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F-22 Safely Shoots Down Chinese Spy Balloon Off South Carolina Coast

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A U.S. Air Force fighter safely shot down a Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said in a written statement.

President Joe Biden ordered the action on Wednesday, but it was delayed until the balloon was over water off the coast of South Carolina to ensure no Americans on the ground were harmed. 

“The balloon, which was being used by the PRC in an attempt to surveil strategic sites in the continental United States, was brought down above U.S. territorial waters,” Austin said.  

The action was taken in coordination and support of the Canadian government. “We thank Canada for its contribution to tracking and analysis of the balloon through [North American Aerospace Defense Command] as it transited North America,” Austin said. “Today’s deliberate and lawful action demonstrates that President Biden and his national security team will always put the safety and security of the American people first while responding effectively to the PRC’s unacceptable violation of our sovereignty,” Austin said referring to the Peoples Republic of China. 

U.S. officials first detected the balloon and its payload on January 28 when it entered U.S. airspace near the Aleutian Islands. The balloon traversed Alaska, Canada and re-entered U.S. airspace over Idaho. “President Biden asked the military to present options and on Wednesday President Biden gave his authorization to take down the Chinese surveillance balloon as soon as the mission could be accomplished without undue risk to us civilians under the balloon’s path,” said a senior defense official speaking on background. “Military commanders determined that there was undue risk of debris causing harm to civilians while the balloon was overland.” 

An F-22 Raptor fighter from the 1st Fighter Wing at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, fired one AIM-9X Sidewinder missile at the balloon.  

The balloon fell approximately six miles off the coast in about 47 feet of water. No one was hurt. 

Long before the shoot down, U.S. officials took steps to protect against the balloon’s collection of sensitive information, mitigating its intelligence value to the Chinese. The senior defense official said the recovery of the balloon will enable U.S. analysts to examine sensitive Chinese equipment. “I would also note that while we took all necessary steps to protect against the PRC surveillance balloon’s collection of sensitive information, the surveillance balloon’s overflight of U.S. territory was of intelligence value to us,” the official said. “I can’t go into more detail, but we were able to study and scrutinize the balloon and its equipment, which has been valuable.” 

The balloon did not pose a military or physical threat. Still its intrusion into American airspace over several days was an unacceptable violation of U.S. sovereignty. The official said Chinese balloons briefly transited the continental United States at least three times during the prior administration. 

While Chinese officials admitted that the balloon was theirs, they said it was a runaway weather balloon. “The PRC has claimed publicly that the high-altitude balloon operating above the United States is a weather balloon that was blown off course. This is false,” the official said. “This was a PRC surveillance balloon. This surveillance balloon purposely traversed the United States and Canada, and we are confident it was seeking to monitor sensitive military sites.” 

The mission now transitions to one of recovery. There are a number of U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels establishing a security perimeter around the area where the balloon came to Earth. They are searching for debris, said a senior military official also speaking on background.  

There is no estimate for how long the recovery mission will take, the military official said, but the fact that it came down in such a shallow area should make recovery “fairly easy”. 

The military official gave some detail of the engagement. The F-22 fired the Sidewinder at the balloon from an altitude of 58,000 feet. The balloon at the time was between 60,000 and 65,000 feet.  

F-15 Eagles flying from Barnes Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, supported the F-22, as did tankers from multiple states including Oregon, Montana, South Carolina and North Carolina. Canadian forces also helped track the overflight of the balloon. 

The Navy has deployed the destroyer USS Oscar Austin, the cruiser USS Philippine Sea and the USS Carter Hall, an amphibious landing ship in support of the effort. 

Source: US DoD

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Celebrating National Panda Day: Conservation of Precious Bears

March 16 is National Panda Day – a celebration of these fluffy, bamboo-munching bears and a reminder to protect their environment. #PandaDay

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Every year on March 16th, we come together to celebrate National Panda Day, a delightful occasion dedicated to honoring China’s beloved bamboo-munching bears. As a source of national pride, pandas hold a special place in our hearts. With two subspecies, including the iconic Giant Panda and the smaller Qinling Panda, these magnificent creatures play an essential role in China’s unique ecosystem. While their population status has improved from endangered to vulnerable, we must remain committed to preserving pandas and their habitat. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of pandas, their conservation efforts, and the importance of safeguarding their environment.

The Significance of Pandas and their Habitat:
Pandas, particularly the Giant Panda, are revered for their fluffy black and white coats and captivating presence. These awe-inspiring animals are exclusive to the remote, mountainous regions of China. The Qinling Panda, a smaller brown subspecies, was discovered in the mountain ranges of southern Shaanxi Province in China in 1985. However, both subspecies have a crucial role to play in their respective ecosystems. Giant pandas, in particular, thrive on bamboo forests, spreading seeds as they roam and promoting the growth of new vegetation. This symbiotic relationship nurtures not only pandas but also benefits other wildlife and humans.

Endangered Status and Conservation Efforts:
While the panda population has shown some promising growth, there are still fewer than 2,000 pandas left in the wild due to various threats. Habitat loss, farming activities, fur hunting, and other factors have jeopardized their existence. To combat this, conservation organizations, including 27 zoos around the world, are actively working towards protecting giant pandas and creating environments conducive to reproduction. However, the most critical aspect of preserving pandas is the conservation of their natural environment, especially bamboo forests, which serve as their primary source of nutrition.

The History and Importance of National Panda Day:
The exact origin of National Panda Day remains unclear, but it is undoubtedly a day dedicated to spreading awareness and appreciating the beauty and significance of pandas. In 1961, the creation of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) solidified the panda’s global conservation symbol. The panda’s inclusion in the WWF logo was quite fitting, as this animal represents both beauty and endangerment, garnering love from people worldwide. It has become an emblem for the conservation movement, calling upon individuals and nations to protect endangered species and preserve natural wildlife habitats.

Preserving Pandas and Their Ecosystem:
While pandas are now classified as vulnerable, the battle to protect them is far from over. The efforts of zoos, reforestation initiatives, and conservation campaigns have contributed to the positive change in their status. However, it is crucial to continue protecting their environment. Preservation of the giant panda’s natural habitat not only safeguards the bears themselves but also supports the survival of 70% of the country’s forest birds, 70% of mammals, and 31% of amphibians, according to a scientific paper published by The Society for Conservation Biology in 2015. Pandas are essential for forest health, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their well-being.


National Panda Day serves as a reminder of the remarkable role pandas play in our natural world. While progress has been made, the conservation journey is ongoing. We must remain steadfast in protecting pandas and their environment to secure their long-term survival. By raising awareness, supporting conservation efforts, and advocating for the preservation of bamboo forests, we can create a future where these adorable, bamboo-munching bears continue to thrive and contribute to the vibrant ecosystems of China and the world. Let’s celebrate National Panda Day and join hands in safeguarding these precious creatures for generations to come.

https://nationaltoday.com/national-panda-day/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/stories-this-moment/

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Best Buy Recalls Over 287,000 Air Fryers and Air Fryer Ovens Due to Safety Concerns

Best Buy recalls 287,000+ air fryers due to fire risks. Insignia models prone to overheating, glass shattering, handle melting.

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In a recent development, Best Buy has initiated a recall of more than 287,000 air fryers and air fryer ovens due to a critical overheating issue that poses potential fire and laceration risks to consumers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission highlighted the concern, indicating that Insignia-branded air fryer ovens are prone to overheating, leading to the shattering of glass doors and possible melting or breaking of handles.

Product Recall Alert: Best Buy Air Fryers - Safety Concerns
Best Buy Recalls Insignia® Air Fryers and Air Fryer Ovens Due to Fire, Burn and Laceration Hazards

As per the CPSC’s notice, there have been 24 reported incidents of melting or glass shattering, including six instances of the fryers catching fire. Fortunately, no injuries or property damage have been reported thus far. The recall affects six models of Insignia air fryers and air fryer ovens purchased from Best Buy and third-party sellers between November 2021 and November 2023, with approximately 187,400 units sold in the U.S. and 99,900 in Canada.

Consumers are strongly advised to cease using the recalled air fryers and ovens immediately and are encouraged to visit Best Buy’s recall page to facilitate a refund, either in the form of a check or store credit. To qualify for the refund, customers must adhere to the outlined instructions, including safely cutting the cord of the device and submitting photos of the unit online. It is important to note that Best Buy will not provide refunds or credit for recalled products returned to their stores directly.

This recall serves as a vital reminder of the significance of product safety and the proactive measures necessary to mitigate potential risks. Consumers are urged to promptly address such recalls and prioritize their well-being. Stay informed, stay safe. Visit https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Best-Buy-Recalls-Insignia-Air%20Fryers-and-Air-Fryer-Ovens-Due-to-Fire-Burn-and-Laceration-Hazards for further details and new information.

Description:

This recall involves Insignia Air Fryers and Insignia Air Fryer Ovens, model numbers NS-AF34D2, NS-AF5DSS2, NS-AF5MSS2, NS-AF8DBD2, NS-AF10DBK2, and NS-AF10DSS2. The brand name INSIGNIA is on the top or front of each unit. A product rating label on the underside of each unit identifies the brand INSIGNIA and the model number. The air fryers and air fryer ovens have cooking chamber capacities ranging from about 3.4 to 10 quarts, and plastic or plastic and stainless-steel bodies in black and stainless-steel finishes. 

Remedy:

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Insignia air fryers and air fryer ovens and visit https://www.recallrtr.com/airfryer for instructions on how to submit photos of the recalled unit(s), the model number, purchase receipt, and on the destruction of the unit.   

Consumers can receive a refund in the form of a refund check or a Best Buy store credit.  A consumer will receive the amount on the purchase receipt, or they will receive the average sales price for the model if no receipt is provided. 

Consumers should not return the recalled air fryers or air fryer ovens to Best Buy stores. Best Buy has contacted all known purchasers directly. 

Incidents/Injuries:

The firm has received 24 reports of overheating/melting or glass shattering, including six reports of air fryers catching on fire. No injuries or property damage have been reported.

Sold At:

Best Buy stores nationwide and online at www.bestbuy.com, www.eBay.com, and third-party sellers from November 2021 through November 2023 for between $32 and $180.

Importer(s):

Best Buy Purchasing LLC, of Richfield, Minnesota

Manufactured In:

China

Recall number:

24-159

Fast Track Recall

Note: Individual Commissioners may have statements related to this topic. Please visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners to search for statements related to this or other topics.

Recall Complaint

https://www.azfamily.com/2024/03/15/best-buy-recalls-over-287000-air-fryers-due-overheating-issue-that-can-melt-or-shatter-parts/

Stay updated with the latest news by signing up for our newsletter, STM & Coffee. Best Buy has recalled over 287,000 air fryers and air fryer ovens due to safety concerns. Visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners for statements related to this recall and other topics. For more information and to file a recall complaint, please visit https://www.azfamily.com/2024/03/15/best-buy-recalls-over-287000-air-fryers-due-overheating-issue-that-can-melt-or-shatter-parts/.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/stories-this-moment/

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amusement and theme parks

Magical News: Disneyland Expansion Plan Approved by California Officials!

Exciting news: California officials approve $1.9 billion, 10-year plan to expand Disneyland! More magic awaits! ✨🎢🏰 #DisneylandExpansion

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In a delightful turn of events, California officials have given their much-anticipated approval for a $1.9 billion, 10-year plan to expand Disneyland, making it the park’s first major expansion since the ’90s. The City of Anaheim’s planning commission meticulously evaluated the proposed upgrades during a recent meeting, paving the way for an exciting transformation. However, before we can grab our Mickey ears and start celebrating, the project still awaits final approval from the city council, which is expected to take place next month.

"Image of Disneyland park with fireworks in the background, symbolizing the excitement of the approved expansion plan."

This ambitious expansion endeavor will require Disney to invest over $1.9 billion into various aspects of the theme park, including lodging, entertainment, and related facilities over the course of the next decade. Additionally, in any agreement reached between the city and Disney, the company will have to invest millions into essential infrastructure, such as street improvements and affordable housing, to support the expansion. It’s heartening to see Disney’s commitment not only to creating magical experiences but also to supporting the local community.

Disney’s ultimate goal with this expansion is to deliver even more immersive experiences for tourists, akin to the exceptional Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge attraction that took visitors by storm when it opened in California back in 2019. During the meeting, Rachel Alde, Disney’s senior vice president of global development and finance, excitedly spoke about the untold stories they hope to bring to life within the park. She mentioned beloved films like “Wakanda,” “Coco,” “Frozen,” and “Zootopia” as potential inspirations, expressing the need for guidance to understand how to create these captivating experiences.

It’s worth noting that while the proposed expansion won’t increase Disneyland’s current 490-acre footprint in Southern California, it presents an incredible opportunity for Disney to develop new features on a 50-acre parking lot. Imagine the possibilities! With the additional space, visitors can soon expect new rides and entertainment options, granting them the chance to dive deeper into the enchanting worlds crafted by Disney.

During the meeting, Ken Potrock, the president of Disneyland Resort, passionately highlighted the importance of continuing Walt Disney’s extraordinary legacy and bringing more Disney stories to life right here in Anaheim. His powerful statement echoed the sentiments of Disney fans around the world who are eagerly anticipating a future filled with remarkable adventures and cherished memories.

Now, let’s all keep our fingers crossed and twirl our magic wands for a favorable decision from the city council next month! If all goes well, Disneyland will embark on an incredible journey of expanding its horizons and captivating guests with even more enchantment than ever before.

Sources: AP News

Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Check out other noteworthy news related to the topic. It’s always better to stay informed and up-to-date. https://theconstructionbroadsheet.com/disney-advances-b-california-theme-park-expansion-p1735-174.htm

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