then remaining overcast and windy overnight The county no longer needed to collect the $2 tolls because debt incurred to build the bridge had paid been paid off years ag Members of the Galveston County Commissioners Court voted 5-0 Monday to end the collection of cash tolls on San Luis Pass Bridge For years motorists crossing the bridge between Galveston and Brazoria counties have had to pay a $2 cash toll each way Commissioner Joe Giusti put the item on Monday’s agenda, explaining last week that the bridge had been paid off years ago The bridge was built in 1966 as the replacement to a causeway destroyed by Hurricane Carla in 1961 Tolls at the bridge generate about $500,000 a year in revenue but personnel costs to staff it amount to more than half of that Commissioners are working through the logistics of the change County officials were meeting with toll bridge workers Monday afternoon to let them know those jobs are going away and to help those who want to stay working with the county find jobs in other departments A couple of the toll booth workers have been working past the age of 65 and might be considering retirement The county will announce the official date for the end of tolls later and Jeff Robinson: 409-683-5226: jeff.robinson@galvnews.com Email notifications are only sent once a day there are no recent results for popular videos Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Start your morning with the top headlines each day Receive email alerts anytime there is breaking news or a severe weather alert Get the latest local and national sports headlines delivered to your inbox every morning Receive Laura Elder's Biz Buzz direct to your inbox every Sunday Receive the daily weather forecast and the weekly outlook in your inbox each morning Receive an email notification each time resident weather expert Stan Blazyk writes a new article ICYMI is a weekly newsletter highlighting stories from the past week most read or most talked about we want to make sure you read them ICYMI also features select historical content Receive the most recent obituaries every afternoon Get a link to the latest e-Edition delivered to your inbox each morning Receive updates on the latest issues of Coast Monthly Receive the latest Dear Abby column in your inbox each morning Receive special offers from The Daily News and select partners including discounts Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account Drivers cross the San Luis Pass toll bridge that links Galveston and Surfside Beach on Nov GALVESTON — Members of the Galveston County Commissioners Court voted 5-0 Monday to end the collection of cash tolls on San Luis Pass Bridge Would you like to receive our daily headlines? Signup today Receive updates on the latest issue of The Facts The Port of Itaqui is a key logistical hub in Brazil's port network vital for the Central-North and Central Brazil corridors Towage and marine services provider Svitzer has started operations at the Port of Itaqui in Sao Luis The company’s investment surpasses 650m reals (approximately $125m) over nine years The Port of Itaqui is a crucial logistical hub within Brazil’s port complex essential for the Central-North and Central Brazil corridors the port plays a pivotal role in the region’s and the country’s economic growth Svitzer Americas managing director Arjen Van Dijk said: “The Port of Itaqui serves as a critical hub for cargo from the Corredor Centro-Norte and Brazil’s Central-West region “We are proud to be able to serve our customers while at the same time supporting the continued development of Brazil’s national trade and logistics.” Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis This expansion enhances Svitzer’s coastal presence adding to its operations in eight other Brazilian ports Supporting Svitzer’s Maranhoo venture are two tugboats These Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) models are designed to meet the operational requirements of the ports of Itaqui Svitzer Brazil’s fleet includes 22 tugboats with three more ASD vessels under construction these vessels are being built at the Rio Maguari shipyard in Belem Svitzer Brazil president Daniel Cohen said: “Our entry into yet another port underscores our long-term commitment to the Brazilian market “Itaqui is the largest public port in northern and northeastern Brazil and ranks as the fourth-largest public port nationwide It is a strategic hub for regional production and exports Svitzer announced the delivery of Svitzer Babitonga the last in a series of six vessels from the 2300 Rampart Series Last year, Svitzer introduced the IMO Tier III-compliant tug Svitzer Jubilee at the Port of Tyne This Damen ASD tug features a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to cut nitrogen oxide emissions Nominations are now open for the prestigious Ship Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation This is your chance to showcase your achievements Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network Revelers gather on a bridge during Carnival in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga Revelers dance during Carnival in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga A reveler poses for a photo on a street during Carnival in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga Revelers dance on a street during Carnival in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga Revelers gather in a street during Carnival in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga the small Brazilian town of Sao Luiz do Paraitinga’s calm everyday life transforms into a joyful party known for its deep-rooted traditions giant puppets and songs known in Portuguese as ‘marchinhas.’ “It’s the best celebration that exists in the interior of Sao Paulo state,” said Dayana Martins Galan Sao Luiz do Paraitinga has roughly 10,000 inhabitants It is a popular tourist destination thanks to its colored colonial buildings and vibrant cultural events dotted throughout the year Gheisa Gomes used to travel from Guarulhos to Sao Luiz do Paraitinga before she became pregnant but this year decided to bring her daughter to partake in the festivities with her Understanding a bit about Carnival culture is really nice,” said Gomes And while Carnival marches can also be heard in mega-cities’ street parties they rarely take center stage as they do in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga “Everyone should have this experience one day should enjoy ‘marchinhas’,” said Marcela Antunes Ceneviva And I think it’s worth reviving that too.” Picture by GETTY IMAGESBy Evelyn WattaBrazil’s Olympic kite surfer Bruno Lobo recently captured a heroic moment on camera when he rescued a drowning woman off the coast of Sao Luís “The day that God used me as an instrument to save this young woman, all honour and glory to Him,” said the two-time Pan American Games champion in the Formula Kite Class. Lobo, who is also an orthopaedic doctor, shared the video on Instagram. "After sailing a few meters, I heard a cry for help and looked at the girl who was drowning. I quickly approached her with the kite. I tried to calm her down and asked to climb on my back. She was quite tired and without power. I used the equipment to bring her safely to the sand.” The rescued woman expressed her gratitude commenting on his post It was the salvation that God and my guides sent to me I really could not handle it if I spent five minutes on the high sea even knowing how to swim and using anti-drowning techniques I wish you showers of blessings in your life!” People worldwide associate Brazil with Carnival though in the northeastern city of São Luis is a little known to festival called ‘Bumba Meu Boi’ or ‘Dance My Ox.’ Passed down through oral tradition dozens of groups perform in the spectacle across the city and state of Maranhão '+n.escapeExpression("function"==typeof(o=null!=(o=r(e,"eyebrowText")||(null!=l?r(l,"eyebrowText"):l))?o:n.hooks.helperMissing)?o.call(null!=l?l:n.nullContext||{},{name:"eyebrowText",hash:{},data:t,loc:{start:{line:28,column:63},end:{line:28,column:78}}}):o)+" \n '+(null!=(o=c(e,"if").call(r,null!=l?c(l,"cta2PreText"):l,{name:"if",hash:{},fn:n.program(32,t,0),inverse:n.noop,data:t,loc:{start:{line:63,column:20},end:{line:63,column:61}}}))?o:"")+"\n"+(null!=(o=(c(e,"ifAll")||l&&c(l,"ifAll")||n.hooks.helperMissing).call(r,null!=l?c(l,"cta2Text"):l,null!=l?c(l,"cta2Link"):l,{name:"ifAll",hash:{},fn:n.program(34,t,0),inverse:n.noop,data:t,loc:{start:{line:64,column:20},end:{line:70,column:30}}}))?o:"")+" We're sorry but the page you're looking for is not on our website Drivers cross the San Luis Pass Bridge that links Galveston to Surfside on A couple and their dog walk along the beach near the San Luis Pass bridge on Residents in May will vote on three propositions totaling slightly more than $186 million The commissioners unanimously voted to certify the bond election in its Feb The Galveston County Commissioners Court recently approved a nearly $200 million bond election for county facilities including the replacement of the San Luis Pass Bridge Residents in May will vote on three bond measures totaling slightly more than $186 million The commissioners unanimously voted to certify the bond election in the court’s Feb isn’t that large for a lot of counties and cities “The main consideration for us going for a bond to keep our bond rating at a triple A bond rating because Galveston County is one of the only counties along the coast with a triple A bond rating to be able to do the bond without having to increase our tax rate So that’s the reason we’re keeping it to $200 million.” Proposition A and Proposition B have the highest bond amounts, with each totaling roughly $75 million, according to county documents. Bonds issued under Proposition A will be for the construction, maintenance and operation of county and city roads while Proposition B bonds will be for the purchasing constructing and improving of county buildings is set to be $36 million for “flood control purposes,” according to county documents One specific project the bonds would target is the replacement of the San Luis Pass Bridge Commissioners on Monday unanimously voted to authorize County Judge Mark Henry to sign the necessary documents to submit an application for a federal grant to fund 80 percent of the bridge replacement project which has a current estimated cost of $104 million The San Luis Pass Bridge is a 1.3-mile toll bridge connecting Follett’s Island to the south in Brazoria County with Galveston to the north in Galveston County The bridge was completed in 1966 as the replacement to a causeway destroyed by Hurricane Carla in 1961 The Texas Department of Transportation rated the bridge in “poor condition” after its December 2023 inspection The inspection noted deteriorated beams with cracked concrete “I don’t have a crystal ball to know how much longer it would last but bridge replacements take a very long time to plan,” Shannon said “This is our first start at the San Luis Pass Bridge and it’s in the condition where we need to start doing the planning on how we’re going to afford to replace it Department of Transportation grant aimed at strengthening surface transportation to be more resilient to natural hazards with specific focus on at-risk coastal infrastructure Shannon said the bridge’s coastal location and importance as an evacuation route will increase its chances of securing the federal funds through the grant the federal government would fund more than $83 million of the bridge replacement project while the county would be responsible for funding roughly $20 million While the county started the process of replacing the bridge Giusti hopes the state ultimately will take over the project “It’s a state highway going to a federally funded highway over in Brazoria County,” Giusti said “Eventually it’s going to have to be replaced Hopefully the state would pick it up on the state bridge system Lauren Frick: 409-683-5230; lauren.frick@galvnews.com The World Heritage Centre is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to protect and preserve World Heritage partnerships for conservation Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development Our Partners Donate Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information The late 17th-century core of this historic town founded by the French and occupied by the Dutch before coming under Portuguese rule has preserved the original rectangular street plan in its entirety Thanks to a period of economic stagnation in the early 20th century an exceptional number of fine historic buildings have survived making this an outstanding example of an Iberian colonial town Le centre de cette ville historique datant de la fin du XVIIe siècle fondée par les Français et occupée par les Hollandais avant de passer sous la domination des Portugais a préservé l’ensemble d’origine de ses rues au quadrillage rectangulaire En raison d’une période de stagnation économique au début du XXe siècle un nombre important de bâtiments historiques de grande qualité ont été conservés en faisant ainsi un exemple exceptionnel de ville coloniale ibérique ترقى مدينة ساو لويس التاريخية إلى القرن السابع عشر، وقد أسسها الفرنسيون واحتلّها الهولنديون قبل أن يستعمرها البرتغاليون وقد حافظ وسط هذه المدينة على التخطيط الأصلي لشوارعها على شكل مربّعات ونظراً للجمود الإقتصادي الذي ساد في مطلع القرن العشرين، تمّ الحفاظ على عدد مهم من المباني التاريخية القيّمة، ما جعل من مدينة ساو لويس مثالاً إستثنائياً عن مدينة استعمارية برتغالية 圣路易斯城由法国人建立,后被荷兰人占领,最后由葡萄牙人统治。城中完整地保留着17世纪末期城市的垂直街道布局。由于20世纪初的经济停滞,使得该城许多极具历史价值的建筑得以保留,圣路易斯城成为了伊比利亚风格殖民地城镇的杰出典范。 сохранило в целости первоначальную прямоугольную планировку Вследствие экономического застоя в начале XX в. большая часть исторических зданий сохранилась до наших дней что делает Сан-Луис выдающимся примером колониального города иберийского типа Fundada por los franceses y ocupada por los holandeses antes de caer bajo la dominación de los portugueses esta histórica ciudad ha conservado su centro histórico del siglo XVII caracterizado por el trazado rectangular de sus calles Debido a su estancamiento económico a principios del siglo XX Sao Luis ha conservado un gran número de edificios históricos de calidad excepcional que hacen de ella un ejemplo de ciudad colonial ibérica único en su género Located on the promontory formed by the Rivers Anil and Bacanga the Historic Centre of São Luís do Maranhão is characterized by its urban grid of streets lined with residential buildings of various heights tall narrow windows set in decorated surrounds and balconies with forged or cast iron railings They date from the 1615 plan laid out by Portugal’s chief engineer in Brazil following conquest of the fort that had been established on the site by the French in 1612 the historic centre is an outstanding example of a Portuguese colonial town adapted to the climatic conditions of Equatorial America with traditional Portuguese architecture adapted to incorporate raised piers and shuttered The singularity of the construction techniques employed is expressed in the elegance of the traditional Portuguese azulejos tile work applied both as insulation and decoration; in the modulated use of occupied and empty spaces reinforced by crafted stonework; and in the sharp contrast between the dense ornamentation of the facades overhanging the streets and porches that open wide from side to side into interior patios Criterion (iii): The Historic Centre of São Luís bears exceptional testimony to Portuguese colonial civilisation Criterion (iv): The Historic Centre of São Luís is an outstanding example of a Portuguese colonial town adapted to the climatic conditions of equatorial South America Criterion (v): The Historic Centre of São Luís is an outstanding example of a colonial town which has preserved its urban fabric harmoniously integrated with its natural setting The urban texture of the Historic Centre of São Luís remains intact reflecting elements that date to the city’s founding and consolidation While São Luís has been subject to expansion by virtue of its status as a living city and specific role as the state capital of Maranhão until the end of the 19th century it has not lost the essence of its origins reflected in the preservation of the historical centre and the 17th century architectural complex and urban grid These elements serve to illustrate the city’s importance to the region’s territorial settlement The Historic Centre is however extremely vulnerable to abandonment and neglect and measures are being taken to address this issue despite the urban rehabilitation initiatives to restore the architectural and enhance the area’s landscape value The overlay of the various periods in the evolution of the Historic Center of São Luís from inception of the original site in the 16th century reflected in the French fortifications; through growth of the Portuguese city in the 17th century; to its splendorous moment in the 18th century as the capital of Grão Pará; and its rise as the homogenous aristocratic commercial metropolis of the 19th century remain in evidence in the historic centre’s structural elements The authenticity of materials and substance in buildings and is respected by official bodies and inhabitants alike and customs directly linked to Brazilian cultural identity continue to be maintained The urban management of São Luís’ Historic Centre is performed at the three levels of government: federal through the municipal policies governing the preservation of local historical heritage property Following the city’s registration on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997 there was a substantial increase in the demand for public measures to preserve the site and in the interest of government institutions to raise public awareness regarding the issue the São Luís Municipal Government began developing the necessary instruments to safeguard the city’s heritage establishing in 1998 the Cultural Heritage Coordination (Coordenação de Patrimônio Cultural) the local government created the Historic Centre Management Centre (Núcleo Gestor do Centro Histórico) through Decree-Law 25441 to serve as an umbrella for the competent public agencies (municipal and private institutions to: integrate municipal measures and leverage the ties and partnerships forged between the various administrative and management levels; organize the delivery of public services to the Historic Centre; take steps to settle immediate problems arising in the area; propose activities and projects to spur local economic activity and ensure the sustainability of production and consumption patterns in the historical site the Municipal Foundation for Historical Heritage (Fundação Municipal de Patrimônio Histórico – FUMPH) was established in 2005 for the purpose of implementing operational planning and executing municipal historical heritage policies as well as local policy initiatives aimed at safeguarding and protecting the municipality’s cultural heritage as mandated in the Fundamental Law of São Luís the Historic Center Management Centre (Núcleo Gestor do Centro Histórico) was dissolved due to a lack of effective policy coordination among the different spheres of government provide a concrete experience in joint collaboration between the three levels of government The applicable urban administration and management regulations aimed at preserving the Cultural Heritage Site include the Municipal Master Plan of São Luís (Plano Diretor do Município de São Luís – 2006) through which protection of the site was integrated to the planning and territorial settlement process as part of the Municipal Others municipal ordinances serves to incentivize the preservation and maintenance of properties in the city centre as well which waives local property tax assessments (Imposto sobre a Propriedade Predial e Territorial Urbana – IPTU) for well-conserved and preserved properties Additional legislative instruments have been enacted to address the problem of property abandonment and inadequate maintenance which regulates articles 1275 and 1276 of the Brazilian Civil Code (Código Civil Brasileiro) governing property abandonment In the context of the effort to strengthen the specific applicable legislation the following instruments must still be updated and adequately adapted: the Zoning Law (Lei de Zoneamento) the Urban Land Use and Occupation Ordinance (Uso e Ocupação do Solo Urbano – 1992) the Urban Building Code (Código de Posturas – 1968) The quaint California town Oprah once dubbed 'the happiest place in America' has been plagued by a deluge of feral frat boys hellbent on causing neighborhood carnage Located on the coast roughly halfway between the San Francisco Bay and Los Angeles scenic San Luis Obispo is known in part for being the home to the California Polytechnic State University But the peaceful coexistence between students and residents has degenerated into disputes over noise complaints vandalism and shocking harassment caught on camera who have lived in the picturesque Alta Vista neighborhood of the city with their children for 16 years said their lives have been ruined by rowdy college students who have occupied dozens of homes on their once-peaceful street 'It's been an absolute nightmare,' stay-at-home-mom Kathie but it has been ruined by the fraternities that have overtaken the neighborhood 'They have these things called "dayges" - a daytime rager and they bring in waterslides and DJs and porta-potties These things last for several hours into the night The longtime resident compared her situation to Neighbors, a 2014 comedy featuring Seth Rogen and Zac Efron centering on a married couple's battle against a fraternity after they move in next door Kathie said Cal Poly students pack Alta Vista's tiny streets carrying boomboxes blasting loud music across the valley often until around 4 am She said the worst-offending frat boys come from Delta Epsilon Alarming videos posted by frat members online illustrate her point - showing thousands of students swarming multiple backyards while stomping on rooftops and drinking beer Other clips show students rampaging through corridors where the walls have been badly damaged with large shards of drywall littered across the floors beautiful green rolling hills and sandy beaches punctuated by towering peaks like the Cerro San Luis Obispo mountain frame the carnage Kathie is a fourth-generation resident in the city She said that while she respects the students' prerogative to party the low-density zoning in her neighborhood does not permit fraternity houses Kathie said she has endured cyber stalking and shocking targeted harassment by some frat boys Security footage captured from the front of their home in June 2024 shows two partygoers screaming obscenities at Kathie after she walked out of her home to check what was causing noise in the middle of the night one frat boy could be heard screaming toward the house: 'Hey The couple said they frequently endure this kind of harassment and have been told several times that they 'don't belong' in the neighborhood they have called home for the last 16 years It gives me anxiety when they post my name on social media and tell people to come to my house That has been scary,' Kathie told the DailyMail.com The carnage is also threatening the Walkers' livelihood He has to fly around a medical crew and patients,' Kathie said 'When he doesn't get to rest because of the parties he has to call in sick and this impacts our income,' Kathie added The San Luis Obispo resident said the frat boy activities have worsened in recent years partly due to inaction by officials including Police Chief Rick Scott 'He embraces the zero-harm policing method They don't really enforce the ordinances as much,' Kathie said adding that Scott even told a resident that 'someone would have to die' for him to take action against the fraternities The San Luis Obispo Police Department have denied that Scott made this comment 'The San Luis Obispo Police Department takes quality of life crimes very seriously and has dedicated countless hours of education and enforcement to reduce noisy parties and disruptions in the neighborhoods surrounding Cal Poly University,' the department told DailyMail.com 'As is common in many cities that are adjacent to major universities there is often friction between college students and full-time residents in these neighborhoods.' The department added that it has many ordinances in place to deal with noise complaints and fines ranging from $350 to $1,000 for repeat offenders They have also introduced a 'party registration program' which allows residents to register a party and provide a point of contact who can be called if a noise complaint is received They then have 20 minutes to end the noise without receiving a citation the total number of noise complaints received by the San Luis Obispo Police Department was the second lowest year since 2013,' the department said 'The San Luis Obispo Police Department is not "dismissive" of our residents’ complaints but unfortunately there are times were residents want to see more enforcement than can legally be applied.' 'The police just dismiss them (the frat parties) like they're not happening,' she added 'My husband is also an Army veteran who trained in Sandhurst and Zimbabwe He compares the lack of action by police to the authorities in Zimbabwe.'  DailyMail.com has contacted the Chief's office for comment city and college authorities seem to be passing the buck 'The city council has ignored me,' Kathie said but Cal Poly is telling me it's the city's responsibility.' Kathie said the fraternity chaos began as far back as a decade ago and it has gotten so bad that many longtime residents have felt forced out of their homes the frats took over the neighborhood,' she told DailyMail.com so many people piled onto a roof that it collapsed 'There were three frats in the city at that time - now there are 60 factions One of the city council members who used to be the mayor of the city moved away because of the frats 'Another woman - a 40-year resident and landlady - said her tenants were terrified last year because there were 100 people on the roof and they were afraid it was going to cave in 'The owner went to the police chief last month 'He told her that either someone's going to have to die or there's going to have to be major property damage for something to happen about St Fratty's Day Kathie said 2,000 people packed out their town of around 47,000 people for "St when the parties got so out of control that students downed power lines and collapsed a sewer on a family home The Walkers are bracing for a deluge of around 10,000 frat boys and sorority girls this year SLO Code Enforcement recently investigated 17 locations where fraternities are operating in quiet zones designated for single-family homes and two were found to be in violation, city officials told the San Luis Obispo Tribune.   'To my knowledge, we have issued one citation related to unpermitted fraternities in the last year,' Interim Deputy Building Official John Mezzapesa told The Tribune.  The San Luis Obispo Police Department told The Tribune they receive an average of around two complaints per weekend about the fraternities.   Major terror attack 'was just HOURS away' before it was foiled by the special forces and police:... 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Suscribe x MercoPress, en Español Montevideo, May 5th 2025 - 11:51 UTC and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Friday declared Brazil's Lençóis Maranhenses National Park a World Natural Heritage Site making it the South American country's eighth such place The announcement was made during the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi The application dossier had been submitted in 2018 The Lençóis Maranhenses Park is located about 250 kilometers from São Luís it remains the largest dune field in South America where crystal-clear lagoons emerge between the white dunes during the rainy season UNESCO's decision was a great achievement for the State Maranhão Governor Carlos Brandão posted on X this recognition will strengthen tourism and the preservation of this natural treasure of Maranhão I thank the members of the Heritage Committee for their approval,” he wrote Among the requirements met by the park to win the title were its natural beauty and habitats for the conservation of biodiversity Brazil has now seven World Natural Heritage sites: the Iguaçu National Park in Rio Grande do Sul; the Atlantic Forest reserves in São Paulo and Paraná; the Discovery Coast in Bahia and Espírito Santo; the Central Amazon and Pantanal Protected Areas; the Chapada dos Veadeiros and the Emas National Park in Goiás; and the Fernando de Noronha archipelago UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay congratulated Brazil on the new status of the National Park this impressive landscape of dunes and lagoons shaped by exceptional climatic and geological conditions will benefit from the highest level of international protection This is the 24th Brazilian site to be registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List I would like to congratulate Brazil's commitment to protecting its cultural and natural heritage.” presided over by the Brazilian Ilan Goldfajn and Brazilian public banks launched the initiative of a new fund for Amazon to be created COP 30 Joining the IDB initiative were the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) The plan is to establish an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) and distribute its shares before COP 30 which originated in the United States between the 1980s and 1990s are a type of investment now widespread in global capital markets The proposal suggests that trading will occur on the São Paulo Stock Exchange The ETF's investment portfolio will be made up of fixed-income securities issued by BNDES The return offered to investors will be based on a reference index to be created All the funds raised by the three institutions will be allocated to loans for sustainable actions in the Amazon The announcement was made by leaders from the involved financial institutions during the 3rd G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Presidents meeting in Rio de Janeiro This is another key initiative within the intense program of the Brazilian G20 presidency Commenting for this story is now closed.If you have a Facebook account, become a fan and comment on our Facebook Page The requested URL was not found on this server An Olympic kitesurfer heroically rescued a teenage girl from drowning off the shores of a beach in Brazil. Bruno Lobo, who represented Brazil at the Paris 2024 Summer Games, was testing out his camera while kitesurfing at Praia do Olho in São Luis, Maranhão on Friday when he spotted Maria Duarte, 15, in distress. Footage showed the 31-year-old turning around and heading for Duarte, who was fighting to stay afloat in the choppy waters. Lobo, who is also an orthopedic surgeon, abandoned his board and swam to Duarte, who grabbed onto his back. He guided them back to the board as the teen kept her arms wrapped around his neck. Lobo then used his kite to bring them toward the shore before a lifeguard approached. Duarte was taken to the sand, where first responders rendered first aid. 'I only did what needed to be done and what was within my reach!' Lobo said in a post to his Instagram account featuring the video. On Monday, Lobo and Duarte were reunited at a special ceremony.  The kitesurfer was bestowed the Alferes Moraes Souto Medal, the highest award that granted by the Maranhão Military Fire Department. Duarte recalled praying for someone to rescue her from being swept away. 'At that moment I asked God and he was an angel in my life,' Duarte said in a video posted by Maranhão Governor Carlos Brandão on Instagram. 'And I am very grateful to him. I did not know the sea and the challenge.  'The sea is treacherous and you cannot challenge it.' Lobo explained he was moved by the attention he received for rescuing Duarte. 'It was very overwhelming, this moment of saving a life through sports and it is certainly my greatest trophy and my greatest achievement,' Lobo said.  'Seeing Maria Eduardo here healthy and able to tell this story. God sent me at that moment, in that place to save her life when she needed it most.' Lobo lost to Italian kiteboarder Riccardo Pianosi in the 2024 Olympics semifinals and finished seventh overall.  It was the first time since the 1992 Olympics that Brazil failed to medal in the competition. Lobo, who is currently ranked seventh in the world, won gold at the 2019 and 2023 Pan American Games and is a seven-time Brazilian Formula Kite champion. {{message}} Please read our republishing guidelines to get started A stone indicating the construction site of the São Luis port (image: Ingrid Barros) Demonstrators warned police that there was a pregnant woman among them trying to protect their homes against repossession by a private company But the police pushed through to let the machines pass and soon used pepper spray The pregnant woman staggered away from the diggers Residents of the Cajueiro community in the Brazilian Amazon were continuing a struggle they have waged since 2014 They are trying to save their houses from a government-authorised plan that will dispossess them – a megaport linking São Luís The São Luís Port project, headed by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and the Brazilian company WPR-São Luís Gestão de Portos e Terminais and part-financed by a US$2.6 billion loan from the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) aims to facilitate the export of Brazilian iron ore and soy but this would be the first to be operated by a company from China Destruction of a house in the Cajueiro community on August 12 to make way for the São Luis port project (image: Ingrid Barros) 22 tracts of land were repossessed and even more houses destroyed 34 of the original 250 inhabitants live there Only seven lots have not yet been repossessed Last month, more than 100 Brazilian and international signatories concerned about authorities’ treatment of the community sent a letter in support of Cajueiro residents to Leilani Farha The conflict between the police and the community demonstrated the government’s brutal commitment to ensuring that the project go ahead even as the state and federal prosecution services questioned its legality How can the state grant a public deed to the community and then someone appears claiming to be the owner of the area São Luís Port is part of the “Northern Arc” initiative a recipient of a flurry of public and private investments in ports and highways designed to expedite the transit of mining and agricultural products from the Amazon and Cerrado regions The project reveals conflicting visions for the Amazon – those who see it as a new frontier for industrial and agricultural development The Amazon has already lost 18% of its forest cover while half of the Cerrado savannah’s original vegetation is gone Preserved areas are often home to indigenous people quilombola communities of slave descendants and small rural producers like those defending Cajueiro “There used to be community members who had lived there together for decades who had a good life and helped preserve the forest” Construction of the port has already deforested an area equivalent to 200 football pitches it must displace more families from Cajueiro a community dating back to the mid-nineteenth century Houses at the site have been demolished since 2014, some with, others without legal authorisation, as revealed in the investigation Besieged by Progress Some residents have been threatened to leave by hired gunmen Criminal activity could underpin much of the venture as many land purchases and sales are dubious Investigations by the Maranhão public prosecutor’s office indicate that a criminal operation has been forging titles for public land in order to enable to work on infrastructure projects in the area surrounding São Luís prosecutors seized enough computers and documents to fill four pickup trucks a fisher who lives in one of the communities in Cajueiro fixes a net for fishing crab which are increasingly scarce in the region (image: Ingrid Barros) The land title scheme appears to be led by a group comprised of companies who specialises in agrarian conflicts at the Maranhão state prosecutor’s office “How can the state grant a public deed to the community and then someone appears claiming to be the owner of the area?” he asked private individuals have usurped public land and sold it to companies linked to the port construction project This can lead to the annulment of the private land deed and project licensing.” a lawyer for the Jesus do Cajueiro Residents Union land repossession for the port was illegal since it was not determined who owns the land Nor were residents given any warning that they would be removed Dias said they began to be removed on Monday 12 but the court order authorising repossession only arrived the following day residents soon found themselves and their belongings in the street and with their houses demolished the parties involved in proceedings should be summoned and informed prior to actions such as these,” Dias said “The repossession was not in line with this process and treated the residents like squatters.” Days later, as they demonstrated against authorities’ brutality, protesters, residents and former residents of Cajueiro were forcibly pushed back from the Palácio dos Leões by police using rubber bullets and tear gas The Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil in Maranhão is investigating the case Asked whether the repossession was authorised by the state judiciary, governor Flávio Dino, a member of Brazil’s Communist Party, tweeted: “the military police cannot simply refuse to carry out a court order There have been several attempts at mediation It is not up to the governor to revoke or suspend a decision by another branch of government” WPR-São Luís Gestão de Portos e Terminais is offering those removed from the Cajueiro community “a new house, employment, temporary emergency financial assistance, and food assistance”, according to a pamphlet distributed by the company or state how long benefits will be offered the government of Maranhão says it is investigating allegations of violence against Cajueiro residents and protestors but didn’t explain why repossessions took place without warning China Communications Construction Company hadn’t responded to requests for an interview Nor was it possible to make contact with WPR-São Luís Gestão de Portos e Terminais Former president Michel Temer secured ICBC finance for the São Luís Port in September 2017 Such investments are part of the Chinese government’s policy encouraging domestic companies to expand their business overseas director of the University of Pittsburgh’s University Center for International Studies “Although the intent of this policy has been largely economic Chinese leaders understand that this global expansion has geopolitical ramifications,” Armony said Forest clearing for port infrastructure near the Cajueiro community (image: Ingrid Barros) On the environmental and social impacts of projects, China has demanded more transparency and respect for local legislation in its Latin American projects However, he noted problems including the violation of indigenous and traditional people’s rights in projects with Chinese involvement in the region: “There is a dark side of China’s expansion in the global South.” Aldem Bourscheit is a Brazilian journalist covering environmental issues Select from our bespoke newsletters for news best suited to you We’ve sent you an email with a confirmation link 我们向您的邮箱发送了一封确认邮件,请点击邮件中的确认链接。如果您未收到该邮件,请查看垃圾邮件。 If you would like more information about the terms of our republication policy or permission to use content, please write to us: [email protected] We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to use our site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Read our privacy and cookies policy for further information Dialogue Earth uses cookies to provide you with the best user experience possible Cookie information is stored in your browser It allows us to recognise you when you return to Dialogue Earth and helps us to understand which sections of the website you find useful Required Cookies should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings Dialogue Earth - Dialogue Earth is an independent organisation dedicated to promoting a common understanding of the world's urgent environmental challenges. Read our privacy policy Cloudflare - Cloudflare is a service used for the purposes of increasing the security and performance of web sites and services. 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by following the coordinates below and learn more… The perfect itinerary for your adventure through the City of San Luis Obispo Located in the heart of… SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) is a land of rugged races and relaxing recovery Looking for true SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) gems Check out these things to do in Downtown San… 2025 Official Visit SLO CAL Visitors Magazine The transaction was completed following the receipt of all required regulatory approvals and satisfaction of all closing conditions SSR Mining has completed the sale of its San Luis project in Central Peru to Highlander Silver Initially announced last year the deal includes a $5m cash payment to SSR Mining which could also receive up to $37.5m in contingent payments payable in cash The contingent payments are structured to be disbursed in five instalments with the first payment triggered by the initiation of a drilling programme at the San Luis project The final payment is due on the second anniversary of the project’s commercial production SSR Mining has secured a 4% net smelter return (NSR) royalty on the project which was issued concurrently with the transaction’s closing Highlander Silver has the option to repurchase half of the NSR royalty for $15m in cash at any point before the construction begins The sale is part of SSR Mining’s broader strategy to rationalise its portfolio having realised more than $300m from the divestment of non-core assets since early 2021 is a greenfield gold and silver development project This divestiture marks a significant step in SSR Mining’s ongoing efforts to optimise its asset base and focus on its core operations View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network San Luis Reservoir is part of the San Luis Joint-Use Complex which serves the State Water Project and the federal Central Valley Project The San Luis Joint-Use Complex serves the State Water Project and the federal Central Valley Project It was designed and constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation and is operated and maintained by the Department of Water Resources is the largest off-stream reservoir in the United States The O'Neill Forebay in Merced County marks the start of the San Luis Joint-Use Facilities The state and federal complex includes O'Neill Forebay and two smaller detention dams and reservoirs.  Los Banos Detention Dam and reservoir provide flood protection for San Luis Canal 14,000 acre-feet of space is maintained for flood control under specified conditions The facility is located on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley in Merced County Along the western side of the San Joaquin Valley in Merced County the California Aqueduct enters O'Neill Forebay from the north part of the federal Central Valley Project is pumped into the forebay by the O'Neill Pump-Generation Plant. Constructed between 1963 and 1967 O'Neill Forebay offers a variety of recreational activities including camping 20 miles southwest of the city of Los Banos Little Panoche Detention Dam and Reservoir provide flood protection for San Luis Canal Water is stored behind the dam above dead storage of 315 acre-feet only during the period that inflow from Little Panoche Creek exceeds the capacity of the outlet works Construction of the facility occurred between 1965 and 1966.  Located about 12 miles west of the city of Los Banos adjacent to State Highway 152 the Gianelli Pumping-Generating Plant pumps water from O'Neill Forebay into San Luis Reservoir Water is released through the plant in generating mode when service area demands are in excess of direct Delta diversions Construction of the plant began in 1963 and was completed in 1967 Dos Amigos Pumping Plant is located on the San Luis Canal about 10 miles south of the city of Los Banos and 18 miles southeast of Sisk Dam in Merced County It lifts water 113 feet from the aqueduct as it flows south from O'Neill Forebay. The plant's construction began in 1963 and was completed in 1966.  begins on the southeast edge of O'Neill Forebay and extends about 101.5 miles southeasterly to a point near Kettleman City It substantially parallels Interstate Highway 5 located on the western side of the San Joaquin Valley at the eastern flank of the Coast Ranges.  Water from the canal serves the San Luis federal service area mostly for agricultural purposes and for some municipal and industrial uses.  SWP water is conveyed through the an Luis Canal to Check 21 where the joint-use facilities and and the California Aqueduct continues The canal was constructed from 1963 to 1968 Sao Luis is an ethnically diverse island in the north of Brazil It’s also a place that moves to the beat of reggae music which pervades so much of it that it’s been nicknamed the “Brazilian Jamaica.” Theories differ as to how reggae first arrived to the island in the late 1970s Was it because of the ships coming into the port with vinyl records from French Guyana or did it come from amateur radio stations picking up signals from the Caribbean reggae has become such a central part of life that even City Hall has its own Reggae Strategic Planning committee Our Urban Voice is Brazil’s Reggae Movement Damascus, SANA- Syria and Turkey explored Monday ways of boosting agricultural cooperation between the two countries in the fields of irrigation, scientific research, expertise exchange, training and qualification of technical … Read More » Damascus, SANA-The Director of School Buildings at the Ministry of Education, Engineer Mohammed al-Hanoun, discussed with engineers from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) the preparation of studies for building … Read More » Homs, SANA- Homs Agriculture Directorate announced Monday the start of harvesting current wheat crop in Talkalakh area, from on May 10th. Homs Agriculture Director, Eng. Nazih al-Rifai, told SANA that … Read More » Damascus, SANA- Religious Endowments Minister (Awqaf) Mohammad Abu al-Khair Shukri, Damascus Governor, Maher Marwan, discussed Monday means to develop joint work between the ministry and the governorate. During the meeting, … Read More » Doha, SANA-The International Union of Muslim Scholars condemned Israeli attacks on Syria, targeting of its territories, and attempts to incite sectarian strife there, calling on Arab and Islamic countries to … Read More » Algeria, SANA- President of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union (AIPU) and Speaker of the Algerian National People’s Assembly, Ibrahim Boughali, affirmed the importance of Syria’s pivotal role within its Arab environment … Read More » SANA- Syria and Turkey explored Monday ways of boosting agricultural cooperation between the two … SANA-The International Union of Muslim Scholars condemned Israeli attacks on Syria SANA- The Embassy of the Sisterly Republic of Yemen in Damascus was reopened on … set to carry 30,000 metric tons of high-quality local … SANA- Real Madrid secured a challenging 3-2 win over visiting Celta Vigo in Matchday … SANA-School libraries are an essential component of the Ministry of Education’s educational system discussed on Thursday with charge d’ Affairs of the … in partnership with the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre SANA-The American New York Times confirmed that the deadly legacy of blood left by … SANA-Russian Coordination Center in Damascus handed over the General Directorate of Antiquities and Museums … Nossos serviços estão apresentando instabilidade no momento Algumas informações podem não estar disponíveis Attended by community leaders and representatives of government agencies and the civil society the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) gave the workshop “A territory of information: potentialities of data in the 2022 Census.” The A activity is part of the dissemination activities about the 2022 Population Census - Quilombolas: Characteristics of Housing units and Literacy held at Escola Municipal de Tempo Integral Negro Cosme in the Liberdade neighborhood in São Luís (MA) The 53 attendees learned about technical and operational aspects of the 2022 Census which are essential to help local managers in decision making The first part of the workshop was a presentation about the survey with figures about the operation and potentialities of data mainly innovations and technological apparatuses that contributed to the effectiveness of data management the IBGE technician who is in charge for the codification of the 2022 Population Census remarked that “the data collection process was effected based on the comparison between data in Aneel and the enumerators’ data collection locations thus allowing the verification of occurrences When explaining the potential of data for local managers who is in charge of the IBGE’s Technical Project on Traditional Peoples and Communities highlighted that “the information presented allow public managers in the education field to have a profile closer to reality so that their actions can more effectively fight illiteracy The manager of Traditional Territories and Protected Areas of the IBGE’s Coordination of Territory Structures and the special technical advisor to the IBGE Superintendency in Maranhão presented the main tools to access the data produced by the IBGE the IBGE System of Automatic Retrieval (SIDRA) and the Interactive Geographic Platform conducted the presentation of the Environmental Information Database (BDIA) the technician Rafael Kessler Fernandez resumed the presentation and spoke about the 2000 Census topics already released and the prospects for the next releases with emphasis on the 2022 Population Census 2022: Birth registries the workshop was attended by residents of the Liberdade community students and representatives of institutions and social projects the interest in knowing current data about the quilombolas is essential for the several types of activity the institution has developed in the state at the Strategy and Transformation Unit of Sebrae Maranhão we are working in a project focused on quilombola communities Using the 2022 Census data is important so that we will be able to carry activities out in due time and with a variety of information is the API basis from which we extract data,” he said Interested of using IBGE in scientific research the student of Public Statistics at the national School of Statistical Sciences took the opportunity to clear doubts with the workshop mediators and said that “the tools made available by the IBGE make it possible to access data more easily binging the population closer to the surveys that show not only traditional peoples but Brazil as well” The workshop was also strategic for servants in the municipality of São Luís who work in the coordination and management of the capital’s Urban Legislation we do not have technical conditions of conducting a survey as great as the IBGE’s learning how to handle all these platforms and websites will help us optimize our work,” said Thalyta Fernandes survey superintendent at Instituto da Cidade Pesquisa e Planejamento Urbano e Rural (Institute of the City Research and Urban and Rural Planning) (Incid) of São Luís Sharing the same interest for the workshop the representative of the Municipal Secretariat for Racial Equality in Cantanhede (a municipality located 170 far from the capital São Luís) was enthusiastic about the workshop to learn about the data and tools provided by the IBGE “I come from a city with more than 24 thousand residents and with a lot of quilombos Being able to come here and participate in this event is essential for the public policies and the creation of public notices that will favor our municipality.” The population Census is a national landmark being the main source of demographic and economic data in the country and the Only survey that can present results at municipal and intramunicipal levels Data from the most complete statistical operation in the country which visits all the 5,570 Brazilian municipalities are fundamental both for public administration and social and economic planning of municipalities researchers and the society will have an assortment of information to help them not Only in the formulation but also in the monitoring and assessment of several public policies Data from the twelfth national release of the 2022 Census area available at the Geographic Interactive Platform (PGI), the 2022 Census Overview and Sidra © 2018 IBGE - Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística Nós utilizamos cookies para melhorar sua experiência de navegação no portal. Para saber mais sobre como tratamos os dados pessoais, consulte nossa Política de Privacidade. Cal Poly and Learn by Doing have been inextricably linked Combining rigorous academics and real-world applications Learn by Doing has guided and inspired hundreds of thousands of our students toward successful careers for well over a century — and can do the same for you well into your future.  Explore Learn by Doing Whether you're dreaming of attending Cal Poly in the future or have already secured your spot Explore our renowned Learn by Doing approach and the impactful contributions our graduates make Let’s go Learn by Doing ensures you play an active role in helping solve some of California’s — and the world’s — most complex challenges: climate change It also helps to ensure that when you graduate both you and employers will agree with us that you are ready Two professors secured a patent for their innovative approach to curbing wildfires before they spread to homes and communities NASA scientists tested two prototypes developed by Cal Poly students as part of a challenge to develop solutions for space exploration Students spent their summer mapping tree canopy cover aiming to offset the heat island effect for California cities as the climate warms Cal Poly’s six academic colleges offer more than 150 undergraduate majors and minors Learn by Doing unifies our colleges and animates the curriculum of each — because no matter the field of study the best way to build new knowledge is to try it out for yourself Equitable and Inclusive Campus Community  Our Commitment to DEI Text description provided by the architects. The São Luís Sports & Arts Gymnasium is part of an architectural planning carried out and implemented over 12 years in various school sectors, in order to better adapt it to their educational principles. The reorganization of the sports sector objectively demanded the increase in the supply of sports facilities and activities - in a project briefing that included adding no areas to the existing complex and without interrupting the daily activities of the school. © Nelson KonOccupying the same area of the previous building, completely demolished for this project, the gym has expanded from one to four its sports courts - two as grass soccer fields in the top slab and two others revealed when retractable bleachers slides into a stack. © Nelson KonThe option of retractable bleachers on one side only allows direct visual exchange with the city through the facades – specially with the huge trees that surround the corner where the new Gymnasium is built. © Nelson KonThe possibility of opening all the sliding doors towards the north facade of the building manage to control the intensity of the winds over the seasons. The angled design of the brise-soleil enhance the constant ventilation without exposing the students on rainy days, besides reducing the incidence of solar radiation inside the building. © Nelson KonNatural sun light is abundant into the gymnasium, always filtered by different treatments of the glass panels in each facade; all the rain water is collected in a reservoir of 60,000 liters and reused in the building maintenance.  Section BThe whole building received acoustic treatment to accommodate not only sporting events, but also institutional and cultural events regularly programmed in the school. Backed by a complete theater infrastructure, the space has its sound reverberation and acoustic insulation precisely set for any intended use; the building presents high standards of comfort and excellence, without disturbing the neighborhood. © Nelson KonThe entire environment is designed to encourage social interaction – turning courts, bleachers and all the connection spaces into living rooms, constantly integrated to the visual presence of city. © Nelson KonCrowning a decade of architectural renovation the São Luís Gymnasium represents a new phase in the long history of the institution A school traditionally connected with the community around it now offers a welcoming shelter to sports and cultural events not only his students but also the entire city You'll now receive updates based on what you follow Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors If you have done all of this and still can't find the email The dates displayed for an article provide information on when various publication milestones were reached at the journal that has published the article activities on preceding journals at which the article was previously under consideration are not shown (for instance submission Journal of Hazardous MaterialsCitation Excerpt :As a part of ecological environment high-quality water environment ensures the sustainable development of human society and poses material basis for industrial manufacturing and agricultural production Urban rivers serve as the main water sources for human daily life the water quality degradation and deterioration of which may result in widely spread waterborne infectious diseases and economic stagnancy consequently [1,2] Water quality parameters (WQPs) [3,4] mainly including total phosphorus (TP) [5–7] and turbidity [15,16] can be utilized to determine water quality of urban rivers Journal of Hazardous MaterialsCitation Excerpt :This study integrated the knowledge of meteorology Such interdisciplinary feature selection could provide highly comprehensive information [32,39] meteorological data include information such as humidity and temperature which may be associated with the occurrence of lung cancer All content on this site: Copyright © 2025 Elsevier B.V. has scars all over his body as a result of gunshot wounds beatings with sticks and kicks suffered during the so-called Gamella Massacre That violent attack took place on April 30 a municipality in Brazil’s Maranhão’s state located 214 kilometers (133 miles) from the state capital had both his wrists and his left leg severed in addition to a laceration on his mouth that resulted in the loss of five teeth By the shores of the lush Lake Aquiri in the village of Centro dos Antero in his beautiful wooden house painted in tropical colors and surrounded by ornamental plants and fruit trees which means “seed” in the Gamella language Another victim of the attack recalls that “the order was to kill everyone even the children.” José Ribamar Mendes Akroá Gamella He says he will never forget that day: “It was around 2 p.m. everyone was at the Flores Lagoon when we were attacked They immediately surrounded me and cut off my arm with the machete we use to clear the land After spending long periods in several hospitals and undergoing many surgeries to reattach their limbs the two Gamella men bear many physical and psychological aftereffects Their wrists and legs were reattached with platinum rods Aldeli Ribeiro still manages to sweep the yard around his house and does farm work with the help of relatives has declared that “My life is over.” He shows his stiff right hand and wrist He receives a pension that amounts to the minimum wage He has eight children and counts on his wife’s help for daily work on their small farm are no longer part of the daily lives of those who had their limbs severed Ribeiro has seven children from several marriages and receives a monthly welfare allowance of 600 reais He has to juggle this money to maintain the house help his family and buy medicine to relieve his chronic pain and other symptoms He’s attempted to apply for full disability pension but these efforts always run up against red tape victims seek help through the traditional rituals that continue to be an important part of their culture is a shaman famous throughout the region for her spiritual and healing works through prayers but the big farmers arrived and took everything and now we are coming back to life,” she says considering the conditions our relatives were in it was a big mystery of God and the enchanted ones They were given up for dead and they rose again because we are winners.” The enchanted ones are the spiritual beings who inhabit sacred places and protect her people I crawled on my elbows and was incorporated by a spiritual enchanted one,” Pan Akroá Gamella says the attack was the outcome of a long period of hostility toward them merchants and Viana’s local political elite sickles and sharp objects attacked a small group of Indigenous people who were performing a ritual by the Flores Lagoon at a place called Fragati in the village of Baías One of the names that comes up repeatedly in the survivors’ accounts is that of Aluisio Mendes the chair of the security committee in Brazil’s lower house of congress The committee’s vice chair is Daniel Silveira sentenced to eight years and nine months in prison in 2021 for threatening justices from the Federal Supreme Court (STF) and other “attacks on democracy.” He was later pardoned by President Jair Bolsonaro “Congressman Mendes played a significant role in that conflict since he enables the claims of invaders in Congress both big and small ones,” says Kum’Tum Akroá Gamella a member of the Akroá Gamella Leadership Council “Together with merchants and evangelical church leaders he makes decisions regarding our right to exist.” the attack was one of the outcomes of the violent process of colonization intended to “annihilate the bodies” of Indigenous people to erase and deny their existence and their territories spreading terror through a network of racial hatred Tensions had been building in Viana before the April 30, 2017, attack. Cars with loudspeakers went around town calling on the population to join a demonstration named “the March for Peace.” On April 28, two days before the attack, a committee of residents participated in a program on Maracu AM an influential local radio station controlled by businessmen and lawyers interested in taking the Indigenous Lands the interviewees left no doubt about their prejudice and hatred of the Indigenous population they insisted that no one had ever heard of the presence of Indigenous people in the area They also referred to “people who call themselves Indigenous invade places and tear down houses” as “a criminal faction … vandals … half a dozen crooks led by outsiders” and other remarks in that vein phoned in to the program and called the Gamella “pseudo-Indians.” He said he would be in Viana the following day to participate in the March for Peace He also spoke about a congressional hearing with the then-minister of justice and the Federal Police take action to contain what was bound to be a tragedy “I call on the population not to take any violent measures at this point I’ll see to it myself that all authorities do their jobs and solve this and give peace and encouragement to this population that is now under threat You can count on me,” Mendes told the Maracu AM listeners during the demonstration in the town of Santeiro speaking on a stage decorated with banners and posters and facing a cheering crowd nobody will take this provocation anymore.” For the Gamella those words were what triggered the conflict A native of Belo Horizonte in the state of Minas Gerais and an aide to then-president José Sarney (1985-1990) He was also Maranhão’s state secretary of public security under the administration of then-governor Roseana Sarney (2010-2014) He was elected to the Chamber of Deputies Congress in 2014 with 3,493 votes in Viana — more than any other candidate in the state of Maranhão but only garnered 556 votes in the municipality that time around The rejection of the native peoples reflects the nature of the land disputes that have been going on here for at least 300 years businessmen and politicians from Viana and the neighboring municipalities of Penalva and Matinha The Gamella have persisted in their attempts to get their territory officially recognized arguing that their ancestors have lived here since the 18th century large tracts of the land were grabbed or traded under questionable circumstances and the Indigenous territory was taken over by newcomers claiming to own it With little progress in their attempts to gain official recognition the Akroá Gamella declared themselves an Indigenous people during an assembly held in 2014 They then started to reclaim the areas that had been illegally occupied or traded in dubious transactions about 450 Gamella families live in the Indigenous villages of Taquaritiua the Gamella occupied the state office of Funai demanding more concrete measures to demarcate their territory Funai set up a working group with several experts but the process was stopped after Jair Bolsonaro was elected president in 2018 Self-declaration of an Indigenous territory is supported under Brazil’s 1988 Constitution which guarantees Indigenous people’s “original right” to their ancestral lands Article 231 of the Constitution reads: “Indigenous people are recognized for their social organization and their original rights over the lands they traditionally occupy It is incumbent upon the Federal Government to demarcate protect and ensure respect for all their assets.” But a new battle for Indigenous ancestral rights looms on the horizon Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court (STF) will resume voting on a measure known as the Marco Temporal This is a proposition advocated by the agribusiness caucus in Congress to deny territorial claims by Indigenous people if they were not living on the land by the cutoff date of Oct 1988 — the date the Constitution was promulgated The Supreme Court vote previously stalled at a 1-1 tie after Justice Alexandre de Moraes asked to review the case Lucimar Carvalho is a lawyer and legal adviser to the Maranhão chapter of the Indigenist Missionary Council (CIMI) a Catholic Church-affiliated group that advocates for Indigenous rights She says the Marco Temporal proposition aims to legalize the historical expropriation of indigenous territories and legitimize the countless frauds that benefited the invaders “It means recognizing and supporting the violence used to exterminate entire peoples,” Carvalho says While they continue to be denied formal territorial demarcation the Akroá Gamella are building their ethnic identity by retaking land making sustainable use of natural resources and cultivating their spiritual traditions The ritual of Saint Belibeu is one of their ways to express how community member Demetriz Akroá Gamella sums up their beliefs: “Our feet are our scripture.” devotees give donations to the saint to show gratitude for the graces achieved throughout the year But these offerings have to be “hunted” in the villages by “Belibeu’s dogs” — Indigenous community members who roam the territory in a frantic search for the gifts Participants sweep the land to find donations in the most distant locations as a way to demarcate the territory with their feet “Celebrating the Belibeu ritual means reaffirming our existence as a people our cultural diversity,” says Indigenous council member Kum’Tum Akroá Gamella “The ritual has a deep meaning that bears ancestral memory.” In the memories of the victims of that tragic day of April 30 invisible scars remain as a result of the impunity of those who ordered and perpetrated the violence Rafael Silva is a lawyer for the Pastoral Land Commission (CPT) a Church-affiliated organization that advocates for land justice He says there was no forensic analysis of the crime scene; the bullet casings were lost “The absence of forensics was either a mistake or a deliberate decision,” he says The Public Prosecution Service demanded a Federal Police investigation into the situation “What the Federal Police did was to use the investigation to criminalize the Gamella first by denying their Indigenous identity in order to describe them not as an Indigenous people but as a gang another traditional leader was murdered in Maranhão Edvaldo Pereira Rocha was shot eight times by two gunmen on the afternoon of April 29 or community of descendants of self-liberated Afro-Brazilian slaves Jacarezinho is located in the municipality of São João do Sóter The municipality has long been coveted by agribusiness and as such has been the site of land conflicts for at least two decades Constant threats and coercion against traditional communities have turn their leaders into targets by land grabbers and ranchers persecution and imprisonment of leaders of Indigenous and traditional peoples and communities are rife throughout the state According to the report “Land Conflicts Brazil 2020,” produced by the Pastoral Land Commission’s Dom Tomás Balduino Document Center (Cedoc) five people were murdered in Maranhão during that year including two Indigenous victims (Zezico Rodrigues Guajajara and Kwaxipuru Ka’apor); a squatter (Raimundo Nonato Batista Costa); and two Quilombolas (father and his son Juscelino Fernandes Diniz and Wanderson de Jesus Rodrigues Fernandes) The latter two were killed by gunmen in Arari Viana is only 52 km (32 mi) from Arari on the MA-014 road The two municipalities have many geographical similarities: both are located in the vast floodplain of Maranhão’s Amazon where periods of flood and drought alternate riverside areas that were used sustainably by traditional peoples and communities for generations are now coveted for cattle and buffalo ranches buffalo ranching in particular has been the dominant driver of conflicts there were five murders in the villages of Cedro and Flexeira The fifth victim was José Francisco Lopes Rodrigues who was shot dead in his backyard by a gunman One of the bullets hit his 10-year-old granddaughter Violence in the municipality increased after a series of actions by the organization Citizenship Forums and Networks to guarantee access for traditional peoples and communities to the plains much of them closed off with electric fences These plains are huge areas flooded by rain and river water during the first half of the year they retain abundant water and fish in ponds that have traditionally been dug by hand But the invasion of these plains by buffalo herds and their closure by electric fences have sparked conflicts between ranchers and communities prompting the latter to try to remove the fences and take their food sources back Iriomar Teixeira is a legal adviser to Citizenship Forums and Networks He says community organization to gain access to the public plains and demolish the fences alongside the emergence of new peasant leaders has improved living conditions in the area gained new impetus with the newly freed-up plains Those who orchestrated the violence against the community have never been punished A series of peasant arrests in 2019 generated public protests against the courts the Public Prosecution Service and the local police two of the 10 peasants arrested have already been murdered and one suffered an attempted murder in late 2021,” Teixeira says five peasants and leaders of Citizenship Forums and Networks were executed in a cowardly manner in Arari.” as perceived enemies of the families of the quilombo of Cedro Arari’s geographical location has long drawn the interest of agribusiness in the Amazon region. It includes part of the Baixada Maranhense Environmental Protection Area (APA) a reserve spanning almost 1.8 million hectares (4.5 million acres) that’s irrigated by the high waters of the Mearim River during the rainy season Another aspect of Arari’s location is the proximity to Maranhão’s state capital which is an island on Brazil’s Atlantic coast connected to the mainland by a bridge over the Strait of Mosquitos adjacent to the Campo de Perizes nature preserve The bridge is part of the BR-135 federal highway which connects ultimately to the industrial port complex of Itaqui in São Luís — a key shipping depot for mining giants Vale and Alumar and for grain producers in the Matopiba region the agribusiness hub straddling the border region between the states of Maranhão Alongside the BR-135 highway are Vale’s Carajás railroad and water utility Italuís System’s infrastructure The landscape also features giant power transmission towers including those run by electricity utility EDP Energias do Brasil Fishers and rural workers whose livelihoods depend on the plains in the municipalities of Santa Rita Anajatuba and Itapecuru-Mirim say the towers are impacting them negatively is home to an unusual site: flooded fields advance over the backyards of the houses where there are also large cisterns to capture rainwater Lots of water for six months and then drought in the other half of the year,” says family farmer Cleude Maria dos Santos but the fields provide food all year round Now everything has changed with these transmission towers inside the fields which used to be abundant and now are scarce.” Frades is one of eight communities in the Monge Belo Quilombola Territory which spreads across the municipalities of Itapecuru-Mirim and Anajatuba There are reports about a decline in fish as a result of the transmission line running over long stretches of the Amazonian plains especially in the municipality of Santa Rita In the village of Papagaio and surrounding communities have become scarce since the transmission line was built Sitting on their porch after a day of work Carlos Augusto Serejo Dias and other members of their family watch the endless downpour on the fields of Papagaio just 9 km (6 mi) outside the municipality of Santa Rita They say they remember the times when there were plenty of fish such as anojado curimatá and many other species that were easily caught during major floods another village in the Quilombola territory of Monge Belo Josemar Mendes and Raimundo Nonato dos Santos say they also miss the abundant fish resources farmer Rosa Maria Vera Dias is wrinkled from working in the sun since she was a child Her eyes are sad when she talks about the lack of fish She recalls a time when they would catch up to a ton of fish from her family’s three ponds “All this fishery failure started after the towers there’s scarcely any fish caught in the fields but vendors say the scarcity isn’t because of the electricity lines is the unregulated use of fixed drift nets known as caçoeiras during the period when the fish breed and spawn the residents carve out small dams by hand taking advantage of the bodies of water crisscrossing the plains EDP Energias began building its MA I transmission line here in 2018. According to local leaders, communities were not consulted as they should have been under Convention 169 of the International Labor Organization (ILO) to carry out a process of free prior and informed consent for projects that may affect Indigenous and local populations On behalf of 434 fishers from 51 villages affected by the transmission line in the municipalities of Santa Rita lawyers Carla Andrea de Melo Dias Almeida and Júlia de Nazaré Costa Zenni filed a complaint with the State Prosecution Service (MPE) and the Federal Prosecution Service (MPF) The complaint called on the authorities to compel EDP Energias do Brasil to carry out mitigating and compensatory measures and environmental programs to make up for the damages caused by the construction and installation of the power line through the plains The community alleged a drastic level of intervention in the environmental balance of the local ecosystem fish and fishing production used to guarantee traditional communities’ sovereignty and food security The arguments and documents presented to state and federal prosecutors included testimonies from residents of affected communities and aerial images and videos from the construction period boats and several types of heavy machinery during the fish spawning season in the Mearim River The construction involved erecting the steel towers and running cables a total distance of 59.5 km (37 mi) across the plains The complaint also noted that the State Department for the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMA) granted a preliminary license without full compliance with the State Constitution and the Environmental Protection Code Those statutes provide for the protection of natural plains as do international conventions to which Brazil is a signatory such as the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance The lawyers also questioned the lack of public hearings to consult with the communities and problems in the environmental impact study prepared by the company They said the latter lacks an analysis of the aquatic life in the region and complained of pressure on residents to sign compensation agreements for amounts less than the scale of the damage caused to their main source of food According to preliminary surveys presented to the two prosecution services the fishing productivity of 790 dams in the plains amounted to 176 metric tons of fish in 2020 Residents say the fish were driven away by heavy machinery which made it difficult for the fish to circulate and prevented their young from dispersing more widely The residents also complained of oil spills and garbage dumping associated with the construction work in October 2021 we filed lawsuits seeking individual redress and protection of the environment in the realm of collective rights,” says lawyer Carla Dias “In current lawsuits under way in the courts of Maranhão traditional communities report that fishing production saw a sharp decline in the plains of Santa Rita “Habitat fragmentation is associated with opening and/or adapting accesses; vegetation suppression; and opening and maintaining rights of way,” the IBAMA report says “Regarding the ichthyofauna [aquatic life] opening access may have established physical barriers that are hard or impossible for the fish to overcome making fragmentation a process that goes beyond the construction period One of the results of the behavioral disturbance of the ichthyofauna is that fish are driven away and certain places previously used for feeding and breeding are no longer available.” Mongabay contacted EDP Energias do Brasil and emailed a list of questions about the project’s construction the company’s communications office refuted the allegations by the communities “The Miranda II-São Luís II C3 transmission line underwent a strict environmental feasibility process including information about the construction work and its impacts were discussed with stakeholders in public hearings as determined by the environmental agency in charge of licensing,” the company said It added that “EDP focuses on preserving life as the core of its sustainability strategy and positions biodiversity as an essential element for operations and value creation The Company develops a series of initiatives and commits to protecting the Environment and it integrates the principles of sustainable development into the procedures of all areas of the Company mitigate and compensate the environmental impacts related to the Company’s activities along the entire value chain.” Conflicts over the implementation of power projects have also occurred in the Gamella Indigenous lands a private company that replaced Maranhão’s state utility Two men armed with pistols arrived in a pickup truck and identified themselves to the Indigenous residents as the company’s “private security guards.” The Gamella made what they call a preemptive approach seizing the weapons and returning to their homes in the villages they said they were surprised by the arrival of Military Police in vehicles carrying out arrests and firing gunshots and tear gas to intimidate and coerce the villagers The Gamella were accused of kidnapping the “private security guards” and taking them hostage including 49-year-old Craw Craw Akroá Gamella insulted and interrogated the villagers to reveal where the weapons were “I thought we were going to be executed,” said Craw Craw remembered one particularly excited officer in a private room at the gas station: “‘If the guns don’t show up they were all transferred to police stations in Viana and Vitória do Mearim The incident was yet another case of violence against Indigenous people in Maranhão It later emerged that they were in fact undercover state police working for Equatorial Energia In a statement the company said there had been a hostage situation: “While doing construction work our associates were approached by the Akroá-Gamella who asked for the work to be stopped and the activities to be suspended when the company sent employees in an attempt to schedule a meeting in order to understand the claims took the weapons from the police officers who were called to control the situation Help was called and the hostages were released unharmed.” For the traditional peoples and communities the various forms of violence against them highlight the contrast between sustainable development and predatory progress directly or indirectly related to an economic model based on agribusiness all connected to the expansion of the port complex in São Luís As Mongabay wrapped up reporting for this article we learned about a quilombo community being auctioned off in the municipality of Santa Helena to pay off a debt incurred by a man who claims to own the lands where the traditional community has lived for decades This story was reported by Mongabay’s Brazil team and first published here on our Brazil site on May 19 The “fortress conservation” model is under pressure in East Africa as protected areas become battlegrounds over history and global efforts to halt biodiversity loss Mongabay’s Special Issue goes beyond the region’s world-renowned safaris to examine how rural communities and governments are reckoning with conservation’s colonial origins and trying to forge a path forward […] Browse Goodyear’s latest news releases and sign up to receive updates for breaking Goodyear news MEXICO CITY, April 24, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) today announced it will build a new tire factory in San Luis Potosi Mexico to serve its customers in the Americas Goodyear Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard J Kramer made the announcement here today at a ceremony with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto combined with investments in its existing U.S will enable Goodyear to meet the strong and growing market demand for high-value-added (HVA) consumer tires in North America and Latin America Industry demand for HVA tires in these regions is expected to increase by 10 million tires per year from 2014-19 "This is an important investment in Goodyear's future," said Kramer "Our new factory will provide us with a world-class manufacturing asset and will be a strong complement to our existing plants in North America and Latin America The new plant advances our strategy to serve the needs of our customers and is consistent with our focus on investing in high return projects that drive profitable growth." will be Goodyear's most technologically advanced and have a capacity of about six million tires per year the factory will employ about 1,000 people Goodyear's selection of San Luis Potosi follows an extensive review of potential locations throughout the Americas The review took into consideration factors including cost structure "San Luis Potosi is an ideal location for the new factory Its central geographic location will enable us to support our valued customers and consumers throughout North America Mexico and Latin America," said Kramer The new factory will reflect Goodyear's commitment to the environment It will be a zero-waste-to-landfill and zero-solvent facility energy efficient LED lighting and state-of-the-art dust collection equipment Certain information contained in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 business strategy and results and could cause our actual results and experience to differ materially from the assumptions expectations and objectives expressed in any forward-looking statements but are not limited to: our ability to implement successfully our strategic initiatives; actions and initiatives taken by both current and potential competitors; foreign currency translation and transaction risks; increases in the prices paid for raw materials and energy; a labor strike work stoppage or other similar event; deteriorating economic conditions or an inability to access capital markets; work stoppages financial difficulties or supply disruptions at our suppliers or customers; the adequacy of our capital expenditures; our failure to comply with a material covenant in our debt obligations; potential adverse consequences of litigation involving the company; as well as the effects of more general factors such as changes in general market economic or political conditions or in legislation Additional factors are discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K any forward-looking statements represent our estimates only as of today and should not be relied upon as representing our estimates as of any subsequent date While we may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point in the future we specifically disclaim any obligation to do so Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20050204/GTLOGO To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/goodyear-to-build-tire-factory-in-san-luis-potosi-mexico-300071798.html SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company All News O endereço abaixo não existe na globo.com The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released the site locations for six new temples — three in the United States The locations were announced Monday, Oct. 31, on ChurchofJesusChrist.org. The Fort Worth Texas Temple — a single-story building of approximately 30,000 square feet — will be built on a 9.37-acre site southeast of SW Hulen Street and Greenridge Drive in Burleson President Nelson announced a temple for Fort Worth in October 2021 general conference an exterior rendering of the Fort Worth Texas Temple was also released the latter in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area The location of the Knoxville Tennessee Temple will be a 4.99-acre site at 13001 Kingston Pike in Farragut Plans call for a single-story temple of approximately 30,000 square feet President Nelson announced a temple for Knoxville during April 2022 general conference The temple will be the third in Tennessee, home to more than 55,000 Church members in over 110 congregations. Dedicated and operating temples are in Nashville and Memphis. The Tampa Florida Temple — planned to be a single-story edifice of approximately 30,000 square feet — will be built on a 16.2-acre site adjacent to an existing meetinghouse located at 4806 Bell Shoals Road in Valrico President Nelson announced a temple for Tampa in April 2022 general conference To be built on the grounds of the current Mexico Missionary Training Center and the Church’s former Benemérito del las Americas school the Mexico City Benemérito Temple will be located at Tenayuca-Chalmita 828 Plans call for a two-story temple of approximately 29,000 square feet With Church missionary efforts in Mexico dating back to 1875 the country is home to nearly 1.5 million members comprising more than 1,800 congregations With plans for a single-story temple of approximately 9,300 square feet the San Luis Potosí Temple will be built on a 3.87-acre site at Arboleda 100 Fraccionamiento del Parque in namesake city President Nelson announced a temple for San Luis Potosí in April 2022 general conference The São Paulo East Brazil Temple — planned as two-story building of approximately 46,050 square feet — will be built on a 10.7-acre site located at Av President Nelson announced the São Paulo East temple — the city’s second — in October 2020 general conference Brazil is home to 1.5 million Latter-day Saints in more than 2,100 congregations with missionary work in the South American country dating back to 1928 Mexico’s San Luis Potosí state and Vietnam’s southern province of Binh Duong share similar economic development and foreign investment policies particularly regarding industrial infrastructure development and the creation of favourable investment climate Mexico City (VNA) – Mexico’s San Luis Potosí state wants to establish twinning relations with Vietnam’s southern province of Binh Duong opening up stronger cooperation space between the two countries on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam – Mexico diplomatic relations (May 19) The information was heard at meeting between Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Vo Van Minh and Governor of San Luis Potosí state Ricardo Gallardo Cardona as part of the former’s working trip to the state on March 20-21 aimed at carrying out the policy to bring the Vietnam – Mexico ties to a new high Minh also had working sessions with the state’s Ministry of Economic Development attended a trade and investment promotion forum Minh highlighted Binh Duong's strategic advantages and potential as one of Vietnam's three most dynamic economic hubs particularly in industrial development and foreign investment attraction Boasting modern industrial infrastructure conducive to both domestic and foreign investors Binh Duong is among the localities with the largest number of industrial parks in the country with more than 30 currently operating stressing the facilities play crucial roles in manufacturing supply chains for electronics pointed out similarities between San Luis Potosí one of Mexico's largest recipients of foreign direct investment Both share similar economic development and foreign investment policies he suggested the two sides strengthen collaboration across multiple domains to capitalise on their advantages and resources delivering tangible benefits to communities Vietnamese Ambassador to Mexico Nguyen Van Hai outlined broader bilateral cooperation potential between the two nations He noted recent Vietnamese investments in Mexico including FPT Corporation's new representative office in Guadalajara and VinFast's Memorandum of Understanding to supply electric buses to Durango state Recognising Mexico as one of Vietnam's key markets in Latin America Hai called on businesses to strengthen connections and leverage free trade agreements particularly the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)./ The robust relationship between Vietnam and Mexico has expanded across multiple areas from politics and economy to cultural diplomacy and been reflected through mutual support at international forums like the UN and the Asia – Pacific Economic Cooperation VinFast and the Durango Drivers’ Union in Mexico signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the green transition of public transport including the potential purchase of 3,000 VF 5 electric cars and 300 electric buses by Durango Driver’s Union for operation in Mexico A delegation from the northern province of Lao Cai led by Dang Xuan Phong member of the Party Central Committee and Secretary of the provincial Party Committee is paying a working visit to Mexico from October 29-30 The following is a brief review of the day’s events as reported by the Vietnam News Agency Party General Secretary To Lam said that this session is addressing numerous crucial issues he stressed that any constitutional amendments must strictly adhere to legal procedures and ensure broad public consultation Vietnam actively participates in international forums and supports the universalisation of the convention Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu said Legislators will look into and adopt a resolution amending and supplementing several articles to the Constitution 2013 describing this a strategic task of both political and legal significance to institutionalise the Party’s major policies especially the reorganisation of the state apparatus towards a streamlined and efficient structure that is closer to the people and more responsive to reality Noting that Vietnam and Sri Lanka still have great potential in economic the two leaders vowed to take stronger measures to increase two-way trade and investment aiming for bilateral trade turnover of 1 billion USD and considering the possibility of negotiating and signing a bilateral free trade agreement when conditions permit PM Chinh reiterated the 2025 target of 8% GDP growth an economic size exceeding 500 billion USD Participants reviewed the historical significance of April 30 1975 - a pivotal turning point marking the complete victory of the Vietnamese nation in the cause of national liberation and reunification as well as a shared triumph of progressive humanity for justice and the right to self-determination of peoples worldwide President Cuong thanked Sri Lanka for supporting Vietnam in the past struggle for national independence and for cooperating closely with Vietnam in the current process of national construction The visits serve as additional important steps to implement the foreign policy of independence multilateralisation and diversification of external relations identified at the 13th National Party Congress Sharing with the President of Sri Lanka about the life and career of President Ho Chi Minh President Cuong affirmed that he was the most beautiful symbol of patriotism and revolutionary heroism of Vietnam he devoted his entire life to the glorious revolutionary cause of the Party and the Vietnamese people National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man said laws and resolutions passed during the 15th NA’s ninth extraordinary session are effectively serving the streamlining of the state apparatus toward a leaner more efficient political system while unlocking new space for socio-economic development the two Presidents led their delegations to hold bilateral talks reviewing the progress of bilateral cooperation in recent years and discussing directions for future collaboration The two leaders are also scheduled to witness the signing of cooperation agreements and hold a joint press briefing The Republic of Korea Navy destroyer Kang Gam Chan commencing a three-day courtesy visit to the central coastal city of Da Nang They expressed their infinite gratitude and sincere respect for the late leader's great contributions to the cause of national liberation It holds particular importance as it is aimed at promptly institutionalising the policies and conclusions of the Party Central Committee and its Politburo and Secretariat especially those recently adopted at the 11th plenum of the Party Central Committee The following is a list of selected news summaries reported last weekdend by the Vietnam News Agency Vice President for International Affairs of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) emphasised that the Great Spring Victory of 1975 was a triumph of justice a victory for progressive forces and peace-loving people around the world The Sri Lankan President thanked the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha for inviting him to the Vesak celebrations and stressed the long-standing ties between the two countries including their Buddhism-based cultural similarities The NA's 9th session holds particular importance as it is aimed at promptly institutionalising the policies and conclusions of the Party Central Committee and its Politburo and Secretariat The two leaders agreed to further strengthen trust and cohesion between the two countries and their ruling parties 2008 by the Ministry of Information and Communications Email: vietnamplus@vnanet.vn Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written consent where the underground PVC irrigation system is saves at least 30 percent of water originally used The average distance of Edna Valley vineyards to the ocean is just five miles bringing mild days and cool evenings that help Chardonnay and Pinot Noir reach their maximum potential A varied soil profile adds character and complexity too whose producers can now choose to use “San Luis Obispo Coast” or “SLO Coast” on their labels.  If sustainability is a factor when you’re deciding how to spend your downtime, you might want to focus your tastings on the SLO CAL Sustainable Wine Trail, set within the SLO Coast and Paso Robles wine regions Though there are more than 250 wineries scattered across this 70-mile stretch of Highway 101 less than 50 have earned their spot on this trail thanks to their dedication to sustainable viticulture and feast your eyes on spectacular landscapes all while preserving the local ecosystem’s viability To achieve your own blend of variety, delight, and safety, consider joining a guided tour: Group and private options abound, including Breakaway Tours and SLO Safe Ride See land and sea creatures great and small