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Under Investigation: Paver Company Initiates Customer Refunds Amid Scrutiny


TAMPA, Fla. — In a latest development surrounding the Better Call Behnken investigation, the owner of Sundeck Pavers has begun refunding some clients while facing two separate criminal probes, as confirmed by law enforcement and the owner’s attorney.

Complaints from at least four counties in the Tampa Bay area prompted separate investigations by sheriff’s offices in Pinellas and Pasco counties earlier this year.

The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office has since closed its investigation, citing that the owner, Garkey, has compensated victims within their jurisdiction. Meanwhile, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office continues its probe, although Garkey has expressed intentions to reimburse affected customers.

Despite these developments, Pinellas County resident Thomas Hassel has reported that he has not yet received any payment.

Sister-in-Law’s Shocking Revenge: Bride Covered in Black Paint Just Before Her Wedding Ceremony

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A British bride’s life was turned upside down nearly two years ago after she fell victim to a shocking act of revenge by her sister-in-law. Her sister-in-law drenched her in black paint just moments before she was to walk down the aisle to marry her childhood sweetheart. This incident was the peak of an ongoing family feud and has left her struggling with depression and unable to work.

Gemma Monk, 35, a mother of two, had eagerly anticipated her wedding to Ken Monk, scheduled for May 2024. As she made her way down the cream-colored carpet at a venue in Maidstone, England, alongside her father, she heard someone call her name. In the next moment, she was covered in black paint, as she recounted to Kent Online in an article released on Friday.

Upon realizing that the culprit was her sister-in-law, Antonia Eastwood, married to her older brother Ashley, Gemma attempted to retaliate by grabbing her hair. However, Eastwood managed to escape, leaving Gemma heartbroken and in tears.

Gemma Monk on her wedding day.

The aftermath of the incident saw Antonia Eastwood sentenced by a judge to 10 months in jail, with the sentence suspended for 12 months, allowing her to be released on parole. This came after she was found guilty of two counts of criminal damage. Gemma expressed the profound impact the incident had on her life.

“This has dramatically affected my life,” Gemma shared with Kent Online on Wednesday following the court’s decision. She admitted to becoming extremely emotional and breaking down in tears while recounting the incident at the police station.

“Since the incident, if it wasn’t for my children or my family, I don’t think I would even get out of bed to care for myself,” she added. “I have lost all my dignity and good habits in life. I have lost who I used to be. This has turned the most special day of my life into the worst memory — one I will never forget, and neither will my family.”

The attack occurred after Monk had lost significant weight during a cancer scare. Though she has since been given a clean bill of health, Monk said her sister-in-law knew about the medical struggle at the time but “still decided to ruin the most important day of my life and put me at risk.”

Eastwood, 49, had been banned from the wedding following a feud that stemmed from her own nuptials, during which Monk was accused of “trying to trip up” Eastwood.

Antonia Eastwood and Gemma Monk in split images.

Antonia Eastwood splashed black paint all over Gemma Monk on her wedding day in a revenge attack. This week she appeared in court over the May 2024 incident. (Cover Images)

In court, Eastwood was handed a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to perform 160 hours of community service. 

“This was meant to be a special day for Gemma Monk and her family. Courtesy of your conduct, it turned into a nightmare,” Judge Oliver Saxby told Eastwood before imposing the sentence.

Eastwood’s husband, Ashley, was once Ken Monk’s best friend and actually introduced him to Gemma when she was only 14.

Despite the attack, Gemma scrubbed the paint from her face and body in the changing room and borrowed a dress fetched by an usher so she could marry her partner of more than 20 years. 

“We had waited for that day for so long. Nothing was going to stop me,” she said. “I did not think twice; I would have walked down the aisle in my knickers and with black paint over my face if I had to.”

Newlywed couple making a pinky swear gesture showing wedding bands.

The bride, who’s a mental health worker, has since suffered from depression and has been unable to work. (iStock)

However, Monk, a mental health worker, has since suffered from depression and has been unable to work. In a statement to the court, she said the incident changed her outlook on life and “made me question whether I had done something really bad, whether I had done something wrong.”

The couple also called off a planned honeymoon to the Maldives because Gemma “wasn’t up to it.”

“I had a gut feeling—a bad feeling that something was wrong—when I got out of the car with my dad,” Monk said. “But he said it must be nerves.”

“I will never accept her apology,” she added. “I thought the sentence was too light. She should have received at least 23 months for the wait we have had to get this to court.”

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New Street Fighter Trailer Features Nostalgic Nod to Iconic 1994 Movie

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The trailer for the upcoming “Street Fighter” movie is packed with nods to the iconic video game series, and it even tips its hat to a film that evokes mixed feelings—one that some might wish they’d skipped, while others consider it just another Tuesday. Indeed, there’s an Easter egg that harks back to the polarizing 1994 “Street Fighter” film, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Raul Julia.

In the teaser for the 2026 “Street Fighter” installment, viewers are treated to a flashback detailing the past of Ken Masters (played by Noah Centineo) and Ryu (portrayed by Andrew Koji). Among the rapid-fire scenes is a fleeting snapshot of Ken and Ryu in more joyful times. This image holds hidden significance: the clothing they sport closely resembles the attire worn by their 1994 film counterparts. Moreover, the setting of the photograph suggests it was captured during a fighting tournament.

This setup is reminiscent of a scene from the ’90s movie, where Byron Mann’s Ryu and Damian Chapa’s Ken encounter Sagat (Wes Studi) at a clandestine martial arts tournament in Thailand. Notably, they don the same outfits that echo their 2026 movie representations.

Although the 1994 “Street Fighter” wasn’t a critical darling, it managed to achieve box office success, grossing over $99 million against a $35 million budget. There were ambitions to produce a sequel, envisioning Jean-Claude Van Damme reprising his role as Guile with Dolph Lundgren, his “Universal Soldier” co-star, joining the cast. However, “Street Fighter 2” never came to fruition.

Instead, the franchise attempted a fresh start with the 2009 release of “Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li.” This reboot, however, fell short, making the 1994 film seem like a masterpiece in comparison. Not only did it struggle with poorly executed martial arts scenes, but it also stumbled at the box office, earning just over $12 million on a $50 million budget. This failure effectively shelved any immediate plans for another “Street Fighter” movie.

Street Fighter’s return to the big screen wasn’t simple

While 1994’s “Street Fighter” didn’t receive a lot of love from critics and fans alike, it performed well at the box office, making over $99 million from a $35 million budget. There were plans for a sequel, which would have seen Jean-Claude Van Damme return as Guile and be joined by his “Universal Soldier” co-star Dolph Lundgren. However, “Street Fighter 2” never materialized.

Instead, a reboot in the form of “Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li” was released in 2009. By comparison, this film makes the 1994 one look like “Citizen Kane.” It wasn’t only that it was bad, but it also featured some of the worst choreographed martial arts sequences in movie history. Further, it flopped at the box office, making just over $12 million from a $50 million budget. This all killed the chance of another “Street Fighter” movie for quite some time.

While the live-action series “Street Fighter: Assassin’s Fist” and “Street Fighter: Resurrection” would tide over fans, there wasn’t serious movement on the film front until 2023, when Legendary Pictures picked up the rights. At first, “Bring Her Back” directors Danny and Michael Philippou were attached to direct the film, but they dropped out of the project. “Bad Trip” filmmaker Kitao Sakurai took over the reins, finally releasing the first “Street Fighter” movie in theaters after more than 15 years.



Madonna Steals the Spotlight During Sabrina Carpenter’s Coachella Performance

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In a thrilling twist at Coachella, Madonna made a surprise appearance during Sabrina Carpenter’s headlining performance on Friday. The legendary 67-year-old artist, who is gearing up for the much-anticipated release of her new album, Confessions II, joined Carpenter on stage, igniting a wave of excitement among the festival-goers.

The unexpected cameo reignited memories of Madonna’s own headlining performance at Coachella two decades ago, in 2006. As she took the stage, the duo delivered electrifying renditions of Madonna’s classic hits, including “Vogue” and “Like A Prayer,” with the crowd enthusiastically singing along.

Known as the Queen of Pop, Madonna captivated the audience with her daring stage presence, donning a striking purple corset paired with matching bottoms. Her surprise appearance underscored her enduring influence and charisma, leaving a memorable mark on this year’s festival.

The duo belted out lyrics to some of Madonna’s hits including Vogue and Like A Prayer as the crowd excitedly sang along. 

The iconic singer – also known as the Queen of Pop – wowed in a racy purple corset as well as matching bottoms as she strutted on the stage. 

She additionally wore a pair of elbow-length lavender gloves and knee-high, heeled boots.  

Madonna, 67, made her Coachella comeback as she made a surprise cameo during Sabrina Carpenter's headlining set on Friday

Madonna, 67, made her Coachella comeback as she made a surprise cameo during Sabrina Carpenter’s headlining set on Friday

The songstress joined the Espresso hitmaker on stage towards the end of her set, causing the audience to erupt into elated cheers

The songstress joined the Espresso hitmaker on stage towards the end of her set, causing the audience to erupt into elated cheers

Her blonde locks were parted in the middle and cascaded down past her shoulders in light curls. 

She accessorized the eye-catching look with a pair of dazzling earrings as well as fashionable shades. 

Carpenter had been mid-performance when the background music quickly shifted to the instrumental of Madonna’s 1990 hit song Vogue. 

The crowd began to cheer as Madonna rose up from under the stage, her back facing the audience. 

Both singers were shown in black-and-white video on large screens attached to the stage as they sang the track. 

The camera then turned back to color as the music artists belted out lyrics to what appeared to be a new upbeat track. 

Afterwards, the pair moved towards another portion of the stage as they stood in the middle of the audience. 

‘Wow, thank you,’ Madonna said as she was surrounded by cheers and applause. ‘Sabrina, thank you so much for inviting me on your show.’  

The duo belted out lyrics to some of Madonna's hits including Vogue and Like A Prayer as the crowd excitedly sang along

The duo belted out lyrics to some of Madonna’s hits including Vogue and Like A Prayer as the crowd excitedly sang along

Carpenter had been mid-performance when the background music quickly shifted to the instrumental of Madonna's 1990 hit song Vogue

Carpenter had been mid-performance when the background music quickly shifted to the instrumental of Madonna’s 1990 hit song Vogue

The camera then turned back to color as the music artists belted out lyrics to what appeared to be a new upbeat track

The camera then turned back to color as the music artists belted out lyrics to what appeared to be a new upbeat track

'Wow, thank you,' Madonna said as she was surrounded by cheers and applause. 'Sabrina, thank you so much for inviting me on your show'

‘Wow, thank you,’ Madonna said as she was surrounded by cheers and applause. ‘Sabrina, thank you so much for inviting me on your show’

‘No thanks needed, Madonna,’ Carpenter replied as they held hands.

‘Well, I have a few things I want to get off my chest,’ Madonna said. ‘So, 20 years ago today I performed at Coachella. I was in the dance tent, and it was the first time I performed Confessions On The Dance Floor part one in America.’

The songstress gushed that it had been ‘such a thrill’ at the time and added it was ‘a thrill’ to be back on the Coachella stage. 

‘It’s a full circle moment, you know?’ she added. ‘Very meaningful for me.’ 

During her short speech, Madonna also encouraged the audience to all ‘try to get along.’

‘Let’s try to be together. Let’s try to avoid disagreements. And to that point, the great thing about music is that it brings people together. 

‘It’s the one place that people have to put their differences aside, put their s**t down and just everybody have a good time together, right? So I am thrilled to be a part of that healing experience…’ 

Madonna then joked that it was probably the first time that she ever performed with someone ‘shorter’ than her.  

The songstress gushed that it had been 'such a thrill' at the time and added it was 'a thrill' to be back on the Coachella stage

The songstress gushed that it had been ‘such a thrill’ at the time and added it was ‘a thrill’ to be back on the Coachella stage

Madonna then joked that it was probably the first time that she ever performed with someone 'shorter' than her

Madonna then joked that it was probably the first time that she ever performed with someone ‘shorter’ than her

Madonna and Carpenter then dove into a performance of Like A Prayer while joined by other backup vocalists

Madonna and Carpenter then dove into a performance of Like A Prayer while joined by other backup vocalists

The crowd watched as Madonna sang lyrics to Like A Prayer towards the end of her cameo with Carpenter

The crowd watched as Madonna sang lyrics to Like A Prayer towards the end of her cameo with Carpenter

Madonna and Carpenter then dove into a performance of Like A Prayer while joined by other backup vocalists. 

The iconic singer’s appearance on the Coachella stage comes 20 years after her headlining set back in 2006 at the music festival. 

She later made a surprise cameo during Drake’s set a little over a decade later in 2015. 

And now, the songstress is preparing for the release of her anticipated Confessions II comeback album. 

On Friday, she also teased fans with the first song off the album which is titled I Feel So Free. 

Confessions II is slated to be released later this year on July 3. 

During Madonna’s surprise cameo on Friday, Carpenter was also spotted wearing a white lace bodysuit as well silver pumps.

Amid the Vogue hitmaker’s entrance, Carpenter had additionally worn a piece that had white fabric flow down behind her.  

The iconic singer's appearance on the Coachella stage comes 20 years after her headlining set back in 2006 at the music festival (seen above)

The iconic singer’s appearance on the Coachella stage comes 20 years after her headlining set back in 2006 at the music festival (seen above)

On Friday, she also teased fans with the first song off the album which is titled I Feel So Free. Confessions II is slated to be released later this year on July 3

On Friday, she also teased fans with the first song off the album which is titled I Feel So Free. Confessions II is slated to be released later this year on July 3

Carpenter’s track listing was similar to weekend one – but she debuted different costumes on stage. 

She opened with a sequin blue minidress while her voluminous blonde locks brushed past her shoulders. 

The star later wore a pink minidress with sheer caped material to perform more songs such as Please Please Please and Nobody’s Son. 

Carpenter also channeled Ann-Margaret’s outfit from the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas also starring Elvis Presley. 

She wore a vibrant red sweater as well as a pair of black tights – similar to the look Ann-Margaret had donned in the movie. 

Carpenter's track listing was similar to weekend one - but she debuted different costumes on stage

The star later wore a pink minidress with sheer caped material to perform more songs such as Please Please Please and Nobody's Son

Carpenter’s track listing was similar to weekend one – but she debuted different costumes on stage

Carpenter also channeled Ann-Margaret's outfit from the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas also starring Elvis Presley

Carpenter also channeled Ann-Margaret’s outfit from the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas also starring Elvis Presley

She wore a vibrant red sweater as well as a pair of black tights - similar to the look Ann-Margaret had donned in the movie

She wore a vibrant red sweater as well as a pair of black tights – similar to the look Ann-Margaret had donned in the movie

As the set progressed, the singer wowed in a black bralette as well as a tasseled skirt made of beaded details

As the set progressed, the singer wowed in a black bralette as well as a tasseled skirt made of beaded details

Other celebrities made shock cameos throughout the course of her performance on Friday including Thelma & Louise actress Geena Davis (seen above) and Terry Crews

Other celebrities made shock cameos throughout the course of her performance on Friday including Thelma & Louise actress Geena Davis (seen above) and Terry Crews

Weekend one saw other cameos such as Sam Elliott, Samuel L. Jackson, Will Ferrell and Susan Sarandon; Crews seen above on Friday

Weekend one saw other cameos such as Sam Elliott, Samuel L. Jackson, Will Ferrell and Susan Sarandon; Crews seen above on Friday 

As the set progressed, the singer wowed in a black bralette as well as a tasseled skirt made of beaded details. 

After Madonna’s appearance, Carpenter closed out her her Coachella weekend two set with more hits such as Espresso. 

Other celebrities made shock cameos throughout the course of her performance on Friday including Thelma & Louise actress Geena Davis and Terry Crews. 

Weekend one saw other cameos such as Sam Elliott, Samuel L. Jackson, Will Ferrell and Susan Sarandon.  

FBI Launches Investigation into Unresolved Cases of Missing and Deceased Scientists

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The White House has vowed to leave 'no stone unturned' in its effort to uncover the truth behind the string of missing scientists. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Friday on X that President Donald Trump has brought the FBI into the investigation. 'In light of the recent and legitimate questions about these troubling cases, and President Trump’s commitment to the truth, the White House is actively working with all relevant agencies and the FBI to holistically review all of the cases together and identify any potential commonalities that may exist,' Leavitt shared. Several scientists with ties to NASA , nuclear research, aerospace programs and classified projects have vanished or turned up dead in recent years. Many of the individuals, including researchers from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory, had access to sensitive information on space missions, nuclear technology or advanced defense systems, prompting speculation about possible connections.

The White House is determined to exhaust all avenues in its quest to unravel the mystery surrounding a wave of missing scientists. On Friday, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced on the social media platform X that President Donald Trump has enlisted the FBI to assist in the investigation. “Given the legitimate concerns about these unsettling incidents and President Trump’s unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth, the White House is actively collaborating with all pertinent agencies, including the FBI, to thoroughly examine each case and detect any possible connections,” Leavitt stated. Numerous scientists, linked to NASA, nuclear research, aerospace ventures, and classified projects, have either disappeared or met untimely deaths in recent times. Many of these experts, such as those from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory, had access to confidential data on space missions, nuclear technologies, or advanced defense systems, fueling speculation about potential links.

Trump Speaks Out

On Thursday, Trump revealed he had been briefed on the mysterious cases that have now reached 11. The President addressed the alarming situation after landing at the White House on Thursday, where he was met by reporters and questioned by FOX News about whether the disappearances and deaths were random or potentially connected. 'Well, I hope it is random, but we are going to know in the next week and a half,' said Trump. 'I just left a meeting on that subject, so pretty serious stuff. Hopefully, coincidence... but some of them were very important people, and we are going to look at it.' The President's statements follow a Wednesday briefing at the White House, where press secretary Karoline Leavitt was also asked about the ten people linked to space or nuclear secrets who have mysteriously died or vanished without a trace.

On Thursday, President Trump disclosed that he had been briefed on these baffling cases, now totaling eleven. He addressed the concerning situation after arriving at the White House, where reporters, including those from FOX News, queried him about whether these disappearances and deaths were merely coincidental or possibly related. “I hope it is coincidental, but we will find out within the next ten days,” Trump remarked. “I just came from a meeting on this topic, so it’s quite serious. Hopefully, it’s just a coincidence… but some of these individuals were quite significant, and we are going to investigate it.” His comments came after a Wednesday briefing at the White House, where Leavitt also faced questions about the ten individuals tied to space or nuclear secrets who have mysteriously vanished or passed away.

Pattern Emerged After McCasland Vanished

'I haven't spoken to our relevant agencies about it. I will certainly do that and will get you an answer,' said Leavitt . 'If true, of course, that's definitely something I think this government and administration would deem worth looking into. So let me do that for you,' Leavitt continued. This disturbing pattern emerged after retired Air Force General William Neil McCasland vanished on February 28. He was last seen leaving his New Mexico home without his phone, wearable devices or glasses less than two months ago. He was only carrying a pistol and his wife told 911 dispatchers that it appeared he was trying 'not to be found.' The strange circumstances surrounding the general's disappearance were almost identical to four other missing person cases taking place between May and August 2025 in the Southwest.

“I haven’t yet discussed this with our relevant agencies, but I certainly will and will provide you with an update,” Leavitt assured. “If these allegations are true, it’s undeniably something that this administration would consider worth investigating. So, I’ll look into this for you,” she added. The pattern of disappearances surfaced following the disappearance of retired Air Force General William Neil McCasland on February 28. He was last seen leaving his home in New Mexico without his phone, wearable devices, or glasses, carrying only a pistol. His wife informed emergency services that he seemed intent on “not being found.” The eerie circumstances surrounding the general’s disappearance closely resemble four other missing person cases that occurred between May and August 2025 in the Southwest.

Concerningly, all four have been tied to McCasland (pictured) through his work overseeing the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which has been rumored to study extraterrestrial technology since the 1947 Roswell UFO crash. While at Wright-Patterson, McCasland oversaw and reportedly approved the funding for scientist Monica Jacinto Reza's work on a space-age metal for rocket engines called Mondaloy. Reza, 60, disappeared while hiking with friends in California on June 22 last year. She had just become the director of the Materials Processing Group at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The three other disappearances all involved workers at some of America's most important nuclear facilities, and all three were last seen walking out of their homes without their phones or keys, just like McCasland.

Concerningly, all four have been tied to McCasland (pictured) through his work overseeing the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which has been rumored to study extraterrestrial technology since the 1947 Roswell UFO crash. While at Wright-Patterson, McCasland oversaw and reportedly approved the funding for scientist Monica Jacinto Reza’s work on a space-age metal for rocket engines called Mondaloy. Reza, 60, disappeared while hiking with friends in California on June 22 last year. She had just become the director of the Materials Processing Group at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The three other disappearances all involved workers at some of America’s most important nuclear facilities, and all three were last seen walking out of their homes without their phones or keys, just like McCasland.

Steven Garcia (pictured), 48, vanished without a trace on August 28 last year. He was last seen leaving his Albuquerque, New Mexico, home on foot, carrying only a handgun. An anonymous source told the Daily Mail that Garcia was a government contractor working for the Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC), a major facility in Albuquerque that manufactures more than 80 percent of all the non-nuclear components that go into building the military's nuclear weapons. Anthony Chavez and Melissa Casias both worked at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), one of the nation's most important nuclear research sites. Chavez, 79, worked at the lab until his retirement in 2017, although his role there has not been made clear. Casias, 54, was an active administrative assistant at the facility and is believed to have had top security clearance. All three were last seen leaving their homes in New Mexico on foot, leaving behind their cars, keys, wallets and phones before disappearing without a trace. Police have not had any updates in the cases since last year.

Steven Garcia (pictured), 48, vanished without a trace on August 28 last year. He was last seen leaving his Albuquerque, New Mexico, home on foot, carrying only a handgun. An anonymous source told the Daily Mail that Garcia was a government contractor working for the Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC), a major facility in Albuquerque that manufactures more than 80 percent of all the non-nuclear components that go into building the military’s nuclear weapons. Anthony Chavez and Melissa Casias both worked at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), one of the nation’s most important nuclear research sites. Chavez, 79, worked at the lab until his retirement in 2017, although his role there has not been made clear. Casias, 54, was an active administrative assistant at the facility and is believed to have had top security clearance. All three were last seen leaving their homes in New Mexico on foot, leaving behind their cars, keys, wallets and phones before disappearing without a trace. Police have not had any updates in the cases since last year.

In addition to the string of disappearances, five scientists in key areas of research have died over the last few years. Amy Eskridge (pictured) was just 34 years old when she allegedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot to the head in Huntsville, Alabama on June 11, 2022. However, neither the police nor the medical examiners have publicly released any details of an investigation ever taking place. Before her death, she was openly researching and trying to develop anti-gravity technology , a way to control or cancel out gravity, which could revolutionize space travel and energy production. Nuclear physicist Nuno Loureiro and astrophysicist Carl Grillmair were both shot to death in their homes in recent months. Independent investigators have noted that Loureiro's revolutionary work in nuclear fusion may have made him a target of a greater conspiracy against US scientists, as his work may one day upend the energy industry.

In addition to the string of disappearances, five scientists in key areas of research have died over the last few years. Amy Eskridge (pictured) was just 34 years old when she allegedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot to the head in Huntsville, Alabama on June 11, 2022. However, neither the police nor the medical examiners have publicly released any details of an investigation ever taking place. Before her death, she was openly researching and trying to develop anti-gravity technology , a way to control or cancel out gravity, which could revolutionize space travel and energy production. Nuclear physicist Nuno Loureiro and astrophysicist Carl Grillmair were both shot to death in their homes in recent months. Independent investigators have noted that Loureiro’s revolutionary work in nuclear fusion may have made him a target of a greater conspiracy against US scientists, as his work may one day upend the energy industry.

Last year, Claudio Neves Valente was identified by Boston authorities as a suspect in the shooting of Loureiro (pictured), as well as two Brown University students, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook. After eluding police for days, Valente, 48, died by suicide in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, on December 16. Grillmair's work with NASA's NEOWISE and NEO Surveyor has also been linked to the Air Force, as the telescopes used the same systems the military relies on to track satellites and missiles. Meanwhile, NASA scientists Michael David Hicks and Frank Maiwald, who also worked at the Jet Propulsion Lab, died from unknown circumstances at an early age. Maiwald, 61, was the lead researcher on a breakthrough that could help future space missions detect clear signs of life on other worlds just 13 months before he died in 2024.

Last year, Claudio Neves Valente was identified by Boston authorities as a suspect in the shooting of Loureiro (pictured), as well as two Brown University students, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook. After eluding police for days, Valente, 48, died by suicide in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, on December 16. Grillmair’s work with NASA’s NEOWISE and NEO Surveyor has also been linked to the Air Force, as the telescopes used the same systems the military relies on to track satellites and missiles. Meanwhile, NASA scientists Michael David Hicks and Frank Maiwald, who also worked at the Jet Propulsion Lab, died from unknown circumstances at an early age. Maiwald, 61, was the lead researcher on a breakthrough that could help future space missions detect clear signs of life on other worlds just 13 months before he died in 2024.

Hicks, whose death came just a year after leaving JPL at age 59, had been involved with the DART Project, NASA’s test to see if humans could deflect dangerous asteroids away from Earth. NASA's JPL has not commented on the deaths of Maiwald or Hicks, and did not reply to the Daily Mail's inquiries into the nature of the scientists' work before their deaths. In another mysterious incident, Jason Thomas (pictured), a pharmaceutical researcher testing cancer treatments at Novartis, was found dead in a Massachusetts lake on March 17, after disappearing without a trace in December. Local police have claimed there was no foul play suspected.

Hicks, whose death came just a year after leaving JPL at age 59, had been involved with the DART Project, NASA’s test to see if humans could deflect dangerous asteroids away from Earth. NASA’s JPL has not commented on the deaths of Maiwald or Hicks, and did not reply to the Daily Mail’s inquiries into the nature of the scientists’ work before their deaths. In another mysterious incident, Jason Thomas (pictured), a pharmaceutical researcher testing cancer treatments at Novartis, was found dead in a Massachusetts lake on March 17, after disappearing without a trace in December. Local police have claimed there was no foul play suspected.

Trump Approaches Potential $14 Billion Settlement with Tax Authorities

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Donald Trump may have arranged himself a 11-figure payday after his own tax office signalled they would settle a lawsuit with him.

In a surprising development, both Donald Trump and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have petitioned a court to grant them a 90-day extension to address their ongoing legal dispute. This request aims to provide both parties with the opportunity to work towards a resolution outside the courtroom.

Donald Trump has the ability to fire anyone who would stop him getting a multi-billion settlement from the IRS.
Donald Trump has the ability to fire anyone who would stop him getting a multi-billion settlement from the IRS. (AP)

“The extension will promote judicial economy and allow the Parties to explore avenues that could narrow or resolve the issues efficiently,” the joint statement submitted to the court explained. This suggests a mutual desire to streamline the legal process and potentially avoid prolonged litigation.

The lawsuit, however, has sparked significant controversy, particularly among ethics watchdogs. Critics argue that the situation is problematic given Trump’s influence over the IRS and the Department of Treasury, both of which are staffed by individuals appointed by him. This dynamic raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest, as the president has the authority to dismiss these officials.

Democracy Forward, an organization dedicated to promoting accountability and transparency, has actively opposed the lawsuit. The group has filed a brief objecting to the requests made by Trump and the IRS.

Skye Perryman, CEO of Democracy Forward, expressed strong disapproval of Trump’s actions, stating that he was “seeking to further illegally line his own pockets at the public’s expense.” This sentiment underscores the ethical dilemmas perceived by watchdog groups regarding the lawsuit’s implications.

“The president’s corruption continues, this time in an attempt to take $10 billion dollars of the taxpayers’ money, which threatens to make a mockery out of our justice system,” Perryman said.

“Not only does the president’s baseless case have significant legal defects, but there are colossal conflicts of interest at play.”

Donald Trump has sued his own tax office for $14 billion.
Donald Trump has sued his own tax office for $14 billion. (AP)

Trump had already claimed to have won the lawsuit in the days after it was filed.

“Essentially, the lawsuit’s been won. I guess I won a lotta money,” he said.

The year he ran for president he paid barely $1000 in taxes.

In February Trump suggested he might make a contribution to charity with the money he was getting from the taxpayer.

“We could make it a substantial amount,” he said.

“Nobody would care because it’s going to go to numerous very good charities.”

Trump has a long history of promising money to charities and then not paying.

Elizabeth Warren has described Donald Trump's actions as "theft".
Elizabeth Warren has described Donald Trump’s actions as “theft”. (AP)

“Right out in the open, Donald Trump is suing his own IRS to try to steal $10 BILLION taxpayer dollars,” she said on Bluesky.

“I just introduced a bill that would make this theft ILLEGAL.”

The subject of Trump’s tax returns has been a long running source of scrutiny and criticism.

Presidential candidates have for decades released their tax returns to the public.

In 2016, Trump broke that tradition on the justification that he was being audited.

There is no legal reason why a person being audited cannot do so.

Ten years later, he has still not voluntarily released any tax returns. 

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States Honor Charlie Kirk: New Legislation Boosts Religious Freedom and Free Speech

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In Kansas, a groundbreaking law now permits college students to take legal action against their institutions over free-speech infringements. Meanwhile, Tennessee introduces legislation promoting the inclusion of “the positive impacts of religion” in American history classes for educators.

These initiatives share a common inspiration: Charlie Kirk.

Much like Kirk’s reputation for stirring campus debates, these legislative actions have sparked considerable controversy.

In Kansas, Republican legislators successfully overturned a veto by Democratic Governor Laura Kelly to pass the law. Governor Kelly cautioned that this could lead to confusion among courts and educational institutions.

In Tennessee, where Republicans maintain a stronghold over the state government, some Democratic lawmakers voiced their opposition to the pro-Kirk legislation. They cited past comments by Kirk, which they described as racially insensitive, involving Black pilots and Black women in governmental roles.

“How many times have we sat here and endured this? The Charlie Kirk Saves America Act, whatever the heck it is? Come on guys. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s move on,” Democratic state Rep. Sam McKenzie said during a committee meeting where Republicans endorsed the “Charlie Kirk American Heritage Act.”

That’s not to be confused with Tennessee’s “Charlie Kirk Act,” which Republicans also recently passed. That bill addresses campus free speech, including a ban on attendee walkouts that intentionally disrupt a speaker.

The variety of bills in Kirk’s name “shows just how deeply his influence is being felt, especially in the fight to restore intellectual diversity and core American values in education,” said Matt Shupe, a spokesperson for Turning Point USA, which Kirk founded.

Tennessee touts Christian values in Kirk’s name

A Kirk-named law signed this week by Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee extols the historical “influence of Judeo-Christian values on the freedom and liberties ingrained in our culture.”

It gives permission for public schools and higher education institutions to teach about religion’s positive role in American history. And it lists 19 examples, beginning with the organization of the Pilgrims as a church and including George Washington’s direction for Army chaplains, Benjamin Franklin’s appeal for prayer at the constitutional convention and the impact of Christian evangelist Billy Graham.

Tennessee is one of several Republican-led states to partner with Turning Point USA to promote its high school chapters, called Club America. Dozens of club leaders from Tennessee attended a state Senate committee hearing last month to support the religion-in-history legislation.

Ben Mason, a junior from Providence Academy in Johnson City, said Kirk helped him “to understand that America began with Judeo-Christian values.”

“This, of course, does not mean that you must be a Christian or even believe in God to be in America, but you will hear about our roots,” Mason told lawmakers.

But Senate Democratic Leader Raumesh Akbari raised concerns.

“Our public schools are really not the place to push one religion over another,” she said. “I know that is not the stated intent of the bill, but I think that ends up being the result.”

Kansas cites Kirk to promote free speech

Lawmakers turned Kirk’s name into an acronym for the “Kansas intellectual rights and knowledge” act, which deems outdoor areas on college campuses as forums for free expression. The bill’s preamble praises Kirk and cites a 2024 incident at Kansas State University in which Kirk’s microphone was shut off at the end of his allotted time, leading Kirk to wade into the crowd to continue taking questions.

The measure limits security fees charged to student organizations for events and bans designated “free speech zones” that restrict the location of such activities. The attorney general — or any who believe their rights were infringed — can sue an institution seeking damages of at least $500 per violation, and $50 for each day it continues.

The bill is similar to the Campus Free Expression Act, promoted by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. About half the states already have campus free-speech laws, according to the foundation.

“Charlie Kirk was assassinated for exercising his right to free speech and introducing young people to conservative values,” Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson said after Kelly’s veto was recently overridden. “His mission and legacy will live on and protect the free speech rights of all college students in Kansas for decades to come.”

Democrats, while decrying Kirk’s assassination, were unified in opposing the bill. Democratic state Rep. Jerry Stogsdill said legislators should not honor an activist whose statements promoted “hate, bigotry, misogyny and racism.”

More Kirk bills are pending in state capitols

In Louisiana, Republicans have proposed a bill dubbed the “Charlie Kirk Success Sequence Act.” The measure would require public schools to teach that the keys to success include earning a high school diploma, immediately entering the workforce after high school or college, and marrying before having children.

A Senate committee advanced the bill this week after overcoming objections.

“Why muddy this bill up by putting a controversial political figure’s name on it?” asked Democratic Sen. Katrina Jackson-Andrews, whose attempt to remove Kirk’s name failed in the Republican-dominated committee.

“In the last 20 years, I cannot think of anyone that’s had the type of impact on our students, on our campuses and in our cities as Charlie Kirk,” said Republican Sen. Rick Edmonds, who authored the bill.

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Unicoi County Introduces ‘Apples on Main’ Walkable Art Installation in Erwin


ERWIN, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Friday, the Erwin community gathered at Gathering Place Park for the debut of the Apples on Main tourism initiative.

The Apple Art Walk has become a permanent fixture in the heart of downtown, showcasing the rich history of Erwin and the cherished Unicoi County Apple Festival, which has been a staple event for 49 years. The installation features eight distinct apple sculptures placed along a five-block stretch of Main Street.

Local artists crafted each apple with unique designs that celebrate Unicoi County’s love for outdoor activities and its natural beauty. Each sculpture is equipped with a QR code at its base, linking visitors to a website that details the apple’s specific theme and the tourism attraction it symbolizes.

Amanda Delp, the executive director of the Unicoi Chamber of Commerce, highlighted that while Apples on Main is aimed at boosting tourism, it also serves as a testament to the community’s strength following the impact of Hurricane Helene.

“In light of the events from September 2024, we felt it was important to create an apple that commemorates those times,” Delp explained. “Among these apples, we have crafted a special piece that beautifully honors our community.”

“I think this means a lot to the community. I think it is a project that our community can be proud of, that our community can embrace.”

Delp said those wanting to learn more about the apple-filled route can visit applesonmain.com.

Repeat Offender Faces New Charges: Disturbing Case of Sexual Battery on Young Girl Unveiled

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Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities have charged 30-year-old Mack Arther Simmons II with sexual battery involving a second minor, a child younger than 12, as well as additional charges of sexual battery and indecent acts against another adolescent girl.

For further details on the case related to the initial victim, click here.

Recently, both victims bravely came forward to recount their experiences. The latest victim revealed that Simmons allegedly lured her into his home under the guise of playing video games or watching television. Once inside, he would reportedly turn off the lights and assault her. This abuse is said to have persisted for roughly five months, beginning when she was under 12 years old. The University of Florida Child Protection Team has reportedly confirmed the sexual abuse suffered by the victim.

Simmons faces serious charges, including sexual battery of a child under 12—a capital felony—and sexual battery of a teenager aged 12 to 18. In a separate case, he is also accused of sexually battering a minor under 18 and committing lewd and lascivious acts on a victim under 16.

Simmons has 24 felony convictions, mostly burglary and grand theft, from offenses committed in Santa Rosa County when he was 17. All but one of the sentences were concurrent 5-year sentences, but one sentence was for 11 years, and he was released in June 2024 to serve four years of probation. He is being held without bail pending a hearing on a motion from the State Attorney’s Office to hold him without bail until trial; if the judge denies the motion, bail will be set at that hearing.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 


Lessons from Gallipoli: Navigating Modern Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz

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In brief:

  • The 25 April anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign approaches.
  • The lessons of the Gallipoli campaign may be useful in understanding strategies in the Strait of Hormuz.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East serves as a stark reminder of how seemingly minor strategic decisions can escalate into significant military engagements.

In a move to counter Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, the United States has opted to blockade Iranian ports by managing access to this crucial passage. Iran has long threatened to assert its dominance over the strait if provoked, and the U.S. response is a direct countermeasure to that assertion.

For the first time, Iran has included the recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz among its conditions to cease hostilities. This waterway is not just vital for Iran but is also regarded as the world’s most important energy corridor, serving as a crucial maritime passageway for global trade.

History has shown that underestimating the complexity and duration of such operations can lead to significant and prolonged consequences.

As the anniversary of the ill-fated Gallipoli campaign on April 25 approaches—a World War I effort to secure a route to the Black Sea—America’s allies may do well to heed the lessons of history and proceed with caution.

Gallipoli was about controlling sea routes

By early 1915, Europe’s most powerful states — including Britain and its empire — had been at war for months, with no end in sight. Keeping Britain and France’s ally, Russia, in the fight meant delivering it a steady stream of munitions and other critical war materials.

The only realistic route lay through the Ottoman (Turkish) controlled Dardanelles, the straits linking the Mediterranean and Black Seas, between the peninsula of Gallipoli and Asia minor. And since the Ottoman Empire was already at war with Britain, France and Russia, this would necessitate Allied forces attempting to destroy Turkish resistance to force a way through.

After months of discussion, the Allies settled on a purely naval operation: no need for army support. It was mostly the brainchild of Winston Churchill, then First Lord of the Admiralty.

If the cream of the Royal Navy needed to stay in home waters to contain the threat of a powerful German navy in the North Sea, obsolescent warships could carry the day. This “side show”, the Allies concluded, could be called off at any time.

Other leading government ministers and admirals, including the prime minister and secretary of state for war, supported Churchill’s plan – or appeared to. Privately, some had deep reservations.

Why did it fail?

When sailing in open water, naval forces are safe from most land-based weapons. However, when they are constrained in limited waters, such as maritime choke points, they become extremely vulnerable to attack from land (as well as from sea mines). An expensive warship can be damaged or destroyed by much cheaper land-based artillery.

British decision-makers underestimated Turkish defences and ignored disagreeable intelligence. With the outbreak of World War I, Turkish forces had set about reinforcing heavy artillery on both shores of the straits and laid mines in the waters.

When the Anglo-French fleet attempted to clear a path with minesweepers, the Turkish batteries rained fire on them, driving them off. Then, when the old battleships advanced to knock the guns out, they too came under artillery fire and rapidly fell prey to unswept sea mines, losing nearly one third of the armada.

As historian Jörn Leonhard wrote, “With just one minelayer, the Turkish navy had successfully sealed the mouth of the Dardanelles.”

Things got much worse. With British prestige now at stake, the Allies escalated their efforts. On 25 April 1916, Allied (including Anzac) ground troops intervened in an attempt to finally crush the coastal defences.

As historian John H. Morrow Jr insightfully describes:

There they would remain for the next eight months, through bloody attacks and counter-attacks, as both sides launched ferocious and suicidal assaults against each other. The troops now mown down by shell or machine-gun and rifle fire fell in frenzied hand-to-hand combat, as men bit, punched, bludgeoned, and stabbed each other to death, all to no avail.

Though outnumbered, Turkish forces held superior positions and proved a formidable opponent. There were roughly 483,000 Allied and Turkish military casualties. The Allies were forced to withdraw.

Four lessons Gallipoli can teach us right now

1. Beware of the allure of the dominant personality. Complex strategic decisions require broad consultation and a base in evidence that considers all crucial factors. Of course “they should have known better” at Gallipoli. But those decisions were considerably more thought out than the strategy employed so far in the US attack on Iran, which has been labelled by some as erratic.

2. Don’t fall unto the trap of underestimating your enemy. “Gunboat diplomacy” (showing up and militarily threatening a weaker adversary) did not work in 1916 and so far it is not working in 2026. It is possible that US president Donald Trump was seduced by the ease of US military actions against Venezuela. But Washington has significantly underestimated Tehran’s resolve and strategic position.

3. Mission creep. Once initial resources prove inadequate, powerful states are likely to scale up, not scale down, their efforts – the definition of the dreaded “mission creep”.

4. War is costly in terms of human life. This is a point often forgotten when calculating for a perceived easy win. Gallipoli led to horrific military casualties. The current war has left mostly civilian casualties. And if the conflict escalates, even if ostensibly at sea to control merchant shipping, further civilian casualties will occur.

Furthermore, we are yet to comprehend the scale of the harm being caused due to the wider economic costs of disrupting crucial energy and fertiliser supplies, not least to disadvantaged areas of the world.

Australians have options in the Iran war

Naval forces at maritime choke points are more vulnerable than ever. The proliferation of cheap, land-based systems such as drones and missiles means traditionally much weaker states — and even non-state actors — can effectively contest seaways against the most costly, sophisticated militaries.

We should be as critical of the current Iran war as we are of the Gallipoli campaign today. It is unlikely to be solved quickly, and not at all by military means alone.

The difference between 1916 and 2026 is that Australia is no longer automatically drawn in by the interests of others. Now, a sovereign Australia has the right to make its own decisions.

Meighen McCrae is an Associate Professor of Strategic & Defence Studies at the Australian National University


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