We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
President Donald Trump reached out to NBC Today’s Savannah Guthrie to express his support during the ongoing search for her missing mother.
The conversation occurred on Wednesday, as the search for Nancy Guthrie, 84, from Tucson, Arizona, entered its fourth day, as reported by Fox News.
NBC News anchor Tom Llamas shared the news live, saying, “We want to mention that after our interview, the president spoke with Savannah Guthrie.”
Llamas explained that President Trump took the opportunity to extend his support to Guthrie and her family in their search efforts.
This call followed an announcement from Trump the previous day, where he declared additional federal assistance for the search and mentioned his intentions to call Savannah, expressing his concern over the “terrible” situation.
‘I’m going to call her later on, I think it’s a terrible thing,’ Trump said. ‘Very unusual situation, but we’re going to find out.’
The 84-year-old vanished after having dinner with her daughter on Saturday night, and was reported missing when she failed to show up for church the next morning.
Police said evidence at the home suggested Nancy had been ‘abducted’ in the night, including a trail of blood leading from her doorway and her doorbell camera removed.
Today host Savannah Guthrie’s mother Nancy, 84, disappeared from her Arizona home over the weekend, and a desperate search for her is ongoing
On Wednesday, President Trump called Savannah Guthrie to offer his support. The pair are seen together in September 2016
On Tuesday, the case took a turn as TMZ and local Tucson outlet KOLD said they had received apparent ransom notes, demanding millions in Bitcoin in return for the return of Nancy. Authorities have not confirmed the legitimacy of the notes.
As of Wednesday, the search for Nancy has not yet yielded any suspects or arrests, with Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos saying he has not given up hope that she may be found alive.
Sheriff Nanos offered an optimistic outlook on the search on Wednesday, telling NBC that he believes Nancy is still alive.
‘We have nothing else to go on but the belief that she is here,’ Nanos said. ‘She’s present. She’s alive, and we want to save her.’
He noted that his department is taking all tips and leads very seriously.
‘The leads we’ve got coming in are critical to us. They’re valuable, and we’re sharing those with the FBI and others,’ Nanos said.
Nanos said the last people to see Nancy alive before she vanished were her daughter Annie and husband Tommaso Cioni, who she had dinner with on Saturday night.
Exclusive Daily Mail images showed Annie and Tommaso looking tense as they were seen for the first time on Tuesday evening, with Annie trying to hide her face from passersby.
Savannah is believed to be staying with them at her home.
FBI agents visited the property around 2:30pm MT on Tuesday as they continue to investigate the kidnapping of Savannah and Annie’s mother Nancy. They left after two hours.
Pictured: An aerial view of Nancy Guthrie’s house, where she was abducted from
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos (left) told reporters at a press conference that investigators were ‘following all leads’ when asked if Nancy’s abductors had made any ransom demands
Blood was spotted on the walkway of Nancy’s $1million Tucson, Arizona home
Nancy’s Ring doorbell camera was also missing, though it is unclear whether it was removed prior to her disappearance
Without any suspects named by authorities, former NYPD hostage negotiator Wallace Zeins speculated that the raid could have been pulled off by a coordinated group of criminals.
‘I believe the possibility of more than one person,’ Zeins told CNN.
‘She’s 150 pounds, 5 foot 5, waking up in the middle of the night, not in the best of health — can’t walk or run, so I would think there’s more than one person involved in this particular crime.’
The law enforcement expert said although no suspects have been identified, reported ‘ransom notes’ sent to TMZ and local Tucson outlet KOLD may be a gift to investigators by offering new clues.
While noting that authorities have not verified the legitimacy of the notes, Zeins said that if they are legitimate, they can provide forensic evidence that could lead to the culprit.
He added that the notes reportedly made demands for payment through Bitcoin, and that ‘tells you that it’s some type of group that knows what Bitcoin is all about, and social media, and they know the system.’
Zeins said if the notes were written by hand they can offer DNA evidence, whereas ‘if it was on a computer, then that helps also because the FBI is so good at what they do when it comes down to electronic surveillance and electronic stuff of that nature.’
According to a certified fitness trainer, there are five exercises you can do in bed that may be more effective than traditional abdominal workouts in addressing waist thickening.
Waist thickening often creeps up gradually, especially when our daily activity levels dwindle and our core doesn’t receive the consistent engagement it needs. This is a common concern, and it typically involves the efficiency of the midsection muscles working in harmony. When these muscles are active and functioning correctly, the waist tends to feel more toned and supported throughout daily activities.
In my experience as a coach, the best strategy for a slimmer waist isn’t to overload on extensive abdominal workouts. Instead, the focus should be on exercises that train the core to stabilize, control, and support the body. Bed-based exercises are particularly effective because they eliminate many obstacles. This allows you to concentrate on the sensation of the movements, engage the correct muscles, and build strength without causing undue strain.
The following five exercises are specifically designed to activate the core, hips, and stabilizing muscles that contribute to a firmer and more supported waistline. These movements not only enhance muscle activation and control but also promote the kind of strength that benefits your overall daily movements.
The five exercises below target the core, hips, and stabilizing muscles that help firm and support the waistline. They encourage better muscle activation, improve control, and reinforce the kind of strength that carries over into your movement throughout the day.
Supine Knee Tucks
Supine knee tucks are a simple way to activate the lower core while keeping the movement controlled and accessible. As your knees move toward your chest, the abdominal muscles engage to stabilize the pelvis and guide the motion. This creates a strong connection between the core and hips, which plays a key role in supporting the waistline. Many people notice this exercise helps them “find” their core quickly. Regular practice builds strength that carries over into better posture and movement.
Muscles Trained: Lower abdominals, hip flexors, and core stabilizers.
How to Do It:
Lie on your back with your legs extended.
Place your hands at your sides for support.
Bend your knees and draw them toward your chest.
Pause briefly at the top.
Extend your legs back out with control.
Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 12 to 15 reps. Rest for 30 seconds between each set.
Best Variations: Alternating knee tucks, slow tempo tucks, single-leg tucks.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e
Form Tip: Keep your lower back gently pressed into the bed.
Dead Bugs
Dead bugs train the deep core muscles to stay engaged while the arms and legs move independently. That ability to stabilize during movement is key to supporting the waistline and maintaining alignment. As you extend opposite limbs, your core works to prevent your lower back from arching. This creates a strong, controlled contraction through the midsection. Over time, it helps improve both core strength and coordination.
Muscles Trained: Transverse abdominis, rectus abdominis, and hip flexors.
How to Do It:
Lie on your back with your arms extended toward the ceiling.
Bring your knees into a tabletop position.
Brace your core and press your lower back into the bed.
Extend one arm and the opposite leg downward.
Return to the starting position and alternate sides.
Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 10 to 12 reps per side. Rest for 30 seconds between each set.
Best Variations: Heel taps, slow tempo dead bugs, pause dead bugs.
Form Tip: Move slowly and keep your core engaged throughout.
Supine Leg Raises
Supine leg raises challenge the lower core while reinforcing control through the hips. As the legs lift and lower, the abdominal muscles work to stabilize the pelvis and maintain alignment. This helps build strength in the area where many people notice a thickening of the waist. The slow, controlled motion also improves muscle engagement. With consistent practice, leg raises help build a firmer, better-supported midsection.
Muscles Trained: Lower abdominals, hip flexors, and core stabilizers.
How to Do It:
Lie on your back with your legs extended.
Place your hands at your sides or under your hips.
Lift your legs toward the ceiling.
Lower your legs slowly back down.
Repeat while maintaining control.
Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 10 to 12 reps. Rest for 30 seconds between each set.
Best Variations: Single-leg raises, slow tempo raises, pause raises.
Form Tip: Lower your legs only as far as you can while keeping your lower back stable.
Russian Twists
Russian twists engage the obliques, which play a major role in shaping and supporting the sides of the waist. The twisting motion trains the core to control rotation, which is important for both strength and stability. As you rotate, the muscles around your midsection stay active to guide the movement. This helps build a stronger connection between the upper and lower body. Over time, it contributes to a firmer and more controlled waistline.
Muscles Trained: Obliques, rectus abdominis, and core stabilizers.
How to Do It:
Sit slightly reclined on the bed with your feet planted.
Hold your hands together in front of your chest.
Rotate your torso to one side.
Return to the center and rotate to the other side.
Continue alternating in a controlled rhythm.
Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 16 to 20 alternating reps. Rest for 30 seconds between each set.
Best Variations: Weighted twists, slow tempo twists, pause twists.
Form Tip: Rotate through your torso rather than swinging your arms.
Supine Toe Taps
Supine toe taps train the lower core to stay engaged while the legs move in a controlled pattern. This movement reinforces stability through the pelvis and helps strengthen the muscles that support the waistline. Each repetition encourages the core to maintain alignment as the legs alternate. Many people feel this exercise is working quickly in the lower abdominals. Consistent practice helps build endurance and core control.
Muscles Trained: Lower abdominals, hip flexors, and core stabilizers.
How to Do It:
Lie on your back with your knees in a tabletop position.
Brace your core and press your lower back into the bed.
Lower one foot toward the bed.
Return to the starting position.
Alternate legs with control.
Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 12 to 15 reps per side. Rest for 30 seconds between each set.
Best Variations: Slow tempo taps, alternating holds, extended taps.
Form Tip: Keep your core engaged and avoid arching your lower back.
Daily Habits That Help Firm the Waist After 60
Shutterstock
Firming the waist becomes much more effective when exercise works alongside consistent daily habits. The body responds best when movement, strength training, and lifestyle choices all support the same goal. Small adjustments made consistently often lead to noticeable changes over time.
Stay consistent with your routine: Regular movement helps reinforce muscle activation and control.
Train the core through movement: Exercises that involve the hips and torso often create better results than isolated work.
Focus on controlled reps: Slower movements improve muscle engagement and stability.
Stay active throughout the day: Walking and light movement support overall energy expenditure.
Support training with proper nutrition: Balanced eating habits help reinforce your results.
Stick with these exercises and habits and you’ll build a stronger, more supported waist that continues to improve over time.
References
Maccarone, Maria Chiara et al. “Effects of the Full-Body in-Bed Gym program on quality of life, pain and risk of sarcopenia in elderly sedentary individuals: preliminary positive results of a Padua prospective observational study.” European journal of translational myology vol. 33,3 11780. 26 Sep. 2023, doi:10.4081/ejtm.2023.11780
Alley, Dawn E et al. “A research agenda: the changing relationship between body weight and health in aging.” The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences vol. 63,11 (2008): 1257-9. doi:10.1093/gerona/63.11.1257
For homeowners burdened with student loans, mortgage lenders might offer a solution by allowing you to tap into your home’s equity to pay off those educational debts. Known as a “student loan cash-out refinance,” this type of loan can potentially remove the student loan debt from your financial landscape.
However, this seemingly convenient option comes with significant risks. By converting your student loan debt into mortgage debt, you place your home in jeopardy should the increased financial burden become unmanageable.
An alternative strategy could be to refinance your student loans independently. While this won’t eliminate the debt outright, it may provide an opportunity to pay it off more swiftly through potentially lower interest rates or better terms.
What is a student loan cash-out refinance?
The student loan cash-out refinance operates as a mortgage that leverages your home equity to clear student loan debts. To be eligible, the funds obtained through this refinance must specifically target the student loan payoff.
Repay at least one student loan in full.
Pay off a loan in your name — you can’t put the money toward a child’s loan, for example.
Be sent to your student loan servicer at closing.
Consider this scenario: Your home is valued at $300,000, with an outstanding mortgage balance of $200,000, and you owe $40,000 on student loans. Through a student loan cash-out refinance, you could secure a new mortgage for $240,000. The lender would then allocate the extra $40,000 directly to your student loan servicer.
Drawbacks of a student loan cash-out refinance
Your student debt won’t really go away
Sure, the cash-out refinance will pay off your loans. But you’ll still owe that money as part of a bigger mortgage. That loan hopefully comes with a smaller payment than your previously separate debts. But your new mortgage may cost you more overall if it doesn’t offer a lower interest rate, shorter repayment term or both.
You give up student loan benefits and protections
Federal loans have options like income-driven repayment plans if you fall behind on payments. If the loans do default, the consequences can be serious, like having your wages garnished. But those penalties aren’t as severe as foreclosure, which would be possible if you can’t pay a cash-out refinance loan.
You can lower your rate in other ways
If your goal is to save money on your student loan payments, consider refinancing those loans by themselves. The best APRs for mortgage refinancing and student loan refinancing are comparable, and refinancing just your student loans wouldn’t put your home at risk.
Who should consider this option?
You typically shouldn’t add unsecured debt, like student loans, to loans tied to collateral, like mortgages. The biggest reason to do so would be if the savings outweigh the risks.
That may be the case only if you have a small student loan balance or high-interest federal PLUS or private loans. But if you’re intent on paying off your loans, additional reasons to consider a student loan cash-out refinance could include:
You’ll save compared with other lending options. A student loan cash-out refinance would likely offer better interest rates than a personal loan or home equity line of credit. It also has lower fees and simpler eligibility terms than a typical cash-out refinance.
Your debt disqualifies you from other options. Your monthly mortgage and student loan bills could make your debt-to-income ratio too high to be approved for other types of loans. By combining them into a single, lower bill, you may qualify for a better interest rate right now, as well as on additional loans in the future.
You don’t trust yourself to use the loan money to pay the debt. Because student loan cash-out refinance funds go straight to your servicer, you won’t be tempted to spend that money elsewhere. Plus, if you’re done borrowing student loans, you likely won’t increase your overall debt. That might not be the case if you used a cash-out refinance to pay off high-interest credit cards, for example, only to accumulate more credit card debt.
» MORE: Can’t pay parent PLUS loans? Try these solutions
Which lenders offer student loan cash-out refinance?
Student loan cash-out refinancing is available on Fannie Mae-backed loans. But few lenders advertise this option.
The most notable is SoFi, which began offering this program in 2016, and lets you receive up to 80% of your home’s equity. SoFi mortgages are not available in every state, and you’ll need to meet the lender’s eligibility criteria to qualify.
Authorities are on the hunt for a suspect linked to a shooting incident that unfolded early Sunday morning near Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the case as they search for leads.
The incident came to light when police responded to a call from a local hospital around 3 a.m. A man in his 30s had been admitted with a gunshot wound to his leg, according to Sgt. Scott in a news briefing. Fortunately, the injury was not life-threatening.
Preliminary findings, based on limited communication with the victim, revealed that the shooting stemmed from an altercation in a parking lot close to the intersection with Hodges Boulevard. The victim was involved in a dispute with another man who, after firing the shot, escaped the scene on foot.
Local business owner Ian Worthington, who runs the Oceana Diner, recounted arriving at his restaurant Sunday morning with plans to open for business. Instead, he found the surrounding area cordoned off as police conducted their investigation at the active crime scene.
Ian Worthington, the owner of Oceana Diner, said he arrived Sunday morning expecting to open his restaurant — only to find the area taped off as an active crime scene.
“It was kind of a shock to see that, all the officers. I was waiting on CSI to get in,” Worthington said.
“I live a mile and a half away. I feel safe, I mean, I’m out at nighttime walking the dog and running around it. It’s not like I’m out partying at two, 3 o’clock in the morning, so I don’t know what happens at that time of night,” Worthington said. “But to me, I will assume this part of town is the more safe part of town, but anything can happen anywhere, I guess.”
He says he hopes to see a stronger police presence in the area moving forward.
“I think just the deterrence of seeing police officers in the area and cars rolling around just checking on everybody, making sure everybody’s all set, and I think that definitely helps it,” said Worthington.
Details regarding what led up to the fight and where the two people were before the shooting were not immediately available.
Anyone with information on the incident or the suspect is asked to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office directly at 904-630-0500 or JSOCrimeTips@jaxsheriff.org. Anonymous tips can also be left through First Coast Crime Stoppers.
The excitement is building as we inch closer to discovering the next American Idol!
As the competition heats up on ABC’s beloved reality show, the upcoming episode will narrow the field to just 12 finalists, all vying for that coveted title. This episode, aptly named “Song of Faith,” will see the talented contestants delivering stirring performances centered around the theme of faith.
For those who prefer to stream, this episode offers a treat. “Songs of Faith” will not only be broadcast on ABC but will also be available for live streaming on Disney+. Additionally, fans can catch new episodes for next-day viewing on Hulu and ABC.com.
Wondering if American Idol is on tonight? Curious about the airing schedule for the next new episode? We’ve got you covered. Read on for all the details you need to stay in the loop.
Is American Idol Airing a New Episode Tonight (March 29)?
Unfortunately, American Idol won’t be airing tonight. ABC’s Sunday night lineup is currently in transition following the abrupt cancellation of the new season of The Bachelorette.
The network’s primetime schedule consists of reruns of America’s Funniest Home Videos and The Greatest Average American from 8:00-10:02 p.m. ET, followed by a new episode of Betrayal: Secrets & Lies.
Thankfully, you won’t have to wait too long for the next new episode of American Idol.
When Does The Next Episode of American Idol Debut on ABC?
American Idol Season 24, Episode 10 airs Monday, March 30 from 8:00-10:00 p.m. ET on ABC.
Episode Synopsis: Per ABC, “American Idol goes live on ABC and Disney+, showcasing the Idol hopefuls as they lift their voices in inspiring songs of faith. By the end of the night, only 12 finalists will continue on the journey to become the next singing sensation.”
How To Watch American Idol Live Online and TV:
If you have a valid cable login, you can watch the new season of American Idol on ABC or the ABC app/website.
The only way to watch shows airing live without cable is by using a live TV streaming service. Our favorite is DIRECTV, which comes with a five-day free trial before payment begins.
DIRECTV offers a number of flexible subscription options, including Genre Packs, so you can best choose which streaming plans fit your needs and budget. Plans start at $49.99/month.
You can also watch ABC live with an active subscription to Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, or Sling TV. YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV offer free trials for new subscribers.
How To Watch American Idol Live on Disney+:
You can now stream American Idol live on Disney+!
Disney+ offers a number of subscription options, so you can find the one that works for you. With ads, a subscription costs $10.99/month; without ads, it’s $18.99/month or $189.99/year.
There are also Disney+ bundles with Hulu, HBO Max, and ESPN+, so you can subscribe to up to three services at once and save over 40% every month. The bundles are available in a few different configurations, starting at $12.99/month for Disney+ and Hulu with ads, and going up to $32.99/month for Disney+, Hulu, and Max ad-free.
When Will American Idol Season 24, Episode 10 Be on Hulu?
New episodes of American Idol are available for next-day streaming on Hulu, Disney+, and ABC.com. Season 24, Episode 10 will be available on all the aforementioned platforms on Tuesday, March 31.
Tune into “Glasgow: No Vacancy” on Tuesday, March 31, at 9:30 PM AEDT on SBS and SBS On Demand.
In the heart of Glasgow, seven-year-old Daria and twelve-year-old Devon are navigating life with their single mother, Michelle Kerr. Their story is part of a troubling statistic, as they are among more than 10,000 children in Scotland currently living in temporary housing — a record high.
Michelle, once a healthcare worker, was thrust into homelessness when the private rental they called home was repossessed. This upheaval marked the beginning of an uncertain journey for the Kerr family.
Michelle says Glasgow’s housing crisis has contributed to her life being “made hell”. Credit: SBS Dateline
For three years, Michelle and her children have been caught in a cycle of temporary solutions, moving from a hotel to two different flats before finally settling in a two-bedroom temporary accommodation on the outskirts of Glasgow.
In this modest flat, Michelle and her children share a single bed, while a spare room waits for her 19-year-old daughter when she visits. Michelle describes their living conditions as both unsanitary and unsafe, a harsh reality for a family striving to find a stable home.
Her greatest concern is for her youngest, Daria, who lives with complex special needs and requires the use of a wheelchair and round-the-clock care.
“Every day I’m walking on eggshells,” Michelle told SBS Dateline.
“In the last flat there was a boiler in her [Daria’s] bedroom, and it had no door on it and she kept biting the wires and things like that.
“The kids aren’t having a normal life at all. They’re not being able to make friends. Daria hasn’t been able to get her services.”
Michelle has struggled to find temporary accommodation suitable for her youngest daughter Daria. In the current apartment, Michelle shares a bed with Daria and one of her other daughters. Credit: SBS Dateline
Michelle feels immigration is exacerbating housing shortages, meaning families like hers are waiting longer on the council’s housing list for a permanent home.
“It’s hard because you think, ’I’ve worked all my days in this country, three jobs, paid my taxes, my life’s been made hell’.”
Glasgow is in the grip of a devastating housing crisis — one that’s led to rising anti-immigration sentiment and deep political division.
How the housing crisis has divided Glasgow
In his tiny hotel bathroom sink, Faraz (not his real name) fills a kettle to make tea for his wife. The room is both his bathroom and kitchen, and for now, it’s his home.
Faraz is one of the thousands of refugees living in temporary homeless accommodation across Scotland. Once a member of the Afghan national army, he fled his homeland in 2021 after the Taliban’s takeover.
He travelled to the UK via a human-smuggling route. During the trip, the boat he was in sank, killing four people.
“Migration is not something anyone chooses freely to become a refugee,” Faraz told SBS Dateline.
“After we realized that we were in the UK, we felt happy and felt calm because we believed that our lives would be safe here.”
Faraz fled Afghanistan hoping for a better life. He’s living in a hotel room with his wife. Credit: SBS Dateline
But the welcome for refugees like Faraz hasn’t been as warm as it once was in Glasgow — a city historically known for its open-door spirit.
Anti-immigration protests outside of hotels like the one he is housed in have become a familiar sight. Facing a ‘housing emergency’ and rising austerity, many Glaswegians lay the blame on an increase in immigration.
Rising anti-immigrant sentiment
At one protest in Falkirk, just outside Glasgow, anti-immigration protesters waved banners painted with slogans ‘stop the boats’ and ‘send them home’. They clashed with counter demonstrators who respond by chanting ‘refugees are welcome here’.
Police watched on, taking stock of the rising tensions simmering throughout the city.
Not far from this protest, Nigel Farage — leader of the anti-immigration right-wing party, Reform UK — spoke at an event for supporters.
“The SNP [Scottish National Party] have chosen to put people who have come here illegally at the top of the housing list ahead of the families in Glasgow,” Farage told the Falkirk audience.
The Glasgow City Council, which is led by the SNP, has said people with refugee status are not prioritised when it comes to allocating temporary accomodation, according to reporting from the Glasgow Times.
Ahead of the Scottish general election on 7 May, polls show support for Reform is growing. It’s on track to become the third biggest party in the Scottish Parliament.
A longtime Eurosceptic, Farage was one of the most vocal supporters of Brexit. Before linking with Reform, he was a longtime member and former leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP), which championed Britain leaving the European Union. He left UKIP in 2018 and subsequently joined the Brexit Party, which was renamed Reform UK in 2021.
Farage believes Reform could win the next UK general election, which must take place by August 2029. According to Ipsos’ March 2026 voting intention survey of 1062, Reform is currently ahead of both Labour and the Conservative Party in the UK.
Nigel Farage has been referred to as ‘Mr Brexit’ in the British press. Source: AAP / Yui Mok
Audrey Dempsey, who joined Reform after leaving the Labour Party, is part of efforts to establish the party’s political presence in Scotland.
“They [Reform] acknowledged the fact that the strain on resources and public services and things due to immigration is becoming a real hindrance for the country,” she said.
Dempsey was suspended from the Labour Party in 2024 after alleging white children and teachers in Glasgow were the subject of racially motivated attacks. She was accused of racism, which she rejects, and says her feelings on immigration have nothing to do with race.
“Personally, I don’t blame the refugees or the asylum seekers at all. I blame the government full stop,” she told Dateline.
“Had these people come from France, had they come from Australia, had they come from America … I think it would still be an issue.”
Housing and immigration have become key election battlegrounds. Both the SNP and Labour have pledged to build more affordable homes, whilst Reform is taking a different approach.
The SNP has said that if Scottish independence is achieved, “we can build an asylum and immigration systems geared to meet Scotland’s needs and founded on fairness and human rights”.
“Reform have declared that they would deport people who have come here illegally,” Dempsey said.
She said Reform also wanted to stop benefits “for people who come here illegally”.
“Without housing and without money, it takes away any incentive for people to come.”
It’s not illegal to claim asylum in the UK, and questions have been raised about the legal and financial practicality of Reform’s immigration plans.
Glasgow’s history of welcoming refugees
It’s no coincidence that Reform has its sights on Glasgow.
Since 1999, Glasgow has proudly declared itself a ‘dispersal city’, an area designated by the Home Office to house and support asylum seekers while they wait for their claims to be processed.
Glasgow is the largest dispersal city in the UK and supports more than 3,800 asylum seekers.
Dispersal cities were set up to ease the burden on major metropolitan areas in Britain, like London, and receive funding from the Home Office.
Once asylum seekers are granted refugee status, Scottish local authorities — which have a legal obligation to house homeless people — must then step in and house refugees who present as homeless.
But this generosity is being tested. Glasgow City Council has declared a housing emergency, and in 2025 requested a pause on new arrivals being sent to the city by the Home Office to deal with the city’s housing crisis.
The Glaswegians welcoming newcomers
Despite rising anti-immigration sentiment and a surge in support for far-right politics, many Glaswegians remain supportive of newcomers arriving in the city.
Selina Hales is the founder of Refuweegee, a charity which distributes welcome packs, emergency food parcels and organises community meals and events for refugees starting a new life in Glasgow.
Selina Hales founded charity Refuweegee, which provides support to refugees arriving in Glasgow. She believes the refugee community has been scapegoated amid the housing crisis. Credit: Andrew Milligan – PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images
Refuweegee is a blend of the words refugee and ‘weegee’ — a colloquial term for a Glaswegian.
“I think there’s so much negativity attached sometimes to terms like refugee, like asylum seeker,” she said.
“I wanted to create a term that showed respect and welcome and kindness.”
She argues that refugees and asylum seekers are being blamed for a housing crisis that’s been long in the making.
“We see scapegoating of the refugee community all the time. We see it used as a political pawn,” she said.
“We’ve got two huge hotels on the Clydeside [area of Glasgow] empty, not in use, and people sleeping on the street. What we need is radical rethinking of a really, really broken system”.
Refuweegee’s welcome packs include letters from locals recommending places to see — and which Glaswegian specialities to try. Credit: SBS Dateline
Social and temporary housing has failed to keep pace with need in Glasgow, and ballooning wait times for permanent accommodation are stretching services like Refuweegee across the city.
“We definitely have only ever seen demand for our services increase. The housing crisis in Scotland at the moment has changed everything and has made it really, really difficult for people.”
But Hales says that the anger and anti-immigration rhetoric aren’t a way out of anything,
“We don’t tackle it by standing arguing on the street. We don’t tackle it by getting into the comment section and falling out with everybody and mud-slinging and name-calling. We tackle it in our communities.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Sunday voiced strong disapproval over a plea agreement involving a transgender undocumented immigrant who confessed to sexually assaulting a 14-year-old boy in New York City. The case has sparked controversy, as the agreement could mean no further jail time.
The DHS criticized the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office after reports emerged that Nicol Alexandra Contreras-Suarez, a 31-year-old Colombian citizen, might receive a mere six-month sentence, considering time already served, after pleading guilty to the charge.
“A disgraceful plea deal has been offered to a transgender criminal illegal child rapist,” DHS stated on X. “The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has proposed an absurd six-month plea deal to ‘Nicol Alexandra’ Contreras-Suarez, in return for admitting to following a 14-year-old into a bathroom and committing rape in February 2025.”
DHS further noted, “Contreras-Suarez was admitted into our country under the Biden administration and subsequently released from incarceration after arrests for armed robbery, assault with a dangerous weapon, and prostitution. This individual should never have been allowed to remain in our country. Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Mullin, our priority remains the safety of Americans, and we will strive to remove criminal illegal aliens like this from our communities to prevent further harm to innocent children.”
Nicol Alexandra Contreras-Suarez, a biological male Colombian immigrant, admitted to second-degree rape after allegedly assaulting a 14-year-old boy in East Harlem, New York, last year, as reported by the New York Post.
Last week, Contreras-Suarez pleaded guilty to second-degree rape after initially being charged with first-degree rape of a child under age 17 and stalking.
Contreras-Suarez was promised a six-month sentence by a Manhattan Supreme Court judge on Tuesday. However, the defendant is expected to receive credit for time served and be released from custody at sentencing on April 27 unless federal immigration officials intervene, the New York Post reported.
“We expect the defendant to remain detained and be deported following sentencing due to the felony conviction,” a spokesperson for the DA’s Office said in a statement to the outlet.
The deal was reportedly reached by prosecutors working with the teenage victim’s family in an effort to keep the boy from having to take the stand in front of a grand jury and at trial in Manhattan Supreme Court.(iStock)
The deal was reportedly reached by prosecutors working with the teenage victim’s family in an effort to keep the boy from having to testify before a grand jury and at trial in Manhattan Supreme Court.
At the time of the arrest, Contreras-Suarez was facing prostitution, robbery, and weapons charges in Massachusetts, DHS said.
But due to sanctuary policies, DHS added, the suspect was subsequently released.
Nicol Alexandra Contreras-Suarez was initially charged with first-degree rape of a child less than age 17 and stalking in Manhattan, New York last year.(iStock)
According to DHS, Contreras-Suarez was apprehended by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in March 2023 after illegally crossing the border near San Ysidro, California.
Following the New York City arrest, then-DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized the release, saying the suspect should not have been allowed to remain in the country and blaming federal immigration and local sanctuary policies.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement later lodged a detainer against Contreras-Suarez after the Manhattan arrest.
McLaughlin said at the time that ICE would seek to ensure the defendant could not continue to pose a threat to the public.
Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.
Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.
Gary Woodland was overcome with emotion after achieving a stunning victory at the Houston Open, marking a triumphant return from brain surgery and a challenging battle with PTSD. His win also secured him a spot in the upcoming Masters tournament.
The heartfelt scene took place as the sun set at Memorial Park on Sunday, 30 months after Woodland’s surgery to remove a tumor and just a fortnight after he opened up about his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder.
This weekend, Woodland appeared to be in peak form, starting the final round with a one-shot lead and expanding it to a commanding seven-shot advantage, eventually coasting to a victory that felt as significant as his 2019 US Open win at Pebble Beach.
He concluded the tournament with an impressive 3-under 67, finishing five shots ahead of Nicolai Hojgaard. As fans chanted his name, Woodland focused on sinking a 5-foot par putt, then raised his arms, exhaled deeply, and looked skyward as tears flowed down his face.
“We play an individual sport out here, but I wasn’t alone today,” Woodland expressed, his voice trembling with emotion while his wife stood nearby, sharing in the moment of triumph.
‘Anyone struggling with something, I hope they see me and don’t give up,’ he added. ‘Just keep fighting.’
Gary Woodland wipes away tears after sealing his first PGA Tour win since the 2019 US Open
Woodland, pictured kissing his wife Gabby (left), is only three years on from brain surgery
Woodland has been a popular figure and powerful player since he left a two-sport college career and joined the PGA Tour. But he began to struggle in 2023, only to learn he had a lesion on the part of his brain that caused unfounded fears that he was dying.
Surgery in September 2023, which involved a baseball-sized hole cut from the side of his head, removed much of the lesion. His return in January 2024 looked fine on the outside, particularly last year when he was runner-up at the Houston Open.
But he was hurting badly with PTSD, once rushing to a portable bathroom to break down in tears when he was overcome with emotion. He chose two weeks ago to share his struggles in a Golf Channel interview.
‘I appreciate that love and support. But inside, I feel like I’m dying, and I feel like I’m living a lie,’ he said in the interview. ‘I want to live my dreams and be successful out here. But I want to help people, too. I realize now I’ve got to help myself first.’
He said this week going public made him feel ‘1,000 pounds lighter.’
As his putt dropped on the 18th hole, Woodland spread his arms wide and looked to the skies
His physical strength sure didn’t leave him. Woodland reached 196mph ball speed on one tee shot Sunday, and more striking was the smooth control he showed over every shot.
He finished at 21-under 259 for his first victory since the US Open, and the fifth of his career. This one came with a big bonus – it makes him eligible for the Masters in two weeks.
Hojgaard fell back with a double bogey on the par-5 seventh hole. He closed with a 71 and a consolation prize. He secured his position inside the top 50 in the world to secure his invitation to the Masters.
Hojgaard and defending champion Min Woo Lee (67) chose to stay back on their way to the 18th green to give Woodland the stage to himself, a gesture rarely seen outside the majors. It spoke to Woodland’s popularity in golf.
Woodland celebrates with his wife Gabby, caddie Brennan Little and agent Mark Steinberg – who also represents Tiger Woods
‘We thought it was appropriate to let him have his moment,’ Hojgaard said. ‘It was a pretty cool moment for Gary and it was cool to see. I’m really happy for him.’
Woodland felt huge relief by sharing his PTSD struggles, and he had some technical help with his golf. He went to a new putter to help his alignment, and he consulted coach Randy Smith before going to stiffer shafts in his irons because his speed had returned and that helped him have better control of his shots.
There was no chance controlling his emotions, certainly over the last hour when the outcome was obvious and the 18th hole when it became reality.
But he said it’s still golf, and there’s still a battle with his recovery from brain surgery.
‘It’s just another day. Today was a good day,’ Woodland said with a smile and a short laugh. ‘But I’ve got a big fight ahead of me, and I’m going to keep going. But I’m proud of myself right now.’
His wife, Gabby, was with him all 18 holes with their three children at home. Woodland has said his wife was key to get him through surgery and what followed. ‘This has been hard on me. It’s been a lot harder on her,’ he said.
Woodland previously lifted the lid on his intense battle with PTSD in the wake of brain surgery
The golf star, pictured with his family at Augusta, admitted he feels like he is ‘dying inside’
The victory moves him just outside the top 50 in the world and makes him eligible for all the elite events the rest of the PGA Tour schedule.
Michael Thorbjornsen was in position to move into the top 50 and get into the Masters until he made three bogeys in a four-hole stretch on the back nine and stumbled to a 72 to finish well outside the top 10.
Meanwhile, Shane Lowry made a hole-in-one on the second hole, his fourth on the PGA Tour. The others came on No. 7 at Pebble Beach, No. 17 at the TPC Sawgrass and No. 12 at Augusta National.
Adam Scott also made an ace on the 11th hole, while PGA Tour rookie Johnny Keefer shot 64 and tied for third.
Commuters in the state have missed out on any relief after Victorians were offered one month and Tasmanians were given three months of fare-free travel.
State Treasurer Daniel Mookhey recently spoke with 2GB, emphasizing the government’s intention to avoid a costly, impulsive response to the ongoing conflict.
Commuters in NSW have missed out on any relief. (Getty)
“I’m unable to predict when this situation will conclude,” Mookhey admitted, when questioned about the possibility of offering free public transport in NSW, at least during the Easter long weekend.
“Regarding public transport options, as you noted earlier, we are examining the possibilities. However, I must say, it’s a decision that involves considerable expense,” he explained.
Mookhey also mentioned that reducing the fuel excise could significantly impact NSW motorists, although he pointed out that this choice rests with the federal government.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister John Graham dismissed the idea of fare-free travel in NSW, despite increasing pressure from opposition parties and transport unions.
“We’ve seen some other states move on some calls for free public transport. I want to be clear, the NSW government isn’t going down the path of free public transport for a couple of days or for a month,” Graham said.
“This situation will last more than a month. We need to keep our powder dry to be able to assist the broader economy.
“It’s millions of dollars every single day.”
In Victoria, commuters will travel on trams, buses and trains for free from tomorrow until the end of April.
It is expected the Victorian government will lose around $71 million in revenue during the fare-free period.
Transport Minister John Graham yesterday ruled out the possibility of fare-free travel in NSW. (NSW government)
A single one-way trip in Victoria costs $5.70.
Tasmanians were yesterday offered three months of free trips on buses and ferries as part of the state’s response to petrol and diesel prices.
State and territory leaders have pushed for a national approach to the escalating fuel prices and shortages.
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AUGUSTA, Ga. – A large crowd filled SRP Park in North Augusta on Friday evening to participate in the American Heart Association’s annual Heart Walk, showcasing a strong community spirit in support of heart health.
Approximately 3,000 participants from the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) came together for this significant event. Avery van Dusen reports on the gathering’s success and its impact.
This year’s Heart Walk proved to be a major success, raising over $400,000. The funds will be allocated to further heart health initiatives nationwide. Katherine Bonner, Development Director at the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of these contributions.
“The $400,000 raised is reinvested directly into our community,” Bonner explained. “It supports our efforts in nutrition, CPR readiness, blood pressure awareness and management, and contributes to our research institutions. This funding is essential for discovering the root causes of heart issues and developing long-term solutions.”
With these initiatives, the American Heart Association aims to facilitate earlier diagnoses and improve outcomes. Todd Maxwell, a heart health survivor, participated in the walk and shared his personal story of an unexpected diagnosis, highlighting the crucial need for awareness and prevention.
“About three weeks after my 44th birthday, I had to have open heart surgery. They found out that I had about 80 to 90% blockages. And a lot of my valves and arteries. And so with that, I had to basically go in quickly to open heart surgery and have a have what they call a cabbage.”
Todd expressed gratitude for the surge of support shown at today’s heart walk. Step by step, he has made his way to a full recovery.
“To be able to even do it, like the one mile walk so soon after my surgery, has been great. As it’s hard to put into words, honestly. I’m just grateful. I’m sweet for the people in my life, the people that have supported me since my surgery.”
Many celebrated while making strides to promote CPR education and vital research through community engagement. In North Augusta, Avery Van Dusen, Newschannel 6.
