News from November 11, 2025

377 articles found

Tim Davie to address BBC staff after Donald Trump’s legal threat
Politics

Tim Davie to address BBC staff after Donald Trump’s legal threat

Outgoing BBC director-general Tim Davie will address staff this morning a day after US president Donald Trump threatened legal action if the corporation does not retract “false” and “defamatory” statements made about him in a documentary. Mr Davie, who announced his resignation on Sunday after five years in the post, will do a video call where staff will also be able to ask him questions. Later in the day, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is expected to make a statement in the Commons on the issues facing the BBC. She is expected to speak about the corporation’s leadership and Mr Trump’s legal threat, which he plans to issue under Florida law. It comes after local government minister Alison McGovern told Times Radio that the UK should not have a “national meltdown” about the BBC. She said: “I think we need to make sure that the BBC, one of our most trusted media organisations, invests in quality journalism and tells the stories that we all want to hear.” Ms McGovern declined to be drawn on whether she thought Mr Trump should be able to sue the BBC over the editing of the Panorama documentary, saying the president “can say what he wants, and he will do”. Mr Trump threatened billion dollar legal action after a report from Michael Prescott, a former external adviser to the BBC’s editorial standards committee, raised concerns that a speech the Republican politician made before the attack on the US Capitol on January 6 2021 had been selectively edited by the BBC. BBC chairman Samir Shah has apologised for an “error of judgment” and two of the corporation’s most senior figures – chief executive of BBC News Deborah Turness and Mr Davie – resigned from their positions on Sunday. The Prescott memo raised concerns about the way clips of Mr Trump’s speech were spliced together to make it appear he had told supporters he was going to walk to the US Capitol with them to “fight like hell”. Mr Prescott had been due to give evidence to MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on Wednesday but the session has been postponed. The legal letter, from Trump counsel Alejandro Brito, demands that “false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements” made about Mr Trump be retracted immediately. Critics said the Panorama edit was misleading and removed a section where Mr Trump said he wanted supporters to demonstrate peacefully. A BBC spokesperson said: “We will review the letter and respond directly in due course.” Mr Trump’s lawyer adds: “Failure to comply will leave President Trump with no choice but to pursue any and all legal rights and remedies available to recover damages for the overwhelming financial and reputational harm that the BBC has caused him to suffer, with all rights and remedies being expressly reserved by President Trump.” The letter says if the BBC “does not comply” Mr Trump will be “left with no alternative but to enforce his legal and equitable rights, all of which are expressly reserved and are not waived, including by filing legal action for no less than 1,000,000,000 dollars in damages.” The White House may also consider restricting the corporation’s access to “open press events” as a result of the edit, according to a senior official quoted in the Telegraph. Mr Trump has a history of suing news organisations in the US and previously settled a defamation case against ABC News after star anchor George Stephanopoulos falsely said he had been found “liable for rape”. He also settled a legal dispute with CBS News over an interview it broadcast on its 60 Minutes programme with former vice president Kamala Harris. Mr Trump is currently engaged in legal action with the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. The US president has also taken action against the Associated Press after the wire service refused to call the Gulf of Mexico by his preferred name for it, the Gulf of America. Responding to a letter from the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, Mr Shah said there have been more than 500 complaints since the publication of Mr Prescott’s memo raising concerns about the editing of Panorama. He said: “We accept that the way the speech was edited did give the impression of a direct call for violent action.” However, he said it is “simply not true” that Mr Prescott, a former external adviser to the BBC’s editorial guidelines and standards committee, “uncovered” issues that the BBC has sought to “bury”. Downing Street has said the BBC is not corrupt nor institutionally biased, appearing to hit back at critics of the public broadcaster including Mr Trump. Mr Shah said the BBC board will revisit every item set out in Mr Prescott’s memo, including the editing of the speech and the reporting of casualty figures in Gaza and “will take further action where appropriate”.

Randal Kolo Muani injury could force Tottenham to get creative for Arsenal clash
Sports

Randal Kolo Muani injury could force Tottenham to get creative for Arsenal clash

Thomas Frank had been fairly coy when speaking about Randal Kolo Muani after Tottenham's draw with Manchester United. The striker started in the 2-2 draw but was replaced at half-time. Early in the first half, Kolo Muani had collided awkwardly with Harry Maguire and went down holding his face, though he was able to continue. "He actually struggled a little bit, but nothing big," Frank offered as an explanation after the match. However, Kolo Muani has since pulled out of the France squad with a jaw problem. The fact that he will not require surgery on his fractured jaw is positive news, but his injury is yet another injury blow for Spurs. The 26-year-old has only made four starts for Spurs but there has already been enough evidence to believe that any sort of lengthy absence would be a significant blow. After a frustratingly persistent dead leg kept him on the sidelines for more than a month, Kolo Muani has made an impact in recent weeks. He is a more physical athletic presence up front than Richarlison, holding the ball up well and also offering a threat in behind. Kolo Muani produced a sublime touch to bring the ball out of the air against Copenhagen and provide the assist for Wilson Odobert. The striker should have scored twice in the first half, wasting both opportunities in front of goal, but it was promising that he was getting in those positions. Both those chances were set up by Xavi Simons and the pair were forming a better relationship, one which must now be parked. With Dominic Solanke still out after ankle surgery and a return seemingly not imminent, Frank's forward options are limited. Richarlison started the season impressively but has tailed off badly and it is tough to argue he deserves a run leading the line. The Brazilian's goal against Saturday helped put some gloss on what had otherwise been a really poor performance. Mathys Tel has been more lively and produced a sharp finish off the bench against United. He could yet be called up into the Champions League squad if Kolo Muani is ruled out for 60 days. Against Leeds before the last international break, Tel started with Simons, Odobert and Mohammed Kudus behind him and it was a fluid attack that worked nicely with plenty of rotation. The problem is more physicality up front is going to be needed up front when Spurs face Arsenal and then Paris Saint-Germain in their next two matches. Those are games where Frank would desperately hope to have the likes of Kolo Muani and Solanke available but he must do without. The Spurs boss might have to get creative. He used a back three against PSG in August and it was effective. Kudus could shift centrally as one of the two strikers, with the winger probably now Spurs' best option for holding the ball up and bringing others into play. Frank has struggled all season to find consistency in attack and settle on combinations that work. Kolo Muani leading the line appeared to have helped solve at least one dilemma, but Frank is now back searching for answers again.

Premier backs down on protester face mask ban
Politics

Premier backs down on protester face mask ban

Plans to crack down on protesters wearing face coverings and masks in a bid to improve social cohesion will be watered down, a move which has sparked a police backlash. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced on Tuesday that police will be able to order the removal of masks if they suspect a protester is committing or about to commit a criminal offence. The legislation will be introduced to state parliament this week, but falls short of what Ms Allan previously promised after the Adass Israel Synagogue firebombing. Victoria Police Association boss Wayne Gatt criticised the legislation, saying it wouldn't make a "significant difference" and it needed to be brave and workable for officers. "We haven't yet seen the bill. But, if it amounts to our members having to ask protesters nicely whether they have a lawful reason for wearing a face covering, it should be renamed 'the pretty please' bill," Mr Gatt said in a statement to AAP. "Imagine going up to 100 people wearing black balaclavas and asking them one by one whether they have a lawful excuse for wearing them. We don't think it will make a significant difference to the protest environment our members work in." Ms Allan addressed reporters on December 17 last year, announcing the use of face masks and balaclavas would be banned at protests. It followed a number of anti-Semitic attacks in Melbourne, with the proposed laws aimed at targeting extremist behaviour at protests. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Ms Allan maintained the legislation strengthened police powers when dealing with violent extremist behaviour. "No one has the right to spread hate or act violently on our streets, and particularly around protests," she said. "These new powers that we're bringing to the parliament make it very clear that if you come to a protest to bring violence, to bring hate, you will be dealt with by Victoria Police." Ms Allan said the changes followed advice on what could pass parliament and be enforced by Victoria Police. "This is about getting workable legislation, and a complete ban has a very high likelihood of being challenged," she said. "If that legislation was overturned, that helps no one." Protesters who refuse to comply will face fines of more than $1000. It will be illegal to display terrorist symbols or flags and protesters will also be banned from using attachment or locking devices "in a way that endangers the public, first responders and other protesters", with penalties of up to a year in prison. Watered down legislation on face masks "simply won't cut the cake", Opposition Leader Brad Battin said earlier on Tuesday. Australian Associated Press

This top Sydney uni has a $500 million surplus. Now there’s talk of job cuts
Police say they were powerless to stop a neo-Nazi rally. Experts suggest otherwise
One fatal hour: Camp owners squandered chance to save girls, families say
World

One fatal hour: Camp owners squandered chance to save girls, families say

Dallas: As torrential floodwaters roared through Camp Mystic in the first dark hours of July 4, top leaders at the all-girls retreat in central Texas spent more than an hour securing the camp’s equipment instead of evacuating or even checking on campers, according to a lawsuit filed on Monday by the families of five campers and two counsellors who died that night. The suit, filed in a state court in Austin, Texas, names Camp Mystic and individual members of the Eastland family, who have owned and operated the Hill Country camp for generations, among the defendants. It portrays the family as overconfident and woefully unprepared for serious flooding, despite decades of experience and ample warnings. The suit claims that Dick Eastland, the camp’s executive director, and his son Edward, a director, squandered a crucial window of time following the National Weather Service’s warning about “life-threatening flash flooding” at 1.14am. The leadership dismissed camp counsellors’ early pleas for help, and then “made a hopeless ‘rescue’ effort from its self-created disaster” only when it was too late, the lawsuit says. Two counsellors and 25 young campers died at Camp Mystic that night, most of them from two cabins that housed the youngest girls. Dick Eastland, 70, also died. Other camps along the Guadalupe River had to evacuate and rescue campers from the flooding, but Camp Mystic was the only sleepaway camp where campers died.

A Trump doco has plunged the BBC into crisis. The critics have a good point
How neo-Nazis slipped the net and used NSW parliament for their vile ends
Politics

How neo-Nazis slipped the net and used NSW parliament for their vile ends

How it unfolded October 27: The NSW leader of the National Socialist Network, Jack Eltis, submitted a Form 1 application as a “notice of intention to hold a public assembly”. Eltis, a north-west Sydney tradie, who describes himself as a “white man of honour”, described himself in the form as the “NSW state leader” of White Australia. The Herald revealed the application was addressed to Lanyon. November 3: Thurtell said he was made aware of the planned rally five days before the event. He said later he did not have any information there would be any illegal activity, but acknowledged: “In hindsight, it was an oversight of mine not to tell the commissioner.” November 4: In a wide-ranging speech about the threats facing the country, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) director-general Mike Burgess sounded the alarm about the NSN, although he noted it had not engaged in terrorism. “I remain deeply concerned by its hateful, divisive rhetoric and increasingly violent propaganda, and the growing likelihood these things will prompt spontaneous violence, particularly in response to perceived provocation,” he told the Lowy Institute. Friday: The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Greg Piper, became aware of the planned protest. The President of the Legislative Council, Ben Franklin, was also informed. Piper said he was aghast when informed late on Friday and immediately asked his staff to contact the parliament’s security team for an urgent intervention, but was told it was too late. Saturday: The rally took place at 10am. A Herald photographer captured the event. Minns and Lanyon held a media conference about 3pm, where the premier and the police commissioner both said they had not been informed in advance. Minns raised the prospect of introducing new laws.

Born to an unwed mother far from home, this baby cannot leave
World

Born to an unwed mother far from home, this baby cannot leave

Precious’ mother, Penina Wanjiru Kihiu, came to Saudi Arabia in 2019. Kihiu, now 32, worked for an abusive employer for nine months, she said. When he finally let her quit, she said, he abandoned her, nearly broke, at the airport. Another Kenyan offered shelter and helped her find work as a freelance housekeeper. Most mothers interviewed by the Times were working freelance when they became pregnant. Leaving their employers violates Saudi labour and immigration regulations, which human rights groups say are a form of “modern-day slavery” – but it is also common. Employers and Saudi officials call the vast workforce of women like Kihiu “runaways”. Kenyan freelancers call themselves by another name: kemboi. The term is inspired by the Kenyan Olympian Ezekiel Kemboi, whose sport is steeplechase racing, in which athletes leap over hurdles. As a new kemboi, Kihiu relied on a Nepali taxi driver to ferry her around Riyadh. They began dating, and soon, she said, she missed her period. Most mothers interviewed by the Times conceived their children during a relationship with another immigrant. Four said that they had been raped. Two said they had not realised they were pregnant when they arrived in Saudi Arabia. Pregnant women are entitled to medical care, regardless of their paperwork, the Saudi government centre said. But when an unmarried woman gives birth, the hospital must notify the police of an “illegal pregnancy” Mufareh Asiri, the medical director of the women’s health hospital at King Saud Medical City, said. So, like many single mothers, Kihiu gave birth at home. After eight hours of labour, Precious arrived on May 17, 2022. Precious’ day care was run by a matronly proprietor named Agatha. Kihiu would spend days or weeks working and then visit her daughter when she returned. While she was gone, Agatha became Precious’ surrogate mother. One day in March, Kihiu finished a job and bought diapers for Precious, planning to visit her the next day. That evening, police raided Kihiu’s housing complex. She was arrested along with other East African residents, she said, in what she assumes was an immigration crackdown. On March 28, Kihiu was deported to Kenya, alone. The Saudi government did not respond to questions about her case, but said that separating a mother and child was not allowed “under any circumstance”. Precious would not have been able to leave the country without documents. Several women said that authorities had denied their pleas to self-deport with their children. In the end, the mothers can leave. Their children cannot. For Precious, the day care is home now. An almost impossible task Because the kingdom has no written penal code, the boundaries of permissible behaviour are fuzzy. Two unmarried mothers interviewed by the Times said that they had been briefly jailed. Others, including several who gave birth in hospitals, said they had faced no repercussions. The snag came when they tried to register their children. On paper, all children in Saudi Arabia are entitled to birth certificates, and parents are obligated to report home births to the authorities, the Saudi government centre said. In reality, single mothers fall into a bureaucratic abyss. When foreign parents apply for birth certificates, authorities are supposed to “verify that the marital relationship exists”. An absent or uncooperative father can hinder a child’s registration. Asked how unmarried women could obtain birth certificates at his hospital, Asiri said it was a “complicated process” involving social workers and the police. “By the end, she can get it,” he said. “But I’m not sure how.” Many mothers turn to their embassies for help. Countries like the Philippines operate shelters for destitute mothers in Saudi Arabia, guide them through the process of obtaining birth certificates and exit permits for their children, and buy them plane tickets. Several mothers said that workers at the Kenyan Embassy called them prostitutes or accused them of seducing men. Some mothers received Kenyan birth certificates at the embassy, but could not say why they succeeded. Others could not get them, and similarly had no idea why. “Our government, I think they don’t care,” said Rose Namusasi, a Kenyan woman who works at a school in Riyadh and has assumed an unofficial role lobbying Kenyan officials on behalf of the mothers. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on what’s making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.

Bord Bia: Irish hospitality and foodservice market hits €10.4 billion
Technology

Bord Bia: Irish hospitality and foodservice market hits €10.4 billion

The value of the Irish hospitality and foodservice market has reached a record €10.4 billion, according to Bord Bia. The Bord Bia annual Foodservice Market Insights report published today (Tuesday, November 11), shows that the Irish ‘out of home’ sector has increased in value by 5%. The report noted that much of this increase has come about due to inflation and higher menu prices driven by significant cost pressures in the sector. The foodservice market includes all food and drink consumed and prepared out of home including restaurants; pubs; hotels; coffee shops; workplace catering; hospitals; education; and vending. The research shows that although the sector has been resilient, post-pandemic growth is slowing, and consumer footfall remains mostly unchanged. Bord Bia sais that operational profitability remains under significant strain, as input costs continue to rise and margin pressures persist. According to the report, prices on menus are now 26% higher than in 2020. "Consumers want to go out and eat but many perceive that dining out has become unaffordable. "This is a significant challenge as the industry is unlikely to see any real growth until menu price inflation is in line with or lower than the general inflation rate," the report added. Bord Bia said that hotels and pubs continue to show slower recovery than other commercial channels. There is also an "urban-rural divide" with businesses outside of major towns facing greater challenges and resulting in higher closure rates. Maureen Gahan, foodservice specialist at Bord Bia, said that many operators still struggle with profitability due to rising costs. "However, sectors like education catering and events are experiencing sustained growth. "Future growth will depend not only on pricing, but also on collaboration, innovation, and a renewed emphasis on making foodservice both affordable and enjoyable for consumers," she added. Opportunities Bord Bia said that despite the challenges, there are areas of strong performance and emerging opportunities. The expansion of the Hot School Meals programme in the Republic of Ireland and workers returning to offices drove 15.5% growth in institutional foodservice. Consumer spending at sporting, cultural and music events remains robust. Fast-food restaurants and food to go outlets have also outpaced the market by capturing everyday meal occasions and value-conscious consumers. Collaboration Bord Bia is projecting further growth of 5% in the industry in 2026, expected to be again driven primarily by inflation. To overcome shared challenges around labour shortages, wage inflation, and operational efficiency, the report emphasises that collaboration across the supply chain will be critical. "While the operating landscape remains challenging, the outlook is not without opportunity. "Our research shows that businesses which clearly articulate their value proposition, execute consistently, and strategically target market share can still outperform, even in a low-growth environment," Gahan said. Foodservice seminar Over 300 industry representatives and experts are expected to attend Bord Bia's annual foodservice seminar at Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath today. The event will discuss the current challenges and opportunities for Ireland’s hospitality and foodservice sector. Among the speakers at the seminar will be Pat Sullivan, chief executive Master Chefs; Maxine Hyde, general manager, Ballymaloe Foods; Sean Ryan, foodservice account director, Kerry and Jack Kirwan, co-founder and chief executive, Sprout.

Bond market: Turnover declines 30% to GH¢399m
Young Innovators Dialogue connects South African entrepreneurs with UAE investors and opportunities
Business

Young Innovators Dialogue connects South African entrepreneurs with UAE investors and opportunities

The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in South Africa, in partnership with Azanyah Trade Hub and My Aman NPC, will host the Young Innovators Dialogue, a pioneering platform designed to connect South Africa’s brightest young entrepreneurs with UAE companies, investors, and industry leaders. The dialogue will bring together entrepreneurs aged 18–35, policymakers, and innovation ecosystem partners for a day of exchange, networking, and collaboration. Strategically supported by Empact Group, the event seeks to build bridges between innovation communities in South Africa and the UAE. “The Young Innovators Dialogue reflects our belief that innovation and entrepreneurship are essential drivers of progress,” said Mahash Saeed Alhameli, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to South Africa. “By empowering young people to think boldly and collaborate across borders, we are building a foundation for shared prosperity, mutual growth, and lasting partnerships between our nations.” The Young Innovators Dialogue aims to showcase cutting-edge projects across fintech, agritech, health-tech, renewable energy, and other emerging sectors, offering participants the opportunity to connect directly with UAE-based businesses and potential investors. Through interactive panel discussions, live demonstrations, and networking sessions, the initiative will unlock new pathways for knowledge sharing, investment, and cross-border collaboration. Beyond the event itself, the dialogue forms part of a broader vision to strengthen bilateral ties between South Africa and the UAE through youth-led innovation. By fostering a culture of co-creation and enterprise, the initiative aligns with both nations’ commitments to sustainable development, job creation, and inclusive growth. It also reflects a shared belief that young entrepreneurs are not just future leaders, they are active architects of today’s economic transformation. “This initiative creates an inspiring space for dialogue and action,” said Counsellor Fatima Alsuwaidi of the UAE Embassy in South Africa. “The partnerships formed here will not only open new markets for young entrepreneurs but also deepen the spirit of collaboration and knowledge exchange between our countries.” By empowering young entrepreneurs with access to resources, mentorship, and global markets, the dialogue is expected to generate tangible partnerships that drive economic growth and sustainable development across both nations. President Commissions 36.5 Million Dollars Hospital In The Tain District You Will Not Go Free For Killing An Hard Working MP – Akufo-Addo To MP’s Killer I Will Lead You To Victory – Ato Forson Assures NDC Supporters Visit Our Social Media for More

Punjab CM Bhagwant Manns home district grapples with sanitation woes - The Tribune
Hogs plan for 2 OL to return
Sports

Hogs plan for 2 OL to return

FAYETTEVILLE -- The University of Arkansas should have a pair of key offensive linemen back, but will not have the services of a third injured lineman when the Razorbacks face LSU at 11:45 a.m. Saturday in Baton Rouge. Starting center Caden Kitler and starting right tackle E'Marion Harris should be back in the mix for Arkansas (2-7, 0-5 SEC) when it takes on LSU (5-4, 2-3 SEC). Kitler and Harris both missed a 38-35 loss against Mississippi State on Nov. 1 with unspecified injuries. Redshirt freshman Shaq McRoy, who started at right tackle, suffered a leg injury on the game's second play and did not return. "Both offensive linemen are back going," Arkansas interim Coach Bobby Petrino said in reference to Harris and Kitler. "Shaq did not practice last night. We probably won't have him available for us." McRoy was helped off the field and replaced by redshirt freshman Kavion Broussard for the rest of the game. "I'm just glad that it's not worse than it was," Petrino said of McRoy's injury. "It was an ugly look on video so he's actually fortunate that it wasn't worse than it was." Petrino said quarterback Taylen Green and nickel back Jordan Young should be full go for Tuesday's practice, while defensive end Charlie Collins is less probable to be ready by Saturday. Collins and Young both left the game against Mississippi State with leg injuries. "Charlie Collins should get some work in tomorrow," Petrino said. "That'll give us an idea of where he'll be at. A lot of his is just being able to handle the pain and see where that's at. It's a bone bruise, which are always very painful in your knee. No structural damage, so that's a great thing for him and his future. But it'll just be how quickly he can get back and whether he can or not." LSU injuries LSU is dealing with injuries to key players, though not as many as the Razorbacks. Tigers linebacker Whit Weeks' availability is still uncertain for the Arkansas game on Saturday, interim LSU Coach Frank Wilson said Monday. Weeks has had a bone bruise in his ankle since Sept. 27, and he's missed the last three games. Wide receiver Nic Anderson suffered a knee injury during Saturday's 20-9 loss at Alabama and he's questionable for this week. "We were really worried on the sideline that it could be something long term," Wilson said. "It is not. It does not require a procedure, and so we're day by day in a rehabilitation, preventative manner with him to get him along the way." Anderson left the game walking gingerly and was seen on crutches on the sideline later. The junior transfer from Oklahoma has 12 receptions for 74 yards and 2 touchdowns on 18 targets. The Arkansas at Texas game on Nov. 22 in Austin, Texas, will not receive a kickoff time until Sunday after the SEC's broadcast partners applied further "flex" status to the game. The former Southwest Conference rivals have three potential kickoff times -- at 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. Central. The Tennessee at Florida game, also set for Nov. 22, has the same kickoff options. Every other SEC game has a set kickoff time for that date. There are only four conference games, with Missouri at Oklahoma at 11 a.m. Central and Kentucky at Vanderbilt at 2:30 p.m. Central, joining the others. Arkansas will have its seventh consecutive morning or afternoon kickoff at 11:45 a.m. Saturday at LSU. Weather watch The forecast for Saturday in Baton Rouge is calling for a partly cloudy day with a high of 79 degrees and about a 22% chance for rain. That'll make for a much more pleasant end to the week than the Razorbacks had to start it. Sunday evening's practice was held inside Walker Pavilion, as it was windy with temperatures dropping rapidly throughout the day to an overnight low of about 20 degrees in Northwest Arkansas. Monday's high temperature in the region was in the low 40s. However, the afternoon highs are expected to reach into the mid 70s again for a few days, beginning Thursday. The nature of Arkansas' tight losses is evident in the team's scoring numbers. Despite being five games below .500, the Razorbacks are still outscoring opponents 319-300 on the season. The Razorbacks are 0-5 in one-score games this season; 0-2 under Sam Pittman and 0-3 under interim Coach Bobby Petrino. Arkansas has been outscored 191-167 while going 0-5 in SEC games for an average score of 38-33. Notre Dame handed the Razorbacks a 56-13 loss on Sept. 27, their only margin of defeat greater than 10 points this season. In its three other nonconference games, Arkansas beat Alabama A&M 52-7 on Aug. 30, downed Arkansas State 56-14 on Sept. 6 and lost to Memphis 32-31 on Sept. 20. First action With starting center Caden Kitler and tackle E'Marion Harris unavailable for a 38-35 loss to Mississippi State on Nov. 1, freshman Kash Courtney and redshirt freshman Shaq McRoy started the first game of their careers. Redshirt freshman Kavion Broussard replaced an injured McRoy for the game's third snap and played the final 80 in a quasi start. Courtney played all 82 snaps and was graded harshly by Pro Football Focus in the pass-blocking category. "They both played well at times," interim Coach Bobby Petrino said. "They showed their ability and that they're both going to be really, really good football players. And then their inexperience showed up at times, too. So it's kind of that balancing act of being able to get your job done even though you're inexperienced." Petrino made it sound like Kitler and Harris should be back in the lineup on Saturday, but the young linemen gained key experience. Redshirt freshman Kobe Branham, in his first season as a full-time starter, posted the highest run and pass-blocking grades by PFF. Sunday practices under Bobby Petrino usually feature younger players, while the starters from Saturday's game pair running and conditioning to reduce soreness. However, this past Sunday's hour-and-a-half-long practice following the bye week was different than normal. The interim coach said he likes to bring players back on a Sunday to ensure an entire roster is present and ready for Monday classes. Petrino said it was a longer, more grueling practice and players handled it well. "We had two good days of work last week and then came back last night," Petrino said. "Had a good practice last night. I thought the players reacted really well, had a lot of enthusiasm and worked extremely hard to get us into a normal schedule so they could be off (Monday) and then get us into a regular Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday schedule."

Tragic Brits in their 70s died together in Spanish floods as they drove to get petrol
World

Tragic Brits in their 70s died together in Spanish floods as they drove to get petrol

Two British ex-pats in their 70s died tragically together in their car after getting caught in floods in Spain. Donald Turner, 78, and Terry Turner, 74, became trapped in their car during the Valencia floods last year. The pair were found dead in their vehicle on November 2, 2024. The natural disaster was Spain’s largest flooding catastrophe in decades, leaving more than 230 people dead when nearly a year’s worth of rain fell in just eight hours, reports Stoke On Trent Live . An inquest into their deaths heard the couple were reported missing to the Spanish authorities as torrential floods hit the Spanish city on October 29 last year. Donald and Terry, from Burntwood in Staffordshire had been driving to a petrol station near their home when they attempted to cross a ford that was one-foot wide. A sudden burst of floodwater emerged from uphill, flipping their car onto its side and leaving the pair submerged inside. Relatives reported that the ‘catastrophic’ aftermath left the usually narrow ford around 50m in length. Paying tribute, daughter Ruth O’Loughlin said: “They were the best people. And the best parents anyone could have ever asked for. Dad was always the funny one, being silly and having a laugh. Mum was more serious but she always gave the best advice when you needed it.” Her sister, Renee Turner, added: “They’d planned to move away for retirement for a long time. They actually wanted to go to Greece originally, but the house prices were too expensive. They’d lived there for 11 years. Dad loved it, but Mum had started to miss home towards the end. They were actually planning on moving back soon - which just makes it all the more tragic.” Dr Miquel Solenne, of the Medical Institute of Valencia, confirmed that the couple had died from ‘mechanical asphyxiation’ after becoming submerged in their car. Daughter Ruth and Renee criticised Spanish authorities at the time of their parents' deaths for failing to provide enough warning of the massive floods. Their concerns were shared with the inquest. Speaking on the subject, Coroner Andrew Barkley said: “The issue at hand, which is of course a very valid concern, is that the outcome may have been different had a weather warning been given earlier. The difficulty I have with that is I don’t have any evidence that helps me come to a sensible conclusion. "Of course, predicting a flooding event and the effects it will have is often very difficult. Whilst I understand fully that there is a very legitimate concern, I don’t think we can take that particular matter any further forward.” Mr Barkley concluded that the couple had died as a result of misadventure after becoming caught up in the floods. He added: “It was a natural event. The misadventure is that they died as a consequence of driving their car to a petrol station to get gas. “My thanks to all the family for attending. Your evidence has been very helpful. It is very difficult when the information we’ve received from the foreign jurisdiction is so sparse. I hope this has brought you some form of closure.”

Bird flu alert issued for poultry growers Kansas credit union merges with UNIFY Index dips by 1.63, ends day at 916.49
Politics

Bird flu alert issued for poultry growers Kansas credit union merges with UNIFY Index dips by 1.63, ends day at 916.49

Bird flu alert issued for poultry growers The Arkansas Department of Agriculture issued a notice reminding poultry growers and industry partners to remain alert to signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza on Monday. The department stated a confirmed case of avian influenza in a backyard flock in Mississippi County. "While this is currently the only confirmed detection, cases in neighboring states highlight the ongoing importance of prevention and monitoring," the department said. Avian influenza is highly contagious and can affect both domestic and wild birds, causing sudden death or severe injury to poultry, according to the department. Losses of poultry from the spread of disease could result in major economic losses for state poultry producers. Arkansas rules require any suspected or confirmed case of avian influenza to be reported to the department immediately. Confirmed cases could result in quarantines, restriction of poultry movement or require depopulation and disinfection. The Agriculture Department recommends washing hands and footwear before and after contact with birds, restricting visitors to poultry areas, limiting exposure to wild birds and reporting dead or sick birds immediately. -- Dylan Sherman Kansas credit union merges with UNIFY Kansas-based CommunityAmerica Credit Union expanded its holdings into Arkansas by merging with UNIFY Financial Credit Union on Nov. 1. The merger gained CommunityAmerica a federal charter, top 40 credit union status, $9 billion in assets, and over 600,000 members. "This merger marks an exciting milestone for CommunityAmerica," Lisa Ginter, CEO of CommunityAmerica Credit Union, said in a release. UNIFY Financial Credit Union has six locations in Northwest Arkansas. The integration of all systems and operations is expected to be completed by the middle of 2026. Newly-merged members can expect detailed updates about the timeline, brand integration, and changes to service over months ahead. "Joining forces with CommunityAmerica marks an exciting new chapter for UNIFY," Gordon Howe, CEO of UNIFY Financial Credit Union, said in a statement. Ginter will continue as CommunityAmerica's CEO. Howe, meanwhile, joins the newly merged credit union's team of executives. Three additional members of UNIFY's board of directors have been transferred the CommunityAmerica board, as well. Index dips by 1.63, ends day at 916.49 The Arkansas Index, a price-weighted index that tracks the largest public companies based in the state, closed Monday at 916.49, down 1.63 points. "Stocks closed higher on Monday, on news that the Senate may have the votes to begin the process of opening up the government and AI-related stocks helped the cause, pushing higher after last week's sell-off," said Leon Lants, managing director at Stephens Inc. The index was developed by Bloomberg News and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette with a base value of 100 as of Dec. 30, 1997.

Cedi rally cools off; one dollar going for GH¢11.95 at forex bureaus
World

Cedi rally cools off; one dollar going for GH¢11.95 at forex bureaus

The Ghana cedi’s strong rally steadied over the past two weeks as market momentum cooled across both interbank and retail markets. On the interbank market, the local unit closed at a midrate of GH¢10.92 to one US dollar, depreciating by 0.64% from GH¢10.85 to a dollar. The pound fell by 0.37% to GH¢14.37 from GH¢14.42, while the euro edged up 0.22% to GH¢12.64 from GH¢12.61. In the retail market, the US dollar/Ghana cedi pair closed at GH¢11.95 (up 2.51% from GH¢12.25), while the pound/cedi and euro/cedi pairs settled at GH¢15.45 (up 5.18% from GH¢16.35) and GH¢13.65 (up 4.40% from GH¢14.25), respectively. As broadly expected, the strong appreciation of the cedi moderated as sell-offs eased and buyers were drawn to discounted opportunities. “We believe the cedi’s gain in the retail market most likely reflects retailers recalibrating rates from elevated levels amid relatively weak demand, as participants favoured interbank rates”, Databank Research stated. “Looking ahead, we foresee modest pressure on the cedi as foreign exchange supply tightens ahead of the expected US$385 million inflow post-International Monetary Fund board approval in December 2025. Despite well-anchored expectations from stronger FDIs [Foreign Direct Investments] and the S&P credit upgrade, we believe a measured reduction in BoG [Bank of Ghana] interventions to support export competitiveness and protect local producers may temper further cedi gains in the near term”, it added. Meanwhile, the local currency began this week going for GH¢11.95 in the retail market. On the interbank market, the cedi is selling at GH¢10.92. President Commissions 36.5 Million Dollars Hospital In The Tain District You Will Not Go Free For Killing An Hard Working MP – Akufo-Addo To MP’s Killer I Will Lead You To Victory – Ato Forson Assures NDC Supporters Visit Our Social Media for More

Delhi blast aftermath: Bhubaneswar airport put on three-day alert, hotels across Odisha tighten security
World

Delhi blast aftermath: Bhubaneswar airport put on three-day alert, hotels across Odisha tighten security

"In the wake of the Delhi car explosion on Monday evening that claimed multiple lives, security has been heightened across Odisha, with the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar and leading hotels across the state stepping up surveillance and screening.Advertisment Accordingly, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a nationwide high alert for all airports for three days, prompting state authorities to enforce stricter security checks and monitoring, informed authorities at the BPIA. Complete Bag Screening In Place Sources reported an increase in security presence at Bhubaneswar airport with Quick Response Teams (QRTs), bomb disposal squads, and dog squads patrolling both the arrival and departure zones. Airport Director Prasanna Kumar Pradhan said that the DGCA has directed intensified vigilance at all entry and exit points.Advertisment “After the unfortunate incident in Delhi, the DGCA has issued a high alert for all airports for three days. Our Special Airport Security team is holding an emergency meeting today to strengthen existing protocols. One of the measures we"ve adopted is 100% screening of all bags and luggage, both during check-in and pre-boarding, for the next three days,” Pradhan told OTV. Authorities have also increased CCTV surveillance coverage and deployed additional staff at sensitive checkpoints. Security personnel have been instructed to remain on high alert and coordinate closely with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and local police to handle any emergencies. Additional Checkpoints, Round-The-Clock Patrols Reports stated that following the DGCA alert, check posts near the airport"s outer perimeter have been strengthened. Routine frisking and document checks for vehicles entering the terminal area are now mandatory. Sources in the airport security unit said teams are conducting continuous patrolling throughout the day and night to ensure no suspicious activity goes unnoticed. However, the Bhubaneswar airport director added that no flights have been delayed or disrupted due to the enhanced measures, and passenger cooperation has been “satisfactory.” ALSO READ: Delhi Blast LIVE Updates: Conspirators behind this will not be spared, says PM Modi Hotel Industry Issues Alert Circular To Members Meanwhile, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) has circulated an advisory urging all hotels and hospitality establishments in the state to tighten their internal security systems. The association"s statement warned that “anti-socials may target key tourist destinations or vital installations such as Hirakud Dam and other prominent locations. Hotels could be among the first points of entry for such individuals.” The circular further directed hotel owners to intensify guest screening and ID verification, maintain proper registers of visitors, and ensure that security personnel remain alert yet courteous while frisking guests. In case of any suspicious movement or identity discrepancies, hotel authorities have been advised to immediately inform local police stations. ALSO READ: Red Fort blast: Slow-moving vehicle stopped at red light, then exploded Statewide Alert And Inter-Departmental Coordination Senior officials from the Odisha Home Department confirmed that district administrations have been asked to stay vigilant, particularly in Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Sambalpur, where major tourist and infrastructure sites are located. The Odisha Police Headquarters in Cuttack has also issued instructions to strengthen security at railway stations, bus terminals, and religious sites, ensuring coordination between intelligence and local law enforcement units. Airport sources said security arrangements will remain at elevated levels until further review by the central authorities. The enhanced checks are expected to continue for at least three days, subject to further orders from the DGCA and the Ministry of Civil Aviation."