Patabook: February 2021

Sunday, 28 February 2021

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo&#039;s office cleared the way on Sunday for an independent attorney with subpoena powers to investigate allegations against him of sexual misconduct.

source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210301-ny-gov-cuomo-agrees-to-independent-probe-of-sexual-misconduct-claims

Semi-virtual Golden Globes get underway with hosts Tina Fey and Amy Poehler

Glam was back for the Golden Globes virtual, bicoastal awards night Sunday as nominees Zoomed in from around the world and, for Leslie Odom Jr., from his front porch in Los Angeles not far from the action in Beverly Hills.

source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210301-semi-virtual-golden-globes-get-underway-with-hosts-tina-fey-and-amy-poehler

Trump called 'shark who went out to sea but will return' as he hints at 2024 election bid

DONALD TRUMP has suggested he could be poised to run for the US presidency in 2024 amid warnings about an election &quot;nail-biter&quot;.

source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1403850/donald-trump-news-us-election-2024-conservative-conference-biden-real-time-bill-maher-ont

Another Good Weekend In The US Shows Increasing Demand For Travel

As a sign of increasing confidence in air travel, passengers for the third straight weekend have surpassed one million passengers in a day. However, this time, the numbers were just as good on Thursday, February 25th, as they were on Friday the 26th– an increasing sign that customers are willing to get back onboard planes as the busy summer season starts to set in. Airlines have seen relatively high passenger numbers this month– especially around the weekends. Photo: Getty ImagesHigh passenger counts continue for the third straight weekend February has been turning out better than many had expected, with weekends seeing high traveler numbers. Just looking at Fridays, we can see the following upward trend: February 5th:  868,624 passengers February 12th: 1,151,420 passengers February 19th: 1,059,452 passengers February 26th: 1,096,348 passengers The weekend of the 12th is a bit of an oddball in between, as it was the Friday before a long weekend with Presidents’ Day, so an even greater number of leisure passengers showed a willingness to fly. Outside of that weekend, strong numbers from the 19th and 26th indicate that passengers are willing to get onboard an aircraft in increasing numbers. These are some of the best numbers since they slid after the winter holiday period. Leisure travelers have shown a greater willingness to come back than corporate ones. Photo: Getty ImagesThe good news continues for airlines Consistently, some of the worst travel days have been Tuesdays. Normally a heavy business travel day, one US airline– Allegiant Air– has gone as far as to essentially shut down operations on that one day with no flights scheduled for Tuesdays. With mostly leisure travelers flying, Tuesdays typically see few passengers board a plane. However, even those numbers have been encouraging. Here’s the data from the last few Tuesdays: February 2nd: 493,338 passengers February 9th: 617,619 passengers February 16th: 738,825 passengers February 23rd: 714,725 passengers Those numbers, minus February 2nd, are reminiscent of some of the better months in US air travel in 2020 after the pandemic started. This is not all business travel, of course, but increased passenger counts on non-leisure days is a good sign and will be necessary for airlines moving forward. Not all premium cabins are going out as full as some economy cabins are. Photo: Getty ImagesGood signs for spring break? The crisis has been anything except linear. Growing passenger counts have done everything from stalled growth and stagnant numbers to a sharp decline, leaving air carriers assessing their schedules on a short-term basis. Given that, it is incredibly difficult to say that these trends will continue through March. One of the biggest roadblocks to increased passenger numbers are travel restrictions. Passengers like to go to places that are open for dining and entertainment or feature a host of outdoor activities, like hiking, skiing, or even surfing. This has been a strong trend since last summer. Leisure travelers are primarily choosing warm-weather and outdoor destinations. Photo: Getty Images Spring break is around the corner, and it is anyone’s guess how travel will turn out. If passengers are increasingly confident heading out to leisure destinations, then travel numbers will likely be relatively high. If current trends continue, perhaps more days in March could see passenger counts cross the million traveler account than any other month since March of 2020. International travel will rely heavily on a vaccine to reopen borders. In contrast, domestic travel is tied mostly to what is open where– which is one reason why the sluggish pace of vaccinations is not correlating to a sluggish return in travel. In most places in the US, dining and theme parks have reopened, but there are usually restrictions requiring outdoor dining or face masks in public places. The areas with entry restrictions in effect usually require passengers to get tested before arrival or else adhere to a strict quarantine period. Greater access to testing for travelers has enabled more passengers to travel. Photo: Getty Images Ultimately, things are looking good for spring break, but things can also change at a moment’s notice. If the trends continue, then the first quarter of 2021 could end up being the start of a sustained upswing in travel. Are you making plans to travel over spring break? Have you traveled over the last month? Let us know in the comments!

source https://simpleflying.com/weekend-travel-feb-28/

Oil prices climb after progress on huge U.S. stimulus bill

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/oil-prices-climb-after-progress-huge-us-stimulus-bill

China to open national carbon emissions trading scheme before end-June - ministry

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/china-open-national-carbon-emissions-trading-scheme-end-june-ministry

Risk currencies recover from Friday carnage, dollar consolidates

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/risk-currencies-recover-friday-carnage-dollar-consolidates

U.S. doubles down on protecting university research from China

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/us-doubles-down-protecting-university-research-china

Trump calls for GOP unity, repeats lies about election loss

Taking the stage for the first time since leaving office, former U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday called for Republican Party unity, even as he exacerbated intraparty divisions and trumpeted lies about the election in a speech that made clear he intends to remain a dominant political force.

source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/trump-calls-for-gop-unity-repeats-lies-about-election-loss-1.5327676

New York Gov. Cuomo acknowledges behaviour seen as 'flirtation'

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo acknowledged for the first time Sunday that some of his behaviour with women had been &quot;misinterpreted as unwanted flirtation,&quot; and said he would co-operate with a sexual harassment investigation led by the state&#039;s attorney general.

source https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/new-york-gov-cuomo-acknowledges-behaviour-seen-as-flirtation-1.5327742

Trucks outside CPAC with ‘January 6th Reunion’ on them ahead of Trump speech

Ex-president’s supporters infamously attacked Capitol on that date

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/cpac-trucks-trump-january-6th-b1808943.html

The glam was back at the Golden Globes, albeit at a distance

Glam is back for the Golden Globes virtual, bicoastal awards night as nominees Zoomed in from around the world

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/the-glam-was-back-at-the-golden-globes-albeit-at-a-distance-amanda-seyfried-world-awards-nominees-action-b1808960.html

At least 25 medevac detainees expected to be released from Brisbane, dozen more to follow

At least 25 medevac detainees are expected to be released from Brisbane immigration detention, with others from around the country to follow this week.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-01/dozens-of-medevac-detainees-expected-to-walk-free-from-brisbane/13198942

'We just need to know': NSW Premier issues vaccine plea to Federal government

Premier Gladys Berejiklian says she is ready to ramp up NSW&#039;s rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine but hasn&#039;t been told by the Federal government how many doses the state will be getting.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-01/gladys-berejikian-calls-for-covid19-vaccine-information/13202186

SA Police to probe links between house fire and fatal car crash

Police are investigating possible links between a house fire in a South Australian small town and a car crash that killed a man an hour later.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-01/sa-police-investigating-link-between-crash-and-fire/13202128

Celebrities post their red carpet looks for the Golden Globes

A socially distanced Golden Globes is underway, but a lack of invites hasn&#039;t stopped the stars from frocking up. Check out all the glamour that was posted to social media ahead of the ceremony.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-01/golden-globes-2021-celebrities-post-red-carpet-looks/13192544

ASX rises, Crown under investigation for underpaying workers

The Australian share market lifts early trade, while embattled casino operator Crown becomes the latest company to admit to underpaying employees.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-01/asx-rise-crown-underpayment-workers-fwo-investigation/13202138

U.S. Air Combat Command General: Must Field The Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Fighter Before China Does

The Air Force is looking beyond its &#039;penetrating counterair&#039; concepts unveiled in 2016, and is now moving toward a &quot;family of systems&quot; approach. (Photo: US Air Force)  Air Force Magazine: Kelly Worries F-35 Flying Costs Won’t Hit Target, and That China May Get NGAD First  Air Combat Command boss Gen. Mark D. Kelly isn’t confident that F-35 operating costs will be tamed to $25,000 per hour by 2025, which is the service’s goal. He’s also concerned China will field advanced fighter technologies like those in the Air Force’s developmental Next-Generation Air Dominance system before the U.S. does.  “I’m not brimming with confidence” that the $25K by ’25 goal will be met, Kelly said of the F-35. “I haven’t lost confidence,” he told reporters in a press conference during AFA’s virtual Aerospace Warfare Symposium, and that’s why he’s about to hit the road to visit operating locations, the depot, and other facilities, to “have conversations” about how the goal can be reached. The idea is not to “talk about how we feel” but get to a “plan of action and milestones” to achieve the $25K target.  “But as I sit here today, I’m not overly confident we’ll get there,” Kelly said.  Read more ....  Update: Air Force General: Field This Next-Gen Fighter In Time To Beat China (Military.com).  WNU editor: The F-35 was always promoted as the jet fighter that will give the U.S. military air superiority for decades. Apparently not.

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/us-air-combat-command-general-must.html

Israel Has Launched Missile Strikes Against Iranian Targets In Syria "In Response To Iranian Attack" On Israeli Commercial Ship

📹 | #BREAKING: #Syria|n regime air defences active as #Israel strikes Iranian militias in #Damascus.pic.twitter.com/rvREEM3gXX — EHA News (@eha_news) February 28, 2021 Times of Israel: Israel said to hit Iranian targets in Syria after Tehran blamed for ship blast  Syrian state media claims air defenses shot down several missiles; Hebrew media outlets indicate raid a retaliation for explosion that hit Israeli-owned vessel in Gulf of Oman Syrian state media reported Sunday that air defense systems were activated around Damascus due to an Israeli attack.  A report carried on the official SANA news agency claimed the Syrian military intercepted several Israeli missiles.  There was no comment on the reported strikes from the Israel Defense Forces, which rarely acknowledges specific attacks.  Read more ....  WNU Editor: I knew that the Israelis were going to respond. But that was fast.   More News On Reports That Israel Has Launched Missile Strikes Against Iranian Targets In Syria  Syrian army says Israel attacks areas around southern Damascus -- Reuters  Syria Reports Israeli Missile Attack Near Capital, Damascus -- US News and World Report/AP  Syria &#039;shoots down&#039; Israeli missiles over Damascus days after Iranian Navy &#039;attack&#039; on cargo ship and US air strike on Iran-backed militias in the country -- Daily Mail  Syria intercepts Israeli missiles over Damascus: state media -- Middle East Monitor  Syrian air defenses repel ‘Israeli aggression’ over Damascus, intercept most of the missiles - state media -- RT  Israel Strikes Syria &quot;In Response To Iranian Attack&quot; On Israeli Commercial Ship -- Zero Hedge  Screenshot from the video allegedly showing a rocket attack in the sky above the Syrian capital city of DamascusVideo: Syrian Air Defenses Responding to &#039;Israeli Aggression&#039; Over Damascus - SANA -- Sputnik

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/israel-has-launched-missile-strikes.html

Australia Backs Qantas-AA Partnership Authorization Extension

Australia’s competition czar, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), is signaling it will greenlight the ongoing joint venture between Qantas and American Airlines. The government gave interim approval to the joint venture continuing on Friday, February 26. The news will be welcomed at Qantas, who are eyeing a return to the United States later this year. Qantas has received interim approval to continue its joint venture with American Airlines. Photo: QantasPublic interest justifies the joint venture’s continuation In 2011, the ACCC first approved the joint venture for a five-year period. Approval was extended for a further five years in 2016. Despite the recent turbulence across the industry, both Qantas and American Airlines are keen to continue the alliance. “There is no doubt that the metal neutral revenue-sharing joint business made possible through the proposed conduct represents the fastest and most effective way to rebuild, sustain, and ultimately grow Trans-Pacific capacity,” said Qantas in its submission to the ACCC in October. Giving interim authorization on Friday, the ACCC’s Sarah Court cited public interest benefits in continuing the joint venture. “Passengers traveling on Trans-Pacific routes could benefit through enhanced products and services, including a greater likelihood of increased capacity and new routes; increased connectivity and improved schedule choice,” Ms Court said. American Airlines metal landing in Sydney. Photo: QantasWe need this joint venture, says Qantas Before the travel downturn, American Airlines operated daily services between Los Angeles and Sydney. Qantas also fed passenger traffic on American’s seasonal Auckland – Los Angeles service under the joint venture agreement. Also on the books were new American Airlines flights between Auckland and Dallas Fort Worth and Christchurch and Los Angeles. The travel downturn delayed the start of these flights. But American Airlines continues to operate a four times weekly passenger service into Sydney. The airline hopes to grow this to a daily passenger service over the northern summer season. Qantas is not presently operating passenger flights to the United States. However, in addition to services to Honolulu, Qantas normally operates flights from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane to both Los Angeles and San Francisco. There was also a daily service to New York and a popular A380 service to Dallas Fort Worth. Last year, Qantas also aimed to begin services between Brisbane and Chicago. Under the terms of the joint venture, American Airlines and Qantas want to coordinate their operations between and within Australia/New Zealand and the United States, Canada, and Mexico. “Applicants (need) to be able to offer streamlined connectivity and sell competitively to ‘behind and beyond’ destinations, supporting each other’s services through extensive sales and distribution channels on both sides of the Pacific,” says Qantas. American Airlines continues to fly to Australia. Photo: QantasQantas argues joint venture grows the Trans-Pacific market Qantas told the ACCC the two airlines only directly compete on one route – the flagship run between Los Angeles and Sydney. “American recently made clear in re-sizing its international network, it has few options other than to focus on international flying to hubs supported with connectivity offered by a joint business partner. Indeed, the case for needing Qantas to support American’s flying to Australasia is stronger than ever given the devastating reduction in demand for travel out of the western United States to the Pacific,” says the Qantas submission. Typically, 1.3 million Australians make their way to the United States each year. That number has increased by 8% annually since 2015. Visitors from the United States were the third-largest source of international visitors to Australia in 2019. In addition to Qantas and American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines also operate services between mainland United States and Australia. Both Hawaiian Airlines and Jetstar normally fly between Hawaii and Australia. Further, there are several viable one-stop options across the Pacific, including on airlines like Air New Zealand and Air Fiji. Qantas argues this normally vibrant airline route is made viable by alliances such as their joint venture with American Airlines. “It (approval) will provide the applicants with the certainty to justify investment in the joint business across all jurisdictions, which will be the most efficient way to maximize and expedite customer benefits in circumstances where demand recovery will take at least several years as IATA has flagged,” the airline says. The ACCC is due to give final approval on the five-year extension before the end of April. Do you support joint ventures such as that between American Airlines and Qantas. Post a comment and let us know.

source https://simpleflying.com/aa-qantas-extension-backed/

Trump returns to political stage at conservative conference

Donald Trump gives his first speech since leaving office as US president at a conference in Florida.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56233657

Yemen: The nine-year-old war-zone school teacher

Ahmed, blind since birth, stands in for teachers who don&#039;t make it in to their ruined school in Yemen.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-56212929

Saturday, 27 February 2021

Beijing to ramp up military budget as tensions rise in Taiwan and South China Sea

CHINA is expected to reveal a massive increase in defence spending next week amid tensions with US and in Indo-Pacific, as Beijing continues to bounce back from the coronavirus pandemic.

source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1403552/China-news-us-defence-spending-coronavirus-war-military-beijing-Taiwan-South-China-Sea-ont

Virginia lawmakers vote to legalize marijuana in 2024

Virginia lawmakers have given final approval to a bill that will legalize marijuana for adult recreational use

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/virginia-lawmakers-vote-to-legalize-marijuana-in-2024-lawmakers-virginia-senate-marijuana-marijuana-b1808607.html

More protests against coup planned in Myanmar after hundreds arrested

Opponents of military rule in Myanmar planned protests on Sunday a day after the security forces launched their biggest crackdown, arresting hundreds of people and shooting and wounding at least one.

source https://www.reuters.com/article/us-myanmar-politics/more-protests-against-coup-planned-in-myanmar-after-hundreds-arrested-idUSKCN2AS018

Albanese calls for 'common decency' to prevail as letter's historic rape claim hangs over Cabinet

Labor leader Anthony Albanese says the Prime Minister must weigh up whether it is appropriate for the Minister at the centre of a historic rape allegation to remain in Cabinet.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/anthony-albanese-reaction-to-cabinet-minister-rape-letter/13200812

No light at end of tunnel as popular caves remain closed following fire, flood and pandemic

Communities relying upon tourism say it is time to open all the Blue Mountain caves after being closed for business for more than a year.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/blue-mountains-wombeyan-caves-closed-coronavirus/13179034

'It's not just big guys': Strongman competitions are attracting more women

Traditionally, strongman competitions have been the domain of bulky men with bulging biceps — but now women are seeing the benefit of lifting impossible weights.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/queensland-strongman-competition-strength-athletes/13197864

Two men missing off rugged coastline near Albany after separate incidents

Searches resume for two men missing off WA&#039;s rugged southern coastline, after one was swept off rocks and the other&#039;s car was found abandoned at a beach.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/separate-searches-resume-for-people-missing-off-wa-albany-coast/13200814

From discarded wood, an old drum and a toothbrush, Jack Darnley made a banjo to lift spirits in the trenches of Tobruk

A banjo handcrafted by an outgoing, larrikin soldier tells a story of mateship and tragedy on the battlefields of World War II.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/world-war-ii-soldiers-life-revealed-by-banjo-handmade-rat-tobruk/13160620

Man dead, another injured in drive-by shooting at Melbourne pool hall

Police say a number of shots were fired from a moving vehicle outside a pool hall in Ravenhall around midnight.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/man-dead-after-drive-by-shooting-in-melbourne-ravenhall/13200964

Satellite Images Show The Damage Caused By A U.S. Airstrike Against Iranian-Backed Militias In Syria Two Days Ago

A blog that covers wars, conflicts, politics, and international news.

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/satellite-images-show-damage-caused-by.html

China To Significantly Boost Its Defense Budget This Year

A military parade is held to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People&#039;s Liberation Army (PLA) at Zhurihe training base in north China&#039;s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, July 30, 2017. (Xinhua/Ju Zhenhua)  Reuters: China expected to unveil hike in military budget as tensions rise  HONG KONG/BEIJING (Reuters) - China is expected to reveal a robust increase in defence spending at the March 5 annual opening of parliament, as its economy rebounds from the COVID-19 pandemic and military tensions rise, Chinese and Western security experts said.  With the coronavirus hammering its economy, China last year announced a 6.6 per cent boost in defence spending to $178 billion, the lowest rate of increase in three decades.  The new administration of President Joe Biden has moved quickly to remind Beijing that the United States intends to compete with China’s growing influence and military strength in the Asia-Pacific. In recent weeks, powerful U.S. warship fleets have sailed near Chinese-claimed Taiwan and through disputed territory in the South China Sea, to Beijing’s anger.  “China is facing the most severe security situation since the Korean War,” said Ni Lexiong, a retired professor at the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law.  Read more ....  WNU Editor: The official announcement on how much China&#039;s defense budget will increase this year will be made on March 5.   More News On China Significantly Boosting Its Defense Budget This Year  China’s defense budget to continue to rise in 2021, buttressed by economic upturn, strong fiscal foundation: experts -- Global Times  China to boost military budget amid rising tensions -- The Hill  Beijing to ramp up military budget as tensions rise in Taiwan and South China Sea -- Daily Express

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/china-to-significantly-boost-its.html

Improvements In The Aegis Radar Means Navy Warships Could Soon Kill A Hypersonic Or Nuclear Missile

Image: Reuters  Kris Osborne, National Interest: How a Navy Warship Could Soon Kill a Hypersonic or Nuclear Missile  The missile defense of many destroyers is about to get a whole lot better.  Japanese and Canadian warships are evolving their maritime missile defense posture to expand the envelope at which it can detect and destroy incoming missiles, hypersonic weapons and even intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). To accomplish this, their warships are integrating a new high-powered, more sensitive ship-based radar system engineered to achieve longer ranges and greater precision. The concept is, among other things, to empower Navy ships with an ability to track and destroy enemy ICBMs from the ocean.  Read more ....  WNU Editor: It all come down tom improving the Aegis radar.

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/improvements-in-aegis-radar-means-navy.html

U.S. Army To Conduct Live -Fire Test Using AI To Share Data Between F-35s, A-10s, HIMARS Rocket Launchers, And Satellites

Army HIMARS trucks launch Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System missiles  Breaking Defense: Army AI Gets Live Fire Test Next Week  In an unusual bottom-up initiative, the 18th Airborne Corps is developing its own AI targeting system – and the corps’ fire support coordinator says he wouldn’t go to war without it.  WASHINGTON: The 18th Airborne Corps will host a live-fire experiment the first week of March, using artificial intelligence to share targeting data amongst Marine F-35s, Air Force A-10s, ground-based HIMARS rocket launchers, and commercial satellites.  The AI-driven system – developed in large part by 18th Airborne itself — is already mature enough to let the corps strike more targets, more quickly than ever before, wherever it deploys, the corps’ fire support coordination officer, artillery veteran Col. Joe O’Callaghan said. “The AI we work with today is ready now; it’s ready to fight tonight, and we would take it forward with us,” O’Callaghan told me in an interview. It’s tied into what he called a “nascent JADC2 network” – short for Joint All-Domain Command &amp;amp; Control, a top Pentagon priority – that connects multiple services’ sensors from ground to air to space.  Read more ....  WNU Editor: If this works as advertised, warfare as we know it will forever change.  Hat tip James for the above link. Update: Here is an interesting post on AI in the military .... War Mongering For Artificial Intelligence (Dr. Binoy Kampmark, South Front).

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/us-army-to-conduct-live-fire-test-using.html

Melania Trump and Donald ‘only married by name’ claims dating expert amid divorce rumours

MELANIA TRUMP and her husband Donald have &quot;zero chemistry&quot;, a leading UK celebrity dating expert has claimed.

source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1403549/Melania-trump-news-Donald-trump-divorce-celebs-go-dating-relationship-latest-ont

US steps up combat capabilities in strongest signal yet to Beijing over South China Sea

THE US ramped up its combat abilities in recent military exercises, sending its strongest signal yet to China that it is prepared to contest Beijing&#039;s sovereignty claims over the South China Sea.

source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1403551/south-china-sea-uss-dwight-eisenhower-china-naval-drills-usa-joe-biden-ont

Covid vaccine: Germany urged to back AstraZeneca jab for over-65s

A senior German immunologist tells the BBC that his country should reverse its decision on the jab.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-56227171

The Florida coffee shop where Trump is king

A look inside a &quot;liberal-free zone&quot; and meeting spot for people on the political right.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56214918

Maids in Lebanon: 'My employer treats me like a slave'

Lucy&#039;s dream of working in the Middle East turned into a nightmare of abuse. She&#039;s not the only one.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-56202987

Dozens of leading Hong Kong democrats brace for national security charges to be laid

Several dozen Hong Kong democrats are due to report to local police stations across the city on Sunday, with some expecting to be charged with breaches of national security as a crackdown on the democratic opposition intensifies.

source https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-politics/dozens-of-leading-hong-kong-democrats-brace-for-national-security-charges-to-be-laid-idUSKCN2AS00J

At least 13 arrested as rioting resumes in Barcelona over jailing of rapper who praised terrorists, insulted monarchy (VIDEOS)

Violent protests over the jailing of rapper Pablo Hasel resumed in Barcelona, reportedly leading to more than a dozen arrests as rioters torched a police van, threw objects at officers and damaged banks and other businesses. Video footage posted Saturday on Twitter shows men in dark hoodies dousing a police van with flammable liquid to stoke a larger fire. El Mundo newspaper reported that a driver was inside the van as the rioters caused the fire to spread. 🔺🔥Incendie d&#039;un véhicule de #police à #Barcelone ce soir durant la #manifestation de soutien à #PabloHasel🔺🔥#Barcelona #police #protest #pablohazel #eventos #reporter #spain #espagne #espana #Catalonia #Catalogne #LibertadPabloHasel #PabloHaselLlibertat pic.twitter.com/bb4TDzwNP6 — 🌍Arcanah🌿⭐✊ (@Arcanah3) February 27, 2021 Video shot from another angle near the same scene shows people throwing bottles, flares and other objects at a group of police vehicles and spray-painting the vehicles with anarchist symbols. Trois camions de police coincé en position de défense autour d’une entrée. Les manifestants les prennent pour cible. #Barcelone #Barcelona #plazauniversidad #police #protest #pablohasel #pablohazel #eventos #stinger #now #reporter #frontline #spain #espagne #espana pic.twitter.com/BFP7wcOfdq — Frontline Reporter (@FrontlineRepor1) February 27, 2021 The larger fire is then sparked as a person throws flammable liquid on the van. A demonstrator sets fire to a police van © REUTERS/Albert Gea A still photo by the Associated Press shows a hooded man spraying flammable liquid through the broken window of a bank to cause a fire inside to expand. A protestor try to burn a bank branch after breaking the window following a protest condemning the arrest of rap singer Pablo Hasél in Barcelona, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021. pic.twitter.com/hpt4D1HQ3u — Emilio Morenatti (@EmilioMorenatti) February 27, 2021 The moment demonstrators shattered the window of a Zara clothing store was captured on video as well. © REUTERS/Nacho Doce Un magasin Zara dégradé par les manifestants. #Barcelone #Barcelona #plazauniversidad #police #protest #pablohasel #pablohazel #eventos #stinger #now #reporter #frontline #spain #espagne #espana pic.twitter.com/onTWUqRhkW — Frontline Reporter (@FrontlineRepor1) February 27, 2021 The rioters have also ignited fire at the entrance of a posh hotel, after smashing the huge glass doors of the building.  🔴 Un trabajor del hotel NH de la Rambla apaga el fuego provocado por los radicales defensores de Hasél.#PabloHasel #Barcelona #NH pic.twitter.com/1iS8IXZwEX — El Patriota (@Patriotass_ESP) February 27, 2021 Footage from another scene shows police moving quickly together to arrest a woman demonstrator in the street as she yells for help. The clip doesn&#039;t show what led up to her arrest. Moments en el que els #Mossos d&#039;esquadra detenen agressivament a una noia.#protests #27f #barcelona #pablohasel #manifestacio pic.twitter.com/BOlF6ZtVZM — Mikel Grau (@xLive20) February 27, 2021 Saturday&#039;s violence followed two relatively quiet nights in Barcelona, as the city got a break from the demonstrations. Protests began in Barcelona and Madrid after Hasel was arrested on February 16. The rapper, whose real name is Pablo Rivadulla, was jailed over a 2018 conviction. A court found that his social media posts and lyrics praised Spanish terrorist groups and mocked Spain&#039;s royalty, in violation of the country&#039;s so-called &quot;gag law.&quot; Also on rt.com Police pelted with stones, garbage dumpsters set alight in Catalonia’s 9th night of riots over jailed rapper Pablo Hasel (VIDEOS) Like this story? Share it with a friend!

source https://www.rt.com/news/516785-barcelona-riots-rapper-arrest/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS

FAA Proposes $28k Fine For Delta Passenger Who Struck Flight Attendant

A misbehaving Delta passenger who turned violent may end up getting a high fine. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a $27,500 civil penalty against the passenger for allegedly interfering with and assaulting a flight attendant. The high fine comes as the FAA continues to crack down on misbehaving passengers. A violent Delta passenger could face a fine of nearly $28,000. Photo: Getty ImagesThe FAA proposes a hefty fine against a passenger On Friday, the FAA announced it was proposing a $27,500 civil penalty against a passenger who struck a flight attendant back on a flight in October 2020. The FAA levied the fine as the passenger violated federal law. Interfering with aircraft crew, physically assaulting a crewmember, or threatening to assault an aircraft crewmember or anyone else on the aircraft is not allowed under federal regulations. Passengers who do misbehave and violate federal guidelines are subject to civil penalties for disrupting or distracting cabin crew from their safety duties, which compromises the safety of the flight. Passengers can face punishment from the TSA for not wearing a face mask. Photo: Getty Images Under federal law, such passengers could face criminal fines and imprisonment for interfering with official cabin crew duties. The passenger has 30 days after receiving the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the agency. The FAA is taking a strict zero-tolerance policy toward misbehavior on flights. This fine comes after the FAA tightened up its policy against unruly passengers in mid-January, a week after the insurrection at the US Capitol and flight-related disruptions. Although, the incident occurred before that. The incident According to the FAA, on October 19th, 2020, two passengers were flying together from Miami, Florida, to Delta’s largest hub in Atlanta, Georgia. One of the passengers refused to wear their mask, secure their seat tray table, and fasten his seatbelt. All of these are not allowed on Delta flights. So, with the cabin not secure for takeoff and the passenger not complying with flight attendant instructions, the flight returned to the gate where the two passengers were to be offloaded. Passengers have to stow their tray tables before takeoff and wear their masks during the flight. Photo: Delta Air Lines When asked by two flight attendants to deplane, the passenger flying with the non-compliant traveler ignored the request and began yelling expletives at the flight attendant and other passengers. Things escalated, and the passenger struck the flight attendant under her eye. Passengers must comply with crew instructions The aviation world takes safety very seriously. To that extent, passengers must comply with all posted placards, lighted information signs, and instructions from a crewmember, as Delta’s pre-flight safety video states. The mask mandate on Delta has been around since the spring of 2020, when the pandemic started to hit. However, the requirement for tray tables to be stored and for all passengers to wear their seatbelts is incredibly important for aviation safety. These requirements have been around for a while. While many know flight attendants for the service they provide, their primary responsibility onboard a flight is to ensure the safety of customers and crew. Photo: Delta Air Lines In early February, the mask mandate also became federal law. President Biden issued an executive order that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention built upon. The mandate is enforced through a Security Directive issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The mask mandate applies to both passengers and crew. Delta has taken a hard stance against temporarily banning passengers from flying with the airline if they refuse to wear a mask. However, those with legitimate exceptions can undergo a “Clearance-to-Fly” process before departure. This requires consultation with a third-party medical professional prior to departure at the airport. Without this clearance, passengers must wear their face masks while flying. Delta has been known to return to the gate or delay a flight over a passenger not wearing a mask. Ultimately, no matter whether a passenger does not believe in the safety directives or find them inconvenient, it is not allowed for any passenger to become violent against a crewmember. What do you think about this $27,500 fine? Let us know in the comments!

source https://simpleflying.com/faa-proposes-28k-fine-for-delta-passenger-who-struck-flight-attendant/

'Lockdown love' is delivering a childbirth boom, some insist. Maybe, baby, say demographers

Maternity wards in some regions are busier than they&#039;ve been in years amid speculation pandemic &quot;DIY activities&quot; are responsible. But social scientists say it&#039;s too early to confirm a trend.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/covid-baby-boom-regional-midwives-agree-demographers-say-maybe/13189694

Auckland locked down by police as New Zealand enters renewed COVID restrictions

Road checkpoints are set up and New Zealand&#039;s Twenty20 International against Australia is shifted to Wellington where it will be played behind closed doors due to a seven-day lockdown.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-28/new-zealand-covid-restrictions-auckland-locked-down/13200804

Friday, 26 February 2021

FBI identifies suspect in death of Capitol police officer during Trump riot

Brian Sicknick collapsed and died after being sprayed with chemical irritant

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/brian-sicknick-fbi-suspect-capitol-b1808378.html

This multigenerational support program helps young mothers get back on their feet

Just six weeks from her due date, Taia was living in a caravan. Now she has a safe home and support to finish her schooling.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-27/tasmania-small-steps-helping-young-mothers-get-on-their-feet/13199616

Tackling a surge in mozzie-borne Ross River virus with spray like 'bringing a knife to a gunfight'

With nearly 6,000 cases around Australia in the past year, experts say the debilitating Ross River virus is ruining lives. And there&#039;s no silver bullet in sight.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-27/ross-river-virus-cases-are-surging-in-la-nina-conditions/13190804

UN rights chief decries abuses in Xinjiang, arrests in Hong Kong

Michelle Bachelet wants an independent assessment of situation in Muslim Uighur homeland as her China visit is delayed.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/27/un-rights-chief-decries-abuses-in-xinjiang-arrests-in-china

House Democrats move closer to pushing through Biden's $1.9 trillion COVID plan

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/people-are-hurting-house-democrats-ready-push-through-bidens-19-trillion-covid-19-plan

Myanmar envoy appeals to U.N. to stop coup; more protests planned

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/myanmar-envoy-appeals-un-stop-coup-more-protests-planned

BioNTech founders receive the Order of Merit, one of Germany's highest honors for contributing to the "containment of the coronavirus pandemic."

submitted by /u/Doobing[visit reddit] [comments]

source https://www.dw.com/en/biontech-founders-receive-one-of-germanys-highest-honors/a-56716311

UN report warns governments 'nowhere close' to climate targets

submitted by /u/UnstatesmanlikeChi[visit reddit] [comments]

source https://news.sky.com/story/un-report-warns-governments-nowhere-close-to-climate-targets-12229854

Scots cops arrest 100 suspected peadophiles in six months as part of crackdown

Police warned that peadophiles may exploit the coronavirus lockdown- with children away from school and more likely to be using their laptops and tablets

source https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-cops-arrest-100-suspected-22270635

Norwegian football club Tromsø IL becomes the first team to promote a boycott of Qatar 2022

submitted by /u/GerrardSlippedHahaha[visit reddit] [comments]

source https://www.til.no/nyheter/tromso-il-calls-for-a-boycott-of-the-world-cup-2022

JetBlue Takes First Airbus A321neo With New Mint Suites

JetBlue has taken its first Airbus A321neo with the new Mint suites on Friday. This aircraft is not the Airbus A321LR that JetBlue will use for flights across the Atlantic, but it is a huge step for the airline. This plane will operate some domestic premium routes ahead of JetBlue’s launch of international long-haul flights. JetBlue’s first Airbus A321neo with Mint suites got a “Ribbons” design on its tailfin. Photo: JetBlueJetBlue takes first Airbus A321neo with Mint Suites On Friday, February 26th, JetBlue announced it had taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo aircraft configured with the airline’s new Mint suites. The plane flew in directly from Hamburg, Germany, into JetBlue’s largest base at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The plane itself is registered as N2105J and is named “NEO Mintality.” This is the 270th aircraft to join JetBlue’s fleet and is the 16th Airbus A321neo in its fleet. However, this is the first Airbus A321neo to feature Mint. JetBlue already flies Airbus A321neos, such as the one pictured here. photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying The aircraft can be recognized on the outside from the “Ribbons” tailfin. JetBlue likes to make its tailfins fun, and this one is no exception. The tailfin features three blues from JetBlue’s brand palette and is inspired by optical art that uses simple shapes to create the illusion of three dimensions and movement. The aircraft is configured with room for 160 passengers– a light load for the A321neo. The aircraft features 16 Mint suites, including two Mint Studios with extra square footage, in the business class cabin. There are 16 Mint studio seats onboard the A321neo. Photo: JetBlue In economy, JetBlue offers 144 seats. There are seven rows of extra-legroom economy. All seats also have access to AC and USB ports. The seats in economy have a width of 18.4 inches. Every seat features on-demand seatback entertainment. In economy, this includes a 10.1 inch 1080P high definition screen. From this screen, passengers can choose from channels on live TV, movies, and seatback games. The A321neo features an onboard food station with a mini-fridge and drawers with complimentary snacks. Photo: JetBlueThe new Mint suites This is the major refresh of JetBlue’s Mint product since the airline launched it. Every suite features aisle access, a larger inflight entertainment screen, and now wireless charging capabilities. All of this pales in comparison to the seat itself. Every Mint seat is a suite. The airline has chosen the Thompson Aero Seating’s VantageSOLO seat. A narrowbody option for all-aisle access, JetBlue’s product is a hotly awaited one. This is especially true for the first two seats that are Mint Studio seats. These two seats offer more space than the other seats and feature room for a guest during flight at cruising altitude. The new Mint suites are truly gamechanging for narrowbody premium travel. Photo: JetBlue The new Mint suites will shake up the transatlantic market, and JetBlue is making sure its customers at home can get access to the same product. Offering this product on JetBlue’s most premium routes will help the airline retain its higher-paying premium customers who need to fly across the US and across the pond. Where will this Airbus A321neo fly? The Airbus A321neo will debut on select flights between New York-JFK and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The aircraft is expected to go into service by the summer. JetBlue likes to take its time with introducing new aircraft. One such example includes the airline’s Airbus A220-300. Jayne O’Brien, head of marketing and loyalty at JetBlue, stated the following: “With so much excitement around JetBlue’s London plans, we’re delighted to also introduce our fabulous, all-new transatlantic Mint suites to customers on select flights within the U.S. Our reimagined Mint and award-winning core experience, combined with the superior economics of the A321neo aircraft, will position JetBlue to compete effectively and add relevance to our customers in Mint markets.” JetBlue will place the A321neo with Mint suites on transcontinental flights later this year. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying The transcontinental market is one of JetBlue’s most important ones. Over the next few years, as the airline takes more A321neos with the new Mint suites, expect the carrier to expand the number of routes that get the new Mint suites. Some other routes that could get the new Mint suites would include San Francisco and Seattle. For now, however, JetBlue is going conservative and keeping the plane reserved for transcontinental flights. Are you excited to fly in JetBlue’s Mint suites? Would you fly onboard this aircraft? Let us know in the comments!

source https://simpleflying.com/jetblue-first-a321neo-mint-suites/

Haiti prison escape: Hundreds of inmates flee from Croix-des-Bouquets jail

The prison&#039;s director is among 25 people killed in the mass escape near the capital, Port-au-Prince.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-56219200

German radio station apologizes after host compares K-pop band BTS to coronavirus

A Bavarian radio station apologized Friday for a host&#039;s comments comparing popular South Korean K-pop band BTS to the coronavirus, saying his choice of words had gone too far but was in no way meant to be &quot;hurtful or racist.&quot;

source https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/german-radio-host-bts-kpop-coronavirus-comparison-1.5930416?cmp=rss

Biden-Harris Administration Committed to Building Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains

URBANA, Illinois, Feb 26 (IPS) - The White House, under the Presidency of Joe Biden just released an Executive Order on America’s Supply Chains stating the country needs to have resilient, diverse and secure supply chains to ensure economic prosperity and national security. Among the acknowledged threats that can reduce the resilience of America’s supply chains include climate change and extreme weather events. Read the full story, “Biden-Harris Administration Committed to Building Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains”, on globalissues.org →

source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/02/26/27327

Colombia launches ‘elite force’ to target rebels, drug gangs

The new unit consisting of 7,000 personnel will be deployed to border with Venezuela and to drug trafficking hotspots.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/26/colombia-launches-elite-force-to-target-rebels-drug-gangs

John F Kennedy: When the US president met Africa's independence heroes

A photo archive reveals John F Kennedy&#039;s efforts to court African leaders in the post-colonial era.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-56116383

Thursday, 25 February 2021

Brisbane flood victims win $440 million from class action over Wivenhoe Dam operation

Flood victims win $440 million in compensation from the Queensland government and Sunwater in a long-running class action over the operation of Wivenhoe Dam during the 2011 floods while Seqwater is yet to settle the remaining 50 per cent.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-26/brisbane-floods-wivenhoe-dam-class-action-win-payout-queensland/13196490

Tiger Woods has no memory of horror car crash, as 'black box' recovered from wreck

Los Angeles Sheriff&#039;s Deputy Carlos Gonzalez, who arrived first at the crash scene, says Tiger Woods had no idea how serious his condition was.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-26/tiger-woods-had-no-memory-of-crash2c-black-box-recovered-from-/13196370

Court of Appeal rejects bail bid by alleged killer in Silk-Miller case

Jason Roberts, a man accused of the notorious murder of two police officers, will have to continue the fight for his freedom from behind bars after Victoria&#039;s highest court knocked back his plea to be released on bail.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-26/jason-roberts-silk-miller-bail-rejected/13195604

Covid-19: US high school band students rehearse in individual bubbles

Wenatchee High School in Washington state found a creative way for their band students to practise safely.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56205697

Arkansas approves Medicaid for Marshallese residents

SPRINGDALE, Ark. (AP) - A key subcommittee has signed off on an emergency rule allowing Marshall Islanders living in the United States to be eligible for Medicaid coverage. The emergency rule approved by the Legislative Council’s Executive Subcommittee will become effective Tuesday, according to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. In December, then-President ...

source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/feb/25/arkansas-approves-medicaid-for-marshallese-residen/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS

Louisiana Senate leader wants voting machine search scrapped

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - A key Louisiana Senate leader Thursday called on Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin to jettison his search for new voting machines and redo the effort after seeking more guidance from lawmakers, election experts and the public. In a sharply worded letter to Ardoin, Sen. Sharon ...

source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/feb/25/louisiana-senate-leader-wants-voting-machine-searc/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS

U.S. airstrike hits Iran-backed militias in Syria: Report

A U.S. military airstrike on Thursday hit a compound belonging to an Iran-backed militia inside Syria, Reuters reported, citing unnamed American officials. The reported strike on a Syrian compound was approved by President Biden, Reuters said, and comes on the heels of a string of recent rocket attacks against U.S. ...

source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/feb/25/us-airstrike-hits-iran-backed-militias-syria-repor/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS

Biden likely to keep troops in Afghanistan, missing May 1 deadline

Former President Donald Trump’s push to end America’s “forever wars” in the Middle East may have exited the stage with him, as the Biden administration appears poised to keep troops in Afghanistan past a key May 1 deadline and powerful Republicans say their party must reject the former commander in ...

source https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/feb/25/biden-likely-keep-troops-afghanistan-missing-may-1/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS

More than a dozen slum residents in an Indian city say they thought they were being vaccinated. They were part of clinical trials

The white van arrived in slum areas of Bhopal, a city in central India, blasting a message over the speaker system that seemed too good to refuse: &quot;Come and take the coronavirus vaccine and get 750 rupees ($10).&quot;

source https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/25/asia/india-vaccine-trials-covid-ethics-intl-dst-hnk/index.html

Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar of Colombia is appointed the new Secretary General of ICAO

ICAO’s 36-State governing body, the ICAO Council, has appointed Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar of Colombia as the new Secretary General of the Organization for a three-year term, beginning 1 August 2021. He succeeds Dr. Fang Liu of China, who has held the position for two consecutive terms since 2015. Mr. Salazar was appointed based on his extensive professional experience in the administration of complex organizations at the national, regional and international levels. He is also an expert in aviation law and standards with more than 26 years of experience in international negotiations in the fields of aviation, management, and public policy. Since January 2018, Mr. Salazar has been serving as Director General of Civil Aviation of Colombia at Aerocivil, a complex civil aviation organization with more than 3,100 employees and 12 trade unions. He is in charge of a network of 72 public airports and of the sole air navigation service provider in a country that serves as a key hub for air routes in Latin America. He has also served as Chief Executive Officer of the Colombian Civil Aviation Organisation and as Senior Advisor to the Civil Aviation Authority of the United Arab Emirates. Mr Salazar holds master’s degrees in public administration and air and space law, and speaks fluent Spanish, English, French and Arabic.   The post Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar of Colombia is appointed the new Secretary General of ICAO appeared first on Uniting Aviation.

source https://unitingaviation.com/news/general-interest/mr-juan-carlos-salazar-of-colombia-is-appointed-the-new-secretary-general-of-icao/

What Happened To The Proposed Embraer E195X? - Simple Flying

source https://patabook.com/posts/35540

Canada's New Top Military Commander Steps Aside Following Sexual Misconduct Claim

Below is my statement in regards to Admiral Art McDonald. pic.twitter.com/Qlvtl8XdsM — Harjit Sajjan (@HarjitSajjan) February 25, 2021 CBC: Canada&#039;s new defence chief Admiral Art McDonald steps aside amid investigation  McDonald was appointed just over 2 months ago  Canada&#039;s new top military commander, Admiral Art McDonald, has voluntarily stepped aside as he is investigated by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service on unspecified allegations.  Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan posted a statement just after 11 p.m. Wednesday stating he was informed of the situation and takes allegations of misconduct seriously. Read more ....  WNU Editor: Admiral Art MacDonald was sworn in on January 14 to replace retiring General Jonathan Vance, who is also under investigation over allegations of inappropriate behavior towards two women (which he denies). Two top military officers being put aside over allegations of misconduct within two months!!! If there was ever a definition for bad leadership, this is it.   More News On Canada&#039;s New Top Military Commander Stepping Aside Following Sexual Misconduct Claim  Admiral Art McDonald steps aside as Defence Chief as military police launch investigation -- Ottawa Citizen  Military reeling as new defence chief steps aside amid allegations of misconduct -- CTV News/Canadian Press  Canada’s chief of defence staff steps aside amid military police probe: defence minister -- Global News  Canada&#039;s defense chief steps down amid military police probe just two months into his new role -- RT

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/canadas-new-top-military-commander.html

AMP shares surge on Ares bid to buy 60% of unit's private markets business

source https://www.todayonline.com/world/ares-intends-buy-60-amps-asset-management-arms-private-markets-business

Follow the money: Myanmar coup puts pressure on army businesses

Calls are growing for sanctions on the military&#039;s vast business empire after the February 1 coup.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/26/follow-the-money-myanmar-coup-puts-pressure-on-army-businesses

Killings in Axum by Eritrea troops ‘may amount to war crimes’

Amnesty says hundreds of civilians were killed by Eritrean troops in Ethiopian town of Axum last November.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/26/killings-in-axum-by-eritrea-may-amount-to-war-crimes-amnesty

Ending Inequality is Everyones Business

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Feb 25 (IPS) - The UNAIDS 2020 Global AIDS Update gave us a clear indication why the world did not meet the Fast-Track targets by 2020. Inequality, perpetuated by structural oppression such as gender inequality; economic disparity; including human rights abuses and violations. For most of us living in sub-Saharan Africa, we don’t need a report to tell us this. Our lives are a litany of inequality we know deep in our guts.

source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/02/25/27323

Energy Crisis: Tribal Behavior or Quality Decisions Based on Conscious Trade-Offs?

MONTEVIDEO, Feb 25 (IPS) - Marta Jara is Non-Resident Fellow, Institute of the AmericasCrises, as the one we saw across the US and Mexico last week originated by Winter Storm Uri, provide ample material for reflection. This is particularly clear from a distant viewpoint and when benefitting from the fact of not being directly affected, as strong emotions and reactions that often bias our judgements are absent. Read the full story, “Energy Crisis: Tribal Behavior or Quality Decisions Based on Conscious Trade-Offs?”, on globalissues.org →

source https://www.globalissues.org/news/2021/02/25/27324

Israeli research: British variant increases risk of serious COVID by 70%

submitted by /u/BareAuthority[visit reddit] [comments]

source https://www.jpost.com/health-science/israeli-research-british-variant-increases-risk-of-serious-covid-by-70-percent-660226

At conservative gathering, there's just one litmus test: Loyalty to Trump

GOP officials disagree intensely over the party&#039;s future. But no sign of debate will be visible when conservatives gather this weekend for CPAC&#039;s festival of Trump.

source https://www.latimes.com/politics/story/2021-02-25/cpac-trump-loyalty-test

Iran attack: US strikes Tehran with missile attack on Syria-based militia

US OFFICIALS have claimed Washington authorised an airstrike in Syria, which they believe hit an Iranian linked militia building.

source https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1402768/Iran-news-us-syria-militia-airstrike-joe-biden-war-officials-ont

Amazon rainforest plots sold via Facebook Marketplace ads

Protected land reserved for Brazil&#039;s indigenous communities is being traded on the social network.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56168844

American Airlines Allows Passengers To Buy COVID Tests With Airmiles - Simple Flying

source https://patabook.com/posts/35501

Former US Olympic gymnastics coach found dead after sex abuse charges

A former U.S. Olympics gymnastics coach with ties to disgraced sports doctor Larry Nassar killed himself Thursday, hours after being charged with turning his Michigan gym into a hub of human trafficking by coercing girls to train and then abusing them, authorities said.

source https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20210225-former-us-olympic-gymnastics-coach-found-dead-after-sex-abuse-charges

Wednesday, 24 February 2021

US report on Khashoggi murder critical for justice: UN expert

White House says unclassified US intelligence report on 2018 murder of Saudi journalist will be released &#039;soon&#039;.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/25/us-intelligence-report-khashoggi-murder-critical-for-justice-un-expert

Australia passes law making Facebook and Google pay for news

The legislation could provide a framework for other countries looking to address platforms&#039; dominant position.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/25/australia-passes-law-making-facebook-and-google-pay-for-news

Icelandair Sends A Boeing 767 To Antarctica

Icelandair is sending one of its Boeing 767 aircraft to Antarctica. Before flying down to Troll Research Station on the Earth’s southernmost continent, the aircraft will stop in Cape Town, South Africa. It comes weeks after Lufthansa’s longest flight yet to get German researchers to the South Pole. Icelandair is flying one of its Boeing 767s to Antarctica via South Africa. Photo: Vincenzo Pace – Simple Flying The pandemic has prompted some pretty wild flights, with aircraft being seen at many locations where they would not usually fly. Some flights have been for repatriations, some for cargo, and some to avoid a stopover elsewhere. It even led to the record for the longest domestic flight being broken, just to be broken again. Earlier in February, Lufthansa flew to the Falkland Islands to get German researchers to Antarctica on a boat. Reykjavik to Cape Town to Antarctica To fly to the Antarctic, Icelandair is using one of its Boeing 767 aircraft. However, flying from the edge of the Arctic Circle to the bottom of the world isn’t going to take place on one fuel tank. According to One Mile At A Time, the aircraft is first flying to Cape Town, South Africa. This flight will take the aircraft around 7,100 miles. Stay informed: Sign up for our daily aviation news digest. Upon arrival in Cape Town, the aircraft will pick up a team of Norwegian researchers. From there, it will continue down to Troll Research Station, an ice runway in Antarctica. Gumundur Egill tweeted that the aircraft has six pilots, 13 flight attendants, and one mechanic. The flight will stop in Cape Town before flying down to the Troll Research Station. Photo: RadarBox.com According to data from RadarBox.com, Icelandair is completing the mission with TF-ISN. The aircraft is a 20-year-old Boeing 767-300ER. While the aircraft wasn’t used in March or April at the height of the pandemic, it has been flown every month since, averaging 95 hours of flight per month over the past year. Before the mission, the aircraft’s last flight was on February 16th, when it operated an Amsterdam rotation. Not Icelandair’s first time in Antarctica This trip down south actually won’t be the first time that Icelandair has flown to the Antarctic. In 2015, the airline became the first to land a commercial jet on the icy continent. According to Lonely Planet, the flight took place on November 26th to prove that commercial aircraft could land on an ice runway. This isn’t the first time that the Icelandic airline has flown to the icy continent. Photo: Antarctic Logistics &amp;amp; Expeditions The aircraft back then was a Boeing 757. Facilitated by Antarctic Logistics &amp;amp; Expeditions, the aircraft was fitted with 62 business class seats. It flew from Chile to Union Glacier, a flight that takes around four and a half hours. While Icelandair’s flights are rare, Antarctica regularly hosts an Airbus A319 belonging to the Australian Antarctic Program. Qantas also operates charter sightseeing flights over the continent. Australia is looking to build a new paved runway on the continent. What do you make of Icelandair’s long trek down south? Let us know what you think and why in the comments!

source https://simpleflying.com/icelandair-boeing-767-antarctica/

Qantas Prepares To Launch International Flights In October

Qantas is pushing back its planned resumption of international services until late October 2021. This is four months later than the previously announced restart date of July 1. That date was widely regarded as overly ambitious. Now, as Qantas unveils its half-yearly financial results, the airline confirmed on Thursday most international flights would remain off the books for another eight months. Qantas confirmed on Thursday that most international services would not resume before the end of October. Photo: Getty Images Whereas Qantas had flagged a full resumption of international flights from July, the airline is now adopting a more cautious tone. “Capacity will be lower than pre-COVID levels,” said Qantas in a statement today. “Frequencies and aircraft type deployed on each route in line with the projected recovery of international flying. International capacity is not expected to fully recover until 2024.” The exception is New Zealand. With the imminent rollout of a two-way travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand, Qantas expects to step up Trans-Tasman flying from mid-2020. No flights to New York, Santiago, &amp;amp; Osaka yet While Qantas says it “remains committed” to New York, Santiago and Osaka, those flights won’t resume in October. However, flights to 25 pre-COVID international destinations, including Los Angeles, London, Singapore, and Johannesburg, will start running from October 31. Qantas says their October date lines up with the expected timeframe for the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination in Australia. The airline also notes they are looking at using digital health pass apps to facilitate the resumption of international travel. This follows local competitor Air New Zealand announcing they will trial the IATA Travel Pass in April. The majority of Qantas’ long-haul flights will use Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Photo: QantasJetstar also plans to resume international flights It’s not just the mainline Qantas international fleet looking to get back into the air in October. Low-cost subsidiary Jetstar is also planning to resume international flights then. That news will come as a relief to regular Jetstar destinations highly dependant on tourism. In 2020, Jetstar’s brand new service between Seoul and the Gold Coast ended just weeks after it began. The Qantas Group says Jetstar will resume flying to all 13 of its regular international destinations from October 31. However, they note frequencies will be adjusted to suit demand. Qantas subsidiary Jetstar will also resume international flights from late October. Photo: Getty ImagesQantas improves flexibility for international tickets Offsetting the news Qantas has pushed back the timeline to resume its international flights, the airline also announced increased ticket flexibility to allow customers to book “with confidence.” Many people panned Qantas’ planned July resumption date as a cash grab. Many previous passengers cited previous difficulties extracting refunds from Qantas for canceled flights. No matter how keen to travel, most travelers knew better than to pay for flights that were unlikely to operate. In fairness to Qantas, increased ticket flexibility acknowledges this. The airline has been generous with fee-free changes on domestic and Trans-Tasman for a while. Now, the generosity extends to international flight bookings. “Qantas’ updated Fly Flexible policy (previously only available for domestic and Trans-Tasman flights) now applies to international flights booked from today until at least the end of April 2021,” today’s Qantas statement says. “The flight date can be changed to any available for sale at the time (up to 355 days in advance). Qantas will waive the change fee however a fare difference may apply. “Qantas has also extended credit vouchers to enable travel until 31 December 2023 on domestic or international flights, with Jetstar doing the same for vouchers issued due to COVID-19 disruptions.” What do you think? Is Qantas’ new start date for international services realistic? Is the increased flexibility with tickets temptation enough to buy one? Post a comment and let us know.

source https://simpleflying.com/qantas-international-flights-october/

Spirit Airlines Continues Expansion With New Milwaukee Flights

Spirit Airlines is coming to Wisconsin. The airline is adding three daily nonstop out of Milwaukee to California, Nevada, and Florida. The flights are slated to begin on June 24th and are a continuation of Spirit’s growth strategy. These flights are Spirit’s first forays into Wisconsin. Spirit Airlines is continuing to grow with three new routes. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple FlyingSpirit Airlines is coming to Milwaukee Starting on June 24th, Spirit Airlines will launch flights from Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) to Orlando International Airport (MCO), Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines, stated the following: “We’ve had our eye on Milwaukee for a long time, and we’re excited to bring our unique value proposition to the Brew City. It’s a win-win because our Badger State Guests will get to enjoy convenient nonstop service to popular destinations, and Spirit frequent fliers can experience Milwaukee’s great festivals and sports scene and enjoy fun outdoor activities just in time for summer.” Spirit Airlines will fly Airbus A319s to and from Milwaukee. Photo: Getty ImagesThe new routes out of Milwaukee Spirit Airlines will be the only airline flying nonstop between Los Angeles and Milwaukee. Los Angeles can be a great warm-weather tourist destination, and with a summer season ahead that appears to be a good one for airlines, it makes sense for Spirit to use its planes to fill in gaps in its network and connect new passengers. Southwest and Frontier will compete against Spirit on flights to Las Vegas and Orlando out of Milwaukee. Southwest Airlines is the largest carrier out of Milwaukee. Spirit will extend the city’s low-cost portfolio and also offer some onward connections. Filling in the gaps Spirit Airlines is a well-known airline in the US, and it connects many cities with its low fares. The airline has spent the last few years expanding across the United States and into Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, mostly out of Fort Lauderdale. Spirit is turning its attention to domestic growth. Photo: Getty Images Spirit has plenty of room for growth, and Milwaukee is one such example of cities that are ripe for new Spirit flights. There are plenty of others, ranging from St. Louis and Salt Lake City to San Antonio and Albany, among so many others. With many airlines scaling back operations, this is an opportune time for Spirit to jump into a new route with the hope of taking on new loyal customers. Spirit has unveiled an all-new loyalty program that operates like a traditional frequent flier program but offers some insanely good perks for Spirit’s most loyal fliers. Since the start of the crisis, Spirit has expanded service to several new destinations. This includes Orange County in California, Cap-Haitien in Haiti, and Barranquilla and Bucaramanga in Colombia. More will come from Spirit These flights are slated to run with Airbus A319 aircraft, which are the smallest jets in Spirit’s fleet. The Airbus A319s are slowly coming back, and Spirit is planning on hanging on to its 31 Airbus A319ceos for now. These planes coming back is a good sign. On Tuesday, Spirit announced it would be adding flights to Louisville, Kentucky, using mostly Airbus A319 jets. Spirit Airlines had planned to bring these jets back if there was a demand case for bringing them back. If there were enough people who wanted to fly and room for Spirit to add flights, only then would Spirit bring the A319s back into service. Spirit Airlines adding new flights is good news for Milwaukee-area travelers looking for a low-fare getaway. Photo: Getty Images In addition to the A319s, Spirit expects to take 16 new Airbus A320neo aircraft this year while holding its other fleets stagnant. This means that Spirit will have excess aircraft that it can use to chart growth. Some flights previously operated with an Airbus A319 may get bumped up to an A320 or A320neo, freeing up some more A319s to serve additional routes. As more A320neos enter Spirit’s fleet, expect the airline to continue to grow. The Airbus A320neo can make some routes and cities work with its excellent operating economics that Airbus A320ceos do not provide. Are you excited to see Spirit Airlines come to Milwaukee? Will you fly any of these new routes? Let us know in the comments!

source https://simpleflying.com/spirit-airlines-milwaukee/

'Frustration' as Ireland's vaccine programme lags behind UK

&quot;It is very frustrating&quot;, admits Dr Laura Malone. &quot;At the moment we don&#039;t have any vaccine.&quot;

source http://news.sky.com/story/covid-19-frustration-as-irelands-vaccine-programme-lags-behind-uk-12228238

تهرب من جهاز المناعة واستجابته.. سلالة جديدة لكورونا تنتشر في نيويورك وتثير القلق

(CNN Health)-- قال فريقان منفصلان من الباحثين إنهما وجدا نوعًا جديدًا مثيرًا للقلق من فيروس كورونا في مدينة نيويورك وأماكن أخرى في الشمال الشرقي يحمل طفرات تساعده في التهرب من الاستجابة المناعية الطبيعية للجسم، بالإضافة إلى آثار علاجات الأجسام المضادة أحادية النسيلة. واحدة من الطفرات تتعلق بالتغيير الذي شُوهد في السلالة التي اُكتشفت للمرة الأولى في جنوب إفريقيا، والمعروفة باسم B.1.351. ويبدو أنها تتهرب بعض الشىء من استجابة الجسم للقاحات أيضًا، وأصبحت أكثر شيوعًا. وكتب...

source https://arabic.cnn.com/health/article/2021/02/25/researchers-find-worrying-new-coronavirus-variant-in-new-york-city?cid=rss-feeds-all

الاستخبارات الأمريكية تشكل أول فريق للتحقيق في "هجمات الميكرويف"

واشنطن، الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية (CNN)-- بعد مرور أكثر من ثلاث سنوات على تعرض الضابط السابق للمخابرات الأمريكية، مارك بوليمروبولوس، لهجوم غامض في موسكو غير حياته إلى الأبد، حصل أخيرًا على تشخيص &quot;إصابة دماغية مؤلمة وأرق أثناء النوم وقلق&quot;. يأتي تصميم مركز والتر ريد الطبي هذا الشهر بعد أن أمضى سنوات من أجل الحصول على علاج طبي متخصص، في ظل التشكيك في طبيعة مرضه. وقال بوليمروبولوس لشبكة CNN: &quot;عندما زودوني بقطعة من الورق مع التشخيص الذي قال إنني مصاب بإصابة دماغية، كما تعلم...

source https://arabic.cnn.com/world/article/2021/02/25/ia-diplomats-sonic-attacks-task-force?cid=rss-feeds-all

Biden overturns Trump ban on many green card applicants

Trump-era measure restricting many visa applicants cited need to protect US jobs amid COVID-19 pandemic.

source https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/2/25/biden-overturns-trump-era-ban-on-green-cards-and-work-permits

Amnesty International strips Kremlin critic Navalny of ‘prisoner of conscience’ status

Amnesty International no longer considers jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny a “prisoner of conscience” due to past comments he made that qualify as advocacy of hatred, the group said.

source https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20210224-amnesty-international-strips-kremlin-critic-navalny-of-prisoner-of-conscience-status

Australia passes law requiring Facebook, Google to pay for news

Australia’s parliament adopted landmark legislation Thursday requiring global digital platforms to pay for showing Australian news content on their platforms.

source https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20210224-australia-passes-landmark-law-requiring-facebook-google-to-pay-for-news

Pfizer's vaccine trial data holds up in the real world, according to large-scale study in Israel

A new study from Israel strongly suggests that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine works as well in the real world as it does in clinical trials.

source https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2021-02-24/pfizer-vaccine-is-effective-across-demographics-according-to-large-scale-data-from-israel

New rapid coronavirus test can quickly reveal which variant a patient has

Danish biotechnology firm Novozymes has developed a modified PCR test which can detect whether a patient has the UK, South Africa or Brazilian variants in a major step towards containing mutations

source https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/new-rapid-coronavirus-test-can-23561606

The WHO needs more power and autonomy from member states, says former New Zealand PM

The World Health Organization should be given the power and independence it needs to report the facts about global health threats without being influenced by its member states, says New Zealand’s former prime minister Helen Clark.

source https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/helen-clark-who-teeth-1.5927008?cmp=rss

First twins, 19, to have gender reassignment surgery feel 'magical' after op

The pair were born as boys but have always identified as females and Mayla Phoebe de Rezende says she hopes their successful transition will make the operation more accessible in her country

source https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/first-twins-gender-reassignment-surgery-23561626

بايدن: قرأت تقرير الاستخبارات حول مقتل خاشقجي.. وسأتحدث إلى العاهل السعودي قريبًا

أتلانتا، الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية (CNN)-- قال الرئيس الأمريكي، جو بايدن، الأربعاء، إنه قرأ تقريرًا استخباراتيًا عن مقتل الصحفي جمال خاشقجي، وسيتحدث إلى العاهل السعودي الملك سلمان بن عبدالعزيز. وأضاف بايدن، للصحفيين لدى توقيعه على أمر تنفيذي لسلسلة التوريد: &quot;سوف أتحدث معه. لم أتحدث معه بعد&quot;. وقال المتحدثة باسم البيت الأبيض، جين ساكي، في وقت سابق الأربعاء، إن المكالمة ستتم &quot;قريباً&quot;، لكن البيت الأبيض &quot;لا يزال في طور تحديد موعد ذلك&quot;. ولدى سؤاله عما إذا كان قد قرأ...

source https://arabic.cnn.com/middle-east/article/2021/02/25/biden-read-an-intelligence-report-murder-khashoggi-saudi-arabia-king?cid=rss-feeds-middle_east

الخارجية الأمريكية: تقرير الاستخبارات عن مقتل خاشقجي "المروع" سيصل الكونغرس قريبًا

دبي، الإمارات العربية المتحدة (CNN)-- قال المتحدث باسم وزارة الخارجية الأمريكية، نيد برايس، إن إدارة الرئيس جو بايدن &quot;مُستعدة لإصدار التقرير غير السري (بشأن مقتل الكاتب السعودي جمال خاشقجي) بشفافية كاملة للكونغرس&quot;. وأضاف برايس، في مؤتمر صحفي الأربعاء، أن &quot;ما يمكنني قوله إن وكالة الاستخبارات الوطنية ملتزمة بإصدار نسخة غير سرية من التقرير إلى الكونغرس&quot;. وتابع: &quot;أعتقد أن ذلك سيكون قريبًا، كما قالت زميلتي جين ساكي (المتحدثة باسم البيت الأبيض) في الإيجاز الصحفي&quot;. وقال نيد...

source https://arabic.cnn.com/middle-east/article/2021/02/25/us-state-department-spokesperson-khashoggi-killing-report-congress?cid=rss-feeds-middle_east

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine works well in big 'real world' test

A real-world test of Pfizer&#039;s COVID-19 vaccine in more than half a million people confirms that it&#039;s very effective at preventing serious illness or death, even after one dose.

source https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-works-well-in-big-real-world-test-1.5323332

بايدن: قرأت تقرير الاستخبارات حول مقتل خاشقجي.. وسأتحدث إلى العاهل السعودي قريبًا

Lawyer: French tourist detained in Iran on security charges

The lawyer of a French detainee in Iran says his client has been detained for nine months, the latest in a series of detentions of foreigners in the country at a time of heightened tensions between Iran and the West

source https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/lawyer-french-tourist-detained-in-iran-on-security-charges/2021/02/24/21691244-76e3-11eb-9489-8f7dacd51e75_story.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=wp_world

Houthis again delay expert examination of tanker off Yemen

The United Nations says new requests by Yemen’s Houthi rebels will further delay U.N. experts from examining an oil tanker moored off the war-torn country’s coast loaded with more than 1 million barrels of crude oil that is at risk of leaking

source https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/houthis-again-delay-expert-examination-of-tanker-off-yemen/2021/02/24/138cac68-76e7-11eb-9489-8f7dacd51e75_story.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=wp_world

El Chapo’s wife goes from obscurity to celebrity to arrest

After Joaqu�n “El Chapo” Guzmán was sent to prison for life, his wife suddenly embraced public life

source https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/the_americas/el-chapos-wife-goes-from-obscurity-to-celebrity-to-arrest/2021/02/24/89ffe780-76ff-11eb-9489-8f7dacd51e75_story.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=wp_world

Climate change causes shortage of wood used to make famed Stratocaster guitars used by Jimi Hendrix and the Rolling Stones

Sainted grandfather of electric guitars will no longer be made with the type of ash that causes its special ‘twang’, because of climate change

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/climate-change-fender-stratocaster-guitar-jimi-hendrix-bob-dylan-b1807011.html

Tuesday, 23 February 2021

'He saved his own life': Rescuers praise stranded sailor following eight-hour ordeal

Solo sailor Nigel Fox has survived eight touch-and-go hours separated from his yacht in the Arafura Sea. He says rescuers were only able to locate him because he carried a &quot;little box of electronics&quot; and a lifejacket.

source https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-24/rescued-sailor-nigel-fox-praised-by-emergency-crews/13184970

Spotify: Price rise 'could push users into piracy'

submitted by /u/Thenorthbysouth[visit reddit] [comments]

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-56169237

12 Japanese firms will end business deals involving Uighur forced labor

submitted by /u/LelouBil[visit reddit] [comments]

source https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2021/02/22/business/corporate-business/uighurs-japan-companies/

In blow to Oli, Nepal SC orders parliament to be reinstated

In a big setback for K P Oli, Nepal’s Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered the reinstatement of parliament, two months after the Prime Minister dissolved the House and called for an early election. After months of infighting in the ruling Nepal Communist Party fanned by his rivalry with former PM P K Dahal Prachanda, Oli had dissolved the parliament on December 20 in a move described by many as unconstitutional.

source https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/in-blow-to-oli-nepal-sc-orders-parliament-to-be-reinstated/articleshow/81182122.cms

‘QAnon Shaman’ who turned on Trump seeks release after organic foods cause ‘digestive issues’

US Capitol riot suspect had been on a hunger strike until authorities offered healthier menu

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/qanon-shaman-chansley-angeli-trump-capitol-b1806468.html

Tiger Woods car accident – latest: Golfer suffered shattered ankle after crashing Genesis SUV, police say

Follow the latest updates below as sportsman hospitalised

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/tiger-woods-car-crash-injured-latest-today-b1806494.html

‘The Republican Messiah’: New York GOP leader arrested over US Capitol riot

FBI tipped off about Philip Grillo by two people who have known him for decades

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/new-york-gop-leader-arrested-capitol-riot-b1806496.html

‘One-in-a-million’ half-male and half-female northern cardinal bird spotted in Pennsylvania

‘It was one of the experiences of a lifetime’

source https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/rare-northern-cardinal-pennsylvania-halfmale-halffemale-b1806467.html

Biden holds first foreign meeting with Canada's Justin Trudeau

&quot;US leadership has been sorely missed over the past years,&quot; the Canadian prime minister said.

source https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-56177486

World News Briefs -- February 23, 2021 (Evening Edition)

  DW: Iran stops sharing nuclear site footage as uranium stockpile grows  Iran has said it will stop sharing video footage of its nuclear facilities.  The move was described by world powers as &quot;dangerous,&quot; and came as the UN&#039;s nuclear agency said it was concerned by Iran&#039;s uranium stockpile.  Iran said on Tuesday it would stop handing over footage of nuclear sites to the UN&#039;s nuclear watchdog in response to a US refusal so far to lift sanctions imposed by former President Donald Trump.  Iran&#039;s move underlines the task facing US President Joe Biden as he tries to reverse Trump&#039;s decision to withdraw from a historic 2015 deal.  Read more ....   MIDDLE EAST  Israel ‘will do everything’ to prevent Iran getting nuclear weapons, Netanyahu says.  IAEA report confirms Iran&#039;s 20 percent uranium enrichment, says no explanation given for undeclared nuclear particles.  UN nuclear watchdog is &#039;deeply concerned&#039; over &#039;undeclared material&#039; at Iranian site.  Iranian officials should be charged over shooting down of Ukrainian plane, UN expert says.  Rockets target US Embassy in Baghdad’s Green Zone, no casualties. Pentagon not yet placing blame for three rocket attacks on Iraq bases housing US troops.  World Bank warns Lebanese to wait their turn for vaccines.  Israel sharing some COVID vaccines with Palestinians, Honduras, Czech Republic.   ASIA  Afghan peace talks resume, but path is anything but certain.  Afghanistan begins COVID-19 vaccination drive amid rising violence.  G7 countries condemn Myanmar crackdown on protesters.  EU&#039;s Borrell urges China to grant UN team access to Xinjiang.  China did &#039;little&#039; to hunt for Covid origins in early months, says WHO document.  Hong Kong’s Carrie Lam defends China’s plans to ensure ‘patriots’ lead city.  Hong Kong considers ban on &#039;insults&#039; to police, authority figures.  Nepal supreme court resinstates parliament dissolved by PM.  Facebook to reverse news ban on Australian sites, government to make amendments to media bargaining code.  Report: U.N. food aid to North Korea stalling under restrictions.  North Korea man wandered for hours in DMZ amid South&#039;s security blunders.   AFRICA  Covid infection in Lagos &#039;may top Africa&#039;s official total&#039;.  Ex-interior minister declared initial winner in Niger&#039;s presidential election.  Niger opposition lashes presidential vote as &#039;electoral holdup&#039;.  Hutu rebels deny killing Italian ambassador, accuse DR Congo and Rwanda.  DR Congo army displays body of killed rebel to assure public they are winning war.  Guinea launches Ebola vaccination campaign.  Hearings begin in landmark Liberia war-crimes trial.  Arms deal corruption trial against South African ex-President Zuma to start in May.   EUROPE  European companies back out of Nord Stream 2: US report.  EU tells six countries to lift Covid border restrictions.  Lifting lockdown: PM Johnson says no international travel until mid-May at the earliest.  Merkel says Germany in third wave of pandemic: sources.  WATCH Georgian police detain opposition leader &amp;amp; clash with his supporters during raid on party HQ.  EU sanctions Myanmar military, Russian officials; blacklists 19 Venezuelans. Bomber who blew up Maltese anti-corruption journalist is jailed for 15 years after pleading guilty.  Last public statue of Spanish dictator Franco is removed.   AMERICAS  Intel failures compounded US Capitol riot, senators hear.  FBI warning of potential Capitol violence did not reach top security officials, they say.  Biden administration to respond to Russian hacking, poisoning in &#039;weeks not months&#039;.  Collins: Biden&#039;s $1.9 trillion coronavirus package won&#039;t get any GOP votes in Senate.  Exclusive: Senators revive bill to combat Chinese censorship of U.S. companies. &#039;Deeply alarming corruption&#039;: US bill would sanction Honduran president.  Ecuadorean indigenous protesters demand presidential vote recount.  Ecuador: Violence kills dozens of inmates at three prisons.  El Chapo&#039;s wife Emma Coronel Aispuro arrested in US over &#039;drug trafficking&#039;.   TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR  UN experts urge Guantanamo closure, remedies for &#039;torture&#039;.  Dozens of French children await repatriation from jihadist camps in Syria.  Suit blames Saudi Arabia for attack that killed three at Florida Navy base.   ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS  Dow reverses a 360-point loss and ends day higher after Powell eases inflation fears.  Bitcoin down more than 16% to $45,615.  Bitcoin: Elon Musk loses world&#039;s richest title as Tesla falters.  Metal fatigue suspected in Boeing 777 engine scare.

source http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2021/02/world-news-briefs-february-23-2021_23.html