USA

For some Columbia students, protest encampment is living history lesson

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For some Columbia students, protest encampment is living history lesson

Students at Columbia University set up a pro-Palestinian protest encampment on campus, inspired by a course called “Columbia 1968” about past protests. The encampment led to arrests and suspensions by the school administration, but protesters continue to demand divestment from companies supporting Israel. The protests have drawn support from various groups and have sparked debates and activities on campus. Despite criticism, students remain committed to their cause.

INSIGHT-As solar capacity grows, some of America’s most productive farmland is at risk

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INSIGHT-As solar capacity grows, some of America’s most productive farmland is at risk

Dave Duttlinger leased 445 acres of his Indiana farm to Dunns Bridge Solar LLC for a solar development project, despite concerns about damage to his land. The solar panels were installed on some of the most productive cropland classified by the USDA, impacting future crop potential. Solar energy firms argue that the industry’s use of farmland is minimal compared to the need for renewable energy to combat climate change. Indiana farmer Norm Welker found leasing his land for a solar project more profitable than growing corn due to low prices.

U.S. intelligence believes Putin probably didn’t order Navalny to be killed – WSJ

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U.S. intelligence believes Putin probably didn’t order Navalny to be killed – WSJ

U.S. intelligence agencies have determined that Russian President Vladimir Putin probably did not order the killing of opposition politician Alexei Navalny at an Arctic prison camp in February. Putin denied state involvement and had considered exchanging Navalny with the West. The U.S. assessment, based on classified intelligence and public facts, did not absolve Putin of overall responsibility for Navalny’s death, given the history of targeting Navalny by Russian authorities.

Colorado paramedic to be sentenced in Elijah McClain’s death, bringing case to a close

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Colorado paramedic to be sentenced in Elijah McClain’s death, bringing case to a close

A paramedic in Colorado is set to be sentenced for his involvement in the death of Elijah McClain, a young Black man who died after being put in a chokehold by police and injected with ketamine. The sentencing closes out the legal proceedings related to McClain’s death, which led to significant police reforms in Colorado, including banning chokeholds and prohibiting police from pressuring paramedics to use ketamine on suspects. The case has also highlighted the importance of district attorney races in holding law enforcement accountable.

FACTBOX-Who are the mega-rich donors backing Trump?

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FACTBOX-Who are the mega-rich donors backing Trump?

Mega-rich donors have emerged as key backers of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, collectively donating more than million to support his candidacy against Democratic incumbent Joe Biden.

US Justice Department to pay survivors of Nassar abuse $138m

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US Justice Department to pay survivors of Nassar abuse $138m

The U.S. Justice Department reached a 8.7 million civil settlement with hundreds of victims of former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, resolving claims that the FBI botched the initial investigation into Nassar.

More than half wine sold in Cyprus made locally

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More than half wine sold in Cyprus made locally

– 55 per cent of wines available in Cyprus are made locally
– Exports of Cyprus wine amounted to €1.3 million in 2023

Chief Scientist accompanies Paphos students in Egypt

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Chief Scientist accompanies Paphos students in Egypt

Fact: A team from Neapolis University of Paphos in Cyprus secured a spot in the finals of the ICPC competition for the first time, competing against students from 3,000 universities across 111 countries.

USA: Fire at the iconic Timberline Lodge hotel

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USA: Fire at the iconic Timberline Lodge hotel

A fire broke out at the Timberline Lodge Hotel in Oregon, United States, known as the Overlook Hotel from Stanley Kubrick’s film The Shining. The roof and attic were engulfed in flames but were brought under control before spreading. Guests and staff were evacuated with no injuries. The cause of the fire is suspected to be embers from the main building’s fireplace. The interior of the “Overlook Hotel” in the film was based on the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park.

California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

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California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

The University of Southern California canceled the valedictorian speech of Muslim student Asna Tabassum due to safety concerns and tensions surrounding the Middle East conflict. USC Provost Andrew Guzman stated that the decision was made to protect campus security, as discussions about the valedictorian selection had become alarming. Tabassum challenged the university’s rationale, questioning if the decision was solely based on safety. USC faced opposition from groups like Trojans for Israel and We Are Tov, who called for Tabassum’s removal as commencement speaker, citing her social media profile and past views on Palestine and Israel. Tabassum’s invitation to speak was withdrawn without USC reviewing her speech, leading to criticism and calls for her reinstatement from groups like the Council on American Islamic Relations.