Families bid farewell to victims of Guatemala bus ******
Families bid farewell to victims of Guatemala bus ******
SANTO DOMINGO LOS OCOTES, Guatemala (AP) — Hours before dawn, Julio Arrivillaga and Catalina Pérez Molina boarded a bus with other residents in the center of this humble village for what should have been an hour-long ride to Guatemala’s capital.
For Arrivillaga it was a daily trip to his job counting fruit in the country’s largest market. For Pérez Molina, it was her occasional dash to the capital to buy produce for the tamales and roasted corn she sold.
But along the way their bus left the road and tumbled into a deep ravine, killing them and more than 50 others.
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On Tuesday, families in Santo Domingo Los Ocotes, accompanied by President Bernardo Arévalo, began saying goodbye to their loved ones amid a three-day ******* of national mourning.
Guatemala’s National Forensic Science Institute said Tuesday that 54 people had died in the ******. A day earlier, the Public Ministry said 53 people had died at the site of the ****** and two more at a hospital and had not reconciled the numbers Tuesday.
“I still don’t understand what happened,” Arrivillaga’s wife Irma Catalán said Tuesday. “I haven’t accepted it. I don’t know what my life will be now.”
Videos circulated online of the moments before the Monday accident show the bus apparently speeding, running stoplights and colliding with multiple vehicles before leaving the roadway and plunging into the ravine where it landed upside down beneath a bridge and semi-submerged in dark sewage-polluted waters.
In Santo Domingo Los Ocotes, funerals were scheduled over two days.
Pérez Molina was among those buried Tuesday.
Christian Pérez, her 25-year-old son, said he was still in shock at the loss of his mother. He’s been confined to a wheelchair since a motorcycle accident seven years ago, and she was the one who sustained their family.
“I can’t deny it, her loss really hurts,” Pérez said.
____
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White House bars AP from Oval Office
White House bars AP from Oval Office
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after signing a proclamation renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, while flying over the gulf aboard Air Force One en route to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl, February 9, 2025.
Kevin Lamarque | Reuters
The White House blocked an Associated Press reporter from an event in the Oval Office on Tuesday after demanding the news agency alter its style on the Gulf of Mexico, which President Donald Trump has ordered renamed the Gulf of America.
The reporter tried to enter the White House event as usual Tuesday afternoon and was turned away, AP executives said. The highly unusual ban, which Trump administration officials had threatened earlier Tuesday unless the AP changed the style on the Gulf, could have constitutional free-speech implications.
Julie Pace, senior vice president and executive editor of The Associated Press, called the administration’s move unacceptable.
“It is alarming that the Trump administration would punish AP for its independent journalism,” Pace said in a statement. “Limiting our access to the Oval Office based on the content of AP’s speech not only severely impedes the public’s access to independent news, it plainly violates the First Amendment.”
The Trump administration made no immediate announcements about the move, and there was no indication any other journalists were affected. Trump has long had an adversarial relationship with the media. On Friday, the administration ejected a second group of news organizations from Pentagon office space.
AP style is not only used by the agency. The AP Stylebook is relied on by thousands of journalists and other writers globally.
Demands by a president that a news organization comply with an order to change its content would seem to run counter to the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which bars the government from impeding the freedom of the press.
Before his Jan. 20 inauguration, Trump announced plans to change the Gulf of Mexico’s name to the “Gulf of America” — and signed an executive order to do so as soon as he was in office. Mexico’s president responded sarcastically and others noted that the name change would probably not affect global usage.
In this photo illustration, an updated Google map shows the Gulf of America on Feb. 10, 2025 in San Anselmo, California.
Justin Sullivan | Getty Images
This week, Google Maps began using “Gulf of America,” saying it had a “longstanding practice” of following the U.S. government’s lead on such matters. The other leading online map provider, Apple Maps, was still using “Gulf of Mexico.”
The AP said last month, three days after Trump’s inauguration, that it would continue to refer to the Gulf of Mexico while noting Trump’s decision to rename it as well. As a global news agency that disseminates news around the world, the AP says it must ensure that place names and geography are easily recognizable to all audiences.
Trump also decreed that the mountain in Alaska known as Mount McKinley and then by its Indigenous name, Denali, be shifted back to commemorating the 25th president. President Barack Obama had ordered it renamed Denali in 2015. AP said last month it will use the official name change to Mount McKinley because the area lies solely in the United States and Trump has the authority to change federal geographical names within the country.
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Doctors sound alarm over deadly rise of Victorian-era disease… how bad is it in YOUR state? – Daily Mail
Doctors sound alarm over deadly rise of Victorian-era disease… how bad is it in YOUR state? – Daily Mail
Doctors sound alarm over deadly rise of Victorian-era disease… how bad is it in YOUR state? Daily MailWhooping Cough Outbreak Identified in Sheridan County Sheridan MediaU.S. records most whooping cough deaths since 2017 CBS NewsWhooping cough outbreak sparks push for testing, vaccination Eden Prairie Local NewsWhooping cough cases increasing The Sheridan Press
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Appeals court rejects Trump administration bid to reinstate funding freeze
Appeals court rejects Trump administration bid to reinstate funding freeze
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., Feb. 11, 2025.
Kevin Lamarque | Reuters
A federal appeals court on Tuesday rejected the Trump administration’s bid to pause a lower court’s order that temporarily halted a massive freeze in federal funding.
A judge in Rhode Island on Monday blocked the funding freeze and ordered the government to “immediately restore frozen funding.”
In its ruling Tuesday, a three-judge panel for the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals wrote that the “defendants do not cite any authority in support of their administrative stay request or identify any harm related to a specific funding action or actions that they will face without their requested administrative stay.”
The Justice Department had sought two different kinds of pauses of U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell’s restraining order barring the government from continuing to implement its sweeping freeze of funding, and another ruling that found that government had violated the order. Lawyers for the DOJ contended in part that McConnell’s order was vague, but the appeals court suggested they should be patient.
“We are confident the District Court will act with dispatch to provide any clarification needed with respect to, among other things, the defendants’ contention that the February 10 Order ‘bars both the President and much of the Federal Government from exercising their own lawful authorities to withhold funding without the prior approval of the district court,'” the appeals court wrote Tuesday.
It said both sides should submit further arguments on the government’s request for a stay pending a full appeal by Thursday. The administration has asked the appeals court to rule on the full stay request by Friday.
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Wednesday’s big stock stories: What’s likely to move the market in the next trading session
Wednesday’s big stock stories: What’s likely to move the market in the next trading session
The S&P 500 ended Tuesday near flat as investors contended with tariffs and Fed Chair Powell’s stance on rates. What’s on CNBC’s radar going into Wednesday.
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Implementing The President's "Department of Government Efficiency" Workforce Optimization Initiative – The White House
Implementing The President's "Department of Government Efficiency" Workforce Optimization Initiative – The White House
Implementing The President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative The White HouseLive updates: Trump signs executive order calling on agencies to work with Elon Musk-led group The Washington PostElon Musk Appears With Trump to Defend Government Overhaul: Live Updates The New York TimesTrump signs order instructing DOGE to massively cut federal workforce Fox NewsLive updates: Trump and Elon Musk defend their attempts to downsize the federal government The Associated Press
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Next ad banned as pose made model look too thin
Next ad banned as pose made model look too thin
An advert by fashion brand Next has been banned because the model’s pose and the camera angle gave the impression she was “unhealthily thin”.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) compared the advert with other photos of the same model and did not think she looked unhealthily thin in those.
But it said in the now-banned image, emphasising the thinness of the model’s legs using camera angles, pose and styling was “irresponsible”.
Next said it disagreed with the advertising watchdog’s decision and said the model, while slim, had a “healthy and toned physique”.
In response to the ASA, the retailer said the 5’9″ model’s pose was chosen “specifically to display the leggings’ fit on both straight and bent legs”, and that the image, which was shot nearly two years ago, was created with a “strong sense of responsibility”.
A spokesperson added a Next stylist and product image manager met the model in person and “did not have any concerns about her health”.
In its ruling, the ASA acknowledged the model’s face “did not appear to be gaunt and her arms, while slim, did not display any protruding bones”.
But it said: “Because the pose, camera angle and styling in the ad investigated strongly emphasised the slimness of the model’s legs, we considered that the ad gave the impression that the model was unhealthily thin.”
The ASA told Next that its advert breached the code for social responsibility.
It said the ad must not appear again in its current form, and that Next should ensure the images in their ads were “prepared responsibly and did not portray models as being unhealthily thin.”
“You do wonder how it got through,” fashion journalist Victoria Moss told BBC Breakfast.
“Next are usually very commercial, their models are very ‘girl-next-door’. This model has ‘the look’ of a model,” she said, adding however that it was “important not to stigmatise either way”.
The ruling comes as there is increased focus on the effects of advertising unrealistic or unhealthy body images on mental health.
The “body positivity” movement which began around 2010 focused particularly on promoting a more diverse range of models.
But editorial director of British Vogue told the BBC the fashion industry “should be concerned” by a recent trend towards a return of skinnier models.
Chioma Nnadi suggested the change, a departure from recent progress in body diversity, had been partly fuelled by the rise in popularity of weightloss drugs like Ozempic.
In 2023, the ASA banned fashion retailer Warehouse from using an image of a model in an oversized biker jacket, saying the model’s pronounced collar bone, hip bones and torso gave the appearance of her being “very thin”, which made the ad “irresponsible”.
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Ukraine needs US support and Kate’s prison visit
Ukraine needs US support and Kate’s prison visit
Broadcaster and assisted dying campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen, who has terminal *******, features on the front of the Daily Express describing how she felt “great relief” after MPs voted to back proposed legislation on assisted dying in England and Wales in November. The story is back in the headlines due to a possible change to safeguarding measures contained in the bill. It features on a number of Wednesday’s front pages.
The i newspaper reflects on the other side of the assisted dying debate – saying the move to replace oversight of applications with a committee rather than a judge is galvanising opposition to the bill among MPs. The i also looks back at Manchester City’s last-gasp defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League and in its lead story says more than 30 banks and building societies have cut the rates on their savings accounts since interest rates were cut last week, giving customers worse returns than before.
The future of the assisted dying bill is in “jeopardy” after the latest legal tweak as MPs waver on support, the Times reports. Elsewhere on the front and in other domestic news, the Princess of Wales clutches an umbrella as she arrives at HMP Styal, in Cheshire, where she met pregnant convicts and mums of babies born behind bars.
In an extended interview with the Guardian, Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky says he will offer US firms lucrative reconstruction contracts to try to get Donald Trump onside with its war effort against Russia. It comes ahead of the Ukrainian leader travelling to Munich later this week to meet US Vice-President JD Vance.
President Donald Trump features as the main image on the front of the Financial Times during his meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah at the White House on Tuesday and insisted he would move forward with his vision for the US to control Gaza. The US leader also features in the lead story with the headline “Trump trades” with the paper saying his latest moves are starting to “backfire” as the dollar starts to weaken.
Sticking with Gaza, the Daily Telegraph reports on a warning from the Home Office that refugees’ successful use of Ukraine settlement scheme will open “floodgates”. The paper says a family of six seeking to flee Gaza have been allowed to join their brother in Britain after an immigration judge ruled that the Home Office’s rejection of their application breached their human rights.
“Go Complain” is the headline on Wednesday’s Sun newspaper as it reports that Strictly Come Dancing star Wynne is set to take BBC to tribunal over a “sex joke” which led to him being taken off the show’s tour, according to the tabloid. The paper says the BBC has refused to comment on the latest development.
According to the Daily Mail, John Tuckett, the Labour government’s choice for the next “borders watchdog” has hinted he plans to work from his home in Finland part of the time in his role. Meghan Markle is pictured enjoying a beer at an Invictus Games party in Vancoucer, Canada, with singer Michael Bublé.
The Daily Mirror’s front page is dominated by tributes to Scottish football legend Dennis Law. Sir Alex Ferguson joined past and present Manchester United stars to pay respects at the ******** of Law – as fans gathered at Manchester Cathedral to the mourn club legend. The paper captures a bit of Fergie’s eulogy in which “Denis was my hero”.
Finally, according to the Daily Star the FBI has unearthed thousands of new files on the assassination of John F Kennedy after 62 years.
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More US newspeak as base renamed, and reporter barred
More US newspeak as base renamed, and reporter barred
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has changed the name of a military base, as the Trump administration demands compliance with ‘Gulf of America’ term.
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New Marvel Rivals mode could be PvE
New Marvel Rivals mode could be PvE
NetEase Games appears to be kicking around the idea of a PvE mode in its megahit, Marvel Rivals. A tentacle monster will cap it off as a boss fight.
X0XLeak on Twitter added weight to a previous leak by RivalsLeaks, which asserted that that a PvE mode was in the works. It should be noted this is likely still a ways away, but if true, this inclusion will be a welcome one.
A PvE mode will make NetEase’s live service hero shooter stand out from the rest. Overwatch 2 notoriously was supposed to get modes for players to play PvE, only for them to be limited and eventually scrubbed entirely.
In our Marvel Rivals review, we said: “If you’re not into multiplayer, it’s at least worth a shot because it’s free-to-play. NetEase released Marvel Rivals at just the perfect time. We will see how far they can take this very strong launch, but currently, this game is a blast! It’s a must-play for Marvel fans, shooter fans, and especially Overwatch fans.”
Gabriel Stanford-Reisinger Editor-in-Chief
Gabe has been a gamer since he was young, playing games like Pajama Sam, Freddi Fish, Guitar Hero, and whatever looked cool on GameFly. Ever since 2018, he’s been infatuated with the inner workings of the gaming and entertainment industries, covering a wide range of topics from video games to TV and film. Starting as a contributor for PSX Extreme, he’s worked his way up to its Managing Editor. Using what’s he learned over the years, he founded Smash Jump to remind everyone to smash jump.
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India CPI, SoftBank Group earnings
India CPI, SoftBank Group earnings
Yusuf Gandhi | 500Px | Getty Images
Asia-Pacific markets opened mixed Wednesday after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signaled there was no urgency to cut rates.
Powell on Tuesday re-emphasized the central bank’s focus on curbing inflation and signaled that policymakers were not in a rush to push interest rates lower.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 traded around the flatline.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 0.71% after resuming trading following a holiday, while the Topix added 0.22% at the open. South Korea’s Kospi slid 0.21% while the small-cap Kosdaq lost 0.36%.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index futures were at 21,551, also stronger than the HSI’s last close of 21,294.86.
India is slated to report its inflation data for January. SoftBank Group will be posting its fiscal third-quarter earnings later in the day.
Overnight in the U.S., the three major averages closed mixed. The S&P 500 added 0.03% to end at 6,068.50, while the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.36% to close at 19,643.86. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 123.24 points, or 0.28%, to 44,593.65.
Powell’s testimony comes at a volatile time in Washington with President Donald Trump favoring tariffs against U.S. trading partners and with mixed messages coming from the administration on its approach to the Fed.
Powell said the current policy stance, with the benchmark Fed funds rate in a range between 4.25% and 4.5%, is providing flexibility. The Federal Open Market Committee held the rate in place at its late-January meeting.
— CNBC’s Jeff Cox, Pia Singh and Hakyung Kim contributed to this report.
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Stay Active at the Four Seasons Santa Fe Adventure Center
Stay Active at the Four Seasons Santa Fe Adventure Center
Four Seasons Santa Fe
Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Four Seasons Santa Fe is a luxurious desert retreat spanning 57 acres. Whether you’re visiting during the winter or summer, there’s something uniquely enriching to experience. The onsite Adventure Center, offering a variety outdoor adventures and cultural excursions led by local, expert private guides. Here’s a look at what awaits you during your next stay at the Four Seasons Santa Fe, along with a glimpse into the spa and wellness offerings that make this destination so special.
Winter with the Four Seasons Adventure Center
Skiing
During winter, the mountains near Santa Fe transform into a winter wonderland perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The resort offers round trip transportation Ski Santa Fe. Just a short distance away, it is one of New Mexico’s top skiing destinations, there are trails for all levels! The Four Seasons ski concierge will fit guests for equipment rentals and handle all the logistics of transporting gear back and forth to the mountain for a seamless experience for guests. Explore the resort’s Ski Santa Fe package which includes lift tickets!
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing excursions along quieter trails also allow you to take in the pristine winter beauty of the region, making it an ideal activity for those looking for a more meditative experience. Lead by expert guides from the Adventure Center snowshoeing is great for guests who don’t ski but still want to stay active this winter.
Winter Wonderland Tour
Embrace the kid within! The Adventure Center can arrange sledding treks and tubing for guests who want the thrill of flying down the mountain but aren’t strapping into skis or a snowboard for a day at Ski Santa Fe. Embrace winter playing in the snow during this half day experience. After your winter wonderland tour book a warming experience like fireside s’mores and hot coco.
Four Seasons Santa Fe
Spring and Summer with the Four Seasons Adventure Center
Stargazing Experiences
Clear skies make Santa Fe an ideal destination for stargazing. The Four Seasons Santa Fe offers guided stargazing experiences with local astronomers who introduce you to the constellations and celestial stories of the Southwest. For an intimate touch, enjoy this experience from your own private terrace, where telescopes and blankets are provided.
Mountain Biking
Always wanted to try mountain biking but too scared to go out on your own? The guides at the Adventure Center are experts at mountain biking and can teach you everything you need to know, assuming you already know how to ride a bike! Choose from several distinct routes and terrains, your guide can help you choose the best one based on your experience level and desired difficulty level.
Fly Fishing
Go for the full day or just a half day! An Adventure Center guide will lead guest to the best waters, these experts know where the fish are biting most! Whether is be the Pecos, Chama, Rio Grande, Brazos, or Jemez River guests will have a good time. All gear and lunch are included in the excursion.
Four Seasons Santa Fe
Historical and Cultural Excursions
Pecos National Historic Park
Led by a local guide, guests will discover the history of Pueblo and Plains Indians, learn about the impact of Spanish and Anglo settlers and the role Santa Fe played in the Civil War. This half-day tour includes lunch and is a great way to explore the area and learned about this history and gain a deeper understanding of how Santa Fe came to be today.
Ancient to Present Tour – Bandelier
One of the most popular cultural excursions, during this half day experience, your expert guide will drive through ancient lands of the Pueblo Indians onto the Pajarito Plateau to Bandelier National Monument. Guests will climb ladders into ancient caves, search for petroglyphs pecked into the sides of cliffs, and learn about the Pueblo way of life ancient to modern day.
Wine and Culture
Learn about the fascinating history of wine-making in northern New Mexico. A knowledgeable guide will ******* you to different wineries and tasting rooms, learn about the unique flavor and charm of each wine. Along the way your guide will talk about the region and the history of each area you visit. Talk to the Adventure Center to learn how you can customize this excursion!
Georgia O’Keefe Country and Ghost Ranch
This full day excursion will bring guests through the colorful cliffs of the “Valley of Shining Stone” where you can catch a glimpse of Georgia O’Keefe’s famous Cerro Pedernal. Then head on to Ghost Ranch, the artist’s home of many years. During the tour of the property, guests will learn more about O’Keefe and will even get the chance to see fossils of a prehistoric dinosaur! Talk to the Adventure Center about adding a hike or horseback riding on to this excursion.
Four Seasons Santa Fe
Year-Round Adventures
Hot Air Ballooning
View Santa Fe’s beauty from new heights. The Four Seasons Santa Fe arranges hot air balloon rides that let you take in this vibrant scenery from above, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Daily Hikes
The Four Seasons Santa Fe offers daily one-hour complimentary hikes starting at the Adventure Center and leading guests along the Camino Encantado Trail. They also offer a variety of guided hiking tours. Choose between an easy nature hike that last 3-5 hours, a moderate half day hike, or a strenuous full day hike for those looking for a challenge.
Santa Fe City Tours
Your expert guide will start in the oldest neighborhoods of Santa Fe, guests will trace the route of the old Santa Fe Trail. During this 3-hour excursion guests will learn about the architecture of Santa Fe, check out museums, galleries, and local shops. This tour can be customized to focus on your specific interests.
Four Seasons Santa Fe
Locally Inspired and Unique Spa Treatments
Spiritual Journey
Guests will be guided on a journey of peace and enlightenment to purify and restore from the inside out. This treatment begins with a sage smudging ceremony, then the body is wrapped with nutrient-rich adobe clay. Once cocooned in clay, experience a personalized purification ritual to reset, and conclude with a chakra balancing massage to restore the mind, body and spirit. A truly unique and relaxing experience!
Turquoise Sage Hand and Foot Treatment
Inspired by the high desert, the Turquoise Sage hand and foot scrub is a beautiful combination of organic wild sages, lavender, and fossilized desert salts. The fine texture of the salts creates a gentle scrub that will leave the hands and feet feeling exfoliated and invigorated. After the exfoliation the hands and feet are moisturized and massaged with Desert Jojoba lotion.
Sacred Stone Massage
Your massage therapist will alternate between hot and cold river stones to melt deep-seated tension, allowing guests to experience profound relaxation. This massage is offered as a 50-minute or 80-minute treatment.
Spiritual Enhancements
Guests can request to add a spiritual enhancement to any spa service. Choose to add a smudging ceremony to your massage to clear negative energy. Or add Chakra Balancing to balance the energy centers within yourself.
Four Seasons Santa Fe
Four Seasons Santa Fe is more than a resort for your next holiday. The on-site Adventure Center offers guests the chance to have new adventures, to truly disconnect from their everyday lives, and connect with the surrounding nature. A stay at Four Seasons Santa Fe means choice. Guest can embrace their wild side on thrilling mountain bike rides. Quench their thirst for knowledge on a historic tour of Pueblo Indian ruins. Or guests can feed their soul with spiritual treatments at the spa. Not just another vacation, guests of the Four Seasons Santa Fe should be prepared for all kinds of adventures.
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Amazon Alexa gets new skill that can help your child fall asleep – and I can’t decide if that’s cute or creepy
Amazon Alexa gets new skill that can help your child fall asleep – and I can’t decide if that’s cute or creepy
A new bedtime story skill has been introduced for Amazon’s Alexa
Tumbles and Stripes is a science-backed story designed to help kids drift off
It can be backed up with a full bedtime Alexa Routine including dimming smart lights
Amazon has announced fresh powers for Alexa to help parents in the nightly routine of getting their kids to go to sleep. It comes in the form of a bedtime story that’s been specifically tailored – and is “science-backed” – to work effectively towards this end.
The story was written by TV presenter Vogue Williams, who also narrates the tale, and the scientific advice comes courtesy of a sleep expert from Durham university, Professor Helen Ball.
Tumbles and Stripes is a story about a mother taking her two young tigers through their bedtime routine (apparently inspired by Vogue’s son, who’s very keen on animals).
Professor Ball (of the Durham Infancy & Sleep Centre at Durham university) advised on the pacing of the tale and use of soothing themes. It also contains elements such as repeated phrases and a gradual reduction in the volume level as the story goes on, in order to help generate a sleepy feeling.
Also, a key point here is the focus of the story itself being a bedtime routine that kids will quickly identify with, as that’s what they’re going through themselves.
Parents will not only be able to use their smart speaker to help get their child to sleep with this tiger-themed tale, but Amazon further notes that there’s a full bedtime Alexa Routine which has been introduced.
This backs up Vogue’s story, following it with brown noise and dimming the lights, all adding to the effect of helping the child drift off (assuming you have smart lights hooked up to Alexa, of course, in the latter case).
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Those with Alexa can activate said bedtime routine by heading here, or to tell the story of Tumbles and Stripes, just ask: “Alexa, help my child fall asleep”.
A bit creepy, or simply cutesy?
Echo Sleep Stories – Main Film, 16×9 – YouTube
Watch On
Is it somehow a bit creepy to get Alexa to lull your child off to sleep? I can see why some people might think so, and take the view that bedtime stories are best given the personal touch – and that drafting in digital help is not going to be as effective as your own on-the-fly softening of voice, and embellishments to the tale (perhaps).
But of course, you don’t have to use Alexa for bedtime story duties, this is just another option open to users. And in fairness, this sounds like a suitably cutesy tale, and a good way of having a bedtime story read to your kids in this manner – rather than using just a plain audiobook (as many parents already do) without any of the mentioned tailoring implemented by Professor Ball.
Not everyone has time to fit in a full bedtime routine every day, after all, and as part of the background to the creation of this story, Amazon undertook a survey of *** adults. It found that 25% of respondents “struggled to put their children to bed regularly” and that 12% reported “consistent difficulties” in this respect. All of which can add to the stress of an overly busy life, of course.
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Law firm restricts AI after ‘significant’ staff use
Law firm restricts AI after ‘significant’ staff use
Angus Tiffin & Graham Fraser
BBC News
Getty Images
An international law firm has blocked general access to several artificial intelligence (AI) tools after it found a “significant increase in usage” by its staff.
In an email seen by the BBC, a senior director of Hill Dickinson, which employs more than a thousand people in the ***, warned staff of the use of AI tools.
The firm said much of the usage was not in line with its AI policy, and going forward the firm would only allow staff to access the tools via a request process.
A spokesperson from the Information Commissioner’s Office – the ***’s data watchdog – told BBC News that firms should not discourage the use of AI in work.
The spokesperson added: “With AI offering people countless ways to work more efficiently and effectively, the answer cannot be for organisations to outlaw the use of AI and drive staff to use it under the radar.
“Instead, companies need to offer their staff AI tools that meet their organisational policies and data protection obligations.”
In the email, Hill Dickinson’s chief technology officer said the law firm had detected more than 32,000 hits to the popular chatbot ChatGPT over a seven-day ******* in January and February.
During the same timeframe, there were also more than 3,000 hits to the ******** AI service DeepSeek, which was recently banned from *********** government devices over security concerns.
It also highlighted almost 50,000 hits to Grammarly, the writing assistance tool.
However, it is not clear on how many occasions staff visited ChatGPT, DeepSeek, or Grammarly, or how many staff visited repeatedly, as several hits could have been generated by a user during every time they used the websites.
The email to Hill Dickinson employees said: “We have been monitoring usage of Al tools, particularly publicly available generative Al solutions, and have noticed a significant increase in usage of, and uploading of files to, such tools.”
‘Positively embrace’ use of AI
Hill Dickinson, who have offices in several parts of England and abroad, later told BBC News: “Like many law firms, we are aiming to positively embrace the use of AI tools to enhance our capabilities while always ensuring safe and proper use by our people and for our clients.”
The firm added that its AI policy, which includes guidance that prohibits the uploading of client information and requires staff to verify the accuracy of the large language models’ responses, will ensure that usage “will remain safe, secure and effective”.
The firm is now only granting access to AI tools via a request process. It is understood that some requests have already been received and approved.
A spokesperson from the Solicitors Regulation Authority, which regulates solicitors in England and Wales, told BBC News: “Despite this increased interest in new technology, there remains a lack of digital skills across all sectors in the ***.
“This could present a risk for firms and consumers if legal practitioners do not fully understand the new technology that is implemented.”
According to a survey of 500 *** solicitors by legal software provider Clio in September, 62% anticipated an increase in AI usage over the following 12 months.
It found law firms across the *** were using the technology to complete tasks such as drafting documents, reviewing or analysing contracts and legal research.
A Department for Science, Innovation and Technology spokesperson described AI as a “technological leap” that will “free workers from repetitive tasks and unlock more rewarding opportunities”.
They told BBC News: “We are committed to bringing forward legislation which allows us to safely realise AI’s enormous benefits. We are engaging widely and will launch a public consultation in due course to ensure our approach effectively addresses this fast-evolving technology.”
Additional reporting by Liv McMahon
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‘Ineffective’ generic drugs fuel rare public anger in China
‘Ineffective’ generic drugs fuel rare public anger in China
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Public anger in China over concerns raised by doctors that generic drugs used in public hospitals are increasingly ineffective has led to a rare response from the government.
Doctors say they believe the country’s drug procurement system, which incentivises the use of cheap generic drugs over original brand-name pharmaceuticals, has led to costs being cut at the expense of people’s safety.
But officials, quoted by multiple state media outlets on Sunday, say the issue is one of perception rather than reality.
One report said different people simply had different reactions to medicines and that claims about them being ineffective had “mostly come from people’s anecdotes and subjective feelings”.
The official response has done little to allay public fears over the reputation of drugs in public hospitals and pharmacies. It is the latest challenge to a healthcare system that is already under enormous strain because of a rapidly ageing population.
How did it all begin?
The debate surrounding the use of generic drugs began in December, when authorities announced the list of nearly 200 companies that had won contracts to sell medicines to ******** state hospitals. Almost all were domestic makers of generic pharmaceuticals.
This intensified in January, when, in a video interview that went viral, the director of a hospital department in Shanghai, shared his concerns about the drug procurement system.
Zheng Minhua cited “antibiotics that cause allergies, blood pressure that won’t go down, anaesthetised patients who won’t sleep” and laxatives that did not clear the bowel as being among the issues that had been encountered.
Dr Zheng’s words immediately struck a chord and have been condensed into a social media slogan that has been viewed by millions in the past month – though much of the discussion of the topic has since been censored on Weibo. Many people have come forward to share their own bad experiences with alleged substandard drugs.
“I underwent intestinal surgeries in 2024, which required me to consume laxatives beforehand,” one Weibo user wrote. They said the drugs they were given had “no effect whatsoever”, even after the dose was doubled, and that they had to turn to drinking coffee to help clear their bowel.
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The majority of drugs in public hospitals and pharmacies are stocked through the procurement process
The concerns raised over the efficacy of generic drugs has caused distrust and made some people unwilling to use them.
A person on Xiaohongshu, China’s Instagram-like app, said that when hospital doctors prescribed them the generic version of an antibiotic, they immediately went online to buy the “original” “real” one, since the generic version “tasted different”.
“There have been many people catching colds recently. A lot of them might have bought this drug. Quickly send reminders to your friends now and get them to check the brand before buying,” the user warned.
Some of the most popular posts discussing the procurement controversy have been taken down, though it is unclear by whom. China’s heavily monitored internet has a strong culture of censorship by both authorities and users themselves.
In a scathing, now-removed post by popular podcast host Meng Chang, he lambasted the lack of imported drugs in the public sector: “If this isn’t a bottom line, I don’t know what is.”
Public anger has also been focussed on the difficulties of accessing imported drugs that people believe to be of better quality.
In response to authorities’ attempt to reassure people of the quality of generic drugs, one Weibo user wrote: “As long as we are allowed to buy brand-name drugs ourselves, I have no other complaints.”
How does the drug procurement system work?
It was introduced in 2018 as a way to lower state expenditure on medicines and involves local governments putting out tender processes for around 70% of state hospitals’ annual drug requirements.
Various drug manufacturers then compete to offer the lowest prices for drugs to win these lucrative contracts.
This gives an advantage to domestically-produced generic drugs, which contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredients as original patented drugs but are often several times cheaper to make as they do not include the high costs of research and development.
China has emerged as one of the world’s largest players in the global generic pharmaceutical market, exporting both finished products to consumers abroad and key ingredients to foreign companies. At home, thousands of generic drug manufacturers compete to sell their products at competitive prices in the expanding domestic market.
For generic medicines to be eligible for China’s procurement process, they have to be tested and determined to be similar enough to the brand-name version of the drug.
Beijing has credited the drugs procurement system with saving millions of residents more than $50bn (£40bn) in its first five years.
But the procurement process has seen some drug manufacturers offer medicines at incredibly low prices. One of the winning bids last December was an aspirin tablet selling for less than one cent.
“Are drug tablets that cost less than one cent edible?” became a trending topic on Weibo at the time.
“The manufacturers that win the bids often set prices so low that they may struggle to produce high quality drugs with the correct ingredients, potentially leading to ineffective medications,” Stacy Zhang, associate professor at NYU Langone Health, told the BBC.
She added that while the procurement system “was not designed to restrict access to imported brand-name drugs”, it may still have “affected their accessibility”.
Questions over data and efficacy
A proposal submitted by 20 doctors, including Dr Zheng, to Shanghai authorities last month stated that “there are widespread concerns in the industry that procurement prices are too low, prompting unethical companies to cut corners to reduce costs, affecting the efficacy of drugs”.
“Doctors are helpless because they have no choice, and there is no channel to escalate feedback.”
A recent article by Xia Zhimin, a doctor in Hangzhou, has added to the scrutiny. In it, he highlighted what he said was questionable data from the trials of generic drugs on the procurement list – it was identical to the data from the original drug on which it was based. Dr Xia suggested that it could be evidence of fraud.
The National Medical Products Administration responded by saying his findings were due to an “editorial error”. His article has since been removed.
Adding to quality concerns are counterfeit drugs, which have seeped into both generic and brand-name drugs markets across the world and are notoriously difficult to detect. The World Health Organization has described this a global health problem.
“To enhance affordability, the introduction of cost-effective generics is essential,” Kevin Lu, associate professor at the University of South Carolina’s College of Pharmacy, told the BBC.
He added that the procurement process needed “strengthened quality control” and “continued improvements in drug approval and manufacturing standards”.
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China’s rapidly ageing population put increasing pressure on its healthcare system
A sector in crisis
The controversy comes at a time when China’s healthcare system is already under mounting pressure.
A rapidly ageing population has meant that the country’s total health expenditure has increased nearly 20-fold over the last 20 years, reaching 9 trillion yuan ($1.25 trillion; £1 trillion) in 2023.
Across the country, public medical insurance funds are running thin. Deficits have already appeared in some provinces, where local governments that had relied heavily on land sales for revenue are now struggling with debt as a real estate crisis engulfs China’s economy.
At the same time, the healthcare system has been experiencing a trust crisis. Violent attacks against medical staff have risen since the 2000s, fuelled by anger at the lack of resources and an erosion of faith in doctors.
Unlike issues that have been deemed politically sensitive and heavily censored by authorities, such as the persecution of political dissidents or the suppression of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang, the ongoing controversy surrounding the procurement of drugs has at least been acknowledged by the state as a problem to be tackled.
The National Healthcare Security Administration said in a statement on 19 January that authorities “attached great importance” to these safety concerns and would seek feedback on the drug procurement policy.
“It is undeniable that the national centralised procurement is still in its infancy. There are many pharmaceutical companies with varying production quality,” state media Life Times quoted a public health scholar as saying. Other experts cited in the article called for drug evaluation standards to be improved.
As authorities try to remedy the procurement system’s faltering image, all the scrutiny is now overshadowing a system designed to be a win-win: saving lives and also saving money.
As one Weibo user argued, the savings from lower drug prices are but “a drop in a bucket” of China’s national healthcare costs. On the other hand, they wrote, allowing potentially defective drugs to be widely used is akin to “drinking poison to quench thirst”.
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Titantimepiece Celestial Marvel
Titantimepiece Celestial Marvel
Steve Huyton
As a designer, I have certain preferences and influences. One of my favourites is Steampunk. This is a subgenre of science fiction that is heavily influenced by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. The main characteristics incorporate retro-futuristic technologies like the machinery envisioned by H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. Subsequently, these design elements have filtered into modern culture. Within the world of horology, there are many notable exponents. However, the name that comes instantly to mind is Vianney Halter. Under his label, he has created some extraordinary watches. He is also recognised for his 2023 Opus 3 collaboration with Harry Winston. This timepiece inspired Italian-based designer Igor Guidy to make a 2025 electronic version called the ‘Celestial Marvel’.
Steve Huyton
The Opus 3 has an extremely complex case with six portholes that pay homage to the historical marine chronometers of Captain Nemo’s submarine. In my opinion, it also has an exquisite art deco appearance. Even though the Celestial Marvel follows a lot of the same design principles, it has a more industrial aesthetic. One of the main differences is the choice of materials. Harry Winston and Vianney Halter opted for luxurious 18k Pink Gold and Platinum to appeal to discerning collectors. By contrast, Igor Guidy, under the label Titantimepiece, has selected a specially hardened matte ****** (coated) zirconium, which gives the piece a whole new dynamic.
Steve Huyton
The fascinating thing about the world of horology is the scope for reimagination. All great designers have influences, and Igor Guidy is no different. In 2003, the Opus 3 was acknowledged as the world’s first mechanical watch with an entirely digital display. Even though the Celestial Marvel uses different technology, it still has the same visual impact. Dimensionally, this timepiece is also very well proportioned with a case measuring 47mmx 37mm x13 mm. Due to the ergonomic design and choice of Zirconium, the watch is exceptionally comfortable to wear. At 60 grams, it’s also very lightweight and a versatile option for most occasions. However, it is pertinent to mention this is a novelty piece, so it needs to be protected from splashing water and dust.
Steve Huyton
At the heart of the ‘Celestial Marvel’ is a sophisticated electronic system entirely devised in-house by Titantimepiece. Time is displayed by red LED lights (exceptionally rare gold plated 7-segment indicators that were originally manufactured in the 1980’s) via 6 porthole style sapphire crystal windows. However, for the more adventurous, Igor Guidy has incorporated a random time display facility. Ultimately, it is a conundrum which involves a certain amount of guesswork. Recipients must decipher the correct digits responsible for displaying the hour, minutes and seconds. Other functions include day/month/year and accurate temperature sensors. The watch also comes with a USB charger that’s connected via a magnetic port on the rear case.
Steve Huyton
As a perfect finishing touch, the Celestial Marvel is presented on a high-quality ****** leather strap. With a competitive price of $1,856, I feel consumers are getting good value for money.
Steve Huyton
For more information about the ‘Celestial Marvel and full specifications follow this link:
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The AP says Trump blocking its reporter from Oval Office over not using Gulf of America “violates the First Amendment”
The AP says Trump blocking its reporter from Oval Office over not using Gulf of America “violates the First Amendment”
Google Maps changes to Gulf of America
Google Maps changes Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America for U.S. users
00:42
The Associated Press pushed back against the Trump administration on Tuesday after one of its reporters was blocked from an event over the news organization’s guidance on its continued use of the “Gulf of Mexico” in its coverage, calling the move a violation of the First Amendment.
The White House demanded early Tuesday that the AP alter its style guidance to use the name Gulf of America versus using the Gulf of Mexico, AP executive editor Julie Pace said in a statement. President Trump renamed the body of water to the Gulf of America through an executive order last month. Later on Tuesday, Pace said the White House stopped an AP reporter from attending Mr. Trump’s executive order signing in the Oval Office.
“It is alarming that the Trump administration would punish AP for its independent journalism. Limiting our access to the Oval Office based on the content of AP’s speech not only severely impedes the public’s access to independent news, it plainly violates the First Amendment,” Pace said.
The AP’s style guide, which many newsrooms across the country follow, published on Jan. 23, two days after the president signed his executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico, states that Mr. Trump’s order only carries authority within the United States and other countries do not have to recognize the change.
“As a global news agency that disseminates news around the world, the AP must ensure that place names and geography are easily recognizable to all audiences,” the guidance reads.
In his executive order, Mr. Trump also reverted the name of North America’s tallest peak in Alaska, Denali, back to Mount McKinley. The AP’s guidance says that it will be referring to it as Mount McKinley.
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Tariffs, trade and visas to dominate talks
Tariffs, trade and visas to dominate talks
Michael Kugelman
Foreign policy analyst
AFP
Narendra Modi at the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris on Tuesday
When Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Washington and meets President Donald Trump later this week, there will be some warm hugs and shared laughs. But that will not be all.
Trump and Modi have developed a strong personal rapport over the years, marked by high-profile meetings and joint appearances.
Since their first meeting in Washington in 2017, their bond has grown through other events, including joint appearances at massive rallies in Houston and Ahmedabad. Their chemistry stems from shared worldviews and politics and a mutual strategic focus on countering China, a concern that has also strengthened the broader US-India partnership.
Not surprisingly, Trump has often criticised India, but he has never criticised Modi.
And so, during Modi’s visit, the two leaders will probably spend time mapping out next steps in the US-India strategic partnership, which is already in a good place.
Modi will reportedly meet several members of Trump’s cabinet, as well as US business leaders and members of the Indian-American community.
He may also meet SpaceX and Tesla chief Elon Musk. Modi, keen to scale up India’s burgeoning electric vehicles sector, would be happy if Musk opened a Tesla factory in India.
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Trump and Modi meeting previously, in Delhi in 2020
And yet the Trump-Modi conviviality and heady talk of strategic partnership may mask a sobering reality: during Modi’s visit, the relationship’s transactional side will come into sharp relief with each leader, especially Trump, armed with an array of demands.
Delhi knows Trump well. Many of Modi’s current cabinet ministers also served during his previous term, which overlapped with part of the first Trump administration. That familiarity has been on display since Trump’s inauguration last month: Delhi has publicly signalled its willingness to lower tariffs, take back undocumented Indian immigrants and buy American oil.
It has already lowered some tariffs and taken back 104 undocumented Indians, with the first plane arriving in India last week. These pre-emptive steps are meant to prevent Trump from making specific demands of India and to reduce the likelihood of tensions with the new Trump administration.
Still, Trump may ask Modi to make additional tariff reductions, to further chip away at a US goods and services trade deficit with India that has approached $46bn (£37.10bn) in recent years. But an obstacle could become an opportunity: Modi may call on Trump to enter into bilateral talks on an economic partnership accord meant to reduce tariffs on both sides.
In recent years, Delhi has shown a growing willingness to pursue trade deals. The Trump administration may prove to be a more willing interlocutor than the Biden administration, which imposed heavy environmental and labour-related conditions on new trade agreements.
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In 2019, thousands of Indian-Americans attended an event in Houston where Modi and Trump made a joint appearance
Trump may also ask Modi to take back more undocumented Indians. Given that some estimates put the number at more than 700,000 – the third-largest such group in the US – this will be a difficult and delicate issue for Delhi to navigate.
Last week, India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar told parliament that the government was working with the US to ensure Indian citizens were not mistreated while being deported after reports of them being shackled sparked anger.
Trump may also call on Modi to buy more American oil.
In 2021, India was the top destination for American oil exports, but the Russian invasion of Ukraine brought major changes in global oil markets and prompted Delhi to ramp up imports of cheap oil from close partner Russia. The price point will determine how much oil India is willing to buy from the US.
Modi may also come with his own energy ask: invest in Indian nuclear energy. Delhi is amending its nuclear liability law and has announced a new nuclear energy mission, in an attempt to sharpen international interest in the fuel.
India aims to meet half its energy requirements through renewable energy by 2030. Asking Trump to invest in nuclear fuel amounts to a potential happy medium: it is cleaner than fossil fuels, but far removed from the solar and wind power that may not strike the Trump administration as an attractive investment.
Technology will probably be discussed as well.
This was a fast-growing space for bilateral relations in the Biden era, thanks to the 2022 implementation of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), which both sides view as a new cornerstone for strategic partnership. iCET is meant to be directly overseen by the two national security advisers – to avoid getting bogged down in bureaucracy – which means they must each be personally invested in it.
Modi will likely seek assurances from Trump and his National Security Adviser Mike Waltz that they remain committed to this. Given Washington’s focus on countering China by making India a ******* part of tech global supply chains, they probably will.
Also on the tech co-operation front, Modi may make a pitch for Trump to maintain the H-1B visa regime. These visas for highly skilled foreign workers, heavily criticised by some influential Trump supporters, have been awarded to large numbers of Indian tech employees in the US.
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Indians dominate the H-1B visa programme, which brings skilled foreign workers to the US
Other countries may also come up during Modi’s conversations in Washington. Iran could loom especially large.
Delhi is partnering with Tehran to develop a port in Chabahar city – part of a broader Indian strategy to strengthen connectivity links with Central Asia, via Iran and Afghanistan. But last week, the US administration released a presidential memorandum outlining Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign on Tehran, which hints at removing sanctions waivers for those conducting commercial activities in Chabahar. Modi may seek clarity on what this means for Delhi.
Trump may also gauge Modi’s position on a big foreign policy priority: ending the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
Delhi has a strong interest in these wars winding down. Modi’s position on the war in Ukraine – calling for an end to the conflict without criticising Putin or Russia – echoes that of Trump.
India’s special relationship with Russia and close ties with Israel may prompt Trump to see if Modi would want to play a third-party mediator role as well. Modi would probably be comfortable doing so only if the parties are receptive to outside mediation.
But despite some potentially delicate discussions this week, both leaders will want to maintain a positive tone.
In that regard, the Indo-Pacific Quad will be just what the doctor ordered.
Trump strongly backs this group which consists of the US, India, Japan and Australia and focuses on countering Beijing.
In his first term, Trump elevated the Quad’s annual meetings to the foreign minister level and Biden elevated them further to the leaders’ level.
India is scheduled to host this year’s Quad meeting and Modi may invite Trump to Delhi to attend this.
Trump reportedly is not a big fan of international travel but India is a trip he will probably be keen to make – to deepen his personal relationship with Modi and to advance a multifaceted bilateral partnership that extends well beyond the transactionalism that will carry the day in Washington this week.
Michael Kugelman is the director of the Wilson Center’s South Asia Institute in Washington
Follow BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.
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Delhi is working with Tehran to develop a port in Iran’s Chabahar city
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Manchester City’s ageing squad brutally exposed by Real Madrid in Champions League defeat
Manchester City’s ageing squad brutally exposed by Real Madrid in Champions League defeat
Manchester City’s fans started the night by unfurling a huge flag taunting Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior for their angry reaction to Rodri beating the Brazilian to last year’s Ballon d’Or.
‘Stop Crying Your Heart Out’ was the message, the words of the Oasis hit accompanied by an image of Rodri kissing the coveted trophy at the ceremony boycotted by Real in protest at the decision.
Firing barbs at the most ruthless and experienced operators in Champions League history is a dangerous occupation, and so it proved.
All the tears belonged to City and their supporters at the final whistle after a trademark smash-and-grab late surge gave Real a potentially decisive 3-2 advantage after the first leg of this play-off to reach the last 16 of the Champions League.
Real’s relentless, concrete-clad confidence in themselves and street wisdom honed over years of experience and triumphs, saw them turn a 2-1 deficit after 86 minutes into a victory, Carlo Ancelotti’s side preying on City’s own painful lack of self-belief.
The contrast was stark, City wilting visibly in the second half, then consumed by anxiety and nerves once their former midfielder Brahim Diaz restored parity with four minutes of normal time left.
City are never home and hosed this season. Real Madrid never believe they are beaten. And this was the case again as Pep Guardiola’s team lost from a winning position for the fifth time this campaign.
It is perhaps an insight into City’s current state of mind and form that the two late goals conceded here made it eight goals shipped in the final 16 minutes of their past five Champions League games, the most of any side.
Guardiola is currently presiding over a team with too many miles on the clock, too many players not fully fit – or not fit at all in Rodri’s case. The cracks are starting to look beyond repair.
Rodri was watching from the sidelines, having been included in City’s Champions League squad in the hope he may recover from his knee injury this season, and on that giant flag.
How City needed his calming influence, quality and steel on the pitch as they were overcome late on once more.
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‘Kill them’: Police seek NSW Health workers who made threats against Israelis at their hospital
‘Kill them’: Police seek NSW Health workers who made threats against Israelis at their hospital
New South Wales Police are on their way to Bankstown in western Sydney after two medicos told a Jewish social media influencer that they refuse to treat Israeli people at their hospital and would “kill them” instead.
Premier Chris Minns this morning told 2GB radio that “the two individuals have been identified as NSW Health workers and they’re from Bankstown Hospital”.
In the explosive Instagram video, posted by popular Jewish influencer Max Viefer, the pair claimed they “won’t treat” Israeli people and will instead “kill them”.
“It’s Palestine’s country, not your country you piece of s**t,” the unidentified woman said.
“One day your time will come. One day you’ll die the most …” she said before the recording cut out.
“When your time comes, I want you to remember my face so you can understand that you will die the most disgusting death”.
The man said he was a doctor “in a hospital”.
“You’re going to get killed and you’re going to go to (hell jahannam), inshallah (god willing),” he said.
“Those pretty eyes should stay in this world for longer.”
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The man told Viefer “you have no idea how many Israeli dogs came to this hospital” before making a throat-slitting gesture.
The woman said “I’ll kill them”.
After becoming aware of the footage this morning Premier Minns referred the matter to NSW Police.
“Police are looking it right now,” he told 2GB
“My understanding is police are on their way to Bankstown as we speak.”
He flagged that the NSW Health Minister Ryan Park would be referring the matter to the Health Care Complaints Commissioner “immediately”.
“Both of them have been immediately stood down pending a full investigation of course but they will not be back in NSW Health,” Premier Minns said.
“We need to set a clear and unambiguous message that if you go to an emergency department, if you’re on a ward, anywhere in NSW, you will be treated by people who are highly trained, who are highly skilled, who care about you.
“I can understand right now members of the Jewish community … would be appalled at this latest revelation. We just can’t stand for it.”
The man and woman, who were filmed making the shocking declarations on social media while wearing hospital scrubs, are expected to be sacked.
Premier Minns said that so far they have only been stood down.
“We need to make sure this is an iron-clad investigation and there is not a glimmer of hope of some kind of administrative turnback so you’d appreciate the intention here is absolutely clear,” he said.
“I want to make sure people understand that these individuals won’t be returning to the office but there’s a process to be followed and that will take place as soon as possible.”
Minister Park this morning said he has been “made aware of an appalling video circulating social media”.
“The comments are vile, dehumanising and unacceptable,” he said.
“They made me sick to my stomach. I have asked NSW Health to launch an urgent investigation to identify the individuals and they have also referred the matter to NSW Police.
“If the investigation concludes that this behaviour has occurred, these individuals will no longer be working for NSW Health.
“These comments do not reflect the values of NSW Health or the broader NSW community.”
Authorities are now investigating the pair, believed to be NSW Health employees, who are expected to be sacked.
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JPMorgan Chase workers launch petition to halt 5 day back-to-office rule
JPMorgan Chase workers launch petition to halt 5 day back-to-office rule
JPMorgan Chase workers are calling on chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon to retain the hybrid-work model that the bank has used for years, and to invest resources so that more workers can enjoy a flexible schedule. The request comes at a time when the bank is ditching the hybrid model and requiring its more than 300,000 employees to return to the office five days a week starting early next month.
To further their campaign, a group of JPMorgan Chase employees, who called themselves the “JPMC Workers,” have launched a publicly visible petition that went live on Feb. 9. Their petition, addressed to Dimon, calls for better working conditions for all JPM employees, and makes a case for staying with the bank’s hybrid-work model.
Working full-time in an office used to be the norm six years ago, but that changed with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, according to the petition. Many companies, including JPMorgan Chase, shifted to a hybrid-work model, which the workers say led to reduced costs, enhanced morale, and strengthened employee retention. The petition also notes that JPMorgan Chase, using this hybrid model, has reported successive years of profit. In January, the bank said it produced $58.5 billion in net income for its fiscal year 2024, up 18% from 2023’s $49.6 billion, which was a record that year.
“It was uncomfortable, but we learned and adapted. So must leadership,” the workers said of the switch to hybrid, according to the petition.
On January 10, JPMorgan Chase set off a firestorm when the bank informed employees that all staff would be required to return to the office five days a week. Roughly 40% of JPMorgan Chase’s employees are currently on a hybrid schedule, where they are in the office three days a week. Last month, the bank began informing most of those employees they must be in office full time starting on March 3 or March 10, Fortune reported. Some bank locations are getting more time to comply with the RTO, including JPMorgan Chase’s Polaris regional headquarters in Ohio, which houses more than 12,000 employees, and was still listed Tuesday as “not yet determined.”
The petition calls for the bank to retain or return to the hybrid model for those job categories that have used it and invest resources to allow more workers to experience the flexibility of hybrid. It also asks JPMorgan Chase to permit remote employees to work from any bank corporate office in their region.
“The recent mandate for 100% in-office work is a great leap backward: It hurts employees, customers, shareholders, and the firm’s reputation. From a corporate-citizenship perspective, it worsens traffic and pollution while disproportionately pushing out women, caregivers, senior employees, and individuals with disabilities,” the JPMC workers say in the petition.
Story Continues
JPMorgan Chase declined to comment on the petition.
The nation’s biggest bank is expected to finish its new global headquarters in Manhattan this summer. JPMorgan Chase reportedly spent $3 billion on the 1,388-foot, 60-story all-electric skyscraper that will house up to 14,000 employees and was designed to lure back reluctant workers. Earlier this month, Fortune visited these JPMorgan offices that are located at 270 Park Avenue. The building features ******* windows, more air and lighting backed by smart tech that can replicate a worker’s circadian rhythm. There’s also a 19-restaurant food court where workers can visit or have meals delivered straight to their desk; an Irish pub is in the building; and physical therapy, yoga, and meditation classes are available to employees.
Most JPMorgan Chase employees, however, are not assigned to the new headquarters and can’t access these perks, the petition says. What they do get are bank corporate offices that are often crowded, noisy, and uncomfortable, according to the petition. JPM offices also use first-come, first-serve seating that the workers claim makes it impractical to even use a preferred keyboard or mouse.
“The whole ordeal has left us rank-and-file employees feeling betrayed and devalued,” the petition said.
Some employees were unsure whether the JPMC petition was real and worried that the bank was trying to identify its internal critics. “What if it’s the company behind these, just looking for names?” one worker, who declined to speak on the record for fear of retaliation, told Fortune.
This fear may explain why the petition had only 225 signatures as of Tuesday afternoon. “[The petition] needs to get marketing. I don’t see anyone being willing to post that on LinkedIn,” the employee said.
Fortune has independently verified that JPMorgan is not behind the petition site. The petition includes a box that those who sign can check to say they work at JPMorgan, but does not appear to have a way to verify this is the case. It also displays the number of signatures, and the first name and last initial of those who sign.
News of the petition comes as JPMorgan Chase is facing a unionization push among some employees. Last month, Fortune reported that roughly a dozen JPM employees, representing groups from different areas of the bank all over the U.S., have contacted the CWA. The CWA helped organize Wells Fargo workers at an Albuquerque branch where they voted to join the labor union in late 2023, a first in the banking industry. Roughly 25 Wells Fargo branches, including a group of conduct management investigators, have since unionized with the CWA.
The number of JPMorgan Chase employees in contact with the CWA has doubled, according to Nick Weiner, a CWA organizer. The bank workers are organizing, mapping out the workplaces and different departments, and continuing to reach out to more employees. A couple hundred JPMorgan Chase employees have also formed chat groups on Signal, Weiner said. “There are a lot of tactical and strategic questions that they have to figure out. We have been advising them,” he said.
Forming a union is painstaking work and can take much time, Weiner said: For example, Wells Fargo’s spent a couple years planning and organizing before holding its first election in December 2023.
“It’s going to be a long, long grind,” said a second JPMorgan Chase employee, who also declined to speak on the record, and supports the unionization push.
This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
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Google: Cyber crime meshes with cyber warfare as states enlist gangs
Google: Cyber crime meshes with cyber warfare as states enlist gangs
Cyber crime has evolved to become a threat to the security of western states, according to a threat intelligence report from Google, published on the eve of the 2025 Munich Security Conference.
This coming weekend marks the 61st edition of the Atlanticist conference, which was inaugurated in 1963 to facilitate collaboration between West Germany and the US, as well as other Nato countries.
The Google Threat Intelligence Group’s report, Cyber crime: A multifaceted national security threat, says western policymakers should be taking cyber criminality just as seriously as operations conducted by nation states.
Ben Read, a senior manager at the group, said: “The vast cyber criminal ecosystem has acted as an accelerant for state-sponsored hacking, providing malware, vulnerabilities, and in some cases full-spectrum operations to states. These capabilities can be cheaper and more deniable than those developed directly by a state. These threats have been looked at as distinct for too long, but the reality is that combating cyber crime will help defend against state-backed attacks.”
The report looks at how nation states hostile to the North Atlantic countries, such as Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, are increasingly co-opting cyber criminal groups to forward their geopolitical and economic ambitions. It also looks at the deep societal impact of cyber crime, from economic destabilisation to its toll on critical infrastructure, including healthcare.
Healthcare’s share of posts on data leak sites has doubled over the past three years, according to the report. One example it gives is how, in March 2024, the Russian Anonymous Marketplace (RAMP) forum actor “badbone”, who has been associated with the INC ransomware gang, sought illicit access to Dutch and French medical, government and educational organisations, stating that they were willing to pay 2-5% more for hospitals, particularly those with emergency services.
The report sheds light into how what it calls the “Big Four” – Russia, China, Iran and North Korea – have used cyber crime, including ransomware usage, to enable espionage.
It states that Russia has mobilised its cyber criminals to spy and mount disruptive operations in support of the war with Ukraine. It says GRU-linked APT44 (aka Sandworm), a unit of Russian military intelligence, has employed malware available from cyber crime communities to conduct espionage and disruptive operations in Ukraine.
Another example the report gives is “UNC2589”, a “threat cluster” whose activity has been publicly attributed to the Russian General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU)’s 161st Specialist Training Center (Unit 29155). This, says the report, has conducted full-spectrum cyber operations, including destructive attacks, against Ukraine.
And Russian group CIGAR (aka RomCom), a group that has focused on cyber crime, has conducted espionage operations against the Ukrainian government since 2022, according to the report.
The report’s authors say CIGAR’s expansion from cyber crime into espionage activity likely supporting Russian state objectives began in October 2022, when it conducted a phishing campaign targeting Ukrainian military-related entities. CIGAR continued, says the report, to conduct intrusion activity targeting primarily Ukraine and Europe through 2023 and 2024, including campaigns leveraging zero-days in Microsoft Word, Firefox and Windows.
The report says China augments its spying operations by using advanced persistent threat groups like APT41 to mix ransomware deployment with intelligence collection. “Deliberately mixing ransomware activities with espionage intrusions supports the ******** government’s public efforts to confound attribution by conflating cyber espionage activity and ransomware operations.”
APT41 is said to work from China and is “most likely a contractor for the Ministry of State Security”. In addition to state-sponsored espionage campaigns against a wide array of industries, APT41 is said to have a long history of conducting financially motivated operations. The group’s cyber crime activity has mostly focused on the video game sector, including ransomware deployment.
The report also suggests that Iran’s economic difficulties could be behind ransomware and hack-and-leak operations by cyber criminals.
The report highlights what it characterises as a North Korean regime policy of stealing cryptocurrency to fund missile development and nuclear programmes, as well as everyday operational costs.
It contends that the effects of cyber crime extend beyond stolen money or data breaches. These “erode public trust, destabilise essential services, and, in the most severe cases, cost lives”, say the authors. They maintain that the growing convergence of cyber crime and state-sponsored hacking requires robust action on par with the threat posed by nation-state adversaries.
The report’s authors argue: “The collaborative nature of cyber crime means that a disrupted group will be quickly replaced by others offering the same service. Achieving broader success will require collaboration between countries and public and private sectors on systemic solutions such as increasing education and resilience efforts.”
Sandra Joyce, vice-president of the Google Threat Intelligence Group, said: “Cyber crime has unquestionably become a critical national security threat to countries around the world. The marketplace at the centre of the cyber crime ecosystem has made every actor easily replaceable and the whole problem resilient to disruption. Unfortunately, many of our actions have amounted to temporary inconveniences for these criminals, but we can’t treat this like a nuisance and we will have to work harder to make meaningful impacts.”
The group advocates that governments elevate cyber crime as a national security priority and emulate private sector best security practices. “Ransomware and other forms of cyber crime predominantly exploit insecure, often legacy technology architectures.”
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