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£3,000 rents cause fears for people living near Sizewell £3,000 rents cause fears for people living near Sizewell George King BBC News, Suffolk Reporting fromLeiston, SuffolkZoie O’Brien/BBC Linda Druce from Druce Estate & Letting Agents said Sizewell C was a reason for rent increasing in Leiston Residents fear being priced out of a Suffolk town due to the construction of a nuclear power plant, with the rent on some family homes doubling to more than £3,000 a month. The development of Sizewell C – which is under way and predicted to conclude by 2031 – will require a workforce of 7,900 people, with about two thirds moving from outside the area. Some people in Leiston, which is about three miles (5km) from the power station, have spoken out about the rise in rents, with one saying “landlords are cashing in”. Linda Druce, director and founder of Druce Estate & Letting Agents, said: “I have been in the area for 21 years now and this is the first time we have seen such a significant jump, particularly in rental prices.” Leiston, located between the more affluent coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold, had traditionally been viewed as a more affordable place to live. But one sales negotiator, who did not want to be named, said family homes in the area that were normally rented for £1,500 a month were now costing as much as £3,000. It is a claim which was corroborated by Ms Druce. “It is mainly because of Sizewell C contractors and those looking to be working here over the next year or two who are looking to rent,” she said. “The core of our clients are not likely to jump into wanting to get higher rents but we are seeing more people from out of the area who are buying buy-to-let properties. “And quite frankly the local people who own them are more than happy to sell to the highest and best bidder.” Hamilton Smith Estate Agents This home in Carr Avenue, Leiston, has a rental fee of £3,000 per month One of the family homes with a rent of £3,000 a month – a fee which includes bills and cleaning costs – is a three bedroom semi-detached property in Carr Avenue. The home, which is being let by Hamilton Smith estate agents, has two bathrooms and is described as being fully furnished and “beautifully presented”. Luke Vale Luke Vale, the owner of Hamilton Smith, said landlords were seeing “pound signs” Luke Vale, who owns Hamilton Smith, described the situation in the town as a “housing concern”. “Although that property is being marketed through us and to a particular set of cliental, we are still actively trying to look after our current clients,” he said. “We look after hundreds of properties in Leiston. I am having to deal with tenants who are terrified that their landlords are going to kick them out just so they can go down this route to make more money. “But that doesn’t factor in the number of landlords we have who do not want to increase their rent and are actually really good. “The problem is a lot of landlords see pound signs and then the floodgates open and so, at the moment, if I put a house up for ***** in Leiston, nine times out of 10 the viewing will be with someone who wants to buy it and rent it out per room.” Hamilton Smith Estate Agents The home is fully furnished and the £3,000 a month rate includes bills and cleaning costs Elsewhere in the town, another three-bedroom home is being advertised at a cost of £3,100 a month including bills, while a two-bedroom apartment is being let at a rate of £3,045 a month, including utility bills. The current cost of renting in the area has raised eyebrows, not least given the average rent in Leiston is £773, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Sizewell C said 2,400 of the workers at the new power station will be based on site, while 500 others will live at Pontins Pakefield, near Lowestoft. The remaining contractors, however, will have to move into local properties. Sizewell C said it worked closely with East Suffolk Council to ensure there was no negative impact on the local area. Sizewell C Sizewell C is being constructed near Leiston, in Suffolk Johnnie Wright/BBC Residents in Leiston are being offered money to take in Sizewell C workers It is not just landlords who could capitalise on the influx of workers heading into the area. Residents in Leiston who have spare rooms or spaces can apply to East Suffolk Council for a Sizewell C Housing Grant, which range from £3,000 to £7,000, as the authority looks to provide an additional 1,200 bed spaces during the construction. “[These] provide funding to help local people bring latent accommodation back into use or upgrade their spare rooms to rent for extra income at a time when the cost of living is still a real challenge for a lot of people,” said a Sizewell C spokesperson. Despite this, the suggestion Sizewell C could be driving up prices does not sit well with tenants who currently live in the area. ‘Money talks’ Louise Smith, 54, said it was “unfair” local people might no longer be able to afford to live in Leiston “because of Sizewell”. She added: “The rents will go up and up and up because everyone is jumping on the bandwagon and the landlords are cashing in on it. “They can just pick a figure out of the air and demand what they like because Mr Bloggs over there can pay that and Mr Smith over there can’t. “It’s a shame but money talks.” George King/BBC Wenge Yuan, 58, from Leiston, said his landlord told him he planned to increase the cost of rent “significantly” once he moved out According to the ONS, 79.1% of people in East Suffolk are in paid work or have a job, with the average weekly wage being £604, which equates to a £29,596 salary for someone who works 49 weeks in a year. Wenge Yuan, 58, has lived in Leiston for over three years and is one of those who is concerned about the rent increases. He said: “When we leave, our landlord has told us he will rise the price significantly because the environment has changed. “There are a lot more workers coming here and the market is going up and getting hot. “It’s not good news for the people who need to rent and it is going to get more challenging to live here.” Johnnie Wright/BBC Leiston High Street, which is home to the town’s famous film theatre George King/BBC Leiston resident Steven Grant said the increase in rental prices was a “nightmare” John Steven, 72, said he moved into a flat in Leiston in 2019 but had to leave when his landlord sold the property. “When I moved here my rent was £625 a month but now that same flat is being rented out with bills for at least £1,500, and I believe that is because of Sizewell,” he said. “I know of a lady on her own who wants to find somewhere in Leiston but it is just impossible and the rates are going right up. “It’s not fair on the people who live here and if anyone wanted to come to Leiston it would be impossible to make a life here – I couldn’t afford what they are charging. “Those who don’t work for Sizewell are being farmed out of the area. If my landlord decided to sell, I haven’t got a clue where I would go.” Steven Grant, 60, said: “We do need nuclear power but unfortunately the rents are going up in this area and it is going to be a nightmare. “You haven’t got a chance now so you might as well give up and just deal with it. What are you going to do? It’s done.” Getty Images Leiston’s Long Shop Museum is one of the main draws for visitors to the Suffolk town Leiston is known for once being a thriving manufacturing town, and the highly acclaimed Long Shop Museum and the town’s film theatre are two of the draws for visitors. Sizewell C, which is partly funded by EDF, will support up to 70,000 jobs and provide energy for about six million homes for 60 years, it said. In December, Sizewell C, in which the government has an 85% stake, also launched 35 new apprenticeships – the first of nearly 100 new early careers roles that will eventually become available on the project. Those behind the site said they were working “closely with the housing team at East Suffolk Council” to ensure “there’s no negative impacts” on the private housing sector and to the local area, including to the 5,508 people who live in Leiston. This included both parties signing a Deed of Obligation and an Accommodation Working Group being formed to oversee the impacts of the workforce on the local housing market from now until the end of the construction *******. A spokesperson from East Suffolk Council added: “We recognise this has the potential to impact on local residents. “While we have limited control over individual rents charged by private landlords, we will continue to work with Sizewell C, Suffolk County Council and the wider community to mitigate impacts.” Source link #rents #fears #people #living #Sizewell Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Deputy PM Richard Marles on ‘disconcerting circumstances’ of ******** warships undertaking live fire testing Deputy PM Richard Marles on ‘disconcerting circumstances’ of ******** warships undertaking live fire testing Deputy PM Richard Marles says China is yet to give a satisfactory answer to one key question about its warships’ live fire testing off *********** waters. Source link #Deputy #Richard #Marles #disconcerting #circumstances #******** #warships #undertaking #live #fire #testing Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump fires chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Trump fires chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump abruptly fired Air Force Gen. CQ Brown Jr. as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Friday, sidelining a history-making fighter pilot and respected officer as part of a campaign to rid the military of leaders who support diversity and equity in the ranks. The ouster of Brown, only the second ****** general to serve as chairman, is sure to send shock waves through the Pentagon. His 16 months in the job had been consumed with the war in Ukraine and the expanded conflict in the Middle East. “I want to thank General Charles ‘CQ’ Brown for his over 40 years of service to our country, including as our current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is a fine gentleman and an outstanding leader, and I wish a great future for him and his family,” Trump posted on social media. Trusted news and daily delights, right in your inbox See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. Trump says he is nominating Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine to be the next chairman. Caine is a career F-16 pilot who served on active duty and in the National Guard, and had most recently served as the associate director for military affairs at the CIA, according to his official military biography. Caine’s military service includes combat roles in Iraq, special operations postings and positions inside some of the Pentagon’s most classified special access programs. However, it does not include key assignments that were identified in law as prerequisites for the job, with an exemption for the president to waive them if necessary in times of national interest. The 1986 Goldwater-Nichols Act states that to be qualified, a chairman must have served previously as either the vice chairman, as a combatant commander or a service chief — but that requirement could be waived if the “president determines such action is necessary in the national interest.” The role of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs was established in 1949 as an adviser to the president and secretary of defense, as a way to filter all of the views of the service chiefs and more readily provide that information to the White House without the president having to reach out to each individual military branch, according to an Atlantic Council briefing written by retired Maj. Gen. Arnold Punaro. The role has no actual command authority. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a statement praising both Caine and Brown, announced the firings of two additional senior officers: Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Jim Slife. Brown had spent Friday at the U.S.-Mexico border, assessing the military’s rapid buildup of forces to meet Trump’s executive order on countering ******** immigration. Trump acted despite support for Brown among key members of Congress and a seemingly friendly meeting with him in mid-December, when the two were seated next to each other for a time at the Army-Navy football game. Brown had been meeting regularly with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who took over the top Pentagon job just four weeks ago. But Brown’s future was called into question during the Senate Armed Services Committee’s confirmation hearing for Hegseth last month. Asked if he would fire Brown, Hegseth responded bluntly, “Every single senior officer will be reviewed based on meritocracy, standards, lethality and commitment to lawful orders they will be given.” Hegseth has embraced Trump’s effort to end programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the ranks and fire those who reflect those values. Hegseth had previously taken aim at Brown. “First of all, you gotta fire, you know, you gotta fire the chairman of Joint Chiefs,” he said flatly in a podcast in November. And in one of his books, he questioned whether Brown got the job because he was ******. “Was it because of his skin color? Or his skill? We’ll never know, but always doubt — which on its face seems unfair to CQ. But since he has made the race card one of his biggest calling cards, it doesn’t really much matter,” Hegseth wrote. As he walked into the Pentagon on his first day as defense chief on Jan. 27, however, Hegseth was asked directly if he planned to fire Brown. “I’m standing with him right now,” said Hegseth, patting Brown on the back as they headed into the building. “Look forward to working with him.” In his second term, Trump has asserted his executive authority in a much stronger way and removed most carryover officials from President Joe Biden’s term, even though in typical transitions, many of those positions are meant to carry over independently from one administration to the next. Just prior to his Senate confirmation vote in June 2020 to become chief of the Air Force, Brown gained some attention when he spoke out on the police killing of George Floyd the month before. While he knew it was risky, he said, discussions with his wife and sons about the killing convinced him he needed to say something. As protests roiled the nation, Brown posted a video message to the Air Force titled, “Here’s What I’m Thinking About.” He described the pressures that came with being one of the few ****** men in his unit. He recalled pushing himself “to perform error-free” as a pilot and officer his whole life, but still facing bias. He said he’d been questioned about his credentials, even when he wore the same flight suit and wings as every other pilot. As chairman, he pushed the same campaign he had when leading the Air Force — that the Pentagon must accelerate its ability to change or it would lose future wars. Prior to leading the Air Force, Brown had served as the top air power leader in the Indo-Pacific. He had repeatedly warned that U.S. warplanes had to change the way they would fight, by moving them from large, vulnerable bases and shifting to a format where drone swarms and small dispersed units would be able to independently counter threats from the thousands of islands throughout the Pacific. “I’m thinking about my mentors, and how I rarely had a mentor that looked like me,” Brown said in the video. “I’m thinking about how my nomination provides some hope, but also comes with a heavy burden — I can’t fix centuries of racism in our country, nor can I fix decades of discrimination that may have impacted members of our Air Force.” Brown was overwhelmingly confirmed by the Senate with a vote of 98-0. Not long afterward, his name began to surface as the likely successor to Gen. Mark Milley, who was set to retire as chairman. Brown’s path to the chairmanship was troubled — he was among the more than 260 senior military officers whose nominations were stalled for months by Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama. Tuberville caused ire in the Senate and organizational juggling in the Pentagon when he blocked the confirmations in protest over a department policy that paid for travel when a service member had to go out of state to get an abortion or other reproductive care. But when the Senate vote was finally taken in September 2023, Brown easily was confirmed by a vote of 89-8. It had been 30 years since Colin Powell became the first ****** chairman, serving from 1989 to 1993. But while African Americans made up 17.2% of the 1.3 million active-duty service members, only 9% of officers were ******, according to a 2021 Defense Department report. Brown’s service as chairman made history in that this was the first time that both the defense secretary, Lloyd Austin, and the Joint Chiefs chairman were ******. Source link #Trump #fires #chairman #Joint #Chiefs #Staff Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

San Francisco community groups sue Trump over anti-trans executive orders – Axios San Francisco community groups sue Trump over anti-trans executive orders – Axios San Francisco community groups sue Trump over anti-trans executive orders AxiosJudge temporarily blocks Trump administration from carrying out certain anti-DEI directives CNN Source link #San #Francisco #community #groups #sue #Trump #antitrans #executive #orders #Axios Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

IRS employee among those fired by Trump during tax season speaks out IRS employee among those fired by Trump during tax season speaks out IRS employee among those fired by Trump during tax season speaks out – CBS News Watch CBS News President Trump is eliminating more than 6,700 at the Internal Revenue Service at the height of tax season. Nancy Cordes looks at the impact of the cuts on the workers and Americans who depend on them. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #IRS #employee #among #fired #Trump #tax #season #speaks Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Carts, catwalk and carnival: Photos of the week Carts, catwalk and carnival: Photos of the week 8 minutes ago A selection of news photographs from around the world. Gleb Garanich/Reuters Tracers light the night sky above Kyiv as Ukrainian forces fire at Russian drones amid a Russian attack on Ukraine. Matthew Hatcher/Reuters Onlookers watch as SS United States, a retired American ocean liner that was built during 1950 and 1951 for United States Lines, is towed out to sea on the Delaware River. The ship is on her way to Alabama where she is due to be sunk to create an artificial reef in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Tchandrou Nitanga/AFP A Congolese refugee family displaced by ongoing clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo arrive at the Rugombo refugee camp in Burundi. Tolga Akzent/EPA-EFE A huge sinkhole that opened in the middle of a Surrey village may prevent people from returning home for months. The first hole appeared late on Monday night when a water pipe burst, growing to at least 65ft (20m) long by Tuesday lunchtime. Henry Nicholls/AFP Former British Formula 1 racing drivers Damon Hill (left) and Nigel Mansell greet each other at the F1 season launch event, F1 75 Live, at the O2 in London. Ana Beltran/Reuters People enjoy the almond trees which are now in bloom at Quinta de los Molinos park in Madrid, Spain. Claudia Greco/Reuters A masked reveller takes part in the Venice carnival in St Mark’s Square, Italy. Isabel Infantes/Reuters Designer Paul Costelloe showcased his latest collection at his catwalk show during London Fashion Week. Jewel Samad/AFP Bangladesh’s Jaker Ali (right) celebrates with teammate Towhid Hridoy after scoring a half-century during the ICC Champions Trophy one-day international cricket match against India at the Dubai International Stadium. ***** Chhin Sothy/AFP A man transport ox carts along a street in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Photography Source link #Carts #catwalk #carnival #Photos #week Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Could Elon Musk benefit from DOGE cuts at consumer protection watchdog? Could Elon Musk benefit from DOGE cuts at consumer protection watchdog? Could Elon Musk benefit from DOGE cuts at consumer protection watchdog? – CBS News Watch CBS News Earlier this month, President Trump fired Rohit Chopra, director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Lesley Stahl has more on the agency and the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle it. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Elon #Musk #benefit #DOGE #cuts #consumer #protection #watchdog Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump fires chairman of US Joint Chiefs of Staff Trump fires chairman of US Joint Chiefs of Staff US President Donald Trump has fired the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General CQ Brown, and announced he will replace five other high level positions in an unprecedented shake-up of military leadership. Trump, in a post on Truth Socia on Fridayl, said he would nominate retired Lieutenant General Dan “Razin” Caine to succeed Brown. A former F-16 pilot, Caine was the most recently associate director of military affairs for the Central Intelligence Agency. Trump will also replace the head of the US Navy, a position held by Admiral Lisa Franchetti, as well as the air force vice chief of staff and judge advocates general for the Army, Navy and Air Force, the Pentagon said. The decision sets off a ******* of upheaval at the Pentagon, which is already bracing for firings of civilian staff, a dramatic overhaul of its budget and a shift in US military deployments under Trump’s new America First foreign policy. While the Pentagon’s civilian leadership changes from one administration to the next, the uniformed members of US armed forces are apolitical, serving the policies of Democratic and Republican administrations. Brown, who became the highest ranking military officer in October 2023, had been expected to serve through September 2027. Trump did not explain his decision to replace Brown or say whether he would remain in the job until his successor is confirmed by the Senate. “I want to thank General Charles ‘CQ’ Brown for his over 40 years of service to our country, including as our current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is a fine gentleman and an outstanding leader, and I wish a great future for him and his family,” Trump wrote. Reuters was first to report planning by the incoming Trump administration in November to carry out the sweeping firings, including Brown. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had been sceptical of Brown before taking the helm of the Defence Department with a broad agenda that includes eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in the military. In his most recent book, Hegseth asked whether Brown would have gotten the job if he were not ******. Brown, a former fighter pilot who was only the second ****** officer to become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, recounted his experiences in an emotional video posted online after the 2020 killing of George Floyd. He was on official travel when Trump made the announcement. Hours before Trump’s post, Brown’s official X account had posted images of him meeting troops on the US border with Mexico. “Border Security has always been critical to the defence of our homeland. As we navigate unprecedented security challenges… we will ensure our troops at the border have everything they need,” he said in a post on X. A spokesperson for Brown did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Source link #Trump #fires #chairman #Joint #Chiefs #Staff Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Changes coming to FBI under Kash Patel’s leadership Changes coming to FBI under Kash Patel’s leadership Changes coming to FBI under Kash Patel’s leadership – CBS News Watch CBS News Kash Patel was sworn in as the controversial new FBI director under President Trump. Scott MacFarlane breaks down the changes coming for the department. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #coming #FBI #Kash #Patels #leadership Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Ector County Felony Dispositions & Indictments: February 21, 2025 Ector County Felony Dispositions & Indictments: February 21, 2025 Feb. 21—The following is a list of recent first and second-degree felony dispositions from the Ector County District Clerk’s Office. Gregory Brooks. Possession of a controlled substance. Guilty plea. Three years Texas Department of Corrections. Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled substance. Dismissed. Braylin Bryant. Aggravated assault. Dismissed. Pleaded guilty to terrorist threat. 18 months deferred adjudication. Christian Flores. Aggravated ******* assault of a child. Dismissed. Unable to locate victim. Wesley Sims. Manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance. Assault. Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. Guilty plea. Eight years Texas Department of Corrections. The following is a list of recent first and second-degree felony indictments from the Ector County District Clerk’s Office. Marcelo Bernal. Aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury. William Steven Haynes. Manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance. Invieus Hernandez. Robbery. Marlena Jalessa Ortega. Theft of property over $300,000. Edgar Sanchez. Possession of a controlled substance. Victor Suchil. Online solicitation of a minor/******* conduct. Mario Valenzuela. Assault on a peace officer. Source link #Ector #County #Felony #Dispositions #Indictments #February Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Why Republicans are at odds about how to fund the government Why Republicans are at odds about how to fund the government Why Republicans are at odds about how to fund the government – CBS News Watch CBS News The Republican-controlled Senate adopted a $340 billion budget blueprint. Next week, the GOP-led House will advance its own proposal. There are some differences in strategy, and President Trump prefers the House approach. Caitlin Huey-Burns explains. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Republicans #odds #fund #government Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Ukraine is close to signing rare earth minerals deal with U.S., White House official says Ukraine is close to signing rare earth minerals deal with U.S., White House official says Ukraine is close to signing rare earth minerals deal with U.S., White House official says – CBS News Watch CBS News Beneath the battle-scarred fields of Ukraine lies a hidden treasure — rare earth minerals used to power the world’s most advanced technologies. White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz said Ukraine is close to signing a deal giving the United States access to these scarce resources. Axios senior political reporter Marc Caputo joins to discuss. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Ukraine #close #signing #rare #earth #minerals #deal #U.S #White #House #official Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Statement on General Officer Nominations – Department of Defense Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Statement on General Officer Nominations – Department of Defense Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Statement on General Officer Nominations Department of DefensePresident Donald Trump fires the top US general CNNTrump Fires Joint Chiefs Chairman Amid Turmoil at Pentagon The New York TimesTrump pushes out top US general in major shakeup of military leadership The Times of IsraelTrump says he is replacing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff The Washington Post Source link #Secretary #Defense #Pete #Hegseth #Statement #General #Officer #Nominations #Department #Defense Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Menendez brothers case: DA asks court to deny their petition for new trial – ABC News Menendez brothers case: DA asks court to deny their petition for new trial – ABC News Menendez brothers case: DA asks court to deny their petition for new trial ABC NewsNew Los Angeles DA Nathan Hochman does not support overturning Menendez brothers’ ******* convictions Fox NewsNew DA casts doubt on Menendez brothers’ story, limiting their paths to freedom KTLA Los Angeles Source link #Menendez #brothers #case #asks #court #deny #petition #trial #ABC #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Nottingham stabbing: ‘My nephew killed my brother Nottingham stabbing: ‘My nephew killed my brother Liam Barnes BBC News, Nottingham Rob Sissons BBC News, East Midlands BBC Delvin Marriott said the family tried to get help for his nephew Rudi, before he fatally attacked his father Brenton The brother of a man stabbed to death by his mentally ill son has said health services and the police failed his family. Brenton Marriott died in hospital after being stabbed by Rudi Marriott in Cloister Street, Nottingham, on 5 August 2022. Rudi, who has paranoid schizophrenia, was sentenced to a hospital order last April after being found guilty of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility, but Delvin Marriott said the family tried to get him help years before the attack. With the recent announcement of a judge-led public inquiry into the Nottingham attacks – which happened less than a year later – Delvin said he wanted to make sure nobody else goes through the same trauma. ‘Personality changed’ In his first full interview since Brenton’s death, Delvin said Rudi had a very close relationship with his father, who worked for the Red Cross, after he looked after his mother and was a much-appreciated part of the family. “Rudi was a part of a loving family, and he was an adorable person,” he said. “Even when my mum lost the use of her legs, Rudi would be there helping us and supporting us.” He said Rudi’s mental health worsened after he suffered severe head injuries in a street attack about 10 years ago, which led to weeks in hospital. “He was badly battered, he had a dog set on him, and at that point Rudi’s personality changed,” he said. “He couldn’t really talk or function at all [in hospital], but once he started to be able to talk a bit, he was complaining [about] his head, saying his head didn’t feel right. “Then he was complaining he was hearing voices in his head.” Supplied Delvin said Rudi (right) had a “very close” relationship with his father (left) Delvin claimed Rudi’s report of hearing voices “wasn’t taken seriously” when he was in hospital, with his condition still difficult after he was back at home. “He was definitely a lot more aggravated, a lot more temperamental, very edgy,” he said. “Sometimes he didn’t want to speak, [and] just showing signs that things weren’t right with him. “We just worked on him to try and get him calm – we tried to get him help.” Brenton and his brother rallied round to try and support Rudi, who also approached mental health services to try and get support. “He [Rudi] sat at the hospital waiting to be seen – 13 hours on one occasion, five hours on the next – he was trying himself to get help through the system,” Delvin said. “He knew something was wrong, but again nothing came from it. “He didn’t get any help, he was never seen at the hospital, and we just carried on trying to help him.” Delvin said the loss of his brother Brenton was still felt in the community After a ******* of better health when he was living with his then-partner, Rudi’s condition deteriorated again in 2018, when he started saying he had a microchip in his head and was stabbing the walls at home. Delvin said the family had been in touch with Nottinghamshire Police over their worries, including after an incident in 2019 when officers attended alongside a mental health nurse, who decided Rudi did not need to be sectioned. “I thought at that point something was going to be done,” he said. “It was explained to them about his circumstances, about how he was not in control of his thoughts and he’s very delusional, and we thought that this was going to be OK, but they thought that Rudi was no harm to himself and no harm to the public.” Delvin said the response from the authorities left the family feeling “totally isolated” and with “nowhere to go” as their fears mounted. Rudi’s mental health problems continued, and in August 2022 he stabbed his father 75 times. “That could have been me that was attacked – Rudi didn’t know what he was doing,” Delvin said. “He was just very delusional, because he believed whatever was going on in his head. No matter what you said to him about reality, it had no effect. “By that point the services were saying ‘well, he’s an adult, he needs to come in himself’, [but] at that point it’s too late, they’ve missed the opportunity.” ‘Hard to comprehend’ Delvin said he still felt the pain of the loss of his brother, who he said was “more or less a superhero” for the way he looked after Rudi. Despite the pain, he says he forgives his nephew for the “devastating” attack, and had been to see him in hospital. “It’s just a tragic, terrible, horrific event,” he said. “I love my nephew, but he took my brother’s life. “I’ve forgiven him, but it’s such a turmoil of emotions that it’s so hard to comprehend.” Delvin also pointed to the Nottingham attacks, in which Valdo Calocane – who also has paranoid schizophrenia – killed three people, and said they “might not have happened” had the authorities listened to his family. “My heart sank when I heard about the Nottingham attacks, because I just thought ‘here we go again’,” he said. “They [Rudi and Calocane] both had mental health conditions, and it wasn’t taken as seriously as it could have been.” Supplied Brenton was described as “more or less a superhero” by his brother A domestic ********* review into Brenton’s death began on 9 January 2023, and will cover contact with Rudi and the family from August 2019 until the death. The panel conducting the review is set to complete its work this year, and a “summary of learning” is due to be published after the document has been reviewed by the Home Office. Delvin hopes it will bring about the changes needed to stop similar incidents happening again. “We don’t want Brent’s passing to be in vain,” he said. “This is something that could happen to any family. “Even since this attack, quite a few people have come to see me and spoken about their own circumstances, which are very similar. “This is not a one-off, this is something that could happen with anybody, and it’s something that is still happening.” Nottinghamshire Police said it would not comment while the ********* review was still taking place. Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, which was heavily criticised following a major review into the care it gave Valdo Calocane, said “any loss of life in such circumstances is an absolute tragedy”. Chief executive Ifti Majid added: “On behalf of the trust I again offer my sincerest condolences to Brenton’s family and friends. “We are unable to comment further whilst the domestic ********* review is taking place.” Source link #Nottingham #stabbing #nephew #killed #brother Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Charizard-Shaped Cheeto Is Up For Auction, And Already At An Astounding Price Charizard-Shaped Cheeto Is Up For Auction, And Already At An Astounding Price Pokemon fans are known to be passionate, especially as Pokemania nears its 30th anniversary in 2026. Sometimes, fans are even willing to pay shockingly high prices for unofficial Pokemon items, including–of all things–a Flamin’ Hot Cheeto that bears more than a little resemblance to Charizard. “Cheetozard” recently went up for auction, and the highest bid has already cleared four figures. Via Polygon, this Charizard-shaped Cheeto is currently available to anyone with a large amount of expendable income on Goldin auctions. At press time, the highest bid is $2,100, and there are still eight more days before the auction comes to a close. According to the auction description, Cheetozard was “discovered and preserved sometime between 2018-2022 by 1st & Goal Collectibles.” It comes with a custom-made Cheetozard card inside of a clear storage box. It’s a very amusing novelty item, but probably not for everyone. Next week, The Pokemon Company will be hosting a Pokemon Presents Livestream, and fans have already speculated that the franchise’s next Switch title, Pokemon Legends Z-A, will be featured. Meanwhile, Pokemon Go developer Niantic is reportedly in negotiations to sell its gaming division to Saudi Arabia’s Scopely. This weekend, the Pokemon Go Unova Tour – Los Angeles event is being held in Pasadena, CA. Prior to the start of that event, The Pokemon Company and Niantic pledged a collective donation of $1 million for Los Angeles wildfire relief. Source link #CharizardShaped #Cheeto #Auction #Astounding #Price Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Iago Aspas hot from the spot again for Celta Vigo Iago Aspas hot from the spot again for Celta Vigo Iago Aspas scored his second penalty in a week as Celta Vigo beat Osasuna 1-0 at home to rise five places in La Liga. There was not a lot between the teams but the 68th-minute goal from Celta’s talismanic forward continued the club’s fine home form. Four minutes after coming on as a substitute he dispatched his penalty. Celta have lost just three of their 14 home games since August. Only Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid have won more times at home this season. The victory lifted them above Osasuna and into ninth place. Both clubs have 32 points but have played a game more than the teams around them. “The mistake cost us the penalty,” Osasuna midfielder Jon Moncayola said. “We’re conceding goals in every game and if we want to start looking to go up the table then we have to concede fewer.” Source link #Iago #Aspas #hot #spot #Celta #Vigo Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Luigi Mangione’s ardent fans fill NYC streets to cheer suspected killer Luigi Mangione’s ardent fans fill NYC streets to cheer suspected killer Plush toys of Luigi Mario, supporters wearing the video game character’s distinctive green, and pins boasting the face of alleged ********* Luigi Mangione were ubiquitous outside the New York criminal courthouse where the 26-year-old accused of gunning down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson appeared for a pretrial hearing. “We the people want Luigi free!” the crowd chanted outside the courthouse in downtown Manhattan. The chants could be heard from the 15th floor of the building, where Mangione appeared in leg and arm shackles and a bulletproof vest that covered a dark green sweater. Demonstrators held up signs that read “Luigi before fascists” and “for-profit healthcare is *******.” Most tiptoed around directly saying they supported Mangione’s alleged actions, but made it clear they supported his legal fight and understood what drove him to allegedly gun down the healthcare executive on December 4. Mangione appears for a pretrial hearing in New York wearing a green sweater covered by a bulletproof vest (AP) “I think what happened was inevitable given the amount of tension” between Americans and the healthcare industry, one New Yorker said. One person who traveled three hours from Maryland just to see the reaction to the hearing remarked on this tension: “Something’s gotta give and that something was Luigi Mangione …. he’s a go-getter.” Another protester, who flew in from Chicago to show solidarity, said: “I think major changes are needed in insurance.” Thompson’s killing “brought a spotlight and a charge to take action against wrongdoing by corporate entities milking as much as they can from normal people.” She waited in line for seven hours to get inside the courtroom — but wasn’t successful. ‘Luigi before fascists,’ reads a sign held up by a protester wearing a green hat and a jacket with a heart on the back with the name Luigi inside (Kelly Rissman / The Independent) Some were more explicit in their support for Mangione, the Ivy League graduate accused of 11 criminal counts in New York, including ******* as an act of terrorism, in connection with the December 4 killing. He has pleaded not guilty to the state charges and faces a maximum of life in prison without parole if convicted. “I’m doing this for Luigi — he needs to be acquitted. And I want to draw attention to the healthcare crisis,” said a protester who gave their name as Church and who was injured in a car accident two years ago but struggled to find a treatment that was covered by insurance. “We’re all one major illness away from bankruptcy and/or serious physical danger.” A Stars and Stripes featuring Mangione’s image is held up outside the court (AFP via Getty Images) Some people doled out stickers of Mangione depicted as Jesus Christ. Others held up signs that read “Luigi before fascists.” But many others were more cautious about explicitly supporting what Mangione allegedly did. One Brooklynite refused to comment on whether she agreed with what Mangione is accused of doing, but added: “I don’t condone for people to be going out murdering people on the street but that CEO was just as much of a ********* as the healthcare CEO killer is,” referring to health care companies’ policies and claim denial rates. Thompson was not accused of any crime – in fact, among the tributes to the father-of-two, he was hailed for “his impactful presence and genuine care for people” and as “a charismatic and intelligent leader” whose “kindness, quick wit and deep loyalty that truly earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues.” Brian Thompson, the man Mangione is accused of murdering on a sidewalk in New York City. He was hailed after his death for his ‘kindness, quick wit and deep loyalty that truly earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues’ (AP) “I’d say that’s a super touchy topic,” Malcolm, from upstate New York, said. “I don’t condone violence but I do back the message that he [allegedly] gave.” Inside the courtroom, Karen Friedman Agnifilo raised a number of concerns regarding her client, including that he is being “treated differently than other defendants” by being held in federal custody rather than state custody despite the state case coming first. Judge Gregory Carro told her he has “no problem remanding him here.” New York prosecutors indicted Mangione but federal prosecutors are holding him on a complaint. At the federal level, Mangione faces ******* and stalking charges while in Pennsylvania, he faces firearm-related violations and other counts. He has yet to make pleas in those venues. Demonstrators hand out stickers featuring Mangione depicted as Jesus Christ (The Independent) She also argued that his defense team hasn’t received the “ bulk of the discovery.” She told Judge Carro: “By defending ourselves in state court, we are potentially providing fodder for the federal case and vice versa. It’s critical we receive everything, especially the police work that was done there.” She noted that federal prosecutors are still deciding whether they will seek the death penalty. The attorney also took aim at Mayor Eric Adams and other New York officials, claiming they appeared in a documentary before they shared some details with her team. She added: “We have never been provided copies of the journal, which is being called a manifesto.” Agnifilo also raised concerns about Magnione’s arrest in Altoona, Pennsylvania. “We think our client’s constitutional rights were violated in Pennsylvania,” regarding search and seizure, she said. The hearing comes one week after Mangione issued his first public statement since his arrest, remarking on the outpouring of support he’s received: “I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support. Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe.” Church, wearing a green face mask, stands across from New York Criminal Court holding up a sign that reads: ‘Healthcare reform now! We are dying’ (The Independent) Earlier this month, his attorney issued a statement announcing his defense team would be accepting the mounds of donations that have poured in to a GiveSendGo fundraiser launched by the December 4 Legal Committee. Agnifilo said on February 4: “Luigi is aware of the fund and very much appreciates the outpouring of support. My client plans on utilizing it to fight all three of the unprecedented cases against him.” As of Friday morning, the fundraiser has garnered more than $500,000. The support for Mangione’s defense isn’t all too surprising given the wide range of reactions in the wake of the December 4 killing. The insurance executive’s death sparked a nationwide conversation about the state of healthcare in the U.S. While some denounced the brutal act, some celebrated the 50-year-old’s *******, writing folk songs about the incident, sending Mangione fan mail, and selling “Free Luigi” merchandise. The incident drew national attention almost instantly as Thompson’s ******* suspect evaded police for days. Authorities released photo after photo of the suspect, asking the public to help locate him and mapping out his suspected whereabouts in the process. Protesters holding up Luigi plush toys and signs calling for healthcare reform packed outside of New York Criminal Court, where Mangione made an appearance at a pretrial hearing (The Independent) For days, police searched Central Park for any clues as he was believed to have fled the Midtown ******* scene, biked from the east side of the park to the west, then caught a cab to a bus terminal uptown, where he left the city. A McDonald’s employee in Altoona, Pennsylvania recognized Mangione — sitting in the fast food joint eating hash browns — from the circulated photos, and tipped off police. The 26-year-old was arrested on December 9. The next day, he appeared at the Blair County Courthouse for an extradition hearing, where he yelled: “It’s completely out of touch and an insult to the intelligence of the American people and their lived experience.” He was then taken to New York on December 19 after waiving his right to an extradition hearing over ******* charges in the state. At his December 23 arraignment in New York, his attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo, referring to federal charges against her client, told the court the “warring jurisdictions” had turned Mangione into a “human ping-pong ball.” He is being held at a federal detention facility in Brooklyn as he awaits trial. Source link #Luigi #Mangiones #ardent #fans #fill #NYC #streets #cheer #suspected #killer Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump fires chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff – The Associated Press Trump fires chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff – The Associated Press Trump fires chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff The Associated PressPresident Donald Trump fires the top US general CNNTrump Fires Joint Chiefs Chairman Amid Turmoil at Pentagon The New York TimesTrump pushes out top US general in major shakeup of military leadership The Times of IsraelTrump says he is replacing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff The Washington Post Source link #Trump #fires #chairman #Joint #Chiefs #Staff #Press Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Ofgem demand action from energy firms over back billing Ofgem demand action from energy firms over back billing Electricity and gas suppliers have been warned they will be fined if they continue to send out bills to customers for money they have no right to collect. The energy regulator Ofgem told BBC’s Money Box that it is writing to chief executives demanding to know how many people have been sent “back bills”. Back billing is when customers receive new bills for energy used longer than 12 months before – a practice that was banned seven years ago. A senior boss at Ofgem, Tim Jarvis, told the BBC he was shocked and disappointed after hearing some of the cases the BBC has investigated. Despite being banned in 2018, back billing is still happening to thousands, if not tens of thousands, of people. Suppliers have apologised but say tens of millions of bills are sent out each month. Earlier this week Energy Secretary Ed Miliband wrote to the regulator urging it to “challenge unlawful back billing”. Mr Jarvis said he has now written to the chief executives of the big energy suppliers demanding they find out the true scale of the problem, adding that the regulator will not hesitate to fine any company found to be systematically breaking the rules. Citizens Advice received 47,000 complaints about billing in general in 2023, rising to nearly 60,000 in 2024. Source link #Ofgem #demand #action #energy #firms #billing Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Reims’ woeful February continues with another defeat Reims’ woeful February continues with another defeat Rennes have beaten Reims 1-0 at home in a lacklustre Ligue 1 match that was decided in the first 10 minutes with a red card and a goal. Reims found themselves a man down after just three minutes when Cedric Kipre was shown a straight red for a horrible stamp on Welsh midfielder Jordan James. Proceedings then got worse very quickly for the visitors when the referee awarded a penalty against them for handball. Arnaud Kalimuendo made no mistake from the spot with his 11th goal in 22 league appearances. Although the home side looked more likely to score there was little goalmouth action thereafter, even after Reims went down to nine men in the final minutes when Hafiz Ibrahim was shown a second yellow card. The result left Reims without a win in 12 league games, a run that stretches back to November 10. They have lost all four games so far in February and sit in 14th place in Ligue 1, four points above the relegation zone. Rennes climbed two places to 11th. Source link #Reims #woeful #February #continues #defeat Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

I’m an ex-flight attendant — these are the uncomfortable truths airlines don’t tell you I’m an ex-flight attendant — these are the uncomfortable truths airlines don’t tell you The “friendly skies” are a playground for bad guys, so says a mile high know-it-all. Keeping your eyes on your prized possessions is a worthwhile effort while at 30,000 feet, according to a former flight attendant. She warns that pick-pocketing passengers are often onboard and on the lookout for loot. “Flying is often seen as a safe and organized experience, but the reality is that there are many things passengers don’t know,” Barbara Bacilleri, 31, a travel influencer from Argentina, told JamPress. “Things that can turn a flight into an uncomfortable or even dangerous situation.” Ex-flight attendant Barbara Bacilleri says airline passengers often rob other passengers of their valuables and costly belongings. Jam Press/@barbiebac As if flying hasn’t become scary enough in recent months. “While you’re sleeping or distracted, someone could be rummaging through the overhead bins, stealing from suitcases without anyone noticing,” continued Bacilleri. “Others take advantage of bags placed under the seat, quickly slipping out valuables without drawing attention.” “Some thieves even purchase tickets just to board a plane and steal,” said the blond. And she’s not just blowing hot air. There have been a number of in-flight robberies carried out by cons who’ve pocketed thousands of dollars from unsuspecting flyers. Jam Press/@barbiebac Unfortunately, passenger-on-passenger pilfering is becoming an all too common crime. Zhang Xiuqiang, a 52-year-old ******** national, was recently accused of swiping $23,000 in cash from carry-on luggage that belonged to his fellow travelers during a short flight from Vietnam to Singapore. A Delta Airlines worker was even apprehended for nabbing a traveler’s bag which contained over $285,000. Without security cameras onboard flights, Bacilleri says it’s virtually impossible to catch an airplane thief red-handed. Space_Cat – stock.adobe.com However, in skyway robbery, there’s typically no recourse. Bacilleri, who previously blasted “disgusting” moms for changing their babies’ dirty diapers atop airline tray tables, said cabin crew members cannot prevent in-flight thievery. “If you get robbed mid-flight, there are no security cameras or police officers to turn to until you land,” she noted. “Many airlines take no responsibility if something goes missing, and even if you report the theft upon landing, recovering your belongings is nearly impossible.” The plane pro urged jet-setters to become ultra-vigilant about their belongings. “To avoid becoming a victim, never lose sight of your valuables,” she encouraged. “Keep your important items, documents, and money with you at all times.” “Because if you realize what’s missing after landing, it’s already too late,” said Bacilleri. Bacilleri once a plane lands, it’s difficult for airport security and the police to stop an in-flight thief. Jam Press/@barbiebac Meanwhile, the former flight attendant spilled other sky-high secrets. She went on to note that overhead bin space directly above one’s seat isn’t always available. “When you buy a ticket, the airline is only selling you transportation from point A to point B,” explained the expert. “Everything else is extra.” “You are not paying for a specific luggage space,” the millennial said, “just for the right to bring a carry-on if your fare allows it.” For some, limited overhead bin territory could mean that their bags might be stowed several rows away from their seats. “It’s not ideal,” Bacilleri conceded, “but it’s completely normal.” The flight attendant advises passengers to try lifting their suitcases above their heads before a flight in order to determine whether they can store the package in an overhead bin. offsuperphoto – stock.adobe.com What isn’t normal, according to the pro air-hostess, is the notion that flight attendants are supposed to help flyers lift heavy suitcases into the overhead bins. “If you can’t lift your bag over your head, consider removing some items,” Bacilleri suggested. “And if that’s not an option, check it in as hold luggage.” For the sake of her former colleagues, the ex-cloud cruiser advises air travelers to test their strength against the weight of their bags at home. “If every passenger asked for help, they would be lifting hundreds of kilos per flight,” said Bacilleri. “If they get injured, they can’t continue working. Bacilleri says flight attendants run the risk of getting injured by helping flyers hoist their heavy bags into the storage spaces. Jam Press/@barbiebac “Even worse, if they hurt themselves helping a passenger, the airline won’t take responsibility,” she noted, adding most cabin crew members will also make expeditions for the elderly and folks with legitimate medical conditions. “But outside of these cases,” said Bacilleri, it’s entirely up to the crew whether they want to lift 100 suitcases per flight.” “While many flight attendants are happy to assist, they are not obligated to do so,” she insisted. “So if you can’t handle your luggage yourself, why should someone else do it for you?” Source link #exflight #attendant #uncomfortable #truths #airlines #dont Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump Fires Joint Chiefs Chairman Amid Turmoil at Pentagon – The New York Times Trump Fires Joint Chiefs Chairman Amid Turmoil at Pentagon – The New York Times Trump Fires Joint Chiefs Chairman Amid Turmoil at Pentagon The New York TimesPresident Donald Trump fires the top US general CNNTrump fires chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff The Associated PressTrump pushes out top US general in major shakeup of military leadership The Times of IsraelTrump says he is replacing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff The Washington Post Source link #Trump #Fires #Joint #Chiefs #Chairman #Turmoil #Pentagon #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

18 things Trump and his team did this week 18 things Trump and his team did this week EEP The fifth week of Donald Trump’s second term in the White House has come to a close and we’ve seen more dramatic moves as the president works to revamp the federal government and cut spending. From calling Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky a dictator to announcing thousands more federal job cuts, the Trump administration continues to steam ahead in fulfilling promises Trump made while on the campaign trail. To help you stay across the latest, here is a reminder of 18 major moves from the Trump administration this week. Watch: ‘I’ll see you in court’—Trump and Maine governor clash on trans athletes 1. Called Ukraine’s Zelensky a ‘dictator’ Trump on Tuesday called Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky a “dictator” – part of a heated back and forth between the two leaders. His attacks came after Zelensky reacted to US-Russia talks about the war, from which Kyiv was excluded. Zelensky said Trump was “living in a disinformation space” governed by Moscow after Trump said the Ukrainian leader was down to 4% approval rating among the Ukrainian public – a figure Zelensky said is being spread by Russia. Zelensky’s term was due to come to an end in May 2024 but his country has been under martial law since Russia launched its full-scale invasion three years ago, and elections are suspended. The “dictator” line prompted criticism from European leaders including ******* Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who said it was “simply wrong and dangerous”. Watch: Trump repeats ‘dictator’ comments concerning President Zelensky 2. Met Russian officials for peace talks without Kyiv On Tuesday, US and Russian officials held their first high-level, face-to-face talks since the war started but Ukraine was not invited. Top US officials met Moscow counterparts in Saudi Arabia, prompting fears in Kyiv that the country invaded by Russia was being sidelined. On Friday, he told Fox News it was not important for Zelensky to be at peace talks but he would “of course” take a call from him. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said talks with Russia were a first step towards negotiating a peace deal and nothing would be imposed on Ukraine. 3. Swapped prisoners with Russia Russian authorities released a US national who was arrested at a Moscow airport this month for cannabis possession. Kalob Byers, 28, was freed hours before the talks between US and Russian officials over the war in Ukraine were set to begin. The US also said it will release a Russian national – Alexander Vinnik, who was arrested in 2017 on charges related to the laundering of billions of dollars using virtual currency Bitcoin – as part of a prisoner exchange that brought home American schoolteacher Marc Fogel last week. 4. Ended New York congestion charge The Trump administration is moving to end New York City’s congestion pricing plan, which charges vehicles entering the city in certain areas, then uses tolls to upgrade its aging transit systems. It was launched last month. “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD,” Trump said on social media. “Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!” In response, New York Govenor Kathy Hochul said: “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king. We’ll see you in court.” Watch: Hochul hits back at Trump’s ‘king’ claim after congestion charges axed 5. Told not to interfere in Andrew Tate’s case by alleged victims Four women who allege they were ********* abused by the social media influencer Andrew Tate said they were “extremely concerned” by reports that US officials had asked Romania to relax travel restrictions against Tate and his brother, Tristan Tate, who have dual ***-US nationality. The Financial Times newspaper first reported that US officials had brought up the case with the Romanian government last week, and it was then followed up by Trump’s envoy Richard Grenell at the weekend. One source told the paper that a request had been made by the US to return the brothers’ passports to them so they could travel while waiting for the criminal case against them to finish. The US State Department has been approached by the BBC for comment. 6. Touted drop in border arrests The US Border Patrol said there was a decrease in migrants illegally crossing the US-Mexico border in January. It recorded 29,000 arrests – the lowest since May 2020 and down from 47,000 in December, according to department figures. Trump took office on 20 January, replacing predecessor Joe Biden. The Trump administration has promised to clamp down on undocumented migration into the US, which has also included declaring an emergency at the southern border and expanded processes that allow for rapid expulsions. Trump reassigned the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement this week, US media reported. The move came after Trump and border czar Tom Homan expressed anger that deportation numbers weren’t higher. Watch: A look at the US-Mexico border on Trump’s first week in office 7. Fired thousands more federal workers The Trump administration – and his Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) leader Elon Musk – are continuing a cost-cutting drive that aims to drastically reduce the federal workforce. More than 6,000 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employees are expected to be fired, and on Friday the Pentagon said it planned to “release” 5,400 probationary workers starting early next week. Around 1,000 employees in the US National Park Service were let go last weekend – roughly 5% of the workforce – according to CBS News. It has also begun firing hundreds of Federal Aviation Administration employees, and the head of Professional Aviation Safety Specialists union David Spero called the firings “shameful”. Polling suggests there is public support for less government spending but also concern that Musk’s efficiency drive could go too far. 8. Attempted to rehire sacked USDA bird flu team and nuclear workers Trump’s administration is attempting to rehire officials with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) who worked on the government response to bird flu before being fired over the weekend, US media report. The terminations came as the latest outbreak of the bird flu has wreaked havoc on poultry and cattle farms, causing egg prices to skyrocket. A USDA spokesperson told the BBC that although “several” officials working on bird flu were “notified of their terminations” over the weekend, “we are working to swiftly rectify the situation and rescind those letters”. It’s not the first time this has happened – after firing officials with the National Nuclear Security Administration last week, US media reported that the government was trying to reinstate some, but was struggling to contact them. 9. Signed order aimed at reducing cost of IVF Trump has signed an executive order that will examine ways to make in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments more affordable. Speaking at an event at Mar-a-Lago, White House staff secretary Will Scharf said the order asks that the Domestic Policy Council make recommendations within 90 days to protect access to IVF and “aggressively” reduce its costs. During his campaigning, Trump said that IVF treatments would be paid for by insurance companies or the government if he returned to the White House. 10. Restricts the Associated Press over Gulf of Mexico naming row A row erupted between the White House and the Associated Press (AP) – a global media organisation – after Google Maps changed the Gulf of Mexico’s name to the Gulf of America for people using the app in the US. Trump has ordered the body of water to be renamed in US government documents. The AP says that it will not change the name of the Gulf of Mexico in its style guide, which is used by many US media outlets. Trump said on Tuesday that he will block AP from the Oval Office and Air Force One until it stops referring to the Gulf of Mexico. The media organisation sued three Trump officials in response, US media reported on Friday. The AP argues Trump’s ban violates the First Amendment and is seeking an emergency hearing to declare Trump’s moves unconstitutional. The Gulf of Mexico has been renamed the Gulf of America on Google Maps in the US 11. Continued push for dismissal of Mayor Adams case US justice department lawyers on Wednesday defended their decision to end a criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Last week, the Department of Justice filed a motion to dismiss fraud and bribery charges against Adams. Seven justice department lawyers, including the top US prosecutor in Manhattan, resigned over an order to drop the case. Adams was indicted last year on the charges. He denies any wrongdoing. Trump has denied that he had any involvement in asking prosecutors to dismiss the Adams case. On Friday, a judge paused Adams’ trial and ordered an outside lawyer to advise him by coming up with arguments against dropping the charges – essentially creating a legal test. 12. Cut benefits for undocumented migrants and legal aid for migrant children On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order ending federal benefits for undocumented migrants. The measure will seek to ensure that any federal funds to states and localities “will not be used to support sanctuary policies or assist ******** immigration”, according to the White House. The Trump administration also suspended a service on Tuesday that helped children who come to the US without a parent or guardian to navigate the immigration court system. 13. Backed idea to send any Doge savings to Americans Trump said he is considering using a percentage of the potential savings from Elon Musk’s taskforce to send payments directly to US taxpayers. “We’re thinking about giving 20% back to the American citizens and 20% back to pay down debt,” Trump said in Florida this week, without giving further details. Before making the remarks, Musk had posted on his social media platform X that he “will check with the President” after a user suggested the pair should announce a “DOGE Dividend”. 14. Vance criticised Europe at Munich conference During his speech at the Munich Security Conference a week ago, US Vice-President JD Vance launched a scalding attack on European democracies saying the greatest threat facing the continent was not from Russia and China, but “from within”. Vance was expected to address possible talks to end the war in Ukraine but instead accused European governments – including the ***’s – of retreating from their values, and ignoring voter concerns on migration and free speech. The speech was denounced by several politicians at the conference. 15. Snubbed G20 talks in South Africa Rubio boycotted a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in South Africa this week, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he will not attend next week’s gathering of G20 finance ministers. South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa told the meeting that a commitment to multilateralism and international law is vital to solving global crises. Announcing his refusal to attend, Rubio said South Africa was “using G20 to promote ‘solidarity, equality, & sustainability.’ In other words: DEI [diversity, equity and inclusion] and climate change”. Bessent said he had other commitments in Washington. 16. Told Pentagon to find $50bn in cuts this year Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has told US military services to identify $50bn in cuts next year so the money can be used elsewhere for Trump’s priorities. The deputy defence secretary said in a statement on Wednesday that “excessive bureaucracy” and “unnecessary spending that set our military back under the previous administration, including through so-called ‘climate change’ and other woke programs” would end. Late Friday night, Trump announced on Truth Social, his social media platform, that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was leaving, as well. 17. Restored 9/11-related ******* research after Doge tried to cancel it The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has restored funding for 9/11-related ******* research after Doge attempted to cancel it last week, according to officials. The $257,000 (£199,000) contract goes towards data processing to compare ******* incidence rates among firefighters exposed to the World Trade Center toxins with firefighters who were not. Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer said: “9/11 ******* research and funding for FDNY should have never been on the chopping block”. 18. Appeared at Nascar opening Trump’s motorcade drove round the Daytona racetrack in the opening event of the season’s Nascar series. The president’s Air Force One jet gave a flyby for spectators before he met the drivers and led them for a lap around the circuit. Watch: Trump’s motorcade drives lap of Daytona 500 racetrack Source link #Trump #team #week Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Judge blocks Trump’s executive order ending federal support for DEI programs Judge blocks Trump’s executive order ending federal support for DEI programs Trump administration sued over DEI President of the National Urban League on suing Trump administration over anti-DEI orders 07:23 A federal judge on Friday blocked a sweeping executive order from President Trump that sought to end government support for programs promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. Judge Adam Abelson in Baltimore found it likely violates free-speech rights and granted an injunction blocking the funding withdrawal as a lawsuit plays out. Mr. Trump signed an order his first day in office directing federal agencies to terminate all “equity-related” grants or contracts. He signed a follow-up order requiring federal contractors to certify that they don’t promote DEI. The plaintiffs — including the city of Baltimore and higher education groups — sued the Trump administration earlier this month, arguing the executive orders are unconstitutional and a blatant overreach of presidential authority. They also allege the directives have a chilling effect on free speech. The Trump administration has argued that the president was targeting only DEI programs that violate federal civil rights laws. Abelson, who was nominated by Democratic President Joe Biden, agreed with the plaintiffs that the executive orders discourage businesses, organizations and public entities from openly supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. “The harm arises from the issuance of it as a public, vague, threatening executive order,” he said during a hearing this week. Abelson’s order does allow for the attorney general to investigate and prepare a report on DEI practices. Source link #Judge #blocks #Trumps #executive #order #federal #support #DEI #programs Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]