Latest news with #Grief
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Business Standard
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
Call of Duty to release Warzone, Black Ops 6 Season 4 on May 29: What's new
Activision has announced the Season 4 update for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone, set to release at 9:30 PM (IST) on May 29, 2025. The updates will go live across PlayStation 5 and 4, Xbox Series X, S and One, and PC via and Steam. This season will bring new multiplayer maps, game modes, weapon tuning, and expanded Zombies content, enhancing gameplay and narrative across both titles. Black Ops 6: Tactical maps and story progression Season 4 continues the evolving narrative of Adler and former antagonist Vikhor 'Stitch' Kuzmin, who will now join forces to expose moles within the shadowy group Pantheon. Players will explore three new multiplayer maps centred around a CIA black site in Iceland: Shutdown: A hydroelectric facility surrounded by volcanic terrain and flooded zones, supporting vertical and aquatic combat. Fugitive: A dark, frozen prison complex featuring stealth zones, ziplines and climbing areas. Blitz: A cliffside location with fast-paced 6v6 or 2v2 combat, ambushes near waterfalls, and dynamic reinforcements. A new 'Team Elimination" mode modifies 'Kill Confirmed' rules by limiting lives and introducing strategic dog-tag pickups to deny kills, encouraging tactical team play. New weapons include the LC10 SMG and FFAR 1 assault rifle, along with burst-fire mods, vertical grips, and the Grim Reaper scorestreak—a quad-tube rocket launcher available in both multiplayer and Zombies modes. Zombies mode brings back Grief, the 4v4 survival challenge where teams compete to outlast one another. New ammo mods and GobbleGums provide tactical advantages. The update also introduces weapon balancing, UI improvements such as a death recap widget, and enhancements to Ranked Play, including demotion protection and new seasonal rewards. Warzone: Landmark map changes and new competitive modes Season 4 will overhaul Verdansk with the introduction of the overlook skyscraper, replacing the Burger Town and SKN Comm Tower landmarks. Features include: Interactive cranes equipped with vertical ascenders to move players and gear Horizontal ziplines for faster traversal between Overlook and adjacent rooftops High-value loot zones now include The Overlook, Superstore, and Quarry. Two new limited-time modes launch this season: Clash: A 52 vs. 52 team deathmatch without circle collapse or self-revives. It features Domination Points, special crates, and power-ups, with support for both first-person and third-person views. World Series of Warzone: A three-week competitive event using official esports rules, aligned with pro-level gameplay. The Zombies experience also expands with a competitive version of Grief, where players must outlast enemy teams while fending off the undead. Season 4 Battle Pass and Premium Tier The Season 4 Battle Pass includes over 100 new unlockables, such as: Operators: Stitch and Adler Weapons: LC10 and FFAR 1 Weapon blueprints, equipment skins, reticles The premium BlackCell Tier offers exclusive cosmetics, including the Omen Operator (Crimson One) and themed bundles like the Ballerina Pack. Availability
Travel Daily News
22-05-2025
- General
- Travel Daily News
Statue of Peace Rauhanpatsas: Memory, meaning, and modern reflections
More than a monument, the Statue of Peace reflects on memory, justice, and the human cost of war. Discover its powerful symbolism and relevance today. The Statue of Peace, known in Finnish as Rauhanpatsas, stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance, hope, and the enduring human quest for harmony. Located prominently in Washington, D.C., this neoclassical monument is more than just a work of art; it is a testament to the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace and the ongoing dialogue about justice and reconciliation in society. The Artistic Vision Behind the Statue of Peace The Statue of Peace was conceived in the aftermath of a great national conflict, a time when the country was grappling with the cost of war and the value of unity. Its design is rich in symbolism. At the top of the monument, two classically robed female figures, Grief and History, face west. Grief weeps on the shoulder of History, who holds a stylus and a tablet inscribed with the words, 'They died that their country might live.' This moving tableau captures the sorrow and remembrance that follow war, themes that resonate deeply in the study of both American and Asian history, where societies have often had to rebuild after devastating conflicts. Beneath Grief and History stands Victory, holding high a laurel wreath and carrying an oak branch, symbols of triumph and strength. At her feet are the infant Mars, god of war, and Neptune, god of the sea, representing the forces that shape both conflict and exploration. Facing outward is the figure of Peace herself, draped classically and holding an olive sprig, the universal emblem of reconciliation. Symbols of Peace, Progress, and Civilization The base of the Statue of Peace is adorned with symbols that speak to the prosperity and progress made possible by peace. Although the dove that once perched on a sheaf of wheat is now missing, its intended presence alongside a cornucopia, turned earth, and a sickle resting across a sword evokes the agricultural bounty and productive labor that flourish in times of peace. Opposite these, symbols of science, literature, and art angle, a gear, a book, and a pair of dividers, remind viewers that civilization advances most during periods of harmony and stability. This message is not limited to American history. Across Asian history, periods of peace have allowed for the flowering of culture, science, and the arts. Societies from Japan to India have experienced great leaps in progress when conflict subsided and communities could focus on creation rather than survival. The Statue of Peace, therefore, stands as a universal reminder of what is possible when nations choose reconciliation over rivalry. Memorialization and the Legacy of War The inscription on the monument is a poignant reminder of the cost of war and the importance of honoring those who gave their lives for a greater cause. However, the monument's story is also a reflection of the complexities of history. The Statue of Peace was erected at a time when the wounds of war were still fresh, and the nation was struggling with issues of justice, freedom, and the aftermath of conflict. This context is important, especially when considering the broader global history of war and peace, including the suffering endured by countless individuals, such as the sex slaves exploited during times of conflict in Asia and elsewhere. These stories are a sobering reminder that peace is not just the absence of war, but also the presence of justice and dignity for all. The Statue of Peace in Modern Times Today, the Statue of Peace remains a prominent feature of the city landscape. Its marble figures have stood through the changing tides of history. The monument is not only a site of remembrance but also a place for reflection on the ongoing challenges of achieving true peace and reconciliation. Visitors to the monument are often struck by its beauty and the layers of meaning embedded in its design. The fountain at its base, the marble globes at each corner, and the detailed carvings all contribute to its status as a masterpiece of public art. Yet, the monument's message is as relevant now as it was in the past. As we continue to confront issues of violence, injustice, and the legacy of past conflicts, the Statue of Peace urges us to remember the sacrifices of those who came before and to strive for a more just and peaceful world. Reflections on Peace, Justice, and Memory The Statue of Peace-Rauhanpatsas-stands as a bridge between past and present, art and history, memory and hope. Its message echoes in the pages of world history, from the aftermath of civil wars to the tragedies and triumphs chronicled in Asian history. It reminds us that peace is a goal worth pursuing, not only for the absence of conflict but for the promise of progress, creativity, and human dignity. As we reflect on the stories of those memorialized by the statue, including the often overlooked victims of war, such as sex slaves and other civilians, we are called to a deeper understanding of what peace truly means. The Statue of Peace is not simply a monument to the past but a living symbol that challenges each generation to build a future where justice and harmony prevail. In this way, the Statue of Peace continues to inspire, educate, and remind us all of the enduring value of peace in our shared human journey.
Miami Herald
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Netflix hit 'Forever' features former HBCU basketball player
One of the stars of Forever, Netflix's hot new series, once played basketball at an Mills stars as Christian, ex-boyfriend to Keisha, one of the show's protagonists. Mills spent one season on the basketball squad at Winston-Salem State University before going in to acting. The show is considered an adaptation of a Judy Bloom novel from the 1970s. He is described as a "golden boy" with NBA prospects on the Netflix series. Spoiler alert - he also shares a sextape he made with Keisha. Xavier Mills is an emerging American actor recognized for his compelling performances in both film and television. He gained notable attention for his role in the 2023 legal drama The Burial, where he portrayed a witness in a case highlighting corporate exploitation of marginalized communities. This role was informed by his personal background, as he played college basketball at the HBCU before transitioning into acting. He finished the season with 85 total points and averaged 3.5 points per game at WSSU. He also added 22 steals with nine blocks while recording 39 assists and averaging 2.4 rebounds per game. In 2022, Mills starred in the short film Grief, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotional narratives. He also appeared in the supernatural drama series Legacies (2018), further demonstrating his versatility across genres prior to joining the hit Netflix series. Beyond his on-screen roles, Mills has been cast in the upcoming series Chad Powers, as reported by Deadline, joining a talented ensemble that includes Clayne Crawford and Colton Ryan. His growing body of work reflects a dynamic range and a commitment to roles that resonate with diverse audiences. Mills' entry into the world of acting is another example of how you never know which HBCU athlete today could end up on your Netflix or HULU screen tomorrow. The post Netflix hit 'Forever' features former HBCU basketball player appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Forbes
09-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
A New Probiotic Could Help Pregnant Women Safely Eat Fish. Plus: Should You Actually Wake Up At 4am?
This is this week's ForbesWomen newsletter, which every Thursday brings news about the world's top female entrepreneurs, leaders and investors straight to your inbox. Click here to get on the newsletter list! With Mother's Day fast approaching, motherhood is at the forefront of our brains here at ForbesWomen. We recognize this holiday can provoke a range of emotions for people, depending on your life circumstances; for some, it is celebratory, while for others, the day can feel complicated, melancholy, and even frustrating. For those who might be grieving the loss of a mother, mother-like figure, or child, I'd like to share this article about navigating grief. ForbesWomen contributor Cheryl Robinson spoke to sources about what people can do to honor the memories of those we've lost—and also how we can support those in our lives who might be grieving right now. For those who are not yet mothers, ambivalent about motherhood or otherwise curious about the healthcare technology enabling parenthood later in life, I'll refer you to today's Morning Joe segment on the growth of egg freezing in the U.S. As Mika Brzezinski, Huma Abedin and I discussed in the segment, more women than ever before are freezing their eggs, but access to this technology remains a challenge, and it's also important that every person educate herself about what 'fertility preservation' means as it relates to her own body and potential outcomes. And finally, for those who might be marking the day as a single mother, you are not alone! Roughly 21% of all moms are solo parents. This article from ForbesWomen contributor Michelle Stansbury has good advice on how you can celebrate yourself—or, conversely, skip the celebration entirely, which is entirely okay! Take care of yourselves, Maggie P.S.: Don't forget that nominations for the 2025 U.S. 50 Over 50 list are open! Head to this link here to tell us about a woman you think should be on this year's list. Full nominations criteria are on that page but the two most important bits to remember: We're looking for people who were born in 1974 or earlier, and we're looking for women who have never been on the list before, because we don't allow repeats! NEW YORK - CIRCA 1930: Blues singer and pianist Gladys Bentley poses for a portrait circa 1930 in ... More New York City, New York. (Photo by Michael) This week marked the annual Met Gala, a star-studded and fashion-forward fundraiser that draws the attention of millions (and attendance of some of the world's most famous people). This year's Gala theme was 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,' which paid homage to the art of fine tailoring and the enduring style of Black men—from the 18th century through the Harlem Renaissance of the Roaring Twenties to present day. While the Met Gala primarily highlighted this tradition through a lens of masculinity, it's important to recognize the often-overlooked contributions of women, particularly masculine-presenting lesbians, who were also pioneers of this style. Dr. Joyce F. Brown speaks onstage at FIT's Annual Gala (Photo byfor ... More Fashion Institute of Technology) Speaking of powerful Black women in fashion: For more than 26 years, Dr. Joyce F. Brown has been a transformative leader at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), shaping the future of fashion education and the industry itself. As the first Black woman to become FIT's president, she broke ground and redefined the institution's role in a rapidly changing world. Dr. Brown recently sat down with ForbesWomen editor Maggie McGrath to talk about her work and legacy. A newly-engineered probiotic can help reduce levels of mercury and make it safer for pregnant women and children to eat fish, according to new research from UCLA and UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography. It's been nearly three years since the Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson ruling overturned Roe v. Wade and upended abortion access in the U.S., and new research from the Institute for Women's Policy Research finds that Americans wish companies were doing more on behalf of women's healthcare access. In fact, more than half of employed adults wish corporate America would do more to speak up for reproductive healthcare access. When Stephanie Liu set out to build Nourish with cofounders Sam Perkins and Aidan Dewar, the business model was clear: Hire licensed dietitians, connect them with patients through a virtual platform, and bill insurance companies directly. Customers and investors agree: Since launching in 2021, Liu says Nourish has helped hundreds of thousands of patients across all 50 states and built a network of more than 3,000 dietitians. Last week, the company announced it raised $70 million in a Series B funding round, bringing its total funding to $115 million. It may be 2025, but old-fashioned views about who should be the higher earner in a male-female marriage are still firmly entrenched. New research reveals that romantic relationships often suffer when women outearn their male partners. Even outsiders view these partnerships as less stable, less satisfying, and more likely to end in divorce. 1. Make it easier for your employees to 'fess up to AI shortcuts. Recent research shows that nearly one-third of employees using AI tools at work keep it a secret from their employers. This occurs for a variety of reasons, but could ultimately result in a security risk for your company—so here's what you need to know about fostering a culture of transparency around AI tools. 2. Build a personal brand that boosts your small business. Whether you're running a boutique fitness studio, a digital marketing agency, or a family-run bakery, customers want a human connection. They want to know your "why." Sharing your journey, how you got started, the values that drive you and the lessons you've learned not only builds authenticity but creates a relationship. 3. Consider whether you should *actually* wake up at 4am. We hear a lot about hard-charging founders and CEOs who get up well before the sun. But do those pre-sunrise alarms lead to peak productivity? Here's what you need to consider as you set your morning alarm.
New York Times
22-04-2025
- Business
- New York Times
Texas Lottery Director Resigns Amid Scrutiny of Rigged 2023 Draw
The executive director of the Texas State Lottery resigned abruptly on Monday in the latest fallout from the agency's decision in 2023 to help professional bettors in Europe purchase and print millions of its tickets and guarantee themselves a $95 jackpot win. The resignation of the official, Ryan Mindell, came amid doubts that the Texas lottery can survive the scandal. The Texas Rangers, a state law enforcement agency, and the Texas attorney general's office have opened investigations into the 2023 draw, in which the European bettors worked with several American lottery ticket purchasing companies to buy nearly every ticket, at $1 each, in a Lotto Texas game that had 25.8 million possible combinations. The lottery raises money for the state's schools — providing about $2 billion last fiscal year — but recently some state leaders have suggested doing away with it altogether. No reason was given for Mr. Mindell's resignation, which the commission said in a statement was effective immediately on Monday. A spokesman declined to comment further. The resignation came a day after The New York Times published video of the ticket printing operation and details of the agency's shortcomings. That followed months of reporting by The Houston Chronicle and other outlets looking into the 2023 draw. Earlier this month, the Texas House eliminated the lottery from its version of the state's budget. In February, State Senators sharply questioned Mr. Mindell and others during hearings on the 2023 draw. Some suggested the lottery had been used to facilitate money laundering, though no evidence of such activity had emerged. 'Is buying $25 million of $1 tickets a sign of money laundering, yes or no?' Senator Paul Bettencourt asked Mr. Mindell during one exchange. 'I can't answer that question,' Mr. Mindell said. 'Wow,' Mr. Bettencourt responded. Mr. Mindell took over the commission last year after the resignation of the previous executive director, Gary Grief, who had been in charge at the time of the 2023 draw. Lawmakers found that the commission, under Mr. Grief, assisted the professional bettors by expediting delivery of dozens of extra lottery terminals, used to buy and print tickets, to three American companies, Luck Zone and Lottery Now. The extra machines enabled the companies to successfully print millions of number combinations during the 72-hour window between lottery draws, helping to ensure that they had the winner. Mr. Grief has denied any wrongdoing, as have the companies involved and the European bettors.
