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Charleston, S.C. — A 23-year-old Charleston man has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with a late-April shooting in downtown Charleston that resulted in the tragic death of a 24-year-old woman. The Charleston Police Department confirmed the arrest of Kenneth Da’Quan Gilliard on Friday, upgrading his previous charges following an intensive investigation.

The victim, identified as Briana Cason, was found on the evening of April 27 suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the area of Johnson Street, near the heart of the city. Emergency medical personnel responded quickly to the scene and transported her to a local hospital. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, Cason succumbed to her injuries.

According to the Charleston Police Department’s official news release, officers were initially dispatched to the Johnson Street area around 9:45 p.m. following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers located Cason lying on the sidewalk with severe gunshot injuries. Witnesses reported hearing multiple shots ring out just moments before police arrived.

Investigators worked tirelessly over the subsequent days, gathering evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and speaking with witnesses. Their efforts eventually led them to Gilliard, who was apprehended without incident. Police had initially detained Gilliard on unrelated charges, but as the investigation progressed and additional evidence was gathered, detectives were able to link him directly to the fatal shooting. His charges were formally upgraded to murder following the confirmation of ballistic evidence and witness statements tying him to the crime.

Charleston Police Chief Chito Walker addressed the media following the announcement, expressing condolences to the family and friends of Briana Cason. “This was a senseless act of violence that took a young woman from her loved ones far too soon,” said Chief Walker. “We remain committed to ensuring justice is served and that the individual responsible is held fully accountable for his actions.”

He further emphasized the importance of community involvement in solving crimes, stating, “We’re grateful to those members of the public who came forward with critical information that aided in our investigation. Community cooperation is essential in making our neighborhoods safer.”

Cason, described by friends as kind-hearted and full of life, had reportedly been out with friends the night of the shooting. Social media has since been flooded with tributes, memories, and expressions of grief from those who knew her. A candlelight vigil in her memory is scheduled for this weekend in downtown Charleston.

Kenneth Gilliard is currently being held at the Charleston County jail without bond. His first court appearance on the murder charge is expected next week. Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation, but confirmed that the shooting did not appear to be a random act of violence.

The Charleston Police Department is urging anyone with additional information related to the case to contact their tip line or reach out anonymously via Crime Stoppers. As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials reaffirm their commitment to uncovering the full circumstances behind the deadly shooting.

“This arrest marks a significant step forward in our pursuit of justice,” Chief Walker said. “But the work does not end here. We owe it to Briana and her family to see this process through to the very end.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a significant development stemming from the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, the Trump administration has reached a preliminary settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Ashli Babbitt, the 35-year-old Air Force veteran who was fatally shot inside the U.S. Capitol during the insurrection.

Attorneys representing both Babbitt’s estate and the U.S. Department of Justice filed a joint notice with a federal judge in Washington on Friday, stating that the parties have “reached an agreement in principle.” Although the final terms of the settlement remain confidential and have yet to be officially executed, this marks a pivotal moment in one of the most controversial incidents from the unprecedented attack on the seat of American democracy.

Background on the Incident

Ashli Babbitt, a California native and ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump, was among the hundreds of individuals who stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021, attempting to halt the certification of President Joe Biden’s electoral victory. As rioters broke through barricades and security checkpoints, Babbitt was part of a group attempting to breach the Speaker’s Lobby—an area that leads to the House chamber—when she was shot by a Capitol Police officer.

The shooting was captured on video and quickly circulated online, fueling controversy, political debate, and conspiracy theories. The officer, later identified as Lt. Michael Byrd, was placed on administrative leave and subsequently cleared of wrongdoing after internal and federal investigations determined that the use of deadly force was justified to protect members of Congress and staffers sheltering nearby.

Despite these official findings, Babbitt’s death became a rallying point for far-right activists and commentators, who portrayed her as a martyr and questioned the legitimacy of the investigation. Her family, represented by a team of civil rights attorneys, filed a wrongful death lawsuit in 2022, accusing the government of excessive use of force and seeking monetary damages.

Details of the Lawsuit

The wrongful death suit alleged that Babbitt was unarmed, posed no immediate threat, and was denied her constitutional rights when she was shot. Her attorneys argued that lesser means of force could have been used and that the decision to fire a weapon under those circumstances was unjustified. The suit demanded accountability from the government and sought financial compensation for what her family described as a “senseless and preventable death.”

The U.S. government, through the Department of Justice, defended the actions of the Capitol Police, citing the extraordinary and volatile nature of the situation. Officials emphasized that the shooting took place in a high-stress environment with an ongoing threat to lawmakers’ safety, and that Lt. Byrd had acted within the scope of his duties to prevent further harm.

Settlement and Next Steps

The preliminary agreement represents a possible end to a legal battle that has drawn national attention and become emblematic of the deep divisions still lingering from the events of January 6. While the settlement’s exact financial and legal terms have not been made public, the agreement “in principle” suggests that both sides have found common ground sufficient to resolve the dispute outside of court.

Legal experts note that such settlements are not uncommon in high-profile civil rights or wrongful death cases, particularly when ongoing litigation could further inflame public tensions or reveal sensitive security protocols.

The court has given both parties a limited period to finalize and submit the complete settlement documentation. Until then, the agreement remains unofficial, and no monetary figure has been confirmed.

Political and Social Reactions

The settlement announcement has already sparked reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of Babbitt’s family have hailed it as a step toward justice and recognition of what they view as a tragic overreach by law enforcement. Critics, however, have expressed concern that any financial settlement might lend undue credibility to false narratives surrounding the Capitol attack and diminish the seriousness of the threat posed that day.

The Department of Justice has not issued a public statement beyond the court filing, and neither Lt. Byrd nor Capitol Police representatives have commented on the matter since the initial investigations cleared him of wrongdoing.

Conclusion

As the nation continues to grapple with the legacy of January 6, the preliminary settlement in Ashli Babbitt’s wrongful death case underscores the enduring legal, political, and emotional complexities surrounding that day. It also highlights the continuing efforts by the judicial system to reconcile government accountability with the chaotic and dangerous circumstances that defined one of the darkest chapters in recent American history.

Whether the settlement brings closure for Babbitt’s family or further fuels political debate, it is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Capitol riot—and of the ongoing challenge of restoring public trust in the institutions of American democracy.

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REEDLEY, CA — A community is on edge and police are actively investigating after a daytime shooting in Reedley late Friday morning left one person injured and sent shockwaves through the quiet Central Valley town.

The incident occurred just before noon in a residential neighborhood near the intersection of Springfield Avenue and East Dinuba Avenue. According to Reedley Police Department officials, officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots in the area. Upon arrival, authorities found a male victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. The victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was treated at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital. As of Friday evening, his condition was reported as stable.

The sound of gunfire in broad daylight near populated areas caused immediate concern among local residents and school officials. As a precaution, both Jefferson Elementary School and Grant Middle School—located within a short distance from the shooting scene—were placed on temporary lockdown. School officials acted quickly, ensuring that students and staff were kept safe inside classrooms while police assessed the situation. The lockdowns were lifted approximately an hour later after officers confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the campuses.

Reedley Police Chief Joe Garza addressed the public in a brief press conference Friday afternoon, stating that the incident appears to be targeted rather than random. “At this time, we believe the victim was specifically targeted and that this was not a random act of violence,” Garza said. “However, we take this situation very seriously and are doing everything possible to identify and apprehend the suspect or suspects involved.”

Police have not announced any arrests in connection with the shooting but confirmed that they are following several leads. Detectives are canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses and have requested that anyone with surveillance footage from the area during the time of the incident come forward.

Community members have expressed growing concern over the increase in gun violence in recent months, especially incidents occurring near schools and public spaces. “This is not something we’re used to seeing here in Reedley,” said local resident Maria Sanchez, who lives two blocks from the shooting scene. “It’s frightening to think that someone could open fire in the middle of the day.”

The Reedley Police Department is working closely with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies as the investigation unfolds. In the meantime, officers have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents and deter further violence.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Reedley Police at (559) 637-4250 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-STOP. Tips can remain anonymous.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

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Esteemed Treasurer, Dedicated Servant, and Beloved Member of the Firefighting and Public Safety Community

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Ed Weigl, our esteemed Treasurer and a cornerstone of our firefighting and public safety community. Ed’s passing marks the close of an extraordinary chapter in Eastern North Carolina—a chapter defined by unwavering service, humility, and a commitment to the wellbeing of others that spanned decades.

For many, Ed was more than just a colleague or a community leader. He was a mentor, a guiding light, and a steadfast presence in times of both calm and crisis. Through his tireless work in public safety, Ed shaped not only the systems we rely on but also the hearts and minds of those privileged enough to serve alongside him. His influence can be seen across departments, through generations of emergency responders, and in every community that benefited from his passion and wisdom.

As Treasurer, Ed brought a rare combination of integrity, precision, and generosity to his role. His financial stewardship ensured that vital programs remained funded, resources were allocated wisely, and every cent was used in service of the greater good. But numbers were only part of Ed’s contribution. His real gift lay in his ability to lead by example—calm under pressure, clear in his vision, and compassionate in every interaction.

Those who knew Ed will remember his firm handshake, his ready smile, and the way he made you feel heard—whether in a boardroom meeting or on the back of a fire truck. He was a man of few words when needed, but when he spoke, people listened. And when he acted, he did so with a quiet strength that inspired trust and admiration.

Throughout his many years of service, Ed was instrumental in shaping emergency response protocols, mentoring young recruits, and fostering a spirit of unity among diverse teams and agencies. His presence brought reassurance in times of uncertainty and resolve in the face of danger. In many ways, he embodied the very principles that define our calling: courage, sacrifice, and a relentless commitment to protect.

Beyond the uniform and titles, Ed was a devoted family man, a loyal friend, and a proud advocate for the people of Eastern North Carolina. He carried himself with humility and grace, never seeking the spotlight, but always deserving of it.

While we mourn the immense loss of Ed Weigl, we also celebrate a life incredibly well-lived—a life that touched thousands, uplifted communities, and set a standard we can only strive to match. His legacy lives on in the fire stations he helped build, the policies he helped shape, and in the countless lives he saved and supported.

To Ed’s family, we extend our deepest sympathies. Know that you are not alone in your grief. You are surrounded by a grateful community, forever indebted to Ed for his sacrifices and service. We will carry his memory in our hearts and honor it in our continued commitment to the values he held so dear.

Rest in peace, Ed. Your work here is done, but your impact will never fade.

With respect, remembrance, and unending gratitude,
The Firefighting and Public Safety Community of Eastern North Carolina

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It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share the tragic passing of Anthony Esposito, a bright and beloved sixth-grade student at Walsh Intermediate School in Branford, Connecticut. Anthony’s sudden and senseless death has deeply shaken our school, our community, and the hearts of all who knew and loved him. As we grapple with this immense loss, we are left heartbroken, stunned, and searching for words to express the grief that now hangs heavily over us all.

Anthony was more than just a student. He was a shining light in our school—a kind-hearted young boy with a smile that could brighten any room. He had an energy that lifted others, a curiosity that inspired those around him, and a sense of humor that left classmates and teachers alike in laughter. He approached life with enthusiasm, warmth, and a spirit of generosity that touched everyone he encountered.

In the classroom, Anthony was eager to learn, ask questions, and engage with his peers. Outside of academics, he was known for his love of sports, especially soccer, and his dedication to his friends and family. He carried himself with a sense of wonder and joy that was contagious, reminding us all of the beauty and potential that lives in our children.

Anthony’s sudden passing has left a void that cannot be filled. The sorrow felt by his classmates, teachers, friends, and family is immeasurable. We are mourning not only the loss of a young life, but the countless memories that will never be made, the dreams that will go unrealized, and the warmth of a presence that will be missed at every turn.

As a school and a community, we are coming together to support one another, to honor Anthony’s memory, and to offer comfort to his grieving family. We will remember Anthony for the light he brought into our lives, and we will carry his memory forward with love and compassion.

In the coming days, grief counselors and support staff will be available at Walsh Intermediate School to assist students, staff, and families who are struggling with this loss. We encourage everyone to reach out, to speak openly, and to lean on one another as we navigate this painful time together.

To Anthony’s family: please know that you are not alone. Your pain is shared by an entire community that wraps its arms around you in love, sorrow, and support. We mourn with you, and we will continue to honor Anthony’s memory in the way he lived—with kindness, joy, and an open heart.

Rest in peace, sweet Anthony. You will never be forgotten.

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It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share the tragic passing of Anthony Esposito, a bright and beloved sixth-grade student at Walsh Intermediate School in Branford, Connecticut. Anthony’s sudden and senseless death has shaken our school, our community, and the hearts of all who knew him. We are left heartbroken, stunned, and struggling to find solace in the wake of such an unimaginable loss.

Anthony was more than just a student—he was a kind, intelligent, and spirited young boy with a contagious smile and a heart full of promise. He was known among his peers and teachers for his curiosity, his sense of humor, and his ability to bring light into the room just by being in it. His teachers often spoke of his eagerness to learn and his thoughtful, compassionate nature. Friends remember him as someone who looked out for others, always willing to lend a hand or share a laugh.

The devastating circumstances surrounding Anthony’s death have only deepened the sorrow we feel. According to initial reports, Anthony’s life was taken in an alleged act of domestic violence, involving his father, Anthony Andrew Esposito Jr. This unspeakable tragedy has left us all reeling, and words can scarcely express the grief and disbelief that have taken hold of our school community and the broader Branford area.

In moments like this, we are reminded of how fragile life is and how urgently we must come together to support one another. The Walsh Intermediate School staff is working closely with counselors, trauma specialists, and local agencies to provide emotional and psychological support for our students, staff, and families as we all begin to process this heartbreaking loss. The safety and well-being of our children is always our top priority, and we are committed to creating spaces where they can express their emotions, ask questions, and find comfort in community.

To the family and loved ones of Anthony, especially his mother and siblings, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. We cannot begin to imagine the pain you are enduring, but please know that you are not alone. The entire Branford community stands beside you, mourning with you, and ready to support you however we can.

We also recognize that this tragic event brings to light the very real and very serious issue of domestic violence. It is a sobering reminder that behind closed doors, many individuals—especially children—may be experiencing fear, trauma, and harm. Let Anthony’s memory be a call to action for us all to remain vigilant, to speak up, and to ensure that help is accessible to those in need.

In the coming days, we will honor Anthony’s life through moments of remembrance at school, as well as community vigils and memorial initiatives. He will never be forgotten. His absence will be deeply felt, but so too will his presence live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

As we grieve together, let us hold one another a little closer, listen more carefully, and love more fiercely. Anthony, we carry your light with us always. May you rest in peace.

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It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the recent loss of one of our beloved students at Pampa Junior High, following a tragic accident. Words cannot fully capture the pain and grief that has settled over our school and community. This loss has shaken us all, and we mourn alongside the student’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers during this incredibly difficult time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We extend our deepest condolences and stand in solidarity with them, offering our love and support in the days and weeks ahead. No parent should ever have to endure the loss of a child, and we grieve with them as members of one close-knit school family.

In response to this tragedy, our counselors and support staff have been present on campus to provide comfort, guidance, and a listening ear to any student or staff member in need. We know that grief affects each person differently, and we are committed to ensuring that no one walks through this alone. We encourage families to talk openly with their children, and we invite anyone who may be struggling to reach out to us for additional support. Our team is here to help, whether through one-on-one counseling, group support, or simply providing a space to talk and reflect.

During this time of sorrow, our priority remains the emotional well-being of our students and staff. As a school community, we will continue to walk forward together with empathy, compassion, and unity. We will hold space for grief, for remembrance, and for healing, knowing that recovery takes time and is often a shared journey.

To our students: you are not alone. To our families: we are here for you. And to our staff: thank you for continuing to show care and resilience in the face of such heartbreak.

Let us all honor the memory of the student we have lost by supporting one another with kindness and compassion, and by holding tight to the values of love, connection, and community that define Pampa Junior High.

With heartfelt sympathy,
[Name or Title]
Pampa Junior High Administration

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Gwendolyn Brooks, the illustrious and groundbreaking Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, passed away peacefully in Hyde Park, Chicago, surrounded by her loving family and cherished friends. Her departure marks the end of a luminous chapter in American literature, but her legacy continues to shine brightly through the generations she inspired and the community she so passionately served.

Born in Topeka, Kansas, on June 7, 1917, and raised in Chicago, Brooks’ connection to the Windy City was both profound and enduring. From the vibrant streets of the South Side to the intimate corners of community centers and literary circles, she captured the rhythms, sorrows, joys, and strength of everyday people—particularly African Americans—whose stories were often silenced or ignored. Her words were more than verse; they were testimony. They carried the weight of injustice, the nuance of human struggle, and the bright spark of hope.

Brooks made history in 1950 when she became the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for her book Annie Allen, a collection of poems tracing the life of a young Black girl growing into womanhood. That achievement not only opened doors for Black writers in mainstream publishing but also solidified her place as a national literary icon. Yet, for all her accolades, Brooks remained steadfastly committed to her roots and to uplifting others. She was more than a poet; she was a mentor, educator, and tireless advocate for literature as a force for social change.

Throughout her life, Brooks dedicated herself to nurturing aspiring poets and writers, often holding free workshops in local libraries, schools, and community centers. She believed deeply in the power of words to transform lives and communities, and she used her platform to encourage young voices to speak their truths boldly and unapologetically. Her generosity extended beyond instruction—she made time, gave space, and offered guidance to those whose stories needed to be heard.

Brooks’ body of work is a rich tapestry of themes—identity, race, family, poverty, resistance, beauty, and resilience. Her poems such as We Real Cool, The Bean Eaters, and The Mother are studied in classrooms across the country, but more importantly, they resonate on street corners, in spoken word cafés, and within the hearts of readers from all walks of life. Each line she wrote carried the precision of a scholar and the soul of a neighbor.

Though she is no longer with us in body, Gwendolyn Brooks’ spirit endures in the city she loved and the communities she served. Chicago was not just a backdrop for her work—it was a living, breathing presence in her poetry. In return, the city embraced her as one of its brightest lights. Statues, schools, and scholarships bear her name, but it is in the quiet strength of a young poet finding their voice that her legacy is most alive.

Gwendolyn Brooks will be remembered not only as a literary giant but as a guiding force whose words and actions bridged worlds and sparked change. Her life was a testimony to the transformative power of art, and her poetry remains a beacon for those navigating the complexities of life, race, and identity.

She gave the world her wisdom, her rhythm, her fire—and through her work, she lives on.

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Detroit is in mourning. A deep, reverberating silence hangs over the city today, not just for the music that has dimmed, but for the soul that once lit it up. Grant Jackson — DJ, visionary, and beloved friend — has passed away, leaving behind a city that pulses a little less vibrantly, beats a little less confidently, and moves a little less freely in his absence.

To say Grant Jackson was a DJ would be an understatement. He was a maestro, a curator of sound, a heartbeat behind the turntables. His sets weren’t just playlists — they were journeys, meticulously crafted narratives that spoke of joy, pain, resilience, and freedom. His music transcended boundaries, bridging generations and genres, always grounded in the spirit of Detroit. In a city that gave birth to Motown, techno, and countless musical revolutions, Grant carved out a space that was wholly, unmistakably his own.

But it wasn’t just the music that made Grant special. It was the man behind the decks. Revered across the city and beyond, Grant was as known for his warm smile and generous heart as he was for his impeccable taste in records. His presence was magnetic. Whether in a crowded nightclub, a community gathering, or a quiet corner coffee shop, Grant exuded a rare and genuine light. He listened deeply, laughed loudly, and always made you feel like you mattered — because to him, you did.

Grant’s influence extended far beyond the clubs. He was a mentor, a collaborator, a champion of emerging talent. He believed in the power of community and lived it daily. Young artists found in him not just inspiration, but a guiding hand and a steady friend. He uplifted those around him not for accolades, but because it was simply who he was — someone who believed in sharing the spotlight, someone who wanted everyone to shine.

His visionary work helped shape the rhythm and soul of Detroit’s music scene. He saw the city not only for what it was, but for what it could be — vibrant, inclusive, and creatively fearless. In countless underground venues, festivals, and radio waves, Grant was there, always pushing forward, always dreaming bigger, always grounded in love for his community.

Now, as Detroit mourns this unimaginable loss, we also celebrate the indelible legacy Grant leaves behind. We remember the laughter echoing through studios, the dance floors electrified by his sets, the quiet wisdom shared over late-night conversations. We remember the friend who never stopped believing in the beauty of connection — in music, and in each other.

Grant Jackson was more than a DJ. He was a builder of bridges, a keeper of culture, a beacon of light. And while the silence left in his absence is deafening, his spirit will continue to reverberate in every beat, every bassline, every heart that he touched.

Rest in power, Grant. Thank you for the rhythm, the love, and the light. Detroit will never forget you.

 

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Donora, Pennsylvania
1960 – 2025

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the sudden passing of Pamela Ann Delawder on May 1st, 2025, at the age of 64. Pamela, a proud lifelong resident of Donora, Pennsylvania, was a woman of extraordinary resilience, warmth, and character. Her departure has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Pamela was a beacon of strength and light in her community. Known for her tireless work ethic, she was a woman who never shied away from a challenge and always gave her all to whatever task lay in front of her. Whether she was supporting her family, helping a friend, or simply going about her day, Pamela did so with an energy and authenticity that drew others to her. She had a vibrant spirit, one that laughed loudly, loved fiercely, and lived fully.

At the heart of Pamela’s life was her deep devotion to her family. She was a nurturing and loving mother whose guidance and wisdom shaped the lives of her children. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and her eyes would light up at the mere mention of their names. Pamela’s presence was a source of comfort and grounding—she made people feel safe, heard, and loved without judgment. She was also a cherished sister and a loyal friend who could always be counted on for a listening ear, a warm hug, or an honest word.

What made Pamela truly special was her unapologetic sense of self. She lived authentically and encouraged those around her to do the same. Her courage to speak her truth, her refusal to be anyone but herself, and her unwavering belief in the power of love and kindness will remain her enduring legacy.

As her family grieves this sudden loss, they are reaching out to the community for support to honor Pamela’s memory with the dignity and grace she deserves. A proper service is being planned to celebrate her remarkable life, and any support—whether through thoughts, prayers, or contributions—is deeply appreciated during this difficult time.

Pamela Ann Delawder may have departed from this world, but her love, laughter, and lessons will live on in the hearts of all she touched. Her spirit remains ever-present in the memories shared, the lives she shaped, and the community she helped build.

She is gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

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