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ISLAMABAD: A number of United States’ lawmakers along with Amnesty International have voiced support for demonstrators who participated in the violence-marred protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers in Islamabad for the release of party founder-chairman Imran Khan. “The brutal repression of protesters in Pakistan and growing political violence is an attempt to suppress democracy and human rights [....] I stand with the brave Pakistanis who are rising up and protesting for change,” US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said in a post on X — formerly Twitter. The statement comes in the wake of the PTI’s “do-or-die” protest, called off by the party following a crackdown by the law enforcement agencies (LEAs), which resulted in the martyrdom of at least four Rangers personnel along with multiple policemen. The former ruling party, too, claimed that eight of its workers were martyred during the protest. The latest protest episode was part of the PTI’s months-long efforts to secure Khan’s release who has been behind bars in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail in various cases for more than a year now. The party, for quite some time, has reportedly been lobbying in Washington to garner support and secure the former prime minister’s release. Reacting to the latest political turmoil in Islamabad, Congressman Greg Casar condemned the violence and opined that the demonstration should be allowed to continue. “Thousands of Pakistanis are protesting for democracy and are being met with violent repression. I am hearing reports that the government is using live fire and tear gas against protesters [....] I condemn this violence and urge the government to allow these protests to continue peacefully,” he said in a social media post. Meanwhile, Representative Barbara Lee underscored the freedom of speech and protest peacefully and said: “I stand with pro-democracy advocates in Pakistan as they fight for justice and human rights.” Her remarks were echoed by her colleague Representative Summer Lee who said: “I am moved by the bravery demonstrated by the Pakistani people as they protest for electoral integrity, and judicial fairness.” “I condemn any violent suppression of them exercising their fundamental rights. Everyone deserves to speak out and demand democracy,” the lawmaker added. Furthermore, Congressman Brad Sherman — while recalling his role in the October 23 letter by over 60 US lawmakers to US President Joe Biden for Khan’s release — said that the PTI founder’s supporters had a right to peacefully demonstrate. Reacting to the events in Islamabad, former US ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad called for the immediate commencement of a reconciliation process. “This is not the way to enforce law and order,” said Khalilzad while seemingly referring to the LEAs’ crackdown against protesters. This is not the first time that US lawmakers have directly or indirectly reacted to Pakistan’s internal political situation. The recent protest even warranted a reaction from the US State Department spokesperson who had earlier called for restraint from both sides while urging Islamabad to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. Earlier this month, 46 members of the US Congress wrote to President Biden to advocate for the immediate release of the PTI founder — making it the second time US lawmakers had reached out to the president on this issue. ‘Unlawful, excessive force used’ Meanwhile, in line with the US lawmakers’ statements, Amnesty International has said that the LEAs used “unlawful and excessive force including tear gas, live ammunition and rubber bullets against PTI protesters”. “Even if protests become non-peaceful, the authorities must respect and ensure the protesters’ rights to life and freedom from torture and other ill-treatment,” said the rights group while reminding Islamabad of its obligation to provide an enabling environment for the protesters under international human rights law. Underscoring severe restrictions on assembly, movement and mobile and internet services as well as arbitrary detentions of thousands of protesters across the country, it urged the authorities to take all necessary measures to prevent arbitrary deprivation of life and ensure effective accountability for any unlawful use of force. “Amnesty urges the government to ensure that the right to freedom of peaceful assembly is respected and protected. Those detained solely for exercising their right to peaceful assembly must be released immediately,” read the statement issued by the rights watchdog. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );
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Sportscaster Greg Gumbel dies from cancer at age 78VERMILLION, S.D. (AP) — Aidan Bouman threw a go-ahead touchdown pass in the fourth quarter and Quaron Adams followed with a 70-yard touchdown on a reverse as No. 4 seed South Dakota pulled away late to beat 13th-seeded Tarleton State 42-31 on Saturday in the second round of the FCS playoffs. South Dakota will host the winner of Saturday’s matchup between No. 5 seed UC Davis and 12th-seeded Illinois State in the third round. The Coyotes (10-2) trailed by seven points four times until Bouman connected with Keyondray Jones-Logan for a 12-yard touchdown and a 35-31 lead with 9:36 left to play. Tim White intercepted a Victor Gabalis pass, giving South Dakota the ball at its own 15-yard line. Adams, a sophomore receiver, raced to the end zone three plays later for his first career rushing touchdown and the Texans (10-4) never recovered in their first trip to the postseason. Gabalis threw three first-half touchdown passes, giving Tarleton State leads of 7-0, 14-7 and 21-14 at halftime. Travis Theis had two short touchdown runs in the first half to pull the Coyotes even and his 2-yard scoring run 51 seconds into the fourth quarter tied it at 28. Tarleton State took its last lead on a 23-yard field goal by Corbin Poston with 11:23 left to play. Bouman completed 18 of 22 passes for 213 yards and also had a 5-yard scoring toss to Jones-Logan off a deflected pass that stood up to a video review and tied the game at 21. Theis carried 25 times for 130 yards. Gabalis totaled 379 yards on 23-for-31 passing with four touchdowns and three interceptions. Darius Cooper caught nine passes for 161 yards and three scores. Cody Jackson had the other touchdown reception. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up . AP college football: and
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As unemployment rates continue to soar, a stark contradiction emerges: factories that once provided livelihoods are being repurposed into worship centres. CHIJIOKE IREMEKA writes that these buildings, once symbols of industrial progress and with potential solutions to the unemployment crisis, now echo with prayers from worshippers seeking the very jobs these spaces once offered In the 80s and 90s, Hardel & Enic Group was the model of success, commanding attention and admiration across Nigeria. Situated along Funsho Williams Avenue, beside the National Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, its factory stood as a symbol of industrial excellence. It was a dominant force in the real estate sector, known for its major construction projects, including the iconic Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, and its significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy during the military era. Hardel & Enic, founded by the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most influential players in the property development sector. At its zenith, the company boasted a workforce of over 4,000 employees and soon spread across different locations, while its operating environments glittered like other progressive firms of that era like Dunlop Tyres, Michelin Tyres, Zoom Mobile, and Apapa Bakery among others. These companies, at the time they thrived, were the lifeblood of the country’s industrial growth, their gleaming operations a testament to the thriving economy of the era. However, the golden years of industrial growth began to fade. Hardel & Enic, along with many other giants, found themselves crippled by rising production costs. The persistent lack of stable electricity, coupled with heavy taxes and a stifling business climate, became their undoing. Faced with these insurmountable challenges, the once thriving factories were forced to shut down, their workers displaced, and their sprawling industrial hubs left to rot and gather dust. In search of more favourable environments, these companies, once the pride of Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, were either sold off or moved abroad. What was once a flourishing industrial era now feels like a distant memory, replaced by empty, silent spaces that once echoed with the hum of machinery and the hopes of a growing economy. For Hardel & Enic, the increasingly hostile business environment in Nigeria forced its management to make a drastic move in a bid to reduce operational costs. One major step it took was to scale down its Lagos operations and relocate to the Oriental Plaza office on Okigwe Road, Owerri, Imo State. According to a company representative, Ben Akajiaku, while speaking to our correspondent, there was no longer a need to run both the Lagos and Owerri offices simultaneously given the escalating business challenges. However, Hardel & Enic’s exit from Lagos marked the beginning of a series of changes for the company’s former operational base. It was taken over by Zoom Mobile, a telecommunications firm that initially operated under the name Reliance Telecommunications Limited (Reltel Wireless). Founded on August 25, 1998, Zoom Mobile capitalised on the deregulation of Nigeria’s telecom sector to launch its services in 2001. Despite its promising start, Zoom Mobile faced severe challenges in the competitive telecom industry. After 11 years of operation, the company struggled to remain viable, and harsh business conditions once again forced it to make drastic cuts. In May 2012, based on reports, Zoom Mobile laid off 200 employees as a result of financial losses. This move increased competition from dominant GSM operators, dwindling its revenues. Workers retained to provide minimal services, such as managing the switches and base stations across the country, were later let go as part of the cost-cutting measures. Despite these efforts, Zoom Mobile, allegedly plagued by challenges since its inception, ultimately closed its doors. The property, once home to a thriving business, was subsequently handed over to The Covenant Christian Centre, which transformed it into ‘The Covenant Place.’ Today, the worship centre founded by Pastor Poju Oyemade, has become a prominent church with a congregation of over 5,000 members. Located in Iganmu, Lagos, it rose from the ashes of the businesses that once operated in that space. One of the church officials, Effiong Bassey, explained that The Covenant Place, consecrated by Bishop David Oyedepo, was founded on March 30, 1994, with the aim of blessing the local community, city, and nation in which it is situated. He said, “We marked the 10th Anniversary here. Due to the growing congregation, we now hold three services on Sundays, while Tuesdays and Saturdays are dedicated to weekly activities.” However, Sunday PUNCH observed that the building on the premises that once housed Zoom Mobile had been converted into a children’s church, while the other section had been extended to accommodate the expanding number of worshippers. This transformation—from thriving businesses to a place of worship—paints a vivid picture of the changing landscape in Nigeria’s economy, where industrial hubs are becoming sanctuaries and spaces of spiritual solace in place of once-booming commercial centres. From industrial hub to church headquarters In a dramatic shift in the industrial landscape of Onitsha, Anambra State, the premises of Nigerian Mineral Water Industries Limited, an Indian company once famous for producing soft drinks like Limca and Goldspot, had been taken over by three different churches. The most prominent of the churches is the Dunamis International Gospel Centre, founded by Pastor on November 10, 1996. The transformation has made the site, located along the Old Enugu-Onitsha Road, beside Tansian Seminary School and St. Charles Borromeo Hospital, almost unrecognisable. The once-thriving company, a key player in the soft drink industry, has become a distant memory, especially after the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria took control of it. In 1992, Coca-Cola Bottling Company acquired Limca, one of the company’s major brands, marking the end of an era. In yet another striking example of this trend, the site that was once home to a thriving aluminium company, renowned for producing roofing sheets and other products, is now the location of the Living Faith Ministry, popularly known as Winners Chapel. Harsh environment killing businesses Experts studying the relationship between resources and their distribution have warned that the takeover of struggling factories and warehouses by churches was becoming a troubling trend in Nigeria. They also noted that the country’s harsh business environment is slowly killing its industries and exacerbating the economic and unemployment crisis. According to recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s unemployment rate rose slightly to 5.3 per cent in Q1 2024, up from 5.0 per cent in Q3 2023. Female unemployment stands at a troubling 6.2 per cent, higher than the 4.3 per cent unemployment rate among males. A political economist and lecturer at the Legacy University in Okija, Anambra State, Dr Vincent Ezeme, expressed his deep concern over the growing unemployment crisis and the decline of Nigeria’s economy. He lamented that many factories and industries, once the backbone of the nation’s economy, are now being converted into churches, where worshippers, ironically, pray for the very jobs that these factories once provided. The lecturer affirmed that as businesses shut down due to skyrocketing operating costs, the spaces they once occupied are now being taken over by churches that offer spiritual support but cannot replace the jobs lost. Related News Abuja CoC urges FG to revitalise neglected industrial hub Hardship: Community benefits from church 'shop for free' programme in Ekiti Dismissed soldier nabbed for defrauding job seekers in Bauchi He warned that until the government adopts business-friendly policies, Nigerians will continue to gather in such places to pray for jobs that seem increasingly out of reach. “If there are no factories and businesses to provide jobs, no amount of prayers will bring about jobs that no longer exist. Churches may offer some jobs, but these can’t compare to the jobs created by factories and businesses,” Ezeme maintained. He stressed that addressing the root causes of business failures—such as high operating costs, exorbitant lending rates, erratic power supply, and multiple taxations, among others—is crucial to reversing this trend. Without such reforms, the lecturer warned, more businesses will close, paving the way for churches to occupy their former spaces. “The government knows what needs to be done if it wants to improve this economy. We should look at countries like the UK and the U.S., where underperforming churches are being repurposed for more productive ventures that contribute to the economy. Meanwhile, we are seeing more churches than factories, and it is taking a toll on our economy,” Ezeme said. UK, US experience The saying “nature abhors a vacuum” powerfully illustrates the contrasting realities between the UK, the U.S., and Nigeria regarding citing churches on the premises of closed firms. In these two countries, abandoned churches are often repurposed for practical and profitable uses. According to a media organisation, The Conversation, abandoned and underutilised churches have become a familiar sight in the U.S., and UK cities over the past few decades. In many cases, congregations or church governing bodies sell off their unused buildings to developers, who transform them into apartments, offices, art galleries, museums, breweries, or even performance spaces. This is done primarily to make the spaces more profitable and adaptable to urban needs. For instance, in the U.S., the All Saints Church in Bristol was sold to developers and transformed into apartments and coffee shops, while St. Peter’s Church in Offord D’Arch, now hosts various festivals, including film festivals. Similarly, High Pavement Chapel has been repurposed into art galleries, coffee shops, and even pubs, and St. Mary’s Church in Wythall, Worcestershire, is now the office of an electrical company, as reported by the Baltimore Sun. These adaptive repurposings aim to make underutilised buildings profitable and functional. Scrambling for factories and warehouses In contrast to what is obtainable in these two countries, in Nigeria, at the Oregun industrial axis in Lagos, the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministry acquired what was once the showroom of a Lebanese company that imported electricity-generating generators and spare parts from Japan. Located along No. 2 Kudirat Abiola Way, the showroom, which once thrived, was gradually shut down as Chinese imports flooded the market, offering cheaper alternatives that led to a decline in demand for Japanese products. Today, the showroom now serves as a place of worship. Not far from there, the Victorious Army Ministries International, founded by Apostle Joseph Agboli in 1995, acquired what was once a thriving industrial hub on Acme Road, Ogba, Ikeja. The church, which has grown into an international organisation with branches across Nigeria, South Africa, the UK, and the U.S., took over seven warehouses and two empty plots that once served as the base for a bustling business centre. Similarly, a bakery on Kukoyi Street, Olodi-Apapa, Lagos, once employing around 15 workers, was purchased by the International Gloryhouse Christian Centre after it was unable to recover from mounting production costs and business decline. The bakery, once the leading supplier of bread and confectionery in the locality, shut down over 14 years ago. A shop owner, Tunde Ibrahim, who is familiar with the bakery’s history, explained that its owner sold the place after being unable to cope with high production costs. As part of ongoing developments in the area, Household of God, led by Pastor Chris Okotie, has reportedly acquired several properties and parcels of land along Kudirat Abiola Way over the years. The church is said to have secured significant tracts of land for its operations in the vicinity. In another case, the property formerly occupied by Dunlop Tyre, a globally recognised brand established by John Boyd Dunlop in 1890 in Dublin, Ireland, has undergone significant changes. Once a major employer in Nigeria, with over 12,000 employees in its prime during the 1980s and 1990s, Dunlop faced increasing challenges due to an unfavourable business environment in the country. This eventually led to its relocation to Ghana, where a more conducive business climate and infrastructure were available. Following Dunlop’s departure, the premises were utilised by Triumphant Christian Centre. The site has since been repurposed, with indications that it is currently available for rent or lease, as noted on a signpost at the property. 800 companies shut within three years – LCC In its 2012 report, the Nigerian Chambers of Commerce revealed that at least 800 companies closed shop in Nigeria between 2009 and 2011 due to the harsh business environment. The companies that survived were also struggling, with over half of them classified as ‘ailing.’ The President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Herbert Ajayi, shared these details while presenting a paper at a zonal workshop on economic diversification organised by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission in Asaba, Delta State. However, in an earlier interview with our correspondent, Dr Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer, Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprise and former Director-General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the said government policies were primarily responsible for the failure of businesses. He argued that churches should not be blamed for the closure of businesses, as they are simply occupying available spaces, and that it is better for landlords to collect rent from churches than have properties remain vacant. “If the property doesn’t belong to the company, then the landlord would want to give it to another tenant willing to pay. The church is the only thriving industry right now. Though we don’t export finished goods, we export services.” Yusuf added, “The church has also contributed to the GDP of the country, especially through diaspora remittance. It’s not the churches that killed the businesses. They’re just the only industry thriving right now, so they can afford to acquire the properties of failed businesses.” ‘It’s difficult to assess church’s contributions to GDP’ The General Overseer of Vision of God Bible Church in FESTAC, Lagos, Reverend Victor Obiora, on his part, said it’s difficult to assess how much churches contribute to the country’s GDP. “The church doesn’t kill businesses; they merely utilise available space. However, the church is a significant part of the economy, employing tens of thousands of people and attracting tourists. Remember, people travel to Nigeria because of TB Joshua’s Synagogue of All Nations. The church and business are not the same. We deal with spiritual matters, while businesses focus on commerce.” Churches not responsible for business failures – Economist A former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Professor Olusegun Ajibola, described the current trend as regrettable and a dislocation to the country’s economy, asserting that churches cannot be blamed for business failures. The economist emphasised that the service sector should support, rather than outpace, the real sector in growth. He said, “This imbalance has implications for job creation, GDP, and the overall health of the economy. In a situation where a property is no longer occupied by a failed business, the landlord may opt to lease it to another business or individuals willing to pay. “If the property remains vacant, it will depreciate over time and become vulnerable to vandalism. Therefore, we cannot blame the church or any other entity for stepping in. “If they have the resources and are willing to pay, the landlord will lease the premises to them. However, this is not a healthy trend for the country; it represents a dislocation in the economic structure.” While proffering a way forward, he stressed the need to address the policies that cause businesses to fail. “This is a structural issue within the country that must be fixed so that businesses can thrive and retain their presence,” Ajibola said. “We need effective industrial policies, new investment policies, and updated trade policies. These are critical to ensuring that the business sector of the economy can grow and become strong enough to sustain the nation.”
The Tan Cang Hai Phong International Container Port (TC-HICT), a subsidiary of Tan Cang Sai Gon Corporation, on December 27 celebrated the handling of its 1,500,000th TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) in 2024, following the arrival of Malta’s container ship CMA CGM MISSISSIPI. The new milestone further highlighted TC-HICT’s achievements in 2024 after welcoming the 1,000,000th TEU in August 2024. Over the past 10 years of development, including 6 years of operation, the port has made impressive progress, and it is now able to handle large vessels of up to 13,000 TEUs. Since its first container handling on May 13, 2018, TC-HICT has continually broken its own records. In 2020, the port reached the 500,000 TEUs mark for the first time, and since then, it has maintained its momentum, achieving 1,000,000 TEUs in 2022, 2023, and 2024. With the new milestone, TC-HICT has consolidated its position as the leading port in Northern Vietnam, ranking in the top 4 nationwide, and capturing 23% of the market share in Hai Phong. This achievement underscores the strength and potential of the deep-water port and the maritime economy in the region, affirmed Doan Hai Tuan, chairman of the Board of Members of TC-HICT, adding it affirms the port’s leading position in the maritime sector, ensuring supply chain continuity both domestically and internationally. He also credited the development of the port to the dedication and hard work of its staff, as well as the trust and support from domestic and international customers and partners. In 2025, TC-HICT is committed to continuous innovation and technological advancements. The port plans to implement new technologies like the Smart Gate and Ebooking software to improve operations. TC-HICT will also strengthen connections with other facilities of Tan Cang Sai Gon Corporation in Northern Vietnam, promote inland waterway transport, reinforce a sustainable transport system, and offer seamless service integration for customers. Source: VOVSyrian government forces withdraw from central city of Homs as insurgent offensive accelerates
Business People: Former East Metro lawmaker John Kriesel takes role at Northland VodkaThe Latest: Police believe gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO has left New York CityFirst Period_1, Chicago, Vlasic 2 (Teravainen, Bedard), 9:01 (pp). 2, Winnipeg, Vilardi 11 (Connor, Stanley), 13:31. 3, Chicago, Martinez 1 (Dickinson, Mikheyev), 19:47. Penalties_Kupari, WPG (Delay of Game), 8:40; Smith, CHI (High Sticking), 13:38. Second Period_4, Winnipeg, Niederreiter 10 (Appleton, Fleury), 13:10. Penalties_Hall, CHI (Slashing), 1:17. Third Period_5, Winnipeg, Scheifele 14 (Connor), 10:18. 6, Winnipeg, Appleton 5, 18:19 (en). Penalties_None. Shots on Goal_Winnipeg 8-9-12_29. Chicago 8-3-3_14. Power-play opportunities_Winnipeg 0 of 2; Chicago 1 of 1. Goalies_Winnipeg, Hellebuyck 17-5-0 (14 shots-12 saves). Chicago, Mrazek 7-11-1 (4-4). A_18,581 (19,717). T_2:18. Referees_Brandon Blandina, Jake Brenk. Linesmen_Kyle Flemington, Julien Fournier. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Alabama A&M announces death of 20-year-old football player after on-the-field head injury - NBC News
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D'Angelo Russell Is Reportedly Excited After Lakers Traded Him To NetsBEREA, Ohio — Myles Garrett has LeBron James to thank, in part, for encouraging him to speak up about what he needs from the Browns to prevent him from taking his talents elsewhere. Represented by Rich Paul’s Klutch Sports like James, Garrett worked out with James in the offseason and has picked his brains on a number of topics, including greatness and winning championships. It’s one of the reasons he felt emboldened to state last week that he might want out unless the Browns can show him a blueprint for winning in 2025. More Cleveland Browns coverage Kevin Stefanski on hosting Dolphins, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Dustin Hopkins, and more: Transcript Myles Garrett still working through Browns offseason plans and Dustin Hopkins will kick: Berea Report (Video) Browns restructure Deshaun Watson’s contract to ensure he’ll be here through at least ‘26; provides cap flexibility once it expires Week 17 NFL Preview: Find everything you need to know with our Week 17 NFL preview. “I mean, LeBron (hs advised him) for sure,” he said. “He’s seen everything on the sports side of it, and his advice has been very valuable. Him, his team, and just being able to be around them and learn from has been very useful of these last couple years. There’ve been more along the way. But definitely using my platform and using my voice to my benefit and my team’s benefit has been crucial.” Heading into Sunday’s home finale against the Dolphins, Garrett also revealed on Friday that he heard from upper management about his remarks, in which he stated that he has no interest in a rebuild and wants the Browns to show him a blueprint for contending before he’ll decide whether or not to ask for a trade. He planned to sit down with the powers-that-be after the season, but was approached by someone in the front office. “A few, a few (conversations),” he said. “We still have room for discussion at the end of the year as well.” He said it wasn’t necessarily an early version of the broader exit interview they’ll have. “They just wanted to see where my head was at and what I was thinking and just trying to keep things in house in house,” he said. Do his teammates like that he took such a public stand with avoiding a rebuild? Joel Bitonio also stated on Thursday that the chance to win in 2025 will weigh heavily in his decision on whether or not to retire. The Browns also restructured Deshaun Watson’s contract on Friday in a way that ensure he’ll come back in 2025 and be part of the mix. “I think they want to know what’s coming next as well,” he said. “So I haven’t really heard too many people speak up on whether they liked my comments or not. Everyone’s kind of feeling the same way. But I’m not going to assume and I’ll have my answer at the end of the year. Same with Joel, and we’ve just got to finish strong.” He said he’s never spoken up before because “the only more disappointing year was the first year (0-16). I didn’t have the position to say anything then.” A future Hall of Famer and reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Garrett has learned over the years that his voice carries a lot of weight. “I feel like as time went by, I was able to earn that position,” he said. “I don’t think anyone comes in with that kind of respect or, you know, platform. I felt, as the years went by, I proved who I was and we started winning games, I enabled myself to be able to speak up in certain positions. I use this platform for certain things and use my opportunities upstairs to speak with upper management for certain things.” Football Insider newsletter free trial: Take a minute and sign up for a free trial of our Football Insider newsletter, featuring exclusive content from cleveland.com's Browns reporters.
Chinese Embassy rejects US accusations of 'Salt Typhoon' hacking operationA nearly quarter-of-a-century-old mystery will soon be unveiled in New Westminster, B.C. Inside the tin soldier that stands at the Quay—which is the Guinness World Record holder for tallest sculpture of its kind in the world—sits a time capsule filled with messages from local kids created in 2002. According to the city, the makers of the time capsule decided it should be opened on Valentine's Day 2025, a date picked to show their love for New Westminster. Last week, city council voted unanimously to honour that wish. “It’s just kind of a fun thing to do,” said Coun. Ruby Campbell, as she introduced the motion. “I think it would be fantastic to be able to honour this.” After Mayor Patrick Johnstone quipped that the 2000s feel like last week, councillors voted to ask staff to come up with a plan and budget for a time capsule opening event on Feb. 14. Rumour has it that the mementos from 23 years ago, kept in the soldier’s heart, are stored on an almost obsolete piece of technology. “I’m kind of anxious to know what’s in there; we’re all kind of guessing it might be a CD-ROM, but we still wanna open that thing up and then find some device to be able to play it on,” said Campbell. Built in 2000, the tin soldier stands 9.75 metres tall. Its home has been the Westminster Quay since 2002, and it picked up the world record in the same year.
Deputies use heat-seeking drone to find missing 78-year-old Malibu manNone