The National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) has been launched on 15th August, 2024 by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare to enhance the surveillance and management of pest diseases across the country. The system utilizes latest digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI and ML) to provide quick and instant solution regarding pest attacks, crop diseases, crop damages etc. by issuing real time crop protection advisory to the farmers. It includes a user-friendly mobile app and a portal for identification of pests and disease mitigation.
NPSS is being used by the farmers across the country for identification of pests and diseases in 61 crops and pest management advisories for 15 major crops namely cotton, paddy, wheat, maize, pigeon pea, moong, soyabean, sugarcane, brinjal, tomato, apple, banana, grapes, pomegranate. NPSS is currently available in four languages namely English, Hindi, Marathi and Punjabi. So far, 10154 pest management advisories have been issued through NPSS for the benefit of farmers.
The Government has formulated six point strategy for the welfare of farmers and development of agriculture. Strategies for increasing farmer incomes include improving crop productivity, reducing cost of production, agricultural diversification, adaptation to climate change for sustainable agriculture and compensation of farmers’ losses. Further, Ministry has formulated various schemes and programs to ensure effective coordination between the union and state governments and to address agricultural challenges at the grassroot level and also to incentivize and encourage farmers to grow a variety of crops. The list of schemes/ programmes implemented by DA&FW is enclosed at Annexure-I.
A total of 79 new high yielding varieties of seven major agricultural crops, 11 of fruits and 31 of vegetables were exhibited during Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela held during February 22-24, 2025. Besides, technologies for 18 biofertizers and bioformulations, Soil Test Fertilizer Recommendation Meter, Zn-loaded nano clay polymer composite; SpeedySeed Viability KitTM; Polymer composite seed coating for bruchid management; Nanocellulose extracted from pummelo peel and rice husk; Pea pod powder for instant noodles; Overripe banana powder in snack puffs and Muffins functionalized with by-products were also displayed. Eight new agricultural implements were also demonstrated during the event.
The details of main topics covered in the technical sessions and farmer-scientist interactions are as follows session-wise:
Session 1 : Technologies for Climate Resilient Agriculture; Session 2 : Crop Diversification; Session 3 : Digital Agriculture; Session 4 : Agricultural Marketing and Export; Session 5 : FPO-Start up linkage; Session 6 : Entrepreneurship Development of Youth and Women and Session 7 : Innovative Farmers Meet.
The farmers, entrepreneurs, youth and women were sensitized and educated about the new varieties and technologies through guided tours to Live demonstrations of the salient varieties and technologies developed by ICAR-IARI; exhibitions on salient technologies, products and services of ICAR-IARI as well as ICAR Institutes, Agricultural Universities, KVKs, FPOs, entrepreneurs, start-ups, public and private companies; and farmers-scientists’ interactions were held in technical sessions of Unnat Krishi – Viksit Bharat theme.
• 245 stalls of ICAR institutes, agricultural Universities, public and private institutes, farm entrepreneurs were showcased.
• Over 1800 quintals of seeds of various crops like paddy, moong, pigeon-pea, pearl millet, and vegetables were provided to the farmers at a very reasonable rate. On-Spot advisories were provided to the farmers and other stakeholders.
• Extension literatures on technologies were also distributed among all stakeholders
Some of the major announcements during the event include supervision of “Krishi Chaupal – Vigyan se Kisan Tak” and engagement of the IARI awardee/ Innovative farmers etc. in dissemination of technol
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Shri Bhagirath Choudhary in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
During 2024-25, the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) has been renamed as National Food Security & Nutrition Mission (NFSNM) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) is implementing NFSNM for increasing production of pulses, nutri cereals, rice, wheat and coarse cereals in the country. Under NFSNM, the incentives are provided to the farmers, through the States/UTs, on crop production and protection technologies, cropping system based demonstrations, production & distribution of certified seeds of newly released varieties/hybrids, integrated nutrient and pest management techniques, capacity building of farmers through trainings during cropping season etc.
Further, the Government of India also provides flexibility to the states for state specific needs/priorities under Pradhan Mantri-Rashtirya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY). The states may promote coarse cereals and millets (Shree Anna) under PM-RKVY with approval of State Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC) headed by Chief Secretary of the State.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, ShriRamnath Thakurin a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Digital Crop Survey (DCS) System has been established to collect crop-sown details via a mobile interface, ensuring data is captured directly from the field. This database provides accurate, real-time crop area information for every agricultural plot, which will help to arrive at accurate production estimation.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has developed the Agri Stack in accordance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and other IT laws of the country. AgriStack ensures complete privacy of farmers’ data by ensuring that farmers’ data is collected only with their consent. Farmers have full control over their data, which is only shared with authorized entities based on their consent for a specific purpose. Moreover, Agri Stack has been developed in a federal manner so that states have control over the entire data. The Government of India also ensures robust data security in the Agri Stack, which is fully compliant with the cyber security guidelines of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). Agri Stack sends farmers’ information in a secret code so that only the designated system can read it. Secure APIs and token-based authentication govern all data exchanges, ensuring controlled access to data. In addition, the government conducts security audits of all these IT systems and monitors risks.
Although internet penetration has increased in rural areas, additional steps have been taken to ensure digital inclusion of farmers who do not have mobile phones, they can use existing support structures like Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Krishi Sakhis, and Common Service Centres (CSCs), to get them registered on Agristack and access services and benefits. Further, states are organizing the camps so that no farmer is left out from getting the benefits of Agristack. The Government is providing administrative and technical support to all the states for implementation of the Mission.
The State Farmer Registry under the Digital Agriculture Mission covers all the land holders’ farmers, including women farmers. Farmers Registry application also has the provision to onboard the tenant and lessee farmers. A State can decide to include such farmers in the Farmers Registry as per the state’s policy.
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Agriculture is a State subject and Government of India supports the efforts of States through appropriate policy measures, budgetary allocation and various schemes/ programmes. The various schemes/ programmes of the Government of India are meant for the welfare of farmers by increasing production, remunerative returns and income support to farmers. The Government has substantially enhanced the budget allocation of Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare(DA&FW) from Rs. 21933.50 crore BE during 2013-14 to Rs. 1,22,528.77 crore BE during 2024-25. Major schemes/programmes initiated by DA&FW to increase the income of farmers including small and marginal farmers and for the development of agriculture Sector in India are as under:
11. Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE)
12. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)
13. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM)
14. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
15. Soil Health & Fertility (SH&F)
16. Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
17. Agroforestry
18. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP)
19. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Extension (SMAE)
20. Sub-Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP)
21. National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM)
22. Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM)
23. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
24. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oil Palm
25. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO)-Oilseeds
26. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region
27. Digital Agriculture Mission
28. National Bamboo Mission
Indian Council on Agricultural Research (ICAR) has released a compilation of success stories of 75,000 farmers who have increased their income more than two times by convergence of schemes being operated by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the allied Ministries/Departments.
The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) conducted a Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) of Agricultural Households during NSS 77th round (January, 2019 – December, 2019) with reference to the agricultural year July, 2018- June, 2019 in the rural areas of the country.
According to these surveys, the estimated average monthly income per agricultural household increased from ₹6,426 in 2012-13 (NSS 70th round) to ₹10,218 in 2018-19 (NSS 77th round).
As per NSSO Survey on House hold Consumption Expenditure (2023-24), a comparison of the estimates of all-India average Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) is as under:
Sector
Average MPCE (Rs.) over different period
2011-12 NSS
(68th round)
2023-2024
Rural
1,430
4,122
Urban
2,630
6,996
Difference as % of Rural MPCE
83.9
69.7
This information was given by Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Podcasting was once the underdog of the media world: a platform where anyone with a microphone and an idea could share their voice.
With low barriers to entry and freedom from institutional gatekeeping, it promised to amplify marginalised voices and allow underrepresented groups to tell their own stories, on their own terms.
Today, however, this promise seems increasingly strained as corporate interests tighten their grip on the industry. As money flows in, the podcasting space is beginning to resemble the rest of the digital media world – driven by advertising revenues and political polarisation.
The promise of podcasting
Six years ago, audio scholars Martin Spinelli and Lance Dann described podcasting as a “revolutionary” medium for its ability to inspire empathy through innovative forms of audio.
Podcasting was heralded as a format that broke through the barriers of traditional media by offering new ways to engage with underrepresented voices and ideas. Media and cultural studies pointed to the direct-to-ear delivery – free from the biases of visual culture – as a uniquely intimate way to consume content.
Globally, the industry boomed as a result of pandemic lockdowns, with the number of podcasts on Spotify skyrocketing from 450,000 in 2019, to 1.5 million in 2020.
Listenership has also surged in Australia. According to a 2024 report by Edison Research, we’ve seen a 20% increase in listenership from 2022 to 2024 – with 48% of the those aged 12 and above having listened to a podcast within the past month.
From open space to rat race
In his 2024 book Podcasting in a Platform Age, podcast researcher John Sullivan warns the podcasting space is being increasingly dominated by a handful of powerful media companies that dictate what and who gets visibility.
Larger podcasts with higher production budgets, celebrity hosts and backing from major networks are attracting larger audiences, with independent creators struggling to get a foot in the door.
At the time of writing, of the top 50 most popular podcasts in Australia, more than half (52%) come from overseas, and primarily the United States.
Of the 24 Australian-made podcasts on the list, 80% are backed by a media organisation, with most (64%) connected to major networks such as LiSTNR, which is owned by Southern Cross Austereo. Only 12% of the Australian podcasts on the list come from truly independent creators without any corporate funding or major production support.
Why does it matter that large-network ownership is on the rise? To understand this, it helps to first understand how ads keep podcast networks in business – and how this can impact content decisions.
Deepening ideological divides
Advertisers follow the crowds. In a podcasting context, this means they’re more likely to funnel their dollars into large networks, further bolstering their resources.
At the same time, networks want to drive as many ears to their ad sponsors as possible. To do this, they focus on producing content they know will get the most engagement.
The result is a vicious cycle in which attention and advertising power feed each other, making it even harder for independent voices to break through. Over time, this feedback loop can lead to less content diversity and more polarisation.
According to Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped, American podcaster Joe Rogan took out the top podcast spot for the fifth year in a row globally. Shutterstock
In the lead-up to the 2024 US election, Kamala Harris appeared on Call Her Daddy (the second most popular Spotify podcast in 2024), while Donald Trump was on The Joe Rogan Experience (the most popular). Both interviews were later fact-checkedand found to contain false or misleading claims.
Trump’s interview in particular was flagged by CNN for having 32 false claims. Nonetheless, analysts and researchers pointed to it as a driver behind his success with young male voters.
Late last year, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton appeared on the podcast Diving Deep With Sam Fricker. This was followed by an appearance on Straight Talk, hosted by businessman Mark Bouris, in January.
According to 2022 Pew Research Centre data, 55% of Americans said their major reason for listening to podcasts was “to learn”, while 29% said they wanted to stay up-to-date with current affairs. But information-hungry listeners may be getting shortchanged, as podcasts are less likely to be fact-checked against the same editorial standards that govern traditional media.
As platform researcher Michael Bossetta notes, although large platforms such as Spotify have the potential to create a more informed world, they
are more likely to push content that keeps users hooked (that is, content they already enjoy and/or agree with).
Recommender algorithms also have a role to play. One 2020 study found that while Spotify’s personalised suggestions increased user engagement by 28.90%, they also reduced the individual-level diversity of podcast streams by 11.51%.
But platforms do have the power to do better. They could, for instance, use their algorithms to prioritise content diversity. This would help ease the “engagement-diversity trade-off”, in which personalisation increases engagement, but limits the diversity of content consumed by an individual.
That said, it’s unlikely platforms will voluntarily change the way they operate. If meaningful reforms are to happen, they will more likely have to come from government regulations or through independent governing bodies.
In the meantime, listeners aren’t powerless. While we can’t stop algorithms from pushing certain content to the top of our feeds, we can disrupt them by actively seeking out independent voices and diverse stories.
Corey Martin does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vita Pilkington, Research Fellow, PhD Candidate in men’s experiences of sexual trauma, The University of Melbourne
In Australia, it’s estimated almost one in five boys (18.8%) experience child sexual abuse. And at least one in 16 men (6.1%) experience sexual violence after age 15.
However, many boys and men don’t tell others about these experiences. Studies show men are less likely to disclose sexual abuse and assaults than women.
It also takes boys and men longer to first disclose sexual abuse or assaults. On average, men wait 21 years before telling anyone about being abused.
We wanted to understand what prevents boys and men from telling others about sexual abuse and assaults (or “sexual trauma”). So we conducted a systematic review, where we pooled together evidence from a range of studies on the topic.
We found 69 relevant studies, which included more than 10,500 boys and men who had experienced sexual trauma from around the world. Studies were published in 23 countries across six continents, with most studies from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Two studies were published in Australia.
Our new findings offer clues as to how we can break down the barriers preventing men and boys from discussing sexual trauma.
Many boys and men don’t tell anyone if they’ve been victim to sexual violence. gpointstudio/Shutterstock
Upending masculine identities
We found across countries and cultures, boys’ and men’s sexual trauma affected their masculine identities. This included feeling as though they are not “real men”, or that they’re weak for having been targeted and assaulted.
Sexual abuse to a man is an abuse against his manhood as well.
Almost universally, boys and men suffered intense feelings of shame and guilt about being victimised, and many blamed themselves for years to decades.
Many boys and men said they were worried others would think they were gay if they disclosed being abused or assaulted. This harmful stereotype reflects widespread homophobic attitudes as well as mistaken beliefs about survivors of abuse and assaults.
Sexual abuse against boys and men has been long been overlooked, dismissed and misunderstood. The taboo nature of the issue was felt by participants. As a therapist who supported male survivors of abuse said in one study:
We don’t have a cultural place for men as victims.
LGBTQIA+ men face additional barriers to disclosure. Some experienced distress surrounding concerns abuse or assaults somehow cause, or contribute to, their sexualities. Many also reported receiving unsupportive and homophobic responses when they disclosed abuse and assaults to others. This includes their stories being minimised and dismissed, or suggestions they must have consented given their attraction to other men.
Others were discouraged from speaking out about their experiences again. In some countries, people tell boys and men not to talk about being abused or assaulted because this is seen as bringing shame on themselves and their families.
Boys and men who were assaulted by women were often told their experiences can’t be classified as abuse or assaults, or aren’t bad enough to warrant support.
Understanding why men don’t talk
Many of these barriers to disclosure are linked to harmful myths about sexual abuse and assaults among boys and men. These include mistaken beliefs that men are not abused or assaulted, and that only gay men are abused or assaulted.
What’s more, many people believe experiencing sexual abuse or assaults is at odds with socially-held ideas about how men “should” behave: for example, constantly demonstrating physical strength, dominance, self-reliance and toughness.
Receiving unsupportive and stigmatising responses when they try to seek help only makes these issues worse, and adds to cycles of silence and shame.
We must break down barriers that stop boys and men disclosing these traumatic experiences. Doing so could save lives.
Helping boys and men disclose sexual trauma isn’t just about encouraging them to come forward. We need to make sure other people are prepared to respond safely when they choose to speak up.
There are many ways to raise awareness of the fact sexual abuse and assault happens to boys and men. For example, television shows such as Baby Reindeer helped put this issue at the forefront of conversation. Public health campaigns that explicitly bring boys and men into discussions about sexual trauma can also be helpful.
We also need to do more to make sure boys and men who experience sexual trauma have suitable places to go for support. Australia has some services doing vital work in this space, such as the Survivors & Mates Support Network. However, more funding and support is crucial so men across the country have safe spaces to discuss and recover from their experiences.
The National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Line – 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any Australian who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence and/or sexual assault.
Vita Pilkington led this project and receives funding from the Melbourne Research Scholarship and the Margaret Cohan Research Scholarship, both awarded by the University of Melbourne.
Sarah Bendall has been awarded a NHMRC Investigator Grant to support research surrounding understanding and treating trauma in young people with mental health difficulties. She has previously held a NHMRC Early Career Fellowship and a McCusker Philanthropic Foundation Fellowship. She advises government on trauma and youth mental health policy, including Victoria’s statewide trauma service (Transforming Trauma Victoria).
Zac Seidler receives funding from an NHMRC Investigator Grant. He is also the Global Director of Research with the Movember Institute of Men’s Health.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Ellerton, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy and Education; Curriculum Director, UQ Critical Thinking Project, The University of Queensland
Transgender female runner who beat 14,000 women at London Marathon offers to give medal back
Read about the event elsewhere and it turns out the athlete was also beaten by thousands of people and it was a participation medal. While the Fox News headline is true, it is framed to potentially elicit a negative reaction.
Misinformation is on the rise. We’re told we need to think critically when we read things online, but how can we recognise such situations? And what does it mean to think critically anyway?
What is critical thinking?
Critical thinking is based on the idea that if all ideas are equal, then all ideas are worthless. Without this assumption, there can be nothing to be critical of.
When we think critically, we focus on the quality of our reasoning and the factors that can influence it. In other words, thinking critically primarily means being critical of your own thinking.
Importantly, critical thinking is not strongly correlated with intelligence. While some believe intelligence is basically fixed (though there is debate around this), we can learn to think critically.
Other factors being equal, there’s also no evidence thinking critically is an innate ability. In fact, we have evidence critical thinking can be improved as a skill in itself, and it is transferrable to other contexts.
The tools of argumentation
Many factors can affect the quality of your thinking. They include things like cognitive biases (systemic thinking errors), prior beliefs, prejudices and worldviews, framing effects, and how much you know about the subject.
To understand the quality of our reasoning, we can use the concepts and language of argumentation.
People often think “arguments” are about conflicting views. A better way to understand argumentation is to view it as a way of making our thinking visible and accessible to each other.
Arguments contain premises, those things we think are true about the world, and conclusions, which is where we end up in our thinking. Moving from premises to conclusions is called inferring, and it is the quality of these inferences that is the concern of critical thinking.
For example, if I offer the premises
P1: All Gronks are green
P2: Fred is a Gronk
Then you have already inferred the conclusion
C: Fred is green
You don’t even need to know what a Gronk is to make that inference.
All our rational judgements and decisions are made up of chains of inferences. Constructing, evaluating and identifying types of arguments is the core business of critical thinking.
Argumentation is not about conflicting views – it’s making your thinking accessible. John Diez/Pexels
How can we improve our critical thinking skills?
To help us get better at it, we can understand critical thinking in three main ways.
First, we can see critical thinking as a subject we can learn. In this subject, we study how arguments work and how our reasoning can be influenced or improved. We also learn what makes for good thinking by using ideas like accuracy, clarity, relevance, depth and more. These are what we value in good thinking. By learning this, we start to think about how we think, not just what we think about.
Second, we improve our critical thinking by using what we’ve learned in real situations. This helps us build important thinking skills like analysing, justifying, evaluating and explaining.
Third, we can also think of critical thinking as a habit or attitude – something we choose to practice in our everyday lives. This means being curious, open-minded and willing to question things instead of just accepting them. It also means being aware of our own biases and trying to be fair and honest in how we think.
When we put all three of these together, we become better thinkers – not just in educational contexts, but in life.
Practical steps to improving critical thinking
Since critical thinking centres on the giving and taking of reasons, practising this is a step towards improvement. There are some useful ways to do this.
1. Make reasoning – rather than conclusions – the basis of your discussions with others.
When asking for someone’s opinion, inquire as to why they think that. And offer your thinking to others. Making our thinking visible leads to deep and meaningful conversations in which we can test each other’s thinking and develop the virtues of open-mindedness and curiosity.
2. Always assess the credibility of information based on its source and with a reflection on your own biases.
The processes of our thinking can shape information as we receive it, just as much as the source can in providing it. This develops the virtues of carefulness and humility.
3. Keep the fundamental question of critical inquiry in mind.
The most important question in critical thinking is: “how do we know?”. Continually testing the quality of your inquiry – and therefore thinking – is key. Focusing on this question gives us practice in applying the values of inquiry and develops virtues such as persistence and resilience.
You are not alone!
Reasoning is best understood as a social competence: we reason with and towards each other. Indeed, to be called reasonable is a social compliment.
It’s only when we have to think with others that we really test the quality of our thinking. It’s easy to convince yourself about something, but when you play in the arena of public reasoning, the bar is much higher.
So, be the reasonable person in the room.
That doesn’t mean everyone has to come around to your way of thinking. But it does mean everyone will get closer to the truth because of you.
Use online resources
There are many accessible tools for developing critical thinking. Kialo (Esperanto for “reason”), brings together people from around the world on a user-friendly (and free) platform to help test our reasoning in a well-moderated and respectful environment. It is an excellent place to practice the giving and taking of reasons and to understand alternative positions.
The School of Thought, developed to curate free critical thinking resources, includes many that are often used in educational contexts.
There’s also a plethora of online courses that can guide development in critical thinking, from Australian and international universities.
Peter Ellerton is affiliated with the Rationalist Society of Australia.
From Gen. Steve Nordhaus, chief of the National Guard Bureau: On July 31, 1943, Ohio native and National Guardsman Pvt. Rodger Young demonstrated tremendous courage while helping his platoon withdraw from an enemy ambush on the Solomon Islands, costing him his life but saving many others. For his heroic actions, Pvt. Young was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor—one of the 3,528 heroes we celebrate this National Media of Honor Day.
Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
Victims of Slavery and Transatlantic Slave Trade
Detained and Missing Staff
Syria/Security Council
Occupied Palestinian Territory
UN Interim Force In Lebanon
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Democratic Republic of the Congo / Mediation
Burundi
Sudan
South Sudan
Ukraine
Myanmar
Ecuador
Child Mortality
VICTIMS OF SLAVERY AND TRANSATLANTIC SLAVE TRADE
Today is the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The Secretary-General spoke at the General Assembly event to mark the Day and said that the transatlantic slave trade is an indelible stain on the conscience of humanity.
Today, he said, we remember the women, children, and men forced to work in agonizing conditions, savagely punished, and deprived of their dignity and human rights, and we take strength in their resistance and demands for justice.
The Secretary-General said the obscene profits derived from chattel slavery and the racist ideologies that underpinned the trade are still with us, and he urged everyone to play their part in building inclusive societies free from the evils of racism.
DETAINED AND MISSING STAFF
Today is the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members. One hundred and one personnel were arrested or detained last year alone. In total, at least 52 of UN personnel are still in detention globally.
In his message, the Secretary-General says we stand with all those detained, and with their families and loved ones, as we call for their immediate release and safe return.
He urges governments to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel, and to continue pursuing accountability and justice for these crimes, while enhancing support and protection.
And in a video message, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, said that the rights of all U.N. staff must be fully respected.
Out of the 52 detained colleagues, 23 as you know are arbitrarily detained in Yemen alone. Eight of those are from the Human Rights Office. “Their continued detention is a grave injustice,” Mr. Türk said.
On this Day, the UN renews the calls for their immediate and unconditional release.
SYRIA/SECURITY COUNCIL
This morning at the Security Council, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, told Council members that Syria stands at a crossroads: either to return to violence or to overcome the conflict and revive the economy. To take the right path, Syria needs increased and continued international support, he said.
For his part, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, said that we are making progress on the humanitarian front. We are now using more routes to deliver aid.
He added that the reality is still grim. 16 million people – nearly three-quarters of the Syrian population – lack sufficient food, water, shelter, and medicine. We need to move with greater urgency, while we can – he said.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=25%20March%202025
New funding from the Province will allow the City of Merritt to rebuild two damaged dikes to higher standards to better protect against flooding and keep people safe.
The Province is providing the City of Merritt with $60 million to relocate and rebuild two critical dikes, on both banks of the Coldwater River, that were damaged during the flooding of November 2021.
“Today marks a significant step forward in the City of Merritt’s recovery from the 2021 atmospheric river event, which was devastating for the community,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “Moving and rebuilding these dikes will allow the river to flow more naturally, bringing ecosystem benefits while better protecting Merritt from future flooding. We’ll continue to support communities throughout B.C. as they recover from the 2021 event to keep people safe and better prepared.”
Intense rainfall caused the Coldwater River to overflow its banks, leading to failure of the dikes and catastrophic flooding in Merritt. Because the flooding changed the course of the river, the dikes could not be rebuilt at the existing locations and must be rebuilt at alternative sites.
“This $60-million investment is a game-changer for Merritt,” said Micheal Goetz, mayor of Merritt. “The construction of dikes 129 and 130 means our community can finally breathe a sigh of relief, knowing we are taking real steps to protect our homes, businesses, and vital infrastructure. This funding brings us closer to a safer, more resilient future — one where we can face the future with greater confidence and security.”
This funding will allow the City of Merritt to reconstruct the dikes to modern standards and acquire land to build the dikes in new locations. These projects are part of the City of Merritt’s flood mitigation plan to restore and protect the community after the 2021 flooding. Other key projects in the plan, being undertaken with support of the local First Nations, include ecosystem restoration, riverbank restoration and armouring to prevent erosion. Relocating and rebuilding the two dikes will also help reduce flood risks to downstream communities and benefit the local ecosystem by preserving the natural flow of the river.
“The Shackan Indian Band is happy to see our neighbours receive the needed funding for rebuilding these dikes, helping the city mitigate risks from future flooding,” said Chief Lindsay Tighe, Shackan Indian Band. “The flooding in 2021 has been absolutely devastating to our communities; some of our community members remain evacuated as Shackan continues to recover. Our support is a step toward a stronger relationship with the City of Merritt and neighbours, as we all depend on a healthy Nicola Valley. It is encouraging to see various partners throughout the Nicola Valley continuing to work together three years after the devastating flooding, to make our communities stronger and more resilient. ”
Rebuilding these key dikes is one of several flood-mitigation and restoration projects funded by the Province to support the City of Merritt. Other projects include reconstructing the Middlesboro Bridge, rebuilding dikes and banks along the Coldwater River, road repairs, park restorations and water-well restorations.
Learn More:
For information about disaster and climate-risk reduction, visit ClimateReadyBC: https://www.ClimateReadyBC.ca
For more information about the City of Merritt’s flood mitigation plan, visit: https://flood.merritt.ca/
To learn more about the City of Merritt, visit: https://www.merritt.ca/
The Proceeds of Crime Fund will open a new funding round based on new criteria on 31 March Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee says.
“The new criteria will focus on supporting initiatives that will reduce violent crime contributing to the Government’s target of 20,000 fewer victims by December 2029.
“Government agencies are invited to submit using the funding proposal template and we encourage agencies to work with community groups as part of their proposals. We want to see targeted initiatives that prevent crime before it escalates into violent crime.
“The new template will support clear and consistent assessment of proposed initiatives, and I expect it to also capture information on the delivery, impact, and long-term benefits of each proposal.
“Our expectation is that proposals under the new criteria will be able to demonstrate clear outcomes. Rather than gangs benefiting through a programme which is yet to present its final report – some nine months after its conclusion – as was the case under the previous government,” Mrs McKee says.
The Proceeds of Crime Fund is not to be used as an on-going permanent funding source. Approved initiatives will be for short-term (maximum three year) funding applications that meet the Government’s targeted criteria.
The first funding round will open on 31 March 2025, with submissions due by 1 May 2025 and funding available to be utilised from 1 July 2025.
The terms of reference can be found here and more information on the Proceeds of Crime Fund can be found on the Ministry of Justice website here.
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND. March 26th, 2025 – The 2025/26 Beyond Recruitment Economic & Labour Report reveals cautious optimism and resilience among New Zealand employers, despite ongoing economic uncertainty and an accelerating evolution of jobs across multiple sectors.
Beyond Recruitment’s annual Economic & Labour Report provides insights into employer sentiment about the economy, hiring and the state of New Zealand’s workforce.
The latest report highlights a stabilisation in employer confidence since the post-pandemic recovery, with fewer organisations (58%) describing the past year as challenging, down from 71% in 2023. Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and large organisations reported the highest levels of confidence, contrasting with slightly lower optimism among very large organisations (1,001+ employees).
The economic slowdown emerged as the leading concern (31%) for employers, alongside rising operational costs and regulatory changes (both at 25%). Balancing cost management and growth is a central challenge, with 37% of organisations aiming to keep headcount stable, while 28% are planning headcount expansion. SMEs show the strongest appetite for workforce growth.
Usage of artificial intelligence has surged, with 83% of organisations either exploring or implementing AI tools, up significantly from previous years. Despite initial fears, employers view AI as predominantly complementary to human roles, with 43% upskilling their employees to meet the demands of an AI enhanced workplace.
CE of Beyond Recruitment, Liza Viz, said: “While organisations are prudent in their hiring strategies, their resilience is clear. Employers are strategically positioning themselves to capitalise on anticipated market improvements, particularly through workforce development and increased adoption of technology like artificial intelligence (AI).
“Now is the time for employers to invest in their people and focus on future-proofing their workforce. The competition for talent will heighten once again, making skills development and building future talent pools a key priority for Aotearoa organisations.”
Hybrid work models are now standard, adopted by 77% of organisations, with flexible work hours and remote options firmly established as key employee benefits. Office spaces continue to evolve, reflecting new norms rather than temporary adjustments.
Other key insights from the report include:
Pay rises are levelling at around 3%, with 38% of organisations planning this range of increase. Employer satisfaction with local talent is growing, with reliance on international recruitment easing. Organisations have increased their focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion within executive teams, which is considerably influencing executive search and recruitment strategies.
The Beyond Recruitment Economic & Labour Report 2025/26 gathered responses from over 500 employment leaders nationwide, representing various sectors including government, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and professional services.
About Beyond Recruitment:
Beyond Recruitment is one of New Zealand’s largest 100% Kiwi owned recruitment agencies. Established in 2003, Beyond Recruitment’s specialist recruiters support sectors including technology, finance, HR, customer experience, marketing, engineering, and construction nationwide from offices in Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, and Christchurch.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
INDIANAPOLIS— 14 individuals have been charged in a federal indictment alleging a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine in Indianapolis, Lafayette, and surrounding communities. The charges follow a successful law enforcement operation in which 13 total individuals have been arrested and are in federal custody. Eight individuals were arrested on March 21, 2025. The following lists the individuals indicted and the charges they face:
Defendant
Charge(s)
Tanesha M. Turner, 39
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Kidnapping
Carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime
Accessory to a crime after the fact
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Charles T. Dunson, 44
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Distribution of methamphetamine
Possession of a machinegun
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Tre J. Dunn, 27
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Causing Death by Using a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
Possessing, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
Nahamani I. Sargent, 34
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Retaliating against a witness
Use of fire or explosives
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Byron A. Mason, 38
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Unlawful use of a cell phone
Adrian J. Bullock, 34
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Avery J. Bullock, 27
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute
John M. Whitfield, 37
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Aaliyah Hackett, 23
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Unlawful use of a cell phone
Emorrie J. Dunn, 26
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Chancelor R. Walker, 38
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
D’Ericka Lee, 30
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Lamar T. Browning, 39
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
Mark C. Marshall, 57
Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
This was a multi-agency operation, involving ten agencies who assisted with the investigation and the arrests on the morning of March 21, 2025. Law enforcement has asked the public for assistance in locating fugitive Lamar T. Browning. He should be considered armed and dangerous. Those with information are asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
According to the indictment, all 14 defendants allegedly operated a drug trafficking conspiracy, selling meth, fentanyl, cocaine and heroin out of several trap houses in Indianapolis.
Some members of the conspiracy allegedly committed multiple acts of violence, including murder, firing gunshots, throwing Molotov cocktails at a home, kidnapping, and pistol-whipping in order to intimidate drug customers and rival drug dealers The violence was used as a tool to collect money owed to them by their drug customers, to protect the locations that they used to distribute drugs, and to retaliate against potential witnesses.
Specifically, Nahamani Sargent allegedly fired gunshots and threw Molotov cocktails at the home of a customer, believing that the victim had provided information about the conspiracy to law enforcement.
Additionally, Tanesha Turner allegedly kidnapped a victim at gunpoint and held them for ransom because they owed $40. Tre Dunn then allegedly shot the same victim for owing money and providing information to law enforcement.
Tre Dunn also allegedly aided and abetted the murder of a man because he disrespected him and his associate during a failed drug deal. Tanesha Turner then allegedly aided Dunn by driving him to another location following the murder to prevent his arrest.
If convicted, each defendant faces up to life in federal prison.
The following investigative agencies collaborated to make this investigation and recent warrant execution possible:
Federal Bureau of Investigation (Indianapolis, Chicago, and Cincinnati SWAT)
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, SWAT
Fishers Police Department, SWAT
Drug Enforcement Administration
United States Department of Agriculture
Indiana Capitol Police Department
Indiana Department of Homeland Security
Johnson County Sheriff’s Department
Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley A. Blackington and Kelsey Massa, who are prosecuting this case.
This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This operation is part of the Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program.
An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Headline: N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Announces America 250 NC Grants to 58 Counties
N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Announces America 250 NC Grants to 58 Counties jejohnson6
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ America 250 NC initiative has dispersed nearly $1.2 million in a second round of grant funds across 58 counties in the state. The grant-funded projects include new cultural events, physical and digital exhibits, historical markers, and more all inspired by North Carolina’s revolutionary history and the themes of America 250 NC. The America 250 NC Grants are designed to spark programs and activities on a local level to create a memorable and meaningful commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
“These America 250 NC grants will help local N.C. communities to more fully participate in the nationwide commemoration of our nation’s founding,” said DNCR Secretary Pamela Brewington Cashwell. “We look forward to working with communities across the state to build a memorable and meaningful celebration for all North Carolinians.”
In June 2024, DNCR issued nearly $900,000 across 34 counties in the first round of America 250 NC grants. Between the two rounds, $2.1 million in grant funds has been awarded in 74 of the state’s 100 counties. The second round of grant awards completed this funding initiative and no additional grant opportunities are currently planned. A list of current awardees is available online.
In 2026, America will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the development of a new nation dedicated to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
In the years since, our country has undergone many changes and faced many challenges. This commemoration offers a unique opportunity to reflect upon our country’s founding ideals. Explore the pivotal events, places, and voices, both historical and modern, that have shaped our state and country from the Halifax Resolves to the civil rights movement, and beyond.
America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary and is led by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
For more information, visit america250.nc.gov.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
Headline: Historic Halifax State Historic Site Hosts ‘Halifax Resolves Days: Prelude to Revolution’ on April 11-12, 2025
Historic Halifax State Historic Site Hosts ‘Halifax Resolves Days: Prelude to Revolution’ on April 11-12, 2025 jejohnson6
On April 12, 1776, the 4th Provincial Congress in session at Halifax, N.C., passed a resolution that became known as “The Halifax Resolves.” In this document, North Carolinians declared their grievances against British rule and encouraged their delegates in the Continental Congress to vote for independence. It was the first official action of any of the 13 colonies calling for independence.
Historic Halifax State Historic Site will commemorate the 249th anniversary of the Halifax Resolves with an exciting two-day event. Immerse yourself in the past as skilled historians bring to life the Revolutionary-era citizens of Halifax. Discover the pivotal role North Carolina and its people played in shaping the destiny of America. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with history firsthand.
Festivities begin on Friday, April 11. Steven Green will present a lecture about American Indian Patriots at 9 a.m. in the Commissioners Room at the Historic Court House. Later that day, at 11 a.m., Tom King will lecture on the life of the Rev. Edward Drumgoole at the First Baptist Church of Halifax. Both lectures on Friday are sponsored by the Halifax County’s A250 Churches, Genealogy, and Cemeteries Committee. At 10 a.m. members of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe will hold a ceremony at Magazine Springs. Guided tours of historic buildings and living history demonstrations are available from noon-5 p.m.
On Saturday, April 12, the Sons of the American Revolution will host a wreath-laying ceremony at the site of the Colonial Courthouse at 10 a.m., followed by the Historical Halifax Restoration Association’s annual commemoration ceremony at 2 p.m. Guided tours of historic buildings, living history, historic vignettes, and artillery demonstrations will be ongoing from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At 5:30 p.m., the historic Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church will offer a community church service — all welcome to attend. To finish the night, a free concert on the steps of the Historic Courthouse on King Street will begin at 7 p.m. The concert is sponsored by the Town of Halifax and made possible through funding by America 250 NC.
Special programming by supporting community partners will occur in Halifax on both days. The Bradford-Denton House will offer ongoing hearth cooking, blacksmithing, and other living history demonstrations. The Royal White Hart Lodge #2 will be open for tours. A variety of food trucks will be available throughout the weekend. All activities are free.
A full schedule of events and a site map will be available online at https://www.america250.nc.gov. For more information, please call Historic Halifax State Historic Site at (252) 583-7191.
About Historic Halifax State Historic Site Located on the Roanoke River, the town of Halifax developed into a commercial and political center at the time of the American Revolution. North Carolina’s Fourth Provincial Congress met in Halifax in the spring of 1776 where it unanimously adopted a document on April 12 that became knowns as the “Halifax Resolves,” the first official action by an entire colony recommending independence from England. A temporary visitor center operates Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., from the Tap Room tavern (101 N. King St.). The site is closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
Headline: State Historic Preservation Office Begins Graham County Comprehensive Architectural Survey
State Historic Preservation Office Begins Graham County Comprehensive Architectural Survey jejohnson6
Graham County has been chosen as the subject of a comprehensive survey of historic buildings and landscapes planned to take place in 2025. The 2025 architectural survey will intensively document historic buildings and landscapes from the 19th century through the 1970s. Data gathered during the survey will assist Graham County in planning for the preservation of its historic resources for years to come.
Dr. Michael Ann Williams and Audrey Thomas, architectural survey specialists with the State Historic Preservation Office (HPO), will complete the project. They will conduct fieldwork from April to May, with the project concluding in late 2025.
Architectural survey entails documentation of buildings and landscapes that are at least 50 years old. Fieldworkers take photographs, draw site plans, and collect oral history from people they meet on site. They conduct a limited amount of archival research to establish countywide patterns of historical development. Properties that appear to be potentially eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as historic districts, will be identified. National Register properties are potentially eligible for state and federal tax credits for certified historic rehabilitation. The Graham County Comprehensive Architectural Survey will culminate in a final report that analyzes the history of the county through the lens of its historic architecture.
After the survey, the HPO will retain all materials from the survey as part of the statewide architectural record. Public access to the information will be available through HPOWEB, the HPO’s geographic information system, which is accessible online at http://gis.ncdcr.gov/hpoweb/. The survey material will facilitate the environmental review necessary for state and federal undertakings and will aid in planning for future economic and community development projects. Survey products also will be useful for the continued development of heritage tourism programs in Graham County.
For more information on the Graham County Comprehensive Architectural Survey, contact Elizabeth C. King, Architectural Survey Coordinator for the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, at elizabeth.king@dncr.nc.gov or 828-250-3108, or Michael Ann Williams at michaelann.williams@dncr.nc.gov or Audrey Thomas at audrey.thomas@dncr.nc.gov or 828-296-7230.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO OF SEN. WARNER’S OPENING REMARKS IS AVAILABLE HERE
WASHINGTON – Today, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) delivered opening remarks at the Intelligence Committee’s annual Worldwide Threats Assessment hearing.
Sen. Warner’s opening remarks as delivered are below:
Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman, and good morning, everybody, and I want to thank all the witnesses for being here.
I got to say, I’ve been on the committee now for 14 years, and this year’s assessment is clearly one of the most complicated and challenging in my tenure on the committee.
And I want to get into that in a moment, but I want to, first of all, address the recent story that broke in the news.
Yesterday, we stunningly learned that senior members of this administration and according to reports, two of our witnesses here today, were members of a group chat that discussed highly sensitive and likely classified information that supposedly even included ‘weapons packages, targets and timing,’ and included the name of an active CIA agent.
Putting aside for a moment that classified information should never be discussed over an unclassified system, it’s also just mind boggling to me that all these senior folks were on this line and nobody bothered to even check, security hygiene 101…
Who are all the names? Who are they?
Well, it apparently includes a journalist.
And no matter how much the Secretary of Defense or others want to disparage him, this journalist had at least the ethics to not report everything he heard.
The question I raise is: everybody on this committee gets briefed on security protocols. They’re told you don’t make calls outside of SCIFs of this kind of classified nature.
Director Gabbard is the executive in charge of all keeping our secrets safe. Were these government devices? Or were they personal devices? Have the devices been collected to make sure there’s no malware?
There’s plenty of declassified information that shows that our adversaries, China and Russia, are trying to break in to encrypted systems like Signal.
I can just say this. If this was the case of a military officer, or an intelligence officer, and they had this kind of behavior, they would be fired. I think this is one more example of the kind of sloppy, careless, incompetent behavior, particularly towards classified information, that this is not a one off or a first time error.
Let me take a couple of minutes and review some of the other reckless choices that this administration has made regarding our national security. We all recall it seems like it wasn’t that long ago, but less than two months ago, in the first two weeks, the administration canceled all U.S. foreign assistance.
Now, some may say, how can that how bad can that be, its foreign assistance?
Well, U.S. foreign assistance paid for the units in Ukraine to provide air defense to civilian cities being attacked by Russia.
Foreign assistance paid for guarding camps in Syria, where ISIS fighters are to be detained.
Foreign assistance paid for programs abroad that ensure that diseases like Ebola don’t come home.
And until recently, it paid for the construction of a railway in Africa that would have help given the United States much needed access to critical minerals in Congo.
Now that project… China is going to try to finance it as well.
In the first two weeks, the administration fired several of our most experienced FBI agents, including the head of the criminal Investigative submission, the head of the intelligence division, the head of the Counterterrorism division, the heads of the New York, Washington and Miami field office, all individuals who were distinctly and directly responsible for helping to keep America safe.
The irony a little bit, was the recently dismissed head of the counterterrorism division was involved in disrupting the ISIS attacks planned for Oklahoma City and Philadelphia and helped lead the effort to bring to justice the key planner of the Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan, who killed 13 U.S. servicemen and 150 civilians.
That very Abbey Gate effort was actually praised by the president in his state of the Union address.
The administration’s response to these agents’ good works and years of service was to force these folks out.
It’s hard to imagine how that makes our country safer.
Nor can I understand how Americans are made more secure by firing more than 300 staff at the National Nuclear Security Administration, including those responsible for overseeing the security and safety of the nuclear stockpile, or by ousting 130 employees at CSA.
The agency directly responsible for trying to take on China’s salt typhoon attack again. After Salt Typhoon, I would have thought folks on that group chat might have thought twice.
Or how are we made safer by sacking a thousand employees at the CDC and NIH. We’re actually directly working on trying to keep our country safe from disease by pushing out hundreds of intelligence officers.
The amazing thing is our intelligence officers, they’re not interchangeable like a Twitter coder. Our country makes $20,000 to $40,000 of an investment just in getting a security clearance.
It literally goes into six figures when you take the training involved. Can anyone tell how firing probationary individuals without any consideration for merit or expertise is an efficient use of taxpayer dollars?
And just to make clear that yesterday’s story in the Atlantic was not this rookie one-off, it’s a pattern.
I want to acknowledge Director Ratcliffe was not here in his position with this took place.
But again, earlier in the administration, when a new unclassified network was used, thereby exposing literally hundreds of CIA officers’ identities.
Those folks can’t go into the field now.
How does that make our government more efficient?
You know, again, this pattern of an amazing, cavalier attitude towards classified information is reckless and sloppy.
And perhaps what troubles me most is the way the administration has decided that we can take on all of our problems by ourselves without any need for friends or allies.
I agree that we’ve got to put America’s priorities first, but American first cannot mean America alone.
The intelligence we gather to keep Americans safe depends on a lot of allies around the world who have access to sources that we don’t have.
That’s sharing of information saves lives. And it’s not hypothetical.
We all remember (because it was declassified) last year when Austria worked with our community to make sure to expose a plot against Taylor Swift in Vienna that could have killed literally hundreds of individuals.
However, these relationships are not built in stone. They’re not dictated by law. Things like the Five Eyes are based on trust built on decades, but so often that trust is now breaking literally overnight.
Yet suddenly, for no reason that I can understand, the United States is starting to act like our adversaries are our friends. Voting in the UN with Russia, Belarus and North Korea. It’s a rogues gallery if ever heard one.
Treating our allies like adversaries, whether it’s threats to take over Greenland or over the Panama Canal, a destructive trade war with Canada, or literally threatening to kick Canada out of the Five Eyes, I feel our credibility is being enormously undermined with our allies, who I believe, and I think most of us on this committee, regardless of party believes, makes our country safer and stronger.
But how can our allies ever trust us as the kind of partner we used to be when we, without consultation or notice, for example, stop sharing information to Ukraine in its war for survival against Russia. Or how can our allies not only not trust our government, but potentially not our businesses with such arbitrary political decision?
Let me give you a few examples. You know, as a result of a lot of work from this committee and others in Congress, we made sure America’s commercial space industry is second to none from space to launch to commercial sensing and communications.
The United States has taken a lead. Yet overnight, this administration called into question the reliability of American commercial tech industry.
When maps are and other commercial space companies were directed to stop sharing intelligence with Ukraine.
I’m going to tell you… I’m a business guy. Can’t say longer than being an elected official, but pretty close. That shockwave across all of commercial space and frankly, not just commercial space. I’ve heard it from some of our hyperscalers, in the tech community, has sent an enormous chill.
Who’s going to hire an American commercial space company, government or foreign business with the ability to have that taken down so arbitrarily?
It’s not just in the case of commercial space.
We’ve seen that Canada, Germany, Portugal have all been saying they’re rethinking buying F-35s.
I’ve heard from Microsoft and Google directly, and Amazon that they’re having questions about whether they can still sell their services.
We’ve also seen foreign adversaries and friends take advantage of this RIF in our national security areas, and our scientists.
Germany has already put out ads trying to attract some of our best scientists who’ve been RIFed and the Chinese intelligence agencies are posting on social media sites in the hopes of luring individuals with that national security clearance who’ve been pushed out, perhaps arbitrarily, to come into their service.
So, no, the signal fiasco is not a one off. It is, unfortunately, a pattern we’re seeing too often repeated.
I fear that we feel the erosion of trust from our workplace, from our companies, and from our allies and partners can’t be put back in the bottle overnight. Make no mistake, these actions make America less safe.
Under this policy, children were compared against the level of achievement expected for their age and time at school. The goal was to improve results across the education system.
The planned introduction of a new standardised assessment tool is concerning for a number of reasons – particularly when it comes to long-term consequences for schools and student learning.
But what has also raised the hackles of many in education is how the tender process for the new tool happened without warning. Here is what parents, schools and the public should know about the background to this debate.
In 2024, Education Minister Erica Stanford announced plans to allow schools to choose between two tools to assess students, but the ministry has now issued a tender for just one. Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images
A narrowing curriculum
There is plenty of research – from New Zealand and overseas – highlighting the negative consequences of standardised testing in education.
Standardised assessment can, for example, lead to schools being ranked against each other according to their achievement data. A low ranking could jeopardise a school’s reputation and therefore the number of enrolments and subsequent funding they receive.
In this high-stakes environment, teachers can be pressured to focus on assessed subjects, often to the detriment of the broader curriculum. While the curriculum in New Zealand has already been considerably narrowed under the government’s “Teaching the Basics Brilliantly” policy, a standardised assessment could further exacerbate this trend.
Teachers may also be inclined to “teach to the test” and employ rote learning strategies, where children are encouraged to memorise the correct answers. While this may result in high test scores, it is questionable whether deeper learning will occur.
Finally, while standardised tests might promise an “easy fix” to improve educational outcomes, they do not address the deeper socioeconomic disparities which continue to significantly affect educational achievement.
It’s not our intention to pit schools against each other. This data is for parents to know how their kids are going, teachers to inform practice, and as a system to know how we’re tracking.
But according to documents released later the same year, the government already had a plan to rely on a single standardised assessment tool that could produce comparable data.
Principals and teachers can also be held accountable for student achievement, while larger contextual factors, such as socioeconomic inequalities, are ignored. This can ultimately lead to educators being blamed if achievement targets are not met.
Regardless of who wins the tender for the new assessment tool, New Zealand’s recent experience with standardised testing didn’t achieve what was promised. Returning to national standards – either in name or just in spirit – should raise alarms for everyone.
Marta Estellés has previously received funding from The Spencer Foundation, New Zealand National Commission of UNESCO, the Division of Education at The University of Waikato and The University of Cantabria.
Jade Wrathall does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Spacesuits were an important consideration that Nasa had to factor into its plans to bring the astronauts back home. Wilmore and Williams had travelled to the ISS in Boeing’s experimental Starliner spacecraft, so they arrived wearing Boeing “Blue” spacesuits.
Following helium leaks and thruster (engine) issues with Starliner, Nasa decided it was safer not to send them back to Earth on that vehicle. The astronauts had to wait to return on one of the other spacecraft that ferry crew members to the ISS, the SpaceX Crew Dragon.
This meant they needed a different type of spacesuit, made by SpaceX for use in its vehicle only. Boeing’s suits cannot be used in Crew Dragon in part because the umbilicals (the flexible “pipes” that supply air and cooling to the suit) have connections and standards that don’t work with the ports inside a Crew Dragon.
This highlights a general problem for the growing number of space agencies and companies sending people into orbit, and for planned missions to the Moon and beyond. Ensuring that different spacesuits are compatible, or “interoperable”, with spacecraft they weren’t designed to be used in is vital if we are to protect astronauts’ lives during an emergency in space, especially in joint missions.
The spacesuits worn during a return from space are called “launch, entry and abort” (LEA) suits. These are airtight and provide life support to the astronauts in case there is a decompression, when air is lost from the cabin.
Unfortunately, a decompression has already caused loss of life in space. During the Soyuz 11 mission in 1971, three Soviet cosmonauts visited the world’s first space station, Salyut 1. But during preparations for re-entry, the crew cabin lost its air, killing cosmonauts Georgy Dobrovolsky, Vladislav Volkov and Viktor Patsayev, who were not wearing LEA suits. All cosmonauts wore them after this incident.
As well as the connections for life support, the Boeing and SpaceX suits also have restraints and connections for communications that are specific to each vehicle. For their return home from the ISS in a SpaceX capsule, Williams was able into use a spare SpaceX suit that was already aboard the space station and the company sent up an additional suit on a cargo delivery for Wilmore to wear.
Two spacecraft are usually docked at the ISS as “lifeboats” to evacuate the astronauts in the event of an emergency. These are generally a SpaceX Crew Dragon and a Russian Soyuz capsule.
If an emergency evacuation were to occur and there weren’t enough of the right spacesuits available – for either the Crew Dragon or Soyuz – it could endanger astronauts during the fiery re-entry through Earth’s atmosphere. Interoperability between spacesuits has therefore become a matter of survival.
The Outer Space Treaty, which provides the basic framework for international space law, recognises astronauts as “envoys of humankind” and grants them specific legal protections. These were expanded on in subsequent UN treaties – notably the Rescue Agreement, which imposes a range of duties on states to render assistance to each others’ astronauts in cases of emergency, accident or distress.
For the ISS, a collaborative space programme with international flight crews, protocols include terms that set forth how this obligation is to be met. However, these protocols do not contain terms relating to spacesuit interoperability.
Risks to astronauts in space
A major potential cause of an emergency evacuation is space debris. The ISS has regularly had to manoeuvre to avoid collisions with debris – including entire defunct satellites.
In his memoir, Endurance, Nasa astronaut Scott Kelly describes being commanded to enter the Soyuz vehicle with two other crew members and prepare to detach from the ISS because of a close approach by a large defunct satellite. Luckily, the spacecraft passed by harmlessly.
As orbits become increasingly congested, with an exponential increase in the number of space objects being launched, the risk of collisions will also increase.
Ever more companies and governments are entering the human spaceflight arena. The Tiangong space station, China’s orbiting laboratory, has been fully operational since 2022, and there are plans to open it to space tourism, just like the ISS.
India is planning to join the community of nations with the capability to launch humans into space, under a programme called Gaganyaan. And while most space travellers remain government-funded astronauts, the number of private space-farers is increasing.
Billionaire Jared Isaacman (who is President Trump’s nominee to run Nasa) has commanded two private missions into orbit using Crew Dragon. On the second of these, he participated in the first spacewalk by privately funded astronauts. The ISS is set to be retired in 2030 – but one company, Houston-based Axiom Space, is already building a private space station.
Against this complex and part-unregulated backdrop, ensuring the interoperability of different spacecraft systems, including spacesuits, will increase levels of safety in this inherently risky activity.
While the safety and practicality of spacesuits has always been the top priority, compatibility between different suits and vehicles should also be high on the list. This requires space agencies and private spaceflight companies to engage with each other in a process to agree on standard interfaces and connections for life support and communications, across all their suits and space vehicles.
Amid this period of increased commercialisation and competition between the organisations and companies involved in orbital spaceflight, a move toward greater collaboration can only be a good thing.
Berna Akcali Gur does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
I grew up in a mixed-heritage family. Both of my parents’ childhoods were deeply affected by colonialism in India and they often told me stories about this period in their lives. As a result, I inherited a sense of place and a feeling for a country which was never my home.
It’s a strange feeling, which I still struggle to put into words, though I tried in my memoir, Shalimar: A Story of Place and Migration, which holds at its heart the sensation and imagery of India’s climate and its wildlife. India, for me, will always coexist with English weather and the roses my father tended to in our modest, suburban home in Hayes, west London.
While we now have beautifully written, tender children’s books which address colonial history, from Nazneen Ahmed Pathak’s City of Stolen Magic (2023) to Jasbinder Bilan’s Nush and the Stolen Emerald (2024), The Secret Garden still holds a powerful spell over me. That’s because of its representation of nature and its use of fiction to tell a story about England and India, two countries brought together through the healing space of the garden.
I believe that re-contextualising A Secret Garden as an early work of climate fiction – a type of storytelling that imagines how climate change could shape our world – is an apt way to rethink this classic tale.
This article is part of Rethinking the Classics. The stories in this series offer insightful new ways to think about and interpret classic books and artworks. This is the canon – with a twist.
Published in 1911, The Secret Garden unfolds against the backdrop of the fictional Misselthwaite Manor and its walled garden on the Yorkshire Moors.
While Yorkshire and its thick sheets of rain, enveloped in mist and fog, is portrayed vividly by Hodgeson Burnett, the ghostly heat and skies of India are also woven throughout the book’s micro-climates. Hodgeson Burnett’s attention to nature is masterful and magical:
One knows it sometimes when one gets up at the tender solemn dawn-time and goes out and stands out and throws one’s head far back and looks up and up and watches the pale sky slowly changing and flushing … And one knows it sometimes when one stands by oneself in a wood at sunset and the mysterious deep gold stillness slanting through and under the branches seems to be saying slowly again and again something one cannot quite hear, however much one tries.
The climates of India and Yorkshire blur into a new reality when seen through the eyes of the book’s central protagonist, the recently orphaned Mary Lennox. She is sent to live with her uncle after her parents die of cholera in colonial Calcutta.
Wilful and fiery, Mary’s grief and rootlessness seems to be unending until she follows a twitching robin into a walled garden. There she befriends other children including her cousin Colin, who uses a wheelchair, and the gardener, Weatherstaff.
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The hidden sanctuary and wonder of the garden is intertwined with Mary’s inner world and her search for solace after the loss of her parents. Her resilience thrives and blooms, particularly when she becomes a storyteller and draws the other children into this secret place through her tales of adventure.
Here, the telling of the “story” of the garden is as important as the experience of the garden itself. This is where fiction does its work – we need stories like this to recover a sense of care in times of ecological crisis.
Last year saw the launch of the Climate Fiction Prize, a vital endeavour to specifically support literary fiction as a cultural form which permits writers the freedom to imagine alternative paths for human existence. The Secret Garden is a work of such imagination, of transformation from otherwise impossible states of crisis and inertia.
Beyond the Canon
As part of the Rethinking the Classics series, we’re asking our experts to recommend a book or artwork that tackles similar themes to the canonical work in question, but isn’t (yet) considered a classic itself. Here is Davina Quinlivan’s suggestion:
Shaun Tan’s Tales From the Inner City (2018) is a beautiful and extremely moving collection of illustrated, eco-centric stories exploring the relationship between humans and animals in urban environments.
Tan is well known for his elegiac and often uncanny, playful storytelling and Tales From the Inner City skilfully braids these aesthetic values with a powerful message of hope and compassion for the wild and domestic creatures we share our world with. While there is no explicit reference to the climate crisis, Tan’s exquisite images illustrate stories of kinship between humans and dogs, snails, whales, pigeons, cats and tigers – all bound to each other as intertwined species.
Set within cities, the wild beauty of each animal seems enlarged, as does the poignancy of each story, reminding us of what we have to lose. Some of the creatures literally morph into giant versions of themselves, eerie against Tan’s various backdrops of urban space. In one story, two tiny humans are seen being carried through stormy waters, perched between the ears of an enormous cat. It’s an indelible image of hope and survival in the wake of environmental devastation. Tan’s imaginative power is utterly extraordinary.
Davina Quinlivan is an AHRC-funded StoryArcs Fellow based in the Department of English and Creative Writing at The University of Exeter. She is also an Artistic Lead with Emblaze, an imprint of Paper Nations. Paper Nations is an award-winning creative writing incubator illuminating stories of colour in the South West, funded by Arts Council England and produced by The Story Society, Bath Spa University.
One of the lasting memories from my teenage years is what I now recognise as an obsession with weight control. Thin was in, and magazines promoted a variety of diets, each claiming effectiveness, often accompanied by images of beautiful, slim models. Not much has changed.
Diets, intermittent fasting, weight-loss surgery, and more recently, weight-loss injections continue to be marketed as solutions for shedding pounds. Achieving a healthy weight is widely regarded as essential for overall wellbeing.
Many studies have explored the relationship between weight changes and mortality, as well as mortality in obese people with heart disease. These studies often suggest that excessive weight is unhealthy and that people with obesity and heart disease should lose weight.
However, findings from a recent study, of which I was a co-author, challenge this assumption. Our research indicates that significant weight loss – greater than 10kg – can actually increase the risk of early death in obese people with cardiovascular disease.
This study was based on data from over 8,000 participants in the UK Biobank, a comprehensive resource for medical research that includes genetic data.
While it’s known that rapid weight loss can signal underlying health issues and lead to serious complications, the weight changes in our study were observed over an average of nine years, meaning for some participants, these changes were relatively quick.
This creates a paradox. While both obesity and cardiovascular disease are known to increase the risk of early death, in obese people with cardiovascular disease, weight loss – intended to improve health – can have the opposite effect.
The relationship between body weight and illness is complex. Though obesity contributes to cardiovascular problems, studies have also shown an increased risk of early death in those with chronic heart failure who are lean, and in people with coronary artery disease whose weight fluctuates.
Obesity rates are rising, but simply focusing on weight loss may not be the answer.
Variability in weight loss
For weight loss to be effective, we must consider the diverse factors contributing to weight gain, which vary from person to person. Genetics play a significant role in appetite and metabolism, and they can also influence lifestyle factors like overeating, inadequate exercise and poor dietary choices that lead to obesity.
In our study, my colleagues and I couldn’t account for all the factors behind the participants’ obesity or the methods they used to lose weight. This means we can’t definitively determine which weight-loss strategies – whether in terms of duration, diet or physical activity – pose the greatest risks.
The conventional approach to healthy weight – using body mass index (BMI) – may not apply to everyone. BMI is increasingly recognised as having limitations. Some people may tolerate higher weights without adverse health effects. The real question isn’t how quickly weight should be lost, but how quickly it should be lost for each person.
Given the current evidence, we cannot accurately determine an ideal weight range that’s universally beneficial for health. However, intriguing patterns are emerging from various countries.
For instance, Tonga has a high rate of obesity, yet it experiences significantly lower rates of heart-disease-related deaths than many European countries where obesity is less prevalent. Tonga also reports lower levels of alcohol consumption and suicide than most European nations.
Health encompasses both physical and mental wellbeing. Shifting the focus to holistic wellbeing and happiness may offer more lasting health benefits. Treating obesity requires a comprehensive approach, addressing all underlying factors contributing to the condition.
Barbara Pierscionek does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi will deliver the keynote address at the opening of the second meeting of the Group of Twenty (G20) Health Working Group on Wednesday.
The meeting will take place at the Capital Zimbali Resort in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, and will last for three days.
The theme of the meeting will be “Accelerating Health Equity, Solidarity, and Universal Coverage”.
Motsoaledi will be joined by Deputy Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, and KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane.
The event will also include several side events that provide a platform for delegates to engage in bilateral and multilateral discussions on various critical issues, including strengthening health systems and promoting equitable access to health services.
Key issues for discussion during the meeting and side events include financial protection for universal health coverage (UHC) and maintaining health financing amid a challenging global economy.
The meeting will also zoom into strengthening investments and advancing UHC, bridging the equity gap to accelerate action to address the burden of non-communicable diseases, and responding to the global health financing emergency.
The Department of Health has announced that a co-sponsored event focused on the elimination of cervical cancer will take place alongside this meeting.
Delegates from G20 countries, invited nations, representatives, and international organisations will be in attendance.
South Africa holds the G20 Presidency from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, only five years before the deadline of the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda. South Africa has embraced the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability” for its G20 Presidency.
The G20 comprises 19 countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and the United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU).
The first virtual G20 Health Working Group meeting was held in January as part of the country’s G20 Presidency activities planned for this year. – SAnews.gov.za
[BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador joined 51 other attorneys general in filing an amicus brief before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims in support of two military veterans and their families who were unlawfully denied their full G.I. Bill education benefits by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In this case, U.S. Army veteran Lieutenant Colonel Paul Yoon and U.S. Air Force veteran Colonel Toby Doran were denied crucial education benefits to which they are clearly entitled. The brief argues that the VA has taken a restrictive interpretation of the G.I. Bills that contradicts the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Rudisill v. McDonough, which confirmed that veterans who qualify under both the Montgomery and Post-9/11 G.I. Bills are entitled to a full 48 months of education benefits. Despite the clear precedent, the VA has continued to limit benefits based on an erroneous reading of the ruling, depriving veterans and their families of critical educational opportunities. “Our veterans have made profound sacrifices for our country,” said Attorney General Labrador. “It is the responsibility of the United States to meet every obligation and contractual agreement we as a country made in exchange for their service. Keeping our word is not optional.” This amicus brief was also joined by the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
World news story
UN Human Rights Council 58: UK Statement for the DPRK’s UPR
UK Statement for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s Universal Periodic Review Outcomes Session Statement. Delivered at the 58th HRC in Geneva.
Thank you, Madame Vice President.
The UK welcomes the DPRK’s continued engagement with the UPR process, including its report on the recommendations received. We hope that the DPRK will collaborate with the international community to take tangible steps towards the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
However we remain concerned by the lack of guarantees to ensure the implementation of the DPRK’s human rights obligations, and regret that it did not accept any of the UK’s recommendations, which were to:
Ratify the UN Convention against Torture and reform the judicial system to ensure respect for the right to a fair trial and end sentences that constitute cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment;
Grant access to the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the DPRK and accept technical cooperation from UN human rights mechanisms; and
Improve regulations to prevent gender-based discrimination and violence, particularly towards women and girls, including in penal facilities and the military.
There are still unacceptable reports of ongoing, widespread, and systematic human rights violations in the DPRK. The UK remains open to discussing any recommendations further.
SAN DIEGO, March 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of cutting-edge casino management solutions, is thrilled to announce that Delaware Park has selected the QCI Enterprise Platform to elevate its data-driven operations. The strategic decision to transition from VizExplorer to QCI’s innovative platform highlights Delaware Park’s commitment to providing an enhanced guest experience through superior analytics and real-time operational insights.
Delaware Park, a prominent gaming destination in Delaware, is well-known for offering its guests exceptional service. By adopting the QCI Enterprise Platform, Delaware Park will now leverage advanced marketing and data analytics to optimize their performance and guest satisfaction.
Terry Glebocki, President & General Manager of Delaware Park, shared her thoughts on the transition: Delaware Park Casino is excited to partner with QCI. “The real-time insights and innovative analytics provided by QCI will enable us to make data-driven decisions that will enhance the overall experience for our customers and improve our internal processes.”
Andrew Cardno, CTO of QCI, expressed his excitement about the partnership:
“We are honored to welcome Delaware Park to the expanding network of gaming properties utilizing the QCI Enterprise Platform. By choosing QCI, Delaware Park demonstrates a strong commitment to innovation, and we look forward to supporting their efforts to streamline operations and drive revenue.”
Melissa Chiaurro, President of VizExplorer, also commented on the collaboration:
“The Viz team is excited to begin transitioning our clients to the QCI Platform. This move will not only enhance their analytical capabilities but also offer a more user-friendly experience and deeper insights into player behaviors. We are committed to making the migration process as smooth as possible and are eager to see the innovative opportunities that QCI will unlock for our partners.”
ABOUT QCI Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI AGI Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and The Bahamas. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI’s data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Denver, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com.
ABOUT Andrew Cardno Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master’s level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew’s innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today’s mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industries—be it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSD—Andrew’s impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew’s work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors.
overnor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $2.1 million in awards to 43 faith-based and not-for-profit organizations through the New York State Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services to improve public access to essential technologies. The funds are available to community organizations that will work directly with New Yorkers to help remove barriers for people who need technology resources, including telehealth appointments, career advancement services, remote educational opportunities, social services applications or other computer access needs.
“Technology is rapidly advancing, and we need to make sure that everyone has a fair chance at taking advantage of its resources,” Governor Hochul said. “From doctors appointments to opportunities in education and professional development, we are making these resources easily accessible for all New Yorkers.”
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development is making good on Governor Hochul’s commitment to ensuring community-based organizations have access to critical state resources in order to serve the people of our great state. These grants to organizations across New York will help remove barriers for those in need to use technology resources to get telehealth, education, career advancement and any other support to better their lives.”
Director of the Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services Caura Washington said, In 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul reimagined the Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services Office commissioning this office to go on a 62-county tour. Our dedication to listen, understand, and respond to the needs often highlighted during that tour, in every region across our state, led to the development of this funding opportunity. Through the New York State request for application process, this opportunity was offered statewide, ensuring that funding was awarded with transparency and equal opportunity so that innovation and impact would take precedence. We are excited to continue to provide support across our state and meet the needs of everyday New Yorkers.”
President of New York State Interfaith Council A.R. Bernard said, “I applaud Governor Hochul for her visionary leadership and commitment to strengthening New York’s communities through the announcement of more than $2.1 million in awards to 43 faith-based and nonprofit organizations. This initiative reflects a deep understanding that communities thrive when faith-based and nonprofit partners are empowered to serve. I stand in full support of this effort and celebrate Governor Hochul’s continued promise to help these organizations fulfill their potential as pillars of hope, access, and opportunity for all.”
The grants of up to $50,000 will allow these organizations to further break down barriers for people in need of technology services by offering:
Technology access for communities across NYS.
Helping bridge gaps in technology for vulnerable populations.
Enhancing public programs with technology infrastructure investments.
Creating opportunities for public access to computers and the internet for education, job advancement, telehealth and more.
The goal of these grants is to work together with faith-based and non-profit organizations to enhance the ability to meet the community’s needs, including serving distinctly different populations and/or geographic locations and technology demands. The regions to receive the grants are:
Capital Region
Capital District Center for Independence (CDCI) $48,893
Higher Horizons Development Corp (HHDC) $49,433
Central New York
Syracuse Northeast Community Center (SNCC) $49,999
Finger Lakes
Episcopal SeniorLife Communities (ESLC) $50,000
Literacy West, NY (LWNY) $49,821
Mid-Hudson
CHOICE of New Rochelle (CHOICE of NY) $50,000
Echoes Africa Initiatives $50,000
NYSARC The ARC Mid-Hudson / Cornell Creative Arts Center $50,000
Parcare Community Health Network $50,000
Rockland Independent Living Center (BRIDGES) $50,000
United Hebrew of New Rochelle $42,431
Upon this Rock Ministries, Inc $50,000
Westchester Jewish Community Services, Inc. (WJCS) $50,000
Mohawk Valley
Muslim Community Association of Mohawk Valley (MCAMV) $50,000
Rescue Mission of Utica (RMU) $49,905
New York City Bronx
Bridge Builders Community Partnership (BBCP) $50,000
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) $50,000
Practice of Peace Foundation, Inc. $50,000
New York City Brooklyn
CAMBA $50,000
Kings Bay Y (KBY) $50,000
Metropolitan New York Coordinating Council on Jewish Poverty (Met Council) $41,253
University Settlement Society of New York (USS) $50,000
New York City New York
Chinatown Manpower Project, Inc. (CMP) $50,000
Girls Write Now (GWN) $50,000
Muslim Community Network (MCN) $50,000
New York City Queens
Center for the Integration & Advancement of New Americans (CIANA) $25,000
Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula (JCCRP) $50,000
Korean American Family Services Center (KAFSC) $50,000
Korean Community Services of Metro (KCS) $50,000
Rise Now, Inc $50,000
Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation (RDRC) $49,967
Southern Tier
The Economic Opportunity Program, Inc. (EOP) $48,600
AIM Independent Living Center (AIM) $50,000
Western New York
Ardent Solutions, Inc. $50,000
Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers, Inc. (BFNC) $50,000
ChildCare Network of the Niagara Frontier, Inc. (The LINK) $50,000
Computers for Children, Inc. (AKA Mission: Ignite) $50,000
Gerard Place $49,793
Jewish Family Services of Western NY (JFS) $50,000
Literacy West NY, Inc. (LWNY) $49,533
The Chapel $ 36,715
Contracting organizations will start the development of the Community Resource Rooms to be available in the next few months, expanding technology accessibility for New Yorkers.
About the Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services
Since its creation in November of 2023, the New York State Office of Faith & Nonprofit Development Services has stood as a beacon of support and resources for faith-based and not-for-profit organizations across the State. At its core, the Office seeks to empower faith-based and not-for-profit organizations by providing essential information, facilitating access to state grants, and enhancing organizational capacities. More information is available on the Office of Faith & Nonprofit Development Services website.
Source: The White House
PROTECTING UNITED STATES NATIONAL SECURITY: Yesterday, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order imposing tariffs on countries that import Venezuelan oil.
President Trump is levying a 25% tariff on all goods from any country that imports Venezuelan oil, whether directly from Venezuela or indirectly through third parties.
The tariffs will lapse one year after a country ceases importing Venezuelan oil—or sooner if officials deem it appropriate.
If tariffs are imposed on China, they will also apply to Hong Kong and Macau to prevent transshipment and evasion.
These tariffs aim to sever the financial lifelines of Nicolás Maduro’s corrupt regime and curb its destabilizing influence across the Western Hemisphere.
This action targets transnational criminal threats, such as the Tren de Aragua gang, and addresses the humanitarian crises fueled by Venezuela’s actions.
ADDRESSING AN EMERGENCY SITUATION: The Maduro regime poses an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.
The Maduro regime systemically undermines democratic institutions by suppressing free and fair elections and consolidating power illegitimately.
Venezuela’s endemic corruption and mismanagement under Maduro have crushed its people and triggered a regional humanitarian and public health crisis.
Millions of Venezuelans have fled Maduro’s oppressive rule, imposing significant burdens on neighboring countries and destabilizing the Western Hemisphere.
The Maduro regime has aided and facilitated the infiltration of the Tren de Aragua gang—a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization—into the United States by failing to secure its borders, allowing the gang to flourish within Venezuela, and refusing to take action against its members.
These dangerous criminals exploited the previous administration’s open-border policies, establishing a foothold in U.S. communities and preying on American citizens through violent acts, including kidnapping, assault, and murder.
USING OUR LEVERAGE TO SAFEGUARD OUR INTERESTS: President Trump is using America’s economic might to safeguard our interests and punish those who support Maduro’s regime.
Tariffs are a powerful, proven source of leverage for protecting the national interest.
President Trump is sending a clear message that access to our economy is a privilege, not a right, and countries importing Venezuelan oil will face consequences.
As President Trump said in the Presidential Memorandum on American First Trade Policy, trade policy is a critical component in national security.
President Trump has successfully used tariffs in the past to advance America’s interests and address urgent national security threats and is doing so again today.
Medicine and dentistry students stood beside their posters, brightly catching the eye of anyone who seemed interested in their work, as faculty and fellow students browsed the buzzing hall.
“Each year, we are thoroughly impressed by the quality and rigor of the scholarly work that is presented by our students and, if you have looked at the program booklet and have read the abstracts, this year’s presentations will be no different,” School of Dental Medicine Dean Steven Lepowsky promised that morning, as he welcomed attendees to the 2025 Medical and Dental Research Day.
The energy was infectious. This is the second year the research day has been back in person, after taking a hiatus during the pandemic, and students, faculty, and staff happily mingled while viewing posters on a wildly diverse range of topics, from sexually transmitted disease treatment to maxillofacial surgery.
“Year after year our students make us so UConn-proud with their novel research investigations and professional presentations about them. They surely are poised to become the next generation of physician-scientists,” said Dr. Bruce T. Liang, dean of UConn School of Medicine.
After the poster sessions, Wenyuan Shi, the chief executive officer of the ADA Forsyth Institute, addressed the students with a keynote on how to combine a satisfying career in the health fields with opportunities for technological innovation and business development.
“Research and innovation have everything to do with being a good doctor,” Shi said.
Wenyuan Shi, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer at the ADA Forsyth Institute, gives a lecture as the keynote speaker at the Medical and Dental Student Research Day at UConn Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine, on FEbruary 27, 2025. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
The dental and medical students presented 102 projects, enough to fill the hallways and lobby near the rotunda as well as the landing on the way to the library. Every poster contained original research done by second-year students. It was impossible for a single individual to speak with every presenter, but below is a sampling of the work presented by the students.
Root to Crown
Longer roots make for stabler smiles: teeth with longer roots compared to the visible crown of the tooth are more likely to stay put. Especially in orthodontics, the length of the root of the tooth is a good predictor of how successful the treatment will be.
“It’s important to have that good anchor,” dental student Stephanie Salcines said. Salcines’s research looked at whether ethnicity correlated with root length in Asian and Hispanic populations. The answer she found was no, aside from the maxillary lateral incisor—but gender did seem to make a difference, particularly among Hispanics.
Fewer X-rays, Same Imagery
A new 3D x-ray technique that uses just half the radiation can identify problems in the sinuses as well as the standard method, reported Erica Mallon. The second-year dental student showed that cone beam computed tomography scans taken only from behind, rotating around the head from one ear to the other, can allow clear diagnosis of blockages, deformations, and other sinus troubles. The 180-degree behind the head technique fully shows the teeth and the sinuses, while avoiding radiation to the sensitive eyes and thyroid gland, Mallon found. Previous research showed this reduces the total radiation dose by 40% to 60%.
“This is a sweet spot between a reasonably low and balanced radiation exposure and the resolution needed for diagnosis and clinical treatment planning,” said Aditya Tadinada, associate dean for graduate research and one of the principal investigators on the project.
Troughs of Tears
The thin skin under the eye often sags with age, particularly the area around the tear trough. It’s a common location for cosmetic surgeries, but there are nerves, major blood vessels and veins that must be avoided. Second-year dental student John Fregene surveyed outcomes of tear trough cosmetic procedures and found that surgeons who followed specific guidelines caused little swelling, no artery damage, no nerve damage, and improved the appearance of the tear trough area.
“There should be a standard protocol to follow in tear trough augmentation,” Fregene said.
Exon of Action in Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism is a rare condition in which the parathyroid glands become overactive, causing jaw tumors, renal and uterine issues. There’s a specific gene that commonly causes the condition, called CDC73. Second-year dental student Lorens Carrasquillo found most of the mutations associated with hyperparathyroidism affected Exon 1, a specific location in CDC73.
Objectively Painful
Pain is notoriously subjective—but maybe not, according to work done by Victoria Abalyan, a second-year medical student. She used microfilments to apply precise amounts of pressure on a patient’s forearm and asked them to rate their perceived level of pain. There was definitely a correlation between level of pressure and level of reported pain, indicating women were reliably reporting their pain levels. All the patients in the study were women within 48 hours of having given birth.
“We want to take data further out, at six weeks, or 24 weeks. We might be able to screen for women who are at higher risk of pain in the postpartum period,” Abalyan said.
Medical and dental students present their research at the UConn Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine research day on February 27, 2025. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
Ultrasound in the Emergency Room
Long waits in the emergency room are common and frustrating for patients. Three student researchers looked at whether ultrasounds done right in the emergency room could speed appropriate treatment for patients with three common issues: joint pain, suspected urinary tract infections, and emergency surgery.
Second-year medical student Michael Kosover looked into whether ultrasound could help triage joint pain. And it could—not a single joint pain patient with a normal ultrasound required surgery or admission to the hospital.
“It was 100% sensitivity,” Kosover said. “And the advantage of ultrasound is it’s quicker, no radiation, and portable.”
Delaney Kehoe looked into whether ultrasounds could diagnose urinary tract infections in the emergency room.
“We expected to see if there was a different in the inner wall of the bladder—a thicker layer, because of inflammation, or just different,” Kehoe said. In this case, the answer seemed to be no—but the study didn’t recruit enough patients, so they may continue it to get a larger sample size and clearer results.
Aspiration (inhaling stomach contents) can be a risk during lifesaving intubations in the emergency room. The risk of aspiration is why patients are advised to fast before surgery—but people who need emergency surgery obviously can’t plan ahead. Nicolette Meka evaluated whether ultrasound can reliably determine stomach size, and if so, which angle of the patient’s torso gives the best ultrasound view of their stomach.
“We found coronal—looking at the stomach from the patient’s side—gave 94.6% specificity,” in whether they had significant food in their stomach, Meka said.
Hives on Social Media
Getting hives – those red, itchy raised welts on the skin – happens to a portion of the population all the time, for no apparent reason. Yee Won Kim had them all the time when she was young, and information on how to treat or prevent them was scarce. Now, people are likely to look for advice on social media, the second-year medical student reports in her research.
“Many people are just asking what helped other people—there are a lot of good conversations happening,” Kim says. She collected information on the people and questions surrounding “chronic spontaneous urticaria,” as hives are known, on social media channels including X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Following the poster day, the judging committee, composed of medical and dental faculty, decided on the winners of the competition.
The winners of the 2025 Student Research Day are below.
Medical and dental students present their research at the UConn Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine research day on February 27, 2025. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)
School of Medicine
CONNECTICUT ACADEMY OF FAMILY PRACTICE: One medical student will receive this $200 monetary gift for excellence in Primary Care Research.
Poster 57 | Survey Connecticut Providers on the Process of Making Patient Referrals to Community-Based Organizations
Paul Jude Isaac
CONNECTICUT HOLISTIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION: Awarded by Dr. Michael Basso, this annual award was established to recognize excellence in research in Integrative/ Complementary and Alternative Medicine. A medical student and a dental student will each receive an award of $100. Special thanks go to Dr. Michael Basso of the Connecticut Holistic Health Association.
Poster 51 | Financial Strain as a Contributor to Cognitive Impairment in Late Life Depression
Brian Fox
Madison Witt
DEAN’S AWARD: In recognition of two outstanding medical student researchers and their faculty mentors. Awards of $250 each will be presented to the four awardees. The awards to faculty mentors will be used for travel to a scientific meeting.
Poster 31 | Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence Integration in Pediatric Health Care for Patient Education
Veronica Sofia Arroyo Rodriguez & Dr. Thomas Agresta
Poster 77 | Gastric Distention on Ultrasound: Coronal versus Sagittal Approach
Nicolette Mary Meka & Dr. Meghan Herbst
MR. AND MRS. JEFFREY GROSS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENT: Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Gross established this award. Dr. Jeffrey Gross is Professor Emeritus at UCHC. Awards of $250 each will be given to two medical student researchers who presented excellent studies. One award will go to an oral presentation and one award will go to a poster presentation.
Poster 47 | In vivo modeling of a novel TEK:GAB2 fusion oncogene reveals targetable oncogenic signaling pathways in angiosarcoma
Flora Isabella Dievenich Braes
Poster 52 | Visit characteristics from emergency departments caring for persons living with dementia: a nationally representative sample
James Christopher Galske
JOHN SHANLEY MEMORIAL GLOBAL HEALTH AWARD: The award is to honor the memory of John D. Shanley, MD, MPH, former Chief of Infectious Disease at the University of Connecticut, and Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health and Associate Dean of International Health at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University. This award is sponsored by FNE International and will be given in recognition of a project that best exemplifies collaboration towards sustainable services with an international partner. The student will receive a monetary award of $250.
Poster 68 | Assessing Dengue Vaccine Acceptance in Pediatric Caregivers in Kandy, Sri Lanka
Caitlin Alexandra Lawrence
LAWRENCE G. RAISZ AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MUSCULOSKELETAL RESEARCH:
In honor and memory of Lawrence G. Raisz, M.D., this award of $250 will be given to a medical student researcher who presented outstanding work in the field musculoskeletal research.
Poster 54 | Effect of 4-Aminopyridine and Smoothened Agonist on Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Christopher Jesse Garcia
PEER RECOGNITION AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH:
This award of $200 will be given to a medical student researcher in recognition of an exemplary poster presentation, as determined by peer review.
Poster 76 | Reassessing Maxillary Sinusitis: Recognizing Odontogenic Origins in the ENT Clinic
Uma Sandeep Mehta
WILLIAM M. WADLEIGH MEMORIAL AWARD FOR CROSS-CULTURAL ANDINTERNATIONAL HEALTH RESEARCH: The award is in honor the memory of William M. Wadleigh, PhD, anthropologist and Associate Director of the Center for International Community Health Studies in the Department of Community Medicine and Health Care. This $250 award is given annually to a medical student whose research exemplifies international and cross-cultural understanding of health issues.
Poster 75 | Assessing the Impact of Pediatric Dengue Hospitalization on Caregiver Stress and Functioning
Meghan Martin
School of Dental Medicine
DEAN’S AWARD: Student: Sadhana Sankar Mentor: Dr. Caroline Dealy Awarded in recognition of an outstanding presentation demonstrating clinical application and technique relating to dentistry. This award consists of an expense-paid trip as the School of Dental Medicine’s representative to the Hinman Student Research Symposium held in Memphis, Tennessee in October 2025.
ASSOCIATE DEAN’S AWARD: Student: Daniel Kotait Mentor: Dr. I-Ping Chen Awarded in recognition of an outstanding presentation in basic, clinical, educational, or behavioral science. The award consists of a complimentary meeting registration and travel assistance to present at the AADOCR General Session & Exhibition in 2026.
DENTSPLY-SIRONA STUDENT CLINICIAN AWARD: Student: Claire Ann Mentor: Dr. Frank Nichols Awarded in recognition of an outstanding presentation. Includes travel assistance to the 2026 AADOCR General Session & Exhibition/Dentsply-Sirona SCADA Program as the School’s representative; allowance for lodging, food and other expenses and a Dentsply-Sirona crystal.
CONNECTICUT HOLISTIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION: Student: Madison Witt Mentor: Dr. Gary Schulman Presented by Dr. Michael Basso, this annual award was established to recognize excellence in research in Integrative/ Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Special thanks to Dr. Michael Basso of the Connecticut Holistic Health Association.
HORACE WELLS AWARD FOR INNOVATION IN DENTISTRY: Student: Erica Mallon Mentors: Dr. Pooja Bysani and Dr. Aditya Tadinada Student: Donny You Mentor: Dr. David Shafer Two awards will be given to dental students in recognition of outstanding research with a focus on innovation in dentistry.This award is supported by the Horace Wells Trust.
JAMES AND ELLA BURR MCMANUS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN DENTAL RESEARCH: Student: Bradley Rosenberg Mentor: Dr. Alix Deymier Student: Haven Montefalco Mentor: Dr. Frank Nichols Two awards will be given to dental students presenting at the student research day to recognize excellence in research. This award is supported by the James and Ella Burr McManus Trust.
DENTAL STUDENT RESEARCH SOCIETY AWARD: Student: Marcus Costa Mentor: Dr. Flavio Uribe Presented for excellence in a science presentation by dental students at the Student Research Day. Special thanks to Dr. Arthur Hand for supporting this award.
GUSTAVE PERL MEMORIAL AWARD: Student: Henry Shaffer Mentor: Dr. Dong Zhou A scholarship award presented for outstanding original research.
OMICRON KAPPA UPSILON-PHI CHI CHAPTER AWARDS: Two awards given in recognition of outstanding research; the first award is given for basic science research and the second award given for clinical science research.
OKU-Basic Science Research Category Student: Bryson Christian Mentor: Dr. Eliane Dutra
OKU-Clinical Science Research Category Student: Alfredo Rendon Mentor: Dr. Prazwala Chirravur
We would like to acknowledge generous donations from our many sponsors in support and recognition of the hard work of our dental research students. Special thanks to our judges and research committees for their review of the abstracts, posters and judging this event. And lastly, congratulations to all of our dental student researchers and their faculty mentors for making this day possible.
The submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) arrived in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia for a regularly scheduled port call, March 25. Darwin is the 17th port call of Emory S. Land’s current deployment, which began May 17, 2024.
