Home Blog Page 1155

Five Superior Sitcoms That Outshine The Big Bang Theory

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Five Superior Sitcoms That Outshine The Big Bang Theory

Raj, Leonard, Howard, and Sheldon gathered around a laptop

CBS

Over the years, viewers have noticed a growing number of questionable aspects of “The Big Bang Theory.” As society progresses, this list seems to expand. For instance, the character of Penny, played by Kaley Cuoco, often draws criticism. Many argue that her character is a result of being crafted predominantly by male writers, which is evident in how every major female character in the show serves as a love interest for one of the four main male protagonists, all of whom happen to be mostly white and heterosexual. The show is criticized for perpetuating what Pop Culture Detective refers to as “Adorkable Misogyny,” a misguided notion that when a nerdy man behaves disrespectfully towards women, it is humorous and charming rather than problematic and sexist.

Throughout its 12-season run, “The Big Bang Theory” was primarily driven by a male-dominated creative team. Few women received significant recognition during its duration. The introduction of characters like Amy, played by Mayim Bialik, and Bernadette, portrayed by Melissa Rauch, primarily served to solidify romantic subplots for three of the main male characters, effectively deflecting criticism of their characters’ predatory actions towards women they desired. Fortunately, numerous other sitcoms explore similar themes without compromising the intricacy of their female characters or resorting to cringe-inducing humor, which “The Big Bang Theory” unabashedly employed for years.

The IT Crowd

Maurice Moss wearing his signature short-sleeve button up with a tie and sitting in conversation in the IT department

Channel 4/Amazon

The realm of nerd culture, long overlooked in media, was brought to the forefront by the British sitcom “The IT Crowd.” The British often pioneer unique comedic approaches, and this show is a prime example. It centers around the IT department at Reynholm Industries, a vast corporation set in London. The team consists of Jen Barber (Katherine Parkinson), the head, whose strengths lie in social skills rather than technical know-how, Maurice Moss (Richard Ayoade), a brilliant software engineer, Roy Trenneman (Chris O’Dowd), an underachieving jokester, and part-time tech Richmond Avenal (Noel Fielding), who intriguingly shares traits with a vampire.

“The IT Crowd” masterfully blends humor with workplace realities in the tech industry, depicting the quirks of life in IT. Ayoade’s portrayal of Moss offers a wealth of standalone comedic moments, making for some of the show’s funniest sequences. The series employs subversive humor without malice, appealing to a devoted fanbase in both the U.K. and the U.S. Though it spanned only four seasons — quite the accomplishment for British TV yet modest compared to series like “The Big Bang Theory” — it left a lasting impression, celebrated for its clever humor and authenticity.

How I Met Your Mother

Ted, Robin, Barney, Lily, and Marshall sitting in a row, waiting to initiate Lily and Marshall's Atlantic City wedding

CBS

For viewers seeking comedy that occasionally dips into sexism, “How I Met Your Mother” provides an alternative without the overwhelming presence of objectionable behavior seen in 12 seasons of “The Big Bang Theory.” With a cast that includes only a couple of objectionable characters, who frequently encounter their just desserts, the series offers a refreshing take on the sitcom formula. Following in the footsteps of “Friends,” which defined a generation, “How I Met Your Mother” assembled a charismatic group of New Yorkers, enhanced by a compelling mystery — how did the main character, Ted, eventually meet the mother of his children, a story narrated by Bob Saget as an older version of Ted?

It ran for nine network seasons (remember when TV shows were made of 22-episode-long seasons?), so “How I Met Your Mother” offers many episodes full of comedy and intrigue. While Neil Patrick Harris was definitely the show’s rising star, each of its main cast members brings confidence and individuality to their performances, and they have genuine chemistry as an ensemble. The show’s inside jokes are top-tier; for example, Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) has to wear a funny-looking tie with ducks on it for a good chunk of episodes in Season 7 because of a lost bet with Marshall (Jason Segel). 

St. Denis Medical

Emergency surgeon, Bruce, and ER Attending, Ron, standing in the hospital side-by-side in workwear

NBC

A workplace comedy with heart and substance, “St. Denis Medical” is a spiritual successor to  “Superstore,” Justin Spitzer’s earlier series. “St. Denis” follows the staff of a small hospital in a fictional Oregon town. David Alan Grier has found something really special as the show’s elder statesman, and it’s a joy to see Wendi McLendon-Covey finally appreciated as the leading comedic talent she’s always been. Alex, the charge nurse at St. Denis, is the series’ — and the hospital’s — anchor, and manages to be endearing even at her most neurotic moments.  

More importantly, there is something essential in the act of finding humor in a place like a hospital. In the same way that “Abbott Elementary” raises awareness about issues in America’s education system as well as conveys the many unique joys that come with being a teacher or a student, “St. Denis Medical” gives an accurate picture of healthcare in today’s United States and shows that there are a lot of hardworking, well-meaning people working in emergency medicine. “St. Denis Medical” just wrapped up its stellar sophomore season and will be back with a third in the fall.

Mythic Quest

Poppy (dressed in cosplay), Ian, and Brad standing together in attendance at games conference

Apple TV+

There are many facets of what many people call “nerd culture,” and within those facets, even more variability, so it’s impossible to capture all of it in one fell swoop. Better, then, to zoom in on particular parts when seeking a window into something a little cool and a little geeky. “Mythic Quest” follows the developers of a fictional, wildly popular MMO RPG in the same vein as “World of Warcraft.” It’s also a great window into the video game industry, not just its draining, disheartening downsides like increased monetization and rampant misogyny, but also its good sides. People who love video games are often imaginative and open-minded, and video games have become a proper art form in their own right. They’re still relatively new to the world, and yet so much a part of entertainment and popular culture.

To be clear, “Mythic Quest” is not particularly uplifting most of the time. Most of the time, its flawed characters will disappoint, consistently making the wrong choices and ignoring the right people. But the cast is lousy with comedic talent, including Danny Pudi as Brad, the brilliant, soulless head of monetization. Jessie Ennis’s Jo could easily stand in the company of other iconic, workplace weirdos like “The Office’s” Dwight Schrute (Rainn Wilson) or “Parks and Recreation’s” April Ludgate (Aubrey Plaza). It’s not a perfect show — the plot occasionally dwindles, and Rob McElhenney will never easily read as sincere on screen thanks to his many years of playing Mac on “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” — but the laughs are top-notch, and there is an earnestness in its love for video games that somewhat counters the general awfulness of the industry as depicted onscreen.

What We Do in the Shadows

Nandor, Colin Robinson, and Guillermo siting on dark furniture in a macabre-looking room while The Guide (Kristen Schaal) prepares equipment in front of them

FX

Some of the comedies on this list relate to “The Big Bang Theory” through its many elements, offering an alternative avenue for enjoying them. “What We Do in the Shadows” is on this list just because it’s really, really good and criminally underrated. The series follows a group of vampire roommates who share a big, creaking house together on Staten Island. Nandor the Relentless (Kayvan Novak) is the eldest, while Nadja (Natasia Demetriou) and Laszlo (Matt Berry) are a wedded couple from the Europe of centuries past. The most interesting residents of the house aren’t traditional vampires, but rather Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch) — the show’s fantastic interpretation of a paranormal “energy vampire” (he drains energy as the coworker you never want to get stuck talking to at the office) — and Guillermo (Harvey Guillén), Nandor’s devoted familiar.

The cast of “What We Do in the Shadows” was never in it for the Emmys, but it’s a shame the series didn’t receive more praise while it was airing new seasons. The cast has fantastic chemistry as an ensemble, but more importantly, it works to utilize every possible combination of characters throughout its six seasons on FX. In every venture into paranormal lore, with the introduction of things like werewolves and ghosts, the series offers clever framing and context that buffs the humor. It’s already pretty funny to see an ancient vampire becoming best friends with his obnoxious, Staten Island neighbor in mockumentary format, but the joke writing on the show — the bit writing on the show, so many great bits — is immaculate.

Tragedy Strikes: 13-Year-Old Boy Fatally Shot at Sleepover in Friend’s Home

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Tragedy Strikes: 13-Year-Old Boy Fatally Shot at Sleepover in Friend’s Home

In a tragic incident in Georgia, a sleepover turned deadly for a 13-year-old boy who was fatally shot when a gunman unleashed a barrage of bullets into a house during the night. This horrifying attack also resulted in the death of a 45-year-old man.

The young victim, identified as Demarcus Shirley, was spending the night with several friends at a home in DeKalb County when gunfire shattered the pre-dawn calm on July 2.

According to investigators, multiple rounds were fired into the residence, tragically killing both Demarcus and the older victim, Chauncey Newman. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

Remarkably, the other children present in the house escaped unharmed physically, despite the terrifying events that unfolded.

In a significant development days after the shooting, authorities apprehended 21-year-old Keyshun Webb. He now faces charges for the murders as the investigation delves into suspicions of a gang-related motive behind the violent assault.

DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Webb was arrested on July 7 in connection with the deadly shooting.

He is being held without bond at the DeKalb County Jail and faces two counts of murder, eight counts of aggravated assault with a weapon and one count of cruelty to animals.

According to arrest warrants obtained by Atlanta News First, investigators believe Webb was also involved in another drive-by shooting on the same day.

Demarcus Shirley, 13, was fatally shot while at a sleepover at a friend's DeKalb County home after a gunman fired dozens of rounds into the house

Demarcus Shirley, 13, was fatally shot while at a sleepover at a friend’s DeKalb County home after a gunman fired dozens of rounds into the house

Chauncey Newman, 45, was also killed in the shooting. He was remembered by neighborhood children as a kind man who let youngsters into his home when they had nowhere else to go

Chauncey Newman, 45, was also killed in the shooting. He was remembered by neighborhood children as a kind man who let youngsters into his home when they had nowhere else to go

Authorities said shell casings recovered from both crime scenes matched, and investigators determined gang involvement was ‘likely.’

Police believe two vehicles carrying four male suspects were involved in the shootings, although no additional arrests have been announced.

As detectives continue piecing together the attack, friends and relatives are remembering Demarcus as an energetic teenager whose life was cut tragically short.

‘He seemed eager to learn. Kind of athletic,’ his great-uncle, Gregory Carthon, told Atlanta News First. ‘He had a lot of life in front of him.’

Heartbreaking video shared by family members showed Demarcus smiling and enjoying Father’s Day celebrations with loved ones little more than a week before he was killed.

For the boys who survived the shooting, the trauma remains overwhelming.

Larenzo Pinkins, who had been sleeping inside the house, recalled the horrifying moment he discovered his friend.

‘We had come upstairs, and I had seen him, and I tried to grab him, and he was dead. Demarcus,’ Pinkins told 11Alive.

Keyshun Webb, 21, has been charged with two counts of murder, eight counts of aggravated assault with a weapon and one count of cruelty to animals. He and is being held without bond

Keyshun Webb, 21, has been charged with two counts of murder, eight counts of aggravated assault with a weapon and one count of cruelty to animals. He and is being held without bond 

Consumed by grief, he struggled to explain why he wished he could have taken his friend’s place.

‘I’m happy it wasn’t me. I’m happy I wasn’t hit, but it should’ve been me, though, before Demarcus,’ he said. ‘Demarcus had too much life to live. He died too young.’

Another boy who survived the attack, Larry Bell-Ware, said Demarcus had no connection to violence.

‘He wasn’t in the streets at all,’ Bell-Ware said. ‘He’s just a funny little kid who liked to run around and play like a normal little kid.’

Pinkins said the pair had become inseparable.

‘He was really like my little brother for real. I’ve been with him every day for like two months,’ he told 11Alive.

The children also remembered Newman, whose home had become a safe haven for neighborhood youngsters.

Bell-Ware said Newman never turned children away if they needed somewhere to spend time.

‘He let us come over there when we had nowhere to go. Anybody,’ Bell-Ware said. ‘Any kids who were ever just walking around and didn’t have anywhere to go, they could just come here. He was just a good person in general.’

Authorities have not publicly disclosed what investigators believe sparked the fatal shooting.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to identify the remaining suspects they believe were involved.

Washington County Rescue Teams Successfully Evacuate Residents in Weekend Operation

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Washington County Rescue Teams Successfully Evacuate Residents in Weekend Operation

GREENE COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) – On Saturday, skilled rescue teams successfully carried out the evacuation of residents stranded by rising floodwater near a property on Little Cassi Creek Road in Chuckey, TN.

The Washington County/Johnson City Emergency Management Agency (WCJCEMA) reported that they received an urgent 911 call at 4:45 p.m. as torrential rain inundated the region, triggering the emergency response.

A coordinated effort was launched involving Washington County 911, Washington County/Johnson City EMS (WCJCEMS), the Nolichuckey Valley Fire Department, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and WCJCEMA to manage the rescue operations efficiently.

WCJCEMA officials noted that upon their arrival, the floodwaters intensified rapidly, becoming increasingly perilous. Due to the swift response of the WCJCEMA team specializing in swift water rescues, the residents were safely relocated to a secure area until the threat subsided. Fortunately, no injuries were recorded.

“Everyone involved trusted their training and made good decisions,” James Matthews, Public Affairs Officer for WCJCEMA and WCJCEMS said. “Because of that, everyone went home safely which is always our goal.”

The WCJCEMA said that Washington County will remain under a Flood Watch through late Sunday night into Monday morning.

If you or someone you know is in danger due to flooding is urged to call 911.

Vienna’s Social Housing Offers Anthony Affordable Living at Under $700 Monthly

NewsFinale Journal
-
0

Catch the latest episode of Vienna: A Renters’ Paradise, streaming now on SBS On Demand.

Vienna: A Renters’ Paradise

episodeDatelineNews And Current Affairs28m

Anthony and Alex share a charming one-bedroom, one-bath apartment complete with a balcony in Vienna. Their monthly rent is a modest €400 ($658), a figure that might raise eyebrows among Australians used to seeing similar apartments listed at weekly rates.

This affordability is largely due to Vienna’s robust social housing system, which houses Anthony, an Australian, and his Austrian partner, Alex. They join half of Vienna’s more than 2 million residents who benefit from this model of affordable housing.

“I think the rent we pay now is what I was paying in a sharehouse in Brisbane 24 years ago,” Anthony told SBS Dateline.

Alex has lived in the apartment since his 20s, when he became eligible through a Viennese municipal housing scheme.

Now, he can live there for the rest of his life.

Anthony moved in around nine years ago, and the pair have completely renovated the place.

The couple have been able to paint walls, renovate the kitchen (including installing a new countertop and oven), and decorate to their hearts’ content: something practically unheard of in Australia’s rental market.

“It’s definitely different from Australia because I mean, you would never even think replacing an oven or something in a rental,” Anthony said.

If the couple leaves, they can take the appliance with them, “or pass on the price to the new person coming if they want to keep it”.

So could this system — which may look to some like a renter’s paradise — ever work in Australia?

How Vienna’s social housing system works

Vienna has multiple forms of social housing, stemming back to the period between World War One and Two, when the city was governed by the Social Democratic Workers’ Party.

One type, Gemeindebau – meaning community or municipality building — is owned by the city of Vienna and is open to anyone whose income is below a specific level and who meets certain criteria. They form around 22 per cent of the city’s total housing stock.

Other social housing requires a deposit. Subsidised homes that require a deposit are largely run by non-profits or co-operatives with government subsidies. Often, the initial deposit is returned at the end of tenancy.

Some of Vienna’s affordable housing schemes are designed to help people in their twenties access the housing market.

Local Maximilian Schranz, 28, lives with his girlfriend Lisa in a one-bedroom social housing apartment, which they accessed through an under-30s scheme. They pay around €640 ($1,055) per month.

Max could stay in the apartment “however long I wanted to, theoretically”.

“The leases are without any term limits and then there’s even ways to give the lease to your immediate family if they wanted to and they’re eligible.”

A smiling young couple sits on a patterned red sofa in a cozy room filled with framed art, a large fiddle-leaf fig plant, and white bookshelves packed with colourful books.

He says the programs designed to encourage young Viennese people to live in apartments like these has “changed the image” of social housing.

“Now, I think, [there is] a kind of ‘cool feeling’ to it often in younger circles.”

The affordability of Vienna’s system

A single person who wants to get into one of Vienna’s social housing dwellings can’t be earning more than €61,280 (around $100,800).

For a couple, combined income can be no more than €91,320 (around $150,300) per year. Approximately 75 per cent of the city’s population earn less than these limits.

On its website, the City of Vienna says these relatively high income limits are so the “middle class” can also access social housing.

This helps create communities where people from a range of different backgrounds live together in the same building.

As well as being able to stay in apartments indefinitely, Anthony and Alex also aren’t subject to inspections.

“It’s your place. You don’t have inspections — it’s just really like your own,” Anthony said.

There are limitations to the system, though. Not everyone is entitled to social housing.

The requirements include living in Vienna for at least two years, and having either Austrian citizenship or equivalent status. This can make it difficult for asylum seekers to find affordable accommodation.

How does Australia’s social housing system work?

Around 4 per cent of Australia’s housing stock is social housing, compared to around 40 per cent in Vienna and 24 per cent in Austria generally.

In Australia, social housing is primarily divided into public housing, managed by state or federal governments, and community housing managed by non-profits.

Hal Pawson is an emeritus professor at the University of New South Wales who has researched housing for more than 30 years.

“The main difference [to Australia] is that the Viennese social housing sector has been established for a hundred years and has been well funded for a big part of that time,” he told SBS Dateline.

A significant factor, Pawson said, is the obligations placed on developers to include social housing.

Because this system has been funded so consistently, social housing providers have “[built] up financial resources”. This has allowed them to build their own housing, adding to the existing social housing stock. 

In contrast, community housing providers in Australia often manage state government-owned homes. 

“They don’t benefit from the uplift of land values or anything like that, and they don’t have the capacity to redevelop or make better use of the sites because they don’t own the sites.” 

Pawson said Australian public housing was consistently funded for a 50-year period after World War Two. But it has decreased significantly under Australian governments since the mid-1990s, starting when the Howard government decided to prioritise funding the Commonwealth Rent Assistance program.

“During the 2010s, somewhere between 2,000 or 3,000 social homes were being built a year, which is barely enough to compensate for the ones that are so worn out and out of date you have to knock them down,” Pawson said.

In the 2020s, investment in social housing has increased. Pawson cited the Victorian government’s Big Housing Build plan launched in 2020 as a key benchmark, and Queensland and NSW have launched similar self-funded programs. He said Tasmania has also consistently invested in social housing.

Across Australia, though, there is still high demand for social housing. Pawson said those who are not deemed ‘high priority’ can be waiting for more than 10 years.

At a federal level, the Albanese government’s Housing Australia Future Fund aims to fund around 30,000 social homes over five years. However, the funding is not guaranteed beyond that timeframe.

Could a Viennese system ever work in Australia?

Pawson said something Australia could copy from Vienna is adding social housing requirements for private developers buying government land.

Independent ACT senator David Pocock introduced a private senator’s bill on 2 July that would require federal land sold or leased for residential development to have a default level of 30 per cent affordable housing built on it.

Both the bill and Pawson pointed to a $3 billion sale of land by the defence department.

“They’ve made no … requirement on people who buy that land to say that some of that must be social and affordable housing,” Pawson said.

“That’s something that all governments could do straight away. Of course, it wouldn’t have an immediate effect, but it would change the system.”

Another important element of the Viennese system is the way it reduces stigma.

Anthony said back in Australia, living in social housing wouldn’t have occurred to him.

“But I think in Vienna, it’s such a huge percentage of the housing market that it’s quite normal to live there,” he said.

“I guess there’s always a bit of stigma … but yeah, I think you can’t even compare it with Australia.”

Pawson said Vienna’s approach “absolutely” helps to destigmatise social housing.

“This is one reason why social housing in Australia has become a sort of shrivelled version of its old self,” he said.

“The stigmatisation of a sector which is highly rationed — we have really strict, restrictive rules for who can get a tenancy — just almost inevitably means it becomes a very stigmatised tenure.”

Australia’s housing obsession

Vienna isn’t a perfect city: high cost of living and inflation are still issues, though Austria’s inflation rate is lower than Australia’s at 3.2 per cent compared to 4 per cent.

But its approach to housing may make people more comfortable being long-term renters, placing less value on owning homes, particularly compared to Australia’s competitive market.

German speaking countries, including Austria, generally have lower rates of home ownership. Pawson said they don’t “fetishize [it] in the way that we do”. And these countries also incentivise investment in property less.

As an Australian living in Vienna, Anthony thinks people have a different perspective on housing, including treating it as an investment.

“If they’re going to buy something, they’re buying it to live in …. They’re not even really thinking about ‘How can I make an extra buck?'”

It’s also reflected in the way he sees people back in Australia discuss property and housing affordability.

“When you hang out with friends at a barbecue or whatever, there’s lots of talk about how you’re going to get into the property market, or get your next apartment,” Anthony said.

“Here, I don’t think it’s a big topic.”

Holocaust Survivor, 86, Forced Out of NYC as Mamdani Misses Crucial Housing Meeting

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Holocaust Survivor, 86, Forced Out of NYC as Mamdani Misses Crucial Housing Meeting

An 86-year-old Holocaust survivor, Sami Steigmann, recently voiced his disappointment after New York City’s progressive Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, failed to attend a planned meeting intended to address the critical challenges related to his current housing situation. 

Steigmann, originally from Romania, endured unspeakable hardships early in life. At merely two years old, he was deported to a Nazi labor camp where he became a subject of cruel medical experiments for at least three years.

After surviving World War II, his life’s journey took him to Israel, where he served in the Israeli Air Force. His pursuit of a better life then brought him to the United States in 1968, and since 1988, he has made New York City his home.

Steigmann now faces a new battle as the cost of living in New York has forced him to leave his Harlem apartment. He is actively searching for secure housing amidst the city’s rising rents.

At the start of the year, he managed to secure a meeting with the Mayor, whose platform notably includes a focus on affordable housing solutions. Unfortunately, the meeting did not occur as planned, leaving Steigmann anxious about his future domestic stability. 

 Steigmann has now revealed that Mamdani bailed on the meeting.

‘Promises made, not kept. His claim to fame was affordable housing. I’m not disappointed because I didn’t expect him to keep his word. It is what it is,’ Steigmann told Fox News.

‘It would have been nice, but you know politicians,’ he said, adding that he was no longer interested in the meeting.  

Steigmann said he is struggling to find an apartment that is safe for his medical condition and accessible to public transportation.

Holocaust survivor and IDF veteran Sami Steigmann said he is struggling to find affordable and safe housing in New York City

Holocaust survivor and IDF veteran Sami Steigmann said he is struggling to find affordable and safe housing in New York City

Steigmann said he scheduled a meeting with Mayor Zohran Mamdani to discuss his options, but the mayor bailed

Steigmann said he scheduled a meeting with Mayor Zohran Mamdani to discuss his options, but the mayor bailed 

‘I was subjected to medical experiments, so I’m in pain every single second, but I learned to live with it. Now, because of my age, 86, I have difficulty walking and climbing stairs,’ he said. 

Steigmann, who lives on a fixed income of $1,649 per month, added that moving into a nursing home would be his last resort.

‘New York is the most expensive city in the country, especially for independent living,’ Steigmann said.

‘If I’m going to a nursing home, which I may have to go to if I cannot find something, basically, it’s the way to die because there is no life there.’

‘It’s not for me. I’m still active. I don’t need assisted living in the sense that I can take a bath by myself. I can still do a lot of things,’ Steigmann said. 

The Daily Mail contacted Mamdani’s office for comment. A spokesperson for the mayor told Fox News that he is supporting Steigmann.   

‘[Mamdani is] working hard to help Sami find an appropriate new housing situation, and has connected with several community organizations and housing providers over the past several months to help him with it,’ the spokesperson said. 

The Chicago Jewish Alliance launched an initiative called Project Ahava to help raise funds for Steigmann.

Steigmann was recently denied a speaking opportunity at a Brooklyn middle school that featured art by Mamdani's wife in a social change class

Steigmann was recently denied a speaking opportunity at a Brooklyn middle school that featured art by Mamdani’s wife in a social change class

However, the school did use art from Mamdani's wife, Rama Duwaji, who is known for her political artwork and pro-Palestinian views, in a social change class

However, the school did use art from Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, who is known for her political artwork and pro-Palestinian views, in a social change class

The Math & Science Exploratory School Public School 447 in Brooklyn displayed art from Duwaji in an activity for students

The Math & Science Exploratory School Public School 447 in Brooklyn displayed art from Duwaji in an activity for students

The group identified that Steigmann is racing a $2,200 monthly shortfall, and aims to raise $132,000 to help cover his expenses for five years.

The initiative comes after Steigmann was denied a speaking opportunity at a Brooklyn middle school that featured art by Mamdani’s wife in a social change class.

The Math & Science Exploratory School Public School 447 in Brooklyn displayed art from First Lady Rama Duwaji, who is known for her political artwork and pro-Palestinian views. 

One of her drawings used by the school shows three women surrounded by flames with the inscription, ‘Sooner or later people will rise against tyranny.’

Another illustration shows three women locking arms, accompanied by a caption that reads, ‘They carry the pulse of protest.’ A third image shows a woman crouched and appearing to cry, which Duwaji refers to as a ‘stillness of displacement.’ 

Months earlier, a parent had asked Principal Arin Rusch to bring Steigmann in for a speaking event, a request that was met with hesitation.

Rusch said she believed Holocaust survivors offered important lessons to students, but expressed concern about inviting Steigmann, adding that she would ‘love to explore other speakers,’ CBS News reported at the time.

In looking at his website materials, I also don’t think that Sami’s presentation is right for our public school setting, given his messages around Israel and Palestine. I’d love to explore other possible speakers,’ Rusch added at the time.

The denial prompted a wave of criticism, with former Mayor Eric Adams among those who condemned the decision.

Steigmann did eventually speak at the school following the backlash. He met Rusch after his speech and said their conversation was cordial.

Michigan Regents to Review Probe: What’s Next for AD Warde Manuel?

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Michigan Regents to Review Probe: What’s Next for AD Warde Manuel?

Warde Manuel’s tenure as Michigan’s athletic director may soon face a turning point, with a resolution expected in the coming days.

According to information from ESPN, the University of Michigan’s regents are set to deliberate on an investigation concerning the department’s cultural environment, which could significantly impact Manuel’s position.

This probe was launched last December following the dismissal of football coach Sherrone Moore, who was involved in an “inappropriate relationship with a staff member.” Allegations later emerged that Moore had gone to confront the individual at her residence.

Athletic Director Warde Manuel of the Michigan Wolverines walks out of the tunnel before a college football game between the Michigan Wolverines and the Northwestern Wildcats at Michigan Stadium on November 23, 2024 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Athletic Director Warde Manuel of the Michigan Wolverines walks out of the tunnel before a college football game between the Michigan Wolverines and the Northwestern Wildcats at Michigan Stadium on November 23, 2024 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Getty Images

The confrontation culminated in a dramatic scenario, resulting in Moore’s arrest. He ultimately accepted a plea deal, admitting to charges of misdemeanor malicious use of a telecommunications device and misdemeanor trespassing.

This incident has added to a series of high-profile controversies surrounding the university’s athletic department during Manuel’s leadership, intensifying scrutiny over the department’s overall culture.

The Chicago law firm of Jenner & Block has run the probe into the athletic department.

Part of what is expected to be in the law firm’s report is how much Manuel and athletic department officials knew about the relationship between Moore and the staffer, Paige Shiver, before the situation spiraled out of control.

Outside of the Moore controversy, Manuel has been in charge of Michigan’s athletic program during the sign-stealing scheme orchestrated by former football staffer Connor Stalions and the federal charges brought against former offensive coordinator Matt Weiss, who is facing charges of felony aggravated theft and unauthorized access to computers. 

Michigan has also seen plenty of success under his tenure – Manuel has held the role since 2016 – with the football program winning a national title in January 2024 and the men’s basketball program winning a title this past spring. 

Athletic Director Warde Manuel of the Michigan Wolverines reacts after their NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament,

Athletic Director Warde Manuel of the Michigan Wolverines reacts at NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. Getty Images

Men’s (2025) and women’s gymnastics (2021) have also won national titles while he has been athletic director. 

His contract runs through 2030.

Discovering Bukayo Saka’s Ethnic Heritage: Unveiling the Soccer Sensation’s Roots

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Discovering Bukayo Saka’s Ethnic Heritage: Unveiling the Soccer Sensation’s Roots

Screenshot of soccer star Bukayo Saka

Notable Individuals

Explore the family and origins of Arsenal’s acclaimed player, Bukayo Saka.

Published on

Bukayo Saka, the right winger for Arsenal, has captured the hearts of soccer fans worldwide with his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and gracious nature, positioning him as one of the sport’s brightest stars.

Born as Bukayo Moses Ayoyinka Temidayo Saka on September 5, 2001, in Ealing, a borough of London, he is the son of Yomi and Adenike Saka. Originally from Nigeria, his parents moved to the UK in the 1990s, seeking improved educational and career prospects. Together with his older brother, Bukayo was nurtured in a tightly-knit family that instilled values of hard work, discipline, education, and faith.

Yomi is a businessman who dedicated countless hours to driving Bukayo to training and matches throughout his youth. And Adenike is a chartered accountant. She was educated in Lagos and studied veterinary medicine at Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria before earning a diploma in accounting from the University of West London. Bukayo has frequently credited his parents for keeping him grounded despite his rapid rise to soccer stardom and has spoken about how proud he is of his family’s Yoruba heritage.

The Yoruba community is one of Nigeria’s largest and most influential ethnic groups. The Yoruba people are primarily found in southwestern Nigeria and are known for their rich traditions, language, art, and cultural heritage.

His first name, “Bukayo,” is derived from the Yoruba language and means “added joy,” a fitting description for a player who has brought joy to Arsenal supporters and England fans alike through his exciting style of play.

Buyako visited his parents’ homeland in 2023 and was hosted by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The meeting served as a celebration of both the athlete’s achievements on the global stage and the enduring pride he has in his roots.

RELATED: What Is US Soccer Star Folarin Balogun’s Ethnicity?

Georgia Leaders Express Heartfelt Tributes After Sen. Lindsey Graham’s Passing

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Georgia Leaders Express Heartfelt Tributes After Sen. Lindsey Graham’s Passing

ATLANTA (WSAV) — Across Georgia, prominent leaders are expressing their condolences and sharing memories following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham.

Governor Brian Kemp reflected on the loss, stating, “Senator Lindsey Graham was a patriot, a dedicated public servant, and a dear friend. His devotion to our nation, unwavering faith in its potential, and firm defense of its principles made him a formidable presence in Washington. Marty, the girls, and I offer our prayers and heartfelt sympathy to his family, colleagues, and our neighbors in South Carolina at this challenging time.”

Senator Jon Ossoff conveyed his sorrow, sharing, “I join in mourning Senator Lindsey Graham and extend my sincerest condolences to the Senator’s family, friends, and staff. Senator Graham devoted his life to the United States, from his service in the U.S. Air Force to representing South Carolina in both the U.S. House and Senate. Lindsey was an enthusiastic leader deeply committed to South Carolina. May his memory be a source of comfort.”

In a message on Sunday, Senator Raphael Warnock expressed his grief, stating, “I am profoundly saddened by the passing of my colleague, Senator Lindsey Graham. Known for his strong faith, he served the people of South Carolina with passion and determination. I pray for his family and loved ones as they face this significant loss.”

Graham passed away on Saturday night following a ‘brief and sudden illness.’ At 71, he had been a steadfast representative for South Carolina in the Senate since 2002.

Bison Charge Propels Grandpa Eight Feet into the Air in Jaw-Dropping Encounter

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Bison Charge Propels Grandpa Eight Feet into the Air in Jaw-Dropping Encounter

During a visit to Yellowstone National Park, a grandfather was unexpectedly launched eight feet into the air after a disturbed bison charged at him.

The incident occurred while the man, whose name remains undisclosed, was walking with his grandson at Bridge Bay Campground on Friday evening. The duo was abruptly met by the furious beast, as reported by Cowboy State Daily.

Racing through the forest, the bison targeted the grandfather, hurling him skyward before he plummeted back to the earth.

“The bison caught him on the hip with its left horn, sending him airborne,” recounted Mike MacLeod, a Montana photographer who witnessed the event.

He described the man as executing a near-perfect flip and landing on his side, emphasizing that the bison, towering at six feet, tossed the man several feet above its height.

Once the beast was gone, witnesses rushed to the man and found him suffering from intense pain in his hips and the leg he landed on, despite there being no obvious external injuries.

‘One guy held his hand. Another guy pulled security on the outside to make sure that bison didn’t come back,’ MacLeod said. ‘A gal in a car was on the phone with 911, and another gal did a blood sweep, but we couldn’t find any blood.’

The victim’s grandson told MacLeod that his grandfather suffered ‘some pretty significant injuries’ and was still not ‘out of the woods yet.’ 

A grandfather was sent flying eight feet into the air after an agitated bison charged him during an evening walk through Yellowstone National Park

A grandfather was sent flying eight feet into the air after an agitated bison charged him during an evening walk through Yellowstone National Park

The bison charged through the trees toward the grandfather, violently tossing him upside down into the air before he crashed to the ground

The bison charged through the trees toward the grandfather, violently tossing him upside down into the air before he crashed to the ground

 He also said his grandfather feared the attack may have been caused by something he had done, but MacLeod, who captured the entire ordeal on camera, insisted the bison was the one that started it.

‘They were just out for an evening walk, just happened to turn around the corner, and there’s a bison,’ the professional photographer told the outlet.

‘You can tell he was agitated, pissed off, and charging anything and everything,’ he added.

‘I’ve been around bison for a while, but this was really weird. Why did it pick those two? There were so many people around, and most of them were closer to and behind the bison. It was really weird.’

The attack came shortly after terrified campers at Bridge Bay, south of Fishing Bridge, found themselves in the same horrifying situation when a massive bull bison quietly entered the area. 

Among the campers was MacLeod, who rushed to grab his camera after his wife spotted the wild animal slowly wandering through the family-friendly campground. He began filming from a safe distance away.

‘He was coming up to this group of kids, who were taking pictures on their cellphones from a good distance away, and then the buffalo charged these kids,’ he told Cowboy State Daily.

The attack came shortly after terrified campers at Bridge Bay, south of Fishing Bridge, found themselves in the same horrifying situation when a massive bull bison quietly entered the area

The attack came shortly after terrified campers at Bridge Bay, south of Fishing Bridge, found themselves in the same horrifying situation when a massive bull bison quietly entered the area

'You can tell he was agitated, pissed off, and charging anything and everything,' one witness stated

‘You can tell he was agitated, pissed off, and charging anything and everything,’ one witness stated

The children managed to escape the bison’s fury, but MacLeod, a former Army combat photographer, feared the animal’s violent rampage was only just beginning.

It wasn’t long before the bison charged through the campground, sending terrified visitors into a panic as they shouted warnings to one another. But after the chaos, the animal calmly settled down in a nearby patch of dirt. 

‘He was sitting in the dust, like bison do, with his head out towards the road,’ MacLeod said. Moments later, the elderly man and his grandson unknowingly walked into the scene.

The pair noticed the bison lying down and kept their distance, staying about 100 yards away as deemed safe by the National Park Service (NPS) – the equivalent of a football field from one goal line to the other. 

‘I didn’t see anybody getting close,’ MacLeod said. ‘People were yelling, “Careful, there’s a bison coming through,” and they kept their distance. They were very respectful.’

Like other campers, they took a few photos before the bison’s movement prompted the grandfather and his grandson to leave the area and move into the trees.

But moments later, a white pickup truck passing nearby set the bison off again.

‘The bison was charging the truck. The guy in the truck saw that happening, and he just kept going,’ MacLeod told the outlet. ‘The bison then went to where those two were hiding in the trees.’

The grandson managed to get away while the bison pursued his grandfather through the surrounding woods, eventually catching up with him and flipping him into the air. 

The terrifying encounter came during the annual bison rut, which runs from June to September, when bulls become fueled by heightened energy and aggression

The terrifying encounter came during the annual bison rut, which runs from June to September, when bulls become fueled by heightened energy and aggression

The grandson managed to get away while the bison pursued his grandfather through the surrounding woods, eventually catching up with him and flipping him into the air

The grandson managed to get away while the bison pursued his grandfather through the surrounding woods, eventually catching up with him and flipping him into the air

Join the discussion

Should bison be removed from popular parks to protect visitors, or is that risking their natural habitat?

 He crashed to the ground, where MacLeod said the bison stood over the victim and shook its head in agitation. ‘I had to get the bison’s attention,’ he recalled.

‘I was really afraid he was going to gore the guy on the ground, so I stopped videotaping and ran at the bison, yelled loud, and was trying to be as big and intimidating as possible.’

Several others followed MacLeod’s lead, banding together and charging toward the wild animal until they finally scared it out of the campground.

Campers stayed with the victim until Yellowstone EMS took over. ‘You can tell in the video it’s not his fault. You can tell from the very beginning,’ the photographer added.

The terrifying encounter came during the annual bison rut, which runs from June to September, when bulls become fueled by heightened energy and aggression as they battle for dominance and females. 

‘It’s changed my idea of what to expect from these guys at this time of year, because I would not have predicted that happening,’ MacLeod told the outlet. 

The National Park Service has not released any information on the incident. 

Chicago Weekend Violence: 27 Shot, 3 Fatally in Latest Gun Attacks, Police Report

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Chicago Weekend Violence: 27 Shot, 3 Fatally in Latest Gun Attacks, Police Report

CHICAGO (WLS) — This weekend has been marred by violence in Chicago, with at least 27 individuals shot and three fatalities reported, authorities confirmed.

The majority of these incidents occurred from late Saturday night into the early hours of Sunday. Between 11 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday, Chicago police reported that at least 15 people were shot, with one individual losing their life.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Among the victims was a teenage boy who suffered gunshot wounds while sitting in a car during a gathering in the city’s Southwest Side early on Sunday, according to police.

The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. in the 5100 block of South Major Avenue in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood, police stated.

Authorities reported that an unknown assailant opened fire, resulting in the 16-year-old boy being shot in the leg as he attempted to drive away from the scene.

The teen was transported to Advocate Christ Medical Center in fair condition.

The shooter fled the scene.

Area One detectives are investigating. Authorities did not immediately provide further information about the shooting.

SEE ALSO | Officer fires as driver evades deflation, heads toward him amid reported drag racing near Grant Park

Minutes earlier, a shooting injured three people near the United Center in the Near West Side neighborhood, police said.

Police say two women were sitting in a parked car in the Near West Side neighborhood’s 100-block of South Honore Street just after 2:15 a.m. Sunday.

That’s when someone inside a silver sedan shot at them, police said.

A resident described the situation as a birthday party that spilled into the street.

“We were just outside. Everyone having fun, dancing, enjoying themselves. And before you know it, we heard, ‘Pa, pa, pa, pa, pa,'” said Katrina Powell.

One of the women, a 35-year-old, suffered a gunshot wound to the head. She was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.

Powell said quick action helped save her life.

“My God, sister reacted so fast and saved her life. She put her pressure on her wound,” Powell said. “They did not want to wait on the ambulance. So they end up putting her in someone’s car and rushed her to the hospital themselves.”

The other woman, a 36-year-old was grazed in the head. She was transported to the same hospital in good condition.

A man standing nearby was also hit by gunfire, police said. He self-transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he is listed in good condition.

No other injuries were reported.

The shooting comes as Windy City Smokeout wraps up at the United Center on Sunday.

Area Three detectives are investigating. Authorities did not immediately provide further information.

About an hour earlier, a teenage boy was shot in the South Austin neighborhood, police said.

Police said the shooting happened in the 5500-block of West Van Buren Street just after 1:20 a.m.

A 14-year-old boy suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the body. He self-transported to Loretto Hospital, and the Chicago Fire Department transferred him to Stroger Hospital.

The teen is listed in fair condition.

What led up to the shooting was not immediately clear.

Area Four detectives are investigating. Authorities did not immediately provide further information.

On Saturday night, two men were shot, one fatally, while standing outside on the city’s Northwest Side, police said.

Police said the shooting happened in the Logan Square neighborhood’s 1600-block of North Washtenaw Avenue just after 11 p.m.

A male suspect approached two men and open fire, striking both of them, police said.

One of the men, a 43-year-old, suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and was transported in critical condition to Stroger Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. His name was not immediately released.

The other man, a 33-year-old, was shot in the leg. He was taken to the same hospital in good condition.

The gunman fled the scene on foot.

Area Five detectives are investigating. Authorities did not immediately provide further information about the shooting.

On Friday night, a man was found shot to death on the city’s South Side, police said.

Officers found the 30-year-old unresponsive in the Roseland neighborhood’s 0-100 block of West 112th Place around 11 p.m.

The man, shot in the abdomen and head, was pronounced dead on the scene, police said.

Area Two detectives are investigating.

Police did not immediately provide further information.

A man injured in another South Side shooting on Friday night was involved in a crash on his way to the hospital, police said.

Police said a 56-year-old man was standing outside in the Gresham neighborhood’s 900-block of West 87th Street around 9:25 p.m. That’s when two male suspects took out guns and fired at him from a distance, hitting the victim in the buttocks.

Someone drove the victim to a hospital in a white sedan, police said. Before arriving at the hospital, however, they crashed into a dark-colored sedan near West 95th and South Loomis streets.

The man shot was listed in fair condition.

The dark-colored sedan’s driver, a 40-year-old man, was transported to Little Company of Mary Hospital for pain in his left arm and is listed in fair condition.

The man driving the white sedan was not injured.

Authorities did not immediately provide further information.

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood

Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.
1...1,1541,1551,156...5,058Page 1,155 of 5,058