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World War Two memorial in Washington vandalised with bubbles and graffiti

The World War Two memorial in Washington was vandalised with soap and graffiti. Police and National Guard troops responded to the desecrated sacred place of remembrance. Investigators are working to identify the individuals responsible for this unacceptable act. The Interior Department stated the vandalism will not be tolerated by authorities. This incident occurred while the United States grapples with national pride and unity.

14 Aug 2026 2:53 pm
Class 11 UP student uses AI to fake his own kidnapping, extort money from father with injured-eye images

In a bizarre turn of events, a student orchestrated his own abduction as a means to settle online gaming debts. Crafting an AI-generated image, he sent alarming ransom texts to his father. Swift police investigation located the teen at a friends residence within mere hours. Confronted by authorities, he confessed to concocting the scenario under intense pressure. He was returned home safely after a thorough questioning process.

14 Aug 2026 2:52 pm
'iPhone X is dead', long live what comes next: Apples old iPhone gives way to its next big idea

The iPhone X has officially become an obsolete product for Apple. This device established a premium design language for subsequent iPhone generations. Apple is now reportedly planning a major redesign for the iPhone's 20th anniversary. The 2027 models may feature a new glass-heavy design with curved edges.

14 Aug 2026 2:51 pm
WhatsApp has a simple trick for finding old messages: Heres how to quickly search your chats by date

WhatsApp offers a date search feature to locate old messages. This tool allows users to jump directly to a specific conversation day. The process varies slightly across Android, iPhone, and web platforms. Users can also search for keywords and media within chats. This feature saves time when recalling past conversations or shared content.

14 Aug 2026 2:35 pm
Are you breathing toxic air inside your home? These warning signals suggest its time to test your indoor air quality

Indoor air quality is vital for maintaining a healthy home environment. Experts suggest being vigilant for signs of air quality deterioration and recommend testing if needed. If chronic symptoms improve when leaving home, it may signal indoor air issues. Testing techniques vary with the type of contaminants. For homeowners, tracking carbon dioxide, PM2.5, and VOCs can provide valuable insights into air quality.

14 Aug 2026 2:32 pm
Australian saying of the day: 'As happy as a dog with two tails' - Meaning and why it still matters

Australian saying of the day: The Australian saying As happy as a dog with two tails describes extreme joy. This colorful expression uses an amusing picture to convey strong feelings of happiness. Imagining a dog with two tails creates an exaggerated image of pure delight. The saying remains relevant as it offers a refreshing way to describe emotions. It highlights how humor effectively communicates feelings in everyday conversations.

14 Aug 2026 2:20 pm
Quote of the Day by 'Goodnight Moon' author Margaret Wise Brown: Quietness is an essential part of all awareness. In quiet times and sleepy times, a child can dwell in thoughts of his own

Quote of the Day by Margaret Wise Brown: Modern childhood seems devoid of the serene moments necessary for self-reflection. Margaret Wise Brown believed that quietness is crucial for enhancing a child's awareness and perception. It is during unstructured time that creativity thrives, giving way for compelling stories to unfold. This tranquil space is vital for children to delve deep into their thoughts. Parents should appreciate that these silent interludes are not wasted time but fertile ground

14 Aug 2026 2:09 pm
In 2018, researchers won a peace prize for studying why drivers shout and curse while driving and what makes ordinary motorists lose their temper

Researchers studied why drivers shout and curse at strangers in traffic. This research earned them an Ig Nobel Peace Prize in 2018. Many drivers admit to aggressive outbursts when reacting to others. Stress and fatigue also contribute to drivers losing their temper. The study highlights road rage as a serious safety concern.

14 Aug 2026 2:06 pm
Zhipus new AI model takes aim at OpenAI, Anthropic in Chinas race to close the gap

Chinese AI firm Z.ai has launched its new GLM-5.3 model. This release intensifies competition with OpenAI and Anthropic. The model offers improved coding capabilities and open access for developers. Chinese AI companies are narrowing the performance gap with US rivals. Z.ai aims to attract users with its permissive licensing approach.

14 Aug 2026 2:03 pm
Quote of the day by Susan Sontag: Its all about paying attention. Attention is vitality. It connects American author on why paying attention can make life richer, more curious and more alive

Susan Sontag, an influential American writer, advocated for deeper attention in life. She urged people to look harder and remain curious about the world. Her message remains relevant today amidst constant distractions and information overload. Sontag believed paying attention connects us with others and fosters vitality. This approach encourages a more engaged and meaningful experience of existence.

14 Aug 2026 2:00 pm
Quote of the day by Rachel Carson: 'Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never...' - American marine biologist's insightful take on on nature, happiness and inner peace

Quote of the day by Rachel Carson: Renowned for her contributions as a marine biologist and conservation advocate, Rachel Carson emphasized the oceanic realm and the perils posed by pesticides. Her influential book, 'Silent Spring,' catalyzed vital discussions about environmental protection. Carson's pioneering efforts have left a lasting imprint on the modern environmental movement, echoing strong messages about ecological preservation to this day.

14 Aug 2026 1:56 pm
Quote of the day by Ursula K. Le Guin: Love doesn't just sit there, like a stone, it has to be American author on why love has to be made, remade and made new

Ursula K. Le Guin viewed love as an active creation, not a fixed object. Her famous quote compares love to bread, which must be continually made. This perspective challenges romantic notions of love as something that simply exists. Le Guin, a celebrated author, explored societal and human nature themes in her works. Her enduring legacy continues to influence writers and readers across various genres.

14 Aug 2026 1:49 pm
Quote of the Day by Zadie Smith: You must live life with the full knowledge that your actions will remain A thoughtful reflection on choices and their lasting consequences by the English novelist and essayist

Zadie Smith's quote reminds us that our actions will always remain with us. Life moves quickly, and decisions can have lasting effects beyond the immediate moment. Ordinary situations illustrate how conversations and choices influence relationships and future opportunities. Understanding this concept gives everyday decisions greater importance and impact. We live with the results of our actions, which become part of our ongoing stories.

14 Aug 2026 1:39 pm
Australian researchers in 2010 had 103 people hold a live crocodile before gambling to see whether excitement could increase betting; some at-risk gamblers bet more afterward

A group of researchers undertook a unique crocodile experiment to investigate arousal's effects on gambling behavior. Contrary to expectations, they found that increased arousal did not lead to raised bets across the board. Instead, recreational gamblers opted to lower their stakes, while at-risk gamblers showed mixed responses based on their emotional well-being. This study brought to light the intricate dynamics at play in electronic gaming machine interactions.

14 Aug 2026 1:39 pm
Apple TV adds these classics at no extra cost

If you already have an Apple TV subscription, there is some good news. You can now watch a selection of popular Hollywood movies without paying extra to rent or buy them.Apple has added a collection of older hits to its streaming catalogue, including The Martian, Arrival, Titanic, The Sixth Sense and Gone Girl. The movies are available through a new Great Movies Available Now on Apple TV section in the Apple TV app.For viewers who usually have to rent these movies separately through the Apple TV

14 Aug 2026 1:38 pm
US Midwest storms leave over 360,000 without power; Indiana hardest hit

Severe storms have left over 360,000 homes and businesses without power. Indiana experienced the most significant impact, with over 215,000 customers losing electricity. Northern Indiana Public Service Co. expects most restorations by August 18. Illinois also faced substantial outages, with Commonwealth Edison Company working on repairs. Duke Energy reported significant progress in restoring power to the Greater Cincinnati area.

14 Aug 2026 1:18 pm
Psychology explains why diamonds appeal to women: The surprising reasons behind their connection with confidence, beauty, self-expression, memories and personal identity in everyday life

Psychology explains why diamonds appeal to women: Diamonds can mean more than beauty and luxury. For many women, diamond jewelry may represent confidence, personal style, special memories or important life moments. Psychology and consumer research suggest that possessions can help people express identity, relationships and achievements. Studies on luxury consumption also show that distinctive products can influence how people see themselves and how others perceive them.

14 Aug 2026 12:47 pm
In the early 2000s, a village lost 90% of its residents. Then someone began replacing the vanished people with dolls

Nagoro, a remote Japanese village that has lost about 90% of its residents, has found an eerie way to preserve its vanished community. Since the early 2000s, artist Tsukimi Ayano has created more than 350 life-size dolls modelled on people who died or moved away, filling the village with their likenesses.

14 Aug 2026 12:29 pm
5,000 sailors, 250 days at sea, food shortages and mouldy showers: Reported jump attempts raise alarm aboard USS Abraham Lincoln as USS George Washington prepares to replace it

Sailors of the USS Abraham Lincoln have faced an arduous deployment, surpassing 250 days with over 200 days at sea without making port calls. Reports indicate a troubling situation marked by supply shortages and growing mental health issues among the crew. However, defense officials deny such severe distress, claiming misinterpretations of the conditions.

14 Aug 2026 12:10 pm
German astronomer who discovered three laws of planetary motion had a mother imprisoned on witchcraft charges; in 1620 he put science on hold and penned a 128-page defense that freed her

Johannes Kepler faced a difficult challenge defending his mother from witchcraft accusations. His mother, Katharina Kepler, was imprisoned and faced torture for alleged sorcery. Kepler halted his astronomical work to hire lawyers and secure her release. He presented a strong defense, challenging the prosecution's baseless claims. Katharina was eventually freed after a six-year ordeal and died the next year.

14 Aug 2026 11:57 am
Nigel Farage wins Clacton by-election, but trash-can challenger exposes cracks in Reform momentum

Nigel Farage secured his parliamentary seat in the Clacton by-election. A comedian's significant vote share highlighted challenges for Farage's party. This victory occurs as Reform UK's poll numbers show signs of slowing. Ongoing investigations into Farage's financial declarations continue to cast a shadow. The result raises questions about Reform UK's national momentum.

14 Aug 2026 11:48 am
Aluminum pans need the right kind of cleaning if grease, grime, burnt food or mineral deposits make them look permanently blackened; here are a few ways to bring back their shine

Aluminum pans can become blackened due to heat and food residue. Proper cleaning techniques can restore their original luster and appearance. Baking soda and salt are effective natural cleaning agents for stubborn stains. Rinsing and thoroughly drying pans prevents future discoloration and damage. Following a few easy steps can easily ensure that your aluminum cookware remains in good condition.

14 Aug 2026 11:35 am
The 1920 Great Alberta Train Robbery: Three Russian men robbed a moving train for a fortune; Two were shot five days later, while the conductors stolen pocket watch led police to the third three years later in America

Three Russian men robbed a Canadian Pacific train in Alberta during 1920. The robbers escaped with little money and valuables, triggering a manhunt. Two robbers and two police officers died in a shootout five days later. The third fugitive was eventually captured years later in Montana. A stolen pocket watch helped authorities track down the final robber.

14 Aug 2026 11:22 am
'No substitute': Kuwait's future tied to Hormuz strait fate

Kuwait's oil exports have plummeted due to the ongoing war and Strait of Hormuz closure. The nation faces its biggest crisis since the 1990 invasion, impacting its economy significantly. Kuwait Petroleum Corporation declared force majeure after drone strikes hit its headquarters. The country's economy contracted by 4.6 percent in the first quarter of 2026. Restoring oil production hinges on the safe reopening of the vital shipping lane.

14 Aug 2026 10:42 am
SpaceX shares surge 35% after lockup expiration, defying Wall Street fears

SpaceX shares have surged significantly after a major lockup expiration. Early investors were permitted to sell millions of shares on August sixth. The stock price has climbed thirty-five percent in just five trading sessions. This rise has added approximately five hundred billion dollars in market capitalisation. Investors now feel optimistic about future stock lockup expirations.

14 Aug 2026 10:19 am
Quote of the Day by Viktor E. Frankl: 'Live as if you were living a second time, and as though you had acted...' Inspiring lessons on responsibility, second chances, reflection and living with purpose by the Austrian psychiatrist and neurologist

Viktor Frankl's quote encourages living as if making a second attempt. This perspective fosters greater consciousness of current decisions and their consequences. It offers a constructive way to learn from past actions and improve future outcomes. Frankl's ideas emphasize meaning and responsibility even in difficult circumstances. His philosophy remains relevant for navigating modern life's rapid pace.

14 Aug 2026 10:04 am
Quote of the day by Hannah Arendt: 'The sad truth is that most evil is done by people who never make up their minds to be...' - Renowned political philosophers timeless wisdom on the dangers of moral indifference

Quote of the day by Hannah Arendt: Hannah Arendt, renowned for her significant contributions to 20th-century philosophy, dissected the 'banality of evil', suggesting that ordinary individuals can engage in heinous acts devoid of malicious intent. Her analysis traversed totalitarian regimes, urging the necessity of critical thought and ethical decision-making. Arendts insights inspire a continuous dialogue about questioning authority and recognizing individual accountability, cementing her legacy

14 Aug 2026 10:02 am
Gold prices fall Rs 2,600/gram in 2 days; silver dips Rs 5,000/kg as Iran war fears mount again. Buy, sell or hold?

Gold and silver prices declined on the MCX as investors booked profits after a sharp rally, with silver falling Rs 5,000 over two days and gold down Rs 2,600 per gram. Analysts expect near-term profit booking in gold, while silver could move towards Rs 2,40,000 per kg amid strong investment demand and geopolitical uncertainty.

14 Aug 2026 9:54 am
Japan torrential rain: 4 dead, over 400,000 ordered to evacuate as severe flooding hits eastern region; PM Takaichi pledges support

In a devastating weather event, heavy rains in eastern Japan have claimed four lives, while one person is reported unresponsive. The torrential rain has unleashed significant flooding, triggering high-level emergency alerts. Flooded roads have inundated neighborhoods, necessitating urgent safety measures and evacuation orders for countless residents. Thousands are also grappling with power outages, compounding the challenges posed by this severe weather adversity.

14 Aug 2026 9:53 am
Quote of the Day by Bill Bryson: Take a moment from time to time to remember that you are alive - A powerful reminder to appreciate the extraordinary fact of existence

Bill Bryson quote of the Day: Bill Bryson captures an inspiring truth about our existence, urging us to marvel at the unlikelihood of life itself. He suggests that our modern-day busyness often distracts from the extraordinary nature of simply being alive. Bryson's insights, rooted in his personal journey, remind us to cherish the present and recognize the beauty surrounding us in every moment.

14 Aug 2026 9:41 am
Goldman Sachs taps investors for Nvidias $500 billion AI financing push

Goldman Sachs is negotiating with investors for Nvidia's massive AI financing initiative. U.S. insurers and money managers will likely form the core investor base. This plan aims to raise over $500 billion for AI infrastructure development. Nvidia's CEO approached Goldman Sachs with this innovative financing idea. The structure aims to create an asset-backed market for AI compute.

14 Aug 2026 9:37 am
Fitch keeps United States at 'AA+', cites economic resilience amid fiscal risks

Fitch has affirmed the United States sovereign credit rating at AA+ with a stable outlook, citing its large economy, high per-capita income and the dollars reserve-currency status. The agency expects US growth to slow to 1.9% in 2026-27, while inflation, weakening job creation and elevated fiscal deficits remain concerns.

14 Aug 2026 9:27 am
US to unleash economic isolation on Iran next week as Trump pressure campaign intensifies

The United States plans to intensify economic pressure on Iran next week, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warning of measures unprecedented in the history of economic isolation. The move comes as ceasefire talks falter, Washington maintains its naval blockade and tensions around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz continue to escalate.

14 Aug 2026 9:18 am
For centuries something bizarre happens in this village every year as it becomes a kingdom with its own king, currency and even army

The Seto people celebrate their unique culture annually in Estonia. This kingdom day preserves their traditions, language, and distinct identity. Seto culture blends ancient beliefs with Orthodox Christianity, which is evident in their practices. Traditional leelo singing is a vital part of their heritage, passed down through generations. Young Setos actively work to ensure their culture remains relevant for everyone.

14 Aug 2026 9:10 am
Gold retreats from two-month high after inflation-driven rally

Gold prices experienced a dip on Friday, retreating from a recently established two-month peak, driven by mild U.S. inflation figures that tempered expectations for a September Federal Reserve rate hike. Nonetheless, central banks exhibit persistent enthusiasm for gold, bolstering its market stability. Price drops were observed across other precious metals, including silver, platinum, and palladium, as investors await critical economic data releases from the EU and the U.S.

14 Aug 2026 7:25 am
Oil steadies after US threatens to blockade Iran indefinitely

Oil prices edged higher on Friday amidst fresh supply anxieties, largely sparked by the U.S.'s warning of a possible indefinite naval blockade against Iran. This development has reignited fears about crude oil supplies on the global stage. However, forecasts indicating reduced growth in demand provided some stabilization. Compounding the situation, two ships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz the previous evening.

14 Aug 2026 7:20 am
Mumbai biker Riddhi Thakkar, part of 23-rider group, dies after trailer truck rams bike on NH-30 near Chhattisgarhs Markatola Ghat

A 24-year-old female biker from Mumbai named Riddhi Thakkar died after her motorcycle collided with a trailer truck. The accident occurred on National Highway 30 near Markatola Ghat in Chhattisgarh. She was traveling with a group of bikers towards Bastar when the truck crossed lanes. Riders and locals assisted her, and she was taken to a hospital. Doctors declared her dead on arrival, and police are searching for the truck driver.

14 Aug 2026 6:59 am
Chamoli devastation: 6 dead, 14 injured as water, debris enter hydro project tunnel

Six people died and 14 were injured after water and debris entered an under-construction tunnel at the THDC hydroelectric project in Pipalkoti, Uttarakhands Chamoli district, on Thursday, officials said. Twenty of 22 trapped workers were rescued, while information on the remaining two was unavailable.

14 Aug 2026 6:56 am
US court backs Trump's power to close 'de minimis' tariff exemption

The U.S. Court of International Trade on Thursday upheld Donald Trumps authority to end the de minimis tariff exemption for low-value imports from China, Mexico and Canada, ruling that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act allowed him to rescind the trade privilege. The decision marks a rare court victory for Trumps tariff agenda.

14 Aug 2026 6:21 am
Quote of the day by Hillary Clinton, 'To me you cannot be fully human, fully civilised, unless you recognise humanity in everyone' teaches gratitude, compassion, empathy, charity, kindness, caring, positive impact, human connection

Quote of the day by Hillary Clinton teaches us that civilization is not simply what humanity builds around itself; it is also the standard by which humanity treats one another. A more peaceful and compassionate future will not be created by eliminating every difference. It will emerge when people learn to live with those differences without forgetting the humanity they share. In that sense, recognizing humanity in everyone is more than an inspiring ideal. It is a daily responsibilityand perhaps

14 Aug 2026 6:10 am
In 1950, world witnessed strongest El Nino but weather forecasters warn of more powerful climate phenomenon that will push nearly 49 million people into acute food insecurity

El Nino is a phenomenon that occurs naturally, when weakening trade winds cause warmer ocean waters to build up in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. This typically leads to higher global temperatures and altered weather patterns, bringing drought to some regions and heavy rainfall to others.

14 Aug 2026 5:36 am
90 million years ago, Antarctica had a temperate forest just 900 kilometers from the South Pole despite months of darkness. 90 million years later, scientists found its roots, pollen and spores preserved in seafloor sediment beneath today's frozen continent

Ancient West Antarctica hosted a temperate rainforest approximately ninety million years ago. Fossil roots and pollen indicate dense vegetation grew near the South Pole. This forest experienced months of darkness annually, unlike modern rainforests. Scientists reconstructed a warm climate with high carbon dioxide levels.

14 Aug 2026 2:47 am
In 2019, an international team began monitoring Greenland's Petermann Glacier's floating ice tongue from space. 7 years later, 76.4 sq km broke away, creating a Manhattan-sized ice island, while two more could reduce the tongue by 254 sq km

Greenland's Petermann Glacier lost a large iceberg, its biggest since 2012. Scientists have monitored this glacier's floating ice tongue for seven years. Two more large ice islands are expected to break away soon. This calving event offers a rare chance to study Arctic ice formations. The detached ice mass could also create hazards for shipping operations.

14 Aug 2026 2:12 am
In 2017, Lancet scientists forecast life expectancy across 35 industrialized countries using 21 statistical models. 13 years later, South Korean women are projected to average about 90.8 years, potentially setting a historic human longevity record

South Korean women are projected to surpass ninety years of life expectancy by 2030. This milestone is driven by widespread healthcare access and improved cardiovascular health. Decades of consistent, cumulative improvements have led to this remarkable demographic shift. These factors have created an environment where maintaining health is the easiest option. This demonstrates that longevity is a systems issue, not solely individual discipline.

14 Aug 2026 1:46 am
Social Security Payment alert: Social Security Administration updates key list, major points you need to know

Social Security payments play an important role in the financial lives of millions of Americans, providing a source of income for retirees, disabled workers and eligible family members.

14 Aug 2026 1:45 am
In 2023, Wyoming proposed a 972-megawatt renewable-energy battery beneath its mountains, with water pumped to a reservoir 1,000 feet higher. 3 years later, the project reached final federal environmental review, bringing the giant water battery closer

Wyoming is proposing a 972-megawatt pumped-storage energy project at Seminoe Reservoir that would use water as a giant rechargeable battery. The plan calls for a new reservoir about 1,000 feet above the existing basin, connected by underground tunnels to a powerhouse inside the surrounding granite.

14 Aug 2026 12:55 am
A decade after his fateful fight with Terrel Williams, former boxer Prichard Coln dies at 33

Former boxer Prichard Coln has died at age thirty-three after a long battle. He sustained severe brain injuries during a 2015 boxing match which tragically ended his career. His injury led to significant safety reforms and a new rule named in his honor. Coln's resilience and family's dedication were widely recognized by the boxing community. He is remembered as a warrior whose spirit inspired many.

14 Aug 2026 12:46 am
Japanese proverb of the day: 'Thirty-six plans of how to win the battle are not so good as one plan to...' - this inspirational Japanese saying teaches life lessons on strategy, knowing when to quit, hidden strength in stepping back and why not every battle is worth fighting

Japanese proverb of the day: A Japanese saying highlights the wisdom of knowing when to step back from conflict. It suggests that withdrawing strategically can protect valuable time and energy. Persistence is important, but continuing a losing battle can worsen the situation. Good judgment involves recognizing which efforts are truly worthwhile.

14 Aug 2026 12:42 am