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Elementary School Principal Faces Charges After Alleged Violent Assault on Own Son

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Inset: Janelle Brooks (Warner Elementary School Facebook). Background: Warner Elementary School in East Nashville (Google Maps).

A principal from Tennessee is embroiled in serious allegations involving child abuse. Janelle Brooks, aged 38, stands accused of abusing her teenage son by allegedly making him leave their home clad only in underwear, subsequently assaulting him with a paddle, and choking him to the point where he struggled to breathe.

Law enforcement officials apprehended Brooks, who leads Warner Arts Magnet Elementary School based in East Nashville. She now faces charges of aggravated domestic assault, as per court documents.

Concerns about Brooks’ behavior emerged after her former spouse—the boy’s father—alerted the Portland Police Department. He expressed fears for his kids’ well-being while under their mother’s care, reported by the Nashville Banner. Initial worries included suspicions regarding Brooks’ new partner potentially disciplining the children without consultation.

Statements given by the 13-year-old to law enforcement reveal that Brooks had demanded he vacate her residence, forbidding him from taking any belongings that she purchased—clothing included, according to The Tennessean report. This left the young boy standing outside dressed solely in his underwear.

Brooks then allegedly grabbed a paddle from another room and struck her son in the legs multiple times before grabbing him around his neck and squeezing until he was “wheezing” for breath, Nashville Fox affiliate WZTV reported.

Asked why he didn’t contact police about the alleged violent incident, the victim reportedly said he was not permitted access to a phone or other electronic device when at his mother’s home.

In an interview with detectives, Brooks allegedly admitted that she used a paddle to discipline her son, according to the arrest affidavit.

“Mrs. Brooks stated that her son, the 13-year-old, had disrespected her,” police reportedly wrote in the affidavit. “Mrs. Brooks stated further that she had grabbed a paddle to discipline her son, to which she said he had responded ‘you’re not going to paddle me.’ Mrs. Brooks stated that she told her 13 year old son that he could get out then. However she was not allowing him to leave with any items she had personally purchased for him, so her 13-year-old son was now only in his underwear.”

The principal also reportedly acknowledged going for her son’s throat because he had “swelled up at her,” but claimed the boy grabbed her arms and tried to block her.

One day after Brooks’ Aug. 20 arrest, Metro Nashville Public Schools placed her on administrative leave pending an external investigation. In an email to parents obtained by the Banner, the district said the incident had nothing to do with Brooks’ work at the school.

“The matter involving Dr. Brooks had nothing to do with her work as principal or to the operations of Warner Elementary,” the district said. “Because this is an ongoing personnel matter, we are unable to provide additional information at this time.”

Brooks was released from the Sumner County Jail on Aug. 21 after posting a $15,000 bond, court records show. She was also served with an order of protection and is scheduled to make her first appearance in court Sept. 4.

The post Elementary school principal paddled son who ‘disrespected her’ before strangling boy until he was ‘wheezing’ for air: Police first appeared on Law & Crime.

Emily Exposes Heather’s Shocking Vegas Behavior on RHOC

On the latest episode of Real Housewives of Orange County, the spotlight is on Carmella as she hosts an event in Rancho Santa Fe. Tensions are high as the women voice their frustrations with Heather’s alleged hypocritical behavior and tendency to flaunt her lifestyle. Despite extending apologies, Carmella remains conflicted about her strained relationship with Vicki, still trying to process the emotional weight of their past issues.

RHOC Recap: Emily Exposes Heather’s Off-Camera Comments About Carmella and Calls Out Her ‘Aggressive’ Behavior in Vegas, Shannon Breaks Down Her Finances and Calls Vicki a Dumb**s

Back in Orange County, the Housewives regroup as they recover from their Vegas escapades, armed with IV drips, chicken, and a healthy dose of gossip. Tamra, Emily, and Vicki find themselves discussing Emily’s marriage, which she describes as “transactional” and lacking emotional depth.

Vicki expresses her irritation with Heather, feeling she’s excessively entitled. Emily believes Heather demands everyone play by her rules, while Tamra recalls how Heather confronted Vicki after an incident where she chastised Carmella about her parenting. Tamra is quick to label Heather as two-faced, noting her contradictory behavior when Carmella is not present. Emily even reveals that Heather once referred to Carmella as “trashy,” sparking further doubts about Heather’s authenticity and underlying motives.

Later, Heather visits Carmella’s workplace to discuss rental properties for her daughter. After wrapping up business matters, the conversation shifts to the group’s dynamics and the fallout from Vegas, with Heather acknowledging the strain caused by their ongoing disagreements.

Heather pays a visit to Carmella’s job to talk rentals. Heather is looking for a place for her daughter and Carmella delivers with some options. After the business aspect, Heather chats about the character assassination in Vegas and points out that it hurts the group when they all don’t get along.

Shannon and Jenn head to doggy obedience class…mainly for Shannon’s dog who needs a bit more attention. It’s odd to them that Heather was the one that was questioning Carmella the most and that Heather makes these calculated moves.

Shannon meets with Vicki to get real about money. Shannon admits that she has to be better with her finances and that after Real for Real was shut down, she lost her savings. Spending $3,000.00 a month on Ubers and paying $10,500.00 a month on rent sure ain’t helping Shannon’s situation.  She looks overwhelmed when addressing her spending habits and patterns.

Gina, Emily, and Jenn start shopping for Carmella’s pool party.  Carmella has invited them to come eat a hot dog, enjoy some ice cream, and see her life down in Rancho Santa Fe. The ladies are excited to see this side of Carmella, and are especially excited to meet her boyfriend- the one who cheated on her.  Gina is certain Carmella will not recover from the infidelity…

As they shop, Emily calls Heather “controlling” and “monopolizing.”  She’s sick of being made out to be the aggressive one when it’s Heather who just never gets focused on. Gina points out that Heather gets defensive when questioned and Emily feels like Heather only shares the good and positive parts of her life.

Later, Emily and Shane head out for their anniversary dinner, after much ado, considering the issues that her son is going through. Emily chats about upcoming marriages and upcoming divorces.  She wonders how she has stayed with Shane for 17 years, especially because of Shane’s stay-at-home-dad role. It’s a very non-traditional marriage and Emily remains unaware that Shane can use a break.

Carmella is prepping to host the ladies and she reminds her children to stay appropriate. When Vicki arrives, Carmella makes it a point to show Vicki “the kids she left behind.” Carmella introduces her boyfriend, Danny, to the group, but it’s weird since many of the ladies know all the infidelity secrets.

Carmella shares that things have been better with Danny since Vegas.  She feels like she has to let go of her anger since he has stepped up.  Now they are trying to rebuild and make things work.

Tamra points out that Shannon and Vicki have birthdays coming up, but while they talk, Heather lets the others know she is feeling excluded. Tamra gets in Heather’s ear, “yelling stand down,” impersonating Heather when she got in Vicki’s face.  Emily jumps in to discuss the Vegas shenanigans. Emily left feeling irritated because Heather always tries to control the situation.  Heather is confused because there are people that love how extra she is.

Carmella talks about being “heavy-hearted” after Vegas and wonders if Vicki had those mom-shaming thoughts. Vicki makes it clear that was never her intent, but Carmella is hopeful that Vicki realizes she made a mistake. According to Vicki, they are now BFF. 

When Tamra brings up Heather’s dad, Heather does not like that, even though she threw him in the mix last season. Seems like Heather can’t take “her own medicine.” Heather wants the ladies to tell her when they are bothered and Vicki rudely gets up to leave because she has another party to get to.  Classic Vicki.

The ladies share cheating stories and Gina explains her ex had his mistress saved under a different name in his phone.  After Shannon reconciled with her ex-husband, she looked at his phone and found out he reconnected with his mistress.  Carmella laments that you start questioning reality when this occurs.  Although a lousy common ground to find, the ladies connect on this subject.  After some of Heather’s “son”-gria and hotdogs, Carmella’s successful get-together wraps up.

TELL US – THOUGHTS ON THIS EPISODE OF RHOC?

Ratko Mladić, Infamous Bosnian Genocide Convict, Passes Away at 84

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Ratko Mladić, the notorious Bosnian Serb general associated with some of the most horrific war crimes in recent European history, has passed away at the age of 84. He famously commanded military forces responsible for the most brutal massacre on the continent since World War II.

Nicknamed the “Butcher of Bosnia,” Mladić spent his final moments in a hospital in The Hague, Netherlands, as confirmed by officials from the U.N. court.

Following a lengthy period as a fugitive, Mladić had been in detention since 2011. His arrest came after being charged with numerous war crimes committed during the bloody conflicts that tore apart the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s.

In 2017, the court handed him a life sentence for his crimes, sealing his fate behind bars.

Gen. Ratko Mladic stands near a United Nations flag at Sarajevo Airport.

Serbian General Ratko Mladić is pictured beside a United Nations flag at Sarajevo Airport on May 17, 1993. Mladić took his final breath on Thursday. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

Mladić was one of the most notorious figures in the conflict that left more than 100,000 people dead and displaced more than a million others.

Under his command, Bosnian Serb troops took control of large swaths of Bosnia and Herzegovina and laid siege to the capital of Sarajevo and other cities. His forces detained non-Serb civilians and enemy soldiers in concentration camps and systematically slaughtered prisoners.

Despite the charges levied against him, Mladić never showed remorse. In court, he yelled at the judges when he was sentenced.

Ratko Mladic speaks to soldiers near Cazin.

Bosnian Serb Gen. Ratko Mladić speaks to soldiers near the Bosnian town of Cazin Sept. 4, 1994. (AP Photo/Radivoje Pavicic)

“He was murdered there, in those dungeons,” Janko Seslija, a former Bosnian Serb soldier, told The Associated Press. “I feel sorry for Gen. Mladić. He was an honorable man, honorable soldier and commander.”

A former Communist-era military officer, Mladić sided with the Serbs as Yugoslavia broke apart and disintegrated into war. He led a Serb insurgency in Croatia before taking over the Bosnian Serb army, according to The AP.

Among the horrors Mladić was charged with was the 1995 slaughter of up to 8,000 Muslim men and boys in Srebrenica, which was supposed to be a safe zone guarded by Dutch peacekeepers.

Ratko Mladic mural vandalized with paint in Belgrade, Serbia.

A mural of former Bosnian Serb military chief Ratko Mladić was vandalized with paint in Belgrade, Serbia, Sept. 20, 2022. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Mladić seized the town and assured the Muslim children that everything would be fine. Hours later, his troops began days of rape, torture and mass killings.

One Vanderbilt Tops Empire State in NYC Observation Views

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Step aside, King Kong! In a major twist of cityscape rivalry, One Vanderbilt’s Summit has dethroned the Empire State Building’s Observatory, which has long ruled as New York City’s premier sky-high vantage point.

Remarkably, in just its fifth year, Summit generated more revenue in the first half of this year than the storied Empire State decks, according to financial disclosures from both properties’ public ownership.

During the initial six months of 2026, Summit amassed $55.651 million in operating revenue, marking a 3.9% upswing from the previous year’s $53.541 million. This financial boost was highlighted in a supplemental report accompanying SL Green’s earnings release for the second quarter.

Meanwhile, earnings from the Empire State Observatory nose-dived, dropping to $42.7 million for the first half of 2026 from $57 million in the same timeframe in 2025, as detailed in the Empire State Realty Trust’s quarterly earnings report.

Analyst John P. Kim from Bank of Montreal, based in Manhattan, acknowledged, “Indeed, Summit has outperformed the Empire State Observatory not only in the fourth quarter of 2025 but also throughout 2026 thus far.”

The shocking change of fortune came as Manhattan observation decks face more competition — there are a half-dozen today, compared with only two after 9/11. Moreover, the number of international travelers to the Big Apple — who comprise a large part of their business — has fallen by 8% since the pandemic.

Privately held companies own four of Manhattan’s observation decks — Tishman Speyer’s Top of the Rock, Related’s Edge, the Port Authority and Durst’s One World Observatory and Jamestown’s just-opened Times Square Skywalk — and aren’t required to divulge financial results.

There’s also the city’s newly opened, 36th-floor Centre 360 atop the Municipal Building at 1 Centre St. — and it’s free, although tickets must be booked well in advance.

“It’s the last thing that the pricey ones need,” a source said of the publicly funded competition.

Kim, whose office overlooks the Skywalk, said: “The observatory pie is growing, but it’s affecting the Empire State Building the most.”

He added that in the intensified struggle for visitors, “Everyone offers something new and different.” 

There are “immersive” light-and-video installations, time-travel simulations and kaleidoscopic displays to entertain visitors en route to the observatories.

Summit is on One Vanderbilt’s 97th to 99th floors, while Empire State has viewing platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors.  

The latter have appeared in scores of movies, including “An Affair to Remember,” “The Producers,” “Sleepless in Seattle” and even “The Muppets Take Manhattan.”

The numbers of visitors can’t be extrapolated from revenue, because crazy-quilt admission prices vary wildly depending on which options customers choose. At Top of the Rock, for example, the cheapest ticket is $42 and the most expensive, for a “VIP pass,” is $185, with options in between.

Revenue is not the same as net operating income, which is also a function of expenses, taxes and other factors. But Empire State Observatory’s net operating income plunged $12.4 million in the second quarter compared to $24.2 million the previous year, while the number of visitors fell 28% year-over-year.

Chief Executive Tony Malkin told investors his company began “a total re-evaluation of our observatory business model and execution early in the first quarter.” That could mean less reliance on third-party sightseeing passes that bundle discounted admissions.

The setback caused Empire State Realty Trust to write down $166 million in value attached to  the observatory, which astonishingly accounts for nearly 25% of net operating income for the company’s entire, nearly 9 million square-foot office portfolio. (In comparison, SL Green holds interests in over 30 million square feet of properties).

The Empire State Observatory’s plight stands in contrast to the skyscraper’s  2.8 million square feet of offices, which are more than 96% leased at high rents. Powerhouse talent agency UTA recently signed for over 100,000 square feet, as The Post first reported. 

Kendall Jenner’s Smitten Woes: Jacob Elordi’s Secret Exposed

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As the year began, Kendall Jenner seemed to fully embrace her single status, expressing joy in the freedom that comes without romantic ties.

“I enjoy the independence I have at this moment. I can pursue my interests freely,” she shared with Owen Thiele on the In Your Dreams podcast.

However, not long after, Jenner’s solitary lifestyle experienced a dramatic shift.

In a surprising turn later that month, the 30-year-old supermodel began a new romance with Jacob Elordi, 29, an Oscar-nominated actor and longtime friend.

Their budding relationship quickly garnered public attention as they were spotted together at an Oscar party in March and shared a kiss at Coachella in April. The couple soon embarked on travels together, visiting destinations like Hawaii, Tokyo, Australia, and Idaho.

Next came a string of dates – most recently they were seen stopping by a Japanese barbecue restaurant on Tuesday.

But their speedy romance, which comes after Elordi previously romanced Jenner’s pal and fellow model, Kaia Gerber, has some people concerned.

‘Some of Kendall’s family members think she is spending too much time with Jacob and catering to him too much,’ a source told the Daily Mail. ‘They are totally inseparable. She plans all their expensive trips, she has the big houses, she books the private jets, she has the connections.’

Kendall Jenner has been spending a lot of time with boyfriend Jacob Elordi and it is causing concern for her family. Seen on August 24 in London

Kendall Jenner has been spending a lot of time with boyfriend Jacob Elordi and it is causing concern for her family. Seen on August 24 in London

'They are totally inseparable. She plans all their expensive trips, she has the big houses, she books the private jets, she has the connections,' said a source. Seen in London on August 22

‘They are totally inseparable. She plans all their expensive trips, she has the big houses, she books the private jets, she has the connections,’ said a source. Seen in London on August 22

Indeed, Elordi has already made himself comfortable in her Beverly Hills and Montecito homes in California.

And he has spent time with her closest VIP friends like Hailey and Justin Bieber, and gotten tight with her sister Kylie Jenner and her beau Timothee Chalamet. He has also met Kendall’s lesser-known friends such as Renell Medrano and Lauren Perez.

Jenner’s famous family is happy for her but also worried, said the source. 

Khloe Kardashian, in particular, has told her half-sister to be cautious: ‘Khloe is a sweetheart and acts like she is Kendall’s mom sometimes. She is super supportive to all her siblings, so warm, and generous and kind, but sometimes also like a helicopter parent, so it’s only natural for Khloe to tell Kendall to be careful.’

Khloe’s own painful track record with men has made her so suspicious that she has sworn off dating for the past five years.

Sister Khloe Kardashian has told Jenner to be  'careful,' said a source

Sister Khloe Kardashian has told Jenner to be  ‘careful,’ said a source

‘Khloe has been burned so many times. I mean, look at what Lamar [Odom] and Tristan [Thompson] did to her, so it’s understandable she is wary of men,’ added the source. ‘She doesn’t want to scare Kendall, she has just told her sister to keep one eye open.’

Kylie, on the other hand, has told her older sister to go for it and jump headfirst into the new relationship. ‘Kylie was the one who told Kendall and Jacob to date each other in the first place, so she is not saying slow down, she is saying enjoy it!’

Another source, however, said there are red flags, insisting that Elordi is in part dating Jenner for the headlines. 

‘This is absolutely everything that Jacob wants as he loves every minute of his celebrity and Kendall is only providing him with more – it’s like a drug to his ego,’ said the second source.

Jenner has a history of dating famous people – Bad Bunny, Devin Booker, Ben Simmons and Blake Griffin are some examples – but none have had as much of a reputation as a womanizer as Elordi.

Another source, however, said there are red flags, insisting that Elordi is in part dating Jenner for the headlines. Seen at the Vanity Fair Oscar party in March

Another source, however, said there are red flags, insisting that Elordi is in part dating Jenner for the headlines. Seen at the Vanity Fair Oscar party in March

'This is absolutely everything that Jacob wants as he loves every minute of his celebrity and Kendall is only providing him with more - it's like a drug to his ego,' said the second source. Seen in Hawaii in mid May

‘This is absolutely everything that Jacob wants as he loves every minute of his celebrity and Kendall is only providing him with more – it’s like a drug to his ego,’ said the second source. Seen in Hawaii in mid May

Elordi has already dated a string of beautiful, famous women including Joey King, Zendaya, Kaia Gerber and Olivia Jade Giannulli during his six years of fame.

‘Friends worry Jacob will break Kendall’s heart because he has dated so many women before and he tends to not stay in a relationship for too long. It is cause for concern,’ added the source.

Pals have urged the cover girl, who has said on Keeping Up With The Kardashians that she battles anxiety, to slow down the romance a bit to take care of herself. 

‘Her friends have suggested she spend more time with her horses and with passion projects like home design, and more nights out with her friends,’ shared the source.

Indeed, she has been with her horses and dogs – which she reminds her fans of with her Instagram photos. But Elordi seems to never be far away, as his Golden Retriever Layla can be spied in her images.

But the reality TV star thinks spending so much time with a Hollywood heartthrob is fine. ‘Kendall says they are doing great, and he is a good person, so why mess with a good thing?’ said the source.

‘They worry Jacob will break Kendall's heart because he has dated so many hot girls before and he tends to not stay in a relationship for too long. It is cause for concern,' added the source. Seen in Tokyo in early June

‘They worry Jacob will break Kendall’s heart because he has dated so many hot girls before and he tends to not stay in a relationship for too long. It is cause for concern,’ added the source. Seen in Tokyo in early June

‘Kendall has a glow, she is totally in love, and thinks Jacob could be the one. Who knows, she could end up Kendall Elordi,’ shared the source.

Jenner has never married, though earlier this year she told Vogue France that children are in her future. When asked if she planned to have kids, she replied: ‘Yes, of course. I want to have them, but not right now. I want to make sure I can dedicate a lot of time to them, and for the moment, I’m still too busy.’

As far as Elordi, he wants little ones as well. When the Wall Street Journal asked him last year if he wants to have children, he said: ‘Very much so.’ He also shared that becoming a dad would make him ‘the happiest person in the world.’

So far there have been no signs that Elordi plans to ditch the beauty. ‘Jacob has been super sweet, he is a nice guy, so no one can say he is a bad influence or a jerk,’ said the source.

And he has been there when she needed him.

‘When her grandmother MJ died she was really sad, and Jacob was there to wipe away the tears. He is very close to his family so he knows how important family is,’ said the source. 

Jenner with her horse

Jenner with her dog, a Doberman Pinscher named Pyro

Jenner seems to have been spending some time alone with her horses and dogs, but often there are hints Elordi is nearby

Jenner seen cuddling up to Elordi's Golden Retriever Layla in one of her Instagram photos from mid August

Jenner seen cuddling up to Elordi’s Golden Retriever Layla in one of her Instagram photos from mid August

It also looks like they could grow even closer, according to the second source. ‘He didn’t think it was going to be anything big, but it is now, and as active as his career is right now, he’s putting time into his relationship. It’s going way better than anyone including themselves thought it would be.’

And he is not getting any advice from his family to slow down. ‘His family is starting to accept that it is Jacob’s way or the highway. Right now his family is OK with it, or at least acting like they’re OK with it.’

As far as their future, Elordi and Jenner will continue trying to keep a low profile. 

‘There is no way he is going to appear on her family’s show The Kardashians, that is out of the question,’ said the first source. ‘But they may work together down the road on a fashion campaign. He likes to model so it could happen.’

Elordi has so far modeled for the brands Bottega Veneta, Calvin Klein, Chanel (as the face of Bleu de Chanel), Cartier and TAG Heuer.

‘Maybe he will do some sexy Calvin Klein ad with his lady love? A little cheesy but fans would go wild,’ said the source. 

NFL Commissioner Goodell Keeps Arlington Heights in the Running for New Chicago Bears Stadium Location

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ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) — A potential relocation of the Chicago Bears’ stadium hinges on the approval of 75% of NFL team owners, placing considerable authority in the hands of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. His latest remarks have captured attention due to their apparent contrast with the Bears’ leadership’s public statements about their stadium plans.

A fortnight ago, Bears Chairman George McCaskey pointed to Hammond as the team’s singular stadium focus, refraining from clarifying Arlington Heights’ role in the team’s future plans.

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On August 13, when questioned about his optimism regarding Arlington Heights as the site for the Bears’ new stadium, McCaskey turned to the commissioner’s viewpoint.

“Well, somebody mentioned the commissioner. He has said to us many times in league meetings hope is not a strategy,” McCaskey noted.

Two weeks later, Goodell suggested that Arlington Heights remains a candidate for the new stadium, alongside potential sites in Indiana.

“We want to make sure that Arlington Heights and Illinois have an opportunity as well as Indiana to put their best foot forward,” Goodell said.

Goodell’s remarks came as Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker confirmed he recently spoke with the commissioner.

“Yes, I have spoken with Commissioner Goodell,” Pritzker said. “I have not had the sense that Commissioner Goodell has a dog in the hunt, as they say, and that he’s chosen some, one state or another or a place for the Bears.”

Others interpreted Goodell’s comments as a challenge to the message the Bears have been conveying about their stadium search.

“Roger Goodell’s comments make clear that the NFL knows that the most valuable location is in Arlington Heights,” said Ernie Rose of Touchdown Arlington.

Rick Telander, a longtime Chicago sports columnist and author, said the commissioner’s remarks undercut the Bears recent messaging.

“If you’re the Bears … you see this as being a bit of an embarrassment, another little mini slap in the face of what we’re trying to do, which at this point, I’m not sure anybody really knows,” Telander said.

Telander also emphasized Goodell’s influence within the league.

“Roger Goodell is the commissioner. If you had a king of the NFL, he would be the guy,” Telander said. “If Goodell is saying, hey listen, don’t cross that border. If that’s what he really means, don’t move to Indiana, the Bears have to listen.”

The Bears declined to comment on Goodell’s statement.

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Dolly Parton Shares Heartfelt Health Update with Sister Stella

Stella Parton has opened up about her sister Dolly Parton’s passing in a heartfelt Facebook post, celebrating her memory just two days after her death was announced. The legendary country music icon, Dolly, passed away at 80 following a battle with cancer. “My big sister Dolly got her wings this past Tuesday. If anyone gets to heaven I’m sure she made it right on time,” wrote Stella, underscoring the bond they shared. She fondly recounted their cherished weekly tradition of catching up on life over the phone with coffee in hand. “Every Tuesday about this time, before the sun came up and the world was still asleep, she and I for many years had our coffee together over the phone,” Stella reminisced. “We would catch up on gossip, as sisters do, and drink coffee and make plans as it has always been our way.”

Stella painted a picture of Dolly as an altruistic and warm-hearted individual whose concern for others remained even through her final days. Despite her own health struggles, the “9 to 5” singer was exploring experimental treatments, hoping they might aid others in the future. Dolly spent her concluding days at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, passing peacefully on August 25, surrounded by her loved ones, according to her representatives (via Today). “What the world saw is exactly who she was,” emphasized Stella in her tribute. “[And] if you want to honor her legacy, show more kindness, lift others up and give more of your time and resources as she continued to do to the very end.”

Stella expressed gratitude to everyone who has extended condolences and love for her sister, concluding with a heartfelt note, “My Tuesday morning coffee time will never be the same but her love, respect and goodness will remain.”

Stella Parton always looked up to her famous big sister

Humor was a shared trait between Dolly Parton and her sister Stella, alongside their love of coffee and conversation. Despite her sister’s declining health earlier this year, Stella updated fans in June with positivity, as concerns over Dolly’s canceled appearances grew. She assured everyone that Dolly was “doing great” (via People). Stella described Dolly as being philosophical, adding humor was their coping mechanism. “We just have to laugh and laugh at ourselves as much as we laugh at everybody else, because if you take it too serious, you can’t carry the load,” Stella noted, highlighting it as a “family rule.”

Stella looked up to Dolly too. “[Growing up,] I was kind of a pain in the b*** to her, because I was so close in age to her,” she admitted in an archival interview on “Vicki!” (via YouTube). The Parton sisters were separated by just three years, with Dolly the fourth and Stella the sixth of 12 siblings. Like Dolly, Stella is also gifted in music and has been performing since she was a child. She made waves in the ’70s with her hit song “I Want To Hold You in My Dreams Tonight” and continues to release music. “I always wanted to do everything that she was doing, and I was just young enough for her to think that she would know more than me,” Stella acknowledged. “So, I always made sure that she lived hard for that. […] But I love her a lot, and she loves me a lot.”

Argentina Utilizes FIFA Regulation Gap Following Star Player’s 10-Match Suspension Post-World Cup Final Brawl

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Argentina has successfully reduced the penalties imposed on several players after their involvement in a brawl following the World Cup final against Spain.

Last week, FIFA penalized three Argentine players and assistant coach Roberto Ayala for their participation in disorderly conduct after losing 1-0 to Spain in the final.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes faced the harshest penalty, receiving a 10-match suspension accompanied by a £65,000 fine.

Nahuel Molina, another key figure in the altercation, struck Spain’s captain Rodri in the torso while passing, inciting an immediate response from the Spanish midfielder.

As a result of his actions, Molina was handed a seven-match ban.

Argentina's Leandro Paredes was banned for 10 matches last week over the World Cup final fight, but FIFA have permitted friendlies to count as part of the suspension

Argentina’s Leandro Paredes was banned for 10 matches last week over the World Cup final fight, but FIFA have permitted friendlies to count as part of the suspension

Nahuel Molina was been handed a seven-match ban for his role in the post-match brawl

Nahuel Molina was been handed a seven-match ban for his role in the post-match brawl

Thiago Almada and Spain’s Gavi were also given one-match bans for their involvement in the clashes.

Argentina have confirmed a request for friendly matches to count towards the suspensions, which could rapidly speed up the availability of their banned trio.

The Argentine Football Association also confirmed it is still planning to press ahead with appeals against the sanctions. 

‘The AFA has formally requested FIFA to allow the sanctions imposed on its players during the 2026 World Cup final, and on the association itself, to be served in Class A friendly matches and/or official matches, whichever comes first,’ a statement read.

‘Based on the AFA’s submission, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has deemed the request approved in accordance with current regulations. 

‘Nevertheless, the AFA, in defence of its rights and those of its players, is awaiting the written justification for the decisions in order to file the corresponding appeals with FIFA’s Appeals Committee, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) potentially as the final recourse.’

The decision could lead to Argentina seeking to arrange several friendlies during the upcoming international breaks to ensure their banned trio can quickly return for competitive fixtures.

While Argentina are yet to confirm their upcoming fixture schedule, the South Americans had played four friendlies after winning the 2022 World Cup before playing their next competitive match.

Argentina avoided major punishment last week after their players were criticised for displaying a banner referencing the Falkland Islands after beating England

Argentina avoided major punishment last week after their players were criticised for displaying a banner referencing the Falkland Islands after beating England

Argentina are already assured of qualification for the next World Cup as one of the co-hosts, so their next competitive action could be the Copa America in 2028.

The decision could be crucial for Paredes, 32, who would have been facing a lengthy wait to play international football again for Argentina, but now potentially has a route back to feature again for the national team.

Argentina had escaped without major punishment last week despite calls to ban  stars who carried a banner claiming the Falkland Islands belong to their country following their World Cup semi-final victory over England.

The runners-up were let-off when it came to their Falklands protests with FIFA imposing only a two-match partial stadium closure, reducing the crowd size for Argentina’s next two home matches to 50 per cent. However, one of those matches is suspended. 

They were also hit with £235,000 in fines, £73,000 of which is suspended.

The banner, first displayed in the crowd before being handed down to the players after they beat England 2-1, read ‘The Falkland Islands are Argentine’ in Spanish.

Despite FIFA’s ban on political flags, now-departed Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez and ex-Spurs midfielder Giovani Lo Celso celebrated with the controversial sign after the final whistle. Captain and star player Lionel Messi was also seen dancing alongside the banner. 

A total of 255 British servicemen were among the 907 people who died in the 1982 Falklands war, which saw UK armed forces retake the islands after an Argentine invasion.

Britain first landed on the uninhabited islands in 1690 and claimed them for the Crown in 1765. It has maintained a permanent presence there since 1833-47 years before Argentina became a fully unified state following its declaration of independence from Spain in 1816.

The last official referendum of Falkland Islanders was held in 2013, when 99.8 per cent of voters chose to remain a British Overseas Territory.

Chair Fitness Revolution: Quick Waist-Shrinking Exercises for Seniors Over 60

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Struggling with an expanding waistline? A simple home workout using just a sturdy chair might be your path to slimming down.

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Noticing that your jeans are feeling a bit snug can be a wake-up call. It’s not just a matter of vanity; excess abdominal fat, especially the kind that sits deep in your belly, known as visceral fat, is dangerous. It increases your chances of facing serious health issues like type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

Now is the perfect moment to incorporate these four easy chair exercises into your routine. They’re more effective than you might think, especially as you hit the milestone of age 60.

“Even when sitting, your core can stay engaged. By sitting upright, tightening your abdominal muscles, and controlling your movements without leaning back on the chair, your core works to stabilize your spine with every move,” advises Ngo Okafor, Founder, CEO, and Celebrity Trainer at Iconoclast Fitness. “The secret is in your focus. Slow and controlled repetitions can build strength effectively, without the need for complex exercises.”

Here are four chair exercises that Okafor suggests to include in your fitness plan.

Alternating Seated Knee Lifts

  1. Begin by sitting tall toward the edge of a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Place your hands on the edge for support.
  3. Lift one knee toward your chest, holding for a moment.
  4. Lower it, bracing your abs and maintaining a tall spine.
  5. Switch sides and continue to alternate knee lifts.

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Seated Cross-Body Knee Drives

  1. Begin seated with your hands behind your head and your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Brace your core.
  3. Bring your left knee up while rotating your right elbow toward it.
  4. Return to the start position.
  5. Switch sides and continue to alternate.

Seated Torso Rotations

  1. Begin sitting tall on a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor. Activate your core.
  2. Place your hands behind your head or cross them in front of your chest.
  3. Slowly twist your torso to the left, keeping your hips facing forward.
  4. Return to the center, then twist to the right.

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Seated March

  1. Begin seated with your feet placed hip-width apart on the floor.
  2. Lift your left knee up to hip height.
  3. Lower.
  4. Then, lift your right knee up to hip level.
  5. Lower.
  6. Maintain solid posture as you continue to “march” from the seated position.

Beloved King Harald V of Norway Passes at 86: Nation Mourns His Legacy

In a somber announcement, Norway mourns the passing of its revered monarch, King Harald V, who has died at the age of 89.

The beloved king passed away at 6:35 a.m. local time on Friday, August 28, at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, as confirmed by the royal court’s official statement. His death marks the end of an era for Norway.

King Harald had been admitted to the hospital on August 17 after being diagnosed with a bacterial blood infection, which raised concerns among his loyal subjects.

Just a day prior to his passing, the palace revealed alarming news that King Harald’s health had taken a grave turn, and his condition was described as “very serious” in a statement released on Thursday, August 27.

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In related royal news, the marriage of Princess Märtha Louise of Norway to Shaman Durek Verrett will be showcased in an intriguing new Netflix documentary titled “Rebel Royals.” Verrett, 50, reflects on the unique experience of joining the royal family, stating in the documentary’s trailer that debuted on Wednesday, September 3, “Marrying into the royal family, it’s just very, very surreal,” capturing the public’s curiosity.

Harald is survived by his wife, Queen Sonja, 89, daughter Princess Märtha Louise, 54, and son Crown Prince Haakon, 53, who was automatically crowned king upon Harald’s death.

Harald ruled for 35 years after succeeding his own father, King Olav V, in 1991.

“It is with the most profound sadness that my wife and I have learned of the death of my dear cousin, King Harald V of Norway,” the U.K.’s King Charles III said in a statement on Friday.

The British monarch continued, “For thirty-five years, King Harald served his people with unwavering dedication, guiding Norway through times of great change with warmth and humility. As Norway mourns the loss of so towering a figure, my whole family join in remembering a much-loved kinsman and friend whose kindness, compassion and deep sense of duty echoed from across the sea and across the decades.”

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Buckingham Palace is the traditional home of the British royal family, though modern royals actually reside in other historic properties. King Charles III accumulated a vast real estate portfolio when he ascended to the throne in September 2022, following the death of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. His choice of primary residence bucked royal […]

“The United Kingdom and Norway share particularly close historical and family ties, with Britain one of the first countries to recognize Norwegian independence and establish diplomatic relations in 1905,” Charles said. “These special bonds were even further strengthened during the dreadful trials of the Second World War and helped to bind our two countries together.”

“The Queen and I extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Queen Sonja and all her family, as Britain shares in Norway’s grief at this time of such heartbreaking loss,” he concluded.

Norway's King Harald V Dead at 89 After Being Hospitalized for Blood Infection


Norway’s new king, Haakon
CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP

Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said in a statement, “A whole nation is in mourning and the people of Norway are left with a deep sense of gratitude for a long life in the service of Norway.”

“For more than three decades as monarch, Harald V demonstrated an unwavering faith in the Norwegian people. He helped us to see the best in ourselves — and in one another,” Støre continued.

“King Harald found the words to bind us together when we needed them the most. He grieved with us after the attacks 22 July 2011,” Støre said. “He cheered with us when Norwegian athletes excelled. And he guided us, with warmth, wisdom and openness, towards a society with a place for everyone. King Harald had a profound love for Norway. And Norway had a profound love for King Harald.”