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  • Melania Trump Announces Launch of Her Cryptocurrency, $MELANIA

    Melania Trump Announces Launch of Her Cryptocurrency, $MELANIA

    Melania Trump has officially launched her own cryptocurrency, $MELANIA, just one day before her husband’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States. This announcement follows the introduction of the $TRUMP cryptocurrency, both of which have already begun to gain significant attention and traction.

    Launch of $MELANIA Coin

    On Sunday, Melania took to her X page, announcing,

    “The Official Melania Meme is live! You can buy $MELANIA now.”

    The cryptocurrency is based on the Solana blockchain, renowned for its scalability and speed, and is clearly positioned as a part of the growing digital asset ecosystem. The $MELANIA website states, however, that the coin is “not intended to be, or the subject of, an investment opportunity or a security,” providing important disclaimers similar to those seen on her husband’s $TRUMP cryptocurrency platform.

    Donald Trump’s Shift in Stance on Cryptocurrencies

    Melania Trump Cryptocurrency

    Donald Trump, who previously referred to cryptocurrencies as a “scam,” notably changed his stance during the 2024 presidential election. By embracing digital assets, Trump became the first presidential candidate to accept cryptocurrency donations and promised a drastic overhaul of financial regulations, especially regarding cryptocurrencies.

    Trump’s campaign proposal to build a Bitcoin stockpile and appoint crypto-friendly financial regulators fueled optimism within the crypto market, which was already preparing for a shift in policy under his administration. As a result, the market responded positively, and Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $107,000 following Trump’s victory. In addition, other cryptocurrencies, including Dogecoin—which has been promoted by Trump ally Elon Musk—saw significant growth in 2024 and early 2025.

    Cryptocurrency Market Performance and Regulation Under Trump

    As of now, $TRUMP boasts a market valuation of approximately $12 billion (£9.8 billion), while $MELANIA has already achieved a valuation of around $1.7 billion, according to CoinMarketCap. This growth marks a stark contrast to the regulatory approach seen under the previous administration. Under President Joe Biden, the crypto industry faced tighter regulations, with increased scrutiny on exchanges and ongoing concerns about fraud and money laundering.

    Melania Trump Cryptocurrency Policies and User Requirements

    The $MELANIA website has specific policies in place for potential users, with access limited to those who can legally enter into binding contracts. To comply with these regulations, users must be at least 18 years old or the age of majority in their jurisdiction to access the services. Additionally, the website reserves the right to terminate access for individuals who fail to meet these criteria.

    The Future of $MELANIA and Digital Assets

    Melania Trump’s launch of the $MELANIA cryptocurrency highlights the growing importance of digital currencies in today’s economy. With strong market performance and continued interest from digital asset enthusiasts, both the $TRUMP and $MELANIA cryptocurrencies are expected to play an influential role in the broader cryptocurrency space in the years to come. As these initiatives evolve, all eyes will be on the potential regulatory changes under the new administration and how they might shape the future of digital currencies.

  • Los Angeles Wildfire Rages Out of Control, Casualties Reported

    Los Angeles Wildfire Rages Out of Control, Casualties Reported

    A catastrophic wildfire erupted in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening, tearing through the inland foothills northeast of the city and leaving widespread destruction in its path. Casualties have been reported as the fast-moving flames engulfed homes, vehicles, and vegetation, forcing over 30,000 residents to evacuate in a desperate rush to safety.

    The Los Angeles Fire Department Chief, Kristin Crowley, confirmed the devastating toll while hundreds of firefighters battled the blaze from both air and ground. Crews worked tirelessly in steep terrain to carve firebreaks and slow the fire’s relentless advance.

    Families Recount Their Journey to Safety in the Los Angeles Wildfire

    Witnesses described terrifying moments as embers rained down, turning neighborhoods into fiery infernos. “It looked far away—then suddenly, it was upon us,” Gary, a resident of Sea Ridge, told KTLA. Roads turned into gridlocks with flames on both sides, leaving some evacuees to flee on foot.

    Despite the chaos, stories of resilience have emerged. Families helped each other escape, and communities are rallying together to support those displaced. “In times like this, we see the best of humanity,” said Pacific Palisades resident Andrew Hires, who helped neighbors pack their belongings before fleeing the flames.

    For those who have made it to safety, what comes next? This is a time to lean on community resources and support systems. Local shelters are offering temporary housing, while aid groups are mobilizing to provide food, water, and clothing.

    Have you checked in with loved ones or reached out to friends who may be affected? Even a small act of kindness can make a significant difference in moments like these. Survivors are encouraged to access counseling services to process the trauma and take small, hopeful steps toward rebuilding.

    Steps to Protect Yourself Against Wildfires

    Wildfires are a harsh reminder of the importance of preparedness and proactive measures. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help communities and individuals protect themselves and minimize risks:

    1. Create Fire-Safe Zones Around Your Home

    • Clear Vegetation: Remove dry leaves, branches, and dead plants near your home to reduce fire fuel.
    • Plant Fire-Resistant Vegetation: Opt for plants with high moisture content and low resin.
    • Maintain Defensible Space: Keep at least 30 feet of clear space around your home to act as a buffer.
    • Store Combustible Materials Safely: Keep firewood and flammable items far from your house.

    2. Prepare Your Home for Wildfire Resistance

    • Install Ember-Resistant Vents: Prevent embers from entering your home through openings.
    • Install Smart Smoke Alarms: The best smart smoke alarms for modern homes offer real-time notifications and alerts directly to your phone, allowing you to take immediate action no matter where you are. These alarms can detect smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide, giving you an early warning to evacuate or take safety measures.
    • Upgrade Windows: Use tempered glass windows that are more resistant to heat.
    • Seal Gaps: Ensure roofs, gutters, and eaves are sealed to avoid ember penetration.
    • Use Fire-Resistant Materials: Consider metal roofs or fiber-cement siding for extra protection.

    3. Develop an Emergency Plan

    • Identify Safe Exits: Know multiple evacuation routes in case of emergencies.
    • Pack Emergency Kits: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and flashlights.
    • Establish a Communication Plan: Ensure all family members know how to stay in touch during emergencies.
    • Practice Evacuations: Regularly rehearse evacuation plans with your household.

    4. Stay Informed and Alert

    • Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to local emergency alert systems for real-time updates.
    • Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay aware of red flag warnings and high-wind advisories.
    • Listen to Authorities: Follow instructions from emergency services promptly during a wildfire.

    5. Collaborate as a Community

    • Participate in Fire Safety Programs: Join or organize local fire-prevention initiatives.
    • Support Local Firefighters: Advocate for funding and resources for fire departments.
    • Create Firebreaks Together: Work with neighbors to clear vegetation and create communal safety zones.

    6. Advocate for Government Action

    • Strengthen Emergency Systems: Push for improved wildfire alert systems and response mechanisms.
    • Promote Policy Changes: Support legislation that prioritizes wildfire prevention and management.
    • Invest in Research: Encourage investments in technology and strategies to predict and control wildfires effectively.

    By taking these steps, we can collectively reduce the risk of wildfires and ensure that future disasters cause less destruction and loss. Let’s commit to learning from this tragedy and building a safer tomorrow.

    We stand with the survivors and all affected by this tragedy, offering our deepest empathy and support as they navigate the road to recovery.

  • Sheryl Sandberg to Resign from Meta Board of Directors

    Sheryl Sandberg to Resign from Meta Board of Directors

    Less than two years after leaving her executive role at Facebook, Sheryl Sandberg is set to step down from the board of Meta, Facebook’s parent company. Serving as the chief operating officer, Sandberg was among the board members who helped structure and boost Facebook’s digital advertising business model in 2008 when it was still a fledgling startup. The 54-year-old who stepped down as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Facebook in 2022 after more than 14 years in the role shared the news on her Facebook page. Expressing that “the Meta business is strong and well-positioned for the future, so this feels like the right time to step away.” Sheryl Sandberg will be resigning from Meta’s board in May 2024.

    Although she is relinquishing her board position, Sandberg will maintain ties with Meta by serving as an advisor and pledging ongoing support to the company’s teams, as mentioned in her post. She expressed gratitude to Mark Zuckerberg, acknowledging him as a visionary leader and a steadfast friend who stood by her during both joyful and challenging times. Zuckerberg reciprocated the sentiment in a comment, expressing anticipation for the next chapter together.

    Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO and founder of Meta, expressed anticipation for “a new chapter together.” Sandberg, formerly the right-hand woman to Zuckerberg, held a prominent position as one of the company’s most controversial executives who faced various oppositions. And was the subject of intense public argument during her tenure, including the Cambridge Analytica scandal and concerns about user data mining for advertising purposes.

    Before Facebook, Sandberg held roles as Vice President at Google and Chief of Staff for the US Treasury Department under Bill Clinton. She wrote the popular 2013 book Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead which garnered both acclaim and criticism. The book went on to inspire a generation of working women while facing scrutiny for overlooking the struggles of single parents and women of color. Despite the controversies, Sandberg remains a recognized and successful figure in corporate America, breaking barriers in an industry historically dominated by men.

  • Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Feature Removed Following Patent Dispute

    Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Feature Removed Following Patent Dispute

    Due to a patent dispute with Masimo, Apple plans to omit the Apple watch blood oxygen monitoring feature from its latest smartwatch models, the Series 9 and Ultra 2. This is in response to a potential ban on the devices in the United States, pending the outcome of an appeal.

    The disclosure came on Monday from Masimo Corp., a company entangled in a patent dispute with Apple concerning the technology behind Apple watch blood oxygen measurement. Masimo revealed that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection approved this plan on January 12, asserting that Apple’s redesign falls outside the scope of the import ban imposed by the U.S. International Trade Commission. This decision suggests that Apple’s adjustment will enable it to maintain the availability of its watches in the market.

    The dispute originated from an ITC ruling in October, declaring that Apple’s devices violated Masimo’s patents related to Apple Watch blood oxygen measurement. Consequently, Apple halted the sales of its smartwatches just before Christmas, but an interim stay allowed the company to resume sales late last month.

    To address the issue, Apple developed a software workaround to resolve the dispute and presented the solution to the customs agency last week. The watches, according to Apple, unequivocally do not contain the disputed technology known as pulse oximetry, as confirmed by Masimo.

    This is contingent on the outcome of Apple’s appeal to a federal court for a longer stay. The company anticipates a ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit as early as Tuesday, with the possibility of the appeal period lasting a year or more.

    During this interim period, the Apple Watch blood oxygen feature remains available on newly sold Apple Watch units. However, if the appeal fails, the removal of this feature would be a consequential move to avert the reimposition of the ban, which could have taken effect as soon as this month.

    Masimo commended Apple’s claim that the redesigned watch does not contain pulse oximetry, emphasizing the importance of large companies respecting intellectual property rights. Removing the technology from the Apple Watch could impact customer demand, but it seems Apple is prepared for this scenario, having shipped modified Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches to U.S. retail locations, pending corporate approval.

    Simultaneously, a federal appeals court is expected to address Apple’s motion for a continued stay on the ban. The ITC has urged the court to reject arguments opposing the enforcement of the ban, characterizing them as “weak and unconvincing.”

  • Sam Bankman-Fried: FTX Crypto Broker Resigns Following Bankruptcy

    Sam Bankman-Fried: FTX Crypto Broker Resigns Following Bankruptcy

    The second largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world Futures Exchange popularly known as FTX has come to a screeching halt following liquidity crunch. FTX crypto founder Sam Bankman-Fried has also stepped down from his position as Chief Executive Officer.

    Earlier this week, Bankman-Fried reached out to Binance founder Changpeng Zhao to solicit for help to cover the liquidity crunch. Which Sam also made public in a tweet. But Zhao pulled out and everyone wants to know why.

    For the past three years, the multi-billion dollar company FTX has become widely recognized as a reputable cryptocurrency exchange platform for trading digital currencies. Despite not adhering to U.S. regulation, FTX crypto has developed into one of the world’s largest exchanges.

    FTX Crypto Broker Sam Bankman
    FTX former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried

     Binance CEO purchased 20% stake in FTX barely a year after the crypto firm’s inception. Bankman-Fried acquired Zhao’s stake in FTX crypto last year which he compensated in part with FTT, the company’s native cryptocurrency token.

    Why FTX Crypto Crashed

    Upon discovery of a significant quota of FTT tokens in Alameda Research’s possession via information leakage, Binance bowed out of their deal to help FTX. Alameda is a trading firm jointly run by Alameda CEO Caroline Ellison and Sam Bankman-Fried, who were rumored to have been romantically involved.

    As a result of the disclosure, Binance via a tweet on twitter declared their intentions of selling the FTT tokens, a move that launched FTX crypto into cash crisis. As they struggled to process mass withdrawal requests. The FTT tokens fell in value while investors and traders continuously pulled out of FTX. In the span of three days, over $6 billion withdrawals were made.

    Running to Binance for assistance was FTX’s strategy to protect its customers from the impending credit crisis. But the swift detour by Binance from the supposed deal has left FTX in a lurch. In a statement regarding the development, reports of mishandled funds as well as corporate due diligence appear to be the reasons for backing out.

    Sources with in-depth information and knowledge of the matter disclosed that aside selling unregistered securities, lobbying politicians and investors to establish crypto-friendly regulatory rules , divulged that Alameda Research played a crucial role in FTX’s collapse.

    The price of FTT tokens has since plummeted, continuing a downward spiral that rocked the cryptocurrency market. Now, due to the FTX debacle, Bitcoin and Ethereum prices have dropped below $16,000 and $1,100 respectively.

  • A Look Into Figma Acquisition By Adobe 2022

    A Look Into Figma Acquisition By Adobe 2022

    On September 15, 2022, news of the Figma Acquisition By Adobe broke the internet. Dylan Field, the Co-founder and CEO of Figma, publicly announced on Twitter its procurement by Computer software company Adobe Inc.

    Figma is a collaborative web application/tool for UI and UX designers, including designers of all ages, geographies, and levels of experience, for interface design.

    figma's acquisition by adobe
    Figma Logo Credit: Geeky Nigeria

    It was launched on 27 September 2016 with unarguably one of the most excellent design, prototyping, and code-generation tools.

    The Figma design tool is web-centric, but there are desktop versions for both Windows and Mac OS. What makes this design tool spectacular is that it allows for live, real-time collaboration. Meaning, team members can all log into a design at the same time and simultaneously make changes to it.

    pexels
    Figma collaborative interface allows designers work on a project at the same time credit: pexels.com

    According to Dylan Field, Figma’s acquisition by Adobe was an opportunity to make design and developer tools more collaborative and accessible.

    Dylan also stated that the acquisition was to accelerate the growth and innovation of the Figma platform with access to Adobe’s technology, expertise and resources in the creative space.

    Dylan Field
    Dylan Field, CEO Figma

    The newly acquired Figma web application will experience expert incorporation of imaging, photography, illustration, video, 3D and font technology. As well as a re-imagination of the best creative tools within the Figma technology stack.

    The merger and acquisition which cost approximately $20 billion in cash and stock will keep Figma operating autonomously. Dylan will continue serving as CEO, reporting to David Wadhwani. David is the executive vice president and chief business officer of Digital Media at Adobe. While the entire Figma team will report to the former Figma CEO.

    CEO Dylan reports to David Wadhwani
    David Wadhwani Adobe

    Adobe Inc., in a press release also made emphasis on how the merger would re-imagine the future of creativity, advance product design and empower the designer and developer community.

  • Robots to be Deployed in Hospitals to help COVID-19 Patients

    Robots to be Deployed in Hospitals to help COVID-19 Patients

    To fight off the global pandemic and help COVID-19 patients, Kochi-based Asimov Robotics, a company working under the Maker Village of Kerala start-up mission, has unveiled their innovative robots, which are to be deployed in hospitals to provide assistance to the elderly, disabled, and sick people, especially the COVID-19 patients in isolation wards.

    Asimov Robotics claims that “doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers are unable to provide care during disease outbreaks without the risk of getting infected by the quarantined patient. Thus, the aim of the innovation is to prevent the spread of Covid-19 by providing robots to care for the covid-19 patients inside isolation wards.

    Sayabot design

    covid-19
    Sayabot

    The Sayabot is a care-giving robot. The robot has a face and gesture recognition as well as an autonomous navigation capability which allows it to simply navigates in indoor areas.

    What makes this particular robot unique is the presence of an NLP (natural language processing), which allows the robot to intelligently converse with humans through voice and text. The robot has dexterous arms and hands that allow the robot to make human-like gestures and interactions.

    Unfortunately, the Sayabot design was considered too big to fit in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit), thus hindering healthcare workers during busy hours. Alternatively, a “Karmi-bot” design was created.

    “Karmi-bot” design

    “Karmi-bot”

    This robot design is small, easy to handle, lightweight, has an autonomous remote control, has a detachable container with a self-disinfection facility of used items, self-charging, and can video stream as well as video conference.

    The robot is designed with “a tray that can carry both food and medicines and an automatic disinfectant sprayer for cleaning the floor.” The bot can take food and medicines of about 25 kg for 5 patient beds.

    Asimov Robotics also added that their robotic innovation will not only cover healthcare but “has a wide array of capabilities that make it work in airports, hotels, education and training, or any human environment.”

  • Life After COVID-19: Aviointeriors Leads with Innovative Seat Design for Economy Fliers

    Life After COVID-19: Aviointeriors Leads with Innovative Seat Design for Economy Fliers

    Concerns about the safety of passengers on flight in the aftermath of the global pandemic (COVID-19) has been on the rise. There is the need for the compulsory use of face masks and it has become essential that passengers need to maintain a distance of approximately six feet or two meters from others.  

    As part of the solution to the safety of passengers, especially the economic fliers, an Italian firm Aviointeriors known to have been producing aircraft cabin interiors and passengers’ seats for over 40 years, has come up with an interesting new seat design that would best ensure a safe distance between passengers. 

    Janus and Glassafe Seats Design

    The two new seat designs were called the “Janus seat” and the “Glassafe seat”. Plans for the both seat designs were released by Aviointeriors on the 20th of this month (April 2020). 

    source: Aviointeriors 

    The “Janus seats” contain three seats in a row that prevents passengers from directly facing each other in a close proximity. The middle seat is made to face the back while the rest of the seats face the front thus, it was called a “two face Janus”. Each seat has a shield around it believed to have been “made of transparent material” that act to “prevent breath propagation”  

    The “Glassafe seats” has some protective shield that not only separates passengers but “to reduce the probability of contamination by virus or any other.” 

    Aviointeriors told CNN that many airlines have already started showing interest in both the Jenus and the Glassafe seat designs thus, the company is currently going through the engineering design steps. In fact, the company believes and promised to deliver the newly designed seats within 6 months. 

    Although the company has acknowledged the weight nature of the “Glassafe” design but they insist, having such a design is better than flying with an empty middle seat. 

    Satisfied that both designs are suitable for narrow and wide body aircraft, the company went ahead to file patent applications for the both designs.

  • WhatsApp now lets you control who can add you to Groups

    WhatsApp now lets you control who can add you to Groups

    WhatsApp has added a new feature that will stop people from automatically adding you to groups.

    The Facebook-owned company will now allow you to block randoms from adding you to annoying group chats and spare you from unnecessary notifications.

    This new privacy feature is to give users more control over how they use group chats. Who is able to add them to a group and more importantly, who can’t.

    How to enable this new WhatsApp feature

    To enable it, go to Settings in your app, then tap Account > Privacy > Groups and select one of three options: “Nobody”, “My Contacts”, or “Everyone”.

    “Nobody” means you’ll have to approve joining every group to which you’re invited, and “My Contacts” means only users you have in your address book can add you to groups.

    In those cases, the person adding you to a group will be prompted to send a private invite through an individual chat, giving you the choice of joining the group. You will have three days to accept the invite before it expires.

    With these new features, users will have more control over the group messages they receive. These new privacy settings will begin rolling out to some users starting today and will be available worldwide in the coming weeks to those using the latest version of WhatsApp. A statement from whatsApp official site.

  • Samsung Galaxy Fold: what you need to know about the Samsung foldable Smartphone

    Samsung Galaxy Fold: what you need to know about the Samsung foldable Smartphone

    Samsung has unveiled a foldable smartphone,tablet-like display and would be able to run up to three apps at once.

    The design doesn’t just stand out. It stands apart.The highly anticipated Galaxy Fold is a new foldable device that features the world’s first 7.3-inch Infinity Flex Display, which folds into a compact device with a cover display.

    The handset will be available in Space Silver, Cosmos Black, Martian Green and Astro Blue colour schemes.

    Galaxy Fold Release Date and Pricing

    The Galaxy Fold is set to go on sale on April 26, 2019 and will start at $1,980.

    Galaxy Fold Features

    • Android 9.0
    • Power: 4380mAh battery, split over two separate cells. Ready to go all day.
    • Six cameras, one on the cover, three on the rear and dual front selfie cameras.
    • 12GB RAM, 512GB storage
    • 7.3-inch Infinity Flex Display
    • Fingerprint sensor
    • Foldable display, wireless charging.

    Galaxy Fold offers a powerful new way to multitask, watch videos, play games, and chat at once – bringing to life new experiences and possibilities.

  • Emiliano Sala: Body identified after recovery on Wednesday

    Emiliano Sala: Body identified after recovery on Wednesday

    Dorset Police have confirmed that the body recovered from the wreckage of a crashed plane is that of Cardiff City player Emiliano Sala.

    The Argentine, 28, was travelling to Cardiff in a plane piloted by David Ibbotson, which went missing over the English Channel on 21 January.

    The body was recovered late on Wednesday after the wreckage was found on Sunday morning.

    Dorset Police confirmed the identification on Thursday night.

    In a statement, the force said: “The body brought to Portland Port today, Thursday 7 February 2019, has been formally identified by HM Coroner for Dorset as that of professional footballer Emiliano Sala.

    “The families of Mr Sala and the pilot David Ibbotson have been updated with this news and will continue to be supported by specially-trained family liaison officers.”

    The body was spotted in the wreckage of the plane on Monday and the authorities were able to recover it two days later, despite “challenging conditions”.

    The Air Accidents Investigations Branch (AAIB) said the operation had been carried out “as dignified a way as possible” and the men’s families were kept updated throughout.

    Emiliano Sala (left) was on board a plane being flown by pilot David Ibbotson

    The Geo Ocean III, which was involved in finding the wreckage, took the body back to the nearest port of Portland in Dorset, where the body was formally identified.

    The Piper Malibu N264DB was en route from France to Cardiff, after the Argentine striker made a quick trip back to his former club Nantes two days after his £15m transfer to Cardiff was announced.

    Cardiff City, issued a statement shortly after identification was confirmed, saying: “We offer our most heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of Emiliano. He and David will forever remain in our thoughts.”

    Some of the club’s players reacted via Twitter. Full back Joe Bennett wrote “RIP Emiliano”, while centre-half Sol Bamba posted a black-and-white image of the team-mate he never got to play alongside.

    Stars from the wider footballing world also paid tribute.

    Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger wrote: “Heartbreaking to hear the news about Emiliano Sala. Rest in peace! Thoughts go out to the family and friends of Emiliano and the pilot.”

    And Arsenal’s Mehmet Ozil tweeted: “No words to describe how sad this is. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and also to the family of the pilot.”

    Mr Ibbotson, 59, from Crowle, North Lincolnshire, was at the controls when the flight lost contact with air traffic controllers on 21 January.

    He is yet to be found.

    An official search was called off on 24 January after Guernsey’s harbour master said the chances of survival were “extremely remote”.

    But an online appeal started by Sala’s agent raised £324,000 (371,000 euros) for a private search led by marine scientist and oceanographer David Mearns.

    Working jointly with the AAIB, his ship and the Geo Ocean III, began combing a four square mile area of the English Channel, 24 nautical miles north of Guernsey, to make best use of the available sensors.

    Mr Mearns said the plane was identified by sonar, 67m (220ft) below the surface, before a submersible with cameras was sent underwater to confirm this.

    Cardiff fans left a sea of flowers outside the Cardiff City Stadium in tribute to Emiliano Sala

    During the recovery operation, the AAIB used a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) to aid the search, with no divers involved.

    The body was moved first, and separately from the wreckage, to maximise the chances of it being successfully brought to the surface.

    It said efforts to recover the crashed plane as a whole proved unsuccessful, before being abandoned due to poor weather.

    “The weather forecast is poor for the foreseeable future and so the difficult decision was taken to bring the overall operation to a close,” the AAIB said in a statement.

    However, the AAIB said video footage captured by the ROV would provide “valuable evidence” for its safety investigation.

    Meanwhile, it has emerged that Sala’s former club, French Ligue 1 side Nantes, has demanded Cardiff City pay his £15m transfer fee.

    Sala was Cardiff’s record signing but never played for the club.

    The fee was due to be paid over three years but Cardiff have withheld the first scheduled payment until they are satisfied with the documentation.

  • Jussie Smollett returns to stage after attack

    Jussie Smollett returns to stage after attack

    Jussie Smollett made his first public appearance at a Los Angeles club Saturday night, just days after the Empire actor was the victim in an attack that is being investigated as a possible hate crime.

    “I had to be here tonight, y’all. I couldn’t let those motherfuckers win,” Smollett told the crowd at West Hollywood’s Troubadour. “So I will always stand for love. I will never stand for anything other than that.

    Regardless of what anyone else says, I will only stand for love.”

    Smollett continued, “I’m okay… I’m not fully healed yet but I’m going to, and I’m going to stand strong with y’all.”

    He also added “Be as black, be as brown, be as gay as the fuck you want to be. Now is the time: Be blacker, be gayer, do it right the fuck now.”

    Chicago suntimes reports, Smollett had made his first public comments about the incident on Friday in a written statement that said he had been “consistent on every level” with the police during their investigation, countering comments on social media saying he had changed his story and been uncooperative with investigators.

    “I am working with authorities and have been 100% factual and consistent on every level,” the statement said.

    Chicago police also said Smollett has been cooperative and they have found no reason to think he’s not being genuine.

  • Jose Mourinho accepts one-year jail sentence for tax fraud

    Jose Mourinho accepts one-year jail sentence for tax fraud

    Mourinho is one of the most successful coaches in modern European soccer, winning league titles with Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Porto. He also won the Champions League in 2004 with Porto and in 2010 with Inter Milan.

    Spanish prosecutors have sentenced the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid boss, Jose Mourinho to 12 months in prison as part of a deal reached in a tax fraud case.

    The 56-year-old, who reached an agreement with tax authorities after being accused of owing €3.3m while he was Real Madrid manager in 2011 and 2012.

    Jose Mourinho has accepted one year jail sentence and a fine of close to €2.2 million after admitting to tax fraud in Madrid – but will not serve time in jail.

    Sentences of less than two years for first-time offenders are usually suspended in Spain.

    Mourinho’s deal with the tax authorities will see him pay €1.9m – 60% of the amount defrauded. He is also paying a €182,500 fine in exchange for serving no jail time.

    He joins a long list of stars to be called out as tax dodgers by the Spanish Tax Agency.

    Last month Cristiano Ronaldo admitted committing tax fraud  and agreed to pay an €18.8m fine after striking a deal with prosecutors and tax authorities in return for a 23-month suspended prison sentence.

    Last year, Argentine Barca player Lionel Messi and his father received jail sentences and fines for tax offenses.

    The suspended sentences were later replaced with fines.

  • Emiliano Sala’s father ‘desperate’ as missing plane found

    Emiliano Sala’s father ‘desperate’ as missing plane found

    The plane which disappeared with Cardiff City footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson on board has been found in the English Channel, confirmed search director David Mearns.

    A search boat located the wreckage on the seabed of the English Channel at 9am on Sunday, following a search led by David Mearns, a marine explorer who has been working alongside the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).

    Speaking on Radio 4’s Today programme, Mr Mearns said: “We located the wreckage of the plane on the seabed at a depth of about 63m within the first couple of hours [of searching].”

    He said the plane was identified by sonar, before a submersible with cameras was sent underwater and was able to confirm it was the plane.

    “They saw the registration number and the biggest surprise is that most of the plane is there,” he added.

    He was asked if the bodies of Sala and Ibbotson were onboard, Mearns said: “That’s a possibility and they’ll be planning for that. There’s a number of things the AAIB have to consider, but their main role is to conduct their investigation on what caused this crash.”

    Mr Mearns said in tweet: “The families of Emiliano Sala and David Ibbotson have been notified by police.”

    Emiliano Sala’s father has spoken of his anguish and disbelief after wreckage of the plane carrying his missing son was discovered in the English Channel.

    Speaking at his home in Argentina, Horacio Sala said he was “desperate” after a privately-funded search operation found the aircraft in waters north of Guernsey on Sunday.

    “I cannot believe it. This is a dream. A bad dream. I am desperate,” Horacio Sala told the local broadcaster Crónica TV.

    Based on the search operation, we will bring you more if any new update

  • Police Launch Investigations on Jussie Smollett Attack

    Police Launch Investigations on Jussie Smollett Attack

    American actor Jussie Smollet, an empire star has been attacked in Chicago, by two men who shouted racist and homophobic slurs. Chicago police are investigating it as a hate crime.

    Police say the 36-year-old Empire cast member was walking home from a 24-hour Subway restaurant in the 300 block of E. Lower North Water Street around 2 a.m. when two men allegedly began yelling homophobic and racial slurs at the actor on North Lower Water Street near Smollett’s apartment.

    Chicago police say along with the verbal attack Smollett reported the men threw an unknown substance on him and placed a rope around his neck.

    Sources say Smollett left the rope on his neck roughly 45 minutes until police arrived.

    But the alleged attacked is not captured on the hundreds of surveillance videos the 12 detectives assigned to the case have poured through.

    “I know the police department is working aggressively,” Mayor Rahm Emanuel said. “The alleged statement of what happened her is horrific, and there’s no place for it in the City of Chicago.”

    Smollett also told police the attackers allegedly yelled, “This is MAGA country,” referring to President Donald Trump’s slogan.

    Police say there is video of Smollett inside the Subway, and they located video of the people wanted for questioning Wednesday.

    Detectives are working the incident as a possible hate crime.

    Smollett, who was not seriously hurt, talked to CNN’s Don Lemon who said “Smollett was shaken and angry” and “fought back at the attackers.” Chicago CBS reports.

    “The racist, homophobic attack on Jussie Smollett is an affront to our humanity. No one should be attacked for who they are or whom they love,” House speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a tweet. “I pray that Jussie has a speedy recovery and that justice is served. May we all commit to ending this hate once and for all”

  • Alvaro Morata joins Atletico Madrid on 18-month loan deal

    Alvaro Morata joins Atletico Madrid on 18-month loan deal

    Alvaro Morata, a Chelsea striker has completed his move from Chelsea to Atletico Madrid, signing for the Spanish club on loan until the end of the season.

    Alvaro Morata Martin is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a striker for Spanish club Atletico Madrid on loan from Chelsea and the Spain national team

    The 26-year-old joined Chelsea from Real Marid following a stint at Juventus, becoming their club record signing in a £58million deal in the summer of 2017.

    After an impressive start at Chelsea, Morata lost form and confidence. He scored 24 goals in 74 appearances for the English club since signing for Chelsea from Real Madrid the summer of 2017.

    Accord to Atletico’s club website, Morata said: “I feel very happy. I am very content and very proud to be here, I can’t wait to train, to be with my teammates and to play.”

    The Spaniard spent four seasons at our Academy, having originally joined as an “Alevín,” and was a teammate of Koke during his first spell at our club. The two will now reunite in our first team, in which the striker will wear the number 22 shirt.

    Morata has proven himself as a prolific goal scorer in some of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Apart from his time in La Liga and the Premier League, the striker also played for Italian club Juventus in the Serie A.

    Moreover, he has earned 27 caps for Spain, netting 13 goals. With Morata’s arrival, we add a very talented striker to our club, who has the ability to score with his feet and his head thanks to his height and to combine with his teammates. 

  • Anthony Martial close to signing a new Five-year contract extension with Man Utd

    Anthony Martial close to signing a new Five-year contract extension with Man Utd

    The Manchester United winger and France international has agreed to extend his ties with the English club for the next 5 seasons, which will keep him at Old Trafford until June, 2024.

    Martial’s current contract was set to expire at the end of next season after the club triggered an optional year’s extension to his contract recently, but senior figures at the club have been working hard to secure his long-term future after a strong season so far.

    Anthony Martial has scored 10 goals in 25 appearances in all competitions so far this season.

    The 23-year-old forward is understood to have reached a final agreement with the club after months of talks and the rejection of an offer last October. Football Journalist Mohamed Bouhafsi posted on Twitter that the deal is expected to the be sealed on Friday.

    ​Martial came in for some heavy criticism from former manager Jose Mourinho and was rumoured to leave the club last summer after being fined for his extended absence from a training camp.

    However, he responded on the pitch with six goals in five Premier League games, and Mourinho said in November that he would like Martial to stay.

    United are also making progress on a contract extension for goalkeeper David de Gea, according to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

    Juan Mata, Ander Herrera and Ashley Young also face uncertain futures with all three out of contract at the end of this season.

  • Gonzalo Higuain Completes Loan Move to Chelsea

    Gonzalo Higuain Completes Loan Move to Chelsea

    Amid rumors surrounding future of AC Milan star Gonzalo Higuain has been officially confirmed. Marca came out with an article about Higuain’s imminent transfer to Chelsea early this year.

    Gonzalo Gerardo Higuaín is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a striker for English club Chelsea, on loan from Juventus, and the Argentina national team.

    Higuain spent the first half of the campaign on loan at AC Milan, where he scored eight goals in 22 appearances.

    The striker played under Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri while at Napoli in 2015-16, equalling the Serie A goal scoring record with 36 goals.

    Chelsea FC reports, upon completing his loan move to Chelsea, Higuain, who will wear the number nine shirt, said: ‘When the opportunity to join Chelsea presented itself I had to take it. It’s a team I’ve always liked that has a lot of history, a wonderful stadium and they play in the Premier League, a league I’ve always wanted to play in.

    ‘I now hope I can give back that trust Chelsea have shown me out on the pitch. I can’t wait to start and I hope to adapt as soon as possible.’

    Director Marina Granovskaia added: ‘Gonzalo was our number one target in this transfer window and arrives with a proven record at the highest level. He has previously worked with Maurizio to great effect and is familiar with how the coach likes to play.

    ‘This was not an easy deal for us to do because of the numerous parties involved, but we are delighted we were able to make it happen and we look forward to seeing the impact Gonzalo will make for us in the second half of the season.’

    As well as a glittering club career Higuain has been an important member of the Argentina national team for the last 10 years. The player was born in Brest, France, although he attained Argentine citizenship in 2007 through his father.

    Higuain scored on his full debut in a World Cup qualifier against Peru in 2009, and was subsequently named in the squad for the 2010 finals where he finished as joint-second top scorer after netting four goals, including a hat-trick against South Korea.

  • Barcelona Signs Dutch Midfielder Frenkie De Jong from Ajax

    Barcelona Signs Dutch Midfielder Frenkie De Jong from Ajax

    Frenkie de Jong is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Ajax.

    Barcelona signed 21-year-old Dutch midfielder from Ajax for 75 million Euros, plus a further 11 million in variables on Wednesday, although he won’t start playing until next season.

    Accord to FC Barcelona news, “FC Barcelona and Ajax have reached an agreement for the transfer of midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who will be joining the Catalan club from 1 July 2019. The player will be signing a contract for the next five seasons, through to 2023/24”.

    De Jong has been compared to Barça legend Johan Cruyff, a comparison he vehemently rejects, “I feel honoured,” De Jong says. “But I don’t think you can compare the two of us. He is so much better than me. He had so much quality. I will never reach that level. I don’t want to compare myself to Cruyff. And I think people who do that don’t want me to compare to Cruyff, they just see similarities in us. But not the same qualities. I watch his videos and he was amazing; the way he moved with the ball, the way he saw the game.”

    Watching him move around the pitch, orchestrating play, breaking opposition lines with his dribbles and using smart passes to manoeuvre colleagues like chess pieces, De Jong’s acumen for identifying and utilising space is striking. Like Cruyff before him, he plays football intelligently and intuitively, something he discussed in a recent interview with the guardian.

    “When I am on the pitch I play on intuition but I think a lot about the game as well,” De Jong said. “With my intuition, it is not just that I receive the ball and always think ‘I’m going to do this’ straight away, even though it just happens that way sometimes.

    “Most good players play on intuition. Everyone has a little but I don’t know if you can learn it. Sometimes I’m planning. I’m always searching for the pass. I’m always looking to see my teammate. ‘Is he free?’ Then you already know what to do. But sometimes the situation can change. Then you have to react and use your intuition. I try to have a picture when I receive the ball and know where everyone is. That’s one of the most important things for a midfielder.”

  • Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) Revealed the ending of ‘Game of Thrones’ Season 8

    Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) Revealed the ending of ‘Game of Thrones’ Season 8

    The clock is ticking, every seconds seems like an hour as we impatiently wait for the beginning-of-the-end of our favorite–at least most of us–TV show Game of Thrones, to return to our TV screens. April 2019 sure feels like a decade from now.

    However, while we wait, GoT actress, Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) has spilled the beans about the ending of HBO’s  Game of Thrones to a few close friends but only because they asked for it.

    Sophie revealed in an interview with W Magazine that she couldn’t resist dropping a few discreet bombshells when quizzed by her loved ones.

    Fully admitting that she is entirely useless at keeping secret, “I’m so bad at keeping secrets,” Sophie admitted. “I don’t think people tell me things anymore because they know that I can’t keep them. I’ve already told the ending of Game of Thrones to a few people.”

    She clarified that she was actually sober when she shared the conclusion with her friends, Turner said: “I was like, ‘hey, if you want to know, I’ll tell you.’ But it’s people that I know not random people. It’s people that I know will keep the secret.”

    Could this be the revelation of Sansa and Arya’s deaths in Game of Thrones Season 8?

    Maybe, if we ask nicely we can get on the good side of Sophie and have her tell us the ‘secret’, in the meantime, here is a trailer to reflect on.

    In the short clip above, Jon Snow (played by Kit Harington) reflects on his true heritage.

    The hero of The North will soon discover his real parents after believing he was a bastard all of his life.

    Jon takes a trip through the Winterfell crypts while voices from season one echo through.

    He remembers Ned Stark’s (Sean Bean) words about how he is a Stark through blood, and wonders what that means.

    It seems he’s coming close to an answer when the footage flips to Sansa Stark (Sophie Turner) and Arya Stark (Maisie Williams).

    However, it seems there’s a big clue as to the end of Game of Thrones.

    The trio stand in front of some statues of themselves and the camera lingers on them.

    Game of Thrones season 8 teaser trailer: Arya Stark’s statue is similar to her now (Image: HBO)

    It quickly transpires they are representative of each characters.

    Arya and Sansa’s statues are their likeness today but it is the contrast with Jon’s that seems to shed light on what’s coming.

    His is decidedly older and is sporting a big beard.

    Does this flip to the future suggest there’s going to be one survivor in the Stark clan?

    Furthermore, there’s no sign of Bran Stark (Isaac Hempstead Wright) in the teasing clip.

    Game of Thrones season 8 teaser trailer: Sansa Stark’s statue is also familiar (Image: HBO)
    Game of Thrones season (GoT) 8 teaser trailer: Jon Snow’s statue is noticeably older (Image: HBO)

    Game of Thrones season 8 will return to HBO and Sky Atlantic on April 14. Seasons 1-7 are currently streaming on NOW TV.