n the early hours of May 7, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a bold and calculated military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 civilians, mostly tourists. The operation, which involved deep strikes inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), marked a significant shift in India’s counterterrorism doctrine.
Destruction of Terror Launchpads
India successfully destroyed nine high-value terror launchpads linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen. These locations were identified as key training and operational hubs for attacks against India.
Deep Strikes into Pakistan’s Mainland
Operation Sindoor broke conventional norms by targeting locations deep within Pakistan’s mainland, including strategic zones like Punjab province and Bahawalpur — areas once considered untouchable. By doing so, India discarded the old distinction between terrorists and their state sponsors, treating both as legitimate targets. This demonstrated that no part of Pakistan would be considered safe if terror emanates from its soil.
Assertion of a Red Line
The response signaled a doctrinal shift in India’s strategy, establishing that state-sponsored terrorism would now invite targeted, visible, and proportional retaliation. Operation Sindoor underlined a new red line that Pakistan could no longer ignore.
Exposing Pakistan’s Air Defence Vulnerabilities
Indian forces, including Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and HAMMER bombs, executed the strikes with pinpoint accuracy. The 23-minute mission exposed significant gaps in Pakistan’s air defence network, which was either bypassed or neutralised. Not a single Indian asset was lost in the operation.
Demonstration of Robust Air Defence Capabilities
India also proved its robust air defence capabilities at home. The Akashteer Air Defence System played a key role in intercepting hundreds of Pakistani drones and missiles, and is now positioned as a serious global export contender.
Precision Without Escalation
While India’s actions were assertive, they were not escalatory. No civilian or general military infrastructure was targeted — only identified terror assets. The response followed India’s long-standing doctrine of zero tolerance toward terrorism, coupled with a clear effort to avoid civilian casualties.
Elimination of Key Terrorist Operatives
Several high-value terrorist operatives were eliminated, including individuals on India’s most-wanted list. The leadership of multiple terror modules was dismantled in one night.
Damage to Pakistan’s Military Establishment
In retaliation to Pakistan’s drone and missile attacks on May 9–10, India carried out strikes on 11 Pakistani air bases, including Nur Khan, Rafiqi, Murid, Sukkur, Sialkot, Pasrur, Chunian, Sargodha, Skardu, Bholari, and Jacobabad. These strikes reportedly destroyed 20 percent of Pakistan’s air force infrastructure. Among the dead was Pakistan’s squadron leader Usman Yousuf.
Tri-Service Coordination
The operation showcased seamless tri-service coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Indian Navy’s deployment in the Arabian Sea kept Pakistan’s naval assets pinned near the coast, while weapon drills ensured full operational preparedness at sea.
Global Message Sent
Globally, the operation sent a strong message. In contrast to previous conflicts where India was urged to show restraint, this time the world’s leading powers largely expressed support for India’s right to defend its citizens and territory.
Changing the Narrative on Kashmir
Operation Sindoor also helped shift the narrative around Kashmir. The strikes were viewed not through the prism of the bilateral dispute, but as part of a legitimate response to terrorism. For the first time, the Kashmir issue was effectively de-hyphenated from India’s right to act against terror.
India’s message was unambiguous: those who shelter terrorists will no longer be safe. The response to Pahalgam was not just retaliation — it was a declaration of resolve.
lass=”selectable-text copyable-text x15bjb6t x1n2onr6″ dir=”ltr”>People with excess weight are more likely to experience long-term neurological and mental health symptoms after Covid-19, including headaches, vertigo, smell and taste disorders, sleep disturbances, and depression, according to new research.
The study was conducted by visiting PhD scholar Debora Barbosa Ronca from the Edith Cowan University (ECU) Centre of Precision Health.
“We anticipated some level of association between excess weight and post-Covid-19 symptoms based on prior evidence linking obesity with worse long-term Covid-19 outcomes. What stood out was the consistency of findings across a wide range of neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms—including memory problems, depression, sleep disturbances, and sensory impairments,” said Ronca.
She noted that while the study did not include subgroup analyses by ethnicity, the inclusion of data from 23 countries suggested the global relevance of the findings.
Excess weight has been associated with the development of long Covid—or Post-Covid-19 Condition—as defined by the World Health Organization.
While the mechanisms behind this link are not yet fully understood, Ronca suggested it may be related to an exaggerated inflammatory response caused by excess fatty tissue in the body. Additionally, fat tissue may assist the SARS-CoV-2 virus in entering the body and act as a reservoir, allowing it to spread.
Some studies have shown that long Covid symptoms can persist for 12 months or longer, highlighting the need for long-term medical support.
“These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and may linger for months. As we face overlapping public health challenges in the post-pandemic era—such as long Covid, mental health issues, and rising obesity rates—it’s essential to develop personalised and multidisciplinary care strategies to support affected individuals,” Ronca added.
She emphasised that healthcare providers should be aware that individuals with excess weight may face a higher risk of experiencing long-term neurological and mental health symptoms after Covid-19.
“This population may require closer monitoring and integrated care. Combining weight management, mental health support, and rehabilitation into post-Covid care plans could improve patient outcomes,” she said.
xternal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar received a call from Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on Sunday, during which the two leaders discussed recent developments amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.
Jaishankar underlined the importance of “zero tolerance for terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.” The conversation also covered opportunities for economic cooperation between India and Egypt.
“Received a call from FM Badr Abdelatty of Egypt. Apprised him of recent developments and emphasized the importance of zero tolerance for terrorism in all forms and manifestations. Discussed economic cooperation prospects between India and Egypt. Look forward to welcoming him in India,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.
Meanwhile, hours after Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement between the two nations, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the breach was a serious setback to the understanding reached, and India takes “very serious note of these violations.”
Misri added that India’s Armed Forces have been instructed to respond firmly to any future violations, whether along the International Border or the Line of Control (LoC).
Following the violation, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s unwavering stance on terrorism. “India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on the stoppage of firing and military action. India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so,” he said in a post on X.
irector General of Military Operations (DGMO) Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai on Sunday said that the recent hostilities between India and Pakistan over the past three to four days have been “no less than a war.” He paid tribute to five fallen soldiers and civilians who lost their lives due to Pakistani shelling along the Line of Control (LoC).
Ghai said that the Pakistan Army may be directly involved in infiltration attempts across the LoC, with the intention of targeting Indian military posts.
“The activities that have been going on for the last 3–4 days are no less than a war. Under normal circumstances, the air forces of countries do not fly and attack each other. Normally, infiltration across the Line of Control is carried out by terrorists. We have credible information that the Pakistan Army may also be involved in these infiltration attempts, targeting our posts,” Ghai said during a press conference.
“I pay my solemn homage to my five fallen colleagues and brothers from the armed forces, as well as to the civilians who tragically lost their lives during Operation Sindoor. Our hearts go out to the bereaved families. Their sacrifices shall always be remembered,” he added.
The DGMO warned that while India had exercised considerable restraint and kept its actions measured and non-escalatory, any threat to national sovereignty would be met with decisive force.
“We have thus far exercised immense restraint. Our actions have been focused, measured, and non-escalatory. However, any threat to our sovereignty, territorial integrity, or the safety of our citizens will be met with decisive force,” Ghai said.
Regarding operational measures on the ground, the DGMO said that the armed forces had deployed air defence and electronic warfare assets to integrate operations with the Indian Air Force (IAF), enhancing the ability to counter airspace violations.
“On land, we undertook measures such as the deployment of air defence and electronic warfare assets to establish an integrated grid with the Indian Air Force. I have seen and heard some of you acknowledge the effectiveness of such an architecture in countering air intrusions,” he noted.
irector General of Military Operations (DGMO) Lt Gen Rajeev Ghai on Sunday revealed that it was Pakistan’s DGMO who proposed a ceasefire between the two sides—an understanding that was violated by Pakistan within hours of taking effect.
Addressing a press briefing in New Delhi, Ghai said the proposal to halt hostilities was made during a direct hotline conversation initiated by Pakistan on May 10.
“My communication with the Pak DGMO was conducted at 15:35 hours yesterday (Saturday) and resulted in the cessation of cross-border firing and air intrusions by either side with effect from 17:00 hours, 10th of May, after he proposed that we cease hostilities,” Ghai said
The ceasefire was aimed at de-escalating tensions along the Line of Control and the international border following the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists. The understanding was reached purely through bilateral means and without preconditions, reflecting India’s commitment to restoring calm after Indian forces destroyed major terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Lt Gen Ghai further added, “We also decided to speak again on the 12th of May at 12:00 hours to discuss the modalities that would ensure the longevity of this understanding.”
However, he added that the violation of the truce by Pakistan just hours later came as no surprise.
“Expectedly, it took only a couple of hours for the Pakistan Army to violate these arrangements through cross-border and Line of Control firing, followed by drone intrusions during the night and early hours of today,” said Lt Gen Ghai.
India responded strongly to the provocations and lodged a formal protest with Pakistan through the hotline channel.
“We have, earlier today, sent another hotline message to my counterpart highlighting these violations of the understanding between the DGMOs on the 10th of May, and our firm and clear intent to respond fiercely if these are repeated tonight, subsequently, or later,” he said.
Ghai also confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff had granted full operational authority to the Army Commander to initiate counteraction in the event of any violation by Pakistan.
ir Marshal AK Bharti on Sunday emphasised India’s military capabilities, saying that the country has the ability to target every system at Pakistan’s military bases.
His remarks came amid heightened tensions between the two nations following Operation Sindoor, a recent Indian military operation that targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation involved precision strikes on nine identified sites, including militant camps in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bahawalpur.
Speaking at a press briefing, Air Marshal Bharti said, “We have the capability to target every system at these bases and more. However, this was a measured response intended to instil wisdom in our adversary and discourage further escalation. The IAF’s response was directed solely at military installations, deliberately avoiding civilian areas and collateral damage”.
According to Bharti, Pakistan launched a large-scale drone attack targeting Indian cities, including Srinagar and Naliya, on the night of May 8–9. He said Indian air defence forces were well-prepared and successfully countered the drones, preventing any damage to their intended targets.
“A decision was taken to strike where it would hurt. In a swift, coordinated, and calibrated attack, we struck their air bases, command centres, military infrastructure, and air defence systems across the entire Western Front. The bases we struck include Chaklala, Rafiqi, and Rahim Yar Khan, sending a clear message that aggression will not be tolerated. These were followed by strikes at Sargodha, Bhulari, and Jacobabad,” he added.
ore than 100 terrorists, including those linked to the 1999 Indian Airlines IC-814 hijacking and the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, were killed in precision strikes conducted by Indian armed forces in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor, Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) Lt Gen Rajeev Ghai said on Sunday.
Addressing a press conference in the capital, Lt Gen Ghai said the operation was conceived with a clear military objective: to target the perpetrators and planners of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians were killed.
“Operation Sindoor was conceptualised with a clear military aim—to punish the perpetrators and planners of terror and to destroy their infrastructure. What I will not reiterate here is India’s established resolve and intolerance for terrorism,” he said.
Among those killed were high-value targets such as Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudasir Ahmed. According to officials, these individuals were directly involved in the hijacking of IC-814 and the Pulwama suicide bombing that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.
“Strikes across nine identified terror hubs eliminated more than 100 terrorists. Some of these locations were actively being used as launch pads and training centres,” Ghai said.
He also confirmed that the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy played significant roles in executing the strikes. “The Air Force engaged several camps with precision targeting, and the Navy provided advanced munitions. The IAF maintained air dominance during the operations,” he added.
In response to the strikes, Pakistani forces violated the Line of Control (LoC), leading to retaliatory engagements. Ghai described Pakistan’s reaction as “erratic and rattled”, pointing out that several civilian areas, including villages and religious sites such as gurdwaras, were hit during their response, resulting in civilian casualties.
Ghai said the Pahalgam attack, along with a string of recent terror strikes, was a tipping point. “The brutal killing of 26 innocent civilians at Pahalgam on April 22, coupled with other attacks on our forces and defenceless civilians, made it imperative for India to respond decisively,” he said.
Post-strike surveillance indicated that several terror hubs had been vacated in anticipation of Indian retaliation. “We undertook a thorough assessment of the terror infrastructure across the border. Many of these sites had been pre-emptively abandoned, likely fearing retribution,” he said.
The government has not released an official count of casualties on the Pakistani side, reiterating that the mission’s objective was not body count but the neutralisation of terror networks.
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.
ADB has partnered with countries in Asia and the Pacific since 1968 to improve urban services and living conditions. With a With a portfolio of $1.7 billion in 2024,, ADB focuses on making cities green, competitive, inclusive, and resilient, tackling complex urban challenges through integrated approaches.
Attribute to Detective Inspector Martin James, District Manager Criminal Investigations:
Police can now release the name of the teenager killed in Napier early on Sunday morning.
He was 15-year-old Kaea Karauria from Napier.
He was found critically injured at an Alexander Avenue address. Despite all efforts by ambulance staff, he died at the scene.
A homicide investigation was launched yesterday, and a team of 20 investigators are continuing to make enquiries.
No one has been arrested at this stage.
A disorder event involving a group of people on Dinwiddie Avenue may be linked to the incident.
We still urgently need to hear from anyone who was in the area, or anyone who took photos or video of the altercation on Dinwiddie Avenue.
We understand the fact someone so young has been killed is very unsettling for the community.
We are providing support to the whanau of the victim and assure the community we are working hard to understand what happened and hold those responsible to account.
We would like to thank local residents for their cooperation and patience.
Anyone with information is asked to make a report online, or by calling 105.
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.
“The Odyssey 3D marks the beginning of a new era of experiences.”— Taekwan Lee, Samsung Electronics
3D content has often been associated with inconvenience. Enjoying it typically required specialized equipment such as 3D glasses or head-mounted displays (HMDs). Imperfections in the delivery of 3D images caused crosstalk, potentially leading to dizziness. These discomforts would chip away the immersion of 3D content.
Samsung Electronics is changing that narrative with the introduction of the Odyssey 3D (G90XF) — a finely tuned glasses-free 3D gaming monitor. Featuring eye-tracking and view-mapping technology, the Odyssey 3D marks a paradigm shift in immersive viewing and gaming experiences.
Samsung Newsroom sat down with Donghwa Lim from the Enterprise R&D Lab and Taekwan Lee from the Product Innovation Lab, both part of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics, to discuss how the Odyssey 3D is redefining perceptions of 3D.
The Three Core Technologies Behind Odyssey 3D
3D displays create a sense of dimension using binocular disparity, in which the brain perceives depth by processing the slightly different images seen by each eye. Leveraging this principle, the Odyssey 3D delivers a glasses-free 3D experience by precisely presenting different images to each eye without the need for external equipment. The eye-tracking technology is designed to recognize users’ eyes even when they are wearing glasses.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to bring to market a technology that once seemed out of reach.”— Donghwa Lim, Samsung Electronics
At the heart of the Odyssey 3D are three key technologies — eye tracking, view mapping and a lenticular lens.
▲ Odyssey 3D features a myriad of technologies to deliver an immersive, glasses-free 3D experience
Eye tracking is enabled by a stereo camera mounted at the top of the monitor, detecting and tracking the user’s eye movements in real time.
“Because the two cameras capture different images, much like human eyes, they can determine the exact position of the user’s eyes and distance between the eyes and the monitor in real time,” said Lim. “This real-time eye position detection allows us to deliver a precise 3D image, even when the user moves.”
▲ (From left) View mapping and the lenticular lens
Based on this data, the system calculates the correct pixel positioning for each eye and reconstructs a single image through a process called view mapping. The final mapped images are then separately delivered to each eye through the lenticular lens, allowing the images from the display panels to be visible to each eye by utilizing light refraction.
What’s more, the Odyssey 3D isn’t limited to 3D gameplay alone. Since the Odyssey 3D was developed as a gaming monitor, it performs exceptionally well in terms of picture quality and response speed, even when used for 2D gameplay. The lenticular lens activates only when a 3D mode is enabled by Reality Hub.
Minimizing Crosstalk With Samsung’s Advanced Display Technology
While 3D effects offer new levels of immersion, even minor visual inconsistencies can disrupt the experience. Samsung has dedicated significant resources to ensuring premium 3D visuals.
“Crosstalk occurs when the images perceived by the left and right eyes aren’t properly aligned,” said Lim. “It can lead to dizziness and other visual discomforts, so we developed several techniques to reduce it.”
▲ Donghwa Lim, Enterprise R&D Lab, Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics, explains how technologies were meticulously put together to minimize crosstalk
“Even the slightest misalignments during the production or assembly of camera and display components can affect image accuracy,” he noted. “To address this, Samsung applies post-assembly calibration for both the camera and display panel and stores unit-specific data into a dedicated chip inside the monitor.”
In addition to hardware calibration, the Odyssey 3D features a deep learning-based eye-tracking algorithm and a specially engineered display cell coating designed to reduce light distortion and glare — all contributing to minimizing crosstalk and delivering a refined 3D experience.
Driving 3D Gaming Innovation Through Industry Partnerships
The true strength of the Odyssey 3D comes to life during gameplay. To bring immersive and personalized gaming experiences to users, Samsung is actively collaborating with industry partners to optimize games for glasses-free 3D.
“When industry-leading companies join forces, the benefits are ultimately passed on to gamers.”— Taekwan Lee, Samsung Electronics
In partnership with Microsoft and virtual reality (VR) company Zero Density, Samsung has made high-quality 3D gaming content available through Reality Hub — a Windows-based 3D content platform that also supports the conversion of 2D photos and videos into 3D.
▲ Taekwan Lee, Product Innovation Lab, Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics, explains that cross-industry efforts are key in expanding the 3D market
Joint efforts are also underway to expand 3D gaming content.
“Game developers are constantly exploring ways to offer new experiences to users,” said Lee. “One of those directions is 3D gaming.”
While the 3D gaming market is still emerging, Lee emphasized that industry-wide collaboration is key to accelerating its growth.
“The First Berserker: Khazan” — a recently published game developed by Nexon Korea and Neople — stands as a notable example of how 3D immersion can come to life through collaboration with Samsung during development.
“Through this partnership, Nexon, Neople and Samsung have been working closely to tailor the 3D visuals, carefully adjusting them based on the composition of characters and backgrounds. We ensured that everything from scene-specific factors to cinematic transitions could be presented more vividly on Odyssey 3D monitor,” he explained.
▲ A scene from “The First Berserker: Khazan”
“Creating effects like drifting particles, fast-moving flames and cinematic cutscenes1 was technically challenging, but I’m proud of what we achieved through teamwork,” Lee added. “In particular, the snowy mountain scene in Khazan gives the impression that snowflakes are flying directly toward the player when played on the Odyssey 3D. It’s an experience I would strongly recommend trying firsthand.”
“Our research is a journey to connect users to the future.”— Taekwan Lee, Samsung Electronics
With the Odyssey 3D, Samsung is elevating the gaming experience to new levels of immersion.
“We are in discussions with local and global game developers to expand the 3D gaming market,” he emphasized. “Our goal is to collaborate with more developers to bring a broader range of 3D games to users. When industry-leading companies join forces, the benefits are ultimately passed on to gamers.”
From Impossible to Possible: Leading the Future of 3D Monitors
Lim reflected on how far technology has come over the past decade.
“Way back when I first joined Samsung, I attended a meeting on 3D technology where the lenticular lens was deemed ‘not feasible’ with existing technology,” he said. “Now, years later, we’ve not only made it possible, but we’ve also brought it to market. It’s incredibly remarkable and deeply rewarding to see a product launch built on technology that once seemed out of reach.”
▲ Donghwa Lim and Taekwan Lee are excited about the market potential of 3D content and monitors
“Our research to create new experiences is a journey to connect users to the future. The Odyssey 3D marks the beginning of a new era in expanding the boundaries of technology-driven experiences,” said Lee. “Games played on the Odyssey 3D are sure to deliver a ‘wow’ factor — not just at specific moments, but throughout the entire experience.”
As Samsung continues to lead the gaming monitor market, the Odyssey 3D stands as a powerful example of how the company is redefining immersive experiences and pushing the limits of display innovation.
1 Short storytelling clips shown between stages during gameplay.
The escalation of violence in West Papua is on par with some of the most intense times of conflict over the past six decades, a human rights researcher says.
The United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) claims that Indonesia killed at least one civilian and severely injured another last Tuesday in Puncak Regency.
In a statement, ULMWP interim president Benny Wenda said Deris Kogoya, 18, was killed by a rocket attack from a helicopter while riding his motorbike near Kelanungin Village.
Jemi Waker, meanwhile, sustained severe violent injuries, including to both his legs.
The statement said Waker had refused to go to hospital, fearing he would be killed if he went.
Human Rights Watch researcher Andreas Harsono said that over the past month he had received an unusually high number of messages accompanied by gruesome photos showing either Indonesian soldiers or civilians being killed.
“The fighting is much more frequent now,” Harsono said.
More Indonesian soldiers “There are more and more Indonesian soldiers sent to West Papua under President Pradowo.
“At the same time, indigenous Papuans are also gaining more and more men, unfortunately also boys, to join the fight in the jungle.”
He said the escalation could match similarly intense periods of conflict in 1977, 1984, and 2004.
A spokesperson for Indonesia’s Embassy in Wellington said they could not confirm if there had been a military attack in Puncak Regency on Tuesday.
However, they said all actions conducted by Indonesia’s military were in line with international law.
They said there were attacks in March and April of this year, instigated by an “armed criminal group” targeting Indonesian workers and civilians.
Harsono said if the attack was on civilians, it would be a clear breach of human rights.
Confirmation difficult However, he said it was difficult to confirm due to the remoteness of the area. He said it was common for civilians to wear army camouflage because of surplus Indonesian uniforms.
Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines
If you’re about to dive into some DIY, check out the materials from storm-damaged homes that are available at your community recycling centre.
With more than 200 of the 1200 Category 3 homes now removed, material from the deconstructed homes have ended up at recycling centres across the city – ready to become someone else’s treasure.
Grab everything from a whole kitchen, to framing timber, to a door for your next renovation and help these recycled materials find a new home. If the recycling centre doesn’t have the material you’re looking for, please ask them if they can get it.
The recycling centres with these materials are Devonport, Helensville, Onehunga, Henderson (Tipping Point), Point England (Tāmaki), Wairau, Waiuku and Warkworth. See the Auckland Council website for location details and hours of operation.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Beverland, Professor of Brand Management, University of Sussex Business School, University of Sussex
Whatever you think of his personality or politics, it’s impossible to deny the success of Donald Trump as a brand. Supporters and detractors across the world are transfixed by his second term as US president.
And so far, many corporate brands appear keen to get alongside him. The leaders of Tesla, Amazon and Meta were all prominent guests at Trump’s inauguration in January 2025.
By then, Mark Zuckerberg had already shifted company policy on fact checking to be more aligned with the political wind. Weeks later, retail giants Walmart and Target had rolled back diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Even the NFL, which had so infuriated Trump in his first term with its support for diversity, has come to heel.
So now that Trump is back in town, is the only option available to big US organisations to swing to the right? Well, not necessarily.
Our research suggests that the rise of populism actually represents an opportunity for brands to rebuild a sense of shared national identity.
And the most well-known brands are the best placed to do this. Their familiar place in people’s everyday lives gives them huge power as non-political agents of collective identity which can cross divides of race, class, geography and age.
A great example of this was during the presidential election campaign when Trump’s team wanted to organise a publicity stunt involving the Republican candidate “working” at a branch of McDonald’s in Pennsylvania.
Trump’s love of the golden arches is well known, but McDonald’s is a strongly non-political brand. So what should it do? Refuse and risk a backlash, or accept and be accused of taking sides?
In the end, the company’s response was a masterclass in neutrality.
McDonald’s told its employees that the company was neither red (Republican) nor blue (Democrat), but golden. Referring to both presidential candidates’ love of McDonald’s, the company made it clear that the permission granted to Trump illustrated one of their core values, stating: “We open our doors for everyone”.
The plan worked. And this was partly down to McDonald’s being widely thought of as an authentic brand which connects people.
Research has shown that people really value a company’s place in local communities. And McDonald’s is a place which hosts children’s birthday parties, where you can catch up with friends, where you might even have had your first ever job.
This kind of power to unify is something other brands can do too. As something our earlier research shows, brands can benefit from bringing people together, by creating a sense of shared identity.
Brand new
In New Zealand for example, ANZ Bank was widely applauded for a campaign featuring Indian immigrants. The advert tells the story of a father and son and their mixed cricketing loyalties (the parent to India, the child to New Zealand).
It is a tale of immigrants achieving their version of the national dream, through hard work and trademark Kiwi humour. This kind of narrative-driven campaign does not pitch one side against another, but instead highlights the things that bind people together.
Similarly in the UK, the department store John Lewis has become a seasonal advertising staple as it reminds customers of their shared rituals over Christmas. And Kraft’s “How do you love your Vegemite” campaign allowed new immigrants to participate in local snacking rituals, helping them feel Australian.
In the US, a 1971 Coca Cola commercial (one of the most lauded adverts ever) presented a united multi-cultural collection of young people as a response to the anti-Vietnam war counter-culture.
So far, American brands have struggled to navigate the ever-shifting pronouncements coming from the White House in Trump’s second term. Amazon for example, quickly went back on its decision to list the cost of tariffs on products after it was branded a “hostile move”.
But one brand does stand out. And that’s Ford.
Perhaps it was inevitable that the car maker which came to symbolise successful 20th century American manufacturing would get this right. And the company’s decision to extend employee discounts to all consumers in what it describes as “unprecedented times” is a clever move.
Some might call it a cynical tactic to embrace Trump’s tariffs and encourage Americans to buy American. But the firm (which will likely take a huge hit from more expensive imported parts and materials) is doing much more than that.
Its new campaign (with the slogan “From America for America”) reminds US citizens that the brand is part of their lives, regardless of their political home. Supportive full-page print ads go further, setting out the firm’s long history spent backing the people of America.
One Ford executive says that the campaign is about “authenticity” and Ford being a brand “that all consumers can rely on, especially in these uncertain times”.
Authenticity is much prized when the political landscape is so polarised. And while divisions cannot be healed solely by brands, they can help to remind us of shared values and a sense of community. And in doing so, dial down those political tensions.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
India and Pakistan have seen the scenario play out before: a terror attack in which Indians are killed leads to a succession of escalatory tit-fot-tat measures that put South Asia on the brink of all-out war. And then there is a de-escalation.
The broad contours of that pattern have played out in the most recent crisis, with the latest step being the announcement of a ceasefire on May 10, 2025.
But in another important way, the flare-up – which began on April 22 with a deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed – represents significant departures from the past. It involved direct missile exchanges targeting sites inside both territories and the use of advanced missile systems and drones by the two nuclear rivals for the first time.
These changes have coincided with domestic political shifts in both countries. The pro-Hindu nationalism of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has heightened communal tensions in the country. Meanwhile Pakistan’s powerful army chief, Gen. Syed Asim Munir, has embraced the “two-nation theory,” which holds that Pakistan is a homeland for the subcontinent’s Muslims and India for Hindus.
This religious framing was even seen in the naming of the two countries’ military operations. For India, it is “Operation Sindoor” – a reference to the red vermilion used by married Hindu women, and a provocative nod to the widows of the Kashmir attack. Pakistan called its counter-operation “Bunyan-un-Marsoos” – an Arabic phrase from the Quran meaning “a solid structure.”
The role of Washington
The India-Pakistan rivalry has cost tens of thousands of lives across multiple wars in 1947-48, 1965 and 1971. But since the late 1990s, whenever India and Pakistan approached the brink of war, a familiar de-escalation playbook unfolded: intense diplomacy, often led by the United States, would help defuse tensions.
In 1999, President Bill Clinton’s direct mediation ended the Kargil conflict – a limited war triggered by Pakistani forces crossing the Line of Control into Indian-administered Kashmir – by pressing Pakistan for a withdrawal.
Similarly, after the 2001 attack inside the Indian Parliament by terrorists allegedly linked to Pakistan-based groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage engaged in intense shuttle diplomacy between Islamabad and New Delhi, averting war.
And after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which saw 166 people killed by terrorists linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, rapid and high-level American diplomatic involvement helped restrain India’s response and reduced the risk of an escalating conflict.
As recently as 2019, during the Balakot crisis – which followed a suicide bombing in Pulwama, Kashmir, that killed 40 Indian security personnel – it was American diplomatic pressure that helped contain hostilities. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo later wrote in his memoirs, “I do not think the world properly knows just how close the India-Pakistan rivalry came to spilling over into a nuclear conflagration in February 2019.”
A diplomatic void?
Washington as peacemaker made sense: It had influence and a vested interest.
During the Cold War, the U.S. formed a close alliance with Pakistan to counter India’s links with the Soviet Union. And after the 9/11 terror attacks, the U.S. poured tens of billions of dollars in military assistance into Pakistan as a frontline partner in the “war on terror.”
Simultaneously, beginning in the early 2000s, the U.S. began cultivating India as a strategic partner.
A stable Pakistan was a crucial partner in the U.S. war in Afghanistan; a friendly India was a strategic counterbalance to China. And this gave the U.S. both the motivation and credibility to act as an effective mediator during moments of India-Pakistan crisis.
Today, however, America’s diplomatic attention has shifted significantly away from South Asia. The process began with the end of the Cold War, but accelerated dramatically after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. More recently, the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East have consumed Washington’s diplomatic efforts.
Since President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, the U.S. has not appointed an ambassador in New Delhi or Islamabad, nor confirmed an assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian Affairs – factors that must have hampered any mediating role for the United States.
And while Trump said the May 10 ceasefire followed a “long night of talks mediated by the United States,” statements from India and Pakistan appeared to downplay U.S. involvement, focusing instead on the direct bilateral nature of negotiations.
Should it transpire that Washington’s role as a mediator between Pakistan and India has been diminished, it is not immediately obvious who, if anyone, will fill the void. China, which has been trying to cultivate a role of mediator elsewhere, is not seen as a neutral mediator due to its close alliance with Pakistan and past border conflicts with India. Other regional powers like Iran and Saudi Arabia tried to step in during the latest crisis, but both lack the power clout of the U.S. or China.
This absence of external mediation is not, of course, a problem in itself. Historically, foreign interference – particularly U.S. support for Pakistan during the Cold War – often complicated dynamics in South Asia by creating military imbalances and reinforcing hardline positions. But the past has shown external pressure – especially from Washington – can be effective.
Breaking the norms
The recent escalation unfolded against the backdrop of another dynamic: the erosion of international norms since the end of the Cold War and accelerating after 2001.
More recently, Israel’s operations in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria have drawn widespread criticism for violations of international humanitarian law – but have resulted in limited consequences.
In short, geopolitical norms have been ebbed away and military actions that were once deemed red lines are crossed with little accountability.
For India and Pakistan, this environment creates both opportunity and risk. Both can point to behaviors elsewhere to justify assertive actions that they have undertaken that, in previous years, would have been deemed a step too far – such as attacks on places of worship and sovereignty violations.
Multi-domain warfare
But what truly distinguished the latest crisis from those of the past is, I believe, its multi-domain nature. The conflict is no longer confined to conventional military exchanges along the line of control – as it was for the first five decades of the Kashmir question.
Both countries largely respected the line of control as a de facto boundary for military operations until the 2019 crisis. Since then, there has been a dangerous progression: first to cross-border airstrikes into each other’s territories, and now to a conflict that spans conventional military, cyber and information spheres simultaneously.
Reports indicate Chinese-made Pakistani J-10 fighter jets shot down multiple Indian aircraft, including advanced French Rafale jets. This confrontation between Chinese and Western weapons represents not just a bilateral conflict but a proxy test of rival global military technologies – adding another layer of great-power competition to the crisis.
In addition, the use of loitering drones designed to attack radar systems represents a significant escalation in the technological sophistication of cross-border attacks compared to years past.
The conflict has also expanded dramatically into the cyber domain. Pakistani hackers, claiming to be the “Pakistan Cyber Force,” report breaching several Indian defense institutions, potentially compromising personnel data and login credentials.
Simultaneously, social media and a new right-wing media in India have become a critical battlefront. Ultranationalist voices in India incited violence against Muslims and Kashmiris; in Pakistan, anti-India rhetoric similarly intensified online.
Cooler voices prevailing … for now
These shifts have created multiple escalation pathways that traditional crisis management approaches weren’t designed to address.
Particularly concerning is the nuclear dimension. Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine is that it will use nuclear weapons if its existence is threatened, and it has developed short-range tactical nuclear weapons intended to counter Indian conventional advantages. Meanwhile, India has informally dialed back its historic no-first-use stance, creating ambiguity about its operational doctrine.
Thankfully, as the ceasefire announcement indicates, mediating voices appear to have prevailed this time around. But eroding norms, diminished great power diplomacy and the advent of multi-domain warfare, I argue, made this latest flare-up a dangerous turning point.
What happens next will tell us much about how nuclear rivals manage, or fail to manage, the spiral of conflict in this dangerous new landscape.
Farah N. Jan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)
—————
Within the first two weeks of @marines Col. Harvey Curtiss “Barney” Barnum Jr.’s first deployment to Vietnam, the then lieutenant found himself calmly leading his company out of an intense enemy ambush. Barnum’s sound decisions that day helped stabilize his badly depleted unit. For his courage and selflessness, he earned the #MedalofHonor.
#military #marines
For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
—————
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Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
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Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)
Within the first two weeks of @marines Col. Harvey Curtiss “Barney” Barnum Jr.’s first deployment to Vietnam, the then new lieutenant found himself calmly leading his company out of an intense enemy ambush. Barnum’s sound decisions that day helped stabilize his badly depleted unit. For his courage and selflessness, he earned the #MedalofHonor.
#military #marines
For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
Date: 12 May 2025
Danica Stent, DOC’s International Manager, says New Zealand’s existing UNESCO World Heritage sites are some of the most remarkable places in the world.
“Our natural and cultural heritage is central to who we are as a nation. World Heritage sites are a source of national identity and our share of earth’s most unique, significant places.
“They are also a great source of national pride, containing internationally iconic heritage such as Piopiotahi Milford Sound, world-class hikes including the Routeburn and native species found only in New Zealand like kiwi, takahē and kākāpō.”
Aotearoa currently has three World Heritage sites: Te Wāhipounamu – South-West New Zealand, Tongariro National Park and the New Zealand subantarctic islands.
“We want to hear about the places that might make the cut for a new World Heritage site,” Danica says.
“Pursuing World Heritage status is all about being good tīpuna and protecting our heritage today, for all mokopuna tomorrow.”
Anyone making an application for the Tentative List should be prepared to submit a full nomination for World Heritage status within the next 10 years.
Danica says although New Zealand currently has a Tentative List of potential World Heritage sites, it was developed in 2007 and needs updating.
“Ideas about heritage have evolved over the past few decades. There’s now a greater recognition of the importance of the views and rights of indigenous peoples. For this reason, support from mana whenua will be essential for sites to be considered for the Tentative List.”
Making the Tentative List is the first step in the process towards becoming a World Heritage site.
“Robust examination of current sites and potential new sites for the Tentative List is needed to ensure they have local support and a high chance of making it onto the World Heritage List,” Danica says.
Vicki Soanes, Secretary General, New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO, says the programme seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.
“The process of refreshing the Tentative List is an important signal to UNESCO about the value New Zealand places on the World Heritage programme,” Vicki says.
Anyone interested in applying should submit an expression of interest by 31 July 2025, allowing DOC to provide any advice needed to support development of applications. The final closing date for applications is 30 January 2026.
An independent panel of natural and cultural heritage experts will assess the applications and deliver a report to the Conservation Minister on sites for the Tentative List.
Cabinet is expected to decide on the final Tentative List by the end of 2026. The list is submitted to the World Heritage Centre, then nominations can be developed for World Heritage status.
Visit DOC’s website for information on making an application for New Zealand’s World Heritage Tentative List.
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
The ACCC has been granted leave by the Federal Court to commence legal proceedings against two companies in liquidation, Beacon Products Pty Ltd (Beacon) and Zandox Group Pty Ltd (Zandox), for alleged unconscionable conduct and misleading or deceptive conduct.
The ACCC is also taking action against the director of Beacon, Mr Warren Skry, alleging he was knowingly concerned in the companies’ alleged unconscionable conduct.
The ACCC alleges the companies engaged in unconscionable conduct, including by deceiving customers and exerting undue influence and pressure to make unsolicited sales of printer cartridges and cleaning products to businesses across Australia, in breach of the Australian Consumer Law.
Beacon and Zandox allegedly misled business customers into ordering printer cartridges or cleaning products by falsely stating during unsolicited phone calls that they were confirming an order that had already been made by the business when, in fact, no order had been made.
The companies also allegedly misled some customers into thinking an initial order was an agreement for an ongoing supply of goods or that the customer did not have the right to terminate an agreement for ongoing supply, when this was not the case. The companies also allegedly falsely represented to some customers that they did not have a right to return or receive refunds for unwanted goods.
The breaches of the Australian Consumer Law alleged in this case relate to systems of conduct or patterns of behaviour that occurred over several years, first commencing in November 2016.
“The alleged conduct by Beacon and Zandox targeted many small and medium businesses, including a retirement village, residential care facility, a childcare centre, and farming businesses, misleading them into accepting orders of products they didn’t want or need, and then making it very difficult to return the unwanted goods,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.
“We took this action because we were concerned that this type of conduct has the potential to cause financial and emotional stress to business owners and staff.”
In one example of the conduct alleged to be in breach of the Australian Consumer Law, a small business in NSW was sent three deliveries of toner cartridges by Beacon, which the business accepted. A representative of Beacon then contacted the business and requested confirmation of a further delivery of toner cartridges. The business requested that this be the final delivery from Beacon. Beacon continued to contact the business to confirm subsequent orders. It is alleged there was no agreement in place for the order and payment of goods after the initial three deliveries.
The business further contacted Beacon requesting that any future orders be cancelled and, on several occasions, sought to return toner cartridges it did not order or want and sought refunds. Beacon allegedly asserted that the orders were confirmed and authorised by staff of the business, and that they would not take all of the unwanted cartridges back. The ACCC alleges that the business had the right to return and receive a refund for the unordered goods.
The ACCC previously took court action against Mr Skry and his previous company Globex Systems Pty Ltd in 2004 for asserting a right to payment for unsolicited goods and making false representations that businesses had agreed to buy products from Globex when that was not the case.
The ACCC is seeking declarations and penalties against Beacon and Zandox, as well as pecuniary penalties, declarations, disqualification orders, costs and an injunction against Mr Skry.
Background
Because Beacon and Zandox are in liquidation, the ACCC was required to obtain leave of the court before commencing proceedings against the companies.
Beacon and Zandox had liquidators appointed on 20 April 2023 following a creditors’ voluntary winding up decision.
Beacon was incorporated in 2016, initially selling cleaning products and from January 2020 also selling printer consumables. It predominantly sold these products to businesses through telemarketing calls.
Mr Skry has been a director of Beacon from 6 January 2020.
Zandox was incorporated in late 2022. It is alleged that Zandox was essentially as a rebranding of Beacon, selling the same products.
Joel Edgerton, Lucy McKendrick and Toni Collette of Fangs. Australian filmmaker Lucy McKendrick makes her directorial debut with Fangs, a thrilling dark comedy about privilege, power, and dangerous fantasies. Starring Golden Globe nominee Joel Edgerton (The Gift, Zero Dark Thirty) and Golden Globe winner Toni Collette (Knives Out, Mickey 17). The film follows Teddy (McKendrick), the daughter of a private prison mogul, who becomes obsessed with a charismatic inmate, Fangs (Edgerton). Consumed with desire for the self-proclaimed ‘psychopath,’ Teddy risks everything as her life spirals spectacularly out of control. The film is made with major production investment from Screen Australia. Fangs is produced by Rebecca Yeldham (The Gift, The Motorcykle Diaries) through Ahimsa Films together with Aggregate Films’ Michael Costigan (Hitman, Brokeback Mountain), Charlie Polinger (The Plague), and Truant Pictures’ Toby Nalbandian (Turn Me On). The film will commence production in Sydney on August 4, 2025. Cornerstone is handling international sales and will co-rep the US rights with CAA Media Finance. McKendrick is an Australian actor and filmmaker who wrote, produced, co-directed with Charlie Polinger, and starred in the short film F*ck Me, Richard, which debuted at SXSW. Lucy and Charlie recently wrapped Charlie’s highly anticipated directorial debut, The Plague, which will premiere in the Official Selection at Cannes this month, in Un Certain Regard. Screen Australia Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough said, “Fangs has bite in all the right ways – a bold, distinctive feature debut from Lucy McKendrick that we’re proud to support at Screen Australia. The creative team has delivered a sharp, contemporary script, and the powerhouse casting of Toni Collette and Joel Edgerton positions this film for strong international and Australian appeal.” Rebecca Yeldham and Michael Costigan said, “It’s rare to read a script as entertaining, original, and fearless as Lucy McKendrick’s Fangs. We’re thrilled to support Lucy in bringing this bold, hilarious and timely film to the screen and to launch her debut alongside two of Australia’s most iconic and beloved actors, Toni and Joel.” Cornerstone’s Alison Thompson and Mark Gooder also commented, “We love the vision Lucy has for her debut feature, and the casting of Joel and Toni is testament to her sharply original and immensely entertaining script.” Truant Pictures’ Toby Nalbandian said, “We’re incredibly excited to support the debut feature of Lucy McKendrick and to help bring Fangs to life, which promises to be a wild and undeniably entertaining ride for audiences around the world.” Edgerton is represented by WME and Anonymous Content. Collette is represented by CAA, Finley Management, United Management and Kimberly Jaime at Jackoway Austen. McKendrick is represented by CAA and 42mp, Polinger is represented by UTA and Anonymous Content. Both are represented by Jackoway Austen. Aggregate is represented by CAA and Lighthouse Management. Production credit: Fangs is an Ahimsa Films production. Major production investment from Screen Australia. International sales by Cornerstone. FANGS MEDIA ENQUIRIES Anna Bohlin | Cornerstone Films [email protected] Media enquiries Maddie Walsh | Publicist + 61 2 8113 5915 | [email protected] Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu) + 61 428 767 836 | [email protected] All other general/non-media enquiries Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800 | Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]
The 2025 Central Victorian Indigenous Film Festival which takes place from May 27 to June 3, during National Reconciliation Week, will celebrate its ninth year with a feast of films, videos and activities at venues in Bendigo, Castlemaine, Heathcote and Yandoit.
This year’s festival showcases an exciting range of activities, discussions and First Nations films, documentaries and videos starring and telling stories about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People from Central Victoria and across Australia
The festival officially kicks off at 4.30pm Tuesday May 27 at Bendigo Library with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony. There will be an official opening, the announcement of the 2025 Koori Youth Flick Fest winners and screenings of entries by all current and past winners.
This year’s festival screenings include documentaries Blak Douglas vs the Commonwealth and The Earth Above: A deep time view of Australia’s epic history, along with films High Ground, Winhanganha, Sweet As, The Moogai and more.
Other activities include the Bridging Now to Next Anti Racism Forum at Bendigo Library, and a Dumuwal Ulumbarra CBD Walking Tour of Bendigo with Djaara Traditional Owners.
City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said National Reconciliation Week has helped shape Australia’s journey towards a more just, equitable and reconciled nation.
“The City is committed to reconciliation and we are again delighted that people can come together to celebrate at the 2025 Central Victoria Indigenous Film Festival,” Cr Metcalf said.
“National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.”
The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2025 is Bridging Now to Next. The theme reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future, and encourages all Australians to step forward together.
As Road Safety Week begins, the Government’s crackdown on drunk drivers is delivering real results with newly released 2024 statistics showing the number of alcohol-related road deaths reducing by nearly 40%, Transport Minister Chris Bishop and Police Minister Mark Mitchell say.
“Our Government is focused on improving road safety through road policing and enforcement, investment in new and safe roading infrastructure, and targeting the leading contributors to fatal crashes such as drugs and alcohol impairment. That plan – the Road Policing Investment Programme (RPIP) – is seeing some strong results, and we need to keep it up,” Mr Bishop says.
“Police have really stepped up their road policing efforts in the past year. In 2024, Police delivered 4,118,159passive breath and breath screening tests, the highest number recorded in a calendar year, and smashing their RPIP target of 3.3 million per year.
“Police have also exceeded their target to focus 65% of their breath testing on the highest risk times. In the first nine months of this financial year (July 2024 to March 2025), Police delivered 2,177,179 passive breath and breath screening tests during high or extreme risk alcohol hours. This is 35% above the year-to-date target of 1,608,750 tests, and a 21% increase compared to the first nine months of the previous financial year.
“The whole point of roadside breath testing is to keep New Zealanders safer on the roads – and it’s working.
“It’s really encouraging to see an almost 40% reduction in the number of road deaths where alcohol was a contributing factor, from 92 alcohol-related road deaths in 2023 down to 57 in 2024.
“In fact, the steep reduction in alcohol-related road deaths led to the 2024 total road toll being the lowest since 2014. Every avoidable road death is a tragedy and there’s always more work to do, but this is a big step in the right direction.”
“The reduced number of road deaths in 2024 is also significant given the presence of factors that can drive up the road toll, such as population increases, continued increases in the size of the vehicle fleet and increases in the total vehicle kilometres travelled (VKT) across the network.
“Roadside testing for drug driving is also coming soon. Anyone who drives while under the influence of drugs should know that they’re putting themselves and other road users at risk – and we’re not going to put up with it.
“In March 2025 the Government passed legislation to enable Police to conduct roadside testing for drug impairment, and we expect these tests to start being rolled out later this year.”
“Alcohol and drugs are leading contributors to death and serious injury on our roads, and both random and selective breath testing is proven to discourage people from drinking and driving. Every breath test delivered has the potential to save a life, and you can continue to expect to Police highly visible on our roads,” Mr Mitchell says.
“I’m proud of the work our Police are doing to reduce deaths on our road, keep our communities safe, and ensure everyone can get to where they need to go safely.”
Notes to editor:
In 2024:
Police conducted 4.1 million roadside breath alcohol tests – the most ever, and about 900,000 more than in 2023.
The number of alcohol-related road fatalities reduced by nearly 40% , from 92 in 2023 to 57 in 2024.
The Road Policing Investment Programme 2024-2027 (RPIP) requires Police to deliver 3.3 million passive breath tests and breath screening tests per year of the programme—an average of 825,000 tests per quarter. This is an increase from the 3 million tests required annually under the previous government’s road policing agreement.
In 2024 Police delivered 4,118,159 passive breath and breath screening tests, the highest number of tests recorded in a calendar year.
In the first nine months of this financial year (July 2024 to March 2025) Police delivered 3,286,094 passive breath and breath screening tests, 33% above the year-to-date target of 2,475,000 tests. It is also a 20% increase in tests compared to the first nine months of the previous financial year.
The RPIP sets a target of 2,145,000 alcohol breath tests to be conducted during high and extreme risk alcohol times—an average of 536,250 tests per quarter. This directs the greatest proportion of testing to the times and days when alcohol related harm has historically been highest, while still allowing a portion of testing across the rest of the week to ensure an ‘anywhere, anytime’ approach.
In 2024, there were 113 deaths (38% of all deaths) where a driver tested above the alcohol limit (or test refused) and/or tested positive for drugs.
87 deaths were where a driver tested positive for drugs,
47 deaths were where a driver tested above the alcohol limit (or test refused),
21 deaths were where a driver tested both positive for drugs and above the alcohol limit (or test refused).
Source: Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
The first 150 metres of a planned 3000 metre-long Antarctic ice core has been safely returned to Australia after a successful drilling season for the Million Year Ice Core (MYIC). The ice core, in one metre-lengths, contains a record of the past 4000 years of climate history. The core was drilled at a deep field camp at Dome C North, about 1200 km “up the hill” from Australia’s Casey research station. It’s just the start of an ambitious Australian Antarctic Program drilling effort to extract the world’s oldest, continuous ice core record of up to two million years. MYIC science lead, Dr Joel Pedro, said the full-length ice core is expected to extend the current ice core climate record well beyond 1.2 million years, and help solve a climate mystery. “About one million years ago the cycle of ice ages shifted from a regular 41,000 year glacial-interglacial cycle, to a cycle every 100,000 years,” Dr Pedro said. “An ice core record of over one million years can help us answer why that shift in the climate state occurred, and that will provide really important information to test models and better predict climate in the future.”
After a few years of weather and Covid-related delays to drilling, Dr Pedro said the science team, alongside a supporting tractor-traverse team, were relieved to achieve everything they had hoped for this season, thanks to a joint, multi-skilled, team effort. “Our number one priority was to progress the pilot drilling for the MYIC borehole, but to do that we first had to set up the drill shelter,” Dr Pedro said. “We joined forces with the traverse team and were able to get the shelter constructed in 10 days – half the time we expected – and our drill built and tested in parallel. “Then we split in to two shifts to run the drill 16 hours a day, with the traverse team joining us in drilling and core processing. “After so much effort by so many people, and so much planning and time, it was a very special moment for me to pull out that first ice core – to the point that I had a tear in my eye.” Independent living Traverse Field Leader, Chris Gallagher, led a team of mechanics, electricians, a carpenter and a doctor, that towed equipment and supplies to the drill site. Using snow-groomers, and tractors towing sleds carrying 600 tonnes of gear, the team travelled 18 days through blizzards and heavy snow, via a route established last year. Once at Dome C North they set up the scientists’ accommodation modules, ready for their arrival by air. “Over the next few years the traverse will bring up the rest of the inland station so that it can operate independently of the traverse’s ‘sustainability train’,” Mr Gallagher said. Drill skills The traverse team were as keen to start drilling ice as the scientists, and put their skills to use. “Setting up the drill tent was quite complicated, with underground trenches and cabling that had to be installed, including the drill trench itself, which was six metres deep,” Mr Gallagher said. “Our diesel mechanics used their skills with chainsaws, battery drills, dumpy levels and other construction techniques, to help our carpenter build the tent, and then the scientists helped finish it off. “Once the drilling started, the mechanics assisted the drill engineers to help ensure the drill kept running properly, and other traverse team members took core measurements and wrapped and packed the cores. “It was fascinating.” Boring anxiety The science team drilled to 150 metres and then progressively widened the borehole from 130 mm wide at the bottom, to 260 mm wide at the top, using a series of ‘reaming’ attachments. Next season the widest part the borehole will be fitted with a fibreglass bore casing. This will seal off the porous ice near the surface and allow drill fluid to be added to prevent the borehole closing under pressure, as they drill deeper. It was a nail-biting time for Dr Pedro. “We had to go back down the borehole three times to expand it, so we effectively drilled about 520 metres,” he said. “Every time you put something down the borehole there’s a chance it will get stuck, and there are a number of boreholes in Antarctica that have had reamers or drills stuck in them, and they’ve had to move and start again. “When we got the last reamer out, I quickly shut the trap door on the hole and I knew we were safe.” The ice core sections were then loaded into an insulated box for transport back to Casey on the traverse and back to Australia on a C17 aircraft. The team will begin analysing the cores in coming months. This includes measuring water isotopes for temperature, and greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide trapped in air bubbles in the ice, which reflect changes in climate over time. They’ll also look for impurities that provide information on storms, sea-ice processes and volcanic activity. Next season Dr Pedro said the science team is now well set up for the 2025-26 drilling season. “A lot of the work will involve setting up our bigger drill that can get to 3000 metres,” he said. “We’ll add the bore casing and drill fluid handling system and the aim is to drill to 400 metres. After that the target is to drill 1000 metres per year, which will put us on track to reach bedrock by 2029.” Mr Gallagher said it had been a remarkable season of achievements. “Thanks to our highly motivated and skilled teams the inland station is well established and the drill tents are up and ready to go,” he said. Read more about the MYIC project in this season’s Drilling Diary and our special feature Secrets of the Ice. This content was last updated 9 hours ago on 12 May 2025.
An illustration of the lightweight plastic mirrors, which are a more cost-effective alternative to traditional glass-based solar thermal systems.
Industry and academia are collaborating to build a world-first, cost-effective concentrated solar thermal (CST) demonstrator that is set to transform Australia’s industrial heat sector by reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Leveraging more than a decade of research into durable, weather-resistant reflective coatings, the project – funded by the Federal Government’s Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) Ignite program – will fabricate and install a novel, two-module CST demonstrator incorporating the mirrors.
These mirrors, created through patented UniSA technology, offer an affordable and easily transportable alternative to traditional glass-based solar thermal systems. They generate heat that can either be applied directly in industrial processes or to heat water to create steam to power a turbine and produce electricity.
“Industrial process heat accounts for a staggering 25% of global energy use and 20% of CO2 emissions,” says project lead Dr Marta Llusca Jane.
“Unfortunately, most renewable energy technologies – like photovoltaics – fall short of meeting the high-temperature demands of these sectors. Our plastic-based CST technology fills that gap and does so with significant cost and installation advantages.”
The project’s first phase will see two full-scale models – each made up of 16 thermoformed and coated panels – constructed, installed and tested at CSU’s “Vineyard of the Future”.
The panels incorporate a multilayer aluminium-silica reflective coating developed by UniSA’s Future Industries Institute, applied via a physical vapour deposition to ensure durability and optimal solar reflectivity.
Unlike conventional solar thermal systems that require heavy infrastructure to support fragile glass mirrors, this new system features Impacts’ durable, patented lightweight plastic mirror panels that can be flat-packed, transported, and assembled with ease.
The goal is to generate solar thermal energy at temperatures between 100°C and 400°C – ideal for processes such as food production, grain and pulse drying, sterilising, solar desalination, mining sites, polluted groundwater remediation and wastewater treatment.
Dr Llusca Jane says the AEA funding is critical to the project’s success.
“Without this funding, the technical and financial risks of early-stage commercialisation would be too high for private investors. This demonstrator will allow us to scale the technology for real-world applications,” she says.
The second stage, to be pursued under the AEA’s Innovate program, will see a larger, commercial-scale pilot tested with key agribusiness and industrial partners. Strong interest has already been expressed by several national and international producers, highlighting the technology’s outstanding commercial potential.
Industry Professor Colin Hall, inventor of the plastic mirror coating technology currently used in the automotive industry, says the time is ripe for such innovation.
“We’re seeing record fossil fuel prices and increasing pressure for industries to decarbonise,” Prof Hall says. “This CST solution is uniquely suited to Australia’s hot, dry climate and offers a viable pathway to zero-emissions process heat.”
With the potential to reduce the cost of renewable process heat for agribusiness and industry by 40% and unlock export opportunities for Australian manufacturing, Dr Llusca Jane says the project signals a green industrial future.
“By proving this technology in the field, we are laying the foundation for a cleaner, more resilient energy system across Australia and beyond.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
New NHS programme to reduce brain injury in childbirth
Government to roll out the Avoiding Brain Injuries in Childbirth (ABC) programme nationally
Government rolls out NHS programme to boost maternity safety
Scheme will help maternity staff rapidly respond to emergencies and protect mothers and babies
Hundreds of maternity staff, including obstetricians, midwives and anaesthetists, involved in developing and testing quality improvement programme
Expectant mothers will receive safer maternity care as a new NHS programme to help prevent brain injury during childbirth is rolled out across the country.
The Avoiding Brain Injury in Childbirth (ABC) programme will help maternity staff to better identify signs that the baby is in distress during labour so they can act quickly.
It will also help staff respond more effectively to obstetric emergencies, such as where the baby’s head becomes lodged deep in the mother’s pelvis during a caesarean birth.
The government programme, which will begin from September and follows an extensive development phase and pilot scheme, will reduce the number of avoidable brain injuries during childbirth – helping to prevent lifelong conditions like cerebral palsy.
The national rollout is only one step the government is taking to improve maternity services under its Plan for Change to fix the health service, as it reforms the NHS to ensure all women receive safe, personalised and compassionate care.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:
All expectant mothers giving birth in an NHS hospital should have peace of mind that they are in safe hands.
This vital programme will give staff across the country the right tools and training to deliver better care to women and their babies, reducing the devastating impact of avoidable brain injury.
Under our Plan for Change, we are supporting trusts to make rapid improvements and training thousands more midwives – but I know more needs to be done. We will put women’s voices right at the heart of our reforms as we work to improve care.
The national rollout follows a pilot in 12 maternity units that was launched in October and delivered by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and the THIS (The Healthcare Improvement Studies) Institute.
The pilot has shown the programme will fill an important gap in current training by bringing multidisciplinary teams together to work more collaboratively than ever before, to improve outcomes. The programme will give clinicians more confidence to take swift action managing an emergency during labour.
It is expected to reduce unacceptable inequalities in maternity outcomes across England – so that most maternity units achieve outcomes comparable to the highest-performing 20% of trusts.
This government is dedicated to improving maternity services more widely and is committed to training thousands more midwives, as well as setting an explicit target to close the Black and Asian maternal mortality gap.
In addition, we have allocated an extra £57 million for Start for Life services, helping expectant and new mothers with their infants by providing expert, trusted advice and guidance around pregnancy, birth and motherhood.
Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said:
The ABC programme supports multidisciplinary maternity teams to deliver safer, more personalised care. Hundreds of maternity staff, including obstetricians, midwives and anaesthetists, have been involved in developing and testing this quality improvement programme.
We have heard what a difference it makes, supporting teams to work effectively together in time-sensitive and high-pressure situations. The RCOG is extremely proud to have been part of this fantastic collaboration.
Gill Walton, Royal College of Midwives Chief Executive, said:
Every midwife, maternity support worker, obstetrician, anaesthetist and sonographer wants to provide good, safe care – and the best way to do that is by working and training together. The ABC programme has brought together all those involved in maternity care, offering practical solutions to some of the most acute clinical challenges.
Crucially the ABC programme tools and training have been developed based on the voices of women, families and maternity staff. This has been the key to the success of the pilot programme.
Equally the will and drive of midwives and the wider multidisciplinary team to improve safety and outcomes for women and their families has been evident across the course of the training at the pilot sites.
The ABC programme has the potential to reduce the devastating impact of brain injuries during childbirth and the RCM is proud to have been part of this innovative programme and we hope to see this adopted and implemented across maternity services.
Professor Mary Dixon-Woods, Director of The Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute, said:
The ABC programme design is based on the principle that evidence-based, co-designed patient-focused standardisation of clinical practice can reduce unwarranted variation and improve care and outcomes.
Crucially, this needs to be supported by comprehensive improvement resources, including training, tools and assets to enable good clinical practice and teamwork and respectful and inclusion communication and decision-making with women and birth partners.
The pilot has shown that it’s possible to train people effectively and efficiently. A national commitment to implement the programme at scale will be important in ensuring that the benefits are seen.
Notes to editors
The following sites participated in the pilot scheme:
Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust
Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust
Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Croydon Health Services NHS Trust
Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust
St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Rehashing old laws around boy racers is not going to make our communities safer, or distract New Zealanders from the appalling decision to cut women’s pay.
“This Government is better at crushing the rights of working women than crushing cars,” Labour police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.
“Putting out a press release talking about boy racers on Mother’s Day isn’t fooling anyone. New Zealanders value their mums and think they should be paid fairly. The debacle over women’s pay this week isn’t going away.
“So instead of addressing pay equity, they’ve announced tweaks to laws around boy racers, including making it easier to crush cars which didn’t work last time they were in Government. Slightly increasing fines also hasn’t historically changed behaviour in the long-term.
“This Government is yet again putting more work on frontline police without more resources. They’re failing to meet their 500 police promise and are more focused on confiscating gang patches than tackling meth.
“Reheating old policies won’t make our communities safer. They’re failing to address the nub of what is causing crime, while attempting the ultimate distraction.
“Get proper policies and pay women what they’re worth,” Ginny Andersen said.
