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China opposes new Philippine maritime law, vows to protect South China Sea ‘sovereignty’ China opposes new Philippine maritime law, vows to protect South China Sea ‘sovereignty’ BEIJING (Reuters) -China rejected Philippine maritime claims on Sunday, saying new legislation “severely infringes on” Beijing’s territorial sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea, and vowing to protect its own interests. Philippine President Ferdinand Marco Jr signed two laws on Friday to define the country’s maritime entitlements and set designated sea lanes and air routes to reinforce sovereignty. “China firmly opposes this and will continue to take all necessary measures in accordance with the law to resolutely defend China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” the foreign ministry said. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly all of the South China Sea, including areas claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam. China rejects a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague that its sweeping claims were not supported by international law. The ******* States, a Philippine ally, backs the court’s ruling in the case, which was brought by Manila. The ******** ministry’s statement on Sunday defined a baseline of “territorial waters” around the Scarborough Shoal, which China claims as its territory and calls Huangyan Island. The shoal is a major point of contention over sovereignty and fishing rights. China has enacted domestic laws covering the South China Sea, such as a coast guard law in 2021 that allows it to detain foreigners suspected of trespassing. With an armada of coast guard ships to assert its claims, Beijing routinely accuses vessels of trespassing in areas of the South China Sea that fall inside the exclusive economic zones of its neighbours, and has clashed repeatedly with the Philippines in the past year. China’s coast guard issued a statement on Sunday saying the Philippines has frequently sent military and police warships and aircraft to “intrude” into the waters and airspace near the Scarborough Shoal. It accused Manila of instigating “******** fishing” in the area. (Reporting by Ella Cao in Beijing and Marius Zaharia in Hong Kong; Editing by Tom Hogue and William Mallard) Source link #China #opposes #Philippine #maritime #law #vows #protect #South #China #Sea #sovereignty Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Fremantle recruit set for Gather Round showdown against Richmond, West Coast to tackle Carlton Fremantle recruit set for Gather Round showdown against Richmond, West Coast to tackle Carlton Fremantle recruit Shai Bolton is set to face his former side Richmond for the first time at Gather Round, while a new Eagle is set for his own grudge match that weekend. Source link #Fremantle #recruit #set #Gather #showdown #Richmond #West #Coast #tackle #Carlton Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Oakford ******: ****** victim Jady Turner’s friends cause outrage over dangerous tribute Oakford ******: ****** victim Jady Turner’s friends cause outrage over dangerous tribute Grieving mates of Oakford ****** victim Jady Turner have carried out a dangerous tribute by doing burnouts on the busy road where the 22-year-old was *******. A car was seen doing burnouts and speeding off from the ****** site on Thomas Road on Sunday, shortly after the occupants ***** flowers on the verge where he *****. The stunt caused traffic to come to a standstill. Other friends who were there left more peaceful tributes as they were forced to face a reality of life without their friend. “(He was) full of life. Always there for his friends, his family, everyone,” they told 7NEWS. “He had a big heart. He partied hard. He was a good guy.” Mr Turner suffered fatal injuries after his orange Holden Commodore Ute clipped an oversized heavy vehicle convoy just after 6.30am on Saturday. Camera IconMr Turner suffered fatal injuries after his orange Holden Commodore Ute clipped an oversized heavy vehicle convoy just after 6.30am on Saturday. Credit: Michael Wilson/The West *********** The orange Holden Commodore ute and a red Ford Falcon sedan were travelling west at speed on Thomas Road at the same time an oversized heavy vehicle convoy was travelling east. Police say the ute did not pull over to let the convoy pass and instead clipped the oversized load before losing control and crashing into the rear pilot vehicle, a white Ford Ranger. The 75-year-old man driving the pilot vehicle sustained serious injuries and was sent to the same hospital, where he ******** in a stable condition. Road Police Commander Mike Bell revealed on Saturday that the 20-year-old driver of the Ford Falcon had ******* a preliminary breath test following the incident, returning a positive alcohol reading. The dangerous tribute to Mr Turner, comes after ongoing pleas from authorities for people to take care on WA roads as the road toll climbs to 157. “It’s another Saturday morning. I’m standing before you to tell you another member of our community has *****, a young male, 22 years of age, in a completely avoidable car ******, completely avoidable,” Cdr Bell said. The 20-year-old has since been charged with dangerous driving causing ****** in circumstances of aggravation and dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm in circumstances of aggravation. He was released on bail and will appear before Armadale Magistrates Court on December 6. Jady Turner’s younger brother, Joshua Field, tragically ***** in 2022 after falling from an unsecured residential construction site in Maddington. Anyone with information about the ****** is asked to contact ****** Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au. Dash-cam or mobile phone vision relating to this ****** can be uploaded directly to investigators here. Road Trauma Support WA 1300 004 814 Source link #Oakford #****** #****** #victim #Jady #Turners #friends #outrage #dangerous #tribute Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Tuart Hill brick *******: Man in his 30s rushed to hospital after altercation with two men at block of units Tuart Hill brick *******: Man in his 30s rushed to hospital after altercation with two men at block of units A man has been assaulted with a brick after coming under ******* outside a block of units on Sunday afternoon. Source link #Tuart #Hill #brick #******* #Man #30s #rushed #hospital #altercation #men #block #units Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Mark Cavendish wins final race before retirement in Tour de France Criterium in Singapore Mark Cavendish wins final race before retirement in Tour de France Criterium in Singapore Britain’s Mark Cavendish, the most successful sprinter in cycling history, ended his career with victory in the Tour de France Criterium in Singapore. The 39-year-old, who said on Saturday that this would be his final race before retirement, triumphed in a sprint finish to claim the 166th win of a 19-year professional career. Cavendish wore race number 35 to mark his record for stage wins in the Tour de France. He signed autographs and took selfies with fans before the race and received a ‘wheel of honour’ – other riders held their bikes up on one wheel and spun the other – on the start line of the race, made up of 25 laps of a 2.3km course. Cavendish won the road world title in 2011 as well as 17 stages in the Giro d’Italia and three in the Vuelta a Espana. He received a knighthood in October. On the track, Cavendish won omnium silver at the 2016 Olympics and was a three-time madison world champion. More to follow. Source link #Mark #Cavendish #wins #final #race #retirement #Tour #France #Criterium #Singapore Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Nix find scoring boots, Western fume over non-penalty Nix find scoring boots, Western fume over non-penalty ROUND FOUR OF THE A-LEAGUE MEN COMPETITION AT A GLANCE: THEY SAID IT: “Even the opposition players said that they can’t believe that wasn’t a penalty. Definitely a ‘please explain’ (but) it’s not going to change anything, because it ******* the game.” – Western ******* coach John Aloisi didn’t hold back after a contentious non-decision against his team. MAN OF THE WEEK: Nicolas Milanovic proved the hero Western Sydney needs after his hat-trick launched the Wanderers to their first win of the season. The Socceroos hopeful sounded a warning with a first-half double against Newcastle before ****** converting a penalty to condemn the Jets to a 4-1 defeat – and send a message to Tony Popovic. TALKING POINT: Aloisi will be sending a ‘please explain’ to the league after his side were denied a crucial penalty in their 2-1 defeat to Adelaide. Reds captain Ryan Kitto downed Abel Walatee in the 59th minute but did not appear to challenge the ball when he denied Walatee a clear opportunity at goal when scores were level. Zach Clough then scored to secure the victory for Adelaide, leaving Western ******* winless so far this season. STAT *******: Under new coach Patrick Kisnorbo, Melbourne Victory (W3 D1 L0) are enjoying their best start to a season since 2014-15 – when Kevin Muscat led them to the premiership-championship double. With their 2-0 win over Brisbane, Victory also enjoyed their first triumph over Brisbane since 2021. They had been winless in their previous seven attempts. BEAT THAT: Joining the fray as a substitute for injured Jake Hollman, Macarthur forward Ariath Piol silenced Sydney FC’s faithful at Allianz Stadium with a world-class bicycle kick to open the scoring. In Gosford, Wellington’s ********* recruit Hideki Ishige scored a first goal against Central Coast. Ishige stepped up for a long-range free kick and delivered a moment of magic – lifting the ball over the wall and dipping it just under the crossbar. UNDER PRESSURE: Is it too early for Central Coast to panic? The Mariners – champions in each of the past two seasons – only have three points and just one goal to show from their four matches after Wellington claimed a 3-0 win. UP NEXT: Perth Glory face off against Western ******* and Newcastle ****** local rivals Central Coast at Allianz Stadium to kick off Unite Round on Friday, November 22 after the international break. On the following Saturday, Brisbane go toe-to-toe with Adelaide before another iteration of the Sydney derby. Wellington host Melbourne Victory on Sunday and Macarthur v Auckland closes out the weekend. Source link #Nix #find #scoring #boots #Western #fume #nonpenalty Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump says Haley, Pompeo will not join second administration Trump says Haley, Pompeo will not join second administration President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an election night event at the West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on November 6, 2024. Jim Watson | AFP | Getty Images President-elect Donald Trump said on Saturday that former *********** presidential contender Nikki Haley and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will not be asked to join his administration. “I will not be inviting former Ambassador Nikki Haley, or former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, to join the Trump Administration, which is currently in formation,” Trump posted on social media. “I very much enjoyed and appreciated working with them previously, and would like to thank them for their service to our country.” Trump is meeting with potential candidates to serve in his administration before his Jan. 20 inauguration as president. Reuters reported Friday that Trump met with prominent investor Scott Bessent, who is a potential U.S. Treasury Secretary nominee. Haley, a former South Carolina governor who served as U.S. ambassador to the ******* Nations under Trump, endorsed Trump for president despite having criticized him harshly when she ran against him in the party primaries. “I was proud to work with President Trump defending America at the ******* Nations,” Haley said on social media. “I wish him, and all who serve, great success in moving us forward to a stronger, safer America over the next four years.” Pompeo, who also served as director of the Central Intelligence Agency under Trump, has been mentioned in some media reports as a possible defense secretary and had been also seen a potential *********** presidential candidate, before he announced in April 2023 he would not run. Pompeo could not immediately be reached for comment Saturday. During his first term as president, Trump made some key personnel announcements via social media posts. Separately, Trump said the 2025 presidential inauguration will be co-chaired by real estate investor and campaign donor Steve Witkoff and former Senator Kelly Loeffler. Source link #Trump #Haley #Pompeo #join #administration Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Melania Trump Wasn’t the Only Person Curiously Missing From Donald Trump’s Election Night Party Melania Trump Wasn’t the Only Person Curiously Missing From Donald Trump’s Election Night Party Donald Trump enjoyed a celebratory night at Mar-a-Lago after he was declared the president-elect on Election Day. His family gathered at his Palm Beach, Florida residence to commemorate the event, but there were two prominent people missing from the festivities. Melania Trump, the future first lady for a second time, and Donald Trump Jr.’s fiancée, Kimberly Guilfoyle, were both absent from the evening. The public might not have been clued into that curious detail, but Donald Jr.’s oldest daughter, Kai, 17, spilled the tea without even realizing it. More from SheKnows Kimberly Guilfoyle, Donald Trump, Jr. The high school junior posted a snapshot on X of the Trump family at her grandfather’s luxurious golf club. “The whole squad,” she wrote which included Elon Musk and his son, X, 4, from his relationship with Grimes. Well, it was sort of the whole squad unless Melania and Guilfoyle’s absence signals something else? It’s no secret that Melania makes appearances on her terms and will likely be a part-time first lady after Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. She was by her husband’s side on Election Day, wearing her dark sunglasses inside while they visited a polling site, and she was there for his victory speech. Still, Guilfoyle’s AWOL status is raising eyebrows. Bettina Anderson attends “A Retro Chic Afternoon” hosted by FIGUE, at Designer and CEO, Liz Lange’s home, celebrating her inaugural collection with the brand and the book, Slim Aarons: Style on December 15, 2021 in Palm Beach, Florida. There have been rumors that her relationship with Donald Jr. was rocky due to allegations of an affair between Donald Trump’s oldest son and a Palm Beach socialite Bettina Anderson, 37, according to the Daily Mail. The rumors surfaced in mid-September and witnesses have reportedly spotted the duo engaging in PDA in the Palm Beach area. “She seemed totally smitten with Don – and he with her,” a source told the media outlet. “They looked totally relaxed, she wearing a white shirt tied off to show her midriff and wide-leg pants, he in shorts and a t-shirt.” A second source added, “They were definitely on a date. They weren’t exactly making out, but the kisses were romantic, and you could tell they were intimate with each other.” Other Trump insiders have noticed that Guilfoyle has been missing from a number of family events. His ex-wife Vanessa Trump is often there, but Guilfoyle isn’t. The last time Donald Jr. posted his fiancée on his Instagram feed was on April 24 to celebrate their six-year anniversary. “Happy 6 year anniversary @kimberlyguilfoyle thanks for always being there no matter what the haters are throwing our way. I love you,” he wrote in the caption. While nobody from Donald Jr. or Guilfoyle’s team has addressed the affair and breakup allegations, her Election Night absence certainly raises a few eyebrows. As the Trump family prepares for their relocation to Washington, D.C., the couple will likely have to address whether they are moving forward with their relationship or not. Before you go, click here to see the best presidential love stories in U.S. history. Barack Obama Michelle Obama Ronald Nancy Reagan Best Presidential Love Stories in U.S. History Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows’ Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Source link #Melania #Trump #Wasnt #Person #Curiously #Missing #Donald #Trumps #Election #Night #Party Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump says Haley, Pompeo will not join second administration Trump says Haley, Pompeo will not join second administration President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an election night event at the West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on November 6, 2024. Jim Watson | AFP | Getty Images President-elect Donald Trump said on Saturday that former *********** presidential contender Nikki Haley and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will not be asked to join his administration. “I will not be inviting former Ambassador Nikki Haley, or former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, to join the Trump Administration, which is currently in formation,” Trump posted on social media. “I very much enjoyed and appreciated working with them previously, and would like to thank them for their service to our country.” Trump is meeting with potential candidates to serve in his administration before his Jan. 20 inauguration as president. Reuters reported Friday that Trump met with prominent investor Scott Bessent, who is a potential U.S. Treasury Secretary nominee. Haley, a former South Carolina governor who served as U.S. ambassador to the ******* Nations under Trump, endorsed Trump for president despite having criticized him harshly when she ran against him in the party primaries. “I was proud to work with President Trump defending America at the ******* Nations,” Haley said on social media. “I wish him, and all who serve, great success in moving us forward to a stronger, safer America over the next four years.” Pompeo, who also served as director of the Central Intelligence Agency under Trump, has been mentioned in some media reports as a possible defense secretary and had been also seen a potential *********** presidential candidate, before he announced in April 2023 he would not run. Pompeo could not immediately be reached for comment Saturday. During his first term as president, Trump made some key personnel announcements via social media posts. Separately, Trump said the 2025 presidential inauguration will be co-chaired by real estate investor and campaign donor Steve Witkoff and former Senator Kelly Loeffler. Source link #Trump #Haley #Pompeo #join #administration Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pilbara Spirit Carnival promotes next wave of community lifesavers Pilbara Spirit Carnival promotes next wave of community lifesavers 140 primary school aged kids made a splash at the annual Royal Life Saving WA Spirit Carnival in South Hedland, participating in swimming races, lifesaving activities and aquatic sports. Source link #Pilbara #Spirit #Carnival #promotes #wave #community #lifesavers Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Why luxury cheese is being targeted by ********** Why luxury cheese is being targeted by ********** BBC When dairy farmer Patrick Holden sat down at his kitchen table to read his emails one day in July, he couldn’t believe his luck. A buyer, who claimed to represent a French supermarket chain, wanted to buy 22 tonnes of Hafod, his specialist cheddar. “It was the biggest order for our cheese we’ve ever received,” he recalls, “and, because it was from France, I thought, ‘finally, people on the continent are appreciating what we do’.” The order had been made through Neal’s Yard Dairy, an upmarket cheese seller and wholesaler, and the first batch of Hafod arrived at its London base in September. It took up just one square metre on a pallet but represented two years of effort and had a wholesale value of £35,000. “It’s one of the most special cheeses being made in the ***,” explains Bronwen Percival, a buyer at Neal’s Yard Dairy. Once bound in muslin cloth and sealed with a layer of lard, Hafod is aged for 18 months. The farm didn’t have enough to fulfil the order, so 20 tonnes of Somerset cheddar was also provided by two other dairy farms to make it up; in all, this was £300,000-worth of some of the most expensive cheese made in the ***. On 14 October, it was collected from Neal’s Yard’s warehouse by a courier and taken to a depot – and then, mysteriously, it disappeared. There had, in fact, been no order. It came instead from someone impersonating the supposed buyer. Getty Images Tom Calver of Westcombe Dairy in Somerset – some of his cheese was in the stolen consignment The theft made global headlines, and was nicknamed “the grate cheese robbery”. British chef Jamie Oliver warned his followers on X: “If anyone hears anything about posh cheese going for cheap, it’s probably some wrong’uns.” In late October, a 63-year-old man was arrested in London, then released on bail. And there has been no news since. The 950 truckles of cheese – roughly the weight of four full-sized elephants – have disappeared without a trace. “It is ridiculous,” says fellow cheesemaker Tom Calver, whose cheddar was part of the stolen consignment. “Out of all the things to steal in the world – 22 tonnes of cheese?” And yet it isn’t as surprising as it at first seems – for this is far from the first theft of its kind. Why cheese theft is on the rise Food-related ******* – which include smuggling, counterfeiting, and out-and-out theft – cost the global food industry between US $30 to 50 billion a year (£23-£38 billion), according to the World Trade Organisation. These range from hijackings of freight lorries delivering food to warehouses to the theft of 24 live lobsters from a storage pen in Scotland. But a number of these food ******* have also targeted the cheese industry – and in particular luxury cheese. Last year, in the run-up to Christmas, around £50,000 worth of cheese was stolen from a trailer in a service station on the M5 near Worcester. The problem isn’t a new one – as far back as 1998, thieves broke into a storeroom and took nine tonnes of cheddar from a family-run farm in Somerset. It’s happening elsewhere in Europe, too: in 2016, ********** made off with £80,000 of Parmigiano Reggiano from a warehouse in northern Italy. This particular type of parmesan, which requires at least a year to mature, is created by following a process that has been in place, with little modification, for almost 1,000 years. At the time of the heist, Italy’s Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium told CBS news that about $7 million (£5.4m) worth of cheese had been stolen in a two-year *******. The problem is only set to rise across the industry as cheese becomes more valuable. The overall price of food and non-alcoholic drinks in the *** rose around 25% between January 2022 and January 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics. Cheese, meanwhile, saw a similar price hike in the space of a single year. High prices are increasingly making cheese a target of theft “Cheesemaking is an energy-intensive business,” says Patrick McGuigan, a specialist in the dairy sector. This is because in the production process milk needs to be heated up and, once made, cheese is stored in energy-hungry refrigerators, meaning that fuel prices play a big part in the cost. “And so there was a big price increase following the disruption caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.” In 2024, overall food price inflation in the *** has fallen to 1.7 per cent, but less so for cheese. “The retail price of cheddar increased by 6.5 per cent up to May 2024,” adds McGuigan. “This is why we’re seeing security tags on blocks of cheddar in supermarkets. Based on price alone, cheese is one of the most desirable foods a ********* can steal.” Yet it isn’t the easiest product to shift – particularly farmhouse cheese, most of which tends to be heavy and bulky and must be kept at specific temperatures. As such, transporting it can be a costly, complicated procedure that is beyond most ********** – unless, of course, they are organised. But the question that ******** is who exactly these organised ********** are – and where does the cheese end up? How organised ****** infiltrated the food industry “There is a long-established connection between food and organised ******,” says Andy Quinn of the National Food ****** Unit (NFCU), which was established in 2015 following the 2013 horse meat scandal. One example of this is the high proportion of ******** drugs smuggled through legal global food supply chains. In September, dozens of kilograms of ******** were found in banana deliveries to four stores of a French supermarket, with police unsure who the intended recipient was. For the drugs to reach the end of the food supply chain is highly unusual, but this method of transporting ******** items across borders in containers of food is common. According to Quinn, once ***** cartels and other ********* operators gain a foothold into how a food business operates, they spot other opportunities. “They will infiltrate a legitimate business, take control of its distribution networks and use it to move other ******** items, including stolen food.” For ********* networks, food has other attractions. “They know ******* involving food result in less severe convictions than for importing drugs,” says Quinn, “but they can still make similar amounts of money.” Particularly if it’s a premium cheese. The problem for the ********** is what to do with it. “There are few places to offload them,” says Jamie Montgomery, who runs the Somerset farm that was targeted in the 1998 heist. “Shifting that much artisan cheese is difficult.” This is why people in the industry believe stolen cheese is often sent overseas to countries where there are thriving food ****** markets – and indeed cheese ****** markets. ‘Fromagicide’ and the overseas ****** market Russia is one country where there is a thriving ****** market for cheese. Following the ******** annexation of Crimea in March 2014, the EU and other states imposed economic sanctions on Russia. President Vladimir ****** responded by banning fresh produce from the countries behind the sanctions. State television made a great show of the ban by broadcasting footage of foreign food being bulldozed, ******* or burned, including huge cheeses being dumped and crushed. Soon the so-called “fromagicide'”was worldwide news. Reuters The Russian government began confiscating banned food at the border and publicly destroying it Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, sanctions have been further tightened and the availability of certain food from the West has become even more limited, among them Scottish whisky and Norwegian salmon. At the same time, the ****** market in Russia for high-end foods from the EU has been growing. “Cheese and wine are two of the most common products being transported illegally into Russia,” says Professor Chris Elliott, founder of the Global Institute for Food Security and a senior scientific advisor to the UN, “and there are sophisticated routes across Europe’s borders through Belarus and Georgia”. Many Russians feel that the quality of local cheese doesn’t compare to banned foreign goods, so there is wide demand. Indeed, after the ban, some resorted to extreme measures – one man was caught attempting to drive into Russia from Poland with 460kg of banned cheese on the ********* of his car. Since 2014, expensive and complex varieties of cheese from countries that were not previously known for their cheese have appeared on shop shelves, such as Belarusian camembert and parmesan. Some companies import ********* cheese to Belarus or other CIS countries, where the label is swapped so that it can be sold legally in Russian shops. There were also reports of corner shops becoming ****** market cheese dealers. *********** makes the movement of sanction-busting food possible, says Prof Elliott. “So much money is involved that officials, including border guards, can be paid off. Sanctioned goods are bought and sold through digital networks and these online orders also make it into shops.” Paul Thomas spent years running cheesemaking courses in Russia. When he visited Moscow after the sanctions were tightened, he observed firsthand that banned cheeses were being displayed openly on the shelves of shops. “There was plenty of authentic Italian Parmigiano Reggiano and French Roquefort, all clearly labelled”. He also observed that cheesemakers in Russia have been boosting production and attempting to emulate types of ********* cheese. It’s not just Russia – in various parts of the Middle East, for example, food subsidies in one country can provide an incentive to smuggle ingredients into others where governments provide no support and prices are high. Counterfeiting, or creating a replica of an official type of cheese, is also common in the region. And in the US, strict federal rules mean it’s ******** to produce or import unpasteurised cheeses aged for less than 60 days, leading to a ****** market for raw-milk products such as French classics Brie de Meaux and Mont d’Or. In 2015, a raw-milk trafficking gang was prosecuted for distributing unpasteurised cheeses. Food counterfeiting also happens in the US – in some cases, cheap and even dangerous ingredients are being used to produce “fake” versions of expensive cheese, such as parmesan made using additives derived from wood pulp. Microchipped parmesan: Innovative security Andy Quinn explains: “Food chains are truly global. The same goes for the movement of ******** food.” Now, many in the industry are fighting back, however. Italy’s Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium – the cheesemakers behind the world’s most stolen cheese – have said that the ****** market for that variety is “robust”. This is partly down to the fact that it is hugely valuable, generating global sales of almost £3bn a year – and so they have come up with a unique way of protecting it. In 2022, the consortium began introducing tracking chips, no larger than a grain of rice, as part of the label embedded in the hard rind of the cheese. This helps to reduce thefts, but also means counterfeit Parmigiano Reggiano can be identified, as each tiny chip contains a unique digital ID that can authenticate the cheese. Buyers can now scan each wheel to check its authenticity or find out if it was stolen. The consortium is yet to release any figures showing whether the technology is cutting down levels of ******. Getty Images Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano (pictured) is highly prized – but the value of fake parmesan sold is estimated to be about £2bn a year Neal’s Yard Dairy says it plans to use a less high-tech approach to preventing future ******, including visiting buyers in person when big cheese orders are made, rather than relying on digital contracts and emails. As for what will become of the cheddar stolen in the October heist, there may be no swift solution: given that they could easily be stored for as long as two years, the cheese could still surface many months from now. “A ********* could hide tonnes away and then pass them slowly, truckle by truckle, into supply chains,” says Ben Lambourne of the online retailer Pong Cheese. For the cheesemakers, this isn’t just about a stolen food; the missing Hafod, Westcombe and Pitchfork represent ways of farming and food production that took thousands of years to evolve, shaped landscapes and became part of British culture, yet which have been all but lost in just a few generations. Lancashire-based cheesemonger Andy Swinscoe says that at the beginning of the 20th Century, in the area surrounding his shop there were 2,000 farmhouse cheesemakers. Today, there are just five. There have been declines in Somerset with cheddar makers, in the East Midlands with Stilton and in the north-west with Cheshire cheese. “It would be impossible for these small family farms to survive by selling liquid milk,” says Swinscoe – but they can add value by turning their milk into a farmhouse cheese. Patrick Holden admits that the financial loss from this theft would have had a huge impact on his farm. “A ****** of this scale can easily spell the end of a farm and cheesemaking.” In this instance, Neal’s Yard paid its suppliers in full, describing the effect of the ****** on their business as “a significant financial *****”. Unless ******* like this are stopped, however, other farms and businesses will suffer similar blows, particularly when luxury cheese ******** sought-after and prized. “Conflicts around the world, the cost-of-living crisis, even climate change, all increase the appeal for food ******,” says the NFCU’s Andy Quinn. Until that changes, cheesemakers might need to tighten up their security – and think twice when an order seems too good to be true. BBC InDepth is the new home on the website and app for the best analysis and expertise from our top journalists. Under a distinctive new brand, we’ll bring you fresh perspectives that challenge assumptions, and deep reporting on the biggest issues to help you make sense of a complex world. And we’ll be showcasing thought-provoking content from across BBC Sounds and iPlayer too. We’re starting small but thinking big, and we want to know what you think – you can send us your feedback by clicking on the button below. Source link #luxury #cheese #targeted #********** Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

A-League Women: Perth Glory win first game of calendar year with 3-2 win over Newcastle Jets A-League Women: Perth Glory win first game of calendar year with 3-2 win over Newcastle Jets Perth Glory have won their first A-League Women’s match since New Year’s Eve, ending a more than 10-month winless run with a 3-2 win over Newcastle Jets at HBF Park. Source link #ALeague #Women #Perth #Glory #win #game #calendar #year #win #Newcastle #Jets Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

India’s Adani Power cuts Bangladesh supply by over 60% on payment dispute India’s Adani Power cuts Bangladesh supply by over 60% on payment dispute By Ruma Paul and Sethuraman N R DHAKA/BENGALURU (Reuters) – India’s Adani Power has further reduced electricity supply to neighbouring Bangladesh as it seeks to recover more than $800 million in dues, according to data from Bangladesh’s grid operator and two sources familiar with the move. Adani Power, which exports power to Dhaka from its dedicated 1,600 megawatt (MW) Godda plant in eastern India’s Jharkhand state, had reduced supply this month to 700 MW-750 MW from around 1,400-1,500 MW in early August. Late on Thursday, supply was further reduced to about 520 MW, according to Power Grid Bangladesh data and an official with the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). “We are gradually paying the dues and will take alternative measures if anyone stops the supply. We will not let any power producer hold us ********,” Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan, power and energy adviser in Bangladesh’s caretaker government, told Reuters on Thursday. Bangladesh continues to get a reduced supply even though it has expedited the payment of dues and a Nov. 7 payment deadline by Adani had been lifted, the BPDB official said. Reuters reported this week that the troubled South ****** country had opened a letter of credit for $170 million for Adani and was accelerating payments. Adani Power did not respond to queries from Reuters on the reduction in power supply and details of payments made by Dhaka. The power supply has been gradually reduced based on demand from Bangladesh as well as keeping payment dues in mind, a source at Adani Power told Reuters. The Bangladeshi board and Adani Power officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they are not authorised to speak to the media. Bangladesh has been struggling to pay its bills due to costly fuel and goods imports since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The political turmoil that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August has also compounded its troubles. (Reporting by Sethuraman NR in Bengaluru and Ruma Paul in Dhaka; Editing by YP Rajesh and by Muralikumar Anantharaman) Source link #Indias #Adani #Power #cuts #Bangladesh #supply #payment #dispute Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Teenager Casey McLean bags four tries as NZ thrash PNG Teenager Casey McLean bags four tries as NZ thrash PNG Casey McLean has announced himself as a superstar of the future, bagging four tries in New Zealand’s 54-12 demolition of Papua New Guinea at the Pacific Championships. With only seven NRL games to his name, the 18-year-old winger became the third-youngest debutant in Kiwis history when he replaced the injured William Warbrick at CommBank Stadium. McLean had already appeared a strong chance of replacing Sunia Turuva on the wing at NRL powerhouses Penrith next year, but after Sunday’s masterclass it will surely be impossible for Ivan Cleary to resist starting him in Las Vegas in round one. The young **** combined effortlessly with halves Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Shaun Johnson, the latter playing his last game after coming out of retirement to assist the injury-hit Kiwis. McLean had the first try of the game on the back of a long cut-out pass from Nicoll-Klokstad, before deftly scooping up a Johnson kick on the left edge to help extend the lead to 28-6 after the half. A Nicoll-Klokstad kick sent him over a third time, before McLean entered rarefied air from a Johnson long ball midway through the second stanza. Only once in history has a Kiwis player scored more tries in a game than McLean – lock forward Hugh McGahan crossed six times against Papua New Guinea in Auckland in 1983. Keano Kini was equally impressive to cap off his debut series with the Kiwis, running for 301 metres and outshining in-form rival fullback Nene MacDonald. Johnson, meanwhile, signed off in style with a beautiful pass to Naufahu Whyte that helped the Kiwis reach 50 points. Winger Jamayne Isaako notched a hat-trick of his own with a runaway try in the final minutes as the Kiwis went into party mode. The win means the previously out-of-form Kiwis have avoided relegation from the Pacific Cup to the second-tier Pacific Bowl competition at the 2025 Pacific Championships. Despite the one-sided result on Sunday, the series will give the Kumuls reason for optimism on the road to both the 2026 World Cup, and the Pacific nation’s push for NRL inclusion. PNG won both their previous two matches and were the better team for much of the first half against New Zealand, but struggled for ********** ******** three tries. ******* Liam Horne could have given the Kumuls the lead had he grounded Lachlan Lam’s grubber kick, before Rodrick **** was called offside in the lead-up to Rhyse Martin’s would-be try. Winger Robert Derby bungled yet another chance for points by fumbling the ball close to the line. The Kiwis made PNG pay for their missed chances by scoring back-to-back tries in the final two minutes before the break. First it was off-contract Leo Thompson charging over to drop the latest reminder of his potential value on the open market, before McLean tore down the left edge after the siren. He passed inside to Nicoll-Klokstad, who made it 22-6 at the break and gave the Kumuls a big mountain to climb. Source link #Teenager #Casey #McLean #bags #thrash #PNG Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Philippine president angers China with new laws to demarcate South China Sea territories Philippine president angers China with new laws to demarcate South China Sea territories MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed two laws on Friday reaffirming the extent of his country’s maritime territories and right to resources, including in the South China Sea, angering China, which claims the hotly disputed waterway almost in its entirety. China’s foreign ministry said it summoned the Philippines ambassador to China to lodge a “stern protest.” The ministry condemned the move as an attempt to “solidify the ******** ruling of the South China Sea arbitration case through domestic legislation.” Confrontations between ******** and Philippine coast guard and naval forces in the disputed sea passage have spiked alarmingly since last year. That has sparked fears that the ******* States — Manila’s longtime treaty ally — may get drawn in a major conflict. The laws, called the Philippine Maritime Zones act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes act, were signed by Marcos in a nationally televised ceremony attended by top military and national security officials. They further cement Manila’s rejection of China’s claims to virtually the entire sea passage, and stipulate jail terms and stiff fines for violators. “These signal our resolve to protect our maritime resources, preserve our rich biodiversity and ensure that our waters remain a source of life and livelihood for all Filipinos,” Marcos said. ******** Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the move “seriously infringes on China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.” “China strongly condemns and firmly opposes it,” she said. In a new national map it released last year the ******** government demarcated its claim to virtually the entire South China Sea with vague dash lines that drew protests and rejections from rival coastal states and government, including Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indonesia and the Philippines. The maritime zones act demarcates key parts of the Philippine archipelago’s territory and outlying waters where it has full sovereignty and sovereign rights under international law and the 1982 U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea, Philippine officials said. Those zones include the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone, a 200-nautical-mile (370-kilometer) stretch of water, where a coastal state like the Philippines has exclusive rights to tap energy and other resources. Foreign ships and aircraft have an internationally recognized right known as “innocent passage” to pass through such a zone, as long as the coastal state’s security would not come under threat. The archipelagic sea lanes act allows the Philippines to designate sea lanes and air routes in the archipelago where foreign ships and aircraft could transit under its regulation and in compliance with international law. “These legal instruments solidify our territory and enhances our ability to protect our country against any infringement,” National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said. Marcos said the laws comply with international law and the UNCLOS, but many of their provisions stand in stark contrast to Beijing’s claims in the South China Sea and would likely be rejected and defied by China. It’s unclear how the Philippines could enforce the laws, which take effect 15 days after their publication in the government’s official gazette or in a newspaper, given China’s increasingly aggressive actions to push its claims. Copies of the laws signed by Marcos were not immediately available but a final version of the maritime zones bill stated that “all artificial islands constructed within the Philippine EEZ belong to the Philippine government.” China has transformed seven disputed reefs into what are now missile-protected island bases, including the Mischief Reef, which ***** within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone. The law based the Philippines’ maritime rights on UNCLOS, Philippine laws and a 2016 international arbitration ruling that invalidated China’s extensive territorial claims based on historical grounds. China refused to participate in that arbitration, rejected the ruling and continues to defy it. Its massive coast guard, navy, air force and suspected militia fleets have used water cannons, military grade lasers and dangerous sea and air maneuvers to intimidate rival forces it accuses of straying into what Beijing calls its territory. Washington has repeatedly warned that it’s obligated to defend the Philippines, its oldest treaty ally in Asia, if ********* forces, aircraft or ships come under an armed ******* in the disputed waters. Source link #Philippine #president #angers #China #laws #demarcate #South #China #Sea #territories Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Late Jakolis goal fires Bulls to ALM win over Sky Blues Late Jakolis goal fires Bulls to ALM win over Sky Blues Bolstered by a remarkable bicycle kick goal by Ariath Piol, winger Marin Jakolis has scored late to ***** Macarthur to a 2-1 win over Sydney FC. Source link #Late #Jakolis #goal #fires #Bulls #ALM #win #Sky #Blues Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Harris Staffers Furious Over Post-Election Pep Talk: ‘Detached From Reality’ Harris Staffers Furious Over Post-Election Pep Talk: ‘Detached From Reality’ Kamala Harris’ staffers were left ****** and frustrated by attempts by the vice president and her campaign leaders to sugarcoat their election nightmare. Harris was blasted for her “happy talk” after an all-in call on Thursday night to thank exhausted campaign workers. “Yeah, this sucks… We all just speak truth, why don’t we, right?” she said, according to Axios. “There’s also so much good that has come of this” campaign. Campaign manager Jen O’Malley Dillon was unable to contain her emotions, tearing up at the end of the call before rallying to say: “I don’t like emotion, I don’t do that. You are great people who have done a great thing, and you came really close.” The remarks touched a sour chord with Democratic Party staff, who felt let down by the attempts at putting a positive spin on the disastrous night. “It was detached from the reality of what happened,” one told Axios. “We are told the fate of democracy is at stake, and then the message was, ‘We’ll get them next time.’” Quoting four people on the call, the report said campaign leaders begged staffers not to speak with the media in an apparent attempt to contain the internal bickering over the way the election was run. A recording was leaked that same night, suggesting a deeper issue within the campaign. There was said to be anger over the way the race was painted as a “margin-of-error” finish when it was such a clear-cut triumph for a man the Harris campaign had demonized. “People are depressed and frustrated about the overconfident leadership of the campaign,” a Harris staffer told Axios. A former Biden worker added: “How did you spend $1 billion and not win? What the f—?” Harris supporters in London as the results hit home. The report suggested there was consternation within the campaign over how it allegedly ended up in debt despite raising more than $1 billion in just over three months. The campaign was reported to be at least $20 million in debt after the election. Kamala Harris’s campaign ended with at least $20 million in debt, per two sources familiar. Harris raised over $1 billion and had $118 million in the bank as of Oct. 16. — Christopher Cadelago (@ccadelago) November 7, 2024 The ********** aftermath of the 2024 presidential election has pitched Joe Biden and Harris loyalists against each other, with both sides blaming the other for the party’s poor performance with voters. “The 107-day Harris campaign was nearly flawless. The Biden campaign that preceded it was the opposite,” a Harris staffer told Axios. Biden’s aides hit back, claiming it was a mistake to try and sideline the president. “The Harris team benched [Biden] and then they lost, so now the people who represent Biden are saying, ‘Maybe you shouldn’t have benched him,’” said a Democratic insider. The Daily ****** Podcast episodes are released every Thursday. Like and download on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. And click here for email updates as each new episode drops. Source link #Harris #Staffers #Furious #PostElection #Pep #Talk #Detached #Reality Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Hospitality bosses warn Budget tax rises will force closures Hospitality bosses warn Budget tax rises will force closures Top pub and restaurant bosses have warned the chancellor that tax rises in last month’s Budget will “unquestionably” cause closures and job losses. In a letter, more than 200 signatories have said the hospitality industry is disproportionately impacted by an “unsustainable” hike in the amount employers pay in National Insurance Contributions (NICs). It adds that businesses have “no capacity to pass the costs onto customers”, which would instead lead to job cuts and closures of smaller firms. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said that her National Insurance changes for businesses will generate £25bn, which would aid funding of public services, such as the NHS. From April, the rate employers pay in National Insurance will rise from 13.8% to 15%, and the threshold at which they start paying the tax on each employee’s salary will be reduced from £9,100 per year to £5,000. Signatories of the letter include Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, the bosses of pub firms Fuller’s and Stonegate Group, and Premier Inn’s owner, Whitbread. They are supported by a further 209 businesses, together employing tens of thousands of people across the ***. According to the letter, the cost increases will cause businesses to reconsider investment plans, jobs to be “drastically” cut and hours to be reduced for workers. The signatories are calling for measures to “protect businesses who employ low earners” as a result. The letter also suggests that changes in the NICs threshold are “regressive in their impact on lower earners and will impact flexible working practices which many older workers and parents rely upon”. It calls on the government to consider one of two measures to mitigate the impact on businesses, accepting they come at “an immediate financial cost” but that “lost growth potential” from inaction “would be substantially more expensive”. Suggested measures are a new employer NICs band which would apply between £5,000 and £9,100 at a lower rate of 5%, or implementing an exemption for taxpayers working fewer than 20 hours per week. The changes set out in the Budget are, however, predicted to raise some £25bn a year, making it one of the biggest single tax-raising measures in history. The chancellor has previously said that she was not immune to “criticism” over the move, but has argued that it will put public finances on a “firm footing”. Source link #Hospitality #bosses #warn #Budget #tax #rises #force #closures Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The truth about flying China with Xiamen Airlines The truth about flying China with Xiamen Airlines ******** airlines still seem ****** — hundreds of passenger reviews range from the cheeky to the ghastly. You’ll read it all: terrible food, missed connections, no English spoken, old planes, uncomfortable seats. But the question is, have you ever flown with a ******** airline? Probably not. I did. In June 2024, I flew from Rome to Korea via Shanghai with China Eastern. And you know what? This transcontinental flight only cost me $290. Unbelievable? Yes. But as I am here typing this, you can believe that the plane successfully brought me to my destination for almost half the cost of the same route on any other airline. Any complaints? Not really, as with such a steal, I had no expectations. Not only were they exceeded, but I did learn a thing or two about flying with ******** airlines. The reason why most Westerners write savagely bad reviews about them is because, to appreciate ******** service, you must be familiar with ******** customs. Let me explain briefly. China is the fastest-developing economy in the world, but I think their expectations of development are wildly different from yours. Hardly anybody speaks English in the country, and how they eat, behave and talk is very different from anywhere else in Asia or the world. If you accept that, you are ready for China and even their airlines. If, on the other hand, you keep judging based on our Western perceptions, you will always have a bad experience with any kind of ******** service. And after this due introduction, let me get to the detail of this airline review. Xiamen Airlines seemed the best choice I live in Malaysia, and when I fly to China, I usually go for the local low-cost AirAsia or Batik Air — cheap, no-frills, not so comfortable but workable if you get their cheapest fares that often get you to southern China for the cost of a ********** pack and a flat white in Melbourne. This time, however, I was scheduled to get to the lesser-known northwestern ******** province of Ningxia for a Lonely Planet guide book update. There was no direct flight, and the closest AirAsia flew was Xi’An — not a very cheap flight on a long-haul route without free food, limited carry-on luggage, and the need to overnight and spend an extra $30 minimum on a high-speed train to my destination. On top of that, I wanted to fly directly from my home turf of Penang and not spend more time and money to reach Kuala Lumpur’s airport, which is 400km away. A quick online search showed me that the best option was Xiamen Airlines, which flies directly from Penang to the southern ******** city of Xiamen. Google taught me they are one of the oldest commercial airlines in China and have a good track record. For this destination, I’d have an overnight layover of six hours and an early morning flight from Xiamen to Yinchuan. This is not a cheap budget airline: you get food on board, 20kg checked-in luggage plus carry-on and two flights for a mere $150, which was pretty much what I’d have spent with the one AirAsia flight alone without all the included perks. Booking it was a no-brainer. Camera IconThe Xiamen Airlines plane. Credit: Marco Ferrarese/The West AustralianBut then the nightmare started A week before departure, I received an email from Xiamen Airlines saying that my plane to Yinchuan had been cancelled and rescheduled nine hours later. That meant arriving in Xiamen at midnight and departing at 5pm the next day. They did offer an option to cancel and reschedule for free or get reimbursed, but after trying to fiddle with their website, where it’s not even possible to check in online, I started to worry. Would I have to get a hotel and spend even more money, besides time? The idea of camping out on my inflatable mattress for a whole day in an unknown airport started looming in the back of my mind like an inevitable curse: but with an upcoming book submission deadline ahead in a very busy year, I could not cancel this trip and the other consequent train and hotel bookings I already lined up. In other words, I just had to ***** up having chosen a ******** airline and join the number of their online haters. Camera IconMarco Ferrarese on his way. Credit: Kit Yeng Chan/The West AustralianThe day comes On the day of my flight from Penang, I received another email from Xiamen Airlines saying my flight would be packed and that I should make sure that my carry-on weighed only 5kg to make sure there would be space on board. I was stressed when I reached Penang airport and got in line, which was handled quickly and professionally despite the considerable number of people. I had read on Xiamen Airlines’ English language website that passengers with long layovers should be entitled to a free hotel room — the lady at the desk in Penang was not entirely sure and said that, after collecting luggage in Xiamen, I should ask the airline’s desk — at midnight? I queued up to pass immigration with my reserves. To my surprise, we started boarding the plane even before time and were seated inside a frankly old yet clean plane half an hour before the scheduled departure. The seating arrangements most had reviewed as dreary were fine, with a generous reclinable angle. There was, however, no personal entertainment screen — a little screen would come down from the overhead compartment in front of each of the four rows of seats. Well … no biggie. We departed Penang on the minute, and after less than an hour, the flight attendants served us food. Going back to my introduction, if you are unfamiliar with ******** food, you may consider Xiamen Airlines’ food bland or not good. I lived in China and love every grain of rice this country has bestowed upon me, and this meal was excellent — fresh, savoury braised chicken and peppers with steamed rice, with an oil so thick and flavoursome only ******** food connoisseurs, can recognise as godly. On top of it, they served soft banana bread, a yoghurt drink, nuts and candies. What more can you ask? Camera IconThe welcomed hotel room. Credit: Marco Ferrarese/The West AustralianA night at the airport? The flight was roughly five hours long, and we touched down (a little bit harshly on the plane’s suspensions) 20 minutes before the scheduled time. The crew was polite and assisted properly with the disembarking procedures, and immigration was smooth. Now it was time to see if I would have to bunk down on the floor or find a nearby place to ****** for the night. Turns out that Xiamen Airlines has a transfer desk right in front of exit five in the arrival hall of Xiamen Airport. The friendly ground assistants, all speaking mostly in ******** and trying patiently to communicate with me and my limited ability in their language, quickly whipped out a form with a hotel reservation — and not only that, they pointed me towards a bus that would take me and several other passengers to our free room for the night. The Da Yi Hotel offered the equivalent of a three or four-star hotel by Western standards — the beds were large and comfortable, yet some of the room furnishings and bathroom insulations, like most things ********, showed wear and tear — along with the typical carpet floorings in most hotel common spaces, which become ****** and musty very quickly. Again, this was heaven compared to a night and half day camping out on the airport floor. Camera IconThe bright and pleasant cabin. Credit: Marco Ferrarese/The West AustralianThe verdict: to Xiamen or not to Xiamen? To me, absolutely yes. I was treated better with Xiamen Airlines than other Middle Eastern and Western airlines, and I will fly with them again if the opportunity arises. Sure, connections may take longer, but with such low prices, especially on long-haul routes, this airline is excellent if you accept the ******** standards. Believe all the good reviews you find online because, like my experience, they are all real. Camera IconThe meal on board. Credit: Marco Ferrarese/The West *********** Source link #truth #flying #China #Xiamen #Airlines Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Walt Disney Tribute Camera Lego Set Deal Restocked At Amazon, Big Discount Expires Soon Walt Disney Tribute Camera Lego Set Deal Restocked At Amazon, Big Discount Expires Soon If you’re shopping for a Disney enthusiast this holiday, you should check out this deal on Lego’s Walt Disney Tribute Camera before it’s gone. Normally $100, this charming buildable display commemorating Disney’s 100 anniversary is on ***** for only $70 at Amazon and Target. It’s one of many soon-to-be-expired deals in Target’s Early ****** Friday *****, and Amazon is matching the offer. Just keep in mind that Target’s deal is scheduled to end today, November 10, at 7 AM PT / 10 AM ET. Amazon’s deal could disappear at the same time or even before then. The set was sold out at Amazon the past few days before its restock on Saturday. $70 ($100) The Walt Disney Tribute Camera includes three minifigures and two Lego animal figures Gallery The Walt Disney Tribute Camera Lego set was designed for adults and comes with 811 pieces that you’ll assemble to create a vintage-style camera with a tripod. It also has a hinged back panel with a film strip showcasing stills from 20 classic Disney movies. It includes a working crank and multiple lenses. The two film reels atop the camera form the zeroes in the number 100, which is a cool way to implement the 100th anniversary logo into the build. You’ll also put together a director’s clapperboard, which serves as a stand for the included minifigures: Walt Disney, Mickey, and Minnie. The Mickey and Minnie Mouse figures are based on their appearances in the old ******-and-white cartoons. You’ll also get Lego animal figures of Bambi and Dumbo. $31 ($40) | Click coupon box Disney 100 Celebration Train Lego Set For the young Disney fan in your life, check out the Disney 100 Celebration Train at Amazon for $31 (was $40). Make sure to click the coupon box on the listing to get the full discount. This is one of Lego’s playsets designed for preschoolers. The 200-piece set features a train engine, three cars designed as parade floats, and a small station. The Disney Celebration Train includes six minifigures: Mickey, Minnie, Woody from Toy Story, Moana, Tinker Bell, and Peter Pan. Source link #Walt #Disney #Tribute #Camera #Lego #Set #Deal #Restocked #Amazon #Big #Discount #Expires Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Car dealer who will be US Senator says he and Trump want to overhaul car industry Car dealer who will be US Senator says he and Trump want to overhaul car industry The first car dealer ever elected to the U.S. Senate says the Trump agenda for the U.S. auto industry is one that, if enacted, would upend the strategy Detroit’s automakers have spent billions of dollars pursuing: The transition to electric cars. For one thing, Republicans will look to freeze fuel economy standards for at least a decade — which would slow EV adoption and anger environmentalists. A second Donald Trump administration may also look to take away California’s ability to set its own strict emissions standards. Also, it is likely to repeal parts of the Inflation Reduction Act, including the $7,500 tax credit consumers receive now toward the purchase of an EV, a benefit that’s helped the Detroit automakers sell the cars. Trump’s agenda could also include rewarding companies with big tax breaks if they build cars in the ******* States. These initiatives were ***** out to the Detroit Free Press in an exclusive interview with Bernie Moreno, a former car dealer who won election Tuesday to the U.S. Senate from Ohio. Moreno said he and Trump, who endorsed each other, have discussed the industry and “I think we are on the same page here.” U.S. Sen.-elect Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, speaks at the *********** National Convention, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee on July 16, 2024. The ideas are eye-popping considering General Motors has set 2035 as the date to be all-electric. Ford Motor Co. and Stellantis also have aggressive targets to add electrification to their lineups over the next decade. Industry watchers have warned that government action to slow EV research and production will ultimately leave ********* automakers behind as the world electrifies automotive transportation. Environmental activists expressed alarm. “Gutting the clean car standards makes no sense for drivers and their wallets, autoworkers or really anyone who breathes,” said Kathy Harris, director for clean vehicles at Natural Resources Defense Council. “The vehicle standards are the largest single action taken to address climate change, cutting as much carbon pollution as the entire U.S. economy now emits annually. With climate-fueled storms and heat waves harming so many already, the only winners would be Trump’s donors in the oil industry, as drivers would pay more at the pump.” But Moreno, 57, backed by more than 1,000 auto dealers in a campaign that cost him and his rival, incumbent Democrat Sherrod Brown, a record $500 million, said the industry must focus on cars that people want to buy and can afford. Ignoring market and making ‘cars people don’t want’ Moreno touched on several topics, most notably his issue with automakers pushing out EVs to meet what he said are unrealistic government fuel economy standards. That, he said, is causing sky-high prices for gasoline vehicles so companies can offset the billions they are losing by producing EVs. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price for a new vehicle in the U.S. was $48,397 in September. “Anybody who even has a (basic) understanding of how the automobile industry works in America would tell you that the secret sauce is the marketplace,” Moreno said Thursday, noting that sales signal to automakers what consumers want and don’t want. “But for the first time in automotive history, car companies decided, ‘We’re not going to pay attention to our customers. We’re going to pay attention to our political leaders and make cars people don’t want,’ ” Moreno said. “The money that has been wasted and lost in this … move to electric vehicles is just absolutely insane. Ford has lost billions of dollars trying to pacify political leaders that were completely unqualified to be giving any kind of advice.” Ford’s EV division, called Ford Model e, lost $1.2 billion in pretax profits during the third quarter and is expected to lose about $5 billion by the year’s end. While EVs are not yet profitable, GM has promised Wall Street it would get its EVs to a variable profit position — meaning the revenue GM earns from selling the vehicle exceeds the direct cost of producing it — by year-end. Kelley Blue Book reported 346,309 EVs were sold in the third quarter in the country, a 7.8% increase from the year-ago quarter and putting the EV share of sales at 8.9%, the highest level recorded. But EV sales are still not growing at the pace the industry had been expecting, and Moreno’s contention is that most EV sales are being driven by incentives such as the $7,500 federal tax credit. Making an ‘********* automotive renaissance’ Moreno, the first car dealer elected to the Senate, is a 1989 graduate of the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He said he and President-elect Trump share the same vision for overhauling the ********* auto industry: They want to create more jobs, bring down prices of new vehicles, repeal many of the environmental regulations that are driving automakers’ aggressive EV push and keep foreign-built cars offshore with high barriers to entry. The plan includes lowering energy prices and incentivizing automakers to shift all manufacturing to the ******* States. “We’re going to have an ********* energy and ********* automotive renaissance in this country unlike anything you’ve seen,” Moreno said. Ohio car dealer Bernie Moreno works with Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel, left, to pay some state business taxes with Bitcoin in November 2018. He noted that all the initiatives would have to pass through Congress and Trump would have to support them as well, but Moreno said the two are like-minded. It’s “the reason President Trump endorsed me and I endorsed President Trump,” Moreno said. A Trump spokesperson had not responded Friday morning to a message seeking comment. Keeping China’s ‘garbage cars’ offshore That includes the idea of doing whatever it takes to ensure vehicles are made in America, not China or Mexico and then imported here. “The minute that China thinks they can come here with their cheap, fully electric garbage cars … they’re sadly mistaken. These cars will come in here with dramatically high tariffs that will make those cars unsellable,” Moreno said. “We’re not going to be suckers anymore. We’re going to protect ********* workers and ********* jobs.” Industry watchers have praised the quality of cars and their advanced battery technology produced by China’s BYD, which late last year briefly slipped ahead of Tesla in global EV sales. Trump has said he would impose a 10% to 20% tariff, the taxes put on goods coming into a country, on all imports, including tariffs as high as 60% to 100% for goods from China. Moreno said if some auto parts can’t be made here, “we’re not going to tariff those things immediately,” but anything that can be made here should be made here, he said. “Look, Lincoln has decided to make a lot of its cars in China and that’s a bad decision,” Moreno said. “They’re going to find that it’s a very bad decision. They should be making those cars here.” Ford builds the Lincoln Nautilus in China and GM builds its Buick Envision in China, both SUVs that are sold in the ******* States. All three Detroit automakers build various vehicles in Mexico that are sold in the U.S. Ford said that over the past five years, it has exported more vehicles made in America to China than the other way around. Also, while its luxury brand, Lincoln, imports one model into the U.S., Ford has exported many more models, such as F-150, Mustang, Bronco, Explorer and Lincoln Continental, Aviator and Navigator. Ford spokeswoman Robyn Jackson said in a statement to the Free Press, “Ford has bet on U.S. production and ********* workers more than any other automaker. As the No. 1 automaker in terms of production, employment and exporting vehicles from the USA to other markets, we look forward to working with the new administration and new Congress on policies that will ensure a thriving ********* auto industry and manufacturing sector. We are committed to offering customers the freedom of choice — great gas, hybrid and electric vehicles.” Stern words for Stellantis Moreno also had stern words for another member of the Detroit Three, noting that “companies like, Stellantis, which the ******* States government handed Chrysler Corp. for free in essence, they are laying off workers and shipping our jobs to Mexico. CEO Carlos Tavares needs to understand the ******* States government is not going to allow him to gut Chrysler, and Jeep, and Dodge, and Ram, and ship those cars and the direction overseas, in managing a company that was handed to them for free, which never should have been done.” Moreno was referencing the way Chrysler came to be part of Stellantis predecessor Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in connection with the company’s 2009 bankruptcy. Stellantis has come under ***** for numerous job cuts this year as it has struggled to manage its inventory levels, and on Wednesday announced it would eliminate a shift at the Toledo Assembly Complex, meaning layoffs for 1,100 workers. The company has also confirmed it is expanding its truck plant in Saltillo, Mexico. Jodi Tinson, a spokeswoman for Stellantis, said in a statement to the Free Press: “Stellantis congratulates Senator-elect Bernie Moreno on his election to the U.S. Senate. Because Toledo, Ohio, is an important part of our manufacturing footprint as the production home of the iconic Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator sold worldwide, we look forward to working with the senator-elect on policies that support a strong and competitive manufacturing base in the U.S.” Old GM plant is symbolic of what needs to happen next A native of Colombia, Moreno grew up in Florida before attending U-M. He had a dream of working for an automaker and at age 14, wrote a letter to General Motors’ then-CEO Roger Smith, suggesting ways Smith could improve the company. Smith wrote a lengthy reply, which Moreno still has, that began: “It’s not often I receive a letter from someone who is planning to take over my job,” according to a 2017 article on Moreno in Automotive News. After a stint from 1987 to 1993 with then-GM brand Saturn, Moreno segued into auto retail, eventually building an empire of 15 dealerships across Ohio, Kentucky, Massachusetts and Florida that represented 30 brands. In 2017, he told Automotive News his brands generated more than $700 million in annual revenue. But by 2020, he sold all of his car dealerships. Moreno’s entrepreneurial drive centered on the car business. In 2018, when GM first announced it would permanently close its Lordstown Assembly plant in northeast Ohio, which built the Chevrolet Cruze sedan, Moreno tried to save it. As the Free Press reported in 2019, Moreno met with GM leaders. He wanted to buy 150,000 to 180,000 Cruze cars to start a global ride-hailing company similar to Uber. GM CEO Mary Barra rejected the idea. GM shuttered Lordstown that spring. At that time, then-President Trump targeted GM and a local UAW president in tweets urging the carmaker to reopen the plant. But GM sold it to electric-truck maker Lordstown Motors that year. Lordstown Motors filed for federal bankruptcy protection in June 2023. Foxconn, a Taiwan-based electronics assembler, now owns the 6.2 million-square-foot auto assembly plant in Lordstown, but it sits idle. Moreno drives past it often and he said it serves inspiration for his U.S. auto industry overhaul plans. “I want to see that plant producing automobiles again,” Moreno said. “It is symbolic of what we need to do. We need to turn things around. That community did everything right. These are people who went to work every single day. They followed the rules, they tried to raise their families, and make ends meet and the rug got pulled out from under them. That’s got to end.” Toyota is poised to win as the EV tax credit goes away Moreno said he knows Barra and considers her a “very capable CEO.” Asked to comment on Moreno’s initiatives for the auto industry, GM spokeswoman Liz Winter sent the following statement: “We look forward to working with Senator-elect Moreno on important issues ahead for the auto industry. GM ******** committed to supporting jobs, driving innovation, and keeping America competitive globally. We’ve invested more than $5.6 billion in GM facilities in Ohio since 2013, including a ****** venture with LG Energy Solution that employs 2,200 people and positions the industry for the future.” Moreno said he is eager to meet Ford CEO Jim Farley and Stellantis CEO Tavares. His closest relationships now are with leaders at Toyota Motor North America, which he said helped organize the coalition of car dealers that supported his Senate run. “The winner in this whole thing will probably be Toyota because they were the one company that said, ‘We’re just not going to do that,’ ” Moreno said. By “that” he means follow what he and Trump refer to as the “EV mandate.” To be clear: No law or rule forces carmakers to make EVs or consumers to purchase them. Moreno is referring to tightened fuel-economy standards under the Biden administration. The administration ruled earlier this year that new vehicles sold in the U.S. will have to meet a fleet average about 38 mpg by 2031 in real-world driving, up from about 29 mpg, according to The Associated Press. Also, the Environmental Protection Agency has adopted stricter tailpipe-emissions rules. Biden has set a goal for 50% of all sales be EVs by 2030, but it is a target not a mandate. But Moreno said the strict requirements essentially force carmakers to push EVs. He said Toyota bucked the trend and set a model the rest of the industry should follow by investing heavily in hybrids rather than all-electric. Toyota did not respond to a request for comment on this story. “The problem with GM, Ford and Stellantis is that they made the decision to pacify the Biden-Harris administration and not call them out for the ridiculousness of their electric vehicle policies,” Moreno said. “Toyota, in listening to their car dealers, they planned to have the cars that consumers wanted. So the big winner now is Toyota because they don’t have to pivot.” The Detroit Three need to revisit their strategies because the electric vehicle tax credit will likely disappear. “The ******* States government — if I have anything to do with it, I’m one of 100 people and President Trump obviously makes a decision on this as well — but my suspicion is that electric vehicle subsidies are gone,” Moreno said. “So now there’s no subsidy. You buy an electric vehicle, the car stands on its own.” Some more proposed changes Here are some more of Moreno’s specific proposals: Repealing the emission standards that, in effect, can only be met through selling electric vehicles. Freezing Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards for \”at least a decade.\” Prohibiting California from following a separate set of emission standards from the rest of the nation. The CAFE standards are part of the Clean Air Act. California gets a waiver to set its own, tougher requirements, which now require that all new vehicles sold there by 2035 be only zero-emission vehicles in an effort to ****** pollution and climate change. That influences manufacturers’ vehicle mix because California is the nation’s largest car market. For all of last year, 1.78 million cars were sold in California alone, according to the California New Car Dealers Association. Moreno said it makes sense to hit pause on fuel-economy standards because, “We hit an incredibly high number, let’s pause these requirements for at least a decade to let the marketplace catch up, the technology catch up.” Katherine García, Sierra Club’s director of Clean Transportation for All, said that won’t happen without a ******. “The nation’s clean vehicle standards are a bedrock environmental safeguard that slash an enormous amount of health-threatening pollution, and we are prepared to ****** any rollback of them, including threats to CAFE standards and California’s authority to set its own more protective standards,” she said. “We’ve been here before, and we have and will ****** back against Trump’s extreme anti-environment, anti-middle class agenda and defend and build on the progress we’ve made over the last four years on clean transportation and climate.” Less competitive in global markets, adverse health affects Abhilasha Bhola, auto supply chain director on the climate team at the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, warned that Moreno’s idea to freeze CAFE standards would hurt communities. “His vision has the potential to turn every auto town in America into a version of what happened to Flint, Michigan, in the 1990s,” she said of a time when numerous auto plants had closed there. With countries in Europe and East Asia continuing to invest in electrification and with CAFE standards supporting electrification here, the U.S. auto industry would suffer if those standards are pulled, she said. ”We risk falling further behind other countries and reducing demand for *********-made cars abroad,” she said. “Bernie Moreno and Trump’s auto policy makes us less competitive in global markets and that causes regular people to face some of the worst impacts.” It would also directly lead to worse health outcomes for Americans, she said. “Doubling down on (internal) combustion engines through reduced efficiency standards is sentencing millions of Americans to ****** air and increased respiratory illness,” she said. “Smog from cars causes incredible health impacts. It means upper respiratory illness. It means people are missing work, school. There’s increased impacts and stress on our healthcare system, and this reduces quality of life.” California’s leadership in reducing harmful emissions is important, she said. “California is also the largest auto market in the country. It’s not just Californians that are impacted by those emissions. That smog travels to other states. So by getting rid of the California waiver and forcing the state to not have stricter standards, it means that the rest of the country suffers, too,” Bhola said. A spokesman for the California Air Resources Board declined comment on what the next Trump administration might do. California Gov. Gavin Newsome on Thursday called a special legislative session to strengthen the state’s progressive policies. Despite the possibility that the incoming administration might make such sweeping changes to vehicle standards, Bhola said she doesn’t believe “all hope is lost.” It will simply require a shift in focus. “I think there is an opportunity for states and cities to put forward their own environmental regulations,” she said, noting that those areas can continue to create incentives for EV uptake and to lower emissions and create good jobs. Moreno: Give automakers tax write-off for US wages Another proposed agenda item for Moreno is bringing down new vehicle prices, which he said can be done by lowering interest rates as inflation comes down. Also, lowering the regulatory environment for the car companies will help lower prices. “We need to repeal the part of the infrastructure law that requires all 2026 model-year vehicles to have an alcohol-impairment device each time the car starts,” Moreno said. “The reason is very simple: Those of us, like myself, who do not drink alcohol, why am I paying for a device to check my impairment? It adds cost.” But in 2022, more than 13,000 people were ******* in incidents related to ******** driving, according to federal statistics. U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Ann Arbor, who pushed for the law, said the technology can save lives. Finally, he suggests a new tax code that rewards ********* companies. “I’ll give you an example, if you’re an ********* company that employs ********* workers, maybe you can write off whatever you pay in salaries twice,” Moreno said. “So if you pay $10 million in salary and wages, you get an additional $10 million tax write-off. That encourages companies to pay their employees more money.” But some say the U.S. auto industry would actually suffer Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, questioned the logic behind any plans that would effectively discourage innovation and efficiency improvements, such as California’s ability to set its own emissions standards. “It’s good to have somebody pushing the boundaries of what’s available in the marketplace,” Fiorani said. “Focusing strictly on what the ********* consumer wants today will make (automakers) less competitive in five to 10 years.” Trump and the economy: How Trump’s victory could affect the US economy Whether it’s the incoming administration’s ******* to limit what California can do or to freeze fuel economy standards for a decade, the impact would hurt automakers and everyone who depends on them in the long run, Fiorani said. “The global automotive industry is progressing at such a rate at the moment that ********* companies will be left behind if we concentrate on full-size pickups and SUVs,” Fiorani said He noted that he also writes about automotive history and offered a lesson from the past that would appear to have relevance in this discussion. “These cars from the ‘70s that were bloated and only in demand in the ******* States meant that foreign auto manufacturers could come in here and appeal to the customers with newer products and more efficient products and products that existing companies wouldn’t see as profitable,” he said. ********* car companies were woefully noncompetitive on a global scale 50 years ago, and pushing for higher fuel economy standards at least pulled them up to the level of the competition, he said. Fiorani warned that electric vehicles and hybridization are the future, and delaying any investments would be detrimental for automakers. As for what gets produced in Mexico, Fiorani said the Detroit Three currently produce a handful of vehicles there and usually for competitive reasons. Bringing all those vehicles to the ******* States would likely increase prices and decrease the demand for them. Ohio and Michigan will lead the way More: Experts: Trump presidency could benefit Detroit automakers, but cost car buyers more One of Trump’s biggest supporters has been Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and as a reward for it, Trump has promised Musk a quasi-Cabinet position. Moreno said it’s a brilliant plan. “We could take $2 trillion a year in savings out of the federal government, there’s no question in my mind about that,” Moreno said of Musk. “We can’t afford the government we have right now.” He believes Musk would help add efficiency, remove unnecessary departments and rid Washingon of bureaucrats who are “spinning their wheels.” He noted how Musk built some 25,000 Tesla charging stations across the country and the U.S. government has still built just a fraction of that. Moreno promises if Trump’s autos agenda is enacted, “It’ll be the golden age of manufacturing in America with Ohio and Michigan leading the way.” Contact Jamie L. LaReau: *****@*****.tld. Follow her on Twitter @jlareauan. Read more on General Motors and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber. This story has been updated with additional information. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Senator-elect says he joins Trump in wanting to overhaul car industry Source link #Car #dealer #Senator #Trump #overhaul #car #industry Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

CSIS international relations expert Charles Edel delivers Trump tariff warning CSIS international relations expert Charles Edel delivers Trump tariff warning A leading expert in international relations has warned that *********** policymakers will need to court US President-elect Donald Trump directly to avoid punishing tariffs from the world’s largest economy. Center for Strategic and International Studies Australia chair Charles Edel, speaking with ABC Insiders on Sunday, said it was not clear whether Australia could avoid the imposition of tariffs in President Trump’s second administration, though Australia was in a more favourable position than other Asia-Pacific nations such as China. “It (Australia) has a trade deficit with the US,” he said. “For reasons that only Donald Trump knows, this matters enormously to him. “But … Donald Trump has to hear the case directly from Australia. “It’s why personal relationships matter a lot. “The fact that Australia runs a deficit with the US should be a pretty good argument for their case but they have to make that case with facts and figures directly to Trump himself.” Camera IconCSIS fellow Charles Edel told ABC Insiders on Sunday *********** diplomats and politicians would need to appeal directly to President Donald Trump to maintain AUKUS and to avoid punishing tariffs. ABC Credit: Supplied A tariff is a tax on imported goods, and if the US imposed a tariff on *********** goods, it would degrade Australia’s export-dependent economy, and possibly lead to domestic job losses. Mr Trump has threatened to impose an across-the-board 20 per cent tariff on all imported goods, with a potentially higher rate for competitor nations such as China. “Trump has said he is ‘tariff man’,” Mr Edel said. “He loves tariffs. It is the tool he reaches to for just about everything.” Mr Trump argues tariffs would boost America’s domestic manufacturing capacity. Mr Edel also warned previous disparaging remarks about President Trump from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and current Ambassador to the US Kevin Rudd “might” colour their interactions with the mercurial leader moving forward. “It depends how Trump reacts and it’s very hard to predict how he reacts in the middle in the night,” he said. But Mr Edel argued what someone had said about Mr Trump in the past was often less important than what was said about him in the present and future, noting President Trump’s vice president, JD Vance, had previously referred to him as “moral disaster”. “‘What have you done for me today?’ is I think how Donald Trump sees the world,” Mr Edel said. Mr Edel also said it was unclear how a second Trump administration would assess the AUKUS agreement between the US, Australia and the ***. “I think we don’t know, if we’re going to be honest,” he said. “He (President Trump) will be a deciding factor on this. It depends how well Aus can prosecute its case to Trump.” Under AUKUS, Australia will acquire conventionally-armed, nuclear powered submarines, with the *********** government set to shell out up to $368bn in the next three decades to get them. Source link #CSIS #international #relations #expert #Charles #Edel #delivers #Trump #tariff #warning Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Denver dad claims he was fired from his job for taking state family leave benefits Denver dad claims he was fired from his job for taking state family leave benefits When Ryan Tartar’s daughter Sunny was born, he was excited to take time off work to bond with her. Thanks to Colorado’s FAMLI program, workers in the state can take up to 12 weeks of paid leave within a year following a child’s birth. Tartar applied for leave and received an email on March 13 from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) saying he’d been approved. The same day his employer had been notified and decided to ***** him. “I am forced to let you go in order to replace you with an employee that will show up reliably and on time,” his boss wrote in the email that evening “It was extremely disappointing,” Tartar told 9NEWS Steve On Your Side. “That the ******* would have happened and then the grievance on top of it seems very retaliatory.” Despite being terminated, Tartar still thought he was eligible for the program. H claims he contacted the state several times to verify his eligibility and was assured he would receive payments. Two weeks later, he and his family set off on a road trip to introduce his daughter to the rest of the family. For four weeks, he received weekly payments. But before the fifth payment hit his account, Tartar received a notification from the program stating that his ex-employer had filed a grievance and he was deemed ineligible for the program. “Then I get another email back like the next day saying that I need to pay back what I had been receiving or I’ve had received so far,” he said. “So, I mean, in the middle of our road trip, that was a big hit.” Colorado’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program, or FAMLI, is funded by a fee of 0.9% of the employee’s wage, which is split between the employers and employees. The act allows workers to apply for leave after the birth of a child, for medical issues, to care for a family member, and domestic ********* victims escaping their abusers. The Colorado Department of Employment told Steve on Your Side that 50,000 parents have applied for up to 12 weeks of paid leave since the program launched in January. It also offers job protection while an employee is on leave to prevent retaliation — or it’s supposed to. The site also directs users to file a complaint if they experience retaliation and states employers who act unlawfully may be liable for monetary damages and to rehire workers they retaliate against. Story Continues But now, the state has told Tartar he was never eligible because he was unemployed when the leave started — and they want him to pay back the more than $3,400 he’s already received. Read more: 5 ways to boost your net worth now — easily up your money game without altering your day-to-day life Tartar believes his employer retaliated against him for taking leave and filed a complaint with the state — and he’s not alone. The Steve On Your Side team discovered that 203 families have complained to the state about similar retaliation since the program began offering benefits in January 2024. Nearly 160 complaints, including Tartar’s, were dismissed. The rest are under investigation or have been voluntarily dismissed. According to Tartar’s employer, he was fired for other reasons, though documentation submitted in response to his complaint was limited. “They’ve designed a system that gives that employer anywhere from a week to two weeks to decide, ‘I don’t want this person to get these benefits,’ and then they can just ***** you in whatever manner they please,” Tartar said. “What was supposed to be a fun and enjoy[able] trip turned in to be extremely stressful.” Tartar’s experience is leaving many to question whether the program truly protects employees from retaliation — or if more safeguards are needed to protect families already in a vulnerable position. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Source link #Denver #dad #claims #fired #job #state #family #leave #benefits Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pakistan steamroll to ODI series victory over Australia in Perth Pakistan steamroll to ODI series victory over Australia in Perth Australia were left left red-faced after their brittle batting order was exposed as Pakistan steamrolled to ODI series victory at Optus Stadium on Sunday by eight wickets. The hosts’ apparent lack of care for the result came back to ***** as Australia’s next-gen XI were blown away for a meagre 140, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf making Perth their swing-bowling playground. Pakistan then showed the Aussies how it’s done, chasing the total and claiming their first series win over the powerhouse nation in 22 years with consummate ease. They lost just two wickets and needed little more than half an innings to reel in the target. With the series squared 1-1, Australia made a fleet of changes, with stars Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Steve Smith, Josh Hazlewood and Marnus Labuschagne rested ahead of the Test series against India. West Aussies Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly and Lance Morris were parachuted in alongside Spencer Johnson and Sean Abbott, with Josh Inglis taking the reins as stand-in skipper. But after being sent in to bat, it quickly turned to tatters. Australia’s top order fell inside the first 10 overs before Connolly was struck down with a hand injury and sent for scans. The ***** exposed Stoinis and the out-of-form Glenn Maxwell who couldn’t provide a rescue mission towards even a semi-competitive total. Matt Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk were able to survive the dreaded third over, where the first wicket has fallen for Australia in each of the first two matches, but lasted just one ball beyond it. Fraser-McGurk was caught rooted to the crease by Shah, wafting at and nicking a length ball that moved away and into Mohammed Rizwan’s grateful gloves. Shaheen made Aaron Hardie’s promotion to first drop a nightmare, hitting both pads, beating the inside edge and catching the outside edge before the Perth Scorchers captain finally glided a genius surprise outswinger to slip while attempting to withdraw the willow. Inglis then fell for just seven trying to pull, bringing rising star Connolly to the crease for the first time in the international arena. He was off the mark first ball against Shah before Pakistan decided he would be given a baptism of ***** against electric speedster Rauf. Camera IconHaris Rauf of Pakistan celebrates the wicket of Glenn Maxwell. Credit: Paul Kane/Getty Images The left-hander showed good confidence before his partner, Short, felt *****, line and sinker for the short-ball trap, caught pulling into the vast expanse of leg-side acreage for 22. Stoinis faced a stern exam as he made his ODI return, but the wheels began to fall off for the hosts as Connolly was forced to leave the ground after a Mohammad Hasnain short ball smashed into his knuckles. Rauf made very light work of Maxwell, who, in nine ****** faced against the lightning-quick Pakistani this series, has been dismissed three times for four runs. A poor attempt to run the ball to third man off the back foot nicked off Stoinis, leaving the Aussies 6-88, effectively seven, with Connolly sent for scans. Camera IconShaheen Shad Afridi of Pakistan appeals a wicket. Credit: Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images Adam Zampa and Abbott added 30 as Afridi nursed a dislocated thumb, but the end came quick as Rauf was brought back into the ******* to deal with the tail. Abbott ended with 30 as Australia were curtly dismissed for 140. Pakistan made a sedate start to the chase as Johnson probed the outside edge while Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub played Stoinis with caution. Johnson earned a chance with a thick outside edge, but Morris grassed a tough chance diving forward at third man to hand Saim a life. Camera IconLance Morris of Australia celebrates the wicket of Abdullah Shafique. Credit: Paul Kane/Getty Images Johnson had his own moment to forget at fine leg, dropping a non-catch from a free hit onto the boundary bollards for a maximum trying to be cute. Zampa had another drop at fine leg, almost a replay of his spilt chance in Adelaide. A change of ends for Morris, who clocked speeds in the mid-140km/h, finally brought the breakthrough, with Abdullah caught and bowled for 37. It became double delight as Saim chopped the ball into his stumps for 42 to end the over. However, the Aussies’ joy ended there as Rizwan and Babar Azam gave the Pakistan fans half an hour of classic ******* play, including two big maximums, to finish off the run chase. Source link #Pakistan #steamroll #ODI #series #victory #Australia #Perth Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

India’s rice inventories hit record high, triples govt target India’s rice inventories hit record high, triples govt target By Mayank Bhardwaj and Rajendra Jadhav NEW DELHI (Reuters) – India’s rice inventories surged to an all-time high of 29.7 million metric tons in November, sources said on Friday, nearly three times the government’s target, as export curbs imposed over the past two years bumped up local supplies. Higher stocks would allow the world’s biggest rice exporter to boost shipments without worrying about domestic supplies, which were limited last year and led New Delhi to restrict exports of all grades. Rice reserves in state granaries totalled 29.7 million tons at the start of this month, up 48.5% from a year ago, said the sources who did not wish to be named in line with official rules. In the middle of overflowing grain bins, Indian farmers have gathered a record rice crop of 120 million tons from this year’s summer season, which accounts for nearly 85% of total rice output. As the new crop rolls in, stocks at the Food Corporation of India (FCI) – the state stockpiler – are set to increase further in the months to come, raising storage concerns in the world’s second-biggest rice producer. The FCI is expected to buy 48.5 million tons of the new summer-sown rice in the marketing year that began on Oct. 1, up from 46.3 million tons bought from farmers in 2023-24. “Rice stocks are substantially higher, and stock levels will go up only because of bumper production in the new season,” a senior government official said. This year’s copious monsoon rains also prompted farmers to expand planting areas. Concerned over patchy monsoon rains, India imposed export curbs last year. However, New Delhi allowed exports of all grades except 100% broken rice this year. Removing export curbs would accelerate exports in the coming months and reduce the government’s pressure to procure rice, said B.V. Krishna Rao, an exporter. Farmers from India’s breadbasket states of Punjab and Haryana complain that FCI has slowed down its purchases of the new season rice crop due to storage issues, forcing growers to wait at wholesale grain markets. Rice stocks have backed up at the wholesale markets, leading to losses for farmers, said Ramandeep Singh Mann, a farmer from Punjab. Farmers incur extra costs because they are forced to wait at the markets with their crops loaded onto tractor trolleys, and long delays in the open could also spoil the crop, Mann said. “Seeing the delays in wholesale markets, some farmers have not even harvested their rice crop,” said Devinder Sharma, an independent farm food policy expert. “The time is running out for harvests.” (Reporting by Mayank Bhardwaj and Rajendra Jadhav; Editing by Varun H K) Source link #Indias #rice #inventories #hit #record #high #triples #govt #target Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]