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Thursday, May 1, 2025
Home Blog Page 10

Donald Trump’s Lawyer Accuses Michael Cohen of Lying in Hush Money Trial

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Donald Trump’s lawyer hit back against prosecutors, accusing their star witness – Michael Cohen – repeatedly of lying.

On the most tense day yet of cross-examination, Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former fixer, described talking to the former president directly about a hush-money payment to an adult-film star.

But attorney Todd Blanche all but shouted Michael Cohen’s testimony was “a lie.”

Records, he said, show Michael Cohen called Donald Trump’s bodyguard about a prank caller.

Todd Blanche’s alternate theory of the phone call was designed to sow doubt on Michael Cohen’s third day on the stand, as the jury watched the furious exchange with intense focus.

Following the heated moment, Todd Blanche stormed back to the defense table and sat down next to his client. When the judge announced an afternoon recess, there was a collective exhale in the room.

Donald Trump is charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, for allegedly disguising payments to Michael Cohen as legal expenses when they were in fact reimbursements for paying off film star Stormy Daniels, who claims she had an affair with him.

Image source: Fulton County Sheriff’s Office

Prosecutors allege Donald Trump sought to keep damaging information from the public to protect his 2016 presidential campaign. The former president has pleaded not guilty to all counts and denied having an affair with Stormy Daniels.

On May 16, Michael Cohen maintained that his previous testimony was true, and that he spoke to Donald Trump about the payout to Stormy Daniels on a call on October 24, 2016.

Earlier this week, prosecutors asked Michael Cohen about the call to help establish Donald Trump’s alleged direct knowledge of the payoff scheme. Michael Cohen testified that he kept his boss aware during every step of the process of paying Stormy Daniels.

As the man at the centre of the payout, Michael Cohen’s testimony is crucial for prosecutors to prove whether or not Donald Trump had knowledge of the allegedly fraudulent reimbursement plan.

However, Michael Cohen’s criminal record, history of lying to Congress, and profane public criticism of Donald Trump makes him a flawed witness. In 2018, he pleaded guilty to federal campaign finance crimes over the hush-money payment, but maintains that he sent the money at Donald Trump’s direction.

The defense seized on Michael Cohen’s credibility issues for nearly two days and sought to paint him as a liar with a vendetta against Donald Trump.

On May 16, Todd Blanche played recordings from Michael Cohen’s podcast, Mea Culpa, where the witness expressed a desire to see the former president go through the booking process and said of Donald Trump: “I want this man to go down.”

Todd Blanche also confronted Michael Cohen with an X post where he called the former president “Dumbass Donald.”

Slovakia: Suspect Charged with Attempted Murder of PM Robert Fico

A 71-year-old man has been charged with the attempted murder of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico after the politician was seriously hurt in a shooting attack.

The alleged assailant has not been formally named, but Slovak reports have widely identified him as a man from the town of Levice.

Reports say he could face up to life in prison.

Robert Fico, 59, is in a serious but stable condition after being shot several times in what colleagues described as a politically motivated attack.

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok told a news conference on May 16 that the suspect had acted alone and that he had previously taken part in anti-government protests.

Peter Pellegrini, a populist and ally of Robert Fico, won April’s vote.

It was in broad daylight on May 15 that PM Fico, surrounded by a crowd of supporters, was shot at close range.

A gunman fired five times, hitting the prime minister in the stomach and arm.

The attack took Robert Fico’s security detail completely by surprise. Footage showed several officers bundling the wounded PM into a car, before driving away at high speed, while the others detained the suspect.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

PM Fico was rushed to a nearby hospital in an air ambulance, with injuries described as life-threatening.

He was then transferred to another facility in Banska Bystrica, east of Handlova, where surgeons and trauma teams worked through the night to stabilise him.

On May 16, the hospital director told a news conference that PM Fico’s condition was stable, but “truly very serious”, and he had been moved to an intensive care unit.

Local media reports describe the suspect as a writer and political activist.

A video being widely circulated on Slovak media purports to feature him.

In the footage, the man says he disagrees with government policy and its stance towards state media.

Several Slovak politicians called the shooting an “attack on democracy”.

On May 16, Slovakia’s outgoing President Zuzana Caputova appealed for calm and invited all party leaders to a meeting to discuss political tension.

Meanwhile, Slovak President-elect Peter Pellegrini called on all parties to suspend campaigning before European parliament elections scheduled for early June.

Robert Fico is a divisive figure at home for his calls to end military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia.

The shooting came on the day parliament began discussing the government’s proposal to abolish Slovakia’s public broadcaster RTVS.

Thousands of Slovaks have protested against the proposed reform of the public broadcaster in recent weeks. However, a planned opposition-led demonstration was called off on May 15 as news of the shooting emerged.

Slovak PM Robert Fico Shot and Wounded in Assassination Attempt

Slovak PM Robert Fico is fighting for his life in hospital after being shot in a small town north-east of Bratislava.

According to Defense Minister Robert Kalinak, PM Fico had been in surgery for over three hours and that the situation was “bad”.

Slovak politicians including the president have called the shooting an “attack on democracy”.

The alleged assailant was detained at the scene but has not yet been formally identified by the authorities.

The attack happened at about 14:30 local time in Handlova, about 110 miles from the capital Bratislava, as Robert Fico greeted people in front of a cultural community centre where a government meeting had been held.

Footage showed a man raising a gun and firing five times at the prime minister before being subdued by bodyguards while other members of Robert Fico’s security detail took the prime minister into his car.

He was airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital before being flown to another hospital in Banska Bystrica, east of Handlova.

At a press conference on May 15, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok said PM Fico had been shot in the stomach.

“Initial information clearly points to political motivation,” he added.

Unconfirmed local media reports said the suspect was a 71-year-old writer and political activist.

A video being widely circulated on Slovak media purports to feature the suspect.

In the footage, the man says he disagrees with government policy and its stance towards state media.

Slovakia’s outgoing president Zuzana Caputova said something “so serious had happened that we can’t even realise it yet”.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Robert Fico, 59, returned to power in Slovakia after elections last September, at the head of a populist-nationalist coalition.

His first few months as prime minister have proved highly contentious politically. In January he halted military aid to Ukraine and last month pushed through plans to abolish public broadcaster RTVS.

Thousands of Slovaks have protested against the proposed reform of the public broadcaster in recent weeks. However, a planned opposition-led demonstration was called off on May 15 as news of the shooting emerged.

Parliament was sitting at the time of the attack and Slovak media reported that a party colleague of Robert Fico’s shouted at opposition MPs, accusing them of stoking the attack.

President-elect Peter Pellegrini, who is a political ally of Robert Fico’s, said he was horrified to hear of the attack and also blamed the shooting on recent political divisions.

Describing the attack as an “unprecedented threat to Slovak democracy” he said people did not have to agree on everything, but there were ways to express disagreement democratically and legally.

World leaders have also condemned the attack on Robert Fico. President Joe Biden condemned the “horrific act of violence” and said the US embassy was in “close touch” with the Slovakian government and was “ready to assist”.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said there could “be no justification for this monstrous crime”.

Aerie Collection Was Originally Designed By Iskra

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Don’t Call Demi A “Bad Girl” — She’s Just Speaking Out

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Perms Are Coming Back—but They’re Getting a Modern

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Gisele Bündchen Can’t Stop Wearing These Retro Jeans

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The Beauty Products Chrissy Teigen Can’t Travel Without

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If You Have $5, Zendaya Found the Spring Collections

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How to Create Adjustment Layers Based on Color

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Finland’s Down’s model Maija makes strides on catwalk

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Meet Jo Jo, Body Positive Model and Cousin of Gigi

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Valentino Goes Deliberately Feminine for Fall 2018

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Innovations in the Dental Health Industry: A Glimpse into the Future

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The dental health industry is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, driven by technological innovations and a growing awareness of sustainability. These advancements aim to make dental care more effective, accessible, and environmentally friendly. For oral health enthusiasts and the general population alike, understanding these changes can provide insights into future dental care and underscore the importance of staying informed. Here’s how the landscape of dental health is evolving.

Technological Advances in Dental Treatments

One of the most significant areas of innovation in dental health is in the treatment options available to patients. Industry leaders like Kremer Dental Care, are finding new and exciting ways to innovate care for their patients. Laser dentistry, for example, allows for more precise and less invasive treatments of cavities and gum disease, reducing pain and recovery time. 3D printing is revolutionizing the way dental prosthetics are made, enabling custom-fit implants, crowns, and bridges to be produced much more quickly than traditional methods.

Digital impressions are replacing the uncomfortable and messy process of making molds of teeth. Now, a digital scanner can create a more accurate and far more comfortable 3D image of the mouth. These technological advancements not only improve the patient experience but also increase the efficiency and effectiveness of dental treatments.

Poor oral health and irregular dental checks can increase the risk of oral cancer
Poor oral health and irregular dental checks can increase the risk of oral cancer

The Rise of Tele-Dentistry

Tele-dentistry is breaking down geographical barriers to dental care. Through virtual consultations, patients can receive preliminary diagnoses, post-operation follow-ups, and general dental advice without leaving their homes. This innovation is particularly beneficial for those in remote or underserved areas, making dental care more accessible than ever before.

Eco-Friendly Innovations

Sustainability is becoming a priority in dental practices around the globe. From reducing plastic waste by replacing disposable plastic tools with sterilizable metal ones to utilizing digital records to cut down on paper use, dental practices are finding innovative ways to minimize their environmental footprint. Some are even using biodegradable materials for dental implants and adopting energy-saving technologies in their offices.

The Future of Dental Health

Looking ahead, the dental industry is set to become even more tailored to individual patient needs and environmentally conscious. One exciting area of research is the development of biomaterials that can regenerate tooth enamel, potentially reducing the need for fillings and crowns. Another is the use of artificial intelligence to predict patient susceptibility to various dental diseases, allowing for more personalized and preventative care plans.

The Importance of Staying Informed and Engaged with Dental Innovations

The rapid pace of innovation in dental health is transforming the way we think about oral care. By staying informed about these advancements, patients can make more educated decisions about their dental care options. Additionally, engaging with new dental technologies and practices can contribute to a healthier planet. Keeping up with these developments is not just about taking care of our teeth but taking a proactive step towards embracing a healthier, more sustainable future.

Concussions: The Rise and Prevalence of Diagnosing

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In recent years, the medical field has observed a significant increase in the number of diagnosed concussions, presenting new challenges and considerations for parents, athletes, and healthcare providers alike. This surge not only highlights advancements in diagnostic capabilities but also underscores the necessity for heightened awareness and understanding of concussion management and prevention.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can lead to chemical changes in the brain and sometimes even stretching and damaging brain cells. Concussions are serious medical conditions that demand prompt attention and care.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion is crucial. They can include headaches, confusion, dizziness, amnesia about the event, nausea, and more. Symptoms can be immediate or may be delayed in onset, complicating diagnosis and treatment plans.

The Rise in Concussion Diagnoses

Statistics indicate a steady climb in concussion diagnoses over the past decade. This uptick can be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness among the public and within sports communities, as well as improvements in professional imaging and diagnostic technologies and methods. Today, more people are knowledgeable about the risks of concussions and more inclined to seek medical advice following head injuries, leading to higher reporting and diagnosis rates.

Image source: Wikimedia

Impact on Children and Athletes

Concussions can have significant long-term effects on brain health, especially in young athletes and active children whose brains are still developing. For this group, repeated injuries raise the risk of serious neurological conditions later in life. It’s crucial for parents, coaches, and educators to foster environments that prioritize safety and encourage the reporting and treatment of head injuries.

Healthcare System Response

The increase in concussion diagnoses presents unique challenges for the healthcare system, including the need for specialized training for healthcare providers and the development of standardized protocols for diagnosis and management. Innovations in medical technology have introduced new tools and practices that have significantly advanced our ability to manage concussions more effectively.

Empowering the Community

For Parents

Knowledge is power. Being able to recognize the signs of a concussion enables parents to act swiftly in seeking medical attention for their child. Education about prevention, as well as proactive communication with children about the importance of reporting injuries, can make a significant difference.

For Athletes

Athletes of all ages should be educated on the dangers of concussions and the importance of honest reporting of symptoms. Adherence to return-to-play protocols after an injury is critical to preventing further damage.

What This Means For Us

The marked increase in concussion diagnoses in recent years is a call to action for parents, coaches, athletes, and the medical community. It’s a prompt to engage collectively in actions that safeguard the well-being of our most active populations. By prioritizing education, enhancing diagnostic methods, and advocating for comprehensive care and recovery protocols, we can address the challenges presented by this trend head-on.

How to Increase Your Home’s Value: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you’re considering selling your home soon or simply looking to enhance its long-term value, there are numerous strategies you can adopt to boost its valuation. This guide is designed for homeowners and real estate enthusiasts eager to elevate their property’s worth in effective and impactful ways.

The Importance of Increasing Your Home’s Value

Increasing the value of your home is beneficial for several reasons. Not only does it amplify your net worth and provide you with more equity, but it also ensures that when the time comes to sell, your property stands out in the market.

Assessing Your Home’s Current Value – Tips for Beginners

Before undertaking any enhancement projects, it’s essential to understand your home’s current value. This can be achieved through professional appraisals or utilising online valuation tools. Knowing your starting point helps in planning and prioritizing projects that offer the best ROI (Return on Investment).

Home Improvement Projects That Add Value

Certain home improvement projects are known to add significant value. These include kitchen and bathroom renovations, which modernize these vital spaces and appeal to potential buyers. Another effective upgrade is expanding living space, either by finishing a basement or adding a room. Even outdoor projects like hiring a pool or outdoor kitchen contractor to bring something extra to your space can be a big selling point.

Photo by mohamed hassan form PxHere

Utilizing Technology and Energy Efficiency to Enhance Value

In today’s market, tech-savvy homes are increasingly appealing. Smart home devices such as programmable thermostats, security cameras, and energy-efficient appliances not only attract buyers but often lead to savings in utility costs, further enhancing the home’s value.

Landscaping and Curb Appeal: Making a Great First Impression

First impressions matter significantly in real estate. Investing in landscaping and improving your home’s curb appeal can make a substantial difference. Simple actions like maintaining a well-kept garden, painting the exterior, or upgrading the front door can make your property more inviting and visually appealing.

The Role of Renovations in Boosting Value

While some renovations offer great returns, it’s crucial to choose wisely. Updating essential elements like roofs and windows can greatly increase a home’s value and attract discerning buyers looking for properties that require minimal immediate maintenance.

Staging and Interior Design Strategies for a High Valuation

Staging your home effectively can significantly affect its perceived value. Employing interior design strategies that highlight the home’s strengths and appeal to a broad audience can make a space feel more welcoming and spacious, attracting higher offers from potential buyers.

Selling vs. Staying: Deciding What’s Best for You

Deciding whether to sell your home or stay put after making improvements is a personal decision. If you choose to stay, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a more comfortable and functional living environment. If selling is your goal, the enhancements can lead to a quicker sale at a higher price.

The Long-Term Benefits of Increasing Your Home’s Value

Increasing your home’s value is a wise investment in your financial future and personal comfort. By implementing strategic improvements and leveraging current trends, you can significantly enhance your property’s appeal and marketability. Whether planning to sell or enjoy your home for years to come, increasing its value will serve you well.

Remember, the key to increasing your home’s value lies in strategic planning and execution. Prioritize projects with the highest return on investment, and don’t forget the power of small details in making your home stand out. Happy renovating

Hardeep Singh Nijjar Murder: Three Indian Nationals Arrested in Canada over Killing of Sikh Separatist Leader

Three Indian nationals have been arrested and charged over the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which sparked a major diplomatic row between the two countries.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was shot dead last June by masked gunmen in a busy car park in a Vancouver suburb.

The diplomatic row escalated after PM Justin Trudeau alleged India’s government may have been involved.

Delhi strongly denied the allegation.

In announcing the arrests on May 3, Superintendent Mandeep Mooker said the three suspects were Karan Brar, 22, Kamal Preet Singh, 22, and 28-year-old Karan Preet Singh.

He said all three had been living in Edmonton, Alberta where they were arrested. They have been charged with first-degree murder, court records show, as well as conspiracy to commit murder.

All had been in Canada for three to five years, police said.

Police added that investigations were continuing, including into “connections to the government of India”.

“There are separate and distinct investigations ongoing into these matters. Certainly not limited to the involvement of the people arrested today,” Assistant Commissioner David Teboul said.

Investigators have been working with counterparts in India but the collaboration has been “rather difficult and rather challenging” for several years, they said.

Police said there may be others involved in the killing, and there may be further arrests or charges.

India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said the country would wait for Canadian police to share information on those arrested, adding the suspects “apparently are Indians of some kind of gang background”.

Image source: Wikipedia

Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a Sikh separatist leader who publicly campaigned for Khalistan – the creation of an independent Sikh homeland in the Punjab region of India.

In the 1970s, Sikhs launched a separatist insurgency in India which saw thousands killed before it was quelled the following decade. Since then, the movement has been mostly limited to countries with large Sikh populations.

India has in the past described Hardeep Singh Nijjar as a terrorist who led a militant separatist group – accusations his supporters say are unfounded. They say he had received threats in the past because of his activism.

He was shot dead at the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, a city about 18 miles east of Vancouver on June 18 last year.

UCLA Protests: Police Clash with Protesters as Officers Clear Pro-Palestinian Encampment

President Joe Biden has urged pro-Palestinian protesters on university campuses to uphold the rule of law.

“We are a civil society, and order must prevail,” President Biden said from the White House, in his first direct remarks about a wave of student unrest.

Police have detained more than 2,000 people nationwide in the past fortnight at college rallies and protest camps.

That includes 209 arrests in the past day at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Hundreds of officers in riot gear moved on to UCLA’s main campus before dawn on May 2 and cleared its pro-Palestinian encampment.

They set off flash bangs and flares, loaded demonstrators on to police buses, and tore down the makeshift barriers and tents that had been erected on campus a week ago.

In a statement, UCLA called the encampment “both unlawful and a breach of policy. It led to unsafe conditions on our campus and it damaged our ability to carry out our mission.”

“Demonstrators directly interfered with instruction by blocking students’ pathways to classrooms,” it added, while their clashes with pro-Israeli counter-demonstrators “put too many [students] in harm’s way”.

Image source: UCLA

Addressing the nationwide protests hours later, President Biden said: “We are not an authoritarian nation where we silence people or squash dissent… But neither are we a lawless country.”

“There’s the right to protest but not the right to cause chaos. People have the right to get an education, the right to get a degree, the right to walk across the campus safely without fear of being attacked.”

The Uncommitted National Movement, a group of Arab-American voters opposed to President Biden’s re-election campaign this year, accused him of “smearing” anti-war protesters.

“It’s clear Biden isn’t listening to young people nationwide, or to the over half a million uncommitted voters asking him to change course. We hope he hears us before it’s too late,” leader Abbas Alawieh said.

The campus protests in support of Gaza have now spread to nearly 140 colleges in at least 45 states, and at least six other countries.

Demonstrators, who have long pushed for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza war, are demanding academic institutions financially divest from Israel and companies who stand to make money from the conflict.

But many colleges have called in the police, with violence erupting on some campuses, as well as rising reports of antisemitic harassment against Jewish students.

The tensions at UCLA’s main Westwood campus erupted on April 30 when a masked pro-Israeli group breached the tent camp on Dickson Plaza and attacked campers with bats, tear gas and other items.

Mufasa: Blue Ivy Carter Joins Voice Cast of The Lion King Prequel

Blue Ivy Carter has joined the voice cast of The Lion King prequel Mufasa: The Lion King.

Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s daughter, 12, voices Kiara, daughter of King Simba and Queen Nala, played by her mother.

Beyoncé is reprising the role from Jon Favreau’s 2019 photorealistic remake of the animated 1994 original.

The new film, directed by Moonlight filmmaker Barry Jenkins, will explore Mufasa’s origin story and his childhood with brother Scar.

Like the 2019 movie, it will also combine live-action filmmaking techniques with photoreal computer-generated imagery.

Barry Jenkins told Good Morning America that Blue Ivy was “professional”, while Beyoncé was a “mum first” on set.

“They just approached it that they both wanted to perform and do the best they could. And yet, they didn’t have to pretend very much because they really are mother and daughter.”

The first teaser trailer for the film also aired on GMA.

A voiceover says Mufasa was born “without a drop of nobility in his blood” but “would change our lives forever”.

Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. will voice the younger versions of Mufasa and Scar, respectively in the new movie.

The 2019 Lion King film, featured the voices of Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala and Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar.

Donald Glover will reprise his role in Barry Jenkins’s prequel. The cast also includes Mads Mikkelsen and Thandiwe Newton, with Seth Rogan and Billy Eichner also returning.

The movie will feature original songs by Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, who has also penned songs for films including Mary Poppins Returns and Encanto.

While this is Blue Ivy Carter’s debut film role, she has performed previously as a dancer on her mom’s live tour.

Blue Ivy is the eldest daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z. The couple also share twins Rumi and Sir, six.

Mufasa: The Lion King is due to be released in December this year.

Deadly Tornadoes Hit Oklahoma Leaving Thousands Without Power and Causing Serious Damage

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At least five people, including a four-month-old baby, have been killed after dozens of tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma, Iowa, Texas and Missouri causing serious damage.

Tens of thousands of residents were left without power following separate storms that began on April 26.

Four of the deaths happened in Oklahoma, where a state of emergency has been declared in a dozen counties.

A fifth person died from their injuries in Iowa after a separate storm system hit the Midwest, local media reported.

The National Weather Service (NWS) said a preliminary investigation had confirmed some of April 27 tornadoes had gusts of above 136 miles an hour.

The storms – which swept from Texas to Missouri – also saw up to seven inches of rain fall in some places within hours, the AFP news agency reported.

The town of Sulphur, in eastern Oklahoma, was hit particularly hard. Video of the aftermath showed flattened homes and overturned vehicles.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, around 100 injuries were reported.

The towns of Holdenville and Marietta were also badly damaged.

tornado
Photo Getty Images

The speaker of the Oklahoma state House of Representatives, Charles McCall, insisted that the affected areas would recover.

“We will rise, we’ll clean up, we’ll rebuild and we’ll move forward,” he told a news conference in Sulphur on April 28.

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt also visited the town and said the damage there was the worst he had seen in his six years in office.

“You just can’t believe the destruction,” he said.

“It seems like every business downtown has been destroyed.”

The White House said President Joe Biden had spoken with Governor Stitt and offered the federal government’s full support.

It comes after a separate weather system brought more than 70 tornadoes to the Midwestern states of Nebraska and Iowa on April 26.

Harvey Weinstein in Hospital After Conviction Overturned

Harvey Weinstein has been hospitalized just days after his 2020 rape conviction in New York was overturned, his lawyer has said.

Arthur Aidala said the disgraced movie mogul was moved to a Manhattan hospital on April 26. Harvey Weinstein remains in jail after being separately convicted of rape in Los Angeles.

Arthur Aidala said his client was “somewhat of a train wreck health wise”.

“It seems like he needs a lot of help, physically. He’s got a lot of problems,” he told AP.

Later, in a statement to CBS, Arthur Aidala said Harvey Weinstein had been taken to hospital after the New York City Department of Correction determined that he needed “immediate medical attention”.

“A myriad of tests are being performed on Harvey and he is being kept for observation,” he said.

A spokesperson with the corrections department said that Harvey Weinstein remained in custody at Bellevue Hospital.

He was moved on April 26 to the Rikers Island jail complex from the Mohawk Correctional Facility where he had been since 2023.

Image source Wikimedia

Harvey Weinstein’s lawyers have previously said the one-time movie producer has had a series of health problems, including diabetes, sleep apnea and issues affecting his heart and eyes. In 2020, he spent five days in hospital for ongoing heart problems and chest pains.

Arthur Aidala said he is scheduled to meet Harvey Weinstein on April 29 before his court appearance on May 1st, the Associated Press reports.

Earlier in the week, the New York Court of Appeals overturned Harvey Weinstein’s conviction on the basis that he did not receive a fair trial, saying that prosecutors in the pivotal #MeToo case called witnesses whose accusations were not part of the charges against him.

The court said that meant Harvey Weinstein was unfairly tried for past behaviour, and ordered a new trial.

At his trial in 2020, Harvey Weinstein was convicted of assaulting former production assistant Mimi Haleyi in 2006 and raping Jessica Mann, a former aspiring actress, in 2013. He was jailed for 23 years.

Harvey Weinstein’s defense team said encounters between the movie executive and the accusers had been consensual.

Separately, Harvey Weinstein was sentenced in California last year to 16 years for raping an Italian model and actress in a Beverly Hills hotel in 2013.

Hamas Releases Video of Two Hostages, Including a Kidnapped US Citizen

Hamas has published a video showing the first proof of life of US and Israeli hostages Keith Siegel and Omri Miran being held in Gaza.

In undated footage filmed under duress, Omri Miran says he has been held for 202 days and Keith Siegel mentions this week’s Passover holiday, indicating the clips were filmed recently.

Both were captured when Hamas launched its deadly attacks on October 7.

Responding to the video, their families said they would keep fighting for the men’s return.

They also urged the Israeli government to secure a new hostage release deal.

The new video comes as Hamas said it was studying Israel’s latest proposal for a truce. Media reports said mediator Egypt had sent a delegation to Israel to give fresh impetus to stalled negotiations.

Such a deal that included an agreement to free the remaining hostages could stop Israel’s planned ground assault in the southern city of Rafah, Israel’s foreign minister said on April 27.

Kieth Siegel, a US citizen, was kidnapped with his wife Aviva, though she was freed in November during a brief truce.

Image source: Hamas

In a video statement Keith Siegel’s wife Aviva said: “Keith, I love you, we will fight until you return.”

Speaking at the weekly demonstration in Tel Aviv demanding action to release the hostages on Saturday evening, Dani Miran, Omri Miran’s father, led chanting by the crowds.

He was visibly emotional as he delivered a powerful speech, describing his excitement seeing the video of his son, knowing that “he was hopefully alive”.

But his speech also had a political element. He talked directly to the government and specifically by name mentioned its far-right members – National Security Minister, Itamar ben Gvir and Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, calling on them to secure a hostage deal.

He urged Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu to “approve any viable deal”.

What was also notable was that before Omri Miran’s father made his speech, the hostage video was shown in full on big screens around Hostage Square.

This is highly unusual, as such videos are not generally played on TV.

Trump Trial: Prosecutors and Attorneys Deliver Opening Statements

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Prosecutors and Donald Trump’s attorneys delivered opening statements and the first witness was called on April 22 in the historic and unprecedented criminal trial of a former president.

“It was election fraud, pure and simple,” a lawyer told the jury during opening statements at the historic trial in New York.

Setting out the case for the defense, Donald Trump’s lawyer said his client had committed no crimes and that it was not illegal to try to influence an election.

“He is cloaked in innocence,” he added.

Donald Trump is accused of trying to cover up a $130,000 payment to adult movie star Stormy Daniels before he won the race for the White House back in 2016.

He has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records and also denies having an alleged affair with Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford.

At the start of the second week of the criminal trial in Manhattan – the first ever of a former US president – each side set out the case they will present to the jury. The first witness, tabloid publisher David Pecker, also took the stand briefly and will continue his testimony on April 23.

Trump Trial: 63 Potential Jurors Say They Can’t Be Impartial

Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo told the court that Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former lawyer and confidant, worked with the Trump Organization’s chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, to “cook the books” at Trump’s direction.

Prosecutors alleged that the scheme to disguise how Michael Cohen was reimbursed for the payment to Stormy Daniels involved falsifying three forms of records – invoices, ledger entries and cheques.

Donald Trump said in his business records that those payments were “for legal services pursuant to a retainer agreement” with Michael Cohen, Matthew Colangelo told the jury.

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Critically for this case, he said that Donald Trump was motivated to provide the payoff so voters did not learn of the alleged encounter with Stormy Daniels.

Prosecutors said that this cover-up should be considered election interference, which constituted a second crime. That elevated the charge of falsifying business records from a lower-level misdemeanour into a more serious felony.

They claimed the infamous Access Hollywood tape, which surfaced weeks before the 2016 election and showed Donald Trump bragging about being able to have sex with anyone because he is famous, had panicked his campaign.

“The defendant and his campaign staff were deeply concerned that it would irreparably damage his standing with female voters in particular,” Matthew Colangelo told the court.

But when Stormy Daniels came forward a day later alleging an affair with Donald Trump, it compounded the problem created by the tape, Matthew Colangelo alleged.

The trial is expected to last about another six weeks, but legal experts say opening statements are particularly important as an opportunity to shape jurors’ views on the case.

House Passes $95 Billion Package to Provide Aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan

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The House of Representatives has finally approved $61 billion in new US military aid for Ukraine to help combat Russia’s invasion.

The much-delayed measure had vocal opponents in Congress and it took a fragile bipartisan deal to get the package through.

Republicans said more than a third would be dedicated to replenishing weapons and ammunition.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the US support as “vital”.

The aid is likely to include air defense systems, mid to long-range missiles and artillery shells.

It is unclear when it will arrive. The package will now go to the Senate, which is expected to pass it within the next few days before President Joe Biden signs it into law.

Ukraine, which relies on Western weapons, desperately needs the aid as it struggles to contain invading Russian troops, who have been making steady advances in recent weeks.

President Zelensky said the aid should come as quickly as possible. In an evening address on April 21, he said that if Ukraine were given the right weapons it could change the situation on the frontline.

Alongside replenishing weapons and ammunition systems, Ukraine will also receive more than $9 billion of economic assistance in the form of “forgivable loans” – ones that do not need to be paid back.

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Since then tens of thousands of people, mainly soldiers, have been killed or injured on both sides, and millions of Ukrainians have had to flee their homes.

Ukrainian soldiers are now running low on munitions and having to ration artillery shells on a front line more than 745 miles long.

Cheers and applause erupted in the House when the measure passed, by 311 votes to 112, with some Representatives waving Ukrainian flags.

Welcoming the result, President Biden praised the bipartisan effort to “answer history’s call” and urging the Senate to approve it quickly “so that I can sign it into law and we can quickly send weapons and equipment to Ukraine to meet their urgent battlefield needs”.

The foreign aid package passed on April 20 also includes:

  • $26.4 billion in military support for Israel, with $9.1 billion of that allocated to humanitarian aid for Gaza.
  • $8.1 billion in funding for allies in the Asia-Pacific, including Taiwan, to “counter communist China”.

The Current Real Estate Landscape in the United States

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The real estate market in the United States has always been a gauge for economic health, a dreamland for investors, and a symbol of stability and the American Dream. However, the market has experienced unprecedented shifts and challenges, notably with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For potential homebuyers and current homeowners, understanding these market dynamics is not only crucial but can be the key to unlocking the best deals and making sound financial decisions. This comprehensive guide provides an insightful perspective on the current state of real estate in the U.S., offering valuable insights and strategies for individuals looking to make informed decisions in the housing market.

A Quick Overview

In recent years, the U.S. housing market has seen a significant surge in home prices due to a multitude of factors, including low inventory, high demand, and historically low mortgage rates. Home sales have remained robust, indicating a strong interest in homeownership. However, a closer look at the data reveals a series of intriguing contradictions—while some regions are experiencing a seller’s market with inflated values, others are witnessing a more subdued, even advantageous, environment for buyers. This mix of conditions offers a real estate landscape that is both diversified and complex, with opportunities to be found for those with an informed eye.

The COVID-19 Effect

The unprecedented global pandemic reshaped every facet of human life, and the effects on the real estate market have been no less profound. The initial months of the pandemic saw a dramatic slowdown in sales activity, primarily due to economic uncertainty and social distancing measures. However, the essential need for shelter and the rapid adaptation to virtual tools revitalized the market, leading to a strong recovery and reinforcing the importance of a place called home. This seismic shift also catalyzed changes in homebuyer behavior, with a surge of interest in less densely populated areas and a preference for larger, more functional living spaces that accommodate remote work and online learning. Homeowners, too, were not immune, with some experiencing financial strain and seeking the refuge of forbearance programs and others taking advantage of home equity uplifts to upgrade or downsize. This trend was seen vastly in the midwest region of the country. Home moving companies like Garage Pros KC in the area saw a sizeable influx of people moving to the Kansas City area for its low-density population and lower cost of living.

Image source: PxHere

What Lies Ahead?

Currency experts love a good forecast, and the same holds true for the real estate market. While the future is far from certain, early indicators and expert opinions paint a picture of a real estate market that continues to be robust, albeit with pockets of volatility. Mortgage rates, always a significant player in the market dynamics, are expected to creep up, exerting pressure on affordability. However, this is likely to be counteracted to some degree by an increase in housing inventory as homeowners gain confidence in selling. A potential wild card is the role of government initiatives and stimulus, which could either buoy the market or create a false sense of security. In conclusion, the real estate market in the U.S. is likely to continue its unpredictable, yet potentially rewarding, course.

Strategies for Smooth Sailing in Real Estate Transactions

Entering the waters of the current U.S. real estate market as a buyer or seller requires careful navigation and strategic planning. For buyers, the competitive landscape necessitates swift decision-making, often with pre-approval in hand and clear financial parameters. Engaging a knowledgeable real estate agent and being adaptable in your search criteria can greatly enhance your prospects of securing a home. Sellers, on the other hand, must ensure that their property stands out in a crowded market, often by investing in staging, professional photography, and strategic pricing. Additionally, both parties can benefit from a thorough understanding of the local market and the employment of negotiation tactics that cater to these specific conditions.

Securing Your Investment in Real Estate

The phrase “knowledge is power” couldn’t be more relevant than when considering the financial aspect of a real estate investment, particularly in the current climate. For potential buyers, it is vital to assess affordability not only based on current income but with an eye to the future. This means considering potential interest rate rises and the impact on monthly mortgage payments. For current homeowners, gauging the equity in your property and its potential as a financial asset is crucial. Leveraging home equity for renovation or investments should be approached with a clear understanding of the market trajectory and a long-term financial plan. Ultimately, financial stability and preparedness serve as the lynchpins to a successful real estate strategy in any economic climate.

Closing Thoughts: Engaging with the Market

The real estate market is a living, breathing ecosystem of economic, social, and personal forces. For buyers and sellers, homeowners and investors, engaging with this dynamic is both an art and a science. Staying informed, being adaptable, and making strategic decisions based on a blend of experience and available data is the most assured path to success. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply considering a change in housing, the call to action is clear—engage with the market consciously, proactively, and with the guiding insight provided here. In doing so, you not only secure your place within the vast tapestry of the U.S. real estate market but also contribute to its enduring strength and resilience.

For those eager to harness the opportunities of a transforming market, the counsel is unanimous—act with intention, understand your financial anchors, and above all, partner with professionals who know the course. The tides may be uncertain, but equipped with knowledge and strategy, the destination of a home sweet home remains well within reach.