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Israel Recovers 6 Hostage Bodies, Blinken Advances Cease-Fire Talks

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Israel Recovers 6 Hostage Bodies, Blinken Advances Cease-Fire Talks

JERUSALEM  — The Israeli military announced Tuesday the recovery of six hostage bodies from Gaza, as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken sought to advance cease-fire negotiations.

The bodies, retrieved in an overnight operation in southern Gaza, belonged to individuals taken during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack. The military did not disclose when or how the six died. Hamas claims some captives have been killed in Israeli airstrikes.

Israeli authorities identified the deceased as Chaim Perry, 80; Yoram Metzger, 80; Avraham Munder, 79; Alexander Dancyg, 76; Nadav Popplewell, 51; and Yagev Buchshtav, 35. Some had family members previously released during a November cease-fire.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the recovery effort, stating, “The State of Israel will continue to make every effort to return all of our hostages — both alive and dead.”

The recovery complicates Hamas’ strategy of exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners and a lasting cease-fire. Approximately 110 hostages are believed to remain in captivity, with Israeli estimates suggesting a third may be deceased.

In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes continued. An attack on a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City killed at least 10 people. The Israeli military claimed it was a precise strike on a Hamas command center. Another strike in central Gaza killed a mother and her five children.

Blinken, on his ninth regional visit since the war’s outbreak, said Netanyahu has accepted a proposal to bridge gaps in cease-fire talks. The U.S. diplomat called on Hamas to do the same, though the militant group accused the U.S. of embracing Israeli demands.

The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel, has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ongoing offensive has caused widespread destruction and displacement in Gaza.

Former Plantain Seller Becomes Successful Model, Wins First “Runways to Freedom” Scholarship

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Former Plantain Seller Becomes Successful Model, Wins First “Runways to Freedom” Scholarship

LAGOS, Nigeria  — Ngozi Arimokwu, once a plantain seller on the streets of Sapele, Nigeria, has emerged as a successful fashion model and the first recipient of the “Runways to Freedom” scholarship, overcoming visual impairment to inspire a new generation in the industry.

Arimokwu’s transformative journey began when an entertainment reporter discovered her selling plantains. She was subsequently recruited by Joan Okorodudu, CEO of Isis Models and founder of Nigeria’s Next Super Model competition.

“Ngozi’s story embodies the mission of our Runways to Freedom program,” Okorodudu told the Bobnews24. “Her transition from selling plantains to walking runways exemplifies the untapped potential we aim to nurture.”

Joan Okorodudu

Despite her visual impairment, Arimokwu participated in Nigeria’s Next Super Model, where her performance launched her modeling career. Her success in the competition led to her selection as the inaugural recipient of the Runways to Freedom scholarship.

The scholarship, part of a broader empowerment initiative, provides Arimokwu with educational resources, career development opportunities, and financial support to further her modeling career.

“This scholarship is not just about fashion; it’s about changing lives,” Okorodudu explained. “We’re committed to unlocking potential and fostering growth in young people from all backgrounds.”

Arimokwu, who hails from Igbanke in Delta State, Nigeria, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “From selling plantains to receiving this scholarship, every step has been a blessing,” she said. “I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances.”

The model’s rise to prominence has resonated within the Nigerian fashion community. Fashion designer Amaka Osakwe praised Arimokwu’s resilience, stating, “Her journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their aspirations.”

Industry insiders suggest Arimokwu’s success could lead to more inclusive practices in Nigerian and international fashion scenes. The Runways to Freedom program aims to expand its reach in the coming year, with plans to support more aspiring models and fashion industry professionals across Nigeria.

As Arimokwu continues her career, her story is viewed as a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of opportunity in the fashion industry.

Madonna Celebrates 66th Birthday with Family in Italy, 28-Year-Old Boyfriend

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Madonna Celebrates 66th Birthday with Family in Italy, 28-Year-Old Boyfriend

ROME — Pop star Madonna celebrated her 66th birthday with an extravagant gathering in Italy, sharing photos of the event on social media Monday.

The singer, whose actual birthday was on August 16, posted images on Instagram showing her with her six children and her new boyfriend, 28-year-old Akeem Morris. The celebration coincided with her son Rocco Ritchie’s 24th birthday, which was on August 11.

Madonna’s photos, captioned “La Dolce Vita,” show her wearing a semi-sheer white lace dress over a black top, adorned with gold accessories including an elaborate choker-style necklace. She was pictured holding hands with Morris as they walked surrounded by their entourage.

The singer’s children in attendance included Lourdes Leon, 27; Rocco, 24; David Banda, 18; Mercy, 18; and 11-year-old twins Stella and Estere.

The celebration appeared to take place at the Teatro Grande in Pompeii, with a lavish feast set up at the foot of the amphitheater’s steps. The table was decorated with metallic decor and candles.

Naples Prefect Michele Di Bari confirmed to reporters on Tuesday that Madonna had planned a private evening tour of the archaeological site at Pompeii. “She loves Pompeii, loves the archaeological park, and can’t wait to come,” Di Bari said, denying speculation of a large public event at the ancient city.

Madonna, whose family originates from Italy’s Abruzzo region, has reportedly been in the country for several days as a guest of fashion designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

The birthday celebration highlights Madonna’s ongoing connection to her Italian heritage and her continued prominence in popular culture as she enters her late 60s. It also marks one of her first public appearances with her new boyfriend, Morris.

As the pop icon’s career spans over four decades, her birthday festivities in Italy showcase her enduring influence and her close relationship with her family.

Source: Daily MailOnline

Two Men Charged with Murder in ‘General Hospital’ Actor’s Death

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Two Men Charged with Murder in ‘General Hospital’ Actor’s Death

LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced Monday that two men have been charged with murder in connection with the May shooting death of “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor.

Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, face murder charges along with additional felony counts. Two other men have been charged with related crimes in the case.

Barceleau’s charges include a special circumstance allegation of murder during an attempted robbery, which could result in a life sentence without the possibility of parole if convicted. He is also charged with one count each of attempted robbery and grand theft, both while armed with a firearm.

Estrada faces charges of murder, attempted robbery, and grand theft, all while armed with a firearm. His murder charge does not include the special circumstance allegation.

Additionally, Leonel Gutierrez, 19, has been charged with attempted robbery and grand theft while armed with a firearm. Frank Olano, 22, faces charges of accessory after the fact to murder, receiving stolen property, and three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to prosecutors, Wactor was shot in the chest by Barceleau in May after the actor confronted a group attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car. The incident occurred as Wactor was leaving his job as a bartender in downtown Los Angeles.

The charges follow the execution of multiple arrest and search warrants by law enforcement on Thursday, as reported by TMZ.

Wactor, known for his role on the long-running soap opera “General Hospital,” died at the scene of the shooting. The case has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of catalytic converter thefts in the Los Angeles area.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has not yet announced arraignment dates for the suspects. The investigation into the case is ongoing.

As the legal process unfolds, Wactor’s family and colleagues await further developments. A coworker of the late actor, who was present on the night of the incident, has stated that the family seeks convictions in the case for closure.

The charges represent a significant development in a case that has highlighted concerns about violent crime and property theft in Los Angeles.

Ukraine Blows Up Third Key Supply Line Bridge in Russian Territory

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Ukraine Blows Up Third Key Supply Line Bridge in Russian Territory

KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian forces have targeted three bridges over the River Seym in Russia’s Kursk region within four days, according to reports from both Ukrainian and Russian sources. The attacks appear to be part of Ukraine’s ongoing military operations inside Russian territory, which began on August 6.

The bridges, located near Glushkovo, Zvannoe, and Karyzh, are approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from the Ukrainian border. Their destruction could potentially disrupt Russian supply lines and military movements in the area.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Sunday that the objective of these operations is to create a “buffer zone” between Ukraine and Russia. “It is now our primary task in defensive operations overall: to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counteroffensive actions,” Zelenskyy said.

According to Ukrainian military sources, their forces have advanced up to 35 kilometers (21 miles) inside Russian territory since the operation began, reportedly capturing 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles) of land, including dozens of towns.

Russian military bloggers reported that engineers have constructed a pontoon bridge east of Glushkovo to maintain supply lines to their forces. However, this temporary solution may create logistical challenges, as such structures typically allow only limited traffic.

The Ukrainian military has not officially confirmed the exact nature or extent of its operations inside Russia. Similarly, the Russian Ministry of Defense has not issued detailed statements about the situation in the Kursk region.

These developments come as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, continues to escalate. The international community, including the United Nations and various world leaders, has called for diplomatic solutions to end the hostilities.

As the situation remains fluid, military analysts suggest that the destruction of these bridges could have significant implications for both Ukrainian and Russian military strategies in the region. However, the full impact of these operations remains to be seen as events continue to unfold.

Apple’s Virtual Driver’s License Feature Set to Expand to More U.S. States

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Apple’s Virtual Driver’s License Feature Set to Expand to More U.S. States

CUPERTINO, Calif. — Apple Inc. has announced plans to expand its virtual driver’s license feature to more U.S. states, bringing the total number of participating states to 13.

The feature, which allows users to store a digital copy of their state ID or driver’s license in the Apple Wallet app on iPhone and Apple Watch, is currently available in five states: Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, and Ohio. California is pending implementation, which would bring the total to six.

Apple has identified seven additional states that are preparing to support the feature:

– Connecticut

– Hawaii

– Iowa

– Kentucky

– Mississippi

– Oklahoma

– Utah

The technology giant first announced the feature in 2021, with Arizona becoming the first state to offer support in March 2022.

To use the feature, iPhone users must update their devices to the latest version of iOS and add their ID to the Apple Wallet app by scanning their physical ID. The state authority issuing the ID receives only the information necessary for approval.

Apple emphasizes the privacy and security measures in place for the feature. “A user’s ID information is encrypted and stored only on their device, so others, including Apple, cannot access it unless a user chooses to present it,” the company stated in a press release.

When presenting a digital ID, users must authorize the presentation with Face ID or Touch ID. Apple notes that users won’t need to unlock, show, or hand over their device to present their ID.

The virtual ID can be used to verify age when purchasing restricted products and for identification at select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints.

As states continue to adopt this technology, questions remain about widespread acceptance and potential legal implications. State authorities and federal agencies are working to ensure the digital IDs meet security standards and legal requirements.

The timeline for implementation in the newly announced states has not been specified. Apple continues to work with state governments to expand the feature’s availability across the United States.

Doctor’s Clinic Reopens for Limited Services After Federal Charges in Matthew Perry’s Case

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Doctor’s Clinic Reopens for Limited Services After Federal Charges in Matthew Perry’s Case

MALIBU, Calif. — The urgent care clinic operated by Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who faces federal charges related to illegal drug distribution, has reopened with limited services, according to observations by The U.S. Sun on Monday.

Malibu Canyon Urgent Care resumed operations on Monday, August 19, 2024, after being closed over the weekend following Plasencia’s arrest on Thursday. A notice posted on the clinic’s entrance stated it would be open “for weight loss program only,” turning away patients seeking other medical treatments.

A nurse at the practice confirmed to The U.S. Sun that the facility opened at 10 a.m. but “can not see anyone for medical reasons.”

Plasencia faces multiple federal drug charges, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His attorney, Stefan Sacks, told ABC affiliate WABC-TV that Plasencia was providing medical treatment “in good faith.”

Despite the charges, Plasencia has not been stripped of his medical license, according to TMZ. The Medical Board of California is investigating Plasencia and another physician, Mark Chavez, but until a ruling is issued, both doctors are still allowed to prescribe medication.

Chavez has reached a plea deal with prosecutors and agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine.

Federal investigators allege that Plasencia and four other suspects sought to profit from illegal drug distribution. U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Martin Estrada stated that between September and October 2023, Plasencia and Chavez sold approximately 20 vials of ketamine, profiting $55,000 in cash.

Plasencia is currently out on $100,000 bond and is expected to go on trial on October 8.

The reopening of the clinic for limited services has raised questions about medical ethics and patient safety. Local health authorities have not yet commented on the clinic’s decision to continue operations while its primary physician faces serious federal charges.

As the legal proceedings continue, the case has sparked discussions about oversight in medical practices and the responsibilities of healthcare providers.

Nicaragua Revokes Registration of 1,500 Churches, Other Non-Profit Organizations

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Nicaragua Revokes Registration of 1,500 Churches, Other Non-Profit Organizations

MANAGUA, Nicaragua  — The Nicaraguan government has revoked the registration of 1,500 non-profit organizations, including hundreds of religious groups, according to a notice published Monday in the official government gazette, La Gaceta.

The affected organizations are accused of failing to report their financial statements for periods ranging from one to 35 years. The list includes sports clubs, health organizations, women’s rights groups, LGBTQ rights organizations, legal associations, and veterans’ clubs. Over 400 of the shuttered groups are religiously affiliated, with most being Christian organizations.

This move is the latest in a series of actions taken by President Daniel Ortega’s government against civil society groups. Earlier this month, the legal status of the Diocese of Matagalpa’s Caritas was canceled for alleged bureaucratic reasons, according to Vatican News. The diocese is led by Bishop Rolando Alvarez, a vocal government critic who is currently in exile after being convicted of charges including conspiracy and treason.

Civil liberties in Nicaragua have been significantly curtailed under Ortega’s leadership. The president, who claimed a fifth term in 2021, has overseen the arrest of numerous opposition presidential candidates, journalists, and human rights activists under a broad national security law.

In 2022, CNN en Español was forced off the air in Nicaragua. The government’s response to widespread anti-regime protests in 2018 resulted in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries, and arbitrary detentions, according to Human Rights Watch. These actions have led to tens of thousands of Nicaraguans fleeing the country.

The United Nations expressed “grave concern” over the human rights situation in Nicaragua in June. Nada al-Nashif, the UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, reported that at least 35 people had been arrested since March as part of a “crackdown on civic space.”

The Vatican and the Pontifical Commission for Latin America have not yet commented on the latest closures affecting religious organizations.

As the situation continues to develop, international human rights organizations and foreign governments are closely monitoring the actions of the Nicaraguan government and their impact on civil society and religious freedom in the country.

Juventus Defeats Como 3-0 in Serie A Opener Under New Coach Motta

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Juventus Defeats Como 3-0 in Serie A Opener Under New Coach Motta

TURIN, Italy — Juventus opened their Serie A campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over newly promoted Como at the Allianz Stadium on Monday, giving new coach Thiago Motta a successful competitive debut.

Samuel Mbangula opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a solo effort, driving infield and striking the ball into the bottom corner. Timothy Weah extended the lead in first-half stoppage time, lashing home from Kenan Yildiz’s cutback, with the ball bouncing in off the inside of the bar.

Andrea Cambiaso sealed the win with a long-range effort just before full time, after Dusan Vlahovic had several close attempts.

The victory marks Juventus’ 60th win on the opening matchday of a Serie A season, more than any other club in the competition’s history. It’s their eighth win in the last nine season openers, with one draw.

Weah’s goal was particularly notable, as he became the 13th U.S. men’s national team player to score in more than one of Europe’s top five leagues and the first to do so in both Ligue 1 and Serie A.

Juventus displayed defensive solidity, not conceding a single shot on target for the second time this calendar year. The previous instance was during a goalless draw with Milan in April.

Como, managed by former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas, struggled to make an impact against the dominant Juventus side.

Juventus, who finished third behind champions Inter and Milan last season, securing their return to the Champions League, will face Verona away on August 26 in their next fixture.

The comprehensive victory sets a positive tone for Juventus’ campaign under Motta, who took over the managerial role this summer. The former Italian international midfielder will be looking to build on this strong start as the season progresses.

Como, meanwhile, face a challenging road ahead as they adjust to life in Italy’s top flight after earning promotion last season.

Vardy’s Late Goal Secures Draw for Leicester Against Tottenham

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Vardy’s Late Goal Secures Draw for Leicester Against Tottenham

LEICESTER, England — Jamie Vardy’s second-half goal earned Leicester City a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur in their Premier League opener at the King Power Stadium on Monday.

Vardy, who had not played in any of Leicester’s pre-season matches, headed in the equalizer in the 57th minute from Abdul Fatawu’s cross. The 37-year-old striker had assured manager Steve Cooper of his fitness just before the match, following an injury to Patson Daka that left the team without a senior striker.

“We didn’t have a striker,” Cooper told Sky Sports before the game. “He said he feels good, he was a little bit uncomfortable that we didn’t have a fit striker and he made himself available.”

Tottenham had dominated the first half, maintaining over 70% possession and taking the lead through Pedro Porro’s finish from a James Maddison cross. However, they failed to capitalize on numerous chances, with £65 million ($83 million) summer signing Dominic Solanke particularly wasteful.

Spurs’ evening worsened when midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was stretchered off following an eight-minute stoppage late in the game. The nature and severity of his injury were not immediately clear.

The draw marks the second consecutive season Tottenham has failed to win their opening fixture. Manager Ange Postecoglou’s attacking style was evident, but the team’s inability to secure a second goal proved costly.

Vardy’s goal was his eighth on an opening Premier League weekend, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most prolific scorers. His performance drew praise from pundits, with Gary Neville commenting on Sky Sports about Vardy’s longevity and adaptability.

“I did think though he’d be a player who relied completely on his pace, running off the shoulder and counter-attacking. And when he lost his pace, lost a yard, he’d find it difficult to adapt his game, as many others have,” Neville said. “But he’s still going at 37. He’s still got that burst, that yard.”

The match highlighted both Tottenham’s potential under new management and the ongoing importance of Vardy to Leicester, who are looking to bounce back after promotion from the Championship.

As the Premier League season gets underway, both teams will be looking to build on this result in their upcoming fixtures. Leicester City travels to face Manchester City next, while Tottenham hosts Manchester United.

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