BALTIMORE – As students return to classrooms, pediatricians are emphasizing the importance of preventative care, including updated vaccinations. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently issued new guidance recommending COVID-19 vaccinations for all children 6 months and older, a shift from current recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The updated AAP guidance, released this past week, advocates for universal COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 6 months and up. This proposal diverges from the CDC’s current stance, highlighting an evolving understanding of the virus and its impact on young people.
Mercy Medical Center pediatrician Dr. Ashanti Woods discussed these and other health considerations for children returning to school during an appearance on 11 TV Hill. The conversation focused on steps parents can take to ensure their children’s well-being as they navigate the school year.
This article was updated at 11:30 AM EDT on August 24, 2025.
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The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations of extortion and gratification related to the issuance of Work Safety (K3) certificates at the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker). The investigation centers around a Ducati motorcycle and a payment of rp 3 billion (approximately $190,000 USD) allegedly received by Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan, the Deputy Minister of Manpower, also known as Noel.
According to witness testimony, Irvan Bobby Mahendro, identified as Irvian Ni 202-2025 Person, initiated the purchase of the motorcycle.Setyo, a witness in the case, recounted a conversation with Irvan, stating, ”IEG said to IBM, ‘you play a big motorbike.If for me what motorbike is suitable?’,” Setyo said.
Following the conversation, Irvan purchased a Ducati motorcycle and delivered it to Noel. “Then IBM bought and sent it to his house, 1 Ducati,” Setyo confirmed.
Along with the ducati motorcycle, Noel allegedly received Rp 3 billion in connection with the K3 certificate issuance.This payment reportedly occurred in December 2024, approximately two months after President Prabowo Subianto appointed him as Deputy Minister.
Noel is now among eleven individuals named as suspects in the case, facing charges related to extortion and accepting gratification. The complete list of suspects includes:
1. Irvian Bobby Mahendro – Irvian Ni 202-2025 Person
2. Gerry Aditya herwanto putra, Coordinator of Testing and Evaluation of Work Safety Competencies (2022-present)
3.Subhan, Sub-Coordinator of Work Safety at Dit Bina K3 (2020-2025)
4. Anitasari Kusumawati, Sub-Coordinator of Partnership and Occupational Health Personnel (2020-present)
5. Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan, Deputy Minister of Manpower of the Republic of Indonesia
6. fahrurozi, Director General of Binwasnaker and K3 (March 2025-present)
7.Hery Sutanto, Director of Institutional Development (2021-February 2025)
8. Carteda, a subcoordinator
9. supriadi, a coordinator
10. Temurila, representing PT Kem Indonesia
11. Miki Mahfud,representing PT Kem Indonesia.
Deputy Minister of Manpower Detained in Indonesia Corruption Probe
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Jakarta - Indonesian Deputy Minister of Manpower, Immanuel Ebenezer, widely known as Noel, was apprehended on Wednesday night by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in an operasi tangkap tangan (OTT), or sting operation.The arrest stems from allegations of extortion related to occupational safety and health (K3) certification processes. The Presidential Palace has signaled its intent to promptly replace Noel should the allegations prove true.
Palace Response and Pending Examination
Minister of State Secretariat Prasetyo hadi conveyed the government’s position, stating that a replacement for Noel would be expedited “quickly” if evidence confirms his involvement. Currently, the Palace is awaiting a complete report from the KPK detailing the findings of the investigation.President Prabowo Subianto has been briefed on the situation and has deferred to the KPK for a thorough legal process.
“Mr. President has received a report. He respects the process at the KPK and is inviting the legal process to be carried out,” Hadi stated.
the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle remains contingent on the outcome of the KPK’s investigation. Officials are awaiting the results of the initial 24-hour assessment period.
Potential for Interim Leadership
Hadi also indicated that the position of Deputy Minister of Manpower could be temporarily vacated while the investigation proceeds. He explained that established protocols allow for interim assignments or special duties in such circumstances.”When one of the officials…even if the minister, the mechanism is not always a change of day, it can also be temporary or special assignments,” he said.
Minister of Manpower Yassierli affirmed a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within the ministry. He revealed that all ministry officials have signed an Integrity Pact, committing to resignation should they engage in corrupt practices. This pledge extends to nearly 1,000 K3 service companies, aiming to eliminate bribery and extortion in the certification process.
Did You Know? The Integrity Pact,a tool increasingly used in Indonesia to combat corruption,requires signatories to disclose any potential conflicts of interest and report any instances of bribery or extortion they encounter.
Details of the Arrest and Evidence Seized
The KPK’s operation resulted in the detention of 14 individuals, including Noel. Authorities confiscated significant evidence, including a significant amount of cash, dozens of vehicles, and a Ducati motorcycle.KPK Deputy Chairman Fitroh confirmed the seizure of these items.
All those detained are currently undergoing questioning at the KPK headquarters,where their status will be persistent within the next 24 hours.
Timeline of Events
| Date | event |
|---|---|
| August 20,2025 | KPK conducts operasi tangkap tangan (OTT) netting Deputy minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer (Noel) and 13 others. |
| August 21, 2025 | Presidential Palace confirms awareness of the situation and awaits KPK findings. |
| August 21, 2025 | Minister of Manpower Yassierli reaffirms zero-tolerance policy on corruption. |
Pro Tip: Indonesia’s KPK has broad powers to investigate and prosecute corruption cases, including the authority to conduct surprise arrests and seize assets.
What impact will this investigation have on Indonesia’s efforts to improve workplace safety standards? And how will the government ensure clarity in the K3 certification process moving forward?
Indonesia has been actively working to improve its ranking on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) in recent years. The CPI, published annually by Transparency International, measures the perceived levels of public sector corruption in countries worldwide. The KPK plays a central role in these efforts, investigating and prosecuting high-profile corruption cases. The K3 certification process, crucial for ensuring workplace safety, has been identified as a potential area for corruption due to the discretionary power involved in issuing permits and conducting inspections.This case highlights the ongoing challenges in combating corruption and promoting good governance in Indonesia.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Noel Investigation
- What is an OTT? An operasi tangkap tangan (OTT) is a sting operation conducted by the KPK to catch individuals in the act of committing corruption.
- What is the K3 certification process? K3 certification relates to occupational safety and health standards in Indonesia, ensuring workplaces meet required safety regulations.
- What is the role of the KPK? The KPK (Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi) is Indonesia’s self-reliant anti-corruption commission.
- What happens if Noel is found guilty? If found guilty, Noel could face imprisonment and be removed from his position as Deputy Minister of Manpower.
- Will this case impact Indonesia’s investment climate? Corruption remains a concern for investors in Indonesia, and this case could perhaps impact investor confidence.
We encourage you to share this critically important news with your network. Your comments and insights are also welcome – join the conversation below!
U.S. Government Weighs Intel Stake to Revitalize Chip Manufacturing
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Washington, D.C. – The United States government, under former president Donald Trump, reportedly explored acquiring a 10% ownership stake in Intel, a move intended to support the struggling chipmaker and strengthen domestic semiconductor production.This potential investment could position the U.S. government as one of Intel’s largest shareholders.
Strategic Shift in Government Support
According to a report by Bloomberg, the proposed agreement involved converting a portion, or all, of the grants Intel received through the U.S. Chips and Science Act into equity within the company.This represents a meaningful departure from traditional grant-based funding models, signaling a more active role for the government in shaping the future of the semiconductor industry.
Based on Intel’s current valuation, a 10% stake would be valued at approximately $10.4 billion. Intel has already been awarded $10.9 billion in grants from the CHIPS Act, allocated as $7.9 billion for commercial manufacturing initiatives and $3 billion for projects vital to national security. The CHIPS Act is a landmark piece of legislation designed to incentivize domestic semiconductor production and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains.
(U.S. Department of Commerce)
Uncertainties and Internal Debate
The Bloomberg report indicated that the proposal’s reception within the trump governance remained unclear, and whether discussions occurred between U.S. officials and Intel representatives is still unknown. The precise amount of shares the government might acquire remains uncertain, and the White House’s ultimate decision on pursuing this plan is pending.
intel, once a dominant force in the semiconductor market, has faced increasing competition from global manufacturers in advanced chip production. Revitalizing Intel has become a national priority, prompting discussions about direct government investment.
Did You Know?
The U.S. currently relies heavily on Taiwan and South Korea for advanced semiconductor manufacturing, creating potential vulnerabilities in the supply chain.
Challenges and Potential Benefits
Intel has struggled to capitalize on the burgeoning artificial intelligence market and has yet to secure ample customers for it’s manufacturing services despite significant investment.Analysts suggest government support is crucial for Intel’s recovery and for safeguarding U.S. national security interests. However, some experts contend that Intel’s challenges extend beyond funding and question whether government intervention can effectively address the underlying issues.
Further speculation suggests that Trump might leverage his influence to encourage other companies to purchase Intel chips or implement indirect assistance through tariffs and regulatory measures.
Key Data Summary
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Potential Government stake | 10% |
| Estimated Stake Value | $10.4 Billion |
| Total CHIPS Act Grants to Intel | $10.9 Billion |
| Commercial Manufacturing Grants | $7.9 Billion |
| National Security Grants | $3 Billion |
Pro Tip: Understanding the semiconductor supply chain is critical to grasping the implications of this potential investment. Disruptions in this chain can have far-reaching consequences for various industries.
What impact will government ownership have on Intel’s long-term strategy? And how might this move influence the broader semiconductor landscape?
The Global Semiconductor Landscape
The semiconductor industry is a cornerstone of the modern economy, powering everything from smartphones and computers to automobiles and defense systems. The U.S. has historically been a leader in semiconductor innovation, but its manufacturing share has declined in recent decades. The CHIPS Act and potential government investments like the one discussed here are aimed at reversing this trend and ensuring U.S. competitiveness in this critical sector. Geopolitical tensions and supply chain vulnerabilities have further underscored the importance of domestic semiconductor production.
Frequently Asked Questions about Intel and Government Investment
- What is the CHIPS Act? The CHIPS Act provides funding for domestic semiconductor manufacturing, research, and advancement.
- Why is Intel struggling? Intel has faced increased competition and challenges in transitioning to advanced manufacturing processes.
- What are the potential benefits of government ownership of Intel? It could provide financial stability, accelerate innovation, and enhance national security.
- What are the risks of government ownership of Intel? Potential risks include political interference and reduced market competition.
- How does this impact the global semiconductor supply chain? This move could reshape the global semiconductor landscape and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as more details becomes available.
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Michael Giordano Named Phoenix Police Chief After Search Restart
Phoenix, AZ – August 11, 2025 – Michael Giordano has been officially appointed as the new chief of the Phoenix Police Department, the city announced today. The decision comes after a revised search process following the initial selection process yielding no suitable candidate. Giordano, who had been serving as interim chief, will now lead the department full-time.
Giordano’s appointment follows a period of scrutiny and reform efforts within the department. The city initially planned to have a new chief in place earlier this year, but the search was relaunched after failing to identify a candidate who met the city’s requirements.
“It’s a privilege to lead the Phoenix Police Department at such a pivotal time,” said Giordano in a statement released by the city. “I am committed to building trust with our community, supporting our officers, and ensuring we deliver effective, accountable, and compassionate policing.”
Giordano acknowledged the meaningful challenges facing the department, including ongoing concerns about police conduct and community relations. He emphasized the dedication of the department’s approximately 1,388 sworn officers and 800 civilian staff, and pledged to work collaboratively to enhance public safety throughout the 518 square miles of Phoenix.
The appointment arrives in the wake of a critical U.S. Department of Justice report released in June 2024. The 126-page report detailed widespread issues within the Phoenix Police Department, citing patterns of excessive force, discriminatory practices against communities of color, and violations of the rights of protestors and individuals experiencing homelessness.The investigation, initiated in 2021, focused on allegations of civil rights violations. The Trump administration closed the investigation and rescinded its findings in May 2025.
During a community forum held on June 18, 2024, at the Burton Barr Central Library, Giordano and other finalists for the chief position outlined their plans to address the concerns raised by the federal probe. They highlighted recent changes implemented by the department, including enhanced de-escalation training, body-worn camera upgrades, and revised use-of-force policies. The city’s proposed police budget for fiscal years 2025-2026 totals $835 million.