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Tik Tok Ban Makes No sense!

admin — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 06:28:00 +0000

Former President Trump has reversed his stance on opposing a ban on the social media giant Tik Tok. However, despite his change in position and efforts from TikTok and its vast user base, his fellow Republicans in Capitol Hill remain unmoved.

House GOP leaders are pressing forward with plans for a vote on legislation that would prohibit Tik Tok from being available on U.S. app stores unless its parent company, China-based ByteDance, agrees to divest the popular video app.

Even some of Trump’s conservative allies in Congress are openly disagreeing with his newfound support for Tik Tok. Representative Chip Roy of Texas, a member of the far-right Freedom Caucus, stated, “Well, he’s wrong. And by the way, he had his own executive orders and his own actions he was doing, and now … he’s suddenly flipped around on that.”

Representative Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida, another supporter of Trump, emphasized his independence, saying, “I have respect and admiration for President Trump. Nobody controls how I vote on certain issues.”

The legislation, known as the Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, received bipartisan support in the Energy and Commerce Committee, clearing it with a rare 50-0 vote. President Joe Biden has endorsed the bill.

According to Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, the bill presents TikTok with a choice: remain linked to ByteDance and under the control of the Chinese Communist Party, or opt to sell and operate solely within the United States.

While the bill is expected to pass in the House, its fate in the Senate is less certain as leaders are still evaluating it.

FBI Director Christopher Wray, along with lawmakers from both parties, view TikTok as a national security threat. Concerns revolve around the potential for the Chinese government to access personal data from its vast user base and influence users’ views through algorithms, including on significant issues like elections.

Representative Diaz-Balart compared the situation to his family’s experience fleeing Cuba after Fidel Castro’s rise to power, stating, “This bill is ‘divestment from the Communist Party of China; it’s pretty simple.’ We would have never accepted the Communist Party of China or the Soviet Union or wherever controlling, owning NBC or CBS.”

Tik Tok Faces Congressional Scrutiny Amid National Security Concerns

National security officials are set to conduct a classified briefing for all House members on Tuesday afternoon, focusing on the perceived threats posed by TikTok. In a recent appearance on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” former President Trump acknowledged TikTok as a serious national security concern but hesitated to support a ban, citing concerns about aiding rival Facebook, which he labeled as the “enemy of the people.”

TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew testified before Congress, denying allegations that the Chinese government controls the app and refuting claims that China accesses U.S. user data.

As pressure mounts, TikTok is rallying its vast user base to oppose proposed legislation. The platform has deployed in-app pop-ups urging users to contact their representatives, causing a surge in congressional outreach. TikTok creators are actively lobbying House and Senate members on the economic repercussions of a potential ban on their livelihoods.

Representatives Mike Gallagher and Raja Krishnamoorthi penned a letter to Shou Zi Chew, demanding that TikTok cease spreading what they deem as false claims in its campaign to influence American citizens on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party. TikTok responded, alleging that Congress’ true objective is to ban the platform in the United States.

As the battle shifts to the upper chamber, Shou Zi Chew is scheduled to meet with senators on Wednesday and Thursday.

Republican Representative Anna Paulina Luna, echoing Trump’s concerns, acknowledged his statement but stressed the importance of addressing the potential for Tik Tok to serve as a mass surveillance tool against Americans. Luna, a former Air Force veteran and Instagram influencer, emphasized the need to safeguard against platforms enabling foreign adversaries.

Texas Wildfire: Tears Through Panhandle, Second-Largest on Record

admin — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 06:14:14 +0000

Richard Murray struggled to hold back tears as he looked over the burnt wreckage of his mechanic’s workshop and the place he called home for half a century in the quaint Texas Panhandle town of Canadian. The night before, a sheriff’s deputy had urgently knocked on their door, instructing Murray and his wife Gilissa to evacuate as the state grappled with its second-largest wildfire ever recorded, rapidly closing in on their residence.

“Everything’s gone. The house, the cars… all melted away,” expressed Murray, aged 72, upon his return home Wednesday morning. “There’s simply nothing left.”

A massive wildfire, which ignited northeast of Amarillo on Monday, has ravaged approximately 850,000 acres (344,000 hectares) of grasslands and timber, extending its reach into Oklahoma, as reported by the Texas A&M Forest Service. Known as the Smokehouse Creek fire, this relentless inferno has caused devastation across the region.

Tragically, local media reported the loss of at least one life—a heartbreaking incident involving an 83-year-old woman in Hutchinson County. Despite the valiant efforts of firefighters, who have been tirelessly battling the blaze, containment lines have been established around only 3% of the fire’s perimeter by Wednesday night.

The ferocious combination of strong winds and arid conditions has fueled several smaller wildfires in other parts of the northern Panhandle region of Texas, exacerbating the already dire situation.

The extent of the devastation caused by the Smokehouse Creek Fire is staggering, surpassing the land area of Rhode Island. In fact, its footprint nearly rivals that of the largest recorded wildfire in Texas history, the East Amarillo Complex Fire of 2006, which consumed 907,000 acres.

The Texas A&M Forest Service has indicated that numerous structures have been damaged or completely destroyed, although the exact tally remains unknown at this time.

Terrill Bartlett, the mayor of Canadian, expressed gratitude that there have been no reports of serious injuries or fatalities in the town. However, he acknowledged the profound devastation experienced by residents who have lost their homes.

“We’re a close-knit community that rallies together to support one another,” Mayor Bartlett remarked on Wednesday.

Richard Murray revealed that he and his wife will seek refuge with friends for the time being and have been inundated with offers of assistance from numerous individuals. As they embarked on Wednesday morning’s search for their dogs and two cats, Murray admitted, “The uncertainty surrounding their well-being is the most agonizing part.”

US Government Advises Travelers to Mexico: Important Safety Information for Spring Breakers

admin — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:51:07 +0000

Spring breakers, listen up! If you’re planning to head to Mexico for your much-anticipated spring travels this year, the US government has some important advice to ensure your safety. While it’s not groundbreaking, it’s crucial information that all US citizens should take seriously before embarking on their Mexican adventure. In a recent announcement posted on its website, the US Embassy & Consulates in Mexico is urging travelers to exercise caution and stay informed throughout their spring break trip. It’s essential to consider a few key factors for a safe and enjoyable experience.

US officials are reminding travelers to Mexico about the potential risks of crime, including violent crime, which can occur anywhere, including popular tourist destinations. Additionally, the advisory highlights concerns regarding drugs, unregulated alcohol, pharmaceuticals, sexual assault, and firearms, among other issues. Travelers are encouraged to review the complete list of advisories for further details.

To mitigate risks, US travelers to Mexico are advised to take several important actions. This includes consulting the State Department’s active travel advisory for Mexico, last updated in August 2023, which identifies six states under a “do not travel” warning and seven under a “reconsider travel” warning. Travelers should also refer to the country information page for specific travel details and entry requirements.

Furthermore, travelers are urged to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive updated safety information throughout their trip. Additional guidance and information, including tips on safe drinking practices and avoiding illicit drugs, can be found on the safety alert page.

Gaganyaan: India’s Maiden Crewed Space Mission Takes Shape

admin — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 06:48:31 +0000

India’s inaugural crewed space mission, Gaganyaan, is set to embark on its first unmanned test flight, known as Gaganyaan-1, by the close of 2024. This mission aims to assess the technological preparedness for the subsequent manned mission.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the names of the astronauts designated for the mission during his announcement. Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, all from the Indian Air Force, were selected for this historic endeavor. Recognized for their extensive experience as test pilots, they are currently undergoing rigorous training in preparation for the mission.

Modi conferred upon them the esteemed astronaut wings, hailing them as “four forces” embodying the aspirations and optimism of India’s 1.4 billion people.

The announcement took place at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thumba, Kerala, following recent successful tests conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the human readiness of the cryogenic engine designated for the Gaganyaan mission vehicles.

India’s Gaganyaan mission is progressing steadily, with the first unmanned test flight, Gaganyaan-1, slated for the end of 2024. Following this, the manned mission will carry a three-member crew into a low Earth orbit at an altitude of 400 km for a duration of three days.

The journey towards Gaganyaan traces back to 1984 when Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian in space aboard the Soviet spacecraft, Salyut 7. India commenced work on its indigenous orbital vehicle mission, later named Gaganyaan, in 2006. With the recent announcement of astronauts-designate, various aspects of the mission are gaining momentum.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has designated its LVM3 rocket for all Gaganyaan missions. Formerly known as GSLV-MkIII, LVM3 stands as ISRO’s most robust launch vehicle, boasting a flawless track record with seven successful launches. Comprising liquid, solid, and cryogenic stages, the rocket has been meticulously reconfigured by ISRO to adhere to human rating requirements.

On February 14, crucial tests were conducted on the cryogenic engine, CE20, a pivotal component of the mission. The engine aced the final tests, earning certification for missions involving human transportation to space.

The Vikas engine designated for the liquid stage and the solid booster, integral to the solid stage, have already met the necessary qualifications for the upcoming missions.

Furthermore, the special flight engine, designed to ignite at liftoff, has successfully undergone acceptance tests. These tests rigorously assess the performance of the hardware in accordance with mission requirements. Upon certification, the technology or development is seamlessly integrated into the final mission.

Preparations for the human space flight encompass the development of life support systems aimed at creating an Earth-like environment for the crew during their time in space. Additionally, provisions are being made for emergency escape measures, alongside the refinement of crew management aspects including training, recovery, and rehabilitation procedures.

Precursor missions like Gaganyaan-1 are pivotal in showcasing the technological readiness levels ahead of the manned mission. In the unmanned mission, an unpressurized crew module—housing the capsule where the astronauts will be situated during the human flight—will be transported to space and safely returned to Earth.

The Gaganyaan-1 mission’s crew module will notably lack the Environment Control and Life Support System, responsible for maintaining an Earth-like environment within the module. Currently, ISRO is actively engaged in the development and testing of various components of this system at its laboratories.

An ISRO official highlighted that Gaganyaan-1’s primary objectives revolve around testing the safe re-entry of the crew module and ensuring its proper orientation upon splashdown in the sea.

A subsequent unmanned flight is in the pipeline, featuring a pressurized crew module wherein the complete life support system will undergo rigorous testing. This flight will also introduce the robot Vyommitra, tasked with recording all relevant parameters to study the flight’s impact on humans.

However, the precise schedules for these missions remain uncertain. According to the ISRO official, the dynamic nature of this mission requires continuous adjustments and refinements based on the outcomes of each test, making the planning process more challenging compared to other launches where established procedures are in place.

Strong Winter Storm Brings Heavy Snowfall: Alerts Issued for Nine States

admin — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:38:19 +0000

Winter storm warnings have been issued across nine states, with a potent winter storm poised to unleash heavy snowfall in mountainous regions of the Northwest and Central Plains.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued alerts for Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, cautioning of blowing snow and strong winds.

According to the latest forecast from the NWS, the storm is anticipated to traverse the Northwest initially, moving into the northern Rockies by Monday and then advancing into the central Rockies by Tuesday evening.

The NWS warns of snowfall rates ranging from 1 to 2 inches per hour in the Oregon Cascades and Northern Rockies on Monday, which will extend into the Great Basin and Central Rockies by Tuesday. Coupled with wind gusts of 50-65 mph, these snow rates are expected to create near-blizzard conditions, significantly reducing visibility and causing snow-covered roads, thus posing risks for travel. Significant snow accumulations are forecasted across the region, with the Cascades projected to receive over 2 feet of snow through Tuesday, and localized amounts potentially reaching 4 feet. Additionally, snow is expected to accumulate in valleys.

In west-central Washington and Oregon, snowfall predictions include up to 20 inches across the Cascades, with elevations above 2,000 feet expecting around 2 feet of snow, accompanied by wind gusts of up to 50 miles per hour.

Western states are bracing for another round of wintry onslaught as up to 18 inches of snow and winds clocking at 60 miles per hour are forecasted for mountainous regions of Idaho. Meanwhile, western Montana anticipates up to 2 feet of snow and strong winds, leading to blowing and drifting snow, with wind chills plummeting to as low as minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Further south, western and north-central Wyoming are in the path of heavy snowfall, with potential accumulations of up to 18 inches and winds peaking at 70 miles per hour. Central Utah is gearing up for up to 2 feet of snowfall and wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour.

In Colorado, both western and central regions brace for blowing snow and possible accumulations of up to 3 feet at higher elevations, accompanied by fierce winds reaching 85 miles per hour. The hazardous conditions are likely to render travel extremely difficult, if not impossible, with wind chills posing frostbite risks on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

The treacherous weather extends into the Sangre de Cristo and Tusas mountains of New Mexico, where 18 inches of snowfall and winds gusting as high as 75 miles per hour are anticipated.

Northeastern Nevada anticipates up to 10 inches of snow above 6,500 feet, along with winds of 55 miles per hour. The Ruby and Humboldt mountains have been issued a blizzard warning, with expectations of reduced visibility due to 20 inches of snow and 70-mile-an-hour winds.

This imminent weather follows a series of potent atmospheric river storms from the Pacific, which earlier in the month caused widespread flooding in California.

Western states have already weathered numerous rounds of heavy snowfall this winter, enduring a relentless barrage of atmospheric river storms that triggered a rare blizzard warning for Seattle in early January.

Norovirus Outbreak Sweeps Northeastern United States: CDC Issues Advisory

admin — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 12:35:40 +0000

A highly contagious stomach virus, known as norovirus, is currently spreading throughout the Northeast region of the United States, according to recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Over the past few weeks, the average rate of positive norovirus tests in the region has surged to 13.9 percent, remaining consistently above 10 percent since mid-December 2023. While the Northeast bears the brunt of this outbreak, other regions across the country are also witnessing an increase in positive cases. In the South, positive tests stand at 9.5 percent, while the Midwest and West regions hover around 10 percent and 12 percent, respectively.

Norovirus is identified as the primary cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illnesses in the United States, as highlighted by the CDC. This highly contagious illness can affect individuals of all ages and spreads rapidly and easily.

The CDC emphasizes that individuals can contract norovirus multiple times throughout their lives due to the presence of numerous strains of the virus. While exposure to one strain may provide some immunity, it does not guarantee protection against other variants.

Symptoms of norovirus include not only vomiting and diarrhea but also fever, headache, dehydration, and body aches. The CDC recommends strict hygiene practices such as thorough handwashing with soap and water, surface disinfection using bleach, and laundering clothes with hot water to prevent further transmission.

With an estimated 19 to 21 million cases of norovirus annually in the U.S., predominantly occurring between November and April, the virus poses a significant public health concern. Approximately 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths are reported each year, with older adults being the most vulnerable demographic, according to the CDC.

Beware: The Unknown Threat of Disease X Looms Over Social Media!

admin — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 07:05:38 +0000

As per WHO’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the world is ill-prepared for “Disease X” – a concept introduced in 2018 by the UN agency to depict a hypothetical pathogen that could trigger the next pandemic. While it’s yet to be discovered, the mere speculation of its existence has ignited a frenzy on social media.

What is disease X?

“Disease X” remains an enigma – with unknown symptoms, transmission rates, and pathogen type. However, experts fear its potential impact, estimating it could be 20 times deadlier than the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO has placed it on the priority list of diseases, alongside threats like SARS, Ebola, and Zika.

Leading scientists, including Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert from the University of Oxford’s Pandemic Sciences Institute, suggest “Disease X” could be a zoonotic virus – one that jumps from animals to humans. This poses a significant risk to global health, according to John-Arne Røttingen, a Norwegian scientist advising the WHO.

Climate change exacerbates this risk, potentially facilitating zoonotic transmission. Warming climates and habitat destruction could create ideal conditions for the spread of mosquito-borne viruses, increasing human-animal interactions. The WHO predicts “Disease X” is likely to emerge in tropical regions, especially in low or middle-income countries already affected by climate change.

With the WHO set to update its list of priority diseases later this year, understanding and preparing for “Disease X” remains a crucial endeavor in global health security.

UK Cargo Ship Under Attack! Shocking Incident Unfolds Off Yemen’s Coast

admin — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 07:06:30 +0000

A UK-registered cargo ship has reportedly faced an attack off the coast of Yemen, as confirmed by the UK’s Maritime Trade Operations. The incident occurred approximately 35 nautical miles south of Al Mukha in Yemen, situated at the southern end of the Red Sea.

Authorities are currently investigating the situation, and vessels navigating in the area are advised to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities. According to reports from Sky News, citing information from private security firm Ambrey, the attacked vessel is a UK-registered ship operating in the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

The ship in question is believed to be Belize-flagged, Lebanese-operated, and registered in the UK. It’s noteworthy that both the UK and the US have recently conducted joint airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels with the aim of curbing attacks on commercial shipping in the region.

Scandal at London Theatre: Jewish Man Alleges Verbal Assault Over Flag Incident!

admin — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 09:30:29 +0000

A Jewish man has accused comedian Paul Currie of verbally abusing him and other Jewish audience members at a London theatre after a Palestinian flag was unveiled during Currie’s show at the Soho Theatre on Saturday evening.

According to reports, Liahav Eitan, who was celebrating his 33rd birthday, found the display of both Ukrainian and Palestinian flags at the end of Currie’s show, titled “Shtoom,” to be upsetting and unexpected. Eitan claimed that Currie swore at him and his friend after they did not stand to applaud, and when Eitan expressed his displeasure with the display of the Palestinian flag, Currie allegedly became confrontational, using derogatory language and attempting to incite the crowd against them.

Eitan described the situation as potentially dangerous, especially as they had to pass by Currie on stage to exit the theatre, with Currie reportedly continuing to wave the Palestinian flag and encouraging the audience to chant “ceasefire now.” Other Jewish audience members were also reportedly subjected to hostility, with some allegedly being hounded out of the gig by fellow attendees shouting phrases like “get out” and “free Palestine.”

The Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) reported that Jewish audience members were targeted and harassed during the event.

In response to the incident, Soho Theatre issued a statement condemning the behavior, emphasizing that such actions are unacceptable and have no place on their stages.

The Soho Theatre has announced that they will not be inviting comedian Paul Currie back to perform at their venue following an incident during his show on Saturday evening. Currie’s performance, described on the theatre’s website as a “unique, surrealist, Dada punk-clown, non-verbal experience,” did not involve verbal communication.

The theatre, which was previously a synagogue and operates as a registered charity, stated that they are consulting with the Metropolitan Police and collaborating with the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) to uphold the venue’s commitment to inclusivity.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that they are aware of the incident and that enquiries are ongoing after a report was submitted on Monday.

The Charity Commission has also announced that they are assessing information to determine if there is a role for the regulator in this matter.

Paul Currie has been contacted for comment regarding the incident.

Prince Harry’s Shocking Revelation: Father’s Cancer Battle Exposed in Explosive Interview Tonight

admin — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:34:15 +0000

Prince Harry to Share Father’s Cancer Diagnosis in Exclusive Good Morning America Interview Tonight!

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/video/health/king-charles-waves-to-well-wishers-in-first-public-outing-since-cancer-diagnosis/vi-BB1i6QkD?ocid=hpmsn&t=19

In a highly-anticipated teaser released by presenter Will Reeve, the Duke of Sussex is set to unveil personal insights about life with Meghan, his relationship with Charles, and the significance of the Invictus Games. This promises to be a revealing glimpse into the royal family’s dynamics.

Meanwhile, amid speculations surrounding their attendance at the Invictus Games, Harry and Meghan have responded to claims that it’s a “make or break” moment to mend fences with King Charles. Asserting their resilience, a spokesperson for the couple affirmed, “This couple will not be broken,” in defiance of doubts.

Don’t miss tonight’s exclusive interview, where Harry candidly discusses family, challenges, and his unwavering resolve.”