Pelican Press

*** Pride groups suspend involvement of political parties *** Pride groups suspend involvement of political parties Four of the ***’s largest Pride organisations have suspended political parties’ involvement in their events in “unequivocal solidarity” with the transgender community. Birmingham, Brighton, London and Manchester Prides announced that political parties would not be welcome at their events in an official capacity until they demonstrated a “tangible commitment to trans rights”. The announcement comes after the Supreme Court ruled that the term “woman” in the Equality Act was defined by biological sex. The ruling was welcomed by some campaigners representing lesbian, gay and ********* people who say it protects single-sex groups, while others shared concerns about the impact on the trans community. A statement from the group of Pride organisers said there was a “disturbing global trend… where LGBTQ+ rights are being systematically rolled back”. It said: “The *** must not follow this path of regression. Instead, it must rise as a global leader in human rights and equality.” It said the Supreme Court ruling “underscores the urgent need for immediate action”. “In this moment, we choose to stand firmer, louder, and prouder in demanding change that protects and uplifts trans lives,” it said. It said the move to suspend political party participation was a “refusal to platform those who have not protected our rights”. The recent Supreme Court ruling clarified existing equality laws, and means that the term “woman” in the Equality Act refers solely to biological women. The legal dispute began in 2018, when the Scottish Parliament passed a bill designed to ensure gender balance on public sector boards. For Women Scotland complained that ministers had included transgender people as part of the quotas in that law. After the ruling they said women could “now feel safe that services and spaces designated for women are for women”. The ruling was also welcomed by some other gender critical groups including Scottish Lesbians, which describes itself as a grassroots campaigning organisation with around 70 members, made up of “lesbians of all ages across Scotland.” Directors of the group, which made submissions to the Supreme Court in the case, told the BBC: “The Supreme Court decision, which was a clarification of existing law, protects the rights of lesbians as same-sex attracted women. “As lesbians we’re very relieved that our rights have been protected, and disappointed that Pride has once again abandoned lesbians.” Some *** organisations – including in sport and politics – have changed or updated their policies around single-sex teams and spaces such as toilets and changing rooms in response to the ruling. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which enforces equalities law and provides guidance to policymakers, issued interim guidance for service providers which said access to such spaces must be based on biological sex. The EHRC said the impact of the ruling was that “if somebody identifies as trans, they do not change sex for the purposes of the [Equality] Act, even if they have a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC)”. In this respect, the EHRC says, “a trans woman is a biological man” and “a trans man is a biological woman”. As part of the judgement, Supreme Court judge Lord Hodge stressed that the law still gave protection against discrimination to transgender people. The four Pride groups which took the decision to exclude political parties represent some of the most popular Pride groups in the ***, with a combined average attendance of over one million people. The groups have called for “full and enforceable protections under the Equality Act”, “timely and dignified access to NHS gender-affirming healthcare”, a reform of the gender recognition certificate process and “sustainable funding for trans-led services and support organisations across the ***”. Birmingham Pride had already announced its own ban on some political parties, as had Belfast and Southampton Pride events. Political parties are often involved in marches and demonstrations at Pride, often with notable politicians using the opportunity to share their parties’ beliefs around LGBT+ issues. Sir Keir Starmer, Sir Ed Davey, Carla Denyer and Boris Johnson have all previously publicly attended Pride marches in a political capacity. A spokesperson for LGBT+ Lib Dems said the group was “sickened to our core” at the ban, and accused Pride organisers of creating a “blanket suspension” which was “lumping them in” with other political parties. They told the BBC: “We look forward to a constructive dialogue with Pride organisers so we can come back ******* and better.” Source link #Pride #groups #suspend #involvement #political #parties Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Body found after car plunges into Brisbane River Body found after car plunges into Brisbane River The body of a man in his 60s has been found after a car plunged into the Brisbane River in the city’s western suburbs. People reported seeing a blue sedan going into the river near Moggill Rd in Brisbane’s southwest at about 6.45pm on Monday. Camera IconA man’s body has been discovered in the Brisbane River. NewsWire/Josh Woning Credit: News Corp Australia An enormous search effort was launched near the Moggill ferry – including specialist police, water rescue and other agencies – with hours spent searching for the vehicle. The car was pulled from the water about 11.20pm. “Police divers confirmed a man in his 60s was inside the submerged vehicle just after midnight,” a police spokesman told NewsWire. Police are not treating the incident as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Source link #Body #car #plunges #Brisbane #River Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

What Actually Happens If You Don’t Use Airplane Mode on Your Phone During a Flight? What Actually Happens If You Don’t Use Airplane Mode on Your Phone During a Flight? Key Takeaway Though some countries are softening rules about using airplane mode during flights, it’s best to comply with crew member directions and use airplane mode when you’re instructed to. If you’ve ever wondered why your phone has to be in airplane mode during a flight, you’re not alone. In fact, many frequent fliers can’t recite the reasons behind the rule, and others have forgotten to turn it on. So, what really happens when you don’t use airplane mode? It depends who you ask. “Not a darn thing,” says Gary Coxe, a pilot and flight instructor with 7,000 flight hours, including time spent piloting jets, helicopters, and gliders. A Washington-based airline mechanic who wants to remain anonymous tells Travel + Leisure he agrees with Coxe’s sentiments. Still, most aviation experts admit it’s considerate to put your phone in airplane mode, even if the consequences aren’t so dire. “No, your plane won’t fall out of the sky, and it won’t even mess with the systems on board. However, it does have the potential to mess with the headsets,” explains a pilot and U.S. Army veteran who goes by PerchPoint on TikTok, where his December 2024 viral video explaining airplane mode has already racked up 1.2 million views. He goes on to explain that even if three or four passengers on a Boeing 737 have their phones trying to connect to a cellular network, there’s a potential that the radio waves from their phones can interfere with the radio waves of the cockpit’s headsets. Because pilots often have limited visibility, they rely on intel they get from the ground via their headsets, especially for take-off and landing (when most aviation-related accidents occur). If cell phone radio waves are interfering with headsets, pilots can usually still hear instructions from the control tower, but the audio could be less clear. PerchPoint likens it to the buzzing noise a mosquito makes and says it’s “annoying.” A spokesperson for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) declined to tell T+L whether or not they know of any incidents where a passenger’s phone that wasn’t in airplane mode caused an accident. However, they did say the FAA maintains that cell phone (and any personal electronic device) use is only allowed in flight if it’s not affecting the airplane’s safety or communications systems. The FAA takes its cues from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which, in 1991, banned all cell phone use in flight because it was determined that cell phone signals could interfere with “critical aircraft instruments.” Still, in 2013, the FCC revisited the topic, noting that advancements in technology meant passengers could use their phones, as long as they were in airplane mode. Their research stated that “technology that can be installed directly on an airplane is now available to prevent such interference and has already been deployed successfully in many other countries around the world without incident.” That same year, CNN reported on an International Air Transport Association study that found that from 2003–2009, there were only 29 instances when cell phones were suspected of causing electronic device interference. damircudic/Getty Images A passenger uses their phone on an airplane. Today, passengers flying in the U.K. and the European Union aren’t asked to put their phones in airplane mode. They can even send text messages and answer calls if their airline allows it. That’s because the European Commission not only approved in-flight 5G technology, they mandated it. As of June 2023, EU member airlines have been required to equip their aircraft with special network equipment that uses a satellite network to keep passengers connected. Called a “picocell,” this equipment is like a portable cell tower. Unfortunately, 5G networks in Europe are different from their American counterparts. They use a lower frequency that doesn’t interfere with technology on the aircraft the way stateside 5G networks, which operate at a higher frequency, can. That’s why travelers flying in the U.S. can’t expect the FAA (which hasn’t updated its airplane mode rule since 2017) to implement the same technology any time soon. For now, a public affairs specialist for the FAA tells T+L that passengers are required to follow all crew member safety instructions, even if they come without explanations. While there are no reports of passengers being jailed for refusing to put their phones in airplane mode, there are instances where passengers have been punished. In 2016, a British passenger flying Flybe—a now-defunct regional airline—from Amsterdam to Exeter was fined more than $600 for his disobedience. You could even be kicked off the plane. That’s what happened in 2018 when a passenger flying from Indiana argued with a flight attendant about whether or not her phone was in airplane mode. Despite all the controversy, at the end of the day, it’s best to comply and put your phone in airplane mode when asked. In airplane mode, your phone isn’t trying to connect to a cell tower, so it’s conserving battery. Plus, one of the best parts about being at cruising altitude is being unreachable and recharging your social battery. Sit back (but wait to recline your seat until after take off), relax, and enjoy the flight. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Source link #Dont #Airplane #Mode #Phone #Flight Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Eagles-Commanders, Packers-Bears set for Week 16 Saturday doubleheader – NBC Sports Eagles-Commanders, Packers-Bears set for Week 16 Saturday doubleheader – NBC Sports Eagles-Commanders, Packers-Bears set for Week 16 Saturday doubleheader NBC Sports2025 NFL schedule release: Eagles-Commanders, Packers-Bears headline Week 16 Saturday doubleheader on FOX NFL.comPackers to play at Chicago on Saturday, Dec. 20 Green Bay PackersFOX announces marquee Eagles at Commanders Saturday showdown in Week 16 Philadelphia EaglesTom Brady And Erin Andrews Reveal History-Making Fox NFL Doubleheader Deadline Source link #EaglesCommanders #PackersBears #set #Week #Saturday #doubleheader #NBC #Sports Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Rapper taken to hospital after being stabbed in California prison Rapper taken to hospital after being stabbed in California prison Rapper Tory Lanez has been taken to hospital after he was stabbed at a California prison, state corrections officials said. The ********* hip-hop artist was attacked by another inmate on Tuesday morning in a housing unit at the California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi, about 75 miles (120km) north of Los Angeles. Prison staff “responded, activated 911 and began medical aid” before Lanez, 31, was taken to a local medical facility for further treatment, said Pedro Calderón Michel of the state’s corrections department. Lanez, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson, is serving a 10-year prison sentence for shooting fellow musician Megan Thee Stallion at a party in 2020. No information was provided on Lanez’s condition, but media reports indicate his injuries were non-life threatening. An investigation is underway into the stabbing, which happened at around 07:20 local time (15:20 GMT), Mr Calderón Michel told the BBC. He did not comment on the attacker’s motive. Lanez was sentenced in 2023 for three felony gun-related charges, including assault with a semi-automatic firearm. He shot Megan Thee Stallion, real name Megan Pete, as they were leaving a pool party at reality star Kylie Jenner’s Hollywood mansion. The pair argued inside a vehicle about their previous ******* relationship and insulted each other over their careers, Megan Thee Stallion testified during the trial. She said she had demanded to be let out of the vehicle, at which point Lanez started shooting at the ground and shouted at her to “dance”. She required surgery to remove bullet fragments from her foot. Lanez refused to apologise and maintained his innocence in the shooting. The case divided the hip-hop world with rappers – including 50 Cent and Iggy Azalea appearing to take sides in the conflict. Some of them wrote to the court to ask for leniency in Lanez’s sentencing. Lanez had seven US top 10 albums in the seven years before his conviction. He has teased the release of a new upcoming album from prison titled Peterson. Source link #Rapper #hospital #stabbed #California #prison Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Poland says Russia recruited arsonists online for Warsaw fire Poland says Russia recruited arsonists online for Warsaw fire Polish Foreign Minister tells the BBC there is evidence Moscow was behind huge shopping centre fire Poland’s foreign minister says his country has evidence that Russia recruited people on the Telegram messaging service to carry out last year’s massive shopping centre fire in Warsaw. Speaking to the BBC in an exclusive interview, Radek Sikorski said Moscow’s actions were “completely unacceptable” and that a second Russian consulate in Poland had been closed as a result. His comments come after a Polish investigation concluded that the Marywilska shopping centre fire was orchestrated by Moscow’s intelligence services. Russia denied its involvement, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accusing Poland of being “Russophobic”. The May 2024 fire destroyed 1,400 small businesses, with many of the staff there belonging to Warsaw’s Vietnamese community. “We have evidence that they commissioned people living in Poland, they commissioned them on Telegram and paid them to set fire to this huge shopping mall,” Sikorski said on Monday. “It was by miracle that nobody was hurt, but this is completely unacceptable.” The foreign minister told the BBC he had decided Russia’s presence in Poland must be “further curtailed” and that Russia’s consulate in Krakow had now been closed in order to try and make it harder for Moscow to “spy” on Poland. “We will take further decisions if they continue these hybrid attacks,” Sikorski said. Hybrid warfare is a term used to describe how a hostile state carries out an anonymous, deniable attack, usually in highly suspicious circumstances. It will be enough to harm their opponent, especially their infrastructure assets, but stop short of being an attributable act of war. Only one consulate now remains open in Poland, alongside the embassy. The mission in the city of Poznań was closed last year after Warsaw accused Russia of acts of sabotage and cyberwarfare. When asked on Monday why Poland did not just sever all diplomatic ties, Sikorski said: “I hope it doesn’t come to that.” Responding to the closure of the Krakow consulate, Peskov said: “All these accusations are absolutely groundless, baseless. “There are a lot of different accusations against Russia being voiced in Poland. This part is absolutely Russophobic and unfriendly towards our country.” He added: “As for the reduction of Russia’s diplomatic presence in Poland, these are integral parts of a common chain aimed at curtailing the already deplorable state of bilateral relations. Poland chooses hostility and unfriendliness towards us.” Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Poland has detained and convicted several people accused of sabotage on behalf of Russian intelligence services. Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, meanwhile, told state media: “Warsaw continues to deliberately destroy relations, acting against the interests of citizens”. Poland carried out a year-long investigation into the shopping centre incident, before concluding the fire was organised by an unnamed person in Russia. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Sunday said that some of those responsible were already in custody, while all the others alleged to have been involved had been identified and were being searched for. Many workers lost important documents and large sums of cash in the fire, which were kept at the shopping centre due to fear of break-ins at home. Another shopping centre in Warsaw, Modlinska 6D, was opened in October last year, with traders relocating their businesses to the new site. Source link #Poland #Russia #recruited #arsonists #online #Warsaw #fire Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Starmer’s robust language nods to immigration failures Starmer’s robust language nods to immigration failures It is perhaps little wonder immigration is as politically charged an issue as it is, when you consider two things. Firstly, as I wrote here, the numbers point to it being the stand-out *** social and demographic change of the 21st century. And secondly, it is also one of the biggest and most transparent political failings, when you compare rhetoric to reality. There were the projections made by Sir Tony Blair’s government two decades ago that allowing unlimited migration from central and eastern Europe would tempt modest numbers of people to move here – and huge numbers turned up. In the 2010s, the Conservatives repeatedly promised to cut net migration to the tens of thousands a year, and repeatedly failed. The numbers then rocketed after Brexit, the very act that meant *** governments were entirely responsible for immigration policy for the first time in a generation. Most people miss most political debates most of the time, but some are sufficiently totemic they are not just noticed but make the political weather. The arguments over immigration are one of them – and what I have just set out tells you why. This is the generational context within which this prime minister’s promises perch. It is a longevity of failure that senior politicians of various political persuasions privately accept – perhaps more so than any other single issue – has seeded a cynicism and a disillusion with how we are governed. Sir Keir Starmer’s language felt like an acknowledgement of that central point: here was a Labour prime minister, a former human rights lawyer, claiming “we risk becoming an island of strangers.” It is a phrase some, particularly on the left, regard as repulsive. Others counter that it is a widely held perception which it is high time those in high office shared. Labour wrestle with the many practical and political trade-offs around immigration policy, just as other parties in government have as well. In practical terms, staffing care homes, building new houses – can these things be done without an influx of folk from abroad? Interestingly, Sir Keir took issue with the long-standing view of many that immigration helps drive or at least prop up economic growth. The other context here is the insurgency of Reform ***. Nigel Farage argues, as he has for years and years, that politicians have been far too slow to get how much immigration matters to so many people. Labour are acutely aware of Farage’s capacity to communicate in a way that resonates with those who feel successive governments have not just ignored them on this issue, but belittled and demeaned their views too. That is why the prime minister is using the language he is now. And there is another thing going on here too. This is a week of muscular language and intent, firstly primarily on legal migration now, and in a few days on ******** migration too. By next week the focus will switch to an anticipated new deal between the *** and the European Union, and within it, the likelihood of a youth mobility plan – meaning young people from the *** can travel more freely around Europe, and those from the EU can come here. Ministers will insist this doesn’t amount to freedom of movement, nor immigration – because visits in both directions will be strictly age and time limited. But you can be certain there will be a row about it. These then are the short, medium and long-term reasons why the prime minister and his team know that their plan for delivering a sustained downward trend to the net migration numbers is absolutely crucial to their credibility. Source link #Starmers #robust #language #nods #immigration #failures Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Two people killed after being hit by car on Forrest Highway, Yunderup Two people killed after being hit by car on Forrest Highway, Yunderup A man and a woman have died after being struck by a car in an emergency lane of a major highway. Source link #people #killed #hit #car #Forrest #Highway #Yunderup Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Making sense of the GOP’s proposed Medicaid cuts, which could leave 8.6 million people uninsured Making sense of the GOP’s proposed Medicaid cuts, which could leave 8.6 million people uninsured Republicans in the House of Representatives have released their proposal to cut an estimated $715 billion in funding for Medicaid. If it becomes law, the plan would result in 8.6 million more uninsured Americans in the next decade, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Congressional Republicans argue that the cuts are necessary to eliminate “waste, fraud and abuse” and that they offset the costs of what President Trump has called a “big, beautiful” government spending bill that will likely include trillions of dollars in tax cuts. Health care policy is tremendously complicated, and it can be very easy to get lost in the details, partisan spin and legislative maneuverings. So here’s a simple rundown of what the GOP plan aims to do and what it might mean for you. What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a government health insurance program that covers more than 70 million low-income and disabled Americans, about one-fifth of the total U.S. population. It is one of the biggest and most expensive federal government programs. In 2024, Medicaid spending totaled $618 billion, making it the fourth-largest source of direct spending, behind Social Security, Medicare and defense. Enrollment in Medicaid has nearly tripled over the past three and a half decades, thanks in part to elements of the Affordable Care Act that have helped most states expand eligibility for the program. Trump has repeatedly insisted that cuts to Social Security, Medicare or the military are off the table. That left Medicaid as the main target for the GOP to meet its spending reduction goals. What the GOP plan would do There are two main categories of reforms included in the 160-page proposal. The first is a suite of new procedural rules that will increase the number of hurdles that people will need to clear to receive or maintain Medicaid coverage. It would create work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, who would lose their coverage if they can’t prove that they worked or volunteered for at least 80 hours per month. People receiving Medicaid would have to verify their eligibility every six months instead of once a year. They would also have to verify their citizenship or legal immigration status with their state in order to be eligible to receive federal Medicaid spending. While these provisions may seem to be little more than extra paperwork, many experts believe that the main result of increasing what’s known as the “administrative burden” for public assistance is that people who are eligible to receive benefits fall through the cracks. Some Medicaid recipients will also see their out-of-pocket costs go up. Under the plan, anyone with an income above the federal poverty line would pay a higher “cost sharing” rate — up to $35 per visit. The second, and largest, source of Medicaid cuts would come from changes to how the federal government supports states. A boost in funding for states that was put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic would be eliminated. The proposal would put strict limits on a tax work-around known as “provider taxes” that nearly every state uses to increase the amount of health care money it gets from the federal government. Some hard-line Republicans in Congress had called for even more aggressive cuts, including a per-person cap on federal spending. Those provisions were left out in what is being framed as a win for moderates within the party. Which states rely on Medicaid the most? Medicaid is important to every state, but the federal government’s role varies from state to state. California is home to 12 million Medicaid recipients, more than twice as many as any other state. Raw totals only tell part of the story, though. New Mexico has the highest rate of Medicaid enrollment as a share of its population. In 2023, 38.5% of New Mexico residents were insured by Medicaid, according to the health policy research organization KFF. The federal government provides most of the funding for Medicaid, but states pick up part of the tab as well — about 30% on average. Some states are far more reliant on the government than others and would presumably feel a greater impact of any cuts passed by Congress. Seven states (New Mexico, Mississippi, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Kentucky, Arkansas and Arizona) got 80% or more of their Medicaid funding from the federal government in 2023, according to KFF data. Republicans have very little room for error. They have narrow majorities in both houses of Congress and can likely expect unified opposition from Democrats on any spending package that comes up for a vote. The cuts to Medicaid are just one piece of a massive spending plan that is still coming together, and dissent on any piece of that bill could sink the entire thing. Some centrist GOP members have said they won’t back steep cuts to Medicaid, but it’s unclear whether they can be convinced to get behind this new, less drastic, set of reforms. The party may also face some trouble if the plan passes through the House. Republican Sen. Josh Hawley called cutting Medicaid “both morally wrong and politically suicidal” in an op-ed published in the New York Times on Monday. Source link #Making #sense #GOPs #proposed #Medicaid #cuts #leave #million #people #uninsured Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Tariff Truce With China Demonstrates the Limits of Trump’s Aggression – The New York Times Tariff Truce With China Demonstrates the Limits of Trump’s Aggression – The New York Times Tariff Truce With China Demonstrates the Limits of Trump’s Aggression The New York TimesXi Defiance Pays Off as Trump Meets Most ******** Trade Demands BloombergTrump says China agrees to ‘fully’ open country’s markets to US businesses Fox NewsThe trade war ends with Trump blinking — for now qz.comUS and China agree to 90-day truce in trade war KCRA Source link #Tariff #Truce #China #Demonstrates #Limits #Trumps #Aggression #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The view on immigration from a town transformed by it The view on immigration from a town transformed by it Becky Wearn Senior *** producer BBC Violet Gutu’s social care hub uses 99% foreign workers – without them, the vulnerable would struggle, she says It’s fair to say Oldham is no stranger to immigration. It has transformed the town, a place that has witnessed a faster than average population rise between the last two Censuses (2011 – 2021) and where almost one in five residents (17.8%) were born outside the ***. So what do the prime minister’s words mean here, when he warned that without changes to cut migration, the *** was at risk of becoming an “island of strangers”? Yorkshire Street runs straight through the town centre, and it’s here where we met John and John. Between them they’ve been repairing roads in Oldham for more than 50 years. John and John both say Oldham has become “overrun” with too many people They welcome the government’s pledge to reduce migration. “We’re a bit overrun aren’t we, with the NHS and everything,” the younger John explains. “You can’t get doctors or dentist. And housing for young people, you can’t get on the market.” The reason he gives for struggling to access these services is simple: “There’s just too many people.” But he recognises the country depends on overseas labour – “the country needs it don’t it” – says the older John. “Where does the country go from here. In another 10, 15 years it’s going to be a different place completely isn’t it. “ Concerns about the pace of change are not limited to those born and bred in this part of the Pennines. Hussein was born in Pakistan and moved here forty years ago. He now runs a thriving mobile phone shop at Tommyfield indoor market. He tells the BBC he is so frustrated with rising immigration he voted for Brexit in 2016 and has since written to Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner about his concerns. “We are already short of jobs,” he tells us. “If we are getting professionals from outside, what are you going to do about the professionals in this country? It means they’re going to hurt the working class.” Hussein voted for Brexit and is frustrated by rising immigration Back on Yorkshire Street, we caught up with Michelle Delaney in the doorway of her charity, Project Pearl. “This used to be a pub, that used to be a pub, that up there was a pub and it’s now a takeaway place,” she says, pointing to at least half a dozen chicken shops, plus the same number again of Eastern European mini marts and Middle Eastern-run barbers. But Michelle is not worried about the post-Covid change on her high street. Her big concern is who will staff care homes and hospitals. “What will we do if we haven’t got the nurses, and the doctors, the carers and all the others to do the jobs that they do, like they did with my Mum and my husband when they were ill,” she tells us. “How will we manage?” Michelle is concerned there won’t be enough staff in the NHS And it’s that question causing deep concern at Pennine Social Care on Union Street. Directors Violet Gutu and Elliot Sparks simply do not know how they will cope. Violet explains that 99% of her work depends on “foreign workers.” “We have tried local recruitment but we’ve failed in many cases,” she says. From their brightly painted offices, this care provision agency and charity works in multiple areas to support those with disabilities and mental health crises – from providing support workers or carers, to throwing the doors open for training and creative activities. Without their care, Elliot and Violet both say these vulnerable children and adults would be left to struggle almost completely alone. “The effects could be quite catastrophic.” “The rules change but the responsibilities don’t,” Elliot explained. “We rely on good staff, with good hearts, who’ve given up their lives, their families to come here and take care of our vulnerable people.” Violet, who came to the *** herself from Zimbabwe over twenty years ago, became emotional when explaining how proud she is of her staff. “So long as you’re an immigrant there’s no appreciation for you whatsoever. There’s always backlash.” The challenge for the government is to address deep public concerns on immigration in the ***, without threatening public services. Source link #view #immigration #town #transformed Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge live: Updates from the Unpacked event – Engadget Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge live: Updates from the Unpacked event – Engadget Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge live: Updates from the Unpacked event EngadgetBeyond Slim: Discover Unprecedented Innovation With Galaxy S25 Edge Samsung NewsroomSamsung Galaxy S25 Edge launch live: all the last-minute Unpacked news ahead of the event TechRadarSamsung set to unveil new Galaxy S25 Edge, which will use AI. What you need to know USA TodayGalaxy S25 Edge last-minute leak shows off thickness next to S25 Ultra 9to5Google Source link #Samsung #Galaxy #S25 #Edge #live #Updates #Unpacked #event #Engadget Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Bianca Panetta Academy of Dance encourages dancing for sick kids with Nutbush and Macarena this week Bianca Panetta Academy of Dance encourages dancing for sick kids with Nutbush and Macarena this week The Bianca Panetta Academy of Dance is calling on people from Harvey to “rock up and be ready to dance” for a reason this week. The dance for sick kids is part of a week-long nationwide fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House, but this is the first time it has been brought to Harvey. Dance academy owner and event coordinator Bianca Meese said she would be hosting a community dance day this Thursday featuring the Nutbush and Macarena dances to help raise funds while having fun. “I’ve been wanting to do it for a few years , but I just haven’t gotten around to it,” she said. “You log your hours the week you dance and the main thing is to get people to sponsor or donate because all the money goes towards the Ronald McDonald House. “We’ve opened up a couple of classes to the public so they can come in and have a dance and donate.” Ms Meese said she wanted to take part after learning more about the importance of the charity for people in the regions. “I’ve just spoken to so many people who have used the Ronald McDonald House, and just how important it is for those families to have that, especially when you live in the country,” she said. “I just think it’s definitely a cause that needs to be supported. “The money goes towards the house for those families who do need to stay there with their kids, and that can be for a long time as well.” The chosen dance classes encourage every community member to get involved, no matter their skill level, and the academy’s usual classes will continue. “All of our classes we will still be dancing and we’re doing crazy socks and pyjama day with our students so they can come along and be a part of it with their classes,” Ms Meese said. “The open classes anybody can join, there’s no experience needed.” Harvey community members can attend a hip hop class at 6pm Wednesday or 6.30pm Friday. Alternatively, the dance students have invited community members for the Macarena and Nutbush dances, with emergency service workers and business owners at 5.30pm and 6pm Thursday. Source link #Bianca #Panetta #Academy #Dance #encourages #dancing #sick #kids #Nutbush #Macarena #week Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Illinois governor is first in US to block federal access to personal data on autism Illinois governor is first in US to block federal access to personal data on autism SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has signed a first-in-the-nation executive order to block the federal government from collecting personal health data related to autism, a direct rebuke to the Trump administration. Democrat Pritzker, who has been one of the more vocal critics of Trump’s second administration, signed the order last week, saying he wanted to protect “dignity, privacy, and the freedom to live without fear of surveillance or discrimination.” It came two days after U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a plan to use data maintained by the National Institutes of Health, and claims submitted for Medicare and Medicaid coverage, to determine the causes of autism. While the agency did not release details of the plan, Kennedy promised it would follow “applicable privacy laws to protect Americans’ sensitive health information.” Prior to his rise to health secretary, Kennedy joined anti-vaccine advocates in claiming childhood vaccines are responsible for autism, but studies by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and others have ruled that out. Pritzker’s executive order bans state agencies from disclosing “personally identifiable autism-related data” outside of state government unless the person or their guardian gives consent, it’s required by legal action, it’s necessary to provide services such as employment or housing or is otherwise required by law. State contractors, vendors and grant recipients are also covered. “We are taking steps to ensure that our state remains a leader in protecting the rights of individuals with autism and all people with disabilities,” Pritzker said. Andy Shih, chief science officer for Autism Speaks, a national advocacy group funding research and services, said he’s unaware of a similar declaration elsewhere. And while Kennedy promises to abide by privacy guidelines, Shih said with advances in computational power and algorithmic thinking, what’s private data today might not be tomorrow. Government investigators could use some techniques to get more information than what is previously disclosed. In the wrong hands, it could be used against patients to deny them constitutionally protected rights. “There’s always that concern,” Shih said. “Being proactive to protect privacy, which is something we value as a society, this should be applauded.” Kennedy has previously said he wants to be able to announce by September some of the causes of autism, a complex brain disorder better known as autism spectrum disorder because it affects people differently. For some people, profound autism means being nonverbal or having intellectual disabilities, while milder cases might mean difficulty with social and emotional skills. Experts say Kennedy’s planned database isn’t appropriate to uncover autism’s causes in part because there’s no information about genetics. However, Shih noted that Health and Human Services’ announcement was about creating a platform to help understand a range of chronic illnesses, which he said could be useful. Shih added that linking data sets is a proven way of studying issues of health. He pointed to a study published earlier this year in the Journal of the American Medical Association that found dementia in significantly higher numbers among autistic adults over age 65 than the general population. It was achieved by linking numerical identifiers from two different data sets. Source link #Illinois #governor #block #federal #access #personal #data #autism Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Coinbase joining S&P 500, replacing Discover Financial Coinbase joining S&P 500, replacing Discover Financial Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, speaking on CNBC’s Squawk Box outside the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on Jan. 21st, 2025. Gerry Miller | CNBC Coinbase is joining the S&P 500, replacing Discover Financial Services in the benchmark index, according to a release on Monday. Shares of the crypto exchange jumped 8% in extended trading. The change will take effect before trading on May 19. Discover is in the process of being acquired by Capital One Financial. Since going public through a direct listing in 2021, Coinbase has become a ******* part of the U.S. financial system, with bitcoin soaring in value and large institutions gaining regulatory approval to create spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds. This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates. Source link #Coinbase #joining #replacing #Discover #Financial Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

First white South Africans arrive in US as Trump claims they face discrimination – Reuters First white South Africans arrive in US as Trump claims they face discrimination – Reuters First white South Africans arrive in US as Trump claims they face discrimination ReutersFirst group of white South Africans lands in US under Trump refugee plan BBCTrump administration welcomed white Afrikaans while ending Afghan protections AxiosEpiscopal Church refuses to resettle white Afrikaners, citing moral opposition NPRTrump Live Updates: China Tariff Pause, Drug Prices and More The New York Times Source link #white #South #Africans #arrive #Trump #claims #face #discrimination #Reuters Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Who is Evangelos Marinakis: Controversial Nottingham Forest owner, shipping & media baron Who is Evangelos Marinakis: Controversial Nottingham Forest owner, shipping & media baron Marinakis is the founder and chairman of Capital Maritime & Trading Corp, an international shipping company, and was voted Greek Shipping Personality of the Year by British publication Lloyd’s List in 2017. He has also invested in the media and his company, Alter Ego Media, bought two of Greece’s best known daily newspapers – Ta Nea and To Vima. In 2019, he launched a new television channel, One Channel, in Greece. Earlier this year, his Alter Ego Media company, the largest media organisation in Greece, floated on the Athens stock market. As well as owning Forest, Marinakis bought Olympiakos in 2010. Under his ownership, the Greek side have won 11 domestic league titles and the Europa Conference League in 2024. Portuguese side Rio Ave also come under his portfolio. Marinakis also confirmed in December he had been in talks to purchase Brazilian side Vasco da Gama. “We have a multi-club ownership and a lot see it as business. I don’t necessarily see it this way,” he said. “It’s very difficult to combine business with football, especially with big teams when you need to win trophies, you need to participate in Europe. “It doesn’t necessarily mean that you can make money – the opposite in a lot of cases. We don’t have an unlimited budget, we are not a state company or a company that can afford each year to lose money. “We need to find the balance between what we spend and what we can achieve.” As he looks to extend his football empire, Marinakis has tempted Edu away from Arsenal. Edu is yet to be officially announced by Forest, but he is widely expected to become their new global director of football to oversee all Marinakis’ clubs. The former Brazil international left the Gunners after five years in November, having been sporting director since 2022 and technical director previously. He was at Wembley in April to watch Forest lose their FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City. Edu’s anticipated appointment is a signal of Marinakis’ intentions and desire to elevate Forest to another level, after buying them in May 2017 from Fawaz Al Hasawi. Forest had just avoided relegation to League One on goal difference, and Marinakis stated his ambition was a return to the top flight by saying the club “belongs to the elite of the Premier League”. They achieved Premier League status for the first time in 23 years by winning promotion under Steve Cooper in 2022. Source link #Evangelos #Marinakis #Controversial #Nottingham #Forest #owner #shipping #media #baron Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Harvey bowler wins gold medals in blind lawn bowls national championships Harvey bowler wins gold medals in blind lawn bowls national championships A South West lawn bowler has become a double national champion — winning two gold medals in the *********** Blind Bowlers Association national championships last week. Harvey Bowling Club’s Calvin Rodgers won both the singles and pairs competitions at the 44th National *********** Blind Bowlers Championships, held in Mandurah from May 2 to 4. With the help of his director Jason Scheutjens, club champion Rodgers took on other bowlers with vision impairment from across the country and added more trophies to his impressive career. Rodgers took up lawn bowls in 2021 when he lost his vision following a car accident. Since then, he has dominated the scene and has previously been named the Sports Star of the Year at the WA Disabled Sports Association’s annual awards. Camera IconHarvey Bowling Club’s Calvin Rodgers has been dominant in vision impaired lawn bowles, collecting a number of accolades. Credit: Luke McPherson Harvey Bowling Club president Edwin Bacich said Rodgers had been a valued member of the club for around 20 years. “Since his accident — which damaged his skull and vision — we introduced him to the club and he just took to it like a duck to water,” he said. “He’s a quick learner and slowly built himself up to not only a club champion, but a State champion. “The Harvey Bowling Club is chuffed at how much progress he’s made.” In the pairs competition, Rodgers teamed up with 91-year-old Jeanette Barrett from Edithvale Bowling Club in Victoria, and took out the national title. “They both partnered up and they just went berserk,” Bacich said. “Calvin deserves all the awards he goes for because they’re not an easy win.” Source link #Harvey #bowler #wins #gold #medals #blind #lawn #bowls #national #championships Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

First group of white South Africans arrives in US as refugees First group of white South Africans arrives in US as refugees The first group of white South Africans arrived in the United States on Monday, the State Department announced following the prioritization of the Afrikaner refugee resettlement program. A plane carrying 49 Afrikaners, who are a white ethnic ********* in South Africa, landed at Washington Dulles International Airport on Monday morning, The New York Times reported. Source link #group #white #South #Africans #arrives #refugees Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Human Torch Tech Just Lets You Spawn-Camp, Get Free Kills in Marvel Rivals Ranked Human Torch Tech Just Lets You Spawn-Camp, Get Free Kills in Marvel Rivals Ranked Being a hero shooter, Marvel Rivals has the problem of unbalanced heroes. Several new heroes have been added since the game’s initial release in December 2024, and it seems like one of them has emerged as quite overpowered because of this trick. As a part of the Season 1.5 update, Human Torch was added to the game in February 2025, and now, it seems like the hero will get a nerf soon. A clip is currently going viral on social media that showcases a spawn camp trick that allows Human Torch to wipe out players as soon as the round starts instantly. As exciting as it sounds, this trick might only work on low-ranked players. This Human Torch trick will get you free kills at the start of every round in Marvel Rivals A clip on YouTube is currently going viral that has put a spotlight on a Human Torch trick that most enemy players fall for. In the clip, the player uses the Blazing Blast ability to throw a fireball right outside the enemy players’ spawn door. As they all rushed out of the building, they started to receive damage, and exactly at that time, the player used Human Torch’s Flaming Meteor ability to wipe out the squad. This trick may only work once, as players will eventually realize that you are camping outside their spawn. Plus, in high-ranked matches, players don’t rush like this, so there’s a chance that players will wait for the fireball to end. Human Torch has received consistent buffs, so there is a possibility that NetEase will tone it down soon because of this trick. Another hero in Marvel Rivals desperately needs a nerf Marvel Rivals players think that Emma Frost’s abilities are broken, making it almost impossible to take her down (Image via NetEase Games) Many will agree that some heroes in Marvel Rivals are unbalanced, but there is one that desperately needs a nerf. Emma Frost was added to the game as part of the season 2 update and quickly became a fan favorite. However, players have realized over the past few weeks that it is difficult to fight Emma Frost because of her overpowered abilities. The spotlight is on her Diamond Form ability, which shifts her primary attack to melee attacks that inflict a lot of damage. Creating space between the hero and hitting her with long-range attacks is currently the only way to counter her ability. Many are hoping that she will get a nerf in the season 2.5 update, when Ultron finally joins the game. A balanced experience is necessary for NetEase right now, primarily because Marvel Rivals has been losing its player base at an alarming rate. The studio will have to shift its focus from fancy skins to player experience, as the game is still missing some core elements that make a hero shooter a good experience. Source link #Human #Torch #Tech #Lets #SpawnCamp #Free #Kills #Marvel #Rivals #Ranked Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

With immigration limits, the U.K. vows to end a 'failed experiment in open borders' – NPR With immigration limits, the U.K. vows to end a 'failed experiment in open borders' – NPR With immigration limits, the U.K. vows to end a ‘failed experiment in open borders’ NPRImmigration plans a ‘devastating blow’ – care boss BBCWhat are British PM Starmer’s new policies to curb net migration? ReutersU.K. toughens immigration requirements, including English language proficiency AxiosIn numbers: New immigration rules could make *** citizenship harder to attain than US or *********** The Independent Source link #immigration #limits #U.K #vows #039failed #experiment #open #borders039 #NPR Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

MH17: International Civil Aviation Organisation finds Russia responsible for downing Malaysia Airlines flight MH17: International Civil Aviation Organisation finds Russia responsible for downing Malaysia Airlines flight The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has issued a historic ruling, finding Russia responsible for downing Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 which killed 298 people, including Australians. MH17, scheduled to fly from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on 17 July 2014 was shot down by a surface-to-air missile while flying over eastern Ukraine. Of the 283 passengers and 15 crew, there were no survivors. “This is a historic moment in the pursuit of truth, justice and accountability for the victims of the downing of Flight MH17, and their families and loved ones,” Foreign Minister Penny Wong said. “The ICAO Council found that Russia breached the prohibition under international law on the use of weapons against civil aircraft in flight and is responsible for the loss of 298 innocent lives, including 38 who called Australia home.” Senator Wong said the Government “welcomes the ICAO Council’s decision”, highlighting that the “fundamental principle that weapons should not be used again civil aircraft” had been upheld, but the group to “move swiftly to determine remedies for this violation.” Camera IconSenator Penny Wong has called on Russia to ‘face up’ to responsibility for downing MH17. Credit: MICK TSIKAS/AAPIMAGE “We call upon Russia to finally face up to its responsibility for this horrific act of violence and make reparations for its egregious conduct, as required under international law.” Senator Wong offered the Government’s thoughts to those impacted by the tragedy,. “Our thoughts remain with those who lost their lives as a result of Russia’s actions, their families and loved ones,” she said. “While we cannot take away the grief of those left behind, we will continue to stand with them in that grief and pursue justice for this horrific act.” Source link #MH17 #International #Civil #Aviation #Organisation #finds #Russia #responsible #downing #Malaysia #Airlines #flight Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Helldivers 2 Player Who Acts as ‘Helldiver Radio’ Represents True Democracy Helldivers 2 Player Who Acts as ‘Helldiver Radio’ Represents True Democracy The chaos on the battlefields in Helldivers 2 is no less than an action movie. However, it lacks a proper soundtrack. The community likes to roleplay as Super Earth’s brave soldiers, but this one player likes to roleplay as “Helldiver Radio.” In a short clip shared on Reddit, a player revealed that they came across someone who likes to show off their elite music taste by playing songs for the squad via their mic. This has highlighted that Helldivers 2 lacks a proper soundtrack to boost players on the battlefield. Arrowhead Game Studios’ recent attempt to create anticipation among the fans didn’t exactly work out, but giving players an in-game radio would completely change things. This Helldivers 2 player acts as a “Helldiver Radio” in public lobbies Playing Helldivers 2 for a long time can become repetitive and boring, so one Helldivers 2 player decided to lighten up the mood by acting as a “Helldiver Radio” in public matches. This player’s efforts were showcased on the r/helldivers2 subreddit after the user Prudent-Positive-175 joined the player’s squad and said, “God bless this diver,” for their efforts. In the short clip, we can see that the player’s decision to pick Little Richard’s 1957 hit, Long Tall Sally (The Thing), was on point. The song perfectly complements the chaotic battlefields in the game. As the player explained, the song worked, as the squad completed many missions in less time and even kept the team invested in the game. User flipitninja added that some should start a “Helldivers radio” channel, preferably on Discord, where “only the host can speak and they just play music.” Gryphon1-1 was also impressed and called the Helldiver Radio an “unsung hero!.. AND the life of the party it seems!“ This post has convinced players that the game needs an in-game radio, similar to what players can find in Grand Theft Auto 5 and other open-world video games. It will certainly boost Helldivers’ performance on the battlefield. Arrowhead Game Studios has received hate for the newly announced Warbond The latest Warbond features some unique items, but it failed to impress many players (Image via Arrowhead Game Studios) Arrowhead has been working on plenty of new things, which include weapons, Stratagems, maps, enemies, and costumes. The studio has decided to release a new Warbond called Masters of Ceremony on May 15th, 2025, and the initial response to the announcement has been underwhelming. Players expected to see new, *******, and stronger Stratagems and weapons. However, players got something completely different: A Stratagem that allows players to plant a Super Earth flag anywhere, and a secondary melee weapon called R-2 Amendment. The rest of the content on Warbond is exciting, but it is just not enough to satisfy the players. The latest Warbond may be disappointing, but Arrowhead will undoubtedly learn from its mistakes to improve things in the future. Helldivers 2 has managed to become one of the most popular games in the world; in fact, Sony has decided to create a movie based on the franchise to popularise the series among a wider audience. Source link #Helldivers #Player #Acts #Helldiver #Radio #Represents #True #Democracy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Mass. police chief arrested for off-duty incident at home, officials say Mass. police chief arrested for off-duty incident at home, officials say A Massachusetts police chief has been placed on leave following his arrest on Saturday. According to Town Administrator Timothy Higgins, Lincoln Police Chief Sean Kennedy was arrested by Westwood Police for an off-duty incident at his home. Boston 25 News has reached out to Westwood authorities for details of his arrest. Kennedy was arraigned in Dedham District Court on Monday afternoon. “The Town takes any such allegations very seriously and, consistent with Town Policy, has placed the Chief on administrative leave,” Higgins wrote in a statement. The town says it will be conducting its own internal review of the matter. The Select Board will vote to appoint an Acting Police Chief on Monday night. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Source link #Mass #police #chief #arrested #offduty #incident #home #officials Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Officials Are Denied Access to Library of Congress After Trump Names New Boss – The New York Times Officials Are Denied Access to Library of Congress After Trump Names New Boss – The New York Times Officials Are Denied Access to Library of Congress After Trump Names New Boss The New York TimesTrump Is Trying to Take Control of Congress Through Its Library Rolling StoneThe President has named a new Acting Librarian of Congress. It’s his former defense lawyer. NPRTrump to Thune and Johnson: Tariffs and drug pricing policy would save ‘hundreds of millions’ of dollars PoliticoCarla Hayden’s firing at Library of Congress triggers investigation request Baltimore Sun Source link #Officials #Denied #Access #Library #Congress #Trump #Names #Boss #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]