#Mainstay Ministries

[qqueenofhades]

-Runs back into the room from having been wrapped up in the Sub Shitshow- context PLEASE on what’s up with Putin!?

Lol okay buckle up:

Yevgeny Prighozin is (well, as of now) one of Putin's closest allies. He is Putin's former chef and now the CEO of Wagner Group, the Russian private army of mercenaries who have spent a decade plundering Africa and destroying Syria in the employ of various terrible local dictators. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Wagner has become one of the Russian army's mainstays, mostly because they're the only ones who seem able to actually do anything. Of course, it did still take them nine months to take Bakhmut, Ukraine's *checks notes* 53rd largest city with very little strategic value, but given what a shitshow the regular Russian army has been, that's good. Or something.

The Russian army is mostly good at destroying dams and bombing civilians, which are obviously terrible for many reasons, but not that useful in the military scheme of things.

However, Wagner are also -- I hasten to stress -- thoroughly terrible people. Aside from all the shit in Africa and Syria, they've done likewise in Ukraine and will continue to do so. Legally speaking, they technically "don't exist," which has allowed them to get around a lot of the usual rules and regulations that are supposed to "bind" (ha) the Russian army. They are obviously in Ukraine directly at Putin's behest and doing Putin's bidding, but it turns out that giving an ambitious and amoral psychopathic warlord his own private army of criminals, rapists, killers, and whoever else they can dredge out of Russia's prisons to throw at the front line and die en masse may not be a good idea?

Shocking, I know.

Anyway, Prigozhin has spent months ripping into the Russian Minister of Defense, Sergei Shoigu, for what a whole shitshow clusterfuck this whole stupid war patently is. (Not, however, that this has stopped him from continuing to eagerly carry it out, since he's just as much or indeed even more of a zealot as the rest of Putin's government.) This has included blaming Shoigu for equipment losses, underprovisioning of Wagner troops, general strategic numbnuttery, etc. Prigozhin has not, however -- again, until now -- attacked Putin directly, or backed off from getting his losers killed in Bakhmut and/or wherever else. One suspects that Putin has been perfectly happy to let Prigozhin scapegoat Shoigu for the war's failures, since this means Shoigu can always just conveniently fall out a window or something if it gets too necessary to make a public show of displeasure, and not Putin.

HOWEVER, things took a turn VERY FAST today, within about 12 hours. Prigozhin has, as noted, spent months tearing the Russian military leadership a new asshole -- not because he's a good guy (he's a fucking war criminal on like, 10 different levels), but because it is plainly obvious what a shitshow this is and even a war criminal has his limits as to how much totally pointless murderous bullshit he wants to go through, I guess. (That includes telling the truth about why the war started -- i.e. to steal Ukrainian stuff/land for the oligarchs, and not any of Putin's other stupid excuses.)

Today (June 23) Prigozhin accused the Russian Ministry of Defense of orchestrating a rocket attack on Wagner's camp in eastern Ukraine (near the Russian border) and causing massive casualties;

We don't have proof of this yet, or indeed much else of what Prigozhin is talking about, BUT he finally decided to put his Coup Hat On and get serious about "punishing" Russian military leadership, i.e. presumably Shoigu, declaring that "there are 25,000 of us [Wagner soldiers] and we're coming into Russia to sort out this chaos"

So -- again, according to Prigozhin, who is not the world's most reliable source on anything -- he turned his army of yoinks around, left Ukraine, and marched into the southwestern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, where the Russian military command in charge of the assault on Ukraine is headquartered;

For a while, there was nothing but Prigozhin's various unhinged rants on Telegram to prove any of this, but it's now early tomorrow morning in Russia and there are indeed a lot of videos of what DOES IN FACT LOOK like Wagner mercenaries rolling into Rostov and storming Ministry of Defense buildings;

Firm information on what is going on is almost nonexistent, even for Russia, but Putin is clearly taking this seriously; Moscow is shut down, there are armored vehicles on the streets, Google is down in Russia, and Russian newscasters are interrupting their broadcasts to insist Don't Look, Everything Is Fine Here, Totally Fine, Do You Hear Swan Lake? I Don't Hear Swan Lake!

Nobody can find Putin either, allegedly, but don't worry! He has been "briefed on the situation and everything is under control!"

The Russian FSB (successor to the KGB) has meanwhile issued a warrant for Prigozhin's arrest, said they'll charge/prosecute him for treason and armed rebellion against the state, and ordered him to stand down/his own men to arrest him

This, uh, does not appear to be working

ANYWAY, Putin's basically fucked no matter how this ends. Wagner literally just led an armed mutiny, he can't feel good about sending his ex-bestie Prigozhin back to Ukraine with any confidence that his orders will continue to be obeyed, it's Russian-on-Russian open war in the streets of Rostov and God knows where else, he's totally lost control of the narrative, the war, the domestic political situation, Wagner, probably good chunks of the Russian military command/elite establishment, etc., and we all know what happens to dictators in Russia who can no longer dictate

(And yet the Russian army is still finding time to lob some missiles at civilian buildings in Kyiv tonight, because they suck).

This is obviously a huge lucky break for Ukraine as well, since if the Russians are busy fighting each other, they can continue to push for a big breakthrough on their counteroffensive.

So yeah. Pride Month really wheeling out the big guns here, after Putin was the top option picked for Lady Karma to do her thing on in my poll a few weeks ago.

Stay tuned.

[usafphantom2]

Finland approves deployment of the F-35A assembly line at Patria

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 04/03/2024 - 23:18in Military

The company Patria, in collaboration with the Finnish Ministry of Defense, is prepared to build an assembly facility in Finland for the production of F-35 Block 4 fighters.

The recent approval by the Ministerial Finance Committee of the Ministry of Defense's proposed lease of land and facilities is a significant milestone in the $9.6 billion acquisition agreement between Finland and Lockheed Martin, covering the delivery of 64 F-35A jets to the Finnish Air Force.

The automaker, a crucial component of the initial phase of the contract, will be located near the city of Nokia, with the beginning of the construction of the engine assembly building scheduled for the second half of 2024. The lease agreement for the site was signed in January between the Finnish Defense Forces and Defense Properties of Finland.

The Finnish Minister of Defense, Antti Häkkänen, emphasized the contribution of industrial cooperation to the defense industry of Finland, stating: “The F-35 agreement will generate critical experience in maintenance and repair, including reliability of maintenance, promoting significant know-how in Finland for the assembly and testing of F-35 engines.”

The assembly factory will collaborate closely with the regional aircraft center of Patria's aviation division in Tampere, with about 100 employees involved in various assembly functions at the facilities. Patria, in which the government holds a 50.1% stake, will work alongside the Norwegian company Kongsberg, which controls the remaining stake. In addition, Patria owns half of the Norwegian defense contractor Nammo.

The F-35s are scheduled to replace the former McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet jets of the Finnish Air Force, with retirement scheduled for 2030. The first batch of F-35 is expected to be delivered and deployed in the Arctic air bases in the regions of Lapland Finland by 2026.

The industrial cooperation component is expected to gradually expand by 2030, potentially covering the production or assembly of specific aircraft parts and systems in Finland. The Finnish Air Force has already carried out tests to evaluate the suitability of the F-35 to operate in extreme climatic conditions in the Arctic, with recent exercises including maneuvers on stretches of "closed road" in the Arctic and subarctic regions.

The ongoing exercises, such as the one-week Hanki 24 workouts in the northern part of the country, aim to better evaluate the adaptability of the F-35 to the challenging winter conditions of Finland, characterized by limited daytime light.

Tags: Military AviationF-35 Lightning IIIlmavoimat/Finnland Air ForceLockheed MartinPatria

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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[jerickreforba25]

CBN Asia × Cignal TV: 5-Year Deal & Standalone Channel... Why?

Jerick Combate Reforba

The future of The 700 Club Asia and its partnership with Cignal TV Inc. offers an intriguing and potentially groundbreaking development for CBN Asia and its commitment to spreading the Gospel. While there have been no official announcements or specific details regarding this new chapter, it represents a strategic shift in how CBN Asia can engage a larger audience through digital and premium television platforms. Let’s break down the potential implications of a five-year distribution deal with Cignal TV and what it could mean for the ministry and its viewers.

CBN Asia’s Strategic Shift

CBN Asia, having been a mainstay in Philippine Christian broadcasting for almost three decades, has consistently evolved its strategies to adapt to the changing media landscape. As we see a broader shift away from traditional broadcast television toward digital and premium platforms, CBN Asia is clearly seeking to stay relevant and accessible to audiences across multiple platforms. The potential distribution deal with Cignal TV would align perfectly with this vision, offering a fresh and dynamic way to continue proclaiming Christ and transforming lives.

Cignal TV Inc., being the leading Direct-to-Home (DTH) satellite provider in the Philippines, offers an expansive network and subscriber base, particularly among premium viewers. Cignal’s subscribers include households that often invest in higher-tier packages for exclusive, high-quality content. If CBN Asia does indeed sign a five-year deal with Cignal TV to launch a dedicated Faith-based, Christ-centered television channel, it could be a significant step forward in bringing the Gospel message into more homes, both in the Philippines and potentially across other regions. The channel would serve as a 24/7 resource for Christian programming, going beyond the weekly airing of The 700 Club Asia and offering a variety of faith-filled content catered to Filipino audiences.

A Standalone Faith-based Channel: What to Expect

The launch of a standalone Christian television channel could allow CBN Asia to provide even more diverse content, potentially catering to different demographics within the Christian community. Instead of just a single program or a segment, this new channel would offer viewers the opportunity to access a wide array of faith-based content that goes beyond traditional shows like The 700 Club Asia. Here’s what could potentially unfold:

1. Expanded Programming: A dedicated faith-based channel could include various genres of Christian content such as inspirational music, Christian documentaries, sermons, films, teaching series, children’s programs (like Superbook), and educational content grounded in Christian values. This would give viewers access to round-the-clock spiritual nourishment and create an opportunity for the channel to impact diverse age groups, from children to seniors.

2. Interactive Content and Live Events: The channel might also include live broadcasts of church services, conferences, and spiritual retreats, as well as interactive segments like live prayer lines and telethons, where viewers can call in and request prayers or support the ministry. Given CBN Asia’s experience with digital prayer counseling through its Prayer Center, this feature could seamlessly extend to the new channel.

3. Cultural and Localized Content: Since CBN Asia is deeply rooted in its mission to reach Filipino audiences, the channel could offer localized content that speaks directly to the cultural and spiritual needs of Filipinos. This may include testimonies, stories of transformation from local communities, and special segments highlighting faith-based outreach programs within the country.

4. Partnerships and Collaborations: This channel might also allow CBN Asia to collaborate with other Christian ministries and organizations, both locally and globally. Such partnerships could further enrich the content and make the channel a hub for viewers seeking various kinds of spiritual growth and encouragement.

5. Exclusive Content for Cignal Postpaid Premier Subscribers: Since this would be offered initially as a premium channel for Cignal Postpaid Premier subscribers, it implies that the content will be of a higher production quality, appealing to a more discerning audience willing to invest in premium content. Cignal’s Premier Plan 1990 is known for offering exclusive content and channels that are not available in lower-tier packages. This aligns with the idea that CBN Asia is transitioning into more specialized, targeted content delivery as part of its ministry strategy.

Implications of CBN Asia’s Potential Partnership with Cignal TV

The move to launch a premium television channel could be both an exciting opportunity and a challenge. Here are some key factors and potential implications of this future partnership:

1. Reaching a More Affluent Audience: By being included in Cignal TV’s Premier Plan 1990, CBN Asia may initially reach a more affluent audience who can afford premium content. While this may limit accessibility for some viewers who rely on free TV, it could open up new revenue streams for CBN Asia through potential sponsorships and advertisements, which could, in turn, help fund their outreach and humanitarian programs.

2. Long-term Sustainability: As television production costs continue to rise, and with declining viewership for traditional broadcast TV, the potential for a sustainable revenue model through partnerships with paid subscription services like Cignal is significant. The shift to premium distribution could help CBN Asia balance its operational costs while continuing its mission.

3. Complementing Digital-Only Programming: While the channel would cater to premium television viewers, it would not negate CBN Asia’s broader strategy of focusing on digital programming. In fact, the premium TV channel could complement digital platforms like the CBN Asia Media Center, Facebook, and YouTube, allowing viewers to access faith-based content anytime, anywhere. This hybrid model could provide flexibility, ensuring that CBN Asia remains relevant in both traditional and digital spaces.

4. The Challenge of Exclusivity: While there is excitement about launching a standalone channel, there may also be concerns about accessibility. Since the channel will only be available to Cignal Postpaid Premier subscribers, it will likely exclude a large portion of the population who may not have access to premium television services. The challenge for CBN Asia would be to balance exclusivity with its mission of reaching as many people as possible with the Gospel. Digital platforms will play a crucial role in bridging this gap.

5. Building a Community of Faith: If done right, a dedicated Christian television channel could foster a strong sense of community among viewers, who may tune in regularly not only for entertainment but for spiritual guidance, prayer, and encouragement. This sense of belonging and shared faith can create an impactful ministry, where viewers feel connected to something greater than themselves.

Both Cignal Prepaid and SatLite Not Included?

CBN Asia’s future standalone Faith-based Christ-centered premium television channel may not be included in both Cignal Prepaid and SatLite subscribers due to the nature of these platforms offering lower-cost packages with limited content. Premium channels, such as the one proposed by CBN Asia, are typically reserved for higher-tier plans like Cignal Postpaid Premier to ensure exclusive, high-quality programming for subscribers willing to pay more for added value. The decision to exclude these lower-cost platforms is likely tied to financial and operational considerations, as premium channels often require significant funding to maintain their production quality and exclusive content. By focusing on postpaid subscribers, CBN Asia can ensure the channel’s sustainability while offering a more curated viewing experience. However, digital platforms may continue to serve as more accessible alternatives for broader audiences.

No Official Announcements Yet

As of now, there have been no formal announcements or details about when or if this channel will launch. It remains a possibility that could unfold in the coming months or years. CBN Asia will likely take the time needed to carefully plan, negotiate, and ensure that this move aligns with its broader mission and vision.

In the meantime, CBN Asia continues to serve its audience through The 700 Club Asia and its various digital platforms. The organization has consistently demonstrated its resilience and adaptability, responding to the needs of the times while staying true to its core purpose: proclaiming the Gospel and transforming lives.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for CBN Asia?

The potential five-year distribution deal with Cignal TV marks a significant development in CBN Asia’s journey of faith-based broadcasting. It is a move that underscores the ministry's willingness to adapt and evolve in the rapidly changing media landscape. While there are many uncertainties and challenges ahead, the partnership holds the promise of expanded influence and new ways of connecting with audiences.

Ultimately, whatever the future holds, we trust that God will continue to guide CBN Asia and The 700 Club Asia. As they navigate this season of change, their mission remains the same: to bring the love and message of Jesus Christ to the Philippines and the world, one heart at a time.

Prayers for CBN Asia’s 5-Year Deal with Cignal TV and Standalone Channel

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence, acknowledging Your sovereignty, power, and grace over all things. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, and in You, we place all our hopes, dreams, and plans. Today, Lord, we lift up CBN Asia and the exciting opportunity of a five-year distribution deal in partnership with Cignal TV. We believe that this partnership and the potential launch of a standalone, Faith-based, Christ-centered premium television channel is part of Your divine plan to extend Your Kingdom and to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ into even more homes and hearts.

Father, we thank You for the vision that You have entrusted to the leaders of CBN Asia, a vision that aligns with Your Great Commission to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations. We ask that You bless this new endeavor, guiding every decision and every step in accordance with Your will. We pray for Your wisdom to rest upon all those involved in the negotiations, planning, and execution of this partnership. May the leadership teams of both CBN Asia and Cignal TV seek Your face in every aspect of this project, trusting that You will lead them down the right path for Your glory.

Lord, we lift up the future television channel that is being planned. We ask that You consecrate it for Your purposes, that it would be a beacon of light and hope in a world that so desperately needs to hear Your truth. We pray that this channel would be filled with content that reflects Your heart, and that it would be a powerful tool to proclaim Your love, grace, and salvation. May it serve as a platform to reach not only the faithful but also those who are lost, hurting, and in need of Your healing touch.

We ask for Your provision, Lord. We know that launching and sustaining a premium channel requires significant resources, both financially and spiritually. But we also know that You are Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. We ask that You open the doors to every resource that is needed, from financial support to talented and anointed individuals who will contribute to the content, production, and outreach of this channel. Let nothing hinder the work that You have set in motion, and may all the glory and honor belong to You.

Father, we pray specifically for the viewers of this future channel. Prepare the hearts of those who will tune in, whether they are seeking You intentionally or simply come across the channel by chance. We ask that the programming would speak directly to their spirits, and that lives would be transformed by the power of Your Holy Spirit. May this channel serve as a conduit for miracles, healing, restoration, and spiritual awakening. Let testimonies of faith, redemption, and breakthrough arise from the viewers, as they encounter Your presence through the messages, teachings, and stories shared.

Lord, we also ask for favor with the Cignal TV Postpaid Premier subscribers who will have access to this channel. May it become a cherished source of spiritual encouragement and inspiration in their lives. We pray that this premium offering would not be seen as just another entertainment option, but as a sacred space where people can encounter You in a real and personal way. Let the channel draw families together in prayer, worship, and learning about Your Word.

We also pray for the sustainability of this channel, Lord. We ask that it not only launch successfully but that it thrive and grow in influence over the five-year period and beyond. Protect this endeavor from any attacks of the enemy, any financial setbacks, or any logistical challenges. Instead, let it flourish under Your mighty hand, expanding its reach and touching more lives than we could ever imagine.

Finally, Father, we commit CBN Asia into Your hands. Thank You for the many years of faithful service that this ministry has provided, both in the Philippines and around the world. We believe that this new chapter with Cignal TV is part of the greater work You are doing in and through CBN Asia. Strengthen the leaders, staff, and supporters of CBN Asia as they pursue this vision. Renew their passion and commitment to proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ. May they walk in boldness, creativity, and humility as they seek to honor You in all that they do.

We entrust every detail of this partnership and future launch to You, confident that You who began a good work will carry it on to completion. May Your Kingdom come and Your will be done through this television channel, as it is in heaven. We declare success, provision, and supernatural favor in Jesus' mighty name.

In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray all of these things with full faith and expectancy. Amen.

About CBN Asia

CBN Asia, or the Christian Broadcasting Networks Asia, is a non-stock, nonprofit corporation established on October 1, 1994, in the Philippines and Hong Kong. It is inspired by the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) founded by Pat Robertson in the United States in 1961. CBN Asia’s mission is to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ and transform lives through media, prayer counseling, humanitarian aid, and cross-cultural missions. With a strong presence in the Philippines and across Asia, CBN Asia also aims to empower the next generation by spreading godly principles and providing hope, prayer, and support to the neglected and disadvantaged.

Since its beginnings, CBN Asia has launched initiatives like The 700 Club Asia, the CBN Asia Prayer Center, and the Asian Center for Missions, making a significant impact through media outreach, humanitarian aid, and missionary training across Asia.

About Cignal

Cignal, launched in 2009, is the leading Direct-to-Home (DTH) satellite television provider in the Philippines. It offers a wide range of content, including 134 channels that feature free-to-air, standard definition (SD), and high definition (HD) programming. In addition to television channels, Cignal also provides 17 audio channels and on-demand services through pay-per-view options. The company serves both household and commercial establishments across the country.

Cignal TV Inc. is a subsidiary of MediaQuest Holdings Inc., which is part of the PLDT Group, a major telecommunications company in the Philippines. This connection strengthens Cignal’s capacity to deliver high-quality television and digital services nationwide.

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[collapsedsquid]

The extraordinary violence unleashed by Hamas on October 7 exposed the horrifying reality of deep antisemitic and anti-Israeli hatred bred by the prevailing regime. It made unmistakably clear how hollow are the promises of security offered by the status quo. As cool-headed strategic analysts have pointed out, the threat is not that of 1973. Egypt and Syria, once Israel’s main enemies, pose no threat to Israel. Egypt’s decline was the subject of Ones and Tooze a couple of weeks back. But the sheer nightmarish violence of the Hamas attack induced an existential shock and not only in Israel. That shock has been compounded by the scale of the Israeli reaction. Israel has conducted a mobilization that at least according to The Economist is larger in quantitative terms than 1973 - 360,000 reservists, or 8% of the country’s workforce. Even assuming the possibility of a Hezbollah assault this seems hard to justify in purely military terms. One wonders whether beyond military necessity it is designed to recreate a sense of a “nation in arms” - a solidaristic national militarism that has become attenuated in recent years. Whatever the motivation the impact on the economy is so serious that it has been compared to that of the COVID pandemic. The tech lobby in Israel estimates that a tenth of its workforce has been mobilized. Construction is paralyzed by the quarantining of the Palestinian workforce in the West Bank. Consumption of services has collapsed as people stay away from restaurants and public gatherings are limited. Credit card records suggest that private consumption in Israel fell by nearly a third in the days after the war broke out. Spending on leisure and entertainment crashed by 70%. Tourism, a mainstay of the Israeli economy, has come to an abrupt halt. Flights are cancelled and shipping cargo diverted. Offshore the Israeli government ordered Chevron to halt production at the Tamar natural gas field, costing Israel $200 million a month in lost revenue. In response to this real economic dislocation, the finance ministry outlined plans to ramp up defence spending and provide for those pushed out of work. Meanwhile, in the markets, the blue-chip TA-35 index of Israeli shares has sold off and the shekel has fallen to the lowest level since the last major confrontation over Gaza in 2015.

[osrphotography]

Happy 100th birthday, Y 542!

100 years ago to the day Y 542 [Hunslet 1444/1923] was built for the Ministry of Works (known colloquially as the Public Works Dept, PWD) as № 542 where she was involved in various projects surrounding the construction of the East Coast Main Trunk Line with sister engines 543 and 544.

542 spent her working life first at the Tauraroa Ballast Quarry, between Portland [NB: not to be confused with Portland on the North Island Main Trunk, near Whangārei] and Huarau before being sold to New Zealand Railways in 1930.

As an NZR loco, she was transferred to the Mechanical Branch and made part of the newly minted Y Class, which consisted of 542, 43, and 44. She was posted to the Auckland Locomotive Sheds where she was used as a coal shunter, moving coal to be used as fuel.

In 1957 she was sold to Wilson's Portland Cement Co (becoming their №3), where she shunted cement waggons to Portland Station on the NZR network (this is the Portland near Whangārei) or to the wharf for coastal ships. She was donated to MoTaT in 1985 after being deemed surplus to requirements and has been a mainstay since then. Very little in the way of restoration work has been done on Y 542, owing to how well Hunslet built her.

[apenitentialprayer]

Edward Caswall, circa 1860.

For Edward Caswall, a Church of England vicar who went over to Rome in the mid-19th century, and subsequently achieved minor fame as a hymn-writer, the fateful moment of his life came on 14 September 1849. He was holidaying at Torquay with his 28-year-old wife Louisa, England being then in the grip of a severe cholera epidemic. In the morning Edward went out to Mass, leaving Louisa seemingly in good health. On his return, he found her critically ill with cholera. By 11 o’clock that night she was dead, leaving Edward a widower at the age of 35. He was devastated, but the blow transformed his life. It was three-and-a-half years earlier that, beset with doubts whether the Church of England was the true Catholic Church in the land, and, if not, whether his ministry to the souls in his care might therefore be worthless, he had resigned his living of Stratford-sub-Castle, Wiltshire, and, in January 1847, been received (with Louisa) into the Church of Rome. As a married man, he would, of course, have been ineligible for the Roman Catholic priesthood; as a widower, he was no longer affected by this veto. Like the future Cardinal Manning in similar circumstance, he could and did become an RC priest. But he may well have suffered guilt at the thought that, had he remained in his Stratford cure, Louisa might still have been alive. In this, the first full-length biography of Caswall, an American academic, Nancy Marie de Flon, tells his story with a wealth of fascinating period detail. Caswall was to achieve distinction in the second half of his life in two entirely different ways. As a friend and admirer of J. H. Newman, he was the financial and administrative mainstay of Newman’s Birmingham Oratory and its acting Superior during Newman’s frequent absences elsewhere. As a minor poet, he developed into an accomplished writer and translator of hymns, some of which can still be found in hymnals today. Dr de Flon bases her scholarly but readable study on Caswall’s unpublished journal. She paints a picture of a man of exemplary piety who was content to stay out of the theological limelight and instead to apply his energies to developing both the work of the Oratory and his talents as a writer of devotional poetry and prose. Caswall, in Newman’s words, became “half a saint, or almost a saint” by his extraordinary attention to going “through the ordinary day’s work well.”

Bernard Palmer, on Nancy Marie de Flon’s Edward Caswell: Newman’s Brother and Friend

[mariacallous]

Mere weeks after Italy's right-wing coalition announced its victory in the general election, the first fault lines are appearing, meaning the three-way alliance could be over even before the government is formalised.

The resounding victory by far-right leader Giorgia Meloni in the 25 September vote is not sitting well with 86-year-old Silvio Berlusconi — the former three-time conservative prime minister who, four decades her senior, fancies himself the elder statesman of Italy's political right.

Meloni is expected to be asked next week by Italy's President Sergio Mattarella to try to create a governing coalition with campaign allies Berlusconi and right-wing leader Matteo Salvini and become premier. 

Behind-the-scenes divvying up of ministries in what would be Italy's first far-right-led government since the end of World War II started after her Fratelli d'Italia, or Brothers of Italy party took 26% of the ballots cast — more than those won by the forces of Salvini and Berlusconi combined.

The knives carving out those Cabinet posts are proving particularly sharp.

Salvini on Saturday issued a sort of call for a truce between Meloni and Berlusconi so that the three allies' bid to rule Italy isn't derailed.

"I am sure that even between Giorgia and Silvio that harmony, which will be fundamental to government, well and together, for the next five years, will return,'' Salvini said in a statement released by his anti-migrant League party about the escalating post-election tensions.

Adjectives on stationery spell discontent

A spat between Berlusconi and Meloni turned ugly when the former PM and a media mogul scrawled a list of derogatory adjectives about her on stationery emblazoned with the name of his villa near Milan. 

He positioned it in the Senate in plain view for photographers covering the election on Thursday of the upper parliamentary chamber's president.

"Giorgia Meloni," wrote Berlusconi, jotting down that her ways are "presumptuous, bossy, arrogant, offensive". 

A fifth adjective, "ridiculous,'' appeared to have been scribbled over, said Italian media, who magnified the image.

Some key political differences existed from the beginning — Berlusconi bills himself a staunch champion of the European Union, while Meloni has said national interests should prevail over any conflicting priorities in the bloc.

The octogenarian mainstay is also close friends with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meloni, on the other hand, openly pledged her full support to Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in early October.

Yet, their spat also seems patriarchal.

"In Berlusconi's etiquette, the woman is courted and maybe even venerated, but a true male cannot take orders from her, let alone accept that she says 'no,''' wrote Massimo Gramellini in the daily Corriere della Serra.

According to domestic accounts, Meloni had vetoed a ministry for a close political aide of Berlusconi, who is one of his several female political proteges.

With his self-described weakness for young women, Berlusconi has launched the political careers of female lawmakers from Forza Italia, the centre-right party he created three decades ago.

He also gave Meloni her first shot at partaking in the government, appointing her as Minister of Youth during his third tenure as prime minister between 2008 and 2011.

Reflecting Berlusconi's aggravation, nearly all of his senators refused to vote for Meloni's pick for Senate president, Ignazio La Russa, a long-time fascist nostalgist who helped Meloni establish Brothers of Italy in 2012 as she forged her far-right political ascent.

The Forza Italia boycott delivered a stiff rebuke to her. Meloni, known for her frankness, did not budge.

"It seems like a point was missing among those listed by Berlusconi — that I can't be blackmailed,'' Meloni told private Italian TV La7.

Meloni pledges to 'unite the nation'

Meloni already stood her ground during the election campaign as well. 

When opinion surveys indicated that she was by far the front-runner over Berlusconi and Salvini, those two unsuccessfully tried to wiggle out of a long-standing pact that the top-getter in campaign coalitions would become premier should their forces prove victorious.

Together, the leaders' three parties command a comfortable majority in the newly seated Parliament.

Still, Meloni needs the forces of Berlusconi and Salvini for any viable coalition.

Salvini chafed for days when it appeared Meloni would not let him become interior minister, a post he held in 2018-2019 and used to crack down on migrants arriving by the tens of thousands on smugglers' boats or rescue ships. 

On Friday, Meloni's forces backed the election to the presidency of the lower Chamber of Deputies of a Lega, or League party lawmaker, Lorenzo Fontana — an ultraconservative who, like Salvini, has openly admired Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Late Friday, the five-pointed star symbol of the World War II antifascist movement was scrawled along with La Russa's name on a Brothers of Italy office in the Rome neighbourhood of Garbatella.

It is the very office where Meloni began her career as a teenager in the youth wing of a neo-fascist predecessor of her own party, MSI.

Meloni on Saturday retweeted her party's description of the act as "a clear reference to the dramatic years that we don't want to live through again" — referring to the so-called Years of Lead marked by political terrorism by the far-right and the far-left alike. 

She wants to "unite the Nation, not divide it as someone is trying to do," Meloni vowed in her tweet.

[harunur01780]

Pilot period (2009-2013)

The consumer finance industry developed slowly at first and then rapidly, with bank credit card business as the mainstay.

Since 1998, the People's HE Tuber Bank of China has encouraged banks to actively develop personal consumer credit business and issued a series of documents such as the "Guiding Opinions on Carrying out Personal Consumption Credit", ushering in the first round of development in the consumer finance industry. With the establishment of China UnionPay in 2002, banks have realized interconnection between systems through the UnionPay inter-bank transaction clearing system, and the credit card business has entered a rapid development path. In 2007, China's first P2P company "Paipaidai" was established in Shanghai, and the Internet financial platform came into being.

(2) Embryonic period (1985-2009): Consumer finance companies began pilot projects, and Internet financial platforms ushered in development.

In 2009, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (formerly the China Banking Regulatory Commission) issued the "Measures for the Pilot Administration of Consumer Finance Companies" to encourage private capital to enter the field of consumer finance. The following year, the first round of four consumer finance companies was established on a pilot basis, mainly targeting low- and middle-income and long-tail customers, effectively supplementing the the bank’s personal credit business. Since 2011, thanks to the data and user advantages accumulated through the development of Internet finance, major Internet companies have accelerated their deployment in the field of consumer finance, and Internet financial platforms have sprung up one after another. By the end of 2013, the number of P2P platforms reached 800.

(3) Development period (2013-2016) : Consumer finance companies complete their nationwide layout, and Internet financial platforms expand disorderly.

In 2013, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission promulgated the new "Measures for the Administration of Pilot Programs for Consumer Finance Companies". Consumer finance companies entered a period of expansion, and the scope of the pilot program was expanded to cover the entire country. At the same time, as the domestic Internetization continues to deepen and financial technology continues to develop, Internet financial platform businesses are blooming everywhere. By the end of 2015, the number of P2P platforms reached 2,595, and the number of problematic platforms that year was 1,156, which attracted regulatory attention. In 2016, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Internet Information Office jointly issued the "Interim Measures for the Management of Business Activities of Online Lending Information Intermediaries", which stipulated the upper limit of personal online loans and opened up the supervision of this round of Internet financial chaos. prelude.

(4) Rectification period (2016-2020) : Supervision and rectification of P2P platform chaos, slowing down the licensing of consumer finance companies.

In 2016, chaos arose in online lending, with vicious incidents such as abnormally high interest rates, violent collections, and privacy leaks emerging one after another. Regulatory policies focused on rectification and cleanup. Since 2017, the Office of the Leading Group for the Special Rectification of Internet Financial Risks and the Office of the Leading Group for the Special Rectification of P2P Online Lending Risks have successively issued the "Notice on Regulating and Rectifying the "Cash Loan" Business" and "On Doing a Good Job in Classified Disposal and Risk Management of Online Lending Institutions" A series of documents such as "Opinions on Prevention Work" stipulate that credit asset transfers, asset securitization and other products of small loan companies shall not be exported, and P2P platforms shall be classified and disposed of. Most of them shall be banned, and some institutions shall request online small loan companies, loan assistance, etc. Institutional transformation may attract traffic to licensed asset management institutions. As of the end of 2020, the number of P2P platforms has been cleared. At this stage, regulatory control over 

[harunurrashid017]

Embryonic period (1985-2009)

The consumer finance industry developed slowly at first and then rapidly, with bank credit card business as the mainstay.

Since 1998, the People's HE Tuber Bank of China has encouraged banks to actively develop personal consumer credit business and issued a series of documents such as the "Guiding Opinions on Carrying out Personal Consumption Credit", ushering in the first round of development in the consumer finance industry. With the establishment of China UnionPay in 2002, banks have realized interconnection between systems through the UnionPay inter-bank transaction clearing system, and the credit card business has entered a rapid development path. In 2007, China's first P2P company "Paipaidai" was established in Shanghai, and the Internet financial platform came into being.

(2) Pilot period (2009-2013) : Consumer finance companies began pilot projects, and Internet financial platforms ushered in development.

In 2009, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (formerly the China Banking Regulatory Commission) issued the "Measures for the Pilot Administration of Consumer Finance Companies" to encourage private capital to enter the field of consumer finance. The following year, the first round of four consumer finance companies was established on a pilot basis, mainly targeting low- and middle-income and long-tail customers, effectively supplementing the the bank’s personal credit business. Since 2011, thanks to the data and user advantages accumulated through the development of Internet finance, major Internet companies have accelerated their deployment in the field of consumer finance, and Internet financial platforms have sprung up one after another. By the end of 2013, the number of P2P platforms reached 800.

(3) Development period (2013-2016) : Consumer finance companies complete their nationwide layout, and Internet financial platforms expand disorderly.

In 2013, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission promulgated the new "Measures for the Administration of Pilot Programs for Consumer Finance Companies". Consumer finance companies entered a period of expansion, and the scope of the pilot program was expanded to cover the entire country. At the same time, as the domestic Internetization continues to deepen and financial technology continues to develop, Internet financial platform businesses are blooming everywhere. By the end of 2015, the number of P2P platforms reached 2,595, and the number of problematic platforms that year was 1,156, which attracted regulatory attention. In 2016, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Internet Information Office jointly issued the "Interim Measures for the Management of Business Activities of Online Lending Information Intermediaries", which stipulated the upper limit of personal online loans and opened up the supervision of this round of Internet financial chaos. prelude.

(4) Rectification period (2016-2020) : Supervision and rectification of P2P platform chaos, slowing down the licensing of consumer finance companies.

In 2016, chaos arose in online lending, with vicious incidents such as abnormally high interest rates, violent collections, and privacy leaks emerging one after another. Regulatory policies focused on rectification and cleanup. Since 2017, the Office of the Leading Group for the Special Rectification of Internet Financial Risks and the Office of the Leading Group for the Special Rectification of P2P Online Lending Risks have successively issued the "Notice on Regulating and Rectifying the "Cash Loan" Business" and "On Doing a Good Job in Classified Disposal and Risk Management of Online Lending Institutions" A series of documents such as "Opinions on Prevention Work" stipulate that credit asset transfers, asset securitization and other products of small loan companies shall not be exported, and P2P platforms shall be classified and disposed of. Most of them shall be banned, and some institutions shall request online small loan companies, loan assistance, etc. Institutional transformation may attract traffic to licensed asset management institutions. As of the end of 2020, the number of P2P platforms has been cleared. At this stage, regulatory control over 

[thebrownbuddha]

The Reset

Other than doing some help at Komyoji Temple with ceremonies every few months, doing Komuso is the mainstay of my Buddhist Practice. Getting out and sharing Musical dharma breath is my ministry. There was once a famous Japanese monk who was called the leaf Whistling Monk . He would sit in the park and play tunes for people on a tree leaf, then sometimes engage with them in a talk with whoever…

[usafphantom2]

Ukrainians claim they slated down two of Russia's best air-command planes

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 15/01/2024 - 08:26in Military, War Zones

In recent developments on the Sea of Azov, there are emerging reports suggesting that the Ukrainian military slaw down on Sunday a Russian A-50 Mainstay early air alert and control (AEW&C) jet and an IL-22M airborne command post.

This possible incident represents challenges for Russia, given the crucial roles that both aircraft play in the command and control functions.

The vice president of the Verkhovna Rada National Security, Defense and Intelligence Committee, Yuriy Mysiagin, said on Telegram that Ukrainian units fired at the two Russian Air Force aircraft over the Sea of Azov around 9 p.m. The A-50 was reportedly targeted by the Patriot PAC-2 SAM system of the Ukrainian Air Force, falling into the Black Sea, while the IL-22M was attacked by a Russian S-400 SAM system, resulting in a forced landing in Anapa.

Ukrainian Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, commander of the Directorate of Defense Intelligence (GUR), confirmed that Ukraine fired and destroyed the A-50 and damaged the Il-22M. He refused to provide more details.

"There are no comments yet," Colonel Yuri Ignat, spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, told The War Zone website.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense did not officially comment on the claim and the Russian Ministry of Defense remained silent about the reported incidents.

Ukraine's RBC Radio published what it claimed to be an audio recording of the Il-22 crew transmitting an S-O-S by radio to the controllers apparently in Anapa, on the Russian side of the south coast of the Sea of Azov. “Requesting urgently ambulance and firefighters,” the crew said on the radio.

The Kyiv Independent stated that an A-50 was shot down “immediately after entering service in the Kyrylivka area of Zaporizhzhia”, in southern Ukraine. The alleged slaughter would have occurred only 10 minutes after the Il-22 was hit.

If verified, the loss of these two rare command and control aircraft would be a significant setback for Russia, considering their limited number. A small number of A-50 Mainstay AEW&C jets and IL-22M airborne command posts are currently operational, making their replacement a slow and challenging process.

The A-50s are recognized as low-density and high-demand assets, providing critical capabilities, such as aerial images that deeply reach the territory controlled by Ukraine. These aircraft are vital for detecting threats, including cruise missile and drone attacks, as well as low-flying fighter missions. In addition, they offer command and control functions for Russian fighters and SAM batteries.

The potential fall of these aircraft may have consequences beyond the immediate loss. Denying reconnaissance aircraft access to critical areas of operation can move them away from Ukrainian territory, degrading the quality of the intelligence and command and control they provide. This situation can also pose risks to Russian fighters in the area, potentially disrupting their operations away from the front lines.

If the Ukrainians actually shooted both the Il-22 and the A-50, Sunday records the worst day for the Russian air force in the 23 months since Russia intensified its war against Ukraine. Worse than the day in December, when the Ukrainians shot down three Russian Sukhoi Su-34 fighter-bombers in a complex missile ambush over southern Ukraine.

Tags: Military AviationBeriev A-50UIl-22RFSAF - Russian Federation Aerospace Force/Russian Aerospace ForceWar Zones - Russia/Ukraine

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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[samssn]

D9: 40 day prep time

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted (tested) by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. -Matthew 4:1,2

Prior to Jesus starting his ministry, he first got baptized, and then followed up with a 40 day fast in the wilderness, and then a test of will, his exam proctor was none other than the devil.

Before we take a test, we usually have to put in the work. Hours of study and review. And we often need to employ various tactics to hone our study. Finding a quiet place, like a library, or specific study area to keep distractions down. Late night sessions, are especially good for focus. Also, the night before the test adds that element of last second urgency which also can be helpful.

Jesus' prep work involved fasting, which may have been used to enhance mental and spiritual focus, with the primary cost of leaving him physically weakened. Also, the wilderness would have allowed him to be isolated from others, which could have distracted him from the peak spiritual form he was striving for.

How much spiritual preparation we we take before taking on any important effort? We are used to putting in all the stops for things like applying for college, or a job interview. Is prayer a mainstay in these efforts? And what about preparation for evangelism or acts of service?

[coghive]

Chosen Road Celebrates An ‘Appalachian Christmas’ With Star-Studded Special Guests

Marking their debut as the flagship artist on Daywind Music Group’s newly relaunched Thoroughbred Records, bestselling bluegrass quartet Chosen Road will bow their first full-length holiday set, Appalachian Christmas, October 28. Produced by the band’s Jonathan Buckner, Zachary Alvis and Tyler Robertson, the 13-track recording is highlighted by guest turns from some of the top names in Christian and Gospel music. Album opener “Noel” showcases the beloved voice of Southern Gospel mainstay Guy Penrod. Penned by Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman and Ed Cash, the popular contemporary worship anthem is reimagined in anticipatory reverence, setting the stage for a collection of classic carols and Christmas standards—all hallmarked by Chosen Road’s signature bluegrass sound. In addition, country music icon Jimmy Fortune joins the band for The Statler Brothers’ classic “Who Do You Think”; GRAMMY®-nominated trio Point of Grace is featured on a new arrangement of Andrew Peterson’s tenderly emotive “Labor of Love”; and multi Dove Award-winner Allan Hall of Selah shares lead vocals on Chosen Road’s joyful rendition of “Light of the Stable.”

The project also features the sacred carols “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Away In A Manger,” alongside a down-home instrumental arrangement of “Sleigh Ride,” and bluegrass favorites “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” and Ralph Stanley’s “Christmas Is Near,” among other selections. “It was so much fun to interpret these Christmas songs through the lens of bluegrass and Appalachian styles of music, and all the collaborations on the album represent very special moments with some of our musical heroes,” says Chosen Road founding member Jonathan Buckner. “We hope listeners will feel the same joy, peace and Hope that we know. There’s turmoil in the world all around us, and music is a universal language that speaks to everyone. Appalachian Christmas gives us an avenue to remind people of the Hope and joy found in the love of Jesus Christ—the greatest gift that’s ever been given.” “We are thrilled to relaunch our Thoroughbred label with this fantastic, star-studded Christmas album by Chosen Road, our first signee to the label,” shares Ed Leonard, president, Daywind Music Group. “Their commitment to excellence in sound, touring, and ministry makes them the bellwether group for the bluegrass Gospel genre, and this album will be on the ‘must-have’ list for all lovers of Christmas music for years to come.” Read the full article

[spiritualreload]

Fireside: Some Other Man

Fireside: Some Other Man

“And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?“ Acts 8:34 The Road To Enlightenment Bible ‘stories’ are the mainstay of most church youth ministries. Daniel and the lion’s den. David and Goliath. Jonah and the whale. Joseph and the coat of many colors. Samson and Delilah. Often they are told in no particular order,…

[arclantis-blog]

Kingdom Tales Trilogy, 30th Anniversary Edition by David R. Mains & Karen Mains

All three anniversary books are in stock for immediate delivery! Each book in this 30th Anniversary Edition of the Kingdom Tales Trilogy is published with superior specifications, including: Smyth-sewn bindery; 4mm front and back covers; high-quality paper; end sheets and end caps. In addition, each comes hand-signed by David & Karen Mains, and embossed, to validate its authenticity as a long-lasting, collectible, keepsake edition. In the tradition of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien come these heartwarming allegories of good and evil from best-selling authors David and Karen Mains. Your entire family will be entranced as Scarboy and his friends boldly follow the one True King to overcome the evil Enchanter and his tenacious hold on the residents of Enchanted City. These books are Gold-medallion award-winners and we’re the only place where you can receive “signed” autographed copies of these beautiful picture books, featuring multi-ethnic illustrations by Bulgarian artist Zhivko Zhelev that reflect the cultural diversity so evident in our world today. Plus, when you order a complete trilogy from Mainstay we include bookmarks for each book and a free copy of our newest Discussion Guide giving you followup questions to spark family conversation about all 36 chapters found in the three storybooks of the Tales of the Kingdom Trilogy. If you want to order the Tales of the Kingdom Trilogy as gifts for those you love this Christmas season, we have a BUY 4 GET 1 FREE option, which means you receive 4 complete Trilogies for the price of 3, each with bookmarks and bonus Discussion Guides. Your total purchase price will equal $270, making each Trilogy just $67.50. You can't find that deal anywhere else online! Add 4 to your shopping cart, then add promo code BUY4GET1FREE during checkout. The Tales of the Kingdom Trilogy - 30th Anniversary Edition - includes three complete books: Tales of the Kingdom, Tales of the Resistance, and Tales of the Restoration, by authors David and Karen Mains. Each book in its 30th Anniversary format is enhanced with 18-20 beautiful full-color illustrations…has twelve chapters your entire family will thoroughly enjoy…plus these three titles are all autographed by the authors. This series has been the honored recipient of two Gold Medallion awards.

[odinsblog]

ANTIVAXXERS LIE. EVERY TIME.

Australians have been subjected to a flood of COVID-related disinformation since the pandemic began.

In January 2022, vaccine skeptics and COVID-19 conspiracy theorists argued over the authenticity of a widely shared Facebook post that made angry claims about the supposed vaccine-induced death of a 7-year-old boy in Sydney, Australia, named “Lachlan Leary.”

Screenshots of the message, written by a poster with the username “Steve Leary,” emerged on Jan. 15. The full message can be viewed here and below, but the poster claimed to be mourning the death of his 7-year-old son Lachlan, who he said had died from a “massive heart attack” caused by his having received a COVID-19 vaccine.

(In the Australian state of New South Wales, of which Sydney is the capital and largest city, COVID-19 vaccination became available to children ages 5 to 11 in January 2022).

In the post, Leary stated that his son had become sick and suffered a fever on the night of “Wednesday” (understood to be Jan. 12), before his parents brought him to “Westmead Hospital” the following morning, from which he was purportedly discharged several hours later. Leary claimed that on Friday morning (understood to be Jan. 14), his son collapsed at home and stopped breathing. An ambulance came within seven minutes, but according to Leary, he died in transit, having suffered a “massive heart attack.” The poster clearly attributed the boy’s death to a COVID-19 vaccination, writing that he had “lost [his] son Lachlan…to the vaccine.”

Screenshots of that post were shared widely, particularly among online vaccine skeptics and conspiracy theorists, in the days after Jan. 15. However, even those aligned with the anti-vaccine sentiment expressed in the post were unable to find solid evidence to support its authenticity, as was Snopes.

The “Steve Leary” Facebook account behind the post was either deactivated, deleted, or suspended by Jan. 18, so it was not possible to gather details that might, in principle, corroborate the anecdote provided. Furthermore, we could not find any record of a Steve or Steven/Stephen Leary living in New South Wales with a son named Lachlan and daughter named Sammy (the latter mentioned in the post). The post did not specify the first name of Leary’s wife, so this potential verification method was also not available.

No reputable Australian news outlet has reported on the death of a young child in New South Wales due to a vaccine-induced heart attack in January 2022, but rather the Facebook post was regurgitated by conspicuously unreliable websites, many of them based outside Australia, one of which even added the laughable embellishment that Leary was “Australia’s prime minister.”

Snopes could find no obituary for any boy named Lachlan matching the description above, and funeral details were not publicly available. Nobody has produced any photographs of the boy — typically a mainstay of social media posts about the tragic death of a young child.

Although not definitive, the specific, local policy context surrounding the post also tended to arouse skepticism. In January 2022, the government of New South Wales extended the availability of COVID-19 vaccination to children between the ages of 5 and 11, prompting high-profile but unfounded claims of child mortality, in what appeared to be a deliberate effort to discourage Australian parents from having their children vaccinated.

While most of the details included in the post yielded no supportive evidence — the name of the boy, his sister and his father, the date of his death, and so on — one factual claim allowed for a vigorous refutation of the authenticity of the entire story: the name of the hospital where Lachlan Leary was supposedly treated.

Among several other duties and functions, the New South Wales Ministry of Health oversees a network of public hospitals in that state, including in the Western Sydney suburb of Westmead. If any 7-year-old child were brought to Westmead Hospital by ambulance, the youth would be treated at the adjacent children’s hospital.

On Facebook, the Children’s Hospital at Westmead strongly refuted the claims in “Steve Leary’s” post, writing: “There are many inaccurate posts currently circulating on social media. There is no record of any child having passed away following COVID vaccination at our hospital”:

In response to a detailed inquiry from Snopes, a spokesperson for Westmead Hospital wrote: “As Westmead Hospital is not a paediatric hospital, we did not treat any children with those symptoms in the time period indicated.” The hospital spokesperson also forwarded the following statement from the New South Wales Ministry of Health: “NSW Health has not been able to locate any record of any such incident.”

In summary: the hospital at Westmead; the children’s hospital at Westmead; and the government ministry that oversees the entire public hospital system for the state of New South Wales have each publicly refuted the authenticity of the incident described in that viral Facebook post in January 2022.

Those official, on-the-record refutations, combined with the total absence of corroborating evidence, and the presence of several misinformation “red flags,” are enough to warrant a conclusion that the “Lachlan Leary” story — a 7-year-old boy killed by a vaccine-induced heart attack near Sydney in January 2022 — was false.

👉🏿 https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/lachlan-leary-covid-vax-rumor/