THREAD: tech predictions the battle of opinions

KING CHARLES III’S Health Battle Leaves Little Room for Prince Harry

09 May 2024 — King Charles III, having recently returned to his royal duties after a three-month battle with cancer, is reportedly too occupied to meet with Prince Harry. According to a spokesperson, the Duke of Sussex understands his father’s busy schedule and remains hopeful for a future reunion.

During a quick trip to London triggered by his father’s health news, Prince Harry discussed the ongoing challenges within the royal family. Since his departure from royal life in 2020 and move to California, he has frequently spoken out against what he perceives as unfair media coverage and underlying racism in royal dealings.

Prince Harry also attended an event supporting wounded veterans during his visit — a cause he deeply cares about. He shared in interviews that he hoped his father’s health crisis might help heal their strained relationship. However, the chance for reconciliation seems slim as their schedules continue to clash

This ongoing saga between father and son highlights not just personal family dynamics but also reflects broader issues of duty, media influence, and public perception within the royal family.

Prince Harry’s SECURITY BATTLE: UK Judge Rejects His Appeal for Protection

16 April 2024 — Prince Harry’s effort to secure police protection while in the UK has hit a new snag. A judge recently ruled against his appeal, limiting his access to government-funded security. This setback is part of the fallout from his decision to step back from royal duties.

The dispute has been ongoing for four years, rooted in Harry’s concerns over media intrusion and threats from online sources. However, High Court Judge Peter Lane upheld the government’s tailored security measures as lawful and appropriate in February.

Facing this latest defeat, Prince Harry’s path forward is now more complicated. To continue his fight, he must directly request permission from the Court of Appeal, as the High Court has denied him an automatic right to appeal.

This legal tussle highlights the unique challenges faced by members of the royal family who seek a different path away from their traditional roles and responsibilities.

NETANYAHU’S Health BATTLE: Deputy Steps Up as Prime Minister Faces Hernia Surgery

01 April 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to undergo hernia surgery this Sunday night. The decision comes after a routine medical examination, according to the prime minister’s office.

In Netanyahu’s absence, Yariv Levin, deputy prime minister and justice minister, will step in as acting prime minister. Details about Netanyahu’s diagnosis remain undisclosed.

Despite his health challenges, the 74-year-old leader continues to maintain a busy schedule amidst Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas. His resilience follows last year’s health scare that necessitated the implantation of a pacemaker.

Recently, Netanyahu called off a delegation trip to Washington. This move was in response to President Biden’s administration failing to veto a U.N. resolution demanding a Gaza cease-fire without ensuring the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

UK-CANADA Trade Talks GRIND to a Halt: The Beef and Cheese Battle That’s Costing Billions

26 January 2024 — The UK government has unexpectedly put the brakes on post-Brexit trade talks with Canada. This sudden move follows a two-year stalemate over beef and cheese imports and exports, which began after Britain officially left the European Union.

Trade between these nations, valued at roughly 26 billion pounds ($33 billion) per year, has mostly persisted under the initial agreement made while Britain was still an EU member. However, Canadian negotiators are feeling the heat from their own beef industry and local cheesemakers. The former is pushing for access to the UK market for hormone-fed beef, while cheesemakers are raising alarms about tariff-free imports of British cheese.

The privilege of tariff-free British cheese exports came to a halt at the close of 2023 when a temporary agreement expired. This change led to a staggering 245% duty hike for British producers. Canada’s trade minister Mary Ng firmly stated that Canada “will never agree to a deal that isn’t beneficial for our workers, farmers and businesses.” Minette Batters, president of the National Farmers’ Union in England and Wales praised Britain’s resistance against hormone-fed beef imports.

Despite this hiccup in negotiations, the UK government remains open-minded about future discussions. However, any significant progress appears unlikely at present.

KING CHARLES Undergoes Treatment: Inside His Prostate Health Battle

26 January 2024 — King Charles, aged 75, entered the London Clinic private hospital on Friday for a procedure related to an enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace has confirmed this news, but how long he will stay in the hospital is still unknown.

This same medical facility recently welcomed Catherine, Princess of Wales and Charles’ daughter-in-law, for scheduled abdominal surgery.

Before his own treatment began earlier in the day, King Charles made time to visit Catherine at the hospital. The Palace had previously disclosed this “corrective procedure” for his enlarged prostate last week.

2023 RECAP SHOWDOWN: Washington Examiner Editors’ Battle in Year-End Trivia Challenge

26 December 2023 — As 2023 draws to a close, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the year’s most noteworthy events in Washington. Join Chris Irvine, Managing Editor, and Jim Antle, Executive Magazine Editor of the Washington Examiner for an engaging recap.

Witness these two seasoned experts as they go head-to-head in a trivia duel. The contest is orchestrated by Investigations Editor Sarah Bedford to determine who holds the upper hand when it comes to knowledge about the West Wing, Supreme Court, and Capitol Hill happenings.

To jog your memory on 2023’s major headlines and more, join our Washington Examiner reporters and editors for this festive end-of-year trivia challenge. It promises to be an enlightening journey through the past year’s key moments.

TOILET To TAP": California’s Bold Move to Battle Drought with Recycled Sewage Water

12 December 2023 — In a daring attempt to tackle severe droughts, California is contemplating the adoption of a new technology that recycles sewage water. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) recently unveiled proposed regulations for direct potable reuse — a process that swiftly transforms wastewater into drinking water within hours.

This innovative method stands apart from the current indirect potable reuse system, which gradually enhances treated wastewater through groundwater recharge or dilution with surface water.

The SWRCB is set to review testimonies on these regulations before making their final decision next week. If given the green light, “toilet to tap” projects could soon be underway in Santa Clara County, Los Angeles, and San Diego among other communities.

Anticipating these regulations, water agencies in Santa Clara, San Diego and Los Angeles have already initiated pilot projects. Globally too this concept is gaining traction — countries like Israel are also testing similar ideas while examining potential risks such as pharmaceutical byproducts reentering the public supply post-treatment.

TRUMP’S FIGHT: The Fourteenth Amendment Takes Center Stage in Ballot Battle

03 November 2023 — A brewing legal battle is placing the spotlight on the Fourteenth Amendment’s “Insurrection Clause”. Plaintiffs argue that President Trump’s actions on January 6, 2021, should bar him from appearing on future ballots.

This legal challenge is not unique to one state. Similar cases are popping up across the country, including Colorado. Here, Judge Sarah Wallace, an appointee of Democrat Governor Jared Polis, presides over the case. There is a possibility that this issue may escalate to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Trump’s defense team counters by asserting that this amendment doesn’t extend to presidents. They highlight that while it mentions Senators and Representatives among others, it does not explicitly include presidents. The presidential oath has its own separate provision in the Constitution.

FRONTIER AI: A Ticking Time Bomb? World Leaders and Tech Titans Convene to Discuss Risks

01 November 2023 — The latest buzzword in the realm of artificial intelligence, Frontier AI, has been causing a stir due to its potential threats to human existence. Advanced chatbots like ChatGPT have dazzled with their capabilities, but fears about the risks associated with such technology are escalating. Top researchers, leading AI companies, and governments are advocating for protective measures against these looming dangers.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is orchestrating a two-day summit on frontier AI at Bletchley Park. The event is set to draw around 100 officials from 28 nations including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Executives from prominent U.S. artificial intelligence firms such as OpenAI, Google’s Deepmind and Anthropic will also be in attendance.

Sunak asserts that only governments can shield people from the hazards posed by this technology. However, he stressed that the U.K.'s strategy is not to hastily impose regulation despite identifying potential threats like using AI for crafting chemical or biological weapons.

Jeff Clune, an associate computer science professor at the University of British Columbia who specializes in AI and machine learning was among those urging for more government intervention in mitigating risks from AI last week — echoing warnings issued by tech tycoons like Elon Musk and Open

UK Inflation DEFIES Predictions, STAYS at 67%: What’s Next for the Economy?

18 October 2023 — The UK’s inflation rate held steady at 6.7% in September, flying in the face of economists’ predictions for a slight decrease. The Office for National Statistics highlighted that while food and drink prices dipped, they were counterbalanced by an uptick in fuel costs.

This persistent inflation rate is more than triple the Bank of England’s target of 2%. Despite this, it is not expected that the bank will hike interest rates during its November policy meeting. Instead, it seems set to keep its main borrowing rate at a peak not seen in 15 years — a hefty 5.25%.

James Smith from the Resolution Foundation think tank offered his perspective on this economic puzzle: “For now, progress on reducing inflation has hit a roadblock.” He anticipates a significant drop to below 5% next month as energy prices are projected to fall for most consumers.

In response to price surges triggered by pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — both factors contributing heavily to increased food and energy costs — the Bank of England has been steadily cranking up interest rates from near zero levels.

ISRAEL RISES: Demands Vatican’s Unequivocal Condemnation of Hamas Terrorism

16 October 2023 — Israel’s representative, Cohen, has called on the Vatican to outrightly condemn the terrorist activities of Hamas. This follows a report by The Times of Israel. Cohen criticized the Holy See for its apparent bias, showing more concern for Gazan civilians while Israel mourns over 1,300 victims. He further stressed that Hamas terrorists have targeted women, children and the elderly simply because they are Jews and Israelis.

On October 11th, Pope Francis made a call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. However, he also criticized what he termed as Israel’s “total siege” on Palestinians in Gaza. While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, he expressed worry over innocent victims in Gaza. This stance has drawn criticism from American Catholic intellectual George Weigel.

Weigel accused Pope Francis of falling back on a “default position” which appeals to both sides when a direct condemnation was required instead. Similarly critical were voices from the Israeli Embassy to the Holy See; they warned against Vatican statements that seemed to imply equal guilt between victims and perpetrators involved in recent atrocities.

Pope Francis emphasized that terrorism and extremism only serve to fuel hatred, violence and suffering. However, his stance has been met with criticism from those who believe he should adopt a stronger stand against acts of terror perpetrated by

ALARMING Surge in ANTISEMITIC Crimes: London Deploys Over 1,000 Officers Ahead of Rally

14 October 2023 — In response to a disturbing increase in antisemitic hate crimes, Scotland Yard has deployed over a thousand officers. This action precedes a pro-Palestinian rally planned for tomorrow. The extent of HAMAS support among London’s Muslim and secular radical populations is yet to be determined.

London’s Muslim community, which makes up about one-sixth of the city’s population, has grown to 1.3 million due to diversity and mass immigration policies by the two main political parties. In contrast, census data shows that the Jewish population has decreased to an estimated 265,000.

Following the deadly HAMAS attack on October 7 that took over 1,000 Jewish lives, numerous protests have erupted. As antisemitic incidents in Britain have escalated since the conflict began, two Jewish schools in London have decided to close until Monday.

Senior Officer Laurence Taylor noted a significant rise in antisemitic crimes compared with last year’s figures during the same period (30 September — 13 October). He mentioned that while Islamophobic incidents have also slightly increased, they are nowhere near as prevalent as the surge in antisemitism.

TECH TYCOON’S Angel Slain: Hamas Turns Israeli Music Festival into Nightmare

13 October 2023 — In a shocking turn of events, Danielle Waldman, the 24-year-old daughter of tech industry titan Eyal Waldman, was brutally killed in a Hamas attack on an Israeli music festival. The young Californian had journeyed to Israel specifically to attend the Supernova music festival. Her father confirmed to CNN that she and her boyfriend Noam were tragically caught in the crossfire during the rave near Kibbutz Re’im on the Gaza border.

The intended peaceful celebration morphed into a bloodbath as over 260 people lost their lives. Countless others were either injured or abducted by the terrorist group. A grief-stricken Eyal Waldman expressed his initial hope to reporters that his daughter might have been taken hostage and would eventually be returned.

Eyal Waldman is renowned for establishing Mellanox in 1999, a firm specializing in high-speed servers and storage-switching solutions. In 2020, US gaming and computer graphics behemoth Nvidia acquired Mellanox for $7 billion. Interestingly, Waldman stirred both tech circles and Arab world by setting up research centers employing Palestinian developers within West Bank and Gaza Strip.

EMERGENCY Alert Test: The NATIONWIDE Drill You Can’t Ignore

04 October 2023 — The federal government is set to conduct a nationwide test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System on Wednesday. This system, designed to deliver a presidential message to Americans within 10 minutes during a national crisis, uses the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts.

Wireless phone users in the U.S. will receive an alert at 2:20 p.m. Eastern time that reads: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” Along with this message, phones will emit sound and vibration signals. If any phones are switched off at this time, they will display the alert once powered back on within a half-hour window.

For those tuning into broadcast or cable television or radio during this period, they’ll encounter a one-minute message stating: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System by Federal Emergency Management Agency covering United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action required by public.”

Marcos Jr STANDS UP to China: The Bold Challenge Over South China Sea Barrier

30 September 2023 — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken a firm stance against China’s installation of a 300-meter barrier at the entrance to Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. This marks his first public opposition to this move, following his directive to dismantle the barrier. Marcos asserted, "We’re not seeking conflict, but we won’t back down from defending our maritime territory and our fishermen’s rights.”

This recent face-off between China and the Philippines follows Marcos’ decision earlier this year to increase U.S. military presence under a defense pact from 2014. This move has raised concerns in Beijing, as it could lead to an increased American military presence near Taiwan and southern China.

After the Philippine coast guard removed the Chinese barrier at Scarborough Shoal, Filipino fishing boats managed to catch around 164 tons of fish in just one day. “This is what our fishermen miss out on... it’s evident that this area belongs to the Philippines,” stated Marcos.

Despite these efforts, two Chinese coast guard vessels were seen patrolling the shoal’s entrance by a Philippine surveillance aircraft on Thursday. According to Commodore Jay Tar

NET NEUTRALITY Revival Pushed by Biden’s New FCC Pick: The Real Impact on Telecom Companies

26 September 2023 — Following the unsuccessful Senate endorsement of Gigi Sohn, President Biden has now confirmed Anna Gomez as the new commissioner for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This appointment breaks a 2-2 deadlock at the Commission. In response, Democrats and progressive nonprofits have begun to advocate for the return of Title II regulations on telecom companies.

On Monday, a group of 27 Senate Democrats, which included Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), called on FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to reestablish Title II regulations on internet service providers. These were regulations that had been withdrawn during Trump’s tenure.

Last week, progressive nonprofit Free Press also stepped up its efforts by starting a petition urging the FCC to bring back net neutrality rules. These rules were first introduced during Obama’s presidency before social media censorship became widespread. Net neutrality was initially touted as a means to safeguard an open internet by classifying telecom companies as common carriers.

Free Press emphasized that net neutrality is essential for preserving an internet that is “free, open and accessible to all.” However, critics contend that such regulation could potentially stifle innovation and competition within the sector.

Chris PACKHAM’S RADICAL Call to Break the Law: Is It Justified or a Threat to Democracy?

23 September 2023 — In his most recent show, “Is It Time To Break The Law?”, seasoned BBC presenter Chris Packham hinted that legal protests might not be enough for environmental causes. On Channel 4, Packham suggested that law-breaking could potentially be a necessary step to save our planet.

Known for his wildlife programs and involvement in left-wing climate marches like Extinction Rebellion (XR), Packham is currently rallying support for a “Restore Nature Now” demonstration. This protest is scheduled later this month outside the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) headquarters in London.

The provocative comments made by the Springwatch host on public broadcaster Channel 4 have ignited considerable controversy. Critics contend that endorsing illegal activities erodes democratic procedures and establishes a perilous precedent.

BORDER CHAOS Escalates: Migrants from Around the Globe Swarm Southern Border, Agents Struggle to Cope

22 September 2023 — In a remote corner of Southern California, a diverse group of migrants hailing from countries such as China, Ecuador, Brazil, and Colombia have surrendered to Border Patrol agents. Their makeshift desert campsite is a stark symbol of the recent surge in asylum-seekers that has put immense pressure on various parts of the U.S.-Mexico border. This influx has led to shutdowns at border crossings in Eagle Pass (Texas), San Diego and El Paso.

The Biden administration finds itself scrambling for solutions following a brief dip in illegal crossings due to new asylum restrictions introduced in May. With Democrats pushing for more resources to accommodate asylum-seekers and Republicans using this issue as ammunition for the upcoming 2024 elections, Temporary Protected Status has been granted to an estimated 472,000 Venezuelans already residing in the U.S., adding to the 242,700 who had previously qualified.

In response to this crisis, an additional 800 active-duty military personnel have been deployed at the border joining an existing force of 2,500 National Guard members. Furthermore, holding facilities are being expanded by an additional capacity of 3,250 spaces. The administration

US AID To UKRAINE: Biden’s Pledge Faces Surge of Resistance — How Americans Really Feel

19 September 2023 — President Biden’s call for sustained aid to Ukraine, announced at the United Nations General Assembly, is meeting escalating resistance within the US. The administration is pushing for an extra $24 billion in aid for Ukraine by the end of this year. This would escalate total assistance to a whopping $135 billion since the conflict ignited in February 2022.

Yet, a CNN poll from August uncovers that most Americans oppose further aid to Ukraine. The topic has grown increasingly divisive over time. Moreover, despite Western backing and training, Ukraine’s much-hyped counter-offensive has not yielded significant wins.

A Wall Street Journal survey earlier this month revealed that more than half of American voters — 52% — disapprove of Biden’s handling of the Ukrainian situation — a rise from 46% on March 22. Among those surveyed, over one-third believe too much effort is being put into helping Ukraine while only about one-fifth think not enough is being done.

ZELENSKYY’S DC Visit: Anticipation Rises Amid Tense Congressional Funding Battle

19 September 2023 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is reportedly preparing for a Washington, D.C. visit next week. This follows his recent trip to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. ABC News and Punchbowl News first reported this information, citing sources familiar with the preparations.

Zelenskyy is set to meet key lawmakers during his visit. He might also make appearances at Capitol Hill and the White House, places he has visited before. In fact, last December he met President Biden at the White House and addressed a joint meeting of Congress.

The timing of Zelenskyy’s potential return to Washington aligns with an ongoing heated debate in Congress over government funding. This debate is partly fueled by discussions about U.S. support for Ukraine. As of now, neither Zelenskyy nor Ukrainian officials have commented on this upcoming visit.

RUSSELL BRAND’s Career Hangs in the Balance: Sexual Assault Allegations Emerge

18 September 2023 — British comedian Russell Brand is facing serious allegations of sexual assault from multiple women. This has resulted in the postponement of his live performances and a severed relationship with his talent agency and publisher. The U.K. entertainment industry is now wrestling with whether Brand’s celebrity status protected him from accountability.

Brand, now 48, denies the accusations made by four women through a Channel 4 documentary and articles published in The Times and Sunday Times newspapers. Among these accusers is one woman who alleges she was sexually assaulted by Brand at age 16, while another claims he raped her in Los Angeles back in 2012.

The Metropolitan Police force has been notified of an alleged sexual assault that occurred in Soho, central London, back in 2003 — earlier than any assaults reported by media outlets so far. Although they did not directly name Brand as the suspect, police acknowledged the TV and newspaper allegations during their announcement.

In response to these serious allegations, Brand insists all his past relationships were consensual. As more women step forward with accusations against him, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesman Max Blain labeled these claims as “very serious and concerning.” Conservative legislator Caroline Nokes has called on British and U.S. law enforcement to investigate these alarming allegations.

US, UK UNVEIL ‘20 Days in Mariupol’ to the WORLD: A Shocking Expose of Russia’s Invasion

11 September 2023 — The United States and Britain are shining a spotlight on the atrocities of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They’ve organized a U.N. screening of the acclaimed documentary “20 Days in Mariupol”. This film documents the experiences of three Associated Press journalists during Russia’s brutal siege on the Ukrainian port city. UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward stressed that this screening is vital, as it exposes how Russia’s actions challenge the very principles that U.N. upholds — respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Produced by AP and PBS series “Frontline”, “20 Days in Mariupol” presents 30 hours worth footage recorded in Mariupol after Russia launched its invasion on February 24, 2022. The film captures street battles, extreme pressure on residents, and deadly attacks that took innocent lives including pregnant women and children. The siege concluded on May 20, 2022 leaving thousands dead and Mariupol devastated.

U.S ambassador to U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield referred to “20 Days in Mariupol” as a vivid record of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war aggression. She called upon everyone to witness these horrors and recommit themselves towards justice and peace in Ukraine.

The AP’s coverage from Mariupol has drawn ire from Kremlin with its U.N ambassador

CONVICTED KILLER on the Loose: Danelo Cavalcante’s Daring Escape from Pennsylvania Prison

07 September 2023 — Convicted murderer, Danelo Cavalcante, is now a fugitive. After a daring escape from Chester County Prison in Pennsylvania, he has successfully evaded capture. The U.S Marshals Service has confirmed that Cavalcante, sentenced to life for the 2021 murder of his ex-girlfriend, is also implicated in a homicide case in Brazil.

Acting Warden Howard Holland unveiled surveillance footage of Cavalcante’s escape during a press briefing. The video captures the moment when Cavalcante scales a wall and braves through razor wire to make his audacious exit.

Cavalcante’s breakout commenced at 8:33 a.m., as he mingled with other inmates in the exercise yard. By 9:45 a.m., prison officers reported him missing—an unsettling indication of severe lapses in prison security measures.

CANADA’S FREEDOM Convoy Trial Begins: Unmasking the Controversial Protest Tactics

06 September 2023 — The trial of Tamara Lich and Chris Barber, organizers of Canada’s Freedom Convoy, commenced on Tuesday. Prosecutors are focusing not on political ideologies but on the protest methods used.

Lich and Barber were arrested in February 2022 following nearly a month of protests in Ottawa. The demonstrators demanded the termination of federal mask and vaccine mandates amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics suggest that their actions extended beyond health measures to challenge the broader Liberal Canadian government.

Throughout their protest, truckers remained stationed outside Canada’s Parliament building, a move city officials labeled as an “occupation”. Over a 13-day trial (with an additional six days in October), The Crown Prosecution will argue that these gridlock tactics constituted dangerous action.

Alongside other organizers, Lich and Barber face charges including mischief, counseling others to commit mischief, intimidation and obstructing police. This case represents a pivotal point in evaluating how society perceives and conducts protests.

UNCOVERED: The SHOCKING Truth Behind Scott Johnson’s Mysterious Death in Australia

06 September 2023 — Scott Johnson, a bright and openly gay American mathematician, met an untimely death under a cliff in Sydney, Australia over three decades ago. Investigators initially deemed his death a suicide. However, Steve Johnson, Scott’s brother, doubted this conclusion and embarked on a long journey to seek justice for his brother.

A new four-part documentary series titled “Never Let Him Go” delves into the life and death of Scott. Produced by ABC News Studios in collaboration with Show of Force and Blackfella Films for Hulu, it also sheds light on Steve’s tireless quest to uncover the truth about his brother’s demise amidst Sydney’s notorious era of anti-gay violence.

Upon hearing about Scott’s passing in December 1988, Steve left the U.S. for Canberra, Australia where Scott resided with his partner. He then undertook a three-hour drive to Manly near Sydney where Scott died and met Troy Hardie — the officer who investigated the case.

Hardie insisted that he based his initial suicide verdict on evidence or lack thereof at the scene. He pointed out that authorities found Scott naked at the cliff base with neatly folded clothes and clear identification atop it. Additionally, Hardie mentioned speaking to Scott’s partner who disclosed that Scott had previously considered suicide.

FUKUSHIMA FALLOUT: Tepco Begins Controversial Release of Radioactive Water into Pacific, Sparks Global Outrage

01 September 2023 — Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) started discharging treated radioactive water from the devastated Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday. The flow began around 1 p.m. local time, with plans to continue the release for 17 days. TEPCO executives assured they would stop the release if any problems arose.

The decision has sparked global protests, including in Japan and South Korea. China issued a harsh statement on Thursday, condemning Japan’s “selfish and irresponsible” actions. Beijing warned of a potential “man-made secondary disaster” if Japan proceeded with the water dumping.

In Tokyo, hundreds of protestors gathered near TEPCO’s headquarters. Despite not being allowed to approach the building, their determined presence was a stark contrast to the tranquility of the nearby Imperial Palace. Their demands included calls to “protect our rights.”

Among the crowd was Terumi Kataoka, a woman in her sixties from Fukushima. She held a banner adorned with fish, her message clear: “No Dumping Radioactive Water into The Ocean.” The demonstration was peaceful, with journalists and a minimal police presence on hand.

Twitter User @x LOSES Handle After Twitter Rename; Offered Tour and Merchandise as Compensation

31 July 2023 — Gene X Hwang, known as @x on Twitter since 2007, knew his username’s days were numbered after Elon Musk’s recent renaming of the platform to “X.” Upon landing from a pinball tournament in Canada, Hwang found messages notifying him that the company had taken over his handle.

Twitter explained that Hwang’s account data would be preserved and that he would receive a new username. The company offered Hwang merchandise, a tour of its offices, and a meeting with management as compensation.

The change in his account is one of the latest disruptions since Musk’s takeover and the replacement of Twitter’s blue bird logo with the letter “X.”