades after World War II, with newly arrived African Americans settling in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Black population there rose from just under a half-million residents, or 4.4% of the population, in 1950 to 1.4 million residents, or 7% of the population, by 1970. Decades later, the 2020 census recorded 2.1 million Black residents in California, or about 5.3% of the state’s population.
While proposals and who would be eligible appear to vary, they still are types of reparations, according to Rashawn Ray, senior fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.
“California chose to focus on enslavement of Black people,” Ray said. “In Evanston, it’s redlining and housing segregation. Both are issues that need restitution to them based on what the wrong is.”
But, Ray added, “Federal reparations — without a doubt and hands-down — that’s what we need. What is happening in California should be happening in Congress.”
As a former alderman for the city of Evanston, Illinois, and a longtime reparations advocate, Robin Rue Simmons said reaching consensus on eligibility can be tough because policymakers should be as expansive and inclusive as possible, while also identifying specific harms that they’re seeking to address.
The big step taken by California could help spur action on reparations proposals in other cities and states, Simmons said, and perhaps add pressure for the federal government to act, which she sees as critical.
She doesn’t expect California’s lineage-based eligibility standard to become the norm.
“I don’t think any community should think that another has figured it out for them,” Simmons said, “because every community is going to have their own priorities and their specific history.”
___
Bynum reported from Savannah, Ga. AP writers Janie Har in San Francisco and Michael Schneider in Orlando contributed to this story. | 1 | 3,754 | 0 | https://www.valleycentral.com/news/national-news/ca-reparations-plan-advances-broader-movement-advocates-say/ | 2022-04-01 13:37:11+00:00 | DETROIT (AP) — In the long debate over whether Black Americans should be granted reparations for the atrocity and injustices of slavery and racism, California took a big step this week toward becoming the first U.S. state to make some form of restitution a reality.
The state’s reparations task force tackled the divisive issue of which Black residents should be eligible — it narrowly decided in favor of limiting compensation to the descendants of free and enslaved Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.
Whether Tuesday’s vote by the task force spurs other states and cities to advance their own proposals, and whether they adopt California’s still controversial standard for who would benefit, remains to be seen. Some veteran reparations advocates disagree strongly with proposals to limiting eligibility to only Black people who can prove they have enslaved ancestors, while excluding those who cannot and leaving out victims of other historic injustices, such as redlining and mass incarceration.
Still, one advocate noted California’s move is a step that could lend momentum to stalled reparation proposals elsewhere in the U.S.
“It’s precipitated a debate and it will influence communities,” said Ron Daniels, president of The Institute of the Black World 21st Century and administrator of the National African American Reparations Commission, an advocacy group of scholars and activists.
As to whether others will adopt the same approach to eligibility, Daniels said: “That’s to be decided. …We think that ultimately a more expansive definition will prevail.”
The commission headed by Daniels has taken a position that limiting reparations to slave descendants, or to Americans whose ancestors were free Blacks living during the time of slavery, ignores the effects of racism that persisted for more than a century after emancipation.
“There are always going to be criteria” for reparations, Daniels said. “The problem is the harms have been so gross that almost no Black person is not eligible in some form or another.”
Although there is still debate among historians about when exactly the practice began, chattel slavery in what would become the U.S. dates back to 1619 when about 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia — then a British colony. Over the next two centuries, more than 300,000 men, women and children were forcibly taken from Africa to work on plantations in southern colonies and later the Southern states, according to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and maintained by Rice University.
Slavery in the U.S. officially ended in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. Union Army General William Sherman promised compensation to freed slaves in the form of land and mules to farm it — hence the phrase “40 acres and a mule” — after the North’s victory over the South in the Civil War. But President Andrew Johnson took away the offer.
More than 120 years later, then-Rep. John Conyers, a Detroit Democrat, first introduced H.R. 40, a bill that would create a federal commission to study reparations and make proposals. Conyers reintroduced it in every congressional session until he resigned in 2017. As a candidate, President Joe Biden said he supported creating the commission, but has yet to formally back it as commander-in-chief. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, is currently the lead sponsor of the House bill.
Getting governmental leaders to openly consider slavery reparations has been daunting and taken decades. But progress has been made at both the state and local levels, particularly since the national reckoning on racial injustice that was sparked after the 2020 murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
In Michigan, legislative proposals submitted earlier this year in the House of Representatives call for $1.5 billion in federal dollars to be placed in a racial equity and reparations fund within the state’s treasury. The funds would be issued to various state departments and agencies to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance for businesses and economic developments that promote the Black community.
The bills have yet to receive a hearing in the House.
Last year, Evanston, Illinois, — the first U.S. city to find a source of funding for reparations — began giving eligible Black residents $25,000 housing grants for down payments, repairs or existing mortgages. The program is meant to atone for the history of racial redlining and housing discrimination. Recipients were selected randomly from among the applicants, Black residents who lived in the city between 1919 and 1969.
And in Providence, Rhode Island, the mayor announced a city commission on reparations in February that will look to atone for the city’s role in slavery and systemic racism, as well as the mistreatment of Native Americans.
For Anita Belle, a grassroots activist in Detroit, where residents in the mostly Black city voted in November to create a city reparations commission, getting to this point in the pursuit of reparations is cause for celebration. But what happens next is worrisome, especially when it comes to who gets what and how much, she said.
“I am happy for all of us who have doing the groundwork for all these years,” said Belle, founder of the Reparations Labor Union. “We are somewhat afraid that these people who have jumped on the bandwagon are actually there to sabotage it and make reparations $12.62, if that. There will be those saboteurs — people who look like us, but have hidden agendas.”
“You have some of that fear in California where the scope for reparations was narrowed to the people who can prove they were enslaved,” she added. “The people of California will be like ’why am I paying reparations for someone who was enslaved in Mississippi?'”
In California, the task force is taking the next step with economists to determine the cost of compensating more than 2 million Black residents, although all of them would not be eligible. Following slavery abolition, Black migration to California happened primarily in the immediate decades after World War II, with newly-arrived African Americans settling in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Black population there rose from just under a half million residents, or 4.4% of the population, in 1950 to 1.4 million residents, or 7% of the population, by 1970. Decades later, the 2020 census recorded 2.1 million Black residents in California, or about 5.3% of the state’s population.
While proposals and who would be eligible appear to vary, they still are types of reparations, according to Rashawn Ray, senior fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.
“California chose to focus on enslavement of Black people,” Ray said. “In Evanston, it’s red lining and housing segregation. Both are issues that need restitution to them based on what the wrong is.”
But, Ray added, “Federal reparations — without a doubt and hands-down — that’s what we need. What is happening in California should be happening in Congress.”
As a former alderman for the city of Evanston, Illinois, and a longtime reparations advocate, Robin Rue Simmons said reaching consensus on eligibility can be tough because policymakers should be as expansive and inclusive as possible, while also identifying specific harms that they’re seeking to address.
The big step taken by California could help spur action on reparations proposals in other cities and states, Simmons said, and perhaps add pressure for the federal government to act, which she sees as critical.
She doesn’t expect California’s lineage-based eligibility standard to become the norm.
“I don’t think any community should think that another has figured it out for them,” Simmons said, “because every community is going to have their own priorities and their specific history.”
___
Bynum reported from Savannah, Ga. AP writers Janie Har in San Francisco and Michael Schneider in Orlando contributed to this story. |
https://www.wivb.com/news/u-s-headlines/ca-reparations-plan-advances-broader-movement-advocates-say/ | DETROIT (AP) — In the long debate over whether Black Americans should be granted reparations for the atrocity and injustices of slavery and racism, California took a big step this week toward becoming the first U.S. state to make some form of restitution a reality.
The state’s reparations task force tackled the divisive issue of which Black residents should be eligible — it narrowly decided in favor of limiting compensation to the descendants of free and enslaved Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.
Whether Tuesday’s vote by the task force spurs other states and cities to advance their own proposals, and whether they adopt California’s still controversial standard for who would benefit, remains to be seen. Some veteran reparations advocates disagree strongly with proposals to limiting eligibility to only Black people who can prove they have enslaved ancestors, while excluding those who cannot and leaving out victims of other historic injustices, such as redlining and mass incarceration.
Still, one advocate noted California’s move is a step that could lend momentum to stalled reparation proposals elsewhere in the U.S.
“It’s precipitated a debate and it will influence communities,” said Ron Daniels, president of The Institute of the Black World 21st Century and administrator of the National African American Reparations Commission, an advocacy group of scholars and activists.
As to whether others will adopt the same approach to eligibility, Daniels said: “That’s to be decided. … We think that ultimately a more expansive definition will prevail.”
The commission headed by Daniels has taken a position that limiting reparations to slave descendants, or to Americans whose ancestors were free Blacks living during the time of slavery, ignores the effects of racism that persisted for more than a century after emancipation.
“There are always going to be criteria” for reparations, Daniels said. “The problem is the harms have been so gross that almost no Black person is not eligible in some form or another.”
Although there is still debate among historians about when exactly the practice began, chattel slavery in what would become the U.S. dates back to 1619 when about 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia — then a British colony. Over the next two centuries, more than 300,000 men, women and children were forcibly taken from Africa to work on plantations in southern colonies and later the Southern states, according to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and maintained by Rice University.
Slavery in the U.S. officially ended in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. Union Army General William Sherman promised compensation to freed slaves in the form of land and mules to farm it — hence the phrase “40 acres and a mule” — after the North’s victory over the South in the Civil War. But President Andrew Johnson took away the offer.
More than 120 years later, then-Rep. John Conyers, a Detroit Democrat, first introduced H.R. 40, a bill that would create a federal commission to study reparations and make proposals. Conyers reintroduced it in every congressional session until he resigned in 2017. As a candidate, President Joe Biden said he supported creating the commission, but has yet to formally back it as commander-in-chief. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, is currently the lead sponsor of the House bill.
Getting governmental leaders to openly consider slavery reparations has been daunting and taken decades. But progress has been made at both the state and local levels, particularly since the national reckoning on racial injustice that was sparked after the 2020 murder of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis.
In Michigan, legislative proposals submitted earlier this year in the House of Representatives call for $1.5 billion in federal dollars to be placed in a racial equity and reparations fund within the state’s treasury. The funds would be issued to various state departments and agencies to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance for businesses and economic developments that promote the Black community.
The bills have yet to receive a hearing in the House.
Last year, Evanston, Illinois, — the first U.S. city to find a source of funding for reparations — began giving eligible Black residents $25,000 housing grants for down payments, repairs or existing mortgages. The program is meant to atone for the history of racial redlining and housing discrimination. Recipients were selected randomly from among the applicants, Black residents who lived in the city between 1919 and 1969.
And in Providence, Rhode Island, the mayor announced a city commission on reparations in February that will look to atone for the city’s role in slavery and systemic racism, as well as the mistreatment of Native Americans.
For Anita Belle, a grassroots activist in Detroit, where residents in the mostly Black city voted in November to create a city reparations commission, getting to this point in the pursuit of reparations is cause for celebration. But what happens next is worrisome, especially when it comes to who gets what and how much, she said.
“I am happy for all of us who have been doing the groundwork for all these years,” said Belle, founder of the Reparations Labor Union. “We are somewhat afraid that these people who have jumped on the bandwagon are actually there to sabotage it and make reparations $12.62, if that. There will be those saboteurs — people who look like us, but have hidden agendas.”
“You have some of that fear in California where the scope for reparations was narrowed to the people who can prove they were enslaved,” she added. “The people of California will be like ‘why am I paying reparations for someone who was enslaved in Mississippi?’”
In California, the task force is taking the next step with economists to determine the cost of compensating more than 2 million Black residents, although all of them would not be eligible. Following slavery abolition, Black migration to California happened primarily in the immediate decades after World War II, with newly arrived African Americans settling in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Black population there rose from just under a half-million residents, or 4.4% of the population, in 1950 to 1.4 million residents, or 7% of the population, by 1970. Decades later, the 2020 census recorded 2.1 million Black residents in California, or about 5.3% of the state’s population.
While proposals and who would be eligible appear to vary, they still are types of reparations, according to Rashawn Ray, senior fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.
“California chose to focus on enslavement of Black people,” Ray said. “In Evanston, it’s redlining and housing segregation. Both are issues that need restitution to them based on what the wrong is.”
But, Ray added, “Federal reparations — without a doubt and hands-down — that’s what we need. What is happening in California should be happening in Congress.”
As a former alderman for the city of Evanston, Illinois, and a longtime reparations advocate, Robin Rue Simmons said reaching consensus on eligibility can be tough because policymakers should be as expansive and inclusive as possible, while also identifying specific harms that they’re seeking to address.
The big step taken by California could help spur action on reparations proposals in other cities and states, Simmons said, and perhaps add pressure for the federal government to act, which she sees as critical.
She doesn’t expect California’s lineage-based eligibility standard to become the norm.
“I don’t think any community should think that another has figured it out for them,” Simmons said, “because every community is going to have their own priorities and their specific history.”
___
Bynum reported from Savannah, Ga. AP writers Janie Har in San Francisco and Michael Schneider in Orlando contributed to this story. | 2 | 12,558 | 0 | https://www.wwlp.com/news/ap-national-news/ca-reparations-plan-advances-broader-movement-advocates-say/ | 2022-04-01 14:17:09+00:00 | DETROIT (AP) — In the long debate over whether Black Americans should be granted reparations for the atrocity and injustices of slavery and racism, California took a big step this week toward becoming the first U.S. state to make some form of restitution a reality.
The state’s reparations task force tackled the divisive issue of which Black residents should be eligible — it narrowly decided in favor of limiting compensation to the descendants of free and enslaved Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.
Whether Tuesday’s vote by the task force spurs other states and cities to advance their own proposals, and whether they adopt California’s still controversial standard for who would benefit, remains to be seen. Some veteran reparations advocates disagree strongly with proposals to limiting eligibility to only Black people who can prove they have enslaved ancestors, while excluding those who cannot and leaving out victims of other historic injustices, such as redlining and mass incarceration.
Still, one advocate noted California’s move is a step that could lend momentum to stalled reparation proposals elsewhere in the U.S.
“It’s precipitated a debate and it will influence communities,” said Ron Daniels, president of The Institute of the Black World 21st Century and administrator of the National African American Reparations Commission, an advocacy group of scholars and activists.
As to whether others will adopt the same approach to eligibility, Daniels said: “That’s to be decided. …We think that ultimately a more expansive definition will prevail.”
The commission headed by Daniels has taken a position that limiting reparations to slave descendants, or to Americans whose ancestors were free Blacks living during the time of slavery, ignores the effects of racism that persisted for more than a century after emancipation.
“There are always going to be criteria” for reparations, Daniels said. “The problem is the harms have been so gross that almost no Black person is not eligible in some form or another.”
Although there is still debate among historians about when exactly the practice began, chattel slavery in what would become the U.S. dates back to 1619 when about 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Jamestown, Virginia — then a British colony. Over the next two centuries, more than 300,000 men, women and children were forcibly taken from Africa to work on plantations in southern colonies and later the Southern states, according to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, a project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and maintained by Rice University.
Slavery in the U.S. officially ended in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment. Union Army General William Sherman promised compensation to freed slaves in the form of land and mules to farm it — hence the phrase “40 acres and a mule” — after the North’s victory over the South in the Civil War. But President Andrew Johnson took away the offer.
More than 120 years later, then-Rep. John Conyers, a Detroit Democrat, first introduced H.R. 40, a bill that would create a federal commission to study reparations and make proposals. Conyers reintroduced it in every congressional session until he resigned in 2017. As a candidate, President Joe Biden said he supported creating the commission, but has yet to formally back it as commander-in-chief. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Texas Democrat, is currently the lead sponsor of the House bill.
Getting governmental leaders to openly consider slavery reparations has been daunting and taken decades. But progress has been made at both the state and local levels, particularly since the national reckoning on racial injustice that was sparked after the 2020 murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
In Michigan, legislative proposals submitted earlier this year in the House of Representatives call for $1.5 billion in federal dollars to be placed in a racial equity and reparations fund within the state’s treasury. The funds would be issued to various state departments and agencies to provide grants, loans and other economic assistance for businesses and economic developments that promote the Black community.
The bills have yet to receive a hearing in the House.
Last year, Evanston, Illinois, — the first U.S. city to find a source of funding for reparations — began giving eligible Black residents $25,000 housing grants for down payments, repairs or existing mortgages. The program is meant to atone for the history of racial redlining and housing discrimination. Recipients were selected randomly from among the applicants, Black residents who lived in the city between 1919 and 1969.
And in Providence, Rhode Island, the mayor announced a city commission on reparations in February that will look to atone for the city’s role in slavery and systemic racism, as well as the mistreatment of Native Americans.
For Anita Belle, a grassroots activist in Detroit, where residents in the mostly Black city voted in November to create a city reparations commission, getting to this point in the pursuit of reparations is cause for celebration. But what happens next is worrisome, especially when it comes to who gets what and how much, she said.
“I am happy for all of us who have doing the groundwork for all these years,” said Belle, founder of the Reparations Labor Union. “We are somewhat afraid that these people who have jumped on the bandwagon are actually there to sabotage it and make reparations $12.62, if that. There will be those saboteurs — people who look like us, but have hidden agendas.”
“You have some of that fear in California where the scope for reparations was narrowed to the people who can prove they were enslaved,” she added. “The people of California will be like ’why am I paying reparations for someone who was enslaved in Mississippi?'”
In California, the task force is taking the next step with economists to determine the cost of compensating more than 2 million Black residents, although all of them would not be eligible. Following slavery abolition, Black migration to California happened primarily in the immediate decades after World War II, with newly-arrived African Americans settling in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The Black population there rose from just under a half million residents, or 4.4% of the population, in 1950 to 1.4 million residents, or 7% of the population, by 1970. Decades later, the 2020 census recorded 2.1 million Black residents in California, or about 5.3% of the state’s population.
While proposals and who would be eligible appear to vary, they still are types of reparations, according to Rashawn Ray, senior fellow of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution.
“California chose to focus on enslavement of Black people,” Ray said. “In Evanston, it’s red lining and housing segregation. Both are issues that need restitution to them based on what the wrong is.”
But, Ray added, “Federal reparations — without a doubt and hands-down — that’s what we need. What is happening in California should be happening in Congress.”
As a former alderman for the city of Evanston, Illinois, and a longtime reparations advocate, Robin Rue Simmons said reaching consensus on eligibility can be tough because policymakers should be as expansive and inclusive as possible, while also identifying specific harms that they’re seeking to address.
The big step taken by California could help spur action on reparations proposals in other cities and states, Simmons said, and perhaps add pressure for the federal government to act, which she sees as critical.
She doesn’t expect California’s lineage-based eligibility standard to become the norm.
“I don’t think any community should think that another has figured it out for them,” Simmons said, “because every community is going to have their own priorities and their specific history.”
___
Bynum reported from Savannah, Ga. AP writers Janie Har in San Francisco and Michael Schneider in Orlando contributed to this story. |
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https://www.wane.com/news/watch-texas-cyclist-hit-by-car-that-sped-off/ | AUSTIN (KXAN) — An Austin man’s evening bike ride almost turned deadly, as shown in a video of a car hitting the cyclist in front of witnesses and then speeding off.
The video captured by a bystander shows cyclist Nick Gardiner riding in the street when a car appearing to change lanes hits him and drives off. He said it happened a little before 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Austin Police said the incident occurred near the 700 block of W. Riverside Drive.
WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO BELOW
You can see Gardiner roll over almost three times after impact before he makes his way to the sidewalk and collapses on a grassy area.
In the video, bystanders run by to attend to the cyclist and make sure he is OK. The hit and run was captured on camera by Scott Thigpen, who can be seen calling 911 in the video.
Gardiner said the driver was “harassing” him for about half a mile. He said at one point, the driver was rolling down his window to yell at Gardiner.
“It was a clear-cut case of road rage,” he said. “No reasonable person would do that.”
Gardiner told KXAN he filed a police report with the Austin Police Department in hopes of finding the driver. He described the car as a white coupe and guesses it is an early 2000s model of a Honda Accord.
Austin Police said the case is being investigated as aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.
The cyclist said he does not have any broken bones but has other injuries, including a severe rash from impact with the road, a golf ball-sized lump on his knee, bruising on his palm and other cuts.
“I got lucky. If it went any other way, I don’t think I’d be talking to you right now,” he said.
According to Texas bicycle laws, all bicyclists must ride alongside streets and roadways, as opposed to sidewalks, when a designated bike line is unavailable.
“It’s not going to stop me from cycling. It’s just going to stop me from cycling on the roads here. I think I’m gonna be trying to go somewhere where cars can’t be, and I think that’s the responsibility of the City of Austin to maintain that,” Gardiner said. “To provide us with an opportunity to not get murdered.” | 0 | 37,491 | 0 | https://www.kget.com/national-news/watch-texas-cyclist-hit-by-car-that-sped-off/ | 2022-04-05 01:30:50+00:00 | AUSTIN (KXAN) — An Austin man’s evening bike ride almost turned deadly, as shown in a video of a car hitting the cyclist in front of witnesses and then speeding off.
The video captured by a bystander shows cyclist Nick Gardiner riding in the street when a car appearing to change lanes hits him and drives off. He said it happened a little before 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Austin Police said the incident occurred near the 700 block of W. Riverside Drive.
WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO BELOW
You can see Gardiner roll over almost three times after impact before he makes his way to the sidewalk and collapses on a grassy area.
In the video, bystanders run by to attend to the cyclist and make sure he is OK. The hit and run was captured on camera by Scott Thigpen, who can be seen calling 911 in the video.
Gardiner said the driver was “harassing” him for about half a mile. He said at one point, the driver was rolling down his window to yell at Gardiner.
“It was a clear-cut case of road rage,” he said. “No reasonable person would do that.”
Gardiner told KXAN he filed a police report with the Austin Police Department in hopes of finding the driver. He described the car as a white coupe and guesses it is an early 2000s model of a Honda Accord.
Austin Police said the case is being investigated as aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.
The cyclist said he does not have any broken bones but has other injuries, including a severe rash from impact with the road, a golf ball-sized lump on his knee, bruising on his palm and other cuts.
“I got lucky. If it went any other way, I don’t think I’d be talking to you right now,” he said.
According to Texas bicycle laws, all bicyclists must ride alongside streets and roadways, as opposed to sidewalks, when a designated bike line is unavailable.
“It’s not going to stop me from cycling. It’s just going to stop me from cycling on the roads here. I think I’m gonna be trying to go somewhere where cars can’t be, and I think that’s the responsibility of the City of Austin to maintain that,” Gardiner said. “To provide us with an opportunity to not get murdered.” |
https://www.wane.com/news/watch-texas-cyclist-hit-by-car-that-sped-off/ | AUSTIN (KXAN) — An Austin man’s evening bike ride almost turned deadly, as shown in a video of a car hitting the cyclist in front of witnesses and then speeding off.
The video captured by a bystander shows cyclist Nick Gardiner riding in the street when a car appearing to change lanes hits him and drives off. He said it happened a little before 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Austin Police said the incident occurred near the 700 block of W. Riverside Drive.
WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO BELOW
You can see Gardiner roll over almost three times after impact before he makes his way to the sidewalk and collapses on a grassy area.
In the video, bystanders run by to attend to the cyclist and make sure he is OK. The hit and run was captured on camera by Scott Thigpen, who can be seen calling 911 in the video.
Gardiner said the driver was “harassing” him for about half a mile. He said at one point, the driver was rolling down his window to yell at Gardiner.
“It was a clear-cut case of road rage,” he said. “No reasonable person would do that.”
Gardiner told KXAN he filed a police report with the Austin Police Department in hopes of finding the driver. He described the car as a white coupe and guesses it is an early 2000s model of a Honda Accord.
Austin Police said the case is being investigated as aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.
The cyclist said he does not have any broken bones but has other injuries, including a severe rash from impact with the road, a golf ball-sized lump on his knee, bruising on his palm and other cuts.
“I got lucky. If it went any other way, I don’t think I’d be talking to you right now,” he said.
According to Texas bicycle laws, all bicyclists must ride alongside streets and roadways, as opposed to sidewalks, when a designated bike line is unavailable.
“It’s not going to stop me from cycling. It’s just going to stop me from cycling on the roads here. I think I’m gonna be trying to go somewhere where cars can’t be, and I think that’s the responsibility of the City of Austin to maintain that,” Gardiner said. “To provide us with an opportunity to not get murdered.” | 1 | 42,127 | 0 | https://www.wwlp.com/news/watch-texas-cyclist-hit-by-car-that-sped-off/ | 2022-04-01 16:26:25+00:00 | AUSTIN (KXAN) — An Austin man’s evening bike ride almost turned deadly, as shown in a video of a car hitting the cyclist in front of witnesses and then speeding off.
The video captured by a bystander shows cyclist Nick Gardiner riding in the street when a car appearing to change lanes hits him and drives off. He said it happened a little before 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Austin Police said the incident occurred near the 700 block of W. Riverside Drive.
WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO BELOW
You can see Gardiner roll over almost three times after impact before he makes his way to the sidewalk and collapses on a grassy area.
In the video, bystanders run by to attend to the cyclist and make sure he is OK. The hit and run was captured on camera by Scott Thigpen, who can be seen calling 911 in the video.
Gardiner said the driver was “harassing” him for about half a mile. He said at one point, the driver was rolling down his window to yell at Gardiner.
“It was a clear-cut case of road rage,” he said. “No reasonable person would do that.”
Gardiner told KXAN he filed a police report with the Austin Police Department in hopes of finding the driver. He described the car as a white coupe and guesses it is an early 2000s model of a Honda Accord.
Austin Police said the case is being investigated as aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.
The cyclist said he does not have any broken bones but has other injuries, including a severe rash from impact with the road, a golf ball-sized lump on his knee, bruising on his palm and other cuts.
“I got lucky. If it went any other way, I don’t think I’d be talking to you right now,” he said.
According to Texas bicycle laws, all bicyclists must ride alongside streets and roadways, as opposed to sidewalks, when a designated bike line is unavailable.
“It’s not going to stop me from cycling. It’s just going to stop me from cycling on the roads here. I think I’m gonna be trying to go somewhere where cars can’t be, and I think that’s the responsibility of the City of Austin to maintain that,” Gardiner said. “To provide us with an opportunity to not get murdered.” |
https://www.wane.com/news/watch-texas-cyclist-hit-by-car-that-sped-off/ | AUSTIN (KXAN) — An Austin man’s evening bike ride almost turned deadly, as shown in a video of a car hitting the cyclist in front of witnesses and then speeding off.
The video captured by a bystander shows cyclist Nick Gardiner riding in the street when a car appearing to change lanes hits him and drives off. He said it happened a little before 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Austin Police said the incident occurred near the 700 block of W. Riverside Drive.
WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO BELOW
You can see Gardiner roll over almost three times after impact before he makes his way to the sidewalk and collapses on a grassy area.
In the video, bystanders run by to attend to the cyclist and make sure he is OK. The hit and run was captured on camera by Scott Thigpen, who can be seen calling 911 in the video.
Gardiner said the driver was “harassing” him for about half a mile. He said at one point, the driver was rolling down his window to yell at Gardiner.
“It was a clear-cut case of road rage,” he said. “No reasonable person would do that.”
Gardiner told KXAN he filed a police report with the Austin Police Department in hopes of finding the driver. He described the car as a white coupe and guesses it is an early 2000s model of a Honda Accord.
Austin Police said the case is being investigated as aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.
The cyclist said he does not have any broken bones but has other injuries, including a severe rash from impact with the road, a golf ball-sized lump on his knee, bruising on his palm and other cuts.
“I got lucky. If it went any other way, I don’t think I’d be talking to you right now,” he said.
According to Texas bicycle laws, all bicyclists must ride alongside streets and roadways, as opposed to sidewalks, when a designated bike line is unavailable.
“It’s not going to stop me from cycling. It’s just going to stop me from cycling on the roads here. I think I’m gonna be trying to go somewhere where cars can’t be, and I think that’s the responsibility of the City of Austin to maintain that,” Gardiner said. “To provide us with an opportunity to not get murdered.” | 2 | 43,906 | 0 | https://www.bigcountryhomepage.com/news/state-news/watch-texas-cyclist-hit-by-car-that-sped-off/ | 2022-04-01 16:35:13+00:00 | AUSTIN (KXAN) — An Austin man’s evening bike ride almost turned deadly, as shown in a video of a car hitting the cyclist in front of witnesses and then speeding off.
The video captured by a bystander shows cyclist Nick Gardiner riding in the street when a car appearing to change lanes hits him and drives off. He said it happened a little before 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Austin Police said the incident occurred near the 700 block of W. Riverside Drive.
WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO BELOW
You can see Gardiner roll over almost three times after impact before he makes his way to the sidewalk and collapses on a grassy area.
In the video, bystanders run by to attend to the cyclist and make sure he is OK. The hit and run was captured on camera by Scott Thigpen, who can be seen calling 911 in the video.
Gardiner said the driver was “harassing” him for about half a mile. He said at one point, the driver was rolling down his window to yell at Gardiner.
“It was a clear-cut case of road rage,” he said. “No reasonable person would do that.”
Gardiner told KXAN he filed a police report with the Austin Police Department in hopes of finding the driver. He described the car as a white coupe and guesses it is an early 2000s model of a Honda Accord.
Austin Police said the case is being investigated as aggravated assault with a motor vehicle.
The cyclist said he does not have any broken bones but has other injuries, including a severe rash from impact with the road, a golf ball-sized lump on his knee, bruising on his palm and other cuts.
“I got lucky. If it went any other way, I don’t think I’d be talking to you right now,” he said.
According to Texas bicycle laws, all bicyclists must ride alongside streets and roadways, as opposed to sidewalks, when a designated bike line is unavailable.
“It’s not going to stop me from cycling. It’s just going to stop me from cycling on the roads here. I think I’m gonna be trying to go somewhere where cars can’t be, and I think that’s the responsibility of the City of Austin to maintain that,” Gardiner said. “To provide us with an opportunity to not get murdered.” |
https://www.expressnews.com/business/article/Homebuilder-stock-slump-over-rates-seen-overdone-17051559.php | LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homebuilder stocks have lagged far behind the broader market during Wall Street’s swoon this year, weighed down by fears that rising mortgage rates could severely dampen sales.
Yet some Wall Street analysts say the selling may be overdone.
One prominent exchange traded fund, the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF, is down about 26% this year, and many of the biggest homebuilders are down even more. Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P 500 is down just 5%.
The swift rise in mortgage rates this year has spooked investors already worried about the highest inflation in decades.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose this week to 4.67%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. A year ago, it stood at 3.18%.
Higher loan rates make it even harder for would-be buyers, especially after the sharp run-up in home prices over the past few years.
Recent data suggest the spike in rates has taken a bite out of new U.S. home sales, which slipped 2% in February from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 772,000 homes. It was the second monthly decline. Sales were down 6.2% from a year ago.
Even so, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on builder stocks.
In a research note this week, analysts at Bank of America Securities said homebuilder valuations are now trading at the low end of the historical range, making the stocks attractive. They also argue that the spike in mortgage rates is already accounted for by investors.
While higher rates make homes less affordable, rising rents and a tight supply of homes for sale should continue to stoke demand for homeownership.
“Simply put, there is a shortage of shelter and the cost to own is still relatively attractive versus renting in the fastest growing U.S. markets,” the analysts wrote.
In a separate note last month, Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless flagged the slide in homebuilder stocks, saying it appears “overdone.”
He noted that during the last rate spike in 2018, housing demand slowed, but recovered by early 2019.
For now, homebuilders can offer buyers incentives to offset some of the cost of higher mortgage rates.
“To date, we haven’t seen widespread evidence of any of those actions occurring,” McCanless wrote. | 0 | 50,707 | 0 | https://www.inddist.com/economy/news/22158925/homebuilder-stock-slump-could-be-overdone | 2022-04-05 02:59:58+00:00 | LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homebuilder stocks have lagged far behind the broader market during Wall Street’s swoon this year, weighed down by fears that rising mortgage rates could severely dampen sales.
Yet some Wall Street analysts say the selling may be overdone.
One prominent exchange traded fund, the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF, is down about 26% this year, and many of the biggest homebuilders are down even more. Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P 500 is down just 5%.
The swift rise in mortgage rates this year has spooked investors already worried about the highest inflation in decades.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose this week to 4.67%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. A year ago, it stood at 3.18%.
Higher loan rates make it even harder for would-be buyers, especially after the sharp run-up in home prices over the past few years.
Recent data suggest the spike in rates has taken a bite out of new U.S. home sales, which slipped 2% in February from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 772,000 homes. It was the second monthly decline. Sales were down 6.2% from a year ago.
Even so, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on builder stocks.
In a research note this week, analysts at Bank of America Securities said homebuilder valuations are now trading at the low end of the historical range, making the stocks attractive. They also argue that the spike in mortgage rates is already accounted for by investors.
While higher rates make homes less affordable, rising rents and a tight supply of homes for sale should continue to stoke demand for homeownership.
“Simply put, there is a shortage of shelter and the cost to own is still relatively attractive versus renting in the fastest growing U.S. markets,” the analysts wrote.
In a separate note last month, Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless flagged the slide in homebuilder stocks, saying it appears “overdone.”
He noted that during the last rate spike in 2018, housing demand slowed, but recovered by early 2019.
For now, homebuilders can offer buyers incentives to offset some of the cost of higher mortgage rates.
“To date, we haven’t seen widespread evidence of any of those actions occurring,” McCanless wrote. |
https://www.expressnews.com/business/article/Homebuilder-stock-slump-over-rates-seen-overdone-17051559.php | LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homebuilder stocks have lagged far behind the broader market during Wall Street’s swoon this year, weighed down by fears that rising mortgage rates could severely dampen sales.
Yet some Wall Street analysts say the selling may be overdone.
One prominent exchange traded fund, the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF, is down about 26% this year, and many of the biggest homebuilders are down even more. Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P 500 is down just 5%.
The swift rise in mortgage rates this year has spooked investors already worried about the highest inflation in decades.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose this week to 4.67%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. A year ago, it stood at 3.18%.
Higher loan rates make it even harder for would-be buyers, especially after the sharp run-up in home prices over the past few years.
Recent data suggest the spike in rates has taken a bite out of new U.S. home sales, which slipped 2% in February from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 772,000 homes. It was the second monthly decline. Sales were down 6.2% from a year ago.
Even so, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on builder stocks.
In a research note this week, analysts at Bank of America Securities said homebuilder valuations are now trading at the low end of the historical range, making the stocks attractive. They also argue that the spike in mortgage rates is already accounted for by investors.
While higher rates make homes less affordable, rising rents and a tight supply of homes for sale should continue to stoke demand for homeownership.
“Simply put, there is a shortage of shelter and the cost to own is still relatively attractive versus renting in the fastest growing U.S. markets,” the analysts wrote.
In a separate note last month, Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless flagged the slide in homebuilder stocks, saying it appears “overdone.”
He noted that during the last rate spike in 2018, housing demand slowed, but recovered by early 2019.
For now, homebuilders can offer buyers incentives to offset some of the cost of higher mortgage rates.
“To date, we haven’t seen widespread evidence of any of those actions occurring,” McCanless wrote. | 1 | 71,107 | 0 | https://www.manisteenews.com/business/article/Homebuilder-stock-slump-over-rates-seen-overdone-17051559.php | 2022-04-01 18:21:47+00:00 | LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homebuilder stocks have lagged far behind the broader market during Wall Street’s swoon this year, weighed down by fears that rising mortgage rates could severely dampen sales.
Yet some Wall Street analysts say the selling may be overdone.
One prominent exchange traded fund, the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF, is down about 26% this year, and many of the biggest homebuilders are down even more. Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P 500 is down just 5%.
The swift rise in mortgage rates this year has spooked investors already worried about the highest inflation in decades.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose this week to 4.67%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. A year ago, it stood at 3.18%.
Higher loan rates make it even harder for would-be buyers, especially after the sharp run-up in home prices over the past few years.
Recent data suggest the spike in rates has taken a bite out of new U.S. home sales, which slipped 2% in February from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 772,000 homes. It was the second monthly decline. Sales were down 6.2% from a year ago.
Even so, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on builder stocks.
In a research note this week, analysts at Bank of America Securities said homebuilder valuations are now trading at the low end of the historical range, making the stocks attractive. They also argue that the spike in mortgage rates is already accounted for by investors.
While higher rates make homes less affordable, rising rents and a tight supply of homes for sale should continue to stoke demand for homeownership.
“Simply put, there is a shortage of shelter and the cost to own is still relatively attractive versus renting in the fastest growing U.S. markets,” the analysts wrote.
In a separate note last month, Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless flagged the slide in homebuilder stocks, saying it appears “overdone.”
He noted that during the last rate spike in 2018, housing demand slowed, but recovered by early 2019.
For now, homebuilders can offer buyers incentives to offset some of the cost of higher mortgage rates.
“To date, we haven’t seen widespread evidence of any of those actions occurring,” McCanless wrote. |
https://www.expressnews.com/business/article/Homebuilder-stock-slump-over-rates-seen-overdone-17051559.php | LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homebuilder stocks have lagged far behind the broader market during Wall Street’s swoon this year, weighed down by fears that rising mortgage rates could severely dampen sales.
Yet some Wall Street analysts say the selling may be overdone.
One prominent exchange traded fund, the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF, is down about 26% this year, and many of the biggest homebuilders are down even more. Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P 500 is down just 5%.
The swift rise in mortgage rates this year has spooked investors already worried about the highest inflation in decades.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose this week to 4.67%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. A year ago, it stood at 3.18%.
Higher loan rates make it even harder for would-be buyers, especially after the sharp run-up in home prices over the past few years.
Recent data suggest the spike in rates has taken a bite out of new U.S. home sales, which slipped 2% in February from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 772,000 homes. It was the second monthly decline. Sales were down 6.2% from a year ago.
Even so, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on builder stocks.
In a research note this week, analysts at Bank of America Securities said homebuilder valuations are now trading at the low end of the historical range, making the stocks attractive. They also argue that the spike in mortgage rates is already accounted for by investors.
While higher rates make homes less affordable, rising rents and a tight supply of homes for sale should continue to stoke demand for homeownership.
“Simply put, there is a shortage of shelter and the cost to own is still relatively attractive versus renting in the fastest growing U.S. markets,” the analysts wrote.
In a separate note last month, Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless flagged the slide in homebuilder stocks, saying it appears “overdone.”
He noted that during the last rate spike in 2018, housing demand slowed, but recovered by early 2019.
For now, homebuilders can offer buyers incentives to offset some of the cost of higher mortgage rates.
“To date, we haven’t seen widespread evidence of any of those actions occurring,” McCanless wrote. | 2 | 71,196 | 0 | https://www.timesunion.com/business/article/Homebuilder-stock-slump-over-rates-seen-overdone-17051559.php | 2022-04-01 18:22:11+00:00 | LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homebuilder stocks have lagged far behind the broader market during Wall Street’s swoon this year, weighed down by fears that rising mortgage rates could severely dampen sales.
Yet some Wall Street analysts say the selling may be overdone.
One prominent exchange traded fund, the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF, is down about 26% this year, and many of the biggest homebuilders are down even more. Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P 500 is down just 5%.
The swift rise in mortgage rates this year has spooked investors already worried about the highest inflation in decades.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose this week to 4.67%, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. A year ago, it stood at 3.18%.
Higher loan rates make it even harder for would-be buyers, especially after the sharp run-up in home prices over the past few years.
Recent data suggest the spike in rates has taken a bite out of new U.S. home sales, which slipped 2% in February from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 772,000 homes. It was the second monthly decline. Sales were down 6.2% from a year ago.
Even so, some Wall Street analysts remain bullish on builder stocks.
In a research note this week, analysts at Bank of America Securities said homebuilder valuations are now trading at the low end of the historical range, making the stocks attractive. They also argue that the spike in mortgage rates is already accounted for by investors.
While higher rates make homes less affordable, rising rents and a tight supply of homes for sale should continue to stoke demand for homeownership.
“Simply put, there is a shortage of shelter and the cost to own is still relatively attractive versus renting in the fastest growing U.S. markets,” the analysts wrote.
In a separate note last month, Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless flagged the slide in homebuilder stocks, saying it appears “overdone.”
He noted that during the last rate spike in 2018, housing demand slowed, but recovered by early 2019.
For now, homebuilders can offer buyers incentives to offset some of the cost of higher mortgage rates.
“To date, we haven’t seen widespread evidence of any of those actions occurring,” McCanless wrote. |
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/bda-invites-bids-for-prr-project/article65282804.ece/amp/ | BDA invites bids for PRR project
Bengaluru April 01, 2022 23:43 ISTThe Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has finally invited bids for the construction of the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR), a project that was mooted over 15 years ago. A notice issued by the BDA stated that the 74 km PRR will have eight lanes with service roads and a width of 100 metres.
By connecting Tumakuru Road with Hosur Road, it is expected to ease congestion on Outer Ring Road and other thoroughfares. Construction will include flyovers, underpasses, railway over bridges, transport zones, minor and major bridges and green corridors. The PPP project will be taken up along the lines of the design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) model.
Around 2,560 acres of land are required for the project which will be borne by the private investor. Pre-bid meetings will be held on April 18, 2022, and the last date for submission of bids is May 18, 2022.
Though the project was proposed over 15 years ago, consecutive governments failed to implement it for various reasons including land acquisition. Farmers and other owners have been demanding that the State government pay them the market price. In the past several protests were held demanding fair compensation for their properties. | 0 | 72,878 | 0.161377 | https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/bda-invites-bids-for-prr-project/article65282804.ece | 2022-04-01 18:28:28+00:00 | BDA invites bids for PRR project
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has finally invited bids for the construction of the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR), a project that was mooted over 15 years ago. A notice issued by the BDA stated that the 74 km PRR will have eight lanes with service roads and a width of 100 metres.
By connecting Tumakuru Road with Hosur Road, it is expected to ease congestion on Outer Ring Road and other thoroughfares. Construction will include flyovers, underpasses, railway over bridges, transport zones, minor and major bridges and green corridors. The PPP project will be taken up along the lines of the design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) model.
Around 2,560 acres of land are required for the project which will be borne by the private investor. Pre-bid meetings will be held on April 18, 2022, and the last date for submission of bids is May 18, 2022.
Though the project was proposed over 15 years ago, consecutive governments failed to implement it for various reasons including land acquisition. Farmers and other owners have been demanding that the State government pay them the market price. In the past several protests were held demanding fair compensation for their properties.
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https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/bda-invites-bids-for-prr-project/article65282804.ece/amp/ | BDA invites bids for PRR project
Bengaluru April 01, 2022 23:43 ISTThe Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has finally invited bids for the construction of the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR), a project that was mooted over 15 years ago. A notice issued by the BDA stated that the 74 km PRR will have eight lanes with service roads and a width of 100 metres.
By connecting Tumakuru Road with Hosur Road, it is expected to ease congestion on Outer Ring Road and other thoroughfares. Construction will include flyovers, underpasses, railway over bridges, transport zones, minor and major bridges and green corridors. The PPP project will be taken up along the lines of the design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) model.
Around 2,560 acres of land are required for the project which will be borne by the private investor. Pre-bid meetings will be held on April 18, 2022, and the last date for submission of bids is May 18, 2022.
Though the project was proposed over 15 years ago, consecutive governments failed to implement it for various reasons including land acquisition. Farmers and other owners have been demanding that the State government pay them the market price. In the past several protests were held demanding fair compensation for their properties. | 1 | 143,854 | 0.423916 | https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/bangalore-development-authority-floats-74km-prr-tender-for-second-time/articleshow/93082502.cms | 2022-07-24 06:18:14+00:00 | Bangalore Development Authority
BENGALURU: Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has floated a fresh tender for constructing the 74km Peripheral Ring Road (PRR).
On March 31, the authority invited tender bids for the PRR connecting Tumakuru Road and Hosur Road under a public-private partnership model. But before the pre-bidding meeting, BDA officials scrapped the tender invite citing technical glitches. Now for the second time, the tender has been floated, without altering the terms and conditions.
BDA commissioner Rajesh Gowda said the tender process was scrapped as investor companies had sought more time to study the feasibility and survey land for the project, and there was also no clarity on fixing compensation for acquiring land. "Companies at the pre-bidding meeting sought two months for the study and the government gave them three months. But they failed to submit the project design and proposal. We scrapped the tender and floated a fresh one with the same content," he said.
Eight companies, including from Israel and Europe, had participated in the first tender but none had clarity on the project and estimations. After the pre-bidding, they were in a dilemma about compensation and cost estimates, BDA officials explained.
The project will be based on design, build, finance, operate and transfer model. Issues regarding land acquisition and revenue-sharing module with private partners are yet to be decided.
According to BDA, 2,560 acres have to be acquired for the project. Farmers are demanding relief as per the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. This will be a huge burden for the companies, BDA chairman SR Vishwanath said.
The 74-km PRR will have a total of eight lanes along with service roads.
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https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/bda-invites-bids-for-prr-project/article65282804.ece/amp/ | BDA invites bids for PRR project
Bengaluru April 01, 2022 23:43 ISTThe Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has finally invited bids for the construction of the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR), a project that was mooted over 15 years ago. A notice issued by the BDA stated that the 74 km PRR will have eight lanes with service roads and a width of 100 metres.
By connecting Tumakuru Road with Hosur Road, it is expected to ease congestion on Outer Ring Road and other thoroughfares. Construction will include flyovers, underpasses, railway over bridges, transport zones, minor and major bridges and green corridors. The PPP project will be taken up along the lines of the design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) model.
Around 2,560 acres of land are required for the project which will be borne by the private investor. Pre-bid meetings will be held on April 18, 2022, and the last date for submission of bids is May 18, 2022.
Though the project was proposed over 15 years ago, consecutive governments failed to implement it for various reasons including land acquisition. Farmers and other owners have been demanding that the State government pay them the market price. In the past several protests were held demanding fair compensation for their properties. | 2 | 66,730 | 0.505598 | https://www.thehansindia.com/karnataka/tenders-for-the-prr-project-postponed-again-739190 | 2022-04-21 19:11:50+00:00 | Tenders for the PRR project postponed again
The long-awaited Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project does not look like anytime starting soon.
Bengaluru: The long-awaited Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project does not look like anytime starting soon. When the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) invited the tenders for the project, all the disruptions seemed to have been averted. However, the BDA has postponed the tender process due to technical reasons.
The project was proposed by the BDA on March 31. Accordingly, the pre-bid meeting was scheduled for April 18, the last day to submit the bid was May 18. On May 20, the authority would have opened technical bids. Applicants for the tender had to make a security deposit of Rs 150 crore. The tender process has now been postponed. Revised dates have not yet been announced.
The BDA, which has notified the tender postponement, is unable to upload bid documents at E Procurement Portal (https://eproc.karnataka.gov.in). So the revised dates will be announced soon.
The PRR will cover about 74 km and eight lanes service road. The 100 m wide road and clover leaf shaped junctions, bridges, over-bridges, railway underpass and railway over bridges will be constructed under the project.
The BDA submitted its proposal to build PRR on the outskirts of the city on January 27, 2006. There have been many teething problems facing the project. The State government had given permission for implementation of this project on November 24, 2018 at a cost of Rs 5,616.41 crore.
The State government will bear 16 per cent of this (Rs 901.72 crore), while the remaining 84 per cent (Rs 4,714.69 crore) will be paid by the Japan International Cooperation Agency in three instalments. Now the format of the project has changed again. BDA has backed away from a proposal to borrow from JICA.
According to tender documents invited on March 31, the BDA is implementing the project in private partnership. The contractor is required to design, fund, build and maintain the road for 50 years and then hand it over to the BDA. The project has been modelled on a revenue sharing by the contractor and BDA for 50 years. The project requires 2,560 acres of land. The contractor must bear the cost of land acquisition.
The Supreme Court has also expressed concern over the unnecessary delays in the implementation of the PRR project.
Responding to the report of the implementation of the project, the Supreme Court said that although the BDA had proposed the PRR project in 2006, no progress had been made other than the notification of land acquisition. On October 26, 2021, it was reported that only three acres of 21-acre land had been acquired.
The BDA submitted the PRR proposal to the Department of Infrastructure for approval. However, approval was not given. The tender was withdrawn on March 31, as it had objected to calling for tenders without the approval of the department. BDA sources said the tender will be called once the approval of the Infrastructure Development Department is approved.
According to the previous plan, the total length of the PRR was 65 km. However, clover leaf shaped junctions are being developed at the intersection of Nice Road and PRR. So the road length has increased to 74 km, BDA sources said.
The estimated cost of the project has increased from Rs 21,000 crore to Rs 23,500 crore. The cost of road construction is estimated at Rs 5,616.41 crore.
But as the length of the road increases, more than 750 acres of additional land will be needed. So, for land acquisition it could cost Rs 18,000 crore. A BDA official informed that the project will be revised. The preliminary notification process for additional land acquisition required for the proposal has not been completed. He added that this could take longer. |
https://www.mdislander.com/living/sea-of-blue-road-race-returns-april-30 | NORTHEAST HARBOR — After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Sea of Blue Autism Awareness Walk/5K will be back up and running on April 30.
The race, which begins and ends at The Neighborhood House in Northeast Harbor, raises funds for autism awareness in the community. More than $30,000 has been raised over the years for agencies such as the Autism Society of Maine, Downeast Horizons and Special Children’s Friends.
In 2020, after it was clear that the race could not be run due to pandemic restrictions, Sea of Blue donated the funds it had on hand to autism-related causes.
Registration fees have been reduced this year, said organizers, to ease any financial burden for runners.
Pre-registration is now available, and the first 100 registrants will get a free t-shirt. Walkers begin at 9:30 a.m. and runners at 10.
“We are not looking to set records this year,” said Susan Heel, who organizes the event with her son Christopher. “We know people are rusty and maybe a little sluggish after the last two COVID years, so this is a low-pressure race.”
To register, visit www.seaofblueautism.com/p/blog-page_21.html to download the form. For more information, call (207) 266-0511 or email [email protected]. | 0 | 79,750 | 0.589905 | https://www.mdislander.com/maine-news/sea-of-blue-raises-10k | 2022-05-04 23:39:03+00:00 | NORTHEAST HARBOR — With 41 runners and more than 100 walkers, the annual Sea of Blue Autism 5K took off from The Neighborhood House on April 30. The race, now in its seventh year, raised more than $10,000 to fund programs that help support families and individuals with autism.
This year’s race was record breaking, said co-organizer Susan Heel who, along with her son Christopher Heel, has been the driving force behind the annual event. “This is the first year we’ve been able to raise over $10,000,” she said, noting that donations were still coming in and estimates that the number will be closer to $11,000.
Heel said that the event drew a lot of new faces, specifically those who have moved to town over the last two years when the race could not be held due to the coronavirus pandemic. “We answered lots of questions and reached a new audience,” she said.
In addition to the race’s primary sponsors, Curtis Family Shoe Store and Darling’s Auto Mall, Heel said that many racers gave additional donations and that a number of other local businesses stepped up to support the organization, which sends the proceeds to other nonprofits such as the Autism Society of Maine, Downeast Horizons and Special Children’s Friends.
After the race, participants were invited to an after-party at the nearby Nor’Easter Pound and Market to enjoy appetizers and light fare donated by the restaurant.
Top 10 finishers
Peter Williams 18:17.6
Michelle Gagnon 23:24.4
Jean Johnson 23:28.8
Eliza Bishop 23:29.6
Amy Nyberg 24:02.5
Christa Brey 25:17.7
Andrew Tiemann 25:20.1
Lisa Tweedie 25:46.4
Tom Murphy 26:12.1
Mike Mandell 26:31.5 |
https://www.mdislander.com/living/sea-of-blue-road-race-returns-april-30 | NORTHEAST HARBOR — After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Sea of Blue Autism Awareness Walk/5K will be back up and running on April 30.
The race, which begins and ends at The Neighborhood House in Northeast Harbor, raises funds for autism awareness in the community. More than $30,000 has been raised over the years for agencies such as the Autism Society of Maine, Downeast Horizons and Special Children’s Friends.
In 2020, after it was clear that the race could not be run due to pandemic restrictions, Sea of Blue donated the funds it had on hand to autism-related causes.
Registration fees have been reduced this year, said organizers, to ease any financial burden for runners.
Pre-registration is now available, and the first 100 registrants will get a free t-shirt. Walkers begin at 9:30 a.m. and runners at 10.
“We are not looking to set records this year,” said Susan Heel, who organizes the event with her son Christopher. “We know people are rusty and maybe a little sluggish after the last two COVID years, so this is a low-pressure race.”
To register, visit www.seaofblueautism.com/p/blog-page_21.html to download the form. For more information, call (207) 266-0511 or email [email protected]. | 1 | 75,318 | 0.784246 | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/15/capitol-city-blue-run-supporting-autism-family-network/ | 2022-04-15 16:17:03+00:00 | Capitol City Blue Run supporting Autism Family Network
LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - On April 23, the Capitol City Blue Run will be back in-person for the first time in three years. This will be the 7th annual run, with this year’s race at 9 a.m. at the Lancaster Event Center.
As in years past, the run will benefit the Autism Family Network in Lincoln. The group’s mission is to support and advocate for anyone on the autism spectrum and their families.
The goal for this year’s race was to raise $30,000 and as of April 15, that goal has been met. The new goal is $35,000, which will help even further their mission.
“When you first receive a diagnosis for your child, you’re looking for answers and different resources and ways to help your child,” Autism Family Network president, Cathy Martinez said. “The nice part about having a support group network is there’s other people that have already experienced that and they can help you navigate the journey of raising a child on the spectrum.”
The run helps spread awareness, and the money raised will go towards inclusive events for children with autism and their families.
“Some of those programs include a young adult social club, an art club, swim lesson scholarships for kids on the spectrum, movie nights and swim nights throughout the year,” Martinez said. “Whatever families would like to do, just to give them the opportunity to participate in different events that are community inclusive.”
Registration is still open for both runners and sponsors. Race organizers said to enter from Havelock Avenue and go to Gate 3.
Copyright 2022 KOLN. All rights reserved. |
https://www.mdislander.com/living/sea-of-blue-road-race-returns-april-30 | NORTHEAST HARBOR — After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Sea of Blue Autism Awareness Walk/5K will be back up and running on April 30.
The race, which begins and ends at The Neighborhood House in Northeast Harbor, raises funds for autism awareness in the community. More than $30,000 has been raised over the years for agencies such as the Autism Society of Maine, Downeast Horizons and Special Children’s Friends.
In 2020, after it was clear that the race could not be run due to pandemic restrictions, Sea of Blue donated the funds it had on hand to autism-related causes.
Registration fees have been reduced this year, said organizers, to ease any financial burden for runners.
Pre-registration is now available, and the first 100 registrants will get a free t-shirt. Walkers begin at 9:30 a.m. and runners at 10.
“We are not looking to set records this year,” said Susan Heel, who organizes the event with her son Christopher. “We know people are rusty and maybe a little sluggish after the last two COVID years, so this is a low-pressure race.”
To register, visit www.seaofblueautism.com/p/blog-page_21.html to download the form. For more information, call (207) 266-0511 or email [email protected]. | 2 | 119,615 | 0.791539 | https://www.wect.com/2022/04/23/coastal-runwalk-autism-draws-hundreds-uncw-track/ | 2022-04-24 15:16:06+00:00 | Coastal Run/Walk for Autism draws hundreds to UNCW track
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - A crowd estimated at more than one thousand people turned out to the UNCW Track and Field Complex Saturday morning for the 2022 Coastal Walk/Run for Autism.
Hosted by the Autism Society of North Carolina, the event helps raise funds for programs and services to improve the lives of individuals with autism in southeastern North Carolina.
More than 750 people registered for the morning’s running and walking events, which included a 5K race that wound through the UNCW campus, and a 1-mile fun run/walk around the track. Several members of the Seahawks’ Men’s Basketball team spent time with the crowd, posing for pictures with fans.
Many providers set up information booths next to the track, where they were able to answer questions on their services that covered physical and developmental areas.
Organizers say they expected to raise more than $50,000 from the event for the Autism Society of NC, which is the leading statewide resource organization serving people across the autism spectrum throughout their lifetimes. Proceeds will stay in this area to help children and adults with autism learn new skills and make friends, allow families to attend workshops or support groups to better care for their children, and provide adults with autism the tools they need to become employed and build fulfilling lives.
WECT was a sponsor for the event.
Copyright 2022 WECT. All rights reserved. |
https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Costa-Ricans-underwhelmed-by-options-for-next-17051406.php | SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Costa Ricans will vote Sunday for a new president amid widespread apathy, an unending string of controversies between the candidates and no clear favorite.
Ex-President José María Figueres and Rodrigo Chaves, a former treasury minister for the outgoing administration of Carlos Alvarado, topped a first round of voting in February, but neither drew near the 40% required to avoid Sunday’s runoff.
For many Costa Ricans it will be a matter of holding their noses and choosing the less offensive candidate.
Eduardo Molina, a 41-year-old shop owner, said he still had not made up his mind between Chaves and Figueroa.
“It’s really difficult, honestly, I don’t like either of the candidates, but you have to vote because it decides the future of the country,” Molina said.
Figueres, of the National Liberation Party, led the first round of voting with 27.8% of the vote. He governed Costa Rica from 1994 to 1998 and his father was three-time president José Figueres Ferrer, probably the country’s most important political figure of the last century.
The younger Figueres has been questioned over a $900,000 consulting fee he received after his presidency from the telecommunication company Alcatel while it competed for a contract with the national electricity company. He was never charged with any crime and denied any wrongdoing.
But the scandal has been fodder for Chaves’ campaign. Figueres spent more than a decade outside Costa Rica while the accusations flew. More recently, electoral authorities are investigating the source of funds for a trip Figueres took to the Dominican Republic on a private jet to visit President Luis Abinader.
Chaves, representing the Social Democratic Progress Party, has been the election’s big surprise. He seemed to shake off the negative effects of having briefly served in the administration of Alvarado, whose Citizen Action Party was so unpopular that the first round of voting left it without a representative in Congress. But he has his own baggage.
While working at the World Bank he was accused of sexual harassment, eventually demoted and then barred from the office. He has denied the accusations and insists he was absolved, but that does not appear to be the case. He was sanctioned by the bank and resigned shortly thereafter. Figueres’ campaign has returned to the alleged inappropriate behavior repeatedly.
Costa Rican electoral authorities are also investigating allegations Chaves’ party ran an illegal parallel financing structure for his campaign.
According to the most recent poll from the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Political Research and Studies, Chaves had the support of 41.4% of decided voters and Figueres 38%, within the margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. The poll was conducted between March 24 and 28.
Ronald Alfaro, political scientist coordinator of the center’s poll, said both candidates had image problems with a large portion of the electorate. One-third of decided voters indicated that they would not vote for a candidate they liked most, but against the candidate they liked the least, he said.
In runoffs, the margin between candidates in the final results is often wider, but will depend on the 18% of voters who remained undecided, Alfaro said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased in Costa Rica since the first round of voting. Still, due to the general apathy and high negatives of the two candidates, experts predict an even higher percentage of eligible voters could stay home than the 40% who did the first time.
Xinia Badilla, a 35-year-old homemaker, said she will vote, but was embarrassed to say who she would choose because both candidates are viewed so poorly.
“They have made a very ugly campaign, only attacks and no proposals,” Badilla said. “I already have my candidate; he’s not the one I would like, but the other seems even worse. So the truth is it’s hard for someone to go around saying for whom they’ll vote or not.” | 0 | 60,245 | 0 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Costa-Ricans-underwhelmed-by-options-for-next-17051406.php | 2022-04-01 17:36:24+00:00 | SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Costa Ricans will vote Sunday for a new president amid widespread apathy, an unending string of controversies between the candidates and no clear favorite.
Ex-President José María Figueres and Rodrigo Chaves, a former treasury minister for the outgoing administration of Carlos Alvarado, topped a first round of voting in February, but neither drew near the 40% required to avoid Sunday’s runoff.
For many Costa Ricans it will be a matter of holding their noses and choosing the less offensive candidate.
Eduardo Molina, a 41-year-old shop owner, said he still had not made up his mind between Chaves and Figueroa.
“It’s really difficult, honestly, I don’t like either of the candidates, but you have to vote because it decides the future of the country,” Molina said.
Figueres, of the National Liberation Party, led the first round of voting with 27.8% of the vote. He governed Costa Rica from 1994 to 1998 and his father was three-time president José Figueres Ferrer, probably the country’s most important political figure of the last century.
The younger Figueres has been questioned over a $900,000 consulting fee he received after his presidency from the telecommunication company Alcatel while it competed for a contract with the national electricity company. He was never charged with any crime and denied any wrongdoing.
But the scandal has been fodder for Chaves’ campaign. Figueres spent more than a decade outside Costa Rica while the accusations flew. More recently, electoral authorities are investigating the source of funds for a trip Figueres took to the Dominican Republic on a private jet to visit President Luis Abinader.
Chaves, representing the Social Democratic Progress Party, has been the election’s big surprise. He seemed to shake off the negative effects of having briefly served in the administration of Alvarado, whose Citizen Action Party was so unpopular that the first round of voting left it without a representative in Congress. But he has his own baggage.
While working at the World Bank he was accused of sexual harassment, eventually demoted and then barred from the office. He has denied the accusations and insists he was absolved, but that does not appear to be the case. He was sanctioned by the bank and resigned shortly thereafter. Figueres’ campaign has returned to the alleged inappropriate behavior repeatedly.
Costa Rican electoral authorities are also investigating allegations Chaves’ party ran an illegal parallel financing structure for his campaign.
According to the most recent poll from the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Political Research and Studies, Chaves had the support of 41.4% of decided voters and Figueres 38%, within the margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. The poll was conducted between March 24 and 28.
Ronald Alfaro, political scientist coordinator of the center’s poll, said both candidates had image problems with a large portion of the electorate. One-third of decided voters indicated that they would not vote for a candidate they liked most, but against the candidate they liked the least, he said.
In runoffs, the margin between candidates in the final results is often wider, but will depend on the 18% of voters who remained undecided, Alfaro said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased in Costa Rica since the first round of voting. Still, due to the general apathy and high negatives of the two candidates, experts predict an even higher percentage of eligible voters could stay home than the 40% who did the first time.
Xinia Badilla, a 35-year-old homemaker, said she will vote, but was embarrassed to say who she would choose because both candidates are viewed so poorly.
“They have made a very ugly campaign, only attacks and no proposals,” Badilla said. “I already have my candidate; he’s not the one I would like, but the other seems even worse. So the truth is it’s hard for someone to go around saying for whom they’ll vote or not.” |
https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Costa-Ricans-underwhelmed-by-options-for-next-17051406.php | SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Costa Ricans will vote Sunday for a new president amid widespread apathy, an unending string of controversies between the candidates and no clear favorite.
Ex-President José María Figueres and Rodrigo Chaves, a former treasury minister for the outgoing administration of Carlos Alvarado, topped a first round of voting in February, but neither drew near the 40% required to avoid Sunday’s runoff.
For many Costa Ricans it will be a matter of holding their noses and choosing the less offensive candidate.
Eduardo Molina, a 41-year-old shop owner, said he still had not made up his mind between Chaves and Figueroa.
“It’s really difficult, honestly, I don’t like either of the candidates, but you have to vote because it decides the future of the country,” Molina said.
Figueres, of the National Liberation Party, led the first round of voting with 27.8% of the vote. He governed Costa Rica from 1994 to 1998 and his father was three-time president José Figueres Ferrer, probably the country’s most important political figure of the last century.
The younger Figueres has been questioned over a $900,000 consulting fee he received after his presidency from the telecommunication company Alcatel while it competed for a contract with the national electricity company. He was never charged with any crime and denied any wrongdoing.
But the scandal has been fodder for Chaves’ campaign. Figueres spent more than a decade outside Costa Rica while the accusations flew. More recently, electoral authorities are investigating the source of funds for a trip Figueres took to the Dominican Republic on a private jet to visit President Luis Abinader.
Chaves, representing the Social Democratic Progress Party, has been the election’s big surprise. He seemed to shake off the negative effects of having briefly served in the administration of Alvarado, whose Citizen Action Party was so unpopular that the first round of voting left it without a representative in Congress. But he has his own baggage.
While working at the World Bank he was accused of sexual harassment, eventually demoted and then barred from the office. He has denied the accusations and insists he was absolved, but that does not appear to be the case. He was sanctioned by the bank and resigned shortly thereafter. Figueres’ campaign has returned to the alleged inappropriate behavior repeatedly.
Costa Rican electoral authorities are also investigating allegations Chaves’ party ran an illegal parallel financing structure for his campaign.
According to the most recent poll from the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Political Research and Studies, Chaves had the support of 41.4% of decided voters and Figueres 38%, within the margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. The poll was conducted between March 24 and 28.
Ronald Alfaro, political scientist coordinator of the center’s poll, said both candidates had image problems with a large portion of the electorate. One-third of decided voters indicated that they would not vote for a candidate they liked most, but against the candidate they liked the least, he said.
In runoffs, the margin between candidates in the final results is often wider, but will depend on the 18% of voters who remained undecided, Alfaro said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased in Costa Rica since the first round of voting. Still, due to the general apathy and high negatives of the two candidates, experts predict an even higher percentage of eligible voters could stay home than the 40% who did the first time.
Xinia Badilla, a 35-year-old homemaker, said she will vote, but was embarrassed to say who she would choose because both candidates are viewed so poorly.
“They have made a very ugly campaign, only attacks and no proposals,” Badilla said. “I already have my candidate; he’s not the one I would like, but the other seems even worse. So the truth is it’s hard for someone to go around saying for whom they’ll vote or not.” | 1 | 60,346 | 0 | https://www.chron.com/news/article/Costa-Ricans-underwhelmed-by-options-for-next-17051406.php | 2022-04-01 17:36:49+00:00 | SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Costa Ricans will vote Sunday for a new president amid widespread apathy, an unending string of controversies between the candidates and no clear favorite.
Ex-President José María Figueres and Rodrigo Chaves, a former treasury minister for the outgoing administration of Carlos Alvarado, topped a first round of voting in February, but neither drew near the 40% required to avoid Sunday’s runoff.
For many Costa Ricans it will be a matter of holding their noses and choosing the less offensive candidate.
Eduardo Molina, a 41-year-old shop owner, said he still had not made up his mind between Chaves and Figueroa.
“It’s really difficult, honestly, I don’t like either of the candidates, but you have to vote because it decides the future of the country,” Molina said.
Figueres, of the National Liberation Party, led the first round of voting with 27.8% of the vote. He governed Costa Rica from 1994 to 1998 and his father was three-time president José Figueres Ferrer, probably the country’s most important political figure of the last century.
The younger Figueres has been questioned over a $900,000 consulting fee he received after his presidency from the telecommunication company Alcatel while it competed for a contract with the national electricity company. He was never charged with any crime and denied any wrongdoing.
But the scandal has been fodder for Chaves’ campaign. Figueres spent more than a decade outside Costa Rica while the accusations flew. More recently, electoral authorities are investigating the source of funds for a trip Figueres took to the Dominican Republic on a private jet to visit President Luis Abinader.
Chaves, representing the Social Democratic Progress Party, has been the election’s big surprise. He seemed to shake off the negative effects of having briefly served in the administration of Alvarado, whose Citizen Action Party was so unpopular that the first round of voting left it without a representative in Congress. But he has his own baggage.
While working at the World Bank he was accused of sexual harassment, eventually demoted and then barred from the office. He has denied the accusations and insists he was absolved, but that does not appear to be the case. He was sanctioned by the bank and resigned shortly thereafter. Figueres’ campaign has returned to the alleged inappropriate behavior repeatedly.
Costa Rican electoral authorities are also investigating allegations Chaves’ party ran an illegal parallel financing structure for his campaign.
According to the most recent poll from the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Political Research and Studies, Chaves had the support of 41.4% of decided voters and Figueres 38%, within the margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. The poll was conducted between March 24 and 28.
Ronald Alfaro, political scientist coordinator of the center’s poll, said both candidates had image problems with a large portion of the electorate. One-third of decided voters indicated that they would not vote for a candidate they liked most, but against the candidate they liked the least, he said.
In runoffs, the margin between candidates in the final results is often wider, but will depend on the 18% of voters who remained undecided, Alfaro said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased in Costa Rica since the first round of voting. Still, due to the general apathy and high negatives of the two candidates, experts predict an even higher percentage of eligible voters could stay home than the 40% who did the first time.
Xinia Badilla, a 35-year-old homemaker, said she will vote, but was embarrassed to say who she would choose because both candidates are viewed so poorly.
“They have made a very ugly campaign, only attacks and no proposals,” Badilla said. “I already have my candidate; he’s not the one I would like, but the other seems even worse. So the truth is it’s hard for someone to go around saying for whom they’ll vote or not.” |
https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Costa-Ricans-underwhelmed-by-options-for-next-17051406.php | SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Costa Ricans will vote Sunday for a new president amid widespread apathy, an unending string of controversies between the candidates and no clear favorite.
Ex-President José María Figueres and Rodrigo Chaves, a former treasury minister for the outgoing administration of Carlos Alvarado, topped a first round of voting in February, but neither drew near the 40% required to avoid Sunday’s runoff.
For many Costa Ricans it will be a matter of holding their noses and choosing the less offensive candidate.
Eduardo Molina, a 41-year-old shop owner, said he still had not made up his mind between Chaves and Figueroa.
“It’s really difficult, honestly, I don’t like either of the candidates, but you have to vote because it decides the future of the country,” Molina said.
Figueres, of the National Liberation Party, led the first round of voting with 27.8% of the vote. He governed Costa Rica from 1994 to 1998 and his father was three-time president José Figueres Ferrer, probably the country’s most important political figure of the last century.
The younger Figueres has been questioned over a $900,000 consulting fee he received after his presidency from the telecommunication company Alcatel while it competed for a contract with the national electricity company. He was never charged with any crime and denied any wrongdoing.
But the scandal has been fodder for Chaves’ campaign. Figueres spent more than a decade outside Costa Rica while the accusations flew. More recently, electoral authorities are investigating the source of funds for a trip Figueres took to the Dominican Republic on a private jet to visit President Luis Abinader.
Chaves, representing the Social Democratic Progress Party, has been the election’s big surprise. He seemed to shake off the negative effects of having briefly served in the administration of Alvarado, whose Citizen Action Party was so unpopular that the first round of voting left it without a representative in Congress. But he has his own baggage.
While working at the World Bank he was accused of sexual harassment, eventually demoted and then barred from the office. He has denied the accusations and insists he was absolved, but that does not appear to be the case. He was sanctioned by the bank and resigned shortly thereafter. Figueres’ campaign has returned to the alleged inappropriate behavior repeatedly.
Costa Rican electoral authorities are also investigating allegations Chaves’ party ran an illegal parallel financing structure for his campaign.
According to the most recent poll from the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Political Research and Studies, Chaves had the support of 41.4% of decided voters and Figueres 38%, within the margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. The poll was conducted between March 24 and 28.
Ronald Alfaro, political scientist coordinator of the center’s poll, said both candidates had image problems with a large portion of the electorate. One-third of decided voters indicated that they would not vote for a candidate they liked most, but against the candidate they liked the least, he said.
In runoffs, the margin between candidates in the final results is often wider, but will depend on the 18% of voters who remained undecided, Alfaro said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased in Costa Rica since the first round of voting. Still, due to the general apathy and high negatives of the two candidates, experts predict an even higher percentage of eligible voters could stay home than the 40% who did the first time.
Xinia Badilla, a 35-year-old homemaker, said she will vote, but was embarrassed to say who she would choose because both candidates are viewed so poorly.
“They have made a very ugly campaign, only attacks and no proposals,” Badilla said. “I already have my candidate; he’s not the one I would like, but the other seems even worse. So the truth is it’s hard for someone to go around saying for whom they’ll vote or not.” | 2 | 61,622 | 0 | https://federalnewsnetwork.com/government-news/2022/04/costa-ricans-underwhelmed-by-options-for-next-president/ | 2022-04-01 17:41:51+00:00 | SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Costa Ricans will vote Sunday for a new president amid widespread apathy, an unending string of controversies between the candidates and no clear favorite.
Ex-President José María Figueres and Rodrigo Chaves, a former treasury minister for the outgoing administration of Carlos Alvarado, topped a first round of voting in February, but neither drew near the 40% required to avoid Sunday’s runoff.
For many Costa Ricans it will be a matter of holding their noses and choosing the less offensive candidate.
Eduardo Molina, a 41-year-old shop owner, said he still had not made up his mind between Chaves and Figueroa.
“It’s really difficult, honestly, I don’t like either of the candidates, but you have to vote because it decides the future of the country,” Molina said.
Figueres, of the National Liberation Party, led the first round of voting with 27.8% of the vote. He governed Costa Rica from 1994 to 1998 and his father was three-time president José Figueres Ferrer, probably the country’s most important political figure of the last century.
The younger Figueres has been questioned over a $900,000 consulting fee he received after his presidency from the telecommunication company Alcatel while it competed for a contract with the national electricity company. He was never charged with any crime and denied any wrongdoing.
But the scandal has been fodder for Chaves’ campaign. Figueres spent more than a decade outside Costa Rica while the accusations flew. More recently, electoral authorities are investigating the source of funds for a trip Figueres took to the Dominican Republic on a private jet to visit President Luis Abinader.
Chaves, representing the Social Democratic Progress Party, has been the election’s big surprise. He seemed to shake off the negative effects of having briefly served in the administration of Alvarado, whose Citizen Action Party was so unpopular that the first round of voting left it without a representative in Congress. But he has his own baggage.
While working at the World Bank he was accused of sexual harassment, eventually demoted and then barred from the office. He has denied the accusations and insists he was absolved, but that does not appear to be the case. He was sanctioned by the bank and resigned shortly thereafter. Figueres’ campaign has returned to the alleged inappropriate behavior repeatedly.
Costa Rican electoral authorities are also investigating allegations Chaves’ party ran an illegal parallel financing structure for his campaign.
According to the most recent poll from the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Political Research and Studies, Chaves had the support of 41.4% of decided voters and Figueres 38%, within the margin of error of 3.1 percentage points. The poll was conducted between March 24 and 28.
Ronald Alfaro, political scientist coordinator of the center’s poll, said both candidates had image problems with a large portion of the electorate. One-third of decided voters indicated that they would not vote for a candidate they liked most, but against the candidate they liked the least, he said.
In runoffs, the margin between candidates in the final results is often wider, but will depend on the 18% of voters who remained undecided, Alfaro said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased in Costa Rica since the first round of voting. Still, due to the general apathy and high negatives of the two candidates, experts predict an even higher percentage of eligible voters could stay home than the 40% who did the first time.
Xinia Badilla, a 35-year-old homemaker, said she will vote, but was embarrassed to say who she would choose because both candidates are viewed so poorly.
“They have made a very ugly campaign, only attacks and no proposals,” Badilla said. “I already have my candidate; he’s not the one I would like, but the other seems even worse. So the truth is it’s hard for someone to go around saying for whom they’ll vote or not.”
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https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/sports/article/A-name-of-their-own-Hanks-to-toss-1st-pitch-for-17051418.php | CLEVELAND (AP) — Tom Hanks will help launch a new era of Cleveland baseball.
The Oscar-winning actor will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Guardians' home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15. It will be Cleveland's first home game since dropping Indians, the team's name since 1915.
Hanks, who famously said “There is no crying in baseball” while portraying the manager of an all-female team in “A League of Their Own,” has backed Cleveland's major league team since the late 1970s, when he was an intern in the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival before going to Hollywood.
"I’ve had Guardians fever since 1977 when I caught my first game in Section 19 of Cleveland’s Lakefront Municipal Stadium,” Hanks said. “I’m honored to return to Cleveland and Progressive Field for the first home game of the Cleveland Guardians era.”
When the team made its name change in July, Hanks was the narrator for a video to announce the switch to Guardians.
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for best actor for roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.”
___
More AP MLB coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 0 | 62,176 | 0 | https://www.journal-news.com/nation-world/a-name-of-their-own-hanks-to-toss-1st-pitch-for-guardians/FANDBASUIFEWDN2JEYGRR5HD7Y/ | 2022-04-01 17:43:50+00:00 | CLEVELAND (AP) — Tom Hanks will help launch a new era of Cleveland baseball.
The Oscar-winning actor will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Guardians' home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15. It will be Cleveland's first home game since dropping Indians, the team's name since 1915.
Hanks, who famously said “There is no crying in baseball” while portraying the manager of an all-female team in “A League of Their Own,” has backed Cleveland's major league team since the late 1970s, when he was an intern in the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival before going to Hollywood.
"I’ve had Guardians fever since 1977 when I caught my first game in Section 19 of Cleveland’s Lakefront Municipal Stadium,” Hanks said. “I’m honored to return to Cleveland and Progressive Field for the first home game of the Cleveland Guardians era.”
When the team made its name change in July, Hanks was the narrator for a video to announce the switch to Guardians.
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for best actor for roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.”
___
More AP MLB coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports |
https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/sports/article/A-name-of-their-own-Hanks-to-toss-1st-pitch-for-17051418.php | CLEVELAND (AP) — Tom Hanks will help launch a new era of Cleveland baseball.
The Oscar-winning actor will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Guardians' home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15. It will be Cleveland's first home game since dropping Indians, the team's name since 1915.
Hanks, who famously said “There is no crying in baseball” while portraying the manager of an all-female team in “A League of Their Own,” has backed Cleveland's major league team since the late 1970s, when he was an intern in the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival before going to Hollywood.
"I’ve had Guardians fever since 1977 when I caught my first game in Section 19 of Cleveland’s Lakefront Municipal Stadium,” Hanks said. “I’m honored to return to Cleveland and Progressive Field for the first home game of the Cleveland Guardians era.”
When the team made its name change in July, Hanks was the narrator for a video to announce the switch to Guardians.
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for best actor for roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.”
___
More AP MLB coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 1 | 64,093 | 0 | https://www.trumbulltimes.com/sports/article/A-name-of-their-own-Hanks-to-toss-1st-pitch-for-17051418.php | 2022-04-01 17:52:28+00:00 | CLEVELAND (AP) — Tom Hanks will help launch a new era of Cleveland baseball.
The Oscar-winning actor will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Guardians' home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15. It will be Cleveland's first home game since dropping Indians, the team's name since 1915.
Hanks, who famously said “There is no crying in baseball” while portraying the manager of an all-female team in “A League of Their Own,” has backed Cleveland's major league team since the late 1970s, when he was an intern in the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival before going to Hollywood.
"I’ve had Guardians fever since 1977 when I caught my first game in Section 19 of Cleveland’s Lakefront Municipal Stadium,” Hanks said. “I’m honored to return to Cleveland and Progressive Field for the first home game of the Cleveland Guardians era.”
When the team made its name change in July, Hanks was the narrator for a video to announce the switch to Guardians.
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for best actor for roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.”
___
More AP MLB coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports |
https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/sports/article/A-name-of-their-own-Hanks-to-toss-1st-pitch-for-17051418.php | CLEVELAND (AP) — Tom Hanks will help launch a new era of Cleveland baseball.
The Oscar-winning actor will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Guardians' home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15. It will be Cleveland's first home game since dropping Indians, the team's name since 1915.
Hanks, who famously said “There is no crying in baseball” while portraying the manager of an all-female team in “A League of Their Own,” has backed Cleveland's major league team since the late 1970s, when he was an intern in the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival before going to Hollywood.
"I’ve had Guardians fever since 1977 when I caught my first game in Section 19 of Cleveland’s Lakefront Municipal Stadium,” Hanks said. “I’m honored to return to Cleveland and Progressive Field for the first home game of the Cleveland Guardians era.”
When the team made its name change in July, Hanks was the narrator for a video to announce the switch to Guardians.
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for best actor for roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.”
___
More AP MLB coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2 | 64,306 | 0 | https://www.bigrapidsnews.com/sports/article/A-name-of-their-own-Hanks-to-toss-1st-pitch-for-17051418.php | 2022-04-01 17:53:38+00:00 | CLEVELAND (AP) — Tom Hanks will help launch a new era of Cleveland baseball.
The Oscar-winning actor will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Guardians' home opener against the San Francisco Giants on April 15. It will be Cleveland's first home game since dropping Indians, the team's name since 1915.
Hanks, who famously said “There is no crying in baseball” while portraying the manager of an all-female team in “A League of Their Own,” has backed Cleveland's major league team since the late 1970s, when he was an intern in the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival before going to Hollywood.
"I’ve had Guardians fever since 1977 when I caught my first game in Section 19 of Cleveland’s Lakefront Municipal Stadium,” Hanks said. “I’m honored to return to Cleveland and Progressive Field for the first home game of the Cleveland Guardians era.”
When the team made its name change in July, Hanks was the narrator for a video to announce the switch to Guardians.
Hanks won consecutive Academy Awards for best actor for roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.”
___
More AP MLB coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports |
https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2022/04/01/code-purple-ends-what-comes-next-shelter-residents/7234750001/ | 'It saved me:' Code purple ends in Asheville. What comes next for shelter residents?
ASHEVILLE - In the last three months, the Fellowship Hall has been transformed.
The church basement of Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville has served as a temporary home for dozens since January. There are mattresses on the floor in neatly delineated sleeping spaces and belongings heaped in duffels and trash bags.
There's artwork on the walls, a crate in the corner with a sleeping dog named Bear, and a ring of people holding hands — saying a prayer together over a communal hot dinner for the last time.
March 31 marked the final day of Code Purple, an emergency shelter option called when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees. With city shelter options limited, and barriers to entry for some, these high-access beds were often the only sanctuary for those desperate to get out of the cold.
More on Code Purple:
- West Asheville Trinity United Methodist newest Code Purple homeless shelter
- After delays and freezing temps, Asheville announces Code Purple shelter sites
For the last several weeks, both ABCCM's Costello House and Trinity United Methodist Church have opened nightly, not just when temperatures dipped.
On April 1, shelter residents will leave for the last time this season.
For some, transitional housing is on the horizon. For others, there is a spare bedroom in a friend's house, shelter space, detox programs or adult assisted living.
But for many, the end of emergency shelter in Asheville means they are back on the street, struggling to find camping space or somewhere to lay a sleeping bag.
Dustin Mailman, associate pastor at Trinity, said church staff and volunteers have connected a majority of their shelter residents to transitional housing, shelters or programs, but by the morning, he anticipated about five people would be looking for a place to pitch a tent.
“I’m feeling pretty devastated,” Mailman said March 31. It's been an incredible experience, he added, creating community and family, but looking ahead, "there's a lot of unknowns."
More: 'This is the moment:' Infusion of $4.7M to address homelessness in Asheville, beyond
“It’s just clear the kind of gap we were filling, and I’m just overwhelmingly reminded today as folks are having to leave."
With capacity for about 20 people, the church's Fellowship Hall served as shelter for "the most vulnerable members of an already marginalized community," those facing barriers to entry elsewhere — including couples, transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, and people with service dogs and pets.
City staff anticipate a rise in the numbers of unsheltered individuals in January's Point in Time count, data that will be released in late April.
The 2021 Point in Time count identified 527 people experiencing homelessness in Asheville, 116 of which were unsheltered.
Nationally, the Asheville metropolitan area's cost of living is 106% of the average, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research data, but with wages that are 84% the national average.
Related: $497 for an Asheville 3-bedroom? Sweeten Creek Road apartments aim for 100% affordability
Related: Welcome to Asheville: Highest cost of living in North Carolina, but with low wages
"They're angels in our life. A new family," said Khristie Glenn, 39, who had been staying at the shelter with her fiancé, Jeffery Glenn, 50, for about a month.
They were unable to stay at ABCCM's Costello House as a couple, and found their way to Trinity.
“Ever since I’ve been here," she said, "I’ve felt more at ease.”
But the Glenns were unable to secure a solution before Code Purple's deadline, and said Mailman is helping them get a tent. They will be camping again, she said. Khristie is pregnant with twins, and due in five months.
'Lifesaving'
Emily Ball, the city's homeless services system performance lead, said ultimately, Code Purple ending will decrease shelter capacity in the city, a shift exacerbated by the East Asheville Ramada Inn's closure that same day.
More: Asheville's Ramada Inn shelter closes to homeless; 25 residents left without housing
Tim McElyea, director of homeless services at ABCCM, said this follows the usual trends — unsheltered homelessness tends to increase in warmer months, as emergency shelter options end and the city sees an increase in its transient unhoused population.
A 50-bed facility, ABCCM's Costello House averaged about 35 people a night in March, with highs in January averaging 37, but reaching capacity on several nights. On the coldest days, and the larger snow events, the shelter hit capacity.
"It's definitely lifesaving," McElyea said of Code Purple, which he called a "necessary and vital" service.
The third and final Code Purple emergency shelter this year was run by the Salvation Army, offering about eight beds for women and children. Though Trinity and ABCCM transitioned to the winter shelter model, Salvation Army continued to offer shelter only on nights Code Purple was called.
City Council: Sunrise Movement halts Asheville council retreat; Kilgore tries talking to protesters
Evelyne Ball, social service director with The Salvation Army of Buncombe County, said the season ends March 31 for them, as well.
She said the shelter served around eight women a night, and hopes "energy moves forward and continues to the next (Code Purple) season."
The last several months went well, she said, and allowed Salvation Army to offer several women shelter in its permanent program.
Trinity was a new Code Purple option this year, and officially joined the effort Jan. 4.
But Trinity's entrance into the Code Purple scene first came in November, when Code Purple nights were being called with no shelter options available.
Trinity and other community partners rallied and offered six nights of temporary emergency shelter during the week of Thanksgiving.
More: Asheville City Council approves $4.4M Memorial Stadium project, to include new track
The way forward
Melanie Robertson, one of Trinity's organizers, said it was more than a shelter. They became a family.
"It's quite an emotional day," Robertson said. "It has been all week ... the joy is that we’ve been able to help folks find the next step, help folks get where they're going. It’s not just goodbye."
She said they plan on resuming community meals May 4, and will continue monthly meetings of the Winter Shelter Steering Committee, a group dedicated to addressing homelessness in Asheville.
"It saved me," said Hannah Burnett, who has been staying at Trinity for about three weeks with her husband and 2-year-old daughter. As a married couple with a child, she said it's nearly impossible to find a shelter that accepts families without splitting them up.
Burnett is in recovery, and said Trinity connected her with resources, community and support groups to aid with sobriety.
More: Asheville City Council greenlights Avery apartments after more affordable units added
She and her husband have found work, and are headed to the Salvation Army, where Burnett and her daughter will stay together in a family room, with her husband in the men's unit.
Even being in the same building, she said, is a relief. There she hopes for them to get back on their feet and find a place to rent.
'She's got me'
Tonya Clark, 36, and Alecia Dalton, 32, haven't been quite as lucky.
They've only been at Trinity two nights, and are going to be camping again come April 1.
It's Clark's third time finding herself without shelter, but it's only Dalton's first.
"She was scared," Clark said, "until I said, it's OK. She's got me."
State of Asheville: Mayor talks homelessness, police, affordable housing at CIBO
Jeffery Glenn, sitting across the table, reached over. "Now you've got us," he said.
Clark wished that a shelter like Trinity had funds to stay open year-round, and said housing is nearly impossible to navigate, and an eviction put her back on the street.
It was a need that Mailman echoed — a year-round shelter for those with pets, families and women. Somewhere people can stay long enough to find a sense of stability, and take the next step.
ABCCM kicks off 'recovery living program'
Though Costello House's winter shelter offering ends this week, McElyea said it's not the end for the shelter's supportive services.
ABCCM is kicking-off a new "recovery living program" in the Costello House, he said, a transitional housing program with capacity for about 40 to 50 individuals, targeting civilian men.
More: ABCCM to pursue 24/7 winter shelter in Asheville, upgrading from weather-only Code Purples
ABCCM already operates up to 100 beds of transitional housing for homeless women, mothers with children and veterans in its Transformation Village.
It also offers transitional and permanent supportive housing for veterans through its Veterans Restoration Quarters.
He expects this new program will have overlap with many of the individuals currently supported by Code Purple, and said ABCCM is in the process of identifying participants.
“If you’re willing to meet us halfway, we’re definitely going to be in it with you together," McElyea said. “We want to give them a safe and impactful program there that they can fall back to, and support their recovery while helping them reintegrate back into society."
Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. | 0 | 112,310 | 0.531934 | https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2022/08/10/ashevilles-homeless-providers-begin-prepare-winter-shelter-options/10277161002/ | 2022-08-10 16:37:51+00:00 | Asheville's winter homeless shelter demand 'will be overwhelming,' preparations underway
ASHEVILLE - When last year's Code Purple emergency shelter options suffered delays, staffing challenges threatening to leave unsheltered people freezing on street corners or huddled in tents, Melanie Robertson and Kevin Mahoney were two of the people who stepped in to help.
Now, Robertson and Mahoney are co-chairs of the Asheville-Buncombe Homeless Coalition and are determined that Code Purple will not only begin earlier this year but will better serve the most vulnerable of the city's burgeoning homeless population.
Previous coverage:
- After delays and freezing temps, Asheville announces Code Purple shelter sites
- 'It saved me': Code purple ends in Asheville. What comes next for shelter residents?
- Sanctuary camping: Presumed nonstarter for Asheville though homeless have few options
“We are all working together, and that’s big," Robertson said. She was one of the forces behind the Code Purple shelter at Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville and co-founded the Jubilee! Alternative Micro-Shelter downtown.
"I want our community to hear that. We are working together for the best solutions we can. That’s not just for unhoused people, but for our community at large.”
The Homeless Coalition discussed winter plans at its Aug. 9 meeting.
The same afternoon, a Code Purple working group of the Homeless Initiative Advisory Committee met with historic Code Purple providers, such as Salvation Army and ABCCM, as well as Mahoney, Robertson, Emily Ball with the city's Homeless Strategy Division, an Asheville Police Department representative and other stakeholders to discuss options.
This meeting was not open to the public.
Ball said this was an early conversation with traditional shelter providers to evaluate what worked last year, what didn't, and the vision and capacity for the coming winter. She said it will also make clear what gaps must be filled.
Related: BeLoved Village breaks ground in Asheville; advocates take housing crisis into own hands
More on poverty:‘Wrong direction’ bloating local poverty rate has county commissioners seeking answers
The Homeless Coalition calls Code Purple when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees. When called, area shelters and other organizations open emergency shelter overflow to the hundreds of people experiencing homelessness in Asheville.
Numbers have been on the rise in recent months, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the latest count, completed Jan. 24, identified 637 experiencing homelessness, 232 who were unsheltered.
That is 110 more than the 2021 count, which found 527 people experiencing homelessness in Asheville, of which 116 were unsheltered.
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Typically, shelters are available mid-November. In 2021, shelter options were announced on Dec. 1, though temperatures dropped below freezing weeks earlier.
Several Code Purple alerts were called without shelter options available.
For the first time, the city's fiscal year 2023 budget contains $50,000 in dedicated funding for Code Purple emergency shelters in extreme winter temperatures and support for continued funding in coming years.
Buncombe County also allocated an additional $50,000 in its FY 2023 budget, according to Ball.
This year, with summer winding down, Mahoney, a community health worker and peer support specialist, said emergency shelter options will likely begin in late October. While he imagines the central providers will be operating as usual, he hopes smaller organizations, like faith-based groups and businesses, will fill in the gaps.
Last year, three shelters offered Code Purple emergency shelter: ABCCM's Costello House, with 50 beds of Code Purple shelter for men; the Salvation Army, with about eight beds for women and children; and, the newest option, Trinity United Methodist Church, with capacity for about 20 people.
But lack of beds was often a concern, Robertson said, particularly for more marginalized populations — such as women and LGBTQ individuals. People in couples, intact families and those with pets also struggled to find places they could stay together.
Mahoney said he imagines a "tertiary net" of smaller capacity or microshelters, somewhat similar to Homeward Bound's Room in the Inn program it operated for more than a decade until it ended in 2020 at the onset of the pandemic.
“We want to cover all the bases, but do it in bite size chunks," Mahoney said. "That way no one will be overwhelmed.”
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At the Homeless Coalition meeting, there were also discussions of switching to a "winter shelter" model, rather than Code Purple — a change that would mean emergency shelter is offered every winter night, not just when temperatures dip below freezing.
Amanda Kollar, co-founder of the Jubilee microshelter, said she was a "huge proponent" of that model, which helps to reduce stress for people using shelter services by creating greater consistency.
Marc Czarnecki, another Homeless Coalition attendee, said any program would need to be very well thought out and executed.
"I think this year the demand will be overwhelming," he said.
Robertson agreed that the need is accelerating, and she is frustrated by a lack of affordable housing "and the endless list of folks that qualify but there is nowhere for them to go."
“I wish that the public could understand that it could be them next week," she said of people living in cars, on the street or camping at the edges of the city. She referenced the plight of one of Jubilee's current residents: an 84-year-old woman with a college degree, a former federal government job, and no experience before now with homelessness.
She showed up in Asheville last week looking for help, Robertson said, and found herself with nowhere to go, living off her last little bit of retirement, having recently lost her spouse with no family to turn to.
“She makes too much money for some assistance, but she doesn’t make enough to survive. That is something that is broken that we need to find solutions to," Robertson said. “That’s why sounding the alarm right now is so important."
In other news
While various organizations are seeking overlapping solutions and Band-Aids for Asheville's homelessness crisis, the city is in the midst of Phase 1 of its new partnership with the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
Previous coverage:
- Asheville considers 11 bids for homelessness consultant, HIAC forms Code Purple work group
- Decrease in shelter beds, increase in homelessness: Consultant named amid Asheville crisis
- Asheville homelessness: New funding, staffing approved to address crisis, Is it enough?
The city entered into an almost $73,000 contract with the Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit in May, funded by Dogwood Health Trust, which will result in a needs assessment and recommendations for addressing unsheltered homelessness in Buncombe County.
In July, the city launched its project page for the effort, which includes a survey that will be open through Aug. 19.
Ball invited all community members to participate in the survey. The link can be found at surveymonkey.com/r/S96TKP8.
Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. |
https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2022/04/01/code-purple-ends-what-comes-next-shelter-residents/7234750001/ | 'It saved me:' Code purple ends in Asheville. What comes next for shelter residents?
ASHEVILLE - In the last three months, the Fellowship Hall has been transformed.
The church basement of Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville has served as a temporary home for dozens since January. There are mattresses on the floor in neatly delineated sleeping spaces and belongings heaped in duffels and trash bags.
There's artwork on the walls, a crate in the corner with a sleeping dog named Bear, and a ring of people holding hands — saying a prayer together over a communal hot dinner for the last time.
March 31 marked the final day of Code Purple, an emergency shelter option called when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees. With city shelter options limited, and barriers to entry for some, these high-access beds were often the only sanctuary for those desperate to get out of the cold.
More on Code Purple:
- West Asheville Trinity United Methodist newest Code Purple homeless shelter
- After delays and freezing temps, Asheville announces Code Purple shelter sites
For the last several weeks, both ABCCM's Costello House and Trinity United Methodist Church have opened nightly, not just when temperatures dipped.
On April 1, shelter residents will leave for the last time this season.
For some, transitional housing is on the horizon. For others, there is a spare bedroom in a friend's house, shelter space, detox programs or adult assisted living.
But for many, the end of emergency shelter in Asheville means they are back on the street, struggling to find camping space or somewhere to lay a sleeping bag.
Dustin Mailman, associate pastor at Trinity, said church staff and volunteers have connected a majority of their shelter residents to transitional housing, shelters or programs, but by the morning, he anticipated about five people would be looking for a place to pitch a tent.
“I’m feeling pretty devastated,” Mailman said March 31. It's been an incredible experience, he added, creating community and family, but looking ahead, "there's a lot of unknowns."
More: 'This is the moment:' Infusion of $4.7M to address homelessness in Asheville, beyond
“It’s just clear the kind of gap we were filling, and I’m just overwhelmingly reminded today as folks are having to leave."
With capacity for about 20 people, the church's Fellowship Hall served as shelter for "the most vulnerable members of an already marginalized community," those facing barriers to entry elsewhere — including couples, transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, and people with service dogs and pets.
City staff anticipate a rise in the numbers of unsheltered individuals in January's Point in Time count, data that will be released in late April.
The 2021 Point in Time count identified 527 people experiencing homelessness in Asheville, 116 of which were unsheltered.
Nationally, the Asheville metropolitan area's cost of living is 106% of the average, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research data, but with wages that are 84% the national average.
Related: $497 for an Asheville 3-bedroom? Sweeten Creek Road apartments aim for 100% affordability
Related: Welcome to Asheville: Highest cost of living in North Carolina, but with low wages
"They're angels in our life. A new family," said Khristie Glenn, 39, who had been staying at the shelter with her fiancé, Jeffery Glenn, 50, for about a month.
They were unable to stay at ABCCM's Costello House as a couple, and found their way to Trinity.
“Ever since I’ve been here," she said, "I’ve felt more at ease.”
But the Glenns were unable to secure a solution before Code Purple's deadline, and said Mailman is helping them get a tent. They will be camping again, she said. Khristie is pregnant with twins, and due in five months.
'Lifesaving'
Emily Ball, the city's homeless services system performance lead, said ultimately, Code Purple ending will decrease shelter capacity in the city, a shift exacerbated by the East Asheville Ramada Inn's closure that same day.
More: Asheville's Ramada Inn shelter closes to homeless; 25 residents left without housing
Tim McElyea, director of homeless services at ABCCM, said this follows the usual trends — unsheltered homelessness tends to increase in warmer months, as emergency shelter options end and the city sees an increase in its transient unhoused population.
A 50-bed facility, ABCCM's Costello House averaged about 35 people a night in March, with highs in January averaging 37, but reaching capacity on several nights. On the coldest days, and the larger snow events, the shelter hit capacity.
"It's definitely lifesaving," McElyea said of Code Purple, which he called a "necessary and vital" service.
The third and final Code Purple emergency shelter this year was run by the Salvation Army, offering about eight beds for women and children. Though Trinity and ABCCM transitioned to the winter shelter model, Salvation Army continued to offer shelter only on nights Code Purple was called.
City Council: Sunrise Movement halts Asheville council retreat; Kilgore tries talking to protesters
Evelyne Ball, social service director with The Salvation Army of Buncombe County, said the season ends March 31 for them, as well.
She said the shelter served around eight women a night, and hopes "energy moves forward and continues to the next (Code Purple) season."
The last several months went well, she said, and allowed Salvation Army to offer several women shelter in its permanent program.
Trinity was a new Code Purple option this year, and officially joined the effort Jan. 4.
But Trinity's entrance into the Code Purple scene first came in November, when Code Purple nights were being called with no shelter options available.
Trinity and other community partners rallied and offered six nights of temporary emergency shelter during the week of Thanksgiving.
More: Asheville City Council approves $4.4M Memorial Stadium project, to include new track
The way forward
Melanie Robertson, one of Trinity's organizers, said it was more than a shelter. They became a family.
"It's quite an emotional day," Robertson said. "It has been all week ... the joy is that we’ve been able to help folks find the next step, help folks get where they're going. It’s not just goodbye."
She said they plan on resuming community meals May 4, and will continue monthly meetings of the Winter Shelter Steering Committee, a group dedicated to addressing homelessness in Asheville.
"It saved me," said Hannah Burnett, who has been staying at Trinity for about three weeks with her husband and 2-year-old daughter. As a married couple with a child, she said it's nearly impossible to find a shelter that accepts families without splitting them up.
Burnett is in recovery, and said Trinity connected her with resources, community and support groups to aid with sobriety.
More: Asheville City Council greenlights Avery apartments after more affordable units added
She and her husband have found work, and are headed to the Salvation Army, where Burnett and her daughter will stay together in a family room, with her husband in the men's unit.
Even being in the same building, she said, is a relief. There she hopes for them to get back on their feet and find a place to rent.
'She's got me'
Tonya Clark, 36, and Alecia Dalton, 32, haven't been quite as lucky.
They've only been at Trinity two nights, and are going to be camping again come April 1.
It's Clark's third time finding herself without shelter, but it's only Dalton's first.
"She was scared," Clark said, "until I said, it's OK. She's got me."
State of Asheville: Mayor talks homelessness, police, affordable housing at CIBO
Jeffery Glenn, sitting across the table, reached over. "Now you've got us," he said.
Clark wished that a shelter like Trinity had funds to stay open year-round, and said housing is nearly impossible to navigate, and an eviction put her back on the street.
It was a need that Mailman echoed — a year-round shelter for those with pets, families and women. Somewhere people can stay long enough to find a sense of stability, and take the next step.
ABCCM kicks off 'recovery living program'
Though Costello House's winter shelter offering ends this week, McElyea said it's not the end for the shelter's supportive services.
ABCCM is kicking-off a new "recovery living program" in the Costello House, he said, a transitional housing program with capacity for about 40 to 50 individuals, targeting civilian men.
More: ABCCM to pursue 24/7 winter shelter in Asheville, upgrading from weather-only Code Purples
ABCCM already operates up to 100 beds of transitional housing for homeless women, mothers with children and veterans in its Transformation Village.
It also offers transitional and permanent supportive housing for veterans through its Veterans Restoration Quarters.
He expects this new program will have overlap with many of the individuals currently supported by Code Purple, and said ABCCM is in the process of identifying participants.
“If you’re willing to meet us halfway, we’re definitely going to be in it with you together," McElyea said. “We want to give them a safe and impactful program there that they can fall back to, and support their recovery while helping them reintegrate back into society."
Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. | 1 | 83,686 | 0.7574 | https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/2022/04/27/asheville-shelter-trinity-place-homeless-runaway-youth-set-close-permanently-staff-shortage/9537904002/ | 2022-04-27 12:11:29+00:00 | Asheville shelter for homeless, runaway youth set to close
ASHEVILLE - A longtime shelter for runaway and homeless youth across Western North Carolina will permanently close its doors May 13.
Trinity Place, an emergency youth shelter, struggled through COVID-19 to fill a staff shortage, according to press release from its parent company, Eckerd Connects.
"Caring for Children, a program operated by Eckerd Connects, has made the difficult decision to close the Trinity Place emergency youth shelter in Asheville, North Carolina after staffing shortages have made operating the program very difficult," according to the release. "The program has been in operation since 1992 and has assisted 4,500 youth and their families."
Homelessness in Western NC:Is Asheville's homeless community coming to Hendersonville? Police are tracking encounters
“Much like other organizations throughout the United States, Caring for Children has experienced staffing challenges throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dave Hardesty, Eckerd Connect's vice president of operations, in a statement. “After much effort but no success in attracting qualified talent, we’ve announced our decision to close the program. Our first priority has always been the safety of the youth we serve and the quality of care that they receive under our supervision.”
No children or teenagers were at the shelter April 26, according to Martin Peters, chief of staff and general counsel for Eckerd Connects. The shelter's "licensed capacity" was six youths, he said. The shelter took in children as young as seven and teenagers as old as 17, according to its website.
"The last youth will be served on May 13," Peters told the Citizen Times when asked about an official date.
The shelter often took in youth who were in difficult family situations.
"We serve a ton of LGBTQ youth who are not welcome or celebrated or, you know, maybe they're tolerated, but it's very alienating at most of their other options," said an employee who spoke to the Citizen Times but asked not to be named. "It's a really special place to be losing."
Homelessness in Asheville:Asheville police release new homeless policy: only 24-hour notice before camps cleared
In a GoFundMe "survival fund" for the shelter's workers, an employee wrote that staff were notified April 15 that Trinity Place would close in less than a month.
Ryan Oehrli is the breaking news and social justice reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times. Email coehrli@citizentimes.com or call/text 252-944-6816 for tips. |
https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2022/04/01/code-purple-ends-what-comes-next-shelter-residents/7234750001/ | 'It saved me:' Code purple ends in Asheville. What comes next for shelter residents?
ASHEVILLE - In the last three months, the Fellowship Hall has been transformed.
The church basement of Trinity United Methodist Church in West Asheville has served as a temporary home for dozens since January. There are mattresses on the floor in neatly delineated sleeping spaces and belongings heaped in duffels and trash bags.
There's artwork on the walls, a crate in the corner with a sleeping dog named Bear, and a ring of people holding hands — saying a prayer together over a communal hot dinner for the last time.
March 31 marked the final day of Code Purple, an emergency shelter option called when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees. With city shelter options limited, and barriers to entry for some, these high-access beds were often the only sanctuary for those desperate to get out of the cold.
More on Code Purple:
- West Asheville Trinity United Methodist newest Code Purple homeless shelter
- After delays and freezing temps, Asheville announces Code Purple shelter sites
For the last several weeks, both ABCCM's Costello House and Trinity United Methodist Church have opened nightly, not just when temperatures dipped.
On April 1, shelter residents will leave for the last time this season.
For some, transitional housing is on the horizon. For others, there is a spare bedroom in a friend's house, shelter space, detox programs or adult assisted living.
But for many, the end of emergency shelter in Asheville means they are back on the street, struggling to find camping space or somewhere to lay a sleeping bag.
Dustin Mailman, associate pastor at Trinity, said church staff and volunteers have connected a majority of their shelter residents to transitional housing, shelters or programs, but by the morning, he anticipated about five people would be looking for a place to pitch a tent.
“I’m feeling pretty devastated,” Mailman said March 31. It's been an incredible experience, he added, creating community and family, but looking ahead, "there's a lot of unknowns."
More: 'This is the moment:' Infusion of $4.7M to address homelessness in Asheville, beyond
“It’s just clear the kind of gap we were filling, and I’m just overwhelmingly reminded today as folks are having to leave."
With capacity for about 20 people, the church's Fellowship Hall served as shelter for "the most vulnerable members of an already marginalized community," those facing barriers to entry elsewhere — including couples, transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, and people with service dogs and pets.
City staff anticipate a rise in the numbers of unsheltered individuals in January's Point in Time count, data that will be released in late April.
The 2021 Point in Time count identified 527 people experiencing homelessness in Asheville, 116 of which were unsheltered.
Nationally, the Asheville metropolitan area's cost of living is 106% of the average, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research data, but with wages that are 84% the national average.
Related: $497 for an Asheville 3-bedroom? Sweeten Creek Road apartments aim for 100% affordability
Related: Welcome to Asheville: Highest cost of living in North Carolina, but with low wages
"They're angels in our life. A new family," said Khristie Glenn, 39, who had been staying at the shelter with her fiancé, Jeffery Glenn, 50, for about a month.
They were unable to stay at ABCCM's Costello House as a couple, and found their way to Trinity.
“Ever since I’ve been here," she said, "I’ve felt more at ease.”
But the Glenns were unable to secure a solution before Code Purple's deadline, and said Mailman is helping them get a tent. They will be camping again, she said. Khristie is pregnant with twins, and due in five months.
'Lifesaving'
Emily Ball, the city's homeless services system performance lead, said ultimately, Code Purple ending will decrease shelter capacity in the city, a shift exacerbated by the East Asheville Ramada Inn's closure that same day.
More: Asheville's Ramada Inn shelter closes to homeless; 25 residents left without housing
Tim McElyea, director of homeless services at ABCCM, said this follows the usual trends — unsheltered homelessness tends to increase in warmer months, as emergency shelter options end and the city sees an increase in its transient unhoused population.
A 50-bed facility, ABCCM's Costello House averaged about 35 people a night in March, with highs in January averaging 37, but reaching capacity on several nights. On the coldest days, and the larger snow events, the shelter hit capacity.
"It's definitely lifesaving," McElyea said of Code Purple, which he called a "necessary and vital" service.
The third and final Code Purple emergency shelter this year was run by the Salvation Army, offering about eight beds for women and children. Though Trinity and ABCCM transitioned to the winter shelter model, Salvation Army continued to offer shelter only on nights Code Purple was called.
City Council: Sunrise Movement halts Asheville council retreat; Kilgore tries talking to protesters
Evelyne Ball, social service director with The Salvation Army of Buncombe County, said the season ends March 31 for them, as well.
She said the shelter served around eight women a night, and hopes "energy moves forward and continues to the next (Code Purple) season."
The last several months went well, she said, and allowed Salvation Army to offer several women shelter in its permanent program.
Trinity was a new Code Purple option this year, and officially joined the effort Jan. 4.
But Trinity's entrance into the Code Purple scene first came in November, when Code Purple nights were being called with no shelter options available.
Trinity and other community partners rallied and offered six nights of temporary emergency shelter during the week of Thanksgiving.
More: Asheville City Council approves $4.4M Memorial Stadium project, to include new track
The way forward
Melanie Robertson, one of Trinity's organizers, said it was more than a shelter. They became a family.
"It's quite an emotional day," Robertson said. "It has been all week ... the joy is that we’ve been able to help folks find the next step, help folks get where they're going. It’s not just goodbye."
She said they plan on resuming community meals May 4, and will continue monthly meetings of the Winter Shelter Steering Committee, a group dedicated to addressing homelessness in Asheville.
"It saved me," said Hannah Burnett, who has been staying at Trinity for about three weeks with her husband and 2-year-old daughter. As a married couple with a child, she said it's nearly impossible to find a shelter that accepts families without splitting them up.
Burnett is in recovery, and said Trinity connected her with resources, community and support groups to aid with sobriety.
More: Asheville City Council greenlights Avery apartments after more affordable units added
She and her husband have found work, and are headed to the Salvation Army, where Burnett and her daughter will stay together in a family room, with her husband in the men's unit.
Even being in the same building, she said, is a relief. There she hopes for them to get back on their feet and find a place to rent.
'She's got me'
Tonya Clark, 36, and Alecia Dalton, 32, haven't been quite as lucky.
They've only been at Trinity two nights, and are going to be camping again come April 1.
It's Clark's third time finding herself without shelter, but it's only Dalton's first.
"She was scared," Clark said, "until I said, it's OK. She's got me."
State of Asheville: Mayor talks homelessness, police, affordable housing at CIBO
Jeffery Glenn, sitting across the table, reached over. "Now you've got us," he said.
Clark wished that a shelter like Trinity had funds to stay open year-round, and said housing is nearly impossible to navigate, and an eviction put her back on the street.
It was a need that Mailman echoed — a year-round shelter for those with pets, families and women. Somewhere people can stay long enough to find a sense of stability, and take the next step.
ABCCM kicks off 'recovery living program'
Though Costello House's winter shelter offering ends this week, McElyea said it's not the end for the shelter's supportive services.
ABCCM is kicking-off a new "recovery living program" in the Costello House, he said, a transitional housing program with capacity for about 40 to 50 individuals, targeting civilian men.
More: ABCCM to pursue 24/7 winter shelter in Asheville, upgrading from weather-only Code Purples
ABCCM already operates up to 100 beds of transitional housing for homeless women, mothers with children and veterans in its Transformation Village.
It also offers transitional and permanent supportive housing for veterans through its Veterans Restoration Quarters.
He expects this new program will have overlap with many of the individuals currently supported by Code Purple, and said ABCCM is in the process of identifying participants.
“If you’re willing to meet us halfway, we’re definitely going to be in it with you together," McElyea said. “We want to give them a safe and impactful program there that they can fall back to, and support their recovery while helping them reintegrate back into society."
Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. | 2 | 104,828 | 0.783641 | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2560033305900/marietta-charity-gets-new-expanded-facility-to-help-house-aid-growing-homeless-population | 2022-04-05 08:46:59+00:00 | Marietta charity gets new, expanded facility to help house, aid growing homeless population
MARIETTA, Ga. — MUST Ministries has been the go-to resource for those in need around Cobb County and Marietta for decades. As the number of people in need or homeless in the area has grown, the ministry has been in dire need of more space to provide help for those unable to help themselves.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
On Friday, Channel 2′s Michele Newell got an exclusive tour of the Hope House in Marietta. The building has been years in the making and the 43,000-square-foot shelter with over 100 beds is something MUST Ministries calls a “dream come true”. Also getting a tour on Friday--was Georgia Governor Brian Kemp.
MUST Ministries CEOC Ike Reighard told Newell the plan is for the building to be fully open in May.
“The building we are standing in today will take care of 135 permanent beds and then an additional 36 beds which we call flex space and respite space,” said Reighard.
The building is divided into several different sections. There’s a women’s dorm, and a family room. The men have their own rooms as well. There are rooms that come with private bathrooms and a rooftop playground. The shelter design was a collaboration between staff, volunteers and clients.
“The women’s dorm is upstairs. They ride a secure elevator and they go upstairs and stay with their children,” said Kaye Cagle, VP of Marketing and Public Relations.
MUST Ministries said its goal is to help families move into a stable housing situation and to find jobs. Reighard said the new building is vital for MUST Ministries’ mission. The ministry has struggled to keep up as the homeless problems facing many larger cities have made their way further out into the suburbs.
“Suburban poverty is a fairly new social phenomenon,” Reighard said. “But we are beginning to see it more and more so this helps to address that issue.”
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©2022 Cox Media Group |
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-10677177/U-S-end-COVID-order-blocking-asylum-seekers-border.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | U.S. to end COVID order blocking asylum seekers at border with Mexico
By Ted Hesson and Mica Rosenberg
WASHINGTON, April 1 (Reuters) - The United States will end a sweeping, pandemic-related expulsion policy that has effectively closed down the U.S. asylum system at the border with Mexico, U.S. health officials said on Friday, arguing it was no longer needed to protect public health.
The Title 42 order will remain in effect until May 23 to allow border officials time to prepare for its termination and to ramp up COVID-19 vaccines for arriving migrants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a 30-page order.
"After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC Director has determined that an Order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary," the CDC said in a separate statement.
The order was originally issued in March 2020 as countries around the world shuttered their borders amid COVID-19 fears and more than a million migrants and asylum seekers have been rapidly expelled under the policy since then.
The formal announcement comes after Reuters and other news outlets reported details of the plan on Wednesday.
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, kept Title 42 in place after taking office in January 2021 despite fierce criticism from his own political party and campaign promises to reverse the restrictive immigration policies of his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump.
Leading Democrats, medical experts and the United Nations criticized Title 42, saying it expels migrants to dangerous places in Mexico, denies them their legal right to request asylum and that scientific evidence does not support its stated goal of limiting the spread of the virus.
Republicans have blasted Biden this week, saying lifting the pandemic restrictions would encourage more migrants to enter illegally at a time when border crossings are already breaking records.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials on a call with reporters on Friday said they are setting up additional temporary facilities at the border to handle more migrants and are coordinating efforts across various agencies.
DHS has also already redeployed more than 600 law enforcement officers to the border in anticipation of the changes.
"Nonetheless, we know that smugglers will spread misinformation to take advantage of vulnerable migrants," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. "Let me be clear: those unable to establish a legal basis to remain in the United States will be removed."
'WE CAN'T RETURN'
The Biden administration rolled out a major regulation last week that aims to speed up asylum processing and deportations at the U.S.-Mexico border and which is set to take effect in late May, close to when Title 42 is set to end.
At the same time the administration could "employ in much greater numbers" another Trump-era policy known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), said a DHS official on the call. The program makes asylum seekers wait in Mexico for U.S. court hearings. The Biden administration tried to end MPP but was compelled by a U.S. judge to reinstate it. Several migrants in a nearly 2,000-person encampment in Reynosa, Mexico, who have been waiting at the border for months, told Reuters on Thursday they were hopeful the order would be lifted so they could legally claim asylum in the United States.
Hilda Gonzalez, 34, a migrant from Guatemala, has spent eight months at Reynosa camp with her eight-year-old daughter and ten-year-old son.
"My plan is to stay here until we can seek asylum," said Gonzalez, who did not details about why she fled. "It's better to stay here, sleeping on the ground, than going back home. If we're here, it's because we can't return." (Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Chris Gallagher in Washington, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Laura Gottesdiener in Reynosa, Mexico; Editing by Aurora Ellis) | 0 | 89,960 | 0.067429 | https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/crime-pmn/u-s-to-end-covid-order-blocking-asylum-seekers-at-border-with-mexico | 2022-04-01 19:37:31+00:00 | U.S. to end COVID order blocking asylum seekers at border with Mexico
Article content
WASHINGTON — The United States will end a sweeping, pandemic-related expulsion policy that has effectively closed down the U.S. asylum system at the border with Mexico, U.S. health officials said on Friday, arguing it was no longer needed to protect public health.
The Title 42 order will remain in effect until May 23 to allow border officials time to prepare for its termination and to ramp up COVID-19 vaccines for arriving migrants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a 30-page order.
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Article content
“After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC Director has determined that an Order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary,” the CDC said in a separate statement.
The order was originally issued in March 2020 as countries around the world shuttered their borders amid COVID-19 fears and more than a million migrants and asylum seekers have been rapidly expelled under the policy since then.
The formal announcement comes after Reuters and other news outlets reported details of the plan on Wednesday.
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, kept Title 42 in place after taking office in January 2021 despite fierce criticism from his own political party and campaign promises to reverse the restrictive immigration policies of his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump.
Advertisement 3
Article content
Leading Democrats, medical experts and the United Nations criticized Title 42, saying it expels migrants to dangerous places in Mexico, denies them their legal right to request asylum and that scientific evidence does not support its stated goal of limiting the spread of the virus.
Republicans have blasted Biden this week, saying lifting the pandemic restrictions would encourage more migrants to enter illegally at a time when border crossings are already breaking records.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials on a call with reporters on Friday said they are setting up additional temporary facilities at the border to handle more migrants and are coordinating efforts across various agencies.
Advertisement 4
Article content
DHS has also already redeployed more than 600 law enforcement officers to the border in anticipation of the changes.
“Nonetheless, we know that smugglers will spread misinformation to take advantage of vulnerable migrants,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. “Let me be clear: those unable to establish a legal basis to remain in the United States will be removed.”
‘WE CAN’T RETURN’
The Biden administration rolled out a major regulation last week that aims to speed up asylum processing and deportations at the U.S.-Mexico border and which is set to take effect in late May, close to when Title 42 is set to end.
At the same time the administration could “employ in much greater numbers” another Trump-era policy known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), said a DHS official on the call. The program makes asylum seekers wait in Mexico for U.S. court hearings. The Biden administration tried to end MPP but was compelled by a U.S. judge to reinstate it. Several migrants in a nearly 2,000-person encampment in Reynosa, Mexico, who have been waiting at the border for months, told Reuters on Thursday they were hopeful the order would be lifted so they could legally claim asylum in the United States.
Hilda Gonzalez, 34, a migrant from Guatemala, has spent eight months at Reynosa camp with her eight-year-old daughter and ten-year-old son.
“My plan is to stay here until we can seek asylum,” said Gonzalez, who did not details about why she fled. “It’s better to stay here, sleeping on the ground, than going back home. If we’re here, it’s because we can’t return.” (Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Chris Gallagher in Washington, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Laura Gottesdiener in Reynosa, Mexico; Editing by Aurora Ellis) |
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-10677177/U-S-end-COVID-order-blocking-asylum-seekers-border.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | U.S. to end COVID order blocking asylum seekers at border with Mexico
By Ted Hesson and Mica Rosenberg
WASHINGTON, April 1 (Reuters) - The United States will end a sweeping, pandemic-related expulsion policy that has effectively closed down the U.S. asylum system at the border with Mexico, U.S. health officials said on Friday, arguing it was no longer needed to protect public health.
The Title 42 order will remain in effect until May 23 to allow border officials time to prepare for its termination and to ramp up COVID-19 vaccines for arriving migrants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a 30-page order.
"After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC Director has determined that an Order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary," the CDC said in a separate statement.
The order was originally issued in March 2020 as countries around the world shuttered their borders amid COVID-19 fears and more than a million migrants and asylum seekers have been rapidly expelled under the policy since then.
The formal announcement comes after Reuters and other news outlets reported details of the plan on Wednesday.
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, kept Title 42 in place after taking office in January 2021 despite fierce criticism from his own political party and campaign promises to reverse the restrictive immigration policies of his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump.
Leading Democrats, medical experts and the United Nations criticized Title 42, saying it expels migrants to dangerous places in Mexico, denies them their legal right to request asylum and that scientific evidence does not support its stated goal of limiting the spread of the virus.
Republicans have blasted Biden this week, saying lifting the pandemic restrictions would encourage more migrants to enter illegally at a time when border crossings are already breaking records.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials on a call with reporters on Friday said they are setting up additional temporary facilities at the border to handle more migrants and are coordinating efforts across various agencies.
DHS has also already redeployed more than 600 law enforcement officers to the border in anticipation of the changes.
"Nonetheless, we know that smugglers will spread misinformation to take advantage of vulnerable migrants," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. "Let me be clear: those unable to establish a legal basis to remain in the United States will be removed."
'WE CAN'T RETURN'
The Biden administration rolled out a major regulation last week that aims to speed up asylum processing and deportations at the U.S.-Mexico border and which is set to take effect in late May, close to when Title 42 is set to end.
At the same time the administration could "employ in much greater numbers" another Trump-era policy known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), said a DHS official on the call. The program makes asylum seekers wait in Mexico for U.S. court hearings. The Biden administration tried to end MPP but was compelled by a U.S. judge to reinstate it. Several migrants in a nearly 2,000-person encampment in Reynosa, Mexico, who have been waiting at the border for months, told Reuters on Thursday they were hopeful the order would be lifted so they could legally claim asylum in the United States.
Hilda Gonzalez, 34, a migrant from Guatemala, has spent eight months at Reynosa camp with her eight-year-old daughter and ten-year-old son.
"My plan is to stay here until we can seek asylum," said Gonzalez, who did not details about why she fled. "It's better to stay here, sleeping on the ground, than going back home. If we're here, it's because we can't return." (Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Chris Gallagher in Washington, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Laura Gottesdiener in Reynosa, Mexico; Editing by Aurora Ellis) | 1 | 64,581 | 0.159889 | https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2559135549351/u-s-to-end-covid-order-blocking-asylum-seekers-at-border-with-mexico | 2022-04-02 08:21:55+00:00 | U.S. to end COVID order blocking asylum seekers at border with Mexico
WASHINGTON, April 1 (Reuters) - The United States will end a sweeping, pandemic-related expulsion policy that has effectively closed down the U.S. asylum system at the border with Mexico, U.S. health officials said on Friday, arguing it was no longer needed to protect public health.
The Title 42 order will remain in effect until May 23 to allow border officials time to prepare for its termination and to ramp up COVID-19 vaccines for arriving migrants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a 30-page order.
"After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC Director has determined that an Order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary," the CDC said in a separate statement.
The order was originally issued in March 2020 as countries around the world shuttered their borders amid COVID-19 fears and more than a million migrants and asylum seekers have been rapidly expelled under the policy since then.
The formal announcement comes after Reuters and other news outlets reported details of the plan on Wednesday. read more
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, kept Title 42 in place after taking office in January 2021 despite fierce criticism from his own political party and campaign promises to reverse the restrictive immigration policies of his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump. read more
Leading Democrats, medical experts and the United Nations criticized Title 42, saying it expels migrants to dangerous places in Mexico, denies them their legal right to request asylum and that scientific evidence does not support its stated goal of limiting the spread of the virus.
Republicans have blasted Biden this week, saying lifting the pandemic restrictions would encourage more migrants to enter illegally at a time when border crossings are already breaking records.
Guatemala's government said on Friday that it expects the number of Guatemalans seeking to migrate to rise after the U.S. government ends its Title 42 expulsion policy. read more
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials on a call with reporters on Friday said they are setting up additional temporary facilities at the border to handle more migrants and are coordinating efforts across various agencies. read more
DHS has also already redeployed more than 600 law enforcement officers to the border in anticipation of the changes.
"Nonetheless, we know that smugglers will spread misinformation to take advantage of vulnerable migrants," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. "Let me be clear: those unable to establish a legal basis to remain in the United States will be removed."
'WE CAN'T RETURN'
The Biden administration rolled out a major regulation last week that aims to speed up asylum processing and deportations at the U.S.-Mexico border and which is set to take effect in late May, close to when Title 42 is set to end.
At the same time the administration could "employ in much greater numbers" another Trump-era policy known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), said a DHS official on the call. The program makes asylum seekers wait in Mexico for U.S. court hearings. The Biden administration tried to end MPP but was compelled by a U.S. judge to reinstate it.
Several migrants in a nearly 2,000-person encampment in Reynosa, Mexico, who have been waiting at the border for months, told Reuters on Thursday they were hopeful the order would be lifted so they could legally claim asylum in the United States. read more
Hilda Gonzalez, 34, a migrant from Guatemala, has spent eight months at Reynosa camp with her eight-year-old daughter and ten-year-old son.
"My plan is to stay here until we can seek asylum," said Gonzalez, who did not detail why she fled. "It's better to stay here, sleeping on the ground, than going back home. If we're here, it's because we can't return."
Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Chris Gallagher in Washington, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Laura Gottesdiener in Reynosa, Mexico; Editing by Aurora Ellis
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. |
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-10677177/U-S-end-COVID-order-blocking-asylum-seekers-border.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | U.S. to end COVID order blocking asylum seekers at border with Mexico
By Ted Hesson and Mica Rosenberg
WASHINGTON, April 1 (Reuters) - The United States will end a sweeping, pandemic-related expulsion policy that has effectively closed down the U.S. asylum system at the border with Mexico, U.S. health officials said on Friday, arguing it was no longer needed to protect public health.
The Title 42 order will remain in effect until May 23 to allow border officials time to prepare for its termination and to ramp up COVID-19 vaccines for arriving migrants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a 30-page order.
"After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC Director has determined that an Order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary," the CDC said in a separate statement.
The order was originally issued in March 2020 as countries around the world shuttered their borders amid COVID-19 fears and more than a million migrants and asylum seekers have been rapidly expelled under the policy since then.
The formal announcement comes after Reuters and other news outlets reported details of the plan on Wednesday.
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, kept Title 42 in place after taking office in January 2021 despite fierce criticism from his own political party and campaign promises to reverse the restrictive immigration policies of his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump.
Leading Democrats, medical experts and the United Nations criticized Title 42, saying it expels migrants to dangerous places in Mexico, denies them their legal right to request asylum and that scientific evidence does not support its stated goal of limiting the spread of the virus.
Republicans have blasted Biden this week, saying lifting the pandemic restrictions would encourage more migrants to enter illegally at a time when border crossings are already breaking records.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials on a call with reporters on Friday said they are setting up additional temporary facilities at the border to handle more migrants and are coordinating efforts across various agencies.
DHS has also already redeployed more than 600 law enforcement officers to the border in anticipation of the changes.
"Nonetheless, we know that smugglers will spread misinformation to take advantage of vulnerable migrants," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. "Let me be clear: those unable to establish a legal basis to remain in the United States will be removed."
'WE CAN'T RETURN'
The Biden administration rolled out a major regulation last week that aims to speed up asylum processing and deportations at the U.S.-Mexico border and which is set to take effect in late May, close to when Title 42 is set to end.
At the same time the administration could "employ in much greater numbers" another Trump-era policy known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), said a DHS official on the call. The program makes asylum seekers wait in Mexico for U.S. court hearings. The Biden administration tried to end MPP but was compelled by a U.S. judge to reinstate it. Several migrants in a nearly 2,000-person encampment in Reynosa, Mexico, who have been waiting at the border for months, told Reuters on Thursday they were hopeful the order would be lifted so they could legally claim asylum in the United States.
Hilda Gonzalez, 34, a migrant from Guatemala, has spent eight months at Reynosa camp with her eight-year-old daughter and ten-year-old son.
"My plan is to stay here until we can seek asylum," said Gonzalez, who did not details about why she fled. "It's better to stay here, sleeping on the ground, than going back home. If we're here, it's because we can't return." (Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Chris Gallagher in Washington, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Laura Gottesdiener in Reynosa, Mexico; Editing by Aurora Ellis) | 2 | 89,986 | 0.165066 | https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/crime-pmn/u-s-to-end-covid-order-blocking-asylum-seekers-at-border-with-mexico-2 | 2022-04-01 19:37:37+00:00 | U.S. to end COVID order blocking asylum seekers at border with Mexico
Article content
WASHINGTON — The United States will end a sweeping, pandemic-related expulsion policy that has effectively closed down the U.S. asylum system at the border with Mexico, U.S. health officials said on Friday, arguing it was no longer needed to protect public health.
The Title 42 order will remain in effect until May 23 to allow border officials time to prepare for its termination and to ramp up COVID-19 vaccines for arriving migrants, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a 30-page order.
Advertisement 2
Article content
“After considering current public health conditions and an increased availability of tools to fight COVID-19 (such as highly effective vaccines and therapeutics), the CDC Director has determined that an Order suspending the right to introduce migrants into the United States is no longer necessary,” the CDC said in a separate statement.
The order was originally issued in March 2020 as countries around the world shuttered their borders amid COVID-19 fears and more than a million migrants and asylum seekers have been rapidly expelled under the policy since then.
The formal announcement comes after Reuters and other news outlets reported details of the plan on Wednesday.
U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, kept Title 42 in place after taking office in January 2021 despite fierce criticism from his own political party and campaign promises to reverse the restrictive immigration policies of his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump.
Advertisement 3
Article content
Leading Democrats, medical experts and the United Nations criticized Title 42, saying it expels migrants to dangerous places in Mexico, denies them their legal right to request asylum and that scientific evidence does not support its stated goal of limiting the spread of the virus.
Republicans have blasted Biden this week, saying lifting the pandemic restrictions would encourage more migrants to enter illegally at a time when border crossings are already breaking records.
Guatemala’s government said on Friday that it expects the number of Guatemalans seeking to migrate to rise after the U.S. government ends its Title 42 expulsion policy.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials on a call with reporters on Friday said they are setting up additional temporary facilities at the border to handle more migrants and are coordinating efforts across various agencies.
Advertisement 4
Article content
DHS has also already redeployed more than 600 law enforcement officers to the border in anticipation of the changes.
“Nonetheless, we know that smugglers will spread misinformation to take advantage of vulnerable migrants,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. “Let me be clear: those unable to establish a legal basis to remain in the United States will be removed.”
‘WE CAN’T RETURN’
The Biden administration rolled out a major regulation last week that aims to speed up asylum processing and deportations at the U.S.-Mexico border and which is set to take effect in late May, close to when Title 42 is set to end.
At the same time the administration could “employ in much greater numbers” another Trump-era policy known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), said a DHS official on the call. The program makes asylum seekers wait in Mexico for U.S. court hearings. The Biden administration tried to end MPP but was compelled by a U.S. judge to reinstate it. Several migrants in a nearly 2,000-person encampment in Reynosa, Mexico, who have been waiting at the border for months, told Reuters on Thursday they were hopeful the order would be lifted so they could legally claim asylum in the United States.
Hilda Gonzalez, 34, a migrant from Guatemala, has spent eight months at Reynosa camp with her eight-year-old daughter and ten-year-old son.
“My plan is to stay here until we can seek asylum,” said Gonzalez, who did not detail why she fled. “It’s better to stay here, sleeping on the ground, than going back home. If we’re here, it’s because we can’t return.” (Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Chris Gallagher in Washington, Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Laura Gottesdiener in Reynosa, Mexico; Editing by Aurora Ellis) |
https://www.3newsnow.com/news/national/advocates-explain-bruce-williss-aphasia-diagnosis-and-how-it-affects-communication | Many people are learning about aphasia for the first time since the announcement of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis.
It’s a brain disorder that affects people's ability to communicate.
There are different forms of aphasia that can also affect a person's cognitive ability.
Those who work with and advocate for people living with the disorder want you to know what it's like for them.
Darlene Williamson is a speech language pathologist and president of the National Aphasia Association.
“The first thing that people with aphasia want others to know is that I’m still me, I’m still in here. it's just the words that I’m having trouble accessing,” Williamson explained.
“Think of aphasia like being in a foreign country where you don't speak the language and you're being asked to understand what people are saying, respond, read and write and it's all very difficult for you if you don't speak the language,” she said.
Williamson says there are an estimated 2 million people living with the disorder.
“Even people with primary progressive aphasia, which is a deteriorating condition can benefit from expert treatment, medical treatment and speech language pathology to maintain their communication skills,” she said.
She says people with aphasia may learn new ways to communicate through pictures.
A strong family support system is also key.
“The primary tip is to always allow extra time to engage with the person and allow them time to process and come up with the language that they need to communicate their thoughts,” Williamson said.
Improving life quality is the greater goal for people living with aphasia.
Williamson says they like to work with the individual in their environment on the goals that are most important to them.
The National Aphasia Association has all resources on communication available on its website. | 0 | 75,220 | 0 | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/advocates-explain-bruce-williss-aphasia-diagnosis-and-how-it-affects-communication | 2022-04-01 18:35:35+00:00 | Many people are learning about aphasia for the first time since the announcement of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis.
It’s a brain disorder that affects people's ability to communicate.
There are different forms of aphasia that can also affect a person's cognitive ability.
Those who work with and advocate for people living with the disorder want you to know what it's like for them.
Darlene Williamson is a speech language pathologist and president of the National Aphasia Association.
“The first thing that people with aphasia want others to know is that I’m still me, I’m still in here. it's just the words that I’m having trouble accessing,” Williamson explained.
“Think of aphasia like being in a foreign country where you don't speak the language and you're being asked to understand what people are saying, respond, read and write and it's all very difficult for you if you don't speak the language,” she said.
Williamson says there are an estimated 2 million people living with the disorder.
“Even people with primary progressive aphasia, which is a deteriorating condition can benefit from expert treatment, medical treatment and speech language pathology to maintain their communication skills,” she said.
She says people with aphasia may learn new ways to communicate through pictures.
A strong family support system is also key.
“The primary tip is to always allow extra time to engage with the person and allow them time to process and come up with the language that they need to communicate their thoughts,” Williamson said.
Improving life quality is the greater goal for people living with aphasia.
Williamson says they like to work with the individual in their environment on the goals that are most important to them.
The National Aphasia Association has all resources on communication available on its website. |
https://www.3newsnow.com/news/national/advocates-explain-bruce-williss-aphasia-diagnosis-and-how-it-affects-communication | Many people are learning about aphasia for the first time since the announcement of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis.
It’s a brain disorder that affects people's ability to communicate.
There are different forms of aphasia that can also affect a person's cognitive ability.
Those who work with and advocate for people living with the disorder want you to know what it's like for them.
Darlene Williamson is a speech language pathologist and president of the National Aphasia Association.
“The first thing that people with aphasia want others to know is that I’m still me, I’m still in here. it's just the words that I’m having trouble accessing,” Williamson explained.
“Think of aphasia like being in a foreign country where you don't speak the language and you're being asked to understand what people are saying, respond, read and write and it's all very difficult for you if you don't speak the language,” she said.
Williamson says there are an estimated 2 million people living with the disorder.
“Even people with primary progressive aphasia, which is a deteriorating condition can benefit from expert treatment, medical treatment and speech language pathology to maintain their communication skills,” she said.
She says people with aphasia may learn new ways to communicate through pictures.
A strong family support system is also key.
“The primary tip is to always allow extra time to engage with the person and allow them time to process and come up with the language that they need to communicate their thoughts,” Williamson said.
Improving life quality is the greater goal for people living with aphasia.
Williamson says they like to work with the individual in their environment on the goals that are most important to them.
The National Aphasia Association has all resources on communication available on its website. | 1 | 75,355 | 0 | https://www.ksby.com/news/national/advocates-explain-bruce-williss-aphasia-diagnosis-and-how-it-affects-communication | 2022-04-01 18:36:03+00:00 | Many people are learning about aphasia for the first time since the announcement of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis.
It’s a brain disorder that affects people's ability to communicate.
There are different forms of aphasia that can also affect a person's cognitive ability.
Those who work with and advocate for people living with the disorder want you to know what it's like for them.
Darlene Williamson is a speech language pathologist and president of the National Aphasia Association.
“The first thing that people with aphasia want others to know is that I’m still me, I’m still in here. it's just the words that I’m having trouble accessing,” Williamson explained.
“Think of aphasia like being in a foreign country where you don't speak the language and you're being asked to understand what people are saying, respond, read and write and it's all very difficult for you if you don't speak the language,” she said.
Williamson says there are an estimated 2 million people living with the disorder.
“Even people with primary progressive aphasia, which is a deteriorating condition can benefit from expert treatment, medical treatment and speech language pathology to maintain their communication skills,” she said.
She says people with aphasia may learn new ways to communicate through pictures.
A strong family support system is also key.
“The primary tip is to always allow extra time to engage with the person and allow them time to process and come up with the language that they need to communicate their thoughts,” Williamson said.
Improving life quality is the greater goal for people living with aphasia.
Williamson says they like to work with the individual in their environment on the goals that are most important to them.
The National Aphasia Association has all resources on communication available on its website. |
https://www.3newsnow.com/news/national/advocates-explain-bruce-williss-aphasia-diagnosis-and-how-it-affects-communication | Many people are learning about aphasia for the first time since the announcement of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis.
It’s a brain disorder that affects people's ability to communicate.
There are different forms of aphasia that can also affect a person's cognitive ability.
Those who work with and advocate for people living with the disorder want you to know what it's like for them.
Darlene Williamson is a speech language pathologist and president of the National Aphasia Association.
“The first thing that people with aphasia want others to know is that I’m still me, I’m still in here. it's just the words that I’m having trouble accessing,” Williamson explained.
“Think of aphasia like being in a foreign country where you don't speak the language and you're being asked to understand what people are saying, respond, read and write and it's all very difficult for you if you don't speak the language,” she said.
Williamson says there are an estimated 2 million people living with the disorder.
“Even people with primary progressive aphasia, which is a deteriorating condition can benefit from expert treatment, medical treatment and speech language pathology to maintain their communication skills,” she said.
She says people with aphasia may learn new ways to communicate through pictures.
A strong family support system is also key.
“The primary tip is to always allow extra time to engage with the person and allow them time to process and come up with the language that they need to communicate their thoughts,” Williamson said.
Improving life quality is the greater goal for people living with aphasia.
Williamson says they like to work with the individual in their environment on the goals that are most important to them.
The National Aphasia Association has all resources on communication available on its website. | 2 | 75,655 | 0 | https://www.ktvq.com/news/national/advocates-explain-bruce-williss-aphasia-diagnosis-and-how-it-affects-communication | 2022-04-01 18:36:54+00:00 | Many people are learning about aphasia for the first time since the announcement of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis.
It’s a brain disorder that affects people's ability to communicate.
There are different forms of aphasia that can also affect a person's cognitive ability.
Those who work with and advocate for people living with the disorder want you to know what it's like for them.
Darlene Williamson is a speech language pathologist and president of the National Aphasia Association.
“The first thing that people with aphasia want others to know is that I’m still me, I’m still in here. it's just the words that I’m having trouble accessing,” Williamson explained.
“Think of aphasia like being in a foreign country where you don't speak the language and you're being asked to understand what people are saying, respond, read and write and it's all very difficult for you if you don't speak the language,” she said.
Williamson says there are an estimated 2 million people living with the disorder.
“Even people with primary progressive aphasia, which is a deteriorating condition can benefit from expert treatment, medical treatment and speech language pathology to maintain their communication skills,” she said.
She says people with aphasia may learn new ways to communicate through pictures.
A strong family support system is also key.
“The primary tip is to always allow extra time to engage with the person and allow them time to process and come up with the language that they need to communicate their thoughts,” Williamson said.
Improving life quality is the greater goal for people living with aphasia.
Williamson says they like to work with the individual in their environment on the goals that are most important to them.
The National Aphasia Association has all resources on communication available on its website. |
https://www.3newsnow.com/news/national/woman-shares-story-to-help-prevent-illegal-straw-gun-purchases | Every year, thousands of guns sold at gun stores end up in communities illegally.
"You don’t really think where do these guns come from. You don’t think that" Rashandra Burnett said
It's a harsh reality that Burnett has lived with for 20 years.
In 2002, she was a college student in Ohio. A classmate asked her to go to a nearby gun store and make a purchase for him.
“Of course, my regular questions were, 'Why do you need to?' His response was more like because he already had one, he couldn’t necessarily get it," Burnett said
What Burnett's classmate didn’t tell her, and she later learned from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents was that he, and a gun store owner, were sending illegal weapons to a street gang in New Jersey and he needed her to be a straw buyer.
A straw buyer is a person who buys guns on behalf of someone who can’t— for reasons like having a felony on their record.
“In the moment, it was like, I’m legal, I’m a citizen— not thinking like, they’re probably bad people trying to do bad things,” Burnett said.
Court records show that in two trips to the gun store, Burnett signed paperwork for a total of 40 firearms that her classmate paid cash for on the spot.
She later told federal agents she didn’t know she bought so many because her classmate handled them when they were picked up.
She says she felt uneasy about signing the form that said she was buying the guns for herself.
"Checked it, signed my life away, and handed him the note. And I went and sat in the car," Burnett said.
Burnett may have been a pawn, but to law enforcement, she is not a victim.
She pleaded guilty to two felonies for lying on the gun purchase form.
“It’s frequent, the person doesn’t think what they’re doing is wrong but they’re actually committing a felony," says David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Field Division of the ATF.
“It’s probably two or three times that," Booth added.
Federally, buying a gun for someone who can’t, carries a maximum 10-year sentence.
“I would think if people were to get five-to-eight years for this versus probation, I think that would actually help," Booth said.
Activist Chet Whye feels gun laws can punish the wrong people.
"They can’t buy because they’re felons or they have a record and then that forces them to go get people who aren’t in that situation and don’t have a record then you go and lock up the people who are vulnerable," Whye said.
ATF says they don’t keep official stats on the gender of straw purchasers, but the agency notes that, in many cases, women are recruited.
“These women exchange, for love, or a little bit of money will do this favor not knowing what the repercussions are to themselves and their community," Whye said.
Whye, who works with Operation Lipstick, a group that has worked with district attorney offices in cities like Boston and Philadelphia to educate women about straw purchasing so they aren't used in criminal efforts to get more illegal guns onto the streets.
“Just as women, unwittingly or not, are neighbors of the gun pipeline, they can be disruptors. And that's what we should be focused on, empowering women to disrupt this thing," Whye said.
There are other efforts to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchasing, like the National Shooting Sports Foundation's "Don't Lie for The Other Guy" Campaign.
Burnett received probation after pleading guilty to the charges she faced. She’s working toward her master's degree but must live with a felony on her record.
“Hindsight, looking back, you think about all these things like, I don't know how many lives, I have taken, essentially," Burnett said.
She hopes her story will stop others from taking a place along the pipeline of illegal guns in America. | 0 | 56,088 | 0 | https://www.krtv.com/news/national/woman-shares-story-to-help-prevent-illegal-straw-gun-purchases | 2022-04-01 17:21:34+00:00 | Every year, thousands of guns sold at gun stores end up in communities illegally.
"You don’t really think where do these guns come from. You don’t think that" Rashandra Burnett said
It's a harsh reality that Burnett has lived with for 20 years.
In 2002, she was a college student in Ohio. A classmate asked her to go to a nearby gun store and make a purchase for him.
“Of course, my regular questions were, 'Why do you need to?' His response was more like because he already had one, he couldn’t necessarily get it," Burnett said
What Burnett's classmate didn’t tell her, and she later learned from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents was that he, and a gun store owner, were sending illegal weapons to a street gang in New Jersey and he needed her to be a straw buyer.
A straw buyer is a person who buys guns on behalf of someone who can’t— for reasons like having a felony on their record.
“In the moment, it was like, I’m legal, I’m a citizen— not thinking like, they’re probably bad people trying to do bad things,” Burnett said.
Court records show that in two trips to the gun store, Burnett signed paperwork for a total of 40 firearms that her classmate paid cash for on the spot.
She later told federal agents she didn’t know she bought so many because her classmate handled them when they were picked up.
She says she felt uneasy about signing the form that said she was buying the guns for herself.
"Checked it, signed my life away, and handed him the note. And I went and sat in the car," Burnett said.
Burnett may have been a pawn, but to law enforcement, she is not a victim.
She pleaded guilty to two felonies for lying on the gun purchase form.
“It’s frequent, the person doesn’t think what they’re doing is wrong but they’re actually committing a felony," says David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Field Division of the ATF.
“It’s probably two or three times that," Booth added.
Federally, buying a gun for someone who can’t, carries a maximum 10-year sentence.
“I would think if people were to get five-to-eight years for this versus probation, I think that would actually help," Booth said.
Activist Chet Whye feels gun laws can punish the wrong people.
"They can’t buy because they’re felons or they have a record and then that forces them to go get people who aren’t in that situation and don’t have a record then you go and lock up the people who are vulnerable," Whye said.
ATF says they don’t keep official stats on the gender of straw purchasers, but the agency notes that, in many cases, women are recruited.
“These women exchange, for love, or a little bit of money will do this favor not knowing what the repercussions are to themselves and their community," Whye said.
Whye, who works with Operation Lipstick, a group that has worked with district attorney offices in cities like Boston and Philadelphia to educate women about straw purchasing so they aren't used in criminal efforts to get more illegal guns onto the streets.
“Just as women, unwittingly or not, are neighbors of the gun pipeline, they can be disruptors. And that's what we should be focused on, empowering women to disrupt this thing," Whye said.
There are other efforts to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchasing, like the National Shooting Sports Foundation's "Don't Lie for The Other Guy" Campaign.
Burnett received probation after pleading guilty to the charges she faced. She’s working toward her master's degree but must live with a felony on her record.
“Hindsight, looking back, you think about all these things like, I don't know how many lives, I have taken, essentially," Burnett said.
She hopes her story will stop others from taking a place along the pipeline of illegal guns in America. |
https://www.3newsnow.com/news/national/woman-shares-story-to-help-prevent-illegal-straw-gun-purchases | Every year, thousands of guns sold at gun stores end up in communities illegally.
"You don’t really think where do these guns come from. You don’t think that" Rashandra Burnett said
It's a harsh reality that Burnett has lived with for 20 years.
In 2002, she was a college student in Ohio. A classmate asked her to go to a nearby gun store and make a purchase for him.
“Of course, my regular questions were, 'Why do you need to?' His response was more like because he already had one, he couldn’t necessarily get it," Burnett said
What Burnett's classmate didn’t tell her, and she later learned from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents was that he, and a gun store owner, were sending illegal weapons to a street gang in New Jersey and he needed her to be a straw buyer.
A straw buyer is a person who buys guns on behalf of someone who can’t— for reasons like having a felony on their record.
“In the moment, it was like, I’m legal, I’m a citizen— not thinking like, they’re probably bad people trying to do bad things,” Burnett said.
Court records show that in two trips to the gun store, Burnett signed paperwork for a total of 40 firearms that her classmate paid cash for on the spot.
She later told federal agents she didn’t know she bought so many because her classmate handled them when they were picked up.
She says she felt uneasy about signing the form that said she was buying the guns for herself.
"Checked it, signed my life away, and handed him the note. And I went and sat in the car," Burnett said.
Burnett may have been a pawn, but to law enforcement, she is not a victim.
She pleaded guilty to two felonies for lying on the gun purchase form.
“It’s frequent, the person doesn’t think what they’re doing is wrong but they’re actually committing a felony," says David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Field Division of the ATF.
“It’s probably two or three times that," Booth added.
Federally, buying a gun for someone who can’t, carries a maximum 10-year sentence.
“I would think if people were to get five-to-eight years for this versus probation, I think that would actually help," Booth said.
Activist Chet Whye feels gun laws can punish the wrong people.
"They can’t buy because they’re felons or they have a record and then that forces them to go get people who aren’t in that situation and don’t have a record then you go and lock up the people who are vulnerable," Whye said.
ATF says they don’t keep official stats on the gender of straw purchasers, but the agency notes that, in many cases, women are recruited.
“These women exchange, for love, or a little bit of money will do this favor not knowing what the repercussions are to themselves and their community," Whye said.
Whye, who works with Operation Lipstick, a group that has worked with district attorney offices in cities like Boston and Philadelphia to educate women about straw purchasing so they aren't used in criminal efforts to get more illegal guns onto the streets.
“Just as women, unwittingly or not, are neighbors of the gun pipeline, they can be disruptors. And that's what we should be focused on, empowering women to disrupt this thing," Whye said.
There are other efforts to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchasing, like the National Shooting Sports Foundation's "Don't Lie for The Other Guy" Campaign.
Burnett received probation after pleading guilty to the charges she faced. She’s working toward her master's degree but must live with a felony on her record.
“Hindsight, looking back, you think about all these things like, I don't know how many lives, I have taken, essentially," Burnett said.
She hopes her story will stop others from taking a place along the pipeline of illegal guns in America. | 1 | 56,664 | 0 | https://www.katc.com/news/national/woman-shares-story-to-help-prevent-illegal-straw-gun-purchases | 2022-04-01 17:23:38+00:00 | Every year, thousands of guns sold at gun stores end up in communities illegally.
"You don’t really think where do these guns come from. You don’t think that" Rashandra Burnett said
It's a harsh reality that Burnett has lived with for 20 years.
In 2002, she was a college student in Ohio. A classmate asked her to go to a nearby gun store and make a purchase for him.
“Of course, my regular questions were, 'Why do you need to?' His response was more like because he already had one, he couldn’t necessarily get it," Burnett said
What Burnett's classmate didn’t tell her, and she later learned from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents was that he, and a gun store owner, were sending illegal weapons to a street gang in New Jersey and he needed her to be a straw buyer.
A straw buyer is a person who buys guns on behalf of someone who can’t— for reasons like having a felony on their record.
“In the moment, it was like, I’m legal, I’m a citizen— not thinking like, they’re probably bad people trying to do bad things,” Burnett said.
Court records show that in two trips to the gun store, Burnett signed paperwork for a total of 40 firearms that her classmate paid cash for on the spot.
She later told federal agents she didn’t know she bought so many because her classmate handled them when they were picked up.
She says she felt uneasy about signing the form that said she was buying the guns for herself.
"Checked it, signed my life away, and handed him the note. And I went and sat in the car," Burnett said.
Burnett may have been a pawn, but to law enforcement, she is not a victim.
She pleaded guilty to two felonies for lying on the gun purchase form.
“It’s frequent, the person doesn’t think what they’re doing is wrong but they’re actually committing a felony," says David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Field Division of the ATF.
“It’s probably two or three times that," Booth added.
Federally, buying a gun for someone who can’t, carries a maximum 10-year sentence.
“I would think if people were to get five-to-eight years for this versus probation, I think that would actually help," Booth said.
Activist Chet Whye feels gun laws can punish the wrong people.
"They can’t buy because they’re felons or they have a record and then that forces them to go get people who aren’t in that situation and don’t have a record then you go and lock up the people who are vulnerable," Whye said.
ATF says they don’t keep official stats on the gender of straw purchasers, but the agency notes that, in many cases, women are recruited.
“These women exchange, for love, or a little bit of money will do this favor not knowing what the repercussions are to themselves and their community," Whye said.
Whye, who works with Operation Lipstick, a group that has worked with district attorney offices in cities like Boston and Philadelphia to educate women about straw purchasing so they aren't used in criminal efforts to get more illegal guns onto the streets.
“Just as women, unwittingly or not, are neighbors of the gun pipeline, they can be disruptors. And that's what we should be focused on, empowering women to disrupt this thing," Whye said.
There are other efforts to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchasing, like the National Shooting Sports Foundation's "Don't Lie for The Other Guy" Campaign.
Burnett received probation after pleading guilty to the charges she faced. She’s working toward her master's degree but must live with a felony on her record.
“Hindsight, looking back, you think about all these things like, I don't know how many lives, I have taken, essentially," Burnett said.
She hopes her story will stop others from taking a place along the pipeline of illegal guns in America. |
https://www.3newsnow.com/news/national/woman-shares-story-to-help-prevent-illegal-straw-gun-purchases | Every year, thousands of guns sold at gun stores end up in communities illegally.
"You don’t really think where do these guns come from. You don’t think that" Rashandra Burnett said
It's a harsh reality that Burnett has lived with for 20 years.
In 2002, she was a college student in Ohio. A classmate asked her to go to a nearby gun store and make a purchase for him.
“Of course, my regular questions were, 'Why do you need to?' His response was more like because he already had one, he couldn’t necessarily get it," Burnett said
What Burnett's classmate didn’t tell her, and she later learned from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents was that he, and a gun store owner, were sending illegal weapons to a street gang in New Jersey and he needed her to be a straw buyer.
A straw buyer is a person who buys guns on behalf of someone who can’t— for reasons like having a felony on their record.
“In the moment, it was like, I’m legal, I’m a citizen— not thinking like, they’re probably bad people trying to do bad things,” Burnett said.
Court records show that in two trips to the gun store, Burnett signed paperwork for a total of 40 firearms that her classmate paid cash for on the spot.
She later told federal agents she didn’t know she bought so many because her classmate handled them when they were picked up.
She says she felt uneasy about signing the form that said she was buying the guns for herself.
"Checked it, signed my life away, and handed him the note. And I went and sat in the car," Burnett said.
Burnett may have been a pawn, but to law enforcement, she is not a victim.
She pleaded guilty to two felonies for lying on the gun purchase form.
“It’s frequent, the person doesn’t think what they’re doing is wrong but they’re actually committing a felony," says David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Field Division of the ATF.
“It’s probably two or three times that," Booth added.
Federally, buying a gun for someone who can’t, carries a maximum 10-year sentence.
“I would think if people were to get five-to-eight years for this versus probation, I think that would actually help," Booth said.
Activist Chet Whye feels gun laws can punish the wrong people.
"They can’t buy because they’re felons or they have a record and then that forces them to go get people who aren’t in that situation and don’t have a record then you go and lock up the people who are vulnerable," Whye said.
ATF says they don’t keep official stats on the gender of straw purchasers, but the agency notes that, in many cases, women are recruited.
“These women exchange, for love, or a little bit of money will do this favor not knowing what the repercussions are to themselves and their community," Whye said.
Whye, who works with Operation Lipstick, a group that has worked with district attorney offices in cities like Boston and Philadelphia to educate women about straw purchasing so they aren't used in criminal efforts to get more illegal guns onto the streets.
“Just as women, unwittingly or not, are neighbors of the gun pipeline, they can be disruptors. And that's what we should be focused on, empowering women to disrupt this thing," Whye said.
There are other efforts to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchasing, like the National Shooting Sports Foundation's "Don't Lie for The Other Guy" Campaign.
Burnett received probation after pleading guilty to the charges she faced. She’s working toward her master's degree but must live with a felony on her record.
“Hindsight, looking back, you think about all these things like, I don't know how many lives, I have taken, essentially," Burnett said.
She hopes her story will stop others from taking a place along the pipeline of illegal guns in America. | 2 | 56,697 | 0 | https://www.kxlh.com/news/national/woman-shares-story-to-help-prevent-illegal-straw-gun-purchases | 2022-04-01 17:23:49+00:00 | Every year, thousands of guns sold at gun stores end up in communities illegally.
"You don’t really think where do these guns come from. You don’t think that" Rashandra Burnett said
It's a harsh reality that Burnett has lived with for 20 years.
In 2002, she was a college student in Ohio. A classmate asked her to go to a nearby gun store and make a purchase for him.
“Of course, my regular questions were, 'Why do you need to?' His response was more like because he already had one, he couldn’t necessarily get it," Burnett said
What Burnett's classmate didn’t tell her, and she later learned from Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents was that he, and a gun store owner, were sending illegal weapons to a street gang in New Jersey and he needed her to be a straw buyer.
A straw buyer is a person who buys guns on behalf of someone who can’t— for reasons like having a felony on their record.
“In the moment, it was like, I’m legal, I’m a citizen— not thinking like, they’re probably bad people trying to do bad things,” Burnett said.
Court records show that in two trips to the gun store, Burnett signed paperwork for a total of 40 firearms that her classmate paid cash for on the spot.
She later told federal agents she didn’t know she bought so many because her classmate handled them when they were picked up.
She says she felt uneasy about signing the form that said she was buying the guns for herself.
"Checked it, signed my life away, and handed him the note. And I went and sat in the car," Burnett said.
Burnett may have been a pawn, but to law enforcement, she is not a victim.
She pleaded guilty to two felonies for lying on the gun purchase form.
“It’s frequent, the person doesn’t think what they’re doing is wrong but they’re actually committing a felony," says David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the Denver Field Division of the ATF.
“It’s probably two or three times that," Booth added.
Federally, buying a gun for someone who can’t, carries a maximum 10-year sentence.
“I would think if people were to get five-to-eight years for this versus probation, I think that would actually help," Booth said.
Activist Chet Whye feels gun laws can punish the wrong people.
"They can’t buy because they’re felons or they have a record and then that forces them to go get people who aren’t in that situation and don’t have a record then you go and lock up the people who are vulnerable," Whye said.
ATF says they don’t keep official stats on the gender of straw purchasers, but the agency notes that, in many cases, women are recruited.
“These women exchange, for love, or a little bit of money will do this favor not knowing what the repercussions are to themselves and their community," Whye said.
Whye, who works with Operation Lipstick, a group that has worked with district attorney offices in cities like Boston and Philadelphia to educate women about straw purchasing so they aren't used in criminal efforts to get more illegal guns onto the streets.
“Just as women, unwittingly or not, are neighbors of the gun pipeline, they can be disruptors. And that's what we should be focused on, empowering women to disrupt this thing," Whye said.
There are other efforts to educate the public about the dangers of straw purchasing, like the National Shooting Sports Foundation's "Don't Lie for The Other Guy" Campaign.
Burnett received probation after pleading guilty to the charges she faced. She’s working toward her master's degree but must live with a felony on her record.
“Hindsight, looking back, you think about all these things like, I don't know how many lives, I have taken, essentially," Burnett said.
She hopes her story will stop others from taking a place along the pipeline of illegal guns in America. |
https://www.mrt.com/business/article/Russia-Push-to-pay-for-gas-in-rubles-not-17050741.php | BERLIN (AP) — Russian officials said their demand for “unfriendly" countries to pay for natural gas in rubles does not mean supplies will be immediately interrupted.
Gas used for heating and electricity was still flowing from Russia to Europe on Friday.
“Payments on shipments in progress right now must be made not this very day, but somewhere in late April, or even early May,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
A day earlier, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would start accepting ruble payments Friday and gas supplies would be cut off if buyers don’t agree to the new conditions, including opening ruble accounts.
But a decree he signed says countries could pay foreign currency to Gazprombank, which would convert the money into rubles in a second account to pay for the gas. It gave Russian authorities and the bank 10 days to make arrangements.
Putin's measure applies to countries deemed “unfriendly” for imposing sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, and European leaders have been weighing what the shift might mean.
Some experts say it could be an effort to prop up the ruble, which fell in value amid sanctions but has since bounced back, though the effect on the currency would be limited.
Putin's demand has jolted energy markets and raised fears it could be a prelude to an interruption of supplies to Europe, which is heavily dependent on Russian natural gas and would struggle with a sudden cutoff. But Russia also depends on oil and gas sales for much of its government revenue at a time its economy is under severe stress from Western sanctions.
The European Commission’s energy chief, Ditte Juul Jorgensen, tweeted Friday that the European Union was coordinating “to establish a common approach.”
German officials said contracts stipulate payment for gas in euros and dollars and that must continue.
“The German government is currently examining this decree to determine its concrete effects,” spokesman Wolfgang Buechner said Friday.
Officials wouldn’t be drawn further on what impact the Russian demands might have. Economy Ministry spokeswoman Beate Baron noted that Gazprombank has been given 10 days to explain the procedure, “and of course we will in turn look carefully at that.”
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency says its members agreed Friday to release more oil from their emergency reserves in response to market turmoil caused by the war.
The Paris-based agency did not say how much would be released but that it would offer details next week. It comes a month after the IEA’s 31 members, which include the United States, said they would release 62.7 million barrels of oil to ease shortages.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also ordered the release of 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation’s strategic petroleum reserve for six months in a bid to control energy prices. | 0 | 63,450 | 0 | https://www.bigrapidsnews.com/business/article/Russia-Push-to-pay-for-gas-in-rubles-not-17050741.php | 2022-04-01 17:50:05+00:00 | BERLIN (AP) — Russian officials said their demand for “unfriendly" countries to pay for natural gas in rubles does not mean supplies will be immediately interrupted.
Gas used for heating and electricity was still flowing from Russia to Europe on Friday.
“Payments on shipments in progress right now must be made not this very day, but somewhere in late April, or even early May,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
A day earlier, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would start accepting ruble payments Friday and gas supplies would be cut off if buyers don’t agree to the new conditions, including opening ruble accounts.
But a decree he signed says countries could pay foreign currency to Gazprombank, which would convert the money into rubles in a second account to pay for the gas. It gave Russian authorities and the bank 10 days to make arrangements.
Putin's measure applies to countries deemed “unfriendly” for imposing sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, and European leaders have been weighing what the shift might mean.
Some experts say it could be an effort to prop up the ruble, which fell in value amid sanctions but has since bounced back, though the effect on the currency would be limited.
Putin's demand has jolted energy markets and raised fears it could be a prelude to an interruption of supplies to Europe, which is heavily dependent on Russian natural gas and would struggle with a sudden cutoff. But Russia also depends on oil and gas sales for much of its government revenue at a time its economy is under severe stress from Western sanctions.
The European Commission’s energy chief, Ditte Juul Jorgensen, tweeted Friday that the European Union was coordinating “to establish a common approach.”
German officials said contracts stipulate payment for gas in euros and dollars and that must continue.
“The German government is currently examining this decree to determine its concrete effects,” spokesman Wolfgang Buechner said Friday.
Officials wouldn’t be drawn further on what impact the Russian demands might have. Economy Ministry spokeswoman Beate Baron noted that Gazprombank has been given 10 days to explain the procedure, “and of course we will in turn look carefully at that.”
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency says its members agreed Friday to release more oil from their emergency reserves in response to market turmoil caused by the war.
The Paris-based agency did not say how much would be released but that it would offer details next week. It comes a month after the IEA’s 31 members, which include the United States, said they would release 62.7 million barrels of oil to ease shortages.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also ordered the release of 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation’s strategic petroleum reserve for six months in a bid to control energy prices. |
https://www.mrt.com/business/article/Russia-Push-to-pay-for-gas-in-rubles-not-17050741.php | BERLIN (AP) — Russian officials said their demand for “unfriendly" countries to pay for natural gas in rubles does not mean supplies will be immediately interrupted.
Gas used for heating and electricity was still flowing from Russia to Europe on Friday.
“Payments on shipments in progress right now must be made not this very day, but somewhere in late April, or even early May,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
A day earlier, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would start accepting ruble payments Friday and gas supplies would be cut off if buyers don’t agree to the new conditions, including opening ruble accounts.
But a decree he signed says countries could pay foreign currency to Gazprombank, which would convert the money into rubles in a second account to pay for the gas. It gave Russian authorities and the bank 10 days to make arrangements.
Putin's measure applies to countries deemed “unfriendly” for imposing sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, and European leaders have been weighing what the shift might mean.
Some experts say it could be an effort to prop up the ruble, which fell in value amid sanctions but has since bounced back, though the effect on the currency would be limited.
Putin's demand has jolted energy markets and raised fears it could be a prelude to an interruption of supplies to Europe, which is heavily dependent on Russian natural gas and would struggle with a sudden cutoff. But Russia also depends on oil and gas sales for much of its government revenue at a time its economy is under severe stress from Western sanctions.
The European Commission’s energy chief, Ditte Juul Jorgensen, tweeted Friday that the European Union was coordinating “to establish a common approach.”
German officials said contracts stipulate payment for gas in euros and dollars and that must continue.
“The German government is currently examining this decree to determine its concrete effects,” spokesman Wolfgang Buechner said Friday.
Officials wouldn’t be drawn further on what impact the Russian demands might have. Economy Ministry spokeswoman Beate Baron noted that Gazprombank has been given 10 days to explain the procedure, “and of course we will in turn look carefully at that.”
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency says its members agreed Friday to release more oil from their emergency reserves in response to market turmoil caused by the war.
The Paris-based agency did not say how much would be released but that it would offer details next week. It comes a month after the IEA’s 31 members, which include the United States, said they would release 62.7 million barrels of oil to ease shortages.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also ordered the release of 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation’s strategic petroleum reserve for six months in a bid to control energy prices. | 1 | 63,465 | 0 | https://www.theridgefieldpress.com/business/article/Russia-Push-to-pay-for-gas-in-rubles-not-17050741.php | 2022-04-01 17:50:11+00:00 | BERLIN (AP) — Russian officials said their demand for “unfriendly" countries to pay for natural gas in rubles does not mean supplies will be immediately interrupted.
Gas used for heating and electricity was still flowing from Russia to Europe on Friday.
“Payments on shipments in progress right now must be made not this very day, but somewhere in late April, or even early May,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
A day earlier, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would start accepting ruble payments Friday and gas supplies would be cut off if buyers don’t agree to the new conditions, including opening ruble accounts.
But a decree he signed says countries could pay foreign currency to Gazprombank, which would convert the money into rubles in a second account to pay for the gas. It gave Russian authorities and the bank 10 days to make arrangements.
Putin's measure applies to countries deemed “unfriendly” for imposing sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, and European leaders have been weighing what the shift might mean.
Some experts say it could be an effort to prop up the ruble, which fell in value amid sanctions but has since bounced back, though the effect on the currency would be limited.
Putin's demand has jolted energy markets and raised fears it could be a prelude to an interruption of supplies to Europe, which is heavily dependent on Russian natural gas and would struggle with a sudden cutoff. But Russia also depends on oil and gas sales for much of its government revenue at a time its economy is under severe stress from Western sanctions.
The European Commission’s energy chief, Ditte Juul Jorgensen, tweeted Friday that the European Union was coordinating “to establish a common approach.”
German officials said contracts stipulate payment for gas in euros and dollars and that must continue.
“The German government is currently examining this decree to determine its concrete effects,” spokesman Wolfgang Buechner said Friday.
Officials wouldn’t be drawn further on what impact the Russian demands might have. Economy Ministry spokeswoman Beate Baron noted that Gazprombank has been given 10 days to explain the procedure, “and of course we will in turn look carefully at that.”
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency says its members agreed Friday to release more oil from their emergency reserves in response to market turmoil caused by the war.
The Paris-based agency did not say how much would be released but that it would offer details next week. It comes a month after the IEA’s 31 members, which include the United States, said they would release 62.7 million barrels of oil to ease shortages.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also ordered the release of 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation’s strategic petroleum reserve for six months in a bid to control energy prices. |
https://www.mrt.com/business/article/Russia-Push-to-pay-for-gas-in-rubles-not-17050741.php | BERLIN (AP) — Russian officials said their demand for “unfriendly" countries to pay for natural gas in rubles does not mean supplies will be immediately interrupted.
Gas used for heating and electricity was still flowing from Russia to Europe on Friday.
“Payments on shipments in progress right now must be made not this very day, but somewhere in late April, or even early May,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
A day earlier, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would start accepting ruble payments Friday and gas supplies would be cut off if buyers don’t agree to the new conditions, including opening ruble accounts.
But a decree he signed says countries could pay foreign currency to Gazprombank, which would convert the money into rubles in a second account to pay for the gas. It gave Russian authorities and the bank 10 days to make arrangements.
Putin's measure applies to countries deemed “unfriendly” for imposing sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, and European leaders have been weighing what the shift might mean.
Some experts say it could be an effort to prop up the ruble, which fell in value amid sanctions but has since bounced back, though the effect on the currency would be limited.
Putin's demand has jolted energy markets and raised fears it could be a prelude to an interruption of supplies to Europe, which is heavily dependent on Russian natural gas and would struggle with a sudden cutoff. But Russia also depends on oil and gas sales for much of its government revenue at a time its economy is under severe stress from Western sanctions.
The European Commission’s energy chief, Ditte Juul Jorgensen, tweeted Friday that the European Union was coordinating “to establish a common approach.”
German officials said contracts stipulate payment for gas in euros and dollars and that must continue.
“The German government is currently examining this decree to determine its concrete effects,” spokesman Wolfgang Buechner said Friday.
Officials wouldn’t be drawn further on what impact the Russian demands might have. Economy Ministry spokeswoman Beate Baron noted that Gazprombank has been given 10 days to explain the procedure, “and of course we will in turn look carefully at that.”
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency says its members agreed Friday to release more oil from their emergency reserves in response to market turmoil caused by the war.
The Paris-based agency did not say how much would be released but that it would offer details next week. It comes a month after the IEA’s 31 members, which include the United States, said they would release 62.7 million barrels of oil to ease shortages.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also ordered the release of 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation’s strategic petroleum reserve for six months in a bid to control energy prices. | 2 | 67,296 | 0 | https://www.milfordmirror.com/business/article/Russia-Push-to-pay-for-gas-in-rubles-not-17050741.php | 2022-04-01 18:06:54+00:00 | BERLIN (AP) — Russian officials said their demand for “unfriendly" countries to pay for natural gas in rubles does not mean supplies will be immediately interrupted.
Gas used for heating and electricity was still flowing from Russia to Europe on Friday.
“Payments on shipments in progress right now must be made not this very day, but somewhere in late April, or even early May,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
A day earlier, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would start accepting ruble payments Friday and gas supplies would be cut off if buyers don’t agree to the new conditions, including opening ruble accounts.
But a decree he signed says countries could pay foreign currency to Gazprombank, which would convert the money into rubles in a second account to pay for the gas. It gave Russian authorities and the bank 10 days to make arrangements.
Putin's measure applies to countries deemed “unfriendly” for imposing sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine, and European leaders have been weighing what the shift might mean.
Some experts say it could be an effort to prop up the ruble, which fell in value amid sanctions but has since bounced back, though the effect on the currency would be limited.
Putin's demand has jolted energy markets and raised fears it could be a prelude to an interruption of supplies to Europe, which is heavily dependent on Russian natural gas and would struggle with a sudden cutoff. But Russia also depends on oil and gas sales for much of its government revenue at a time its economy is under severe stress from Western sanctions.
The European Commission’s energy chief, Ditte Juul Jorgensen, tweeted Friday that the European Union was coordinating “to establish a common approach.”
German officials said contracts stipulate payment for gas in euros and dollars and that must continue.
“The German government is currently examining this decree to determine its concrete effects,” spokesman Wolfgang Buechner said Friday.
Officials wouldn’t be drawn further on what impact the Russian demands might have. Economy Ministry spokeswoman Beate Baron noted that Gazprombank has been given 10 days to explain the procedure, “and of course we will in turn look carefully at that.”
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency says its members agreed Friday to release more oil from their emergency reserves in response to market turmoil caused by the war.
The Paris-based agency did not say how much would be released but that it would offer details next week. It comes a month after the IEA’s 31 members, which include the United States, said they would release 62.7 million barrels of oil to ease shortages.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also ordered the release of 1 million barrels of oil per day from the nation’s strategic petroleum reserve for six months in a bid to control energy prices. |
https://www.sportingnews.com/au/nba/news/lakers-lebron-james-april-fools-day/u1qvcds1ji6wgimvthaujrf0 | LeBron James has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season. Or has he?
On Friday, April 1, the Lakers star tweeted that he's officially out for the remainder of the season, adding "see y'all in the fall." April 1, of course, is April Fools' Day, leaving many on social media wondering whether or not to believe King James.
I’m out for the season officially. 🤦🏾♂️. See y’all in the fall. 👑✌🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 1, 2022
James has missed two straight games with an ankle sprain he suffered in the team's loss to the Pelicans on March 27. The Lakers have only six games remaining on their schedule so it wouldn't be a complete shock if he was ruled out for the rest of the season — James said after the game that his ankle felt "horrible," for what it's worth — but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that James is "hopeful to test out his ankle sprain and try to make a return to the lineup" on Friday when the Lakers face the Pelicans once again.
NBA LEAGUE PASS: Sign up to unlock live out-of-market games (7-day free trial)
Not only that, but the timing of James' tweet raised some eyebrows, as many insiders were quick to point that out.
(It’s April 1st) https://t.co/YIKMhi180z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2022
It's April Fools' Day, isn't it? https://t.co/Q3rP4XyKp8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 1, 2022
Just remember that today is April fools day.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 1, 2022
The Lakers enter Friday's meeting with the Pelicans with a 31-45 record on the season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. They have the same record as the Spurs in 10th, but with San Antonio owning the tiebreaker, Los Angeles will have to finish one game ahead to jump it in the standings and qualify for the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers trail the Pelicans in ninth place by two games, so a win on Friday would help them close the gap with New Orleans as well.
James has been impressive when healthy, leading the league with an average of 30.1 points per game to go along with 8.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists on 52.3 percent shooting from the field.
As of 1:30 p.m. ET on Friday, the Lakers have not yet submitted an injury report for their matchup with the Pelicans.
Lakers remaining schedule
According to Tankathon, the Lakers have the third-hardest remaining schedule in the league. | 0 | 80,171 | 0 | https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/lakers-lebron-james-april-fools-day/u1qvcds1ji6wgimvthaujrf0 | 2022-04-01 18:54:37+00:00 | LeBron James has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season. Or has he?
On Friday, April 1, the Lakers star tweeted that he's officially out for the remainder of the season, adding "see y'all in the fall." April 1, of course, is April Fools' Day, leaving many on social media wondering whether or not to believe King James.
I’m out for the season officially. 🤦🏾♂️. See y’all in the fall. 👑✌🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 1, 2022
James has missed two straight games with an ankle sprain he suffered in the team's loss to the Pelicans on March 27. The Lakers have only six games remaining on their schedule so it wouldn't be a complete shock if he was ruled out for the rest of the season — James said after the game that his ankle felt "horrible," for what it's worth — but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that James is "hopeful to test out his ankle sprain and try to make a return to the lineup" on Friday when the Lakers face the Pelicans once again.
NBA LEAGUE PASS: Sign up to unlock live out-of-market games (7-day free trial)
Not only that, but the timing of James' tweet raised some eyebrows, as many insiders were quick to point that out.
(It’s April 1st) https://t.co/YIKMhi180z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2022
It's April Fools' Day, isn't it? https://t.co/Q3rP4XyKp8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 1, 2022
Just remember that today is April fools day.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 1, 2022
The Lakers enter Friday's meeting with the Pelicans with a 31-45 record on the season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. They have the same record as the Spurs in 10th, but with San Antonio owning the tiebreaker, Los Angeles will have to finish one game ahead to jump it in the standings and qualify for the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers trail the Pelicans in ninth place by two games, so a win on Friday would help them close the gap with New Orleans as well.
James has been impressive when healthy, leading the league with an average of 30.1 points per game to go along with 8.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists on 52.3 percent shooting from the field.
As of 1:30 p.m. ET on Friday, the Lakers have not yet submitted an injury report for their matchup with the Pelicans.
Lakers remaining schedule
According to Tankathon, the Lakers have the third-hardest remaining schedule in the league. |
https://www.sportingnews.com/au/nba/news/lakers-lebron-james-april-fools-day/u1qvcds1ji6wgimvthaujrf0 | LeBron James has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season. Or has he?
On Friday, April 1, the Lakers star tweeted that he's officially out for the remainder of the season, adding "see y'all in the fall." April 1, of course, is April Fools' Day, leaving many on social media wondering whether or not to believe King James.
I’m out for the season officially. 🤦🏾♂️. See y’all in the fall. 👑✌🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 1, 2022
James has missed two straight games with an ankle sprain he suffered in the team's loss to the Pelicans on March 27. The Lakers have only six games remaining on their schedule so it wouldn't be a complete shock if he was ruled out for the rest of the season — James said after the game that his ankle felt "horrible," for what it's worth — but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that James is "hopeful to test out his ankle sprain and try to make a return to the lineup" on Friday when the Lakers face the Pelicans once again.
NBA LEAGUE PASS: Sign up to unlock live out-of-market games (7-day free trial)
Not only that, but the timing of James' tweet raised some eyebrows, as many insiders were quick to point that out.
(It’s April 1st) https://t.co/YIKMhi180z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2022
It's April Fools' Day, isn't it? https://t.co/Q3rP4XyKp8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 1, 2022
Just remember that today is April fools day.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 1, 2022
The Lakers enter Friday's meeting with the Pelicans with a 31-45 record on the season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. They have the same record as the Spurs in 10th, but with San Antonio owning the tiebreaker, Los Angeles will have to finish one game ahead to jump it in the standings and qualify for the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers trail the Pelicans in ninth place by two games, so a win on Friday would help them close the gap with New Orleans as well.
James has been impressive when healthy, leading the league with an average of 30.1 points per game to go along with 8.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists on 52.3 percent shooting from the field.
As of 1:30 p.m. ET on Friday, the Lakers have not yet submitted an injury report for their matchup with the Pelicans.
Lakers remaining schedule
According to Tankathon, the Lakers have the third-hardest remaining schedule in the league. | 1 | 20,744 | 0.171529 | https://www.sportingnews.com/au/nba/news/lakers-lebron-james-playing-tonight-pelicans/u1qvcds1ji6wgimvthaujrf0 | 2022-04-02 02:22:51+00:00 | LeBron James has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season. Or has he?
On Friday, April 1, the Lakers star tweeted that he's officially out for the remainder of the season, adding "see y'all in the fall." April 1, of course, is April Fools' Day, leaving many on social media wondering whether or not to believe King James.
I’m out for the season officially. 🤦🏾♂️. See y’all in the fall. 👑✌🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 1, 2022
James has missed two straight games with an ankle sprain he suffered in the team's loss to the Pelicans on March 27. The Lakers have only six games remaining on their schedule so it wouldn't be a complete shock if he was ruled out for the rest of the season — James said after the game that his ankle felt "horrible," for what it's worth — but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that James is "hopeful to test out his ankle sprain and try to make a return to the lineup" on Friday when the Lakers face the Pelicans once again.
NBA LEAGUE PASS: Sign up to unlock live out-of-market games (7-day free trial)
Not only that, but the timing of James' tweet raised some eyebrows, as many insiders were quick to point that out.
(It’s April 1st) https://t.co/YIKMhi180z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2022
It's April Fools' Day, isn't it? https://t.co/Q3rP4XyKp8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 1, 2022
Just remember that today is April fools day.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 1, 2022
Proving that LeBron was only joking, the Lakers announced right before tipoff of Friday's matchup against the Pelicans that James would be playing.
LeBron James is in. He'll start with AD, Dwight, Avery Bradley and Russ.
— Kyle Goon (@kylegoon) April 2, 2022
The Lakers enter Friday's meeting with the Pelicans with a 31-45 record on the season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. They have the same record as the Spurs in 10th, but with San Antonio owning the tiebreaker, Los Angeles will have to finish one game ahead to jump it in the standings and qualify for the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers trail the Pelicans in ninth place by two games, so a win on Friday would help them close the gap with New Orleans as well.
James has been impressive when healthy, leading the league with an average of 30.1 points per game to go along with 8.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists on 52.3 percent shooting from the field.
Lakers remaining schedule
According to Tankathon, the Lakers have the third-hardest remaining schedule in the league. |
https://www.sportingnews.com/au/nba/news/lakers-lebron-james-april-fools-day/u1qvcds1ji6wgimvthaujrf0 | LeBron James has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season. Or has he?
On Friday, April 1, the Lakers star tweeted that he's officially out for the remainder of the season, adding "see y'all in the fall." April 1, of course, is April Fools' Day, leaving many on social media wondering whether or not to believe King James.
I’m out for the season officially. 🤦🏾♂️. See y’all in the fall. 👑✌🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 1, 2022
James has missed two straight games with an ankle sprain he suffered in the team's loss to the Pelicans on March 27. The Lakers have only six games remaining on their schedule so it wouldn't be a complete shock if he was ruled out for the rest of the season — James said after the game that his ankle felt "horrible," for what it's worth — but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that James is "hopeful to test out his ankle sprain and try to make a return to the lineup" on Friday when the Lakers face the Pelicans once again.
NBA LEAGUE PASS: Sign up to unlock live out-of-market games (7-day free trial)
Not only that, but the timing of James' tweet raised some eyebrows, as many insiders were quick to point that out.
(It’s April 1st) https://t.co/YIKMhi180z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2022
It's April Fools' Day, isn't it? https://t.co/Q3rP4XyKp8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 1, 2022
Just remember that today is April fools day.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 1, 2022
The Lakers enter Friday's meeting with the Pelicans with a 31-45 record on the season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. They have the same record as the Spurs in 10th, but with San Antonio owning the tiebreaker, Los Angeles will have to finish one game ahead to jump it in the standings and qualify for the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers trail the Pelicans in ninth place by two games, so a win on Friday would help them close the gap with New Orleans as well.
James has been impressive when healthy, leading the league with an average of 30.1 points per game to go along with 8.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists on 52.3 percent shooting from the field.
As of 1:30 p.m. ET on Friday, the Lakers have not yet submitted an injury report for their matchup with the Pelicans.
Lakers remaining schedule
According to Tankathon, the Lakers have the third-hardest remaining schedule in the league. | 2 | 21,983 | 0.171529 | https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/lakers-lebron-james-playing-tonight-pelicans/u1qvcds1ji6wgimvthaujrf0 | 2022-04-02 02:31:31+00:00 | LeBron James has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season. Or has he?
On Friday, April 1, the Lakers star tweeted that he's officially out for the remainder of the season, adding "see y'all in the fall." April 1, of course, is April Fools' Day, leaving many on social media wondering whether or not to believe King James.
I’m out for the season officially. 🤦🏾♂️. See y’all in the fall. 👑✌🏾
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 1, 2022
James has missed two straight games with an ankle sprain he suffered in the team's loss to the Pelicans on March 27. The Lakers have only six games remaining on their schedule so it wouldn't be a complete shock if he was ruled out for the rest of the season — James said after the game that his ankle felt "horrible," for what it's worth — but ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on Thursday that James is "hopeful to test out his ankle sprain and try to make a return to the lineup" on Friday when the Lakers face the Pelicans once again.
NBA LEAGUE PASS: Sign up to unlock live out-of-market games (7-day free trial)
Not only that, but the timing of James' tweet raised some eyebrows, as many insiders were quick to point that out.
(It’s April 1st) https://t.co/YIKMhi180z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 1, 2022
It's April Fools' Day, isn't it? https://t.co/Q3rP4XyKp8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 1, 2022
Just remember that today is April fools day.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 1, 2022
Proving that LeBron was only joking, the Lakers announced right before tipoff of Friday's matchup against the Pelicans that James would be playing.
LeBron James is in. He'll start with AD, Dwight, Avery Bradley and Russ.
— Kyle Goon (@kylegoon) April 2, 2022
The Lakers enter Friday's meeting with the Pelicans with a 31-45 record on the season, placing them 11th in the Western Conference. They have the same record as the Spurs in 10th, but with San Antonio owning the tiebreaker, Los Angeles will have to finish one game ahead to jump it in the standings and qualify for the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers trail the Pelicans in ninth place by two games, so a win on Friday would help them close the gap with New Orleans as well.
James has been impressive when healthy, leading the league with an average of 30.1 points per game to go along with 8.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists on 52.3 percent shooting from the field.
Lakers remaining schedule
According to Tankathon, the Lakers have the third-hardest remaining schedule in the league. |
https://www.mrt.com/news/article/3-Army-soldiers-9-others-accused-in-gun-17051504.php | WASHINGTON (AP) — Twelve people, including three U.S. Army soldiers, are accused in a large-scale gun trafficking ring that prosecutors allege supplied nearly 100 guns to gang members in Chicago and led to at least two killings, the Justice Department said Friday.
The soldiers — Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22 — were enlisted in the Army and stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee, where they would legally purchase guns from local dealers in Tennessee and Kentucky, prosecutors charged. The soldiers are accused of selling them to members of the Gangster Disciples street gang in the Pocket Town neighborhood on Chicago's south side, according to the 21-count indictment.
The indictment charges the group with conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, among other crimes. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is part of the Justice Department’s push to investigate and prosecute gun trafficking amid rising crime across the U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has vowed to prioritize prosecutions of firearms traffickers and so-called “straw purchasers,” who legally purchase firearms to sell them to people who can’t legally poses guns, often in states with more restrictive gun laws.
“The Justice Department will spare no resources to hold accountable criminal gun traffickers,” Garland said at a news conference Friday. “There is no hiding place for those who flood our communities with illegal guns. It does not matter where you are, or how far away you are. If you illegally traffic guns, we and our law enforcement partners nationwide will find you.”
Prosecutors allege Miller would receive orders from members of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago for specific guns to purchase and he, Brunson and Adams would then buy them from dealers in Clarksville, Tennessee and Oak Grove, Kentucky, and give them to gang members, who paid through money transfer apps, including Zelle and CashApp. Miller also advertised that he had 1,000 rounds of ammunition available for sale, prosecutors say.
Authorities believe the trio provided over 90 illegally obtained firearms to the gang “to facilitate the on-going violent disputes between the Pocket Town Gangster Disciples and their rival gangs,” the Justice Department said.
Investigators believe one of the guns was used in a shooting at a party in Chicago last March that left one man dead, and seven others wounded. Another was used in a killing at a Chicago barbershop in January 2021, according to officials.
The nine others charged in the indictment are: Blaise Smith, 29; Rahaeem Johnson, 24; Bryant Larkin, 33; Corey Curtis, 26; Elijah Tillman, 24; Lazarus Greenwood, 23; Dwight Lowry, 41; and Dreshion Parks, 25, all of Chicago; along with Terrell Mitchell, 27, of Davenport, Iowa. Two people who were alleged to be part of the conspiracy were killed “as a result of gang violence, which was facilitated by the firearms illegally transferred to individuals in the Chicago,” prosecutors say.
The indictment spells out how Miller would exchange messages with his associates in Chicago to negotiate the prices of the guns.
“The silver one a 380 u still want it it’s a steal,” Miller wrote to Lowry in December 2020, the indictment says. Lowry wrote back, “Yup can’t beat it,” according to court papers. | 0 | 67,708 | 0 | https://www.milfordmirror.com/news/article/3-Army-soldiers-9-others-accused-in-gun-17051504.php | 2022-04-01 18:08:40+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — Twelve people, including three U.S. Army soldiers, are accused in a large-scale gun trafficking ring that prosecutors allege supplied nearly 100 guns to gang members in Chicago and led to at least two killings, the Justice Department said Friday.
The soldiers — Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22 — were enlisted in the Army and stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee, where they would legally purchase guns from local dealers in Tennessee and Kentucky, prosecutors charged. The soldiers are accused of selling them to members of the Gangster Disciples street gang in the Pocket Town neighborhood on Chicago's south side, according to the 21-count indictment.
The indictment charges the group with conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, among other crimes. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is part of the Justice Department’s push to investigate and prosecute gun trafficking amid rising crime across the U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has vowed to prioritize prosecutions of firearms traffickers and so-called “straw purchasers,” who legally purchase firearms to sell them to people who can’t legally poses guns, often in states with more restrictive gun laws.
“The Justice Department will spare no resources to hold accountable criminal gun traffickers,” Garland said at a news conference Friday. “There is no hiding place for those who flood our communities with illegal guns. It does not matter where you are, or how far away you are. If you illegally traffic guns, we and our law enforcement partners nationwide will find you.”
Prosecutors allege Miller would receive orders from members of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago for specific guns to purchase and he, Brunson and Adams would then buy them from dealers in Clarksville, Tennessee and Oak Grove, Kentucky, and give them to gang members, who paid through money transfer apps, including Zelle and CashApp. Miller also advertised that he had 1,000 rounds of ammunition available for sale, prosecutors say.
Authorities believe the trio provided over 90 illegally obtained firearms to the gang “to facilitate the on-going violent disputes between the Pocket Town Gangster Disciples and their rival gangs,” the Justice Department said.
Investigators believe one of the guns was used in a shooting at a party in Chicago last March that left one man dead, and seven others wounded. Another was used in a killing at a Chicago barbershop in January 2021, according to officials.
The nine others charged in the indictment are: Blaise Smith, 29; Rahaeem Johnson, 24; Bryant Larkin, 33; Corey Curtis, 26; Elijah Tillman, 24; Lazarus Greenwood, 23; Dwight Lowry, 41; and Dreshion Parks, 25, all of Chicago; along with Terrell Mitchell, 27, of Davenport, Iowa. Two people who were alleged to be part of the conspiracy were killed “as a result of gang violence, which was facilitated by the firearms illegally transferred to individuals in the Chicago,” prosecutors say.
The indictment spells out how Miller would exchange messages with his associates in Chicago to negotiate the prices of the guns.
“The silver one a 380 u still want it it’s a steal,” Miller wrote to Lowry in December 2020, the indictment says. Lowry wrote back, “Yup can’t beat it,” according to court papers. |
https://www.mrt.com/news/article/3-Army-soldiers-9-others-accused-in-gun-17051504.php | WASHINGTON (AP) — Twelve people, including three U.S. Army soldiers, are accused in a large-scale gun trafficking ring that prosecutors allege supplied nearly 100 guns to gang members in Chicago and led to at least two killings, the Justice Department said Friday.
The soldiers — Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22 — were enlisted in the Army and stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee, where they would legally purchase guns from local dealers in Tennessee and Kentucky, prosecutors charged. The soldiers are accused of selling them to members of the Gangster Disciples street gang in the Pocket Town neighborhood on Chicago's south side, according to the 21-count indictment.
The indictment charges the group with conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, among other crimes. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is part of the Justice Department’s push to investigate and prosecute gun trafficking amid rising crime across the U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has vowed to prioritize prosecutions of firearms traffickers and so-called “straw purchasers,” who legally purchase firearms to sell them to people who can’t legally poses guns, often in states with more restrictive gun laws.
“The Justice Department will spare no resources to hold accountable criminal gun traffickers,” Garland said at a news conference Friday. “There is no hiding place for those who flood our communities with illegal guns. It does not matter where you are, or how far away you are. If you illegally traffic guns, we and our law enforcement partners nationwide will find you.”
Prosecutors allege Miller would receive orders from members of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago for specific guns to purchase and he, Brunson and Adams would then buy them from dealers in Clarksville, Tennessee and Oak Grove, Kentucky, and give them to gang members, who paid through money transfer apps, including Zelle and CashApp. Miller also advertised that he had 1,000 rounds of ammunition available for sale, prosecutors say.
Authorities believe the trio provided over 90 illegally obtained firearms to the gang “to facilitate the on-going violent disputes between the Pocket Town Gangster Disciples and their rival gangs,” the Justice Department said.
Investigators believe one of the guns was used in a shooting at a party in Chicago last March that left one man dead, and seven others wounded. Another was used in a killing at a Chicago barbershop in January 2021, according to officials.
The nine others charged in the indictment are: Blaise Smith, 29; Rahaeem Johnson, 24; Bryant Larkin, 33; Corey Curtis, 26; Elijah Tillman, 24; Lazarus Greenwood, 23; Dwight Lowry, 41; and Dreshion Parks, 25, all of Chicago; along with Terrell Mitchell, 27, of Davenport, Iowa. Two people who were alleged to be part of the conspiracy were killed “as a result of gang violence, which was facilitated by the firearms illegally transferred to individuals in the Chicago,” prosecutors say.
The indictment spells out how Miller would exchange messages with his associates in Chicago to negotiate the prices of the guns.
“The silver one a 380 u still want it it’s a steal,” Miller wrote to Lowry in December 2020, the indictment says. Lowry wrote back, “Yup can’t beat it,” according to court papers. | 1 | 68,351 | 0 | https://www.wiltonbulletin.com/news/article/3-Army-soldiers-9-others-accused-in-gun-17051504.php | 2022-04-01 18:11:10+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — Twelve people, including three U.S. Army soldiers, are accused in a large-scale gun trafficking ring that prosecutors allege supplied nearly 100 guns to gang members in Chicago and led to at least two killings, the Justice Department said Friday.
The soldiers — Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22 — were enlisted in the Army and stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee, where they would legally purchase guns from local dealers in Tennessee and Kentucky, prosecutors charged. The soldiers are accused of selling them to members of the Gangster Disciples street gang in the Pocket Town neighborhood on Chicago's south side, according to the 21-count indictment.
The indictment charges the group with conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, among other crimes. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is part of the Justice Department’s push to investigate and prosecute gun trafficking amid rising crime across the U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has vowed to prioritize prosecutions of firearms traffickers and so-called “straw purchasers,” who legally purchase firearms to sell them to people who can’t legally poses guns, often in states with more restrictive gun laws.
“The Justice Department will spare no resources to hold accountable criminal gun traffickers,” Garland said at a news conference Friday. “There is no hiding place for those who flood our communities with illegal guns. It does not matter where you are, or how far away you are. If you illegally traffic guns, we and our law enforcement partners nationwide will find you.”
Prosecutors allege Miller would receive orders from members of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago for specific guns to purchase and he, Brunson and Adams would then buy them from dealers in Clarksville, Tennessee and Oak Grove, Kentucky, and give them to gang members, who paid through money transfer apps, including Zelle and CashApp. Miller also advertised that he had 1,000 rounds of ammunition available for sale, prosecutors say.
Authorities believe the trio provided over 90 illegally obtained firearms to the gang “to facilitate the on-going violent disputes between the Pocket Town Gangster Disciples and their rival gangs,” the Justice Department said.
Investigators believe one of the guns was used in a shooting at a party in Chicago last March that left one man dead, and seven others wounded. Another was used in a killing at a Chicago barbershop in January 2021, according to officials.
The nine others charged in the indictment are: Blaise Smith, 29; Rahaeem Johnson, 24; Bryant Larkin, 33; Corey Curtis, 26; Elijah Tillman, 24; Lazarus Greenwood, 23; Dwight Lowry, 41; and Dreshion Parks, 25, all of Chicago; along with Terrell Mitchell, 27, of Davenport, Iowa. Two people who were alleged to be part of the conspiracy were killed “as a result of gang violence, which was facilitated by the firearms illegally transferred to individuals in the Chicago,” prosecutors say.
The indictment spells out how Miller would exchange messages with his associates in Chicago to negotiate the prices of the guns.
“The silver one a 380 u still want it it’s a steal,” Miller wrote to Lowry in December 2020, the indictment says. Lowry wrote back, “Yup can’t beat it,” according to court papers. |
https://www.mrt.com/news/article/3-Army-soldiers-9-others-accused-in-gun-17051504.php | WASHINGTON (AP) — Twelve people, including three U.S. Army soldiers, are accused in a large-scale gun trafficking ring that prosecutors allege supplied nearly 100 guns to gang members in Chicago and led to at least two killings, the Justice Department said Friday.
The soldiers — Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22 — were enlisted in the Army and stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee, where they would legally purchase guns from local dealers in Tennessee and Kentucky, prosecutors charged. The soldiers are accused of selling them to members of the Gangster Disciples street gang in the Pocket Town neighborhood on Chicago's south side, according to the 21-count indictment.
The indictment charges the group with conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, among other crimes. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is part of the Justice Department’s push to investigate and prosecute gun trafficking amid rising crime across the U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has vowed to prioritize prosecutions of firearms traffickers and so-called “straw purchasers,” who legally purchase firearms to sell them to people who can’t legally poses guns, often in states with more restrictive gun laws.
“The Justice Department will spare no resources to hold accountable criminal gun traffickers,” Garland said at a news conference Friday. “There is no hiding place for those who flood our communities with illegal guns. It does not matter where you are, or how far away you are. If you illegally traffic guns, we and our law enforcement partners nationwide will find you.”
Prosecutors allege Miller would receive orders from members of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago for specific guns to purchase and he, Brunson and Adams would then buy them from dealers in Clarksville, Tennessee and Oak Grove, Kentucky, and give them to gang members, who paid through money transfer apps, including Zelle and CashApp. Miller also advertised that he had 1,000 rounds of ammunition available for sale, prosecutors say.
Authorities believe the trio provided over 90 illegally obtained firearms to the gang “to facilitate the on-going violent disputes between the Pocket Town Gangster Disciples and their rival gangs,” the Justice Department said.
Investigators believe one of the guns was used in a shooting at a party in Chicago last March that left one man dead, and seven others wounded. Another was used in a killing at a Chicago barbershop in January 2021, according to officials.
The nine others charged in the indictment are: Blaise Smith, 29; Rahaeem Johnson, 24; Bryant Larkin, 33; Corey Curtis, 26; Elijah Tillman, 24; Lazarus Greenwood, 23; Dwight Lowry, 41; and Dreshion Parks, 25, all of Chicago; along with Terrell Mitchell, 27, of Davenport, Iowa. Two people who were alleged to be part of the conspiracy were killed “as a result of gang violence, which was facilitated by the firearms illegally transferred to individuals in the Chicago,” prosecutors say.
The indictment spells out how Miller would exchange messages with his associates in Chicago to negotiate the prices of the guns.
“The silver one a 380 u still want it it’s a steal,” Miller wrote to Lowry in December 2020, the indictment says. Lowry wrote back, “Yup can’t beat it,” according to court papers. | 2 | 68,368 | 0 | https://www.michigansthumb.com/news/article/3-Army-soldiers-9-others-accused-in-gun-17051504.php | 2022-04-01 18:11:15+00:00 | WASHINGTON (AP) — Twelve people, including three U.S. Army soldiers, are accused in a large-scale gun trafficking ring that prosecutors allege supplied nearly 100 guns to gang members in Chicago and led to at least two killings, the Justice Department said Friday.
The soldiers — Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22 — were enlisted in the Army and stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee, where they would legally purchase guns from local dealers in Tennessee and Kentucky, prosecutors charged. The soldiers are accused of selling them to members of the Gangster Disciples street gang in the Pocket Town neighborhood on Chicago's south side, according to the 21-count indictment.
The indictment charges the group with conspiring to violate federal firearms laws, among other crimes. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
The case is part of the Justice Department’s push to investigate and prosecute gun trafficking amid rising crime across the U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has vowed to prioritize prosecutions of firearms traffickers and so-called “straw purchasers,” who legally purchase firearms to sell them to people who can’t legally poses guns, often in states with more restrictive gun laws.
“The Justice Department will spare no resources to hold accountable criminal gun traffickers,” Garland said at a news conference Friday. “There is no hiding place for those who flood our communities with illegal guns. It does not matter where you are, or how far away you are. If you illegally traffic guns, we and our law enforcement partners nationwide will find you.”
Prosecutors allege Miller would receive orders from members of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago for specific guns to purchase and he, Brunson and Adams would then buy them from dealers in Clarksville, Tennessee and Oak Grove, Kentucky, and give them to gang members, who paid through money transfer apps, including Zelle and CashApp. Miller also advertised that he had 1,000 rounds of ammunition available for sale, prosecutors say.
Authorities believe the trio provided over 90 illegally obtained firearms to the gang “to facilitate the on-going violent disputes between the Pocket Town Gangster Disciples and their rival gangs,” the Justice Department said.
Investigators believe one of the guns was used in a shooting at a party in Chicago last March that left one man dead, and seven others wounded. Another was used in a killing at a Chicago barbershop in January 2021, according to officials.
The nine others charged in the indictment are: Blaise Smith, 29; Rahaeem Johnson, 24; Bryant Larkin, 33; Corey Curtis, 26; Elijah Tillman, 24; Lazarus Greenwood, 23; Dwight Lowry, 41; and Dreshion Parks, 25, all of Chicago; along with Terrell Mitchell, 27, of Davenport, Iowa. Two people who were alleged to be part of the conspiracy were killed “as a result of gang violence, which was facilitated by the firearms illegally transferred to individuals in the Chicago,” prosecutors say.
The indictment spells out how Miller would exchange messages with his associates in Chicago to negotiate the prices of the guns.
“The silver one a 380 u still want it it’s a steal,” Miller wrote to Lowry in December 2020, the indictment says. Lowry wrote back, “Yup can’t beat it,” according to court papers. |
https://news.sap.com/2022/04/sap-labs-india-localization-team-global-hub/ | As SAP Labs India celebrates its 24th anniversary, we reflect on an exciting journey fueled by vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and a readiness to innovate.
It is early November 1998. Rao Prasada and his colleagues are working up a sweat by heaving servers and 21-inch monitors on the 12th floor of the International Technology Park Limited (ITPL) building in Whitefield, a few miles outside of Bengaluru in southern India.
There is a palpable anxiety and excitement in the office. Prasada and his team are on a tight deadline. As system administrators, it is their responsibility to get the network of computers, monitors, and servers up and running on November 13, when the new campus of SAP Labs India will be inaugurated by senior SAP executives.
“The 100 employees who were moving into the new campus had to go live on the first day,” recalls Prasada, adding that for him and his colleagues, moving into a new office, about 11 miles away from their existing rented premises in Koramangala, was a matter of great pride.
Today, SAP Labs India is a strategic hub within SAP’s global network of development centers, with more than 8,500 employees across five cities: Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Most work at the SAP Labs India campus in Bengaluru, which was inaugurated in 2003, just over a mile from the ITPL building.
Prasada, who now leads a team of IT experts, is still with the company – like many others. They have been part of the exciting and impressive story of SAP Labs India, which is about learning and lateral thinking, about localization and globalization, growth and scaling.
Above all, though, it is a story about innovation. Clas Neumann — now head of the SAP Labs Network — helped shape SAP Labs India as its managing director from 1999 until the beginning of 2005, first jointly with Udo Urbanek and then later with Martin Prinz, then as its president from 2007. Neumann credits SAP with laying the foundations for the development of standard software and much more.
“By not following the trend of just offshoring IT work at the lower end of the value chain, but integrating its Indian development center as one of the four major development hubs, SAP innovated distributed research and development processes,” he says.
Major Strategic Role
SAP Labs India is now the second-largest SAP development location after Walldorf. The teams work on all the major solutions — from SAP S/4HANA and SAP HANA through SAP Business Technology Platform to the entire range of business area products.
As one of four global hubs, along with Germany, China, and the U.S., SAP Labs India is where a great many strands come together. Many successful products and solutions have originated from SAP Labs India, including SAP Asset Intelligence Network, SAP Digital Manufacturing Insights, SAP Connected Worker Safety, and SAP Fashion Management.
Here too sizeable teams work closely with customers across the globe. Bengaluru is also home to an SAP Co-Innovation Lab and SAP’s startup accelerator program, the SAP Startup Studio, which went live in 2016.
SAP Labs India has significant strategic importance but it has had to work hard to earn it.
Toward the end of the 1990s, when the internet hype was at its height, SAP was still enjoying the double-digit growth of the past. But trends like customer relationship and supply chain management — accelerated by successful new companies like Siebel and I2 — brought pressure on several fronts. In order to keep pace and bring the necessary offerings to the market as quickly as possible, SAP had no choice but to bolster its development resources.
Then Co-CEOs Hasso Plattner and Henning Kagermann, along with their SAP Executive Board colleagues, opted for a two-pronged strategy, consisting of acquisitions and the establishment of new SAP Labs in countries where developers were easier to find than they were at the Walldorf, Silicon Valley, and Tokyo locations.
In late 1997, SAP acquired a 50% share in Kiefer & Veittinger GmbH (K&V), a European market leader in sales force automation software, as its route into the evolving customer relationship management (CRM) market. Founded not far from SAP in Mannheim in 1986, the company had operated a development center in Bengaluru with almost 90 employees since 1995. One of them was Rao Prasada.
“The hardware, all of which moved with us, was heavy. But our managing director, Udo Urbanek, lugged his monitor into our new offices himself,” Prasada recalls. He also remembers the Friday parties and K&V’s unofficial company motto: “Work hard, party harder.”
“We continued with those parties, which were very bonding experiences,” says Prasada with a grin. The open company culture after the merger in 1998 also left a lasting impression on him: “Everyone helped everyone else; everyone spoke with everyone else — no matter their status in the hierarchy.”
New SAP Labs: Two Pillars
The acquired K&V employees formed one pillar of the new SAP Labs; the other was a team of experts from SAP India, who localized the SAP software and adapted it to Indian legal requirements.
SAP India had been founded in March 1996 in Bengaluru, with offices in Mumbai and New Delhi and a remit to sell and implement SAP software. They were now joined by the localization team. One of its members was Uma Rani TM. She had already gained SAP software experience working at Tata Consulting Services. She implemented SAP at Hewlett-Packard’s Indian subsidiary, gained certification as a Sales & Distribution (SD) consultant, and soon began training others in ABAP.
“SAP R/3 gained traction very fast in India, and SAP quickly became known on the business scene here. But it was not yet as familiar a name in developer circles,” she says. Together with a small team in Singapore that was asked to adapt the HR and payroll software for India and other Asian countries as well, Uma Rani TM worked in the early days with just three colleagues on the SD, Materials Management (MM), and Financial Accounting (FI) modules for the India country version.
Clearly, though, SAP urgently needed more developers. In December 1997, a decision was made to move the localization team from Singapore to India and merge it with the team that was responsible for the country version there. At the same time, a project initiated by the SAP Executive Board and spearheaded by Neumann, then assistant to SAP Executive Board Member Peter Zencke, and Thomas Vetter, assistant to Kagermann, concluded that Bengaluru was an ideal location for SAP to overcome its shortage of skilled developers quickly.
These factors were the trigger for the foundation of SAP Labs India in November 1998. Its first joint managing directors were Udo Urbanek and Werner Konik, who had led the localization project for Asia. At the opening ceremony for the offices in the ITPL building in Bengaluru, Zencke explained that the location’s focus would be on driving the localization of SAP R/3 for the Asia-Pacific region and developing software for CRM and solutions for the high-tech, oil and gas, aerospace, and defense industries.
Close Cooperation with Walldorf
From day one, the development teams in Bengaluru worked closely with their colleagues in Germany and at other locations. According to Martin Prinz, who took over responsibility for the India country version from Konik, his team in India proved that there was an alternative to the traditional approach of centralized development, and that it was feasible to cooperate with co-developers in other locations. “In our case, it worked because we were so closely connected with the core development team in Germany and we did have a lot of support from there,” Prinz says Martin.
“It was an interesting journey,” says Uma Rani TM, who reported to Prinz at the time. “From a development point of view, it was tough, but so interesting to learn. Martin and the managing directors made a real effort to be there for us at all times.”
Yet, with the best will in the world, both sides needed time to get used to each other. “It often happened that people suddenly switched to speaking German in meetings,” says Uma Rani TM. “We had to remind them that we were there.”
Prasada remembers Urbanek attaching “great importance to punctuality, both at meetings and in completing tasks.” A characteristic that Prasada took home with him – and that did not always go down well with his family. He also learned fast that Germans tend to be quite direct. “But, if I had a problem and needed help, I always received support right away.”
Business trips to each other’s home countries helped foster mutual understanding and gave everyone a chance to broaden their horizons — culinary and otherwise. “Getting a vegetarian meal at the cafeteria in Walldorf and finding a restaurant in Walldorf or Heidelberg that served meat-free dishes was quite a challenge back then,” says Uma Rani TM with a grin. “But we found our ways.”
English gradually became the company language. For the first time, SAP invested into intercultural training for Germans and Indians followed by offerings for other nations. “This way, the establishment of SAP Labs India contributed decisively to SAP’s globalization,” says Neumann.
By 2001, there were already more than 500 SAP employees in Bengaluru.
Sharp Increase in Headcount
Although headcount growth in Bengaluru slowed when the dot-com bubble burst, it returned to its steep upward path from 2003 onward. SAP Labs India opened its new campus in Whitefield in November 2003. Prinz, who now co-managed the location with Neumann, described their role at the time as follows: “SAP Labs India is a place for SAP to scale for the future. We have to demonstrate that we can grow fast while remaining stable and reliable.”
By the end of 2004, the workforce had reached 1,350, and every line of business was represented in India. Georg Kniese, today global head for Corporate Development and M&A, became joint managing director with Prinz at the beginning of 2005. The locations invested heavily in employee training and bolstered their development and support unit resources. The aim was to create a global hub of SAP knowledge.
“We wanted to be part of the global development process, be close to our customers, continue driving localization, develop customer-specific solutions, and be on the spot when escalations happened,” recalls Kniese. By the end of 2005, SAP Labs India’s payroll numbered almost 2,300.
Two years later, that figure had risen by another 1,000, and SAP Labs India became the second-largest development location outside Walldorf. When Kniese returned to Germany at the end of 2007, SAP Labs India got its very first Indian managing director: Kush Desai. His counterpart in Gurgaon was Ferose V.R. And in another first, teams in Bengaluru took on full global responsibility for a product: SAP Employee Self-Service.
“As far as I can tell, we were the first company to develop a solution from demand analysis to final product and maintenance in Bengaluru,” says Neumann. “Many companies and academia visited us at the labs now to learn what it takes to implement a research and development function globally. Thereby we certainly had an impact on the Indian IT sector.”
Uma Rani TM remembers this period of rapid growth very clearly. In her view, it happened because SAP needed developers and looked to India, where they were affordable. “The benefit for our employees was that this growth created lots of new opportunities for them to progress professionally.”
After five years on the localization team and having completed an MBA, Uma Rani TM herself took the opportunity to take charge of the Installed Base Maintenance & Support (IMS) team in Bengaluru in 2003. “My managers always supported and encouraged me greatly,” she says. Now in her 25th year at SAP, Uma Rani TM is head of Application Innovation Services.
Indian Customers Benefit from Proximity to SAP Labs
In 2007, India was SAP’s fastest-growing market. Revenues doubled that year, and continued to do so in the years that followed. According to Neumann, SAP Labs were the engine for this success. The sales personnel in India benefited enormously from being close to developers.
“Very often, meetings in Bengaluru were the key to getting deals signed,” says Neumann. “The labs made it clear to customers from the get-go that SAP was here to stay and that it had the required expertise available locally.”
Uma Rani TM adds that “having such a great campus with great experts in this location has really helped our customers and the business be closer to our developers. This enabled us to drive the transformation with deep product and business expertise.”
In April 2010, Ferose V.R. became sole managing director of SAP Labs India. He encouraged the workforce, now numbering over 4,000, to experiment with new ideas and to find creative solutions to some of their problems, such as a lack of childcare and the tedious process of claiming for travel expenses. He founded an SAP AppHaus location on the Bengaluru campus, where designers, developers, and marketeers could collaborate on innovative solutions. He also initiated several interest groups for employees, including a book club, “to create a unique environment for employees and a culture of innovation.”
And in 2011 he started to hire people with autism. Ferose V.R. worked with some of the most influential thinkers on autism studies to learn from best practices and further grow and improve the program, which then became SAP’s Autism at Work program. Since then, the program has grown rapidly and expanded globally.
Putting Faith in Employees’ Creative Powers
Dilip Khandelwal became managing director of SAP Labs India in August 2014. In Bengaluru, more than 2,500 employees work in the Gerhard Oswald Innovation Space, a contemporary, €50 million building that was opened in April 2017 in honor of SAP’s long-serving Executive Board member and supporter of SAP Labs.
Fostering Startups
One of Khandelwal’s central elements of his strategy was initiating the SAP Startup Studio. Here, SAP Labs locations offer startups consulting, support, infrastructure, and technology for one year to get their enterprise off the ground. Working out of chic facilities on the SAP Labs India campus, participants can benefit from support from SAP employees to help them bring their idea to market and expand their business successfully. Moreover, the startups can profit from making contact with SAP customers and partners. SAP works with the startups to complement its own offerings, too.
Khandelwal’s successor is Sindhu Gangadharan, about 20 years after she started as a developer at SAP Labs India. She works day in, day out to extend and reinforce SAP Labs India’s standing in the global SAP Labs Network and within the country’s IT sector.
Just like Sindhu Gangadharan and Ferose V.R., Rao Prasada is still with SAP — he too wants to continue playing his part in SAP Labs India’s success story.
This article is based in part on the book by Clas Neumann and Jayaram Srinivasan entitled “Managing Innovation from the Land of Ideas and Talent” and published by Springer. | 0 | 57,860 | 0.649125 | https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/sap-to-double-investments-in-india-sees-major-growth-executive-122060901269_1.html | 2022-06-09 18:31:29+00:00 | -
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Level playing fields
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SAP, the German business software firm, is scaling up its investments in India where it says the R&D workforce forms the "backbone" of the company.
SAP Labs India, the firm’s largest research and development centre outside its headquarters in Germany’s Walldorf, will hire 3,600 people this year, said a top company executive on Thursday. SAP Labs India has already taken in 1,600 employees till May this year.
“We are actually doubling our investments in India,” said Thomas Saueressig, a member of the executive board of SAP SE, at a roundtable discussion along with Sindhu Gangadharan, MD, SAP Labs India. “The talent we see here is unbelievable.”
Saueressig, who leads the Board area SAP Product Engineering and has global responsibility for all business software applications, is on a visit to India. The company will set up a new India campus by 2025 at Devanahalli in Bengaluru.
“What that shows to you is that the R&D workforce we have in India is the backbone of SAP,” said Saueressig. “All of our innovations at scale come from here. This doubling (down on India), will be the major growth driver for SAP in the future.”
The company didn’t reveal the total budget it has allocated for building such infrastructure and hiring of resources in the country. The new campus, which will spread over 41.07 acres and have 15,000 seating capacity, will help SAP attract and retain talent.
“We absolutely believe in the great talent in India,” said Saueressig. “We don’t see it as a labour arbitrage.”
SAP has a total workforce of 14,000 in India spread across Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai, Gurgaon and Hyderabad. “The new campus delivers on our commitment to the environment, employee well-being and inclusivity,” said Gangadharan.
“With SAP’s complete suite of products and solutions being represented out of one location, SAP Labs India is innovating for the world and further fueling SAP’s growth in the cloud,” said Gangadharan.
Saueressig said he didn’t see any direct impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the company’s cloud operations, or on productivity. “In the work from home (scenario), we saw that people going above and beyond to really deliver on the promises.”
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https://news.sap.com/2022/04/sap-labs-india-localization-team-global-hub/ | As SAP Labs India celebrates its 24th anniversary, we reflect on an exciting journey fueled by vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and a readiness to innovate.
It is early November 1998. Rao Prasada and his colleagues are working up a sweat by heaving servers and 21-inch monitors on the 12th floor of the International Technology Park Limited (ITPL) building in Whitefield, a few miles outside of Bengaluru in southern India.
There is a palpable anxiety and excitement in the office. Prasada and his team are on a tight deadline. As system administrators, it is their responsibility to get the network of computers, monitors, and servers up and running on November 13, when the new campus of SAP Labs India will be inaugurated by senior SAP executives.
“The 100 employees who were moving into the new campus had to go live on the first day,” recalls Prasada, adding that for him and his colleagues, moving into a new office, about 11 miles away from their existing rented premises in Koramangala, was a matter of great pride.
Today, SAP Labs India is a strategic hub within SAP’s global network of development centers, with more than 8,500 employees across five cities: Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Most work at the SAP Labs India campus in Bengaluru, which was inaugurated in 2003, just over a mile from the ITPL building.
Prasada, who now leads a team of IT experts, is still with the company – like many others. They have been part of the exciting and impressive story of SAP Labs India, which is about learning and lateral thinking, about localization and globalization, growth and scaling.
Above all, though, it is a story about innovation. Clas Neumann — now head of the SAP Labs Network — helped shape SAP Labs India as its managing director from 1999 until the beginning of 2005, first jointly with Udo Urbanek and then later with Martin Prinz, then as its president from 2007. Neumann credits SAP with laying the foundations for the development of standard software and much more.
“By not following the trend of just offshoring IT work at the lower end of the value chain, but integrating its Indian development center as one of the four major development hubs, SAP innovated distributed research and development processes,” he says.
Major Strategic Role
SAP Labs India is now the second-largest SAP development location after Walldorf. The teams work on all the major solutions — from SAP S/4HANA and SAP HANA through SAP Business Technology Platform to the entire range of business area products.
As one of four global hubs, along with Germany, China, and the U.S., SAP Labs India is where a great many strands come together. Many successful products and solutions have originated from SAP Labs India, including SAP Asset Intelligence Network, SAP Digital Manufacturing Insights, SAP Connected Worker Safety, and SAP Fashion Management.
Here too sizeable teams work closely with customers across the globe. Bengaluru is also home to an SAP Co-Innovation Lab and SAP’s startup accelerator program, the SAP Startup Studio, which went live in 2016.
SAP Labs India has significant strategic importance but it has had to work hard to earn it.
Toward the end of the 1990s, when the internet hype was at its height, SAP was still enjoying the double-digit growth of the past. But trends like customer relationship and supply chain management — accelerated by successful new companies like Siebel and I2 — brought pressure on several fronts. In order to keep pace and bring the necessary offerings to the market as quickly as possible, SAP had no choice but to bolster its development resources.
Then Co-CEOs Hasso Plattner and Henning Kagermann, along with their SAP Executive Board colleagues, opted for a two-pronged strategy, consisting of acquisitions and the establishment of new SAP Labs in countries where developers were easier to find than they were at the Walldorf, Silicon Valley, and Tokyo locations.
In late 1997, SAP acquired a 50% share in Kiefer & Veittinger GmbH (K&V), a European market leader in sales force automation software, as its route into the evolving customer relationship management (CRM) market. Founded not far from SAP in Mannheim in 1986, the company had operated a development center in Bengaluru with almost 90 employees since 1995. One of them was Rao Prasada.
“The hardware, all of which moved with us, was heavy. But our managing director, Udo Urbanek, lugged his monitor into our new offices himself,” Prasada recalls. He also remembers the Friday parties and K&V’s unofficial company motto: “Work hard, party harder.”
“We continued with those parties, which were very bonding experiences,” says Prasada with a grin. The open company culture after the merger in 1998 also left a lasting impression on him: “Everyone helped everyone else; everyone spoke with everyone else — no matter their status in the hierarchy.”
New SAP Labs: Two Pillars
The acquired K&V employees formed one pillar of the new SAP Labs; the other was a team of experts from SAP India, who localized the SAP software and adapted it to Indian legal requirements.
SAP India had been founded in March 1996 in Bengaluru, with offices in Mumbai and New Delhi and a remit to sell and implement SAP software. They were now joined by the localization team. One of its members was Uma Rani TM. She had already gained SAP software experience working at Tata Consulting Services. She implemented SAP at Hewlett-Packard’s Indian subsidiary, gained certification as a Sales & Distribution (SD) consultant, and soon began training others in ABAP.
“SAP R/3 gained traction very fast in India, and SAP quickly became known on the business scene here. But it was not yet as familiar a name in developer circles,” she says. Together with a small team in Singapore that was asked to adapt the HR and payroll software for India and other Asian countries as well, Uma Rani TM worked in the early days with just three colleagues on the SD, Materials Management (MM), and Financial Accounting (FI) modules for the India country version.
Clearly, though, SAP urgently needed more developers. In December 1997, a decision was made to move the localization team from Singapore to India and merge it with the team that was responsible for the country version there. At the same time, a project initiated by the SAP Executive Board and spearheaded by Neumann, then assistant to SAP Executive Board Member Peter Zencke, and Thomas Vetter, assistant to Kagermann, concluded that Bengaluru was an ideal location for SAP to overcome its shortage of skilled developers quickly.
These factors were the trigger for the foundation of SAP Labs India in November 1998. Its first joint managing directors were Udo Urbanek and Werner Konik, who had led the localization project for Asia. At the opening ceremony for the offices in the ITPL building in Bengaluru, Zencke explained that the location’s focus would be on driving the localization of SAP R/3 for the Asia-Pacific region and developing software for CRM and solutions for the high-tech, oil and gas, aerospace, and defense industries.
Close Cooperation with Walldorf
From day one, the development teams in Bengaluru worked closely with their colleagues in Germany and at other locations. According to Martin Prinz, who took over responsibility for the India country version from Konik, his team in India proved that there was an alternative to the traditional approach of centralized development, and that it was feasible to cooperate with co-developers in other locations. “In our case, it worked because we were so closely connected with the core development team in Germany and we did have a lot of support from there,” Prinz says Martin.
“It was an interesting journey,” says Uma Rani TM, who reported to Prinz at the time. “From a development point of view, it was tough, but so interesting to learn. Martin and the managing directors made a real effort to be there for us at all times.”
Yet, with the best will in the world, both sides needed time to get used to each other. “It often happened that people suddenly switched to speaking German in meetings,” says Uma Rani TM. “We had to remind them that we were there.”
Prasada remembers Urbanek attaching “great importance to punctuality, both at meetings and in completing tasks.” A characteristic that Prasada took home with him – and that did not always go down well with his family. He also learned fast that Germans tend to be quite direct. “But, if I had a problem and needed help, I always received support right away.”
Business trips to each other’s home countries helped foster mutual understanding and gave everyone a chance to broaden their horizons — culinary and otherwise. “Getting a vegetarian meal at the cafeteria in Walldorf and finding a restaurant in Walldorf or Heidelberg that served meat-free dishes was quite a challenge back then,” says Uma Rani TM with a grin. “But we found our ways.”
English gradually became the company language. For the first time, SAP invested into intercultural training for Germans and Indians followed by offerings for other nations. “This way, the establishment of SAP Labs India contributed decisively to SAP’s globalization,” says Neumann.
By 2001, there were already more than 500 SAP employees in Bengaluru.
Sharp Increase in Headcount
Although headcount growth in Bengaluru slowed when the dot-com bubble burst, it returned to its steep upward path from 2003 onward. SAP Labs India opened its new campus in Whitefield in November 2003. Prinz, who now co-managed the location with Neumann, described their role at the time as follows: “SAP Labs India is a place for SAP to scale for the future. We have to demonstrate that we can grow fast while remaining stable and reliable.”
By the end of 2004, the workforce had reached 1,350, and every line of business was represented in India. Georg Kniese, today global head for Corporate Development and M&A, became joint managing director with Prinz at the beginning of 2005. The locations invested heavily in employee training and bolstered their development and support unit resources. The aim was to create a global hub of SAP knowledge.
“We wanted to be part of the global development process, be close to our customers, continue driving localization, develop customer-specific solutions, and be on the spot when escalations happened,” recalls Kniese. By the end of 2005, SAP Labs India’s payroll numbered almost 2,300.
Two years later, that figure had risen by another 1,000, and SAP Labs India became the second-largest development location outside Walldorf. When Kniese returned to Germany at the end of 2007, SAP Labs India got its very first Indian managing director: Kush Desai. His counterpart in Gurgaon was Ferose V.R. And in another first, teams in Bengaluru took on full global responsibility for a product: SAP Employee Self-Service.
“As far as I can tell, we were the first company to develop a solution from demand analysis to final product and maintenance in Bengaluru,” says Neumann. “Many companies and academia visited us at the labs now to learn what it takes to implement a research and development function globally. Thereby we certainly had an impact on the Indian IT sector.”
Uma Rani TM remembers this period of rapid growth very clearly. In her view, it happened because SAP needed developers and looked to India, where they were affordable. “The benefit for our employees was that this growth created lots of new opportunities for them to progress professionally.”
After five years on the localization team and having completed an MBA, Uma Rani TM herself took the opportunity to take charge of the Installed Base Maintenance & Support (IMS) team in Bengaluru in 2003. “My managers always supported and encouraged me greatly,” she says. Now in her 25th year at SAP, Uma Rani TM is head of Application Innovation Services.
Indian Customers Benefit from Proximity to SAP Labs
In 2007, India was SAP’s fastest-growing market. Revenues doubled that year, and continued to do so in the years that followed. According to Neumann, SAP Labs were the engine for this success. The sales personnel in India benefited enormously from being close to developers.
“Very often, meetings in Bengaluru were the key to getting deals signed,” says Neumann. “The labs made it clear to customers from the get-go that SAP was here to stay and that it had the required expertise available locally.”
Uma Rani TM adds that “having such a great campus with great experts in this location has really helped our customers and the business be closer to our developers. This enabled us to drive the transformation with deep product and business expertise.”
In April 2010, Ferose V.R. became sole managing director of SAP Labs India. He encouraged the workforce, now numbering over 4,000, to experiment with new ideas and to find creative solutions to some of their problems, such as a lack of childcare and the tedious process of claiming for travel expenses. He founded an SAP AppHaus location on the Bengaluru campus, where designers, developers, and marketeers could collaborate on innovative solutions. He also initiated several interest groups for employees, including a book club, “to create a unique environment for employees and a culture of innovation.”
And in 2011 he started to hire people with autism. Ferose V.R. worked with some of the most influential thinkers on autism studies to learn from best practices and further grow and improve the program, which then became SAP’s Autism at Work program. Since then, the program has grown rapidly and expanded globally.
Putting Faith in Employees’ Creative Powers
Dilip Khandelwal became managing director of SAP Labs India in August 2014. In Bengaluru, more than 2,500 employees work in the Gerhard Oswald Innovation Space, a contemporary, €50 million building that was opened in April 2017 in honor of SAP’s long-serving Executive Board member and supporter of SAP Labs.
Fostering Startups
One of Khandelwal’s central elements of his strategy was initiating the SAP Startup Studio. Here, SAP Labs locations offer startups consulting, support, infrastructure, and technology for one year to get their enterprise off the ground. Working out of chic facilities on the SAP Labs India campus, participants can benefit from support from SAP employees to help them bring their idea to market and expand their business successfully. Moreover, the startups can profit from making contact with SAP customers and partners. SAP works with the startups to complement its own offerings, too.
Khandelwal’s successor is Sindhu Gangadharan, about 20 years after she started as a developer at SAP Labs India. She works day in, day out to extend and reinforce SAP Labs India’s standing in the global SAP Labs Network and within the country’s IT sector.
Just like Sindhu Gangadharan and Ferose V.R., Rao Prasada is still with SAP — he too wants to continue playing his part in SAP Labs India’s success story.
This article is based in part on the book by Clas Neumann and Jayaram Srinivasan entitled “Managing Innovation from the Land of Ideas and Talent” and published by Springer. | 1 | 5,964 | 0.666757 | https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/sap-labs-india-to-set-up-new-campus-by-2025/article65511087.ece | 2022-06-09 15:29:41+00:00 | SAP Labs India is set to build a new campus in Bengaluru by 2025 to attract and retain the right talent in the new hybrid world by bridging physical and digital workspaces. It will be hiring 3,600 people in 2022.
The new campus will focus on sustainability, wellness and inclusivity while keeping the employee at the centre of SAP’s thought process, the company said. It has already onboarded 1,600 of the 3,600 it intends to hire this year.
Thomas Saueressig, Product Engineering, Executive Board, SAP, said, “the development of the workforce in India is the backbone of SAP. All of our innovation at scale comes from India and it’s already the largest R&D centre. It is now doubling and will be a major growth driver for SAP in the future.”
New campus
The new campus will be located at Devanahalli, near Bangalore International Airport. It will be built across 41.07 acres and will have a seating capacity of 15,000 people. However, the company did not disclose how much it would invest in setting up this new campus.
Sindhu Gangadharan, Senior Vice-President and Managing Director, SAP Labs India, said, “the new centre at Devanahalli will be a perfect ecosystem as we have our customers such as Unilever, Shell and Boeing, among others located there. The idea of the new centre is to achieve higher growth by tapping into the ecosystem even more with the great talent we have.”
SAP Labs India is SAP’s largest Research and Development (R&D) location outside the headquarters in Walldorf, Germany. Presently it has a workforce of 14,000 people in India, across Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai, Gurgaon and Hyderabad.
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https://news.sap.com/2022/04/sap-labs-india-localization-team-global-hub/ | As SAP Labs India celebrates its 24th anniversary, we reflect on an exciting journey fueled by vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and a readiness to innovate.
It is early November 1998. Rao Prasada and his colleagues are working up a sweat by heaving servers and 21-inch monitors on the 12th floor of the International Technology Park Limited (ITPL) building in Whitefield, a few miles outside of Bengaluru in southern India.
There is a palpable anxiety and excitement in the office. Prasada and his team are on a tight deadline. As system administrators, it is their responsibility to get the network of computers, monitors, and servers up and running on November 13, when the new campus of SAP Labs India will be inaugurated by senior SAP executives.
“The 100 employees who were moving into the new campus had to go live on the first day,” recalls Prasada, adding that for him and his colleagues, moving into a new office, about 11 miles away from their existing rented premises in Koramangala, was a matter of great pride.
Today, SAP Labs India is a strategic hub within SAP’s global network of development centers, with more than 8,500 employees across five cities: Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Most work at the SAP Labs India campus in Bengaluru, which was inaugurated in 2003, just over a mile from the ITPL building.
Prasada, who now leads a team of IT experts, is still with the company – like many others. They have been part of the exciting and impressive story of SAP Labs India, which is about learning and lateral thinking, about localization and globalization, growth and scaling.
Above all, though, it is a story about innovation. Clas Neumann — now head of the SAP Labs Network — helped shape SAP Labs India as its managing director from 1999 until the beginning of 2005, first jointly with Udo Urbanek and then later with Martin Prinz, then as its president from 2007. Neumann credits SAP with laying the foundations for the development of standard software and much more.
“By not following the trend of just offshoring IT work at the lower end of the value chain, but integrating its Indian development center as one of the four major development hubs, SAP innovated distributed research and development processes,” he says.
Major Strategic Role
SAP Labs India is now the second-largest SAP development location after Walldorf. The teams work on all the major solutions — from SAP S/4HANA and SAP HANA through SAP Business Technology Platform to the entire range of business area products.
As one of four global hubs, along with Germany, China, and the U.S., SAP Labs India is where a great many strands come together. Many successful products and solutions have originated from SAP Labs India, including SAP Asset Intelligence Network, SAP Digital Manufacturing Insights, SAP Connected Worker Safety, and SAP Fashion Management.
Here too sizeable teams work closely with customers across the globe. Bengaluru is also home to an SAP Co-Innovation Lab and SAP’s startup accelerator program, the SAP Startup Studio, which went live in 2016.
SAP Labs India has significant strategic importance but it has had to work hard to earn it.
Toward the end of the 1990s, when the internet hype was at its height, SAP was still enjoying the double-digit growth of the past. But trends like customer relationship and supply chain management — accelerated by successful new companies like Siebel and I2 — brought pressure on several fronts. In order to keep pace and bring the necessary offerings to the market as quickly as possible, SAP had no choice but to bolster its development resources.
Then Co-CEOs Hasso Plattner and Henning Kagermann, along with their SAP Executive Board colleagues, opted for a two-pronged strategy, consisting of acquisitions and the establishment of new SAP Labs in countries where developers were easier to find than they were at the Walldorf, Silicon Valley, and Tokyo locations.
In late 1997, SAP acquired a 50% share in Kiefer & Veittinger GmbH (K&V), a European market leader in sales force automation software, as its route into the evolving customer relationship management (CRM) market. Founded not far from SAP in Mannheim in 1986, the company had operated a development center in Bengaluru with almost 90 employees since 1995. One of them was Rao Prasada.
“The hardware, all of which moved with us, was heavy. But our managing director, Udo Urbanek, lugged his monitor into our new offices himself,” Prasada recalls. He also remembers the Friday parties and K&V’s unofficial company motto: “Work hard, party harder.”
“We continued with those parties, which were very bonding experiences,” says Prasada with a grin. The open company culture after the merger in 1998 also left a lasting impression on him: “Everyone helped everyone else; everyone spoke with everyone else — no matter their status in the hierarchy.”
New SAP Labs: Two Pillars
The acquired K&V employees formed one pillar of the new SAP Labs; the other was a team of experts from SAP India, who localized the SAP software and adapted it to Indian legal requirements.
SAP India had been founded in March 1996 in Bengaluru, with offices in Mumbai and New Delhi and a remit to sell and implement SAP software. They were now joined by the localization team. One of its members was Uma Rani TM. She had already gained SAP software experience working at Tata Consulting Services. She implemented SAP at Hewlett-Packard’s Indian subsidiary, gained certification as a Sales & Distribution (SD) consultant, and soon began training others in ABAP.
“SAP R/3 gained traction very fast in India, and SAP quickly became known on the business scene here. But it was not yet as familiar a name in developer circles,” she says. Together with a small team in Singapore that was asked to adapt the HR and payroll software for India and other Asian countries as well, Uma Rani TM worked in the early days with just three colleagues on the SD, Materials Management (MM), and Financial Accounting (FI) modules for the India country version.
Clearly, though, SAP urgently needed more developers. In December 1997, a decision was made to move the localization team from Singapore to India and merge it with the team that was responsible for the country version there. At the same time, a project initiated by the SAP Executive Board and spearheaded by Neumann, then assistant to SAP Executive Board Member Peter Zencke, and Thomas Vetter, assistant to Kagermann, concluded that Bengaluru was an ideal location for SAP to overcome its shortage of skilled developers quickly.
These factors were the trigger for the foundation of SAP Labs India in November 1998. Its first joint managing directors were Udo Urbanek and Werner Konik, who had led the localization project for Asia. At the opening ceremony for the offices in the ITPL building in Bengaluru, Zencke explained that the location’s focus would be on driving the localization of SAP R/3 for the Asia-Pacific region and developing software for CRM and solutions for the high-tech, oil and gas, aerospace, and defense industries.
Close Cooperation with Walldorf
From day one, the development teams in Bengaluru worked closely with their colleagues in Germany and at other locations. According to Martin Prinz, who took over responsibility for the India country version from Konik, his team in India proved that there was an alternative to the traditional approach of centralized development, and that it was feasible to cooperate with co-developers in other locations. “In our case, it worked because we were so closely connected with the core development team in Germany and we did have a lot of support from there,” Prinz says Martin.
“It was an interesting journey,” says Uma Rani TM, who reported to Prinz at the time. “From a development point of view, it was tough, but so interesting to learn. Martin and the managing directors made a real effort to be there for us at all times.”
Yet, with the best will in the world, both sides needed time to get used to each other. “It often happened that people suddenly switched to speaking German in meetings,” says Uma Rani TM. “We had to remind them that we were there.”
Prasada remembers Urbanek attaching “great importance to punctuality, both at meetings and in completing tasks.” A characteristic that Prasada took home with him – and that did not always go down well with his family. He also learned fast that Germans tend to be quite direct. “But, if I had a problem and needed help, I always received support right away.”
Business trips to each other’s home countries helped foster mutual understanding and gave everyone a chance to broaden their horizons — culinary and otherwise. “Getting a vegetarian meal at the cafeteria in Walldorf and finding a restaurant in Walldorf or Heidelberg that served meat-free dishes was quite a challenge back then,” says Uma Rani TM with a grin. “But we found our ways.”
English gradually became the company language. For the first time, SAP invested into intercultural training for Germans and Indians followed by offerings for other nations. “This way, the establishment of SAP Labs India contributed decisively to SAP’s globalization,” says Neumann.
By 2001, there were already more than 500 SAP employees in Bengaluru.
Sharp Increase in Headcount
Although headcount growth in Bengaluru slowed when the dot-com bubble burst, it returned to its steep upward path from 2003 onward. SAP Labs India opened its new campus in Whitefield in November 2003. Prinz, who now co-managed the location with Neumann, described their role at the time as follows: “SAP Labs India is a place for SAP to scale for the future. We have to demonstrate that we can grow fast while remaining stable and reliable.”
By the end of 2004, the workforce had reached 1,350, and every line of business was represented in India. Georg Kniese, today global head for Corporate Development and M&A, became joint managing director with Prinz at the beginning of 2005. The locations invested heavily in employee training and bolstered their development and support unit resources. The aim was to create a global hub of SAP knowledge.
“We wanted to be part of the global development process, be close to our customers, continue driving localization, develop customer-specific solutions, and be on the spot when escalations happened,” recalls Kniese. By the end of 2005, SAP Labs India’s payroll numbered almost 2,300.
Two years later, that figure had risen by another 1,000, and SAP Labs India became the second-largest development location outside Walldorf. When Kniese returned to Germany at the end of 2007, SAP Labs India got its very first Indian managing director: Kush Desai. His counterpart in Gurgaon was Ferose V.R. And in another first, teams in Bengaluru took on full global responsibility for a product: SAP Employee Self-Service.
“As far as I can tell, we were the first company to develop a solution from demand analysis to final product and maintenance in Bengaluru,” says Neumann. “Many companies and academia visited us at the labs now to learn what it takes to implement a research and development function globally. Thereby we certainly had an impact on the Indian IT sector.”
Uma Rani TM remembers this period of rapid growth very clearly. In her view, it happened because SAP needed developers and looked to India, where they were affordable. “The benefit for our employees was that this growth created lots of new opportunities for them to progress professionally.”
After five years on the localization team and having completed an MBA, Uma Rani TM herself took the opportunity to take charge of the Installed Base Maintenance & Support (IMS) team in Bengaluru in 2003. “My managers always supported and encouraged me greatly,” she says. Now in her 25th year at SAP, Uma Rani TM is head of Application Innovation Services.
Indian Customers Benefit from Proximity to SAP Labs
In 2007, India was SAP’s fastest-growing market. Revenues doubled that year, and continued to do so in the years that followed. According to Neumann, SAP Labs were the engine for this success. The sales personnel in India benefited enormously from being close to developers.
“Very often, meetings in Bengaluru were the key to getting deals signed,” says Neumann. “The labs made it clear to customers from the get-go that SAP was here to stay and that it had the required expertise available locally.”
Uma Rani TM adds that “having such a great campus with great experts in this location has really helped our customers and the business be closer to our developers. This enabled us to drive the transformation with deep product and business expertise.”
In April 2010, Ferose V.R. became sole managing director of SAP Labs India. He encouraged the workforce, now numbering over 4,000, to experiment with new ideas and to find creative solutions to some of their problems, such as a lack of childcare and the tedious process of claiming for travel expenses. He founded an SAP AppHaus location on the Bengaluru campus, where designers, developers, and marketeers could collaborate on innovative solutions. He also initiated several interest groups for employees, including a book club, “to create a unique environment for employees and a culture of innovation.”
And in 2011 he started to hire people with autism. Ferose V.R. worked with some of the most influential thinkers on autism studies to learn from best practices and further grow and improve the program, which then became SAP’s Autism at Work program. Since then, the program has grown rapidly and expanded globally.
Putting Faith in Employees’ Creative Powers
Dilip Khandelwal became managing director of SAP Labs India in August 2014. In Bengaluru, more than 2,500 employees work in the Gerhard Oswald Innovation Space, a contemporary, €50 million building that was opened in April 2017 in honor of SAP’s long-serving Executive Board member and supporter of SAP Labs.
Fostering Startups
One of Khandelwal’s central elements of his strategy was initiating the SAP Startup Studio. Here, SAP Labs locations offer startups consulting, support, infrastructure, and technology for one year to get their enterprise off the ground. Working out of chic facilities on the SAP Labs India campus, participants can benefit from support from SAP employees to help them bring their idea to market and expand their business successfully. Moreover, the startups can profit from making contact with SAP customers and partners. SAP works with the startups to complement its own offerings, too.
Khandelwal’s successor is Sindhu Gangadharan, about 20 years after she started as a developer at SAP Labs India. She works day in, day out to extend and reinforce SAP Labs India’s standing in the global SAP Labs Network and within the country’s IT sector.
Just like Sindhu Gangadharan and Ferose V.R., Rao Prasada is still with SAP — he too wants to continue playing his part in SAP Labs India’s success story.
This article is based in part on the book by Clas Neumann and Jayaram Srinivasan entitled “Managing Innovation from the Land of Ideas and Talent” and published by Springer. | 2 | 93,250 | 0.769406 | https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/information-tech/sap-labs-to-open-new-campus-by-2025-double-its-india-headcount/articleshow/92119318.cms | 2022-06-10 19:27:53+00:00 | "The R&D workforce of India is the backbone of SAP. All of our innovation at scale comes from here. The doubling (of SAP Labs) workforce will be the major growth driver for SAP in the future," said Thomas Saueressig, SAP SE's executive board member. "The hiring is not due to labour arbitrage or cost benefit purposes but reflective of huge growth seen in the cloud business," he said while addressing the media on his visit to Bengaluru.
"It will be a perfect ecosystem because we have our customers such as Unilever, Shell and Boeing located there. It means working closely with our customers for collaboration and innovation," said Sindhu Gangadharan, senior vice president and MD of SAP Labs India. The arm will hire 3,600 employees this calendar year and has already reached the half-way mark.
The arm has 14,000 people currently in the country across its five locations in Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai, Gurgaon and Hyderabad. More than 70% of the country's GDP and 50% of corporate tax is touched by a SAP system. Also, the India labs team is the only team globally to work across its entire suite of solutions and products such as sustainability, enterprise resource planning and supply-chain solutions.
Also, a majority of new advancements done in artificial intelligence and machine learning are done out of Bengaluru, "Visual inspection solution that brings quality processes to a production line based on videos or images in our Concur expense management solution, we have a fraud detection feature that is AI-powered--both these solutions rely on data treasure we have on the cloud," said Saueressig. The company has 130 such use cases of AI/ML till date in its portfolio. |
https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Man-kills-self-after-shooting-girlfriend-at-Texas-17051378.php | SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — A man fatally shot himself after shooting and injuring his girlfriend Friday at the West Texas beef processing plant where they both worked, police said.
San Angelo police said officers responded to the shooting at Lone Star Beef Processors at about 8:30 a.m. The 57-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were both taken to a hospital, where he died and she was in stable condition, police said.
Police said the man and woman had been dating.
After they got into an argument at their workplace, the man produced a firearm and shot the woman near her left shoulder, police said. Police said the man then shot himself.
San Angelo is about 260 miles (418 kilometers) southwest of Dallas. | 0 | 56,490 | 0 | https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/article/Man-kills-self-after-shooting-girlfriend-at-Texas-17051378.php | 2022-04-01 17:22:53+00:00 | SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — A man fatally shot himself after shooting and injuring his girlfriend Friday at the West Texas beef processing plant where they both worked, police said.
San Angelo police said officers responded to the shooting at Lone Star Beef Processors at about 8:30 a.m. The 57-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were both taken to a hospital, where he died and she was in stable condition, police said.
Police said the man and woman had been dating.
After they got into an argument at their workplace, the man produced a firearm and shot the woman near her left shoulder, police said. Police said the man then shot himself.
San Angelo is about 260 miles (418 kilometers) southwest of Dallas. |
https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Man-kills-self-after-shooting-girlfriend-at-Texas-17051378.php | SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — A man fatally shot himself after shooting and injuring his girlfriend Friday at the West Texas beef processing plant where they both worked, police said.
San Angelo police said officers responded to the shooting at Lone Star Beef Processors at about 8:30 a.m. The 57-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were both taken to a hospital, where he died and she was in stable condition, police said.
Police said the man and woman had been dating.
After they got into an argument at their workplace, the man produced a firearm and shot the woman near her left shoulder, police said. Police said the man then shot himself.
San Angelo is about 260 miles (418 kilometers) southwest of Dallas. | 1 | 56,619 | 0 | https://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Man-kills-self-after-shooting-girlfriend-at-Texas-17051378.php | 2022-04-01 17:23:26+00:00 | SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — A man fatally shot himself after shooting and injuring his girlfriend Friday at the West Texas beef processing plant where they both worked, police said.
San Angelo police said officers responded to the shooting at Lone Star Beef Processors at about 8:30 a.m. The 57-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were both taken to a hospital, where he died and she was in stable condition, police said.
Police said the man and woman had been dating.
After they got into an argument at their workplace, the man produced a firearm and shot the woman near her left shoulder, police said. Police said the man then shot himself.
San Angelo is about 260 miles (418 kilometers) southwest of Dallas. |
https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Man-kills-self-after-shooting-girlfriend-at-Texas-17051378.php | SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — A man fatally shot himself after shooting and injuring his girlfriend Friday at the West Texas beef processing plant where they both worked, police said.
San Angelo police said officers responded to the shooting at Lone Star Beef Processors at about 8:30 a.m. The 57-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were both taken to a hospital, where he died and she was in stable condition, police said.
Police said the man and woman had been dating.
After they got into an argument at their workplace, the man produced a firearm and shot the woman near her left shoulder, police said. Police said the man then shot himself.
San Angelo is about 260 miles (418 kilometers) southwest of Dallas. | 2 | 56,852 | 0 | https://www.greenwichtime.com/news/article/Man-kills-self-after-shooting-girlfriend-at-Texas-17051378.php | 2022-04-01 17:24:39+00:00 | SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — A man fatally shot himself after shooting and injuring his girlfriend Friday at the West Texas beef processing plant where they both worked, police said.
San Angelo police said officers responded to the shooting at Lone Star Beef Processors at about 8:30 a.m. The 57-year-old man and 49-year-old woman were both taken to a hospital, where he died and she was in stable condition, police said.
Police said the man and woman had been dating.
After they got into an argument at their workplace, the man produced a firearm and shot the woman near her left shoulder, police said. Police said the man then shot himself.
San Angelo is about 260 miles (418 kilometers) southwest of Dallas. |
https://pix11.com/news/local-news/ukraineinvasion/ukrainian-president-says-defense-is-at-a-turning-point/ | KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian troops handed control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant back to the Ukrainians and left the heavily contaminated site early Friday, more than a month after taking it over, Ukrainian authorities said, as fighting raged on the outskirts of Kyiv and other fronts.
Ukraine’s state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses” of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. But there was no independent confirmation of that.
The withdrawal took place amid growing indications the Kremlin is using talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover while regrouping, resupplying its forces and redeploying them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic and that the forces are building up for new powerful attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Meanwhile, a convoy of 45 buses headed to Mariupol in another bid to evacuate people from the besieged port city after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. But Russian forces blocked the buses, and only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Twelve Ukrainian buses were able to deliver 14 tons of food and medical supplies to Mariupol, but the aid was seized by Russian troops, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said late Thursday.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands have managed to get out of Mariupol in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing its population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 as of last week, but other relief efforts have been thwarted by continued Russian attacks.
A new round of talks was scheduled for Friday, five weeks into the war that has left thousands dead and driven 4 million Ukrainians from the country.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russian forces at the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster had transferred control of it in writing to the Ukrainians.
The last Russian troops left the Chernobyl plant early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it had not been able to confirm the reports of Russian troops receiving high doses. It said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely” a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
He said contaminated material was probably buried or covered with new topsoil during the cleanup of Chernobyl, and some soldiers may have been exposed to a “hot spot” of radiation while digging. Others may have assumed they were at risk too, he said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
Chernihiv came under attack as well. At least one person was killed and four were wounded in the Russian shelling of a humanitarian convoy of buses sent to Chernihiv to evacuate residents cut off from food, water and other supplies, said Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Lyudmyla Denisova
Ukraine also reported Russian artillery barrages in and around the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol.
The top rebel leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, issued an order to set up a rival city government for Mariupol, according to Russian state news agencies, in a sign of Russian intent to hold and administer the city.
With talks set to resume between Ukraine and Russia via video, there seemed little faith that the two sides would resolve the conflict any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said that conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and that he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
In other developments, Ukraine’s emergency services said the death toll had risen to 20 in a Russian missile strike Tuesday on a government administration building in the southern city of Mykolaiv.
As Western officials search for clues about what Russia’s next move might be, a top British intelligence official said demoralized Russian soldiers in Ukraine are refusing to carry out ordersand sabotaging their equipment and had accidentally shot down their own aircraft.
In a speech in Australia, Jeremy Fleming, head of the GCHQ electronic spy agency, said Putin had apparently “massively misjudged” the invasion.
The Pentagon reported Thursday that an initial half-dozen shipments of weapons and other security assistance from the U.S. have reached Ukraine as part of an $800 million aid package President Joe Biden approved this month.
The shipments included Javelin anti-tank weapons, Stinger anti-aircraft missile systems, body armor, medical supplies and other materials, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
U.S. intelligence officials have concluded thatPutin is being misinformed by his advisers about how badly the war is going because they are afraid to tell him the truth.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the U.S. is wrong and that “neither the State Department nor the Pentagon possesses the real information about what is happening in the Kremlin.”
___
Karmanau reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | 0 | 27,745 | 0.090255 | https://www.local10.com/news/world/2022/03/31/ukrainian-president-says-defense-is-at-a-turning-point/ | 2022-04-01 15:22:40+00:00 | KYIV – Russian troops handed control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant back to the Ukrainians and left the heavily contaminated site early Friday, more than a month after taking it over, Ukrainian authorities said, as fighting raged on the outskirts of Kyiv and other fronts.
Ukraine's state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses" of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. But there was no independent confirmation of that.
The withdrawal took place amid growing indications the Kremlin is using talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover while regrouping, resupplying its forces and redeploying them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic and that the forces are building up for new powerful attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Meanwhile, a convoy of 45 buses headed to Mariupol in another bid to evacuate people from the besieged port city after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. But Russian forces blocked the buses, and only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Twelve Ukrainian buses were able to deliver 14 tons of food and medical supplies to Mariupol, but the aid was seized by Russian troops, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said late Thursday.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands have managed to get out of Mariupol in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing its population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 as of last week, but other relief efforts have been thwarted by continued Russian attacks.
A new round of talks was scheduled for Friday, five weeks into the war that has left thousands dead and driven 4 million Ukrainians from the country.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russian forces at the site of the world's worst nuclear disaster had transferred control of it in writing to the Ukrainians.
The last Russian troops left the Chernobyl plant early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it had not been able to confirm the reports of Russian troops receiving high doses. It said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely" a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
He said contaminated material was probably buried or covered with new topsoil during the cleanup of Chernobyl, and some soldiers may have been exposed to a “hot spot” of radiation while digging. Others may have assumed they were at risk too, he said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
Chernihiv came under attack as well. At least one person was killed and four were wounded in the Russian shelling of a humanitarian convoy of buses sent to Chernihiv to evacuate residents cut off from food, water and other supplies, said Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Lyudmyla Denisova
Ukraine also reported Russian artillery barrages in and around the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol.
The top rebel leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, issued an order to set up a rival city government for Mariupol, according to Russian state news agencies, in a sign of Russian intent to hold and administer the city.
With talks set to resume between Ukraine and Russia via video, there seemed little faith that the two sides would resolve the conflict any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said that conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and that he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
In other developments, Ukraine’s emergency services said the death toll had risen to 20 in a Russian missile strike Tuesday on a government administration building in the southern city of Mykolaiv.
As Western officials search for clues about what Russia's next move might be, a top British intelligence official said demoralized Russian soldiers in Ukraine are refusing to carry out orders and sabotaging their equipment and had accidentally shot down their own aircraft.
In a speech in Australia, Jeremy Fleming, head of the GCHQ electronic spy agency, said Putin had apparently “massively misjudged” the invasion.
The Pentagon reported Thursday that an initial half-dozen shipments of weapons and other security assistance from the U.S. have reached Ukraine as part of an $800 million aid package President Joe Biden approved this month.
The shipments included Javelin anti-tank weapons, Stinger anti-aircraft missile systems, body armor, medical supplies and other materials, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
U.S. intelligence officials have concluded that Putin is being misinformed by his advisers about how badly the war is going because they are afraid to tell him the truth.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the U.S. is wrong and that “neither the State Department nor the Pentagon possesses the real information about what is happening in the Kremlin.”
___
Karmanau reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine |
https://pix11.com/news/local-news/ukraineinvasion/ukrainian-president-says-defense-is-at-a-turning-point/ | KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian troops handed control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant back to the Ukrainians and left the heavily contaminated site early Friday, more than a month after taking it over, Ukrainian authorities said, as fighting raged on the outskirts of Kyiv and other fronts.
Ukraine’s state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses” of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. But there was no independent confirmation of that.
The withdrawal took place amid growing indications the Kremlin is using talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover while regrouping, resupplying its forces and redeploying them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic and that the forces are building up for new powerful attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Meanwhile, a convoy of 45 buses headed to Mariupol in another bid to evacuate people from the besieged port city after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. But Russian forces blocked the buses, and only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Twelve Ukrainian buses were able to deliver 14 tons of food and medical supplies to Mariupol, but the aid was seized by Russian troops, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said late Thursday.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands have managed to get out of Mariupol in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing its population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 as of last week, but other relief efforts have been thwarted by continued Russian attacks.
A new round of talks was scheduled for Friday, five weeks into the war that has left thousands dead and driven 4 million Ukrainians from the country.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russian forces at the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster had transferred control of it in writing to the Ukrainians.
The last Russian troops left the Chernobyl plant early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it had not been able to confirm the reports of Russian troops receiving high doses. It said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely” a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
He said contaminated material was probably buried or covered with new topsoil during the cleanup of Chernobyl, and some soldiers may have been exposed to a “hot spot” of radiation while digging. Others may have assumed they were at risk too, he said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
Chernihiv came under attack as well. At least one person was killed and four were wounded in the Russian shelling of a humanitarian convoy of buses sent to Chernihiv to evacuate residents cut off from food, water and other supplies, said Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Lyudmyla Denisova
Ukraine also reported Russian artillery barrages in and around the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol.
The top rebel leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, issued an order to set up a rival city government for Mariupol, according to Russian state news agencies, in a sign of Russian intent to hold and administer the city.
With talks set to resume between Ukraine and Russia via video, there seemed little faith that the two sides would resolve the conflict any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said that conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and that he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
In other developments, Ukraine’s emergency services said the death toll had risen to 20 in a Russian missile strike Tuesday on a government administration building in the southern city of Mykolaiv.
As Western officials search for clues about what Russia’s next move might be, a top British intelligence official said demoralized Russian soldiers in Ukraine are refusing to carry out ordersand sabotaging their equipment and had accidentally shot down their own aircraft.
In a speech in Australia, Jeremy Fleming, head of the GCHQ electronic spy agency, said Putin had apparently “massively misjudged” the invasion.
The Pentagon reported Thursday that an initial half-dozen shipments of weapons and other security assistance from the U.S. have reached Ukraine as part of an $800 million aid package President Joe Biden approved this month.
The shipments included Javelin anti-tank weapons, Stinger anti-aircraft missile systems, body armor, medical supplies and other materials, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
U.S. intelligence officials have concluded thatPutin is being misinformed by his advisers about how badly the war is going because they are afraid to tell him the truth.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the U.S. is wrong and that “neither the State Department nor the Pentagon possesses the real information about what is happening in the Kremlin.”
___
Karmanau reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | 1 | 95,236 | 0.117816 | https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2022/03/31/russians-leave-chernobyl-site-as-fighting-rages-elsewhere/ | 2022-04-02 12:24:25+00:00 | By NEBI QENA and YURAS KARMANAU
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian troops handed control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant back to the Ukrainians and left the heavily contaminated site early Friday, more than a month after taking it over, Ukrainian authorities said, as fighting raged on the outskirts of Kyiv and other fronts.
Ukraine’s state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses” of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. But there was no independent confirmation of that.
The withdrawal took place amid growing indications the Kremlin is using talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover while regrouping, resupplying its forces and redeploying them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic and that the forces are building up for new powerful attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Meanwhile, a convoy of 45 buses headed to Mariupol in another bid to evacuate people from the besieged port city after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. But Russian forces blocked the buses, and only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Twelve Ukrainian buses were able to deliver 14 tons of food and medical supplies to Mariupol, but the aid was seized by Russian troops, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said late Thursday.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands have managed to get out of Mariupol in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing its population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 as of last week, but other relief efforts have been thwarted by continued Russian attacks.
A new round of talks was scheduled for Friday, five weeks into the war that has left thousands dead and driven 4 million Ukrainians from the country.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russian forces at the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster had transferred control of it in writing to the Ukrainians.
The last Russian troops left the Chernobyl plant early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it had not been able to confirm the reports of Russian troops receiving high doses. It said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely” a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
He said contaminated material was probably buried or covered with new topsoil during the cleanup of Chernobyl, and some soldiers may have been exposed to a “hot spot” of radiation while digging. Others may have assumed they were at risk too, he said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
Chernihiv came under attack as well. At least one person was killed and four were wounded in the Russian shelling of a humanitarian convoy of buses sent to Chernihiv to evacuate residents cut off from food, water and other supplies, said Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Lyudmyla Denisova
Ukraine also reported Russian artillery barrages in and around the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol.
The top rebel leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, issued an order to set up a rival city government for Mariupol, according to Russian state news agencies, in a sign of Russian intent to hold and administer the city.
With talks set to resume between Ukraine and Russia via video, there seemed little faith that the two sides would resolve the conflict any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said that conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and that he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
In other developments, Ukraine’s emergency services said the death toll had risen to 20 in a Russian missile strike Tuesday on a government administration building in the southern city of Mykolaiv.
As Western officials search for clues about what Russia’s next move might be, a top British intelligence official said demoralized Russian soldiers in Ukraine are refusing to carry out orders and sabotaging their equipment and had accidentally shot down their own aircraft.
In a speech in Australia, Jeremy Fleming, head of the GCHQ electronic spy agency, said Putin had apparently “massively misjudged” the invasion.
The Pentagon reported Thursday that an initial half-dozen shipments of weapons and other security assistance from the U.S. have reached Ukraine as part of an $800 million aid package President Joe Biden approved this month.
The shipments included Javelin anti-tank weapons, Stinger anti-aircraft missile systems, body armor, medical supplies and other materials, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
U.S. intelligence officials have concluded that Putin is being misinformed by his advisers about how badly the war is going because they are afraid to tell him the truth.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the U.S. is wrong and that “neither the State Department nor the Pentagon possesses the real information about what is happening in the Kremlin.”
___
Karmanau reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine |
https://pix11.com/news/local-news/ukraineinvasion/ukrainian-president-says-defense-is-at-a-turning-point/ | KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian troops handed control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant back to the Ukrainians and left the heavily contaminated site early Friday, more than a month after taking it over, Ukrainian authorities said, as fighting raged on the outskirts of Kyiv and other fronts.
Ukraine’s state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses” of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. But there was no independent confirmation of that.
The withdrawal took place amid growing indications the Kremlin is using talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover while regrouping, resupplying its forces and redeploying them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic and that the forces are building up for new powerful attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Meanwhile, a convoy of 45 buses headed to Mariupol in another bid to evacuate people from the besieged port city after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. But Russian forces blocked the buses, and only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Twelve Ukrainian buses were able to deliver 14 tons of food and medical supplies to Mariupol, but the aid was seized by Russian troops, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said late Thursday.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands have managed to get out of Mariupol in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing its population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 as of last week, but other relief efforts have been thwarted by continued Russian attacks.
A new round of talks was scheduled for Friday, five weeks into the war that has left thousands dead and driven 4 million Ukrainians from the country.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russian forces at the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster had transferred control of it in writing to the Ukrainians.
The last Russian troops left the Chernobyl plant early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it had not been able to confirm the reports of Russian troops receiving high doses. It said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely” a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
He said contaminated material was probably buried or covered with new topsoil during the cleanup of Chernobyl, and some soldiers may have been exposed to a “hot spot” of radiation while digging. Others may have assumed they were at risk too, he said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
Chernihiv came under attack as well. At least one person was killed and four were wounded in the Russian shelling of a humanitarian convoy of buses sent to Chernihiv to evacuate residents cut off from food, water and other supplies, said Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Lyudmyla Denisova
Ukraine also reported Russian artillery barrages in and around the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol.
The top rebel leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, issued an order to set up a rival city government for Mariupol, according to Russian state news agencies, in a sign of Russian intent to hold and administer the city.
With talks set to resume between Ukraine and Russia via video, there seemed little faith that the two sides would resolve the conflict any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said that conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and that he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
In other developments, Ukraine’s emergency services said the death toll had risen to 20 in a Russian missile strike Tuesday on a government administration building in the southern city of Mykolaiv.
As Western officials search for clues about what Russia’s next move might be, a top British intelligence official said demoralized Russian soldiers in Ukraine are refusing to carry out ordersand sabotaging their equipment and had accidentally shot down their own aircraft.
In a speech in Australia, Jeremy Fleming, head of the GCHQ electronic spy agency, said Putin had apparently “massively misjudged” the invasion.
The Pentagon reported Thursday that an initial half-dozen shipments of weapons and other security assistance from the U.S. have reached Ukraine as part of an $800 million aid package President Joe Biden approved this month.
The shipments included Javelin anti-tank weapons, Stinger anti-aircraft missile systems, body armor, medical supplies and other materials, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
U.S. intelligence officials have concluded thatPutin is being misinformed by his advisers about how badly the war is going because they are afraid to tell him the truth.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the U.S. is wrong and that “neither the State Department nor the Pentagon possesses the real information about what is happening in the Kremlin.”
___
Karmanau reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | 2 | 8,633 | 0.183907 | https://www.wbtv.com/2022/03/31/ukrainian-president-says-defense-is-turning-point/ | 2022-04-02 18:24:21+00:00 | Russians leaving Chernobyl as fighting rages elsewhere
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian troops handed control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant back to the Ukrainians and left the heavily contaminated site early Friday, more than a month after taking it over, Ukrainian authorities said, as fighting raged on the outskirts of Kyiv and other fronts.
Ukraine’s state power company, Energoatom, said the pullout at Chernobyl came after soldiers received “significant doses” of radiation from digging trenches in the forest in the exclusion zone around the closed plant. But there was no independent confirmation of that.
The withdrawal took place amid growing indications the Kremlin is using talk of de-escalation in Ukraine as cover while regrouping, resupplying its forces and redeploying them for a stepped-up offensive in the eastern part of the country.
GRAPHIC WARNING: Videos in this story may contain disturbing content.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian withdrawals from the north and center of the country were just a military tactic and that the forces are building up for new powerful attacks in the southeast.
“We know their intentions,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address to the nation. “We know that they are moving away from those areas where we hit them in order to focus on other, very important ones where it may be difficult for us.”
“There will be battles ahead,” he added.
Meanwhile, a convoy of 45 buses headed to Mariupol in another bid to evacuate people from the besieged port city after the Russian military agreed to a limited cease-fire in the area. But Russian forces blocked the buses, and only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to the Ukrainian government.
Twelve Ukrainian trucks were able to deliver humanitarian supplies to Mariupol, but they were all seized by Russian troops, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said late Thursday.
The city has been the scene of some of the worst suffering of the war. Tens of thousands have managed to get out of Mariupol in the past few weeks by way of humanitarian corridors, reducing its population from a prewar 430,000 to an estimated 100,000 as of last week, but other relief efforts have been thwarted by continued Russian attacks.
A new round of talks was scheduled for Friday, five weeks into the war that has left thousands dead and driven 4 million Ukrainians from the country.
The International Atomic Energy Agency said it had been informed by Ukraine that the Russian forces at the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster had transferred control of it in writing to the Ukrainians.
The last Russian troops left the Chernobyl plant early Friday, the Ukrainian government agency responsible for the exclusion zone said.
Energoatom gave no details on the condition of the soldiers it said were exposed to radiation and did not say how many were affected. There was no immediate comment from the Kremlin, and the IAEA said it had not been able to confirm the reports of Russian troops receiving high doses. It said it was seeking more information.
Russian forces seized the Chernobyl site in the opening stages of the Feb. 24 invasion, raising fears that they would cause damage or disruption that could spread radiation. The workforce at the site oversees the safe storage of spent fuel rods and the concrete-entombed ruins of the reactor that exploded in 1986.
Edwin Lyman, a nuclear expert with the U.S.-based Union of Concerned Scientists, said it “seems unlikely” a large number of troops would develop severe radiation illness, but it was impossible to know for sure without more details.
He said contaminated material was probably buried or covered with new topsoil during the cleanup of Chernobyl, and some soldiers may have been exposed to a “hot spot” of radiation while digging. Others may have assumed they were at risk too, he said.
Early this week, the Russians said they would significantly scale back military operations in areas around Kyiv and the northern city of Chernihiv to increase trust between the two sides and help negotiations along.
But in the Kyiv suburbs, regional governor Oleksandr Palviuk said on social media Thursday that Russian forces shelled Irpin and Makariv and that there were battles around Hostomel. Pavliuk said there were Ukrainian counterattacks and some Russian withdrawals around the suburb of Brovary to the east.
Chernihiv came under attack as well. At least one person was killed and four were wounded in the Russian shelling of a humanitarian convoy of buses sent to Chernihiv to evacuate residents cut off from food, water and other supplies, said Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Lyudmyla Denisova
Ukraine also reported Russian artillery barrages in and around the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said intelligence indicates Russia is not scaling back its military operations in Ukraine but is instead trying to regroup, resupply its forces and reinforce its offensive in the Donbas.
“Russia has repeatedly lied about its intentions,” Stoltenberg said. At the same time, he said, pressure is being kept up on Kyiv and other cities, and “we can expect additional offensive actions bringing even more suffering.”
The Donbas is the predominantly Russian-speaking industrial region where Moscow-backed separatists have been battling Ukrainian forces since 2014. In the past few days, the Kremlin, in a seeming shift in its war aims, said that its “main goal” now is gaining control of the Donbas, which consists of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, including Mariupol.
The top rebel leader in Donetsk, Denis Pushilin, issued an order to set up a rival city government for Mariupol, according to Russian state news agencies, in a sign of Russian intent to hold and administer the city.
With talks set to resume between Ukraine and Russia via video, there seemed little faith that the two sides would resolve the conflict any time soon.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said that conditions weren’t yet “ripe” for a cease-fire and that he wasn’t ready for a meeting with Zelenskyy until negotiators do more work, Italian Premier Mario Draghi said after a telephone conversation with the Russian leader.
In other developments, Ukraine’s emergency services said the death toll had risen to 20 in a Russian missile strike Tuesday on a government administration building in the southern city of Mykolaiv.
As Western officials search for clues about what Russia’s next move might be, a top British intelligence official said demoralized Russian soldiers in Ukraine are refusing to carry out orders and sabotaging their equipment and had accidentally shot down their own aircraft.
In a speech in Australia, Jeremy Fleming, head of the GCHQ electronic spy agency, said Putin had apparently “massively misjudged” the invasion.
The Pentagon reported Thursday that an initial half-dozen shipments of weapons and other security assistance from the U.S. have reached Ukraine as part of an $800 million aid package President Joe Biden approved this month.
The shipments included Javelin anti-tank weapons, Stinger anti-aircraft missile systems, body armor, medical supplies and other materials, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said.
U.S. intelligence officials have concluded that Putin is being misinformed by his advisers about how badly the war is going because they are afraid to tell him the truth.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the U.S. is wrong and that “neither the State Department nor the Pentagon possesses the real information about what is happening in the Kremlin.”
___
Karmanau reported from Lviv, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. |
https://pix11.com/news/national-news/ap-national/police-student-kills-peer-at-south-carolina-middle-school/ | GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A 12-year-old student was shot and killed Thursday by another 12-year-old student inside their South Carolina middle school, authorities said.
The shooter was found hiding under a deck at a home not far from Tanglewood Middle School in Greenville about an hour after the shooting and was still armed, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
The boy is charged with murder, possession of a firearm at a school and possession of a weapon by someone under 18. He was taken to a juvenile prison in Columbia, Lewis said.
“He was hiding. He’s a young man, probably didn’t understand the consequences of what had just happened,” the sheriff said at a news conference. “I don’t think he knew what to do, honestly, except for to leave the school.”
The boys knew each other, but the sheriff said investigators are still trying to figure out what led to the shooting in a front part of the school and how the boy got the gun.
No one else was injured in the shooting.
The family of the boy killed released a statement saying he was Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson and asking people to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We love Jamari dearly,” the family said in a statement released by community justice group Fighting Injustice Together.
A police officer at the school called in the shooting and requested emergency backup around 12:30 p.m. and more than 200 deputies and other law enforcement officers rushed to the school, Lewis said.
Helicopter footage from WYFF-TV showed dozens of officers walking around outside the school with more than two dozen buses lined up. Some students were slowly boarding the buses.
Everyone on campus, including teachers, were taken to a nearby church.
Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster said he doesn’t have any idea how the gun ended up at school and a student killed.
“I’m not sure after a full and thorough law enforcement investigation anyone will really know what was going through the mind of that young person who took this rash act,” Royster said. | 0 | 3,906 | 0 | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/national/police-student-kills-peer-at-south-carolina-middle-school/ | 2022-04-01 13:38:04+00:00 | GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A 12-year-old student was shot and killed Thursday by another 12-year-old student inside their South Carolina middle school, authorities said.
The shooter was found hiding under a deck at a home not far from Tanglewood Middle School in Greenville about an hour after the shooting and was still armed, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
The boy is charged with murder, possession of a firearm at a school and possession of a weapon by someone under 18. He was taken to a juvenile prison in Columbia, Lewis said.
“He was hiding. He’s a young man, probably didn’t understand the consequences of what had just happened,” the sheriff said at a news conference. “I don’t think he knew what to do, honestly, except for to leave the school.”
The boys knew each other, but the sheriff said investigators are still trying to figure out what led to the shooting in a front part of the school and how the boy got the gun.
No one else was injured in the shooting.
The family of the boy killed released a statement saying he was Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson and asking people to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We love Jamari dearly,” the family said in a statement released by community justice group Fighting Injustice Together.
A police officer at the school called in the shooting and requested emergency backup around 12:30 p.m. and more than 200 deputies and other law enforcement officers rushed to the school, Lewis said.
Helicopter footage from WYFF-TV showed dozens of officers walking around outside the school with more than two dozen buses lined up. Some students were slowly boarding the buses.
Everyone on campus, including teachers, were taken to a nearby church.
Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster said he doesn’t have any idea how the gun ended up at school and a student killed.
“I’m not sure after a full and thorough law enforcement investigation anyone will really know what was going through the mind of that young person who took this rash act,” Royster said. |
https://pix11.com/news/national-news/ap-national/police-student-kills-peer-at-south-carolina-middle-school/ | GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A 12-year-old student was shot and killed Thursday by another 12-year-old student inside their South Carolina middle school, authorities said.
The shooter was found hiding under a deck at a home not far from Tanglewood Middle School in Greenville about an hour after the shooting and was still armed, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
The boy is charged with murder, possession of a firearm at a school and possession of a weapon by someone under 18. He was taken to a juvenile prison in Columbia, Lewis said.
“He was hiding. He’s a young man, probably didn’t understand the consequences of what had just happened,” the sheriff said at a news conference. “I don’t think he knew what to do, honestly, except for to leave the school.”
The boys knew each other, but the sheriff said investigators are still trying to figure out what led to the shooting in a front part of the school and how the boy got the gun.
No one else was injured in the shooting.
The family of the boy killed released a statement saying he was Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson and asking people to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We love Jamari dearly,” the family said in a statement released by community justice group Fighting Injustice Together.
A police officer at the school called in the shooting and requested emergency backup around 12:30 p.m. and more than 200 deputies and other law enforcement officers rushed to the school, Lewis said.
Helicopter footage from WYFF-TV showed dozens of officers walking around outside the school with more than two dozen buses lined up. Some students were slowly boarding the buses.
Everyone on campus, including teachers, were taken to a nearby church.
Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster said he doesn’t have any idea how the gun ended up at school and a student killed.
“I’m not sure after a full and thorough law enforcement investigation anyone will really know what was going through the mind of that young person who took this rash act,” Royster said. | 1 | 4,042 | 0 | https://www.valleycentral.com/news/national-news/police-student-kills-peer-at-south-carolina-middle-school/ | 2022-04-01 13:38:46+00:00 | GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A 12-year-old student was shot and killed Thursday by another 12-year-old student inside their South Carolina middle school, authorities said.
The shooter was found hiding under a deck at a home not far from Tanglewood Middle School in Greenville about an hour after the shooting and was still armed, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
The boy is charged with murder, possession of a firearm at a school and possession of a weapon by someone under 18. He was taken to a juvenile prison in Columbia, Lewis said.
“He was hiding. He’s a young man, probably didn’t understand the consequences of what had just happened,” the sheriff said at a news conference. “I don’t think he knew what to do, honestly, except for to leave the school.”
The boys knew each other, but the sheriff said investigators are still trying to figure out what led to the shooting in a front part of the school and how the boy got the gun.
No one else was injured in the shooting.
The family of the boy killed released a statement saying he was Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson and asking people to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We love Jamari dearly,” the family said in a statement released by community justice group Fighting Injustice Together.
A police officer at the school called in the shooting and requested emergency backup around 12:30 p.m. and more than 200 deputies and other law enforcement officers rushed to the school, Lewis said.
Helicopter footage from WYFF-TV showed dozens of officers walking around outside the school with more than two dozen buses lined up. Some students were slowly boarding the buses.
Everyone on campus, including teachers, were taken to a nearby church.
Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster said he doesn’t have any idea how the gun ended up at school and a student killed.
“I’m not sure after a full and thorough law enforcement investigation anyone will really know what was going through the mind of that young person who took this rash act,” Royster said. |
https://pix11.com/news/national-news/ap-national/police-student-kills-peer-at-south-carolina-middle-school/ | GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A 12-year-old student was shot and killed Thursday by another 12-year-old student inside their South Carolina middle school, authorities said.
The shooter was found hiding under a deck at a home not far from Tanglewood Middle School in Greenville about an hour after the shooting and was still armed, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
The boy is charged with murder, possession of a firearm at a school and possession of a weapon by someone under 18. He was taken to a juvenile prison in Columbia, Lewis said.
“He was hiding. He’s a young man, probably didn’t understand the consequences of what had just happened,” the sheriff said at a news conference. “I don’t think he knew what to do, honestly, except for to leave the school.”
The boys knew each other, but the sheriff said investigators are still trying to figure out what led to the shooting in a front part of the school and how the boy got the gun.
No one else was injured in the shooting.
The family of the boy killed released a statement saying he was Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson and asking people to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We love Jamari dearly,” the family said in a statement released by community justice group Fighting Injustice Together.
A police officer at the school called in the shooting and requested emergency backup around 12:30 p.m. and more than 200 deputies and other law enforcement officers rushed to the school, Lewis said.
Helicopter footage from WYFF-TV showed dozens of officers walking around outside the school with more than two dozen buses lined up. Some students were slowly boarding the buses.
Everyone on campus, including teachers, were taken to a nearby church.
Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster said he doesn’t have any idea how the gun ended up at school and a student killed.
“I’m not sure after a full and thorough law enforcement investigation anyone will really know what was going through the mind of that young person who took this rash act,” Royster said. | 2 | 12,943 | 0 | https://www.wwlp.com/news/ap-national-news/police-student-kills-peer-at-south-carolina-middle-school/ | 2022-04-01 14:18:50+00:00 | GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A 12-year-old student was shot and killed Thursday by another 12-year-old student inside their South Carolina middle school, authorities said.
The shooter was found hiding under a deck at a home not far from Tanglewood Middle School in Greenville about an hour after the shooting and was still armed, Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
The boy is charged with murder, possession of a firearm at a school and possession of a weapon by someone under 18. He was taken to a juvenile prison in Columbia, Lewis said.
“He was hiding. He’s a young man, probably didn’t understand the consequences of what had just happened,” the sheriff said at a news conference. “I don’t think he knew what to do, honestly, except for to leave the school.”
The boys knew each other, but the sheriff said investigators are still trying to figure out what led to the shooting in a front part of the school and how the boy got the gun.
No one else was injured in the shooting.
The family of the boy killed released a statement saying he was Jamari Cortez Bonaparte Jackson and asking people to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We love Jamari dearly,” the family said in a statement released by community justice group Fighting Injustice Together.
A police officer at the school called in the shooting and requested emergency backup around 12:30 p.m. and more than 200 deputies and other law enforcement officers rushed to the school, Lewis said.
Helicopter footage from WYFF-TV showed dozens of officers walking around outside the school with more than two dozen buses lined up. Some students were slowly boarding the buses.
Everyone on campus, including teachers, were taken to a nearby church.
Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster said he doesn’t have any idea how the gun ended up at school and a student killed.
“I’m not sure after a full and thorough law enforcement investigation anyone will really know what was going through the mind of that young person who took this rash act,” Royster said. |
https://pix11.com/reviews/br/health-wellness-br/nutrition-br/premier-protein-shake-vs-fairlife-protein-shake/ | Which protein shake is best: Premier or Fairlife?
A protein shake after an exhausting workout can be highly beneficial. Protein is the most critical macronutrient required for efficient muscle recovery, so getting enough of it is crucial if you exercise or lift weights often.
If you’re trying to decide which protein shake is right for you, Premier and Fairlife are two popular brands you should consider. Both supplements contain significant amounts of protein and other vitamins and nutrients, but the right one for you depends on your body and fitness goals.
Premier protein shake
Premier protein shakes are a great way to supplement your post-workout diet and boost the muscle recovery process, letting you get more out of your workouts and potentially see results faster.
Premier incorporates plenty of protein and other vital nutrients and vitamins in their products, making them an excellent snack or post-workout recovery supplement.
Premier protein shake pros
One serving of a Premier protein shake contains 160 calories and 30 grams of protein, which is more than even most whey isolate protein powders, which usually have 20-28 grams per serving. There are also many essential amino acids, including 6.6 grams of branched-chain amino acids, which are vital for significant muscle recovery and growth.
They have just 1 gram of sugar per serving and are available in 12 low-fat flavors. From chocolate to vanilla to coffee, every flavor is gluten-free, soy-free and appropriate for keto, bariatric and kosher diets. It’s also worth noting that the coffee flavor contains caffeine and that a handful of flavors can substitute for coffee cream.
Premier protein shakes come in ready-made bottle-size servings as well as in a protein powder for mixing at your leisure. It’s up to your preference, but it’s important to note that the premixed drinks contain more sugar per serving than the powder.
Premier protein shake cons
Although Premier shakes contain 24 vitamins and minerals, they don’t have enough nutrients to serve as viable meal replacements. They’re suitable as snacks in between meals and as post-workout supplements only.
Premier shakes also contain a high amount of protein, which can be unnecessary and even harmful if you’re already getting enough of it from your regular diet in the form of healthy whole foods. Also, they contain artificial sweeteners, and if you’re lactose-intolerant, you’re going to want to steer clear of Premier protein shakes.
Fairlife protein shake
Fairlife protein shakes are an excellent workout supplement for those looking to boost muscle recovery following rigorous exercise. They’re light, so you won’t feel too full after drinking one, making them an acceptable snack as well.
Fairlife protein shake pros
The original Fairlife Nutrition Plan shakes have the same protein as Premier shakes at 30 grams per serving. It contains just 150 calories per serving, so it’s 10 fewer than the ready-made Premier protein shakes. In terms of nutrients, it has nine essential amino acids and several vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, calcium and potassium.
These shakes have plenty of protein, and their low-carb formula makes them an excellent supplement for those seeking to lose weight while maintaining a solid muscle frame. They’re made with ultra-filtered milk, giving them a smooth, creamy texture that’s delicious.
Also, unlike Premier protein shakes, Fairlife shakes are suitable for anybody who’s lactose-intolerant.
Fairlife protein shake cons
They only come in seven flavors, but some users argue that it doesn’t taste as good as other comparable shakes. They’re also pricey, so you might get more bang for your buck with Premier shakes. Also, there isn’t as much diversity in terms of products as with Premier protein products.
Should you get Premier or Fairlife protein shakes?
Both Premier and Fairlife protein shakes work well as workout supplements since they both have plenty of protein and amino acids necessary for muscle recovery. They both also have vitamins and minerals that make them suitable as meal supplements or daytime snacks.
Fairlife shakes are easier on the stomach since they’re lactose-free, so while Premier shakes are also light, Fairlife is arguably the better choice for those following strict diets. However, Premier shakes are available in more unique flavors, so you can try different ones until you find one you like.
Ultimately, both shakes will give you a protein boost sufficient enough to aid in the muscle recovery process, especially if you exercise or lift weights consistently. Although Fairlife shakes have more calories and protein per serving, making them slightly better for those with muscle-building goals, Premier shakes are low in fat, so they’re excellent for anyone looking to lose weight.
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Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 0 | 361 | 0 | https://www.texomashomepage.com/reviews/br/health-wellness-br/nutrition-br/premier-protein-shake-vs-fairlife-protein-shake/ | 2022-04-01 13:21:41+00:00 | Which protein shake is best: Premier or Fairlife?
A protein shake after an exhausting workout can be highly beneficial. Protein is the most critical macronutrient required for efficient muscle recovery, so getting enough of it is crucial if you exercise or lift weights often.
If you’re trying to decide which protein shake is right for you, Premier and Fairlife are two popular brands you should consider. Both supplements contain significant amounts of protein and other vitamins and nutrients, but the right one for you depends on your body and fitness goals.
Premier protein shake
Premier protein shakes are a great way to supplement your post-workout diet and boost the muscle recovery process, letting you get more out of your workouts and potentially see results faster.
Premier incorporates plenty of protein and other vital nutrients and vitamins in their products, making them an excellent snack or post-workout recovery supplement.
Premier protein shake pros
One serving of a Premier protein shake contains 160 calories and 30 grams of protein, which is more than even most whey isolate protein powders, which usually have 20-28 grams per serving. There are also many essential amino acids, including 6.6 grams of branched-chain amino acids, which are vital for significant muscle recovery and growth.
They have just 1 gram of sugar per serving and are available in 12 low-fat flavors. From chocolate to vanilla to coffee, every flavor is gluten-free, soy-free and appropriate for keto, bariatric and kosher diets. It’s also worth noting that the coffee flavor contains caffeine and that a handful of flavors can substitute for coffee cream.
Premier protein shakes come in ready-made bottle-size servings as well as in a protein powder for mixing at your leisure. It’s up to your preference, but it’s important to note that the premixed drinks contain more sugar per serving than the powder.
Premier protein shake cons
Although Premier shakes contain 24 vitamins and minerals, they don’t have enough nutrients to serve as viable meal replacements. They’re suitable as snacks in between meals and as post-workout supplements only.
Premier shakes also contain a high amount of protein, which can be unnecessary and even harmful if you’re already getting enough of it from your regular diet in the form of healthy whole foods. Also, they contain artificial sweeteners, and if you’re lactose-intolerant, you’re going to want to steer clear of Premier protein shakes.
Fairlife protein shake
Fairlife protein shakes are an excellent workout supplement for those looking to boost muscle recovery following rigorous exercise. They’re light, so you won’t feel too full after drinking one, making them an acceptable snack as well.
Fairlife protein shake pros
The original Fairlife Nutrition Plan shakes have the same protein as Premier shakes at 30 grams per serving. It contains just 150 calories per serving, so it’s 10 fewer than the ready-made Premier protein shakes. In terms of nutrients, it has nine essential amino acids and several vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, calcium and potassium.
These shakes have plenty of protein, and their low-carb formula makes them an excellent supplement for those seeking to lose weight while maintaining a solid muscle frame. They’re made with ultra-filtered milk, giving them a smooth, creamy texture that’s delicious.
Also, unlike Premier protein shakes, Fairlife shakes are suitable for anybody who’s lactose-intolerant.
Fairlife protein shake cons
They only come in seven flavors, but some users argue that it doesn’t taste as good as other comparable shakes. They’re also pricey, so you might get more bang for your buck with Premier shakes. Also, there isn’t as much diversity in terms of products as with Premier protein products.
Should you get Premier or Fairlife protein shakes?
Both Premier and Fairlife protein shakes work well as workout supplements since they both have plenty of protein and amino acids necessary for muscle recovery. They both also have vitamins and minerals that make them suitable as meal supplements or daytime snacks.
Fairlife shakes are easier on the stomach since they’re lactose-free, so while Premier shakes are also light, Fairlife is arguably the better choice for those following strict diets. However, Premier shakes are available in more unique flavors, so you can try different ones until you find one you like.
Ultimately, both shakes will give you a protein boost sufficient enough to aid in the muscle recovery process, especially if you exercise or lift weights consistently. Although Fairlife shakes have more calories and protein per serving, making them slightly better for those with muscle-building goals, Premier shakes are low in fat, so they’re excellent for anyone looking to lose weight.
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. |
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