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Category: Entertainment

  • Apple Shocks in Q4 Earnings Alongside Tech Titans, Unveiling the ‘Magnificent Seven’ Results

    The Rise and Fall of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ Tech Giants

    The tech industry is a constantly evolving and highly competitive space, with some companies dominating the market while others struggle to keep up. In recent years, a group of seven tech giants, also known as the ‘magnificent seven’, have emerged as the leading players in the industry. These companies include Apple, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook, Alibaba, and Tencent.

    However, in the past year, this group has seen some unexpected developments, with one company in particular surprising everyone with its performance – Apple. Let’s take a closer look at the mixed results of the ‘magnificent seven’ and the surprises that Apple has brought to the table.

    Apple’s Resurgence

    In 2019, Apple faced a challenging year with declining sales and criticism over its lack of innovation. Many experts and analysts were predicting the downfall of the tech giant, with some even questioning its position in the ‘magnificent seven’ group. However, Apple proved everyone wrong by making a strong comeback in 2020.

    Source: Skynews

  • Kara Magazine Launched to Empower Young African-Canadians

    In a vibrant celebration held on Sunday 28th July 2024, Kara Magazine officially launched its first edition, aiming to inspire and empower young African-Canadians. The event, which took place at 200 Kenny Street from 4 PM to 6 PM, attracted a diverse crowd of enthusiastic attendees eager to connect with their heritage and learn more about the magazine’s mission.

    According to Abiodun Adetu, founder of Kara Magazine’s primary focus is to provide young African-Canadians with knowledge about their history and rich cultural heritage, showcasing the endless beauty of the African continent. Through insightful articles and engaging content, the magazine aims to broaden the perspectives of its readers, highlighting the myriad opportunities and experiences that await them.

    The launch event featured a range of activities designed to celebrate and connect the community. Guests were treated to a series of inspiring speeches from prominent figures within the African-Canadian community, who shared their insights on the importance of cultural awareness and empowerment.

    Attendees also had the opportunity to network and discuss the first edition of Kara Magazine, which was met with high praise for its informative and visually appealing content. The evening was marked by a palpable sense of excitement and optimism about the magazine’s potential to make a significant impact on its readership.

    “We are thrilled to unveil Kara Magazine and share our vision with the community,” said one of the magazine’s founders. “Our goal is to inspire young African-Canadians by providing them with a deeper understanding of their heritage and the beauty of the African continent. We believe that this knowledge will empower them to achieve great things and foster a strong sense of pride in their identity.”

    The launch of Kara Magazine represents a significant step forward in promoting cultural awareness and pride among young African-Canadians. As the magazine continues to grow and reach a wider audience, it promises to be a valuable resource for those seeking to connect with their roots and explore the diverse cultural landscape of Africa.

    For more information about Kara Magazine and to subscribe to future editions, please visit the official website.

    Contact: Kara Magazine
    200 Kenny Street, Winnipeg
    [Website URL]
    [Email Address]
    [Phone Number]

    About Kara Magazine: Kara Magazine is dedicated to inspiring young African-Canadians by providing them with knowledge about their history and rich cultural heritage. The magazine features insightful articles, engaging content, and stunning visuals that highlight the beauty and diversity of the African continent. Through its work, Kara Magazine aims to empower its readers and foster a strong sense of cultural pride.

    Source: Swifteradio.com

  • Hamas Commander, Haniyeh Buried in Qatar

    Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran on Wednesday, has been buried following a muslim ceremony in Qatar.

    The funeral took place at Qatar’s Imam Muhammed bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque, the country’s largest mosque, before his body was placed in a coffin draped in a Palestinian flag for burial in a cemetery in the town of Lusail,  north of Doha.

    A number of foreign dignitaries were present at the funeral, including Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. 

    Haniyeh was killed during a visit to the Iranian capital. Iran and its allies have blamed Israel, although the Jewish state has not taken responsibility for his death.

    The funeral, held under tight security, was attended by figures from Hamas and its Palestinian rival Fatah, as well as members of the public. 

    Hamas officials had earlier stood on the tarmac at Doha Airport waiting to receive Haniyeh’s coffin as it landed from the Iranian capital Tehran on Thursday afternoon.

    Turkey and Pakistan have announced a day of mourning on Friday in Haniyeh’s honour, while Hamas  called for loud angry marches in all mosques after Friday prayers to protest Haniyeh’s killing.

    At another funeral for Haniyeh held in Tehran on Thursday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led prayers. He had earlier vowed that Israel would face severe punishment for the killing.

    Haniyeh had been based in Doha since around 2019. Hamas’ political office moved to the capital of Qatar in 2012, after closing its previous office in Damascus, Syria. 

    Haniyeh had played a key role in indirect talks with Israel on a possible ceasefire in the Gaza war. 

    The heads of the CIA, Mossad, the intelligence services of Egypt and Qatar attended ceasefire talks in Doha.

    Haniyeh’s burial marked a week of heightened tensions in the Middle East, which escalated with the death of 12 children and teenagers in an attack on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

    Israel blamed Hezbollah and promised “severe” retaliation, although Hezbollah denied any involvement. 

    Hezbollah’s top commander, Fuad Shukr, was killed days later in a targeted Israeli airstrike in Beirut. Four others, including two children, were also killed.  Hours later, Ismail Haniyeh, a key Hamas backer, was assassinated in Iran. He had attended the inauguration of Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian.  Israel did not claim responsibility for the assassination, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later said Israel had dealt devastating blows to Iranian-proxy groups in recent days.

    A senior Hamas official told the BBC that Haniyeh was killed in the same building where Haniyeh had stayed during previous visits to Iran. They said three Hamas leaders and several guards had been with him in the same building. 

    Senior Hamas officials told the BBC that Haniyeh’s assassination left the Hamas leadership in a “state of shock”.

    The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear. 

    A senior Hamas official, Khalil al-Hayya, told a press conference that a rocket had hit Haniyeh “directly”, citing witnesses who were with him. 

    But a New York Times report quoted seven officials as saying that Haniyeh was killed by a bomb  smuggled into the apartment building where he lived two months ago. 

    However, the BBC said it had not verified any of these claims.

     

    Source: BBC News 

  • How I Want To Be Buried When I Die – Onyeka Onwenu

    Popular Nigerian singer Onyeka Onwenu was pronounced dead at Reddington Hospital on Tuesday after collapsing. She had performed at Stella Okoli’s birthday party in Lagos before her death. 

    Apart from the entertainment industry, the late legend was also known in politics and journalism. 

    In 2021, the singer announced in a Premium Times opinion piece how she wished to be buried while discerning the ‘lavish’ memorial service for Obi Cubana’s mother.

    “Do it quickly, quietly and privately. Celebrate me with prayers, lunch or dinner afterwards. Share some jokes about me and laugh. Mourn, yes, but not excessively. Make merriment and then go about your business.

    “I am very uncomfortable with the lavish display of wealth on any occasion, especially in a time of hardship and lack for most others,” she said.

    She noted being celebrated while on earth.

    “If my friends want to celebrate me, they should do so while I am alive so that I can enjoy it with them, not when I am gone and have no idea about this. That is me, Onyeka Onwenu,” she said.

    Onyeka Onwenu was born in 1952 at Obosi, Anambra State. She began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You” in 1981. Since then, she has released several albums and singles, including the hit  “One Love”. 

    She was appointed Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later as the Director General of the National  Women Development Centre in 2016.

    She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.

    In 2020, she announced the publication of her memoir – “My Father’s Daughter” which is over 450 pages long, designed to inspire young people, especially younger women, as it encapsulates the ups and downs of her life. 

    According to her, the book also captures aspects of her life that were previously unknown to the public.

     

    Source: BUSINESSDAY

  • Calls for Ban on Puberty Blockers to be Lifted

    Calls for Ban on Puberty Blockers to Be Lifted: The Importance of Informed Consent

    Puberty blockers, also known as hormone blockers, have been a controversial topic in recent years. These medications, typically used to delay the onset of puberty in transgender youth, have been the subject of much debate and scrutiny. On one hand, they are seen as a vital tool in helping young people explore and affirm their gender identity. On the other hand, there are concerns about the long-term effects of these medications and the lack of informed consent in their use.

    In June 2021, the British Medical Association (BMA) released a statement calling for the ban on puberty blockers to be lifted. This decision was met with both support and criticism from various groups. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the BMA’s call and why informed consent is crucial in the use of puberty blockers.

    The Role of Puberty Blockers in Gender Dysphoria Treatment

    Gender dysphoria is a condition where an individual experiences distress due to a mismatch between their assigned gender at birth and their gender identity. For transgender youth, going through puberty can be an incredibly challenging and distressing experience. Puberty blockers, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, can be prescribed to delay the onset of puberty, giving young people more time.

    Source: BBC

  • Nigeria’s Iconic Singer, Onyeka Onwenu Dies At 72

    Tragedy has hit the Nigerian entertainment industry as the news of the death of iconic singer, Onyeka Onwenu broke in the early hours of Wednesday, the 31st of July.

    She was said to have slumped on Tuesday night after performing at the birthday party of Stella Okoli, owner of Emzor Pharmaceuticals at Banana Island in Lagos. She was 72 years old.

    Swifte Radio News gathered that she was rushed to a hospital in Victoria Island where she was confirmed dead. Members of her family are yet to confirm her death.

    Onwenu, who is a trained journalist, also ventured into politics where she served as Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development.

    She was born in 1952, at Obosi, in Anambra State, Nigeria. She began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. There have also been numerous albums and singles to her credit, including the hit song “One Love.”

    Onwenu has also featured in several Nollywood movies and has won numerous awards for her contributions to music and the movie industry. She will be remembered as one of the pioneers of Nigerian music.

    In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu has also been involved in politics. She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.

    Onwenu has been recognized for her contributions to Nigerian society. She was awarded the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. She has also been recognized as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organizations.

  • Legendary Comedian Bob Newhart, Known for His Deadpan Humor and Iconic Telephone Monologues, Passes Away at 94

    Bob Newhart, the iconic deadpan comedian whose wry humor and innovative telephone monologues made him a beloved figure in television and stand-up comedy, has died at the age of 94. Newhart’s publicist, Jerry Digney, confirmed that the actor passed away Thursday in Los Angeles after a series of short illnesses.

    Newhart, originally an accountant, transformed the comedy landscape in the late 1950s with his unique style. He rose to national fame with his groundbreaking comedy album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” released in 1960. The album, which featured Newhart’s signature telephone monologues, won a Grammy Award for Album of the Year and solidified his place in comedy history.

    In an era dominated by comedians like Lenny Bruce, Mort Sahl, Alan King, and the duo Mike Nichols and Elaine May, who often employed sharp, aggressive humor, Newhart’s approach was refreshingly different. His modern outlook was delivered in a calm, hesitant, almost stammering manner, with his only prop being a telephone, through which he pretended to hold conversations with unseen characters. This innovative style endeared him to audiences and set him apart from his contemporaries.

    Newhart’s television career took off in the 1970s and 1980s with two hit shows that bore his name: “The Bob Newhart Show” and “Newhart.” In “The Bob Newhart Show,” he played Dr. Robert Hartley, a Chicago psychologist, while in “Newhart,” he portrayed Dick Loudon, an innkeeper in rural Vermont. Both series showcased Newhart’s comedic genius and further cemented his status as a television legend.

    Beyond his sitcom success, Newhart’s career included memorable appearances in films and guest roles in various TV shows, where he continued to charm audiences with his distinctive humor and impeccable timing.

    Newhart’s passing marks the end of an era in comedy. His ability to draw laughter from the simplest of scenarios, combined with his gentle, unassuming delivery, made him a timeless figure in the world of entertainment. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and a body of work that will continue to inspire and entertain future generations.

    Source: Ap News

  • Tyler James Williams, Nikki Glaser, Eric André and More React to Their Emmy Nominations

    Los Angeles, July 17, 2024 – The 2024 Emmy nominations were announced this morning by Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tony Hale, with “The Bear” securing a comedy-series record 23 nominations and “Shogun” leading all with 25. Excitement and emotions ran high as nominees reacted to the news, including several first-time nominees.

    Tyler James Williams, nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for “Abbott Elementary,” expressed his joy: “You want to do it with good people, and I’m happy that I get to be on this journey with good people and celebrate this with good people.”

    Nikki Glaser, nominated for Best Pre-Recorded Variety Special for “Nikki Glaser: Someday You’ll Die,” said, “I’m trying not to let my imposter syndrome sneak in… But I’m so excited because I worked really hard on this, and it feels good to get acknowledged in this way.”

    Eric André, who earned his first nomination for Best Performer in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series for “The Eric André Show,” was overwhelmed: “I was so overcome with emotions. I cried. I almost threw up… I’m on very little sleep, so I’m going to eat a bowl of spaghetti and take a nap.”

    Carrie Coon, nominated for Best Actress in a Drama Series for “The Gilded Age,” shared a touching moment: “I was crying and my mom said, ‘You’re crying for your husband, but not for you.’ And I said, I don’t care about me. I’m excited about him.’” Her husband, Tracy Letts, also received a nomination for “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.”

    Matt Bomer, nominated for Best Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series for “Fellow Travelers,” expressed his gratitude: “I feel profoundly grateful… I’m really so grateful that the show’s been recognized. I’m so happy for Johnny and Ron for their incredible work.”

    Lamorne Morris, who received his first nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series for “Fargo,” was in shock: “I just couldn’t believe it. I’m still sitting here in shock.”

    Mark Duplass, nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for “The Morning Show,” found the morning special: “I got to call my 16-year-old daughter… We got to share this thing with her dad, who is the biggest dork in the world and achieved this.”

    Kali Reis, nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series for “True Detective: Night Country,” reflected on making history: “It means the world to not just us individually, but us as a whole. We as Indigenous people… It’s about time, man. Once those doors get blown open, we are coming in deep!”

    Nava Mau, the first transgender acting nominee in the Limited or Anthology Series categories for “Baby Reindeer,” was deeply moved: “I am feeling so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude… It’s beautiful to see that now, we’re also getting to build as artists and as storytellers within the fabric of society.”

    News Summary: The 2024 Emmy nominations brought a wave of emotions from first-time and returning nominees alike. “The Bear” and “Shogun” led with a record number of nominations. Highlights include heartfelt reactions from Tyler James Williams, Nikki Glaser, Eric André, Carrie Coon, Matt Bomer, Lamorne Morris, Mark Duplass, Kali Reis, and Nava Mau, celebrating their achievements and the recognition of their work in a transforming industry.

    Source: AP News

  • Despicable Me 4″ Delivers More Minion Madness and Family Fun

    “Despicable Me 4,” the latest installment from Illumination Entertainment, has arrived in theaters, bringing with it the familiar chaos and charm of the Minions and their supervillain-turned-hero leader, Gru. Directed by Chris Renaud and co-directed by Patrick Delage, this sequel aims to continue the franchise’s legacy of light-hearted, slapstick humor.

    Since their debut in 2010, the Minions have become a cultural phenomenon, contributing to the franchise’s $4.6 billion box office success. Their quirky language, a mix of gibberish and borrowed words from various languages, continues to evolve in “Despicable Me 4,” adding terms like “antipasti” and “bazooka” to their comedic repertoire. Despite the Minions’ evolution, the film itself remains comfortably predictable, offering a fun but forgettable experience akin to a Saturday morning cartoon.

    In “Despicable Me 4,” Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) finds himself balancing his dual roles as a family man and an agent for the Anti-Villain League. The plot kicks off with Gru attending a school reunion for the Lycée Pas Bon School of Villainy, where he encounters his old rival, Maxime le Mal (Will Ferrell). Maxime, a cockroach-obsessed villain with a French accent, soon escapes from prison, forcing Gru and his family into witness protection.

    This setup leads to several amusing scenarios, including Gru attempting to fit in with his new neighbors while maintaining his supervillain demeanor. One of the film’s highlights is the introduction of Gru Jr., whose antics provide fresh comedic material, such as the Minions changing his diapers with a T-shirt gun. However, these moments can feel overly familiar, echoing scenes from other animated films like “The Incredibles 2.”

    The narrative quickly shifts gears from family comedy to heist adventure, with Gru being blackmailed by Poppy Prescott (Joey King) into stealing a honey badger from his old school. Meanwhile, the Minions undergo an experiment at the Anti-Villain League headquarters, transforming into Mega Minions with superhero-like powers. This subplot allows for more slapstick humor, as the Minions struggle to control their newfound abilities.

    Despite the chaotic plot, “Despicable Me 4” retains the franchise’s hallmark silliness and avoids taking itself too seriously. The film’s strength lies in its ability to deliver consistent laughs through its zany characters and slapstick sequences. While the storylines may be jumbled and the gags occasionally repetitive, the film’s carefree spirit ensures it remains entertaining for its target audience.

    Series veterans Mike White and Ken Daurio return as writers, maintaining the series’ blend of humor and heart. The voice cast, led by Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig, delivers strong performances, with new additions like Will Ferrell and Joey King bringing fresh energy to the ensemble.

    “Despicable Me 4” may not break new ground, but it doesn’t need to. The film’s charm lies in its familiar formula of fun and laughter, providing a delightful escape for families and fans of the franchise. With its colorful animation, endearing characters, and relentless humor, “Despicable Me 4” proves that the Minions and their misadventures still have plenty of life left in them.

    “Despicable Me 4,” a Universal Pictures release, is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association for action and rude humor. Running time: 95 minutes. Two stars out of four.

    Source: APNews

  • Labour’s Mission to Decarbonise UK Transport

    Labour’s Mission to Decarbonise UK Transport: Buses, Trains, and Bicycle Paths Lead the Way

    Bold Steps Needed to Achieve Net Zero Emissions

    As the Labour Party unveils its ambitious plans to overhaul the UK’s transportation infrastructure, environmental experts are calling for decisive action to achieve the nation’s net zero carbon goals. The focus is on boosting bus services, expanding cycle paths, imposing frequent flyer levies, and reopening old railway lines.

    Nationalising Railways for a Greener Future

    A key element of Labour’s strategy is the nationalisation of the railways, which is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming king’s speech. The plan involves establishing Great British Railways, a centralized authority to replace the fragmented private operators currently managing the rail network. This move, highly popular among the public, aims to simplify the fare system and improve passenger services. However, Mike Childs, head of policy at Friends of the Earth, stresses that competitive pricing and enhanced services are crucial for success.

    The HS2 Debate and Alternative Rail Solutions

    Reviving the northern leg of HS2, the high-speed rail line initially intended to connect London and Manchester, would require substantial investment. Despite strong advocacy from businesses and local authorities, this seems unlikely given current financial constraints. Nevertheless, the Green Party proposes reopening local rail links and enhancing cycle and walking routes as viable alternatives.

    The Importance of Diverse Transport Solutions

    Richard Hebditch, UK director of the Transport & Environment think tank, emphasizes the need for a broader perspective beyond railways. “Public transport is vital, but rail accounts for only 8% of travel. We must also focus on electric vehicles, aviation, shipping, and other transport issues,” he explains.

    Boosting Bus Services and Local Authority Control

    Labour plans to return control of bus franchises to local authorities, addressing the decline in bus services outside London over the past decade. Many people, priced out of rail travel, struggle with high bus fares or are forced into car dependency due to inadequate services. Campaigners argue that significant new investment is needed to enhance bus networks, despite the tight fiscal policies promised by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

    Investment in Public Transport and Economic Growth

    Paul Morozzo, senior transport campaigner at Greenpeace UK, highlights the economic benefits of investing in public transport. “Investing in public transport and reducing reliance on congested roads is key to economic growth. We need substantial investment, lower train fares, continued bus fare caps, and a robust electric vehicle charging network to support the transition from petrol and diesel cars.”

    Addressing Aviation and Emission Challenges

    The government faces tough decisions on aviation, particularly the proposed expansion of Luton Airport. With a significant deadline approaching in October, Transport Secretary Louise Haigh will need to balance economic ambitions with the UK’s legally binding carbon budgets. Expert advice is clear: airport expansion must be offset by substantial emission reductions elsewhere.

    The Mission-Driven Approach to Decarbonisation

    Labour’s administration, led by Keir Starmer, is focused on five key missions, including decarbonising the UK’s electricity supply by 2030. Achieving this will require a significant increase in electricity demand due to the shift to electric vehicles and heat pumps. While Labour is confident in meeting its green targets, the practical implementation of this mission-driven approach remains to be seen.

    Balancing Green Policies with Public Support

    Labour faces the challenge of implementing strong green transport policies that may not be popular with everyone. Campaigners advocate for measures like frequent-flyer levies, more low-emission zones, and encouraging reduced car usage, even electric ones. Mike Childs from Friends of the Earth notes, “Labour must take bold steps that might be unpopular with some to make real progress on greening transport. Balancing these measures with public support will be crucial.”

    Labour’s ambitious plans to decarbonise the UK’s transport system signal a transformative approach to achieving net zero emissions. With bold investments in public transport, innovative infrastructure projects, and strong environmental policies, Labour aims to pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

    Source: theguardian