Americas / The Times of India
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is modifying its rules, reducing the emphasis on the controversial spell-off tiebreaker. This decision follows criticism of last year's abrupt ending. Judges will now have more flexibility to allow the bee to continue beyond the allotted broadcast time.
The head of Airbus said on Tuesday that Europe should impose tariffs on imports of Boeing aircraft if negotiations over US President Donald Trump's trade war fail. The trade war is a lose-lose situation for the aerospace sector but Boeing would likely be more affected, Faury said.
India improved its human development index (HDI) rank to 130 in 2023, up from 133 in 2022, showing progress in life expectancy, education, and income. Key factors include national health programs and economic growth. However, challenges remain in inequality, particularly gender and income disparities. Globally, human development has slowed, with AI offering potential for future growth.
In Utica, New York, correctional officer Christopher Walrath admitted to manslaughter in the death of inmate Robert Brooks. Walrath confessed to beating Brooks, applying a chokehold, and striking his body, actions captured on bodycam footage. He also admitted to lying to investigators. As part of a plea deal, Walrath faces a 15-year prison sentence.
Susana Moreira, suffering from degenerative muscular dystrophy, has become the face of Chile's euthanasia debate. A bill allowing euthanasia and assisted suicide for adults with terminal or incurable illnesses is stalled in the Senate, despite public support. President Boric pledged to address the bill, but political upheavals have created uncertainty for its approval before the upcoming presidential election.
President Trump will reinstate Columbus Day, rejecting Indigenous Peoples Day, a move criticized by Native leaders. This reverses Biden's recognition of Indigenous contributions and tribal sovereignty. Trump accuses Democrats of denigrating Columbus's legacy, while Native leaders view this as a setback to recognition and respect, despite past acknowledgements of Native American Heritage Month.
Rodney Hinton Jr. has been charged with aggravated murder after allegedly intentionally hitting and killing a Hamilton County Sheriff's deputy with his car. This tragic event occurred a day after Hinton's son, Ryan, was fatally shot by Cincinnati police during a chase.
Michael Johnson launches Grand Slam Track. It is a new track and field league. The league wants to boost athlete visibility and financial stability. The league will host events in Kingston, Miami, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. Athletes like Sasha Zhoya support the league's innovative format. The league focuses on rivalries and fair compensation.
Recent ICE activity at courthouses nationwide, reminiscent of Trump-era policies, sparks legal and ethical concerns. Agents have been recorded making arrests, sometimes without clear identification, leading to accusations of disrupting court proceedings. A judge was even arrested for allegedly helping a defendant evade ICE.