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Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, Father of Kobe Bryant, Dies at 69

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Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of the late NBA superstar Kobe Bryant and a former professional basketball player, has died at the age of 69, according to La Salle University’s athletics department. La Salle confirmed to CNN that Bryant passed away Tuesday morning, though the cause of death was not officially disclosed.

The Philadelphia Inquirer, citing La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, reported that Bryant had recently suffered a stroke. Known affectionately as “Jellybean,” Bryant was a Philadelphia native who played for La Salle University from 1973 to 1975.

Bryant’s professional career spanned both the NBA and European leagues. He was drafted 14th overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA draft and went on to play for the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the San Diego Clippers for three, and the Houston Rockets for one. His career also took him to Europe, where he notably played in Italy.

After his playing career, Bryant remained involved in basketball, serving on La Salle’s coaching staff from 1993 to 1996. La Salle’s men’s basketball X account paid tribute to Bryant, calling him “a beloved member of the Explorer family” who “will be dearly missed.”

Joe Bryant in his playing days.

The Philadelphia 76ers also honored Bryant, describing him as “a local basketball icon, whose legacy on the court transcended his journey across Bartram High School, La Salle University, and his first four NBA seasons with the 76ers from 1975-79.”

This loss comes just over four years after the tragic death of his son, Kobe Bryant, who, along with his daughter Gianna and seven others, was killed in a helicopter crash in California in January 2020.

Joe Bryant’s passing marks the end of an era for a family that has left an indelible mark on the world of basketball. His legacy, both as a player and as the father of one of the sport’s greatest icons, will continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans and the basketball community alike.

Grammy-Nominated Country Singer Ingrid Andress Enters Rehab Following Controversial National Anthem Performance

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Grammy-nominated country singer Ingrid Andress has announced her decision to enter rehab following a controversial performance of the national anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby. The singer admitted to being intoxicated during the performance, which drew widespread criticism.

In a candid statement posted on her verified social media account, Andress wrote, “I’m not going to bulls**t y’all, I was drunk last night.” She went on to apologize to MLB, fans, and “this country I love so much” for her rendition of the anthem. Andress confirmed she would be checking into a facility to “get the help I need,” adding a lighthearted comment about hearing rehab is “super fun.”

Andress’s performance has drawn comparisons to other infamous national anthem renditions, including Roseanne Barr’s 1990 performance at a San Diego Padres game and Fergie’s 2018 NBA All-Star Game performance.

The incident marks a setback in what has been a promising career for the country artist. Andress first gained public attention on NBC’s “The Sing-Off” in 2010 and 2011. She launched her country music career with her debut album “Lady Like” in 2020, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart. Her single “More Hearts Than Mine” hit the Billboard Hot 100 in 2019.

Andress has received multiple Grammy nominations, including for best new artist in 2021, best country album for “Lady Like,” and best country song for “More Hearts Than Mine.” In 2023, her duet “Wishful Drinking” with Sam Hunt earned a nomination for best country duo/group performance.

Prior to this incident, Andress had been promoting her new single “Colorado 9” and upcoming shows. However, her representatives confirmed to CNN that her July 17 Nashville show and July 24 Denver show have been cancelled in light of her rehab announcement.

As Andress takes this step to address her personal challenges, the music industry and her fans await her recovery and potential return to the stage.

CNN Exclusive: US Intelligence Uncovers Iranian Plot to Assassinate Donald Trump, Leads to Increased Security

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In an exclusive report by CNN, US authorities have disclosed a recently uncovered Iranian plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump, leading to enhanced security measures in recent weeks. Multiple sources briefed on the matter told CNN that this intelligence, obtained from a human source, indicated an imminent threat to Trump’s safety, prompting the Secret Service to bolster protection around the former president.

CNN’s report reveals that this information comes in the wake of the assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Thomas Matthew Crooks managed to injure the former president. Officials stressed to CNN that there is no apparent connection between Crooks and the Iranian plot, but the incident has raised significant questions about security lapses at the event.

A US national security official confirmed to CNN that both the Secret Service and the Trump campaign were informed of the Iranian threat prior to the Butler rally. The National Security Council (NSC) had directly contacted the United States Secret Service (USSS) to ensure ongoing monitoring of the threat. In response, the Secret Service increased resources and assets for Trump’s protection.

According to CNN’s sources, intelligence officials had previously warned the Trump campaign about potential risks during outdoor rallies, noting the increased vulnerabilities at such events. The Trump campaign, when approached by CNN, did not comment on their awareness of the Iranian threat, directing all inquiries to the Secret Service.

CNN’s report highlights that this development adds complexity to the ongoing investigation into the Butler attack and underscores the multifaceted threats faced by high-profile political figures. It raises questions about balancing public accessibility with security concerns, especially for former presidents who remain in the public eye.

The Iranian plot, as reported by CNN, is believed to be part of a broader campaign of retaliation for the US military’s killing of Qasem Soleimani in January 2020. CNN also notes that other former Trump administration officials have been targets of alleged Iranian assassination plots.

As investigations continue, CNN’s exclusive report suggests that this development is likely to influence future security strategies for political events and protection protocols for former presidents, highlighting the complex landscape of domestic and international threats facing US security agencies.

Gunmen Kill Five at Shiite Mosque in Oman, Dozens Wounded

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In a rare and shocking incident, a Shiite mosque in Oman’s capital, Muscat, was the target of a violent attack that left five people dead and dozens more wounded. The shooting, which occurred on Monday night in the Wadi Kabir neighborhood, has sent shockwaves through the normally peaceful sultanate and drawn international attention and condemnation.

The Royal Oman Police reported the attack without specifying a motive or identifying suspects. However, the state-run Oman News Agency later revealed that three attackers were killed during the incident. The timing of the attack is particularly significant, taking place on the eve of Ashoura, a holy day for Shiite Muslims commemorating the martyrdom of Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

Pakistan’s government confirmed that four of its nationals were among the dead, with 30 others injured. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned what it termed a “dastardly terrorist attack” on the Imam Bargah Ali bin Abu Talib mosque. Pakistan also expressed gratitude to Omani authorities for neutralizing the attackers and offered assistance in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The violence has prompted security concerns in Oman, a country known for its stability in a volatile region. The U.S. Embassy issued a warning to its citizens, advising them to avoid the area. This incident stands out as an anomaly in the sultanate, which is typically free from such acts of violence.

Iran, a Shiite-majority nation, also condemned the attack, highlighting the international repercussions of this event. The involvement of multiple attackers and the high number of casualties have raised questions about security measures and the potential for sectarian tensions in the region.

As investigations continue, authorities are faced with the challenge of understanding the motives behind this attack and preventing future incidents. The shooting has not only affected the local community but has also cast a shadow over the observance of Ashoura, one of the holiest periods in the Shiite calendar.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist even in relatively stable countries and the ongoing need for vigilance against extremist violence. As Oman grapples with the aftermath of this attack, the international community watches closely, offering support and calling for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their families.

AP

Senator Bob Menendez Found Guilty on All Counts in Corruption Trial

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In a stunning conclusion to a nine-week trial, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey was found guilty on Tuesday of all charges in his federal corruption case. The 70-year-old Democrat, who has served in the Senate since 2006, was convicted of accepting bribes in the form of gold bars, cash, and a luxury car, as well as acting as a foreign agent for the Egyptian government.

The verdict, delivered at a federal courthouse in Manhattan, marks a dramatic fall for Menendez, who until recently held the powerful position of chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The jury’s decision followed a trial that exposed a complex web of alleged corrupt activities, including efforts to protect allies from criminal investigations and enrich associates, including his wife, Nadine Menendez.

Prosecutors presented evidence that Menendez abused his office by meeting with Egyptian intelligence officials and helping the country access millions of dollars in U.S. military aid. The case against the senator was bolstered by physical evidence found during a June 2022 FBI raid on the couple’s home in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Agents discovered gold bars worth nearly $150,000 and over $480,000 in cash, mostly in stacks of $100 bills, along with a Mercedes-Benz convertible in the garage.

Throughout the trial, Menendez maintained his innocence, insisting that he was merely performing his duties as a senator. His defense team argued that the gold bars belonged to his wife and that the cash stemmed from the senator’s habit of hoarding money at home, inspired by his parents’ escape from Cuba in 1951 with only hidden cash.

The most damaging allegations involved Menendez’s actions on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Prosecutors alleged that he provided sensitive information about U.S. Embassy staff in Cairo to Egyptian officials and helped draft a letter encouraging fellow senators to lift a hold on $300 million in military aid to Egypt. Text messages between Nadine Menendez and Egyptian officials were presented as evidence of the couple’s role as conduits for Egyptian interests.

Co-defendants Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, New Jersey businessmen accused of paying bribes to Menendez, were also found guilty on all charges. A third businessman, Jose Uribe, had previously pleaded guilty and testified against the others.

The conviction comes just four months before Election Day, likely ending Menendez’s political career and his plans to run for reelection as an independent candidate. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for Menendez’s immediate resignation in light of the verdict.

This marks the second time Menendez has faced corruption charges. A 2017 trial on unrelated allegations ended in a hung jury, allowing him to return to the Senate. However, this conviction leaves little room for political redemption.

The case has broader implications for U.S. foreign policy and the integrity of the Senate. It raises questions about the influence of foreign governments on American politicians and the effectiveness of ethical oversight in Congress.

As the legal process moves forward, attention will turn to sentencing and potential appeals. The conviction of such a high-ranking senator on charges including acting as a foreign agent is likely to reverberate through Washington and New Jersey politics for years to come.

AP

Six Found Dead in Luxury Bangkok Hotel, Poisoning Suspected

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Six people were found dead in a luxury hotel in downtown Bangkok on Tuesday, with Thai police investigating poisoning as a possible cause. The bodies, discovered in the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, were foaming at the mouth, according to an anonymous officer from the Lumpini police station.

Bangkok Police Chief Lt. Gen. Thiti Sangsawang identified the deceased as two Vietnamese Americans and four Vietnamese nationals, comprising three males and three females. The victims had booked several rooms under seven names, with some staying on different floors from where the bodies were found.

The bodies in Thai were discovered by a maid after the guests failed to check out as scheduled. There were no signs of struggle, and the victims’ luggage was already packed. Uneaten room service food was found, but drinks had been consumed. Police are searching for a seventh person included in the booking.

The room where the bodies were found was locked from the inside, adding to the mystery surrounding the deaths. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the scene but did not provide additional information to the gathered journalists.

This tragic incident has raised concerns about safety in luxury hotels and has drawn significant attention from both local and international media. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the exact cause of death and the circumstances leading to this unusual and disturbing event.

The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating deaths in high-profile locations and the potential international implications given the victims’ nationalities. As more details emerge, this incident is likely to prompt discussions about hotel security and guest safety protocols in Thailand’s hospitality industry.

Sarkodie, Other Ghanaian Celebrities Demand Arrest of Self-Confessed Pedophile

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Ghanaian celebrities, led by renowned rapper Sarkodie (Michael Owusu Addo), are demanding the arrest of a man who publicly admitted to having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl. The confession, made during a radio program on Sompa FM, has ignited widespread outrage and calls for legal action.

Renowned rapper Sarkodie (Michael Owusu Addo)

The man in question claimed to have engaged in a sexual relationship with the minor from her primary school years through high school. He framed his confession as a cautionary tale about karma, revealing that a teacher is now making similar advances towards his own daughter.

Sarkodie, along with actress Lydia Forson and other public figures, expressed their dismay at the man’s admission. Forson took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to voice her concerns, highlighting the tendency to deflect blame onto victims in such cases. Sarkodie reshared Forson’s post, adding, “I sense no hate here he should not be walking around freely.”

Sarkodie and the accused man

The incident has brought attention to Ghana’s laws regarding child abuse. Section 101 of the Criminal Code Act 29, 1960 stipulates that sexual relations with a child under 16, regardless of consent, is punishable by 7 to 25 years imprisonment.

This case has sparked a broader discussion about child protection in Ghana and the role of public figures in advocating for justice. It also raises questions about the handling of such confessions by media outlets and the responsibility of authorities to act on publicly disclosed information about criminal acts.

As the story continues to unfold, it highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing child sexual abuse and the importance of swift action in response to such admissions.

Heavy Rains and Bus Accident Claim Over 50 Lives in Afghanistan

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Heavy rains in eastern Afghanistan have resulted in at least 40 deaths and nearly 350 injuries, according to Taliban officials. In a separate incident, a bus accident on a main highway claimed at least 17 lives, as reported by official media.

Sharafat Zaman Amar, spokesperson for the Public Health Ministry, confirmed that 40 people had died in Monday’s storm, with 347 injured individuals brought to the regional hospital in Nangarhar from Jalalabad and nearby districts.

The storm’s impact was severe, with provincial spokesperson Sediqullah Quraishi reporting that about 400 houses and 60 electricity poles were destroyed across Nangarhar province. Power outages and limited communications affected Jalalabad city as authorities continue to assess the damage.

The tragedy was compounded by a separate bus accident on Tuesday morning. The official Taliban news agency Bakhtar reported that at least 17 people were killed and 34 others injured when a bus overturned on the main highway linking Kabul and Balkh in northern Baghlan province.

This latest disaster follows a pattern of severe weather events in Afghanistan. In May, exceptionally heavy rains killed more than 300 people and destroyed thousands of houses, primarily in the northern province of Baghlan, according to the World Food Program.

These incidents highlight Afghanistan’s ongoing struggles with natural disasters and road safety, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in the country.

Credit: The Associated Press.

Kylian Mbappé Officially Unveiled as Real Madrid Player at Santiago Bernabéu

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Kylian Mbappe, of France, poses for the cameras after being presented to fans as a new Real Madrid player at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid, Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrea Comas)

Los Blancos announced last month that they had signed Mbappé to a five-year deal, marking the end of the French superstar’s seven-year tenure at Paris Saint-Germain. The event began with a montage of Real Madrid’s historic successes, accompanied by Luciano Pavarotti’s rendition of “Nessun Dorma,” followed by a highlight reel of Mbappé’s goals projected on a big screen.

Kylian Mbappe, of France, poses for the cameras after being presented to fans as a new Real Madrid player at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid, Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrea Comas)

This moment has been highly anticipated by Real Madrid fans, who have long been eager to see the 25-year-old, rated among the best current players in the world, don the club’s famous white jersey. Real Madrid, having won their 15th European crown at the end of last season, has only strengthened its squad with the inclusion of Mbappé, alongside stars like Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham.

“It’s an incredible day for me, incredible,” Mbappé said to the crowd inside the stadium. “Since I was a boy, I had only one dream: to play here. And to be here now means a lot to me. Because of that, I want to thank every madridista because, since years ago, you’ve given me a lot of affection, a lot of love – that goes directly to my heart. And so I want to say thank you to everyone to let me be here today.”

After his speech, Mbappé greeted fans, signed autographs, and kicked footballs into the stands, much to the delight of those in attendance.

Mbappe and his parents.

This official unveiling concludes one of the longest-running transfer sagas in soccer, with Mbappé long harboring ambitions of a move to the Spanish capital. Despite his considerable success in domestic competitions, including six French titles and a Ligue 1 win with AS Monaco, Mbappé is yet to add a Champions League trophy to his achievements.

Kenyan Police Use Tear Gas to Disperse Protests Demanding Presidential Resignation

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The police in Kenya resorted to tear gas on Tuesday to disperse protests in Nairobi and several other towns, as demonstrators continued to demand President William Ruto’s resignation over allegations of poor governance. The protests persisted despite Ruto’s recent dismissal of nearly his entire Cabinet in an attempt to address public concerns.

Businesses in Nairobi remained shuttered, fearing a repeat of the looting that occurred during last week’s demonstrations, which saw protesters storm Parliament and resulted in several fatalities at the hands of police. Demonstrators blocked major roads, including the highway to Namanga on Nairobi’s outskirts, and lit bonfires. Similar protests were reported in Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret.

The ongoing unrest comes five days after President Ruto dismissed all but one Cabinet minister, pledging to form a more efficient and inclusive government. However, protesters remain unsatisfied, insisting they will continue until Ruto steps down. The resignation of the police chief on Friday, following accusations of brutality towards demonstrators, did little to quell the protests.

The demonstrations, which began on June 18, initially called for the dismissal of Cabinet ministers over allegations of incompetence, corruption, and displays of opulence amid a cost-of-living crisis. The situation escalated on June 25 when protesters stormed Parliament after the passage of a finance bill proposing tax increases, resulting in police opening fire and killing several people.

Despite Ruto’s subsequent refusal to sign the bill, demonstrations continued with calls for his resignation. Activists organizing the protests claim they are spontaneous and not led or funded by any particular group.

The Kenya National Commission for Human Rights reports that since June 18, 50 people have died in the protests, with 59 others abducted and missing. As the unrest continues, questions of accountability and governance remain at the forefront of demonstrators’ concerns.

AP

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