#Conference Alerts 2021

[hatchan]

the UHC CEO assassination is fascinating to me, this is a story I'm gonna follow

so far the consensus is that it was a targeted attack--there were other people in the area and the assassin shot this guy specifically. CEO had no security with him, didn't seem to know he was in danger. shooter seemed to know exactly where he'd be and he was waiting for him

According to NYT: "The pages on the UnitedHealthcare and UnitedHealth Group websites with headshots and bios for company leadership were not available after the shooting on Wednesday morning. It was not immediately clear why the pages were no longer accessible." fascinating! why?

"He had been chief executive since 2021, during a time in which the parent company and his division were rattled by federal investigations, even as it enjoyed profitable growth. The division has been criticized by congressional lawmakers and federal regulators who accused it of systematically denying authorization for health care procedures and treatments." hmmmmmmm you don't say. I wonder why someone would have it out for this CEO specifically hmmmmm

there was an INVESTOR PRESENTATION happening in the same hotel when everyone in the room starts getting alerted of the CEO being shot, and then dying, right outside. oh man if I could've been a fly in that room....

Again from NYT: "The insurance arm of UnitedHealth Group has also been under federal scrutiny because the parent company was the victim of a broad cyberattack on its billing and payment system, ChangeHealthcare. Private information, including health data, from more than 100 million Americans was compromised in the ransomware attack. The parent company paid $22 million in an effort to stop the hackers." f a s c i n a t i n g

apparently this was printed hella fast:

I wanna know, who works in the printshop for the NYPD? how'd they get that job? do they like it? who's their graphic design people? how fast did they get this big thing printed? calling the victim a "50-year-old male" who met "his demise" is a choice. I wonder why they made that choice.

the mayor apparently had to specify to the press "This was not a random act of violence" haha new york is totally safe don't worry about it

"Officials with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which runs New York City’s transit system, said that the shooting did not impact subway or bus service during the morning commute." LMAO. OF COURSE WE HAVE TO ASSURE EVERYONE THEIR SUBWAYS WONT BE DELAYED LOOOOOLL that is the most important thing after all

"On the third floor of the hotel, the company's annual investor conference continued seemingly without interruption as news of the shooting was just beginning to spread. Attendees mingled over cups of coffee, shaking hands and talking shop. “Someone got shot outside,” one attendee said to another as they made their way up from the lobby. Others took photos of the news crews gathering outside on their phones." yep this checks out

[lorirwritesfanfic]

Pause For Coffee

Book: The Royal Romance / The Royal Heir [x Desire & Decorum (Modern day AU)] Characters: Liam Rys, MC (Jade), Jackson Walker, Eleanor Rys, Leo Rys, OC (Andrea Edwards), OC (Gianna Rossi) [Mentioned: Constantine Rys, Drake Walker, Prince Hamid, Daphne Wang (D&D MC|OC)] Rating: T Word count: 2459 Reading time: 10min Summary: Cordonian apple tea is the official drink of the kingdom, but the Cordonian king prefers another hot drink whenever he needs an energy boost. Based on the prompts: @kingliamappreciationweek Day four: coffee

Author's notes:

Jade Bourbon-Rys, Andrea Edwards, Gianna Rossi and Daphne Wang are creations of this author. The other characters belong to Pixelberry Studios;

Thank you again to @lizzybeth1986 and @sazanes for hosting another KLAW! I got so inspired by the event this year that I wrote more than I planned. Thank you for still acepting late submissions 😍

Cordonian capitol, June 2021

Blue, pink and purple hues painted the sky as Liam rested on the chaise lounge of his office before the last meeting of the day. Though this week has been calmer than usual, he still needed a couple of minutes before the video conference with Cordonian ambassador in the US. Returning to work after Elise's birth hasn't been easy. Fortunately, there's one thing that never failed to help him restore his energy.

"Your Majesty?" His assistant called after a soft knock on the door.

"Come in."

Carrying a tray with a cup of coffee and sparkling water, his assistant walked in and placed the tray on the side table. "Your coffee, sir."

"Thank you, Andrea."

As his assistant left, Liam smiled as the comforting smell of brewed coffee filled his lungs, bringing back memories of the day he tasted it for the first time.

Cordonian capital, February 2000

The doors to the Royal conference room opened as the young prince walked out of the room. With his eyes downcast, Liam ambled through the hallway, embarrassed with what just happened during the King's meeting with the Royal advisors. Being lectured again in front of all those people was no fun at all. Especially when his father was the one who noticed the moment he dozed off.

Why was it so hard to stay awake during meetings? Sure, a Royal meeting wasn't the most entertaining activity for him. He'd rather play with his friends or have a Babylon 5 marathon night with Drake and Maxwell. But it couldn't be so hard to stay awake through those meetings, right? If Leo (who never slept before 12 am) still could do it, why couldn't he?

On the way to his room, he nodded to the guards when a familiar smell spread across the hallway: caramel and toasted nuts. It wasn't the first time he sensed it, but was the first time it got his attention. Whenever he passed by the staff kitchen, that fragrance always was in the air. He just didn't know exactly what it was. Following his instincts, he went to the staff area, where the smell was coming from.

"Your Highness," Drake's father, Jackson, nodded to him and took a sip of something in a mug.

"Good morning, Mr. Walker." The boy simpered as he sat next to his father's personal bodyguard.

"Everything alright, sir?"

"No..." Liam frowned. "I fell asleep at the meeting again."

"Did anyone see you?"

"Father did."

The man grimaced. 

"Yeah..." The boy looked down again, fiddling with the hem of his sweater.

"For what it's worth, I think you're too young to be there."

"Oh?" Liam looked at the guard in confusion.

"I understand this will be a part of your life and eventually you'll have to be there to partake in all those meetings. But those are boring meetings even for a smart kid like yourself."

"Do you think they're boring too?"

Jackson looked around suspiciously, to make sure no one else was hearing and then he uttered, "A little bit."

Liam giggled.

"Have you slept through the meeting too? Is that why you weren't there?"

The man shook his head. "No. Never. I always have to be alert on duty. I just made a pause for coffee." 

Lifting his still steaming mug of coffee to his lips, Jackson took a gulp, closed his eyes to savor the hot drink and then smiled softly.

"Look, I know you don't want to be in there, especially to be lectured about things you don't understand yet. But if the King wants you there, make an effort to be there. Your father will appreciate it."

"But how do I stay awake when I'm there? Even Leo can..." Liam frowned.

"Start by obeying the Queen when she says it's time for you to go to bed. A good night of sleep can change everything. And don't do what Leo does. You're too young for that."

"Okay..." Liam's brows furrowed in confusion. His brother did something to stay awake. But what was it?

...

"Nope," Leo said as he threw a dart near the center of the dartboard on the wall.

"But, Leo!" Liam whined.

"You heard Jackson. You're a kid. You can't have what I have," Leo replied with a smug grin.

The young prince scowled. Though he knew his brother was old enough to have some privileges like learning how to drive or traveling on his own, this was just a stupid drink. He wouldn't go down with a fight.

Liam was about to say something when a maid knocked and opened the door to leave a travel mug on the side table. Both princes then rushed to pick it up, Liam climbing on his brother's back in hopes to steal the mug Leo had already got.

...

The following day

Liam hid in a broom closet as he waited for Drake's signal. He knew the chef was about to have a break for lunch and always left the carafe full for the guards. The entire palace security drank that thing, so why couldn't he?

Just then, he heard three short whistles. That was their signal. Time to get in.

The young prince then tiptoed into the kitchen and the powerful smell of caramel and nuts overtook him. Walking towards the coffee maker, Liam reached for a small cup when a hand tapped his shoulder. As he turned around, Queen Eleanor pursed her lips at him while his friend was nowhere to be seen.

"What do you think you're doing, young man?"

"Nothing... I was thirsty so—"

"Do you expect me to believe that?"

"But mom! I truly am thirsty!" Liam protested. 

"The water filter is right there, Liam." Eleanor then pointed to the opposite side of the kitchen.

The young prince looked down at his hands.

"Why are you trying to drink something I already told you it's unhealthy for you?"

"Because I have to stay awake in the meetings..." The boy frowned.

The queen cupped her son's cheek and smiled fondly.  The king could be too harsh on his sons sometimes.

"All you have to do is rest, eat your vegetables. You don't need to have coffee."

"Why can Leo have it and I can't?"

"My dear, Leo doesn't drink this type of coffee."

"Doesn't he?" Liam's brows furrowed.

"He already reached an age in which he can experience a couple of things adults can, but it doesn't include a cup of espresso in the middle of the afternoon."

"What does he drink then?"

"A mochaccino."

"Can I have that too?"

"As long as you or Drake don't try to steal coffee from the kitchen without an adult's permission, yes."

"Thank you, mom!" Liam hugged his mother tightly. 

"I'm going to prepare us a special mochaccino. Why don't you go ask Bianca if Drake and Savannah can join us?"

The young prince nodded in excitement and rushed to the Walkers house while the Queen made her way to the Royal kitchen.

Cordonian capitol, June 2021

The king smiled to himself. Back then, he had no idea the mochaccino he had once in a while with his mother and friends was actually a babyccino. He understood her reasons now and was glad to be part of the experience of having coffee with his mother sometimes. Even if it was decaffeinated coffee.

As he lifted the cup to his lips, his brows furrowed. Liam put the coffee on the table and pressed the buzzer to call his assistant.

His assistant immediately opened the door again. "Yes, Your Majesty?"

"Did the kitchen staff prepare me a lungo? This isn't a espresso."

"No, Sir. They made you a Turkish coffee."

"Turkish coffee?"

"Yes, sir. It's made with the Arabica coffee beans Mr. Osmanoğlu and Lady Foredale gave to you during the Royal Heir baby shower."

Liam pressed his lips together, still remembering the sassy note his cousin and his teenhood friend left on the coffee packaging. 

"Switch the espresso for a nice and steamy cup of Türk kahve and you won't have the drawback espresso gives by the fourth cup of night while the baby still hasn't fallen into slumber. You're welcome! ;)"

"The handwriting was Daphne's, but the content certainly was Hamid's doing. That prick..." Liam thought to himself, shaking his head. "Andrea, I especifically asked for an espresso."

"Yes, you did, Sir. But since it would be your fourth doppio espresso today, the queen was adamant about changing the Italian roast for the Arabica coffee."

"The fourth?"

"Yes, sir."

Liam was about to say something when a yawn escaped his lips.

"If I may be so bold, sir, I still have the list of nurses pre-approved by the Queen Mother and your security staff," Andrea prompted.

His brows rose in surprise. Andrea has being working with him since he became the crown prince and always followed his orders without question. The very few rare moments she started a phrase with 'if I may be so bold...' meant that he was doing something he probably would regret later.

"I need to talk to Jade first, but send the list to me."

"As you wish, sir." 

Liam gently rubbed his eyes in hopes to fight against sleep, then reached for the coffee. He couldn't recall the last time he felt this tired, given how little he had slept in the past three months. At least, Jade wasn't trying to forbid him of having his coffee.

Capri, January 2018

A gentle breeze blew against the curtains while Liam read a few documents still pending his signature. The king didn't wish to start his reign by letting the paperwork pile up in his office back in Cordonia during the engagement tour, so he might as well get started before his schedule got busied by dinners, meetings and conferences he had to attend while being abroad. To handle the paperwork, nothing would be better to start his day than a nice cup of coffee and a pastry.

As he waited for his coffee, voices coming from the hallway reached his ears. His lips twisted in displeasure, but hopefully his security detail would handle the situation.

A few minutes later, the hotel room maid walked in and placed a cup of tea and the tartlet on the coffee table.

"Excuse me, I didn't order tea."

"I know, sir." The maid looked down at her hands. "But a blond lady stopped me and told me to throw the coffee away because you only have apple tea."

"A blond lady?"

"The guards said it was your fiancee."

Liam pinched the bridge of his nose. It had been only two months since he forced himself go through with the arrangement with Madeleine, but he had lost count of how many times she has meddled into his daily routine.

"I'm so sorry, sir. I know this isn't your business, but my boss has been on my back because I missed work last week to take my son to the emergency room. If he finds out about this, I think I'll be fired."

Liam's heart sank at the pleading look on the woman's eyes. He couldn't be the cause of anyone losing their job because Madeleine interfered in his life again.

He glanced at the name on the maid uniform and smiled. "It's alright, Mrs. Rossi. Did you say this is apple tea?"

"Yes, it was made with Cordonian apples, just like your fiancee requested."

Liam looked down at the tea and tried not to grimace. If it didn't have sugar, it would be so hard to swallow.

"There's honey on the serving tray cart if you want."

"Thank you. I definitely want some."

The maid nodded and left the suite to get the honey. Once she returned and added honey to his tea, Liam took a sip.

"That's better. Thank you."

"I'm glad, sir. And I promise I'll bring you a doppio espresso the next time you order coffee."

"Well, in this case, bring me a doppio espresso in five minutes."

The maid grinned. "Yes, sir."

"And if your boss gives you a hard time again, talk to one of my guards. They'll call the human resources from my staff and find you a new job in case you need one."

The maid beamed. "Thank you, sir. I'll be right back with your coffee."

Cordonian capitol, June 2021

Once the meeting with the Cordonian ambassador in US was over, Liam left his office and went straight to the Royal Apartment. Despite the tiredness, he could hardly wait to see his wife and daughter.

As he passed by the hallway, his wife's velvety voice reverberated on the walls as she sang a lullaby. Smiling to himself, Liam ambled towards the nursery and sang along with Jade in hopes to lull Elise to sleep.

"Are you some kind of baby whisperer?" Jade murmured as she slowly closed the door to the nursery. "I've been trying to make her sleep for at least half an hour, but the minute you swoop in, she falls asleep."

"She was half asleep when I walked in. You did most of the work yourself, my love."

Liam smiled, placing the baby monitor on the coffee table as his wife leaned in for a kiss.

"Did you just have coffee?"

"No, I had a cup over an hour ago."

"Really? Your lips taste amazing."

"I thought you had overcame caffeine abstinence."

"Ugh, don't remind me..." Jade grimaced, resting her head on his shoulder.

"The decaf isn't working, huh?"

"The maid you hired makes a mean cup of coffee, but the lack of caffeine is so tough. If Elise wasn't sensible to caffeine, I swear I'd fill our tub with coffee right now."

"I'm sorry, love. If you're sure about not switching to formula..." 

"I'm not going to stop nursing Elise just because I miss coffee. I can handle it." The queen affirmed resolute.

"If you say so..." Liam gazed at his wife in worry. Her fulltime dedication to Elise was admirable, yet he couldn't help but think how exhausting it must have been for her. "But perhaps we should reconsider taking care of Elise by ourselves. It'll be less tiresome for both of us now that I returned to work, don't you think?"

The queen made a face, but caved. "Alright... We're going to have to hire someone eventually. Do you still have the list of nurses Regina made?"

"Andrea sent a copy to my email."

"We'll take a look at it after dinner and see how it goes."

The couple was watching the baby monitor when their new maid walked in.

"Good evening, Your Majesties." The maid bowed to the king and queen. "Dinner is served."

"Oh, I'm starving! Your timing is impeccable, Gianna," Jade praised.

"I couldn't agree more. Thank you, Gianna."

The maid nodded in gratitude and left to the dining room.

"I'm so glad my husband stole you from the hotel you worked in Capri. The food smells amazing," Jade commented as they walked towards the dining room.

"Wait until you try her apple tea," Liam said with a smile.

[beardedmrbean]

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on Monday called on Congress to require a tobacco-style warning for visitors to social media platforms.

In an op-ed published in The New York Times, Murthy said the mental health crisis among young people is an urgent problem, with social media “an important contributor.”

He said his vision of the warning includes language that would alert users to the potential mental health harms of the websites and apps.

"A surgeon general’s warning label, which requires congressional action, would regularly remind parents and adolescents that social media has not been proved safe," he wrote.

In 1965, after the previous year’s landmark report from Surgeon General Luther L. Terry that linked cigarette smoking to lung cancer and heart disease, Congress mandated unprecedented warning labels on packs of cigarettes, the first of which stated, “Caution: Cigarette Smoking May Be Hazardous to Your Health.”

Murthy said in the op-ed, “Evidence from tobacco labels shows that surgeon general’s warnings can increase awareness and change behavior.” But he acknowledged the limitations and said a label alone wouldn't make social media safe.

Steps can be taken by Congress, social media companies, parents and others to mitigate the risks, ensure a safer experience online and protect children from possible harm, he wrote.

In the op-ed, Murthy linked the amount of time spent on social media to the increasing risk that children will experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.

The American Psychological Association says teenagers spend nearly five hours every day on top platforms such as YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. In a 2019 study, the association found the proportion of young adults with suicidal thoughts or other suicide-related outcomes increased 47% from 2008 to 2017, when social media use among that age group soared.

And that was before the pandemic triggered a year's worth of virtual isolation for the U.S. In early 2021, amid continued pandemic lockdowns, Murthy called on social media platforms to “proactively enhance and contribute to the mental health and well-being of our children.”

In January, at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing about social media’s impact on young people, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologized to parents who said the Meta platform Instagram contributed to their children’s suicides or exploitation.

“I’m sorry for everything you’ve all gone through,” he said. “It’s terrible. No one should have to go through the things that your families have suffered.”

A surgeon general's public health advisory on social media’s mental health published last year cited research finding that among its potential harms are exposure to violent and sexual content and to bullying, harassment and body shaming.

Murthy also focused in the 2023 advisory on what social media doesn't seem to do: It doesn't always enhance mental health through the proven method of face-to-face interaction.

"For too many children, social media use is compromising their sleep and valuable in-person time with family and friends," he said in a statement last year announcing the health advisory.

At a conference about the youth mental health crisis last month, Murthy said, "It’s no longer the culture for people to talk to each other anymore."

He has been careful to note that research on the matter isn’t conclusive, with much of it finding correlations between time spent on social media and negative mental health effects but without establishing cause and effect.

“More research is needed to fully understand the impact of social media,” he said in the advisory last year.

And he has acknowledged that social media can help teenagers find community, connection and a place for self-expression.

The companies behind the world’s most popular social media platforms had yet to respond to the op-ed Monday.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, visit The National Eating Disorders Association’s website.

[mariacallous]

Foreign Policy Situation Report: Munich Reacts to Navalny’s Death

On Friday, news broke that jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, a prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had died at the Polar Wolf penal colony in Russia, sending shockwaves through the security conference in Munich where many of Navalny’s friends and supporters, as well as his wife and top Biden administration officials, are convening.

“Upon hearing the horrible news, I didn’t know if I should have immediately flown to my family or speak out,” Yulia Navalnaya, his wife, said in a last-minute address to the MSC, right after U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris exited the stage. “But then I thought, ‘What would Alexei do?’ and I’m sure he would be here,” she added.

Navalnaya’s remarks were greeted with a standing ovation from the somber crowd. “If this is true, I want Putin and everyone around him to know that they will be held accountable for everything they did to our country, to my family,” Navalnaya said.

Confusion and shock. At first, there was confusion at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof where the MSC is taking place, as news alerts about a cryptic post from Russia’s prison service saying that the dissident felt unwell after a walk, lost consciousness, and later died began circulating. In the hotel’s atrium, everyone’s necks craned down to look at their phones. Slowly, the grim realization of Navalny’s death set in.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” said Michael McFaul, the former U.S. ambassador to Russia, when a small gaggle of journalists informed him of the news. McFaul was a longtime friend of Navalny’s and had just come from visiting the family. “Navalny was my friend. Forgive me for not being able to answer journalists’ questions dispassionately right now,” he wrote later in a post on X.

Navalny, a former lawyer who highlighted Kremlin corruption on a popular blog before he entered opposition politics more than two decades ago, survived a previous assassination attempt when he was poisoned by Russian security services with the chemical agent Novichok in August 2020.

For more on the opposition leader’s life and his impact on Russia’s besieged democratic movement, read our colleague Amy Mackinnon’s obituary of Navalny.

“Russia is responsible.” Harris, the keynote speaker in Munich, said the Biden administration was still working to confirm whether Navalny had indeed died. “Whatever story they tell, let us be clear: Russia is responsible,” Harris said.

The question now is what comes next. In 2021, U.S. President Joe Biden warned Putin that Russia would face “devastating” consequences if Navalny died in prison. Already, reporters here have asked U.S. officials about what Washington’s response will be.

Biden gave his initial answer later in the day at the White House, and it’s one that’s not likely to satisfy Navalny’s incensed friends and supporters.

“That was three years ago. In the meantime, they faced a hell of a lot of consequences,” Biden said in response to questions about his 2021 comments. He cited steep Russian casualty figures in Ukraine and “great sanctions across the board.”

When asked if he’d roll out new sanctions on Russia, Biden gave a vague answer: “We’re looking at a whole number of options. That’s all I’ll say right now.”

Lithuanian Defense Minister Arvydas Anusauskas told SitRep that the West should work on tightening existing sanctions on Russia and put more secondary sanctions in place so that countries such as India that are courting the West while still buying Russian oil can no longer buy crude from the Kremlin.

U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron, meanwhile, echoed comments from Navalny’s wife, saying, “Putin should be accountable for what has happened. No one should doubt the dreadful nature of his regime.”

Beyond Navalny. After her comments about the Russian opposition leader’s death, Harris used her podium at Munich to make an election-year pitch for the Biden administration’s foreign policy, especially in the wake of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments over the weekend that he would let the Russians “do whatever the hell they want” to NATO allies who are slow to boost defense spending.

(NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said this week that 18 of 31 NATO member states will hit the alliance’s target of spending the equivalent of 2 percent of GDP on defense.)

Harris even had a campaign bumper sticker line ready-made for the moment. “Isolation is not insulation,” she said to the critics of the Biden administration’s globally minded foreign policy. “America cannot retreat. America must stand strong for democracy.”

In the eyes of most MSC conferencegoers, however, there’s a big, Congress-sized roadblock standing in the way of that.

The next tranche of $60 billion in U.S. military aid to Ukraine, as well as aid for Israel and Taiwan, is stalled in Congress as the House of Representatives goes on recess until the end of the month. Harris and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken thus face an uphill battle in trying to reassure allies about those U.S. commitments.

Both Harris and Blinken are set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky tomorrow. “We will work to secure critical weapons and resources that Ukraine badly needs,” Harris said. “The failure to do so would be a gift to Vladimir Putin.”

“If we stand by while an aggressor invades its neighbor with impunity, they will keep going,” Harris added. “And in the case of Putin, that means all of Europe will be threatened.”

Back at the White House, Biden was less diplomatic about the congressional impasse.

“It’s about time they step up now, don’t you think?” he said of Congress. “Instead of going on a two-week vacation? … Two weeks! What are they thinking? My God, this is bizarre, and it’s just reinforcing all the concern and almost—I won’t say panic—but real concern about the United States being a reliable ally.”

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

TFG

* * * *

Trump melts down. Is he okay?

August 9, 2024

Robert B. Hubbell

Spoiler alert: “No, he’s not okay!” If Trump had a functional family that cared for him, they would have gently guided him away from the microphone at Thursday’s Mar-a-Lago “press conference” and given him a glass of warm milk and a comfy pair of slippers.

Instead, Trump engaged in one of the ripest acts of self-immolation in political history-- during a press conference designed to reassure nervous Republicans that he was serious about this “running for president” thing. He is not. The only open question is whether the press will give Trump 1/100th of the scrutiny they would have given Biden for the same alarming display. (Spoiler alert: No.)

No matter. We can see a pattern developing. When Trump talks to people who aren’t paid to like him, he reveals himself to be equal parts delusional, deceitful, mean, and unintelligible. (Think NABJ convention interview last week.) Trump’s advisers were right to keep him off the campaign trail and under wraps at Trump’s Fantasy Island, er, I mean, Mar-a-Lago. He makes the surly JD Vance look good in comparison.

The correct comparison is Kamala Harris knocking the ball out of the park when accepting the endorsement of the United Auto Workers Union on Thursday. Full video here: Kamala Harris speaks to auto workers. In her remarks, V.P. Harris said that she “believed in” and “trusted” the American people. She credited organized labor for securing improvements in the working conditions for all workers. It was a strong showing by Kamala Harris.

But even as Harris and Walz continued their positive appeal to voters on a six state swing, their campaign found time to issue a withering review of Trump's press conference with the title, “Donald Trump's Very Good, Very Normal Press Conference | Split Screen: Joy and Freedom vs. Whatever the Hell That Was.”

I urge you to read the entire press release (although it is in a computer-unfriendly format, come on Harris-Walz staff!), but in case you don’t, here is how it begins:

Donald Trump took a break from taking a break to put on some pants and host a press conference public meltdown. We have a lot to say about it. Here are some initial thoughts - with more to come. He hasn't campaigned all week. He isn't going to a single swing state this week. But he sure is mad Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are getting big crowds across the battlegrounds. The facts were hard to track and harder to find in Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago meltdown this afternoon. He lied. He attacked the media. He made excuses for why he's off the campaign trail. We're here to help because his staff clearly isn't.

Let’s take a look at what the press should be covering (but is not)

Donald Trump was delusional.

Trump demonstrated that he is detached from reality by making the following preposterous claims:

Joe Biden’s withdrawal as a candidate was “unconstitutional.” (It wasn’t.)

Trump's J6 insurrection rally drew more people than Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream Speech.” (Verifiably false.)

There was a “peaceful transfer of power” on January 6, 2021. (He watched the violent insurrection live on three televisions.)

No one died in the J6 insurrection. (Five police officers and two insurrectionists died.)

Trump's base makes up 75% of American voters. (False.)

Trump lied continuously.

Almost everything Trump said during the press conference was a lie. Among the biggest lies were these:

Abortion is a “small issue” that people aren’t concerned about anymore.

“Everybody” wanted Roe v. Wade overturned.

He is not campaigning this week to give Democrats time to hold their convention. (The convention starts August 19.)

Harris and Walz are only drawing 1,000 people to their rallies.

Democrats support abortion after full term live births. (False.)

The US is “on the verge of a depression.” (The financial markets posted their biggest gains in two years on Thursday.)

Joe Biden drained the national petroleum reserves so they are “virtually empty.” (False.)

Kamala Harris “wants to take away your guns.” (False.)

Kamala Harris will “force everyone to buy an electric vehicle.” (False.)

Trump's tax cuts were the biggest in history. (False; six other tax cuts by other presidents were larger.)

Trump said Democrats would “destroy” Social Security and Medicare. (False.)

Trump promised not to cut benefits or raise the retirement age for Social Security. (False; he attempted to do so every year he was president.)

He “disapproved” of the “Lock her up” chants about Hillary Clinton. (False.)

Trump was rude and insulting.

Trump said the following:

“If anybody I know is Jewish and they would vote for Kamala over me, they should have their heads examined.”

Kamala Harris is “not smart” and a “horrible person.”

Kamala Harris was picked to appeal to “certain people.”

Tim Walz is “into things nobody’s ever heard of.”

Josh Shapiro is a “terrible guy” who is “not popular with many people.”

See Vanity Fair, Trump Spews Lies, Disparages Harris’s Intelligence, Insults Jews, and Rambles About “Insane Asylums” in Unhinged Press Conference.

Trump evaded questions calling for substantive answers.

Watch this clip from Lawrence O’Donnell that demonstrates that Trump did not provide any answers on matters of substance. O’Donnell’s commentary shames reporters who reported that “Trump answered questions” at the press conference. He did not. He responded in Elvish gibberish—which the reporters in attendance obediently transcribed and published. See Aaron Rupar,  Lawrence on Trump's non-answers.

For example, Trump refused to say whether he would order the FDA to suspend access to mifepristone and refused to say how he would vote on Florida’s constitutional amendment restoring access to abortion and reproductive healthcare.

Trump resorted to his “infrastructure week” gambit, saying he would hold a press conference in the future to let us know whether he supports reproductive rights of women Florida. Infrastructure week never arrived—nor will the promised news conference on Trump's position on Florida’s constitutional amendment on the ballot in November.

Here’s my point:

I have spent too much time on this issue because Trump's press conference was objectively worse than Joe Biden’s debate performance. By a wide margin. As Jennifer Rubin posted,

[The] press should report this as incoherent, displaying mental deterioration. He is unwell. The refusal to explain how unhinged he is and instead to normalize is reprehensible.  

But in addition to the raw display of delusion and mental illness, Trump's “press conference” did not answer questions and consisted almost entirely of lies. And yet, the toughest criticism from the NYTimes lead article was,

“His wide-ranging remarks were sometimes meandering.”

All I can say is, “**** *** ****** ****!”

Did the NYTimes reporters attend the same news conference as the rest of the world???? True, Maggie Haberman and friends did acknowledge that Trump engaged in “evasion” regarding some questions and occasionally gave answers that were “incoherent,” but the general tone was, “This is Trump being Trump,” or as the NYTimes reporters put it, “Much of the news conference was consumed by familiar remarks.”

The news conference should result in demands for Trump to step aside—just as a single debate resulted in calls for Joe Biden to step aside. Sadly, the press will continue the double-standard treatment of Trump that enabled his initial election and post-January 6 rehabilitation. But some commentators in other news outlets are calling the major media to task, especially Lawrence O’Donnell.

As Lawrence O’Donnell explained in a scathing monologue on Thursday, the journalists at the event asked questions that were largely irrelevant, insipid, and ignorant. They did not challenge him on anything of substance about his criminal convictions, Project 2025, or his obvious lies about everything.

I urge you to watch the entire 20-minute segment by Lawrence O’Donnell in which he condemns the reserved, timid performance by the journalists at the Mar-a-Lago press conference. Lawrence: 'Stupidest' candidate Trump did not answer reporters' questions (msnbc.com). Please watch this segment to understand the moral collapse of the press corps covering Trump.

Why? Because the pathetic treatment by the journalists in attendance portends the pathetic performance we should continue to expect from the media as they give Trump a free pass.

No matter. Democrats are done being told by journalists and the media what they should believe. Democrats have taken their fate into their own hands and will not be deterred by a media interested only in horse races and sound-bites.

Democrats know they have a winning ticket and don’t need pollsters, pundits, or the press to tell them what to do. They know. They are demonstrating their resolve and enthusiasm every day—much to the chagrin of a sputtering press.

The even better news is that Trump and his campaign have yet to figure out how to deal with the positive, joyful approach, competence, and strategic brilliance of the Harris Walz campaign. Indeed, Trump's “press conference” on Thursday was supposed to be his breakout moment. Instead, he gave us an on-screen “breakdown” moment in which he dissolved into incoherence and delusion.

[Robert B. Hubbell Newsletter]

[bllsbailey]

Ford Donating $1M, A Fleet Of Vehicles To Trump's January Inauguration

Ford CEO Jim Farley announces at a press conference that Ford Motor Company will be partnering with the worlds largest battery company, a China-based company called Contemporary Amperex Technology.

According to a corporate representative on Monday, Ford Motor Company is contributing $1 million and a fleet of cars to the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in January.

The incoming administration’s proposed policies on tariffs and electric vehicles (EV) are expected to affect Detroit automakers like Ford, who are having difficulty increasing sales of their battery-powered EV models.

Trump has previously suggested eliminating the EV tax credit, which is said to benefit companies like Ford. Currently, drivers who purchase or lease an electric vehicle are eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit.

However, the tax credit perk’s future could be questionable since Trump and other officials in the incoming GOP administration have deemed it unnecessary spending in the past. Though, naturally, there is also a chance that the tax credit could remain in place or be phased away gradually. Time will tell.

Meanwhile, Democrat officials like Governor Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) have argued that he will do everything in his power to fight any efforts to rid the tax credit.

“We’re not turning back on a clean transportation future — we’re going to make it more affordable for people to drive vehicles that don’t pollute,” said Newsom in a statement in November.

Many people assume that Elon Musk, a founder of the popular EV company Tesla, and a notable official in the incoming Trump administration as one of the heads of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), could possibly affect any decisions regarding EVs. However, Trump has already maintained that Musk will be putting “America First” over all of his companies.

Although the first federal EV tax credit was established under President George W. Bush’s U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005, the tax credits, which are $7,500 for new cars and $4,000 for used cars, were introduced as part of President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act to “combat climate change by encouraging the sale of EVs.”

Americans who agree with doing away the EV tax credit perk argue that if a customer is already wealthy enough to purchase an EV vehicle, then they will survive financially and should not mind if that tax credit is taken away. On the other hand, critics have argued that the tax credit is an important, beneficial perk as it “rewards those who are conscious about the environment.”

Earlier this month, Jim Farley, the CEO of Ford, expressed optimism to reporters that Trump would be receptive to hearing the American automaker’s thoughts on these steps.

“[Given] Ford’s employment profile and importance in the U.S. economy and manufacturing, you can imagine the administration will be very interested in Ford’s point of view,” Farley said.

In terms of support, Amazon and Meta Platforms are among the other big businesses that have financially contributed to the incoming GOP inauguration. Meta and Amazon both paid $1 million in donations to the president-elect’s inaugural fund last week, followed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who promised that he would give the same amount as well.

General Motors (GM) has also pledged to donate $1 million to Trump.

Trump’s 2017 presidential inauguration brought in a record $106.7 million, while companies like Pfizer, AT&T, and Boeing contributed $61.8 million to Democrat President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration fund.

Stay informed! Receive breaking news blasts directly to your inbox for free. Subscribe here. https://www.oann.com/alerts

[sensitive-virgo]

Opening Opportunities: Proven Strategies for Dental Assistants Seeking New Jobs

Unlocking Opportunities: Proven Strategies for Dental Assistants Seeking ‌New‌ Jobs

Introduction

In the dynamic ​world of dental healthcare, ⁢dental assistants⁤ play‌ a‌ crucial role in ‍ensuring patient comfort ​and supporting dental professionals. However, as the job market evolves, dental⁤ assistants may find themselves seeking new job opportunities‌ for⁤ various reasons, ⁤including career growth, relocation,⁣ or a passion for a different specialty. This article ‍explores proven ‍strategies for dental assistants to unlock their potential and ‌secure⁣ rewarding positions in the field. Whether you’re ⁢fresh out of school ‍or ⁤an experienced professional, these strategies ⁢will help you stand out to potential employers.

Understanding ⁢the Job Market for Dental Assistants

The demand⁣ for dental assistants ​has ‍been on the rise, attributed to an ⁣aging population, increased⁢ dental health⁤ awareness, and advancements ⁤in dental technology.⁢ According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for dental assistants is expected to grow by 11% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Understanding the job market will help you identify opportunities​ and tailor your job search effectively.

Key Strategies to Unlock New ⁤Job Opportunities

1. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and ⁢cover letter are your first chances ⁢to‍ make‌ an impression. Here are key ‌elements to focus on:

Tailored ‍content: Highlight relevant experience and skills ⁤specific to dental assisting.

Keywords: Use industry-related keywords to‌ pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Professional format: Keep your ​resume organized,​ concise, and visually appealing.

2. ⁢Expand Your ⁤Network

Networking ​can open doors to job opportunities. Consider the ​following:

Join professional organizations: ​Groups such as the American Dental Assistants⁤ Association (ADAA) can provide⁢ resources and connections.

Attend ‌industry events: Engage with peers and employers at dental conferences and‍ workshops.

Utilize ‌social media: Platforms like LinkedIn ⁤can ‌enhance your professional⁣ presence.

3. Pursue⁤ Continuing Education

Enhancing ⁢your skills through continuing education can make you more attractive to employers. Consider the‍ following:

Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as‍ Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) can boost your qualifications.

Specialized training: Explore courses in areas like orthodontics or oral ‌surgery​ to diversify ⁢your skills.

Online courses: Platforms like Coursera or‌ Udemy offer opportunities to learn new skills at your own pace.

4. Leverage Job Portals

Utilizing job⁢ portals effectively can streamline your job search:

Major⁢ job sites: Websites like Indeed and Glassdoor provide listings tailored to dental assistants.

Specialized sites: Explore job boards specifically for dental professionals.

Set up alerts: Create alerts to notify you of new postings relevant to your job preferences.

5. ⁢Prepare ​for Interviews

Interviews​ are a crucial part of the ​job search process. Prepare‌ with these tips:

Research‌ the employer: Understanding the workplace culture and values can give you‍ an edge.

Practice answering common questions: Be​ ready to ‍discuss your experience, skills, and ​how you handle specific situations.

Dress professionally: Make a strong first impression with appropriate attire.

Benefits of Following ⁣Proven Strategies

Implementing the strategies discussed​ can lead to numerous benefits:

Increased job prospects: A thorough, strategic approach expands your potential job ​opportunities.

Enhanced confidence: Improving your skills and preparation helps you ‍feel more secure ​during⁣ the job search process.

Stronger professional relationships: Networking can ​lead to mentoring opportunities and referrals.

Case ⁢Studies: Success Stories from Dental Assistants

Name

Background

Strategy ⁣Used

Outcome

Jessica Reynolds

2 years of ​experience

Certification in Radiography

Secured a position at a leading dental practice

Mark Chen

5 ⁢years of experience

Networking at a dental conference

Received a job offer⁣ as a lead dental assistant

Lisa Patel

New graduate

Tailored resume and online job applications

Landed her first job within⁤ 2 months

First-Hand Experience: A Dental Assistant’s⁣ Journey

“When I first started looking for jobs as a dental assistant, I felt ‌overwhelmed. I didn’t know where to start. However, by attending local dental association⁤ meetings and reaching out to mentors, ​I not only found my dream job but also gained invaluable connections in the industry. I encourage all dental ⁤assistants⁤ to embrace networking opportunities!” – Emily Johnson, CDA.

Conclusion

unlocking opportunities as a dental assistant requires ⁢a ⁢proactive approach, a⁤ commitment to self-improvement, and‌ the willingness to engage with⁤ the dental community. By following the strategies outlined in this article—updating resumes, networking, pursuing further education, leveraging job portals, and preparing for‍ interviews—you’ll increase your ⁤chances of ‍finding the perfect job ‍in a rewarding and growing ‌field. Remember, success⁣ is a journey, and⁢ each step you take toward your goal brings you​ closer⁣ to your ‍ideal position.‍ Happy job hunting!

https://dentalassistantclasses.net/opening-opportunities-proven-strategies-for-dental-assistants-seeking-new-jobs/

[into-the-voyd]

MASS BREAK OUT FROM ABRACADABRA CAUSES CONCERN

OOC: The magick prison, Abracadabra has been broken into and a mass amount of prisoners have escaped! What does this mean for our site and your characters?

Our goal, as the MAFIA muns, is for this to be national news, yes, and a big deal in terms of the conversations that people are having, just like if a big disaster happens somewhere in our country, even far away from us-- people usually talk about it and share the news/worries with friends.

However, because it happened so far away, there will be no explicit, material effects on the lives of Swynlakers. While the police and town board will be alerted and in contact with national authorities, nothing will change in terms of the laws in the town. Therefore, the character reactions should be mostly individual. If you have a politically active character, they might be extra concerned about this and could draw the connection between this event and MAFIA's involvement with the fairy crown; however, that would be mostly circumstantial, so no one should immediately suspect anyone from Swynlake of being involved, and there will still be no immediate impact on Swynlake life. If you have someone who is more private or dislikes talking/thinking about politics, they might be like 'Oh, that's so sad, but can we talk about something else?'

Please contact Laur if you have any concerns or questions about this plot drop!

Full article under the cut!

Last night, Abracadabra–the second-largest prison in the United Kingdom–was broken into and 125 prisoners were released. This is now the largest coordinated prison break in the United Kingdom’s history outside of wartime. This assault is being considered a terrorist attack.

The prison break was due to a fault in the magical wards that protect the guards, the prisoners, and the communities nearby from Magicks who may wish to cause harm. As of now, there is no definitive evidence as to who was responsible for this break in, but prison spokespersons have pointed to MAFIA (Magicks Fighting for Anarchy) a terrorist organization who attempted a break out in 2021. At that time they did not succeed and several members were imprisoned, including Ignacio Alonzo Julio Frederico de Tito, a notorious and dangerous Magick, who was released on this attempt.

Altogether, the prison has reported that nearly 125 inmates were released through a magic portal to an unknown location. This number may climb as the prison is assessed. Britain has been put on high alert, with boarders thoroughly checking documentation and causing mass delays across the country, but especially in Liverpool and surrounding areas, where the prison is located.

Tragically, initial reports say that 83 guards and 44 inmates lost their lives in this attack. This number may grow from the printing of this paper and families are still being informed. Guards were a mix of Mundus and Magick guards, mostly sorcerers who had loyally served at the prison for a long time.

Abracadabra Penitentiary is the United Kingdom’s Magicks-only prison. All the prisoners who escaped were Magicks. Please be on the look out for anyone acting suspicious and contact your local authorities. At this time, all inmates are considered armed and dangerous. Do not approach on your own.

The government wants to assure citizens that they are taking this break out very seriously. Chief of Police at Scotland Yard will be holding a press conference later today when more information comes to light. The prison will be reviewing their security protocols to prevent a similar tragedy from occurring in the future.

There will be a full report published once all the evidence has been assessed. If you have any information, please contact the authorities.

[amrutmnm]

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market: A Global Outlook and Forecast

The Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market has gained significant momentum due to the increasing global demand for secure, efficient, and integrated maritime communication solutions. Estimated at USD 8.6 billion in 2023, the market is projected to reach USD 12.3 billion by 2028, expanding at a CAGR of 7.3%. This growth is propelled by rising maritime trade, advancements in communication technology, and growing investments from both government and commercial sectors.

What are Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems?

Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems refer to a suite of integrated technologies that enhance communication, navigation, and overall operational control on marine vessels. These systems encompass a variety of components, including communication radios, satellite systems, automation identification systems (AIS), and propulsion control systems, among others.

Key components include:

Communication Systems: Facilitate secure data transmission between ships and shore stations. They encompass satellite systems, radios, and receivers, enabling vessels to maintain connectivity even in remote areas.

Control Systems: Include automation and monitoring technologies that ensure optimal vessel performance, such as engine control, navigation safety, and fuel efficiency.

You Can Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=25117530

How Do Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Work?

These systems use advanced digital and satellite technology to ensure continuous and secure communication across all stages of a vessel's journey. Here’s an overview of how they operate:

Satellite and Radio Communication: Using satellites, these systems allow for global communication. This ensures that vessels can receive weather updates, navigational warnings, and emergency alerts in real-time.

Automation Identification System (AIS): AIS facilitates vessel tracking by broadcasting a ship’s location to other vessels and shore-based stations. This helps prevent collisions and aids in search and rescue operations.

Control Systems and Monitoring: Integrated control systems enable real-time monitoring of engine performance, fuel consumption, and other critical parameters. These systems allow predictive maintenance, which enhances overall vessel efficiency and safety.

Growth Drivers of the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

Several factors contribute to the robust growth of the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Industry:

Increase in Marine Fleet Size: Global marine trade continues to rise, prompting an increase in new vessel construction and retrofitting of existing fleets with advanced communication systems. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, maritime trade recovered by 4.3% in 2021, with growth expected to continue through 2026.

Demand for Operational Efficiency: With the adoption of IoT and AI technologies, vessels are now able to monitor and optimize their operations in real-time. This results in reduced fuel consumption, minimized downtime, and enhanced safety.

Government Investments in Maritime Modernization: Governments worldwide are modernizing their navies with advanced marine communication and control systems to bolster secure and efficient maritime operations. This is particularly prominent in countries like China, the United States, and South Korea, which are investing heavily in these technologies.

Market Opportunities for Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems

As maritime industries continue to evolve, new opportunities arise within the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems market:

Advancements in Connectivity: With the advent of 5G, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and high-speed internet, vessels can maintain connectivity even in the most remote areas. This opens up opportunities for enhanced situational awareness and improved decision-making for both onboard and onshore teams.

Integration of Smart Sensors and Monitoring Devices: Smart sensors enable real-time data gathering on various operational metrics, from engine temperature to weather conditions. This enhances predictive maintenance capabilities, reduces the likelihood of equipment failure, and improves overall vessel safety.

Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Solutions: As environmental regulations tighten, there is a growing demand for green and efficient marine communication systems. Technologies that optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions are becoming increasingly popular, providing further growth opportunities.

Key Players in the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

The Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market is dominated by Key Players who are continually innovating to meet industry demands. Some of the top players include:

Emerson Electric Co. (US): Known for providing automation solutions that enhance vessel operational efficiency.

Wärtsilä (Finland): Offers a range of maritime solutions, including integrated bridge systems and automation platforms.

Kongsberg (Norway): Specializes in marine automation systems, and has recently launched the K-Chief, a new platform for more efficient marine operations.

ABB (Switzerland): Provides advanced propulsion systems and recently developed the ABB Dynafin, which enhances ship efficiency.

Northrop Grumman Corporation (US): A leading player in the defense sector, offering cutting-edge maritime communication and control systems.

Ask for Sample Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=25117530

Recent Developments in Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems

June 2023: Kongsberg launched the K-Chief marine automation system to streamline marine operations.

June 2023: ST Engineering introduced an upgraded version of its NERVA ship management system, featuring data analytics and centralized control capabilities.

May 2023: ABB unveiled the ABB Dynafin, a propulsion system that enhances ship efficiency with an innovative, low-speed motor design.

Challenges Facing the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market

While growth prospects are strong, the market faces certain challenges:

High Initial Costs: The integration of advanced communication and control systems requires significant investment. For instance, a VSAT communication system can cost around USD 60,000. This poses a financial challenge for smaller shipping companies.

Retrofitting Older Vessels: Upgrading older ships with modern systems involves technical difficulties, such as integrating new technologies with outdated wiring and control systems. These modifications can be time-consuming and may require substantial investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which are the major companies in the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems market?

Major companies include Emerson Electric Co., Wärtsilä, Kongsberg, ABB, and Northrop Grumman Corporation. These companies are renowned for their innovative solutions in marine communication and control systems.

2. What are the key drivers of the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems market?

Rising marine fleet size, demand for operational efficiency, and government investments in maritime modernization are major drivers of market growth.

3. Which region is expected to grow at the highest rate?

Asia Pacific is projected to exhibit the highest growth rate due to increasing seaborne trade and significant investments in naval modernization.

4. What is the expected CAGR of the Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems Market?

The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2023 to 2028.

To Gain Deeper Insights Into This Dynamic Market, Speak to Our Analyst Here: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/speaktoanalystNew.asp?id=25117530

Key Takeaways

Growth Projection: The Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems market is forecast to grow from USD 8.6 billion in 2023 to USD 12.3 billion by 2028.

Major Drivers: Key drivers include the rise in marine fleet size, demand for enhanced operational efficiency, and increased government investments.

Opportunities: Opportunities lie in evolving connectivity solutions, integration of smart sensors, and the demand for eco-friendly technologies.

Regional Dominance: Asia Pacific is projected to lead market growth due to expanding maritime trade and technological advancements.

Key Players: Prominent companies like Emerson Electric Co., Wärtsilä, Kongsberg, ABB, and Northrop Grumman Corporation are instrumental in shaping the market.

The Marine Onboard Communication and Control Systems market represents a critical aspect of the maritime industry’s evolution. As global trade continues to expand and technological advancements accelerate, this market is poised for substantial growth, with new opportunities emerging for companies to enhance maritime communication, navigation, and operational efficiency.

[yuxinwublog]

Meaningful Engagement(Nominate 3)

In the Serengeti, a unique ecological and cultural region, international co-operation has often focused on wildlife conservation and the sustainability of tourism. While tourism contributes revenue to the local economy, it also puts pressure on the natural environment and wildlife habitats.

In all studied cases of agreements, national and local governments should be more actively involved in developing regulations and must make better use of their natural resources (De Boer & van Dijk, 2016, p. 15).

Figure 1: Poaching of elephant

In this context, I can use my cultural communication expertise to showcase the unique cultural and ecological values of this region in order to attract more international attention and support. A suitable strategy would be to utilise blogs and social media platforms to share the challenges faced by the Serengeti region in terms of wildlife conservation as well as the cultural traditions of local communities. These stories should highlight the strong connection between humans and nature and emphasise the importance of conserving this area.

Figure 2: Mytene’s carcass found after receiving the immobility alert

The sustainable development of tourism in Africa is directly linked to wildlife conservation, with declining animal populations being one of the causes of poaching and the illegal trade of animals in Africa. Until recently, the main markets for elephant and rhinoceros horns were in China and Vietnam. The impact of measures taken by the Chinese authorities continues to be significant, with a consumer survey conducted in China in April 2021 showing a 43 per cent drop in demand for elephant tusks following the trade ban (Suchkova, 2021, p. 6).

In the Serengeti, it is vital to maintain a balance between wildlife conservation and community development. Doing so promotes meaningful international co-operation and brings long-term, effective support to ensure the continued protection and preservation of the Serengeti's ecosystems and culture.

Bolles, C. (2018, April 23). The poaching of collared elephant mytene. Mara Elephant Project. https://maraelephantproject.org/the-poaching-of-collared-elephant-mytene/ 

De Boer, D., & van Dijk, M. P. (2016). Can sustainable tourism achieve conservation and local economic development? The experience with nine business-community wildlife-tourism agreements in northern Tanzania. African Journal of Hospitality Tourism and Leisure, 5(4), 1-19.

Polly. (2021, September 20). Poaching in Serengeti National Park: Activities in of Paochng in Serengeti. Serengeti National Park. https://www.serengetiparktanzania.com/information/poaching-in-serengeti-national-park/ 

Suchkova, A. A. (2021). International tourism and sustainable development challenges in Southern and Eastern Africa. In E3S Web of Conferences (Vol. 311, p. 01003). EDP Sciences.

[sportzwireradio]

US AMPUTEE SOCCER COACH JASON FISCINA INDUCTED INTO THE SPORTZIWRE RADIO HALL OF FAME!

Media Alert: NEW YORK, APRIL 18, 2024 /THOMAS BRICE/-- Sportzwire Radio the #1 global radio station was recently honored to induct the newest member of the Sportzwire Radio Hall Of Fame on the head coach of the US Amputee Soccer team and the head coach of the Five Towns College Men's Soccer Team Jason Fiscina.

Jason Fiscina, who just completed his 4th season as head coach of the Five Towns College Men's Soccer team has led the Five Towns Sound to 3 Hudson Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Regular Season championships, 1 Hudson Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship, and 3 USCAA National Tournament Appearances.

Jason Fiscina, on March 5, 2024 was appointed by the American Amputee Soccer Association as the head coach of the United States Men's National Team.

Jason Fiscina, in addition to this is the Assistant Athletic Director of Five Towns College Athletic Program for Purchasing and Ordering since August 2020 and from 2021-2022 was the Head College of the Five Towns Sound Women's Soccer Team. Jason Fiscina in 2021 was named the USCAA Coach of the Year in Men's Soccer along with in 2021 the Five Towns College Men's Soccer Team finished the regular season ranked #1 in the USCAA. Since taking over as head of the Five Towns College Men's Soccer team on December 14th, 2018 Jason Fiscina has gone an impressive 38-16-7 including 3 wins in the USCAA National Tournament.

The American Amputee Soccer Association has dual missions. One mission is to promote and develop the sport for the benefit of participants with limb differences. The American Amputee Soccer Association looks to grow the sport for juniors and adults and for women and men.

The American Amputee Soccer Association looks to accomplish this through outreach programs at the local levels to help interested players become introduced to the sport, maximize their proficiency, build self-confidence, learn the power of teamwork, and build a strong social network. Our second mission is to select, develop, and train the elite amputee soccer athlete to represent the United States in international competition.

"I couldn't think of a better person to be the 1st coach inducted into the Sportzwire Radio Hall of Fame then Jason Fiscina. Jason Fiscina's leadership is unmatched with his energy, selflessness, and work ethic which has helped mentor many athletes not only on the field but off the field. Jason Fiscina results on the field speak for themselves as he has won countless championships and he will bring those results to lead the United States Amputee Men's Soccer Team to a trophy in the 2026 World Cup. I want to congratulate coach Fiscina on becoming the new head coach of the US Amputee Men's Soccer Team and I want to congratulate coach Fiscina on becoming the 1st coach inducted into the Sportzwire Radio Hall of Fame."--Thomas J. Brice, owner of Sportzwire Radio

You can watch a clip of the head coach of the US Amputee Men's Soccer Team and the Five Towns College Men's Soccer Team Jason Fiscina on Sportzwire Radio below.

You can also watch the full interview with the head coach of the US Amputee Men's Soccer Team and Five Towns College Men's Soccer Team Jason Fiscina in the link below.

For more information on the head coach of the Five Towns College Men's Soccer Team Jason Fiscina you can follow Jason Fiscina on Instagram @coachfiscina Five Towns Mens Soccer On Instagram @ftcmenssoccer and the Five Towns Sound on Instagram @fivetowns_sound.

The AASA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Please direct sponsorship inquiries to info@usampsoccer.org. Donations are welcome at www.usampsoccer.org/donate. Learn more about the AASA at www.usampsoccer.org or on Instagram @usamputeesoccer Youtube @usaamputeesoccer7769 and Facebook @USAmputeeSoccerTeam .

Sportzwire Radio is the #1 global radio station featuring over 15 podcasts covering all of the latest happenings in the world of sports and wrestling. Sportzwire Radio has featured interviews with the likes of former MLB world series champions Mark Gubicza also a member of the Kansas City Royals Hall of Fame and Art Shamsky. New York Mets legend Glendon Rusch and longtime New York Islanders great Rich Pilon. Sportzwire Radio also features live wrestling coverage from around the world with the voice of all wrestling and the owner of Sportzwire Radio the Rev. Tom Brice. You watch or listen to Sportzwire Radio anytime via the watch now or listen live buttons at sportzwireradio.org.

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[beardedmrbean]

A graduate student at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill has been charged with first-degree murder over the on-campus shooting that left one faculty member dead.

Tailei Qi, a second-year PhD student majoring in applied physical sciences, has not been officially identified by university officials or law enforcement but his name appeared in court documents obtained by NBC. The suspect’s relationship with the unnamed victim remains unclear.

UNC police said during a press conference on Monday that a motive was not immediately evident, adding that the victim’s name would be released once next of kin was notified.

According to his LinkedIn page, Mr Qi graduated from Wuhan University in 2015 and also received a master’s in material science from Lousiana State University in 2021.

Mr Qi then joined UNC at Chapel Hill’s Yan Lab in 2022, with his profile page on the university’s website taken down by Tuesday morning.

The suspect worked as a researcher in China before pursuing a doctoral career in America.

A Twitter account believed to belong to Mr Qi reveals that he had railed against his work and his head of lab as well as what he described as “bullies” in the US before allegedly carrying out the shooting.

In a post on 1 August 2022, he wrote: “Bully in [A]merica seems to be a problem. It often comes with people not stopping them at the first time.

“Explanation is not a solution but makes them feel others will plead them every time they raise a problem, making them voyeur to find an excuse day and night.”

UNC police had issued an alert about an active shooting situation at the campus shortly after 1pm on Monday, following reports of shots being fired in the science building.

Students were ordered to shelter in place and barricade themselves inside lecture halls amid the active situation.

Footage shared online shows desperate students and faculty members jumping from windows or hunkering down in classrooms as the UNC Police, FBI, ATF and SWAT teams canvassed the campus for the shooter.

Nearly an hour and a half into the ordeal, UNC police released a photo of a person of interest and asked the public to call 911 and proceed with caution if they spotted the individual. A name was not released but the photo released by authorities matched the one on Mr Qi’s UNC profile page.

Mr Qi was then arrested near a residential area two miles from campus on Williams Circle and the shelter-in-place order was lifted at around 4.30pm.

At a press conference later that evening, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and UNC Police Chief Brian James confirmed one faculty member had been killed.

The weapon used in the shooting was yet to be recovered as of Monday evening amid an ongoing investigation into the circumstances and motive behind the shooting.

“I’m grieved to report that one of our faculty members was killed in this shooting. This loss is devastating, and the shooting damages the trust and safety that we so often take for granted in our campus community,” Mr Guskiewicz said.

Mr Qi is being held by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Hillsborough ahead of a court appearance on Tuesday.

[mariacallous]

Kremlin Ties

The Trickbot and Conti leaks have shaken up the ransomware industry. In June 2022, after attacking Costa Rica, members of the Conti ransomware group disbanded. And in February of this year, the UK and US governments sanctioned seven people for their alleged involvement with Trickbot.

One of those sanctioned was Vitaly Nikolayevich Kovalev who, confusingly, uses the online handles “Ben” as well as “Bentley.” Alongside the sanctions, the US unsealed a 2012 indictment accusing Kovalev of conducting bank fraud between 2009 and 2010. Multiple sources tell WIRED that Kovalev’s use of the Bentley handle isn’t connected to what they believe to be Galochkin’s use of the same moniker.

Though cybercrime groups like Trickbot aim to be efficient and professionalized, two individuals using the same handle, even years apart, illustrates the disorder and fluidity within these organizations. And as gangs in Russia’s cybercriminal world clash or disband to evade international law enforcement, new combinations of the same familiar faces often emerge under the banner of a new group.

Tracing the real identities and relationships of Trickbot members also underscores the gang’s prominence within Russia’s flourishing cybercrime scene. “We know that ransomware actors value their anonymity, so exposing their identities via sanctions designations affects their reputation and relationships within the cybercriminal ecosystem,” says Will Lyne, head of cyber intelligence at the UK’s National Crime Agency, the country’s equivalent to the FBI. Lyne says the sanctions against Trickbot members puts them under more scrutiny and blocks them from accessing UK, US, and global financial systems.

The FBI declined to comment on Trickleaks or recent Trickbot activity. A US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency official, who would only speak to WIRED on the condition of anonymity, says it has been alerting “international partners” about Trickbot malware since August 2021 and has sent out 55 alerts in the past year.

“Over the past 12 to 18 months, we have seen a shift in power within the cybercriminal ecosystem from the ransomware operators, who control the malware behind the schemes, and the affiliates,” Lyne says. “This has resulted in some affiliates working much more loosely with multiple ransomware variants simultaneously.”

Microsoft’s corporate vice president of customer security and trust, Tom Burt, wrote of Trickbot in October 2020 that “research suggests they serve both nation-states and criminal networks.”

Digital crime syndicates operate globally, and particular types of scams often evolve in different regions as a result of lax enforcement that criminals use to their advantage. In Russia, the Kremlin has broadly allowed ransomware actors and other cybercriminal groups to operate with impunity—as long as they don’t victimize Russian targets. As the global law enforcement community has scrambled to address high-profile ransomware attacks, the question of how deeply Russian cybercriminal groups are tied to their government has taken on increased significance.

In January 2022, amid a series of particularly ruthless attacks on US and UK targets, Russian law enforcement arrested more than a dozen alleged members of the ransomware gang REvil, though the suspects were reportedly only charged with credit card forgery. This enforcement action was an isolated event and seemed to further underscore that the Russian government has a vested interest in managing optics and ultimately protecting its criminal hackers.

Speaking about Russia’s war against Ukraine at the RSA security conference in San Francisco in April, US National Security Agency cybersecurity director Rob Joyce said that criminal and “hacktivist” attackers are a “natural resource” for the Kremlin. He added that Russian intelligence “is able to maintain relationships and use all the coercive power of the Russian government” and that such a relationship was “pretty disturbing.”

As the war in Ukraine drags on, Russia’s inability to break through has become both embarrassing and destabilizing for Putin’s regime. But researchers say that the more geopolitically isolated Russia becomes, the more likely it is that the relationship between cybercriminals and Russian intelligence services will endure and even deepen.

“The Russian criminal problem isn’t going anywhere. In fact, now it’s probably closer with the security services than it’s ever been,” says John Hultquist, Google Cloud’s chief analyst for Mandiant Intelligence. “They’re actually carrying out attacks and doing things that benefit the security services, so the security services have every interest in protecting them.”

Analysts have repeatedly concluded that cybercriminals working in Russia have connections to the Kremlin. And these connections have become increasingly clear. When the UK and US sanctioned Trickbot and Conti members in February, both countries said members were associated with “Russian intelligence services.” They added that it was “likely” some of their actions were directed by the Russian government and that the criminals choose at least some of their victims based on “targeting previously conducted by Russian intelligence services.”

Chat logs included in the Trickleaks data offer rare insight into the nature of these connections. In 2021, two alleged Trickbot members, Alla Witte and Vladimir Dunaev, appeared in US courts charged with cybercrime offenses. In November 2021, according to Nisos’ analysis, the Trickleaks chats show members were worried about their safety and panicked when their own cryptocurrency wallets were no longer accessible. But someone using the handle Silver—allegedly a senior Trickbot member—offered reassurance. While the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs was “against” them, they said, the intelligence agencies were “for us or neutral.” They added: “The boss has the right connections.”

The same month, the Manuel handle, which is linked to Galochkin, said he believed Trickbot leader Stern had been involved in cybercrime “since 2000,” according to the Nisos analysis. Another member, known as Angelo, responded that Stern was “the link between us and the ranks/head of department type at FSB.” The previous Conti leaks also indicated some links to Russia’s intelligence and security services.

Unmasking Trickbot, One of the World’s Top Cybercrime Gangs

[xprojectrpg]

This Day in X-Project - February 21

PHASE 2

2015: Cecilia posts an update about the people in the Medlab and another post about adopting Pizza Dog. Adrienne emails P1 people about having attended Yale and having an empire again. Warren and Sue meet at a technology conference and they discover this isn't their first meeting. Julian wakes up in the woods and hurries off to find Tandy, finding Angelica, Adrienne and the harsh truth of a new reality instead. Lorna emails Wanda about escaping her father. Wade emails Marie-Ange about possible security threats.

2016:

2017: Warren stops by Jean’s hospital to make good on his word to donate money and is impressed by her dedication. With Extreme Prejudice: Daredevil and Spider-Man interfere in a confrontation between Friends of Humanity and mutants before it gets violent.

2018:

2019:

2020:

2021: Amanda and Hope A have a rather difficult discussion while leaving flowers at the M-Day memorial.

2022: Exorcism Robotica: Amanda alerts the X-Men to another Sentinel base and another Brotherhood attack; Marie-Ange confronts Amanda about the secrecy surrounding the Sentinel information but Amanda won’t tell her more; Bolivar Trask is showing off his new Sentinels to A.I.M. and Olivier when the Brotherhood arrive and some of the Sentinels attack Olivier before Magneto takes his turn; the X-Men discuss the mission en route; Amanda texts Gabriel to meet her in her suite; Gabriel is not happy when Amanda reveals she needs him to return to Olivier’s dimension; Olivier is beaten by Magneto and retreats to AZTECA, with Magneto and Erik the Red in pursuit; when Erik the Red/Garrison tells Magneto to stand down, his true plan is revealed; Cyclops, Bevatron, Dust and Wildchild take on one of the Sentinels; Nightcrawler, Wolverine and Spectrum take on another; Marvel Girl has a chance of a rematch against Uniscione and defeats her; Echo and Thornn face off; Psylocke gets the upper hand against Toad; Blink takes down Dragoness; the team destroys Master Mold, the Sentinel factory; as the X-Men prepare to leave, Amanda and Gabriel teleport in and take Jean and Kyle with them to AZTECA; Erik the Red’s true identity is revealed at the nightclub and Jean, Kyle and Gabe have no time to deal with their feelings of betrayal; with Amanda holding the portal out open, the four return to Olivier’s realm to destroy the masks that anchor it to their world; before each can destroy a mask, they are tempted by what they want most in the world, with varying levels of resistance; once the masks are destroyed they are ready to leave, but Abigail Brand appears, ready to avenge her ‘master’, Olivier; Garrison gives Brand his amulet that allows them to enter and leave and tells the others to go, that he has another option to escape; back in their own dimension, the group watch the nightclub burn down, only to discover Garrison’s flayed body in the wreckage; Jean posts to xp_teams that Garrison is back but seriously injured; Amanda posts to xp_teams to explain that the whole thing was part of a plan to take down Olivier, the Sentinels and weaken the Brotherhood; Gabriel texts Felicia to demand they have a spa day.

2023:

[spacedustpan]

Copied from source two: the article on Wired:

What Is the Affordable Connectivity Program?

In 2021, the US Congress passed the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal.

It was a massive, ambitious piece of legislation that aimed to shore up a variety of floundering industries, including transit networks, energy systems, and public utilities.

The ACP was part of that deal. It set aside $14.2 billion to fund credits that could help low-income households afford high-speed internet.

If a family’s household income was below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline per year, they were eligible for a $30 monthly credit on their broadband bill.

People living on Tribal lands were eligible to receive up to $75.

Not to mention that many ACP beneficiaries had come to rely on getting their internet for free; initial urging by the White House led to many internet providers offering plans with minimum download speeds of 100 Mbps for $30 a month. Customers who were applying their ACP benefit to these plans were getting internet access for free. Starting tomorrow, they will have to start paying for it.

Why Is the ACP Expiring?

The problem is funding. Like with any federal funding, there’s a limit to how long a program can go on without being renewed by Congress.

The Biden administration has made several pleas to lawmakers to save the program, including one last October requesting a $6 billion investment to continue the program, among other domestic spending.

Despite that and a number of pleas from advocacy groups and organizations like the Federal Communications Commission, nothing came of these attempts, and the program has officially lapsed.

Who’s Affected?

According to the White House, more than 23 million households have taken advantage of the program since it went into effect. That’s a staggering number—roughly one in six households—who now have to find another way to scrape together the funds to stay connected.

The end of the ACP is not exactly a surprise for the organizations that support it.

In anticipation of the future lack of funding, the ACP stopped accepting applications for the program in February 2024.

According to the US Federal Communications Commission, networks are required to alert users that the program has come to an end, so affected households should have received notices about the wind-down.

What Happens Next?

Unfortunately, any of the families who have been getting the ACP benefit will have to start paying full price for their internet connections—provided they’re able to afford it.

If a household’s income is below 200 percent of the federal poverty line, or if the household claims other government benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, or Social Security, there’s a way to get a similar reduction in internet cost, albeit a much smaller one. The Universal Service Administrative Company offers a service called Lifeline, which can pay up to $9.25 per month for a connection (and up to $34.25 per month for anyone living on qualifying Tribal lands).

In a press conference yesterday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated the Biden administration’s stance of pushing big telecom companies to continue honoring the ACP rules despite the lack of funding, saying, “We announced earlier this month that we are encouraging providers to take steps to keep their consumers connected at this crucial time by over low-cost, no-cost plans.” However, it isn’t clear whether any of the providers will be keen to play along.

If you’re affected, your internet provider should have already sent you two notifications about your service. If that’s not the case, you should contact your provider. Ultimately, affected users will have to decide whether to continue their service at the new price. The FCC has an information page about the ACP wind-down, where it also encourages filing complaints.

-------------

Another reason that voting this election is important:

Every single Presidential Election is also a Congressional Election.

There will be members of the House of Representatives and members of the Senate up for election.

Funding for programs like this one is decided in congress and important programs like this one are funded or ended based on the votes of congress people that we elect.

Your votes matter. They determine the laws and programs that we all live under. They determine what kinds of infrastructure are put in place in your state and local areas.

"Dozens of people joined Biden administration officials, advocates and U.S. Sen. Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, at a Washington public library on Tuesday to make a last-ditch plea to extend the Affordable Connectivity Program, a subsidy created by Congress and touted by President Joe Biden as part of his push to bring internet access to every U.S. household. The program, which is set to expire at the end of May, helps people with limited means pay their broadband bills.

“They need access to high-speed internet just like they need access to electricity,” Sen. Welch told the gathering. “This is what is required in a modern economy.”"

source 1

source 2

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[harshdeep2005]

Title: Exposing the Negative Aspects of Social Media: A Former Meta Employee Discloses Inadequacies in Safeguarding Adolescent Users

By Harshdeep singh

Arturo Bejar, a former employee of Meta, made a startling disclosure during his testimony before a U.S. Senate panel. He said that Meta was allegedly aware of harassment and other negative experiences that teenagers were having on its platforms, particularly Facebook and Instagram. Bejar, who oversaw Instagram's well-being department from 2019 to 2021, charged the company with not doing enough to address these problems.

The evidence exposed a troubling story of Meta's carelessness and inactivity and was given during a hearing on the effect of social media on adolescent mental health. Bejar voiced his worries, saying, "It's time that the public and parents understand the true level of harm posed by these 'products,' and it's time that young users have the tools to report and suppress online abuse."

During his time at Meta, Bejar made design changes to Facebook and Instagram in an effort to promote healthy user behavior and provide youth with the means to cope with negative situations. Bejar asserted that in spite of his best efforts, Meta consistently chose not to address the crucial matter of teen safety on its platforms.

Bejar's testimony included some very concerning facts, chief among them being the internal material he forwarded to CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Bejar said in a 2021 email that 51% of Instagram users said they had experienced something negative or detrimental in the previous seven days. A startling 24.4% of youngsters in this category, ages 13 to 15, reported getting unwanted sexual approaches.

In addition, a different paper revealed that 13% of all Instagram users aged 13 to 15 who were polled had received unsolicited approaches. Bejar further illustrated the inadequate reporting options by sharing a personal story of how his own 16-year-old daughter was subjected to offensive images and sexist remarks on the network.

Meta issued a statement reiterating its dedication to safeguarding youth online in reaction to these accusations. The company's support for user surveys—like the ones Bejar mentioned—and the development of tools like anonymous alerts for potentially hazardous content were mentioned in the statement.

Bejar's evidence, in spite of these promises, provided a dismal picture of Meta's knowledge and inactivity. He stated that he often visited with high-ranking officials, such as Mark Zuckerberg, who at the time seemed to be in favor of the project. Bejar came to the conclusion, meanwhile, that the CEOs often declined to address the problems young users on their platforms were facing.

The severity of the matter increased when it was revealed that Chris Cox, the Chief Product Officer of Meta, could provide exact numbers on harms to teenagers during a conference. Feeling let down, Bejar said, "I found it heartbreaking because it meant that they knew and that they were not acting on it."

Following Bejar's testimony, a bipartisan effort is underway in Congress to enact legislation mandating that social media companies give parents internet safety resources. The exposé serves as a sobering reminder of the difficulties presented by social media's unbridled effect on young people's wellbeing and the pressing necessity for legislative actions to guarantee their safety online.

In conclusion, Arturo Bejar's Senate testimony exposed Meta's purported awareness of potential risks to teenage Instagram and Facebook users, as well as the company's disregard for these concerns. The need of internet safety is underscored by alarming data, which include high percentages of negative encounters and unsolicited approaches. Bejar's allegations of executive inactivity, in spite of Meta's vow, highlight the urgent necessity for extensive laws to safeguard younger users. The testimony sparks a more extensive discussion about social media accountability and might lead to significant shifts in the direction of putting user welfare ahead of platform expansion.

Link; https://globalnews.ca/news/10077682/meta-safety-teens-senate-testimony/