Monthly Archives: September 2021

September 15, 2021

Research, Marketing and Advertising News, AND BrandEquity

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India has produced the highest amount of social media disinformation on COVID-19 due to the country’s higher internet penetration rate, increased social media consumption and lack of user knowledge on the Internet, according to a new study. The study, “Prevalence and Source Analysis of COVID-19 Misinformation in 138 Countries,” was published in the journal of the International Federation of Library Associations and Sage Institutions.

The study analyzed 9,657 pieces of disinformation from 138 countries. They have been verified by 94 organizations to understand the prevalence and sources of disinformation in different countries.

“Of any country, India (18.07%) has produced the greatest amount of disinformation on social media, possibly thanks to the country’s higher internet penetration rate, increased consumption of social media and lack of knowledge of Internet users, ”the study says.

In addition, the results also showed that India (15.94%), the United States (9.74%), Brazil (8.57%) and Spain (8.03%) are the four countries most affected by disinformation.

Based on the results, according to the study, it is presumed that the prevalence of misinformation about COVID-19 may have a positive association with the pandemic situation.

“Social media (84.94%) produces the greatest amount of disinformation, and the internet (90.5%) as a whole is responsible for most of the COVID-19 disinformation. Moreover, Facebook alone produces 66.87% of the disinformation among all social media platforms, ”he said.

Earlier, the World Health Organization also warned that false information about COVID-19 was spreading and putting people at risk.

The WHO had urged people to make sure to double-check everything they hear with reliable sources.

The written press occupies third place, after television and social media, as the most credible source of information …

Disinformation has received six times more likes, shares and interactions than legitimate press articles, found researchers at New York University and Grenoble Alpes University in France.


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September 10, 2021

CTF Police Catch 26, Recover 47 AK47, Others – Blueprint Newspapers Limited

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Officers from the CTF Police Command broke up a kidnapper union, even as three gang members were arrested.

Officers also arrested 23 other suspects for their involvement in various crimes, including car theft, fraud and worship.

Marking the suspects in front of reporters on Friday at command headquarters in Abuja, Police Commissioner CP Babaji on Sunday, “The CTF Police Command has taken a milestone in its ongoing fight against crime, with the crushing of a kidnapping syndicate and recovery of 2 AK 47 rifles and 60 rounds of live ammunition.

Officers from Dawaki Police Division acting on a whistleblower arrested one Danjuma Mohammed, 38, in possession of two AK 47 rifles and 60 rounds of live ammunition while carrying items on display.

“Following his arrest, the police investigation led to the arrest of Yahaya Musa, 47; and Shagari Ahmadu, 42; who are members of the same union specializing in kidnappings for ransom around the Bwari / Kwali axis of the FCT.

“During a demining operation launched in their camp in the Bwari axis, police officers from the Bwari division recovered two AK 47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition abandoned by the suspects who escaped from the camp in seeing the agents.

“The exhibits recovered during this well-coordinated intelligence operation are four AK47 rifles and 150 rounds of live ammunition.

According to the police chief, “during another demining operation carried out in a camp suspected of being that of kidnappers by the anti-crime section of the command along the Kwaita-Kwali axis of the FCT, 1600 live bullets and 15 empty magazines were recovered.

Speaking further, he said: “On August 27, 2021, the command’s auto-theft section arrested a 25-year-old David on Friday; and his accomplice, Moses Benjamin, 34 years old; for stealing a Toyota Corolla car from Goza Market, Airport Road.

“The preliminary investigation revealed that the car belonged to his employer and the suspect made a spare key to the car which he gave to his accomplice to steal the car from the place where it was parked. The car was recovered.

CP Sunday further stated that “on September 5, 2021, eagle-eyed officers from Mabushi Division while being arrested and searched arrested Confidence David, 24; and Charles Courage, 20; suspected of being cultists.

“A locally made pistol was found in their possession. Meanwhile, one of the suspects, Confidence David, confessed to being a member of the Viking Brotherhood.

Likewise, officers from the command, on September 3, acting on the basis of credible intelligence, arrested a certain Dada Hassan, 55; along the Giri axis of the CTF.

“The suspect was arrested in possession of bags of dried leaves suspected of being Indian hemp. The exhibits recovered from her are 20 bags of dried leaves suspected of being Indian hemp, ”revealed the police chief.

He stated that agents from the Bwari division, acting on information, thwarted an attempted kidnapping by a certain Nyale Kachia; Sani Damina; and Yusuf Samaila; August 27, 2021.

“The suspects, who confessed to the crime, were arrested as they attempted to kidnap their victim, an uncle from Kachia, along the CTF’s Bwari axis. The exhibits recovered from the suspects include: a machete and two sticks, ”added CP Sunday.

Speaking further, he said that a 30-year-old Salihu Musa was arrested on September 3 along the CTF’s Kwali axis as he tried to deliver food and medicine to the kidnappers.

Likewise, agents from the Karshi Division broke a trade union specializing in staging the kidnapping of their family members and demand for ransom.

“The suspects Adamu Jibrin, 37; Mohammed Dahiru Husseini, 38; and Abubakar Ya’u, 35; confessed to the crime and were arrested on the Karshi Axis.

“The investigation revealed that they threatened to kidnap Adamu Jibrin’s brother and collected a ransom of 750,000 naira so that he would not be kidnapped.

The suspects will be charged in court at the end of the investigation, ”said the police chief.

He said the suspects would be charged in court after investigations were completed.


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September 10, 2021

How Social Media Fuels Divorce – Blueprint Newspapers Limited

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Nowadays, the news of divorce cases is no longer surprising as many people often put countdowns on the occasion of the celebration of every marriage. And the advent of the internet has not in itself helped matters, as couples, especially celebrities, often rush to social media to post marital issues. PAUL OKAH reports.

“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has united, let no one separate it ”is a passage from Matthew 19: 6 which speaks of the exclusivity and sanctity of marriage, which is often ignored or ignored when couples begin to experience problems. conjugal.

These days, it’s common to see romantic couples in the past take legal action against each other and go out of their way to divorce for different reasons, mostly as a result of minor disagreements.

However, according to surveys, social media appears to fuel marital conflict, as details about couples’ lifestyles are often posted by sour parties, to the derision of readers.

Moreover, even when either party wishes to work on solving marriage issues, searching the internet is often daunting, as the opinions of supposed feminists, home breakers and non-professionals always do. surface to fuel disagreements, thus eroding the chances of settlement. or reconciliation.

Recent cases

In recent weeks, the internet has been inundated with news of divorce and marital issues involving some Nigerian celebrities, including Paul Okoye (aka Rudeboy) of the late P-Square music group, African Queen Crooner, Tuface Idibia, the enigmatic actress. Tonto Dike, actor Nedu from Wazobia FM, Tega Dominic from Big brother Naïja, among others.

The marital issues of the aforementioned celebrities bordering on cheating, neglect and other complaints revealed by their wives or concubines have been all the rage on social media for the past month, with twists every hour or every day. by “actors” and bloggers and other Nigerians adding “salt and pepper” to fuel the problems; in order to generate comments and traffic to the sites.

Invitation to more problems

Reacting to Nigerians’ penchant for rushing to social media to disclose family issues, veteran journalist Azuka Onwuka said in a September 6 Facebook post that it was an invitation to disaster because many would naturally offer unsolicited advice, while the Internet does. don’t forget anything posted on it.

“If you make your marital problems public, there are millions of them who love it and will help you add gasoline to the fire you have started. Deleting such a message afterwards makes no sense. If you don’t want more problems in your marriage, don’t post about your marriage in the first place, unless you’ve decided to leave the marriage. You cannot ridicule your spouse in public while wanting to continue your marriage. It’s contradictory, ”he said.

Talk with Master plan weekendSocial commentator Rosemary Okorie said many people will now be afraid of getting married at the rate that marital issues and divorce cases are posted daily on social media.

She said: “I am concerned and really disturbed by the recent developments in the country. Gone are the days when elders and family members were asked to sort out marital problems. Now social media has taken center stage, with quack advisers and illegal lawyers. Just last week, not to mention the whole month of August or the year, social media relationship update or celebrity marital issues pitted Tuface Idibia against his wife, Annie; actor, Mr. Nedu against his ex-wife; Tega against her husband, then Paul Okoye and his wife.

“Indeed, the devil is destroying marriages lately. What amazes me most is the fact that the women in these relationships were the first to post their marital problems on social media, whether they are guilty or innocent. In fact, I honestly wonder what Nedu’s ex-wife was thinking when she gave interviews to news organizations, now posting her reactions in snatches. Its action is in itself reprehensible, but sharing it on social media and giving interviews is like washing your dirty laundry in the market. I’m not thrilled with people’s private issues. I hate when adults quickly forget about the good times they shared together, just because they’re not together anymore. It’s not nice at all!

“You know, we have this mental fracture in our heads. It seems that our sense of reason is damaged and that many cannot think well. Everyone wants to be a celebrity by exposing themselves on social media, especially our women. To me, this is nonsense, because there are things you don’t have to expose.

“Of course Nigeria is a dramatic country, including some of its citizens. Every week there has to be a new social media drama. This last quarter of the year was devoted to divorce / infidelity between married couples and lovers. You see this generation of mobile phone users, the divorce rate will be a lot soon. It’s not “I’m engaged or I’m getting married”; what do you have to offer in marriage? This is why you see couples cheating from top to bottom. However, I am sad that most married women are not ashamed to expose their adulterous life, their whim and promiscuity. May God save us!

Expert advice

Speaking exclusively to this reporter, marriage counselor Mr. Theophilus Balogun said couples are barely meeting family members and experts to resolve their marital issues as they now believe the internet offers better options. , while it is counterproductive.

“From all indications, weddings don’t last long these days due to many factors. Aside from couples who get married for different reasons other than love, too much demand, cheating, and love of material things are some of the reasons marriages break down faster than you might think. . A visit to our courthouses and a trip to the legal columns of major newspapers will tell you everything you need to know about couples in love who spend thousands, if not millions, just to divorce.

“All of the problems mentioned above are simply the result of intolerance, lack of understanding, lack of communication and other factors affecting marriages. Long ago, parents, family members, and in-laws were always the people couples depended on when problems arose in marriages. More often than not, the problems would be solved without the general public knowing.

“Over time and development, guidance and counseling experts and professional marriage counselors began to make a living helping couples resolve disputes outside of family circles. More often than not, the success rate was high as I have personally spoken to couples about divorce considerations on issues that are even ridiculous when rephrased.

“However, recently it seems that this new craze of Nigerians, regardless of their social class, to rush to social media to disclose their issues to the world, who often don’t care and will even add fire to themselves. ensure that marriages are broken as many of them are single, divorced or just bitter souls looking to destroy, ”he said.

He added: “They call it ‘a capture cruise’ when they offer unsolicited advice to anyone wanting to share their marital issues on social media, but it’s the poster that should be blamed for leaking her. privacy to the whole world as there is an African proverb that says “he who brings home ant infested firewood should be ready to dine with lizards.” People should learn to talk to marriage experts, instead of rushing to social media to share marital issues with people who don’t even want well for them.

“God himself does not like the idea of ​​divorce or the breakdown of families, for the institution of marriage is sacred and intended for procreation, unity and a better world. So, I will always advise people to reconsider rushing to social media to meet bitter souls and those who are willing to fuel problems. When you are having trouble resolving your marital problems within the family, meet with professionals to help you. Any marriage or marital issue brought to social media or the public is pretty much gone because many people are not happy that you are married or are successful in your endeavors.


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September 10, 2021

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by Richard Williams | September 10, 2021

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] said he hoped to relocate ten Afghan families fleeing the Taliban, doubling their previous aid offer.

The increased level of support to help stricken refugees who have been airlifted out of Kabul comes as a cabinet minister praised the authority for being “one of the first” boards to offer support.

The authority was one of 100 of 300 local councils in the UK to provide immediate assistance to Afghan refugees when the crisis in Kabul erupted last month, and immediately pledged to relocate five families.

He now wants to relocate ten.

As of last week, only a third of local councils have adhered to the government’s resettlement and assistance policy in Afghanistan. [ARAP].

Robert Jenrick, MP, Secretary of State for Housing and Local Government, was in Tunbridge Wells on Wednesday 1 September as part of a tour of constituency regeneration projects.

His visit came just as TWBC vowed to try to double its initial pledge to relocate five families, and coincided with his ministry’s announcement that the government had earmarked £ 8.6bn in funding. affordable housing.

Speaking to Times On the plight of Afghan refugees after the evacuation from Kabul, Mr. Jenrick said: “We are very grateful to the Tunbridge Wells Council for participating in our resettlement program in Afghanistan.

“The Council was one of the first to participate and take part by relocating interpreters and their families, and now they have committed to taking at least five more Afghan families.

“It is important that we help the people who stood side by side with our troops in Helmand and elsewhere, and it is right that we support them now.

“We will provide all the support locations like Tunbridge Wells that are needed to accommodate and relocate these people as quickly as possible.”

He added that the government has set up a portal on its website to allow people to submit offers of support to people arriving from Afghanistan, including clothing and toys, as well as offers of housing and work. .

He continued, “The challenge is not only the large number of people needing help in a short period of time, but usually people who usually have larger families, so we need houses for three and three. four bedrooms, which in Tunbridge Wells I know are in short supply. “

A council spokesperson said: “We are committed to finding accommodation for five families, and we have also said that we will do our best to help five more if possible.

“In addition to this support for Afghan families, we are also fulfilling our continued commitment to refugees from other parts of the world and will be helping two more refugee families this year. “

At the time of going to press, the UK had evacuated 17,000 people from Afghanistan since early April.

Of these, 15,000 were subscribed between August 15 and the end of the month. The Interior Ministry said 8,000 of them were PARA applicants.

Landlords wishing to help with housing should contact the Council Housing Team at 01892 526121.

A PERSONAL POINT OF VIEW …
The advisor remembers his tour of Afghanistan

TOUR: Cllr Rands [seated, centre] in afghanistan

A Tunbridge Wells borough councilor and former army major reflected on his time in Afghanistan and the challenges refugees face as they flee the Taliban.

Speaking to Times, Councilor James Rands [Culverden, Lib Dem] thought back to his time in the war-torn region and the events of the past few weeks.

He said: “My first mission in Afghanistan was as a warrant officer on a British training team working with the Afghan National Army. [ANA] officer training school.

“As such, I supervised an ANA colonel. And he told me how he got special forces training in Moscow and the United States.

“His story tells us a lot about Afghanistan. He had fought for the Soviet-backed regime in the 1980s and was highly regarded, but when the tide changed he switched sides. And he thrived.

“In Afghanistan, caring for one’s family and tribe is the highest ethical goal. And people respect others for doing it.

He added that he still had friends and acquaintances in the area.

“I hope my old friends will do what they need to ensure their safety and that of their families,” he said, adding that he believed the Taliban was still a threat.

“They are fanatics. The Taliban have changed over the past 20 years, but not enough to be a government acceptable to anywhere.

For Afghans fleeing their homelands, Cllr Rands says they find it difficult to adjust to places like Tunbridge Wells that are as foreign to them as Kabul is to the people of Kent.

“We have a duty to the Afghans who helped us and fled. We must welcome them and provide them with concrete help.

“There are charities that will help them, but for those who can, giving of their time is more important.

“They come from another world. Expect them to be surprised that you need a license, tax, and insurance to drive a car, for example. “

REFUGEE GROUP LAUNCHES FUNDRAISING

A community group set up to help refugees has started an online fundraiser to help Afghan families coming to Tunbridge Wells.

Hazel Beevers, administrator of Tunbridge Wells Welcomes Refugees, told the Times: “We are fundraising rather than campaigning to donate clothes or items because at this point we don’t know what Afghan families arriving in Tunbridge Wells will need.

“But when the time comes, we’ll work with local organizations, council and charities to ensure that families have everything they need to settle in the area, much like we did – and always do – with Syrian families.

“Our mission is to support and welcome refugees arriving at Tunbridge Wells, so our volunteers also support through mentoring, tutoring, fundraising, hands-on support and community events. “

She added that if anyone wants to volunteer, they can email: [email protected]

Or donations can be sent through this Just Giving link: help-afghan-families-tunbridge-wells

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September 10, 2021

Timetable Local newspapers and magazines

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RETURN TO SCHOOL: Students took Covid tests on their return

September 10, 2021

Thousands of students took lateral flow tests in preparation for the start of the school year this week. And they return to classrooms with parents divided over safety measures.

About 10,000 high school students in the Borough of Tunbridge Wells were tested in schools last week for Covid-19 as they returned from summer vacation. The results of these tests have not yet been made public.

Unlike last term, schools no longer have to keep students in age class “bubbles” to reduce mixing and face coverings are no longer recommended.

Prior to their return, high school students were asked to take two lateral flow tests at school, three to five days apart.

The demands of the tests meant that hundreds of parents and students had to queue in front of schools last week as the tests began at the various schools.

Another change to this term is that children do not have to isolate themselves if they come in contact with a positive case of Covid-19. Instead, they will need to take a PCR test and isolate themselves only if they are positive.

Double-vaccinated parents of a child who contracts Covid-19 will no longer need to self-isolate if they are negative.

Schools and colleges are encouraged to maintain increased hygiene and ventilation, and high school and college students in England have been urged to continue testing twice a week at home.

Informal surveys conducted by the Times show that parents are divided on the more relaxed approach to managing the virus.

On the one hand, those who think schools should insist that masks be worn and that classrooms be fully ventilated with windows open.

Parents who oppose this view believe that insisting on masks – “muzzling our children” – would violate their human rights.

In the middle are the schools, many of which have received aggressive emails on the matter.

Teachers were also given advice on how to spot any emerging mental health issues.

Kent County Council [KCC], who is responsible for all public schools in Tunbridge Wells, urged principals to follow Covid safety guidelines.

Shellina Prendergast, KCC Education and Skills Cabinet Member, said: “I extend a warm welcome to the school to all students, teachers and staff in Kent. I hope you all had a relaxing, enjoyable and healthy summer vacation and come back to class refreshed and looking forward to the new school year.

“I would also like to thank all of the staff who gave up part of their summer vacation to provide remedial lessons or other learning opportunities for students, or to prepare school buildings for return. students’ safety.

“Although many restrictions were lifted over the summer, Covid-19 has not gone away and it is important that everyone plays their part to ensure their safety, that of their families, friends, teachers and staff. Support.

“We encourage all schools in Kent to follow the latest government guidelines, which include implementing safety measures such as regular hand washing, cleaning regimes and keeping spaces well ventilated.

One of our local high schools

“High school students are urged to continue taking regular Covid-19 tests, as they did before the summer break, to make sure any positive cases are identified as quickly as possible – your school can give advice on testing if necessary.

“I must also thank the people working in nurseries and early childhood establishments who have worked hard to ensure the safety and health of the children and babies in their care; many of them have been open throughout the summer vacation period.

“As you go back to school and some of you are starting a new school or starting school for the first time, it is natural that you have some worries or concerns, and they can be. exacerbated by the presence of the pandemic.

“However, my colleagues and I firmly believe that school is the best place for children and young people for their educational and social development as well as for their mental and physical well-being.

“I really hope that as life slowly returns to its normal course, the children and youth of Kent can focus on the positive things they can enjoy in school now after missing them for so many months. , like socializing with all their friends over lunch. and break times rather than just those in their bubble and participate in more practical classes and extracurricular activities.

“I wish you all a pleasant, successful and safe time at school and I hope that if we all work together and do our part for our community we can have a fantastic year.”

Meanwhile, Dr Susan Hopkins, Director of Covid-19 Strategic Response at Public Health England, said: ‘Parents, young people and teachers should feel reassured the risk to the majority of children remains low. “

EDUCATION SPECIAL

Don’t miss our Focus on … education special guide to choosing the right school in this week’s print version of Tunbridge Wells Timetable – also including ktechnological advances in the classroom and information on open days.

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September 8, 2021

Police, government use social media influence tactics, study finds

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Police and government agencies in the UK have adopted tactics similar to those of social media influencers and used targeted ads to fight crime, according to a recent report.

The study, published by the Scottish Center for Crime and Justice Research (SCCJR), found that the National Crime Agency conducted a six-month “influence operation” to combat cybercrime involving surveillance, direct intervention and commercials. targeted online.

Researchers also found a government communications service training podcast that claimed the Home Office was using purchase data from people who had recently purchased candles to target them through their smart speakers with ads. fire safety.

The study shows that these online influence tactics, used both locally and nationally, are also used to influence the public on health and social policy.

Dr Ben Collier of the University of Edinburgh, one of the co-authors and researchers of the article, said that while this approach may help with crime prevention, concerns remain about the potential negative consequences such as the additional stigmatization of groups that already face structural oppression through targeting and surveillance, causing anxiety or potentially serious harm.

He said: “In some cases, these practices could potentially have the opposite effect of what they intended, with targeting serving to disseminate the very unwanted narratives and behaviors that they aim to counter.”

Dr Collier added: “We have found examples of well thought out and effective campaigns, some of which have been developed directly with the communities they are aimed at, but some campaigns seem much more intrusive and disturbing.

“Home Office delivery vans and knife crime advertising on fried chicken cans have come to the public’s attention because they have appeared in public spaces.

“But when this happens in people’s living rooms and on their cellphones via targeted advertising, it is potentially much more difficult for managers to be held accountable.”

Dr Daniel Thomas, of the University of Strathclyde, who also co-authored the report, said the practices of “government influence” need further examination.

He said: “These advanced marketing approaches are more than just communications and go far beyond media management. Our research suggests that these are frontline policy interventions and should be seen as such, and subject to the same public debate, scrutiny, and accountability as other such policies. “

Dr Thomas added: “There is also a need to answer legal and ethical questions regarding the selection of particular groups and characteristics, the use of operational data to inform these campaigns, privacy and data rights issues, and algorithmic aspects of targeting. itself and the data it generates and on which it is based.

“Although our research and the background paper focuses on UK law enforcement and government services, we have recently secured funding to investigate these issues further in a Scottish context.”


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September 4, 2021

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September 4, 2021

Long live the native oyster season! Here, Times expert James Viner raises a glass to crisp wines that are good catches for seasonal native oysters, shellfish and seafood. And if you need more motivation to indulge yourself, oysters are also very nutritious because they contain calcium, selenium, zinc and vitamins A and B12.

September is a wonderful month for all kinds of local produce, including seafood. The new native oyster season kicked off on Wednesday and these native bivalves, now a delicacy, are available for sale from September 1 to September 30. April.

Under British law, the native European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) – whose shells are rounded and more regular in appearance than those of the larger Pacific (rock) teardrop oyster – cannot be harvested. for sale outside of this period, allowing stocks to replenish and remain viable.

If you can’t have a blast on these pricey shellfish, fear not, because our review offers more affordable food and wine pairing ideas. Scale, rattle and roll, here are five fabulous wines that go wonderfully with seasonal oysters …

1) Tangy and palate-cleansing Andalusian beauty – a benchmark manzanilla sherry, dry and crustacean loving

Bodegas Hidalgo-La Gitana Manzanilla Sherry, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Spain (15%, £ 8.00 – £ 10, Sainsbury’s, Hedonism Wines, Tanners, Majestic – 50cl; Waitrose & Virgin Wines – 75 cl)

A mind-blowing appetizer or a side dish for tapas and all manner of seafood and meat, umami-rich dry sherry isn’t just for Christmas (or funerals). I offer you this old Andalusian maxim on the association of sherry and food – fino and manzanilla if it swims, avalillado if it flies and oloroso if it runs or walks. Manzanilla is a fino (lightest, driest and palest) sherry produced and aged in and around the humid Andalusian coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. There’s a ton of character here, with marine salinity and notes of chamomile, blanched almonds, green apples, and freshly baked sourdough. One for umami lovers and very reasonably priced. Buy the most recent bottling and serve chilled, between 6 ° and 8 ° C, in a catavino or relatively large glass (as you would with a still white wine). Dazzling with native brackish oysters, sushi, sashimi, smoked salmon, grilled sardines, vongole pasta, mackerel, green olives, Jámon Iberico …

2) A wake-up call for the jaded palate – brilliant, mineral, tangy and marine Picpoul

2020 Villemarin Picpoul de Pinet, Cave de L’Ormarine, Languedoc oriental, France (12.5%, Majestic, £ 9.99 / bottle or £ 8.99 mix six)

Picpoul de Pinet vert-or from the plot of low land between Pézenas and the vast saltwater lagoon of the Thau Med basin, the second largest lake in France – itself famous for its Bouzigues oysters) / mussels and restaurants de mer de mer – just southwest of Montpellier is one of the few French AOC varietal wines. Ormarine, in partnership with Maison Jeanjean, is the leading producer of Picpoul de Pinet, the most elaborate white wine in eastern Languedoc and a very popular choice wine for summer consumption. Catch that exceptionally delicious tangy, clean and toning white with all kinds of florals, citrus, spicy lemon zest, subtle iodine, and in-game glasswort elements, in a setting of salivating acidity, which works like a lemon juice with seafood. An ace of seasonal native oysters on the half-shell, fish and chips, mussels and crab, it also makes a first class party or picnic at a warm Indian summer evening.

3) Captivating white Bordeaux organic left bank in love with bivalves

2020 Emigrated White, Chateau du Seuil, Graves, Bordeaux, France (12%, virgin wines, £ 14.99)

South of the city of Bordeaux, the AOP Graves – the only Bordeaux area where red and white wines are produced by most of the chateaux – stretches like a sleeve hanging from the arm of the Médoc. Set largely on its eponymous gravelly soil (quarry extraction is also a big deal here), this is a racy and refined blend of 75/25% Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon that is unoaked and has a very nice texture. Crisp, pristine flavors of grapefruit, passion fruit, lemon, honeysuckle, spray and minerals sparkle as they spring through the mouth. The fine rinse of grapefruit acidity keeps everything taut, offering a long and racy finish. An irresistible pairing with raw oysters (and very popular with the people of Bordeaux themselves). Likewise a great aperitif, it’s also just the ticket for mackerel pâté and seafood like sole with lemon or cod in white butter. Biological.

4) Move over to the very aromatic Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc ‘tutti-frutti’ – try this nuanced and very elegant one instead.

2019 Rimapere Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand (13%, £ 15.99 to £ 19, Ocado, Waddesdon Manor Shop, Cheers Wine Merchants and Harvey Nichols)

Soak up the last days of summer with a glass of Rimapere Sauvignon Blanc, a fruitful collaboration between the Rothschild family and Terry Peabody, the American owner of the highly prized Craggy Range winery (Craggy’s ‘Te Muna Road’ SB by cooler- le Martinborough’s climate is one of the best in New Zealand). Crystalline, multifaceted and undoubtedly suitable for aging, it is already an obvious charmer and a treat with seasonal native oysters. Softly scented, delicate, dry and very sophisticated, this beauty is an utterly superior and less exuberant version of a beloved wine style. Hello oysters, especially when served with Asian flavors, seafood salads and brie. Very classy. Most British wine merchants will switch to the superb 2020 vintage in October.

5) Svelte, structured aperitif champagne, ready for oysters, completely unsweetened, tip-top

NV Champagne Pol Roger, Pure, Extra Brut, Épernay, Champagne, France (12.5%, £ 42.50 to £ 52, The Champagne Company, Waitrose, Majestic, Berry Bros & Rudd & The Wine Society)

The pop of a champagne cork is an eternal appetite whetener. You’ve fallen in love with native oysters, so why not treat yourself to the best dry champagne? Unlike so-called Brut champagnes, which can contain up to 12-15 g / l of sugar, dry Brut Nature – like this supreme example of respectful oysters from the favorite house of Winston Churchill – only contain 3 g / l. . Here, the dryness and salty background, not to mention the sparkling aspect, provide the ideal texture contrast with the smooth, silky texture of the oysters. Made from a third each of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, this is a mesmerizing pairing for native raw / cooked oysters and also a great partner for dim sum, crab, kedgeree, chicken tandoori, sushi and sashimi. Zero dosage. Health !

Don’t forget the oyster Muscadet, the other very dry sparkling wines, the classic Chablis and the beer!

• 2020 Domaine Gadais La Grande Réserve du Moulin ‘Sur Lie’ Muscadet

• Sèvre et Maine (£ 11.99, Laithwaites)

• 2019 Jean-Marc Brocard, Chablis Sainte-Claire (£ 14.95, The Wine Society)

• 2018 Tesco Finest Premier Cru Chablis (£ 15, Tesco)

• Champagne Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut (£ 39.99, mix 6, Majestic)

• Cantillon Gueuze Lambic beer, Belgium – rare as hen’s teeth in the post-Brexit UK

Some of the best remaining native oyster production areas in the UK

• Fal, Cornwall

• Helford, Cornwall

• Loch Ryan, Scotland

• Maldon, Essex

• Mersea (aka Colchester), Essex

• Whitstable, Kent

Simplyoysters.com has the widest selection of Fresh Native, Pacific and Kumamoto oysters in the UK (27 different types at last count)

Follow Jacques on Twitter @QuixoticWine

Top photo background: © Roman023 / dreamstime.com

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September 4, 2021

The credibility of print in the face of the dangers of social networks

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Chief Justice of India NV Ramana was on hand when he observed that the common connotations of content posted by social media and YouTube channels all work to show India in a bad light, not to mention that some of these offenders consider themselves “patriotic”. CJI correctly noted that these entities have no responsibility and can freely smear people and institutions they don’t like and circulate content without factual verification or advice. These sightings came upon hearing Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind and others protesting “biased” reporting on Tablighi Jamaat at the start of the spread of Covid in India.

CJI’s accompanying observations on the print media, which he says, again rightly, does responsible reporting and has built-in corrective mechanisms, highlight a great dichotomy. News published in newspapers is compiled by professional journalists and is printed after several levels of fact-checking and editorial control. It doesn’t make newspapers perfect. But this ensures that reputable mastheads are not platforms for bogus, libelous, or hateful content. In contrast, social media has become a cesspool of all of this and worse, because it doesn’t use as many editorial networks as the ocean of posts requires. Here it is also important to distinguish social media from digital news portals, which include digital publications from print media. The latter are subject to the same due diligence as newspapers and face the same regulatory regime.

Oddly and indefensibly, the GoI’s purported response to social media excesses, IT (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules 2021, does not quite make this distinction between true news organizations in the digital space and wild media wasteland. social and hate factories on the fly. It’s no surprise that IT rules face severe legal challenges in high courts. GoI should listen to what CJI said: content is dangerous when it promotes lies and hate. This means more rigorous scrutiny of social media companies and letting digital media do its job.



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This article was published as an editorial opinion in the print edition of The Times of India.



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September 3, 2021

Hours Local newspapers and magazines

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by Eileen Leahy | September 3, 2021

In these uncertain times, many have found creative pursuits a great form of escape. Joanna Harris, who runs an Art By The Yard workshop in Tunbridge Wells, reveals to Eileen Leahy how her business ultimately managed to thrive during the pandemic.

About two years ago, avid graphic designer and artist Joanna Harris opened a small studio in Town Court Farm – an arts hub in Bayham Road, Tunbridge Wells, with many painters, potters and sculptors renting out creative space.

Many regularly exhibit their work to the general public at events like South East Open Studios, while others hold classes and small workshops.

When Joanna, a mother of two, saw the space, she knew it was the right environment to immerse herself in her artistic endeavors.

“Working at my kitchen table was a great place to grow my graphic design and illustration business – and it definitely worked early on as I had two dependent children.

“However, I have personally found that not having the proper space or environment often inhibits the experiential side of my ‘hands-on’ creativity.

“I think everyone knows that feeling of having gathered the necessary art material, it’s almost time to put everything away again, so sometimes I’ve been like ‘why bother? But with a space reserved at Town Court Farm, I felt like I had finally come home, ”she says.

“I chose Town Court Farm as my base because, while I love living in Tunbridge Wells, I am a country girl at heart. If I can see green and be inspired by a walk down the alley, it will definitely help me in the creative process. I am often seen with my pruning shears taking plant samples from the hedges for my work!

Joanna studied weaving at Middlesex University before working as a graphic designer and also in the art department of a high school, so it’s clear that art runs deep in her veins.

She says she decided to start her art business Art By The Yard because she knew “how much joy it brings.”

“I like to discover and practice a new technique. There is this palpable magical moment as the ideas begin to take shape. It’s like discovering and finding some kind of childlike excitement and I wanted to bring that feeling to others. I have been very fortunate to have been in creative environments all my life, ”adds Joanna.

Having acquired these various artistic skills over the years and combined with her love of teaching, Joanna decided to launch Art By The Yard into the world.

“My timing was impeccable – I did it right as we entered the lockdown!” she laughs.

But without being discouraged, and when government directives permitted, she took her lessons outside.

“For print jobs I use a cyanotype, which is a photographic printing process that produces a cyan-blue print and actually exploits UV light, so what better medium should I use outdoors? “

Even so, the outdoor classes took off and Joanna started adding more to her Art By The Yard offering, including painting.

“My watercolor lessons were also held in the picturesque setting of Town Court Flower Farm. How wonderful to have the opportunity not only to paint a few flowers, but to be able to choose from a whole field of them? “

With the additional blockages onset, however, Joanna says she unfortunately had to close the doors to Art By The Yard for a while.

“I had to do this for many months until I was allowed to open children’s art workshops and after-school clubs.”

Yet despite the startup issues, Joanna says directing Art By The Yard means that she can facilitate creativity for all ages and abilities, and that she loves bringing people together.

“Often, we work around a large table, which gives participants – young and old – the opportunity to do something they might not do at home. I guess it’s about sparking ideas and processes that could lead to an ongoing hobby or even a career.

“Being with other like-minded people is such a benefit, not only learning from each other, but having the time to talk with like-minded people is just as important.

“I find that by giving people enough skills to work through a technique, children and adults can come home with something that they have created and are happy with.”

In addition to teaching various classes, Joanna also produces her own work.

“I have a collection of picture cards for sale in Zaven’s gift shop on Mount Ephraim. And I’ve done signature artwork of The Pantiles which can be found on limited edition prints, cards, and tea towels online.

Before having her children, Joanna worked for an advertising agency in Tunbridge Wells. She says she has always found her graphic design, illustration and fine art work to feed off each other.

“My creative approach makes me a better designer and my skills at a good layout help give my illustration a business edge. It’s great to be able to make a living using these different skills.

Joanna attended this year’s inaugural Fringe Festival, where she led cyanotype workshops at the Inside Café and the Zero Waste Café.

“It was very picturesque to have the Pantiles as a venue,” she says of the latter.

This fall, Joanna says she will be taking her creative workshops “on the go”.

“I will be starting my own after-school club at Art By The Yard and also running one at Wells Free School.

“I also have new Creative Workshops in town that will be confirmed soon, and over Christmas I’ll be taking reservations for wreath-making workshops in people’s kitchens.”

“You seem like a very busy lady,” I say, to which she responds, “Well, as Maya Angelou said,“ You can’t use creativity. The more you use, the more you have ”. So why stop here?

For more information on Joanna’s art classes for all ages and abilities visit: artbytheyard.co.uk

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September 3, 2021

Top Headlines from Today’s Nigerian Newspapers, Friday, September 3, 2021

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Hello Nigeria, welcome to Naija News’ summary of the main headlines in Nigeria for today, Friday September 3, 2021

President Muhammadu Buhari received the final report of the forensic audit from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Thursday.

Naija News reports that Niger Delta Minister of Affairs Godswill Akpabio presented the report to Buhari.

Federation Attorney General and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami received the documents which were mailed in bags on behalf of the president.

Speaking after the handover, Akpabio, revealed that the forensic audit covered a total of 13,777 contracts awarded from 2001 to 2019 for a final contract value of N3, 274,206,032,213.24.

In response, Buhari via Malami vowed not to spare anyone involved in the embezzlement of six trillion naira injected into the NDDC.

Defense Headquarters (DHQ) said more than 5,890 Boko Haram / ISWAP insurgents and their families have so far surrendered to Nigerian troops in the northeast.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, acting director of defense media operations Bernard Onyeuko said the surrendered terrorists included their commanders and infantry.

Onyeuko added that 565 of the recently surrendered terrorists were turned over to the Borno state government for further management after extensive profiling.

The DHQ said as many as 48 Boko Haram terrorists, 20 arrested, including fighters and commanders, were neutralized and their logistics base and facilities, including 3 armed trucks, were destroyed in the process.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s special adviser on media and advertising, Femi Adesina, gave further explanation on the president’s decision to end the appointment of two ministers.

It will be recalled that President Buhari, in an unexpected gesture, on Wednesday ended the appointments of the Minister of Agriculture, Mohammed Sabo Nanono, and of the Minister of Energy, Mr. Saleh Mamman.

Defending the decision and shedding light on the decision, presidential spokeswoman Femi Adesina argued on Thursday that the two ministers were falling short of expectations, hence their dismissal.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels TV, Adesina said the two were caught out when their performances were reviewed and with less than two years into his tenure President Buhari had to let them go. in order to finish strong.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called for urgent measures to be taken to protect schoolchildren from kidnapping, especially in the northern region where such incidents have become commonplace.

Atiku made the appeal Thursday in response to the latest of these kidnappings in Zamfara state where 73 students from Government Day, Kaya Secondary School in Maradun LGA were kidnapped on Wednesday.

The unfortunate incident was also confirmed by the Zamfara Police Command with the addition that security officers have prosecuted the perpetrators.

But in reaction to the kidnapping, Atiku, who wrote on Twitter, said if the situation was not urgently resolved, the northern region would continue to lag behind in educating children compared to other regions.

He also recommended that the government establish a special protection unit responsible for the safety of schools and schoolchildren only to prevent such attacks in the future.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) announced Thursday the expulsion of a leader, Sulaiman Adamu, for wishing the death of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Naija News recalls that Adamu, the party’s acting chairman in the South Yola Local Government Area of ​​Adamawa State, wished Buhari would contract COVID-19 and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to replace him.

In a statement to reporters, APC National Secretary John Akpan Udoedehe said Adamu’s expulsion is effective immediately.

He added that the decision to sack the party chairman was part of the resolutions taken at the 16th meeting of the Interim Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) held at the National Secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday.

The Minister of Special Tasks and Intergovernmental Affairs, Senator George Akume has abandoned the residents of his constituency who are most affected by the frequent Fulani shepherds in Benue State.

Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom made the allegation in response to the Minister’s call to declare a state of emergency in Benue following ongoing fighting and clashes between herders and farmers / residents.

Ortom further stated that Akume never condemned the killings or saw fit to visit internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state despite being a federal minister, describing the situation as painful.

The chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national interim committee, Governor Mai Mala Buni, said the court order dismissing him from office has no effect on him.

Governor Buni, in a statement Thursday by his media aide, Mamman Mohammed, observed that the court order is limited to the APC leadership in Delta state and not the national party leadership.

It will be recalled that a High Court sitting on Wednesday in Asaba, Delta State, prevented the interim president and others from standing as members of the party’s CECPC until action was determined. justice in court.

The party’s vice president in Delta state, Olorogun Elvis Ayomanor, had taken other party officials in the state to court, challenging the results of the neighborhood congress in the state.

However, Buni, in his reaction through his aide’s statement, said the court ruling only affected the next Delta state of Congress and did not affect other states.

He therefore urged those labeled as troublemakers in the statement to stop distorting the court order to fit them for their own purposes.

Two prominent traditional rulers of Oyo State, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, were surprisingly unable to enter during the setting in service of the renovated Lekan Salami, Adamasingba stadium in Ibadan.

It was reported that security guards on duty at the event, which took place on Wednesday in Oyo state, prevented traditional rulers from entering the event venue despite invitation cards. very important personality (VIP) with them.

The traditional leaders then left the scene without attending the event following the incident with security guards.

Media staff from both monarchs confirmed the development previously reported by Naija News.

But in response to the incident, the Oyo state government on Thursday in a statement by Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde Taiwo Adisa said traditional leaders were duly invited and expected at the event.

On why they were unable to enter, however, the statement went on to explain that the Royal Fathers were unable to access the designated VVIP drop zone due to the growing crowd that showed up for the event.

He added that security officials told them to use another door and noted that the state government holds the two traditional rulers in high regard.

The Nigerian military said its troops neutralized six terrorists from the Islamic State of West Africa (ISWAP) Province in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

In a statement released Thursday by its spokesman Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the military said troops also recovered weapons and ammunition from slain insurgents.

Nwachukwu added that four AK 47 rifles and four magazines, each loaded with 30 7.62mm (special) rounds were recovered by the troops.

He revealed that the troops of the 25th Brigade, operating under the aegis of Joint Task Force, North-East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) neutralized the terrorists in a gun duel.

According to him, terrorists spying along the Damboa-Bulabulin-Maiduguri road clashed with a combat patrol team in Kukawa and were neutralized in the ensuing fight with the troops.

On Thursday, the Enugu State Assembly passed the anti-open grazing bill.
It was concluded that after considering the bill article by article, the lawmakers adopted the bill

Naija News reports that after passage, the Assembly would send the bill to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for his assent.

The Miyetti Allah Cattlemen’s Association had asked the assembly to extend the passage of the bill from one month to the next in order to give them enough time to make their contribution.

These are the main headlines of Nigerian newspapers today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija News. See you tomorrow.


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