The California fires have affected tens of thousands of residents in the Los Angeles area, including many Thai Americans, including Bui Simon, 1988’s Miss Universe. She posted on Instagram about the damage the fires caused to her residence in Malibu. The fires also have hurt businesses in the diaspora community. Click here for the full…
Jon Taylor expects big discussions surrounding immigration and border security in addition to sporting gambling on the table.
SAN ANTONIO — The 89th Texas Legislative Session kicks off Tuesday, opening the door to debate on a variety of contentious issues over the next several months.
The first order of business will be to elect a new Speaker of the House.
Governor Greg Abbott is expected to release his legislative priorities as well, which UTSA political science professor Jon Taylor believes could be somewhat reminiscent of the previous session two years ago.
School choice vouchers is likely to be the top priority once again for Abbott. Such a policy would redirect public education funds toward private school opportunities, which proved controversial in 2023.
“There will also be a discussion about actually financing K-12 public schools after two years ago not signing off on the budget so you’ve had a number of school districts here in San Antonio especially who are suffering from major deficit spending,” Taylor said.
In 2023, Abbott signed legislation banning higher education institutions from engaging in certain diversity, equity and inclusion activities. Taylor says additional anti-DEI bills may be introduced.
He adds the Republican majority may also further advocate for bills that restrict LGBTQ rights.
“Further pushes regarding transgendered students, particularly either accessibility to medical care but as well access to sports and athletics,” Taylor said.
Nearly all instances of abortion are banned in Texas except to save the mother’s life. Numerous bills have been filed for and against the expansion of women’s reproductive rights. One would expand exceptions for abortion in cases of sexual assault.
“Perhaps there might be modifications. I’m not going to hold my breath on that though because there are other Republicans who are pushing the idea of contraceptives, banning IVF treatments,” Taylor said.
Taylor also anticipates big discussions on immigration and border security in addition to sports betting and gambling.
WASHINGTON – President-elect Donald Trump is considering Washington trade lawyer Jeffrey Kessler to lead the US Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), according to people familiar with the matter, a key post in the US-China tech war.Mr Kessler, a partner at the law firm of WilmerHale, served as assistant secretary for enforcement and compliance during Trump’s first term, which made him the Commerce department’s top trade enforcement official.If selected to head BIS, he would oversee export controls on US technology exported to countries like China that pose a risk to national security. Over the past decade, export controls became a potent weapon for the US in the tech battle between the world’s two biggest economies.Spokespersons for the Trump transition team and Mr Kessler did not immediately respond to requests for comment.Mr Alan Estevez has been BIS undersecretary in the Biden administration. A former Pentagon official, he has overseen sweeping restrictions on semiconductors and the equipment to make them, and restrictions on China’s telecommunications equipment firm Huawei Technologies.On Jan 13, the department issued a framework to control the flow of US artificial intelligence chips around the world, and later this week is set to publish a rule prohibiting Chinese software and hardware in connected and autonomous vehicles on American roads.At WilmerHale, Mr Kessler’s practice has emphasised China, his law firm bio says, noting he has helped US companies and trade associations “especially in innovative IP-intensive industries” navigate Chinese trade and investment barriers.He also has advised clients on sanctions export controls, the challenges of doing business in the US and China, and compliance with forced labor legislation related to the Uyghurs.As assistant secretary during the first Trump administration, Mr Kessler oversaw an overhaul of trade enforcement regulations, according to the bio. He also was responsible for enforcing US trade remedy laws, namely anti-dumping and countervailing duty law investigations.In addition, he monitored foreign compliance with trade agreements, and supported negotiations for a June 2021 tariff ceasefire between the US Trade Representative, the European Union and Britain, the bio says.A graduate of Yale University with a degree in philosophy, Mr Kessler got both his law degree and a master’s in economics from Stanford University. He also holds a master’s in philosophy from the University of Chicago. REUTERSMore on this TopicJoin
Nithya Menen is gearing up for the release of her movie Kadhalikka Neramillai, directed by Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi. As part of the film’s promotions, the actress appeared on a chat with Galatta Plus, where she revealed the inherent system of hierarchy that exists in cinema sets. During her chat, the actress was asked about her reaction to Ravi Mohan’s comment that Nithya’s name should appear first in the poster instead of his, contrary to the usual norm. In response, the actress said, “When I saw my name first, it felt like it’s healing something in people’s consciousness. I consider things like this path-breaking, and not just Kiru or me, but Ravi is also a part of that. Because he said, go ahead, do it.”
Daisy Goes Flying is the recently published work of local Golden resident Megan Haley. Here is an inside look at the publishing process. Well done Megan!
Tell us about yourself – are you from Golden? If not, from where, and what brought you here?
I am originally from Cranbrook and have lived all over the province for work. My family and I moved to Golden just over a year ago. We moved here because my husband got a job working full time off the base here in town.
Megan Haley, author of Daisy Goes Flying, with puppy Daisy
In my day job I am an environmental chemist, and work as an environmental consultant, I work remotely. My kids are 6 and 3. In our free time we bike and are just getting everyone into skiing this year.
What made you want to write this story? Have you published anything before? Tell us a little about the process. Any plans for another book?
My kids are both at the age where stories like this are a hit, action, adventure, helicopters, rescues. I figured it would be fun for them to read about, and to see their family in a book. Also, my son is just starting to read, I thought it might be motivating for him to have a story he could relate to and enjoy. He is the reason I wrote the story in a rhyming style, It was difficult to do, but I wanted to make it rhyme for him, as well as other kids at the same learning stage as him. I tried to make it a fun story and add things for kids to learn about the same time.
I came up with this story one evening when I was putting my kids to bed, I actually had a few story ideas come to me within a few days so I wrote them all down. I thought I would start with publishing this one first, I felt it was the most unique and also represented the area the best.
Publishing a book seemed so far off, but as I kept working on it, publishing started to feel like a realistic goal. This is my first published book. It took over 9 months, and 100’s of hours to complete. I learned so much about the process of self-publishing; finding an editor, copy editor, illustrator, a typesetter, ISBN number, copyright, and printing. I was fortunate and had all kinds of support along the way. My mom was helping with the wording of the story, what rhymes with what and getting the sentences right. I had help from friends, by reviewing my story or helping to select an illustrator style. And Jeff was obviously a huge help with the story. It’s funny to think, him and I would have an hour-long conversation about what sound the helicopter should make. It seemed serious at the time, but hilarious to think back on.
I have a few other Daisy adventure stories in draft already and the idea for a couple others as well. I would love to publish them one day and have a series of Daisy books; I am waiting to see how this book is received.
Haley’s husband works as a helicopter pilot, which helped inspire Daisy Goes Flying
You must be involved somehow in back-country skiing / lodge life? Tell us more about that.
My husband is a helicopter pilot. The story is based on a typical day the base pilots here in Golden have. In town we can hear the helicopters flying around throughout the day, I thought people might like to know what they’re up to (sorry, couldn’t help myself). Also, so many young kids are fascinated by helicopters, but likely do not really know what they do, so I thought I would share.
Tell us about Daisy! How did she ever get started flying in a helicopter?
Daisy is a typical golden retriever; she’s sweet and gentle, loyal, never more than a few feet away, she’s soft and squishy, very social, loves treats, and is always hungry. She just turned 9, she has been part of our family since she was 8 weeks old. Daisy, like many family dogs, is a huge part of our day to day lives, and we base a lot of our day around her. She is super social, and loves to visit anyone that will say hello.
Daisy has been going to the hangar since she was a puppy, so has spent much of her life around helicopters. She has been flying a few times, and loves looking out the window when she does. She is chill, and is great at rolling with whatever adventure we are on, as long as her family is nearby.
I have donated a copy to the Early Years Center, and the Golden Library. I am scheduled to do a reading at the library in early February. I will also donate a book to the library at Alexander Park Elementary. If anyone knows of another location that would benefit the book, I would be happy to donate, please connect with me.
So far the feedback and support I have been receiving from the community has been amazing. It has been great to hear about so many families that can relate personally to the story, for example they may have someone in aviation, or guiding, mountain safety, ski patrol, do some sort of lodge work, or just really love dogs. I appreciate it so much and it has made all the hard work feel worthwhile.
If you’d like your own copy of “Daisy Goes Flying”, you can purchase it here.
For more local community stories, click here.
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Raging wildfires in Los Angeles, fueled by strong winds, have destroyed homes and businesses, including those owned by Indonesian diaspora in the area. The Indonesian Consulate in Los Angeles has urged vigilance and is offering emergency assistance for those impacted. Click here for the full story in Indonesian. This post was originally published on here
MANITOWOC – Things are ramping up at the library this week.Jan. 16, in particular, will bring a trio of events:“MPL Insider: Beyond the Books with Tim & Emily” — Includes a surprise special guest, one of the “Coolest people to Coast into the ‘Insider’ studio,” according to a news release. It will stream live on the library’s Facebook page and YouTube channel at noon.An adult book discussion on “The Berlin Letters” by Katherine Reay — The author will join the discussion live via the internet. The program is from 6 to 7 p.m. in the second-floor board room.Teen Hang-Out: Shelf-Conscious Book Group — From 6 to 7 p.m. in the Franklin Street Room with snacks and conversation starters provided.And there’s more planned the rest of the week.The library is at 707 Quay St. and can be reached at 920-686-3000 or online at manitowoclibrary.org.Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.Forst Inn schedule:What’s coming to Forst Inn in Tisch Mills in 2025? Here’s the live theater & music lineup.Here’s more on the schedule:Winter Reading Program: Warm Up with a Good Book! — Through Feb. 22. Open to all ages. Everyone who finishes receives a prize and a raffle ticket to enter to win one of several basket prizes. Track reading on the Beanstack app, by visiting manitowoclibrary.beanstack.org, or by picking up a paper tracker at any MPL service desk!Baby Storytime — 9:30 a.m. Jan. 16, 22 and 23. For ages 0-2.Preschool Storytime — 10:30 a.m. Jan. 16, 22 and 23. For ages 2-5.“Climate Reality” with Jeff Steuer — 6-7:30 p.m. Jan. 20. Covers the science of climate change, the global view and solutions.Family Activity Night: Colorful Creations! — 6:30-7:15 p.m. Jan. 21. Join MPL’s Miss Lynn and explore different art techniques to create a trio of projects: squeegee-painted cats; watecolor and crayon resists; and mini mosaics. Open to children ages 5-11 and their families. No registration is required.DWD employment assistance & career counseling — Offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays in the Franklin Street Room. Employment assistance is drop-in; career counseling requires an appointment by contacting Ellen Hope at 920-930-6553 or [email protected] Brandon Reid at [email protected].
By XANTHA LEATHAM DEPUTY SCIENCE EDITOR FOR THE DAILY MAIL Published: 15:00 EST, 13 January 2025 | Updated: 15:00 EST, 13 January 2025
Science & Exploration
20/12/2024
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For the first group of ESA’s Astronaut Reserve, two intensive months of Astronaut Reserve Training (ART) have come to a close. During this initial training phase, members of the ESA Astronaut Reserve Sara García Alonso from Spain, Andrea Patassa from Italy, Arnaud Prost from France, Amelie Schoenenwald from Germany, and Aleš Svoboda from Czechia were introduced to essential skills required for future space exploration and scientific research.
Selected from 22 500 applicants across ESA Member States, these members of the Astronaut Reserve passed the ESA astronaut selection of 2022 , which included a class of five career astronauts and 12 members of the Astronaut Reserve. Their training started in October 2024 at ESA’s European Astronaut Centre (EAC) in Cologne, Germany.The ART programme draws on modules from ESA’s basic astronaut training, designed to equip participants with an initial technical and operational expertise for space missions, increasing their readiness to step into specific mission training quickly if required. Over the course of the programme, this first group gained a solid grounding in spacecraft systems, flight engineering, robotics, and life support systems, forming the technical backbone of their training.A highlight of their training was a spacewalk familiarisation. At ESA’s Neutral Buoyancy Facility, these members of the Astronaut Reserve practised scuba diving to simulate the weightlessness of microgravity. These sessions offered an introduction to tasks such as conducting repairs or installing equipment, providing a glimpse into the skills required for operations on the International Space Station or future lunar exploration.Scientific preparation was another key focus. The group completed foundational courses in biology and laboratory techniques to be ready for conducting experiments in space. They also participated in physical fitness routines and public engagement activities, supporting ESA’s mission to inspire and educate.
To conclude this first training phase, Sara, Andrea, Arnaud, Amelie and Aleš undertook survival exercises in winter conditions. These activities prepare them for extreme environments they may encounter during missions, such as unplanned spacecraft landings in remote locations. Throughout this course, they learn essential survival skills, such as lighting fires in the wilderness, managing cold-related injuries and hypothermia, building makeshift stretchers and snow shelters, all while enduring nights in sub-zero temperatures.This group will return to EAC later in 2025 for the next stage of their training, building on the foundation they have established. Meanwhile, a second group of members from ESA’s Astronaut Reserve –including Meganne Christian from the UK, Anthea Comellini from Italy, John McFall from the UK and Carmen Possnig from Austria— will begin their ART programme in January 2025.ESA’s Astronaut Reserve Training programme reflects the agency’s commitment to advancing Europe’s human spaceflight capabilities. By equipping these individuals with the skills they need, ESA is preparing for the challenges and opportunities of future missions in Earth orbit and beyond.
Sharing their experiences of ART
Sara García Alonso”It’s been an incredible journey, really life-changing. The training here at EAC is so varied, which makes it so engaging –every day is different. I keep my research job alongside this training, so it’s like living two lives at once. The practical experience and hands-on training here complement my work back in the lab beautifully, and it’s fascinating to see how they intersect. I’m really looking forward to the future and seeing where this journey takes me.”Andrea Patassa”The Astronaut Reserve Training journey is both challenging and rewarding. From diving into a neutral buoyancy pool to trekking through the snow-covered Pyrenees for winter survival training, it’s a constant test of technical skills, resilience, adaptability and teamwork. Each challenge reinforces the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone to grow and serves as a reminder of the privilege of contributing to space exploration.”Arnaud Prost”Being selected as part of the astronaut class of 2022 was an incredible honour. Training at the European Astronaut Center in Cologne has been an eye-opening experience, offering a glimpse into the complexities and the excitement of space exploration. Each day is a step closer to understanding the challenges we might face beyond our planet, and it’s inspiring to be part of a team that shares this vision. I’m eager to take on the unique training experiences ahead, as they will be key in preparing us for what’s to come.”Amelie Schoenenwald”Arriving at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne felt like coming home. The atmosphere here is incredible, from experienced space experts to motivated interns, everyone is contributing to a truly inspiring environment. Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do, not just for missions but for daily life as well. Knowing your team, understanding how everyone operates, and supporting each other through challenges are essential skills we develop here. Everyone is collaborative and supportive, creating a strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.”Aleš Svoboda”Being selected as part of the ESA Astronaut Reserve was an incredible moment of happiness. Now, as we immerse into training, I’m especially enjoying the hands-on activities, from diving in the Neutral Buoyancy Facility to exploring the history of human spaceflight alongside experts. I also see it as an opportunity to share the excitement of spaceflight and motivate young people to explore STEM fields. In the Czech Republic, we need more graduates in technical and scientific areas, and I believe space can inspire the next generation to pursue these paths.”
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