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The Hindu
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Another case of massive tree-felling reported from CHR
Another case of massive tree felling has been reported from the Cardamom Hill Reserve (CHR) area in Idukki. The present case was reported from Uchilukuth, near Pethotty, in Santhanpara. Sources said trees were felled, pond constructed, and earth movers deployed to clear a 40-acre plot in the area. Experts have warned that large-scale felling of trees may lead to the disappearance of cardamom farming in the area. Forest department sources said permission had not been granted to fell trees on CHR lands. Suni P.A., Ponmudi section forest officer, said the department had registered a case for illegal activities on the CHR land. 'The landowner had leased 40 acres to an Adimaly resident for cardamom cultivation. The leaseholder cut the trees and undertook construction works. A count of the number of felled trees is on,' he said. Botanist Jomy Augustine said trees on most of the cardamom plantations were being cut for cultivating the Njallani variety of cardamom, which required more sunlight. 'Though it may improve yield, it will be detrimental in the long run. Favourable climate is crucial for cardamom cultivation. Removal of trees will lead to rise in temperature in the area, affecting the yield ,' said Mr. Augustine. 'Pethotty is the entrance to the Mathikettan Shola National Park and considered the most endemic area of the high ranges. Felling of trees will lead to the destruction of many rare plant species,' said Mr. Augustine. Meanwhile, Congress district vice-president Arun K.S. alleged connivance of forest officials in the felling of trees. 'The government should take immediate action to stop tree-felling in the CHR area,' he said. Environmentalist M.N. Jayachandran said some forest officials claimed the felled trees were of low quality. 'The statement is unethical, and there are no low-quality trees in the CHR area. All trees are the same for the Forest department,' he said. Last week, the Forest department had registered a case after large-scale tree felling was reported from a CHR area at Pethotty in Santhanpara. Around 440 trees were cut from plots on the pretext of replanting cardamom.
The Hindu
17-07-2025
- The Hindu
Keralite missing after Houthi rebels attack cargo ship in Red Sea
A Keralite hailing from Pathiyoor, near Kayamkulam, in Alappuzha has been reported missing after a cargo vessel sank in Red Sea following an attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels on July 7. The missing person has been identified as Anilkumar Raveendran, 52, a security officer. According to family members, Mr. Anilkumar last contacted them over the phone on July 6. Since the attack, the family has received no communication and is desperately seeking information about his whereabouts. The vessel, MV Eternity C, a Liberian-flagged cargo ship, was en route to the Israeli port of Eilat when it came under attack. At the time, the ship had a crew of 25 onboard, including nationals from India, the Philippines, Russia and Greece. Four crew members were killed in the attack. Ten others, including another Keralite identified as Augustine of Parasala in Thiruvananthapuram, were rescued. Eleven crew members, including Mr. Anilkumar, are still missing. On Thursday, Sheeja, Mr. Anilkumar's wife, visited Augustine. 'We do not know what happened to my husband after the attack. He and others reportedly jumped into the sea and floated for several hours. Mr. Augustine and a few others were rescued by a team, but my husband and 10 others remain missing. We fear they may be in the custody of Houthi rebels,' Ms. Sheeja said. Mr. Anilkumar had joined the shipping firm after retiring from the Indian Army, where he served for 19 years. The family has sought the help of the Union and State governments to locate him.
Business Wire
09-07-2025
- General
- Business Wire
Villanova University Appoints the Rev. David Cregan, OSA, PhD, as Dean of the College of Professional Studies
VILLANOVA, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Villanova University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, '75 CLAS, today announced the appointment of the Rev. David Cregan, OSA, PhD, '89 CLAS, as Dean of the College of Professional Studies (CPS), effective August 1. A member of Villanova's faculty since 2004, Father Cregan has extensive experience in academic leadership roles and currently serves as associate dean of Academic Affairs and Strategic Initiatives for the College of Professional Studies. 'I am excited to have Father Cregan, an experienced and knowledgeable leader and fellow Augustinian friar, leading the College of Professional Studies,' said Father Donohue. 'He brings a deep commitment to Villanova's Augustinian Catholic mission and is passionate about the transformative power of education at all levels.' In his current role in CPS, Father Cregan acts as a member of the Dean's Senior Leadership Team and oversees key strategic initiatives for curriculum and faculty in the college. His responsibilities include leading the College's Curriculum Committee; designing and implementing the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree; and providing college leadership for faculty affairs, such as faculty hiring and evaluation processes. He also is a member of the University-wide A.I. Task Force. 'Since arriving in the College of Professional Studies, I have been inspired, invigorated and continually uplifted by our dedicated students, staff and faculty,' said Father Cregan. 'Here, student-centered learning is an imperative, and our faculty and staff are creatively flexible, adaptive and innovative in guiding our students toward their academic, professional and personal goals. CPS is a place where aspirations are realized, and students are transformed by our professional education and our for-credit degrees and majors. By the grace of God, with humility and gratitude, I am truly honored to serve as Dean.' In the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Father Cregan previously served as chair of the Department of Theatre and Studio Art, where he also acted as artistic director of Villanova Theatre. He holds the rank of associate professor in Theatre, teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. His scholarly expertise encompasses theatre and Irish studies. Father Cregan has taught across many departments and programs at Villanova, including Global and Interdisciplinary Studies, Honors, Gender and Women Studies, and Augustine and Culture Seminar Program. Additionally, he teaches for the Villanova Program at SCI Phoenix. His academic publications include numerous articles and book chapters on Irish theatre and performance. Prior to returning to Villanova in 2004, Father Cregan pursued a professional theatre career, performing in New York, regional productions in the U.S., and three tours in the U.S. and Europe. 'Father Cregan brings considerable experience as an academic and administrative leader to his new role as dean of the College of Professional Studies,' said University Provost Patrick G. Maggitti, PhD. 'His deep understanding of what distinguishes a Villanova education—particularly for our adult learners—along with his first-hand knowledge of CPS makes him uniquely suited for his new role. I look forward to working closely with Father Cregan as he stewards the College into its next great era.' As Dean, Father Cregan will serve as the chief administrator of the College, providing vision and leadership for its long-term strategic and academic planning and faculty engagement; strengthening the student experience; providing financial oversight; and overseeing fundraising and alumni relations. Father Cregan earned a BA in Theatre from Villanova University, a Master of Divinity from Washington Theological Union, an MA in Irish Studies from The Catholic University of America, and an MPhil. in Irish Theatre and Film and PhD in Dramatic Literature from the Samuel Beckett School of Drama at Trinity College, Dublin. About Villanova University's College of Professional Studies: Founded in 2014, the College of Professional Studies (CPS) provides academically rigorous yet flexible educational pathways to high-achieving adult learners who are balancing professional and educational aspirations with life's commitments. The CPS experience embodies Villanova's century-long commitment to making academic excellence accessible to students at all stages of life. Students in CPS programs engage with world-class Villanova faculty including scholars and practitioners, explore innovative educational technologies and experiences, and join an influential network of passionate alumni. In addition to its industry-leading programs at the nexus of theory and practice, CPS has built a reputation for its personal approach and supportive community that empowers adult students to enrich their lives, enhance their value in the workplace, and embark on new careers. About Villanova University: Since 1842, Villanova University's Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition has been the cornerstone of an academic community in which students learn to think critically, act compassionately and succeed while serving others. There are more than 10,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students in the University's six colleges—the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Villanova School of Business, the College of Engineering, the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, the College of Professional Studies and the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. Ranked among the nation's top universities, Villanova supports its students' intellectual growth and prepares them to become ethical leaders who create positive change everywhere life takes them. For more, visit
Hans India
01-07-2025
- Hans India
CBCNC vows to protect properties
Vijayawada: Convention of Baptist Churches of Northern Circars (CBCNC) member M Augustine said here on Monday that the organisation will protect its properties under all circumstances. Speaking to the media during his visit to Vijayawada to attend the High Court-related matters, he expressed concern over illegal activities involving CBCNC assets. He stated that some people, who are not connected to CBCNC, are secretly trying to sell its valuable properties. He confirmed that certain illegal transactions have already taken place, and legal action has been initiated. 'No individual has personal rights over CBCNC properties. These assets are meant to serve the public,' Augustine said. He added that the Kakinada district registrar has already confirmed that the registrations happening in these cases are not legally valid. 'We have also informed the High Court. While we respect the law, we will not tolerate fraud,' he emphasised. Augustine warned the public not to fall for false promises made by fraudsters. 'Some people make ridiculous claims, even saying they would sell the Charminar if given a chance. Don't believe such people,' he said. He reminded everyone of the important work CBCNC has done in education and healthcare, and said that public service remains the organisation's core goal. 'We will continue our mission and serve society,' he assured. Finally, he appealed to the public: 'If anyone spreads false information or tries to sell CBCNC property, please report it to local authorities immediately. These properties are meant for human service. It is everyone's responsibility to protect them.'
Hamilton Spectator
27-06-2025
- Sport
- Hamilton Spectator
Hamilton Tiger-Cats' Niagara connection
For running back Johnny Augustine and receiver Keaton Bruggeling, joining the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League this season means the opportunity to play in front of family and friends. 'It's hometown for me, being near Welland,' said Augustine who signed with the Cats in February, after spending the past six seasons with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers where he was part of two Grey Cup championship squads. The 31-year-old running back had 222 carries for 1,270 rushing yards, 17 receptions for 169 receiving yards and four touchdowns with the Bombers. He played high school football at Notre Dame College School in Welland before moving to the University of Guelph, where he amassed 690 yards and nine touchdowns in his senior season. 'I always knew (Hamilton) was a first-class organization,' said Augustine who was brought in by general manager Ted Goveia, who himself spent 10 years in Winnipeg, most recently as senior assistant general manager and director of player development. Running back Johnny Augustine joined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats this season after six seasons in Winnipeg. While he hasn't touched the ball much this season (one kick return for 28 yards in Calgary on June 7), Augustine puts the team first. 'Whether I'm asked to carry the ball 20 times or one time a game, as long as we get a (win), that's all that matters to me,' he said. Tiger-Cats head coach Scott Milanovich said Augustine is a versatile player who will see more playing time in the future. 'He can be your tailback for a game, he can carry the load, he's a good runner,' said Milanovich, adding Augustine is also a new father. 'I'm looking forward to seeing him get his opportunity, it will come up at some point.' Goveia has nothing but good things to say about the running back he brought 'home' from Winnipeg. 'It was my first call,' Goveia said. 'I knew his value far exceeds starts and that stuff.' Goveia started scouting Augustine when he was at Guelph. 'What separates him from other people is his willingness to help the team in whatever capacity it is,' Goveia said. He said in Winnipeg, a few seasons ago, Augustine became the team's starting running back for a few games due to injuries. 'We won every game with Johnny in at running back,' Goveia said. 'I have all the faith in the world when Johnny's called upon, he's going to deliver in spades because that's how he is wired; this guy takes care of his body, he does all the things right, and he's just a positive influence on everyone around him.' Keaton Bruggeling has been practicing as a tight end, full back, receiver, special teams' player and long snapper with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats this season. Bruggeling signed with the Cats in February following three seasons in Ottawa. The six-foot-three pass catcher had a strong training camp and solidified a roster spot with a team-leading five catches for 85 yards and two touchdowns against the Toronto Argonauts in the team's second pre-season game on May 30. He was on the practice roster for the Cats' first game of the regular season in Calgary and was promoted to the game roster for game two against Saskatchewan. 'I heard great things about Hamilton,' Bruggeling said. 'I've heard it's a very player-first organization.' The 26-year-old St. Catharines resident drives to Hamilton for practices and games and has his own cheering section at Hamilton Stadium (formerly Tim Hortons Field). 'I tend to be one of those players that needs 20 tickets (for home games),' Bruggeling said. While he hasn't seen a lot of game action, the Eden High School graduate has been busy learning multiple jobs. 'Right now, I'm playing a little bit of tight end, full back, receiver, special teams and I'm doing long snapping a bit,' said Bruggeling, who played university football at Carleton. 'The more that I can do, the better I can do it, the more value I have.' The Cats' home ballpark can be akin to a wind tunnel at times, and Bruggeling said the wind can change direction quickly, from the time the ball is snapped to the moment it gets punted. 'It keeps you on your toes, and it definitely makes you better at tracking footballs,' he said. During the off-season, Bruggeling is a brakeman with Canada's national bobsleigh program. Milanovich said Bruggeling 'earned his way' onto the team. 'He's getting more involved in special teams. He can do a lot of different things, and it's really on us and me to figure out the best place to put him where he can be successful.' Goveia said Hamilton is giving Bruggeling the 'fresh start' he needed. 'He has exceeded all expectations.' The Cats' GM was among the sideline watchers at the team's practice (shortened due to the heat) on Tuesday. Goveia said he continues to receive treatment for the 'serious' form of cancer he was diagnosed with in April. Coming to the field each day is a welcome break from the treatments. 'It's the only place where I don't think about it,' Goveia said. 'That to me is the greatest gift, if you can be in a career where your job's an escape.' The 0-2 Tiger-Cats host the 3-0 Montreal Alouettes at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
