News from November 10, 2025

World

What is the COP30 climate summit, and why does it matter?

BELEM: While thousands of diplomats and climate experts are reaching Belem, in Brazil’s Amazon, for COP30, which opens on Nov 10 and runs through Nov 21, what exactly happens at these annual summits and how significant the annual conference is for people across the world remains unclear. The annual conference is known as a COP, which stands for Conference of the Parties that signed the 1992 UN climate treaty. The treaty, called the UN Framework on Climate Change Convention (UNFCCC), committed countries to working together to fight climate change a problem they acknowledged all countries faced and was best tackled together. The treaty also established the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, meaning the rich countries responsible for most of the planet-warming emissions bear a greater responsibility in solving the problem. The rotating presidency, now held by Brazil, sets the summit agenda and works through the year to rally governments toward shared action and goals. It then hosts the two-week summit, drawing global attention to the issue while giving national leaders a chance to swap ideas and hold one another accountable. Over the years, the annual summits have become a major hub of geopolitical and financial discussion projecting the idea of a “global village” that welcomes all countries, civil society groups, businesses and financiers. For many, this year’s 30th climate summit marks a full-circle moment. Brazil had hosted the Rio Earth Summit where the UNFCCC treaty was signed 33 years ago. This year, the country insisted the event would return to its roots in acknowledging the world’s most vulnerable including indigenous groups, with some joining the talks. Brazil has asked countries to work on realising past promises, such as a COP28 pledges to phase out fossil fuel use, rather than making new ones. COP30 is also the first to acknowledge failure in meeting the past goal of preventing warming above 1.5 degrees Celsius. Brazil opted to hold COP30 in the Amazon city of Belem hoping to symbolically underline the importance of world forests that remain targets for logging and industries including mining, farming and fossil fuel extraction. Who are the main players? Most national governments send teams to the talks. Often, countries speak together in groups with similar interests. Some of the more prominent voices include the Alliance of Small Island States facing an existential threat from rising seas, and the G77+China bloc of developing countries. Also influential are the Africa Group and the BASIC Group consisting of Brazil, South Africa, India and China. The US, which pledged in January to quit the Paris Treaty on climate change, has stepped away from its past leadership role. China, Brazil and others have stepped in to fill the void. The sprawling COP campus is often a hive of activity, with campaigners trying to draw attention to their causes while corporations lobby policy change and seek business deals. Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2025

Reuters 2 hours ago

Business

Building buffers to shield economy, sustain FX inflows as oil prices slide

As global oil prices tumble toward the $60-per-barrel range, the mood in oil-dependent economies has shifted from cautious optimism to strategic anxiety. For Nigeria, whose fiscal lifeline still leans heavily on crude exports, the sharp fall in prices, hovering just above $64 per barrel, poses a renewed threat to revenue stability, foreign exchange inflows, and overall macroeconomic health, writes JOSEPH INOKOTONG. The global oil market is once again testing the resilience of oil-dependent economies. With Brent crude prices now hovering slightly above $64 per barrel and analysts warning of a possible dip below $50 before the end of 2025, concern is mounting in Nigeria, where the government’s 2025 budget still banks on $75 per barrel and daily production of two million barrels. For the Olayemi Cardoso-led Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), this is not a time for complacency. It is a call to action. In a global environment defined by fragile demand, shifting trade dynamics, and tightening monetary conditions, the CBN has begun reinforcing Nigeria’s economic buffers and building the foundations for sustainable foreign exchange inflows. The bank’s strategy is deliberate: reduce dependence on oil, strengthen non-oil exports, restore market confidence, and create an economy that can withstand external shocks. The fiscal implications of falling crude prices are already evident. At current price levels, oil revenues would fall well below projections, leaving a potential fiscal gap of six to seven percent of GDP. Such a shortfall would amplify inflationary pressures, stretch public finances, and undermine efforts to stabilise the naira. Yet, the CBN appears determined to stay ahead of the curve through proactive policy steps designed to attract investments and diversify foreign exchange sources. At the core of Cardoso’s policy drive is a renewed focus on Nigeria’s non-oil export capacity. Drawing lessons from economies like China and Vietnam, the bank is encouraging an export-led growth model anchored on competitive exchange rates, value addition, and local productivity. Businesses are being urged to tap global markets through agricultural exports, light manufacturing, creative content, and digital trade. Cardoso estimates that Nigeria’s creative sector alone could generate up to $25 billion annually if its vast potential is systematically harnessed through international licensing, streaming platforms, and cross-border collaborations. The CBN’s push for backward integration underscores this broader vision. During a recent meeting with Airtel Africa executives in Abuja, Cardoso emphasized the need for telecom operators to manufacture key components such as SIM cards, cables, and towers locally rather than relying on imports that drain scarce foreign exchange. “Boosting local production is crucial to easing pressure on the dollar, generating employment, and strengthening the economy,” he said. The message is clear: the era of import dependence must give way to domestic production and innovation. Airtel’s Group CEO, Sunil Taldar, responded positively, commending the CBN’s policy direction and affirming the company’s support for local sourcing. Analysts also view the shift as a logical step in addressing Nigeria’s persistent FX pressures. Charles Abuede, Research Head at Cowry Asset Management, described the move as timely. “The high dollar demand from telecom operators has contributed to naira weakness. By producing more components locally, these companies can significantly reduce FX exposure and operating costs—if the business environment remains stable,” he said. Beyond specific sectors, the CBN’s macroeconomic management has been undergoing quiet but significant transformation. Since assuming office, Cardoso and his team have pursued reforms that restore transparency and credibility to the foreign exchange market. The Bank has cleared outstanding FX backlogs, unified exchange rates, and tightened liquidity to curb speculation. At the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington DC, the Governor told investors that these reforms have begun to yield results, reflected in improved market confidence, steady capital inflows, and stronger reserve positions. Nigeria’s external reserves have risen to $43.4 billion, their highest in five years, offering an 11-month import cover that cushions the economy against external shocks. Inflation, while still elevated, is projected to ease toward 18 percent, and growth is forecast at about four percent, driven largely by expansion in non-oil sectors. Cardoso insists that the combination of disciplined policy, prudent fiscal coordination, and a competitive naira will sustain this momentum. “We are building not just short-term stability, but a more durable and resilient economy,” he said. Deputy Governor for Economic Policy, Mohammed Sadi Abdullahi, has also underscored the impact of the Bank’s market reforms. He revealed that capital inflows, which had collapsed by over 75 percent between 2019 and 2020, have rebounded, improving Nigeria’s external liquidity. Average monthly turnover in the FX market now exceeds $8.6 billion, up from about $5.5 billion previously, a sign that liquidity is returning and confidence is deepening. “Today, the CBN is a net buyer in the market, not a net supplier,” Abdullahi said, calling it a reflection of improved market efficiency and reduced speculative activity. Cardoso’s message to investors has been one of cautious optimism. He told participants at the Washington forum that Nigeria’s economy is undergoing a “complete restructuring,” shifting away from an import-heavy consumption model to a production-oriented one. The result, he noted, is a positive trade balance, now estimated at around six percent of GDP, and a more competitive naira that has become an incentive rather than a deterrent for investment inflows. This new policy direction is particularly significant given global uncertainties. OPEC may soon raise production quotas, potentially pushing oil prices even lower. Meanwhile, the world’s two largest oil consumers, China and India, continue to recalibrate their energy sourcing strategies amid geopolitical tensions. In this unpredictable environment, Nigeria’s success will depend not on the vagaries of oil prices but on its capacity to sustain reform momentum, diversify exports, and maintain macroeconomic discipline. At the heart of this shift is a growing belief within the CBN that Nigeria’s economic stability must rest on productive capacity, not price cycles. The bank’s renewed engagement with key sectors—telecoms, manufacturing, agriculture, and creative industries—reflects a broader effort to integrate domestic industries into global value chains. By discouraging imports, promoting local production, and enabling export competitiveness, the CBN aims to gradually reduce external vulnerabilities while building internal strength. For Cardoso, the path ahead requires continued discipline and patience. “The difficult decisions were necessary. But because we made them early, we are now able to create resilience and buffers against potential shocks,” he said recently. That assertion captures the underlying philosophy of the CBN’s current approach: reform first, stability later, growth thereafter. Global economic conditions remain fragile. Yet, Nigeria’s macroeconomic indicators are slowly turning in the right direction, backed by growing investor confidence and rising non-oil inflows. The road to diversification is long and complex, but the direction is unmistakable. By building stronger buffers today, the Central Bank is positioning Nigeria’s economy for a more stable, competitive, and self-sustaining future, one less vulnerable to the unpredictable tides of oil. For Cardoso and his team, the message is consistent: build an economy that can stand firm even when oil falters. Through a combination of monetary prudence, structural reform, and strategic engagement with the private sector, the CBN is charting a course toward sustainable growth and financial stability. The journey is far from over, but the direction is unmistakably forward. As oil markets flirt with volatility and the world’s economic balance shifts, Nigeria’s ability to navigate these waters will depend on its capacity to adapt. Under Cardoso’s leadership, the Central Bank is betting on resilience, transforming short-term challenges into long-term opportunities, and turning falling oil prices into a catalyst for real economic renewal.

Joseph Inokotong 2 hours ago

Sports

AFL wildcard round: Cheapening the product or keeping dreams alive?

The AFL’s decision to add a wildcard round to its schedule has ruffled feathers, with a poll conducted by this masthead showing that 80 per cent of fans are against the idea. But once the initial opposition to the concept dies down and the matches themselves arrive, what we’ll be left with is another week of matches – and matches that mean a lot. They could even involve your team. Those who see it as a way for the league to make more money aren’t wrong, but that doesn’t mean the fans won’t also be winners. A large part of Andrew Dillon’s job as AFL chief executive is to maximise revenue and grow the game. The introduction of a 7 versus 10 and 8 v 9 matches will tick both boxes.

Paul Zalunardo,Vince Rugari 2 hours ago

Entertainment

Chicago Incident: Lamont Hill Arrested After Stolen Ambulance Pursuit and Police Shooting on West Side

A dramatic incident unfolded on Chicago’s West Side on Friday involving a stolen ambulance, multiple collisions, and gunfire from police, leading to the arrest of a suspect now charged with numerous felonies. Lamont Hill, a 59-year-old Chicago resident, faces 19 felony counts, including charges of aggravated battery against Chicago police officers, according to an announcement made by CPD officials on Sunday. The footage above is sourced from an earlier news report. ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch The Chicago police mounted a large-scale operation in response to the ambulance theft and ensuing chase, which triggered a series of accidents. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) has launched an investigation into the police-involved shooting that occurred during one of the crashes as the pursuit unfolded. According to Cicero police, the ambulance was reported stolen from Loretto Hospital. Chopper 7 was over the scene as the ambulance crashed near Chicago and Cicero avenues on Chicago’s West Side. It rear-ended a civilian vehicle, ending a police pursuit that lasted roughly 30 minutes. Dozens of CPD squad cars responded to the area, and a large group of officers were seen quickly jumping into action after the suspect fled on foot from the ambulance driver seat to take him into custody. All of it started at Loretto Hospital before 4 p.m. Friday, where Cicero officials say three paramedics were bringing a patient in. At the same time, hospital security was escorting another man outside when they say that man, later identified as Hill, ran into the ambulance and drove away, all while one of those paramedics was still inside the ambulance. Officials say that paramedic ended up jumping out of the ambulance about two blocks away. The stolen ambulance hit two CPD squad cars at West Jackson Boulevard and South Central Avenue in the Austin neighborhood, prior to the crash and arrest at Chicago and Cicero avenues. COPA said it was investigating a police-involved shooting near 300 S. Central, and CPD officials later confirmed shots were fired by an officer towards the offender, but no one was struck by the gunfire. CPD officials confirmed at least three CPD squad cars and multiple civilian vehicles were struck by the ambulance during the chase. Three officers and four crash victims were taken to hospitals with minor injuries, and the suspect was also taken to a hospital after their arrest. Chicago police said Hill is facing the following charges:-Two (2) felony counts – Aggravated Battery/Peace Officer-Six (6) felony counts – Criminal Damage/Government Property/>$500-$10K-One (1) felony count – Vehicular Hijacking-One (1) felony count – Poss 2nd Division Veh/Stolen-One (1) felony count – Kidnapping – Force or Threat of Force-One (1) felony count – Attempt Disarm PC Off/Corr Inst Emp-Two (2) felony counts – IVC – Leave Scene of Accident – Injury/Death-Two (2) felony counts – Agg Reckless Drvg/Bodily Harm-One (1) felony count – IVC – Aggravated Fleeing/Bodily Injury-One (1) felony count – IVC – Agg Fleeing/Damage>$300 Prop-One (1) felony count – IVC – Agg Fleeing/2+ Con Devices Hill is scheduled to appear in court Monday. INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood

Internewscast 2 hours ago

Politics

Democrats Secure Senate Victory to End 40-Day Government Shutdown: What It Means for the Future

Following a marathon two-and-a-half-hour meeting on Sunday night, Senate Democrats announced they have secured sufficient votes to end the protracted 40-day federal government shutdown. A coalition of moderate Democrats, spearheaded by Sens. Angus King of Maine, an independent aligned with the Democrats, alongside Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan, both from New Hampshire, brokered a deal with Republican members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led by Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, and the Senate GOP leadership. Sen. Collins was at the forefront of crafting a minibus appropriations package. This package aims to fund military construction, veterans affairs, the Department of Agriculture, and the legislative branch. Additionally, it includes a continuing resolution to keep the government funded until January 30. Sen. Shaheen, who serves on the Appropriations Committee, collaborated closely with Collins in drafting these funding bills. Sens. King and Hassan were instrumental in persuading Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota to commit to a vote later this year on extending enhanced health insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), set to expire at the year’s end. After the Democratic caucus meeting, Sen. King addressed reporters, expressing confidence that the Senate will pass the agreement. He emphasized that Democratic supporters of the legislation believe the shutdown has persisted for too long. Asked if he’s confident there would be enough votes to pass the bill, King told reporters: “That’s certainly what it looks like.” The Senate will go back into session at 8 p.m. Sunday and is expected to vote Sunday evening to end the shutdown. King said “the length of the shutdown” persuaded Democrats to support the deal, many elements of which had been on the negotiating table for weeks. He said it became increasingly clear that Republicans were not going to agree to a deal to reopen the government and extend enhanced health insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act that are due to expire in January. King says there’s still a “chance” the subsidies will be renewed because Thune has promised as part of the deal to give Democrats a vote on the ACA subsidies in November. “Part of the deal is a vote on the ACA subsidies,” he said. He said that he and other members of the Democratic caucus want to end the shutdown in the next few days because “a lot of people are being hurt.” The bill still needs to pass the House, which hasn’t voted since Sept. 19. It then needs to go President Trump’s desk for a signature. Several Democrats emerged from the meeting, however, pledging to oppose the deal, including Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.). “A wink and a nod to deal with this health care crisis later – with no actual guarantees – is just not enough for me or the Wisconsin families I work for,” Baldwin said in a statement. Updated at 9:13 p.m.

Internewscast 2 hours ago

Politics

Why Whitlam’s dismissal was a blow to women’s rights

The unique convergence of an energetic women’s movement and Whitlam’s reforming zeal meant that Australian politics started to take women seriously. Whitlam was the first national leader in the world to appoint a women’s affairs adviser to his staff. Under his leadership, policy began to recognise women not just as wives and mothers, or as secondary earners to male breadwinners, but as citizens in their own right. He did this through policies including equal pay for work of equal value, expanding childcare, the supporting mothers’ benefit and Medibank, the precursor to Medicare. The Family Law Act made divorce simpler. Contraceptives became cheaper. There were other transformative reforms too. From 1974, feminist activists began opening women’s refuges after realising that women fleeing domestic violence had nowhere to go. They ran these services with donations and volunteers before asking governments for support. It took a while, but Whitlam funded women’s refuges from 1975. Refuges were a great example of how feminists could work with government to respond to women’s distinctive needs. That year, 1975, was International Women’s Year. Whitlam himself took ministerial responsibility for Australia’s commemorations, which included grants for women’s projects. These projects were to fulfil three aims: to change attitudes towards women, to combat discrimination, and to encourage women’s creativity.

Michelle Arrow 2 hours ago

Science

The brutal Antarctic moments that made me a polar addict

HX’s MS Roald Amundsen combines battery packs with low-emission engines to reduce its carbon output, while recycling water, energy and food waste. For instance, the outdoor pool is heated using residual power from the engines and food waste is converted into fish pellets and dispersed. Also onboard is a science centre, home to a resident team of scientists and guest scientists from universities and environmental organisations around the world. The expedition team calls it the heart of the ship, a place for education and discovery, where guests can participate in hands-on citizen science programs. There isn’t a cruise fleet big enough to carry all the scientists currently studying Antarctica’s oceans, mountains and slippery inhabitants, but this is where science co-ordinator Sonja Storm says travellers can help. Tufts of Storm’s hair whips up in the wind as our Zodiac zips across the choppy Penola Strait, a sheltered stretch of water at the northern end of the Antarctic Peninsula. Fishing skuas swoop overhead and, in the distance, I just miss a whale spouting. Armed with nets, Secchi disks, and NASA-funded instruments, we’re on the water collecting phytoplankton samples for the Fjord Phyto project. Launched in 2015, the initiative investigates the effect melting glaciers have on the eco-system, particularly phytoplankton. The tiny microalgae form the basis for the entire Antarctic food web, from krill to humpback whales, while also producing half the world’s oxygen.

Justin Meneguzzi 2 hours ago

Health

Persistent Throat Clearing: Uncover the Unexpected Causes, When to Seek Help, and Effective Solutions

We’ve all been there—the nagging urge to clear your throat, often accompanying a cough or cold, typically vanishing once you’re back to full health. However, for some individuals, this irritation lingers far beyond the usual recovery period. According to a 2022 study, approximately 60,000 people in the UK may suffer from chronic throat issues. These include persistent throat clearing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, or a hoarse voice, which can last for months or even years. This issue was highlighted by Dr. Ellie Cannon, a Mail on Sunday columnist and general practitioner, in her column last month. Dr. Cannon shared an anecdote about a friend who found a colleague’s incessant throat clearing to be quite bothersome. She then posed a question to her readers: Have you ever been caught in the cycle of repeatedly clearing your throat, and if so, did you uncover the underlying cause? The response was overwhelming, with numerous readers reaching out to share their own struggles with chronic throat clearing, often without any relief. One 78-year-old woman shared her experience, writing, “I frequently find myself apologizing for clearing my throat, and at night, I often have to sit up, sipping water and coughing.” ‘I am so fed up with it, especially if I am out or at the theatre,’ said another. One 69-year-old man said: ‘It drives me mad – and my wife too! On occasions, I panic because I don’t feel I will manage to settle and go to sleep. I don’t know what to do.’ Experts say there are many reasons why patients may experience chronic throat clearing – and that the symptom, if it persists for more than a few weeks, should always be discussed with a GP. But, intriguingly, some now believe there could be a simple issue repeatedly missed by doctors that would put thousands out of their misery. Professor Anthony Hobson, a gastrointestinal scientist at London’s Functional Gut Clinic, says a common but little-known food intolerance could be a major driver of throat irritation, particularly in older adults. ‘Chronic throat clearing can be due to things such as acid reflux or serious issues like cancer,’ he says. ‘But for the vast majority of patients, there will be a much more common explanation. And there are simple lifestyle changes that can get rid of this. But many GPs don’t know about them – meaning thousands of patients are potentially living without treatment or taking medication that is entirely unnecessary.’ While tens of thousands the UK are seen annually by specialists for persistent throat issues, many more will see their GP without being referred to a throat expert. In most cases, throat clearing, like a cough, will just be a long-lasting symptom from a viral respiratory infection, such as a cold. Known as post-nasal drip, it can occur when excess mucus from the nose drips down the throat, causing a tickling sensation, and can persist after an infection for more than eight weeks. But when the sensation continues for longer than this – or worsens – it can be a sign of an underlying problem. For some, especially older adults, this can be due to damage to the nerves or muscles in the food pipe – the oesophagus. Professor Alyn Morice, head of respiratory medicine at the University of Hull, says: ‘The problem can be triggered by viruses or infections – which increase the susceptibility of the nerves to damage – or simply by age, as the nerves become more sensitive. ‘One of the most common symptoms of this nerve irritation is throat clearing, as it can feel like a tickle in the throat.’ Diagnosed once other conditions are ruled out through a medical examination of the oesophagus, the issue can be dealt with through speech therapy and with certain medications, says Professor Morice. Drugs, including antibiotics and the anti-nausea medication metoclopramide, appear to help, though both must be discussed with a medical professional first. In other cases, throat clearing can also be caused by acid reflux, also known as heartburn – whereby the acidic contents of the stomach travel back up into the oesophagus. One in three people in the UK will experience acid reflux, but many wrongly presume they don’t have acid reflux if they don’t have heartburn, an uncomfortable feeling in the chest. But in some cases, throat clearing can be the only symptom of the condition as the acid causes irritation in the throat. This triggers the production of mucus, and throat clearing is simply a reflex response to clear this. Without treatment, acid reflux can lead to serious complications such as oesophageal sores and inflammation. It can also increase the risk of throat cancer. The first step when looking at throat issues is ruling out things like cancer, some forms of which can cause symptoms like throat clearing. Patients are then usually sent to a gastrointestinal specialist, who will insert a camera through the nose to look for signs of acid reflux. ‘More often than not, there’ll be a bit of redness there – and patients can be prescribed very strong medications for the condition,’ says Professor Hobson. Drugs known as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), which work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, have also been relied upon for years by GPs to treat the condition. But recent research suggests there can be serious health risks from taking PPIs for too long, with long-term use linked to mental health problems, bone-thinning osteoporosis, cancer, Parkinson’s and dementia. Instead, lifestyle changes are now considered the most effective treatment for acid reflux. Being overweight or obese, smoking, eating a diet high in fatty or processed foods and drinking alcohol are all considered risk factors. Patients may also be given over-the-counter medications that neutralise stomach acid, and are safe to take long term. This was the case for 82-year-old Rocky Gooding. Having recovered from thyroid cancer just a few years before, Rocky grew panicked after finding herself clearing her throat for weeks on end. ‘I would get a lot of phlegm in my nose that would go down the back of my throat in the night, so when I woke up in the morning I would have to clear my throat endlessly,’ she says. ‘It was getting to the point where I was having trouble swallowing – if I took a vitamin or pill that was too big I would choke slightly. I began to get nervous that the cancer had come back.’ Eventually, Rocky mentioned her throat clearing to her GP during a routine check-up, and after further tests was diagnosed with acid reflux. Now the grandmother-of-two uses nasal rinses twice a day and takes heartburn relief medication Gaviscon before she sleeps – which she says has massively improved her throat clearing. ‘If you’re experiencing other symptoms – like heartburn, regurgitation or a cough – there’s a high chance acid reflux is behind persistent throat clearing,’ says Professor Hobson. ‘But most people with throat symptoms don’t have the rest of these – and doctors will put them on anti-acid medications for two months or longer, which won’t cure the issue.’ However, Professor Hobson argues that many people with chronic throat clearing are suffering from another underdiagnosed problem: an intolerance to common foods such as onions and garlic. A food intolerance is not the same thing as an allergy – a damaging immune reaction to certain compounds. Instead, an intolerance occurs when the digestive system has trouble breaking down certain foods. In this case, Professor Hobson claims an intolerance to a carbohydrate called fructan is likely to be to blame for chronic throat clearing. Fructan is also found in fruits such as watermelon and grapefruit, as well as legumes such as kidney beans. Studies estimate as much as four in ten of the population may have some sort of sensitivity to fructan, which can worsen with age, as digestion naturally slows. When the body can’t fully digest fructan, Professor Hobson says excess gas builds up in the stomach. ‘This gas pushes up stomach fluid into the throat,’ he says. ‘It’s similar to when people burp and a bit of fluid comes up. However, the difference is that, normally, we swallow that fluid, meaning it doesn’t affect the throat. ‘But at night the throat muscles relax, leaving that fluid to pool at the back of the throat for hours, causing irritation. ‘This is why many people report symptoms of throat clearing being worse in the morning. And why, unlike with acid reflux – where pure stomach acid is being pushed into the throat – it causes more mild symptoms, like feeling the need to clear your throat, rather than ulcers and burning.’ Luckily, he says, there are some easy fixes. First, patients who suspect their gut may be behind their throat problems should try to modify their diet – cutting out foods that are high in fructan. There is also a product, called Fodzyme, which can help digest foods high in fructan. A month’s supply can be purchased for around £65. ‘If you’re going out for dinner, and can’t control the amount of fructan in your meal, then you can take this alongside your food,’ says Professor Hobson. Medications such as Gaviscon – which creates a barrier to keep the contents of the stomach down – can also help when taken before bed. And, crucially, experts say it is important that patients consider when they eat big meals. ‘If you want to eat a heavy meal, eat it for breakfast or lunch, not last thing at night before you sleep,’ says Professor Hobson. ‘This reduces the risk of stomach fluid pooling in the back of the throat. ‘There is no easy cure for this problem but, with the right knowledge and planning, patients can reduce their symptoms.’ …But for Jan it was a sign of terminal cancer For fit and healthy Jan Kirby, 68, throat clearing was the first – and only – sign of the stage four liver cancer that later took her life. The doting mother and grandmother developed the symptom in the summer of 2024, says husband Rob. ‘She started clearing her throat all the time,’ he recalls. ‘It didn’t keep her up at night, but it was really obvious when we were doing things like sitting and watching telly.’ Rob urged Jan to visit her GP, but she refused – and the throat clearing went away. Then, in November of that year, Jan’s health declined. ‘She would complain of feeling queasy after a glass of wine and felt bloated after eating,’ says Rob. ‘So I took her in for further tests.’ On Christmas Day, they received the tragic news – Jan had advanced liver cancer that had spread to her spine and lungs. While the family will never know for sure, it’s likely that the throat clearing was caused by the cancer in Jan’s lungs. The doctors told the couple that nothing more could be done. ‘I said in that case, I’m taking her home – she didn’t want all those tubes and wires coming out of her nose and veins,’ says Rob. And he did. Just weeks later, Jan passed away. Now, Rob hopes that Jan’s story will encourage others to seek help when they develop similar symptoms. ‘Jan never complained about anything,’ he says. ‘You wouldn’t believe she was so ill in those last months. She had no other symptoms at all. ‘We’re all heartbroken and devastated but have to carry on. I just hope her story might help somebody else.’

Internewscast 2 hours ago

Entertainment

Enemy of progress – The prophecy of Regina’s father

(A Dispatch from The Republic of Uncommon Sense - Naija Province) Once upon a time in Nollywood, a father cried, “Don’t marry him!” But love — or perhaps lifestyle — had already boarded a private jet. Regina Daniels was the golden girl of Nigerian cinema — fresh-faced, social-media adored, and barely 20 when she fell in love with a billionaire whose pockets were deep enough to echo. The man, Prince Ned Nwoko, wasn’t just rich; he was a London-trained lawyer, politician, and serving senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria — the kind of rich and powerful that makes ordinary wealth look shy. A philanthropist and polygamist with estates large enough to confuse a census officer, Ned embodied both influence and indulgence. Her father, Jude Ojegwu, saw the storm before the rainbow. “My daughter,” he warned, “there’s more to life than wealth.” But in the Republic of Social Media, warnings sound like jealousy and wisdom is often mistaken for witchcraft. Her mother, Rita Daniels — herself an actress and the family’s matriarch-in-chief — called him an enemy of progress. And the internet joined the chorus. “Abeg, leave them. Age is just a number when the account balance has commas!” – Netizen #1 “The man is just bitter he couldn’t attract a billionaire son-in-law like that!” – Netizen #2 And so, against her father’s wishes, Regina walked down the aisle to join a household that already had wives old enough to supervise her homework. Cameras flashed, blogs rejoiced, and hashtags rained blessings: #LoveBeyondAge #Forever18 #WhenDestinyCalls The wedding wasn’t just a ceremony — it was a parade of power, the kind of union where champagne costs more than advice. The father refused to attend, not out of malice, but because the music was too loud for his conscience. He watched from afar as his daughter became Mrs Billionaire, crowned by luxury and protected by bodyguards. But heaven, as experience teaches, sometimes sublets space to hell. THE RETURN OF THE ORACLE Fast-forward a few years. The same marriage that once glittered like Dubai at night began to flicker like Ghana’s national grid in the rainy season. Rumours of loneliness, silence, and “emotional relocation” began to trend. The fairy-tale glow dimmed under the harsh light of reality — and the father’s old warning began to sound less like bitterness and more like prophecy. “I knew this marriage would bring problems,” Jude Ojegwu said recently, his voice carrying the calm of a man proven right too late. “Even I, in my late fifties, cannot imagine marrying a twenty-year-old. I felt ashamed watching my own child get married to a man older than me.” And suddenly, the internet — our ever-fickle jury — changed its verdict. “Enemy of progress has become prophet of progress!” – Netizen #3 “He saw the trailer before we watched the movie.” – Netizen #4 It’s amazing how truth gains followers only after the drama ends. The same people who mocked him now call him Daddy Nostradamus of Delta State. THE COST OF PROGRESS Let’s not pretend the story is unique. In this part of the world, when money enters the conversation, wisdom quietly leaves through the window. Parents are told to mind their business — as long as the suitor arrives in a convoy. A father’s concern becomes backwardness; a mother’s ambition becomes empowerment. As the proverb says: “When a goat insists on dancing in the lion’s den, you don’t argue — you sharpen your camera.” Love was blind, yes — but Instagram had 20/20 vision. The pictures were flawless. The captions are poetic. The lifestyle is enviable: exotic vacations, luxury cars, designer gowns, and a mansion with more marble than sense. For a while, the world believed the fairy tale — until “progress” began trending with tears. Now, the same social media that crowned the couple "goals" has rebranded them as "lessons". “The same people who said ‘love wins’ are now shouting ‘Daddy was right!’” – Netizen #5 THE LESSON IN THE MIRROR This isn’t just Regina’s story — it’s a mirror held up to a continent obsessed with shortcuts to success. We marry status, not soul. We confuse exposure with experience, and mistake trending for triumph. In the Republic of Uncommon Sense, we say: Progress without peace is just stress wearing designer sunglasses. Maybe it’s time we asked ourselves what “progress” really means. Because sometimes, the person blocking your way isn’t an enemy of progress — they’re the traffic warden saving you from an accident ahead. So here’s to Jude Ojegwu — the father who saw the potholes while others admired the paintwork. In a society where silence often passes for support, he dared to speak truth, and time has vindicated him. Before you call someone an enemy of progress, pause and check whether your “progress” is heading toward peace — or just toward problems with Wi-Fi. Join the Conversation: Was Regina’s father right to warn her? Or should parents stay out of grown-up love stories?

Abubakar Ibrahim,Rayo Vallecano 2 hours ago

Sports

‘You Didn’t Deserve This’: Nagma Mirajkar Reacts To Abhishek Bajaj’s Shocking Eviction From Bigg Boss 19

Abhishek Bajaj and Neelam Giri got eliminated from Bigg Boss 19 last night, in a shocking double eviction. While Abhishek, Neelam and Ashnoor were in the bottom 3, Pranit More saved Ashnoor, thus resulting in the eviction of Abhishek and Neelam. Soon after the eviction announcement, social media was flooded with posts from fans who called Abhishek’s eviction unfair. Awez Darbar and Nagma Mirajkar, who were also a part of Bigg Boss 19, expressed their disappointment, and stated that he was a very good player who didn’t deserve to get eliminated so soon. Nagma said that she easily saw him in the top 2, while Awez said that he sees Abhishek as the winner of the game. Nagma Mirajkar Says Abhishek Bajaj Deserved To Be A Finalist On Bigg Boss 19 After Salman Khan announced Abhishek Bajaj and Neelam Giri’s eviction from Bigg Boss 19, Nagma Mirajkar took to her Instagram stories to show her support for Bajaj. Calling him a good player, she wrote, “YOU DIDN’T DESERVE THIS!! I easily saw you in the top 2, idk what these people are upto but you were definitely a very very good player!!” Meanwhile, Awez Darbar took to X (formerly Twitter), and wrote, “Congratulations Abhishek Bajaj mere liye tu #bb19winner hai.” Nagma Mirajkar’s Instagram story Congratulations Abhishek Bajaj mere liye tu #bb19winner hai ? #AbhishekBajaj???? #BiggBoss19 — Awez Darbar (@darbar_awez) November 9, 2025 Awez Darbar Calls Abhishek Bajaj’s Eviction Unfair Meanwhile, rumours about Abhishek Bajaj’s exit had been swirling on the Internet since Saturday. Awez wrote, “I’m really hoping the reports about Abhishek Bajaj’s eviction are false. He has consistently performed well and deserved to be in top 3!!!! The last few evictions have been unfair.” After finding out that the reports about Abhishek’s eviction are indeed true, Awez added, “Abhishek ki ek line aaj bhi dimaag mein ghoom rahi hai.. ‘Jab power ya connections na ho, toh chances hamesha chhin liye jaate hain.’ Tab sirf baat lagi thi… aaj sach lag rahi hai. Mujhe mere eviction se zyada Bajaj ke elimination ki khabar dil ko chubhi hai Day 1 se he was pure and real. Harr din apna 100 percent diya iss show ko. Itne genuine insaan ko itna unfair outcome milna… Bohot galat hua!! #AbhishekBajaj #unfair #eviction #biggboss19.” For the unversed, Awez Darbar and Nagma Mirajkar shared a close friendship with Abhishek Bajaj during their time on Bigg Boss 19.

Lubna Khan,News18 2 hours ago

Politics

Hasina drops no hint of remorse

Bangladesh’s ousted premier, Sheikh Hasina’s written interviews flaunt an utter lack of contrition. There is not a hint of remorse, not a sliver of guilt. The interviews published by Indian outlets last week — The Hindustan Times, New Indian Express and The Hindu — or the ones by Reuters, AFP and the UK’s Independent (published on October 29) show that former prime minister, in exile in India since August 5, 2024, remains thoroughly unencumbered by even a touch of introspection or self-doubt. Going a step further, The Week, also based in India, published a column by Hasina where she deplores the ineptitude of the very institutions her regime had meticulously destroyed. She flails against the interim government for not having the people’s mandate, which she had manufactured to stay in power for years through rigged elections. She berates the BNP for trying to manipulate the caretaker government system, which her regime had abolished. Her deluded sense of being wronged pervades the entire article. The closest Hasina comes to acknowledging some error of her administration in the article is one that she had already mentioned in her written interviews. She writes, “I mourn the life of every Bangladeshi that has been needlessly lost since the protests in the summer of 2024. While the vast majority of law-enforcement officers acted within their guidelines, mistakes were very clearly made in the way some members of the security forces responded to the rapid upsurge of violence.” Hasina goes on to write that it was a very fluid and “febrile situation”, and clearly there were “breakdowns of discipline within the chain of command”. She then states, “However, the Awami League categorically rejects the allegations that we were directly responsible for, or commanded the use of, lethal force against our own citizens. To characterise what happened as a plot by a democratically elected government to commit violence against its own people is entirely wrong. Indeed, I personally took steps to ensure that no firearms were used.” Throughout all her interviews Hasina maintains that the evidence against her, audio clips of phone calls, were either doctored or taken out of context. She also rejects the UN human rights office estimate that 1,400 people were killed during the July uprising as “inflated”. She told in her interview with The Hindustan Times rejecting her role in the crackdown, “But to suggest that I was directing minute-by-minute tactical responses from the prime minister’s office is to fundamentally misunderstand how security forces work. I repeat, at no point did I authorise security forces to fire on crowds.” The Daily Star’s own investigation found Hasina to have personally authorised the use of lethal weapons. This newspaper had reported on a phone recording from July 18, 2024 where Hasina tells her nephew, former Dhaka South Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, “I have given instructions, now I have given direct instructions; now they will use lethal weapons. Wherever they find them [protesters], they will shoot directly.” The 78-year-old former leader took the opportunity to express her gratitude to India for offering refuge. “I am deeply grateful to the Indian people for providing me with a safe haven,” she said. “The connections between our two countries are broad and deep. We pride ourselves on being India’s reliable partner.” While her interviews with the international agencies and the UK newspaper appeared to be somewhat balanced, the ones carried by the Indian outlets are far more incendiary. Sheikh Hasina’s lack of self-reproach aside, the latest round of interviews shirks from providing any context that explain Hasina’s hasty departure. There is little that sheds light on the weeks of untold violence preceding her flight. There is hardly any mention of Hasina’s 17 years of misrule when Bangladesh descended into an autocracy. Her interviews and the writeup attempts to portray the Yunus-led government as a usurper without any acknowledgement of how the Awami League regime had fuelled discontent among the protesters as well as the general populace. The underlying message has been the next election will not be inclusive without the Awami League, whose activities are currently banned, taking part. The publication of these interviews and column could not have happened without the knowledge or consent of Hasina’s host country. Together with the former premier’s write-up, this move can only be seen as an attempt to somehow influence the ensuing election. Hasina is still seen as the one responsible for hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries during the July uprising alone. She would do well to remember that such interviews will not even begin to restore Awami League’s image. Her hosts would do well to remember that under the current circumstances they should refrain from activities that will further their distance from the people of Bangladesh. Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2025

Ann | The Daily Star | Tamim Ahmed 2 hours ago

Technology

A Roman emperor grovelling to a Persian king: the message behind a new statue in Tehran

A new statue unveiled in recent days in Iran depicts a Roman emperor in subjection to a Persian king. Erected in Tehran’s Enghelab Square, the statue titled Kneeling Before Iran shows the emperor grovelling before Shapur I (who ruled around 242–270 CE). But where did this imagery come from? And why has this statue gone up now? The rise of Shapur In the third century CE, a new dynasty known as the Sasanians came to power in ancient Iran. Within a few years, the first Sasanian king, Ardashir I, threatened Roman territory in Mesopotamia (in modern-day Turkey, Iraq and Syria). The Romans had captured this territory from the Parthians, the predecessors of the Sasanians. Now Ardashir wanted to recover some of the territory previously lost to the Romans. He met with some successes in the 230s. But his son and successor, Shapur I, took this to another level. Shapur defeated an invading Roman army in 244 CE, leading to the death of the teen Roman emperor Gordian III. In the 250s CE, Shapur invaded Roman territory across Iraq, Syria and Turkey. Two large Roman armies were defeated and dozens of cities were captured. In 253 CE, Shapur captured the city of Antioch, one of the most important cities in the Roman empire. Some of its citizens were at the theatre and fled in terror as arrows rained down from above. Capture of an emperor While the Persian capture of Antioch was a major loss for the Romans, the events of 260 CE were earth-shattering. After a battle between the Romans and Persians at Edessa (modern-day southern Turkey), the emperor Valerian was captured. This was the first and only time a Roman emperor was taken alive by the enemy. Valerian was taken back to Persia, along with thousands of other captives. Legendary stories about his fate as a captive later emerged. In one, Valerian and captive soldiers were forced to build a bridge over the river Karun at Shushtar. The remains, known as the Band-e Qayṣar (emperor’s bridge) can still be seen today. In another tale, Shapur demanded Valerian stoop on all fours to be used as a footstool so the Persian king could mount his horse. Shapur supposedly ordered Valerian’s body preserved, stuffed and placed in a cabinet after his death. With this, Valerian’s humiliation was complete. Depictions of Shapur’s victories over Rome were put up all over the Persian empire. A number of carved rock reliefs celebrating these victories survive. Perhaps the most famous is at Bishapur in southern Iran, where Shapur built a magnificent palace. In this image, Shapur is spendidly dressed and sits on a horse. Underneath the horse is the dead Gordian III. Behind is the captive Valerian clasped by Shapur’s right hand. The figure in front is the emperor Philip I (ruled 244–249 CE) who replaced Gordian. He is begging for the release of the defeated Roman army. Shapur also carved an enormous inscription in three languages, which partly celebrated his great victories over the Romans. Known today as the SKZ Inscription, it can still be seen at Naqsh-i Rustam in southern Iran. The great Roman empire had been thoroughly humiliated. The Persians took huge resources (including skilled people such as builders, architects and craftsmen) from the captured cities. Some cities in the Persian empire were populated with these captives. A new statue celebrating an old victory The new statue recently unveiled in Tehran appears to be a partial copy of a celebratory Sasanian rock relief at Naqsh-i Rustam. The kneeling figure is reported to be Valerian. If it is indeed modelled on the Naqsh-i Rustam relief, then the kneeling figure is usually identified as Philip I (as in the original relief Valerian is standing before Shapur). Nevertheless, official statements identify the kneeling figure as Valerian. Mehdi Mazhabi, head of Tehran’s Municipal Beautification Organization, is quoted in one report as saying: The Valerian statue reflects a historical truth that Iran has been a land of resistance throughout history […] By implementing this plan in Enghelab Square, we aim to forge a bond between this land’s glorious past and its hopeful present. Shapur’s great victories over the Romans are still a source of national Iranian pride. The statue has been described as a symbol of national defiance following the American bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities in June. While Shapur’s victories occurred more than 1,700 years ago, Iran still celebrates them. The statue is clearly aimed at an internal audience following the American attacks. Only time will tell if it is also a warning to the west.

Associate Professor in Ancient History,Macquarie University,Peter Edwell 2 hours ago

Entertainment

Thalapathy Kacheri: Vijay’s Final Dance Goes Viral, Hits 10M Views Within Hours

Actor Vijay’s final on-screen performance is already creating waves online. The first single from his upcoming film Jana Nayagan, titled Thalapathy Kacheri, has crossed 10 million views on YouTube within hours of its release on November 8. Composed by Anirudh Ravichander, the song features vocals by Vijay, Anirudh, and Arivu, and quickly began trending on X (formerly Twitter) across 22 countries. The energetic track serves as both a musical spectacle and a farewell tribute to Vijay’s illustrious acting career, as he prepares to transition full-time into politics with his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party. The 3-minute-21-second video opens with Anirudh performing on stage before cutting to scenes of a grey-haired Vijay dancing amidst a cheering crowd. Actors Mamitha Baiju and Pooja Hegde later join him, adding to the celebratory tone of the song. The video also features moments that nod to Vijay’s cinematic journey, showcasing glimpses inspired by his memorable roles over the years. Towards the end, Anirudh is heard asking for “one last dance,” to which Vijay responds with his signature moves, a symbolic farewell to his fans before his new chapter begins. Jana Nayagan, directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions, is set for a theatrical release in January 2026. The film stars Vijay alongside Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj, Priyamani, and Narain. Vijay, who began his career as a child actor in the 1984 Tamil film Vetri, went on to appear in several movies including Kudumbam (1984), Vasantha Raagam (1986), Sattam Oru Vilayaattu (1987), and Ithu Engal Neethi (1988), before rising to superstardom. According to a report by Let’s Cinema on X (formerly Twitter), Jana Nayagan will premiere on Amazon Prime Video following its theatrical release. The streaming giant has reportedly secured the film’s digital rights for a whopping Rs 110 crores, though an official confirmation from the makers is yet to be announced. If the report holds true, this would mark one of the biggest OTT deals in Tamil cinema history, reflecting the immense anticipation surrounding Vijay’s swansong film.

Grace Cyril,News18 2 hours ago

World

Super Typhoon Fung-wong latest: Two dead and 1.4 million evacuated as ‘intense’ storm slams into Philippines

Typhoon Fung-wong blew out of the northwestern Philippines after setting off floods and landslides, knocking out power to entire provinces, killing at least two people, and displacing more than 1.4 million others. The country’s weather bureau had earlier raised the highest storm alert over southeastern Luzon, including Catanduanes and parts of Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur. Authorities said the storm, known locally as Uwan, is expected to head towards Taiwan. Defence secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr, who oversees the country’s disaster response agencies and the military, warned about the potentially catastrophic impact of Fung-wong in televised remarks on Saturday. Power outages were reported in parts of Eastern Visayas, and footage from the Philippine Coast Guard showed residents in Camarines Sur boarding trucks during mass evacuations. More than 300 domestic and international flights were cancelled. The storm comes just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi killed 204 people in the Philippines before striking Vietnam, where it left five more dead and wrecked hundreds of coastal farms and fishing boats. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declared a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from Fung-wong.

Alex Croft and Alisha Rahaman Sarkar,Stuti Mishra 2 hours ago

Politics

Longest US government shutdown looks set to end after Democrats break ranks

Democrats had demanded that any deal to reopen the government include extended health insurance tax credits – an “Obamacare” policy – which are due to expire shortly. “It was our judgment after six weeks, going on seven weeks, of this shutdown, that that path wasn’t working,” King said. The procedural vote that garnered enough support on Sunday night will still need to lead to a substantive vote in the Senate, probably on Monday, Washington time, and then in the House of Representatives, likely to be this week. The House has been in recess since September but can be recalled within about 48 hours. The breakthrough came as the shutdown entered its 40th day, eclipsing the 35-day record set in the first Trump administration over the winter of 2018-19. The reopening bill would fund the government only until the end of January. King said that as part of the deal, Republicans had agreed to put a Democrat-drafted bill on healthcare and the tax credits on the Senate floor by the second week of December. “That was a major step,” he said.

Michael Koziol 2 hours ago

Sports

‘Motivated’ Alcaraz beats De Minaur at ATP Finals

Carlos Alcaraz says he has entered the ATP Finals "with motivation" as he moved a step closer to the year-end world number one ranking with victory over Alex de Minaur. The 22-year-old Spaniard won his opening Jimmy Connors Group match 7-6 (7-5) 6-2 in one hour and 40 minutes in Turin, Italy. Alcaraz is making his third appearance at the season-ending tournament but has never reached the final before. He withdrew injured in 2022, lost in the semi-finals on debut a year later and failed to qualify from the group last year. Alcaraz is battling rival Jannik Sinner for the top ranking, with the Italian moving back to the top spot after his victory at the Paris Masters last week. "I've been struggling in the past three years to come to the end of the year with energy and motivation. This year is a little bit different," Alcaraz said. "I'm really proud about the way I've been doing things to come here with motivation. "I'm really excited and looking forward to playing great tennis, and giving myself a shot to try to win this tournament." In the Bjorn Borg Group, two-time winner Alexander Zverev produced a serving masterclass to beat American debutant Ben Shelton 6-3 7-6 (8-6). The 28-year-old German lost only one of 17 points on serve in the first set and 10 of 54 across the match, finishing with a 81% first-serve percentage. Australian Open finalist Zverev did not face a break point in the match but had to rally from 6-3 down in the second-set tie-break to advance. He also pounced on Shelton's second serve, winning 16 of 21 points off the return. "I knew against Ben that I had to have a very high first-serve percentage, because he's so aggressive on the second serve," Zverev said. "I knew that would be one of the key factors today and I'm super pleased with this win." Alcaraz edges closer to number one spot World number two Alcaraz provided his usual moments of shot-making brilliance against De Minaur, hitting a total of 32 winners, but he was scrappy at times in the first set. Alcaraz raced to an early lead but missed three break points for a 5-1 advantage - and then found himself two points from losing the opener in the tie-break. De Minaur's trademark fight took him to the brink of winning the set but, leading 5-3 in the breaker, lost the next four points to concede it. Set two began with three consecutive breaks of serve, two of them in favour of Alcaraz, before a run of three sensational winners in a row put Alcaraz firmly in charge. Despite defeat for De Minaur - who has not beaten Alcaraz in five attempts - the 26-year-old Australian should take confidence from his performance against the six-time Grand Slam champion. Taylor Fritz and Lorenzo Musetti, a late replacement for Novak Djokovic following the Serb's decision to withdraw on Saturday, are the other two players in the Jimmy Connors Group. Alcaraz and defending champion Sinner have split the four Grand Slam titles between them this year. They are in different groups and are widely tipped to meet in the final on Sunday, 16 November. This is what each has to do to end 2025 as world number one: Alcaraz will secure top spot by reaching the final, or winning all three of his group matches. Sinner must defend his title to stand any chance, while also requiring Alcaraz to lose a group match and not reach the final. In the doubles, British top seeds Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool - who won the Wimbledon title in July - lost 7-5 6-3 to Italian duo Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori. Spain's Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos of Argentina earlier beat Germany's defending champions Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz 6-4 4-6 10-6.

Abubakar Ibrahim,Rayo Vallecano 2 hours ago

Politics

Shocking Betrayal: IT Employees Fired for Allegedly Selling City Phones

In a recent scandal that’s left residents of Mt. Juliet shocked, two former IT employees from the city’s team have been fired following serious allegations. The breaches involve misappropriation of city resources and engaging in unprofessional relationships. Secret Deals on City Property Travis Taylor, the IT Director, and River Johnson, an IT Technician, are the central figures in this drama. An official investigation revealed that they allegedly conspired to sell city-owned cell phones for their own gain. This revelation came after an anonymous tip-off to the Mt. Juliet Police Department that led to a formal investigation. Unprofessional Behavior at the Workplace Aside from the phone-selling scandal, further investigations uncovered another serious breach of conduct. Both employees allegedly engaged in inappropriate relationships during work hours, raising not only ethical but also logistical concerns about city administration practices. Community Voices Outrage Residents of Mt. Juliet have reacted with dismay. One taxpayer voiced their frustration, highlighting that this was theft from the very people the city staff were meant to serve. Another resident urged the local government to enforce stricter oversight measures to prevent future misconduct. A Trusted Employee in a Scandal With a rich history of favorable evaluations, the allegations against Travis Taylor have been particularly shocking. His supervisor praised him in past reviews, making the scandal even more incomprehensible to many who worked alongside him. Action Still Pending As the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation takes the reins of this case at the behest of District Attorney General Jason Lawson, any formal charges are still pending. Both Taylor and Johnson have remained silent regarding the accusations. According to News Channel 5 Nashville, city officials confirmed the firings but have yet to provide further comment on the matter. The Need for Transparency This incident highlights a pressing need for enhanced transparency and accountability in local governance. For those who’ve witnessed potentially unethical practices within local government, the story emphasizes the importance of speaking up. If you observe any suspicious activity related to public equipment or employee conduct, reach out to Amanda Roberts at Amanda.Roberts@NewsChannel5.com. Your insights could be pivotal in highlighting crucial stories and rectifying systemic issues. This story was adapted with professional diligence to ensure accuracy, maintaining the community’s trust as our top priority.

Kay Lee 2 hours ago

Sports

Knicks, Nets both craving to improve — but with clearly different benchmarks

Mike Brown was only delivering on what he’d promised, OK? This was the eve of his first Knicks-Nets Interborough Squabble, the first time he would coach against his old protégé and pal, Jordi Fernández, each man leading one of New York’s two NBA teams. (And yes, as of 10:37 Sunday night, the Nets had not yet been relegated and so remained an NBA team — in theory, at least.) Anyway, this is what Brown had said in anticipation of this collision between mentor and mentee: “It’s great, I’m just happy for him and his family. He’s a great young coach. He’s got a young team, obviously, so they’ve got to figure things out. Anytime I get a chance to see him, I always love to see him, but I want to kick his ass.”

Mike Vaccaro 2 hours ago

Sports

Dan Campbell makes drastic Detroit Lions change amid rumors of tensions between star players and coach

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell took matters into his own hands when it came to offensive play calling for Sunday's game against the Washington Commanders. Turns out, it was the right decision to take the reins from offensive coordinator John Morton. In recent weeks, the Lions offense has been unable to crack a 25 point plateau. Until this week. Under Campbell's direction, the Lions blew out Washington by a score of 44-22. After rumors suggested the change in play calling without confirmation, Campbell revealed that he did in fact take over. 'It's just a changeup,' he told Fox NFL reporter Megan Olivi at halftime. 'We wanted to mix things up.' The Lions scored on nearly every single drive they had - with the only exception being the drive where the team ran out the clock. Detroit even managed to score three straight touchdowns to open up the game. Jahmyr Gibbs opened the day with a touchdown catch, Amon-Ra St. Brown followed suit, and then Gibbs rushed in from 13-yards out to claim a 22-3 lead. All told, the Lions walked out with 546 yards of total offense - 320 passing yards from quarterback Jared Goff and 226 rushing yards from Gibbs (142), David Montgomery (71) and more. After the game, Campbell said he made the decision after a loss to the Minnesota Vikings last week and stressed that Morton is still crucial to the team. “I know what I want to do, I know how I want to do it,” Campbell told reporters. “Now that being said, this is a collaborative effort now. I was taking input from John Morton that whole time, and the other coaches … I just wanted to change it up a little bit. 'Let’s just see if maybe a different play-caller can maybe get us a little rhythm. That’s all. It’s honestly nothing more than that.

Editor,Jake Fenner 2 hours ago

Politics

Three hours of free power sounds great – but it could raise other costs and hamstring rooftop solar

It was the news that rippled around the nation – and then the world: at least three hours of free grid-supplied electricity for Australian households, every day. The new Solar Sharer program announced by Federal Minister for Energy Chris Bowen would require retailers to offer at least three hours of free power daily during the sunniest period to homes with smart meters. It would begin next year in New South Wales, south-east Queensland and South Australia. On the surface, this seems like a win. Australia now has so much solar that wholesale power prices are often very cheap or even negative during the sunniest periods with abundant supply. But there’s a problem. Wholesale supply is only part of the cost. Mandating free retail power during some hours will require cross-subsidy of these other costs. Under Bowen’s plan this will inevitably raise prices for other customers and it is likely to destroy the rooftop solar market. There’s no such thing as a free lunch. What’s wrong with free power? Minister Bowen’s plan borrows heavily from energy offers in the market now, which include three free hours of power. Bowen’s policy will be delivered through the Default Market Offer, a unique regulated retail plan which retailers in Queensland, NSW and South Australia are obliged to offer. If you don’t choose a market offer, you will be placed on the default offer. There’s nothing new about free electricity from the grid. Consumers can choose their electricity retailer in NSW, Victoria, South Australia and much of Queensland. In these states, it’s been possible for over a decade to find offers with free electricity at certain times. These deals typically offered free power for an hour a week, and usually on the weekend. Few customers chose them. But in 2023, OVO Energy started offering a “three for free” deal with free power from 11am to 2pm daily. I was one of their first customers, and I calculated OVO would make a loss on me given I used the free power to charge my electric vehicle. Other retailers such as Globird and Red Energy have followed suit since AGL bought OVO’s Australian arm in 2024. Power prices outside the free hours have roughly doubled since I took up OVO’s offer two years ago. But it’s still worthwhile for me as a way to charge my EV for nothing. These offers make most sense for EV owners, as few customers can shift most of their consumption to the free period. From market to regulation Minister Bowen’s move might be seen as a form of mandatory expansion of these niche retail offers. But changing a niche to a mainstream offer will bring drastic change. In the electricity market, retailers offering “three for free” deals recoup the costs of supplying “free” electricity by increasing prices charged in the “non-free” hours. These costs include the network use, renewable energy subsidies, generation costs and internal costs and margins which make up about 75% of the average bill To make his offer widely attractive, Bowen will pressure the Australian Energy Regulator to avoid significantly increasing power prices at other times in the default market offer. Otherwise, substantially higher prices outside the sunny period would discourage consumers and mean Solar Sharer would remain a niche product, just like existing three-for-free offers. If retailers have to offer free power and keep their prices down at other hours, they will have to make up the difference in higher prices paid by all their other customers. Someone has to pay for the free lunch. Bowen has form here, as he previously intervened in the regulator’s determination of default offer prices. Hobbling rooftop solar? Over the past 20 years, solar feed-in tariffs have fallen off a cliff as millions of Australians have added panels and solar system costs have collapsed. This means the main reason to go solar is no longer exporting power to the grid, but rather to consume as much produced power as possible to avoid buying from the grid. If Bowen’s policy comes into effect, it will hobble the market for the installation of rooftop solar. There’s little point installing solar if grid-supplied power is free at the times when most of the rooftop solar production occurs. Will Australia’s four million existing solar homes be worse off? Not necessarily. Existing panels are a sunk cost, so households will likely continue using them as before. But existing solar home owners may see this as a breach of trust, having spent thousands of dollars going solar to avoid pricey power from the grid – encouraged by ministers, including Bowen, to do this. Will more Australians install household batteries to soak up free power? That’s unlikely. The government’s home battery subsidy only applies when paired with rooftop solar. If regulation undermines the economics of rooftop solar, battery-backed solar will be less attractive too. Out of the blue It’s not clear the government considered the wider effects of the policy before announcing it. Last week’s announcement took the industry by surprise. Australian Energy Council CEO Louisa Kinnear said retailers were “disappointed the Government didn’t consult with us ahead of time”. The move is a sharp reversal of the retail pricing policies put in place when the energy market was created almost 30 years ago. These longstanding policies sought to ensure prices reflect costs, at least in regulated retail offers. Australians love rooftop solar. It’s now the biggest source of clean electricity in Australia, growing even as fewer wind and solar farms proceed. The last time a politician tried to undermine rooftop solar was over a decade ago. Now we have a federal Labor minister who is an avowed fan of rooftop solar putting forward a policy which will effectively strangle it. Bowen has backed himself into a corner. Making free electricity widely available will undercut the economics of rooftop solar and raise prices for other customers. Is this really what he intends?

Bruce Mountain,Professor and Director,Victoria Energy Policy Centre,Victoria University 2 hours ago