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Japan PM hits out at farm minister over free rice claim Japan PM hits out at farm minister over free rice claim Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Tuesday reprimanded the farm minister for claiming he never buys rice because he gets it free, provoking the ire of consumers facing soaring prices. Japan’s government has released some of its emergency stockpile of the grain in recent months, with agriculture minister Taku Eto weeks ago lamenting the “hardship” experienced by consumers. But addressing a gathering over the weekend, Eto said he has “never bought rice myself because my supporters donate so much to me that I can practically sell”. Eto’s comment hit a nerve in a nation where the price of the much-loved grain has nearly doubled year-on-year, according to figures published in April. The prime minister described the remarks as “extremely unfortunate”. “The agriculture minister’s job now is to provide solutions to the soaring rice prices. I expect him to offer solutions,” Ishiba told journalists as he arrived at his office. Eto on Monday explained that he had exaggerated, incurring the wrath of his wife. “She told me that she does go buy rice when a stockpile of donated rice runs out,” Eto said, adding “it’s not like our family is living entirely off of rice gifted to us”. On Tuesday, he said he had spoken to Ishiba and that he would continue as farm minister. “The prime minister gave me very tough words but…also gave me warm words and told me to show the results of what I started,” Eto said. “I am the one who decided the releases of the reserved rice. With your permission, I would like to continue until I can fulfil my responsibility.” Factors behind Japan’s rice shortfall include poor harvests due to hot weather in 2023 and panic-buying prompted by a “megaquake” warning last year. The agriculture minister’s gaffe was criticised as “extremely inappropriate, out of touch and intolerable” by Junya Ogawa, secretary-general of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan. “If not properly dealt with, his remarks are serious enough to raise the question of whether he should step down,” local media including public broadcaster NHK quoted him as saying. hih-tmo/rsc/tym Source link #Japan #hits #farm #minister #free #rice #claim Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Russia and Ukraine to 'immediately' start ceasefire talks, says Trump – BBC Russia and Ukraine to 'immediately' start ceasefire talks, says Trump – BBC Russia and Ukraine to ‘immediately’ start ceasefire talks, says Trump BBCPutin just showed Trump how little he needs him CNNTrump says Russia, Ukraine agree to immediate ceasefire talks, Kremlin offers no timeframe ReutersPutin’s Still In Charge The AtlanticTrump says ceasefire negotiations between just Russia and Ukraine to start ‘immediately’ ABC News Source link #Russia #Ukraine #039immediately039 #start #ceasefire #talks #Trump #BBC Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Sir Keir Starmer joins condemnation of Israel over Gaza actions Sir Keir Starmer joins condemnation of Israel over Gaza actions The ***, France and Canada have warned Israel they will take “concrete actions” if it continues an “egregious” expansion of military operations in Gaza. Sir Keir Starmer joined the French and ********* leaders to call on the Israeli government to “stop its military operations” and “immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza”. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by saying the three leaders had offered a “huge prize” for ****** in the Gaza war. No food, fuel or medicine had been allowed into Gaza since 2 March, a situation the UN previously described as taking a “disastrous toll” on the ************ population. On Sunday, Netanyahu said his country would allow a “basic amount of food” to enter the territory after a 11-week long blockade but it planned to take “control of all of Gaza”. The three Western leaders criticised this as “wholly inadequate” as the “denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law”. They added the level of suffering in Gaza was “intolerable”. UN humanitarian relief chief Tom Fletcher, a former British diplomat, said the number of aid trucks which had been cleared to enter was a “drop in the ocean of what is urgently needed”. Sir Keir, Emmanuel Macron and Mark Carney also called for ****** to immediately release the remaining hostages taken in the “heinous attack” on southern Israel on 7 October 2023. The Gaza war was triggered by the ******-led attack which saw around 1,200 people killed and more than 250 taken hostage. Some 58 hostages remain in Gaza, up to 23 of whom are believed to be alive. Gaza’s health ministry, which is run by ******, says more than 53,000 Palestinians have been killed during Israel’s military campaign. The statement from the ***, France and Canada reiterated support for a ceasefire as well as the implementation of a “two-state solution”, which proposes an independent ************ state which would exist alongside Israel. Netanyahu hit back at the suggestion: “By asking Israel to end a defensive war for our survival before ****** terrorists on our border are destroyed and by demanding a ************ state, the leaders in London, Ottawa and Paris are offering a huge prize for the genocidal attack on Israel on October 7 while inviting more such atrocities.” He also called on “all European leaders” to follow US President Donald “Trump’s vision” for ending the conflict. Source link #Sir #Keir #Starmer #joins #condemnation #Israel #Gaza #actions Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Hold would be lovely’: Why aspiring homeowners don’t want the RBA to cut rates ‘Hold would be lovely’: Why aspiring homeowners don’t want the RBA to cut rates James and Liz, a young couple from out of Sydney, are part of a surprising cohort hoping the Reserve Bank doesn’t cut rates on Tuesday. The couple, who have been together since they were 19, are desperately saving for their first home and say a rate cut could delay them even further. The plan is to purchase an apartment late this year or early 2026, that allows them a city lifestyle, with room for the kids less of a priority right now. But to achieve their goal, they need house prices to remain subdued. “For us at the moment the actual property price coming down is what’s most important,” James told NewsWire. “So a hold would be lovely.” Camera IconJames and Liz are looking to buy their first home: Picture Supplied Credit: SuppliedCamera IconThe young couple are currently living with James’ parents to save for a house. Picture Supplied. Credit: Supplied But for now the 26 year olds, who both work full time across multiple jobs, will make some sacrifices including moving back in with James’ parents, in order to get into the housing market. “The biggest thing is going from having so much space to then sharing just a room, so that is probably the hardest part.” “But you make these sacrifices for a ******* goal.” “Thankfully, James’ family is so sweet, kind and lovely,” Liz said. Despite their current struggle, the couple still believes home ownership is achievable. “I think the biggest thing that is against our generation buying a home at the moment, to be brutally honest, is social media,” he said. “I think there’s so much on social media of people flaunting what they do have and you kind of don’t think anyone else is making sacrifices.” “Liz and I have made a lot of sacrifices since she’s moved in.” Liz conceded it was significantly harder to save when she lived out of home with rent taking up a portion of her salary. Camera IconJames and Liz are hoping rates hold until they are ready to buy. Picture Supplied. Credit: Supplied James acknowledged a lower interest rate would help them when it came time to buy as it would increase their borrowing capacity, so either a hold or a cut would eventually help the couple. But the couple are still scraping for a deposit of even 5 per cent, and a likely house price hike off the back of another rate cut could derail the progress they have made so far. REA Group senior economist Eleanor Creagh said both buyer confidence and borrowing capacities will be buoyed as interest rates continue to fall, helping to drive demand and home price growth. “The rate cut offers some relief for borrowers, but affordability remains a challenge and sustained affordability improvements will depend on further reductions in the cash rate over time,” Ms Creagh said. “At the same time, population growth and a persistent undersupply of new housing continue to underpin prices. “Despite affordability constraints, we expect prices will keep lifting over the coming months, but the rate of growth is likely to be more modest compared to recent years.” Your Future Strategy director of lending Simpson Podger said a rate cut could increase the number of first home buyers. “Our modelling using average incomes and typical client profile shows this rate cut increasing borrowing capacity by approximately $24,395 for a half a per cent rate cut and $49,759 for a half a per cent cut,” Mr Podger said. “Even greater for those with large or multiple mortgages. All great news for those trying to get into the market either as a first homebuyer, secure a better deal or someone looking to expand their investment portfolio.” Source link #Hold #lovely #aspiring #homeowners #dont #RBA #cut #rates Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Rainbow Six Siege X Looks Like Ubisoft’s Final Weapon Against Bankruptcy Rainbow Six Siege X Looks Like Ubisoft’s Final Weapon Against Bankruptcy From being hailed as heroes of the gaming industry to being called clowns of the gaming industry, Ubisoft has seen everything. Many predicted that the company would be done for soon, however, the reveal panel of Rainbow Six Siege X does change the narrative a bit. Earlier in 2025, Ubisoft declared that its shooter game would be going free-to-play and be rebranded as Rainbow Six Siege X. Thus, marking the beginning of the “next ten years” of the shooter that everyone loves. Moreover, it is the only profitable game they have had recently, so it might be their final weapon against bankruptcy. Rainbow Six Siege X is the one saving Ubisoft, not AC Shadows Nemesis of every single Siege player gets a rework. | Image Credit: Ubisoft Many shooters have rebranded themselves, from Overwatch to Counter-Strike, all have been busy to make their name in a new era. Rainbow Six Siege X is doing the same, but didn’t add a numerical two to make it seem like a sequel. Honestly, that is a smart move, as Ubisoft has advertised the game to be the same at core, with loads of improvements. The jokes have been around for quite some time: “It took ten years to fix the game.” But in truth, it’s better to be late than never. Moreover, it seems like Ubisoft has been trying to “fix” their mistakes recently, especially with the delay of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. But the main effort has been put behind Rainbow Six Siege X. The developers even said that they’ve been working on the newer version for the last three years. Which also explains why events and additions to the game have been lackluster all this time. Ubisoft is ready to make up for all the bad content it’s pushed earlier, and has big plans for its tenth anniversary. This includes new events, modernized maps, and gameplay changes that improve core Siege. This is what fans have been asking for, and might see a spike in player numbers soon, especially on the day when it goes free, which is June 10, 2025. Tackling existing problems has been the main priority for Rainbow Six Siege X. The beginning of a new era (Operation Daybreak) will be with Clash Rework, which makes the annoying operator more bearable. Additionally, adding a new charm to the most hated character in the game. Challenges while making a complex game like Siege free-to-play The main challenge was to keep the game friendly to beginners. Most of the players have been seasoned with the gameplay of Rainbow Six Siege, and starting a new era will create a huge skill gap. Which might result in bad experiences for new players. To explain R6S as a game, it is best to say that it is a shooter that combines the ideologies of Chess. You’ve got to have a plan and strategy to approach sites, instead of rushing in. It is not linear like other shooters; the maps are complex, and players can edit them to outsmart enemies. Players who have played the game before rebranding are familiar with these concepts. The new players don’t know anything, which puts them at a disadvantage. That is being tackled too. Every existing player will have a new start. Don’t worry, your skins and operators will remain. It’s just, the level progression will be reset so that everyone can have a new beginning. Moreover, the skill-based matchmaking will be implemented too, which would give beginners a soft start. Fret not, veterans, the level reset is a good thing, as every level progression will give rewards. So you can gain a lot of goodies in the meantime. With all these changes being made to Siege, Ubisoft is ready to bring in new players. They wish to compete with other shooters, but is everyone ready to make a switch? It is a challenging game, not everyone wants that. But those who do will realise what Siege is all about. Maybe this might be the push Ubisoft needed to make its way to the top. Are you a veteran or new Siege player? Are you excited for Rainbow Six Siege X? Let us know in the comments below. Source link #Rainbow #Siege #Ubisofts #Final #Weapon #Bankruptcy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Missing California student found dead in Big Bear Lake Missing California student found dead in Big Bear Lake A Southern California college student who went missing in a popular mountain town over the weekend has been found dead in Big Bear Lake. Tanner Prentiss, 22, was last seen on May 17 at around 12:30 a.m. in Big Bear Lake, California, according to the city’s sheriff station. Search crews located his body in the water Monday shortly before 10:30 a.m. near the city’s Pine Knot Marina. CBS News reported that deputies searching the lake from a helicopter spotted Prentiss’ body, which was then recovered by a dive team. Deputies are investigating how Prentiss ended up in the water, the outlet reported. No foul play is suspected and his cause of death is under investigation by the coroner’s office, the Big Bear Sheriff Station confirmed on Facebook. 22-year-old Tanner Prentiss went missing on May 17, 2025 in Big Bear Lake and was found dead on May 19, 2025. The University of California at Santa Barbara student visited the lake with a group of friends, who reported him missing after he failed to return to their rental cabin, according to local stations KTLA and KABC. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tanner’s family, friends and all those who are affected by his loss. The family is requesting privacy as they navigate through this tragic incident,” the sheriff station wrote. ‘This loss is more than we can bear’ Prentiss’ grandmother, Marilyn Taylor, wrote on Facebook that her family is devastated by Tanner’s passing and thanked everyone who supported their family during this time. “Tanner was the funny guy, always smiling, tons of friends, charismatic, responsible and a really good person. This loss is more than we can bear at this time,” she wrote. In a statement, UC Santa Barbara called Tanner’s death “heartbreaking” for the entire university community and expressed condolences to his friends and families. “We understand the impact and stress surrounding this tragedy and are committed to supporting our campus community who may be impacted,” the school said in a statement shared with USA TODAY. “Our campus offers resources to students, staff, and faculty who are in need of support.” This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Missing California student found dead in lake after group trip Source link #Missing #California #student #dead #Big #Bear #Lake Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

El Salvador arrest prominent human rights lawyer – NPR El Salvador arrest prominent human rights lawyer – NPR El Salvador arrest prominent human rights lawyer NPREl Salvador arrests human rights lawyer critical of President Bukele CNNLawyer for Venezuelans deported to El Salvador prison arrested The GuardianProminent Anti-Corruption Lawyer Is Arrested in El Salvador The New York TimesEl Salvador Arrests Prominent Anti-Corruption Lawyer, a Critic of President Bukele Democracy Now! Source link #Salvador #arrest #prominent #human #rights #lawyer #NPR Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Health and cost-of-living help dominate budget Health and cost-of-living help dominate budget KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE 2025/26 VICTORIAN BUDGET * $2.3 billion in cost-of-living relief, much of it aimed at families with children aged under 18 * $3.3 billion will be slashed from the public service and a predicted 1200 full-time equivalent positions lost but details of the cuts and changes to programs are not yet known * Net operating surplus of $600 million in 2025/26 but net debt is tipped to hit $194 billion in mid-2029 as interest payments rise to $29 million each day * The government says health and wellbeing account for one third of expenditure KEY COST-OF-LIVING MEASURES * New $100 Power Saving Bonuses for households with a concession card holders, costing $50 million * The Camps, Sports and Excursion Fund for students who live with a concession card holder will jump to $400 per child, to the tune of $152.3 million * An additional 65,000 Get Active Kids vouchers for families to spend on school uniforms, fees and equipment worth up to $200 per child in 2026, which costs $15 million * Rebates for electric heat pumps and solar hot water systems, costing $30 million * $18 million for food relief charities and supporting organisations * Camping fees will stay half price for two more years, costing $10.5 million * Under 16s can continue to visit zoos for free on weekends, public holidays and school holidays under a $15 million program KEY HEALTH SPENDING: * A record $31b in health funding * The additional $11.1 billion includes $9.3 billion for hospitals and $497 million for mental health * $437 million to triple the capacity of the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, which offers free consultations with doctors and nurses * $167 million to improve ambulance response times, including recruiting more staff at Triple Zero Victoria * $18 million to permanently allow pharmacists to provide certain medications without a doctor’s script, including the contraceptive pill, and expand which conditions they treat KEY EDUCATION SPENDING: * $4.9 billion in education finding, including $1.5 billion for new schools and upgrades to existing schools * $859 million to continue Free Kinder programs for an estimated 160,000 children * Extra $133 million in funding for core subjects including additional $47m to improve maths education, introducing a numeracy check for students in Year 1 and upskilling maths teachers * $27 million for pathway coordinators in government secondary schools * $319.8 million to roll out disability inclusion reforms KEY INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORT SPENDING * $318 million for free public transport for under 18s and $2.2 million for free public transport for seniors on weekends * $727 million to turn on the new Metro Tunnel under the CBD, with the final opening date still unknown * $4.1 billion to expand Sunshine Station, which will be connected to the future airport rail line and Suburban Rail Loop * $976 million to upgrade roads and bridges across the state in 2025/26, including fixing pot holes * Extra $270 million to improve the regional rail V/Line network and $52m to increase services on three lines KEY JUSTICE SPENDING * $1.6 billion to roll out new bail laws, including $727 million to create an extra 1088 prison beds * $287 million for a new Financial Assistance Scheme to support victims of crime with medical expenses, emergency financial help and counselling * $65 million for a tobacco and liquor regulator, which has been touted as a way to crack down on the illicit tobacco trade fuelling a criminal gang conflict KEY INVESTMENT SPENDING: * $240 million to boost business growth and investment in the state, including a new $150 million Victorian Investment Fund KEY EMERGENCY AND DISASTER FUNDING * $40 million to replace Fire Rescue Victoria trucks and $17.4 million for the organisation to improve cyber security after it was hit by a cyber attack in 2022 * $10 million so the State Control Centre can run 24/7 KEY HOUSING SPENDING: * $61 million to extend stamp duty concessions for homes on off-the-plan townhouses, units and apartments until October 2026 * $4 million to expand Mortgage Stress Victoria KEY ENVIRONMENT SPENDING: * $32.6 million to maintain the health of creeks and rivers, including the Murray Darling Basin * $21.1 million to protect parks, bush and coastline * $16.6 million in additional funding to Agriculture Victoria for emergencies and to support animal ******** KEY INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS SPENDING: * An extra $167 million for culturally-responsive and self-determined services in health, education and housing Source link #Health #costofliving #dominate #budget Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

What Happened to Misti and Jim Raman From ‘The Amazing Race’ Season 25? A Look Back at Their Story What Happened to Misti and Jim Raman From ‘The Amazing Race’ Season 25? A Look Back at Their Story The Amazing Race season 25 runners-up Jim Raman and Misti Raman proved that they were one of the most dominant teams in their season by frequently reaching the mat in first place and running in the front of the pack throughout the race. The couple’s competitive nature provided endless entertainment for viewers and made them a fan favorite team. Unfortunately, a few years after their season aired, Jim suddenly and tragically died at 42 years old. In Touch takes a look back Jim and Misti’s journey on The Amazing Race, what happened to Jim and where Misti is today. What Happened to Misti and Jim on ‘The Amazing Race’ Season 25? Jim and Misti, a pair of married dentists from Columbia, South Carolina, appeared on season 25, which aired on CBS in 2014. They made series history as the first-ever team to win the Save, which gave them immunity from elimination until the ninth leg. However, they never needed to use it. The team came in first place in five legs, and the only time they were at risk of elimination in last place was a non-elimination leg. The rest of the time, Misti and Jim mostly stayed in second or third place. Despite their strengths, Jim sometimes displayed overconfidence and a ****** attitude, which led him and Misti to develop a rivalry with Kym Perfetto and Allison C. “Alli” Forsythe. Misti and Jim also struggled with detail-oriented tasks, which caused them to fall behind Amy DeJong and Maya Warren in the finale and finish in second place. Misti, who shared two kids with Jim, told The State that the race strengthened their relationship after 15 years of marriage. “Being together, basically sequestered from the rest of the world and only having each other to talk to day in and day out, it brought us back to where we began and reminded us why we fell in love and why we are together,” she said. “What it showed us is all the reasons why we picked each other as partners in the beginning and why we picked each other as partners to race with.” ‘The Amazing Race’ Season 25’s Jim Raman Died at 42 Years Old in 2019 On March 12, 2019, Jim was found dead at 42 years old in his South Carolina home after emergency responders were called to the residence early that morning and discovered his body, a spokesman for the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department confirmed at the time. Amazing-Race-Misti-Jim “Nothing suspicious or criminal is involved with the case you are referencing and out of compassion and respect for family, my office will not comment on it,” Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher said in a statement obtained by WIS News 10. Jim’s cause of death was never revealed. Irmo Smiles, the dental office where Jim worked with Misti, shared a statement on his death. “Irmo Smiles has suffered a tragic loss this week. It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Jim Raman,” the statement read. “As our staff and the family prepare for Dr. Raman’s celebration of life, please join us in praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time. We will be working to reschedule Dr. Misti Raman’s patients and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. Your patience is greatly appreciated as we give Dr. Misti Raman time to grieve the loss of her loving husband.” Additionally, The Amazing Race’s Facebook page posted a tribute to Jim. “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a wonderful and very kind person. THE AMAZING RACE family has suffered a huge loss,” the post read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Misti, and his entire family.” – Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri, co-creators and executive producers of THE AMAZING RACE.” Where Is ‘The Amazing Race’ Season 25’s Misti Raman Now? After Jim’s death, Misti moved on with a man named Ryan Crist, according to her Facebook page. They have since gotten engaged. She currently lives in Irmo, South Carolina, and frequently posts life updates on her page. Source link #Happened #Misti #Jim #Raman #Amazing #Race #Season #Story Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

NASA’s Mars Streak Mystery Might Finally Be Solved – And It’s Not Great News – SciTechDaily NASA’s Mars Streak Mystery Might Finally Be Solved – And It’s Not Great News – SciTechDaily NASA’s Mars Streak Mystery Might Finally Be Solved – And It’s Not Great News SciTechDailyDark streaks on Mars may not come from water after all, scientists say SpaceStreaks on martian slopes are dry NatureThose Streaks On Mars May Not Be Due To Water NASA WatchStreaked slopes on Mars probably not signs of water flow, study finds Phys.org Source link #NASAs #Mars #Streak #Mystery #Finally #Solved #Great #News #SciTechDaily Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Qantas saved $100m a year during Covid after ******** sackings Qantas saved $100m a year during Covid after ******** sackings Qantas saved $100m a year during the Covid-19 pandemic when it illegally outsourced more than 1800 ground workers, a court has been told. The High Court unanimously rejected a Qantas appeal after the Federal Court found that the airline had illegally sacked staff. A hearing in the Federal Court in Sydney continued on Tuesday to decide the penalty Qantas must pay for the 2020 decision during the Covid pandemic. Lawyers for the Transport Workers Union said on Tuesday that Qantas was faced with a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” during the pandemic to save more than $100m per year. Noel Hutley SC said the airline had the “temptation of the potential to produce a massive profit”. Camera IconTWU lawyers including Noel Hutley (left) said Qantas’s decision to illegally sack more than 1800 workers had caused ‘massive harm’. NewsWire / Nikki Short Credit: News Corp Australia Qantas had caused “massive harm” with the aim of achieving economic benefit, Mr Hutley said. “We say the principal concern of the court is specific and general deterrence,” he said. Qantas people manager Catherine Walsh was questioned about the sackings as well as ongoing issues with the airline’s culture when she took the stand on Monday. However, Mr Hutley on Tuesday criticised the airline’s decision to call Ms Walsh to the stand given she only joined the company in 2024 and had “nothing to do with the events”. Justice Michael Lee agreed and said if Qantas was “truly contrite” it would “put someone in the witness box who was there at the time these decisions were made and could help explain” and could speak to how the airline had “changed its tune”. Camera IconQantas was set to save millions each year after illegally sacking workers, a court has been told. NewsWire / Luis Enrique Ascui Credit: News Corp Australia In his submissions on Tuesday, Mr Hutley said Qantas had acted with “arrogance and a dismissive and self-justified attitude towards these events” that it was “dragging out”. Earlier, Ms Walsh took the stand and said the years-long process of appeals before the court had been a “very lengthy and no doubt tiring processes for many people” and she accepted that Qantas was “in the wrong”. “I want to reinforce that we are deeply sorry, and we apologise for the impact on the workers, the TWU (Transport Workers Union), to the court for their time and to the family and friends that felt the impacts, we are deeply sorry,” she said. The maximum penalty Qantas can be ordered to pay is $121m, on top of the $120m compensation fund that is now in the process of being administered to workers. The Federal Court earlier found that Qantas had acted against protections in the Fair Work Act in its outsourcing and was partly motivated by a desire to prevent industrial action. The airline appealed the decision to the full bench of the Federal Court and later the High Court, both of which were unsuccessful. After losing the appeal, the union and Qantas went to mediation to determine how much Qantas would have to pay the outsourced workers for economic losses linked to lost wages. The hearing before Justice Michael Lee continues. Source link #Qantas #saved #100m #year #Covid #******** #sackings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Cal State Fullerton freshman drowns, dies during lake trip with fraternity brothers Cal State Fullerton freshman drowns, dies during lake trip with fraternity brothers An 18-year-old Cal State Fullerton student’s body was found after he drowned in Lake Havasu during a trip with his fraternity brothers over the weekend, according to officials and the school’s Sigma Pi chapter. “With deep sorrow, we share the heartbreaking news that Simon T. Daniel, a first-year student at Cal State Fullerton, tragically passed away in an accidental drowning while on vacation,” the fraternity said in a statement released Monday. Daniel’s body was recovered on Sunday just before 9 a.m., according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, after a day of search efforts on the lake. Sigma Pi’s post said that Daniel went into the lake on Saturday afternoon with three fraternity brothers and two visiting sorority members. “Unbeknownst to them, recent heavy rains in the Havasu Valley region had significantly increased water flow, creating hazardous conditions including strong currents, crosswinds and swells,” the post states. “When the group found themselves in distress, several fraternity members heroically risked their own lives to rescue all six students.” However, the rescue mission took a devastating turn. “Tragically, Simon was swept away by a sudden wave that separated him from one of the rescuers,” said the statement. “He disappeared beneath the water.” Despite an emergency response to the scene with divers searching until nightfall, Daniel did not make it back alive. Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, is seen here in an undated photo. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) A memorial service is seen being held for Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, who tragically died during a friendly lake trip with his fraternity brothers. May 2025. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) A memorial service is seen being held for Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, who tragically died during a friendly lake trip with his fraternity brothers. May 2025. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) A memorial service is seen being held for Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, who tragically died during a friendly lake trip with his fraternity brothers. May 2025. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) A memorial service is seen being held for Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, who tragically died during a friendly lake trip with his fraternity brothers. May 2025. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, is seen here in undated photos. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) Cal State Fullerton student Simon Daniel, 18, is seen here in an undated photo. (Sigma Pi Fraternity) Sigma Pi said that Daniel, a Pinole, California native, is survived by his mother and “a community of loved ones and brothers who deeply mourn his loss.” “Simon was a computer science major, a proud initiated member of Sigma Pi Fraternity, and a respected leader on campus,” continued the post. “He was the heart of the fraternity – genuine, joyful and someone who brightened every room with his brilliant smile.” The fraternity said Daniel was “known for his love of music, boundless energy and kind spirit.” Resources are available to those affected by Daniel’s passing, and they are included in the fraternity’s post linked here. Over the same weekend, a UCSB student also died during a trip to a lake with friends. His body was found in and retrieved from Big Bear Lake Monday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Source link #Cal #State #Fullerton #freshman #drowns #dies #lake #trip #fraternity #brothers Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Fourth New Orleans jail escapee captured as manhunt for 6 others continues – NBC News Fourth New Orleans jail escapee captured as manhunt for 6 others continues – NBC News Fourth New Orleans jail escapee captured as manhunt for 6 others continues NBC NewsFourth New Orleans inmate captured as manhunt intensifies and DA’s staff members flee for safety CNNTuesday brings another threat for severe storms YahooFourth escaped inmate recaptured Monday in New Orleans East; six still on the loose fox8live.comLouisiana Seeks Escaped Inmates, and Answers About Their Brazen Escape The New York Times Source link #Fourth #Orleans #jail #escapee #captured #manhunt #continues #NBC #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Foreign minister seeks to calm Pacific climate concerns Foreign minister seeks to calm Pacific climate concerns In a demonstration of Pacific solidarity, Penny Wong has returned to the scene of her maiden trip as foreign minister while making the first trip of her second term. However, at the Pacific Islands Forum secretariat in Fiji’s capital of Suva on Tuesday, she confronted the same regional concerns over Australia’s climate action and labour mobility programs. Senator Wong said she was “inspired” by shared achievements in the past three years, with “Australia (working) hand-in-hand with the Pacific family”. She cited an increase in development assistance to the region, at $2.1 billion in this year’s budget, and a spate of upgraded bilateral agreements with Tuvalu, Nauru, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and more. “We take our place in the Pacific family seriously,” she said in an address. At a subsequent press conference, Senator Wong was forced onto the back foot by Fijian journalists pressing Australia on its commitment to climate action. There are growing voices in the region – including government leaders from Kiribati, Vanuatu and Palau – asking Australia to end its lucrative practice of exporting fossil fuels, particularly as it seeks to host the UN’s major climate change conference in 2026. The senator didn’t address that remote possibility, instead saying Anthony Albanese’s government deserved credit for actions taken to date. “We have been historically a very fossil fuel-dependent economy … and we have to transform it and that is a big task,” she said. “I often liken it to a large ship being turned. “There is no switch where we flick off hydrocarbons and turn on renewables. If that were the case, the world would have been a much easier place 20 years ago.” Senator Wong said Australia would continue to increase renewable energy projects and suggested advocacy efforts should go towards other countries to reduce emissions. “We will not hold to the targets of 1.5 or 2 degrees unless all major emitters hold to reaching that target,” she said. “China is the world’s largest emitter. Its actions will determine whether we can achieve our targets. We all have to be part of it.” The Albanese government has also increased the number of Pacific workers in Australia on seasonal schemes, expanding agriculturally-focused programs to include aged care and childcare. While the labour mobility programs are valued in the Pacific for remittances, travelling workers have faced abuse and home countries also hold concerns about lost skills. Senator Wong insisted the government would shape the program to meet participating countries’ needs. “We’re a Labor government. We represent working people … we always work to ensure workers are well treated, that they are properly paid, that health and safety is observed,” she said. “We have sought to strengthen protections in this scheme. We’ll keep doing that … and keep reforming it to benefit your people and your economies.” While in Suva, the foreign minister also announced a $4 million investment in Fiji’s **** outbreak response plan. Senator Wong will continue her three-country blitz by heading to Tonga and Vanuatu, two nations which swore in new prime ministers earlier in 2025. Source link #Foreign #minister #seeks #calm #Pacific #climate #concerns Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

House Democrat Says This Detail Proves GOP Is Ashamed Of Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ House Democrat Says This Detail Proves GOP Is Ashamed Of Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) on Monday called out House Republicans for scheduling an upcoming meeting in the wee hours of the morning to weigh in on President Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill.” “If Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ is so great, why not debate it when people are still awake? Wouldn’t you want everyone to know how great it is?” asked McGovern, ranking member of the House rules committee. “Why are you debating it at 1 o’clock in the morning? I think that’s prime time in Guam.” Late Sunday, Republicans narrowly voted to advance the bill on Trump’s agenda — which could push millions off of Medicaid and looks to limit those eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps around 42 million Americans purchase food each month, to help offset tax cuts. As House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) hopes to see the bill hit the House floor by week’s end, it’s set to make its next stop at the GOP-led rules committee in a meeting scheduled for 1 a.m. on Wednesday. The scheduling reflects “unusual timing,” a staffer with the committee’s leadership told The Hill, while House ********* Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) slammed GOP lawmakers for trying to “pass their extreme budget in the dead of night.” SomeRepublicans have also put the plans for the bill on blast, including GOP hardliner Rep. Tim Burchett (Tenn.), who called the scheduling a “bad look.” On Monday, McGovern said “any person with half a brain cell” could figure out that Republicans scheduled the meeting late so Americans won’t find out the contents of the bill. He then referred to Trump’s “close your eyes and get there” call to GOP holdouts on the bill last month. “That’s exactly what you’re all doing because you all know exactly what the bill does, how unpopular it is and what regular Americans think of it,” said McGovern, adding that the bill would give billionaires a “huge” tax cut by “ripping” away Medicaid and food assistance from Americans. “Your big, beautiful scam is a historic giveaway to those at the very, very top.” Related… Source link #House #Democrat #Detail #Proves #GOP #Ashamed #Trumps #Big #Beautiful #Bill Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Source tells CNN what may have caused ******** naval ship’s ****** into Brooklyn Bridge – CNN Source tells CNN what may have caused ******** naval ship’s ****** into Brooklyn Bridge – CNN Source tells CNN what may have caused ******** naval ship’s ****** into Brooklyn Bridge CNNSchumer ripped for placing blame on Trump, DOGE for deadly ******** Navy ****** in NYC: ‘He is an ******’ Fox NewsMinutes after departure, a deadly collision: Feds investigate Brooklyn Bridge ****** GothamistAfter a ******** Navy Ship Crashed Into the Brooklyn Bridge, New Details Emerge The New York TimesMexico mourns Navy cadets killed in Brooklyn Bridge ship ****** BBC Source link #Source #tells #CNN #caused #******** #naval #ships #****** #Brooklyn #Bridge #CNN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Be vulnerable’: Elliot Yeo makes plea for an AFL Mental Health Round in wake of Adam Selwood’s death ‘Be vulnerable’: Elliot Yeo makes plea for an AFL Mental Health Round in wake of Adam Selwood’s death Elliot Yeo has made an impassioned plea for the AFL to implement a Mental Health Round, declaring it would make a difference in helping young men “be vulnerable” and breaking down any stigma around the issue. Source link #vulnerable #Elliot #Yeo #plea #AFL #Mental #Health #wake #Adam #Selwoods #death Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Spring nor’easter on the way? Here’s what to expect in Mass. later this week Spring nor’easter on the way? Here’s what to expect in Mass. later this week A developing spring nor’easter is expected to sweep into Massachusetts later this week, bringing heavy rain and gusty winds. The windswept rainstorm is expected to peak on Thursday afternoon into the evening hours, Boston 25 Meteorologist Shiri Spear said in her latest forecast. “You can see some rain does last into Friday morning based on the current track,” Spear said in her forecast. “I think a Thursday Weather Alert seems very appropriate.” The region will start to see improvements in the forecast on Friday and into Saturday, with Sunday drying out. There is a risk of wind damage and power outages, as with any strong storm. Spear cautioned that the storm track could speed up or slow down since it’s still days away. For more on the forecast, visit the Boston 25 Weather page. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Source link #Spring #noreaster #Heres #expect #Mass #week Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Inner circle members give testimony as 2nd week of Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial gets underway – ABC News Inner circle members give testimony as 2nd week of Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial gets underway – ABC News Inner circle members give testimony as 2nd week of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial gets underway ABC NewsSean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial live updates: Week 2 begins with more witness testimony in sex trafficking case YahooDiddy Trial Photos: Inside His Arrest at NYC Hotel Room Us WeeklyMay 19, 2025 – Day 6 of testimony in the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial CNNDiddy Allegedly Attacked Cassie’s Friend with a Wooden Hanger — Then She Begged Cassie to Leave Him: Testimony People.com Source link #circle #members #give #testimony #2nd #week #Sean #039Diddy039 #Combs #trial #underway #ABC #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Child in hospital after being mauled by dog at home in Dysart, Queensland Child in hospital after being mauled by dog at home in Dysart, Queensland A child has been rushed to hospital with a “significant” injury after she was bitten on the face by a dog. Source link #Child #hospital #mauled #dog #home #Dysart #Queensland Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Taiwan wants peace and talks with China but must strengthen defences, president says Taiwan wants peace and talks with China but must strengthen defences, president says TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan wants peace and dialogue with China as war has no winners, but the government must continue to strengthen the island’s defences, President Lai Ching-te said on Tuesday as he completed one year in office. China calls Lai a “separatist” and has rebuffed his multiple offers for talks. Lai rejects China’s sovereignty claims over the democratic and separately governed island, saying only Taiwan’s people can decide their future. A government spokesperson said last week that Taiwan could not rule out the possibility that China could mark the anniversary with military drills. Speaking to reporters at the presidential office in central Taipei, Lai said Taiwan’s people loved peace. “I, too, am committed to peace. Because peace is priceless and war has no winners. But when it comes to seeking peace, we cannot have dreams nor illusions,” he said. Taiwan will continue to strengthen its defences as preparing for war is the best way to avoid it, Lai added. “I also reiterate here – Taiwan is happy to have exchanges and cooperation with China as long as there is reciprocal dignity. Using exchanges to replace hemming in, dialogue to replace confrontation.” China’s Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China’s defence ministry last week said Lai was a “Taiwan Strait crisis maker” who had increased antagonism and confrontation and undermined peace and stability. Last month, China held war games code-named “Strait Thunder-2025A” around Taiwan, the “A” at its end suggesting there could be more to come. China called its May 2024 drills just after Lai took office “Joint Sword-2024A”, and in October of that year staged “Joint Sword-2024B”. (Reporting by Yimou Lee and Ben Blanchard; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Saad Sayeed) Source link #Taiwan #peace #talks #China #strengthen #defences #president Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Fertility clinic bombing spotlights ‘nihilistic’ violent extremism wave – The Washington Post Fertility clinic bombing spotlights ‘nihilistic’ violent extremism wave – The Washington Post Fertility clinic bombing spotlights ‘nihilistic’ violent extremism wave The Washington PostFertility Clinic Bombing Suspect’s Father Breaks Down in Tears: ‘He Just Changed’ YahooFringe theories, a friend’s death and massive explosives: Portrait emerges of Palm Springs bombing suspect Los Angeles TimesPalm Springs explosion: Palm Springs deputy fire chief unknowingly saved colleague’s embryos in deadly blast ABC7 Los AngelesLive: FBI confirms DNA at site of bombing matches suspect Guy Edward Barkus The Desert Sun Source link #Fertility #clinic #bombing #spotlights #nihilistic #violent #extremism #wave #Washington #Post Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Man in court over school lockdown causes chaos at first hearing Man in court over school lockdown causes chaos at first hearing The man who allegedly threatened staff at the school where water polo coach Lilie James was murdered has shocked the court at his first hearing. Source link #Man #court #school #lockdown #chaos #hearing Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Japan is sticking to demand for US to eliminate tariffs, trade envoy says Japan is sticking to demand for US to eliminate tariffs, trade envoy says By Leika Kihara TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan’s top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, said on Tuesday there was no change to Tokyo’s stance of demanding an elimination of U.S. tariffs in bilateral trade negotiations. Tokyo will not rush into clinching a trade deal if doing so risked hurting the country’s interests, he said. “The slew of U.S. tariffs including reciprocal tariffs as well as those on automobiles, car parts, steel and aluminium, are regrettable. There’s no change to our stance of seeking a review, which is to say an elimination, of them,” Akazawa told a regular press conference. Akazawa said the two countries held working-level trade talks in Washington on Monday. The schedule of a third round of ministerial-level negotiations was yet to be fixed, he added. On April 2, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 10% tariffs on all countries except Canada, Mexico and China, along with higher tariff rates for many big trading partners, including Japan, which faces a 24% tariff rate starting in July unless it can negotiate a deal with Washington. Japanese policymakers and ruling party lawmakers have said they see no merit in striking a deal with the United States unless a 25% tariff on automobile imports is lifted, given the industry’s economic importance. While Japan was the first major economy to start bilateral trade talks with Washington, Britain was the first to strike a deal with the Trump administration. China and the United States also agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war that had threatened a global recession. With initial hope of a quick deal failing, the Nikkei newspaper reported last week that Japan may water down its demand to a reduction, rather than an elimination, of U.S. tariffs. A source with knowledge of the negotiations has told Reuters that Japan is considering a package of proposals to gain U.S. concessions that may include increased imports of U.S. corn and soy, technical cooperation in shipbuilding, and revision to inspection standards for imported automobiles. (Reporting by Leika Kihara; Editing by Tom Hogue and Shri Navaratnam) Source link #Japan #sticking #demand #eliminate #tariffs #trade #envoy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

CATL: World's biggest EV battery maker sees shares jump on debut – BBC CATL: World's biggest EV battery maker sees shares jump on debut – BBC CATL: World’s biggest EV battery maker sees shares jump on debut BBCCATL Rises in HK Trading Debut After World’s Top Listing in 2025 Bloomberg.comChina’s CATL jumps in Hong Kong debut in world’s biggest listing this year ReutersChina’s CATL jumps as much as 14% in Hong Kong debut as battery maker rides electric-vehicle ***** CNBCChina’s battery leader CATL surges on debut in biggest listing of 2025 Financial Times Source link #CATL #World039s #biggest #battery #maker #sees #shares #jump #debut #BBC Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]