Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)
Miami Lakes, FL– The Office of Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) recently hosted the 2025 Congressional Art Competition at the Mary Collins Community Center in Miami Lakes. This event featured 175 original art pieces and drew in approximately 200 attendees, including students, teachers, principals, and local leaders.
Each spring, a nation-wide high school arts competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Artistic Discovery Contest is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our Congressional District.
“I’ve been hosting the Congressional Art Competition for over 20 years, and each year, I am inspired by the remarkable talent and creativity from students in our community. This year was our best yet, with so many outstanding art pieces. I am truly amazed by the young, exceptional talent we have in Florida’s 26thCongressional District,”said Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart.
For more information about the Congressional Art Competition, please visit: https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/youth-and-kids/art-competition
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)
Read the full resolutionhereor below.
“Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the city of Hialeah, Florida.
Whereas the city of Hialeah was incorporated in 1925 with a population of 1,500 and now has over 236,000 residents;
Whereas the city’s name comes from the Seminole phrase “Haiyakpo Hili”, meaning “high prairie”;
Whereas Hialeah was founded by Glenn Curtiss, an aviation pioneer, and James Bright, a cattleman;
Whereas, in 1925, the Hialeah Park Racetrack, nicknamed “The Grand Dame”, opened and hosted notable figures, including Winston Churchill;
Whereas, in 1937, Amelia Earhart announced her intent to fly around the world at the former location of the Miami Municipal Airport, and after supervising extensive repairs to her airplane, she took off from Hialeah on June 1;
Whereas, in 1943, Hialeah became a booming manufacturing center for the war effort, producing crucial items from uniforms to airplane parts;
Whereas, in 1961, Rene Sedanos opened a small bodega in East Hialeah called “Sedanos”, which later expanded to serve communities across the State of Florida and has 34 store locations today;
Whereas, in 1972, the Cao family opened the original Vicky Bakery in East Hialeah, becoming a staple in the community;
Whereas, in 1973, the band KC and the Sunshine Band was formed in a small studio in East Hialeah, led by Hialeah native, Harry Wayne Casey, and became 1 of the most successful pop and disco bands of the 70s and 80s with 5 top number 1 hits and selling over 100,000,000 records worldwide;
Whereas, in 1974, Bernard Cap was founded in Hialeah and remains a leading manufacturer of quality uniform headwear, apparel, and accessories for over 50 years, supplying United States and foreign military forces, service academies, airlines, police, security, and other organizations;
Whereas, in 1984, Gus Machado took over an old car dealership on 49th Street in Hialeah, and later became the largest Hispanic-owned Ford dealership in the State of Florida;
Whereas the city of Hialeah is home to hard-working families striving each day for their American dream;
Whereas the Hialeah community is a unique blend of nationalities and cultures;
Whereas Hialeah has historically been home to thousands of Cuban exiles, who were forced into exile by the brutal dictatorship on the island;
Whereas, in 1993, the Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart was sworn in as a Member of the 103rd Congress and became the first Cuban American to represent Hialeah in the United States House of Representatives;
Whereas the Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart represented Hialeah until he retired from the United States House of Representatives in 2011, and was later succeeded by his brother, the Honorable Mario Diaz-Balart, who proudly represents Hialeah today;
Whereas, today, the city holds the rank of Florida’s 5th largest city and the 6th largest municipality;
Whereas 95 percent of the population identifies as Hispanic/Latino, one of the highest percentages of Hispanic residents in the country;
Whereas approximately 84.1 percent of Hialeah’s residents are of Cuban descent, the highest proportion in the United States;
Whereas the city is known for its industrial strength, contributing to Florida’s overall economic vitality;
Whereas the city is one of the largest employers in Miami-Dade County; and
Whereas the city of Hialeah contributes to Florida’s economy, culture, and history through its diverse and vibrant community: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives–
(1) congratulates the city of Hialeah on the occasion of its 100th anniversary;
(2) recognizes and appreciates the significant economic and cultural impact of the city of Hialeah on the South Florida region and the United States as a whole; and
(3) commends and honors the people of Hialeah for their unique and significant contributions to the prosperity, culture, and history of the United States.”
Photo & Video Chronology — May 11, 2025 — Kīlauea summit eruption episode 21
Episode 21 of the ongoing eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu at the summit of Kīlauea began at 12:45 p.m. on Sunday, May 1, 2025. Lava fountains reached heights of approximately 500 feet (150 meters) in the early hours of this episode.
On May 11, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists visited the western rim of Halemaʻumaʻu crater to observe episode 21 of the ongoing Kīlauea summit eruption. While there, they captured this photo of lava fountains that were reaching approximately 500 feet (150 meters) in height above the northern eruptive vent and feeding several open lava channels onto the crater floor. USGS photo by M. Zoeller.
While visiting the western rim of Halemaʻumaʻu on May 11, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists watched an ānuenue (rainbow) stretch across the crater during episode 21 of the ongoing Kīlauea summit eruption. Lava fountains from the northern eruptive vent (right) were feeding extensive lava flows on the crater floor at the time. USGS photo by M. Zoeller.
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Japteg Singh Bamrah, a Class 12 student from Dalhousie Public School in Himachal Pradesh, has been awarded the prestigious HonorsGradU 2025 scholarship for his invention — the Solar Mech Engine.
Japteg received the coveted “Build a Better Future” award, which includes a $10,000 scholarship for his undergraduate studies in the United States. In addition, he was granted $5,000 to further develop and scale his innovative project.
According to the Ministry of Science & Technology, Japteg was selected as one of five global winners from thousands of entries submitted worldwide. His project was recognized as the top technology innovation among this year’s finalists. He is also the first and only Indian student to top the list since the scholarship program’s inception in 2012.
Japteg was mentored by Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, Senior Scientist at CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu, under the Jigyasa Hackathon initiative — a national program aimed at fostering scientific curiosity and innovation among school students.
He showcased the Solar Mech Engine at the National Startup Festival held on February 22–23 at CSIR–IIIM, Jammu. The event was attended by Union Minister of Science and Technology and Vice President of CSIR, Dr. Jitendra Singh, who lauded the initiative as a vital part of India’s push for grassroots innovation under the “Start-Up India, Stand-Up India” campaign.
Winner of the CSIR Jigyasa Hackathon 2024, the Solar Mech Engine is a standalone solar thermal system based on Concentrated Heat and Power (CHP) technology. It utilizes cyclic air expansion and contraction driven by temperature differences to convert thermal energy into mechanical motion. A low-resistance generator harnesses electromagnetic induction to produce electricity directly from this motion. Its reversible heat pump capability further enhances energy efficiency, positioning the device as a novel and sustainable clean-energy solution.
In recognition of his academic and technological excellence, Japteg has also received admission offers from over ten leading universities in the United States, Australia, and Canada, along with additional scholarships amounting to $16,000 per year for his undergraduate studies.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Dave Joyce (R-OH-14), Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) introduced a bipartisan resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Nurses Week, recognized annually from May 6th to May 12th, to honor the extraordinary contributions of nurses across the United States. U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) also introduced this resolution in the Senate.
The resolution acknowledges the important contributions that America’s nearly 5 million registered nurses have made in providing safe, high-quality care, and it calls on all Americans to also recognize and celebrate the invaluable role that nurses play in patient care every day— particularly in treating injured and sick patients during wartime, natural disasters, and public health emergencies.
“Our health care system relies on the tireless service nurses provide every day, and I am grateful to everyone who works in this essential profession,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, I’ll continue our work to provide nurses with the support they need and help more people enter the field.”
“Nurses are the backbone of our health care system. Unfortunately, too often, their tireless efforts go unrecognized,” said Congressman Dave Joyce, Co-Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. “I’m proud to introduce this resolution with my colleagues in both chambers to recognize the hard work our nurses put in to keeping our communities happy and healthy. I will continue to make sure their voices are heard in Congress.”
“I appreciate all that nurses do to keep our country healthy,” said Congresswoman Jen Kiggans, Vice Chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus. “As a geriatric nurse practitioner, I had the honor of caring for our Greatest Generation alongside many dedicated nurses. Their selfless commitment to caring for those who need it most deserves to be celebrated. I am proud to recognize National Nurses Week and will continue to be a loud advocate for our nurses while I serve in Congress!”
“I am thrilled to introduce this resolution and recognize nurses for their incredible commitment, care and contributions to our communities,” said Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, Congressional Nursing Caucus Vice Chair. “Every day, across the country, nurses are providing high-quality clinical care, engaging in policy advocacy, and leading in their communities. National Nurses Week is an opportunity to show our thanks and recognition, and I look forward to continuing my work to support nurses at every stage of our education, training, and careers.”
“As the husband of a nurse, I’ve seen up-close how difficult nurses’ jobs are and how important they are to patients,” said Senator Merkley, Co-Chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus. “In every corner of Oregon, nurses offer vital care, support, and advocacy to patients and their families during challenging times. Let’s pause this week to express gratitude and honor the nurses in our communities for their unwavering commitment and compassion. We must remain dedicated to providing them with the support necessary to continue their life-saving work.”
“Nurses are essential to our nation’s health care system,” said Senator Wicker, Co-Chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus. “They ensure patients receive timely and quality care, and their dedication is unmatched. Our country needs more of these heroes, and I hope more young people will consider joining the nursing profession. This resolution is a small token of our gratitude for their service.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)
WASHINGTON, DC [05/9/25] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Gwen Moore (D-WI), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL) introduced legislation to protect students from corporal punishment in schools.
The Protecting Our Students in Schools Act would prohibit the practice of corporal punishment in any school that receives federal funding. It would also provide schools with the support necessary to create more nurturing and inclusive learning environments that employ restorative, evidence-based practices to improve school safety. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) is leading the companion in the Senate.
“The disturbing use of corporal punishment in schools must stop,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Students must feel safe and be safe in school. Fear of physical pain keeps students from reaching their full potential, inflicting damage that can last for decades. I’m grateful to partner with Reps. McBath, Moore, and Wilson to finally put a stop to the use of corporal punishment in schools that receive federal funding.”
“When parents send their children to school, it’s with the belief that their student will learn in a safe, healthy environment,” said Congresswoman Lucy McBath. “The impacts that cruel, unnecessary punishments have on the next generation are heartbreaking and these practices still exist in Georgia today. I thank my colleagues in the House and Senate for their collaboration on this effort as we protect our children and set them up for strong, successful futures.”
“Corporal punishment violates children’s fundamental rights to dignity, physical integrity, and protection from violence,” said Congresswoman Gwen Moore. “Every child deserves to be treated with respect and provided with a safe and nurturing learning environment. By eliminating this form of punishment, schools can create a safer, more supportive atmosphere that encourages learning, engagement, and positive relationships between students and educators.”
“The hallways, classrooms and cafeterias of our schools should be safe, supportive environments for all students,” said Congresswoman Frederica Wilson. “Corporal punishment is a backward practice that has no place in our schools, harming our students, especially Black and Brown children. That’s why I’m proudly co-leading the Protecting Our Students in Schools Act of 2023, which implements positive reinforcement strategies, creating a better environment for our students. With this bill, we can eliminate the shameful stain of corporal punishment and promote evidence-based behavioral interventions for more positive outcomes for our students.”
“It’s absurd there are states that still allow educators to strike, paddle, and spank students as a means of discipline,” said Senator Chris Murphy. “This bill puts an end to that cruelty and would give schools the resources they need to create safe, supportive environments where every student can thrive.”
Corporal punishment, the act of inflicting physical pain as a form of discipline, can result in serious injury with long-term negative consequences for students’ physical and mental health. Research overwhelmingly shows that corporal punishment in schools does not lead to improvements in student behavior; instead it is linked to poor academic performance, physical and emotional harm, and damage to students’ self-esteem and trust of educators. Corporal punishment is disproportionately applied to boys, students of color, and students with disabilities.
“Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when so many students were learning from home, nearly 20,000 students still endured corporal punishment in schools, of which 2,400 of those students have a disability,” said Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities. “Corporal punishment has no place in education. On behalf of the National Center for Learning Disabilities and our partners in the disability rights community, I applaud Representative Bonamici, Senator Murphy, and the other co-sponsors for their leadership on this critical bill. Now it’s time for the rest of the members of Congress to step up and ensure all students have a safe, supportive, and high-quality public education.”
“IDRA is pleased to support the Protecting our Students in Schools Act of 2025, an important piece of legislation that would end the harmful, outdated practice of hitting students in schools,” said Morgan Craven, National Director of Policy, Advocacy, and Community Engagement at the Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA). “Schools should be places where all young people feel safe and supported to learn, but corporal punishment endangers students, compromises achievement, and weakens the relationships that are the foundation of strong school communities.”
“Laws permitting educators to assault their own students should have long ago been abolished,” said Justin Driver, Robert R. Slaughter Professor of Law at Yale Law School. “Regrettably, though, the archaic and, indeed, barbaric practice of corporal punishment remains prevalent in our nation’s schools. That state-sanctioned violence prevents far too many of our youngest, most vulnerable Americans from having any real chance of fulfilling their enormous potential. I salute Congresswoman Bonamici for her steadfast leadership in seeking to eliminate the scourge of corporal punishment from our schools. And I fervently hope that this measure will soon become the law of the land.”
A summary of the Protecting Our Students in Schools Act can be foundhere. The full bill text can be foundhere.
The Protecting Our Students in Schools Act is endorsed by: National Education Association, American Federation of Teachers, National PTA, The Education Trust, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, American Psychological Association, Lives in the Balance, Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA), GLSEN, NAESP, NASSP, National Parents’ Union, National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Association of Social Workers, Federal School Discipline and Climate Coalition, National Woman’s Law Center, Human Rights Campaign, NAACP, American School Counselor Association, American Civil Liberties Union, National Urban League, Advocating 4 Kids, Inc, All4Ed, American Atheists, American Humanist Association, American Youth Policy Forum, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Center for Learner Equity, Center for Popular Democracy, Children’s Defense Fund, Committee for Children, Council for Exceptional Children, Council for Administrators of Special Education, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Dignity in Schools Campaign, Education Reform Now, EduColor, Disability Law Colorado, Elite Educational Consulting, Every Texan, Fannie Education Alliance, First Focus Campaign for Children, Girls, Inc., Gwinnett SToPP, Ibero American Action League, Inc., KIPP Foundation, Lawyers for Good Government, Mississippi Coalition to End Corporal Punishment, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, National Black Child Development Institute, National Disability Rights Network, National Down Syndrome Congress, New Leaders, Nollie Jenkins Family Center, Inc., Open Society Policy Center, Parent Education Organizing Council, Racial Justice NOW, STAND Up, Texas Appleseed, Texas Kids Can’t Wait, The Advocacy Institute, The Arc of the United States, The Daniel Initiative, TNTP, United Women in Faith, Uplift MN, Volunteer State Seal of Biliteracy, National Association of Counsel for Children, Alliance for Educational Justice, The NOTICE Coalition, End Mass Incarceration Georgia Network, Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Juvenile Law Center, and Represent Justice.
Original cosponsors of the House version of Protecting Our Students in Schools Act include Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Don Beyer (D-VA), Danny Davis (D-IL), Mark Takano (D-CA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Bill Keating (D-MA), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), and Jill Tokuda (D-HI).
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California
Walnut Creek, CA – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced today that he will host an outdoor Environmental Town Hall & Resource Fair in Oakley to provide updates on Democrats’ efforts in Congress to address climate change and the recent rollbacks of environmental protections by the Trump Administration on Saturday, May 3rd. Starting at 1:30 p.m., local agencies and organizations will share resources on their work to protect the environment. Congressman DeSaulnier and local leaders in air quality, environmental protection, and clean water will give remarks at 2 p.m. PT and take audience questions.
Environmental Town Hall & Resource Fair Saturday, May 3rd 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. PT Remarks at 2 p.m. PT Oakley, CA RSVP for Location
The event is RSVP only and capacity is limited. To reserve your spot or request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660.
This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 232nd town hall and mobile district office hours since coming to Congress in January 2015.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California
Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced Amber Ding, a high school sophomore who lives in San Ramon and attends Dougherty Valley High School, as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for California’s 10th Congressional District. Her oil painting,Tides of Nostalgia, will be displayed in the United States Capitol for the next year.
“The nearly two dozen artwork submissions from students across CA-10 this year reflect the incredible creativity and skill of our student artists. I relish the chance each year to center the arts and humanities in our community and spotlight these talented young people and their artwork,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “I’m looking forward to seeing Amber’s impressive piece when I walk through the halls of the Capitol!”
Twenty-one works in total were submitted to CA-10’s competition and the runners up were:
Esther Kim of Dougherty Valley High School (Junior) for her acrylic painting,Bonding;
Yuna Koof Northgate High School (Freshman) for her mixed-media artwork,Censor Our Planet; and
Fangyuan Caoof Miramonte High School (Junior) for her graphite sketch,Man is Born Free; and Everywhere He Is in Chains.
The Congressman hosted a gallery show and awards ceremony at the Moraga Art Gallery to announce this year’s winners, gather with students, families, and community members to celebrate the students’ hard work, and showcase this year’s submissions.
The winning pieces were selected by a panel of local judges, consisting of Rebecca Talley of Los Medanos College and Leo Bersamina and Janette Funaro of Diablo Valley College.
The Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the Competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
On Thursday 8 May 2025, the Northern Territory Police Force in partnership with the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service, conducted a large-scale training exercise at the Darwin Convention Centre.
The purpose of the exercise was to test the response to a large-scale critical incident from the operational to executive level, as part of the Australia-New Zealand Counter-Terrorism Committee obligations. The exercise focused on a HAZMAT and mass casualty incident and involved more than 120 role players, with 100 emergency services personal responding. Simulated chemical incidents and gunfire were used throughout the venue and role players had special effects make-up applied to simulate realistic injuries, significantly enhancing training outcomes. Both General Duties Police and Specialist Police were deployed to the Convention Centre to safely resolve the situation.
The NT Police Force and NT Fire and Rescue Service would like to thank the following key stakeholder’s assistance was invaluable to the execution of this training exercise:
The Darwin Convention Centre and staff
The National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre and staff
The United States of America Marines from the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin
The Northern Territory Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet staff
Soldiers from The 5th/7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment
Soldiers from The 8th/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery
Soldiers from The North-West Mobile Force (NORFORCE)
Northern Territory Government Department of Health
St John Ambulance Northern Territory
Northern Territory Junior Police Rangers and families
Exercise Directing Staff, Acting Commander Jakson Evans said, “The exercise was an outstanding success. This rare training opportunity tested current practices and provided significant lessons for both agencies.
“This ensures the agencies are appropriately prepared to serve and protect the people of the Northern Territory and effectively respond to this type of incident.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s Zheng Qinwen secured a place in the round of 16 for the third consecutive year by defeating Poland’s Magdalena Frech 6-3, 6-2 at the WTA Italian Open on Sunday.
Zheng Qinwen returns a shot during the women’s singles round of 32 match between Magdalena Frech of Poland and Zheng Qinwen of China at the WTA Italian Open in Rome, Italy, May 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing)
The two players split victories in their previous two meetings. This was their first meeting on clay. Zheng came out firing in the opening set, racing into a commanding 5-0 lead. Frech responded by holding serve and breaking once to close the gap to 3-5, firing two aces in the eighth game. However, Zheng steadied herself to serve out the set 6-3.
After clinching the first set, Zheng let out a loud roar.
“I’ve lost to quite a few players on clay who just keep lobbing high balls at me,” Zheng said after the match. “It gets on my nerves when they do that, so when I hit a winner, I just need to let it out to pump myself up.”
In the second set, Zheng broke early and consolidated for a 2-0 lead. Though Frech leveled the score at 2-2, Zheng regained control with a crucial break in the fifth game and surged ahead, reeling off the final four games to seal a 6-2 victory.
Zheng was particularly efficient with her drop shots throughout the match. “I noticed my opponent kept moving back, so I wanted to mix up the depth of my shots to disrupt her rhythm,” Zheng explained. “I also saw her footwork wasn’t that quick. On clay, drop shots can be a really effective weapon.”
In the next round, Zheng will face former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu of Canada.
Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –
Gennady Barykinsky, graduate Physics Department of NSU 1977, dedicated his life to science. Working in the field of laser physics, he always wanted to learn new things. Now, in retirement, he is engaged in historical research, studies genealogy and creates films. In an interview, he spoke about his difficult student years, the path to obtaining a diploma, the principles that helped him along the way, and why he believes that life should be filled with meaning.
— Tell us why you decided to apply to NSU?
— In my thoughts, I always went back to two episodes of my life that radically influenced my choice. The first episode, oddly enough, was military service in the Group of Soviet Forces in Germany. Here I was appointed commander of a platoon for controlling a radar guidance station. At that time, I did not understand not only electronics and radio engineering, but also many elementary concepts of physics. The officers literally shoved textbooks on radio engineering at me and demanded that I master all of this. After demobilization, I was constantly tormented by the same thought: “How is this possible? If I was able to master such complex technology in the army, then surely I will not be able to master higher education,” says Gennady.
The second episode was the purchase of a directory-catalogue of all higher educational institutions in the country. Through selection, Gennady determined that he liked not a narrowly specialized education, but a more universal one – university. He decided that he was not up to Moscow, Leningrad and Kiev were too academic, but the “youth and elegance of Novosibirsk” was just right.
— I came for the entrance exams. I was placed in the sixth dormitory in one room with three other applicants. In a few days, I heard such words as limit, derivative, integral and many others from these guys for the first time. I finally realized that I had nothing to do at the entrance exams. However, I still went to the first exam in written mathematics for a bad grade. After the exam, going down to the first floor of the university, I saw an announcement inviting applicants who had failed the exam to an interview at the dean’s office of the full-time preparatory department (PD) of NSU, — Gennady recalls.
The next two semesters of the school year passed in a state of great emotional tension. Gennady actually had to master almost the entire high school curriculum in five exam subjects in 8 months. Therefore, the school day lasted from dawn to dusk. In addition to in-person classes and mandatory homework, Gennady studied at least four hours every day. Therefore, out of 25 exam points, he scored 23, as it turned out, passing points and was still enrolled in the university.
— What do you remember about studying at NSU?
— I have never experienced so many emotions in my life as at the beginning of my student years. The first lectures. The first seminars. And in general, many firsts. Somewhere in my soul there is a feeling of pride that all this happened. One of the warmest memories was left by the deputy dean for our course, candidate of physical and mathematical sciences Vasily Vasilyevich Murakhtanov. In my life, I have never met a person who possessed, to a greater extent than Vasily Vasilyevich, a whole set of such qualities in relation to the interlocutor as: intelligence, modesty, tolerance. One day he came up to me and said: “Gennady Mikhailovich, the dean’s office has an offer – you to lead a group of fourth-year physicists on a summer exchange trip to Poland to the University of Krakow, for almost a month.” I agreed. Half a month passes, he approaches again: “Excuse me, but the university administration insists that you head the student construction teams of the university, and instead of a trip to Poland, we will then organize a trip to another, more interesting country for you.” He persuaded me again. Everything happened just like that, I didn’t even regret it, because I managed to go to Cuba, but that’s a completely different story, – Gennady said.
Gennady calls the path to his diploma work thorny, since he spent a long time choosing a department and tried himself in different scientific institutes: theoretical and applied mechanics, automation and electrometry, thermal physics, chemical kinetics and combustion.
— This almost led to the fact that I did not have time to submit my fourth-year coursework to the dean’s office. But fate decreed otherwise. My friend Boris Bondarev, an active leader of the student club “Quantum”, advised me to try myself in laser physics. That’s how I ended up in the Laser Physics Department of the Institute of Semiconductor Physics under the supervision of Viktor Vasilyevich Lebedev. I remember him with great warmth — thanks to him, I dedicated my life to laser physics and I do not regret it. My diploma defense was successful — on June 2, 1978, my work was rated “excellent”. Later, its materials were published in the journal “Quantum Electronics”. This experience taught me that persistence and perseverance always bring results, even if the path turns out to be more difficult than expected, — the graduate recalls.
During his entire period of study, Gennady only once received a bad mark on an exam. It was thermodynamics. Now Gennady is 76 years old, he has been retired for a long time, but he really likes to do research work on studying the history and genealogy of his family. He also creates texts, articles and videos with interest.
— I am working on the design of my memories and some other topics in films that I have learned to create myself. I never thought that making films is incredibly interesting. A monograph is not excluded! Currently, several films about NSU are in the works: “A Big Film about the NSU SSO in the Period 1976-1979”, “A Film about the First Congress of NSU Graduates, the Creation and Functioning of this Union”, “The Second Part of the Film “NSU in Faces”, “A Film about the Problems of Graduates — Young Scientists”. I want to wish the graduates of 2025 to live by the meaning and essence, and not by the color of the packaging,” Gennady concludes.
Some of Gennady Barykinsky’s films can be viewed here:
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)
QUEENS, NY – With the summer travel season kicking off later this month, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), in conjunction with New York State Senators Joseph Addabbo and Leroy Comrie, Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi and Councilwoman Lynn Schulman, will hold a local Passport Day to help constituents apply for or renew a passport.
The event will take place on Sunday, May 18, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the United States Post Office in Forest Hills, Queens. The facility is located at 106-28 Queens Boulevard, Forest Hills, N.Y. 11375. It follows several other passport events that Meng has held for more than two years throughout her congressional district, and this upcoming one will be the first in 2025.
“We are glad to partner together to bring this important service to those we represent, and to make the process easy and convenient for constituents,” said the five lawmakers. “We look forward to seeing local residents come out on Sunday, May 18 to take care of their passport needs.”
To receive a passport, an individual must be a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national, and they need to complete the application form which Postal Service clerks at this upcoming event can assist with on-site. The required supporting documents must also be submitted and details can be found here.
The following is what constituents should bring:
If applying for a first-time passport, bring an original copy and photocopy of proof of identity AND U.S. citizenship documents.
For a renewal, bring the most recent passport and name change documents if there are any.
Children under age 16 must apply in person with two parents or guardians using form DS-11. Applicant must provide U.S. citizenship evidence. Parents must show relationship and present ID. If one or both parents or guardians is absent, more documents are needed.
Debit/credit card, or check/money order made payable to “Postmaster” for acceptance fees.
Check/money order made payable to “U.S. Department of State” for processing fees.
A color passport photo taken in the last six months, or a photo can be taken on-site with an additional fee.
The costs of applying for and renewing a passport can be found here.
Applications for both first-time passports and renewals will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Last year, Meng helped to reduce long processing times for passport applications and renewals that had been caused by skyrocketing demands for passports. In 2023, standard processing times for passports ranged from 10-13 weeks and expedited requests took approximately 7-9 weeks. Meng pushed the State Department to decrease this backlog, including questioning then-Secretary of State Antony Blinkenabout the problem during a congressional hearing, and now standard processing times are down to 4-6 weeks and expedited processing is just 2-3 weeks.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Palestinians wait to receive free food from a food distribution center in Gaza City, on May 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Palestinian and UN officials warned Sunday that the health and humanitarian situation in Gaza will further deteriorate if Israel continues its blockade on the enclave.
About 64 percent of medical supplies in Gaza have run out due to Israel’s continued closure of the crossings, health authorities in Gaza warned Sunday.
“Indicators of a severe shortage of medicine are accelerating dangerously, with 43 percent of essential medicines at zero stock, a 6-percent increase compared to last month,” the authorities said in a press statement.
Emergency departments, operating rooms, and intensive care units are operating on depleted stocks, with the number of critically ill patients on the rise, they said, adding that those with kidney failure, tumors, blood and heart diseases, and non-communicable diseases are the most affected.
“The Israeli occupation is preventing children from leaving Gaza for treatment at a time when the Strip is suffering from a severe shortage of post-amputation assistive devices, such as prosthetic limbs, and a lack of a suitable environment for people with disabilities,” said Bassam Zaqout, director of medical relief in southern Gaza.
Noting that there are more than 4,000 children on waiting lists for urgent surgeries, including many amputation cases, Zaqout said in a press statement that symptoms of famine have begun to appear among children, leading to serious health problems including immunodeficiency, intestinal diseases, and deadly dehydration.
Meanwhile, Abdel Salam Sabah, director of the Eye Hospital in Gaza, said a serious shortage of consumables and medical equipment for eye surgeries will lead to a near-total collapse of surgical services, particularly for retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy, and internal bleeding.
The Eye Hospital is about to declare its inability to provide any surgical services unless relevant authorities and international organizations intervene immediately, the director said.
Also on Sunday, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East warned on social media platform X that “the longer this blockade continues, the more irreversible harm is being done to countless lives,” adding the agency has thousands of trucks waiting to enter Gaza.
Israel halted the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza on March 2, following the expiration of the first phase of a January ceasefire agreement with Hamas. It resumed attacks on Gaza on March 18, which, according to data released by health authorities in Gaza on Sunday, have so far killed 2,720 Palestinians and injured 7,513.
The UN has repeatedly warned of an impending humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, reporting increasing signs of acute hunger, particularly among children. The situation is rapidly deteriorating as U.S.-based food relief organization World Central Kitchen announced Wednesday that it would halt cooking in Gaza due to the depletion of humanitarian supplies, forcing the closure of most community kitchens in the enclave after running out of stock.
Amjad Shawa, director of the Palestinian Non-Governmental Organizations Network in Gaza, warned Wednesday that the closure of community kitchens could exacerbate the hunger in Gaza.
“The repercussions of the severe humanitarian disaster will be significant on the health and lives of citizens, especially children, women, the elderly, and the sick,” Shawa told Xinhua.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
FC Barcelona has one hand on this season’s La Liga trophy after winning a thrilling Clasico 4-3 against Real Madrid on Sunday.
Although Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick for Madrid, two goals from Raphinha and one each from Eric Garcia and Lamine Yamal gave Barca three points that put them seven clear of Madrid with just nine points left to play for.
Real Madrid got off to a flying start when an error from Pau Cubarsi put Kylian Mbappe clear, only for the striker to be brought down by Wojciech Szczesny, with the Frenchman picking himself up to score from the spot after just five minutes.
It was 2-0 in the 13th minute as Mbappe beat the offside trap and confidently smashed the ball past Szczesny to double the lead.
Barca needed to get back into the game quickly, and Garcia did just that with a close-range header in the 19th minute after Ferran Torres had flicked on Dani Olmo’s corner.
Yamal leveled with a stunning left-foot shot in the 32nd minute after Torres laid the ball back to him, and two minutes later it was 3-2 after a mix-up in the Madrid attack between Fede Valverde and Mbappe saw Pedri pick their pockets.
The midfielder found Raphinha in space, and the Brazilian made no mistake with his left-footed effort.
Real Madrid looked ragged and Barca was in complete control, although there was a nervous moment when the referee gave Madrid a penalty after Mbappe went down, only to correct his decision for a narrow offside.
Raphinha headed another chance over the bar after a wonderful pass from Yamal, but made no mistake on the verge of halftime after he robbed Lucas Vazquez and exchanged passes with Torres.
Barca controlled most of the second half, but had some nervous moments after Mbappe again beat the offside trap to pull a goal back, and the Frenchman could have scored a fourth, only to shoot tamely at Szczesny.
Youngster Victor Munoz also fired wide for Madrid moments after coming on.
Barca will be crowned La Liga champion with a win away to local rival Espanyol on Thursday night.
Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
NASHVILLE, TN—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Sunday Morning Futures on Fox News to discuss President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade negotiations, what to do about the debt ceiling, and the efforts to cut spending in the federal government via budget reconciliation.
*Click the photo above or here to watch*
Partial Transcript
Hagerty on the trade negotiations with China: “I worked on trade deals extensively. Not only the two trade deals we did with the U.S. and Japan, but also with the team that negotiated the phase one China trade deal, which China did not abide by. David’s right. I’m so glad he’s going to his post now. He’s going to be a great ambassador representing the America’s interest with China. What’s happening in Switzerland right now, I’m very excited about. I think there’s great potential there. It has to get resolved. And with ambassadors or leaders like David in the field, I think we’re going to have every opportunity then to hold China to account, because that’s going to be a critical aspect of this. They have not followed through on their prior agreements with us. We need to make certain that what we strike with them today, what we strike over the weekend and in the days to come, is something that we can ascertain, we can hold them accountable to, and that we can verify.”
Hagerty on the debt ceiling: “I have a lot [of] faith in President Trump’s ability to get long-term effect achieved here. You’ve seen the DOGE effort. There’s a massive deregulation thrust underway. Every conversation is about efficiency, cutting costs, getting more for less. It’s going to take President Trump a little bit of time, though. You know how much stimulus was unleased into this economy. We’ve got to give President Trump the headroom to sort this out. And so, President Trump has asked for an extension of the debt ceiling. I’m more than inclined to grant him what he needs to give him the time and the runway to actually get our economy to a far better place, a much more efficient and effective place. At the same time, shoring up some of the problems that have been left to us by this Biden administration. That’s been outgoing.”
Hagerty on the need to cut wasteful, fraudulent, and abusive spending in the federal government: “From my standpoint, and certainly having been a senator who served on the executive branch in the State Department and have seen the actual dispensation of this foreign aid, there’s a tremendous amount of opportunity to clean this up. And I think if I talk to my constituents here in Tennessee, they’ve been very clear to me. We need to be fixated on and focused on America right now, shoring up what’s wrong here, rather than sending our aid dollars overseas. And when you looked at some of the specifics of where our aid dollars were going, it was absolutely disgraceful. This organization has run amok. I applaud Secretary of State [Marco] Rubio for getting his arms around this, for taking control of it. And we certainly do need to start cutting back. We need to cut back there. We need many other places where President Trump is fixated. Again, he needs a little bit of headroom to get that done. I’m willing to support that. But this is exactly the type of thing that the American public expects to see from us […] I think as more information comes out and more of my colleagues see the abject waste that has gone on in places like USAID, I think it’s going to become easier and easier for them to realize and get their arms around cutting some of these programs. Now granted, these programs have constituencies that are very vocal in Washington. They’ve been lobbying very hard. But again, transparency will make a big difference for my colleagues. I certainly hope to see even more of it. I think that’ll make it a lot easier to get to where we need to be. That takes time.”
Hagerty on Japan’s opportunity for a trade deal: “Japan certainly has the opportunity to be next. They’re the third largest economy in the world. They have every incentive to step up and take part in what I think will be a transformative situation across the globe. Japan could be a real leader here if you think about their opportunity to join us from an economic standpoint, from a national security standpoint, again, our largest presence in Indo-Pacific region is our partnership with Japan. We have more U.S. Military station there than anywhere else in the region. Again, I can’t put myself in their shoes.”
Hagerty on the India-Pakistan conflict: “That’s a top shelf issue. When you see two nuclear powers like Pakistan and India going at it, it’s top concern. That’s why President Trump was immediately on it. JD Vance stepped up in a remarkably admirable way to leverage his personal relationship with [Prime Minister] Modi. I’ve seen President Trump and Modi together. They have a great personal relationship, but it’s these relationships and also the gravity of the situation that, I think, has helped bring this to a quick resolve. I only wish [former President] Joe Biden had used his political capital to do the same thing with Ukraine and Russia.”
Hagerty on the need for major spending cuts in the reconciliation package: “The Senate is actually talking more like two trillion in cuts. We’re very focused on it. The reason the threshold is lower in the Senate is because there’s certain rules there that you can’t exceed or you can’t fall below. Again, we’re leaving ourselves leeway to get it done, but every one of my colleagues that I’ve spoken with wants to see an even greater number of cuts in this package.”
eal Madrid suffered yet another defeat to their fierce rivals FC Barcelona, falling 3-5 at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in what was their fourth El Clasico loss of the season. A hat-trick by Kylian Mbappe proved insufficient, as the Catalans firmly claimed bragging rights on Sunday.
Goals from Eric Garcia, Lamine Yamal, and a brace by Raphinha secured a thrilling comeback win for the hosts, who had trailed by two goals within the opening 15 minutes due to an early blitz by Mbappe.
With this victory, Barcelona moved seven points clear of Real Madrid in the La Liga standings and now need only one win from their three remaining games to clinch their 28th league title.
Mbappe looked ready for the occasion from the start. He earned a penalty in the 5th minute after drawing a foul from goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, which he converted with ease. Just nine minutes later, he doubled Madrid’s advantage. An assist from Vinicius Jr set up the Frenchman’s 38th goal of the season—surpassing Chilean striker Ivan Zamorano’s record of 37 goals in a debut season for Real Madrid in 1992/93.
However, the visitors were soon given a rude awakening. In the 19th minute, Ferran Torres flicked a corner toward Eric Garcia, who headed it into the net.
The floodgates opened as Barcelona chased the deficit with relentless aggression. Lamine Yamal continued his stellar season with a driven low shot that left Courtois with little chance in goal.
Just two minutes later, Raphinha opened his account for the night. The Brazilian winger was beautifully played in by midfielder Pedri and made no mistake in converting. Raphinha added his second just before the half-time whistle, giving Barcelona a commanding lead.
Madrid failed to recover from the deficit and ended their 2024–25 campaign winless against their arch-rivals, having previously lost 0-4 at the Bernabéu in the league, 2-5 in the Spanish Super Cup Final in Riyadh, and 2-3 in the Copa del Rey Final at La Cartuja.
ndia is poised to become one of the most exciting investment destinations in the world and may even outperform China in the coming years, according to ace investor Jim Rogers.
In an interaction with IANS, Rogers said, “I have been around the investment world for decades, and for the first time in my life, I see that the people in Delhi understand economics.”
“India is rising again. I think the people in Delhi understand what needs to be done and are trying to do it. That would be wonderful for India and for the world. If India can actually open up and engage in trade with the whole world, you cannot believe how exciting the country’s future could be,” said the American investor and financial commentator.
“I don’t have investments in India right now, but I really, really want to invest more in the fastest-growing economy,” he added. Rogers also noted that if the market declines and stays down for a while, “I want to put more money in India.”
India is projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, with the country’s nominal GDP expected to rise to $4,187.017 billion—surpassing Japan’s GDP, which is pegged at $4,186.431 billion—according to the IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook report.
Commenting on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Rogers told IANS that increased free trade is beneficial for the world, and particularly for India.
“It will be extremely exciting for the world, including foreign investors,” he said.
India has signed 13 FTAs with its trading partners and is currently negotiating several more, including: the India-EU FTA, the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), the India-Peru Trade Agreement covering goods, services, and investment, the India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA), and the India-Oman FTA.
India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark FTA that is significant not only in terms of scope—covering reductions across 90 per cent of tariff lines—but also in its symbolic value, marking a shift in post-globalisation economic strategy.
According to an SBI report, the agreement signals a new global trade strategy for India, which includes reducing dependence on China, navigating U.S. tariffs, and recalibrating post-Brexit relations with Britain.
Moreover, India has also initiated a review of its existing FTAs, including the India-South Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
A new Auckland-based kava business has found itself at the heart of a cultural debate, with critics raising concerns about appropriation, authenticity, and the future of kava as a deeply rooted Pacific tradition.
Vibes Kava, co-founded by Charles Byram and Derek Hillen, operates out of New Leaf Kombucha taproom in Grey Lynn.
The pair launched the business earlier this year, promoting it as a space for connection and community.
Byram, a Kiwi-American of Samoan descent, returned to Aotearoa after growing up in the United States. Hillen, originally from Canada, moved to New Zealand 10 years ago.
Both say they discovered kava during the covid-19 pandemic and credit it with helping them shift away from alcohol.
“We wanted to create something that brings people together in a healthier way,” the pair said.
However, their vision has been met with growing criticism, with people saying the business lacks cultural depth, misrepresents tradition, and risks commodifying a sacred practice.
Context and different perspectives Tensions escalated after Vibes Kava posted a promotional video on Instagram, describing their offering as “a modern take on a 3000-year-old tradition” and “a lifestyle shift, one shell at a time”.
On their website, Hillen is referred to as a “kava evangelist,” while videos feature Byram hosting casual kava circles and promoting fortnightly “kava socials.”
The kava they sell is bottled, with tag names referencing the effects of each different kava bottle — for example, “buzzy kava” and “chill kava”.
Their promotional content was later reposted on TikTok by a prominent Pacific influencer, prompting an influx of online input about the legitimacy of their business and the diversity of their kava circles.
The reposted video has since received more than 95,000 views, 1600 shares, and 11,000 interactions.
In the TikTok caption, the influencer questioned the ethical foundations of the business.
“I would like to know what type of ethics was put into the creation of this . . . who was consulted, and said it was okay to make a brand out of a tradition?”
Criticised the brand’s aesthetic Speaking to RNZ Pacific anonymously, the influencer criticised the brand’s aesthetic and messaging, describing it as “exploitative”.
“Their website and Instagram portray trendy, wellness-style branding rather than a proud celebration of authentic Pacific customs or values,” they said.
“I feel like co-owner Charles appears to use his Samoan heritage as a buffer against the backlash he’s received.
“Not to discredit his identity in any way; he is Samoan, and seems like a proud Samoan too.
“However, that should be reflected consistently in their branding. What’s currently shown on their website and Instagram is a mix of Fijian kava practice served in a Samoan tanoa. That to me is confusing and dilutes cultural authenticity.”
Fiji academic Dr Apo Aporosa said much of the misunderstanding stems from a narrow perception of kava as simply being a beverage.
“Most people who think they are using kava are not,” Aporosa said.
‘Detached from culture’ “What they’re consuming may contain Piper methysticum, but it’s detached from the cultural framework that defines what kava actually is.”
Aporosa said it is important to recognise kava as both a substance and a practice — one that involves ceremony, structure, and values.
“It is used to nurture vā, the relational space between people, and is traditionally accompanied by specific customs: woven mats, the tanoa bowl, coconut shell cups (bilo or ipu), and a shared sense of respect and order.”
He said that the commodification of kava, through flavoured drink extracts and Western “wellness” branding, is concerning, and that it distorts the plant’s original purpose.
“When people repackage kava without understanding or respecting the culture it comes from, it becomes cultural appropriation,” he said.
He added that it is not about restricting access to kava — it is about protecting its cultural integrity and honouring the knowledge Pacific communities have preserved for upwards of 2000 years.
Fijian students at the Victoria University of Wellington conduct a sevusevu (kava ceremony) to start off Fiji Language Week. Image: RNZ Pacific/Koroi Hawkins
‘We can’t just gatekeep — we need to guide’ Dr Edmond Fehoko, is a renowned Tongan academic and senior lecturer at Otago University, garnered international attention for his research on the experiences and perceptions of New Zealand-born Tongan men who participate in faikava.
He said these situations are layered.
“I see the cultural appreciation side of things, and I see the cultural appropriation side of things,” Fehoko said.
“It is one of the few practices we hold dearly to our heart, and that is somewhat indigenous to our Pacific people — it can’t be found anywhere else.
“Hence, it holds a sacred place in our society. But, we as a peoples, have actually not done a good enough job to raise awareness of the practice to other societies, and now it’s a race issue, that only Pacific people have the rights to this — and I don’t think that is the case anymore.”
He explained that it is part of a broader dynamic around kava’s globalisation — and that for many people, both Pacific and non-Pacific, kava is an “interesting and exciting space, where all types of people, and all genders, come in and feel safe”.
“Yes, that is moving away from the cultural, customary way of things. But, we need to find new ways, and create new opportunities, to further disseminate our knowledge.
‘Not the same today’ “Our kava practice is not the same today as it was 10, 20 years ago. Kava practices have evolved significantly across generations.
“There are over 200 kava bars in the United States . . . kava is one of the few traditions that is uniquely Pacific. But our understanding of it has to evolve too. We can’t just gatekeep — we need to guide,” he said.
Dr Edmond Fehoko . . . “Kava practices have evolved significantly across generations.” Image: RNZ Pacific/ Sara Vui-Talitu
He added that the issue of kava being commercialised by non-Pacific people cannot necessarily be criticised.
“It’s two-fold, and quite contradictory,” he said, adding that the criticism against these ventures often overlooks the parallel ways in which Pacific communities are also reshaping and profiting from the tradition.
“We argue that non-Pacific people are profiting off our culture, but the truth is, many of us are too,” he said.
“A minority have extensive knowledge of kava . . . and if others want to appreciate our culture, let them take it further with us, instead of the backlash.
“If these lads are enjoying a good time and have the same vibe . . . the only difference is the colour of their skin, and the language they are using, which has become the norm in our kava practices as well.
“But here, we have an opportunity to educate people on the importance of our practice. Let’s raise awareness. Kava is a practice we can use as a vehicle, or medium, to navigate these spaces.”
Vibes Kava co-founder Charles Byram . . . It’s tough to be this person and then get hurt online, without having a conversation with me. Nobody took the time to ask those questions.” Image: Brady Dyer/BradyDyer.com/RNZ Pacific
‘Getting judged for the colour of my skin’ “I completely understand the points that have been brought up,” Byram said in response to the criticism.
Tearing up, he said that was one of the most difficult things to swallow was backlash fixated on his cultural identity.
“I felt like I was getting judged for the colour of my skin, and for not understanding who I was or what I was trying to accomplish. If my skin was a bit darker, I might have been given some more grace.
“I was raised in a Samoan household. My grandfather is Samoan . . . my mum is Samoan. It’s tough to be this person and then get hurt online, without having a conversation with me. Nobody took the time to ask those questions,” he said.
The pair also pushed back on claims they are focused on profit.
“We went there to learn, to dive into the culture. We went to a lot of kava bars, interviewed farmers, just to understand the origin of kava, how it works within a community, and then how best to engage with, and showcase it,” Byram said.
“People have criticised that we are profiting — we’re making no money at this point. All the money we make from this kava has gone back to the farmers in Vanuatu.”
Representing a minority Hillen thinks those criticising them represent a minority.
“We have a lot of Pasifika customers that come here [and] they support us.
“They are ecstatic their culture is being promoted this way, and love what we are doing. The negative response from a minority part of the population was surprising to us.”
Critics had argued that the business showcased confusing blends of different cultural approaches.
Byram and Hillen said that it is up to other people to investigate and learn about the cultures, and that they are simply trying to acknowledge all of them.
Byram, however, added that the critics brought up some good points — and that this will be a catalyst for change within their business.
“Yesterday, we joined the Pacific Business Hub. We are [taking] steps to integrate more about the culture, community, and what we are trying to accomplish here.”
They also addressed their initial silence and comment moderation.
‘Cycle so self-perpetuating’ “I think the cycle was so self-perpetuating, so I was like . . . I need to make sure I respond with candor, concern, and active communication.
“So I deleted comments and put a pause on things, so we could have some space before the comments get out of hand.
“At the end of the day . . . this is about my connection with my culture and people more than anything, and I’m excited to grow from it. I’m learning, and I’m utilising this as a growth point. We’re just doing our best,” Byram said.
Hillen added: “You have to understand, this business is super new, so we’re still figuring out how best to do things, how to market and grow along with not only the community.
“What we really want to represent as people who care about, and believe in this.”
Byram said they want to acknowledge as many peoples as possible.
“We don’t want to create ceremony or steal anything from the culture. We really just want to celebrate it, and so again, we acknowledge the concern,” he added.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom will host a virtual press conference with California Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kim Johnson, Director of the California Department of Health Care Services Michelle Baass, and mental health leaders to make an announcement regarding his administration’s continued transformation of behavioral health services supporting California’s seriously ill and homeless populations.
WHEN: Monday, May 12 at approximately 1 p.m.
LIVESTREAM: Governor’s Twitter page, Governor’s Facebook page, and the Governor’s YouTube page. This event will also be available to TV stations on the LiveU Matrix under “California Governor.”
**NOTE: Credentialed media interested in asking a question during the virtual press conference must RSVP by clicking here no later than 11 a.m., May 12. A link to the event will be provided upon confirmation.
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ADVISORY – BERKS COUNTY – Commission on Crime and Delinquency Announces New Crisis Intervention Statewide Technical Assistance Initiative in Berks County
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) will join local leaders, law enforcement, and behavioral health professionals in Berks County to announce a new statewide Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Technical Assistance Center initiative-the first-of-its-kind in the nation- and highlight Berks County’s work to enhance responses for individuals in crisis and community safety.
WHO: John Adams, Berks County District Attorney Jackie Weaknecht, PCCD Office of Justice Programs Director Pam Seaman, Berks County Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities Program Administrator Kristy Belschwinder, Forensic Diversion Program Manager, Connections Work
WHEN: TOMORROW, Monday, May 12 at 2 PM
WHERE: Berks County Court House Commissioner’s Board Room, 13th floor 633 Court St., Reading, PA 19601
LIVESTREAM: https://x.com/PaCrimeComm
RSVP: Press who are interested in attending must RSVP to algantz@pa.gov.
ADVISORY – SCHUYLKILL COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Highlight His Administration’s Efforts to Support Pennsylvania Farmers Through Key Investments in Agriculture Innovation
Governor Josh Shapiro will visit Sterman Masser Potato Farm in Schuylkill County to highlight how his Administration is supporting farmers by investing agriculture innovation – and call for an additional $13 million in the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program in the 2025-26 budget to help build the future of American agriculture right here in Pennsylvania.
Last year the Shapiro Administration created the first Agriculture Innovation fund in the nation. In the first year, the Department of Agriculture received 159 applications for nearly $70 million worth of innovation projects – but only had enough funding for $10 million worth of projects. To meet this demand, Governor Shapiro is proposing to more than double the funding for agriculture innovation to help more farmers embrace the latest technologies and farming techniques.
WHO: Governor Josh Shapiro Dave Masser, President & CEO of Sterman Masser, Inc. Lela Reichert, Vice President of New Business Development at Sterman Masser, Inc. Kent Heffner, President of the Schuylkill/Carbon County Farm Bureau
WHEN: TOMORROW, Monday, May 12, 2025 at 11:45 AM *Press Conference to begin at 12:00 PM
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Thanks to Valeri Qazaishvili’s hat trick, Shandong Taishan claimed its first win in five games, beating Zhejiang FC 4-2 at home in the 12th round of the Chinese Super League (CSL).
Promising striker Wang Yudong gave Zhejiang a dream start just three minutes into the game when he broke the deadlock from a tight angle. In the 24th minute, Qazaishvili leveled the score for Shandong before Xie Wenneng turned the game around.
Although Wang scored his eighth goal of the season in the second half, Qazaishvili netted two more to secure Shandong’s victory, lifting the team to fifth place on the table.
Gustavo Sauer (R) of Wuhan Three Towns FC vies with Liao Jintao of Dalian Yingbo during the 12th round match between Wuhan Three Towns FC and Dalian Yingbo at the 2025 season Chinese Football Super League (CSL) in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province, May 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Xiao Yijiu)
Also on Saturday, Beijing Guoan cruised past Shenzhen Peng City 3-1, extending its winning streak to five games and achieving its 300th CSL victory.
In the 28th minute, Sai Erjiniao set up Lin Liangming to steer in a header, and the naturalized attacker himself scored before halftime. Shenzhen pulled one goal back immediately after the break, only to see Guga seal the win for Beijing in the 70th minute.
Shanghai Shenhua smashed Qingdao West Coast 4-0, with Brazilian striker Saulo Mineiro scoring twice, while Chengdu Rongcheng defeated Meizhou Hakka by the same scoreline, earning its fifth consecutive win.
Elsewhere, Shanghai Port defeated Qingdao Hainiu 3-1, Changchun Yatai lost to Henan FC 0-1, Yunnan Yukun edged Tianjin Jinmen Tigers 1-0, and Wuhan Three Towns drew 2-2 with Dalian Yingbo.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
South Korea completed a dominant sweep of all five recurve titles at the Archery World Cup Shanghai stop, the second stage of the 2025 season, on Sunday, while host China claimed two silver medals in team events.
In the recurve men’s team final, the Korean trio of Lee Woo-seok, Kim Je-deok, and Kim Woo-jin delivered a flawless first set with a perfect 60-point score, overpowering France 6-0. The United States took bronze with a 5-3 win over India.
Kim Woojin of South Korea competes during the gold final of the Recurve Mixed Team competition at Shanghai 2025 Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Shanghai, east China, May 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Xiang)
The recurve women’s team final featured a clash between South Korea and China. Despite an uncharacteristic 7 in the third set from the Koreans, young Chinese archers Zhu Jingyi and Huang Yuwei struggled under pressure, allowing the reigning Olympic champions to seal a 6-2 victory. Chinese Taipei claimed bronze by defeating Mexico 5-1.
South Korea continued its supremacy in the mixed team event, with Olympic champions Kim Woo-jin and Lim Si-hyeon overpowering China’s Wang Yan and Li Jiaman 6-2. Türkiye secured the bronze medal.
“These young athletes experienced their first international final showdown against Korean archers,” said Chinese coach Kwon Yong-hak. “They were angry after the match – I told them they should feel that way. This unyielding attitude is crucial for growth.”
He particularly noted Li Jiaman’s determination: “She desperately wanted redemption after the women’s team loss, but the mounting pressure affected her mixed team performance. We’re not afraid of losing – these lessons will fuel our preparation for Los Angeles 2028.”
Kim Woo-jin cemented his status as the tournament’s standout athlete, adding individual men’s gold to his team and mixed team triumphs. The Paris 2024 Olympic champion edged Mexico’s Matias Grande 7-1 in the final. In the women’s event, Lee Ga-hyun completed Korea’s golden sweep with a 6-2 victory over compatriot Lim Si-hyeon.
The compound finals on Saturday saw Dutch star Mike Schloesser claim his tenth World Cup stage gold in the men’s final, while India’s Madhura Dhamangaonkar secured her victory in the women’s final. Team honors went to India (men), Mexico (women), and Britain’s Ella Gibson and Ajay Scott (mixed).
The Archery World Cup moves to Antalya, Türkiye for its next stage from June 3-8.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)
CHICAGO – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Chief Deputy Whip and Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, released the following statement announcing her decision not to seek reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026:
“For the last 26 years, I have had the distinct honor and privilege of representing the 9th Congressional District of Illinois, my lifelong home and the best district in the nation. Today, it is with profound gratitude and the utmost appreciation for my constituents that I announce my decision not to seek reelection at the end of my current term.
“I am incredibly proud of the things I have been able to accomplish during my time in Congress. I was honored to help draft and pass the Affordable Care Act, ensuring that Americans could no longer be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions and providing quality health coverage for millions. I was able to pass consumer protection bills that have saved lives and protected Americans, especially our children, from dangerous products and improved auto safety. I worked hard to protect the well-being of seniors and their families, blocking Republican attempts to privatize Social Security and to improve Medicare and Medicaid by lowering prescription drug prices and expanding access to quality long-term care. I would not have been able to do any of this without the counsel of committed consumer advocates and the continued trust and support of our community.
“While these legislative wins are important, the most rewarding part of my job has always been engaging directly with constituents in the 9th District. Whether it be a school visit, attending a rally, touring a new small business, or speaking with fellow shoppers at my local Jewel, I have always prioritized and enjoyed meeting with constituents and providing constituent services. I am so proud that I have always had one of the best and most successful constituent service operations in the country. Whether solving problems with health insurers or Medicare, expediting a passport or immigration application, assisting small businesses, not-for-profits, and community colleges with funding requests, helping veterans get their benefits, cutting through red tape to solve Social Security and IRS problems, stopping deportations, and so much more, my team and I have worked diligently each day to advocate and deliver for our constituents.
“For my entire career, I have made it my mission to mentor and guide the next generation of leaders. In fact, when I talk with students, I do not ask them what they want to be when they grow up, I ask them what they want to do today to make a difference in this world. It is now time for me to pass the baton. We are so fortunate in the 9th District that there are dozens of talented leaders, advocates, and organizers who know our community and who are ready to lead the charge as we fight back against the extreme MAGA agenda and President Donald Trump’s shameful policies.
“To the people of Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, thank you for allowing me to be your voice in Congress. I have tried to serve you each and every day with the integrity, decency, and fire you deserve. It truly is the honor of a lifetime!
“To my staff, past and present, I could not have done this without you. Thank you for your dedication, sacrifices, expertise, and smiles. Together, through all those late nights and early mornings, we were able to make a difference. The 9th District of Illinois and our nation are healthier, stronger, and more prosperous because of our hard work.
“And to my family, thank you for going on this wild journey with me. I am looking forward to spending more family time together as I enter this new chapter of life. I love you.
“While I will miss serving the people of the 9th District in an elected capacity, I am not going anywhere. For the remainder of my term, and beyond, I vow to continue taking every opportunity possible to fight for my community and my country. I will do everything in my power to secure equal rights for all, an economy that works for everyone, not just the rich, universal health care, reproductive rights, environmental protections and climate security, and so much more. We must all keep the faith, continue to resist, and make our voices heard, because when we fight, we win!”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)
Full Text of Bill (PDF)
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) introduced the Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act to help put an end to Big Pharma’s greed and ensure that American patients can access prescription drugs at fair prices.
Right now, some brand-name drug prices are over four times higher in the U.S. than in other countries. As a result, the U.S. makes up for more of Big Pharma’s profits than the rest of the world combined. This legislation will amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow American wholesalers, pharmacies, and individuals to import affordable and safe drugs from Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Switzerland.
“Thanks to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, millions of Medicare beneficiaries are seeing prescription drug costs lowered. While this is a historic achievement, more must be done to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable medications,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “That is why I am proud to introduce the Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act, which would allow for the importation of affordable and safe drugs to the U.S. from Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Switzerland, to ensure that every day Americans can get the prescriptions they need at a reasonable cost. There is no reason that Americans should be paying double, sometimes even triple the cost for the same drugs. It is time for Big Pharma’s price gouging to come to an end and for U.S. patients to have access to the same fair drug pricing as the rest of the developed world.”
“The right to buy lower-cost prescription drugs from licensed pharmacies in other countries, in particular from Canada, is critical for millions of Americans on fixed incomes. It’s a proven money-saving pathway that has been used safely for more than 20 years,” said Ken Hunter, Executive Director of the Campaign for Personal Prescription Importation (CPPI). “In fact, CPPI’s most recent national survey shows Americans have an average annual savings of $4,920 per year by importing prescription medications from Canada, compared to U.S. costs, Rep. Schakowsky’s “Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act” will preserve these rights. Prescription importation from licensed Canadian pharmacies works, is safe, and is a proven pathway for Americans to obtain their necessary, lower-cost, prescription medicines.”
“Social Security Works thanks Rep. Schakowsky, one of the foremost champions for seniors and people with disabilities in Congress, for introducing this essential legislation. With millions of Americans struggling to fill their prescriptions, we need to make it easier for them to purchase affordable medications from abroad — not harder and more expensive, as President Trump is threatening to do.
Congress should swiftly pass the Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act into law so that Americans can get the medications they need.” said Alex Lawson, Executive Director of Social Security Works.
Original cosponsors of the Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act include Reps. Steve Cohen (TN-09), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Mark Pocan (WI-02).
Endorsing organizations include: Campaign for Personal Prescription Importation, Social Security Works, Alliance for Retired Americans, Economic Policy Institute, Prescription Justice, Consumer Action, Just Care USA, Citizen Action/Illinois, Physicians for a National Health Program, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Voices of Health Care Action, Beta Cell Action, ACA Consumer Advocacy, Committee to Protect Health Care, Rise Up WV, NY StateWide Senior Action Council.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)
WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement on the firing of the Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden:
“I am outraged that President Trump has callously fired the Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden. She must be immediately reinstated.
For nearly ten years, Dr. Hayden has brilliantly served one of our most revered institutions, promoting the democratization of knowledge and upholding the Library of Congress’s nonpartisan mission of promoting our nation’s culture and history. Dr. Hayden is the first woman, Black person, and librarian since 1974 to serve in this role, bringing a wealth of knowledge and invaluable perspective to the People’s Library. I appreciate the Librarian’s friendship and her work organizing wonderful programming on a wide variety of issues over the years and facilitating bipartisan dialogue. Dr. Hayden’s excellent work is widely respected by Republicans and Democrats alike.
There is not a shred of evidence that Dr. Hayden deserves to be fired. The Librarian’s termination is yet another example of President Trump’s cruel attack on the American people’s world-class cultural institutions and dedicated public servants.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)
Full Text of Letter (PDF)
“Without the dedicated oversight of the CPSC, American families, especially children, will be left vulnerable in their own homes.”
WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Kevin Mullin (D-CA) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today led 21 members of the Senate and 27 members of the House in calling on Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to reverse plans to eliminate the bipartisan, independent Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC is the only government entity tasked with developing and enforcing product safety standards, facilitating recalls of unsafe products, and educating consumers and businesses about product hazards and best practices. The proposal to absorb some of CPSC’s core functions into a nonexistent division within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as HHS’ budget is being cut, is unrealistic and threatens public safety.
“Since its inception, the CPSC has played a vital role safeguarding American families, and in particular infants, children, and older Americans. Thanks to the CPSC’s critical work, residential fires and fire-related deaths have decreased by over 40 percent. Crib deaths and child poisonings have dropped by 80 percent. The Commission’s work continues today, identifying emerging threats and protecting Americans from dangerous and banned imported products,” the Members wrote.
The Members continued, “With the rapid growth of e-commerce and imported consumer products, especially from countries with less stringent safety regulations, CPSC plays a critical role to prevent unsafe and counterfeit goods from entering the U.S. market unchecked.”
“We strongly oppose any attempt to eliminate, defund, or weaken the CPSC and demand that you immediately roll back any efforts to dissolve the agency. Americans rightfully expect that the products they bring into their home are safe, and only the CPSC has the authority and expertise to ensure that expectation is met,” the Members concluded.
Blumenthal, Schakowsky, and Mullin’s letter comes as more than 150 consumer protection and trade groups warned that eliminating the CPSC would undermine product safety, weaken enforcement actions, consumer education campaigns, and data collection initiatives that protect Americans.
U.S. Senators Amby Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angus King (I-ME), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ron Wyden (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Martin Heinrich (D-MN) signed onto the letter.
U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Al Green (D-TX), Danny Davis (D-IL), Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL), Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL), Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL), Rick Larson (D-CT), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Lori Trahan (D-MA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Rashida Talib (D-MI), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), André Carson (D-IN), Becca Balint (D-WA), and J. Luis Correa (D-CA) also joined the letter.
Pearl River, N.Y. – 5/11/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, reacts to the news of the expected release of Edan Alexander. This comes after leading a bipartisan letter to President Trump on Friday, urging him to do everything within his power to bring all the hostages home.
“On Friday, I led a bipartisan letter to the Trump administration asking President Trump to continue exerting maximum diplomatic pressure in order to return all of the hostages still being held in Gaza,” wrote Chairman Lawler.
“Today, I’m thrilled by the news that we may soon have Edan Alexander return home. I applaud President Trump for his tireless work in securing the release of the hostages. We must not relent until they’re all brought home,” concluded Chairman Lawler.
Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.
Washington, D.C. – 5/10/25… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), joined by Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), French Hill (AR-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) led 45 of their House colleagues in a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging his administration to continue prioritizing the immediate release of the five American citizens who remain in captivity in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks on Israel.
The coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups that killed over 1,200 people, including more than 40 Americans. On that day, they took into Gaza over 250 hostages, twelve of whom were American. Five U.S. citizens Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, Itay Chen, Gadi Haggai, and Judi Weinstein Haggai remain in captivity, with Edan as the only hostage who is believed to be alive.
“Securing the release of all five American hostages is critical as every additional moment in captivity is a matter of life or death,” wrote the lawmakers. “We urge you to avail yourself of all available options and diplomatic channels to achieve a deal for their release.”
“Our government’s most solemn responsibility is to keep Americans safe. With that responsibility in mind, we urge you to use all diplomatic tools at your disposal, in concert with our regional allies and partners, to ensure Edan’s release and the release of the remains of the deceased American hostages as soon as possible. Every day in captivity adds to the nightmare for the hostages and their families. We must bring them home now,” concluded the lawmakers.
Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.