Archives: 17/10/2024

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has commiserated with the families of the three persons who were killed by kidnappers in an ambush on the Ihiala-Orlu Road in Anambra State, on Tuesday, 8th October 2024.
Information gathered on the incident revealed that the bandits opened fire on the bus in which the sports media team were travelling.
The attack immediately resulted in the deaths of a cameraman, a police officer and the bus driver.
President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, stated in the condolence message that it has been a very sad past few days for Executive Committee members, as well as Management and Staff of the NFF. “Yes, we won the match against Libya and took three points, but the fact that three lives were lost created a situation in which we were unable to celebrate properly, and it hurts seriously even to think back at the unfortunate incident.
“Nigeria football has had a long and fruitful relationship with the sporting press. These media men have been a strong ally in helping to fulfil the objective of the NFF in spreading joy to Nigerians through football. We share in their pain and sorrow at this period. Our prayer is that the Almighty will comfort the families of the deceased, and also grant the deceased eternal rest.
“At the same time, we pray for the safe return of the one person still unaccounted for, so that he will happily link up with his family and return to his job in good health. We also thank the security forces immensely for their efforts since this incident started.”
The media men were on the way to Uyo to reportthe 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya, played on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium when the unfortunate incident happened.
It was reliably gathered on Saturday that a total of 14 persons were in the vehicle at the time of the ambush. Eight persons were eventually rescued, two escaped on their own, three were killed and one person is still unaccounted for.

This year, consumer spending for Halloween is projected to drop, signaling potential tightening in holiday expenditures and marking an early onset of winter for the retail sector. Traditionally, Halloween serves as a critical sales period for retailers, but with reduced consumer spending, forecasts indicate a 5% decline in holiday revenues. This challenge arises from rising operating costs and a more budget-conscious approach from consumers.

According to Bloomberg, the National Retail Federation reports that holiday consumer spending in the U.S. is expected to decrease by 5%, reaching $116 billion, with greeting cards and apparel likely to see the steepest declines. This situation exacerbates the difficulties faced by seasonal retailers.

The report highlights that the slight increase in unemployment and persistent inflation have placed low-income households in a precarious financial situation, leading companies like Michaels Cos. to note in their earnings calls that families earning less than $100,000 are significantly cutting back on spending, which in turn has drastically reduced shopping lists.

Erica Weisgerber, a partner at the law firm Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, remarked, “2024 is shaping up to be a perfect storm for various retailers.” She elaborated, “The combination of inflation, rising operating costs, and decreased consumer spending presents particularly tough challenges for brick-and-mortar retailers. Even online giants like Amazon are struggling due to fierce competition.”

Retailers facing operational crises, such as Michaels and At Home Group Inc., have found backing from private equity managers. However, the surge in interest rates and inflation during the pandemic has dampened consumer spending, making acquisitions during this period less opportune.

Moody’s Ratings notes that retailers in crisis, especially in sectors like home goods, apparel, and sports equipment, are burdened by substantial debt, limiting their ability to compete with financially robust rivals.

As consumer spending dwindles, several bankruptcy filings have emerged this year, including those of Joann Inc., Big Lots Inc., and Conn’s Inc. Holly Etlin, a partner at AlixPartners, pointed out that “the retail industry is discovering that efforts to meet lower benchmarks remain noticeably insufficient.”

In a report released last month, Moody’s stated that the capital market has largely turned a blind eye to struggling retailers. Over the past year, numerous retailers have announced bankruptcies, with the first quarter of this year recording the highest number of bankruptcy protection filings since 2012.

James Gellert, CEO of risk analysis firm RapidRatings International Inc., commented, “As P/E ratios have plummeted and leverage trading rates have surged, private equity investors, who typically have provided support to the retail sector, are now entering a new period of transactional calm.”

Former Chelsea coach out of work since leaving BayernGerman will be the men’s team’s third foreign managerDavid HytnerTue 15 Oct 2024 14.10 EDTFirst published on Tue 15 Oct 2024 09.38 EDTShareThomas Tuchel has agreed to become England’s manager after talks with the Football Association ­accelerated on Tuesday. The 51-year-old will be the third foreign manager of the men’s team and the first from Germany.
The FA has had Tuchel on its shortlist for finding Gareth ­Southgate’s permanent successor since the beginning of the process, a list that also included Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola and the interim manager, Lee Carsley, among others.
Football Daily | Hefty historical burdens on and off the pitch … enter Thomas TuchelRead moreIt zeroed in on Tuchel, who led Chelsea to ­Champions League glory in 2021 – the highlight on an impressive CV. He has been out of work since leaving Bayern Munich in May.
Tuchel, who is expected to address the media at Wembley on Wednesday, follows Sven-Göran ­Eriksson and Fabio Capello in taking the job as an overseas head coach. The FA’s chief executive, Mark ­Bullingham, who led the recruitment process alongside the technical director, John McDermott, has long been clear that nationality should be no barrier to the role.
Bullingham made the point ­during the European Championship in June that the England women’s head coach, Sarina Wiegman, is Dutch. In other words, the FA was and is perfectly happy to put its trust in someone from outside England.
There is no doubt that Tuchel is an anglophile. He speaks excellent English – an FA prerequisite for an overseas candidate – and he embraced his 18 months or so at Chelsea, becoming a cult hero to their fans.
Tuchel’s skills as an orator and a leader came to the fore when he spoke out against ­Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, despite Chelsea being owned at the time by a Russian, Roman ­Abramovich. Tuchel found that he loved the more ­personality-driven aspect of the British media.
Tuchel is uncompromising and left his previous four jobs under something of a cloud, reports of ­fallings‑out with players and directors fol­lowing his exits from – in chronological order – Borussia ­Dortmund, Paris Saint‑Germain, Chelsea and Bayern.
<li>Download the Guardian app from the iOS App Store on iPhone or the Google Play store on Android by searching for ‘The Guardian’.</li><li>If you already have the Guardian app, make sure you’re on the most recent version.</li><li>In the Guardian app, tap the Menu button at the bottom right, then go to Settings (the gear icon), then Notifications.</li><li>Turn on sport notifications.</li></ul>","credit":""}”>Quick GuideHow do I sign up for sport breaking news alerts?ShowDownload the Guardian app from the iOS App Store on iPhone or the Google Play store on Android by searching for ‘The Guardian’.If you already have the Guardian app, make sure you’re on the most recent version.In the Guardian app, tap the Menu button at the bottom right, then go to Settings (the gear icon), then Notifications.Turn on sport notifications.Was this helpful?Thank you for your feedback.On the other hand, when Tuchel hits his stride, he has the ability to energise and inspire, to build momentum. Hugely charismatic, he has a proven track record at the highest level, winning everything on the domestic front at PSG before failing narrowly to deliver them a maiden Champions League trophy, losing in the 2020 final against Bayern. He made up for that on a personal level at Chelsea. At Dortmund, he had won the DFB-Pokal. At Bayern, he would win the Bundesliga.
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Tuchel would be expected to bring the English coach Anthony Barry with him, having worked with him at ­Chelsea and Bayern. Barry is an assistant to the Portugal manager, Roberto Martínez.
The FA had given serious con­sideration to promoting Carsley on a permanent basis from his role as the England Under-21s coach only for doubts to emerge about his suitability, not to mention whether he actually wanted the job. Carsley was heavily criticised for the performance of his team in the 2-1 Wembley defeat by Greece last Thursday and has ­struggled at times to communicate effectively in media conferences. Carsley is expected to remain in charge for the Nations League ties next month against Greece in Athens and the Republic of Ireland at Wembley.
The FA reached out to Guardiola at the beginning of the process but ­prising him away from City was always considered a long shot. Eddie Howe and Graham Potter have been the leading English candidates. Howe is focused on his work at Newcastle, where his contract has a release clause of about £5m. Potter, between jobs after leaving Chelsea in April 2023, is leaning more towards a return to club management.
The England captain, Harry Kane, who signed for Tuchel’s ­Bayern Munich in 2023, said: “Until it’s announced obviously I can’t really comment, but we have to wait and see. Obviously, I know Thomas well from last year. Fantastic coach, fantastic person, so I am sure the guys at the FA will contact me, when they know more about it.”

On October 14, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah launched a significant drone attack against a military base near Binyamina in northern Israel, resulting in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers and injuries to over 60 others. This attack has been identified as one of the deadliest drone strikes by Hezbollah against Israel since the escalation of their conflict.

According to reports from The Guardian, prior coverage by Israel’s N12 television indicated that Binyamina is located in the Haifa region and that at least 67 soldiers from the Golani Brigade sustained injuries during the assault.

Major Avichay Adraee, a spokesperson for the Israeli Defense Forces, confirmed that the Hezbollah attack caused casualties, with seven individuals reported to be seriously injured.

CNN noted that Hezbollah stated this operation was in retaliation for an Israeli airstrike that occurred on October 10, which resulted in the deaths of 22 people and left 117 others injured in Lebanon.

The New York Times reported that as of 3 PM local time on October 13, Israeli military sources confirmed that Hezbollah had fired approximately 115 rockets or missiles during this assault. This incident not only highlights Hezbollah’s resilience but also raises concerns about potential vulnerabilities within Israel’s air defense systems.

Thanks to online galleries and affordable fairs, collecting art is no longer an exclusive club for the well-off
How and where to hang your picturesZoe WoodSat 12 Oct 2024 07.00 BSTLast modified on Wed 16 Oct 2024 11.13 BSTShareThat a Banksy painting is worth more partly shredded than when it was whole can make the art world seem like another planet for “in the know” people with big bank balances. But don’t be put off, it has never been easier to start your own collection.
Next week, 20,000 visitors will descend on the Affordable Art Fair (AAF) in London’s Battersea Park and over the four days will browse and buy thousands of contemporary paintings, sculptures, photographs and prints. It’s one of a number of similar events around the UK; the autumn months are a busy time in the art calendar.
At the fair, seasoned pros rub shoulders with first-time and “tomorrow’s” buyers, says Will Ramsay, founder of the event. Ramsay started the fair to “make it easier for people to buy art”. As the event celebrates its 25th year, he declares: “We have done that.”
The average spend at the fair is about £800, with prices starting at about £50 for an editioned work with a ceiling at £7,500. (An edition is a series of identical prints or other work. It is up to the artist how many pieces are in the series; they are usually numbered and sometimes signed, which can add to their value and collectability.)
An art work such as an etching which is one of 25, will cost less than a unique painting. “For an edition, we’re probably talking £50 to £500,” says Ramsay. “For a unique piece, it might be £200 to £7,500.”
View image in fullscreenArt comes in many shapes and sizes at the Affordable Art Fair. Photograph: Paul Quezada-Neiman/AlamyFinding out what’s goodJust like buying anything for your home, you need to do your homework. With art, it’s not just about setting a budget, you need to wrestle with “how do I know what is good?” And “am I paying the right price?”
Some people find choosing pictures a daunting prospect but buying art should be pleasurable, says Henry Miller, an east London-based art dealer and gallery owner.
“People worry about buying the wrong thing or paying too much,” or whether it will “match the sofa”, but Miller says “try to put all of that out of your mind.” He adds: “If you can afford it and you love it, that should be enough.”
If you are still at the stage of figuring out which style or medium you like best, experts suggest joining a non-profit art institution as a way to gain exposure to lots of work. In London, for example, a Royal Academy membership starts at £138 a year or £67 for 16- to 35-year-olds. Most places have several pricing tiers and, generally speaking, the more you pay the greater the access to artists, curators and gallerists.
View image in fullscreenStaff view Sail (Swan Rose), by Hugh Hamshaw Thomas, at the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair. Photograph: Stephen Chung/AlamyAnother simple option is to use social media to follow artists, contemporary commercial galleries and art fairs for alerts on upcoming events in the arts calendar and to join mailing lists.
“Instagram is becoming an increasingly important forum for artists, galleries and collectors, with a growing number of buyers purchasing works found through the platform,” says Katherine Oliver, consultant and ex-curator at the Royal Academy.
Browsing online galleries – Artsy is the biggest – lets you compare artists, styles and prices.
Also keep an eye on graduates from the major art schools such as the Royal College of Art, Slade School of Fine Art, and Central Saint Martins. “Go to graduate shows, meet artists and talk to them about their work,” says Oliver. “In two or three years they could be represented by a commercial gallery and their pieces may rocket in value.”
Research art online, then look at what is showing locally, or get involved with the local art scene, says Lizzie Glendinning, co-founder and curator of Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair which bills itself as “disrupting the elitist nature of art fairs, and pushing the boundaries of print”. Glendinning adds that it really depends on why you’re buying and what you are interested in: “I like dark and moody, so I need to see that in real life.”
View image in fullscreenPrints by the artist David Shrigley (left wall) on view at the Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair. Photograph: Stephen Chung/AlamyFairs can provide inspiration, Glendinning says. Woolwich, which is a mix of specialist galleries and artists selected by industry experts, is expected to attract 15,000 visitors from 21-24 November. “No one is expecting anyone to drop £30,000,” she says, although some people do – one of the galleries made a £60,000 sale last year.
“This year we’ve got some works for under £100 but then we also have celebrated names for £25,000. We’ve got entry points for all types of collectors.”
Spreading the costAt the moment a lack of megasales means that the top end of London’s art world is feeling a chill. People are still willing to spend five- and six-figure sums at the bigger fairs, but one analyst said that when the price topped £1m “they were just a little bit more cautious”.
“At the high and middle end in a less booming economy the art market suffers,” says Ramsay. “However, at the Affordable Art Fair level, over the 25 years we’ve seen fairly little difference in the overall art sold. That is because we gain some people who might have bought more expensive work and sadly lose some off the bottom, for whom it is too tight.”
View image in fullscreenA dachshund sculpture at the Affordable Art Fair. Photograph: Guy Bell/AlamyIf there’s a piece that you’ve fallen in love with but it’s too expensive, then don’t be afraid to ask if you can pay in instalments. If it’s a “no” then ask if the artist has smaller works or whether it is possible to commission a piece from them that better fits your budget.
Another option is to look out for editions produced by major artists to help raise funds for non-profit making organisations such as the Royal Academy.
Allied Editions is a “unique artist editions collective” of seven London venues – including the Camden Arts Centre and the Whitechapel Gallery – with prices starting at £100. It has a stand at this weekend’s high-end art fair Frieze London selling limited editions from a roster of famous names including Monster Chetwynd, Judy Chicago, Lubaina Himid, Chantal Joffe, Barbara Kruger, Helen Marten and Yoko Ono.
It is also possible to spread the cost thanks to the Own Art initiative which offers interest-free loans of up to £25,000 to make it “easier and more affordable for people to buy and enjoy original art and craft, regardless of their income and socioeconomic background”.
View image in fullscreenFrieze London 2024 at Regent’s Park. The event stands in the upper tier of the art world, with higher prices. Photograph: Dave Benett/Getty ImagesWith a network of nearly 300 galleries across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, Own Art has facilitated £75m worth of sales of contemporary art and craft to more than 83,000 people over the past 20 years.
“I’m up to my eyes in Own Art payments,” jokes Glendinning, who says the scheme has been a gamechanger. “When we introduced it for the [Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair] we got at least a third more sales. Instead of paying £400 for a print upfront, you can pay £40 a month; and that’s less than a night out.”
While it is human nature to hope you’ve picked up something by the next Banksy, Ramsay stresses that it is very important that people “love what they’re buying”.
View image in fullscreenNo matter your price range, the most important thing is that you love what you buy, says Will Ramsay, founder of the Affordable Art Fair. Photograph: Maskot/Getty Images“They’ve got to want to live with it,” he says. “If they discover in 20 years’ time the art has gone up in value then they can feel smug about their excellent taste. Some go up. Many don’t. Investment shouldn’t be the primary aim.”
London-based art dealer Miller says would-be buyers should opt for quality over quantity. Buy “one or two works a year for as much as you can afford”, he says. “If you do this, in a few years you’ll have an outstanding collection.”
Occasionally you’ll make mistakes, he adds, but don’t worry. “Learn from it. You can always sell the mistake and buy something else.”

From waterproof trousers to a compass, flasks to spare socks, here’s all the kit you need to keep you dry, safe and hydrated
The best men’s walking boots for every type of hiking adventurePaddy MaddisonThu 10 Oct 2024 10.00 EDTLast modified on Fri 11 Oct 2024 05.57 EDTShareThe Guardian’s journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more.
To paraphrase Alfred Wainwright, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong kit. And he of all people should know. Wainwright spent his life charting every nook and cranny of the notoriously wet and windy Lake District. But he never let a bit of bad weather get between himself and the great outdoors. And nor should you.
The Guardian’s journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more.
Autumn is a surprisingly pleasant time to venture outside. Yes, it can be damp and cold. But let’s focus on the positives: there are fewer people to share the trails with, and the golden-brown leaves create stunning scenery to be enjoyed exclusively by those bold enough to brave the elements. Besides, that crisp autumn air is far more pleasant to hike in than the suffocating summer heat.
Of course, it’s only pleasant if you’re kitted out correctly. With that in mind, here’s my carefully honed autumn hiking kit list for getting outdoors in comfort, whatever the weather.

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1Waterproof jacketThe average coat soaks up water like a sponge, quickly becoming sodden, cold and uncomfortable. That’s the last thing you want in bad weather, 10 miles from the sanctuary of the nearest pub and God knows how much farther from home. This is where a waterproof jacket comes in handy.
These waterproof shells are designed to deflect rain drops while also allowing condensation (read: sweat) from your stinky hiker’s armpits to escape. The result: your torso stays bone dry, even in heavy rain.
View image in fullscreenHaglöfs men’s LIM GTX II jacket, £230This Gore-Tex jacket from Swedish outdoor brand Haglöfs is extremely lightweight and comes in a seasonally appropriate burnt-orange colourway.
haglöfs.com
View image in fullscreenPatagonia women’s Torrentshell jacket, £180Patagonia’s bestselling shell blends classic looks with impressive rain protection.
cotswoldoutdoor.com

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2Thermal flaskIn my experience, the colder and wetter you are, the better tea tastes. With that firmly in mind, an insulated vessel for hot drinks is a must. Poor conditions can sap morale fast, but sometimes all it takes to get back on track is a hot cuppa while seeking refuge under a tree.
View image in fullscreenYeti Rambler bottle, £25Built for a battering and available in a range of hard-to-misplace colours, the Yeti Rambler is a solid option for hot drinks on the go.
yeti.com
View image in fullscreenThermos Revival flask, £23.99Traditionalists will love this throwback tartan flask inspired by one of the brand’s archive models.
mountainwarehouse.com

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3Merino base layerA merino wool base layer and a waterproof shell make a formidable duo. You can sandwich anything – from a hoodie to a thick-pile fleece – between them, and they’ll keep you warm and dry.
Merino is a highly effective insulator, making it excellent in cold weather. It’s quick-drying and great at wicking away moisture from the skin when you’re working up a sweat. On top of all that, the wool is soft and comfortable. I wear mine throughout autumn and winter, not just when I’m hiking.
View image in fullscreenForclaz men’s long-sleeved merino T-shirt, £27.99 A nice trim fit with a nice trim price tag to match.
decathlon.co.uk
View image in fullscreenMountain Warehouse women’s merino top, £34.99This form-hugging base layer offers the magic of merino insulation at a reasonable price.
mountainwarehouse.com

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4Waterproof trousersFew sensations are as unpleasant as soggy trousers clinging to your legs on a hike. If you’ve bothered to shield your torso from the elements, why neglect your lower half? Even if you never take them out of your pack, having a pair of waterproof trousers with you is wise when the forecast is less than favourable.
This loose-fitting legwear uses the same fabric as waterproof jackets and is designed to go over the top of your normal trousers to keep them dry. Most will have side entry for easy access to your pockets and an elasticated waistband for a snug fit.
View image in fullscreenFinisterre men’s Rainbird trousers, £125Low-rustle fabric with just the right amount of stretch and fluorocarbon-free waterproofing from the eco-conscious Cornish surf brand.
finisterre.com
View image in fullscreenBerghaus women’s Hillwalker pants, £125These popular trousers feature an adjustable waist, articulated legs, Gore-Tex fabric and plenty of ventilation.
berghaus.com

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5Neck gaiterIf you spend any time outdoors, a neck gaiter might be the best thing you’ll ever buy. These fabric tubes are relatively inexpensive but highly versatile. I wouldn’t dream of heading to the hills without one in autumn or winter.
A neck gaiter is far more packable than a scarf, but it’ll keep your throat warm in much the same way. It can also double up as a hat if your ears are getting chilly, and you can even pull it up over your mouth and nose, either for additional protection against the cold or as a makeshift face covering.
View image in fullscreenVirustatic Shield Original, £35This lightweight neck gaiter is biodegradable and features an antiviral coating for protection against airborne nasties.
virustaticshield.com
View image in fullscreenMountain Warehouse neck gaiter, £9.99 Neck gaiters don’t have to be fancy, and this one certainly isn’t. That’s why it’s so cheap.
mountainwarehouse.com
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6BackpackYou’ll need to take provisions if you’re planning to walk more than a couple of miles. As tempting as it may be to save money by recruiting your tattered old gym bag, your shoulders and back will thank you for investing in a proper hiking backpack.
It doesn’t have to be huge – about 20-30L will be sufficient for extra layers, lunch, a flask and other odds and ends. Look for plenty of padding in the shoulders and back, a chest or waist strap to evenly distribute the load and plenty of compartments for organising your supplies. Choose one with an integrated waterproof cover to keep everything dry.
View image in fullscreenOsprey Talon 22 backpack, £135 Built for comfort and stability, this lightweight daypack from Osprey has a close fit and a breathable back panel.
osprey.com
View image in fullscreenQuechua MH500 backpack, £54.99With lots of straps for a comfortable fit, plenty of pockets for storage and a bright orange rain cover for visibility, this 30L pack is excellent value.
decathlon.co.uk

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7Hiking socks (and a spare pair!)You may think blisters are par for the course when walking long distances, but you can make them less likely with the right socks. Proper hiking socks are thick and soft, often with extra cushioning around the toes and heel. Again, merino is a good choice: it’s soft, comfortable and quick-drying.
And don’t stop at just one pair. Carrying a spare set of hiking socks is always a good idea in autumn. Even with the best walking boots in the world, your feet may still get wet, and nothing lifts the spirits quite like popping on a dry pair
View image in fullscreenSmartwool Hike Light men’s cushion crew socks, £25I tried these merino socks from Smartwool a few years back and haven’t used anything else since. They’re seriously comfortable, with a snug fit and just the right amount of cushioning.smartwool.comSmartwool Hike Light women’s cushion crew socks, from £17.24
amazon.co.uk

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8Power bankBatteries can lose energy faster in cold weather than on warm days, so carrying a power bank with you is always a good idea. The best ones are small, relatively lightweight and powerful enough for at least one full smartphone charge.
Even if you don’t use it, having a power bank will give you valuable peace of mind when venturing into the wilderness. Just don’t forget to charge it before you leave.
View image in fullscreenAnker Powercore 20100, £44.99This portable charger weighs less than a can of soup and will charge your phone at least five times.anker.comamazon.com
View image in fullscreenBelkin 10,000mAh power bank, £19.99Small and light, but with enough juice for at least two full charges of most smartphones.
argos.co.uk

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9NavigationIf you’re heading anywhere remotely … remote, you’ll need something more reliable than a smartphone to guide you. Fog can descend fast in the autumn, especially on higher ground, and a map and compass give you the best chance of finding your way home safely.
These are two pieces of kit you should always have in your backpack. A waterproof map sleeve is essential at this time of year too, as anyone who’s ever attempted to unfold a giant sheet of paper in the rain will attest.
View image in fullscreenOrdnance Survey compass, £14.99A reliable and easy-to-read compass from the map authority itself.
ordnance survey
View image in fullscreenMountain Warehouse soft feel map case, £8.99With a roll-top closure and welded seams, this cheap-and-cheerful case will keep your map dry whatever the weather.
mountainwarehouse.com

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10PonchoA poncho is no substitute for a proper waterproof jacket, but it’s still a good idea to carry one with you for the heaviest downpours. Simply throw it on over yourself and your backpack, and you’ll stay dry even in torrential rain. And don’t worry about breathability. See that big hole in the bottom? That’ll do the trick.
These inexpensive rain covers also double up as something to sit on when it’s time for a sandwich and the ground is sodden. Just throw it down as you would a picnic blanket and you’re good to go.
View image in fullscreenMountain Warehouse disposable unisex poncho, £2.49This poncho is only disposable if you throw it away – and please do so responsibly if you really must bin it. In reality, there’s no reason to not use this poncho multiple times.mountainwarehouse.comamazon.co.uk

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Paddy Maddison is a freelance consumer journalist, outerwear enthusiast and exercise addict. If he’s not hiking in the hills, he’s grinding up them on his bike, hurtling down them on his snowboard, or lacing up his running shoes and hitting the pavements. As a result, he gets plenty of time to put all the latest and greatest gear through the wringer for the Filter
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Ethan Chen, the Chinese Market Manager at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, emphasized the significance of this historic landmark in the Los Angeles area, known for its beautiful environment and dedication to serving the community. Since its inception, Forest Lawn has been committed to providing comprehensive aftercare services while achieving remarkable success in pre-planning services.

As more families recognize the benefits of pre-planning, they are increasingly opting to make arrangements in advance. This proactive approach helps alleviate stress during one of life’s most challenging moments and provides greater security for both themselves and their loved ones.

“The aim of our pre-planning services is to help individuals organize their affairs while they still have time and energy,” Chen explained. “This prevents the pressure of making sudden decisions that can arise during emotional turmoil after losing a loved one.” When families face the death of someone close, they often find themselves tasked with making complex choices while grappling with grief. Pre-planning allows them to take the time they need to process their loss and follow a pre-arranged plan, which significantly eases that additional burden.

Forest Lawn not only offers traditional burial options but also a variety of aftercare services to meet the diverse needs of families, including funeral services, memorial event arrangements, and commemorative art pieces.

On the afternoon of the upcoming senior activities event, Chen will provide a comprehensive overview of the advantages of pre-planning.

For more information, please contact the Chinese service line at 888-689-8888 or visit the official Forest Lawn website at www.forestlawn.com/chinese.

James, the 63-year-old gunman who opened fire on a subway train in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, in April 2022, saw his appeal rejected by a federal court on October 10, upholding his life sentence. Last year, James was sentenced to life imprisonment in a federal court in the Eastern District of New York after being convicted of his crimes.

On April 12, 2022, James unleashed chaos on an N train heading towards Manhattan, releasing smoke grenades as the train approached the 36th Street subway station. He fired 30 rounds, injuring 29 people, including 10 who were shot.

Among the victims was Aaron Hu, a Chinese-American teenager who was struck by two bullets in his left leg and three in his right. Aaron had recently graduated from a program at a community center in Chinatown and was interning at a financial office, having just started his first semester at community college.

When the Second Circuit Court of Appeals delivered its ruling on October 10, it affirmed both the conviction and the life sentence for James. His defense argued that he did not intend to kill, but the appellate court disagreed, stating, “There is ample evidence that James’s actions were aimed at killing as many people as possible.”

Prosecutors asserted that James had been planning the attack for over a year, indicating premeditated intent. Additionally, they found disturbing posts on his social media accounts that expressed racist and misanthropic sentiments, with hopes of seeing more mass shootings occur.

The ruling from the Second Circuit included a critical evaluation of James’s online activities, which included several videos discussing how to reduce the human population and expressing admiration for notorious criminals like Ted Bundy. The court concluded, “Given these facts, we see no reason to dispute the lower court’s finding regarding James’s intent to harm his victims.”

Photographs taken after the incident depict first responders rushing to aid victims, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.

Peter Uzoho
The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) has revealed that itsupplied a total of 3 million metric tons of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) commonly known as cooling gas into the domestic market between 2007 when it set up the Domestic LPG Scheme (DLPG) and 2024.
Managing Director of NLNG, Dr Philip Mshelbila disclosed in Lagos at the 2024 annual conference of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM), with the theme, “Sustainable Energy Growth in Nigeria – LPG and the Future.”
Represented by the company’s Manager, Marketing and Business Development, Mr. Ahmed Joda, he said the liquefaction company had been committed to ensuring that LPG serves the need of the Nigerian consumers.
He added that the operator of the six-trained Bonny Island-based plant had been fully committed to the domestic market in achieving its supply goal from over 50,000MT in 2007 to about 450,000MT in 2024.
Mshelbila confirmed that the local LPG market has recorded significant growth in consumption from that inception period in 2007 to around 1.5 million MT annually, currently.
He stated, “NLNG is fully committed to ensuring that LPG serves the need of the Nigerian consumers. It is to ensure this that the company set up the DLPG scheme in 2007 aimed at improving the quality of life of the average Nigerian.
“Since then, NLNG has been fully committed to the domestic market in achieving our supply goal from just over 50,000 metric tons in that first year to just a bit under 450,000 metric tons in 2023.
“And we are also pleased to see how the market has grown from that inception to somewhere around 1.5 million metric tons now. Between 2007 and 2023, NLNG has supplied cumulatively over 3 million tons of LPG into the domestic market, spiralling a steady rise in annual domestic consumption.”
However, despite the successes witnessed in the local LPG sector, Mshelbila noted some challenges impeding achieving the kind of growth needed including supply liability, infrastructure deficit, and pricing issues.
He said NLNG had generally demonstrated its commitment to working with industry players and all stakeholders to address these challenges.
Meanwhile, the federal government has restated its commitment to ramping up Nigeria’s LPG consumption to 5 million MT by 2030 though formulation and implementation of supportive policies for the sector
Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo stated this at the conference.
Represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Abel Nsa, the minister specifically reiterated the government’s commitment to driving investment, infrastructure expansion, and policy support to ensure the affordability, stability, and broad adoption of cooking gas as part of Nigeria’s energy transition.
He emphasised that expanding LPG usage could significantly reduce the country’s reliance on biomass for cooking, improve public health, particularly for rural communities, and contribute to economic growth.
According to him, “Government’s target is to increase LPG consumption to 5 million metric tonnes per annum by 2030, a goal that can be achieved through infrastructure development, market stability, and policies that incentivize investment in the LPG value chain. The demand for LPG is growing, and it offers immediate and long-term benefits for Nigeria’s energy transition and security.”
He pointed out that increasing LPG usage would alleviate pressure on other energy resources and shield the country from global market volatility.
He also revealed that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) had been directed to create a pricing framework that reflects local production, to ensure market stability and affordability.
Meanwhile, Techno Gas Limited, a subsidiary of Techno Oil Limited has confirmed that it had received first LPG supply from NLNG at its 5000MT storage facility in Kirikiri, Lagos, after four years of unveiling the facility.
The company disclosed this at the conference but was silent on the volume supplied to it by NLNG.

In a recent visit to Aojiao Village, located in the coastal area of Dongshan County, Fujian Province, General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasized the significance of leveraging local strengths to enhance the seafood industry’s development. The picturesque village, with its sky-high clouds and vigorous sea breeze, was bustling on October 15 as fishing boats returned to port, laden with fresh catches.

During this visit, General Secretary Xi explored the local dock, examining the variety of seafood and dried products available. He expressed his satisfaction at witnessing the transformative changes in the village since his last visit 23 years ago, when he worked in Fujian. “To promote rural revitalization, we need to focus on our strengths and truly make our mark in the marine sector,” he remarked.

This message resonated deeply with the local fishermen. Xu Xiaobin, a fisherman in Aojiao Village, shared that the community feels more motivated than ever. When we caught up with Xu on October 17, he was hard at work, unloading baskets of fish, eel, squid, and shrimp from the boats.

Interestingly, Xu does not fit the typical image of a fisherman. Just a few years ago, he was a businessman in a suit and tie. “After graduating from university, I worked for nearly a decade in Fuzhou and Xiamen,” Xu explained. However, in 2018, he made the bold decision to return to Aojiao Village and venture into the seafood e-commerce business. Initially, his mother strongly opposed the idea, fearing he would face hardships like those his father experienced as a fisherman who once narrowly escaped a devastating storm at sea.

Xu’s hesitation was understandable, given the village’s past challenges, including a lack of greenery and poor selling conditions for its fresh seafood, which had led many villagers to engage in pig farming, resulting in a polluted environment. Yet, he realized that Aojiao Village was no longer the same.

Since 2016, some fishermen had embraced the online market, transforming their livelihoods through e-commerce. “Business has been thriving, with many fishermen successfully transitioning to this model,” Xu noted.

Beyond commerce, the village has implemented initiatives to improve its ecological environment. They’ve established uniform systems for managing waste and sewage on land while designating aquaculture zones at sea. These efforts have revived the village’s natural beauty, bringing back clear blue waters and abundant wildlife.

Modern fishing boats have replaced older wooden vessels, equipped with advanced navigation systems for greater safety at sea. Aojiao Village has also developed breeding bases for abalone, shrimp, kelp, and nori, allowing fishermen to move away from relying solely on the whims of nature.

Xu’s eventual return to Aojiao was driven by a strong conviction in the village’s potential. He began by familiarizing himself with different seafood species and learning processing techniques from experienced fishermen. He formed a team with relatives and friends, and together they tapped into various sales channels, achieving impressive results—by September this year, their online and offline sales had already exceeded 5 million yuan.

Currently, Aojiao Village boasts 117 e-commerce enterprises, employing over 500 people in the industry. The local government actively supports this growth by hosting regular meetings to hear from businesses and resolve their concerns. Moreover, they have developed a platform to promote local industries and facilitate partnerships with educational institutions for talent training, while also negotiating lower shipping costs with logistics companies. Thanks to the internet, Aojiao’s seafood is now delivered to households nationwide, with a remarkable sales figure of 350 million yuan last year.

With the marine industry flourishing, the village is evolving. Offshore, there are now 1,110 deep-water cages and 660 acres of various aquaculture projects, while onshore, 128 seawater farms operate. The blend of fisheries and tourism has opened even more income opportunities for villagers.

In 2023, Aojiao Village’s total social output value reached 1.55 billion yuan, with a per capita net income of 58,000 yuan. This seaside community is steadily advancing towards a brighter, more prosperous future. As the sound of a ship’s horn echoed through the harbor, Xu picked up his phone to arrange unloading busy with anticipation for the next busy day ahead.