Soccer Star Cristiano Ronaldo Joins Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

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Cristiano Ronaldo is set to appear in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves as an actual, genuine playable fighter in one of the most bizarre fighting game guest character appearances in recent memory.

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time alongside Lionel Messi, is part of the launch roster of characters.

Developer and publisher SNK Corporation released the trailer, below, that shows how Ronaldo has been reimagined in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves’ comic-inspired art style. He has football attacks (one of Ronaldo’s command moves is called Headed Clearance, and he can slide tackle), and even does his trademark 'Siuuu' celebration, although Ronaldo didn’t do his own voice work - voice actor Juan Felipe Sierra did it instead.

Ronaldo, known for his incredible goals and dribbling skills on the soccer field, will now bring his talents to the virtual world of City of the Wolves. The teaser and trailer for the game featuring Ronaldo have already garnered millions of views, showcasing the athlete's seamless transition from the soccer pitch to the gaming screen.

Fans of both Ronaldo and Fatal Fury are buzzing with excitement over this unexpected partnership. Many are speculating on how Ronaldo's character will fit into the game's fast-paced gameplay and intense storyline. Will he be a deadly striker, using his speed and agility to outwit opponents? Or perhaps a crafty midfielder, orchestrating plays with his precision passing?

Regardless of his role in the game, one thing is for certain: Ronaldo's presence in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is sure to elevate the gaming experience to new heights. Stay tuned for more updates on CR7's debut in this thrilling virtual world. 

Here’s the official blurb on Ronaldo’s character:

One of the top football players in the world. He uses his time off to visit South Town to hone his new football skills. The various techniques he has developed playing football make him an unstoppable force, even to seasoned fighters.

The Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims around the world. It marks the time when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Allah through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). During this sacred period, Muslims engage in fasting (sawm), prayer, self-reflection, and acts of charity to attain spiritual purification and strengthen their faith.

Fasting and Its Significance

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is observed by Muslims from dawn to sunset. The fast, known as sawm, requires abstinence from food, drink, smoking, and sinful behaviors. It serves as a way to develop self-discipline, patience, and empathy for those who are less fortunate. The fast begins with Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal, and ends with Iftar, the evening meal, which traditionally starts with dates and water, followed by a variety of dishes shared with family and friends.

Spiritual and Religious Activities

Ramadan is a time of increased devotion and worship. Muslims engage in additional prayers, especially the Taraweeh prayers performed at night in mosques. Many also dedicate time to reading the Quran, seeking forgiveness, and making supplications to Allah. The last ten nights of Ramadan are particularly special, as they include Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power), which is believed to be the night when the Quran was revealed. Worship on this night is said to be more rewarding than a thousand months of worship.

Charity and Community

Ramadan emphasizes generosity, and Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat (charitable donations) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) to help the needy. Many people provide food for the poor, donate to charities, and support community initiatives.

Eid al-Fitr: The Celebration

At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival marked by prayers, feasting, and giving. It is a time for gratitude, family gatherings, and strengthening social bonds. Details....

Today is the Independence Day of Bangladesh.

 

Independence Day of Bangladesh: A Symbol of Freedom and Sacrifice

When we think of birthdays, we often think of celebrating the birth of individuals. However, countries to have their own birthdays – their Independence Day. One such important day in the history of Bangladesh is 26th March, known as the Independence Day of Bangladesh.

The Independence Day of Bangladesh marks the declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971, after a nine-month-long liberation war. This day is observed with great fervor and patriotism in Bangladesh, with ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and the hoisting of the national flag. It is a day to remember and honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the fight for independence.

The Independence Day of Bangladesh, observed annually on March 26, is a significant national holiday that commemorates the country’s liberation from Pakistan in 1971. This historic day marks the beginning of the Bangladesh Liberation War, which ultimately led to the emergence of an independent nation after nine months of intense struggle and bloodshed.

Historical Background

The roots of Bangladesh’s independence movement trace back to the partition of India in 1947 when East Bengal became a part of Pakistan as East Pakistan. Over the years, political and economic discrimination against the Bengali people by the West Pakistani rulers fueled resentment. The situation escalated in 1970 when the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a majority in the general elections. However, the ruling West Pakistani authorities refused to transfer power, leading to widespread protests.

On the night of March 25, 1971, the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight, a brutal crackdown on the people of East Pakistan, targeting students, political leaders, and civilians. In response, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh’s independence in the early hours of March 26, 1971. This declaration marked the official beginning of the Liberation War of Bangladesh, which lasted until December 16, 1971, when the Pakistani forces surrendered.

Observance and Celebrations

Independence Day is celebrated across Bangladesh with great enthusiasm and patriotism. The day begins with a gun salute, followed by flag-hoisting ceremonies at government buildings, schools, and institutions. The National Memorial at Savar becomes a focal point for tributes, where the President, Prime Minister, and citizens pay homage to the martyrs of the war.

Parades, cultural programs, and discussions are organized to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for independence. People wear the national colors—red and green—and participate in various activities, including singing patriotic songs, flying kites, and attending special prayers at mosques, temples, and churches for the prosperity of the nation.

Significance of Independence Day

Independence Day is not only a reminder of Bangladesh’s sovereignty but also a time to reflect on the values of freedom, democracy, and justice. It honors the resilience of the Bangladeshi people and their unwavering spirit in the face of oppression. The day serves as an inspiration for future generations to uphold the ideals of their forefathers and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Conclusion

So, what is Bangladesh Republic Day? It is a day to celebrate the birth of a nation, to remember the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for independence, and to honor the values of freedom, democracy, and equality that Bangladesh stands for.

The Independence Day of Bangladesh is more than just a national holiday; it is a tribute to the immense sacrifices made by millions for their right to self-determination. As Bangladesh continues to grow and develop, the lessons of 1971 remain ever relevant in shaping a prosperous and united future for the country.

As we celebrate the Independence Day of Bangladesh, let us remember the importance of independence and the need to cherish and protect it. Let us be grateful for the freedom we enjoy and strive to build a better future for ourselves and future generations. Happy Independence Day, Bangladesh! 

Panjabi Fashion of Men in Eid

One of the most well-liked traditional attires for males on Eid is panjabi. Every year, different materials, colors, embroidery, and modern styles affect the fashion trends for Eid.

Panjabi is an essential part of Eid celebrations in Bangladesh, combining tradition with modern fashion trends. Whether for Eid prayers, family gatherings, or social events, Panjabis reflect elegance and cultural heritage.

Sailor offers a chic selection of men's panjabis made from the best summer-friendly materials for Eid-ul-Fitar.

To ensure maximum comfort for the discriminating men, they present 10 new lightweight and breathable materials, such as Sailor Premium Voile, Sailor Premium Jacquard, Sailor Grace Modal, and Sailor Loom Line Jacquard.

The majority of the Panjabi collection features a tasteful assortment of geometric and Persian-inspired patterns. Each piece is painstakingly adorned with exquisite designs, complex sequins, delicate needlework, and hand-finished accents.

The collection offers a diverse range of design variations, featuring subtle pin-tuck detailing, sophisticated pocket designs, and stylish Panjabis with attached vest.

Premium metal buttons, engraved with the distinctive Sailor calligraphy, provide the finishing touch. You can also choose from our curated Panjabi sets for a complete ensemble.

Spotlight Collection introduces luxurious cotton linen, renowned for its exceptional comfort and softness against the skin.

In order to create an aura of refined elegance, Sailor also features magnificent, blended silk fabrics and elaborately embroidered motifs made from quality materials.

The Spotlight Collection's exquisite embroidery, which includes intricate thread work with kardana, traditional dollar work, and delicate sequin accents, epitomizes sartorial elegance. A touch of grandeur is added to these unique pieces with elaborate knot work and lavish zardosi work.

Powerful 6.8M Quake Hits Riverton, New Zealand

 

                   Earthquake in New Zealand

New Zealand Earthquake: The Riverton coast in New Zealand shook hard as a 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit the region early Tuesday.

A massive 6.8 magnitude earthquake has hit New Zealand's Riverton coast on Tuesday. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) first reported the magnitude to be 7 but later revised it to 6.8. The quake struck off the coast of Riverton in New Zealand on Tuesday.

• A magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck in a complex seismic environment that has generated major events in the past.
• It hit near a tectonic plate boundary where the Australian plate dives below the Pacific plate.
• Scientists recently warned of the potential for this region to produce tsunami waves several Storeys high.

A magnitude 6.8 earthquake that rocked the bottom of the South Island struck in a seismic environment poorly understood by scientists – but which poses a major tsunami hazard.

The 2.43pm quake hit about 167km west of Rakiura/Stewart Island.

GNS Science seismic duty officer Sam Taylor-Offord said the quake was widely felt throughout the lower South Island, with nearly 5000 people returning reports to Geonet.

Officials quickly assessed the threat and determined evacuations weren’t necessary.

“Our coastal sea level gauge in southwest Fiordland recorded a 10cm tsunami enduring for 90 minutes after the earthquake,” Taylor-Offord said.

“GNS will continue to monitor for any new activity from the National Geohazards Monitoring Centre.”

The event occurred near a tectonic plate boundary where the Australian plate dives below the Pacific plate – the opposite way to how the two plates “subduct” in the North Island.

Called the Puy Segur Trench, the boundary stretches for more than 800km south from the South Island to a point in the wild and windy Southern Ocean, around 400km west of the Auckland Islands.

“This area is actually very poorly understood,” said seismologist Dr Finn Illsley-Kemp, whose Victoria University colleagues have been carrying out work in the region.

“There’s been far less research done here compared to other regions, leaving many unknowns about the exact tectonics – but it’s hosted some of our biggest earthquakes.”

Among them was 2009’s 7.8 Fiordland earthquake, which struck close to the northern end of the trench - releasing 25,000 times more energy than the atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki in 1945.

Its force was enough to twist the South Island, moving Puy Segur Pt on the southwestern tip of the island 30cm closer to Australia.

But its remote location, near Dusky Sound, meant there was relatively little damage to buildings.

A magnitude 7.2 quake hit the trench itself in November 2004, while a 6.4 event was recorded in July 2017.

In the follow-up on today’s event, Illsley-Kemp said GNS Science experts would be focusing on the earthquake’s focal mechanism, telling them how the fault moved during the earthquake.

That information helped assess potential tsunami risks, which are an ever-present danger facing Southland.

In one recent study, scientists reported how, over an average “return period” of 2500 years, much of the region’s southern coast sat exposed to tsunamis 8m to 12m high – and waves of 4m to 8m over 500-year periods.

That put at risk communities including Invercargill, Bluff and Riverton, along with major transport hubs such as Southland’s main port and airport.

The Hikurangi Subduction Zone, off the North Island’s East Coast, ultimately posed the greater threat to people.

Along this subduction zone, scientists have estimated a 26 per cent chance of an event with a magnitude of 8.0 or larger striking beneath the lower North Island within the next 50 years.

Taylor-Offord said today’s quake was another reminder that earthquakes could occur anywhere in New Zealand, “at any time”.

The Vital Role of Business in Nation-Building

Throughout history, great nations have not been built by politicians alone. Behind every economic superpower lies a business elite that did more than just accumulate wealth; they invested in research, infrastructure, and philanthropy, laying the groundwork for enduring national prosperity. 

The United States, often regarded as the pinnacle of capitalist success, owes much of its ascent to a select group of industrial titans who shaped the modern economy. These individuals were frequently controversial, facing accusations of monopolistic practices and labour exploitation, yet their contributions to nation-building, innovation, and philanthropy are undeniable.

Cornelius Vanderbilt, hailed as the father of American railroads, built transportation networks that linked cities and spurred large-scale industrial growth. John D Rockefeller transformed the oil industry, making energy affordable and widely accessible. Andrew Carnegie spearheaded the steel industry, driving infrastructure development and the construction of modern cities. JP Morgan stabilized financial markets during crises to prevent economic collapse, while Charles Schwab modernized steel production, cutting costs and speeding up industrial expansion. 

These figures were not without their flaws -- they created monopolies, eliminated competitors, and operated ruthlessly. Nevertheless, they also acknowledged a vital truth: Nations cannot advance without a strong industrial and financial base.

Recognizing this, they contributed to society in ways that continue to benefit millions today. Carnegie established over 2,500 public libraries, providing generations with access to education. Rockefeller’s investments in medical research led to breakthroughs in public health, including vaccines for deadly diseases. JP Morgan’s financial interventions saved banks, industries, and even the US government from economic disaster. Their wealth was not just a symbol of success; it served as a tool for long-term national development.

Today, Bangladesh stands at a similar inflection point. It has made remarkable economic strides in the last few decades, transforming from a struggling nation to one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. 

With an annual GDP growth rate often exceeding that of neighbouring India and Pakistan, Bangladesh has emerged as a leader in textile exports, microfinance, and digital financial services. Millions have been lifted out of poverty, urbanization is accelerating, and the country is attracting increasing foreign investment.

Yet, beneath this success lies a more profound concern. Bangladesh’s economy remains fragile, vulnerable to external shocks, political instability, and over-reliance on a few key industries, particularly garments and remittances. The country has not yet developed the kind of diversified, innovation-driven economy that can sustain long-term growth. Unlike the United States during its industrial boom, Bangladesh lacks a strong business class that actively contributes to nation-building.

The question is no longer whether Bangladesh can grow -- it already has. The real question is whether its business elite is prepared to take responsibility for long-term national development.

 

The missing link: A business class focused on national development

Despite the rise of numerous successful entrepreneurs in Bangladesh, very few have followed the model of Vanderbilt, Rockefeller, or Carnegie. Many business leaders focus on short-term profit, investing in low-risk, high-return industries like textiles, real estate, and banking rather than research, technology, or infrastructure that could drive the next phase of economic growth.

The role of government in promoting a pro-business environment ecosystem

The government must also actively foster an environment that promotes long-term investment and innovation. Many of these great industrialists collaborated with the government to advance national development, often in partnerships that benefited both businesses and the public. Bangladesh’s government must:

• Provide incentives for research, technology, and higher education investments rather than favouring industries focusing solely on exports and low-wage labour
• Create a tax structure that encourages philanthropy and reinvestment in Bangladesh, ensuring wealth stays in the country rather than being transferred abroad
• Reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption, making it easier for businesses to invest in long-term projects without political interference
• Ensure policy continuity so that frequent changes in government priorities do not disrupt economic growth.

 

PM Carney Launches Canadian Election Campaign

 

​Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has officially launched the campaign for a snap federal election scheduled for April 28, 2025. This decision comes amid escalating tensions with the United States, particularly concerning trade disputes and sovereignty issues.

As the countdown to the 2025 Canadian election begins, all eyes are on former Bank of England governor Mark Carney as he officially launches his campaign for Prime Minister. With his experience in international finance and economics, Carney promises to bring a fresh perspective to Canadian politics.

Carney, who assumed office on March 14 after succeeding Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal Party, has framed the upcoming election as a pivotal moment for Canada to assert its independence and economic resilience. In his campaign kickoff, he criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's recent actions, including the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and provocative statements about annexing Canada. Carney emphasized that Canada will not be intimidated and called for national unity in the face of these challenges.

In a stirring speech delivered to a crowd of supporters in Ottawa, Carney highlighted the importance of Canadian sovereignty and the need for strong leadership in these uncertain times. The Canadian Press was on hand to capture the excitement and energy of the event.

The Liberal Party, previously trailing in polls, has experienced a resurgence attributed to a rise in Canadian nationalism in response to Trump's aggressive stance. Current surveys suggest the Liberals hold a slight lead over the opposition Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre. Poilievre, who had initially gained support with a populist "Canada First" agenda, now faces scrutiny due to perceived ideological similarities with Trump. He has pledged to defend Canada's sovereignty but has struggled to distance himself from Trump's controversial policies.

The question on everyone's mind is: when is Canada's federal election? With rumors swirling about a possible snap election, the timing of Carney's campaign launch could not be more strategic. With his stellar track record and impressive resume, Carney is sure to give the current government a run for their money.

Carney's campaign platform includes proposals for sector-specific financial aid and tax reductions aimed at strengthening the middle class. He advocates for diversifying trade partnerships and enhancing defense capabilities to safeguard Canada's autonomy. Notably, Carney has also announced plans to eliminate the consumer carbon tax by April 1, while maintaining the scheduled carbon rebate for April, signaling a shift in environmental policy.

As the countdown to the 2025 Canadian election continues, Canadians across the country are eager to see how the campaign unfolds. Will Carney's message resonate with voters? Will he be able to sway undecided voters in his favor? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: this election is shaping up to be one for the history books.

The election, set for April 28, will determine the composition of the House of Commons and, consequently, the direction of Canada's domestic and foreign policies during this critical period. Both major parties are expected to intensify their campaigns in the coming weeks, focusing on themes of economic stability, national sovereignty, and the evolving relationship with the United States. Stay tuned to Mark Carney news for all the latest updates on his campaign and the 2025 Canadian election. The future of Canadian politics has never looked brighter. 

Khakee: The Bengal Chapter Series Review

 

A cop-drama without the steam. A political thriller minus the edge. A revenge-saga sans the bite. A story of friendship without the gleam. Co-writer and showrunner Neeraj Pandey’s Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, unfolds with zero surprises. It pushes sloppy twists to spark excitement; submits to violent outbursts for character development and mistakes basic, non-linear structure for eventful storytelling. The show has the emotional intelligence of a substandard Crime Patrol episode and a simplified run of a C.I.D case. Maybe it is not a coincidence that all three are on Netflix India; the streamer has been going through a transition lately.

The show doesn’t even take ahead the pointed focus which was there in the first part. Here, everything is ‘been there, seen that’. An honest cop (Parambrata Chatterjee) comes to rid Kolkata’s violence-infused streets of crime. However, it is just a step taken by the ruling party politicians to better their image for upcoming elections. The namesake chief minister acts on the orders of another cabinet minister, Barun (Prosenjit Chatterjee), who has his hands dirty. Barun has close links to dreaded gangster Bagha (Saswata Chatterjee), whose protegees Ranjit (Aadil Khan) and Sagor (Ritwik Bhowmik) have ambitions of taking over the empire. Soon, the honest cop is murdered. There’s a mole in the team and a new cop, our protagonist, Arjun Maitra (Jeet) takes command. Rest of the show is filled with touch and go moments— overlong chases, frantic shootouts and bloody betrayals that have become overly familiar in crime-dramas over the years.

It doesn’t even stay true in telling the story of Bengal, the state which has seen such significant political upheavals in the past decades. At first, it feels refreshing to hear the Bengali accent of the characters but then there’s nothing more which encompasses the complexity of the state. The politics is just reduced to ruling party leaders giving long speeches and the lone opposition leader, Nibedita Basak (Chitrangada Singh) questioning their every move. Looking at Chitrangada shouting slogans in a cotton sari does sprawl up the memory of her powerful presence in Sudhir Mishra’s seminal Hazaron Khwahishen Aisi (2003). But here, she has no stake in the story; her actions seldom affect other characters which makes it impossible to feel for her.

Even the friendship between Ranjit and Sagor takes a sudden violent turn which becomes difficult to digest. It is preceded by an interesting foreboding of rising insecurities and changing priorities which creates distance between the two. Yet, a decision to completely convert Ranjit into a dark, psychotic villain, hungry for blood, feels forced. Aadil plays the character with conviction and is best suited for the role, firmly carrying the manic energy in his actions. Ritwik stays sincere too, especially in portions where he embodies the innocence of Sagor. It is in his violent side where he appears to struggle. Jeet, playing the protagonist is among the weakest link of the show, as he feels to be remotely doing his scenes without a lot of emotional involvement. It is Prosenjit and Saswata, who remain the highlight, with their cold-blooded, menacing presence.

However, there’s only so much that the actors can do when there’s a lack of nuance in the writing. The tonal imbalance is felt right in the intro music, which feels more like a jingle in a tourism ad for the state. “Ek aur rang bhi dekhiye Bengal ka (Come to see another shade of Bengal)”, the lyrics say with a jolly mix of vocals and tune. It is at once in contrast with how the first season opened, with a more mysterious touch to the music. But then it was based on a true story, adapted from a book. It also came three years ago, in the quiet aftermath of the pandemic, when streaming still had room for surprise, when storytelling was yet to conform to the rhythm of an algorithm. There was still a scant sense of originality left. Cut to 2025, where sameness reigns, edges dull, and risks fade. The transition phase seems to be stretching into permanence.

The Best Laptops for College Students in 2024

 

The Best Laptops for College Students in 2024

As college students gear up for another academic year, choosing the right laptop is essential for productivity, efficiency, and entertainment. With numerous options on the market, selecting the best one can be challenging. Whether you need a lightweight device for notetaking or a powerhouse for engineering projects, here are the top laptops for college students in 2024.

Best Overall: MacBook Air M2 (13-inch or 15-inch)

• Price: Starting at $999
• Pros: Slim, lightweight, long battery life (18 hours), silent fanless design, powerful M2 chip
• Cons: Limited external display support, no touchscreen
• Best for: General studies, business, science majors, and students who prefer macOS

The MacBook Air M2 remains a top choice for most students thanks to its combination of power, portability, and reliability. It’s an excellent option for students who need a device that will last through years of coursework.

Best Windows Laptop: Dell XPS 13 (2024)

• Price: Starting at $1,199
• Pros: Premium design, great display, lightweight, solid performance
• Cons: Limited USB-A ports, slightly expensive
• Best for: Students who need Windows for specific software or multitasking

The Dell XPS 13 is a sleek, high-performance machine that offers a premium Windows experience. It’s ideal for students who need a reliable device for schoolwork, presentations, and entertainment.

Best Budget Laptop: Acer Aspire 5

• Price: Starting at $500
• Pros: Affordable, decent performance, good battery life
• Cons: Basic design, not as powerful as premium laptops
• Best for: Budget-conscious students who need a laptop for writing, browsing, and light multitasking

For students on a tight budget, the Acer Aspire 5 provides excellent value. It can handle everyday tasks like note-taking, web browsing, and video calls without breaking the bank.

Best 2-in-1 Laptop: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2

• Price: Starting at $1,599
• Pros: Touchscreen, flexible design, pen support, good battery life
• Cons: Expensive, not as powerful as similarly priced MacBooks
• Best for: Creative students, digital note-takers, and design majors

The Surface Laptop Studio 2 is perfect for students who love digital note-taking or need a versatile laptop for creative projects. Its touchscreen and pen support make it an excellent tool for artists and designers.

Best for Engineering & Coding: MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3 Pro) / Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

• Price: Starting at $1,599
• Pros: Powerful processor, great display, long battery life
• Cons: Expensive
• Best for: Computer science, engineering, and technical students

Engineering and computer science students require high-performance laptops capable of handling complex computations, coding, and simulations. The MacBook Pro 14-inch with the M3 Pro chip and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon are two of the best options available.

Best Gaming Laptop: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14

• Price: Starting at $1,399
• Pros: Great for gaming and school, high refresh rate display, strong performance
• Cons: Heavier than ultra books, fans can be loud
• Best for: Students who want a gaming laptop that can also handle schoolwork

For students who want to game in their downtime, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 provides a balance between performance and portability. It’s a great choice for both gaming and coursework.

Conclusion

Selecting the right laptop depends on individual needs, from budget constraints to software requirements. For general use, the MacBook Air M2 is the best choice, while Windows users might prefer the Dell XPS 13. Engineering and coding students should look into the MacBook Pro 14-inch or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon. Those on a budget can opt for the Acer Aspire 5, while creative students will benefit from the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2. Finally, for gaming and schoolwork, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is an excellent option. With the right laptop, students can ensure a seamless and productive college experience.

Legendary Boxer George Foreman, Close Friend of Muhammad Ali, Dies at 76

 

Legendary boxer George Foreman, close friend of Muhammad Ali, passed away at the age of 76. Foreman, known for his powerful punches and larger-than-life persona, was a former heavyweight champion who shared a special bond with Ali both inside and outside the ring.

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman rose from a challenging youth to become a towering figure in boxing. He clinched a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, marking the beginning of a remarkable career. In 1973, Foreman won the world heavyweight title by defeating Joe Frazier.

Foreman and Ali famously faced off in the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" fight in 1974, where Ali emerged victorious in an epic showdown. Despite their competitive rivalry, the two boxers developed a deep respect and friendship over the years.

After a brief retirement starting in 1977, Foreman made an extraordinary comeback in 1987. In 1994, at the age of 45, he regained the heavyweight title by defeating Michael Moorer, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history.

In a recent interview, Foreman spoke fondly of Ali, reminiscing about their time in the ring and the impact Ali had on the sport of boxing. "Muhammad Ali was a once-in-a-lifetime athlete and a true legend," Foreman said. "He will always be remembered as one of the greatest to ever step foot in the ring."

Foreman's passing comes as a blow to the boxing world, as fans and fellow athletes mourn the loss of a true icon. His legacy will live on through his incredible performances in the ring and his enduring friendship with Muhammad Ali.

Beyond boxing, Foreman became a successful entrepreneur, notably with the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. He was also a devout Christian minister and author, dedicating much of his post-boxing life to his faith and community. ​

Foreman's death has prompted tributes from across the sports world. Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson expressed his condolences, highlighting Foreman's significant impact on boxing.

In the documentary "I Am the Greatest", Foreman and Ali's relationship is explored in depth, showcasing their bond both inside and outside of boxing. The film highlights the trials and tribulations they faced, as well as their unwavering respect for one another.

As we remember George Foreman and his contributions to the sport of boxing, we also honor his friendship with Muhammad Ali and the lasting impact they had on each other's lives. George Foreman may be gone, but his legend will live on forever in the hearts of boxing fans everywhere. 

George Foreman's legacy as a formidable boxer, savvy businessman, and dedicated humanitarian will be remembered and celebrated worldwide.

Indonesia Volcano Eruption Disrupts Air Travel

 

An eruption from Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano on Thursday night sent a massive ash cloud more than 8km (5 miles) into the sky, disrupting air travel and raising emergency alerts to their highest level for locals and tourists in the region.

The eruption began at 10:56pm local time (14:56 GMT) on Thursday and was observed to produce a thick grey-to-black ash column.

The eruption, originating in the southeastern part of Flores Island, caused a flight disruption, particularly from Jetstar, Australia’s Qantas Airways’ low-cost subsidiary, which cancelled flights to Bali due to the volcanic ash.

While flights were expected to resume by Friday afternoon, seven international flights and several domestic routes at Bali’s airport had already been cancelled or delayed.

The Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation issued a warning for residents and visitors in the southwest and northeast sectors of the eruption’s radius, advising against any activities within 7-8km (4.4-5 miles) of the volcano.

The agency also warned of potential volcanic mudflows in the region due to the heavy rainfall in the area.

Despite the widespread disruptions, there have been no immediate reports of damage to nearby villages. However, the eruption prompted the country’s geological agency to raise the volcano’s alert level to the highest, in a four-tiered system used for such emergencies.

The eruption of Lewotobi Laki-Laki follows a deadly event in November 2024 when the volcano killed at least 10 people and displaced thousands of residents.

After Thursday’s eruption, a tsunami warning was briefly issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency, though it was later lifted as the situation did not result in a tsunami.

The ongoing eruption and the disruption to flights highlight the volatile nature of Indonesia’s numerous active volcanoes, as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.