Pelican Press

Vixens find form after coach’s surprising call to exit Vixens find form after coach’s surprising call to exit Melbourne Vixens have rebounded from the shock news of the impending departure of long-serving coach Simone McKinnis with a 70-52 away win over Queensland Firebirds. In the first match since McKinnis surprised the netball world by announcing she was standing down at the end of this campaign, the Vixens tallied their highest score and biggest winning margin of the season. “Obviously the news of Simone last week was a big shock to us, so to go out there and play for her is something that really fuels us,” Hannah Mundy told Fox Sports after starring in Brisbane. “Hopefully she’s proud of that performance. “I’m really proud of the girls. We’ve had a tough couple of weeks. We haven’t executed the basic skills we know we have. “So just to come out and play with freedom and play how we did is really exciting for the rest of our season.” The Vixens faced the possibility of losing three straight games for the first time since 2021.But the visitors produced an improved performance, breaking clear after an even first quarter. Both sides were guilty of numerous first-half turnovers, but Melbourne became more clinical and efficient as the game progressed, while the Firebirds continued to make mistakes throughout. The Vixens eked out a four-goal lead by halftime, doubled it to eight at the last change, then scored the first three of the final term to lead by 11. The Vixens now have a 3-4 record for the year, while the Firebirds (2-5) slumped to a fifth straight loss, and their failure to make the finals since 2018 looks set to extend another season. Vixens and Diamonds goal attack Kiera Austin, who has been below her best in recent weeks, produced a sparking performance full of energy. She made all five of her Super Shots, hitting 15 of 18 regular goals as Sophie Garbin landed 42 of 45. Midcourters Mundy and Kate Moloney gave the Vixens plenty of drive. Firebirds circle defender Ruby Bakewell-Doran worked hard, totalling match-high tallies of three intercepts and seven gains. Ugandan shooter Mary Cholhok made 26 of 30 shots for Queensland. Source link #Vixens #find #form #coachs #surprising #call #exit Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Ukraine, Russia swap hundreds more POWs – DW Ukraine, Russia swap hundreds more POWs – DW Ukraine, Russia swap hundreds more POWs DWRussia and Ukraine swap hundreds more prisoners as another attack on Kyiv leaves 3 dead AP NewsUkraine and Russia Begin Largest Exchange of Prisoners of War The New York TimesTrump rushes to announce largest Russia-Ukraine POW swap of the war politico.euNews Wrap: Ukraine and Russia exchange hundreds of POWs PBS Source link #Ukraine #Russia #swap #hundreds #POWs Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The white whales of Canada The white whales of Canada Polar Bears are not the only large big-ticket mammals to visit Hudson Bay during the northern summer. Every year from June and September, the waters here come alive with belugas — the world’s only white whale species. But unlike polar bears, which can only be observed from a distance, belugas and humans can safely interact. The best place to see belugas is at the mouth of the Churchill River, where the whales amass in their hundreds to gorge on fish and give birth to calves. It’s also where Sea North Tours runs the world’s most unique kayaking adventures, where visitors can come face-to-face with Belugas, the most playful and vocal of all whale species. “It’s beyond interactive,” says Tress Kemick, a Churchill native who spends his summers working as a guide with Sea North Tours. “In other parts of the world, people on whale watching tours freak out when they see one breaching the surface 500m away. Here in Churchill, I have to worry about whales trying to flip over my clients in their kayaks. It’s a little bit different, right?” Camera IconPaddling near a white whale. Credit: Daniel RaitiCamera IconReady to paddle. Credit: SuppliedCamera IconTourists kayak with beluga whales in the Churchill River, Manitoba. Credit: Shane GrossCamera IconBeluga whales underwater in the Hudson Bay, Canada. Credit: SuppliedCamera IconPods of beluga whales and flocks of birds including gulls and arctic terns hunt small fish called capelin in the Churchill River, Manitoba, Canada. Credit: Shane GrossCamera IconA pod of beluga whales in Hudson Bay, Manitoba, Canada. Credit: SuppliedCamera IconA landscape overlooking the Churchill River, Manitoba, Canada. Credit: Shane Gross Source link #white #whales #Canada Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Billy Joel cancels tour dates after diagnosis. What to know about the brain condition – NPR Billy Joel cancels tour dates after diagnosis. What to know about the brain condition – NPR Billy Joel cancels tour dates after diagnosis. What to know about the brain condition NPRBilly Joel’s daughter Alexa Ray reacts to singer’s brain disorder diagnosis after he cancels all tour dates New York PostBilly Joel’s Daughter Alexa Ray Joel Reacts to His Health Diagnosis with Nod to Lyrics from a Song He Wrote for Her People.comWhat is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, the Disorder Billy Joel Was Diagnosed With? The New York TimesBilly Joel’s Daughter Shares Emotional Message After Serious Health Diagnosis parade.com Source link #Billy #Joel #cancels #tour #dates #diagnosis #brain #condition #NPR Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Kamala Harris recounts Wall Street standoff in Gold Coast address Kamala Harris recounts Wall Street standoff in Gold Coast address Lessons learned from a stand-off with one of Wall Street’s most formidable bankers are among the pearls of wisdom Kamala Harris has shared with realtors gathered in Queensland for a major conference. It has been four months since the former US vice president left office after losing last year’s election to Donald Trump. Ms Harris has stayed in the public eye, making headlines in late April for accusing her successor of executing the “wholesale abandonment of America’s highest ideals” in a high profile speech. She has also kept up public commentary on the news of the day, congratulating Pope Leo XIV on his selection and wishing her ex-boss Joe Biden “a full and speedy recovery” following his prostate ******* diagnosis. But she took some by surprise when she popped up on the Gold Coast after agreeing to a fireside chat at the *********** Real Estate Conference. Camera IconFormer US vice president Kamala Harris has spoken at a major real estate conference on the Gold Coast. NewsWire / Social Focus Credit: NewsWire Speaking at AREC25, she homed in on the cross-section of politics and real estate, recalling her experience refusing a $4bn deal from major banks to settle dodgy mortgage deals as California’s attorney-general. Mr Harris’ team had urged her to take the offer as the state was hit hard by a foreclosure crisis in the wake of the property bubble burst in the late naughties. Camera IconMs Harris lost the 2024 US presidential election to Donald Trump. NewsWire / Social Focus Credit: NewsWire “I don’t hear no. I eat no for breakfast,” she told the conference. Instead, she did some digging and concluded the offer was not good enough, prompting ire from the banks, including JP Morgan Chase chief executive Jamie Dimon. “He gets on the phone and, in the loudest, strongest voice, says, ‘You are trying to steal from my shareholders,’” Ms Harris said. “And I, because, of course, I will rise to the moment, said, ‘You are trying to steal from my homeowners in California.’” In the end, she said she secured a better deal and pointed to preparation as the key in any negotiation. Camera IconMs Harris has shared her experience negotiating with one of Wall Street’s most formidable bankers. NewsWire / Social Focus Credit: NewsWire Ms Harris has been reportedly mulling a run for California governor rather than a second bid at the White House. Incumbent Gavin Newson — a fellow Democrat — has been suffering from popularity problems stemming on the back of criticism over crime rates and disaster management. She would likely become the Democratic frontrunner in a gubernatorial race, as opposed to one of several serious contenders for Democratic presidential nominee. Source link #Kamala #Harris #recounts #Wall #Street #standoff #Gold #Coast #address Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Judge orders the Trump administration to return a Guatemalan man to the U.S. – NPR Judge orders the Trump administration to return a Guatemalan man to the U.S. – NPR Judge orders the Trump administration to return a Guatemalan man to the U.S. NPRUS judge orders Trump administration to return wrongly deported gay man The GuardianJudge Orders Trump Officials to Seek Return of Guatemalan Man to U.S. The New York TimesTrump administration acknowledges another error in a high-profile deportation PoliticoUS judge orders Trump administration to facilitate return of Guatemalan deportee Reuters Source link #Judge #orders #Trump #administration #return #Guatemalan #man #U.S #NPR Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Three-word analysis of every Waalitj Marawar (West Coast) Eagles in Kuwarna (Adelaide) Crows clash Three-word analysis of every Waalitj Marawar (West Coast) Eagles in Kuwarna (Adelaide) Crows clash Waalitj Marawar (West Coast) were given a brutal wake-up call by Kuwarna (Adelaide) with a thumping defeat. Here’s our three-word analysis of every Eagle. Source link #Threeword #analysis #Waalitj #Marawar #West #Coast #Eagles #Kuwarna #Adelaide #Crows #clash Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump softens on Putin as Russia’s military edge weakens, officials say – The Washington Post Trump softens on Putin as Russia’s military edge weakens, officials say – The Washington Post Trump softens on Putin as Russia’s military edge weakens, officials say The Washington PostRussia Can Afford to Take a Beating in Ukraine War on the RocksRussian Advance in Ukraine Is Slowing Despite Putin’s Confidence Bloomberg.comWotR: russia Can Lose in Ukraine and Still Come Out on Top — With 1,500 Tanks, 3,000 AFVs Expected to Replenish Army in 2025 Defense ExpressRussia Has Started Losing the War in Ukraine Foreign Policy Source link #Trump #softens #Putin #Russias #military #edge #weakens #officials #Washington #Post Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Billy Joel’s daughter provides health update after music legend is diagnosed with brain disorder Billy Joel’s daughter provides health update after music legend is diagnosed with brain disorder Billy Joel’s daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, says her father “continues to regain his strength” amid his battle with a brain disorder. The 76-year-old musician revealed this week that he was diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, which has caused problems with his hearing, vision and balance. A statement posted on his Instagram read: “Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance.” Joel is currently undergoing treatment, and doctors have advised that performing would harm his health at this time. The statement continued: “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery *******. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health. He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.” Joel added his own message to fans, saying: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.” According to clevelandclinic.org: “Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a condition that happens when cerebrospinal fluid builds up inside your skull and presses on your brain. This condition is most likely in people over 65. It’s often treatable and sometimes even reversible.” Subsequently, Joel cancelled his tour, which included 17 dates in North America and England. Alexa Ray – whose mother is 71-year-old model Christie Brinkley – has since provided an update on her father’s progress. The 39-year-old offspring of The Piano Man captioned a painting of a father and daughter on Instagram: “SOUND UP. We love you and we got you, Pop! “I just wanted to thank you all for the beautiful outpouring of love and support amid the recent news of My Father’s health diagnosis,” Alexa Ray, who Billy shares with ex Christie Brinkley, continued. “My Dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known … and he’s entirely committed to making a full recovery with ongoing physical-therapy treatments as he continues to regain his strength. “The genuine care, empathy, and concern from everyone means so much to him … it means a lot to me, too.” She concluded her post by sharing the lyrics to Billy’s morbid 1993 track, ‘Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)‘, which he penned for Alexa Ray. She added: “Someday We’ll All Be Gone / But Lullabies Go On And On / They Never Die / That’s How You And I Will Be. “The music continues… All My Love, Alexa Ray.” The Uptown Girl hitmaker also has Della, nine, and Remy, seven, with fourth wife Alexis Roderick. Source link #Billy #Joels #daughter #health #update #music #legend #diagnosed #brain #disorder Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Texas is closer to putting the Ten Commandments in classrooms after a key vote – AP News Texas is closer to putting the Ten Commandments in classrooms after a key vote – AP News Texas is closer to putting the Ten Commandments in classrooms after a key vote AP NewsView Full Coverage on Google News Source link #Texas #closer #putting #Ten #Commandments #classrooms #key #vote #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Star Eagle pops shoulder as Rachele inspires Crows Star Eagle pops shoulder as Rachele inspires Crows Star forward Jake Waterman could be set for a lengthy stint on the sidelines after dislocating his right shoulder in West Coast’s 66-point loss to Adelaide at Adelaide Oval. In a match played in a swirling breeze, Adelaide led by just four points midway through the second quarter before piling on 10 of the next 12 goals to set up the 19.14 (128) to 8.14 (62) win. Josh Rachele was the star of the show in Sunday’s win with five goals, while Jordan Dawson tallied 27 disposals, eight clearances, two goals and 602m gained. Tempers boiled over in the dying minutes when Eagles recruit Liam Baker pushed his forearm into the back of James Peatling’s neck while the Crow was face-down on the ground. The incident sparked a major melee that is sure to attract plenty of fines. The percentage-boosting result ensured Adelaide (7-4) will finish the round in the top four, while West Coast (1-10) couldn’t reproduce the heroics from last week’s breakthrough win over St Kilda. Adding to West Coast’s woes was an injury to Waterman, whose right shoulder popped out after he was sandwiched in a final-quarter marking contest. Waterman had been a rare shining light for West Coast with three goals, but his season could be over if he requires surgery. The 27-year-old was immediately in pain and had to go to the bench to have his shoulder put back in place. He was seen with his arm in a sling after the match. The Crows were error-riddled early against the Eagles, but once they hit their straps they were simply unstoppable. Reilly O’Brien (45 hitouts) was the dominant figure in the ruck, while Izak Rankine (23 disposals, six clearances, one goal) was a creative spark. Rachele hadn’t kicked five goals since his debut in 2022, and he was lapping up his efforts on Sunday. “It’s been a while – 64 games later. It’s good to get another bag,” Rachele told Fox Sports. West Coast were breathing a huge sigh of relief when veteran Adelaide spearhead Taylor Walker was ruled out an hour before the first bounce. Walker kicked bags of 10 and nine goals against West Coast in 2023, but the Crows decided it was time to rest the 35-year-old. Adelaide kicked four goals to three with the aid of the breeze in the first quarter, with West Coast’s intense pressure hard to shake. West Coast won the territory battle in the second quarter, but it was Adelaide’s efficiency up forward that proved the difference. The Crows’ lead extended to 23 points late in the quarter when Riley Thilthorpe kicked his second goal of the match. But when Waterman nailed Josh Worrell with a brutal holding-the-ball tackle and then converted his 48m set shot after the half-time siren, the margin was back to a more manageable 17 points. However, the third quarter became an avalanche of goals as Adelaide finally clicked into gear. The Crows kicked 7.7 from 23 inside 50s – including two goals in the space of a minute from Rachele – as the margin swelled to 57 points by the final change. Source link #Star #Eagle #pops #shoulder #Rachele #inspires #Crows Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

SpaceX spacecraft reentering Earth's atmosphere triggers sonic ***** – NBC4 Los Angeles SpaceX spacecraft reentering Earth's atmosphere triggers sonic ***** – NBC4 Los Angeles SpaceX spacecraft reentering Earth’s atmosphere triggers sonic ***** NBC4 Los AngelesSpaceX spacecraft returns to Earth, sends sonic ***** across Southern California KTLASpaceX Dragon cargo ship visible across SoCal as it returned from ISS Saturday night; possible sonic ***** reported ABC7 Los AngelesSpaceX Dragon Undocks from Station for Splashdown on Sunday NASA (.gov)SpaceX cargo Dragon departs International Space Station, begins return journey to Earth Space Source link #SpaceX #spacecraft #reentering #Earth039s #atmosphere #triggers #sonic #***** #NBC4 #Los #Angeles Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Premier League final-day predictions: Chris Sutton v superstar DJ & producer Paul Oakenfold Premier League final-day predictions: Chris Sutton v superstar DJ & producer Paul Oakenfold This might seem like one of the most stupid things I have ever said, but this is a massive game for Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim. In the fall-out after their Europa League final defeat, there have been further question marks over his inability to change his system, and also how there is seemingly a lack of thought going into his substitutions after how late he left them against Spurs – his first changes came after 71 minutes. Amorim said after Wednesday’s defeat in Bilbao that if the club’s owners want to get rid of him, he would go without getting any compensation. When he comes out with stuff like that, it almost sounds to me as if he wants the sack. We had a lot of United fans on 606 after the game and I can understand both sides of the argument when it comes to Amorim’s future. On one hand, he hasn’t adapted his tactics to English football and you could say the United team has got worse under him, which is a hard thing to do after Erik ten Hag’s stint in charge. But then you also have to consider how Amorim was kind of railroaded into taking the job in November, after being told he had to come in straightaway or he might not get the job at the end of the season. He said then that he needed to play his system, and he hasn’t been able to bring his own players in to do that. His problem now, though, is even if he does get the backing of the United hierarchy and gets given the chance to bring his own players in this summer, who is going to want to come to Old Trafford? There is no European football as an incentive, and that is a massive problem. So, Amorim badly needs some kind of positive result to end the season with, and he would probably bite your hand off now if you offered him a draw against Aston Villa, who really need a win to have a chance of making the top five. With what’s at stake for Villa, though, I am expecting them to take the points. Unai Emery’s side will be too good for United, and Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers could really do some damage to their defence. I feel sorry for Amorim, because he seems like a really nice guy who is very likeable, but that won’t help him keep his job. We asked one United fan who called up 606 on Wednesday night whether he would want to keep Amorim on and he said he would love to have Sunday lunch with him, but that’s not the same as wanting him to stay on as manager, is it? Sutton’s prediction: 1-2 Paul’s prediction: I have DJed at Old Trafford and at Etihad Stadium for Soccer Aid. I sat in the directors’ box at both grounds and at City they have got heated seats – you can press a button and warm them up. Man United have not got that! We could do with Villa dropping points here, but I can’t see United helping us out. 1-2 Source link #Premier #League #finalday #predictions #Chris #Sutton #superstar #producer #Paul #Oakenfold Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

'Do or die': union responds to fatal police shooting 'Do or die': union responds to fatal police shooting The actions of an injured police officer who shot and killed a woman after she rammed him with a car have been defended by a police union. Source link #039Do #die039 #union #responds #fatal #police #shooting Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Oakland clears out massive homeless encampment near I-880 Oakland clears out massive homeless encampment near I-880 The Brief The City of Oakland has cleared out a large homeless encampment on East 12th Street. City officials say 70 people who lived there have been relocated to Mandela House, a converted hotel. The move comes after two other encampments were cleared out in recent months. OAKLAND, Calif. – A large homeless encampment in Oakland has been cleared out. City officials announced Friday that crews have finished the closure of the encampment on East 12th Street near 14th Avenue, not far from I-880. What we know The operation to clear it out began last Monday. The city says 70 people who lived in the encampment were relocated to the Mandela House, a former-hotel-turned-shelter funded by a state grant. Six others have been enrolled in a medical respite program. What they’re saying “When the individuals go into Mandela House, they will be offered wraparound services and the opportunity to get counseling,” said Oakland’s Acting Homeless Administrator G. Harold Duffy. “There’ll also be services to provide them with the next step or the pathway to long-term housing.” “Oakland leads this work with compassion and respect for our unhoused community, and we are grateful that so many of the residents of this encampment have taken advantage of this opportunity,” said Mayor Barbara Lee in a statement. “The City and our partners are committed to safe and sanitary maintenance of community spaces while guiding our most vulnerable residents toward the services they need.” The backstory On May 13, a fire erupted at the East 12th Street encampment, just one day after crews began clearing it out. No one was hurt. On May 19, Oakland Police found a body while clearing out the encampment. It’s unclear how the person died. This move comes after the clearing of two other encampments–one along MLK Way last September, and another in Mosswood Park which was cleared in April following a *********. Some of the residents from those encampments have also moved into Mandela House. Local perspective Residents and business owners in the area say they’re glad to see the East 12th Street encampment’s removal. “I think it’s great that it’s been cleared up,” said Rafael Ebron. “I was surprised because that had been building up for quite some time.” “I was driving by, and I was shocked to see the whole encampment was clean,” said Veleda, an Oakland resident. “It was an eyesore and it was very hard for them to tackle it.” “We have a customer that drove by now, and they were amazed. ‘Hey, we can see the freeway again. We can see road again’,” said Quality Tech Automotive owner Bruce Vung, who says his business suffered due to the presence of the encampment. The other side But Needa Bee, director of the homeless advocacy group, The Village in Oakland, says crews moved too fast in clearing out the East 12th Street encampment. “People lost medication, people lost their IDs, people lost their phones, people lost their clothing, their food,” said Bee. “I’ve been able to reconnect with 54 people who lived in that encampment, who were not offered [shelter].” City officials say the number of people who did not receive shelter is much lower, adding that some people declined alternative shelter options, but acknowledge more shelter space is needed across Oakland. What’s next Crews will now focus on trash removal and installing barriers to discourage anyone from trying to occupy the same area again. Source link #Oakland #clears #massive #homeless #encampment #I880 Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Why Vietnam Ignored Its Own Laws to Fast-Track a Trump Family Golf Complex – The New York Times Why Vietnam Ignored Its Own Laws to Fast-Track a Trump Family Golf Complex – The New York Times Why Vietnam Ignored Its Own Laws to Fast-Track a Trump Family Golf Complex The New York TimesTrump Organization breaks ground on $1.5 billion golf club in Vietnam NBC NewsEric Trump Breaks Ground on $1.5 Billion Resort in Tariffed Country YahooExclusive: Trump Organization explores plan for tower in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam document shows Reuters8 countries where Trump has been making new business deals, from Pakistan to Vietnam Quartz Source link #Vietnam #Laws #FastTrack #Trump #Family #Golf #Complex #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Sandy Brock a linchpin in Waalitj Marawar (West Coast) Eagles’ defensive reset Sandy Brock a linchpin in Waalitj Marawar (West Coast) Eagles’ defensive reset Sandy Brock has emerged from a horror debut as one of the shining lights of Waalitj Marawar’s (West Coast’s) season. Source link #Sandy #Brock #linchpin #Waalitj #Marawar #West #Coast #Eagles #defensive #reset Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Firefighters battle flames in Odesa as Russia launches another aerial attack Firefighters battle flames in Odesa as Russia launches another aerial attack Firefighters battle flames in Odesa as Russia launches another aerial attack Source link #Firefighters #battle #flames #Odesa #Russia #launches #aerial #attack Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Russian strikes kill eight across Ukraine, officials say – BBC Russian strikes kill eight across Ukraine, officials say – BBC Russian strikes kill eight across Ukraine, officials say BBCRussian drones attack Kyiv, other Ukrainian cities, three dead outside the capital ReutersRussia launches deadly aerial assault on Ukrainian capital amid major prisoner swap CNNDeadly missile and drone strikes batter Kyiv for second night The GuardianRussia losing battlefield edge in war against Ukraine, WP reports The Kyiv Independent Source link #Russian #strikes #kill #Ukraine #officials #BBC Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Screen misuse blamed for painful ‘tech neck’ problems Screen misuse blamed for painful ‘tech neck’ problems For five years, Naoise Champion endured painful headaches and neck cramps, unaware the source of her discomfort was in her hand. The 25-year-old, who works in corporate hospitality, is constantly surrounded by screens, both at work and in her personal life. Women are the primary sufferers of neck pain across nearly all age groups, except those aged 51 to 60, research reveals. Dubbed ‘tech neck’, the condition stems from the misuse of technology, with women being particularly vulnerable to its debilitating effects. Ms Champion said her discomfort worsened over years of technology use, with pain radiating from her back into her head. “There was a ripple on effect with work, my social life and the way I interacted with my family and friends, all because of the pain,” she told AAP. An *********** Chiropractors Association survey found 68 per cent of women experience neck pain, compared to 60 per cent of men. Despite the high prevalence of neck pain, about two out of five sufferers did not consult a healthcare practitioner, while little more than a quarter sought a formal diagnosis. Instead, the vast majority (78 per cent) used over-the-counter pain relief for neck pain. “I was really reliant on over the counter medications. It became the only defence against the sort of tension that I was feeling in my neck,” Ms Champion said. The Sydneysider started seeking chiropractic care when she was 22, and noticed a difference after four sessions. “I learned the strategies to interact with technology in a healthy way,” she said. “It was postural correction techniques and easy behaviours that I could change. Even holding my phone at eye level made a dramatic impact.” The survey revealed proper posture, regular breaks, and correct ergonomics significantly reduced neck-pain prevalence. Dr Kim Lie Jom, a chiropractor with 30 years of experience, said he was seeing a growing number of patients with technology-related injuries. He believes the number of people suffering from tech neck is much higher than reported, describing the survey results as staggering. “The survey showed during COVID-19 cases of children and teens experiencing neck pain surged,” he told AAP. “If this trend continues, the implications into the future would be quite dramatic.” With millions of Australians affected by neck pain, health bodies including the *********** Chiropractors Association are urging action to prevent tech neck across all ages. Source link #Screen #misuse #blamed #painful #tech #neck #problems Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

US special envoy praises Syrian leader’s steps on foreign fighters US special envoy praises Syrian leader’s steps on foreign fighters WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to Syria on Saturday said he met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and commended the leader’s steps taken regarding foreign fighters and relations with Israel. Thomas Barrack, a special envoy to Syria and the current U.S. ambassador to Turkey, said in a statement that the two met in Istanbul on Saturday, and that he commended Sharaa for “taking meaningful steps” on foreign fighters as well as “relations with Israel.” The meeting comes after U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration issued orders effectively lifting sanctions on Syria after its 14-year civil war. Syria welcomed the sanctions waiver, describing it as a “positive step”. It mainly focused on following up with the implementation of the sanctions waiver, with Sharaa telling Barrack that sanctions remain a heavy burden on Syrians and hinder economic recovery efforts, Syrian state news agency SANA reported on Sunday. They also discussed means to support foreign investments in Syria, especially in the fields of energy and infrastructure, according to SANA. The Syrian side expressed readiness to provide the necessary facilitation to attract investors and contribute in reconstruction efforts. (Reporting by Jason Lange in Washington and Menna Alaa El-Din in Cairo; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Christopher Cushing) Source link #special #envoy #praises #Syrian #leaders #steps #foreign #fighters Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Red Sox call up top prospect Marcelo Mayer, place Alex Bregman on IL – The Athletic – The New York Times Red Sox call up top prospect Marcelo Mayer, place Alex Bregman on IL – The Athletic – The New York Times Red Sox call up top prospect Marcelo Mayer, place Alex Bregman on IL – The Athletic The New York TimesFantasy baseball: What to expect from Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer ESPNRed Sox third baseman Alex Bregman on injured list after MRI shows strained right quad The Boston GlobeCar keys lost for weeks(!), Mayer gets a ride to Fenway for MLB debut MLB.comRed Sox calling up top prospect Marcelo Mayer after Alex Bregman’s injury: Report Yahoo Sports Source link #Red #Sox #call #top #prospect #Marcelo #Mayer #place #Alex #Bregman #Athletic #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Spilling tears for Penang’s southern coast Spilling tears for Penang’s southern coast I have been living in Penang, the famous UNESCO-inscribed island on the north-western coast of Malaysia, since 2009, but as I travel a lot, sometimes it takes me a while before I can return to familiar places. Last weekend, I decided to revisit one of what I consider among the island’s best hiking spots: Permatang Damar Laut, a lovely stretch of palm-fringed coast backed by three contiguous hills peppered with World War II defensive bunkers. With a sea-facing ******** shrine dedicated to Tua Pek Kong and possibly the best beach left on ever-developing Penang, the area of Pantai Esen (Esen Beach) was amazing because, notwithstanding its beauty, it always stayed well off tourists’ radars. Camera IconWould you like to bathe here, especially if facing a “BiodiverCity”? Credit: Kit Yeng Chan I hadn’t been there in a while because of too many guidebook assignments to far-flung destinations in Europe and the Americas. But when I arrived at the trailhead on an early Saturday morning, the first thing I wanted to do was cry. A newborn, in-the-making sand monster, topped by ever-moving cranes and lorries, has taken the place of what once was one of north-west Malaysia’s most crucial fishing seaboards. This Frankenstein of “progress” is nothing new, but I had never seen it live before. Some of you may be familiar with the controversial Penang South Reclamation (PSR) project. First approved in 2015, it was conceived to fund the larger Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) aimed at developing new highways, a cross-channel motor tunnel (even when there are already two of Asia’s longest bridges connecting Penang island to the mainland, where the remaining two thirds of the state, named Seberang Perai, are), and light rail transportation systems to solve the island’s traffic congestion problem. After much debate, it finally went on in mid-2024. Camera IconLorries and cranes at work to raise Penang Silicon island from the sea. Credit: Kit Yeng Chan The PSR’s initial and gargantuan idea (which would have taken something between 30 and 50 years to complete) was to recover 1821 hectares of land to build three man-made islands separated by a 250 metre-wide sea channel from the south of Penang island. The rationale was that the PSR would create some 300,000 jobs over the next 30 years, reducing brain drain and guaranteeing a better future for Penang’s next generations. And somehow (which was never explained) also help to solve Penang’s ever-increasing traffic problems. For a decade, this project has been a very controversial one, with local fishermen and several NGOs campaigning against it on one hand, and many local folks who are pro-development and “Singaporeisation” of Penang, including the then ruling Democratic Action Party, on the other. The main concern raised by local NGOs and fishermen was that these three islands — almost ironically named BiodiverCity — would bury the state’s richest fishery and most biodiverse sea under the equivalent of 76,000 Olympic-size swimming pools of sand. Penang State Government has kept claiming that there is no more land left to develop on the island — as most of it is Penang Hill, a cordon of central and northwestern hills that were bestowed a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve title in 2021, without said government’s proper plan to promote it to attract a diverse type of nature-focused tourism. But also remember that the largely flat Seberang Perai on the Malaysian mainland, which is slightly ******* than the whole of Singapore and roughly two and a half times the size of the hilly Penang island, is pretty much all undeveloped paddy fields. Camera IconThe eastern end of Penang Silicon island will reach almost the edge of two-humped Rimau Island, the southeasternmost in Penang. Credit: Kit Yeng Chan The fisher folks and NGOs managed to halt the PSR several times until last year. Under the approval of the Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, a man from Penang state, the project was again given the final green light, albeit with a 50 per cent scaling down in scope from a dreary three to only one horrible Penang Silicon Island — a nod to the Californian tech success story and a tremendous lack of imagination. In July 2024, the Penang High Court dismissed one last application by the opposing NGOs for judicial review, with which they sought to lawfully challenge the planning permission granted to the Penang State Government by the State Town and Country Planning Department. And now, almost a year later, the damage done to a certain present for the sake of a very uncertain future — consider how the region is increasingly becoming prone to flood damage — cannot be reversed. Maybe it could be abandoned, like the infamous Melaka Gateway Project, of which 33km of unfinished land reclamation is an under-utilised eyesore off the coast of the Malaysian southern state of Melaka. But in South-East Asia, like in many other parts of the world, what counts is not natural balance and preserving culture and tradition — only greed and development. No matter what any supporter of the PSR may tell me, it doesn’t take a scientist to see that the problems have just started. With no direct access to real waves any longer, I saw how the once beautiful Pantai Esen and Permatang Damar Laut’s coast have turned brackish. The sandy beach has become more muddy and eroded than ever before. Fishermen can no longer find the mussels they used to scour from the shore. For this reason, even tourism has been spoiled: the many people who, since the COVID-19 lockdowns — when Pantai Esen was first “discovered” — used to come here in droves for hiking and relaxing on the beach have gone, and the hiking trails are in a state of disrepair. Of the three historical World War II bungalows set atop the steep Sea Mountain, an advanced hiking trail accessible from the area’s south-easternmost corner, the first is now completely covered by fallen trees and undergrowth, and may soon disappear. Something to ponder and remember of an island whose heritage conservation and tourism bodies make the most of their branding selling “heritage” experiences. It may not even be casual that around the same time as the beginning of the reclamation, even the beautiful cascading roots of an ancient fig tree found halfway to the Tua Pek Tong temple fell off after being struck by lightning. Was it some sort of warning from above? The example of Permatang Damar Laut is, unfortunately, one that’s found in many areas of the developing world — how much of it do we really need, when half of the real estate that’s built on it remains unsold because its constantly overpriced? How much will the children of today and tomorrow be better off because of the greed of today? Will they ever miss experiencing clean, pristine environments, or will they even care because that type of “old world” will be one that’s entirely alien to their own? I hope that someone, someday, may make better decisions while the scars of human greed remain as examples of what we should not do. The Melaka Gateway Project apparently was not enough for Penang. Source link #Spilling #tears #Penangs #southern #coast Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

7 Aspects of the American Dream Now Unattainable for Middle Class, According to Austin Williams 7 Aspects of the American Dream Now Unattainable for Middle Class, According to Austin Williams Middle-class life, once the hallmark of the American Dream, is becoming increasingly challenging to afford, according to money influencer Austin Williams. He recently used a YouTube video to share the observation many people share, but few voice. Learn More: What Salary Single People Need To Live Comfortably in 100 Major US Cities Find Out: The 10 Most Reliable SUVs of 2025 However, it doesn’t mean the dream is dead, but it does mean Americans have to put in more effort. Here are several more items that are no longer within reach for the average person of middle class status in the U.S. Home ownership is a classic symbol of the American Dream, yet it is becoming increasingly out of reach for the middle class. More than 90 percent of Americans live where home prices have increased faster than the median income, with inflation-adjusted pricing jumping by 65% between 2000 and 2020. Average incomes during that time “barely rose,” the U.S. Department of the Treasury reported. Williams said to buy a home in this increasingly challenging economic climate, Americans need to embrace the concept of planning ahead. He believes you can still attain that milestone by saving slowly for a down payment, building up a good credit score and waiting for the right opportunity. Read Next: The Living Wage a Family of 4 Needs in All 50 States Americans have long considered college the pathway to the middle-class American Dream. However, as Williams highlighted in his video, more and more graduates are emerging with mountains of student debt and sustained unemployment. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average bachelor’s degree student graduates with $29,550 in student loan debt. Unfortunately, repaying that debt proves more challenging than many students expect. ZipRecruiter data showed 23% of graduates take more than three months to find a job, and 5% of recent graduates are still searching. Williams’s answer is to minimize borrowing and make sacrifices early. He believes in living at home when possible, and using resources like community college, scholarships and grants to minimize debt at graduation. In 2004, 83% of retirees felt they had enough money to live comfortably. By 2024, that number had dropped to 74%. Although that’s still a respectable percentage, only 45% of workers believe they’ll be comfortable when it’s their turn. Williams blamed this trend on the decline of the employer pension and the difficulty of saving in a challenging economy. He admitted that responsibility for retirement falls on the individual, and encouraged people to plan early. Keeping expenses low and investing intelligently are his go-to strategies. Story Continues Williams knows grocery costs are squeezing the middle class. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported the price of food increased 23.6% from 2020 to 2024, and basic staples account for much of the increase. The Farm Bureau explained that egg prices increased by 350% per dozen from 2024 to 2025, partially because of the recent avian flu outbreak. Although the average person can’t do much about this challenge to the American Dream, Williams believes small strategies still make a difference. He recommended using a meal plan, buying in bulk and searching for savings wherever possible. A car in the driveway has been a staple of the American Dream for years, but it’s becoming less affordable. According to Kelly Blue Book, the average new car costs a near-record $49,740. It’s not surprising that 40% of Americans have car payments, or that over 75% pay $300 or more a month. Williams’s solution? Start with a low-end used car and eventually trade up, avoiding taking on large payments. According to the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker, Americans spent an average of $13,432 per person on healthcare in 2023 — over $3,700 more per capita than any other developed nation. These costs have left 20 million Americans with medical debt. Williams believes the best defense is to maintain good health habits so it’s easier to live with less costly health insurance. This option involves a bit of luck, but the average person can do little to change the cost of healthcare. Williams believes the U.S. is moving toward a “two-class society,” where people are either doing well or seriously struggling. He thinks the days of resting comfortably in the middle class are gone, leaving this group to rely on their financial savvy. “Now, more than ever, it’s important to be more proactive and resourceful in your life,” he said. “Focus on the things you can control, like your spending, your mindset, your goals and your expectations.” More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Aspects of the American Dream Now Unattainable for Middle Class, According to Austin Williams Source link #Aspects #American #Dream #Unattainable #Middle #Class #Austin #Williams Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

South Korea frontrunner Lee suggests extending US tariff talks South Korea frontrunner Lee suggests extending US tariff talks Lee Jae-myung, mayor of Seongnam city, on Nov. 23, 2016. Lee is rising in opinion polls with about a year to go until South Korea’s next presidential election. He wants to break up the country’s biggest companies, meet unconditionally with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and throw President Park Geun-hye in jail over an influence-peddling scandal. SeongJoon Cho / Bloomberg / Getty Images South Korean presidential frontrunner Lee Jae-myung said on Sunday the deadline to reach a deal with the U.S. on President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs needs to be reconsidered to find a mutually beneficial agreement between the two allies. Tariff negotiations with the United States will be one of the biggest challenges for the winner of the June 3 election, Lee told a press conference. The snap election was called after Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached as president and removed from office for briefly declaring martial law in December. Lee, from the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, is leading in opinion polls over conservative contestants. Seoul and Washington have said they aim to craft a package on tariffs and economic cooperation by July 8. But the South Korean minister for trade and industry said recently that was not enough time and delays would be possible due to the election. “There is not much time,” Lee said. “Isn’t diplomacy something that benefits both sides? If one country benefits and the other country suffers unilaterally, that is not diplomacy. It is called plunder.” He called for mutual respect between the two countries, saying they “need to reconsider whether the timeline set by one side should be bound to”. Lee said South Korea must compile an extra budget to boost the economy in the short term and vowed that if elected he would form and head a task force to tackle the slowing economy. “I will swiftly prepare immediately actionable economic measures and actively respond to the domestic economic slowdown with the determination to fight the recession,” he said. Lee said he would pursue peace on the Korean peninsula, criticising the ousted Yoon’s tough policy on North Korea, which he said had raised tensions high, burdening the economy and adding to concerns among foreign investors. “We should maintain and strengthen our powerful defence capabilities, military power and strengthen the South Korea-U.S. security alliance, but find a path toward dialogue, cooperation, communication and coexistence where possible,” said Lee, who considers pragmatism as a key to diplomacy. Lee is leading the race with 45% support ahead of conservative rival Kim Moon-soo, Yoon’s labour minister, with 36% support in a Gallup Korea poll released on Friday. Kim has been closing the initially double-digit gap with Lee. Asked about his recent decline in polls, Lee said he was confident that South Koreans would not choose those who supported or staged the “insurrection”, referring to the criminal charges against Yoon over martial law. Source link #South #Korea #frontrunner #Lee #suggests #extending #tariff #talks Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]