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Diddy jury watches hotel video, gets ‘freak-off’ details as sex-trafficking trial begins Diddy jury watches hotel video, gets ‘freak-off’ details as sex-trafficking trial begins Warning: This story contains distressing details Prosecutors opened their case by accusing hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs of using fame and violence to ********* abuse women, while the rapper’s attorneys defended his “swinger” lifestyle and rejected sex trafficking claims. The 55-year-old has pleaded not guilty to charges including racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. Following opening statements on Monday, the court heard from prosecutors’ first witnesses, including a security guard from a hotel where Mr Combs is seen in a now-viral video beating his ex-girlfriend in 2016. His testimony was followed by a man who said Mr Combs abused his ex-girlfriend during paid ******* encounters with the couple. After seating a panel of 12 jurors and six alternates on Monday morning, the government and Mr Combs’ lawyers outlined their cases. Prosecutor Emily Johnson accused Mr Combs of using his celebrity status and a “loyal” inner circle of employees to ********* abuse women and run a criminal enterprise. She focused on the two central victims in the case – Mr Combs’ former girlfriend, Cassandra Ventura, and another unnamed former girlfriend. Prosecutors alleged that Mr Combs used violence and threatened Ms Ventura’s music career to force her to perform nonconsensual, humiliating ******* acts with male prostitutes during so-called “freak-offs” filmed by Mr Combs. The defendant “had the power to ruin her life”, Ms Johnson said of Ms Ventura. As prosecutors described the explicit details of the allegations against Mr Combs, he sat in a gray sweater and pants with a blank stare and his hands folded on his lap. At the heart of the government’s case is a surveillance video that shows Mr Combs beating Ms Ventura and dragging her by the hair in a Los Angeles hotel hallway in 2016. Lawyers for Mr Combs said the video was evidence of Mr Combs’ “flawed” character, but not of a larger criminal enterprise. “Domestic violence is not sex trafficking,” said Teny Geragos, Mr Combs’ attorney. Ms Geragos said Mr Combs has a “bit of a different sex life” – and shifted the focus to the women accusing him, calling them “capable, strong women” who chose to stay with the rapper. They had “the freedom to make the choices that they made”, Ms Geragos argued. Prosecutors’ first witness, a former security guard named Israel Florez, worked at the hotel, the site of the now-viral surveillance video showing Mr Combs attacking his ex-girlfriend. The clip, which CNN released last year, was played for jurors on Monday. Mr Florez told jurors that morning at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles on 5 March, 2016, he received a call about a “woman in distress” on the sixth floor. He said he found Mr Combs there in a towel, slouched on a chair with a “devilish” look on his face, and a broken vase on the floor. Ms Ventura sat cowering in the corner with her face covered, Mr Florez said. Mr Florez told prosecutors that Ms Ventura kept saying she wanted to leave, but Mr Combs told her she could not. He testified that Ms Ventura had a purple eye, but did not want to call police and she eventually left in a ****** SUV with a seven-foot (2.1-metres) driver. Mr Florez alleged that later, to “make it go away”, Mr Combs tried to hand him a wad of cash, but he declined. Attorneys for Mr Combs tried to poke holes in Mr Florez’s claims, asking why he did not include certain details – like Ms Ventura’s purple eye – in an incident report he filed afterwards. His testimony was followed by Daniel Phillip, a former manager of male strippers, who said he met Mr Combs and Ms Ventura after his boss asked him to fill in as a stripper for a bachelorette party. But, Mr Phillip said, he was greeted at a hotel instead by Ms Ventura, who told him it was her birthday and her husband wanted to give her a gift. Mr Phillip told the court he would go on to have sex with Ms Ventura on several occasions – encounters that lasted as long as 10 hours, sometimes under the influence of drugs – as Mr Combs watched and filmed. He alleged that he witnessed Mr Combs attack Ms Ventura at least twice, including one time when he dragged her by her hair as she screamed “I’m sorry”. Mr Combs then came back in the room with Ms Ventura and asked the two to have sex again in front of him, Mr Phillip said. “I was shocked,” he said. “It came out of nowhere. I was terrified.” Mr Phillip claimed on the stand that he did not call the police for fear that Mr Combs was “someone with unlimited power” and that he could “lose his life” for reporting it. The trial is scheduled to continue on Tuesday when Ms. Ventura is expected to testify. At the crowded courthouse on Monday, Combs’ children – including his daughters – were seen holding hands. His mother also was photographed walking out of court along with his publicist. Source link #Diddy #jury #watches #hotel #video #freakoff #details #sextrafficking #trial #begins Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Tom Brady And Erin Andrews Reveal History-Making Fox NFL Doubleheader – Deadline Tom Brady And Erin Andrews Reveal History-Making Fox NFL Doubleheader – Deadline Tom Brady And Erin Andrews Reveal History-Making Fox NFL Doubleheader Deadline2025 NFL schedule release: Eagles-Commanders, Packers-Bears headline Week 16 Saturday doubleheader on FOX NFL.comFOX Sports Secures Two New Exclusive Broadcast Windows for Supercharged 2025 NFL Season FOX SportsEagles schedule 2025: NFC championship game rematch against Washington Commanders set USA TodayBears-Packers set for Soldier Field on Dec. 20 Chicago Sun-Times Source link #Tom #Brady #Erin #Andrews #Reveal #HistoryMaking #Fox #NFL #Doubleheader #Deadline Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Stellar Blade Dev Will Reveal Next Game “Project Witches” by June Following Successful Q1 Stellar Blade Dev Will Reveal Next Game “Project Witches” by June Following Successful Q1 Agent754d ago Switch and Switch are a different kettle of fish. A sell out at launch by the diehards, strong sales, then the non diehards will be put off by the £75 ($99) games, including the stupid download cards which are topping £65 ($85). Not rocket science to work out how the Switch 2 is going to pan out. The PS5 has sold well, but games at £70, sales have been low. As game sales drop, prices will rise. Sony could knock out all their games for £40 and still make a killing selling more games. There’s no denying that a gaming ****** is looming. Source link #Stellar #Blade #Dev #Reveal #Game #Project #Witches #June #Successful Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

What’s in it, and will it work? What’s in it, and will it work? Mike Wendling and Laura Blasey BBC News Watch: Trump to ‘equalise’ drug prices between the US and other countries US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that aims to reduce high prescription drug prices – but its details and long-term effects are far from clear. Citing figures that patients in other countries pay much less than Americans for pharmaceuticals, Trump said he would order drug companies to reduce their prices inside the US. He touted the move as “one of the most consequential” executive orders in US history, claiming prices would fall “almost immediately, by 30% to 80%”. But experts are highly sceptical of the claims, and stock market moves indicate that investors think they will have little immediate effect. Why are American drug prices so high? The US has a particularly complex healthcare system – including a large private insurance industry, employer subsides, and publicly funded insurance programmes for the elderly and poor, known as Medicare and Medicaid respectively. In many other developed countries, more centralised systems mean that officials can negotiate blanket rates for drugs, and in some cases refuse to buy if they deem the price too high. In 2021, the US Government Accounting Office made a comparison with Australia, Canada and France, and found that prescription drugs were on average two to four times more expensive in the US. Politicians from both US political parties have taken aim at the costs. During Monday’s White House announcement, Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr noted that prices had been a preoccupation of Democrats and a main target in socialist Senator Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaigns. Both Trump in his first term and former President Joe Biden tried to tackle the issue, particularly the cost of life-saving drugs such as insulin, but US prices remain stubbornly high. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump and his health officials blamed the lack of progress on pharmaceutical lobbying efforts and large donations to members of Congress. “The drug lobby is the strongest lobby,” Trump told reporters. “But starting today, the United States will no longer subsidise the health care of foreign countries, which is what we were doing.” It should also be noted that Trump’s trade tariffs – which he has consistently used to threaten other countries – could increase costs even further. Trump has previously said he will tax drugs imported into the US. What was in Trump’s order? Trump’s order is much wider than previous efforts to bring down costs – however, many details are yet to be worked out. The wording directs US officials to make sure that deals over drug costs made by foreign countries do not result in “unreasonable or discriminatory” price hikes for Americans. But what exactly is covered by those terms is unclear – as is the question of what measures the White House would take if “unreasonable” practices are discovered. The White House also wants drug companies to sell more products directly to consumers – cutting out insurance companies and pharmaceutical benefit managers – and look into importing drugs from foreign countries where they are sold at lower prices. That idea has previously hit stumbling blocks over safety and trade rules. An official said that Monday’s order was the start of negotiations between the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and industry. Getty Images High drug prices have been a long-running source of dissatisfaction with the US healthcare system What is Most Favoured Nation status? The order also proposed that the US be given Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status – meaning drug companies would be asked to match the lowest price for a drug abroad when selling to US consumers. “Big pharma will either abide by this principle voluntarily or we’ll use the power of the federal government to ensure that we are paying the same price as other countries,” Trump told reporters. It was unclear what mechanism the White House would use to punish drug companies that refuse to voluntarily comply. Drug prices are very opaque, according to Alan Sager, a professor of health policy at Boston University. Drug manufacturers could easily argue that they were complying with the order by touting the price discounts that they already routinely provide on very high listed retail prices, he told the BBC. “Will they act? Maybe. Will they claim they act? Sure,” Prof Sager said. “Whether this will signal a durable and meaningful cut in extraordinarily high US drug prices is very unclear,” he said. “This is rhetoric, not reality.” How did markets react? Trump’s preview of the announcement hit share prices of major drug makers, such as Pfizer, Eli Lilly and the ***’s GSK. But they staged a quick recovery, rallying after the administration shared the scope of its plans – an indication that investors do not expect the moves to have a major impact. Getty Images US President Donald Trump holds up his executive order as his health officials look on: (L-R) Medicare and Medicaid Administrator Mehmet Oz, Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Martin Makary What else could hinder Trump’s plan? To try to retain their profits in the US, drugs companies could simply pull out of other nations in which they are selling their products more cheaply, according to researchers Darius Lakdawalla and Dana Goldman at the University of Southern California. The researchers also said that foreign governments routinely underestimated the true value of drugs to patients, and that “shifting to a European pricing model in the US would lead to shorter, less healthy lives for Americans”. Meanwhile, it is unclear how lower prescription drug prices would fit into Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda. The health secretary has consistently emphasised diet and exercise as the key to improving Americans’ health – and has criticised the proliferation of many pharmaceutical products, including vaccines and drugs to treat mental illness. However, any potential reduction in drug prices is likely to be popular with Americans – as polls consistently show that high costs are a top concern when it comes to the US healthcare system. C Michael White, a pharmacy professor at the University of Connecticut, said that the results of the Trump administration’s actions on drug prices “will be minimal for many Americans” but that any attempts towards greater transparency and lower costs “are a positive step in the right direction”. But the order is expected to face challenges from the pharmaceutical industry in courts and Congress. What does industry say? Industry groups are largely opposed to the executive order and say it will be counterproductive – potentially choking off the supply of drugs and funds for research while doing little to quell high costs. Stephen J Ubl, president of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, said in a statement that “importing foreign prices from socialist countries would be a bad deal” for American patients. John F Crowley, president of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, called MFN status “a deeply flawed proposal that would devastate our nation’s small- and mid-size biotech companies” by potentially choking off funding for research. “Patients and families are not a bargaining chip in a trade war, but that’s exactly how they are being treated – first through proposed tariffs on our nation’s medicines, now with foreign reference pricing in the name of fairness.” But Alan Sager, the Boston University professor, was sceptical about the industry’s arguments. He pointed out that the money used to research a drug was spent before any profits were made, and suggested that there might be other ways to fund research – such as large cash prizes for cures for specific diseases. Prof Sager suggested that real action to drive down drug prices would depend on the president’s attention span. “Given the president’s apparent public vacillation on many topics, it just isn’t clear that he’ll stay with this problem or that he’ll be willing and able to act effectively,” he said. With reporting by Natalie Sherman in New York Source link #Whats #work Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

The face that has plagued police for three decades The face that has plagued police for three decades The identity of a man, unknown for thirty years, has been described as a “genuine mystery” by ********* squad investigators hoping new high-tech images can help. Source link #face #plagued #police #decades Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

June 8 Will Be a Huge Day for Xbox Game Pass Users June 8 Will Be a Huge Day for Xbox Game Pass Users Everyone knows that Xbox Game Pass is the ultimate deal in the gaming industry. Even though it might be a bit pricey now, its gaming library is filled with bangers, classics, and day-one releases that can’t be missed. So far, 2025 has been an incredible year for the subscription. We’ve seen the likes of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Avowed, Atomfall, and Oblivion Remastered joining the Game Pass. However, that’s not the end of this hot streak, as Microsoft has revealed that Xbox Games Showcase 2025 is also set to take place on June 8, 2025. Xbox Games Showcase is returning on June 8th Why should you be excited about the Xbox Games Showcase? Well, it’s one of the biggest events in the gaming sphere, and it’s all about upcoming games and announcements. During last year’s showcase, Xbox announced 18 titles for Game Pass, featuring titles such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Call of Duty: ****** Ops 6. Clearly, there’s a lot to look forward to in the Xbox Games Showcase for the fans of the subscription service, and this year won’t be a disappointment either. Microsoft has revealed through the official Xbox Blog that the annual Xbox Games Showcase will mark a return on June 8, 2025, at 10 AM PT. The digital-only event will go live in over 40 languages and even support American and British Sign Language. Which games can we expect to see at this year’s Xbox Games Showcase? It’s anyone’s guess right now. Leaks from reputable insider eXtas1s suggest that fans can look forward to titles such as Persona 4 remake, Minecraft Dungeons 2, Gears of War Collection, and Hollow Knight: Silksong making their appearance. We’ll likely receive tons of details and deep dives for all these games. Xbox Games Showcase 2025 is looking to be an incredible event. (Image via Microsoft) One thing that’s absolutely confirmed for the Xbox Games Showcase this year is Obsidian Entertainment’s highly anticipated The Outer Worlds 2. It’s set to be a flagship title for Game Pass, and Microsoft is even hosting a dedicated event for the game immediately after the showcase. Xbox Game Pass is adding another gem Doom: The Dark Ages is coming to Game Pass on May 14, 2025. (Image via Microsoft) While there’s still some time before the upcoming Game Pass additions are revealed, subscribers won’t have to sit idle. It’s confirmed that Doom: The Dark Ages is coming to Game Pass. Doom: The Dark Ages is another day-one Game Pass title in May 2025. It’s one of the most anticipated games of the decade, and is a brand-new installment in one of the most legendary first-person shooter franchises. Doom: The Dark Ages serves as a prequel to Doom (2016), although it doesn’t directly tie into the narrative. Doom: The Dark Ages is all set to release on May 14, 2025, on Xbox Game Pass. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the title will only be available on PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate subscription tiers. If you’re playing on an Xbox console, it’s time to get that upgrade to Game Pass Ultimate. With that said, what would you like to see in the Xbox Games Showcase 2025? Let us know in the comments below. Source link #June #Huge #Day #Xbox #Game #Pass #Users Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

******** mayoral candidate gunned down during live broadcast of campaign rally ******** mayoral candidate gunned down during live broadcast of campaign rally What began as a festive campaign march quickly turned into a scene of terror in the ******** state of Veracruz on Sunday night when a mayoral candidate was gunned down alongside three other people. A Facebook live stream captured the horror of that day. It showed Yesenia Lara Gutiérrez greeting residents as she paraded through the streets of Texistepec, surrounded by a caravan of supporters. The crowd was seen smiling and chanting before gunfire suddenly rang out off camera, drowning out their cheers. About 20 gunshots were heard in the video, which was still available on Lara’s Facebook page the following day. ******** President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the attack during her morning press conference on Monday and said she had no information yet about the motive. She added that her government is in coordination with Veracruz state officials and offered federal support if necessary, including contact with the state attorney general’s office. “We’re coordinating, particularly with the Secretary of Security, and with all the support needed during this electoral ******* from Veracruz and Durango,” she said, referring to the upcoming June 1 elections in the two states. The mayoral candidate, a member of Sheinbaum’s ruling Morena party, was among four people killed in the shooting, according to the state attorney general’s office. Another three people were wounded. Authorities are still investigating the matter and are promising justice. “No position or office is worth a person’s life,” Veracruz Governor Rocío Nahle said on X. “We will find those responsible for this cowardly ******* of the Morena candidate and supporters in Texistepec.” CNN has reached out to Morena, the prosecutor’s office and the Texistepec city council for more information. Attacks on political candidates are common during election cycles in Mexico. Last year, the country saw a record number of victims from political-criminal violence, with Data Cívica, a human rights organization, reporting 661 attacks on people and facilities. Many of the victims either held or were running for municipal-level positions. In May 2024, a mayoral candidate was killed during a campaign stop in the southern state of Guerrero, in a shooting that was captured on video. Days later, the mayor of Cotija in Michoacán state was shot dead as she was walking from a gym back to her house with her bodyguard. In October, the mayor of Guerrero’s capital Chilpancingo was killed less than a week after taking office. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Source link #******** #mayoral #candidate #gunned #live #broadcast #campaign #rally Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Super Bowl champion Eagles will host Cowboys to kick off 2025 NFL season – The New York Times Super Bowl champion Eagles will host Cowboys to kick off 2025 NFL season – The New York Times Super Bowl champion Eagles will host Cowboys to kick off 2025 NFL season The New York TimesEagles to host Cowboys in 2025 season opener ESPNDallas Cowboys to face Philadelphia Eagles in season opener AxiosRelease of 2025 NFL Schedule powered by AWS highlighted by NFL Network’s ‘Schedule Release ’25’ NFL.com2025 NFL schedule leaks: Here’s a running list of every rumor and announced game ahead of full May 14 release CBS Sports Source link #Super #Bowl #champion #Eagles #host #Cowboys #kick #NFL #season #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pitcher Partners eyes exit door in $6.7m row over Bryan Hughes, Wayne Hughes tech bomb Titan Interactive Pitcher Partners eyes exit door in $6.7m row over Bryan Hughes, Wayne Hughes tech bomb Titan Interactive Pitcher Partners eyes early exit from $6.7m Federal Court battle over failed technology play linked to Bryan Hughes. Source link #Pitcher #Partners #eyes #exit #door #6.7m #row #Bryan #Hughes #Wayne #Hughes #tech #bomb #Titan #Interactive Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pentagon orders immediate stop to gender-affirming care for transgender troops Pentagon orders immediate stop to gender-affirming care for transgender troops In an escalation of the Trump administration’s war on transgender Americans, the Pentagon has once again halted all gender-affirming health care for trans service members, just weeks after briefly reinstating it under court order. According to a memo obtained by Reuters, the Defense Department is now moving forward with a complete rollback of care for troops diagnosed with gender dysphoria, as it prepares to forcibly discharge those who do not voluntarily resign by June 6. The decision, signed by acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs Dr. Stephen Ferrara, comes despite a federal court’s preliminary injunction issued in April that forced the Pentagon to restore access to hormone therapy and other medically necessary treatment. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court stayed the injunction and ruled in Shilling v. United States that the Trump administration could proceed with its ban on transgender service members while at least two legal challenges proceed. The Pentagon began implementing its ban immediately. The about-face follows Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s inflammatory public statements targeting transgender troops and his ultimatum to resign during Pride Month or be kicked out. Source link #Pentagon #orders #stop #genderaffirming #care #transgender #troops Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Zelensky says he’s ready to meet Putin; Europe prepares sanctions – The Washington Post Zelensky says he’s ready to meet Putin; Europe prepares sanctions – The Washington Post Zelensky says he’s ready to meet Putin; Europe prepares sanctions The Washington PostE.U. Leaders Demand Russia Accept Ukraine Cease-fire by End of Day The New York TimesI hope Putin won’t dodge peace talks, says Zelensky The TimesTrump backs Putin’s proposal for Ukraine talks, undermining allies The Washington PostZelensky challenges Putin’s offer to meet after Russia ignores ceasefire demand CNN Source link #Zelensky #hes #ready #meet #Putin #Europe #prepares #sanctions #Washington #Post Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Gaza parents desperate as children face starvation under Israeli blockade Gaza parents desperate as children face starvation under Israeli blockade The BBC’s Fergal Keane reports on the rise of malnutrition in Gaza’s children. Source link #Gaza #parents #desperate #children #face #starvation #Israeli #blockade Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The city-building game “Gold Gold Adventure Gold” just dropped its first ever demo via Steam The city-building game “Gold Gold Adventure Gold” just dropped its first ever demo via Steam “The Poland-based indie games developer Can Can Can a Man are today very happy and excited to announce that they have just released tje first ever demo for their upcoming city-building game “Gold Gold Adventure Gold” (the game is set for a release to PC via Steam in Q2 2025).” – Jonas Ek, TGG. Source link #citybuilding #game #Gold #Gold #Adventure #Gold #dropped #demo #Steam Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Afrikaners Granted Refugee Status by Trump Arrive in the U.S. Afrikaners Granted Refugee Status by Trump Arrive in the U.S. new video loaded: Afrikaners Granted Refugee Status by Trump Arrive in the U.S. transcript Back transcript Afrikaners Granted Refugee Status by Trump Arrive in the U.S. The first plane carrying the white ethnic ********* from South Africa landed at Washington Dulles International Airport on Monday morning. Farmers are being killed. I have people that live in South Africa — they say it’s a terrible situation taking place. So we’ve essentially extended citizenship to those people to escape from that violence and come here. Recent episodes in Africa Show more videos from Africa Source link #Afrikaners #Granted #Refugee #Status #Trump #Arrive #U.S Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Speed, age limit flagged as scooter safety in spotlight Speed, age limit flagged as scooter safety in spotlight Strict speed and age limits would accompany another *********** state legalising the use of e-scooters, as a serious ****** involving an illegally modified e-bike highlights safety risks. NSW will on Tuesday table its response to a parliamentary inquiry into the use of the e-mobility devices, which was told their accessibility advantages must be balanced with severe safety risks. The government will propose e-scooters can be ridden on shared paths with a default speed limit of between 10 and 20km/h. On roads signposted at 50km/h, they would be limited to 20km/h. Riders would need to be at least 16, consistent with all *********** jurisdictions except the ACT – and European recommendations. The government does not intend to speed-limit e-bikes, as their motors are not the only source of power. It will however review the formal definition of an e-bike within NSW’s road rules. Transport Minister John Graham said e-mobility devices represented an “evolution” in how people get around, making a balance between their benefits and safety a must. “We believe a sensible set of rules will promote the health and lifestyle benefits of e-bikes and e-scooters while protecting the safety of riders and everyone else sharing the paths and roads with them,” he said. “We recognise the community’s concerns, particularly around device modification, fire risk, discarded shared e-bikes and poor rider behaviour – which is why we’re taking action.” But the response will land against the backdrop of a serious collision in Victoria, where two men were taken to hospital after one was struck by an illegally modified e-bike. A 69-year-old pedestrian was hit by the bike in Hastings, on the Mornington Peninsula, and taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The rider, a 24-year-old man, was also seriously injured. No charges have yet been laid over the incident. NSW’s inquiry made other recommendations, including establishing safety standards to reduce lithium-ion battery fires, a rider education campaign and investment in critical infrastructure and improving future design of shared paths. E-scooters have been stuck in a legislative bind in NSW, being available to purchase but ******** to operate in public spaces. The devices reduce small car trips, reduce strain on parking spaces and make train stations, jobs, services and retail precincts easier to access. Shared e-scooters trials have been conducted in Kogarah, Wollongong and a handful of other council areas. Doctors used the parliamentary inquiry to urge MPs not to legalise the scooters for kids after a sharp increase in children presenting to emergency rooms with ****** injuries. NSW estimates there are around 1.35 million e-micromobility devices in homes state-wide, with almost half of those used to connect with public transport. Source link #Speed #age #limit #flagged #scooter #safety #spotlight Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

“Spray Paint Simulator” is coming to PC and consoles on June 19th (2025) “Spray Paint Simulator” is coming to PC and consoles on June 19th (2025) “The Erie-based (Pennsylvania, the US) indie games publisher Whitethorn Games and Maryland-based indie games developer North Star Video Games, today announced with great thrill and gladness that their satisfyingly relaxing game “Spray Paint Simulator”, is coming to PC and consoles on June 19th (2025).” – Jonas Ek, TGG. Source link #Spray #Paint #Simulator #coming #consoles #June #19th Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Chiefs superfan Xaviar Babudar, or ‘Chiefsaholic,’ sentenced to more time in prison after bank robbery spree Chiefs superfan Xaviar Babudar, or ‘Chiefsaholic,’ sentenced to more time in prison after bank robbery spree Kansas City Chiefs superfan Xaviar Babudar, otherwise known as “Chiefsaholic,” was sentenced to more time in state prison on Monday. Babudar, who rose to fame for showing up to Chiefs games in a wolf costume, was sentenced to 32 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to a 2022 bank robbery. The sentence will be served concurrent to his 17.5-year federal sentence he received last year for a spree of bank robberies. Advertisement Babudar, 30, was indicted by a federal grand jury in 2023 on 19 counts, including armed bank robbery and money laundering. He pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery, one count of money laundering and one count of transporting stolen property across state lines last year. As part of that deal, he confessed to stealing more than $800,000 from 11 banks and credit unions in seven different states. He then laundered the money through casinos. Prosecutors said that Babudar used the proceeds from his bank robberies to fund his attendance at Chiefs games. Babudar’s sentence on Monday stemmed from his robbery of the Tulsa Teachers Federal Credit Union in Bixby, Oklahoma. Officials said that Babudar entered the bank Dec. 16, 2022, pointed a BB gun at a bank teller’s chest and demanded she take him to the vault, per Fox23, where he received an unspecified amount of cash and then left. He was later arrested. Advertisement Babudar later bonded out of jail and was ordered to wear an ankle monitor. But Babudar removed that monitor and proceeded to rob two more banks. He was eventually arrested in northern California after nearly three months on the run. Officially, Babudar was found guilty of one count of robbery with a firearm, one count of assault while masked or disguised and one count of removing an electronic monitoring device. After his federal sentence ends, Babudar will be transferred to Oklahoma to serve the remaining 14.5 years of his sentence. Source link #Chiefs #superfan #Xaviar #Babudar #Chiefsaholic #sentenced #time #prison #bank #robbery #spree Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Neil Druckmann Personally ‘Bootcamp-ing’ The Last of Us Season 2 Actress for Naughty Dog’s New Game Neil Druckmann Personally ‘Bootcamp-ing’ The Last of Us Season 2 Actress for Naughty Dog’s New Game Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is Naughty Dog’s highly anticipated title. It’s the first new original IP in the developer’s catalog since 2013’s The Last of Us, and gamers can’t wait to see how this sci-fi journey manages to take forward the legacy of Naughty Dog. Right after Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet’s reveal, some angry commentators bombarded it with hate, calling it “woke trash” that was destined to fail. The hate was even directed against The Last of Us 2 actress Tati Gabrielle, who plays the game’s protagonist, Jordan. However, Naughty Dog isn’t backing down from such a hateful campaign as studio head Neil Druckmann has been himself “bootcamp-ing” The Last of Us 2 actress. The Last of Us 2 actress got coached by Neil Druckmann While chatting with Entertainment Weekly, Gabrielle opened up about the mixed reactions to Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet‘s announcement. She stated that she received a lot of hate for being a woman and for her appearance. Gabrielle further revealed that Duckmann has been actively coaching her against dealing with the situation. She’s fully aware of the same kind of backlash that Laura Bailey faced for portraying Abby in The Last of Us Part II. Neil’s been bootcamp-ing me, she said. I know Troy’s experience, I know Ashley’s experience… I know Laura Bailey’s experience. After Gabrielle witnessed all the negative feedback, Druckmann told her to ignore everything. He assured her that they’re going to make something truly “beautiful” that they all will be proud of once it is released. Tati Gabrielle in The Last of Us Part 2. (Image via HBO) It’s not the first time we’ve seen some people spreading hate in the gaming industry. The Witcher 4 was heavily scrutinized after its initial teaser, with players bashing CD Projekt Red for making Ciri less attractive. Even Ghost of Yotei was ripped apart by gamers for casting ****** actor Erika Ishii as the lead. When is Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet releasing? Intergalactic is years away from being released. (Image via Sony) Keeping the unnecessary hate aside, the hype for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is quite high. It’s Naughty Dog’s first dive into a sci-fi setting since Jak and Daxter, and considering the studio’s reputation, the game is bound to be a smash hit. Unfortunately, it’s going to be a long while before the game hits the shelves. As confirmed by Jason Schreier, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet isn’t coming out in 2026, and its initial trailer was a small and early release. This suggests that Naughty Dog is targeting a release in 2027 at the earliest, or even later. If you go back to Intergalactic‘s first trailer, you will see it’s stated to be in development for PlayStation 5. If the game is supposed to be coming out in 2027, it’s following the launch window for new console generations. It’s most likely going to be a PS5 title, but it might also prove to be a cross-generation game with a dedicated version for the next PlayStation console. We’ve seen the same with God of War Ragnarok, which came out on PS4 and PS5 in 2022. With that said, are you excited for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet? Let us know in the comments below. Source link #Neil #Druckmann #Personally #Bootcamping #Season #Actress #Naughty #Dogs #Game Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

VPN firm says it didn’t know customers had lifetime subscriptions, cancels them – Ars Technica VPN firm says it didn’t know customers had lifetime subscriptions, cancels them – Ars Technica VPN firm says it didn’t know customers had lifetime subscriptions, cancels them Ars Technica Source link #VPN #firm #didnt #customers #lifetime #subscriptions #cancels #Ars #Technica Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Warframe has revealed the thrilling Isleweaver update alongside other content at PAX East Warframe has revealed the thrilling Isleweaver update alongside other content at PAX East Isleweaver takes you back to Duviri with new content Warframe #61: Oraxia was revealed The Yareli Prime set releases later this month PAX East was a hit for you if you’re a Warframe fan, given all the content that was dropped during the event. Fans got their first real look at Isleweaver, Warframe’s next major narrative update launching free in June, the stylish Yareli Prime arriving later this month, and an intense new Soulframe trailer showcasing one of its massive boss battles. The centrepiece of the showcase was Isleweaver, a dark new chapter that takes you back to Duviri, now under the rule of the tyrannical Major Rusalka. Along with the new story arc comes a fresh Clan Operation titled Eight Claw and a new enemy faction, the Murmur, promising tense squad-based combat across twisted terrain. Joining the fight is Warframe #61: Oraxia, a spider-inspired frame long requested by the community. Twisted by years of solitude, Oraxia brings a suite of abilities that feel as eerie as they are deadly, spinning webs to trap enemies, summoning spiderlings, draining prey, and even crawling across walls with a new type of mobility that sets her apart from every Warframe before her. Before Isleweaver drops in June, May 21st will mark the arrival of Yareli Prime, complete with her signature Daikyu Prime bow and Kompressa Prime pistol. Her aquatic powers bring slick mobility with Merulina Prime, trapping enemies in stunning bubbles and finishing them off with whirlpools of high-pressure carnage. Before you go on, be sure to redeem these Warframe codes to get a bunch of freebies! Also revealed were the Heirloom Skins for Valkyr and Vauban. Valkyr’s new look arrives July 21st, along with a significant rework to her kit. Her berserker gameplay will finally get the overhaul fans have been hoping for. Vauban’s Heirloom, created in partnership with Lua_Luminary, is slated for early 2026. Download Warframe now for free by clicking on your preferred link below. Visit the official website for more information. Source link #Warframe #revealed #thrilling #Isleweaver #update #content #PAX #East Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Diddy jury hears opening remarks as sex-trafficking trial begins Diddy jury hears opening remarks as sex-trafficking trial begins Warning: This story contains distressing details Prosecutors opened their case by accusing hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs of using fame and violence to ********* abuse women, while the rapper’s attorneys defended his “swinger” lifestyle and rejected sex trafficking claims. The 55-year-old has pleaded not guilty to charges including racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. Following opening statements on Monday, the court heard from prosecutors’ first witnesses, including a security guard from a hotel where Mr Combs is seen in a now-viral video beating his ex-girlfriend in 2016. His testimony was followed by a man who said Mr Combs abused his ex-girlfriend during paid ******* encounters with the couple. After seating a panel of 12 jurors and six alternates on Monday morning, the government and Mr Combs’ lawyers outlined their cases. Prosecutor Emily Johnson accused Mr Combs of using his celebrity status and a “loyal” inner circle of employees to ********* abuse women and run a criminal enterprise. She focused on the two central victims in the case – Mr Combs’ former girlfriend, Cassandra Ventura, and another unnamed former girlfriend. Prosecutors alleged that Mr Combs used violence and threatened Ms Ventura’s music career to force her to perform nonconsensual, humiliating ******* acts with male prostitutes during so-called “freak-offs” filmed by Mr Combs. The defendant “had the power to ruin her life”, Ms Johnson said of Ms Ventura. As prosecutors described the explicit details of the allegations against Mr Combs, he sat in a gray sweater and pants with a blank stare and his hands folded on his lap. At the heart of the government’s case is a surveillance video that shows Mr Combs beating Ms Ventura and dragging her by the hair in a Los Angeles hotel hallway in 2016. Lawyers for Mr Combs said the video was evidence of Mr Combs’ “flawed” character, but not of a larger criminal enterprise. “Domestic violence is not sex trafficking,” said Teny Geragos, Mr Combs’ attorney. Ms Geragos said Mr Combs has a “bit of a different sex life” – and shifted the focus to the women accusing him, calling them “capable, strong women” who chose to stay with the rapper. They had “the freedom to make the choices that they made”, Ms Geragos argued. Prosecutors’ first witness, a former security guard named Israel Florez, worked at the hotel, the site of the now-viral surveillance video showing Mr Combs attacking his ex-girlfriend. The clip, which CNN released last year, was played for jurors on Monday. Mr Florez told jurors that morning at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles on 5 March, 2016, he received a call about a “woman in distress” on the sixth floor. He said he found Mr Combs there in a towel, slouched on a chair with a “devilish” look on his face, and a broken vase on the floor. Ms Ventura sat cowering in the corner with her face covered, Mr Florez said. Mr Florez told prosecutors that Ms Ventura kept saying she wanted to leave, but Mr Combs told her she could not. He testified that Ms Ventura had a purple eye, but did not want to call police and she eventually left in a ****** SUV with a seven-foot (2.1-metres) driver. Mr Florez alleged that later, to “make it go away”, Mr Combs tried to hand him a wad of cash, but he declined. Attorneys for Mr Combs tried to poke holes in Mr Florez’s claims, asking why he did not include certain details – like Ms Ventura’s purple eye – in an incident report he filed afterwards. His testimony was followed by Daniel Phillip, a former manager of male strippers, who said he met Mr Combs and Ms Ventura after his boss asked him to fill in as a stripper for a bachelorette party. But, Mr Phillip said, he was greeted at a hotel instead by Ms Ventura, who told him it was her birthday and her husband wanted to give her a gift. Mr Phillip told the court he would go on to have sex with Ms Ventura on several occasions – encounters that lasted as long as 10 hours, sometimes under the influence of drugs – as Mr Combs watched and filmed. He alleged that he witnessed Mr Combs attack Ms Ventura at least twice, including one time when he dragged her by her hair as she screamed “I’m sorry”. Mr Combs then came back in the room with Ms Ventura and asked the two to have sex again in front of him, Mr Phillip said. “I was shocked,” he said. “It came out of nowhere. I was terrified.” Mr Phillip claimed on the stand that he did not call the police for fear that Mr Combs was “someone with unlimited power” and that he could “lose his life” for reporting it. The trial is scheduled to continue Tuesday when Ms. Ventura is expected to testify. At the crowded courthouse Monday, Combs’ children – including his daughters – were seen holding hands. His mother also was photographed walking out of court along with his publicist. Source link #Diddy #jury #hears #opening #remarks #sextrafficking #trial #begins Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Expedia Misses on Weak US Travel Demand, So Why Is Stock Soaring? Expedia Misses on Weak US Travel Demand, So Why Is Stock Soaring? It’s been a rollercoaster ride over the past few days for travel booking stock Expedia (NASDAQ:). On Monday, Expedia stock jumped 8% to $168 per share and was one of the day’s top gainers, but that followed a 13% plunge on Friday to below $150 per share. The reason for the sharp decline last Friday was pretty clear – a subpar first quarter earnings report that fell short of revenue estimates. Monday’s bounce back is not as cut and dried, as there were likely several factors at play. As far as where Expedia is headed — that is no simple answer either. Revenue Misses Estimates Expedia, which owns Expedia, Hotels.com, Trivago, and VRBO, among others, generated $2.99 billion in revenue in Q1, which was up 3% year-over-year, but below estimates of $3.01 billion. The company posted a GAAP net loss of $200 million in the quarter, which was worse than the $135 million net loss in the same quarter a year ago. But when adjusted to exclude one-time items, acquisitions, foreign exchange or other adjustments, net income was up 81% to $53 million. Adjusted earnings were 40 cents per share, up 90%, and topping estimates of 32 cents per share. Booked room nights on its sites were 108 million, up 6%, while booked airfare rose 4% to 14.8 million. The average daily rate (ADR) of booked rooms dropped 1% to $213.9 per room. Lodging revenue rose 3% to $2.3 billion, but airfare revenue fell 7% to $107 million. Advertising revenue was strong, with Expedia ads seeing a 20% revenue increase to $174 million while Trivago ad revenue rose 22% to $85 million. Weak U.S. Travel Demand Revenue from U.S. points of ***** rose 2% year-over-year to $1.83 billion, but that was down 3.5% from Q4. CEO Ariane Gorin said Expedia came in at the low end of its guidance range for the quarter because of weaker-than-expected travel demand in the US and into the US. On the earnings call, CFO Scott Schenkel elaborated on the slowdown in U.S. travel. “In particular, demand in the US was softer than expected, which was a headwind given two-thirds of our business comes from the US point of *****,” Schenkel. “We also noticed softness in demand for inbound travel into the US which was down 7%. As part of that, inbound bookings from Canada fell nearly 30%.” Part of the decline may stem from the weaker U.S. economy in Q1, as the GDP shrank in Q1 by 0.3%. But the U.S. tariffs are likely another significant factor, particularly for travel from Canada, as Canadians boycotted travel to the U.S. over tariffs, while other nations issued advisories for traveling to the U.S. In April, Gorin said travel to the U.S., as well as domestic travel, was even softer than March, so the trend is continuing. “Yes, we’re still continuing to see pressure on travel into the US, but we’ve also seen some rebalancing. So Europeans are traveling less to the US, but more to Latin America,” Gorin said. It caused Expedia to lower its guidance for Q2 and the full fiscal year. In Q2, Expedia anticipates 2% to 4% gross booking growth, down from previous guidance of 4% to 6% growth. Revenue growth of 3% to 5% remains the same for Q2. But for the full year, gross bookings and revenue growth were lowered to 2% to 4%, from 4% to 6%. Why Was Expedia Stock Rising on Monday? Expedia stock got several price target downgrades after it released earnings on Friday, including Susquehanna, which dropped it $30 to $175. Overall, Expedia has a median price target of $181.50 per share, which would suggest a 9% increase over the current price. Two factors likely played a role in Monday’s surge for Expedia stock. One, it rode the momentum of the overall gains in the market, as stocks were up big on Monday on the U.S.-China trade deal. Also, the trade deal may have alleviated concerns about an economic slowdown among some investors, and eased tensions with trading partners – although both of those remain to be seen. Investors may perceive both as good for travel. Also, there were likely investors buying the dip after Friday’s dramatic selloff, fueled further by the trade deal. Expedia is trading at its lowest valuation in more than a year with a P/E of 18. It remains to be seen to what extent travel conditions improve, so investors should remain cautious. Original Post Source link #Expedia #Misses #Weak #Travel #Demand #Stock #Soaring Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Massive prison boost will bring more beds, staff Massive prison boost will bring more beds, staff More than $700 million will be set aside in next week’s state budget as one state government plans for increased demand thanks to new, tougher bail laws. The Victorian government passed laws earlier in May to make it harder for alleged offenders to be granted bail. On Tuesday, the state government is expected to announce next week’s budget will invest $727 million to ramp up capacity across the prison and justice system. Almost 1000 additional adult prison beds will open across the system and an additional 88 beds will open at youth justice centres at Cherry Creek and Parkville. The announcement also includes amendments to the Corrections Act to crack down on prisoners who assault and injure custodial staff. The changes mean any prisoner convicted of assaulting and injuring staff can expect additional prison time on top of their existing sentence. In a statement, a state government spokesperson said community safety came first in Victoria, and there are consequences for breaking the law. “Our tough new bail laws mean more people charged with serious offenders are going to jail. That’s why we need to open more prison beds now,” the spokesperson said. “We have zero tolerance for prisoners who assault our staff. Our new laws make the consequences clear.” Community and Public Sector Union secretary Karen Batt said despite more beds being brought online, there aren’t enough staff to operate them, leading to concerns about safety and security. The budget allocation of $700 million for prison beds is a positive step, she said, but more collaboration was needed with the government to ensure the funds are used effectively. “This is the response we called for arising from the bail changes, but we also need to address continuing violence … and the dismissive response from the Department of Justice hierarchy to these ongoing assaults inside to get existing officers confident to come back to work,” Ms Batt told AAP. Source link #Massive #prison #boost #bring #beds #staff Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Episcopal Church says it won’t help resettle white South Africans granted refugee status Episcopal Church says it won’t help resettle white South Africans granted refugee status The Episcopal Church’s migration service is refusing a directive from the federal government to help resettle white South Africans granted refugee status, citing the church’s longstanding “commitment to racial justice and reconciliation.” Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe announced the step Monday, shortly before 59 South Africans arrived at Dulles International Airport outside Washington on a private charter plane and were greeted by a government delegation. Episcopal Migration Ministries instead will halt its decades-long partnership with the government, Rowe said. President Donald Trump opened a fast-tracked refugee status to white South Africans, accusing their government of discrimination, even as his administration abruptly shut down the overall U.S. refugee program. The South Africans jumped ahead of thousands of would-be refugees overseas who had been undergoing years of vetting and processing. Episcopal Migration Ministries has long resettled refugees under federal grants. Rowe said that about two weeks ago, the government contacted it and said it expected the ministry to resettle some of the South Africans under terms of its grant. “In light of our church’s steadfast commitment to racial justice and reconciliation and our historic ties with the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, we are not able to take this step,” Rowe said. “Accordingly, we have determined that, by the end of the federal fiscal year, we will conclude our refugee resettlement grant agreements with the U.S. federal government.” South Africa’s government has vehemently denied allegations of discriminatory treatment of its white ********* residents. “It has been painful to watch one group of refugees, selected in a highly unusual manner, receive preferential treatment over many others who have been waiting in refugee camps or dangerous conditions for years,” Rowe said. “I am saddened and ashamed that many of the refugees who are being denied entrance to the United States are brave people who worked alongside our military in Iraq and Afghanistan and now face danger at home because of their service to our country.” He also said many refugees, including Christians, are victims of religious persecution and are now denied entry. He said the church would find other ways to serve immigrants, such as those already in this country and those stranded overseas. The move marks the end of a ministry-government partnership that, for nearly four decades, has served nearly 110,000 refugees from countries, including Ukraine, Myanmar and Congo, Rowe said. It’s not the first high-profile friction between the Episcopal Church and the Trump administration. Bishop Mariann Budde of Washington drew Trump’s anger in January at an inaugural prayer service in which she urged “mercy” on those fearing his actions, including migrants and LGBTQ+ children. The Anglican Church of Southern Africa includes churches in South Africa and neighboring countries. It was a potent force in the campaign against apartheid in the 1980s and 1990s, an effort for which the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984. Another faith-based refugee agency, Church World Service, says it is open to serving the South African arrivals. “We are concerned that the U.S. Government has chosen to fast-track the admission of Afrikaners, while actively fighting court orders to provide life-saving resettlement to other refugee populations who are in desperate need of resettlement,” Rick Santos, CWS president and CEO, said in a statement. He added that the action proves the government knows how to screen and process refugees quickly. “Despite the Administration’s actions, CWS remains committed to serving all eligible refugee populations seeking safety in the United States, including Afrikaners who are eligible for services,” he said. “Our faith compels us to serve each person in our care with dignity and compassion.” The Episcopal ministry and CWS are among 10 national groups, most of them faith-based, that have partnered with the government for refugee resettlement. Source link #Episcopal #Church #wont #resettle #white #South #Africans #granted #refugee #status Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Male ******* Testifies at Diddy Trial: Graphic Sex With Cassie, Beatings – Variety Male ******* Testifies at Diddy Trial: Graphic Sex With Cassie, Beatings – Variety Male ******* Testifies at Diddy Trial: Graphic Sex With Cassie, Beatings VarietyLive updates: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial opening statements CNNDiddy’s Defense Comes Into Focus: Deviant Domestic Abuser, But No Criminal NewsweekSecurity Guard Who Pinned Diddy After Cassie Assault Says Rapper Gave Him Cash — and Said 3 Chilling Words YahooRecap: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’s sex trafficking trial begins with witness testimony, opening statements The Washington Post Source link #Male #******* #Testifies #Diddy #Trial #Graphic #Sex #Cassie #Beatings #Variety Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]