The Hoops News

Category: World

  • Singapore Executes First Woman in 19 Years for Heroin Trafficking

    Singapore conducted its first execution of a woman in 19 years on Friday, marking its second hanging this week for drug trafficking. Saridewi Djamani, 45, was sentenced to death in 2018 for trafficking about 31 grams of diamorphine, or pure heroin. The Central Narcotics Bureau stated that the amount was sufficient to feed the addiction of about 370 abusers for a week.

    Despite international calls for the city-state to cease capital punishment for drug-related crimes, Singapore has continued its stringent anti-drug policy. The execution of Djamani, who was not a courier, followed the mandatory death penalty for anyone convicted of trafficking more than 15 grams of heroin.

    Djamani’s execution came two days after that of a Singaporean man, Mohammed Aziz Hussain, 56, for trafficking around 50 grams of heroin. Human rights groups, international activists, and the United Nations have urged Singapore to halt executions for drug offenses, citing increasing evidence that it is ineffective as a deterrent. However, Singapore authorities insist capital punishment is crucial to halting drug demand and supply.

    The execution of Djamani, the first woman to be executed in Singapore since 2004, has drawn international attention and criticism. Activists have revealed that another execution is planned for next week, further fueling the debate on the city-state’s stringent anti-drug policy and its use of capital punishment.

    Critics argue that Singapore’s harsh policy often punishes low-level traffickers and couriers, who are typically recruited from marginalized groups. They contend that Singapore is out of step with the global trend of more countries moving away from capital punishment. As the debate continues, the international community watches closely, awaiting the city-state’s next move.

  • Ukraine Fires Seized North Korean Rockets in Conflict

    In a surprising turn of events, Ukrainian soldiers have reportedly been seen using North Korean rockets in the ongoing conflict. According to a report by the Financial Times, the troops stated that the North Korean rockets were seized by a “friendly” country before being delivered to Ukraine. The weapons were used by Ukrainian soldiers operating Soviet-era Grad multiple-launch rocket systems near the eastern city of Bakhmut.

    The Ukrainian Defence Ministry suggested that the arms were captured from Russian forces. “We capture their tanks, we capture their equipment, and it is very possible that this is also the result of the Ukrainian army successfully conducting a military operation,” said Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine’s Defence Minister. He added that Russia has been shopping around for different types of munitions in all kinds of tyrannies, including North Korea and Iran.

    The U.S. has accused North Korea of handing over weapons to Russia but has not produced proof of this, and North Korean weapons have not been widely seen on the battlefield in Ukraine. Both Pyongyang and Moscow have denied they are involved in arms transactions. It is highly unlikely North Korea would have provided Ukraine with weapons as it has been supportive of the Russian invasion.

    Earlier this week, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited North Korea to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. It marked the first visit by Moscow’s top defence official since the 1991 breakup of the Soviet Union.

    The use of North Korean rockets by Ukrainian forces marks a new and unexpected development in the ongoing conflict. The origin and journey of these weapons raise questions about the complex web of international relations and arms transactions. As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, awaiting the next surprising turn of events.

  • Tuberville: Huntsville ‘best place’ for new FBI headquarters

    Count him in: Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville likes the idea of moving the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s national headquarters to the Rocket City.

    In a tweet Monday morning, Tuberville threw in his support:

    “I agree with @Jim_Jordan: the best place for @FBI headquarters is its state of the art facility in Huntsville,” Tuberville tweeted.

    The senator was referencing a Wall Street Journal story from earlier this month reporting that House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R., Ohio) supports moving the headquarters to Huntsville.

    This comes as the bureau is eyeing a move from its Washington, D.C. building to a suburb of the nation’s capital, in either Maryland or Virginia.

    The FBI currently works out of the 50-year-old J. Edgar Hoover Building, with more than 5,000 employees, located across the street from the Justice Department’s headquarters.

    According to the Journal, it’s another volley in the war going on between the FBI and Republicans who say the agency has grown too partisan in its investigations of former President Donald Trump, and moving to a “red” state might change the organization’s priorities.

    The proposal would seemingly stand little chance of succeeding legislatively with Democrats in control of the Senate and the White House.

    The FBI, in response, said there are “numerous operational reasons” to keep the headquarters in Washington, given its proximity to the FBI academy near Quantico, Va., and other intelligence agencies. In a statement, the bureau said its Huntsville campus couldn’t accommodate the minimum of 8,500 employees planned to occupy the new headquarters in Washington.

    The FBI is building what’s unofficially been described as a second headquarters at Redstone Arsenal. Federal funding for ongoing construction has already exceeded $3 billion.

    “This idea that we’re going to build a new, big Pentagon and put all the FBI mainly in one place, I don’t think it’s a good structure,” Kevin McCarthy said Friday.

    ”One of the goals we’ve set in this Congress as Republicans is to do the oversight so we can impact the appropriations process,” Jordan said in a brief interview at the Capitol, and “put limitations on how taxpayer money is spent to stop the weaponization of these agencies against the American people.”

    Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, which is competing with neighboring Maryland to host the new FBI headquarters, called the Republican ideas “a solution in search of a problem.”

    ”I think they just got a political bug against federal law enforcement agencies,” he said.

    Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle issued a one-sentence statement to AL.com in response to the Wall Street Journal story: “We’re proud of the FBI presence in Huntsville and will support whatever Congress decides is best for the betterment of our country.”

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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  • New edition of "Waffle House Vistas" highlights new photographs and essays about the iconic Southern restaurant

    Author Micah Cash spent most of 2018 traveling through the southeastern United States visiting and photographing Waffle House restaurants, a project that culminated in the book “Waffle House Vistas” published by The Bitter Southerner. Cash explains:

    I did it because I wanted to see through each restaurant’s windows. I wanted to see the surrounding architecture, catalog adjacent businesses, and understand the public and commercial space around each restaurant. I also wanted to ask questions about our society and our social, economic, and political divisions. 

    The resulting photography project, “Waffle House Vistas,” collects images that document Southern communities as seen through the windows of Waffle Houses. In each instance, the point of view is the customer’s. Each photograph looks out from booths and chairs, making the viewer a witness to intertwined narratives of poverty, transience, and politics. 

    These photographs ask viewers to look up from their hash browns and acknowledge the institutions and structures that create real, yet rarely acknowledged boundaries that feel impossible to break through for much of this country.  And Waffle House is the perfect place to have this conversation — beloved as a Southern cultural icon and scattered throughout our region like hash browns on a grill. But while the Waffle House feels like a “safe space” for such discussions, it has not, it is not without its own controversies.

    In fact, Waffle House restaurants have become somewhat notorious for violent, racially-charged incidents. Cash cites three that occurred in Spring 2018 alone. In a more recent article, Brian Kean writes that if you Google “shootings at Waffle House,” you’ll be “shocked.” Kean attempts to explain why Waffle House “is so deadly” and posits that it boils down to the “unpredictability of a late-night crowd, the likelihood that there are guns, and racism.”

    Micah Cash, then, couldn’t ignore the sociopolitical and cultural contexts within which Waffle House restaurants exist. Cash explains:

    I also began “Waffle House Vistas” against the backdrop of challenging political times: the trauma of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and the activism that followed; the rhetoric of the 2018 midterm elections and their consequences; the threat and eventual occurrence of a government shutdown over the holidays. While I did not want the tonality of these photographs altered by those events, in truth, they were.

    There was no way around it. These photographs contemplate our volatile political and economic climate and do so explicitly from the vantage point of Waffle House restaurants. My approach had its own rules: I would eat at every Waffle House I entered and make images only from where I was seated. I wanted to have a complete Waffle House experience every time. Not only did it give the photographs the authenticity I wanted, but it also compensated the restaurant for taking up a table, especially during prime dining hours. I ordered a full breakfast at the first restaurant of the day and would order coffee and a side of toast at the remaining stores, as it was customary for me to visit multiple locations in one day while I was traveling.

    Waffle House Vistas was published in 2019 by The Bitter Southerner, and a second edition was recently released. According to The Bitter Southerner:

    This new edition has an awesome new cover. Inside, there are new locations, new essays, and new vistas. If you loved our original Waffle House Vistas, we know you’re going to double love Waffle House Vistas, second edition. 

    The new edition includes 40 new photographs that were made between 2020-2022. The book also includes essays by Beth McKibben, Mike Jordan, Laura Bullard, Maurice Carlos Ruffin, and Micah Cash.

    Read more about the project here, and order a copy of the book here.


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  • Top 5 Adventure Spots You Must Visit Before You Die:

    Are you an adventure seeker who loves to explore the world, conquer new challenges, and create lifelong memories? Look no further! We’ve compiled the ultimate bucket-list of adventure spots to fuel your wanderlust. From the soaring peaks of Nepal to the lush jungles of Costa Rica, these five must-visit spots offer the perfect blend of thrilling activities, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.

    1. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

    Embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you traverse the heart of the Himalayas to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp. The 12-day trek takes you through stunning valleys, vibrant Sherpa villages, and serene monasteries, offering a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of Nepal. With the majestic Mount Everest as your backdrop, this challenging yet rewarding journey is a must for any outdoor enthusiast.

    Highlights

    • Trekking through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Witnessing panoramic views of the world’s tallest peaks
    • Exploring the bustling market town of Namche Bazaar
      Top 5 Adventure Spots You Must Visit Before You Die:

    2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

    Discover the underwater wonderland of the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest coral reef system. Stretching over 1,400 miles along the coast of Queensland, Australia, the reef is home to an astonishing array of marine life, including vibrant corals, colorful fish, and majestic sea turtles. Whether you choose to scuba dive, snorkel, or take a glass-bottom boat tour, you’ll be captivated by the natural beauty of this underwater paradise.

    Highlights

    • Diving or snorkeling among the reef’s diverse marine life
    • Exploring the pristine white-sand beaches of the Whitsunday Islands
    • Swimming with dwarf minke whales during their annual migration
      Top 5 Adventure Spots You Must Visit Before You Die:

    3. Costa Rica Rainforest Adventure

    Experience the exhilarating adrenaline rush of zip-lining through the lush canopy of Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests. As you glide above the treetops, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, sloths, and toucans. The country’s dedication to eco-tourism ensures that your adventure will be both thrilling and sustainable.

    Highlights

    • Zip-lining through the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    • White-water rafting on the exhilarating Pacuare River
    • Encountering diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds
      Top 5 Adventure Spots You Must Visit Before You Die:

    4. Patagonia, Chile and Argentina

    Venture to the southernmost tip of South America to explore the vast, untamed wilderness of Patagonia. Spanning both Chile and Argentina, this remote region boasts towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes that will leave you in awe. From hiking the famous Torres del Paine National Park to ice trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier, Patagonia offers endless opportunities for adventure.

    Highlights

    • Hiking the iconic W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park
    • Witnessing the stunning beauty of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre in Los Glaciares National Park
    • Ice trekking on the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier
      Top 5 Adventure Spots You Must Visit Before You Die:

    5. African Safari, Tanzania and Kenya

    Embark on an unforgettable African safari through the vast savannas of Tanzania and Kenya, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the majestic “Big Five” – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo – in their natural habitat. The world-renowned Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya provide the ultimate backdrop for this thrilling adventure.

    Highlights

    • Observing the Great Migration, one of the world’s most impressive natural spectacles
    • Hot air balloon safaris, offering a unique bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscapes
    • Immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Maasai people
      Top 5 Adventure Spots You Must Visit Before You Die:

    Conclusion:

    Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, these five bucket-list adventure destinations offer experiences that will leave you with a lifetime of memories. From the soaring peaks of the Himalayas to the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, there’s no better way to satisfy your wanderlust than by immersing yourself in these awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable adventures.

  • Top 5 Kid-Friendly Summer Vacation Destinations in 2023

    Summer vacation is the perfect time to bond with your family and create unforgettable memories. Choosing the right destination that offers both fun and adventure for your little ones is crucial. In this article, we’ve listed the top 5 kid-friendly summer vacation destinations for 2023, ensuring that your family will have a blast!

    1. Orlando, Florida – Theme Park Capital of the World

    Orlando is a must-visit destination for families who love theme parks! Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement for the entire family. Kids can meet their favorite characters, ride thrilling roller coasters, and explore magical lands, while adults can indulge in world-class dining and shopping experiences.

    2. San Diego, California – Soak up the Sun and Explore the Wild Side

    San Diego offers a diverse range of kid-friendly attractions, from beautiful beaches to world-renowned zoos. Families can bask in the sun at the famous La Jolla Shores or learn to surf at Pacific Beach. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park is a must-visit, where kids can get up close and personal with exotic animals and attend fun educational programs. Don’t forget to explore the interactive exhibits at the Fleet Science Center or the USS Midway Museum!

    3. Washington, D.C. – Discover American History and Culture

    The capital city of the United States is the perfect destination for families looking to infuse some history and culture into their vacation. With numerous kid-friendly museums, monuments, and parks, Washington, D.C., offers an unforgettable educational experience. Visit the National Air and Space Museum, where kids can learn about aviation and space exploration, or take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol. Don’t miss out on the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History or the National Zoo, both of which offer free admission.

    4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming – A Natural Wonderland

    Yellowstone National Park is an ideal destination for families seeking an outdoor adventure. The park boasts incredible geysers, hot springs, and wildlife, making it a true natural wonderland. Kids can become Junior Rangers by participating in fun, educational programs while exploring the park’s diverse ecosystem. Families can also enjoy hiking, camping, and guided tours, ensuring a memorable experience in the great outdoors.

    5. New York City, New York – The City That Never Sleeps

    New York City is a bustling metropolis with countless kid-friendly attractions. From exploring Central Park and visiting the iconic Statue of Liberty to enjoying a Broadway show, there’s something for everyone. The American Museum of Natural History, home to the famous dinosaur exhibits, is a must-visit, as is the interactive Children’s Museum of Manhattan. Don’t forget to treat your kids to a show at the New Victory Theater, dedicated to high-quality family performances.

    Additional Tips for a Kid-Friendly Summer Vacation:

    To make your family vacation even more enjoyable, consider these additional tips:

    1. Plan Ahead: Research your chosen destination, book accommodations and activities in advance, and create an itinerary to ensure a stress-free experience.

    2. Stay Flexible: While it’s essential to have a plan, be prepared to adapt as needed. Remember that unexpected changes can lead to new and exciting adventures.

    3. Pack Smart: Bring essential items like sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, and refillable water bottles to keep your family safe and comfortable during your vacation.

    4. Encourage Learning: Turn your vacation into a fun and educational experience by involving your kids in planning, asking them questions about the destinations, and encouraging them to participate in local activities.

    5. Capture Memories: Take lots of pictures and encourage your kids to keep a travel journal or create a scrapbook to remember their vacation experiences.

    Conclusion:

    With these five amazing kid-friendly summer vacation destinations, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your family’s next adventure. From theme parks and zoos to museums and national parks, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to create lifelong memories with your loved ones!

  • Honoring Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams, A Recipient Of The Medal Of Honor During World War II

    Hershel “Woody” Williams stands out among others. He is the final living recipient of the World War II Medal of Honor, and he is 97 years old. But what makes him unique is how he has lived all these years since. He admitted to Martin, “he felt that he owed back more than he could ever offer.”

    During the Great Depression, he was raised in West Virginia on a farm. My family has 11 children, he remarked. Only five of us were able to reach maturity.

    He attempted to join the Marines after Pearl Harbor but was turned down because he was too young as the Marines began suffering horrific losses while battling the Japanese across the Pacific.

    The beach was transformed into a massacre by the Japanese, who withheld their fire until after the Marines had arrived: “The beach was just full of everything you can think of – trucks and tanks blew up.”

    Just stacked them up, like cordwood, Williams said.

    Marines finally reached Mount Suribachi’s summit in time for the most illustrious flag-raising in American history.

    Did you realize the flag had been raised? Did Martin question?

    Williams responded, “No, he didn’t. “He believed he was burying my head in the sand,”

    There was no protection, and although the flag was raised, the war for Iwo Jima was far from ended. If we could find one, we would sprint from shell crater to shell crater until we came to this long line.

    The Iwo Jima Campaign

    When Williams’ commander went to him, he asked, “Do you think you could do something with the flamethrower?” Japanese machine guns concealed within the pillboxes had been killing the approaching Marines.

    What was the intended use of the flamethrower? Martin inquired.

    “Light the pillbox on fire so that you may destroy everyone inside of that pillbox.

    Williams approached the first pillbox under cover fire from four riflemen while Japanese bullets ricocheted off his flamethrower.

    Williams observed a small amount of blue smoke emanating from the top of the pillbox as he looked up. Consequently, I climbed up the pillbox and was able to see a pipe that was almost at eye level,  as reported by CBSnews.

  • Stimulus Check: New Jersey Adopts A $500 Child Tax Credit

    As Americans struggle with a rise in living expenses, a new child tax credit scheme that lawmakers passed will provide $500 payments to lower-income families in one state.

    A record $50.6 billion budget was approved by the Democratic-controlled New Jersey state legislature and forwarded to Democratic Governor Phil Murphy on Wednesday. The plan is a part of that budget.

    According to his office, he planned to sign it by the deadline on Thursday, the Associated Press said.

    The proposed law would establish the New Jersey Child Tax Credit Program, which would grant families earning up to $30,000 annually a refundable $500 tax credit for each child under the age of six.

    For households earning up to $80,000 annually, the tax credit amount would be lowered by $10 for every $1,000 of taxable income beyond $30,000 until it reaches $80,000, with a minimum of $300 per kid.

    Few Estimates

    According to estimates by the Office of Legislative Services, the program might cost up to $156.3 million annually.

    According to the analysis, around 374,000 children under six will be eligible for the tax benefit in 2022. The whole $500 would be available to at least 180,700 kids.

    According to the analysis, around 374,000 children under six will be eligible for the tax benefit in 2022. The total $500 would be available to at least 180,700 kids, and another 99,500 may receive a credit of at least $300.

    Another item in the budget is a property tax credit for homeowners: 870,000 households would receive “direct assistance” of $1,500 for incomes up to $150,000 and $1,000 for incomes between $150,000 and $250,000, as reported by Newsweek.

  • Fourth Of July Fireworks Canceled Due To A Lack Of Workers

    These kinds of fireworks might not be occurring as frequently as they formerly did. There are numerous sensory experiences associated with the Fourth of July festival.

    For some people, that is going for a swim at the beach, having a BBQ while swimming, or—possibly most importantly—sitting outside at night and taking in the celebration fireworks that explode above.

    However, many Americans may find that this year’s festivities differ in appearance and sound. That’s because there’s a scarcity of pyrotechnicians, often known as those who are qualified to plan and direct fireworks displays safely, across the country.

    For some, that means rescheduling fireworks shows, which had to be done in Ocean City and College Park in Maryland.

    For others, it means having to cancel the show entirely, which was the case at Lake Meredith, Texas.

    “Obey 4th is the number one major event of the year,” said Cathy Salgado, the director of parks and recreation for Fairfax, Virginia. “Everybody wants to do their fireworks show on July 4th.”

    She only found out a few weeks ago that her fireworks supplier couldn’t secure a technician and that they would have to cancel the fireworks show she had initially planned. Now, Fairfax’s presentation is scheduled for July 5 instead.

    No Demand for Fireworks this Year

    In the fireworks industry, there has always been a Fourth of July demand for qualified specialists. However, she is returning since the pandemic has made it difficult for her to meet demand.

    According to Npr, In 2020, according to Julie Heckman, executive director of the American Pyrotechnic Association, “the fireworks sector was severely decimated.” Heckman said that 90% of the sector’s earnings were lost. Now that individuals can once more go out and celebrate, the business is starting to recover.

    Fans of those distinctive explosive lights may have to make some concessions, such as accepting altered dates or attending fewer events, until capacity is back to normal.

    These growing pains present a chance, according to Salgado. On the plus side, we’re celebrating the Fourth of July for two, she supposes.

  • Stimulus Payment Updates: Check If You Are Eligible For $600 Checks This Week?

    Some low-income workers will soon start receiving $600 checks after Oregon lawmakers approved one-time stimulus payments back in March. The prices could start this week.

    The Oregon Department of Revenue announced last Wednesday that approximately 141.8 million dollars would be distributed to 236,000 eligible households. Each household will receive up to one payment.

    We are aware that since the outbreak, the income disparity has only gotten more expansive, “state representative Rachel Prusak stated in March.

    “This means that our lowest-paid employees are disproportionately affected by increased costs.

    We are addressing working families and individuals with this legislation because their labor is crucial and the foundation of our economy.

    Who will receive the 600-dollar payments this week in Oregon?

    Approximately 82 million dollars will be deposited into bank accounts directly by Oregon, while the remaining 60 million dollars will be mailed to eligible residents.

    Rich Hoover, a spokeswoman for the Oregon Department of Revenue, made it clear that there will be no state or federal income taxes applied to the payments, which are expected to be given in full by July 1.

    Oregon residents who claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit in 2020 and resided in the state for at least six months are eligible.

    According to Marca, The Department of Revenue stated that “for most Oregon households who qualify, you don’t need to do anything to get the one-time payment.”

    “The money will be transferred via direct deposit or a postal check. Typically, the refund option you chose on your tax return will be used to send you this payment.

    “You will receive a check if you paid your tax preparation fees with your return or obtained an advance refund from your tax service provider.

    By July 1, 2022, “all direct deposits will be made, and cheques will be mailed.”