Latest news with #Koi
Daily Mail
8 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Gavin Newsom blows up over claim he bagged $2million from Native Americans after move to block rival tribe's casino
California Governor Gavin Newsom helped bankroll his wife's charity with nearly $2million he solicited from a Native American tribe – while fighting on its behalf to kill a rival casino. Now the governor's office has reacted angrily to questions Daily Mail asked about the payments, called it 'insulting and offensive' to even be asked whether his official actions on behalf on the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR) amount to a quid-pro-quo.. Records show that the governor personally requested the 'behest payments' from FIGR. The Bay Area tribe donated $1.8million to The California Partners Project, a nonprofit co-founded by Newsom's wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and another $450,000 to fund his inaugurations. Newsom and the state then joined the tribe's efforts to block a casino from opening just 15 miles from theirs, filing a lawsuit in May challenging the federal government's approval of the project. Siebel Newsom wife also deflected, telling Daily Mail that we should shift focus to Donald Trump, who she called the 'grifter-in-chief' who is 'openly hawking watches, cologne, and crypto meme coins.' Washington Free Beacon was first to report on the controversy earlier this month. Daily Mail confirmed the findings with the California Fair Political Practices Commission, a nonpartisan group that maintains a database tracking behest payment by government officials. Records show that from 2018 to 2024, the Californian governor has solicited a total of $2.25million from the FIGR - with the majority going to Jennifer's charity Records show the governor has solicited a total of $2.25million from FIGR. Two payments were earmarked for his inauguration fund, one for $200,000 in December 2018 and another for $250,000 in January 2023. But the lion's share of these behest payments went to The California Partners Project, a San Francisco-based charity co-founded in 2019 to promote gender equity. The group employs just 2 to 10 people, according to its website. FIGR sent its first donation to the charity in 2022, for $300,000. The payments ramped up with an additional $500,000 in 2023 – a year the California Partners Project's total revenue came in at just $747,239. FIGR sent the charity another $500,000 in April 2024. This was just as the tribe, which runs Graton Resort & Casino in Sonoma County, was working to fend off competition from Koi Nation, another Northern California tribe proposing a $700million casino just 15 miles away on the 'Shiloh Site,' 68 acres of land adjacent to the town of Windsor. The plan calls for 2,750 slot machines, 105 table games, a 400-room hotel, six restaurants and food areas, a meeting center and spa. Just four months later, Newsom moved to quash the deal. In August 2024, he wrote the US Department of the Interior a letter opposing the Koi project and another elsewhere in the state, emphasizing the need for 'striking a careful balance between the potential benefits of expanding tribal gaming and its potential impacts on surrounding communities.' He also challenged Koi Nation's 'historical connection' to the land. Koi Nation, for its part, stood firm, arguing that it had a 3,000-year presence in Sonoma and that this project would 're-establish' its tribal land base. Speaking with the New York Times in 2024, the vice chair Dino Beltran said the casino had support from 80 fellow tribes, and that Graton Rancheria was merely interested in protecting its bottom line from a competitor. Despite opposition from the governor and some local leaders, the Biden administration approved the project. But Graton Rancheria continued its fight, filing suit. Meanwhile, it made sure to keep the governor and his wife happy. In April, the tribe sent the California Partners Project another $500,000. Just a month later, the Newsom administration stepped up its own efforts, suing the Interior Department to block federal approval of the rival casino. 'This case is about respecting the history of tribal sovereigns, protecting communities from unchecked casino-style gaming, and preventing federal administrative overreach,' Newsom and the state argued in their complaint filed in May. According to government watchdogs, the fact that Newsom solicited money from the tribe while engaging in official action on its behalf appears shady, but on its face is not illegal, given lax campaign finance laws. 'The scandal here isn't what's illegal, but rather what's entirely legal,' Daniel Schnur, former chairman of the California Fair Political Practices Commission, told Daily Mail. 'These types of behest payments represent a large enough loophole in the laws that you can drive a semi-trailer truck through them.' He said he expect Newsom will face attacks ads on this from opponents should he follow through on his aspirations to run for president. But he also fully expects the governor to shout down any suggestion of a 'pay for play' scheme. 'No politician in human history has ever conceded that a contribution has affected their governing decisions,' Schnur said. Government watchdogs told Daily Mail that snubbing Koi Nation's casino plan skirted legal boundaries - and that 'behest payments' are often used as loopholes Daniel Schnur, former chair of California's Fair Political Practices Commission, warned the move could come back to haunt Newsom if he runs for president - calling it prime material for attack ads Sure enough, the governor came out swinging when Daily Mail reached out for comment Friday. 'This is an absurd inquiry,' the governor's office stated when asked whether the tribe's payments influenced his support. 'Any suggestion that the governor's decisions were influenced by public, transparent donations to an independent nonprofit focused on supporting women and families isn't just baseless – it's insulting and offensive.' First partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom's office expressed similar indignation. 'The implication that anything was done here for political advantage is completely false and misleading,' her office told Daily Mail breaking its own silence on the issue. 'The California Partners Project is an independent nonprofit organization with no role in government decision-making or policy. Neither the First Partner nor the Governor receives any personal financial benefit from its work or from any donations to the organization. Greg Sarris, chairman of FIGR, also defended its contributions to one its greatest advocates and his wife's prized charity. 'Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria has a long history of giving to local, regional, and statewide causes that work to improve the lives of Californians,' he stated. 'In that vein, we are proud of the strong support we have provided annually to the California Partners Project since 2022.'
Time Business News
14-07-2025
- General
- Time Business News
Koi Pond Drum Filters: The Ultimate Solution for Clean
A Koi pond drum filter is an essential piece of equipment for any pond owner who wants to maintain pristine water quality while ensuring the health of their koi. This advanced filtration system automatically removes debris and waste from the water, significantly reducing maintenance and improving water clarity. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the benefits, functionality, installation, and maintenance of Koi pond drum filters to help you make an informed decision. A Koi pond drum filter is a high-efficiency mechanical filter that removes solid waste from the pond water before it enters the biological filtration system. Unlike traditional pond filters, drum filters use a rotating drum covered with a fine mesh screen, which automatically cleans itself when clogged with debris. This self-cleaning mechanism ensures continuous operation and superior filtration. The working mechanism of a Koi pond drum filter is simple yet highly effective: Water Intake – Pond water enters the filter, carrying solid waste, leaves, and uneaten food. Filtration Process – The rotating drum, lined with a fine mesh screen, captures debris while allowing clean water to pass through. Self-Cleaning Cycle – As debris accumulates, the filter triggers an automatic cleaning cycle, where high-pressure spray nozzles flush the waste into a separate drain chamber. Continuous Flow – The clean water exits the drum filter and moves to the biological filter or directly back into the pond. This automated cleaning process ensures that the filter maintains its efficiency with minimal manual intervention. A drum filter for koi ponds efficiently removes fine particles as small as 60 microns, preventing murky water and promoting crystal-clear conditions. Unlike traditional pond filters that require frequent cleaning, drum filters feature an automatic self-cleaning function, reducing manual maintenance efforts significantly. Clean water is crucial for koi health. By efficiently removing waste and toxins, a Koi pond drum filter helps prevent diseases and promotes a healthier pond environment. These filters process large volumes of water quickly, making them ideal for highly stocked koi ponds where heavy waste loads require efficient filtration. Modern drum filters use energy-efficient pumps and minimize water wastage, making them an eco-friendly choice for pond enthusiasts. When selecting a drum filter for your koi pond, consider the following factors: Pond Size – Choose a filter rated for your pond's water volume to ensure adequate filtration. – Choose a filter rated for your pond's water volume to ensure adequate filtration. Flow Rate – Ensure the filter can handle the required gallons per hour (GPH) to match your pond's pump capacity. – Ensure the filter can handle the required gallons per hour (GPH) to match your pond's pump capacity. Mesh Size – Smaller micron ratings (e.g., 60-100 microns) provide finer filtration. – Smaller micron ratings (e.g., 60-100 microns) provide finer filtration. Automation Features – Look for models with automated self-cleaning functions for minimal maintenance. – Look for models with automated self-cleaning functions for minimal maintenance. Durability and Material – High-quality materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic ensure longevity. Installing a Koi pond drum filter can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps: Place the filter near the pond or in the filter chamber at a level suitable for gravity-fed or pump-fed operation. Attach the inlet pipe from the pond to the drum filter's intake. Connect the outlet pipe to the biological filter or return it directly to the pond. Ensure the drum filter is connected to a reliable power source for its motorized drum rotation and cleaning system. Run the filter and observe the self-cleaning cycle to ensure proper operation. Inspect the drum screen regularly to ensure it remains unclogged. Check spray nozzles for blockages and clean them periodically. Monitor waste removal efficiency and ensure the drain chamber is clear. Water Flow Issues – If water flow is slow, check for clogs in the intake or outlet pipes. Self-Cleaning Malfunction – Ensure the high-pressure spray nozzles are not blocked. Motor Problems – Verify the power supply and ensure the drum rotates freely. Here are some of the top-rated drum filters for koi ponds: Features an integrated biological and mechanical filtration system Energy-efficient operation with high-capacity filtration Advanced self-cleaning technology Suitable for large koi ponds Modular design for easy expansion High-performance filtration for premium koi ponds Investing in a Oase Combi Drum Filter is the best way to maintain a clean, healthy, and low-maintenance pond. With its automated cleaning process, superior filtration efficiency, and long-term durability, this filtration system outperforms traditional filters in every aspect. Whether you are a seasoned koi keeper or a beginner, a drum filter is a must-have upgrade for a thriving koi pond. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
New Indian Express
14-07-2025
- New Indian Express
Kerala's agri tourism lifts fortunes of villages
KOCHI: Travelling along the Vagamon-Upputhara Road in Idukki, one would get to see many tourist vehicles turning onto a byroad that seems to be a kind of run-down muddy road leading to a quarry. But why would these tourists go to a quarry? Well, this former quarry has now been turned into an agri-tourism spot by the enterprising owner. And if one is to count the people thronging the spot, it can be seen that the farm is doing quite well. KPM Farm has gained fame for its fish farm that has Japanese Koi, Tilapia, and Gold fish being reared in the huge reservoir created due to quarrying. If KPM Farm has turned a former quarry into an agri-tourism spot, Kabeer T's Kathir Biodiversity Park at Pookkottumpadam in Nilambur, has brought a big change by turning five barren acres into a thriving farming oasis. His farm is a harmonious blend of flora and fauna. Another thriving example of agri-tourism is the Farm Pathayapura at Karakode in Kasaragod's Madikkai panchayat. These are just a few examples from the over 400 units that have been started in the state under the Responsible Tourism Mission. According to Rupesh Kumar K, State Coordinator of Kerala Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission, under the Agri Tourism initiative, 983 persons have been trained and of the 454 units that were started under the Kerala Agri Tourism Network, 103 are working well.
Bangkok Post
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Bangkok Post
Why 'Isan' Must Be 'Creative': Transforming Regional Pride into Economic Power
Bangkok, July 9, 2025 - In an era where creativity is the driving force behind economic and social development, the presence of a regional creative festival in Isan — the Northeast region of Thailand — is more essential than ever. It goes beyond art, culture, and innovation; it serves as a vital platform that inspires Isan natives who have moved to larger cities to return home, applying their potential, knowledge, and experience to uplift their hometowns. Isan Creative Festival 2025 (ISANCF2025) — now in its fifth year — is organised by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organisation), or CEA. The festival opens its doors to those ready to reshape Isan, offering a space for idea exchange, thought-provoking dialogue, and real-world implementation of bold projects across art, music, film, design, technology, crafts, food, community, and business. This year's theme, 'ISAN SOUL PROUD,' celebrates the region's cultural identity and will run for nine days, from 28 June to 6 July 2025 in Khon Kaen. The festival embodies the spirit of local pride and supports sustainable urban development by unlocking the full potential of the people of Isan. Why Must the Isan Festival Be Creative?: Igniting Nationwide Inspiration ISANCF2025 is not just a showcase of creativity — it's a launchpad for creative business opportunities and a thriving ecosystem of innovation. It encourages Isan natives and creatives across Thailand to return, reimagine, and revitalise their hometowns. It also aims to redefine perceptions of Isan by showcasing pride in the region's identity — not as a place in need, but rather a creative stage of the future, rich with potential and poised to become a vibrant hub of economic opportunity, culture, and creativity. This year's festival highlights the richness of the Isan region across its natural resources, way of life, culinary heritage, and traditional culture. These unique identities are being reimagined and communicated in new ways, giving rise to 'creative businesses' that generate local income and inspire a new generation to return home and redefine Isan's image. Three Creative Industries × Must-See Programs in ISANCF2025 The festival spotlights three key creative industries: Food, Entertainment & Content, and Craft, Art & Design, with curated programs that turn culture into opportunity. 1) Food Industry: From 'Larb, Koi, and Pla Ra' to a Bold Culinary Economy Isan food is more than just flavour — it is a heritage and wisdom passed down through generations. This year's festival invites everyone to experience: Larb Koi Universe: An exhibition showcasing two iconic Isan dishes, 'Larb' and 'Koi,' as cultural DNA reflecting the essence of Isan people. It also explores fusion food trends, branding opportunities, and new food cultures. NEXT STATION 'Pla Ra': An interactive talk exploring 'Pla Ra' (traditional Thai fermented fish) not merely as food, but as a cultural symbol and economic asset. The session will pave the way for the establishment of a 'Pla Ra Institute' and showcase dishes that highlight Isan's soft power. Creative Wisdom Talk: A thought-leadership seminar designed to empower creative entrepreneurs with business insights. This activity equips creative entrepreneurs with strategies for success, featuring topics like 'Michelin-Starred Business for Isan Cuisine' by Nay-Witchupol Charoensupaya from NAWA (a 1-Michelin Star restaurant) and 'Customer-Centric Mindset' by Jo-Thana Thienachariya, Dean of H.O.W., among others. 2) Entertainment & Content Industry: The Energetic and Joyful Stage The sounds of the khaen, morlam, and local music will revive traditional Isan music with fresh vigour to empower regional music creators: ISAN Music Talent: A vibrant intergenerational stage that brings together both seasoned and up-and-coming Isan musicians. This platform offers opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talent and connect with broader audiences throughout the festival. Local Voice Panel (Hosted by Thai PBS): An authentic platform that reflects the voices of the local communities, this panel delves into the future of local music businesses and community-based music commerce. It will also explore the evolving landscape of homegrown music distribution and the sustainable growth of Isan's musical ecosystem. ISAN Cinema House: A creative initiative transforms communities into 'film knowledge incubation centres,' to support the work of Isan filmmakers and directors through the 'Doc Club & Pub' Isan model. It focuses on building a film community and nurturing the film industry in Isan. Content Lab 2025: Newcomers: A career-oriented session featuring insights from Thai Film and Series industry invites filmmakers and those interested in behind-the-scenes work to exchange perspectives on the industry, such as Pimpaka Towira (producer, film director, international film festival organiser), Aticha Tanthanawigrai (film director and screenwriter), and Pairach Khumwan (film and advertising director), etc. 3) Craft, Art & Design Industry: Where Craftsmanship Defines Style and Identity Drives Brands 'Back to Isan!' Pavilion [The Answer for Homecomers Is Here]: This exhibition compiles stories of Isan homecomers who are building their futures through branding, creative studios, social initiatives, and small businesses rooted in cultural capital. This showcases how coming home can be a forward-thinking strategy for urban and regional development. ISAN MU-NIVERSE: An exhibition reimagines Isan crafts in a new context linking 'mutelu' (belief in superstition) with contemporary design. It harnesses the skills of over 300,000 artisans and a vast community network to position crafts within the mutelu market as a new economic driver. 'ISAN SOUL PROUD' Fashion Show: This runway event brings together top Isan designers and AI technology to present a unique fashion experience that blends tradition with innovation, offering a fresh perspective on regional design. ISAN Showcase: Explore a curated selection of distinctive handicrafts, artworks, and design pieces from 30 talented creatives. This showcase highlights the potential in Isan's craft sector and equips local entrepreneurs stepping into the creative economy. As part of its broader mission, selected participants will have the opportunity to join the ISAN MICE Expo 2025 — an international trade exhibition that serves as a gateway to expanded business opportunities and greater market exposure. ISANCF x KUPPER ART FES 2025: Under the theme 'Sky Limitless,' this dynamic art platform invites audiences to discover the depth and diversity of Isan through a wide range of artistic expressions. Creative Market (D-KAK Market): A vibrant marketplace featuring creative talents, artists, and local entrepreneurs. The market is divided into two zones: D-KAK D-Craft, which showcases handcrafted products by local makers and community enterprises, and the Creative Food Market, a culinary hotspot offering regional delicacies. Designed to foster business connections, idea exchange, and new partnerships. In addition, ISANCF2025 will host the ISAN Creativity and Innovation Summit 2025 — the first international academic forum dedicated to advancing design and innovation in the region. Organised by Khon Kaen University, the Mekong Institute (MI), and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the summit will take place on 5 - 6 July 2025, at Khon Kaen University Science Park. Showcasing Opportunities from Isan's Regional Potential ISANCF2025 also shines a spotlight on the spatial and cultural potential of Isan across provincial, urban, district, and community levels. The festival underscores Isan's appeal as a region abundant in lifestyle, investment opportunity, tourism value, and multi-dimensional promise. Four key venues in Khon Kaen have been selected to vividly represent 'Isan Style' through the creative lens of local visionaries: TCDC Khon Kaen (Kangsadan District) – A dynamic hub for emerging thinkers and creators, serving as an incubator for ideas and a testbed for creative economy and future lifestyle innovations. Pullman Khon Kaen Hotel – A regional centre for conferences, seminars, and cultural festivals in this MICE City, driving significant economic impact across the city. Columbo Creative District – A vibrant craft village where daily life and creativity intertwine. With over 20 various studios, this area is being transformed into a model creative district powered by collective creativity. Sawathi Community – Proudly upholding traditional Isan ways of life, passed down through generations. At its heart is Wat Chai Sri, home to over 100-year-old mural paintings, or 'Hoop Taem Sinsai.' This community leverages its cultural capital, lifestyle, and local wisdom to develop learning centres, arts, and traditions, creating new opportunities for the community and accommodating tourists, evolving into the 'Sawathi Creative Cultural Community Model.' ISANCF2025 is poised to elevate regional pride and reaffirm Isan's readiness to become a true 'City of Opportunity.' The festival aims to attract the next generations and bolster confidence in the region's potential on both national and international stages. Join the 'ISAN SOUL PROUD' movement and help shape the future through every dimension of culture while supporting the region's growing business expansion. With more than 200 diverse activities across seven types of programs — Creative Academic Program, Creative Business Platform, Showcase & Exhibition, Talk & Workshop, Event & Entertainment Program, D-KAK Market, and Creative District Project from 28 June to 6 July 2025, in Khon Kaen. ISANCF2025 is proudly set to inspire cultural pride and drive creativity across the region.
Sky News AU
07-07-2025
- Business
- Sky News AU
MasterChef star Reynold Poernomo's restaurant collapses with ‘King of Desserts' owing more than half a million dollars in unpaid wages and debts
A company associated with former MasterChef legend Reynold Poernomo has collapsed, owing half a million dollars in workers wages, superannuation benefits and unpaid debts. Arnoldpo Corporation Pty Ltd, the company that operated Poernomo's Monkey's Corner restaurant in Chippendale was forced into liquidation on May 28, a year after the award-winning premises abruptly closed its doors following a sudden Instagram post. Poernomo first opened the Japanese-inspired venue with his two brothers Ronald and Arnold in 2017 shortly after he made his MasterChef debut in 2015. Although the Instagram post promised the trio were 'cooking up something new' it can now be revealed that administrators have been appointed to settle the company's financial obligations, which include $500,000 in unpaid super and mammoth debts to the Australian Tax Office. Despite hinting at a new culinary project, no new venue has been formally announced. According to a report lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the company linked to Poernomo owes staff $76,000 in super repayments and $458,002.17 to the ATO. The documents also showed that the company owes Sunnyside Financial Group and ASIC itself more than $5000 in fees. Henry Kwok and Antony Resnick from the dVT group have been selected as interim liquidators. It is believed that Poernomo's iconic dessert empire Koi Kitchens, based in Chippendale, Ryde and Melbourne, could also be under threat. The desert chain specialises in exclusive and intricate cakes and sweets and has received glowing praise from reviewers and industry aficionados. The company that oversees the businesses, Art Plate Pty Ltd, underwent a sweeping financial restructure in 2024 which resulted in mass layoffs and cost cutting efforts. The Daily Telegraph reported that multiple Koi suppliers had been pursuing the Poernomo brothers for unpaid invoices, some numbering in the tens of thousands of dollars. One disgruntled supplier told same outlet he would stop trading with the Koi brand due to a string of unpaid wages. Numerous Koi employees also claimed they have been hounding all three Poernomo brothers to be paid significant amounts of super and delayed wages, an issue which has been ongoing since December. 'We are chasing what we are owed, and it's become very stressful and toxic,' they told The Daily Telegraph. 'Many staff have left.' Although Poernomo is not named as a director in any of the family run companies, his website lists him as an owner and operator of the various businesses alongside his brothers. has reached out to Poernomo for comment.
