Yvan Gil Pinto, Minister of the People’s Power for Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).
World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.
The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.
مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
请在联合国网络电视（UN Web TV）观看中文版视频
Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k14/k14lcan11k
Celinda Sosa Lunda, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).
World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.
The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.
مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
请在联合国网络电视（UN Web TV）观看中文版视频
Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1g/k1g79hvlvp
Ramadhan Abdalla Mohammed Goc, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity of the Republic of South Sudan, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).
World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.
The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.
مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
请在联合国网络电视（UN Web TV）观看中文版视频
Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1g/k1gqipfehy
ALAMEDA, Calif., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jitterbit, a global leader in accelerating business transformation for enterprise systems, today announced its Harmony platform has been recognized as a leader by G2, the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace. This is the seventh consecutive year Jitterbit has been highly ranked by G2.
The recognition for Harmony, Jitterbit’s unified, AI-infused low-code platform, includes 31 badges in Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS), API Management, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Rapid Application Development (RAD), Workplace Innovation and No-Code Development. These accolades span the global grid reports for enterprises, mid-market and small businesses.
“With Harmony, we are bridging the data divide by equipping enterprise teams with a unified platform that automates and orchestrates critical business processes, operations and workflows,” said Vito Salvaggio, SVP of Product Management at Jitterbit. “We’re pleased to be recognized for providing tailored solutions for our customers as demonstrated by our consistently high G2 rankings year after year.”
Fortune 500 companies consult G2 as their trusted industry source to guide their software decisions. G2 Grid Reports are released quarterly, ranking products based on authentic peer evaluations collected from the G2 community and aggregated data from online sources. For the fall 2024 quarter, Jitterbit earned the following badges:
11 Leader Badges for iPaaS, API Management, EDI and RAD
15 High Performer Badges for Workplace Innovation, API Management, EDI, RAD, No-Code Development
3 Badges for EDI – Best Estimated ROI, Fastest Implementation, and Easiest to Use
1 Easiest to Do Business With Badge for Workplace Innovation Platforms
1 Best Support Badge for Workplace Innovation Platforms
Key G2 Grid Report Highlights
The Jitterbit Harmony platform was recognized as a Leader in the Grid Reports across iPaaS, API Management, EDI and RAD. Additionally, Jitterbit EDI was specifically recognized for ease of use, return on investment and fast implementation.
Leader in the Mid-Market Grid® Report for iPaaS
Leader in the Grid® Report for API Management
Leader in the Mid-Market Grid® Report for EDI
Leader in the Grid® Report for EDI
Leader in the Grid® Report for RAD
High Performer in the Enterprise Grid® Report for Workplace Innovation Platforms
Jitterbit Highly Regarded in G2 Rankings Jitterbit is ranked 4.6 out of 5 stars on G2. Examples of Jitterbit reviews include:
“We have found Jitterbit to be a very rich and full-featured integration platform. While our requirements and workflows are complex and demanding, Jitterbit has always afforded us a clean solution.”
“All your integration needs with a cloud platform and a support team that has your back covered…”
“Mature, stable, full-featured platform for application deployment.”
“Jitterbit makes integration with Salesforce easy. I’ve been using Jitterbit for almost a year now and everything works smooth.”
About G2 G2 is the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace. More than 90 million people annually — including employees at all Fortune 500 companies — use G2 to make smarter software decisions based on authentic peer reviews. Thousands of software and services companies of all sizes partner with G2 to build their reputation and grow their business — including Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoom, and Adobe. To learn more about where you go for software, visit http://www.g2.com.
About Jitterbit Inc. For organizations ready to modernize and innovate, Jitterbit provides a unified AI-infused low-code platform for integration, orchestration, automation, and app development that accelerates business transformation, boosts productivity, and unlocks value. The Jitterbit Harmony platform, including iPaaS, API Manager, App Builder and EDI, future-proofs operations, simplifies complexity and drives innovation for organizations globally. Learn more at http://www.jitterbit.com and follow us on LinkedIn.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, “Celebration of National Day – The Next Generation Chorus Performance” organised by the Tourism Commission, with East Union Foundation Limited as an implementing organisation, will be held in Art Park of the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) from 8.30pm to 9.10pm on September 30 (Monday).
The show will cover a wide array of performances, including a drone show with 2 099 drones symbolising “2024” in the year of 2024 and “75” from the 75th National Day, 1 000 students singing patriotic songs on site, and performances by multiple youth groups. The show will showcase the country’s achievements through three themes, namely “Standing Up”, “Growing Prosperous”, and “Becoming Strong”. In addition, Ms Cally Kwong will sing the patriotic education theme song “Our Home”.
Due to space constraints, members of the public may enjoy the drone show from certain parts of the lawn areas in the WKCD. As there may be a restricted view of the drone show in some other areas in the WKCD, members of the public may also enjoy the show on TV screens at designated viewing areas (map enclosed). Participants are advised to use public transport and avoid driving private cars to the vicinity of the WKCD whenever possible. During the show, they should keep public areas clean and take care of public property. Participants are also advised to pay attention to safety in crowded places.
RTHK TV 32, China Central Television, HOY TV, Now TV, Phoenix TV, TVB, ViuTV will live broadcast the show, and members of the public can enjoy the show at home to celebrate National Day.
As the event may be affected by weather conditions, participants should pay attention to public announcements on the event day to obtain the latest information of the event.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
Parks under the jurisdiction of the capital’s Department of Culture have traditionally prepared a weekend program for Muscovites and city guests. We tell you what to do from September 27 to 29.
Art Therapy and Music Meditations at the Bonfire Festival
On September 28, the Hermitage Garden will host a bonfire festival. Guests will enjoy meditations with Tibetan bowls, training practices, express quizzes, and a musical program in the format of an apartment concert.
A similar festival will also take place in the N.E. Bauman Garden. They have prepared an autumn art therapy session under the guidance of a qualified psychologist, a soul concert, a game based on the novel by Agatha Christie and a program called “Horror Stories of Russian Classics”. Registration is required. art therapy session Anda game based on the novel.
On September 29 at 17:00, visitors to the N.E. Bauman Garden are invited to a lecture on cocoa culture. At 18:00, guests of the event will be able to join the cocoa ceremony and learn the secrets of making the perfect wish-fulfilling drink.
At 19:00 there will be ecstatic and intuitive dancing to live musical accompaniment, and at 20:30 guests will enjoy sound healing – sound therapy that allows you to relax and meditate to the music of singing bowls, hang, maracas, percussion, flute and gong.
Warm gatherings at park apartments
A colorful two-day event called “Filyovsky Apartment Concert” is planned in Fili Park. On September 28 at 15:00, the Filka art studio will present an immersive performance “Sadeley”, based on the works of Agatha Christie and Keith Chesterton. Each viewer will be able to take part in the performance, directly or indirectly influence the subsequent events. The event is designed for guests over 16 years old. Admission is free, by prior registration.
On September 29 at 6:00 p.m., the Filka art studio invites residents over the age of six to a chamber concert by the leader of the Nezhdan Negadan group, Nikolai Topnikov. The musician will perform his own songs and cover versions of famous Russian rock ballads that were popular during the era of Soviet apartment concerts. Admission is free, but a pre-register.
In Gorky Park, the apartment concerts will last until November 3.
On September 27 from 19:00 to 21:00 in the lecture hall located in the main entrance arch (right pylon), there will be a free master class for adults on Latin choreography and a chamber meeting dedicated to pair dancing. Participants will learn basic techniques. Entrance by prior registration.
Master classes and petanque game
A new all-Russian record will be set in Krasnaya Presnya Park. The largest mug of cocoa with a capacity of 100 liters will be brewed here. The result will be officially registered in the Russian Book of Records. The event will feature various themed activities: master classes on painting mugs and decorating gingerbread, a culinary duel to create an original cocoa recipe. The main prize is a year’s supply of cocoa. The event will start at 15:00, admission is free. On Saturday, a free dance evening “Folk Pyatachok” for residents over 14 years old will be held on the stage of Severnoye Tushino Park. The evening is a traditional festivity where young people meet, chat, play, dance to live music and just relax. At 17:00, guests will enjoy pair dances, folk games and songs performed by the folk group “Top-vechera”.
In the eco-workshop of the Severnoye Tushino Park on September 29 from 11:00 they will create a sea in a shell – decorate it from the inside with amber, pebbles and pearls. Admission is free, by prior registration.
At 12:00, everyone can learn more about the capabilities of their own body at a master class from the Natural Movement series. Free admission, age limit: 14.
On September 29 at 11:00 in Druzhby Park there will be a free painting lesson as part of the cycle “Plein Air with a Light Hand”. At the master class, an experienced teacher will demonstrate an unusual painting technique. Participants can be residents over six years old who have completed pre-registration.
At 12:00 in the Lecture Hall of the Terletskaya Dubrava recreation area, a child psychology specialist will talk to participants about training a child’s attention. Anyone can attend the free lesson of the ABC of Psychology project.
On September 29 at 12:00, the Khodynka Pole Park will host the Collage Newspaper master class. Participants will learn about the collage technique, its methods and features, the history of newspaper design and the basics of layout, and will be able to create and present their own publication. The class is free for children over six years old, all materials are provided.
The game of petanque is scheduled for September 28 and 29 in Kuzminki Park. It does not require any special physical training, and you can participate even in a starched white shirt after work. Admission is free, age limit: 6 .
On September 29, the Lyublino Estate Museum invites you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the 19th century. Here they will perform “Wedding by Lanterns” – an early operetta by Jacques Offenbach. Guests will be able to see a light and naive story, the events of which take place in one place during the evening. Admission is free, by prior registration, for visitors over 12 years old.
This weekend, creative classes will be held in the southern service building of the Vorontsovo estate as part of the Klen-fest festival. On September 28 at 2:00 p.m., a creative master class, Painting with Threads, will be held for children over six years old. Admission is free, by prior registration.
On September 29 at 14:00 the master class “Leaf fall” will begin for children over six years old. All those who wish will be able to make an autumn gift using decoupage technique and insert it for themselves or their loved ones. Admission is free, but you need pre-registration.
Dance and Cinema Journey
As part of the free film screenings cycle of the Russian Geographical Society, the Angara Ponds Park invites guests to the amphitheater on weekends from 12:00 to 14:00 for a film journey. Age limit: 0, free admission.
On September 28 from 12:00 to 15:00 in the green theater of Babushkinsky Park there will be an event “Dance evening of historical ballroom dancing”. Participants will be able to feel the elegance and grace of the times, see the exquisite movements that were popular in the aristocratic circles of the 19th century. Dancers under the guidance of experienced instructors will demonstrate various styles and techniques. Admission is free.
From 18:00 to 19:30 in Babushkinsky Park, Tima Barsoff will gather the audience for his big solo concert. He performs songs in the bel canto technique with his own accompaniment on the guitar. The artist has a tenor with a warm timbre and an operatic range. The performance will include arias, romances and ballads of the Classical and Romantic eras, as well as masterpieces of the 20th century, including “Adagio Albinoni”, “Ave Maria”, as well as “Aranjuez”, Ombra mai fu and Una furtivа lagrima.
On September 29, from 11:00 to 14:00, the dance floor of Babushkinsky Park will host an event of the project “Family Club “Igromania”, which is supported by the Presidential Grants Fund. Participants will gain experience in offline games, board games, team-building games, as well as in personal communications. The goal of the project is to reduce gadget addiction in schoolchildren. Admission is free, age limit: 6 .
On September 28, from 11:00 to 16:00, a holiday for the whole family, “Russian Fun”, will be held in the Mitino Landscape Park next to the sports ground. Guests will join sports and games related to the cultural values of the Russian people. The program includes fun games, as well as competitions in wrestling, running, volleyball and football. Admission is free. Residents over six years of age are allowed to participate.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –
Source: Canton of Neuchatel Switzerland
09/26/2024
Federal Affairs
The Council of State responded to seven federal consultation procedures:
Amendment of the Civil Code (facilitated adoption of the spouse’s or partner’s child); Measures to strengthen higher vocational training: amendment of the Federal Law on Vocational Training (LFPr) and the Ordinance on Vocational Training (OFPr); Amendment of the Financial Market Infrastructure Act; Partial revision of the Ordinance on Road Signs (OSR) to integrate the most important contents of certain technical standards into the Federal Law on Road Signs and the Ordinance Regulating Admission to Road Traffic (OAC) with regard to the road traffic theory course; Amendment of ordinances due to the adoption and implementation of Regulations (EU) 2021/1133 and (EU) 2021/1134 on the Central Visa Information System (developments of the Schengen acquis); Amendment of Ordinance 2 on Asylum on financing; Amendment to the Federal Act on Radio and Television (LRTV) (shares of the licence fee allocated to local radio and regional television stations and support measures for electronic media).
Increase in family allowances from 1 January 2025The amounts of family allowances, the purpose of which is to partially offset the financial burden represented by one or more children, have been the same since 2015. In a context marked in recent years by high inflation and an increase in charges in family budgets, and after having conducted a dialogue with the family allowance funds active in the canton, the Council of State has decided to increase the amount of family allowances by 20 francs per month and per child from 1 January 2025. Child allowances will amount to 240 francs per month and per child for the first two children and to 270 francs per month and per child from the third child. Training allowances will amount to 320 francs per month and per child for the first two children and to 350 francs per month and per child from the third child. This increase, the consequences of which for the economy are moderate, provides support to families in the canton.
BodyRight
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
In the past months, the planet has experienced the hottest months of June and August, boreal summer and day on record, with a global average temperature of 17.16°C on 22 July. While many have been getting on with their lives as best as they can, there are many more who are feeling the heat, as levels of climate anxiety continue to rise. At risk are people experiencing climate impacts in the Global South, but also professionals in the Earth sciences documenting and modelling them.
So, how can we channel our alarm in a way that doesn’t paralyse us, but propel us into action? To answer this question, The Conversation Europe spoke to one of the world’s most public-facing climate scientists, the Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Diána Ürge-Vorsatz.
Could you start off by describing your work? According to you, what have been the highlights of your career as a climate scientist?
So I mostly work in the area of energy efficiency. I have done a lot of modelling, including to demonstrate how higher efficiency buildings could reduce carbon emissions. Among others, I have alerted the world of what we call the carbon lock-in risks of inefficient building retrofits — when fossil fuel-intensive systems perpetuate, delay, or prevent the transition to low-carbon alternatives.
I’ve always tried to concentrate on solutions which not only allow us to solve environmental issues, but also to increase human well-being and meet other societal goals. That’s because I come from a country [Hungary] where I see that while the environment and climate change are important, they typically play second fiddle to other priorities. Hence, I believe we have to solve these things in a way that makes it worthwhile.
Diána Ürge-Vorsatz, 2024. Fourni par l’auteur
My work therefore prompted lawmakers to revise the EU’s legislation to boost building energy efficiency – the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive – in 2010. On the first day the Fidesz government was reelected that year, I showed them how many jobs could be created through high efficiency building retrofits. Based on our research, they committed that the entire building stock would be refurbished to slash energy consumption by 60 %, which would have been really very ambitious, the first such commitment in the world. Unfortunately, a few months later, they changed their direction and they rather went into other energy policy priorities.
That’s one of my concerns, yes, because it’s amongst the tipping points that would exert its impact the earliest.
If we look at other Earth system tipping points, most of them require a century, several centuries, if not several millennia until they exert a full impact. If AMOC collapses, it would exert its full impact within two to three decades, potentially. These are very strong impacts predicted clearly, on Europe as well as other regions. More and more papers have shown evidence that its collapse could already be underway. That’s definitely been alarming.
When you started on this career path, would you describe yourself as prey to eco-anxiety? And if not, was there a turning point when it appeared?
No, when I started I don’t think we had any knowledge that would have amounted to any existential threat, and it was still not so tangible that so many things could go wrong.
I was studying for my PhD at UCLA, at UC Berkeley from 1992-96. In the LA Times, there was a two page advertisement calling for artists to design artwork that would scare anyone away, which they could put above the Yucca Mountain deep high-level based nuclear repository so that even if people didn’t speak English or they didn’t understand our script anymore, they could still understand that there was something really dangerous under that.
At that point, I remember thinking: “Oh my God, if you just can’t dig or walk wherever you want anymore, that’s just wrong. We cannot do that to future generations.”
Then there’s the never-ending news cycle, making it hard to pinpoint specific moments that alarm you. One that comes to mind has been the discovery over time that forever chemicals – Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – are everywhere, even in the most remote parts of the earth and rain is no longer of drinking water quality even in Antarctica. This isn’t going to go away — precisely because PFAS are what we call forever chemicals. We will never be able to vacuum clean the planet from PFAS. Likewise with microplastics. When you start looking ahead with your eyes open, it can be really scary.
And how do you experience the intimate knowledge of that alarming data on the one hand, and the public’s, and above all the elites’, climate inaction on the other?
Well, I wouldn’t quite call it “climate inaction”. It’s easy to dwell on the idea that the glass is half empty. But in fact, the glass is half full. Lots has been done since the 2015 Paris Agreement, which was itself a miracle.
You were there when the deal was struck, weren’t you? Could you tell us what it was like?
Well, it was truly euphoric, because before that, if a scientist dared mentioning [the threshold of] 1.5°C [of warming above pre-industrial levels], you were a tree-hugger and an advocate, not a scientist. You did not get funding.
And suddenly that became a political reality, or at least a political goal. I think that was really amazing for me because that time we didn’t have science clearly backing that you actually could achieve 1.5°C. So in the run-up to the Paris Agreement, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) asked the IPCC to produce a report on 1.5°C. I remember talking about it with colleagues at the time, who told me: “That’s crazy, this train is gone, let’s not do it”.
Then the months went by and and those voices faded. By the time we got to the plenary meeting in January there was not a single voice saying “We shouldn’t do this report”. Scientists changed course and put so much effort in on trying to say “Okay can this be done well? Let’s actually see”. Then they ran their models to figure out that actually not only can it be done — but there are so many ways we can get there. Yes, I know that it’s now increasingly unlikely that we still will meet it, but it still created a lot of momentum.
One fact that we don’t emphasize enough: we have prevented the world from warming by five to six degrees by the end of the century, and we are now at worst saying perhaps four degrees, but more likely 2.5°C to 3.5°C.
How do you communicate with your children about the climate crisis? For example, are there things that you choose not to tell them in order to protect them?
I don’t hide anything from them. We quite frequently talk about the gravity of the situation because I cannot help bearing on them in the evening all the negative experiences and facts I learned during the day and I just have to unload these for them at dinners and so on.
One of my daughters did experience quite severe environmental anxiety for almost two years when she was about nine years old. She had come with me to a TV shooting and they allowed her into the studio. And before my interview, they just played this intense clip about storms and fires – typical climate impacts. But after that, she was really very afraid for a long time.
How did that fear translate itself?
She couldn’t sleep very well. She was constantly afraid physically. She would tell me: “My god, is this going to burn around us? Are we going to have floods?”
And it’s that a nine year old cannot, of course, fully comprehend yet how these risks will unfold in the future. I think she was put in this state of fear and anxiety. So that’s why it was also hard to manage because it wasn’t anything concrete or anything that she could verbally express or phrase nicely.
And I couldn’t say, “Look darling, it’s not going to happen.”
And how did she manage to surface from that state of paralysis?
After a while, I think she understood that it wasn’t yet threatening her life. But all of my children are still concerned and many of them want to contribute to fighting climate change in some way.
For example, my eldest daughter was studying medicine, but after her second year, she spent the entire summer in tears. She was deeply passionate about climate action and believed there were only two paths forward. Either she could still save the planet by becoming an architect to design zero-energy buildings, or, if it was too late, she should focus on mitigating the damage by remaining in medicine. After two months of struggling with this dilemma, she abandoned her dream of architecture and decided to continue with medical school. It was heartbreaking for me to see how little hope they had of solving the climate crisis.
What would your advice be for parents whose children are suffering from eco-anxiety?
I think the best way is to turn anxiety into action — to explain to them that they have and we still have agency. Even though we are small, we have a very important impact. We can vote. We can choose a profession where we can change the world. We can be role models and we can influence our peers through social media and many other ways.
So if we tell them the five scenarios that the IPCC presents (investor, consumer, citizen, role model, professional) in the 6th Assessment Report as individual roles we can play to curb climate change, it’s not only through whether we choose to take a plastic bag or not. The future isn’t something that happens to us, but in our hands. We are all part of systems where each of us can influence more than we think.
If your children were to start striking for the climate, would you support them?
Yes, I think protests are one of the very important ways how we can have an impact. Besides, children often don’t have any other tools. And that’s why they also feel anxiety because they don’t yet have influence. They don’t have any money to spend, or any voting rights yet. They don’t yet have a profession through which they can influence the world. They feel powerless.
And often children’s only power is to protest. If we give them other means to where they can influence the processes, that’d be even better.
Diána Ürge-Vorsatz ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.
In the past months, the planet has experienced the hottest months of June and August, boreal summer and day on record, with a global average temperature of 17.16°C on 22 July. While many have been getting on with their lives as best as they can, there are many more who are feeling the heat, as levels of climate anxiety continue to rise. At risk are people experiencing climate impacts in the Global South, but also professionals in the Earth sciences documenting and modelling them.
So, how can we channel our alarm in a way that doesn’t paralyse us, but propel us into action? To answer this question, The Conversation Europe spoke to one of the world’s most public-facing climate scientists, the Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Diána Ürge-Vorsatz.
Could you start off by describing your work? According to you, what have been the highlights of your career as a climate scientist?
So I mostly work in the area of energy efficiency. I have done a lot of modelling, including to demonstrate how higher efficiency buildings could reduce carbon emissions. Among others, I have alerted the world of what we call the carbon lock-in risks of inefficient building retrofits — when fossil fuel-intensive systems perpetuate, delay, or prevent the transition to low-carbon alternatives.
I’ve always tried to concentrate on solutions which not only allow us to solve environmental issues, but also to increase human well-being and meet other societal goals. That’s because I come from a country [Hungary] where I see that while the environment and climate change are important, they typically play second fiddle to other priorities. Hence, I believe we have to solve these things in a way that makes it worthwhile.
Diána Ürge-Vorsatz, 2024. Fourni par l’auteur
My work therefore prompted lawmakers to revise the EU’s legislation to boost building energy efficiency – the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive – in 2010. On the first day the Fidesz government was reelected that year, I showed them how many jobs could be created through high efficiency building retrofits. Based on our research, they committed that the entire building stock would be refurbished to slash energy consumption by 60 %, which would have been really very ambitious, the first such commitment in the world. Unfortunately, a few months later, they changed their direction and they rather went into other energy policy priorities.
That’s one of my concerns, yes, because it’s amongst the tipping points that would exert its impact the earliest.
If we look at other Earth system tipping points, most of them require a century, several centuries, if not several millennia until they exert a full impact. If AMOC collapses, it would exert its full impact within two to three decades, potentially. These are very strong impacts predicted clearly, on Europe as well as other regions. More and more papers have shown evidence that its collapse could already be underway. That’s definitely been alarming.
When you started on this career path, would you describe yourself as prey to eco-anxiety? And if not, was there a turning point when it appeared?
No, when I started I don’t think we had any knowledge that would have amounted to any existential threat, and it was still not so tangible that so many things could go wrong.
I was studying for my PhD at UCLA, at UC Berkeley from 1992-96. In the LA Times, there was a two page advertisement calling for artists to design artwork that would scare anyone away, which they could put above the Yucca Mountain deep high-level based nuclear repository so that even if people didn’t speak English or they didn’t understand our script anymore, they could still understand that there was something really dangerous under that.
At that point, I remember thinking: “Oh my God, if you just can’t dig or walk wherever you want anymore, that’s just wrong. We cannot do that to future generations.”
Then there’s the never-ending news cycle, making it hard to pinpoint specific moments that alarm you. One that comes to mind has been the discovery over time that forever chemicals – Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – are everywhere, even in the most remote parts of the earth and rain is no longer of drinking water quality even in Antarctica. This isn’t going to go away — precisely because PFAS are what we call forever chemicals. We will never be able to vacuum clean the planet from PFAS. Likewise with microplastics. When you start looking ahead with your eyes open, it can be really scary.
And how do you experience the intimate knowledge of that alarming data on the one hand, and the public’s, and above all the elites’, climate inaction on the other?
Well, I wouldn’t quite call it “climate inaction”. It’s easy to dwell on the idea that the glass is half empty. But in fact, the glass is half full. Lots has been done since the 2015 Paris Agreement, which was itself a miracle.
You were there when the deal was struck, weren’t you? Could you tell us what it was like?
Well, it was truly euphoric, because before that, if a scientist dared mentioning [the threshold of] 1.5°C [of warming above pre-industrial levels], you were a tree-hugger and an advocate, not a scientist. You did not get funding.
And suddenly that became a political reality, or at least a political goal. I think that was really amazing for me because that time we didn’t have science clearly backing that you actually could achieve 1.5°C. So in the run-up to the Paris Agreement, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) asked the IPCC to produce a report on 1.5°C. I remember talking about it with colleagues at the time, who told me: “That’s crazy, this train is gone, let’s not do it”.
Then the months went by and and those voices faded. By the time we got to the plenary meeting in January there was not a single voice saying “We shouldn’t do this report”. Scientists changed course and put so much effort in on trying to say “Okay can this be done well? Let’s actually see”. Then they ran their models to figure out that actually not only can it be done — but there are so many ways we can get there. Yes, I know that it’s now increasingly unlikely that we still will meet it, but it still created a lot of momentum.
One fact that we don’t emphasize enough: we have prevented the world from warming by five to six degrees by the end of the century, and we are now at worst saying perhaps four degrees, but more likely 2.5°C to 3.5°C.
How do you communicate with your children about the climate crisis? For example, are there things that you choose not to tell them in order to protect them?
I don’t hide anything from them. We quite frequently talk about the gravity of the situation because I cannot help bearing on them in the evening all the negative experiences and facts I learned during the day and I just have to unload these for them at dinners and so on.
One of my daughters did experience quite severe environmental anxiety for almost two years when she was about nine years old. She had come with me to a TV shooting and they allowed her into the studio. And before my interview, they just played this intense clip about storms and fires – typical climate impacts. But after that, she was really very afraid for a long time.
How did that fear translate itself?
She couldn’t sleep very well. She was constantly afraid physically. She would tell me: “My god, is this going to burn around us? Are we going to have floods?”
And it’s that a nine year old cannot, of course, fully comprehend yet how these risks will unfold in the future. I think she was put in this state of fear and anxiety. So that’s why it was also hard to manage because it wasn’t anything concrete or anything that she could verbally express or phrase nicely.
And I couldn’t say, “Look darling, it’s not going to happen.”
And how did she manage to surface from that state of paralysis?
After a while, I think she understood that it wasn’t yet threatening her life. But all of my children are still concerned and many of them want to contribute to fighting climate change in some way.
For example, my eldest daughter was studying medicine, but after her second year, she spent the entire summer in tears. She was deeply passionate about climate action and believed there were only two paths forward. Either she could still save the planet by becoming an architect to design zero-energy buildings, or, if it was too late, she should focus on mitigating the damage by remaining in medicine. After two months of struggling with this dilemma, she abandoned her dream of architecture and decided to continue with medical school. It was heartbreaking for me to see how little hope they had of solving the climate crisis.
What would your advice be for parents whose children are suffering from eco-anxiety?
I think the best way is to turn anxiety into action — to explain to them that they have and we still have agency. Even though we are small, we have a very important impact. We can vote. We can choose a profession where we can change the world. We can be role models and we can influence our peers through social media and many other ways.
So if we tell them the five scenarios that the IPCC presents (investor, consumer, citizen, role model, professional) in the 6th Assessment Report as individual roles we can play to curb climate change, it’s not only through whether we choose to take a plastic bag or not. The future isn’t something that happens to us, but in our hands. We are all part of systems where each of us can influence more than we think.
If your children were to start striking for the climate, would you support them?
Yes, I think protests are one of the very important ways how we can have an impact. Besides, children often don’t have any other tools. And that’s why they also feel anxiety because they don’t yet have influence. They don’t have any money to spend, or any voting rights yet. They don’t yet have a profession through which they can influence the world. They feel powerless.
And often children’s only power is to protest. If we give them other means to where they can influence the processes, that’d be even better.
Diána Ürge-Vorsatz ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.
MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –
Source: Switzerland – Canton Government of Geneva in French
A prolific and multifaceted author, Winshluss – Vincent Paronnaud by his real name – is rewarded for his entire body of work in drawing. The six authors nominated respectively for the Töpffer Prize Geneva and the Töpffer Prize for Young Comics are now known. The Töpffer Prizes will be awarded during a public ceremony at HEAD – Geneva on Thursday, November 28.
Since 2018, the Grand Prix Töpffer has distinguished a French-speaking author or author translated into French for the importance of their contribution to contemporary comics. On the proposal of a jury made up of experts in the field, the canton and the City of Geneva have decided to award the Grand Prix Töpffer 2024, with a prize of 10,000 francs, to the French comic book author and filmmaker Winshluss.
Born in 1970, Winshluss is a self-taught artist and jack-of-all-trades with a unique trajectory. He started out in comics in the mid-1990s by publishing his drawings in fanzines. At the turn of the 2000s, he established himself as a leading author for Requins Marteaux, an underground publishing house. His biting and often dark style, his scathing humor and the critical look he takes at our society in its dehumanizing aspects hit the mark.
It was in 2009 that he became known to the general public by winning the Fauve d’or at the Angoulême festival with Pinocchio, a pop and trashy reinterpretation of the tale of the same name. Acclaimed by the public and critics alike and translated into a dozen countries, the album has become a classic of independent comics. In 2016, Winshluss received the Pépite d’or at the Montreuil Youth Book Fair for Dans la forêt sombre et mystérieuse, a book which – unusually for the author – ends well. In addition to his rich work in drawing, Winshluss is also a musician, visual artist and filmmaker. He notably co-directed the animated film Persepolis with Marjane Satrapi, which won the Jury Prize at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival.
Six authors in the running in other categories
Increasingly recognized in the world of comics, the Töpffer Awards have been awarded since 1997 in tribute to the Genevan Rodolphe Töpffer, considered the inventor of the 9th art. The ceremony on November 28 will also be an opportunity to recognize the 2024 winners of the Töpffer Geneva Prize, worth 10,000 francs, and the Young Comics Prize, worth 5,000 francs.
For the Prix Töpffer Genève, which rewards a confirmed Geneva comic strip personality for an album published less than a year ago, the three nominated authors are Alex Baladi (1969) for Un monde en pleine mutation (Atrabile editions), Ibn Al Rabin (1975) for De la ductilité du sbrinz (Atrabile editions), and Juliette Mancini (1989) for La haine du poil (Cambourakis editions).
Concerning the Young Comic Strip Prize, which rewards a project in progress by an author aged 15 to 30 and living or studying in Geneva, the three nominees are Jano (2002) for La Dragonne, Fanny Rose (2002) for On dit que c’est une étamine libre, and Stanyslas Leray (2000) for La Gwerz de l’ajonc. The first two works mentioned were produced as part of the diploma projects of the Geneva School of Comics and Illustration (ESBDI), while the third is the result of a bachelor’s thesis at HEAD – Geneva.
For this 2024 edition, the selection jury is composed as follows: Hélène Becquelin (comic book author), Patrick Fuchs (dean of ESBDI), Yannis La Macchia (Töpffer Prize Geneva 2023), Clément Paurd (head of the illustration orientation at HEAD – Geneva), Emmanuèle Payen (director of the cultural development and cinema department at the Centre Pompidou), and Leticia Ramos (head of the Cumulus specialist bookstore).
Festive evening to celebrate comics
The 2024 Töpffer Comic Strip Awards will be presented on Thursday, November 28, during a ceremony attended by Thierry Apothéloz, State Councilor in charge of the Department of Social Cohesion, and Sami Kanaan, Administrative Councilor of the City of Geneva in charge of the Department of Culture and Digital Transition. This festive event, with public and free admission, will be held at the Cube on the HEAD – Geneva campus. The precise program will be announced soon.
Please note that Winshluss, Grand Prix Töpffer 2024, will be in Geneva during the week of November 25, where he will give a workshop at the ESBDI. Media interested in an interview or a report can register at the contact details below.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
A private educational center consisting of a kindergarten for 112 children and a primary school for 257 children is planned to be built in the Maryina Roshcha district. The building will be located at Polkovaya Street, Building 1.
“The total area of the future building will be almost 8.7 thousand square meters. In plan, it has a Y-shape, includes three above-ground floors. Near the building, playgrounds and a sports ground near the kindergarten, a school sports ground, as well as areas for students to relax and hold mass events will be equipped,” clarified the Minister of the Government of Moscow, head of the Department of Urban Development Policy
The window openings, varying in proportion, and the corner slopes framing them will highlight the building’s appearance. The second and third floors form a single block hanging over the first, creating the effect of a levitating building.
The kindergarten block includes group, administrative and auxiliary rooms, a lobby, a stroller room, a music room, a gym, and a room for correctional and developmental classes.
The elementary school block will be equipped with a robotics classroom and other classrooms, universal educational studios, a laboratory and research complex, a playroom, a cafeteria, a medical block, and an art room.
Mosgosstroynadzor issued a permit for the construction of the educational center at the end of August of this year.
“After the developer notifies the Moscow State Construction Supervision Committee about the start of construction and installation work, our inspectors will draw up a schedule of on-site inspections that will be carried out at each stage of the construction of the facility. They will involve specialists from the subordinate Expertise Center to conduct research into the quality of the work being carried out and the materials used,” added the Chairman of Mosgosstroynadzor
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
More than 20 years ago, a grant competition for socially oriented non-profit organizations (NPOs) was established in Moscow. Every year, the best initiatives are selected in the capital and up to five million rubles are allocated for their implementation. Over the entire period, more than 3.4 thousand projects have received city support.
“In 2024, the competition broke the record for the number of approved applications. This time, proposals were received from about 900 NGOs, 262 of which received support,” Sergei Sobyanin said in
The grant amounts range from 500 thousand to five million rubles. They are provided for projects in the following nominations: “Charity”, “Safe Moscow”, “Ecology of the Megapolis”, “Civic Initiatives”, “Creative Moscow”, “Volunteering and Volunteering”, “Media Moscow”, “Family Moscow” and “Urban Innovations”. The most popular nominations in terms of the number of laureate initiatives were “Youth of Moscow” (62 projects), “Our Heritage” (55 projects), “Healthy Lifestyle and Sports” (37 initiatives).
The full list of award winners has been published on the website.
An independent assessment was conducted by an expert council. It included representatives of the Moscow Public Chamber, scientific, research and educational communities, and NGOs. Each project was assessed by three experts, and they did not have the opportunity to see the marks of their colleagues.
The projects were assessed based on their significance for the city and its residents, relevance and feasibility. The experts also took into account the effectiveness of the proposed solution, its efficiency and uniqueness.
Career guidance for schoolchildren and assistance to SVO participants
Among the winners is the Artificial Intelligence project of the scientific and educational center of the Moscow State Technical University named after N.E. Bauman. The center itself is engaged in career guidance for schoolchildren: young research staff help students develop engineering thinking and the skills they need when entering technical universities.
This year, the center’s team intends to develop two additional education programs of 16 academic hours each, which any high school student will be able to study.
The Association of Veterans of the Special Military Operation (SVO) helps combat veterans adapt to civilian life faster and involves them in educating the younger generation. The grant is intended to launch the project “Museums of the Special Military Operation in Moscow Schools”. Five schools will be involved in it – museum exhibits will open in the institutions, courage lessons will be held, and meetings with SVO heroes will be held. The project will be implemented in 2025.
Another project in support of the special military operation is the center for legal assistance to SVO participants and their families of the regional public organization “Lotus”. The center’s specialists will deal with various issues – from registration of status, benefits and payments for housing and communal services to entering into inheritance rights.
The project “Equal to equal. Adaptation club” is implemented by the Foundation for the Promotion of the Russian Language and Education in Russian. Its goal is to help young people with disabilities adapt to universities. In several capital institutions of higher professional education, students will be taught the basics of inclusive volunteering. Specialists will talk about the problems and difficulties of children with disabilities during their studies and ways to help them. A special online portal will post methodological materials, video courses and lectures that will help children with disabilities quickly get used to the new environment and not feel lonely in a group.
The charitable foundation for helping children born at an early stage, “Give me some sunshine”, will launch a program for the social, physical and creative development of children with disabilities. The participants of the project “We, playing, study, speak and understand” will be children aged six to 12 years. They will work with an adaptive physical education trainer and a speech development specialist. Speech therapy equipment will be purchased for correctional classes. The training will take place in the family center opened by the foundation.
Winners of last year’s grant competitions
The international charitable public organization “Fair Aid of Doctor Lisa” helps citizens who find themselves in difficult life situations – lonely pensioners, people left homeless, seriously ill patients. With the funds of the grant of the Mayor of Moscow, the organization launched the project “Let’s Extend a Helping Hand”, within the framework of which medical and social assistance was received by participants of the FAO. They were provided with medicines, hygiene products and medical supplies.
The Global Impact Alliance, a charitable foundation for scientific research and development, is implementing the project Inclusive Routes: Virtual Reality Solutions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The scenario of the Public Transport project will soon be available for children with this diagnosis. The team has worked out all the elements of the bus in detail: validators, screens, and light indicators — everything to ensure that children’s adaptation to the virtual space is as close as possible to real conditions. As a result, the skill will be better consolidated, and during a trip on a real bus, the child will quickly get their bearings and remember what to do.
The autonomous non-profit organization “Dynamic Guys” created a musical performance “You Can’t Fly, You Can’t Stay”. The plot is based on the story of people blocked in the capital’s airport due to weather conditions. The premiere took place at the beginning of the summer at the Moscow State Academic Theater “Russian Song”, more than 750 people saw it. And the video version of the performance has already collected over one million views.
The Virta Charity Foundation held two exhibitions in support of homeless animals. The events were attended by over three thousand Muscovites. The foundation’s volunteers brought 270 dogs and cats from shelters to the exhibitions, 57 of which found a new home.
The professional skills competition “Best in the Profession. Nanny of the Year” was held with the help of a grant. Participants were interviewed by psychologists, underwent reliability checks and completed competition tasks, as well as demonstrated medical knowledge and skills necessary for working with children. More than a thousand applications were received from nannies, educators, governesses and governesses of Moscow. Only 20 contenders for the title of the best reached the final. The competition was held by the ANO for assistance in employment and leisure of the adult population “Vozrasu. net” (the “Grandma for an hour” service).
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: The White House
Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, New York
5:49 P.M. EDT
THE FIRST LADY: Good evening. (Applause.)
Aren’t all of our U.S. military musicians spectacular? (Applause.) Thank you for all that you — for joining us this evening. It’s great to be with so many friends here.
For Joe, diplomacy is personal. It’s why, for more than 50 years, he’s created deep personal bonds with world leaders. He shows up for our allies and our partners. He listens and is always eager to debate complex international issues to find common ground.
Serving as first lady has be- — of the United States is the honor of my life. This is our — (applause). Thank you.
This is our fi- — our United Nations — our final United Nations General Assembly as president and first lady. So, tonight, I want to take this moment to celebrate Joe and honor the relationships he’s built with all of you — (applause) — to honor these relationships with all of you to shape a brighter future for people around the world.
Please join me in welcoming my husband, President Joe Biden. (Applause.)
THE PRESIDENT: (Laughs.) That was worth the trip. (Laughter.)
Well, welcome, everyone. I’m delighted to see you all. You know, my fellow leaders and friends we’ve honored here, it’s an honor to welcome you here tonight.
I should start off by saying we owe a special thanks tonight to — to Mayor Bloomberg. He’s not the mayor right now, but he’s still the mayor. (Laughter.) Mr. Mayor, thank you for all you’ve done.
I want to begin by quoting someone who I wish was here tonight: my mom, Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden. (Applause.) Growing up, my mom had an expression. She had a lot of expression. She had a backbone like a ramrod. But my mom, she used to say, “Joey, remember, never bow, never bend, never yield, and never give up.”
Folks, as I said yesterday at the United Nations, I recognize the challenges the world faces: Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, war, hunger, poverty, climate change. But my message to you tonight is this: We must never, ever, ever bow, bend, yield, or give up. And most importantly, we must never lose faith — lose faith in our abilities to do so much.
I was first elected to the United States Senate when I was 29 years old, 280 years ago. (Laughter.) Since then, I’ve seen the impossible become — the impossible become reality, for real. I’ve seen the Berlin Wall come down. I’ve seen Poland leave the (inaudible) — I shouldn’t go on, I guess. But I’ve seen apartheid end. I’ve seen humanity pull together to prevent a nuclear war. I’ve seen war criminals and dictators face justice and accountability for human rights violations. And I’ve seen countries in the Middle East make peace. We must always remember.
In America, I was (inaudible) — I spent a lot of time with Xi of China, and we were in the Tibetan Plateau, and it was one of my 90-some hours alone with him. And he looked at me; he said, “Can you define America for me?” This is an absolutely true story. He said, “Can you define America for me?” I said, “Yes. In one word: possibilities — possibilities.” (Applause.) We believe anything is possible. No, I really mean it. Remember, nothing is impossible.
And, folks, look, in our time, we turn the page on the — on the — on a whole range of issues. We turned the page. Nothing is impossible, as I said, but we turned the page on the worst pandemic in a century. We defended Ukraine as a tyrant threatened to wipe it off the map. We made the largest investment in history to fight climate change, the existential threat to humanity.
And, folks, time and again — and I mean this sincerely — time and again, our nation and our world found a way forward. But make no mistake: It didn’t happen by accident. Nothing was inevitable. It took people like all of you assembled here tonight refusing to give up, rejecting the forces that pull us apart, believing that change is possible, and fighting to make it so every single day. That’s what you in this room assembled have done.
Ladies and gentlemen, that’s our change. Together, we can broker deals, end wars and suffering. We can stop the spread of disease and dangerous weapons alike. We can make AIempower people, not shackle them. We can cut our emissions and achieve our climate ambitions. We can leave our children, literally, a better world.
That’s our obligation, and we can. We can do this.
I can say to you — and I mean this sincerely — I’ve never more optimistic in my life because of all of you, and I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
So, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Keep it up.
And every time I’d walk out of my grandpop’s house up in Scranton, he’d yell, “Joey, keep the faith.” My grandmother would go, “No, Joey, spread it.” Spread it. Spread it. Spread it. (Applause.)
Folks, remember, nothing is beyond our capacity when we work together. Nothing at all.
So, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you’re doing. I appreciate it very, very much.
It’s an honor to be with you. Thank you. (Applause.)
5:54 P.M. EDT
The death toll from the continued Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday across Lebanese rose to 51, with injuries up to 223, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.
The ministry confirmed casualties in several locations across southern and eastern Lebanon, including Bint Jbeil, Ain Qana, Qabrikha and Tebnine.
Military sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Xinhua that Israeli warplanes targeted approximately 90 villages and towns in southern and eastern Lebanon. Among the casualties was Kamel Karaki, a photojournalist for Lebanese Al-Manar TV, killed in a strike on the southeastern village of Qantara.
Meanwhile, local media reported at least seven fatalities and 16 injuries from strikes near Beirut, with three deaths in Maaysrah, northeast of the capital, and four in Joun, Chouf district.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Hezbollah fired a surface-to-surface missile at Tel Aviv early Wednesday, triggering sirens in the city and surrounding areas. The IDF said it intercepted the missile using the David’s Sling defense system, with no injuries or damage reported. The military later stated it had struck the Hezbollah launcher in southern Lebanon’s Nafakhiyeh.
In a statement, the IDF announced that it had called up two reserve ground brigades to the Israel-Lebanon border following a “situational assessment,” adding that the troops would be deployed for “operational activities on the northern front.”
It noted that the mobilization would “enable the continuation of combat against Hezbollah, the defense of Israel, and create the conditions for northern Israel’s residents to return to their homes.”
This surge in violence follows Israeli bombardments on Monday and Tuesday, the most extensive Israeli attacks on Lebanon since 2006. Official figures indicate the two-day strikes have killed more than 550 and wounded around 1,800 in Lebanon.
On Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Beirut’s southern suburbs killed Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Muhammad Qubaisi and five others, according to the Shiite militant group.
The escalation comes after last week’s explosions targeting communication devices across Lebanon, which left dozens dead. The cross-border conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing since Oct. 8, 2023, following Hamas’s attack on southern Israel.
One supermarket shoplifter in Papakura didn’t bargain for an eagle-eyed camera operator in her plans.
Instead, she is without $300 in stolen groceries and faces the Papakura District Court today.
Acting Senior Sergeant Melody Brown, from Counties Manukau South Police, says a supermarket reported the shoplifting as it was occurring around lunchtime on Tuesday.
“A woman was brazenly walking out of the store with a trolley full of around $300 in groceries.”
In came the CCTV network installed around Papakura’s Town Centre.
“A camera operator was able to track the woman’s movements to a vehicle and this information was relayed back to Police,” acting Senior Sergeant Brown says.
A Police unit was soon arriving at a nearby Papakura address.
“Our staff located a woman matching the description in the process of unloading the stolen goods from her vehicle.”
The 33-year-old woman was arrested and has been charged with theft.
Acting Senior Sergeant Brown says Police have a strong relationship locally with the Papakura Business Association.
“Their camera network is invaluable in helping us respond to incidents as they occur, but also assist in other ongoing investigations,” she says.
“We’d like to acknowledge their camera monitor for their diligent work yesterday.”
Visitors are seen at the eighth Pingyao International Film Festival in the ancient town of Pingyao in north China’s Shanxi Province, Sept. 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Zhihao)
The eighth Pingyao International Film Festival opened in the ancient town of Pingyao in north China’s Shanxi Province on Tuesday evening, with nearly 60 movies from 22 countries and regions to be screened.
All the works, from countries such as the United States, France, Portugal, Brazil, Italy, Mexico, Japan, Argentina, Columbia, Uruguay and Denmark, will make their debut on the Chinese mainland’s big screen, and nearly half of them will premiere globally at the festival with the theme of “Earth.”
“In an era of technological transformation, looking back at our journey on earth will empower us to move forward,” Jia Zhangke, founder of the film festival and a renowned Chinese director, said while interpreting the theme.
By screening excellent films from around the world, the festival focuses on discovering and promoting exceptional works by young directors, especially from emerging and developing countries.
The festival will run until Sept. 30.
Founded in 2017, the Pingyao International Film Festival is held annually in Pingyao, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
Shanghai Disney Resort announced on Tuesday that it will make a significant adjustment before the end of the year by introducing a real-name ticketing policy, requiring visitors to provide the name on their valid government-issued IDs in order to purchase admission tickets.
A photo captures Shanghai Disneyland in autumn. [Photo courtesy of Shanghai Disney Resort]
Since its grand opening in 2016, a visitor to Shanghai Disney Resort could buy up to five tickets at one time using their own ID card, leading to clear loopholes for ticket scalping.
Once this new policy is implemented, each guest will be required to use their own government-issued ID to book an admission ticket, and a valid government-issued ID can only be used to purchase one ticket for the date of visit. When entering Shanghai Disneyland, each guest must bring and provide the valid government-issued ID that was used at the time of ticket purchasing. This policy also applies to guests purchasing the Shanghai Disneyland Annual Pass with each guest required to use their own government-issued ID to purchase their own annual pass. A valid government-issued ID can only be used to purchase a single annual pass.
The resort further noted that the new real-name ticketing policy will apply to all guests, including those eligible for special tickets such as children, seniors and guests with disabilities. To streamline the process of verification for children, a child’s age will be the only criteria needed once this new ticketing procedure is in effect. Children from the age of 3 to 11 years old are eligible to purchase child tickets on the day of their visit to the park. Children under the age of 3 years old will receive free park admission.
Additionally, for Chinese mainland children who have not yet obtained an ID card, an acceptable ID certificate can be used to purchase a ticket and enter the park. Guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a guest who is 16 years of age or older in order to enter the park.
The official launch date and detailed ticket-purchasing guidelines will be announced closer to the policy’s effective date, according to Shanghai Disney Resort’s announcement for this new policy. Tickets or annual passes purchased before this date will not be affected. Shanghai Disney Resort stressed that this new policy aligns with its commitment to enhancing guest experience and supports the resort’s ongoing collaboration with relevant government authorities to combat illegal activities that harm its reputation, business and normal operations.
In fact, real-name ticket purchasing requirements have been widely implemented and accepted across China for years, particularly in sectors with high visitor traffic such as popular tourist sites, cultural events and transportation, including railways and airlines. For instance, since 2015, the Palace Museum in Beijing has used real-name ticketing to combat ticket scalping. Similarly, 17 well-known tourist attractions in Shanghai as well as venues also require visitors to provide their real name in order to purchase tickets. This includes the Oriental Pearl Radio & TV Tower, the Shanghai Astronomy Museum and the Shanghai Natural History Museum.
Shanghai Disney Resort in their announcement for this new policy urged guests to only buy its products and services through official and authorized channels, warning that purchases from other sources are likely either counterfeit or fraudulent and could result in financial loss to the buyer.
An opera artist from south China’s Guangdong Province presents a performance showcasing the charm of China’s Lingnan culture at the National Museum of New Zealand in Wellington, New Zealand, Sept. 25, 2024. This cultural promotion event was jointly held by the China International Cultural Association, the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand, the Guangdong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the China Cultural Center in Wellington, and co-organized by the Federation of the Chinese Association of New Zealand. It aims to promote exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations between China and New Zealand. (Photo by Meng Tao/Xinhua)
Artists from Guangdong Province, southern China, showcased the charm of China’s Lingnan culture to New Zealanders at the National Museum of New Zealand in Wellington on Wednesday evening.
This cultural promotion event was jointly held by the China International Cultural Association, the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand, the Guangdong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the China Cultural Center in Wellington, and co-organized by the Federation of the Chinese Association of New Zealand. It aims to promote exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations between China and New Zealand.
At the beginning of the event, five inheritors of intangible cultural heritage from Guangdong presented a unique performance, including the Lingnan school of Guqin art, Chaozhou Kung Fu tea art, Canton Porcelain, and art of Dongguan agarwood incense.
The performances also featured Chinese folk musical instrument performance, Chinese folk song and dance, attracting more than 200 people. At the final of the show, the audience cheered and applauded in ovation for the artists’ performance.
A Wellington citizen who named herself only as Barbara told Xinhua that this has been the largest Chinese cultural event ever held in Wellington since COVID-19, and the whole show was “amazing” and “impressive”. The programs about Chinese tea especially broadened her horizon as a tea lover.
“China is the hometown of tea and the birthplace of the tea culture in the world,” she said, “I truly immersed in the profoundness of Chinese tea culture in this event.”
Zhang Yimin, deputy director of the Guangdong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, said it is exciting to be here to engage in friendly exchanges by enjoying tea and artistic performances.
He hoped this event will help New Zealanders gain a deeper understanding of Guangdong’s culture and tourism, further promote cultural and tourism exchanges and cooperation between Guangdong and New Zealand, and inject vitality into the long-term friendly exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations between China and New Zealand.
Guangdong Province is the heart of Lingnan culture, the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, and a pioneer in China’s reform and opening-up. The province is working together with Hong Kong and Macao to build the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) into a world-class tourism destination, Zhang added.
People defending the right to abortion have revealed what it’s like to provide life-saving healthcare in the face of violence, repression and stigma, as part of Amnesty International’s second season of On the Side of Humanity podcast.
The three-part series – slated for release on International Safe Abortion Day on 28 September and available via all good podcast apps – features stories from healthcare workers and activists who are defending the right of women, girls and anyone who can get pregnant to take control over their own bodies and to get the best available healthcare when they most need it. Each episode is approximately 30 minutes.
“Everyone has the right to safe abortion. However, with anti-abortion narratives and legislation gaining ground around the world, people who need abortions, or who make them happen, face increasing, life-changing risks,” said Fernanda Doz Costa, Director of the Gender, Racial Justice, Migrants and Refugees Programme at Amnesty International.
“People defending the right to abortion, including those providing essential health services such as nurses, midwives, doctors, as well as activists distributing abortion-inducing pills, are being stigmatized, intimidated, attacked and subjected to unjust prosecutions, making their work increasingly difficult and dangerous to carry out. It’s time to shine a light on their stories through Amnesty’s new podcast and show them the support they deserve.”
Those featured in Amnesty’s new podcast are no different – having faced a tirade of abuse, simply for supporting those in need of an abortion. Some have even been imprisoned, such as Venezuelan teacher and human rights defender Vannesa Rosales, whohelped her 13-year-old student who had been raped to get access to a safe abortion.
“They raided my house and confiscated a grooming kit for my pets with scissors in it,” said Vannesa. “It was used as evidence that I was operating a clandestine abortion clinic. Immediately after, they arrested both of us, the girl’s mother and myself. She was facing up to five years in prison and I up to 15 years.”
Alongside Vannesa’s story, the podcast features abortion rights defenders including Verónica Cruz Sánchez, founder of Las Libres – a feminist Mexican organisation that coordinates a network of daring activists sending free abortion pills to women in the USA; midwife Sylvia Hamata from Namibia advocating for safe abortion access and battling against abortion stigma in her country; eminent Maltese gynaecologist and Professor of Medicine Isabel Stabile; gender rights activist and Amnesty’s campaign partner Stephanie Willman Bordat; world-renowned gynaecologist and former president of FIGO (The International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics) Professor Sabaratnam Arulkumaran; as well as Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard.
Criminalization of abortion is the biggest contributing factor to the estimated 35 million unsafe abortions happening every year. It means healthcare staff are constantly caught in the conflict between the ethical and professional duty to provide the best available care and being criminally liable if they do not follow harmful laws.
“Research over several decades has shown that being able to control one’s reproduction and to exercise reproductive autonomy affects all spheres of life. It is central to the achievement of gender equality and social, racial, gender and economic justice. As part of our global campaign on the right to abortion, Amnesty International calls on states around the world to fulfil their obligations to protect the right to safe and legal abortion for all, and to respect and protect the right of all those who defend the right to abortion,” said Fernanda Doz Costa.
Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
“The Biden-Harris Administration needs to negotiate a peace agreement now . . . or there will be disastrous consequences coming in the very near future”
WASHINGTON – Today,U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) delivered a floor speech criticizing the Biden-Harris administration for prolonging the unwinnable war in Ukraine at the expense of American taxpayers. Sen. Tuberville also discussed why the history of NATO is inconvenient for the Biden-Harris administration’s narrative. In the speech, Sen. Tuberville highlighted that Ukraine is becoming desperate, which could have dire consequences.
Read the speech below or watch it here.
“Mr. President,
I rise today to talk about the un-winnable war in Ukraine, which has already cost American taxpayers billions of dollars.
Now, anyone who dares question the Uni-Party’s narrative on the war in Ukraine is obviously going to get criticized. That’s OK. The media has been complicit in pushing this narrative. Think about [it]: when was the last time you saw live footage on the ground in Ukraine? It’s rare because Ukraine is losing and is losing badly.
This comes after we just gave Ukraine $60 billion dollars more of taxpayer money earlier this year to prolong this war.
I see President Zelensky, a Uni-Party puppet, is here begging, begging for more money on [the] campaign trail with Kamala Harris. It feels like he’s here every other month demanding more and more taxpayer money. That’s because he knows that the money spigot will cut off if Kamala Harris doesn’t win in November.
Look, this subject is too important to go unaddressed. Over the last several months, I’ve asked multiple high-ranking members of the Biden-Harris administration to articulate what it is trying to accomplish in Ukraine. Just tell us. Tell us what it will cost and how we plan to achieve these results. Basically, I’m asking: what is our game plan? Not one official in this administration has answered my questions clearly. Not one.
One of the most interesting responses I received was from Secretary Austin himself, Secretary of Defense. He says, ‘We want to see Ukraine remain a sovereign, independent and democratic state that has the ability to defend itself in its territory and deter aggression.’ Ok. Secretary Austin continued, stating that it is the administration’s goal to bring Ukraine into NATO while simultaneously blaming Russia for NATO’s past expansion.
Now, here’s when the DC establishment really, really gets upset. I’m going to review a few undeniable facts about NATO’s history. Predictably, the Uni-Party will accuse me of spewing Russian propaganda. But these are the facts and that’s what we have to go by. We can’t shy away from them.
NATO was formed 75 years ago in 1949 as a defensive alliance to counter the communist Soviet Union. It was wildly successful in that it maintained peace through deterrence throughout the cold war. NATO helped us win the Cold War and dissolve [the] communist Soviet Union. When the Cold War ended in 1991, Ukraine instantly became the world’s third-largest nuclear power. Ukraine. Following a series of negotiations, Ukrainians agreed to give up their nuclear weapons in exchange for security guarantees from both Russia and NATO. Territorial integrity and political independence.
These efforts were successful because they included assurances by many, many heads of state, including our own, that would no up-eastward expansion of NATO towards Russia would ever happen. It was over. At that time, there were 16 NATO members. Today, 33 years later, after this agreement, there are 32 NATO members. Even though in 1991 we agreed to no more eastward expansion, we broke the agreement. We, NATO and the United States. NATO has expanded eastward seven times since that agreement in 1991. The largest expansion in 2004 included two countries that share a border with Russia: Estonia and Latvia. Today, NATO includes three countries that border Russia. Six NATO members are former Warsaw Pact members. The bulk of this expansion happened before Russia annexed Crimea and invaded part of Ukraine in 2014.
Again, these are all the facts. All play a part in the NATO story and Russia’s response to it. Here’s another fact: NATO’s expansion was on NATO’s terms, separate and apart from any Russian input or activity. Let me read that again. NATO expansion was on NATO’s terms, separate and apart from any Russian input or activity—contrary to Secretary Austin’s claims. Ask yourself: How would the U.S. react if China or Russia entered a mutual defense organization with Mexico or Canada? How would we react? What if they started basing troops or participating in military exercises just miles from our homeland?
Having covered a brief history of NATO, let’s ask logical follow-up questions that we should always ask before involving ourselves in any armed conflict. First, how far are we willing to take this proxy war with Russia? How far are we? Did we think about that before we got into this? Are we [as] committed to winning as Russia’s President is? Vladimir Putin? Are we committed to winning? What happens if the momentum turns? What happens if it turns against Ukraine and Russia starts making real gains, as it appears is happening today. Will the U.S. send more taxpayer money? More weapons? Will NATO send troops? Will the United States send troops? What’s the plan?
War is a serious business. We should understand that by now. You don’t half-ass your way into one and certainly don’t half-ass your way out of one. That doesn’t seem to resonate around here.
Since the Russian offensive began, we have sent more than one $174 billion taxpayer dollars to Ukraine, one of the most corrupt countries in the world. Recently, the Biden-Harris administration announced their intent, their intent, to send an additional $700 million taxpayer dollars to Ukraine in cash. Are you kidding me? Why on earth would we give cash to the most corrupt country on the face of the planet?
So, after all that, after the last two and a half years of funding billions of taxpayer dollars, getting hundreds of thousands of people killed, what do we have to show for it? The war has only gotten worse. Hundreds of thousands are dead. Ukraine is becoming more desperate, as its forces are [experiencing] widespread insubordination and even mass desertion. We don’t hear that on TV. We don’t hear that in this propaganda media. Over six million Ukrainians have fled the country, have run, have left their country.
Ukraine is playing with fire, now seeking to conduct offensive operations deep inside Russia. Why? You can’t win. Most recently, Ukraine launched a drone attack that struck in Moscow. What are we trying to do— start World War III? Most recently, Ukraine launched a drone attack that struck several other office buildings in Moscow. Adding to the uncertainty of this situation, this administration’s current policy towards Ukraine has all the hallmarks of every Biden-Harris foreign policy decision that has preceded it: weak planning, disastrous results, zero leadership. This administration never considered the consequences of Ukraine losing. How can that ever happen?
This is really sad. It’s sad for the United States of America. It’s sad for the taxpayers. It’s sad for our military. It’s sad for our allies and it’s sad for NATO. Some of [his] Democratic colleagues have said, ‘Joe Biden never made a correct decision in foreign policy in forty years.’ Well, he hadn’t broke that.
Biden-Harris administration has dumped billions of dollars also into the lap of Iran. Removed the terrorist designation from the Houthis, who by the way, we’re fighting against right now, but they’re ‘not terrorists.’ Alienated one of our most important friends, Saudi Arabia. And they’ve executed the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal that unnecessarily cost the lives of Americans. All this weakness was a direct signal to our adversaries: ‘Now is the time to make your move.’ And that’s exactly what our adversaries China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea are doing.
China today tested another ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean. They’re preparing. Russia now has pounced on Ukraine. Whatever you hear in the media, it’s not true. It is a slaughter. Iran has released its proxies and terrorized the Middle East. Our ally Israel is fighting for its life against Hamas following the gruesome October 7th attack almost a year ago. The Houthis, the Houthis, are a bunch of people that live in the mountains, have been emboldened to attack ships, which has negatively impacted global trade. We can’t even beat the Houthis and we’re trying to create more wars. China has stepped up its aggression in the China Sea. We’re losing influence across the globe, especially in South America and Africa where the Chinese and the Russians are taking over. We’re leaving leaps and bounds.
So, let’s be very clear. Despite the administration’s incompetence, I still believe Putin was wrong to invade Ukraine. I think we all do. He should have withdrawn his forces immediately after it started. Putin is responsible for his actions, and he has made no secret of the fact that he sees Ukraine as historically a part of Russia.
At the same time, I do not think that Ukraine’s border is more important than ours—not even close—which we have been completely […] neglecting the last three and a half years.
We have been overrun, [at the] southern border, northern border, and from airplanes all over the world flying into our cities. It’s an embarrassment.
We do not need the administration to enable Ukraine to use offensive weapons and strike deep into Russia. That cannot happen. We are on the cusp of a nuclear war. Nobody seems concerned: ‘It won’t happen.’ Yes, it will happen. Putin has told us it will happen if you continue this. This would only escalate this conflict to an entirely new level that none of us can ever imagine. Do you think this offensive would convince Putin to come to the table and negotiate a peace agreement? Well, I would hope we would go, but we do not seem to want to make a peace agreement. We had better and we’d better do it in the very near future. This will provoke him to [use] even more deadly weapons if we continue to attack within their borders, costing more and more lives. NATO and the U.S. would be forced to respond as a result. We’re trying to create a war.
We must consider these questions thoroughly before we involve ourselves in another one of these crazy conflicts that should never happen. Improvising won’t cut it. Now is the time for the U.S. to lead and negotiate a peace to the end of this bloody war. I keep hearing people say, ‘well, we’re building equipment for our military.’ Yeah, right. Or our men and women are not losing their lives. We’re getting close to it. We’re getting very close.
Now look, I come from a military state in the state of Alabama. We build everything. We have thousands of troops. I want it to be well-funded and well-equipped if we ever have to fight a war. We need a lethal killing machine to deter other aggression. That’s what a military is about. This is not about defunding our military. I want our military laser-focused on protecting Americans and not woke DEI initiatives. And it’s not about abandoning our allies either. We need to support our allies.
It’s about this administration funding a proxy war with no plan, zero, no plan on how to stop it, or how to win it. The Biden-Harris administration needs to negotiate a peace agreement now. Immediately, or there will be huge, disastrous consequences coming in the very near future.
Mr. President, I yield floor.”
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.
Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
FTP for TV stations of her remarks is available here.
Cortez Masto highlighted the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada’s Resiliency and Justice Center that has helped survivors and their families access the resources they need
Washington, D.C. – Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) spoke on the Senate floor today ahead of the 7th anniversary of the Route 91 Harvest Festival mass shooting in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017, the deadliest in modern American history.
Cortez Masto honored the victims and their families, and she highlighted the work being done at the Resiliency and Justice Center in Las Vegas to connect survivors of violent crime with resources to help them heal.
Below are her remarks as prepared for delivery:
M. President, I rise today along with my colleague from Nevada, Senator Jacky Rosen, to commemorate seven years since the deadliest mass shooting in America’s recent memory.
Seven years ago, people from across the country gathered in Las Vegas for the Route 91 Harvest music festival – three days of live performances, dancing, and fun.
On October 1st, what was supposed to be a joyous conclusion to the festival turned into a nightmare.
In just 10 minutes, from the window of a nearby hotel, a gunman fired more than 1,000 shots into the festival crowd.
58 people were killed, and two more died later from their injuries. More than 800 were wounded. Thousands of families were forever changed.
I remember sitting with some of them at the Reunification Center, hoping and praying that their loved ones would return to them. Some prayers were never answered.
But as the city of Las Vegas mourned, we also came together. Neighbors reached out to one another and helped each other heal. Programs were created to help our city cope and move forward. We were resilient. We are Vegas Strong.
Out of tragedy and suffering, there was hope.
Let me tell you about something that gives me hope.
Three weeks after the events of 1 October, the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada and Clark County set up the Vegas Strong Resiliency Center as a resource for survivors of the Route 91 Harvest Festival and their families.
After a tragedy like a mass shooting, the families of victims and survivors alike have to adjust to a new normal. Imagine living through the horrors of that October night, healing from injuries, or grieving the loss of a loved one whose life was taken so suddenly by a senseless act of violence.
And then imagine, after you’ve been left with all that trauma, that you’re now faced with the complexities of paying medical bills, or dealing with insurance companies. It’s overwhelming. Where do you even begin? How are you going to navigate it all?
The Vegas Strong Resiliency Center was designed to ensure families didn’t have to go through this process alone.
The Center brought community partners with different resources to the table to deliver anything survivors might need – from support groups to mental health services to financial advice.
I’ve seen some of their great work myself.
Their incredible Executive Director, Tennille [ten-KNEEL] Pereira [puh-RARE-uh], shared the story of a survivor of 1 October who, after recovering from being shot that night, could no longer make her way up the stairs to reach her apartment. In response, her landlord threatened to evict her!
So, she got in touch with the Vegas Strong Resiliency Center. The Center contacted her landlord, got them to back down, and then helped their client move to another apartment that was accessible to her.
This is what happens when the community comes together to help each other. The Resiliency Center connected survivors with the resources they needed – right when they needed them. It gave survivors hope, and it helped them find light in the darkness.
In the seven years since its establishment, the Center not only helped survivors of the Route 91 Harvest Festival, but through the lessons learned from that crisis, it actually improved services for victims of violent crime throughout Southern Nevada.
That includes human trafficking survivors, domestic abuse survivors, and even first responders who have post-traumatic stress.
And when Las Vegas was struck by another tragedy last year, after a gunman killed three people at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the staff at the Resiliency Center were able to immediately respond, providing resources and programs for students, families, faculty, and staff.
In January of this year, the Vegas Strong Resiliency Center was renamed the Resiliency and Justice Center, and its mission expanded to serve all survivors of violent crime in Southern Nevada. They are continuing to grow their staff and their resources, and they’re even getting ready to expand their offices.
I’m proud to support the work of the Resiliency and Justice Center. At a time when our city was shaken to its core, they were there to help us get back on our feet. To help us remember that life goes on after loss. To help us find the strength to rebuild as a community.
And now, as we mark seven years since that terrible evening at the Route 91 Harvest Festival, we also mark seven years of hope and resilience in the city of Las Vegas. We hold the victims and their families in our hearts forever, and we remain Vegas Strong.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07)
Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) led her colleagues in a moment of silence for the victims of the Birmingham Five Points South shooting on the House Floor. Rep. Sewell was joined by her colleagues of the Alabama delegation and other representatives whose districts have been affected by gun violence.
Watch it on YouTubehere.
Rep. Sewell: It is with great sadness that I rise to recognize the victims of the horrific mass shooting that rattled Birmingham, Alabama’s community over the weekend.
On Saturday night, just after 11:00 p.m., 21 people were shot in Birmingham’s Five Points South entertainment district, and four lost their lives.
Our thoughts are with the families as they endure this unimaginable loss, and we pray for a speedy recovery for those that were injured.
James 2:26 teaches us that faith without works is dead. While our thoughts and prayers are important, only by taking meaningful action can we stem this needless loss of life.
Elected officials at every level must do all we can to eliminate the pandemic, the epidemic of gun violence that is raging in our communities. It’s past time for Congress to act.
I ask my colleagues to join me in a moment of silence for the Birmingham victims of Saturday night’s shooting and their families.
Alexander Stubb, President of the Republic of Finland, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).
World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.
The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.
مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
请在联合国网络电视（UN Web TV）观看中文版视频
Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1g/k1gdq2pyz7
Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-Operative Republic of Guyana, addresses the General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (New York, 24 – 30 September 2024).
World leaders gather to engage in the annual high-level General Debate under the theme, “Unity and diversity for advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity, everywhere and for all.” Heads of State and Government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.
The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main policy-making organ of the Organization. Comprising all Member States, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter of the United Nations. Each of the 193 Member States of the United Nations has an equal vote.
مشاهدة هذا الفيديو باللغة العربية على موقع البث الشبكي للأمم المتحدة
请在联合国网络电视（UN Web TV）观看中文版视频
Regardez cette vidéo en français sur UN Web TV
Vean este video en español en UN Web TV
Смотрите это видео на русском на UN Web TV https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1t/k1totvmumg
OLYMPIA – The Commercial Aviation Work Group will host its second public meeting virtually via Zoom from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 3.
The group will evaluate the long-range commercial aviation and transportation needs of the state, including alternatives for additional aviation capacity and expanding the use of existing airports and multimodal opportunities. The meeting will live stream on TVW.
Public comment will be from 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. People may also comment at any time by filling out the group’s contact form. Public comments will only be logged from the comment box.
People are encouraged to subscribe to the group’s email updates.
Free, temporary internet access is available for those who do not have broadband service in locations throughout the state. To find the nearest access, visit the Drive-In WiFi Hotspot list.
Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission was the previous group who researched locations to meet the forecast demand for commercial passenger service, air cargo and general aviation. Its final meeting last year focused on providing a solid foundation of information to be used by the Commercial Aviation Work Group, which was created by the Legislature last year (PDF 10KB). The commission released its final report (PFD 613KB) June 15, 2023.
Public Sector Undertakings & Field Offices under the Ministry of Textiles are propagating the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva 2024’ campaign under the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.”
National Textiles Corporation
Employees of National Textiles Corporation participated in Essay Writing Competition on the theme ‘Swachhata Hi Seva” and organized a mass cleanliness drive.
Jute Corporation of India
Under Swachhata Mein Jan Bhagidari, employees of Jute Corporation of India cleaned the Godown at Departmental Purchase Center. Swachhata theme-based Drawing Competition was conducted in Schools for creating awareness & importance of Swachhata in everybody’s life.
Cotton Corporation of India
As part of Swachhata Hi Seva, awareness activity related to Cyber Hygiene was conducted at the offices of Cotton Corporation of India.
Weavers Service Centers & IIHTs
‘Swachh Bharat Cultural Fests’ for Local & regional art, culture, music & dance forms of office space conducted by Office of Development Commissioner (Handlooms) along with field offices i.e. Weavers’ Service Centre (WSC) and Indian Institute of Handloom Technology (IIHTs) under Swachhata Hi Sewa Campaign (SHS).
The Ministry of Development of the Northeastern Region (MDoNER) is organising the Northeast Trade and Investment Roadshow in Bengaluru on September 26, 2024, starting at 5 PM at the Four Seasons Hotel. The event will be graced by SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA, Hon’ble Union Minister of Communications and Development of the Northeastern Region, Government of India.
Senior officials from MDoNER, including Shri Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, and Sushri Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, will also be present, along with representatives from various Northeastern states.
The event is being organised in collaboration with State governments of Northeastern, FICCI (Industry Partner), and Invest India (Investment Facilitation Partner).
This marks the fourth major Roadshow in Bengaluru, featuring presentations from representatives of the eight Northeastern states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Nagaland. They will highlight various investment opportunities in their respective states.
Key investable sectors include IT & ITES, Healthcare, Education & Skill Development, Sports & Entertainment, Tourism & Hospitality, and Energy—all crucial for the region’s economic growth.
The Northeast Investors Summit, organised by MDoNER, aims to attract investments and stimulate economic development. Previous roadshows in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata received strong participation, while the State Seminar at Vibrant Gujarat drew significant interest from potential investors.
To build on these efforts, MDoNER held a signing and exchange of MOUsevent for the North East Investors Summit on March 6, 2024, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, facilitating Business-to-Government (B2G) meetings with senior officials from state governments.
The Roadshow in Bengaluru is expected to attract many potential investors eager to be part of the growth journey in North East India.
Irvine, CA, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clean Energy Technologies, Inc. (“CETY”) (Nasdaq: CETY), a clean energy manufacturing and services company offering eco-friendly green energy solutions, clean energy fuels, and alternative electric power for small and mid-size projects in North America, Europe, and Asia, today announced its participation in Latvia’s economic delegation visit to the US from September 17 to 23. Led by President Edgars Rinkēvičs, the delegation visited San Francisco and Silicon Valley, engaging with California government leaders, technology giants, and investors.
CETY CEO Kam Mahdi was a key presenter at a program on the topic of California Technology Research and Investment. He discussed CETY’s growth as a comprehensive clean energy solutions company with growing global focus that includes expanding operations in North America, Europe, and Asia. The program was part of President Rinkēvičs focus on exploring opportunities for economic cooperation and growth for Latvia enterprises seeking a presence in the United States and specifically targeting California for its business and technology development ecosystem and leadership.
The visit of President Rinkēvičs and other Latvian government officials and business leaders is an historic one. It was the first such high-level economic delegation to the US from Latvia. Accompanying President Rinkēvičs were Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis, Director General at Investment and Development Agency of Latvia Raivis Bremsmits, and over 50 Latvia entrepreneurs interested in California and North America for strategic growth. Meetings during the three-day visit included Microsoft, Google, NASA Ames, and Meta. AI was a big topic for this visit, especially given its potential use in all sectors and the concerns raised in the EU over privacy and security.
Mr. Mahdi talked about the evolution of CETY from its inception, when it was first focused on waste heat recovery, using technology developed by General Electric, through its current expansion into becoming a comprehensive energy solutions provider. “We have developed expertise of the entire energy process from system design to generation and storage, distribution and management,” said Mahdi. “Clients come to us to discuss their needs, and we can develop solutions to effectively address them.”
Mahdi also spoke at a meeting which included California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, Latvia Economics Minister Viktors Valainis, Latvia Investment and Development Agency Director Raivis Bremsmits, Toms Zvidriņš, Head of the US Office of Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, Martins Andersons, President of the American Latvian Association, and Latvia business leaders.
CETY has been involved in a waste heat to energy project in Latvia since 2018, with EkoNams, a company that builds Scandanvian-style log homes, the design of which is influenced by historic craftsmanship and the execution of which relies on new technologies. Building on that project, CETY has been in discussion with other Latvia companies interested in collaboration or partnerships.
President Rinkēvičs’ delegation followed up on a July 2024 California delegation to Latvia led by California State Treasurer Fiona Ma and State Senator Josh Newman. The delegation included California businesses, and involved meetings with top government and business leaders, including former Latvia Prime Minister and current European Commissioner for Trade Valdis Dombrovskis, Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, and Transportation Minister Kaspars Briškens, to discuss investment, economic and technological collaboration, and development opportunities in key Baltic growth sectors. As part of that delegation, Mr. Mahdi was an invited speaker on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Forum on Sustainable Energy Technologies and Innovations, along with former California Senator and energy entrepreneur Robert Hertzberg.
About Clean Energy Technologies, Inc. (CETY)
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Clean Energy Technologies, Inc. (CETY) is a rising leader in the zero-emission revolution by offering eco-friendly green energy solutions, clean energy fuels and alternative electric power for small and mid-sized projects in North America, Europe, and Asia. We deliver power from heat and biomass with zero emission and low cost. The Company’s principal products are Waste Heat Recovery Solutions using our patented Clean CycleTM generator to create electricity. Waste to Energy Solutions convert waste products created in manufacturing, agriculture, wastewater treatment plants and other industries to electricity and BioChar. Engineering, Consulting and Project Management Solutions provide expertise and experience in developing clean energy projects for municipal and industrial customers and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies.
CETY’s common stock is currently traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol CETY. For more information, visit http://www.cetyinc.com.
This summary should be read in conjunction with the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2024 and other periodic filings made pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which contain, among other matters, risk factors and financial footnotes as well as a discussions of our business, operations and financial matters located on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission at http://www.sec.gov.
Safe Harbor Statement
This news release may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with respect to achieving corporate objectives, developing additional project interests, the Company’s analysis of opportunities in the acquisition and development of various project interests and certain other matters. These statements are made under the “Safe Harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements contained herein. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on the Company’s current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of CETY’s business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as: “anticipate,” “plan,” “expect,” “estimate,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will” and similar references to future periods. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.
Clean Energy Technologies, Inc. Investor and Investment Media inquiries: 949-273-4990 ir@cetyinc.com Source: Clean Energy Technologies, Inc.
As the climate warms, the southwestern U.S. is increasingly experiencing weather whiplash as the region swings from drought to flooding and back again. As a result, the public is hearing more about little-known infectious diseases, such as valley fever.
In May 2024, about 20,000 people attended a music festival in Buena Vista Lake, California. In the months that followed, at least 19 developed valley fever, and eight were hospitalized from their infection. This outbreak follows a dramatic increase of more than 800% in valley fever infections in California between 2000 and 2018.
In 2023, California reported the second-highest number of valley fever cases on record, with more than 9,000 cases reported statewide. And between April 2023 and March 2024, California provisionally reported 10,593 cases – 40% more than during the same period the prior year.
The Conversation U.S. asked Jennifer Head, Simon Camponuri and Alexandra Heaney – researchers specializing in the epidemiology of valley fever – to explain what valley fever is, and what might explain its rise in recent years.
What is valley fever, and how do you get infected?
When the fungus has access to moisture and nutrients, it grows long, branching fungal chains throughout the soil. When the soil dries out, these chains fragment to form fungal spores, which can be stirred up into the air when the soil is disturbed, such as by wind or digging. Airborne spores can then be inhaled and cause a respiratory infection.
Cases of valley fever are typically highest in California’s southern San Joaquin Valley and southern Arizona, but they have been increasing outside of these regions. Between 2000 and 2018, the incidence of valley fever cases increased fifteenfold in the northern San Joaquin Valley and eightfold along the Southern California coast. And between 2014 and 2018, incidence increased by more than eightfold along the central coast.
Because of these trends and the virulence of the pathogen that causes valley fever, it is listed as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization. Historically, fungal infections have received very little attention and resources. By creating this list, the WHO is hoping to galvanize action surrounding listed pathogens, including getting more resources for research as well as the development of new treatments.
What are the symptoms, and what should people be looking for?
After inhaling fungal spores from the environment, Coccidioides initially infects the lungs, causing symptoms like mild to severe cough, fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain and tiredness. Valley fever symptoms can resemble other common respiratory infections, so it’s important for people to get checked by a doctor if they’ve experienced prolonged symptoms, particularly if they have been given antibiotics that they are not responding to.
In California and Arizona, an estimated one-third of community-acquired pneumonia cases – or pneumonia acquired outside of the hospital – are caused by valley fever. However, only a fraction of community-acquired pneumonia cases get tested for it, so it’s likely the number of valley fever cases is significantly higher. Among diagnosed cases, half experienced symptoms for two months or more before being diagnosed.
In 5% to 10% of cases, the fungus can spread from the lungs to other parts of the body, such as the central nervous system, liver and bones, causing meningitis or arthritis-like symptoms. These cases can be severe and possibly fatal.
Jose Epifanio Sanchez Trujeque of Lebec, Calif., spent four months in the hospital after contracting valley fever in 2023. The Washington Post/Getty Images
What time of year should you be most concerned?
Valley fever cases can occur year-round, but in California, cases reported via surveillance systems tend to increase starting in August and September, peak in November and return to background levels in January and February.
Researchers believe that patients are likely exposed to the fungus in the summer and early fall months, typically one to three months prior to their diagnosis. This delay accounts for time between when patients are exposed, develop symptoms and are diagnosed with the disease. While cases peak in the fall on average, seasonal strength and timing varies regionally.
This transition was followed by a near-record spike in cases in 2023. The state experienced another wet winter during the 2023-2024 wet season, furthering concern about continued high risk for valley fever in 2024.
Our research team recently developed a model to forecast valley fever cases that will occur between April 2024 and March 2025 in California. We forecast that the state is likely to see another spike in cases during the fall and winter of 2024, on par with the spike in 2023.
During high-risk periods, clinicians should consider valley fever as a potential diagnosis. This is especially true when evaluating a patient presenting with valley fever symptoms or a respiratory illness who lives in, works in or traveled to an endemic or emerging region.
We are currently working to characterize seasonal disease patterns in Arizona as well, which are different from California’s. This is likely because Arizona has two rainy seasons.
Are some people at greater risk than others?
Those who spend time or work outdoors in areas where valley fever is common, especially where they may be exposed to dirt and dust, are more likely to get it.
While healthy people are still at risk of infection, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing severe disease from valley fever. These include being an adult 60 years or older, having diabetes, HIV or another condition that weakens the immune system, or being pregnant. People who are Black or Filipino also have been noted to have a higher risk of severe disease, which may relate to more exposure to the fungal spores, underlying health conditions, inequities in accessing care or other possible predispositions.
How can you protect yourself from getting valley fever?
People who live and work in the regions where the fungus is found should avoid exposure to dust as much as possible. When it is windy outside and the air is dusty, stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.
When driving through a dusty area, limit vehicle speed, keep car windows closed and recirculate the air, if possible. When working outdoors, use dust suppression techniques, including wetting soil before digging to prevent stirring up dust, and installing fencing, windbreaks and vegetation where possible.
For those who must directly stir up soil or be in dusty conditions, such as while doing construction or gardening work, consider using an N95 mask to limit dust inhalation.
Jennifer Head receives funding from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health.
Alexandra K. Heaney receives funding from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health.
Simon Camponuri receives funding from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health and from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
NEW YORK, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Traliant, an innovator in online compliance training, today announced new Active Shooter Response training to equip employees with the knowledge to act swiftly and confidently in an active shooter situation, safeguarding both staff and customers.
With nearly 31% of active shooter incidents happening at workplaces, and 79% of companies acknowledging they’re not fully prepared, according to The National Institute of Justice, it’s more important than ever to be ready. While these events are rare, knowing the warning signs of violence and how to respond can be lifesaving.
“When seconds count, having a workforce trained to respond to workplace violence can make all the difference,” said Michael Johnson, Chief Strategy Officer at Traliant. “Our Active Shooter Response training builds a culture of safety and preparedness, giving employers and employees the confidence to act decisively if the unthinkable happens.”
As workplace violence increases nationwide, states are implementing new laws to ensure businesses are better equipped. Most recently, New York passed the Retail Worker Safety Act requiring employers to include active shooter response training as part of their workplace violence prevention programs.
Traliant’s 35-minute interactive course prepares employees and managers to recognize a potential active shooter situation and respond using the FBI-endorsed “Run, Hide, Fight” method, while also covering communication with law enforcement and first responders.
About Traliant Traliant combines in-house legal expertise with modern, emotionally engaging course design to redefine compliance, training experiences and services. It helps thousands of organizations create a culture of ethics, inclusion and safety by addressing dozens of critical topics including sexual harassment training, DEI training and code of conduct training. Traliant’s innovative and interactive approach to learning can be easily customized into affordable and cost-effective solutions for clients to address their industry, branding, policies, risks and job-specific needs. Backed by PSG, a leading growth equity firm, Traliant is ranked on Inc.’s 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 lists of 5000 fastest-growing private companies in America and named to Inc.’s 2023 list of Best Workplaces. For more information, visit http://www.traliant.com and follow us on LinkedIn.
