Op-Ed: Biden’s plan to rally world’s democracies at 2021 summit

  • Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden would convene a global summit of democracies to address issues ranging from climate change to beating the pandemic and its economic aftershocks.
  • The intersection of domestic and foreign policy is fundamental to Biden’s strategy.

Source: Op-Ed: Biden’s plan to rally world’s democracies at 2021 summit

Avian Flu Diary: MMWR: Transmission Dynamics of COVID-19 In Child Care Facilities – Utah

SARS-CoV-2 Infections among young children acquired in child care settings were transmitted to their household members. Testing of contacts of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases in child care settings, including children who might not have symptoms, could improve control of transmission from child care attendees to family members. Source: Avian Flu Diary: MMWR: Transmission Dynamics of COVID-19 In Child Care Facilities – Utah

Coronavirus closure? Ministers accuse Gamzu of ‘zigzagging all the time’ – The Jerusalem Post

“The coronavirus is neither a political or populist matter, it is a matter of life and death,” he continued. “I suggest to anyone who claims otherwise, to tour coronavirus wards and see the situation for themselves.”

He added that if the plan is withdrawn, then by next Tuesday there will be no public restrictions, the price of which would be several thousand dead.

“I will not give into pressure just to please such and such people,” he stressed. Source: Coronavirus closure? Ministers accuse Gamzu of ‘zigzagging all the time’ – The Jerusalem Post

Scientists baffled by orcas ramming sailing boats near Spain and Portugal | Environment | The Guardian (This is our ocean…)

An orca feeds near the boat of Moroccan tuna fishermen.

Highly intelligent social mammals, orcas are the largest of the dolphin family. Researchers who study a small population in the Strait of Gibraltar say they are curious and it is normal for them to follow a boat closely, even to interact with the rudder, but never with the force suggested here.

The Spanish maritime authorities warned vessels to “keep a distance”. But reports from sailors around the strait throughout July and August suggest this may be difficult – at least one pod appears to be pursuing boats in behaviour that scientists agree is “highly unusual” and “concerning”. It is too early to understand what is going on, but it might indicate stress in a population that is endangered.

Source: Scientists baffled by orcas ramming sailing boats near Spain and Portugal | Environment | The Guardian

7 Historic Caribbean Hurricane Holes — Repeating Islands

All at Sea presents seven historic “hurricane holes” in the Caribbean, stating that “For centuries, mariners have found natural harbors, protected bays and dense mangrove lagoons in which to protect their vessels from storms,” although “No location is 100 percent safe when it comes to sheltering from a hurricane.” The author offers examples from Antigua, […]

7 Historic Caribbean Hurricane Holes — Repeating Islands

Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf subpoenaed for hearing next week after refusing to testify – CNNPolitics

The House Homeland Security Committee has issued a subpoena to acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf for a hearing next week as he faces whistleblower allegations that he urged department officials to alter intelligence.

Source: Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf subpoenaed for hearing next week after refusing to testify – CNNPolitics