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Paper company closes St. Louis facility; lays off over 70 employees Paper company closes St. Louis facility; lays off over 70 employees ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — A Tennessee-based paper company with facilities across the country has announced it will be closing its St. Louis facility and laying off over 70 employees. According to a press release, International Paper will close its St. Louis County facility located off Bircher Boulevard effective Apr. 14. Humpback whale briefly swallows kayaker — and it’s all captured on camera The St. Louis County sheet feeder facility will lay off a total of 72 employees due to the closure. The paper company is additionally closing three additional facilities located in Arizona, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania, resulting in a total of 674 layoffs. More than 65,000 people are employed by International Paper in over 30 countries, according to the news release. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Source link #Paper #company #closes #Louis #facility #lays #employees Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Analyzing Vance's critical remarks about free speech, immigration in Europe – CBS News Analyzing Vance's critical remarks about free speech, immigration in Europe – CBS News Analyzing Vance’s critical remarks about free speech, immigration in Europe CBS NewsGerman minister hits back against Vance’s complaints on the state of European democracy YahooVance jokes about Greta Thunberg as he goes scorched earth on European censorship Fox NewsVance Shocks Europe With Support for Far Right, in Message Familiar to U.S. The New York Times Source link #Analyzing #Vance039s #critical #remarks #free #speech #immigration #Europe #CBS #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Zelenskyy meets with Vance at Munich Security Conference Zelenskyy meets with Vance at Munich Security Conference Zelenskyy meets with Vance at Munich Security Conference – CBS News Watch CBS News Russia’s invasion of Ukraine dominated discussions at the Munich Security Conference Friday, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met face-to-face with the Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Elizabeth Palmer reports from Munich. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Zelenskyy #meets #Vance #Munich #Security #Conference Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The lives of 4 kids surviving in Gaza The lives of 4 kids surviving in Gaza Jamie Roberts Co-director, Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone BBC Zakaria lives on his own at al-Aqsa hospital where he helps paramedics bring in casualties Zakaria is 11 years old and lives in Gaza. He reckons he has seen thousands of bodies since the war started. But at an age when children are typically found in a classroom, Zakaria is volunteering at one of Gaza’s few functioning hospitals – al-Aqsa. As a succession of ambulances ferrying victims of the war between Israel and ****** pull up outside the facility in the central town of Deir al-Balah, Zakaria clears a way through the crowds to retrieve newly arrived patients and rush them inside for treatment. Moments later he is running through the corridors of the hospital with a stretcher and later carries a young child inside to the emergency room. Several of his schoolfriends have been killed since the conflict started and hanging around the hospital means Zakaria witnesses shocking scenes. He says that once, after an Israeli strike, he saw a boy in front of him burn to death in a fire. “I must have seen at least 5,000 bodies. I saw them with my own eyes,” he tells our cameraman. Abdullah attended the British school in Gaza before the war and does his best to continue studying Zakaria is one of the children and young people we spent nine months following for our BBC documentary Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone. It’s a film that my colleague Yousef Hammash and I co-directed from London, because international journalists have not been allowed by Israel to enter the Gaza Strip and report independently since the start of the war 16 months ago. To gather the footage and the interviews, we employed two cameramen who live in Gaza – Amjad Al Fayoumi and Ibrahim Abu Ishaiba – communicating with them regularly using messaging apps, internet calls and mobile phone networks. Yousef and I wanted to make this documentary to show what everyday life is like for Gazan people trying to survive the horrors of this conflict as it unfolded. We finished filming a few weeks ago, on the day the current ceasefire started. We focused on three children and a young woman with a newborn because they are the innocents in this war, which came to a shaky pause on 19 January when a hostage release deal between ****** and Israel took effect. More than 48,200 people have been killed in Gaza during Israel’s offensive, according to the ******-run health ministry. The military action followed the attacks on southern Israel by ****** on 7 October 2023 in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage. By and large we filmed in an area of southern and central Gaza earmarked by Israel’s army as a “humanitarian zone”, where Palestinians were told to go for their own safety. Despite its designation, the zone itself was struck almost 100 times between May 2024 and January this year, according to analysis by BBC Verify. The Israel Defense Forces said it was targeting ****** fighters operating there. Renad says all she thinks about is war and “how we’ll survive each day”. We wanted to know how children found food, decided where to sleep and how they occupied themselves while trying to survive. Abdullah, 13, narrates the film. He speaks excellent English having attended the British school in Gaza before the war and does all he can to keep going with his education. Renad, 10, does a cooking show on TikTok with the help of her older sister. They make many kinds of dishes, even though the war means they can’t get the proper ingredients, and have more than one million followers. We also followed Rana, 24, who has given birth to a baby girl prematurely. She has been displaced three times and lives near the hospital with her two sons and her parents. Some of the film also looks at how medics fought to keep people alive in al-Aqsa hospital, which was described in January 2024 by British doctors as the only functioning hospital in central Gaza. That’s where we found Zakaria. Rana gave birth to her baby prematurely and is living in a tent having been displaced three times Everyone working at the hospital knows the boy. He is, of course, still a child and not a qualified medic but he is always hanging around, waiting for an opportunity to help someone, in the hope he might receive some food or money in return. Sometimes he helps carry equipment for local journalists, other times stretchers with people injured or dying. When there is a quiet moment he helps clean the blood and dirt from the ambulances. There is no school for him to go to and he is the only person in his family making any money. He doesn’t stay with them as they have little food or water, he says, and instead lives on his own at the hospital and sleeps where he can. One night it’s in the CT scan room, another in the journalists’ tent or the back of an ambulance. There were plenty of nights he fell asleep hungry. As much as they try, hospital staff can’t keep him away from the chaos of caring for casualties. Zakaria idolises the paramedics and wants to be considered part of the team. One of them, Said, takes him under his wing. Whenever he treats Zakaria as a child, he says, the boy gets upset. Staff at al-Aqsa made a miniature set of scrubs for Zakaria to wear while helping at the hospital Other staff see the care and attention Zakaria pays to them and the patients in the hospital and teach him to give someone an IV drip. In recognition of his efforts, they even make him a miniature set of blue scrubs – which he takes great pride in. Said tries to ensure the boy still gets a semblance of childhood and in the film we follow them on a trip to the beach. Sitting under the fronds of a tree branch, Zakaria tucks into the lunch Said has bought. The shawarma, he says, is perfect. Said jokes it’s the only time the boy ever “shuts up”. But Said worries Zakaria has seen so much death and destruction that he may never fit in with children his age again. Zakaria is himself looking beyond childhood. “I want to be a paramedic,” he says. “But first I need to get out of here.” As told to George Sandeman Watch – Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone is on BBC Two and iPlayer at 21:00 on 17 February (***-only) Source link #lives #kids #surviving #Gaza Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Victoria Police members pass no confidence vote against commissioner Shane Patton Victoria Police members pass no confidence vote against commissioner Shane Patton Victorian police commissioner Shane Patton’s future is in question after an overwhelming vote of no confidence was passed by union members. Source link #Victoria #Police #members #pass #confidence #vote #commissioner #Shane #Patton Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Inside El Salvador’s notorious CECOT mega-prison Inside El Salvador’s notorious CECOT mega-prison Inside El Salvador’s notorious CECOT mega-prison – CBS News Watch CBS News CBS News this week got a first-hand look at El Salvador’s notorious Center for the Confinement of Terrorism, a prison that could soon house deportees from the U.S. Lilia Luciano went inside the prison and has more. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Salvadors #notorious #CECOT #megaprison Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Joyful Chaos’: Couples Flock to Courthouses to Wed on Valentine’s Day ‘Joyful Chaos’: Couples Flock to Courthouses to Wed on Valentine’s Day It was just before midnight on Thursday and dozens of couples were waiting on and around the steps of the Bexar County Courthouse in San Antonio. There were men in cowboy hats and suit jackets, and women in classic wedding dresses and veils. They were there to get married. At 12:01 a.m. on Valentine’s Day, the county clerk, Lucy Adame-Clark, began to officiate a brief, collective ceremony. At its conclusion, 125 couples kissed for the first time as married partners to cheers from friends and relatives. Then, to the sound of “At Last” by Etta James, the couples took their collective first dance. The couples were among the first who flocked to city halls across the country to get married on Valentine’s Day, which held special appeal this year as it fell on a Friday. “It was a really good experience to be there with everyone else and just be surrounded by a bunch of people who are also in love,” said Nadia Martin, 29, who married Callaway Jones, 27, at the group wedding around midnight. For some, the date held special meaning. “He was the very first valentine I ever had in my whole life” Melanie Ehrenborg Ordaz, 35, said of Juan Javier Ordaz, 39, whom she married at the group wedding in San Antonio. “Last year was our first Valentine’s together, so this year it was like, why not just go all the way.” The number of weddings held annually at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, where 75 ceremonies were expected to be performed on Friday, increased by 22 percent from 2022 to 2024. “It’s New York. We love New York!” said Lauren Oceguera, 28, who flew from Phoenix with Jose Oceguera, 34, to marry on Valentine’s Day in downtown Manhattan — ball gown wedding dress, tuxedo and family in tow. In San Antonio, the county clerk’s office offers four group ceremonies on the courthouse steps on Valentine’s Day, the first starting right after midnight. Last year, 337 couples exchanged vows there, and even more were expected to do so on Friday. In Chicago, despite a Friday forecast calling for a chance of flurries and a high temperature of only 24 degrees, the Circuit Court of Cook County was preparing for a Valentine’s rush. The court performs about 60 weddings in a typical week, but around Christmas and Valentine’s Day, the number grows to 200 to 300. With Valentine’s Day landing on a Friday this year, the court was expecting even more. To accommodate the surge, six judges were ready to perform ceremonies, twice as many as on a typical day, Circuit Judge Diann K. Marsalek said. Ceremonies are performed in offices and courtrooms, some of which were decorated for Valentine’s Day. Judge Marsalek said that couples are attracted to the flexibility and ease of a courthouse wedding. “They can start celebrating immediately,” she said. San Francisco was also preparing for a deluge of lovebirds. Diane Rea, the city clerk, said that more than 250 appointments had been scheduled for Friday, with ceremonies to be performed in eight locations across four floors of City Hall. (A typical weekday brings in about 28 wedding appointments.) Mayor Daniel Lurie was to be among the city’s 25 officiants. Ms. Rea said she was expecting “joyful chaos.” “It’s definitely not an intimate moment when you do it on one of these days,” Ms. Rea said. But, she added, “it’s fun to be among a lot of people doing the same thing for the same reason. Particularly in this moment, we’re all yearning for those feelings.” That was the case in Lower Manhattan on Friday morning, when dozens of couples lined up to say “I Do.” Appointments had been booked solid for weeks, said Michael McSweeney, who has been the city clerk since 2009. Across New York City, 225 appointments were scheduled, he said. Among them were Jessica Goulart, 38, and Gilan Salehi, 35, who had booked a 9:15 a.m. slot in Manhattan on Friday, their sixth anniversary as a couple. They knew they wanted to get married on Valentine’s Day and set a calendar reminder for the day it opened up on the city’s reservation website. “We grew up here, fell in love here, thought it would be a magical moment,” Ms. Goulart said. (Saving money on a lavish wedding was also a plus, she acknowledged.) At about 10 a.m., the couple emerged from the depths of the Louis J. Lefkowitz State Office Building, which houses the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, and were greeted by family and friends who cheered and blew bubbles. “It was lovely and very fast!” Ms. Goulart said, before planting a kiss on Mr. Salehi. Kelly Willinger, 37, and Arthur Siddharta, 31, decided to marry in a civil ceremony in Manhattan on Valentine’s Day, in part because it was convenient: Ms. Willinger, an assistant principal at a charter school in Harlem, is off next week for school vacation. The couple plan to have a ******* wedding later in Indonesia, where Mr. Siddharta’s family lives. “This is just for us,” Ms. Willinger said. For now, they sealed their vows with a signature New York move: by splitting a hot dog. Source link #Joyful #Chaos #Couples #Flock #Courthouses #Wed #Valentines #Day Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Analyzing Vance’s critical remarks about free speech, immigration in Europe Analyzing Vance’s critical remarks about free speech, immigration in Europe Analyzing Vance’s critical remarks about free speech, immigration in Europe – CBS News Watch CBS News If there were any doubts among America’s European allies that “there’s a new sheriff in town,” they were erased Friday when Vice President JD Vance said those exact words in his first major speech on the world stage. Margaret Brennan, moderator of “Face the Nation,” examines Vance’s message at the Munich Security Conference. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Analyzing #Vances #critical #remarks #free #speech #immigration #Europe Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Topanga Canyon buried in mud after intense rainstorm Topanga Canyon buried in mud after intense rainstorm LOS ANGELES (KTLA) – Topanga Canyon can’t get a break. Thursday’s intense rain triggered several mudslides that buried the heavily traveled route between the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific Coast Highway. Sky5 footage from early Friday morning showed several feet of mud covering Topanga Canyon Boulevard, with signs and utility poles partially buried. A mudslide on Topanga Canyon Boulevard is seen on Feb. 14, 2025. (KTLA) A mudslide on Topanga Canyon Boulevard is seen on Feb. 14, 2025. (KTLA) Caltrans workers were just beginning to assess the extent of the damage. The lower section of Topanga Canyon Boulevard had already been closed for over a month due to the Palisades Fire and was also closed for three months in 2024 due to a massive rockslide. Over the past two days, the area received more than two inches of rain from the same storm that caused mudslides elsewhere in the Los Angeles area, including the wildfire burn scars. PCH from Santa Monica to Malibu, already closed due to the Palisades fire, also saw debris flows bury the roadway. In a terrifying incident Thursday evening, a Los Angeles Fire Department worker narrowly escaped as his SUV was swept into the ocean by rushing debris along PCH. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Source link #Topanga #Canyon #buried #mud #intense #rainstorm Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Louisiana requests extradition of New York doctor who prescribed abortion pills online Louisiana requests extradition of New York doctor who prescribed abortion pills online Louisiana requests extradition of New York doctor who prescribed abortion pills online – CBS News Watch CBS News A state judge in Texas ordered a New York doctor to pay a $100,000 fine for sending abortion medication to a woman in Texas, where most abortions are banned. The same doctor faces criminal charges in Louisiana. Jericka Duncan spoke to the prosecutor in the Louisiana case. Be the first to know Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Not Now Turn On Source link #Louisiana #requests #extradition #York #doctor #prescribed #abortion #pills #online Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Army Helicopter Might Have Missed Critical Instruction Before Midair ****** – The New York Times Army Helicopter Might Have Missed Critical Instruction Before Midair ****** – The New York Times Army Helicopter Might Have Missed Critical Instruction Before Midair ****** The New York TimesBlack Hawk crew may not have heard message to ‘pass behind’ DC-bound plane before midair ******: NTSB Fox NewsBlack Hawk helicopter’s altimeter may have been inaccurate, pilots may have missed some calls from control tower CNN Source link #Army #Helicopter #Missed #Critical #Instruction #Midair #****** #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Salon owner ‘in limbo’ over L’Oréal trademark dispute delays Salon owner ‘in limbo’ over L’Oréal trademark dispute delays Dan Martin BBC News, Leicester BBC Rebecca Dowdeswell said she had put parts of her life on hold as her case dragged on A salon owner says she has been left in limbo by delays to her six-year legal battle with cosmetics giant L’Oréal. Rebecca Dowdeswell has been locked in a dispute with the French firm over the trademark on the name of her business – nkd – in Leicester city centre since 2019. The 48-year-old said she was told the matter would be examined in a tribunal overseen by the government’s Intellectual Property Office (IPO) this month. However, she said she was devastated to be told the hearing had been postponed until later in the year by the IPO, which blamed “very significant” caseloads in part on Brexit. The IPO said it was experiencing a large, “though temporary” increase in caseloads, which had delayed hearings. It added trademark litigation volumes were at “historically high levels”, which saw about 1.4 million “marks” added overnight after Brexit. L’Oréal has its own trademark on a series of beauty products called NAKED and has told Ms Dowdeswell, from Radcliffe-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire, her use of the name nkd would cause “consumer confusion”. Ms Dowdeswell said the two brands were “not even a little similar”, and said she had spent more than £30,000, and nearly six years, contesting L’Oréal’s opposition to her trademark application. Ms Dowdeswell said her nkd product range, on the left, could not be confused with L’Oréal’s NAKED brand, on the right “It’s really frustrating,” Ms Dowdeswell told the BBC. “I was ready to go for it [in February] and hopefully get the whole business finished but then it was taken away. “They have given me no idea when my hearing might be but my solicitor thinks it could be 12 months, maybe 18. “It feels like it has disappeared into the long grass. It is hard to see when it will end. “The whole case – the challenge of having to take on a huge company with massive resources – is a weight on my mind. I’m in limbo. “It has been tiring. It has impeded my business because I wanted to expand my product range, but who would come on board with this case unresolved?” Ms Dowdeswell’s case might not be resolved until well into 2026, her solicitor said Ms Dowdeswell’s solicitor Aaron Wood, a specialist in trademark cases, said: “Hugely lengthy proceedings help nobody – and Rebecca is keen to get this case sorted. “We were ready to proceed in February but now we are being told the volume of work at the IPO means we are unlikely to get [it heard] until much later this year. “And even after that has happened, we won’t get a decision potentially for many months. It’s extremely frustrating.” The IPO said before Brexit, trademarks could be registered with either the European Union (EU) or the ***, or both. After Brexit, 1.4 million trademarks that were with the EU transferred over to take effect in the ***. ‘Exceptional demand’ An IPO spokesperson added: “We have seen a very significant, though temporary, increase in IPO tribunal caseloads over the last few years due to a doubling of trademarks litigation volumes. “These are at historically high levels, due in part to the ***’s exit from the European Union, which saw around 1.4 million marks added to our register overnight.” The IPO added the case between Ms Dowdeswell and L’Oréal did not directly involve rights created following Brexit, but said the overall increase in litigation and tribunal activity had affected its progression. The spokesperson added: “We recognise the impact this temporary increase in workload has on all parties involved in tribunal proceedings. “Our teams are working hard to minimise disruption without compromising the quality of the tribunal’s decisions. “We are confident in our ability to get through this temporary but significant ******* of exceptional demand effectively.” L’Oréal has been contacted for comment. Previously, the company added: “We are wholly committed to resolving any misunderstanding there might have been with Rebecca Dowdeswell. “From the beginning of our exchanges with her lawyers in 2022, we have communicated an offer that supports her business aspirations whilst respecting our longstanding trademark rights. “We look forward to resolving this matter in a mutually agreeable way.” Source link #Salon #owner #limbo #LOréal #trademark #dispute #delays Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Brest twice come from behind to salvage Ligue 1 draw Brest twice come from behind to salvage Ligue 1 draw Fighting Brest have twice come from behind to snatch a 2-2 draw at home to deny Auxerre maximum points in Ligue 1. Auxerre haven’t won since November but started the game on the front foot and took the lead after 18 minutes when Gaetan Perrin controlled Theo Blair’s knockdown to fire home. Abdoulaye Ndiaye levelled on the hour mark when he was quickest to react to a loose ball, but Auxerre went ahead again 15 minutes later when Perrin showed a poacher’s instinct and made it 2-1. However, Ludovic Ajorque gave the home side a deserved share of the points when he headed home an equaliser with 11 minutes left. Brest are eighth on the table while Auxerre sit 11th without a win in 11 matches. Source link #Brest #salvage #Ligue #draw Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

86-year-old white man accepts plea deal in wrong-door shooting of ****** teen Ralph Yarl 86-year-old white man accepts plea deal in wrong-door shooting of ****** teen Ralph Yarl Andrew Lester, the 86-year-old white man charged with shooting ****** teenager Ralph Yarl in the head after Yarl mistakenly rang his doorbell, accepted a plea deal Friday of up to seven years in jail, prosecutors said. Lester agreed to plead guilty to one felony count of second-degree assault and faces one to seven years in the Missouri Department of Corrections service under terms of the agreement made with Clay County prosecutors. He will be sentenced on March 7. He entered court in a wheelchair. Yarl’s mother, Cleo Nagbe’, put her arm around her son and asked if he was OK. Yarl nodded. Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said after the court hearing that the outcome “ensures accountability for the defendant, provides closure to Mr. Yarl, and satisfies the need to achieve a just result in the case.” Lester’s trial had been scheduled to start Tuesday in Kansas City, Missouri. He had previously pleaded not guilty to one felony count each of first-degree assault and armed criminal action. Andrew Lester, 84, appeared before a circuit court judge in Clay County, Mo., in 2023. Yarl’s family expressed frustration with the deal, saying it does not erase the trauma the boy and the family endured, nor does it address perceived failures in the justice system, including racial bias. “While this marks a step toward accountability, true justice requires consequences that reflect the severity of his actions — anything less would be a failure to recognize the harm,” the family said in a statement. “This case has never been just about Ralph — it is about every child’s right to exist without being seen as a threat.” Before the plea agreement, members of Yarl’s family said that they had little trust in the Clay County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office because they believe it had not worked aggressively enough for a conviction, said Faith Spoonmore, Yarl’s aunt and the family’s spokesperson. As an example, she said, Thompson did not argue in the charging documents filed against Lester that race was a factor in the shooting. “I don’t think that the prosecutor’s office is on our side,” Spoonmore said before the deal was announced. Thompson responded Friday, saying, “We understand their frustration, but throughout this process our office has maintained regular and respectful communication with Mr. Yarl’s family. They were consulted during the process.” Race was a component in the case, but there was no evidence of racial motivation, Thompson said, adding he explored all aspects of the case. Ralph Yarl in Kansas City, Mo., last April. Lester, who was charged with a felony count of first-degree assault and armed criminal action, shot Yarl with a handgun on April 13, 2023, when Yarl rang Lester’s doorbell, mistaking it for the house where he was supposed to pick up his siblings. Lester filed multiple shots, grazing Yarl in the head and striking him in the arm. Lester immediately called police, telling them he fired his gun because he was scared. Still, Spoonmore said, Lester should not have fired at her underage nephew. “It’s not OK for a child to be shot in the head for knocking on the wrong doorbell,” she said. Yarl, now 18, is in his first semester of college at Texas A&M. He declined to comment this week but told NBC News last year in his first in-depth interview about how the shooting affected him, that it had been “a bumpy journey.” “Whenever there’s something that goes on that reminds me of what happened … I just have, like, such a negative wave of emotions, like anger, like disgust,” he said. “It’s always a mix of good and bad days. And I feel like the good days are when I’m able to be around people that help me build myself up.” Spoonmore said the engineering major plays bass clarinet in the school marching band and has made new friends. “He likes it,” his aunt said. Ralph went home twice over the holidays, she said, making punch for Christmas and joining multiple family outings, but his reserved demeanor has not changed. “He’s still very quiet, doesn’t say much,” his aunt said. “He’s one of those people who doesn’t talk.” She said family members did not broach the subject of the then-upcoming trial during his visits. “It’s not something that we bring up, but you can see it, you can feel it,” Spoonmore said. “Ralph has been doing his best, I’m so proud of that kid. He’s trying to put his best foot forward.” This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Source link #86yearold #white #man #accepts #plea #deal #wrongdoor #shooting #****** #teen #Ralph #Yarl Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

****** Hawk pilots may have missed air traffic directive, flown on ‘bad’ altitude data before ****** – The Hill ****** Hawk pilots may have missed air traffic directive, flown on ‘bad’ altitude data before ****** – The Hill ****** Hawk pilots may have missed air traffic directive, flown on ‘bad’ altitude data before ****** The HillBlack Hawk crew may not have heard message to ‘pass behind’ DC-bound plane before midair ******: NTSB Fox NewsBlack Hawk helicopter’s altimeter may have been inaccurate, pilots may have missed some calls from control tower CNN Source link #****** #Hawk #pilots #missed #air #traffic #directive #flown #bad #altitude #data #****** #Hill Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

An Official Monster Hunter Transformers Figure Launches Later This Year An Official Monster Hunter Transformers Figure Launches Later This Year Hasbro recently revealed a wild collaboration with Transformers and Monster Hunter, combining characters from the two iconic series into a single action figure. The Transformers x Monster Hunter Rathalos Silver Series Figure is now up for preorder ahead of its release later this year. It’s unclear exactly when it will ship (some retailers list it as a November release, while others have it as December), but landing a preorder today is wise since it’s likely this unique figure will sell out quickly. Transformers x Monster Hunter Synergenex Series Silver Rathalos Prime $55 | Releases November/December 2025 Transformers x Monster Hunter Silver Rathalos Prime The full name of this action figure is a mouthful, but no doubt it’s a cool product that’ll look good in any game room or display case. Standing around 5.3 inches tall, the figure is a functional transformer. It can be configured to look like either a silver version of Optimus Prime or a silver version of Rathalos from Monster Hunter. As you’d expect, the figure features several points of articulation, allowing you to easily manipulate it from one form to the next. When configured as Rathalos, you can pose its head, mouth, neck, wings, and legs. You’ll also find some accessories, including a silver Collaboration Matrix and silver Charge Blade–the latter of which can swap from sword mode to axe mode. Keep in mind that there’s still not a firm release date for the action figure, and shipping times will vary based on location. This isn’t the only Transformers x Monster Hunter figure on the horizon, as you’ll also find the standard Synergenex Series Rathalos Prime available for preorder. Unlike the silver version above, this one features a brownish-red color palette that’s more aligned with Rathalos’ traditional coloration. It’s expected to launch in August–so if you can’t wait until the holiday season, be sure to give it a look. In other Monster Hunter news, folks who have yet to preorder Monster Hunter Wilds ahead of its February 28 release will find it discounted at Fanatical. The retailer is offering a Steam version of the game for just $57.39 (was $70), making it an excellent way to save on the upcoming adventure. Monster Hunter Rise is also on ***** at Amazon for $35.73 (was $40). Source link #Official #Monster #Hunter #Transformers #Figure #Launches #Year Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Super-sub Mayoral gives Getafe win over Girona in upset Super-sub Mayoral gives Getafe win over Girona in upset Getafe have won away for the second time in a week with goals from Christantus Uche and substitute Borja Mayoral securing a 2-1 win at Girona in La Liga. The win came a week after they beat Alaves that lifted the Madrid club three places into 11th spot. With three minutes gone, sloppy defending cost Girona. Ladislav Krejci was easily dispossessed inside his own penalty box and Uche made no mistake with a low drive. Yangel Herrera then got an equaliser nine minutes into the second half for the home side. However, the introduction of Mayoral just after the hour mark proved to be a masterstroke by Getafe coach José Bordalás. The former Real Madrid and Roma striker scored within seconds to put Getafe back in control. He was quickest to react when the goalkeeper could only parry a long-range shot and he steered the ball home from close in. Herrera’s sending off in the 73rd minute gave the visitors some breathing space and they saw out the match without any major frights. Source link #Supersub #Mayoral #Getafe #win #Girona #upset Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Presidents Day Weekend Brings You a Free Phone with Trade-In Presidents Day Weekend Brings You a Free Phone with Trade-In Ah, the iPhone. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your older model iPhone or you’re ready to cross over from Android into the world of iPhones, you’ll find a wide range of powerful smartphones with excellent features like state-of-the-art cameras and easy interfaces. Apple’s iPhone 16 is currently in our list of the best phones for 2025 thanks to its sleek design and new upgrades. Previous gen models have made that same best-of list for many years in a row. But like other great quality products, Apple’s phones aren’t cheap. Plus, if recent concerns about tariffs are on your mind, purchasing ******* ticket items now — as long as you are spending within your means — could potentially save you money later. That’s why we’ve looked everywhere to find deals that can help anyone get the iPhone they want at an affordable price, and because its Presidents Day weekend, we’ve found offers across all models. James Martin/CNET For years, Adam Oram has been finding and highlighting the best deals from all across the web to help shoppers save money, and he’s gathered the latest and greatest iPhone deals below to help you find the right model at a great price. You’ll find massive discounts on all the latest models, like the flashy iPhone 16 Pro Max, but there are also some excellent previous-gen options for those on a budget, like the iPhone SE. Some carriers will even give you a new phone for free (assuming you meet some special requirements). Just note that straightforward discounts are still pretty hard to come by, and just about every offer below will require a trade-in or the activation of a new line. Most will also lock you into a 24- or 36-month contract. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. What is the best iPhone deal right now? If you’re wondering what the top iPhone deal is right now, the truth is that it depends on your personal needs. If you are looking for the best deal on the latest model, it’s hard to argue with the trade-in deals on the iPhone 16 at carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon. They offer up to $1,000 off, essentially getting you the new phone for free (on contract) if you have a recent enough device to hand over. Best iPhone deals Below you’ll find the best deals on the iPhone 16, iPhone 15, iPhone 14, iPhone 13 and iPhone SE 2022, grouped by generation. iPhone 16 deals The iPhone 16 arrived on Sept. 20, 2024. There are several ways to get your hands on one for less right now. iPhone 16 at Apple You can buy a phone in the iPhone 16 series from the Apple Store, and if you have an older phone to trade in, you could get up to $630 in trade-in credit. You’ll also get 3% cash back if you buy it with your Apple Card*. Four iPhone 16’s in blue, pink, tan and peach See at Apple iPhone 16 at T-Mobile T-Mobile is offering a number of trade-in and new-line discounts on the iPhone 16 series at the moment. Exchanging your old phone will save you up to $1,000 if you have a Go5G Next plan, which scores you the basic iPhone 16, 16 Plus or 16 Pro for free. People on a Go5G Plus plan can get up to $830 off when you trade in an old device, which still scores you the basic iPhone 16 for free. Those on other qualifying service plans can only save up to $300. You can also save up to $830 with both a new line and a trade-in, and military members, first responders and folks over 55 can take advantage of special trade-in offers for up to $800 off. Apple/CNET See at T-Mobile iPhone 16 at AT&T AT&T is offering great deals on the iPhone 16 lineup. If you’re after the basic iPhone 16 or 16 Plus, you can save up to $700 with an eligible trade-in, which drops the monthly cost down to just $4 and $6 respectively. If you want to upgrade to a Pro model, a trade-in will save you up to $1,000, which nets you the 128GB iPhone 16 Pro for free, or the 16 Pro Max for just $6 a month. Note that you need to have or switch to an eligible unlimited plan to get these offers, and the discount will be applied as bill credits over a 36-month *******. AT&T is also offering a special online-only offer of $200 off with the activation of a new line. Apple/CNET See at AT&T iPhone 16 at Verizon Verizon is offering some slight savings on all iPhone 16 models right now. Adding a new line on an Unlimited Ultimate plan will save you $830 on the basic iPhone 16, $570 on the iPhone 16 Plus, $640 on the iPhone 16 Pro and $660 on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Discounts are applied as bill credits over a 36-month *******, which drops the cost down to between $10 and $15 a month for most iPhone 16 series phones. Apple/CNET See at Verizon iPhone 16 at Best Buy Best Buy isn’t carrying any unlocked iPhone 16 models right now, but you can score some serious savings if you sign up with a carrier. The tech retailer has partnered with both AT&T and Verizon, and is offering trade-in discounts with qualified activation. AT&T customers can save up to $830 on the basic iPhone 16 or 16 Plus, or up to $1,000 on the 16 Pro and Pro Max models. If you’re a Verizon customer, an eligible trade-in will save you up to $830 on all four models. Apple/CNET See at Best Buy iPhone 16 at Walmart Similar to Best Buy, you can save at Walmart on carrier options through AT&T. New and existing AT&T customers can trade in an eligible device worth $130 and get up to $830 off; if you have a device to trade in worth $180, you can save up to $1,100 off the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max. Even older devices valued at just $35 or more will net you a $350 discount. Keep in mind that you’ll have to activate a new line or upgrade your line to an eligible plan if you’re not already on one. Apple/CNET See at Walmart iPhone 16 at Target Target is offering up to $1,300 off the iPhone 16 series right now. Trade in your old phone and either activate a new line or upgrade an existing one and you’ll get up to $700 off the basic iPhone 16 or up to $1,000 off the 16 Pro or Pro Max. Plus, you can get an extra $300 off in bill credits when you switch your existing number to AT&T. Just note that you’ll have to visit your local Target branch in person to take advantage of these offers. At the moment, there don’t appear to be any deals on the iPhone 16 Plus, but all configurations are still available. Apple/CNET See at Target iPhone 15 deals The iPhone 15 series hit shelves back in September 2023. And although the phones in this lineup are a generation old, they still have plenty to offer — with the basic model even retaining a spot on our list of the best phones of 2025. Plus, it’s pretty easy to get your hands on one of these previous-gen models for less right now, which makes them a good value for Apple users on a budget. iPhone 15 at Apple Apple isn’t offering any direct discounts on the iPhone 15 series at the moment, but it has a trade-in program that can save you hundreds on a new iPhone 15. Technically, you can save up to $630, but that’s only if you’re trading in another iPhone 15, which is an unlikely scenario. For the iPhone 14 series and older, the most you’ll save is $450. The iPhone Upgrade Program or Apple Card financing (and cash back) are also options, and you can save up to $1,000 when you opt to sign up with a carrier. Viva Tung/Celso Bulgatti/Getty Images See at Apple iPhone 15 at AT&T AT&T is offering discounts in the form of monthly bill credits when you buy a new iPhone 15 on an installment plan. People who have or switch to an eligible unlimited plan can get the basic iPhone 15 for just $6 per month, which is $514 off the usual price. This offer also knocks $344 off the price of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which drops it down to just $21 per month. The iPhone 15 Pro is also discounted, but only the 1TB model is still in stock, which is available for $31 per month. At the moment, there aren’t any discounts available on the iPhone 15 Plus. You can also save up to $200 off on a new line with an online order. Apple/CNET See at AT&T iPhone 15 at Verizon Adding a new line on an Unlimited Welcome, Plus or Ultimate plan gets you the iPhone 15 or 15 Plus for free, with no trade-in required. These discounts are applied in the form of monthly bill credits over a 36-month *******. The iPhone 15 Pro is available only in Titanium 128GB for now, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max is sold out. Apple/CNET See at Verizon iPhone 15 at T-Mobile The iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max are currently sold out at T-Mobile, but there are plenty of ways to score some savings on the other models. Trading in an old phone will save you up to $1,000 if you’re on a Go5G Next plan, which nets you the basic iPhone 15 or 15 Plus for free. If you’re on a Go5G Plus plan, you can save up to $830 with an eligible trade-in, which still gets you the basic iPhone 15 or 15 Plus for free. Those on other service plans will only save up to $300 with an eligible trade in. You can also save up to $830 with both a trade-in and the activation of a new line. T-Mobile is also offering a discount of $630 off when you switch your existing number over from another carrier, and military members, first responders and people over 55 years old can take advantage of special offers for up to $800 off. Apple/CNET See at T-Mobile iPhone 15 at Best Buy Right now at Best Buy you can get an unlocked iPhone 15 for $50 off, dropping the price to $680. If you’re looking to get signed up with AT&T or Verizon, you’ll get $100 off when you opt for same-day activation. If you want the 15 Pro or Pro Max, there aren’t new unlocked versions right now. For those, you’ll have to choose either an AT&T or Verizon carrier model. Best Buy also has its own trade-in program, where you can exchange your old phone for additional savings. And all iPhone 15 purchases come with some freebies, including three free months of Apple TV Plus, Apple Fitness Plus and Apple Music, as well as four free months of Apple Arcade — as long as you’re a new or returning subscriber. Apple/CNET See at Best Buy iPhone 15 at Spectrum Right now Spectrum is offering $100 off the iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max, and you’ll get an extra $100 in credit towards any iPhone 15 model with an eligible trade-in. The phone you trade in just needs to have a value greater than $1, so even old and damaged devices will still net you at least $100. Apple/CNET See at Spectrum iPhone 14 deals The iPhone 14 series is still a popular line of phones and comprises the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and top-spec iPhone 14 Pro Max. Apple discontinued the 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max in September 2023, so finding these phones in new condition is getting tougher, but they’re still a solid value when you can find them in stock and on *****. iPhone 14 at Apple The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus are available to buy directly from Apple with a low $599 starting price. Plus, Apple has its own trade-in program, where you can score some discounts in exchange for your old phone. Technically, you can get up to $630 in credit, but that would only be if you’re downgrading from a more recent model (which is pretty unlikely). However, the iPhone 13 series can still net you up to $350, which is a pretty significant discount. You’ll also get 3% back if you use your Apple Card for the purchase. James Martin/CNET See at Apple iPhone 14 at T-Mobile T-Mobile has the basic iPhone 14 in stock as well as the iPhone 14 Plus, though it’s only available in one color (starlight). There are a few different ways to get your hands on one for free right now. If you’ve got an old phone to trade in, you can get it for free if you’re on a Go5G Next or Plus plan, and those on other plans can save up to $300. You can also get it for free with both a new line and a trade-in or when you switch your existing number over from another carrier. If you’re only activating a new line on a qualifying plan, you’ll still save 50% (up to $315). T-Mobile also has exclusive offers for military members, first responders and people over 55. Apple/CNET See at T-Mobile iPhone 14 at AT&T AT&T isn’t offering any direct discounts or special offers on the iPhone 14 right now, but you can save with an eligible trade-in. You’ll also save $200 on a new line when you open it online. Apple/CNET See at AT&T iPhone 14 at Verizon Add a new line on an Unlimited Welcome, Plus or Ultimate plan and you can get the iPhone 14 or 14 Plus for free at Verizon. The discount comes in bill credits over 36 months, and there’s no trade-in required. Note that Verizon is only carrying certified refurbished models of the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, though you can still pick them up at a discount with a new line. Apple/CNET See at Verizon iPhone 14 at Spectrum The basic iPhone 14 is still full price at Spectrum, but you can get an extra $100 on top of the trade-in value when you exchange your old phone. Spectrum accepts any devices valued at just $1 or more, so even old and damaged phones will still net you some savings. If the final trade-in value exceeds the cost of the new device, the difference will be refunded to your Spectrum mobile account. Apple/CNET See at Spectrum iPhone 14 at Best Buy Best Buy isn’t currently offering any straightforward discounts on the iPhone 14. However, you’ll get $100 off when you opt for same-day activation and sign up with either AT&T or Verizon. The tech retailer also has its own trade-in program, where you can score even more savings in exchange for your old phone. Best Buy isn’t currently carrying any new 14 Pro or Pro Max phones, though it does have some refurbished models. Apple/CNET See at Best Buy iPhone 13 deals The iPhone 13 may not be Apple’s flagship series anymore, but these are still solid phones worth considering — especially for folks on a tight budget. Like the iPhone 14 series, these 2021 models are getting pretty tough to find in new condition, but we’ve found them at Best Buy. iPhone 13 at Best Buy As with other iPhone models, Best Buy will knock $100 off the starting price of the iPhone 13 when you choose same-day activation with AT&T or Verizon. That means you can get your hands on one for as little as $450 right now, which is a pretty serious bargain. You can also take advantage of Best Buy’s trade-in program for even more savings. And you’ll get three free months of Apple Music, Apple TV Plus and Apple Fitness, plus four free months of Apple Arcade. Apple/CNET See at Best Buy iPhone SE (2022) deals The budget option in Apple’s lineup, the iPhone SE was updated in 2022 but was targeted squarely at people who wanted a no-frills iPhone experience. Starting at $429, it’s an affordable device for anyone who wants to stick with something familiar. iPhone SE at Best Buy Best Buy is currently offering $100 off with same-day activation through AT&T or Verizon. You can save even more with an eligible trade-in, and this deal comes with three free months of Apple Music, Apple TV Plus and Apple Fitness, plus four free months of Apple Arcade. Kevin Heinz/CNET See at Best Buy iPhone SE at Apple If you prefer an unlocked model, you can get your iPhone SE straight from the source. Apple has its own trade-in program that could save you up to $630, but that’s only if you’re looking to downgrade (which is pretty unlikely). The iPhone 12 series can net you up to $280 off, which is the best discount you’re likely to get. Most other phones will knock $100 to $200 off the starting price, which is still a pretty great bargain considering how affordable this model is. Apple/CNET See at Apple iPhone SE at AT&T Only the midnight variant of the iPhone SE is in stock right now at AT&T. AT&T customers on an eligible unlimited plan can score the third-gen iPhone SE for just $2 per month when they purchase the phone on an installment plan. That saves you $358 total with no trade-in or new line required. Discounts are applied as bill credits over 36 months. Apple/CNET See at AT&T Sarah Tew/CNET How we choose the best iPhone deals at CNET Many of us here at CNET have covered deals on top tech for over five years, including cell phone deals from brands like Apple, Google, Samsung, OnePlus and more. In that time, we’ve learned how to spot the best deals from trustworthy retailers and carriers to simplify the phone buying process. We look for direct discounts, trade-in offers and other bonuses offered for both unlocked and carrier phones when choosing the best deals for you to score the best deal and avoid online shopping scams. *All information about the Apple Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer. Source link #Presidents #Day #Weekend #Brings #Free #Phone #TradeIn Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump Media (DJT) earnings report 2024 Trump Media (DJT) earnings report 2024 U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order establishing the Energy Dominance Council led by Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum in the Oval Office at the White House on February 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. President Trump signed a second executive order withholding federal funding from schools and universities that impose a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Andrew Harnik | Getty Images News | Getty Images Trump Media & Technology Group shares were down about 1% in extended trading on Friday after the operator of Truth Social released its 2024 results. Here’s how the company performed: Earnings: Loss of $2.36 per share Revenue: $3.6 million The company’s revenue declined 12% year over year, according to its annual report. The company saw its net loss widen to $400.9 million from $58.2 million in 2023. Trump Media debuted on Nasdaq under the ticker “DJT” last March, completing its merger with Digital World Acquisition Corp. The stock nearly doubled in value in 2024, with its namesake, Donald Trump, winning the U.S. presidential election in November. As of Friday’s close, the stock was down about 11% year to date giving it a market capitalization of $6.59 billion. In 2024, Trump Media incurred merger-related legal fees because of obstruction from former President Biden’s Securities and Exchange Commission, according to a statement. A change to a revenue-sharing agreement with an advertising partner resulted in lower sales. “Additionally, revenue has varied as we selectively test a nascent advertising initiative on our Truth Social platform,” the company said in the annual report. Unlike Meta and other social media companies, Trump Media management said in the filing they do not believe in using traditional metrics such as the number of active users or average revenue per user. Doing so “could potentially divert its focus from strategic evaluation with respect to the progress and growth of its business,” according to the filing. In the fourth quarter, Trump Media announced the availability of its Truth+ video streaming service on Android, iOS and the web. The company has not held an earnings call since the merger. As of Friday, a trust where President Trump is the sole beneficiary owns 52% of the voting power of the company’s stock, the filing states. Trump publishes posts on Truth Social, where he has 8.9 million followers. On X, owned by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been helping with the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency, Trump has 100.9 million followers. Trump Media now has $776.8 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, with $9.6 million in debt. “We will continue to explore opportunities to partner, merge with, and acquire other entities that are able to function effectively if TMTG evolves into a holding company with subsidiaries spanning several industries,” Chairman and CEO Devin Nunes, a former Republican Congressman was quoted as saying in the statement. WATCH: Trump Media expands into financial services, including allocation to crypto: CNBC Crypto World Source link #Trump #Media #DJT #earnings #report Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump Media (DJT) earnings report 2024 Trump Media (DJT) earnings report 2024 U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order establishing the Energy Dominance Council led by Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum in the Oval Office at the White House on February 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. President Trump signed a second executive order withholding federal funding from schools and universities that impose a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Andrew Harnik | Getty Images News | Getty Images Trump Media & Technology Group shares were down about 1% in extended trading on Friday after the operator of Truth Social released its 2024 results. Here’s how the company performed: Earnings: Loss of $2.36 per shareRevenue: $3.6 million The company’s revenue declined 12% year over year, according to its annual report. The company saw its net loss widen to $400.9 million from $58.2 million in 2023. Trump Media debuted on Nasdaq under the ticker “DJT” last March, completing its merger with Digital World Acquisition Corp. The stock nearly doubled in value in 2024, with its namesake, Donald Trump, winning the U.S. presidential election in November. As of Friday’s close, the stock was down about 11% year to date giving it a market capitalization of $6.59 billion. In 2024, Trump Media incurred merger-related legal fees because of obstruction from former President Biden’s Securities and Exchange Commission, according to a statement. A change to a revenue-sharing agreement with an advertising partner resulted in lower sales. “Additionally, revenue has varied as we selectively test a nascent advertising initiative on our Truth Social platform,” the company said in the annual report. Unlike Meta and other social media companies, Trump Media management said in the filing they do not believe in using traditional metrics such as the number of active users or average revenue per user. Doing so “could potentially divert its focus from strategic evaluation with respect to the progress and growth of its business,” according to the filing. In the fourth quarter, Trump Media announced the availability of its Truth+ video streaming service on Android, iOS and the web. The company has not held an earnings call since the merger. As of Friday, a trust where President Trump is the sole beneficiary owns 52% of the voting power of the company’s stock, the filing states. Trump publishes posts on Truth Social, where he has 8.9 million followers. On X, owned by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been helping with the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency, Trump has 100.9 million followers. Trump Media now has $776.8 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, with $9.6 million in debt. “We will continue to explore opportunities to partner, merge with, and acquire other entities that are able to function effectively if TMTG evolves into a holding company with subsidiaries spanning several industries,” Chairman and CEO Devin Nunes, a former Republican Congressman was quoted as saying in the statement. WATCH: Trump Media expands into financial services, including allocation to crypto: CNBC Crypto World Source link #Trump #Media #DJT #earnings #report Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

****** Hawk crew may not have heard message to 'pass behind' DC-bound plane before midair ******: NTSB – Fox News ****** Hawk crew may not have heard message to 'pass behind' DC-bound plane before midair ******: NTSB – Fox News ****** Hawk crew may not have heard message to ‘pass behind’ DC-bound plane before midair ******: NTSB Fox NewsBlack Hawk helicopter’s altimeter may have been inaccurate, pilots may have missed some calls from control tower CNN Source link #****** #Hawk #crew #heard #message #039pass #behind039 #DCbound #plane #midair #****** #NTSB #Fox #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The battle rap legend whose hip hop war goes on The battle rap legend whose hip hop war goes on Riyah Collins BBC Newsbeat Getty Images Kendrick Lamar was the first hip-hop artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show solo “Tryna strike a chord and it’s probably A-minor.” Kendrick Lamar’s most famous lyric was the heard around the world at last weekend’s Super Bowl. An estimated 127 million viewers saw the rapper flash a devious smile to the camera as he delivered the line – a withering takedown of bitter rival Drake. Taken from Grammy-winning track Not Like Us, it refers to accusations that the ********* star had relationships with underage women – something he’s denied. But as 70,000 fans inside New Orlean’s Caesars Superdome belted it out with him, it felt like Kendrick’s winning play in the pair’s long-running beef. It’s been public, personal and petty, but Kendrick has implied that he’s waging a much wider war. Not just against Drake, but against what he represents. Getty Images Personal issues aside, Margs says Drake also represents the changing face of the hip-hop scene “Drake is the face of the hip-hop scene as it is,” says Margs, a London rapper who hosts rap battles on his channel Pen Game. The ********* is a huge commercial success – the most streamed artist of the 2010s, 143 million Instagram followers and a fixture on party playlists and nightclub set lists. His style is melodic and accessible. He sings. In other words, he’s as much a pop star as he is a rapper. And where Drake goes, others follow. “A lot of people see him as being responsible for the watering down of the product,” says Margs. “There’s people that like the commercial side of music that just want to dance and enjoy themselves and it have no substance to it. “And then there’s the other side which is deep-rooted in the hip-hop culture.” It’s a culture Kendrick wants to defend and celebrate. Speaking before the Super Bowl show, he said the “grit” had gone from the genre. “When people talk about rap, the conversations I’m hearing, they think it’s just rapping, it’s not an actual art form,” he said. Kendrick also took issue with rap being “minimised to a catchy song or verse”, and said his feud with Drake actually came “more from a space of more people putting rap to the back”. “You didn’t see that grit, you didn’t see that bite any more. So I always took that into consideration with my music,” he said. Getty Images Not Like Us passed one billion streams on Spotify and won five Grammy Awards including song of the year Not everyone agrees that a more mainstream-friendly version of rap makes Drake less credible. His one-time rival Common recently defended him against the “pop star” label – saying that “he’s still an MC” even though his songs are popular. Kendrick, though, is passionate about rap as an artform, and said the success of Not Like Us and being chosen as the first solo hip-hop artist to front the halftime show “meant everything”. “To represent it on this type of stage is just everything that I’ve worked for and everything I believe in for the culture, I live and die by it,” he said. Hip-hop, a genre which has been around for 50 years, has a long history of protest. Margs says “a lot of that has been lost” when comparing current trends with the genre’s origins. “They cared about the message and what it stands for because hip-hop was something that was heavily politicised,” he says. “People used to use their voices in hip-hop to protest and get their messages out.” The political messaging in Kendrick’s halftime show came from the start when actor Samuel L Jackson, dressed as US government icon Uncle Sam, introduced the rapper. From there, it included references to the ****** power movement, imagery of a divided United States and, just before the finale, the line: “This is ******* than the music.” It’s a time of political change in the US following the re-election of Donald Trump, who was at the Super Bowl. “There’s no better time for people to stand on business and talk about things that matter,” Margs says. Getty Images Fans found political messages in Kendrick’s performance, including casting Samuel L Jackson as Uncle Sam Kendrick – and his beef with Drake – also hark back to the origins of hip-hop in another way. He’s said he sees rap as a sport – and battle raps were his inspiration for the back-and-forth with Drake. These face-offs – as seen in the Eminem film 8Mile – are where artists compete live, swapping disses and trying to ***** the best bars to take home the prize. It’s rap in its purest form – substance over style and a focus on lyricism. Kendrick said it’s always been that way for him, and it’s a vital part of finding the “grit” and “bite” he feels is missing. “I still watch battle raps, this has always been the core definition of who I am and it’s been this way since day one,” he said. Margs thinks Kendrick’s success will shine a light on battle rap, but he acknowledges emerging rappers are now finding new ways to cut their teeth. BBC/Naked TV/Andrew Efah Layyah, pictured centre, became the first female rapper to win The Rap Game *** last year Among them is Layyah, who was the first female rapper to win The Rap Game ***. She’s Team Kendrick, but doesn’t plan on following his example on battle rap. Layyah says rap artists she looks up to like Central Cee are “definitely not battle rappers” but have found success and respect through other routes. “We have so many platforms,” she says. “It’s more like who can make a great song and then who can make the best routine to it. “If that goes viral then it’s a great song, you don’t really have to do the battle raps.” Margs thinks that’s “taken away from the art form a little bit”. “You can win a battle on social media just through popularity or being funny… whereas with battle rap it’s all about your lyrics and your skill.” As for Kendrick’s beef with Drake, it’s stayed quiet since Not Like Us was released last summer. Some people took the “Game Over” at the end of Kendrick’s Super Bowl set as the end of the battle, and Drake’s just released Gimme a Hug. In that he suggests he wants to put the beef behind him and “get the party lit”. But there’s still an ongoing legal case over Not Like Us – with the potential of a bitter courtroom face-off. Margs says that’s a big contrast to settling scores on the battle rap stage. “There’s a sportsmanship to it but never spills over into more than that,” says Margs. “After the fight, they always hug it out and show respect for their competitor.” Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays – or listen back here. Source link #battle #rap #legend #hip #hop #war Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

A$AP Rocky jury told not to consider Rihanna or kids A$AP Rocky jury told not to consider Rihanna or kids Jurors at A$AP Rocky’s trial have been warned not to let an appearance by the rapper’s famous partner Rihanna with the couple’s children sway their verdict. Source link #AAP #Rocky #jury #told #Rihanna #kids Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Dobson High School football coach arrested Dobson High School football coach arrested The Brief Richard Godsil, the head football coach of Dobson High School, was arrested by Surprise Police. Godsil is accused of furnishing harmful items to minors and aggravated luring of a minor for ******* exploitation. Godsil was hired by the Mesa Public Schools in 2019. MESA, Ariz. – The head football coach of Dobson High School in Mesa was arrested on Thursday by Surprise Police. What we know Richard Godsil was arrested on the school’s campus on Feb. 13, the Surprise Police Department said. He is accused of furnishing harmful items to minors and aggravated luring of a minor for ******* exploitation. Godsil was booked into jail on a $100,000 bond. What we don’t know Details on the events leading to Godsil’s arrest were not released by police. What they’re saying Godsil was hired by Mesa Public Schools in 2019. According to a letter sent to parents, Godsil’s arrest did not involve Mesa students. “Mr. Godsil was immediately placed on administrative leave and the district is, and will continue to, fully cooperate with the Surprise Police Department in their investigation,” Dobson High School Principal Gabbi Buckley wrote in the letter. Map of Dobson High School Source link #Dobson #High #School #football #coach #arrested Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Daughters of Target’s late cofounder raise concern over company’s pullback on DEI efforts – The Associated Press Daughters of Target’s late cofounder raise concern over company’s pullback on DEI efforts – The Associated Press Daughters of Target’s late cofounder raise concern over company’s pullback on DEI efforts The Associated PressTarget cofounder’s daughters ‘shocked and dismayed’ at retailer’s DEI rollback Business InsiderAs Target and other retailers drop DEI programs, ****** founders could face tougher battle to get and stay on shelves CNBCTarget Boycott March 5: 40-Day Fast Explained NewsweekMore Minnesota companies walk back DEI policies Sahan Journal Source link #Daughters #Targets #late #cofounder #raise #concern #companys #pullback #DEI #efforts #Press Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]