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  • Facebook, Instagram not working for you? You are not alone

    Are you experiencing issues with Facebook and Instagram? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many users have reported difficulties accessing these popular social media platforms. It can be frustrating when you rely on these platforms for communication, entertainment, or business purposes.

    There could be several reasons why Facebook and Instagram are not working for you. It could be a temporary glitch in the system, a problem with your internet connection, or even an issue with your device. Before panicking, it’s always a good idea to check if others are also experiencing the same problem.

    Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have billions of users worldwide, and occasional outages are not uncommon. These platforms have complex infrastructures, and sometimes technical issues arise that affect their functionality. The companies behind these platforms are usually quick to address and resolve such problems.

    If you’re unable to access Facebook or Instagram, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

    1. Check your internet connection: Ensure that you have a stable internet connection and try refreshing the page.
    2. Clear your cache: Clearing your browser cache can help resolve temporary issues.
    3. Update your app: If you’re using the mobile app, make sure it’s up to date.
    4. Restart your device: Sometimes a simple restart can fix connectivity issues.

    If none of these steps work, it’s best to wait for the platforms to resolve the issue. You can also check social media or news websites for updates on any ongoing outages. Remember, these platforms are used by millions of people, and occasional disruptions are bound to happen.

    In the meantime, take a break from social media and explore other activities. Read a book, go for a walk, or spend time with loved ones. Remember, there’s more to life than just scrolling through Facebook or Instagram.

  • Joe Biden, the Espionage Act, and My Experience

    Similar to my situation, Biden also stored classified information outside a secure facility and shared it with the press to express apprehension about US policy. However, the prosecutors handled our cases in contrasting manners.

    In February, I completed a 33-month sentence in federal prison for breaching the Espionage Act. My disclosure of classified information aimed to shed light on what I perceived as the ethical toll of America’s drone assassination program. Shortly after my release, news of Special Counsel Robert Hur’s report emerged, detailing why President Joe Biden wasn’t charged for alleged violations of the same law.

    It’s heartening to hear when the Justice Department refrains from using the Espionage Act. Since its enactment in 1917, the law has been wielded to stifle dissenting voices nationwide. Thousands were swiftly convicted for opposing America’s involvement in the deadliest conflict of that era.

    Though certain aspects of the law have been revised, the Espionage Act remains the primary statute for prosecuting government whistleblowers who rely on the press to expose governmental abuses. The decision to pursue whistleblowers under the Espionage Act sends a clear message: anyone who speaks to the media risks decades of imprisonment.

    Upon reviewing Special Counsel Hur’s report, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between my case and the investigation into the president. According to the report, President Biden, like me, stored classified information outside secure facilities and later shared it with reporters to express concerns about official US policy.

    Both President Biden and I voiced apprehensions about official policies: his regarding the 2009 surge in Afghanistan (during his vice presidency) and mine regarding its repercussions. Yet, why was one of us prosecuted while the other wasn’t?

    Special Counsel Robert Hur said in a report released released in February that Biden would not face criminal charges for removing classified documents at the end of the Obama presidency because he had cooperated with investigators and would appear sympathetic to a jury [Leah Millis/Reuters]
    Special Counsel Robert Hur said in a report released released in February that Biden would not face criminal charges for removing classified documents at the end of the Obama presidency because he had cooperated with investigators and would appear sympathetic to a jury [Leah Millis/Reuters]

    Hur suggested that President Biden’s perceived goodwill would make it challenging to convince a jury of wrongdoing. Contrastingly, during my sentencing, the government painted me as a public threat, likening me to a drug dealer. They portrayed me as seeking notoriety rather than acting in the public interest.

    Hur deftly sidesteps the issue of intent regarding the Espionage Act. Ironically, the law doesn’t necessitate proof of intent to harm the US; it only requires evidence that the possessor of national defense information knowingly retains and willfully communicates it to unauthorized individuals.

    While Biden evades repercussions due to his purported lack of harmful intent, I, like other whistleblowers, was effectively silenced by legal technicalities. Forced to plead guilty to avoid an unwinnable trial, I couldn’t present evidence of my intentions.

    The guilt I bore for disclosing national defense information paled in comparison to the shame I felt for participating in the drone program. In 2021, weeks after my sentencing, a US drone strike mistakenly killed Zemari Ahmadi and nine family members. I was the sole person held accountable, not for my role but for exposing its reality.

    President Biden received the benefit of doubt denied to many Espionage Act targets. Yet, if he truly upholds the ideals that secured his presidency, he should pardon whistleblowers and end the “targeted” killing policy in the global war on terror.

  • Turkey Arrests 7 Individuals Suspected of Spying on Behalf of Israel

    Individuals Suspected of Gathering Data on Turkish Entities, Allegedly Sold Information to Mossad

    Turkish authorities have apprehended seven individuals suspected of trafficking information to the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad.

    Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya disclosed that the suspects were apprehended during synchronized raids in Istanbul on Tuesday. These detentions mark the latest development in a series of similar arrests across Turkey.

    The suspects were taken into custody during simultaneous raids in Istanbul, the interior minister said [File: Umit Bektas/Reuters]
    The suspects were taken into custody during simultaneous raids in Istanbul, the interior minister said [File: Umit Bektas/Reuters]

    Yerlikaya indicated that the detainees are believed to have gathered data on Turkish individuals and businesses, subsequently selling it to Mossad. The raids were conducted in collaboration with Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT).

    “We are adamant about preventing espionage activities within our borders. We will pursue them relentlessly and ensure they face justice,” asserted Yerlikaya.

    A video released by the Interior Minister depicted police conducting raids in Istanbul residences, where firearms, narcotics, and electronic devices were seized.

    As of now, it remains unclear whether any charges have been filed, with authorities refraining from providing further details.

    Israel has yet to issue a response regarding the operation.

    Wave of arrests

    Last month, Turkish authorities arrested seven individuals on similar suspicions, while in early January, 34 people were detained by Turkish police over alleged espionage for Israel.

    According to Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc, those arrested in January were accused of planning activities such as reconnaissance and the “pursuit, assault, and abduction” of foreign nationals residing in Turkey. Tunc noted that most of the suspects faced charges related to “political or military espionage” on behalf of Israeli intelligence.

    As reported by the state-run Anadolu Agency, citing unnamed security officials, the individuals detained on Tuesday included a former civil servant now working as a private investigator. Allegedly trained by Mossad in Belgrade, Serbia, he purportedly gathered information on Middle Eastern entities and individuals, while also planting tracking devices in the vehicles of individuals targeted by Israeli intelligence. MIT stated that he received payments in cryptocurrency not documented in official records.

    Despite the normalization of ties between Turkey and Israel in 2022, which saw the reappointment of ambassadors, relations soured swiftly with the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Ankara emerged as one of Tel Aviv’s most vocal critics during the military campaign in Gaza.

    In December, the head of Israel’s Shin Bet security agency declared readiness to target Hamas anywhere, including in Lebanon, Turkey, and Qatar. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan swiftly warned of “serious consequences” should Israel target anyone on Turkish soil.

  • Biden clinches victory in Michigan primary, but confronts backlash regarding Israel’s conflict with Gaza.

    The US president, along with Donald Trump, secures a win in Michigan, but initial outcomes indicate dissent from certain voters regarding Biden’s Gaza policy.

    image 95
    A volunteer holds a sign asking people to vote uncommitted, instead of for US President Joe Biden, outside Maples School in Dearborn, Michigan 2024 in the US presidential primary on February 27, 2024 [Jeff Kowalsky/AFP]


    In media projections, United States President Joe Biden is declared the winner of the Democratic presidential primary in Michigan, yet early tallies reveal significant dissent over his stance on Israel’s conflict with Gaza.

    Michigan, boasting a sizable Arab-American population, saw Democratic voters urged to mark their primary ballots as “uncommitted” as a protest against Biden’s Gaza policy.

    Former President Donald Trump secures a commanding victory in the Republican presidential primary in Michigan, further solidifying his hold on the party’s nomination, with Nikki Haley trailing far behind.

    Michigan is poised to play a pivotal role in the upcoming November presidential election, with Biden and Trump likely to face off again in a closely contested battle.

    Biden’s narrow win over Trump in Michigan in the 2020 election contrasts with the current discontent among some voters, particularly within the Arab-American community, and progressive Democrats, over his support for Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

    Despite efforts from the White House and the Biden campaign to engage with Michigan’s community leaders on the Gaza conflict, the “uncommitted” movement persists, championed by groups like Listen to Michigan and supported by figures such as Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib.

    Listen to Michigan expresses satisfaction with the early results, highlighting a significant turnout for the “uncommitted” vote among disillusioned Michigan Democrats.

    Notably, a considerable portion of Michigan voters, including young people, opt for the “uncommitted” label, seeking to influence the outcome of the election by withholding full support for Biden.

    The Biden campaign acknowledges the participation of Michigan voters but refrains from addressing concerns over Gaza or the “uncommitted” vote.

    Both Biden and Trump secure victories in primaries across various states, solidifying their positions within their respective parties.

    Despite Trump’s success, Haley vows to continue her campaign, supported by a notable fundraising advantage over Trump’s primary campaign committee.

  • Wendy’s, the American burger chain, intends to experiment with ‘surge pricing’ in the coming year

    The company aims to adjust prices dynamically throughout the day according to demand, sparking criticism.

    image 90
    Wendy’s is looking to try a strategy that ride-sharing companies and ticket sellers have implemented [File: Gene J Puskar/AP Photo]

    Wendy’s, a fast-food chain based in the United States, is considering experimenting with fluctuating the prices of its menu items throughout the day in response to demand. This strategy, reminiscent of practices adopted by ride-sharing companies and ticket sellers, is set to be trialed soon.

    In a recent conference call, Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner announced plans for the Dublin, Ohio-based burger chain to initiate tests of dynamic pricing, also referred to as surge pricing, possibly as soon as next year.

    “Starting as early as 2025, we’ll be testing more advanced features such as dynamic pricing and daypart offerings, alongside AI-driven menu adjustments and suggestive selling,” he stated.

    “As we continue to demonstrate the advantages of this technology in our company-operated eateries, we anticipate a surge in franchisee interest in digital menu boards, further bolstering sales and profit growth across the board.”

    Wendy’s is set to invest approximately $20 million to roll out digital menu boards in all its US company-owned restaurants by the close of 2025. Additionally, it plans to allocate around $10 million over the next two years to bolster digital menu enhancements globally.

    Tanner, formerly of PepsiCo, assumed the role of Wendy’s CEO this month, succeeding Todd Penegor, who had held the position of president and CEO since 2016.

    Last year, Penegor unveiled a restructuring initiative aimed at expediting decision-making processes and increasing investment in new restaurant development, particularly on the international front. The chain, along with its franchisees, oversees roughly 7,000 restaurants worldwide.

    Wendy’s stock experienced a slight dip in Tuesday morning trading following the announcement, which sparked backlash, with the New York Post prominently featuring the news on its front page, dubbing it “inflation’s next frontier.”

    On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), numerous users criticized Wendy’s, with some vowing to boycott the burger chain.

    “Surge pricing may work for Uber since they’re often the sole option. But you’re not. I won’t be patronizing your establishment if you proceed with this,” one user remarked.

    “Goodbye, Wendy’s,” another wrote. “Engaging in predatory pricing isn’t acceptable for a fast food chain.”

  • Exploring the Origins of Amazon Deforestation: A Journey through Brazil’s Fordlandia

    In Aveiro, Brazil, flames soared skyward, engulfing the jungle in a blaze reaching over a hundred feet high. Boars fled from the underbrush, toucans darted from the trees, and thousands of acres of Amazon rainforest were soon reduced to ash.

    The year was 1928, and in north-central Brazil, a monumental project was underway: Fordlandia, a $20 million city conceived by the wealthiest man of his time, American industrialist Henry Ford. Emerging from the scorched earth were a hospital, cinema, schools, and bungalows. Golf and tennis courts were constructed to make American expats feel at home, while local workers manned the sawmill and factories.

    Over the ensuing eight decades, Fordlandia has largely fallen into disrepair, yet smoke still lingers in the air, emblematic of Brazil’s enduring struggle with deforestation and the pursuit of wealth in its renowned rainforest.

    Approximately 2,000 people still reside in Ford’s utopian experiment, a dilapidated testament to past aspirations that have shaped the forest. Trapped in poverty, these residents face conflicting pressures: to conserve their surrounding environment or exploit it for survival.

    Sadir Moata, a 31-year-old farmer, exemplifies this dilemma. Despite refurbishing one of Fordlandia’s houses for his family, his meager income from farming drives him to clear land through fire to increase crop yields.

    Moata explains, “Yes, I deforest. How else am I going to farm?” His monthly government assistance of 600 reals ($120) barely sustains his family, leaving him with few options.

    However, experts, advocates, and residents caution that the true cost of Amazon deforestation will inevitably outweigh any short-term gains.

    image 88
    An estimated 2,000 people have continued to call Fordlandia home even after its heyday as a factory town [Apolline Guillerot-Malick/Al Jazeera]

    In Aveiro, Brazil, flames soared skyward, engulfing the jungle in a blaze reaching over a hundred feet high. Boars fled from the underbrush, toucans darted from the trees, and thousands of acres of Amazon rainforest were soon reduced to ash.

    The year was 1928, and in north-central Brazil, a monumental project was underway: Fordlandia, a $20 million city conceived by the wealthiest man of his time, American industrialist Henry Ford. Emerging from the scorched earth were a hospital, cinema, schools, and bungalows. Golf and tennis courts were constructed to make American expats feel at home, while local workers manned the sawmill and factories.

    Over the ensuing eight decades, Fordlandia has largely fallen into disrepair, yet smoke still lingers in the air, emblematic of Brazil’s enduring struggle with deforestation and the pursuit of wealth in its renowned rainforest.

    Approximately 2,000 people still reside in Ford’s utopian experiment, a dilapidated testament to past aspirations that have shaped the forest. Trapped in poverty, these residents face conflicting pressures: to conserve their surrounding environment or exploit it for survival.

    Sadir Moata, a 31-year-old farmer, exemplifies this dilemma. Despite refurbishing one of Fordlandia’s houses for his family, his meager income from farming drives him to clear land through fire to increase crop yields.

    Moata explains, “Yes, I deforest. How else am I going to farm?” His monthly government assistance of 600 reals ($120) barely sustains his family, leaving him with few options.

    However, experts, advocates, and residents caution that the true cost of Amazon deforestation will inevitably outweigh any short-term gains.

    image 89
    The rusted shell of a Willys Rural, a jeep-style vehicle produced in Brazil, sits in Fordlandia [Apolline Guillerot-Malick/Al Jazeera]

  • State Department Screens AP-PBS Documentary on Ukraine Conflict Shortly After 2-Year Mark of Russia’s Invasion

    The U.S. State Department recently organized a screening for the acclaimed Associated Press-PBS “Frontline” documentary titled “20 Days in Mariupol,” focusing on the Ukraine conflict.

    image 87
    People watch a screening of “20 Days in Mariupol” at the State Department in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

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    The U.S. State Department, on Tuesday, organized a screening of the acclaimed Associated Press-PBS “Frontline” documentary titled “20 Days in Mariupol,” following Ukraine’s commemoration of the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion. Elizabeth Allen, under secretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs, highlighted the film’s role in presenting the realities of the conflict and countering disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty. The State Department plans to screen the documentary in over 30 countries worldwide.

    During the screening, attended by diplomats from various foreign embassies in Washington, Allen emphasized the significance of cultural diplomacy in national security strategy. The event occurred amidst growing uncertainty in Congress regarding continued U.S. aid for Ukraine and mounting challenges faced by Ukrainian forces on the frontline, including ammunition shortages.

    Although the AP did not sponsor the event, journalist and filmmaker Mstyslav Chernov attended the screening and participated in a panel discussion afterward. Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S., Oksana Markarova, urged viewers to recognize the film as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed by Russian forces and to humanize the victims of the conflict.

    The documentary, recognized with awards at the British Academy Film Awards and the Directors Guild Awards, documents the siege of Mariupol by Russian forces in early 2022. Chernov and his team captured the devastating impact on civilians during their three-week stay in the city, risking their lives to expose the grim realities of the war.

    Despite the risks faced by journalists in conflict zones, the State Department sees the screening as part of a broader effort to promote peace and democracy globally through film. Through initiatives like the Film Diplomacy Screening Series, the Department aims to showcase Oscar-nominated international films to advance these diplomatic goals.

  • Chappelle disapproves of Katt Williams’ remarks regarding Black comedians

    image 86
    Photo: Anita Zvonar + Dreamstime

    In recent news regarding Katt Williams, Dave Chappelle responded to Williams’ criticisms on “Club Shay Shay.” During a performance at MonDERAYS, Chappelle, known for his no-phone policy, disapproved of Williams’ insults, questioning why he targeted Black comedians. Chappelle emphasized Williams’ talent but urged him to stop drawing negative pictures of their community. Mimicking Williams, Chappelle highlighted the pattern of hurtful behavior and questioned why Williams didn’t address personal grievances. Chappelle also questioned the ethics of tearing down fellow comedians and emphasized the importance of solidarity in their industry.

  • Usher clarifies: He never served as Beyoncé’s nanny.

    image 85
    Photo: Usher + Dreamstime

    In the latest news regarding Usher, ahead of his Super Bowl Half Time show, he addressed rumors about babysitting Beyoncé on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast Club Shay Shay. Usher clarified he never served as Beyoncé’s nanny but supervised her and others at musician Daryl Simmons’ house. Reflecting on his role, he emphasized he wasn’t a nanny but oversaw them as a teenager. This follows Usher’s mention last year of knowing Beyoncé when she was part of The Dolls. Usher affirmed his belief in Beyoncé’s future success and highlighted their collaborations over the years, including performances and songs like

    “Bad Girl” and “Love In The Club Part II.”

  • Keanu Reeves Honored at The 51st Annual Saturn Awards Ceremony

    image 83
    Keanu Reeves was in attendance to receive the very first Lance Reddick Legacy Award, presented to him by Titus Welliver star of “Bosch”. (Photo credit: JGoldsteinPR)

    A Glittering Occasion Honoring Excellence in Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror

    LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – February 5, 2024 – The atmosphere at the Saturn Awards ceremony last night was electric, as top-tier celebrities graced the event to laud the pinnacle of genre entertainment, an accolade bestowed solely by The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror since its establishment in 1972. Hosted for the second consecutive year by actor/comedian Joel McHale, renowned for his roles in DC’s Stargirl and Community, the gala witnessed a star-studded turnout of Hollywood luminaries rallying behind and acknowledging the outstanding contributions and talent in these realms of entertainment, often overlooked by other award ceremonies. The 51st Annual Saturn Awards unfolded last night (February 4, 2024) at the esteemed L.A. MARRIOTT BURBANK AIRPORT HOTEL and was broadcast live for fans on ElectricNOW, the premium OTT app and FAST channel from Dean Devlin’s Electric Entertainment. Fans who missed the live broadcast can catch the highlights on the streaming channel as it airs reruns of the historic event throughout the month.

    Christopher Nolan was honored with The Saturn’s Visionary Award by his “Oppenheimer” co-star Emily Blunt, herself a recipient of the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the film. The iconic William Shatner bestowed Seth MacFarlane with the esteemed Robert Forster Artists Award, while Dave Filoni was presented with the George Pal Memorial Award by Ming-Na Wen, last year’s Best TV Actress winner for her portrayal in “The Book of Boba Fett.” Keanu Reeves graced the occasion to receive the inaugural Lance Reddick Legacy Award, presented to him by Titus Welliver, star of “Bosch” and “Bosch: Legacy,” while Jodie Foster was honored with The Life Career Award by Issa López, writer and director of the fourth season of “True Detective: Night Country.”

    Documented as the most illustrious Saturn Awards celebration to date, the ceremony saw a host of presenters and winners, including Nicolas Cage, Heather Graham, James Cameron, Norman Reedus, Sir Patrick Stewart, Ernie Hudson, Henry Thomas, Rebecca De Mornay, Todd Stashwick, Paul Wesley, Lee Majors, Lindsay Wagner, Danai Gurira, Xolo Maridueña, Harvey Guillén, among numerous others. All graced the Saturn Awards not only to present awards but also to extend their support to this exceptional community.

    This year’s event was dedicated to the memory of the Saturn Awards’ esteemed friend Lance Reddick, whose legacy will endure for generations to come.

    Below is the complete list of winners at the 51st Annual Saturn Awards:

    Special Awards:

    VISIONARY AWARD – Christopher Nolan

    ROBERT FORSTER ARTIST’S AWARD – Seth MacFarlane

    GEORGE PAL MEMORIAL AWARD – Dave Filoni

    THE DAN CURTIS LEGACY AWARD – The Walking Dead Franchise

    LANCE REDDICK LEGACY AWARD – Keanu Reeves

    LIFE CAREER AWARD – Jodie Foster

    LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – Star Trek: The Next Generation Cast

    Film Categories:

    BEST SCIENCE FICTION FILM – Avatar: The Way of Water

    BEST FANTASY FILM – Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

    BEST HORROR FILM – Talk to Me

    BEST SUPERHERO FILM – Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3

    BEST ACTION/ADVENTURE FILM – Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

    BEST THRILLER FILM – Oppenheimer

    BEST ANIMATED FILM – Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse