The Chicago Journal

Sarah Jones – Bringing marginalized communities to the attention of mainstream media

Mass media have a huge reach in society and play a pivotal role in making people learn about each other. Despite the growing world of the internet and evolving technologies in the media, some people are still marginalized, and they do not get sufficient media attention to have their problems addressed. Journalists that cover underrepresented areas sometimes characterize their job in terms of a moral imperative that requires them to focus on long-term social challenges rather than impartiality or objectivity. The objective of journalism has never been simply to recite events in the manner of a scribe or to synthesize knowledge. Instead, the purpose of journalism in society — and the primary justification for preserving and protecting it — is to serve the public interest, which is consistent with the country’s objective of dignity for all.

Journalists play an essential role in bringing marginalized communities to the attention of mainstream media through their investments in journalism. Sarah Jones is the latest example of such a journalist who has dedicated her life to journalism and is the voice of the voiceless. As a journalist, Jones’ reports focus on underreported news. She is the essential mind behind launching a program called “Seen and Heard,” a current affairs and cultural show that focuses equally on communities normally overlooked in mainstream media.

Journalism does not seek truth in an absolute or philosophical sense but rather in a more practical one. Journalists are supposed to be as transparent as possible about sources and approaches so audiences can assess the information. Jones, as a journalist, relies on bringing accurate news to the audience and is a focused and driven journalist. Since every story has two sides, Jones looks for different angles of each story and how to best convey it to the audience. She has a significant talent for storytelling that focuses on all aspects: memorable visuals, attention-grabbing words, and the ability to tie it all together in such a way that viewers are drawn into the story.

Jones has long criticized mainstream media for emphasizing narratives above objective journalism. She covers issues that the mainstream media frequently overlooks, even when there is still a lot of material to cover. She rises to the occasion, presenting informative report after informative report. Jones aims to make a more informed public. She founded the “Seen and Heard” initiative to bring underreported stories to the attention of mainstream media. The program’s goal was to give equal exposure to populations who have been marginalized in mainstream media. Jones’ talent and vision are essential for the voiceless to be heard. She received much help and raised $8,000 in less than two months through Gofundme.com to fund the program’s pilot.

Jones has written a book that may be used to talk meaningfully with children about conflicts. Jones was nominated and attended the National Security Seminar at the Army War College’s request. Her work, “A Kids Book About War,” is a unique approach to a complicated issue with a simple concept. Her book has been a valuable resource for first graders in having a wonderful dialogue about current events, their thoughts, and their opinions on many topics, and it helps them feel heard.

Jones has filmed, edited, produced, and written her news pieces for mainstream media for years. Her stories have the power to reach out to a big audience and capture their interest. Her work has consistently stood out at every previous organization for which she has worked. Jones’s commitment to getting to the heart of the matter has distinguished her. She takes her profession seriously and works hard to ensure that the facts are correct and devoid of any disagreement. Her work is always well-written, extensively researched, and well-prepared.

When working as an assistant news editor for Al Jazeera America in New York, she was one of her division’s most efficient and detail-oriented staffers. Jones has previously held similar standards at BBC World Services in England, CNN, TRT in Istanbul, Turkey, and NBC Midwest. Her work and never-ending passion for social media demonstrate her ambition and love for the field. Her social media presence has established her as a famous and prolific online writer. Jones is also a notable podcast host of “Sarah Jones Break it Down,” which received a positive rating from CommonSense in terms of providing authentic and trustworthy information for more than 100 million children and families on a global scale. 

To put it short, Sarah Jones sets a prime example of a journalist whose passion for the profession is evident through her work, whether it be her penning a book for the kids, covering stories about underreported communities and veterans, and even paying tribute to the fallen journalists.

Secure Gateway®️ is Comprehensive Security for Modern App and APIs

Secure Gateway®️ is a lightweight yet robust security solution that seamlessly integrates into DevOps environments, serving as both a web application firewall (WAF) and Layer 7 denial-of-service (DoS) defense. This innovative technology, invented by ALSCO, Secure Gateway®,️is a registered trademark with number 5899344 and has been granted two patents, with patent numbers 10498760 and 10630721.

Secure Gateway®️ is platform-agnostic and compatible with distributed architectures and hybrid environments. This flexibility delivers consistent protection against a wide range of online threats while ensuring a smooth and efficient software delivery process.

In summary, Secure Gateway®️ is a comprehensive and reliable security solution that offers seamless integration into DevOps environments, providing consistent and innovative protection for your applications and systems.

Why Use a Secure Gateway®️ ?

Secure Gateway

Platform-Agnostic Security Deployment

Across dispersed architectures and scenarios, including on-premises, hybrid, and multi-cloud, use the same WAF and DoS defense solution. With Secure Gateway®, you can:

 – Use the Secure Gateway® portfolio for single-vendor app and API protection and threat mitigation to reduce complexity and tool sprawl.

– Deploy this incredibly adaptable software form factor across all modern app topologies, including per-service or per-pod proxies inside the Kubernetes cluster, as well as API gateways and Kubernetes Ingress controllers.

Scale your Kubernetes apps in the cloud with a lightweight, high-performance, low-latency, and low-compute security solution. – Create uniform security rules for web apps, microservices, containers, and APIs.

– Use in CI/CD processes for straightforward security automation

Scalable, High-Performance App and API Protection

Use the lightweight, high performance of Secure Gateway® and the tried-and-true powerful WAF technology for a quick, scalable Layer 7 defense. Use Secure Gateway® to:

– Add more than 15,900 advanced signatures, bot signatures, and threat campaign protection to basic OWASP Top 10 security.

– Guard HTTP/S and HTTP/2 apps within your company, as well as protocols like gRPC and WebSocket.

– Substantially reduce false positives by using trusted, high-confidence signatures when deploying in blocking mode.

– Provide scalable, low-cost distributed DoS (DDoS) protection with adaptive learning for no-touch policy configuration and continuous monitoring of mitigation effectiveness.

– Using built-in Secure Gateway® tools or by sending telemetry to third-party solutions, you can quickly achieve centralized visibility and configuration management over your WAF fleet.

Shift Left for DevSecOps

Enabling a shift-left approach where security is integrated into the software development lifecycle at every level (SDLC). Use Secure Gateway® to:

– Use security automation to cut the cost of breaches by up to 80%.

– Implement DevSecOps, which enables developers to include security as code into CI/CD pipelines, using declarative security policies developed by IT security teams.

Finding and patching vulnerabilities before an app’s introduction into production might help you save time and money.

– Retain developer innovation and agility while creating more dependable apps.

– Quicken time to market while cutting costs, maintaining one step ahead of the competition and satisfying client demand.

Robust WAF Security

For DevOps environments, increase security, speed up DevOps, and make managing your apps and APIs easier. You can: use Secure Gateway® WAF.

– Release apps faster with security automation that effortlessly integrates into CI/CD pipelines. – Exceed basic OWASP Top 10 protection with over 10,900 advanced signatures, bot signatures, and threat campaign protection.

Gain centralized visibility and simple security policy management for complete control of your WAF fleet with Secure Gateway®Management Suite. Deploy as an embedded solution on Secure Gateway®Ingress Controller across all topologies, from the edge load balancer to inside a Kubernetes cluster as a per-pod proxy.

Secure Gateway

Denial of Service Mitigation for Layer 7 Attacks

Improve security, automate defense, and quicken Layer 7 DoS attack protection for your apps and APIs. You can: use Secure Gateway®-DoS.

Employ machine learning to drastically reduce false positives and adaptive learning for no-touch policy configuration to mitigate assaults faster with a multi-layered security strategy with eBPF technology.

– Obtain better threat detection by using combined service health checks that go beyond observing client traffic patterns.

– Integrate seamlessly with Secure Gateway® Plus or Secure Gateway® Ingress Controller to deploy embedded DoS protection on the load balancer, API gateway, Ingress Controller, or inside the Kubernetes cluster as per-pod or per-service proxies.

– Integrate DevSecOps’ security-as-code automation into CI/CD pipelines.

Beyond the Dam: Kenneth W. Welch Jr.’s Visionary Approach to Hydropower with the Nexus System

As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, the need to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources has never been more urgent. Governments, businesses, and individuals are investing in renewable technologies like wind, solar, and hydropower to mitigate the environmental impact of energy production. This article explores the benefits and limitations of these energy sources as we look towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Wind and solar energy are often hailed as the forerunners of the renewable energy revolution. Wind turbines harness the power of air currents to generate electricity, while solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into energy. Both technologies have seen significant advancements in recent years, with falling costs and increased efficiency. In fact, global renewable energy capacity has increased by over 260% from 2008 to 2020, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Kenneth W. Welch Jr.

However, these energy sources come with their own set of limitations. Wind power, for example, is inherently variable and can be unpredictable. Turbines require consistent wind speeds to operate efficiently, which means they may not be suitable for every region. The Cape Wind project in Massachusetts, once planned as the first offshore wind farm in the United States, faced strong opposition from local communities due to concerns about noise pollution and the visual impact of wind turbines on landscapes.

Solar power, too, has its drawbacks. While the cost of solar panels has decreased, they still require a significant upfront investment. The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System in California, one of the largest solar thermal power plants in the world, faced challenges with high initial costs and concerns over its impact on local wildlife. Additionally, solar panels rely on sunlight, making them less effective in areas with limited sunshine or during times of the year when daylight hours are shorter. Energy storage solutions, such as batteries, are often necessary to store excess energy generated during peak times, adding to the overall cost of solar power.

Hydropower, which uses the force of flowing water to generate electricity, is another renewable energy source with immense potential. It is the largest source of renewable electricity in the United States, accounting for about 38% of the country’s renewable energy production in 2020, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. However, traditional hydropower relies on dams, which can have significant environmental and social consequences.

The construction of the Belo Monte Dam in Brazil, for instance, faced opposition due to its impact on the environment and the displacement of thousands of indigenous people. Dams alter natural waterways, disrupt ecosystems, and can lead to the emission of greenhouse gases, as trapped organic matter in reservoirs decomposes and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

As the world seeks cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations of current renewable technologies. The ongoing search for innovative solutions that address these challenges is driving the development of new technologies, some of which have the potential to revolutionize the renewable energy landscape. We will now explore the work of Kenneth W. Welch Jr., a sustainability inventor who has developed a groundbreaking, dam-free hydropower system that could help overcome the challenges faced by traditional renewable energy sources.

Kenneth W. Welch Jr. and the Hydropower Nexus

In the pursuit of innovative solutions to renewable energy challenges, sustainability inventor Kenneth W. Welch Jr. has made significant strides with his Hydropower Nexus, a groundbreaking dam-free, commercial-scale system that harnesses various forms of water power, such as tidal, wave, current, and river energy. To understand the ingenuity behind this technology, it’s crucial to delve into its key components: the SeaDog Energy Stalling Device and the Fulcrum Pond Pounder.

The SeaDog Energy Stalling Device is designed to harness the power of ocean waves by utilizing a series of pumps and pistons, converting wave motion into mechanical energy. When combined with the Fulcrum Pond Pounder, a patented wave-generating technology that requires only 1/10th of the energy of comparable devices, the result is a highly efficient wave energy system. This unique combination allows the SeaDog Hydropower Nexus to generate cost-effective, grid-scale energy on land without relying on the ocean or building dams, setting it apart from traditional wave energy systems.

Mr. Welch’s Hydropower Nexus has the potential to power entire cities using a subterranean system, offering a clean and sustainable energy solution with a minimal footprint. In fact, the technology could support a population of over 2.4 million people while catering to the energy needs of its local economy, all on an aggregate footprint of a square mile or less. This makes it an ideal choice for eco-green cities or communities, as well as existing infrastructure projects.

Kenneth W. Welch Jr.’s dedication to addressing the limitations of current renewable energy sources has garnered praise from industry experts and researchers alike. One expert noted, “The SeaDog Hydropower Nexus offers a promising solution to the limitations of current renewable energy sources. Its efficiency and adaptability could significantly contribute to reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.”

By developing the SeaDog Hydropower Nexus, Mr. Welch has demonstrated his commitment to finding innovative and sustainable solutions that have the potential to transform the renewable energy sector. His vision and determination are commendable, as they pave the way for a more sustainable future that benefits communities around the world.

In conclusion, the innovations of Kenneth W. Welch Jr., including the SeaDog Hydropower Nexus, represent a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable energy solutions that can coexist with our planet’s natural resources. With continued innovation and dedication from pioneers like Welch, we may soon usher in a new era of renewable energy that benefits communities around the world and addresses the environmental challenges we face today.

Military documents leaked will be probed by government

Military documentsIn recent weeks, social media has been flooded with leaks of US military documents.

As a result, the Justice Department has set up an investigation.

The probe follows the release of further documents on Friday revealing US support for Ukraine as well as major US allies such as Israel.

A serious investigation

The Pentagon declared on Thursday that it was investigating the matter after military documents related to the Ukraine war emerged online.

“They look real,” said a US official.

According to US officials, extensive investigations into what the military files disclosed and how they were disseminated are being conducted.

So far, there has been no reason to dispute the military records.

Public disclosure, according to US officials, is a severe infraction.

The documents

Open-source intelligence researchers revealed the military documents on Friday.

They also appeared to be online for several weeks.

The documents appeared to include sensitive information on a number of topics, including:

  • Mercenary Wagner Group’s operations in Africa
  • Israel’s pathways to provide aid to Ukraine
  • Intelligence on the United Arab Emirates’ ties to Russia
  • South Korean concerns about ammunition supply to the US for Ukraine

It’s hard to say whether the military documents were altered, but they follow the pattern of sensitive Ukrainian material that’s gone viral on the internet.

On Friday morning, US officials confirmed the authenticity of the papers.

Meanwhile, photographs of recently discovered documents revealed crumpled, printed-out documents with classified and top-secret markings.

They also appeared to have been made between the middle of February and the beginning of March.

It is unknown who printed the leaks or where they originated.

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Officials in shambles

Pentagon officials, notably those on the Joint Staff of the Defense Department, were concerned about military document leaks.

The president is advised by the Department of Defense’s most senior uniformed executives.

The majority of the documents were developed by J2, the Joint Staff’s intelligence arm.

Comparable documents on Ukraine, according to US officials, were part of the Pentagon’s larger daily intelligence briefing deck for high-level commanders covering the issue.

According to authorities, an internal investigation will also be performed, with suspects coming from within the Pentagon.

Given the enormous number of government personnel who have access to the same data, a source said the investigation will reach beyond the Pentagon.

Some of the military documents seemed to have been shared with members of the Five Eyes intelligence partnership, which includes the nations listed below:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • New Zealand
  • The United Kingdom
  • The United States

According to one insider, the alliance is awaiting a damage assessment while undertaking its own internal investigations.

“We expect the US to share a damage assessment with us in the coming days, but we cannot wait for their assessment; right now, we are doing our own,” said the official.

“We are poring over these documents to figure out if any of the intelligence originated from our collection.”

Some intelligence may have come from Five Eyes allies, according to the official.

Based on the markings, the stolen files appeared to have been taken from someone with access to the US intelligence system.

They claimed that the material had not been shared with the United States’ closest intelligence allies.

The official went on to say that determining the leaker’s intentions was difficult owing to the data’s wide variety of topics.

Other indicators linked to the material of other agencies, such as:

  • The State Department’s intelligence arm
  • The Defense Intelligence Agency
  • The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
  • The National Security Agency

Many of the records also indicated that they were obtained by human intelligence and that they were not meant to be shared with other countries, particularly close US allies.

Other publications alluded to confidential CIA information.

“We are aware of the social media posts and are looking into the claims,” said a CIA spokesperson.

Flying under the radar

According to images of the post, some of the classified military documents were shared on the social networking site Discord in early March.

“This shit was sitting in a Minecraft Discord server for a month and no one noticed,” said Aric Toler.

Toler is a Bellingcat researcher who investigated the timing of the documents disclosed.

It wasn’t until lately, courtesy to a 4chan post that showed portions of the documentation, that the military documents garnered additional attention.

Toler claims that a Russian speaker altered a document and posted it on Telegram.

Authorities in the United States believe the paper was tampered with in order to increase the number of Ukrainians killed in the fighting.

The Pentagon stated on Thursday that it was aware of the social media comments and was investigating them.

Members of Discord were worried when the US government initiated its investigation, believing they might be imprisoned for disseminating the material.

A Discord and Twitter user who leaked the military documents has canceled his accounts.

When asked if the FBI or other government agencies had approached Discord as part of their investigation, Discord spokesperson Madeline Sarver stated that the company had no comment.

Meanwhile, Thomas Rid, a state-sponsored information operations specialist, observed:

“The fact that unedited and edited – doctored – versions of some files are available online makes me skeptical that this is a professional Russian intelligence operation.”

According to Rid, when intelligence agencies have access to sensitive data from adversaries and decide to fake it, they frequently do not make both versions of the papers public.

“That only makes it easier to detect the faces, and thus defeats the purpose,” he added.

The leak was unlikely to have been originated by the Russian government, according to Jim Sullivan, a former top cyber officer at the Defense Intelligence Agency.

He stressed how important access to US secrets would be lost if the military documents were released to the public.

“It’s very unlikely that Russia would compromise a major source used to inform the Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff for a minor disinformation victory,” said Sullivan.

However, there is concern that the leaked military documents will have a significant impact.

According to Dmitri Alperovitch, executive chairman of Silverado Policy Accelerator and a Russian expert:

“If real, the leaking of these documents can do significant damage to Ukrainian counteroffensive since this information effectively provides Russia with Ukrainian order of battle – extensive information on capabilities of brigades that would be involved in upcoming counteroffensive.”

Tesla slashes prices in the US and the UK

Tesla: The financial downturn has had an influence on every element of business and has caused companies to take complicated decisions.

While the majority of businesses have been using layoffs to reduce expenses, Tesla is adopting a different strategy.

Instead, the maker of electric vehicles is lowering costs in the US and Europe.

The news

Tesla is a business that creates and produces solar goods, energy storage devices, and electric vehicles (EVs).

Elon Musk founded the company in 2003 with the goal of accelerating the switch to renewable energy globally.

Its EVs are highly renowned for their powerful, long-range, and eye-catching designs.

The Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y are some of the most well-known Tesla vehicles.

Tesla not only makes commercial cars but also provides electric powertrain systems and parts to other automakers.

On the company’s website on Thursday, a discount was touted.

Sales

Teslas have been doing well on the market.

The company’s earnings have been steadily rising, with notably strong growth in recent years.

Global Tesla vehicle deliveries surpassed 5 million in 2020.

Since 2018, the Model 3 has been the most popular electric vehicle in every country.

It is Tesla’s most inexpensive vehicle.

Additionally, Tesla has seen exceptional sales in China and Europe.

The company also hopes to increase manufacturing and sales in new regions in the near future.

Overall, Tesla’s sales performance has been strong, solidifying its position as a dominant player in the electric vehicle industry.

However, dropping US costs may make it easier for the business to obtain more federal EV tax credits and boost both local and global sales.

The Model 3 and Model Y are presently discounted in the following European countries:

  • Austria
  • France
  • Germany
  • The Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Switzerland
  • The UK

Read also: Tesla and Apple face major China headwinds

The models

Depending on the vehicle’s configuration, Tesla in Germany reportedly reduced the price of the Model 3 and Model Y by anywhere between 1% to over 17%.

In terms of popularity in Germany in December 2022, the Model Y trailed the Model 3.

In Germany, Volkswagen and its well-known EV, the ID.4, were overthrown by the American EV behemoth.

Volkswagen’s entry-level electric vehicle, the ID.3, is comparable to the Model 3 (at its reduced price).

According to TroyTeslike, an independent EV industry analyst, the cost of a brand-new Tesla Model 3 has decreased by 6% to 14% in the US.

Depending on the configuration, the price of Model Y decreased by roughly 19%.

The Model Y is a sport utility vehicle or crossover, while the Model 3 is Tesla’s entry-level sedan.

The more premium Model S sedan and the Model X SUV with falcon wings are now more affordable in the US.

Tax credits

Electric cars may be eligible for tax incentives in the US depending on its form factor, category, efficiency, mileage range, and manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

In order to give manufacturers the chance to qualify for a $7,500 clean car tax credit, the US government postponed until March the introduction of new regulations governing the acquisition of raw materials and battery components.

As a result, EV manufacturers can continue to purchase essential parts and supplies from global suppliers and also be eligible for EV subsidies.

The final automobile assembly of EVs is exempt from requirement under the existing interim legislation for individuals who are eligible for government incentives.

Discounts

Due to the current reductions, EV manufacturers will benefit from tax benefits both now and down the road.

This could annoy consumers who committed to paying more money to get new Tesla cars before the end of 2022.

After promising to accept deliveries at higher prices until the end of 2022, Tesla upset many Chinese customers by lowering the pricing of the Model 3 and Model Y.

According to Reuters, some consumers apparently protested and sought refunds.

However, Tesla is still standing.

Last month, the business offered a $7,500 discount on the Model 3 and Model Y to entice consumers to take delivery of their vehicles just before the end of the fourth quarter.

The manufacturers would also offer free Supercharging for 10,000 miles if US customers accepted.

Operations

Even with the discounts, the company reported that 439,701 vehicles were made and 405,278 vehicles were delivered in the fourth quarter.

The corporation anticipated a 50% increase in annual car deliveries; but, in the fourth quarter, both analyst forecasts and the annual goals were missed.

In Fremont, California, Tesla is now running its first assembly facility in the US.

Additionally, it has a brand-new facility in Gruenheide, Germany, a manufacturing facility abroad in Shanghai, and a brand-new factory in Austin, Texas.

Reference:

Tesla cuts prices in the US and Europe to stoke sales after lackluster year-end deliveries

Stormy Daniels wants to testify against Donald Trump

Stormy DanielsFormer President Donald Trump appeared in a Manhattan courtroom this week to respond to charges of a hush-money payment scheme.

Stormy Daniels, an adult film star, is said to have paid Trump to be silent about an alleged affair.

The former president entered a not guilty plea.

Stormy Daniels has stated that she is “absolutely” willing to testify in Trump’s criminal trial in New York.

She revealed her desire to testify against the former president during an interview with Piers Morgan.

“Having them call me in and put me on the stand legitimizes my story and who I am,” said Daniels, making her first comments.

“And if they don’t, it almost feels like they’re hiding me.”

“And people automatically assume – I would – that, ‘Oh, she must not be a good witness, she’s not credible.”

Morgan asked Daniels if she intended to testify, and Daniels responded, “Oh, absolutely.”

Charges

On Tuesday, Donald Trump pleaded not guilty in Manhattan criminal court to 34 felony allegations of tampering with corporate documents.

Prosecutors alleged the activities were part of a scheme to hide payments made to Stormy Daniels during her presidential campaign in 2016.

They were meant to keep her quiet about her previous connection with Trump, which he has always denied.

Daniels, for the time being, has not been charged with any violations.

Daniels and Trump

Stormy Daniels said Thursday in an interview that if Trump is found guilty, he should not be imprisoned.

The criminal allegations filed against Trump may result in a jail sentence of one to four years.

Donald Trump might face probation if proven guilty.

“Specific to my case, I don’t think that his crimes against me are worthy of incarceration,” she said.

Stormy Daniels also commented on Trump’s appearance in court on Tuesday, saying:

“The king has been dethroned, he’s no longer untouchable.”

“And nobody should be untouchable. It doesn’t matter what your job description is, whether you’re the president.”

“Like you should be held responsible for your actions.”

Stormy Daniels has yet to come before the grand jury in charge of the hush-money investigation.

She did, however, state that she would “love nothing more” than to be questioned for the 2021 investigation.

She stated that her attorney was in contact with Manhattan and New York state officials at the time.

She also discussed meeting with them to discuss additional concerns.

Daniels stated that if a grand jury or investigators approached her, she would tell them all she knew.

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Supporter backlash

Stormy Daniels published a tell-all book in 2018 that went into great detail about the alleged encounter.

Her lawyer stated at the time that the book’s purpose was to establish that her narrative about having a sexual relationship with Trump was real.

Daniels told Morgan that she has been threatened by Trump fans for a long time, but the threats have recently grown more specific and detailed.

“They’re a lot more passionate – I guess that’s a good word,” she said.

“Enthusiastic with their threats. And they’re not hiding. And they genuinely feel that they are doing something right. That they are patriots.”

“Now they are doing it like a suicide bomber,” Daniels added.

“They truly… in the depths of their soul, they feel like they are doing the right thing.”

Stormy Daniels claims that one of the distinctions is the manner in which individuals make threats.

She went on to say that instead of communicating anonymously, they’ve been utilizing their actual email addresses, phone numbers, and social media handles.

Hearing and determination

Donald Trump is projected to be a Republican candidate in the 2024 elections, but recent events have given him a mountain to climb.

The next hearing in the case is set for December 4.

According to legal experts, a trial may not begin for another year, and an indictment or conviction would not bar Trump from running for president.

Stormy Daniels has stated that she will testify if the matter gets to trial.

“I have nothing to hide,” she said. “I’m the only one that has been telling the truth.”

Lloyd Austin traveled to Baghdad in a show of support

Lloyd AustinThe American press made a surprising statement on Tuesday, revealing that a senior White House official had arrived in Baghdad.

They followed US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on an unannounced visit to Iraq, when he stated that US forces stationed there were ” ready to remain in Iraq.”

The news

Lloyd Austin is the highest-ranking Cabinet official to visit Baghdad since the commencement of the Biden administration in 2020.

Austin, according to the press pool, issued a statement confirming his presence in Iraq.

Austin’s presence is intended to reinforce the US-Iraq strategic alliance as it works to build “a more secure, stable, and sovereign Iraq.”

The visit

Lloyd Austin’s visit to Baghdad comes only days before the 20th anniversary of the United States’ invasion of Iraq to depose tyrant Saddam Hussein.

“We’re deeply committed to ensuring that the Iraqi people can live in peace and dignity, with safety and security and with economic opportunity for all,” said Austin.

“We’ll continue to harness the professionalism of the coalition’s diplomats and assistance experts and warfighters, as well as the incredible professionals in the NATO mission here.”

“We’ll continue to increase interoperability among our allies and partners, and we’ll continue working to accomplish this mission together.”

“Now, looking forward, US forces are ready to remain in Iraq at the invitation of the Government of Iraq,” continued Austin.

“And these forces are operating in a non combat, advise, assist, and enable role to support the Iraqi-led fight against terrorism.”

“This is a critical mission. And we’re proud to support our Iraqi partners.”

“We’re focused on the mission of defeating Daesh, and we are here for no other purpose, and threats or attacks on our forces only undermine that mission.”

The fight against ISIS

Iraq is a critical ally in the United States’ continuing fight to demolish ISIS.

The present campaign, on the other hand, is one-of-a-kind.

In Syria, American soldiers collaborated with the Syrian Democratic Forces and other allies.

Following the formal end of the combat operation in Iraq in 2021, the US military will provide advice and assistance.

“The United States will continue to strengthen and broaden our partnerships in support of Iraqi security, stability, and sovereignty,” said Austin.

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Meetings

Lloyd Austin sat down with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for a discussion.

On his visit to Baghdad, Austin is anticipated to speak with other top authorities.

According to Lloyd Austin’s press pool, his encounter with Iraq’s prime minister was not recorded on video.

Meanwhile, al-Sudani welcomed Austin’s visit, marking the continuation of collaboration with the US.

The creation of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s administration ended months of political gridlock and occasionally violent demonstrations.

During their discussion, al-Sudani told Lloyd Austin that Iraq is keen to develop and cement its relations with the US, according to the prime minister’s office.

Iraq will be crucial in the United States’ efforts to limit Iranian influence in the region.

Iran has already sought to assert authority over Iraq through proxy troops and Tehran’s influence in Baghdad Shia political organizations.

Al-Sudani’s ascent

Prior to al-Sudani’s recent ascension to the position of Prime Minister, Shia Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr was a front-runner to take over the government following the recent elections.

Al-Sadr was outspoken in his opposition to both Iran and the United States.

Nevertheless, resistance from competing parties contributed to his inability to build a government.

Finally, al-Sadr’s failure presented an opening for al-Sudani, who has demonstrated a desire to strengthen Baghdad’s ties with the United States, notably Washington.

US support

After his visit to Baghdad, Lloyd Austin flew to Erbil, the northern Kurdish regional capital of Iraq.

He met with Nechirvan Barzani, the President of the Kurdistan Region and the Commander in Chief of the Region’s Military Forces.

Nechirvan Barzani and Lloyd Austin stressed the importance of American assistance for Iraq and the Kurdish region during a joint news conference.

Barzan underlined similar interests and ideals, drawing the two closer.

Lloyd Austin emphasized the US-Kurdish Peshmerga collaboration to improve counterterrorism in the fight against ISIS.

“Through the Global Coalition to Defeat Daash (ISIS), we liberated more than 50,000 square kilometers from Daash (ISIS) and we freed more than 4.5 million Iraqis from their cruel grip,” said Austin.

Fungal infection rate grows in 2023, concerns experts

Fungal infectionsThe Ophiocordyceps fungus has long been associated with internet theories that predict the coming of the zombie apocalypse.

It had a significant impact on the blockbuster HBO adaptation of the similarly well-liked video game “The Last of Us.”

The fungus mostly affects insects; people are unharmed and won’t turn into mindless predators as a result.

Despite the fiction, specialists caution that there is a greater danger of developing a fungal infection, particularly in light of how the globe has been sicker, warmer, and wetter.

The news

At Imperial College London’s School of Public Health, Dr. Matthew Fisher teaches medicine.

His most recent studies concentrate on harmful new fungus.

“We’re always surrounded by fungal spores,” said Fisher. “We’ve lived with them ever since we made beds in the Savanna 500,000 years ago, before we even evolved into modern humans.”

“And we’ve had to adapt this exquisite immune system that we have to defend against spores, because many of them are potentially pathogenic.”

“Fungi are just seeking sources of food, and in the eyes of many soptropic fungi, we are just food,” he said, describing an organism that feeds on dead organic matter.

Although the majority of fungi are helpful to the environment, some of them are harmful and can make people sick.

Infections

Every year, new fungi are found by scientists, although not all of them are dangerous.

Only 400 of the more than 4 million could cause disease, according to experts, are human pathogens.

According to the Microbiology Society, the “superficial illnesses” that affect more than a billion people are as follows:

  • Athletes foot
  • Thrush
  • Dandruff

Even if they are irritating, they can be remedied.

However, some diseases endanger your life.

Around 1.5 million people die each year worldwide from fatal fungal infections, according to the Microbiology Society.

The World Health Organization clearly declared in 2022 that it views fungi-related disorders as a serious public health risk.

They came up with a list of the 19 different fungal infections to watch out for.

Who is at risk?

The human body is naturally immune to fungal infections, claims Dr. Matthew Fisher.

The immune system, however, could have a few minor flaws.

“Then we can have fatal consequences,” said Fisher.

He says that those with a high risk of getting fungal infections also typically have pre-existing diseases like diabetes, cancer, or HIV.

People whose immune systems have been harmed by aging, illness, or medicine are also at a greater risk.

However, some people may be more susceptible to more severe fungal infections because they lack access to Western-style therapies.

Due to a lack of access to therapies, studies have shown that cryptococcal meningitis is a major cause of death for people in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly those who have HIV.

Read also: Hospitals still filled despite a dropping number of patients

An increase in fungal threats

Studies show that the rise in immune-suppressed individuals is a factor in the spread of dangerous fungal infections.

“What’s changing is that more people that are exposed have those high risk factors,” Fisher explained.

“We have aging populations, and we were using a lot of chemicals in the environment which are forcing fungi to adapt, and our clinical antifungals are being degraded by antimicrobial resistance.”

Meanwhile, the Covid-19 pandemic increased the likelihood of fungal infections, according to Dr. Matthew Kasson, a mycologist at West Virginia University.

“Viruses have this way of suppressing the immune response,” he explained.

“Some of the drugs we’re using to combat the viruses are also having an effect where they’re making it easier for fungi to invade.”

In 2021, a black fungus in India resulted in hundreds of fatalities.

About 85% of the fatalities were attributed with Covid-19 patients.

According to Fisher, certain fungi cause epidemics like Candida auris by quietly dispersing throughout the globe after appearing out of nowhere.

The spread of fungal infections has also been accelerated by the climate crisis.

“The world is becoming warmer and wetter,” explained Fisher.

“That’s just going to mean that there’s a higher burden of mold spores.”

Possible actions

The World Health Organization urges countries to improve monitoring and their ability to recognize fungal infections.

They also support boosting spending for research, medications, and infection monitoring.

According to WHO estimates, fungal infections receive less than 1.5% of funding for medical research.

It is difficult to develop antifungal therapies because of the association between animals and fungus, according to Dr. Matt Nelsen, a researcher at the Chicago Field Museum.

“We share a lot of biochemical similarities,” he said.

“So when we are trying to kill off the fungus, we need to be careful that we’re not also killing ourselves.”

A robust immune system is advised as a barrier against fungus infection.

Dr. Matthew Fisher advises parents to let their kids play outside more regularly so that they can be exposed to a variety of fungi and develop a robust immune system.

He advises households to increase ventilation and remove moisture.