The perfect itinerary for a 7-day road trip in Arizona: The call of the wild

In Arizona's vast expanse, the quintessential American experience comes alive. Seven days might be insufficient to uncover the awe-inspiring natural beauty of this mineral-rich region, where the nostalgic remnants of Route 66 coexist with the ancient traditions of the Native American people. Known for its extensive road trip opportunities, Arizona feels tailor-made for adventure-seekers, with the wind whipping through their hair as they drive through the landscape. And with direct flights from Paris to Phoenix available on Air France, this journey has never been easier to embark on.

Embark on a cultural odyssey through the ancestral lands of the Navajo and Hopi nations, the Wild West and iconic Route 66, and a melting pot of traditional and modern cuisine. Journey from the majestic Grand Canyon to the majestic landscapes of Monument Valley in just seven days on the road.

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The artistic masterpieces of Native American communities can be fully appreciated today. The Heard Museum has showcased their most exceptional works for nearly a century, while the Fry Bread House honors their resolve with a simple, yet beloved fried bread dish. Now is the perfect time to venture into the great outdoors: driving north along Route 87 towards another Arizona region. As one travels, the iconic saguaros, native to the Sonoran desert, gradually make way for the breathtaking pine forests of Rim Country.

Take a break in Payson at the Beeline Cafe, one of those popular roadside diners where the coffee never runs out and the tales never cease. Then head to Sedona and its stunning red rock formations, a source of inspiration for a wide range of folkloric stories: since the 1980s, energy sites known as "vortexes" (Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock...) have attracted attention from the new age community. In these territories, the world of mysticism is ever-present, subtly blending with the natural world.

• about 2h30

• Heard Museum

  This address "2301 N. Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85004" is not a full sentence or statement hence there is nothing to paraphrase.

  +1 602-252-8840

• Fry Bread House

  4545 North Seventh Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85013

  +1 602-351-2345

• 815 South Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ 85541

  +1 928-474-996

3. **Exploring the Grand Canyon Village:** Marvel at the historical Grand Canyon Railway Depot and indulge in local eats.

If you are a tourist in a hurry or rather a patient observer, then be prepared for the dawn at the South Rim – the part that is accessible all year round and undoubtedly offers the most breathtaking view of the Grand Canyon. As the first rays of the day’s sunlight illuminate these eternally carved rock layers.

"The Bright Angel Trail is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a thrilling trek into the depths of the canyon, a challenging descent that requires several days of commitment. Alternatively, the Rim Trail is a more leisurely 5-mile walk that spans eight kilometers between Mather Point and Yavapai Point, providing a glimpse into two billion years of geological history.

• about 2h

• Grand Canyon National Park's Visitor Centre

  The address is 20 South Entrance Road, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023.

  +1 928-638-7888

Taking in the iconic formations of the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and Mitten Rock, we truly feel as though we are "entering the set" of a Hollywood movie. From John Wayne

The sacred homeland of the Navajo people is situated between the states of Arizona and Utah. The majestic mesas of Monument Valley appear to be a testament to a bygone age: the Navajos revered them as sacred land, and later John Ford filmed his classic westerns in these breathtaking natural settings.

The Valley Drive is a 27-kilometre loop that passes through a series of movie-like rock formations. However, to explore the area's hidden treasures, including Mystery Valley and Antelope Canyon located further to the north, visitors must join a guided tour led by a Navajo guide, who are the modern-day caretakers of this ancient heritage.

• : about 3h

• (Pronounced "Ah-tee" by the Navajo Nation, meaning " valley of the rocks")

  Indian Route 42, Oljato-Monument Valley, Arizona 84536

  +1 435-727-5874

"Dinner tip: The Fun(AFArchitect-designed desert bio home at Dunk Brewery, Winslow."

As one leaves Monument Valley on the iconic Route 66, the scenery suddenly transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors. The Painted Desert unfolds as a surreal expanse of ochre, purple, and grey-blue layers across its arid, rocky terrain. This striking backdrop is merely an introduction to the Petraified Forest: a collection of 225 million-year-old fossilized tree trunks boasting their ancient, mineral-rich beauty, stretching out across the landscape.

At night, head to the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, fashioned with unique teepees made to be just as robust as the surrounding trees themselves. One of the symbolically iconic roadside motels of Route 66, where the America of the 1950s still warmly receives weary travelers even to this very day.

• 2h30

• Petrified Forest National Park

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  +1 928-524-6228

• 811 Hopi Drive, Holbrook, AZ 86025

  +1 928-524-3048

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Between heaven and earth, Arizona stands as a persistent reminder of the human condition. At the Rock Art Ranch in Winslow, well-maintained rock carvings narrate the story of the first individuals who attempted to leave their imprint on the world.

Further on, Meteor Crater, a 50,000-year-old massive pit created by a celestial collision, serves as a stark reminder that Arizona's landscape is sculpted both by the forces of the Earth and the vast phenomena of the cosmos. In the evening, the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, a magnificent Earth-based platform for astrological exploration, offers a unique perspective on just how tiny humanity is in the face of the universe's vastness.

• 1h30

• Lowell Observatory

  1400 West Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

  +1 928-774-3358

• Rock Art Ranch

  Winslow, AZ 86047

  +1 928-288-3260

• Meteor Crater

  Interstate 40, Milepost 233, Winslow, Arizona 86047

  +1 800-289-5898

"To Do: Explore the abandoned town sites, such as the Jerome Historic District. You can take guided tours to learn about the area's history. The Arizona Central Railroad and the Courthouse Square Historical Society offer tours to Cleator and other historic sites.

And then there's the incredible Joshua Tree Parkway. These towering yucca trees with gnarled branches, which the Mormons liken to the outstretched arms of the prophet Joshua, are like natural art along this picturesque drive.

South of Wickenburg, the "ghost town" of Vulture City retains in its structures the memory of the gold prospectors who, in the mid-19th century, built an entire town out of the Arizona desert. Both captivating and timeless, a remnant of the Wild West if ever there was one.

• 2h30

• 301 East Highway 66, Seligman, AZ 86337

  +1 928-422-3291

• Vulture City Ghost Town

  36610 North 355th Avenue, Wickenburg, Arizona 85390

  +1 877-425-9229

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The road trip concludes with one final outdoor adventure: Lake Pleasant, a vast expanse of turquoise glistening in the desert. This 4,000-hectare man-made lake has become an unexpected haven for kayakers and ospreys, while campers can witness some of Arizona's most breathtaking sunsets.

After a detour to the impressive Botanical Desert Garden, it's time to cap off the day's excursion at The Arrogant Butcher, a gourmet restaurant. With a cozy rustic atmosphere featuring exposed brick walls and robust options like slow-cooked BBQ short ribs and spicy buffalo chicken wings, urban comfort food offers its own unique appeal.

• 1h30

• 1201 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008.

  +1 480-941-1225

• The Arrogant Butcher

  Located at address 2 East Jefferson Street, Suite 150, Phoenix, Arizona 85004.

  +1 602-324-8502

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Mysterious giant structures discovered on Mars

Large and compact formations have been uncovered on the surface of Mars, piquing the interest of specialists.

Researchers have recently validated the existence of a massive subsurface structure that is about 1,750 kilometers in diameter and lies approximately 1,100 kilometers below the Earth's surface.

These research outcomes may question core principles in geology.

"There appears to be a substantial entity (comprising lightweight material) located deeply within Mars' internal strata, which may be emerging from the mantle," the authors stated in their study published in the journal JGR: Planets.

"It indicates that there could still be active movements happening beneath Mars, leading to the formation of new volcanic features on its surface," they added.

The given style of response suggests that the original text is in a non-English language, as the "QG" acronym is likely shorthand for "Quelle ou Gazette" (Source or Newspaper) in French, which is the language of the Indy100 (Indépendant 100) news website. However, since I haven't received the original text, I'll wait for it to be provided before proceeding with the paraphrase.

Please be sure to read all our articles on MSN by subscribing to our content. Click on 'follow' next to our logo above.

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10 American romance films to see at least once in your life

Combining humor and great emotion, American romantic films reveal that love is the most beautiful of feelings. Here are 10 movies you absolutely must (re)discover!

Romantic movies have long had the power to transport us to a world of dreams, laughter, and tears. The American film industry has consistently excelled in this genre, blending tales of love with situations that are both humorous and unpredictable. Below is a selection of cult films worth discovering or rediscovering without reserve.

Do you enjoy the cinema? Read more on the subject:

• "Even the Rain" (Iglésias, 2008) - Fiction inspired by real events, the film reveals the true Lisbon of Luís Frammento
• Three movies shot in the Algarve region that will inspire you to plan a trip to Portugal.
• This Italian cult film, released in 1960, is widely regarded as one of the greatest films in cinematic history

by Garry Marshall (1990)

This is a classic film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The contemporary tale revolves around Vivian, a prostitute from Los Angeles, who encounters Edward, a wealthy and isolated businessman. Their professional relationship at first takes an unpredictable turn and eventually develops into a captivating romance.

In the 1990s, Julia Roberts, a true revelation, delivers one of her outstanding performances.

by Nancy Meyers (2006)

With a five-star cast, starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black. The plot revolves around two women who are disillusioned with love, and through a house-swapping arrangement over the Christmas holidays, they discover their soul mates.

Delivers an enchanting blend of emotions.

by Marc Webb (2009)

The analysis is a wonderful reflection on the disappointments of love.

This movie is a refreshing look at the disappointments of love. The film's new approach to storytelling and memorable music break the common rules of romantic comedies, while still coming across as genuine and moving.

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This film, directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, stars Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, and Julianne Moore. After a heart-wrenching breakup, Cal, portrayed by Steve Carell, attempts to rebuild his self-esteem with the guidance of a seasoned ladies' man, Jacob, played by Ryan Gosling. However, things don't unfold as planned.

The movie effectively balances humor and emotional depth. The partnership between Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling is quite effective, and the storyline includes several surprising turns. This film is sure to resonate with a wide audience.

by Andy Tennant (2005)

Movie star Will Smith plays Alex "Hitch" Hitchens, a dating coach who helps men win over their crushes as his profession. In his standard occupation, Hitch offers guidance to men so they can win the hearts of their desired women. However, when Hitch falls in love with Sara Melas (played by Eva Mendes), a journalist, his own dating advice is no longer sufficient for him.

Will Smith shines in his portrayal as a charming yet endearingly awkward mentor. The humorous moments and the importance of being oneself in love are reinforced effectively.

by Anne Fletcher (2009)

The film features Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds in a story that is both hilarious and heartwarming. Margaret Tate, a Canadian publisher facing deportation from the United States, coerces her assistant Andrew Paxton into agreeing to a fake marriage in order to secure her residency.

The movie is a breath of fresh air, featuring exceptional dialogue and many humorous moments. The rapport between Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds elevates this romantic comedy to a must-see.

by Gil Junger (1999)

This film tells the story of two sisters, Kat and Bianca Stratford, played by Julia Stiles and Larisa Oleynik. Their father has laid down a condition for Bianca: she can only go on a date with someone if her sister Kat also finds a partner for herself. A scheme is devised to find a boyfriend for her, played by the late Heath Ledger.

This romantic comedy for teenagers has become very successful due to its humor, witty dialogue and Heath Ledger's unforgettable performance.

by Nick Cassavetes (2004)

This film is an adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' novel. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams play the roles of Noah and Allie, two individuals whose romance goes beyond the boundaries of time, driven by their strong passion despite the challenges and different social backgrounds.

This romantic relationship is a thrilling emotional journey. Between passionate moments and heart-wrenching scenes, it teaches us that love can endure any hardship.

by Rob Reiner (1989)

This classic stars Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan as Harry and Sally, two companions who ponder whether it's realistic to have a male-female friendship. Featuring witty dialogue, this film is a precious treasure.

What results is a compelling portrayal of the intricacies of human emotions and relationships.

by James Cameron (1997)

This film marked an entire generation. Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet play Jack and Rose, two passengers from vastly different backgrounds who fall in love on board the ill-fated ocean liner that sinks.

This film is a rich blend of romance and tragedy, with a sweeping spectacle. The beautiful soundtrack by Celine Dion and the convincing on-screen chemistry between the two leads elevate Titanic to a truly exceptional and unforgettable cinematic experience.

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Electric rubbish truck begins trial in rural areas

The British Broadcasting Corporation Reports a New Electric Bin Lorry is Rolled out in Wiltshire

A new electric refuse truck trial is expected to benefit the environment and the council's budget.

The vehicle is 50% more expensive than its diesel counterpart, but Wiltshire Council is optimistic it will ultimately be commercially viable.

The Volvo FE Low Entry Cab RCV bin lorry is the first of its kind in the country and will soon be collecting waste in Calne and Chippenham.

The Cabinet member for waste and environment, Councillor Dominic Muns, stated that the council is "on track" to achieve its goal of being carbon neutral by 2030.

Councillor Muns said Wiltshire Council is facing "complexity" as round lengths vary from 25 miles (40km) to 125 miles (201km).

The trial will enable the council to understand how electric vehicles will function in the vast rural areas of the county.

Mr. Muns stated that the vehicle is "well built" and with no fuel costs, he hopes that the trial will demonstrate that economically this model is "more beneficial for the Wiltshire taxpayer in the long run".

This trial is the latest step taken by Wiltshire Council in its efforts to achieve its objectives of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

We are on schedule," said Mr. Muns, "this trial is one part of the entire process and we are making significant progress.

According to Mike Gill, a representative from Volvo Truck & Bus Wales & West, the introduction of the new vehicle marked an important milestone for the company as it is the first of its kind in the country.

He said Wiltshire Council took the "correct approach" by piloting the vehicle because a significant rural county contains "numerous variables".

All three of topography, weather and driving style significantly impact on battery range he said.

The council has installed electric charging points in their waste collection depots and will test overnight charging, which Mr Gill stated should take "up to eight hours for a full charge".

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KCSE 2024: West Pokot candidate who missed school for 2 years scores 7 As

• Kenyans were stunned by Melvine Timtim Chebor's achievement, a young girl who scored 7 A-pluses in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (KCSE).
• The 20-year-old was diagnosed with leukemia shortly after entering high school, which compelled her to suspend her studies.
• She took a two-year break from school, during which she underwent treatment, and it was an especially difficult time as she also lost her father in an accident.
• Melvine returned to school in 2024 at Kipkisoi Girls High School, where she sat for her final secondary school examination.

A young girl from West Pokot county's Kapenguria has risen above her challenges to excel academically.

Melvine Timtim Chebor demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination in the face of challenges to achieve outstanding results in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).

How old is Melvine?

In spite of facing numerous emotional and financial difficulties during her secondary education, the young girl managed to earn seven consecutive As in the national test.

She remembered the difficult time when she was diagnosed with leukemia right after starting high school.

2022 was a tough year for me. After I was released, my father passed away in a car accident. Just around that time, we were planning to travel to India again, so it was challenging, both financially and emotionally for me.

When did Melvine make a trip to the Republic of India?

She traveled to India in 2023 where she had a bone marrow transplant due to the diagnosis of blood cancer.

She was unable to attend her final high school exam due to her recovery from surgery, leaving her hesitant to continue studying.

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Despite a setback, she rebounded in 2024, returning to school with the resolve to regain her academic footing.

She persevered due to the unwavering support of her family, friends, and teachers at Kipkis Girls High School.

She put in a lot of effort into her studies, evident in the 2024 KCSE national examination results.

Who is Melvine's aspiration in future?

In addition to English, where she earned a B plain, she received As in the other subjects, achieving a mean grade of A, with an average of 84 points.

I tried. You can forget a lot in just two years. There were additional textbooks, six books to learn in total - three in English and three in Kiswahili. It was challenging, but I read them.

The young girl aims to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, with her aspiration being to "heal people at the hands of God."

She expressed gratitude for being still standing after facing such a challenging struggle, solely by the favor and guidance of God.

Kenyans hail Melvine for his academic accomplishment

Viewers were impressed by her story of overcoming challenges as they congratulated her in the comments section.

getandaondieki5152:

She is eligible for a complete scholarship to pursue a career as a medical doctor.

kennethokumu6375:

Exceptionally talented young girl. Extremely impressive outcome! The future looks very promising for Timtim.

kisangjeremiah8405:

Congratulations, young girl. Her father was highly regarded during his time at one of Kenya's most esteemed national schools.

ruthdestinyongera7457:

You are doing a wonderful job! I am so proud of you.

HmmHhj-c2d:

God bless you with good health, so you can pursue your dream job and work towards a brighter future, young girl.

A student from Kapsabet High School achieves an average grade of 84 points in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.

In another story, Mark Kibet, a student from Kapsabet High School, achieved an excellent grade with 84 points in the 2024 KCSE.

Kibet performed exceptionally well in all subjects, securing an A grade in every one of them, following the highly anticipated examination results.

Education Cabinet Secretary Bethuel Kiplagat announced the results at Thika Sub-County Police Station, revealing that 1,754 quintuplet candidates scored straight As.

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Manchester United slapped with huge fine after feisty FA Cup win over Arsenal

• Manchester United are expected to be fined again in the third instance this season, subject to indiscipline matters.
• The Manchester United Red Devils secured a substantial victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup after enduring over an hour with only 10 players on the field.
• Player, Ruben Amorim's, side fielded referee Andy Madley's cautions, with five players receiving warnings.

Manchester United faces a significant fine following their memorable win over Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday.

Arsenal was eliminated by United at the Emirates Stadium after a tense penalty shootout following the match.

We will continue to provide in-depth analysis and coverage of this contest, both in the recap and post-match analysis.

The game resulted in a 1-1 tie after a regular and overtime period, as Arsenal were unable to take full advantage of their numerical superiority. Manchester United's Diogo Dalot was handed a second yellow card, leaving his team with 10 players.

Arsenal was put ahead, but Martin Odegaard missed a penalty kick after Gabriel Magalhaes had equalized the score, which had been initially taken by Bruno Fernandes.

Kai Havertz had a day to forget with Germany squandering clear chances in regular time. The German then had his spot-kick saved by Altay Bayindir before Joshua Zirkzee slotted in the final penalty to win the game for Ruben Amorim's team.

Amorim received vindication, silencing his critics with outstanding performances at Anfield and Emirates.

Manchester United will be penalized after their game against Arsenal.

However, the Portuguese manager will have to examine his side's history of indiscipline, with another significant penalty on the horizon.

Manchester United is set to be penalized with a £75,000 (11.7 million) fine for the number of yellow cards they accumulated in North London.

According to TalkSPORT, English clubs face a £25,000 fine each time they accumulate six yellow cards in a game. The fine will also increase for every repeated occurrence throughout the season.

Who were the players given a yellow card?

Manchester United got handed six yellow cards by referee Andy Madley, two of them belonging to Diogo Dalot. Additionally, Harry Maguire, Manuel Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes, Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo also caught the referee's attention.

What other matches saw Manchester United accumulate six yellow cards?

The first incident took place in their 3-0 home loss to Tottenham and during their 1-1 draw against Chelsea.

Arsenal and Manchester United to face investigation

The Sun reports that the FA will also await Madley's report before investigating the post-penalty melee that occurred after Odegaard's penalty miss in the second half.

Maguire was deemed to have fouled Havertz inside the box. The English player was absolutely furious and was seen addressing the former Chelsea player as a 'cheat'.

Both clubs could face additional penalties for "failing to control" their players, which might incur extra fines.

Zirkzee embarrasses Saliba

In another incident, Zirkzee humiliated William Saliba with a dazzling display of skill during the Manchester United vs Arsenal game.

The Dutch forward faked up field passes twice, which caught the French defender off guard by leaving him exposed on the Emirates turf.

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Estonia Jaan Roose completes stunning Dubai skyscrapers walk at over 200 metres height

Three-time world champion slackliner Jaan Roose pulled off another world-first highline walk between the Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai, standing 224 meters high and spanning 100 meters. This feat marked the beginning of the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s biggest event for the creator economy. Roose’s achievement, with futuristic Dubai skyscrapers as a striking backdrop, is one of his most visually captivating to date.

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The teenager leading Scotland into World Cup battle

A relatively small number of individuals have the privilege of leading their country in the World Cup, and a 16-year-old from Dumfries is poised to experience this prestigious distinction soon.

The Scotland Under-19 women's cricket team was led by the skipper, who led the team to the achievement of qualifying for the Malaysia tournament last year.

They will face off against one of the sport's star-studded teams - Australia, as well as Bangladesh and the qualifiers Nepal - in the T20 tournament, which is set to begin this Saturday.

Niamh has had to balance work, studies, and training in order to prepare for the competition.

Despite taking many years of practice, this is a goal she has been striving to accomplish since starting at the local club, St Michael's, when she was around 11 or 12 years old.

I grew up being exposed to cricket because my father used to play it.

I was always present on weekends and times like that.

I thought, let's just give it a shot.

I was quite taken by it and performed well, progressing relatively quickly through the levels.

Duncan, a proud father, has taken Niamh with him to games since she was around three years old.

He remembered how surprised we all were when she, who was 12 years old at the time, performed at a high level with no prior training or coaching.

The international player who coached her found her and helped her develop her overall cricketing skills seriously.

They take great pride in her accomplishments at St Michael's.

I'm the only female at the club right now, which means I've essentially grown up around the men's team.

They are truly delightful; they are genuinely accommodating.

Niamh began by playing club cricket, then transitioned to regional matches, and has progressed to the Scotland U15 team and is now a member of the U19 team.

She was given the captaincy en route to the World Cup.

"I led the qualifying rounds as team captain," she said.

It was a completely new experience for me - I'd never done anything like it before, but the coaches felt I'd be particularly well-suited for it.

The encounter with the Netherlands could hardly have ended in more triumph, with an unbeaten record stretching to three victories.

"We all truly enjoyed it - it was a fresh environment for some of the girls as well, which was a positive change," she said.

Why attending the World Cup is undoubtedly a considerable step, but it will be beneficial for us.

The competition commences on January 18th and continues until February 2nd - but what constitutes winning?

We plan on playing as much cricket as possible during that period, I think.

Simply gaining experience by playing against more challenging opponents to assess our current level of play and identify areas for improvement.

Obviously making it past the group stage would be our ideal outcome, but it's a significant challenge.

The 19-year-old batsman has taken the third position in her national team's lineup recently and considers herself a "very confident player".

Members of her team hail from various locations within Scotland, as well as players born in England, but with Scottish ancestry.

As the World Cup approaches, they have been gathering on a regular basis to prepare in the best way possible and are now ready for the challenge.

Our attitude is always to want to win, which I believe is a very positive thing.

I believe we've definitely put together a very robust team this season.

We've experienced numerous games this summer through training and other activities, but we've all developed and enhanced our skills significantly.

Niamh's father describes the U19s team as a "talented bunch" who will "give 100%" regardless of who they are playing against.

He expressed his joy at witnessing his daughter's growth "through the highs and lows" and enjoying many long winter trips to play across Scotland and England.

We are all extremely proud of everything she has accomplished and I'm confident she proudly wears the thistle on her heart.

It is an experience every athlete wishes to have, representing and leading their country in sports.

"The rigorous effort she and the trainers have invested is unrivaled, cultivating Niamh into a well-rounded individual with superior situational understanding.

We can't even begin to describe how proud we are of the person she's turned out to be - something that brings a smile to the faces of her loved ones.

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These Are The Top-Selling U.S. Electric Vehicles Of 2024

Despite Tesla's continued dominance, new electric vehicle models entered the market, accounting for 8% of all new car sales in 2024.

It was referred to as a "sales slowdown" in 2024. And indeed, sales of purely electric vehicles didn't rise as rapidly as the automotive industry's previously optimistic projections predicted. But EVs still accounted for a record 8.1% of new vehicle purchases in the U.S. last year, with about 1.3 million units sold and sales are continuing to increase.

The automaker delivered its long-awaited annual U.S. sales report today.

For electric vehicle sales, driven in part by the push of aggressive end-of-year leasing and financing options and concerns that the new administration could eliminate some or all of the EV tax incentives. Overall, electric vehicle sales were up 7.3% annually, and this 8% electric market share was also higher than the 7.8% a year earlier. It was a positive year for electric vehicle sales for many car manufacturers - although not all of them, as reported by Cox Automotive.

The company increased its market share in 2024 due to outstanding new product offerings, particularly from General Motors and Honda Motor Company, which collectively sold nearly 80,000 more electric vehicles in 2024 than in 2023," the report stated. "Hyundai Motor Group and Ford Motor Company also significantly boosted their electric vehicle sales last year.

However, "By volume, Tesla sales were estimated to be lower year over year by over 37,000 units, approximately the number of vehicles added by General Motors."

.

Despite these favorable conditions, Tesla maintained its electric vehicle sales leadership in 2024. The following are Cox Automotive's top 10 best-selling electric models in the United States last year:

Let's take a closer look at what we've found in these results.

It's not surprising to see the Model Y and Model 3 coming out on top, considering Tesla's charging network is still the best in its class, and the cars' prices have been rapidly reduced. You can't go wrong with either of them. What's even more fascinating is that the Mustang Mach-E retained its third position; the Mach-E has received several recent updates and new trim levels, and it remains a pioneer among non-Tesla EVs in using the widely accessible Supercharger network. Moreover, the Mach-E has become the top-selling Mustang model across the board.

Photo by: InsideEVs

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 had a remarkably successful year, propelling Hyundai to become the second-largest electric vehicle (EV) seller in the US, following behind only Tesla. Rounding out the top four were General Motors in third place and Ford in fourth. Boasting a factory-installed Tesla-style NACS charging plug, as well as US production, the Ioniq 5 is poised to achieve even greater success in the years to come, with its eligibility for remaining EV tax credits supported by the Trump administration intact.

Although demand for the Cybertruck has decreased, it managed to outsell the F-150 Lightning as America's top-selling electric pickup truck, a feat not to be taken lightly. Nonetheless, the vehicle remains highly divisive, and Tesla's foray into the truck market is notably still without a year of consecutive sales growth.

General Motors had a surprisingly good year in terms of sales, but the Honda Prologue was the standout performer; as we've mentioned previously, it shows that consumers are eager for high-quality electric vehicles from this Japanese manufacturer. (The attractive leasing and financing offers undoubtedly made a significant contribution as well.)

Photo by: InsideEVs

Lastly, the Rivian R1S holding its position in the top 10 indicated another positive sign for the company, which experienced a nearly 4% increase in sales in 2024 despite production of new cars being halted for an extended period due to parts availability issues.

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Scientists know when Yellowstone volcano could erupt

Researchers specializing in Yellowstone's supervolcano have made significant progress in determining when it might erupt.

Research published in the Nature journal highlights magma chambers within the Earth's crust and the potential dangers of a future volcanic eruption.

The research employed an innovative approach that identifies magma reservoirs by utilizing magnetic fields measured by devices positioned throughout Yellowstone National Park.

It has been discovered that the four underground magma reservoirs beneath Yellowstone hold more molten rock than the three major eruptions that created the Yellowstone caldera, the most recent taking place around 640,000 years ago.

Considering the substantial amount of magma present, scientists recognize that Yellowstone does not currently possess the prerequisites for a volcanic eruption, despite displaying alarming signs of activity in recent times.

"We have a significantly reduced concentration of magma in these pore spaces, resulting in fewer pore spaces filled with magma. This implies that these magmas are not able to connect with one another," stated co-author of the study and volcano seismologist, Ninfa Bennington.

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Underground anomalies discovered for the first time leave scientists baffled

A team of geophysicists from ETH Zurich and Caltech found anomalies in the Earth's lower mantle, revealing previously unknown rocky areas, as reported by Phys.

To uncover these discoveries, researchers utilized a new, high-resolution model of the Earth's mantle. The results revealed regions of submerged rocky terrain beneath significant oceans, as well as within the interiors of continents.

"It appears that these zones in the Earth's mantle are significantly more extensive than previously understood," stated Thomas Schouten, lead author and doctoral researcher at ETH Zurich's Geological Institute.

The origins of these geological peculiarities are not yet understood.

"They could be remnants from the ancient silica-rich rocks that have been present since the Earth's mantle formed approximately 4 billion years ago, miraculously remaining intact despite the ongoing convective movements within the mantle. Another possibility is that they are areas where iron-rich rocks have accumulated as a result of the mantle's slow, steady movement over an equally vast timescale," Thomas Schouten suggested.

(QG = Geo / Phys / Picture: Unsplash)

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5 brilliant players who are simply too good to be playing in Iran

Former Chelsea, Sunderland and Fulham stars are among the exceptionally talented footballers who are clearly more suited to playing at a higher level than in Iran.

The Persian Gulf Pro League is one of the most competitive football leagues in Asia and numerous prominent teams have made a significant impact in the league over the past few decades.

Here are five players who stood out to us as we reviewed the team rosters of every club in the Iranian top league.

Steven N’Zonzi

The French midfield player experienced an intriguing trajectory from a cult hero at Blackburn and Stoke to champion of the Europa League with Sevilla and also a winner of the World Cup in 2018.

Since turning thirty, the holding midfielder has spent time in Italy, Turkey, France, Qatar, and now Iran. He joined Sepahan last summer and became a teammate with another player listed below this one.

Didier Ndong

To this day, Ndong is still Sunderland's record signing. His surname is also a moderately used insult in certain areas of Wearside.

He arrived at the Stadium of Light in 2016 and Black Cats supporters likely remember the Gabon international with limited fondness. Ndong encountered challenges in displaying his top form at Sunderland, and his first season ultimately concluded with relegation.

Prior to his arrival in Iran this summer, the holding midfielder previously played in France, Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

Playing for Esteghlal alongside Kakuta, he'll undoubtedly be pocketing a sizable salary for not having a fixed schedule of football matches. Some life.

Gael Kakuta

Eden Hazard has described the DR Congo winger as one of the most naturally gifted players he has ever encountered.

“You asked me about talent. Kakuta is number one. I mean, talent. Wow,” Hazard told the Obi One Podcast.

It's clear-cut to say now, but I think he perhaps went a bit too early to Chelsea. He was just 16 when he moved from France to Chelsea. And making that step at 16 is a massive move.

Although he clearly had significant abilities, Kakuta's time at Chelsea never quite took off. Being indirectly to blame for the club facing a transfer ban wasn't a promising situation either.

Although he had some successful moments in France with clubs like Lens and Amiens, after spending his entire career playing in Europe, he relocated to Iran last summer to play for Esteghlal.

The thirty-three-year-old has made thirteen appearances since making the change to this new position, yet he remains with an unbroken record, awaiting a goal.

Lucas Joao

The player, Joao, during his peak was known to cause great concern among Championship defences.

The Luxembourg international scored 74 goals during his stint in England and since 2018, he’s been playing in various Asian leagues.

After brief stints in China and Qatar, the 31-year-old made the move to Iran and joined Persepolis.

At the time of writing, he has made seven appearances for Persepolis but has yet to score his first goal for the club.

Aboubakar Kamara

The notorious former Fulham forward, nicknamed AK.47, has been a beloved cult icon at several teams throughout his career.

His time in England was certainly memorable as he won two promotions from the Championship during his days at Craven Cottage.

He is still young, having only turned 29, and there is still plenty of life ahead of him. Having most recently played in Greece, he made the move to Iran last summer to join Sepahan, who top the league alongside other teams.

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7 Man Utd academy graduates who flopped after leaving Old Trafford

Marcus Rashford seems to be edging closer to leaving Manchester United.

Wythenshawe's best might be motivated by Scott McTominay's achievements at Napoli, Angel Gomes' England call-ups following outstanding performances at Lille, or Paul Pogba's rise to stardom at Juventus, an era long past. Those individuals have demonstrated that there can be a future beyond Old Trafford for former Carrington trainees.

Not every Manchester United academy graduate achieved success at other clubs. We've found seven examples of homegrown players who faltered after leaving the club.

Jesse Lingard

Lingard made over 200 appearances for his hometown club, and his career undoubtedly reached its pinnacle with the match-winner in Manchester United's 2016 FA Cup final victory over Crystal Palace.

He arguably never looked better than during his impressive half-season loan stint at West Ham in 2021, when he scored nine goals in just 16 Premier League appearances for the club.

The standout performance at the London Stadium made him appear to have all the skills to excel elsewhere, but his career stagnated upon his return to his parent club, where he was relegated to a bench warmer and watched his contract expire unused.

He reportedly turned down a permanent return to West Ham because of a more financially attractive offer from Nottingham Forest, but he was one of several players who failed to make any notable impression as part of the newly-promoted club's uncoordinated and haphazard transfer strategy.

After just one season at the City Ground, Lingard spent around seven months scouting potential clubs before ultimately selecting the unconventional FC Seoul as his next destination.

Willy Kambwala

*So far.

We're not giving up on Kambwala just yet. He still has time ahead of him to be a success at the Ceramica.

It's now just half a year into the 20-year-old's first season outside of Old Trafford, and even in the midst of Manchester United's woeful 2023-24 season he looked promising in his initial appearances.

The club's decision to sell for an estimated €11.5 million may not seem like a bad deal at this point in time. Kambwala's transition to Villarreal has not gotten off to a good start; he has only made two appearances in La Liga and was given a straight red card in one of those games. Ouch.

Brandon Williams

We often refer to a player as a flop when they fail to get a card they are trying to catch, especially in games like poker or gin rummy. Yet could that,-under specific rules, possibly depend on the particular game, differentiate the handling of such a situation into hit or miss?

The fact that Williams has been a free agent for six months at this stage in his career indicates that his career hasn't progressed as expected, considering he was once considered a promising young player with great potential to become a United fan favorite, especially given his early impressive performances at left-back.

A 2021-22 loan with Norwich City did not spark his career, nor did a brief stint at their rivals Ipswich Town last season amidst off-field controversies that involved court claims he "inhaled laughing gas from balloons" before a high-speed car crash.

He's still only 24 and could yet achieve a promising future if he focuses and trains hard. But we have our misgivings.

Adnan Januzaj

This sentence might be a bit strong for the Belgian winger, who made more than a hundred appearances over the course of five seasons with Real Sociedad.

He had his standout moments during his time in the Basque Country and was part of the team that prevailed in the historic 2020 Copa del Rey final against local rivals Athletic Club, although he did not make an appearance off the bench in the final.

Ultimately, though, Januzaj's post-United career gives us an overwhelming feeling of 'meh'. Did we envision him performing thrillingly in his debut appearances at Old Trafford? Or was the media just desperate to find a shred of positivity in the brief David Moyes era?

Timothy Fosu-Mensah

We feel somewhat sorry for including the Dutchman, as he has encountered really terrible misfortune with injuries.

Bayer Leverkusen seemed to be a suitable match for Fosu-Mensah, who joined in January 2021 for a low transfer fee after struggling to make the team's first team at Old Trafford. However, a knee ligament injury just a few weeks after arriving ended his time in Germany.

In three and a half seasons, he made only 30 appearances for Leverkusen, including a grand total of zero in their historic double-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso last term. That meant he wasn't eligible for any medals before his quiet departure in the summer. Poor fellow.

According to recent reports, he has returned to training with Ajax. It would be an intriguing comeback story if he can make a successful return with his beloved childhood club.

Cameron Borthwick-Jackson

Manchester born left-back Borthwick-Jackson was a favourite of Louis van Gaal's, although maybe it was apparent to everyone else that he didn't quite have what it took to secure a spot at his hometown club, it was justifiable to assume that he would have had a reasonably decent enough career.

No, indeed not. The 27-year-old is currently without a club, having been released by Slask Wroclaw following a failed loan spell away to Ross County last season. That’s a bleak statement, isn’t it?

Scott Wootton

Going back to the late Fergie era, we can include Wootton in the category of players who would have been suitable for other clubs.

The player joined his former rivals Leeds United in 2013 after he was released but had a difficult time at Elland Road during their period of average performance in the second tier before the arrival of Bielsa.

After departing from Leeds, Wootton persisted in his quest to secure a lucrative career, playing for clubs within the lower divisions of the Football League, including MK Dons, Plymouth, Wigan Athletic, and Morecambe, before transferring to the Australian A-League team Wellington Phoenix in 2013.

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Mysterious ghost island; spotted by NASA - before vanishing entirely

The notion of an "island of the dead" or a secretly abandoned place might evoke a plotline from a popular mystery series.

It has become a reality in the Caspian Sea.

Satellites spotted a mysterious island, only to lose sight of it entirely.

Following an eruption of a mud volcano in the year 2023.

By late 2024, it had almost entirely dissolved.

According to NASA's Earth Observation Program, the island shifted out of sight like a mysterious ghost.

'The Kumani Bank mud volcano's massive eruptions have resulted in several temporary islands forming on multiple occasions since it first erupted in 1861,' it explained.

This underwater feature is also known as Chigil-Deniz and is situated approximately 15 miles west of Azerbaijan's eastern coast, at a distance of about 25 kilometers.

NASA's Landsat 8 and 9 satellites took images of the island on November 18, 2022, February 14, 2023, and December 25, 2024.

In November, the volcanic peak was still submerged underwater.

By February, however, the island had emerged, and a sediment plume drifted away from it.

Mark Tingay, a geologist at the University of Adelaide, stated that additional satellite observations indicate that the island existed between January 30 and February 4 and measured approximately 400 meters (1,300 feet) in diameter.

However, by the end of 2024, this island had vanished out of sight with more than half of the Kumani Bank exposed above the water.

Previous eruptions of the volcano have taken place in bursts lasting under two days, and have resulted in the formation of islands of varying sizes and durations.

'A significant May 1861 event led to an island formation measuring approximately 87 meters in width and 3.5 meters in height above the water level,' NASA stated.

The one eroded away by early 1862.

The most powerful eruption, which occurred in 1950, resulted in the formation of an island that measured 700 meters (2,300 feet) in diameter and 6 meters (20 feet) in height.

Mr Tingay describes mud volcanoes as "weird and wonderful features" but admits that they are "largely understudied and little understood".

Most mud volcanoes are located in areas with significant tectonic activity, with Azerbaijan noteworthy for its unusually high frequency of such occurrences.

'Geologists have recorded over 300 earthquakes in eastern Azerbaijan and in the Caspian Sea, with the majority of them occurring on land,' NASA said.

'The region is situated within an area where the tectonic plates of the Arabian and Eurasia converge and come into contact.'

Unfortunately, mud volcanoes have the potential to pose a risk due to their capability to eject significant quantities of materials, including flames, over a relatively short duration.

"It is uncertain if the 2023 Kumani Bank eruption was explosive, but past eruptions of this and other nearby mud volcanoes have sent towering columns of fire hundreds of meters into the air," NASA noted.

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8 England internationals you totally forgot played in Europe: Crouch, Bentley, Hart…

Manchester United's striker Marcus Rashford is reported to be a potential loan transfer target for European clubs, with AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund among the teams interested in acquiring the services of the 27-year-old player.

We're all familiar with the names of Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho, who followed in the footsteps of stars like David Beckham, Chris Waddle, and Kevin Keegan by achieving significant success in Europe during their careers.

What about the England internationals who made less prominent overseas moves? Here are eight Englishmen who had stints abroad that largely evaded the spotlight.

Joe Hart

This news story got a lot of attention back then, but it's beginning to feel like it was all just a dream.

After falling out of favor at Manchester City due to Pep Guardiola's emphasis on playing from the back, Hart spent Guardiola's first season at the club without a significant trophy on loan at Torino.

He was still England’s top goalkeeper at that time and started almost every game of the 2016-17 Serie A season, but his reputation suffered after the club's chairman Urbano Cairo made a harsh comment saying “we didn’t expect so many mistakes from an England international”. Ouch.

He subsequently returned to England's shores on a loan deal with West Ham before joining Burnley permanently in 2018.

Micah Richards

To be fair, you might remember Richards at Fiorentina because he often brings it up in his post-playing career commentary.

During his time in Florence, the booming-voiced right-back developed a close bond with Mohamed Salah and was part of an eclectic team that also included Josip Ilicic, Alberto Aquilani, David Pizarro, Juan Cuadrado, Federico Bernardeschi and Joaquin.

Vincenzo Montella's team, in fact, finished fourth during Richards' 2014-15 loan spell and reached the semifinals of the Coppa Italia and the Europa League. However, Richards became somewhat of a sparing player, making just 14 starts overall.

Teddy Sheringham

Sheringham is the quintessential English football experience. 1980s Millwall. Two remarkable periods with Tottenham Hotspur. A crucial role in Manchester United's successful treble of 1998-99 and notable spells with Nottingham Forest, Portsmouth and West Ham.

Among all the other things, however, he gained experience for a season with the Swedish team Djurgardens IF on loan from Millwall before making his England debut.

He scored 13 goals in 21 appearances in the Swedish second division, helping the club earn promotion to the top flight in 1985. He then returned to Millwall, continued to perform well, and established himself as a consistent part of the team from then on.

Lee Sharpe

Sharpe's narrative has become a familiar one. A profoundly skilled player at Torquay United, a promising transfer to Manchester United prior to a decline at Leeds United.

Did you know the winger had two absolutely unremarkable spells outside of their home country?

The first was after he'd fallen out of favour at Elland Road, where David O'Leary loaned him to Sampdoria during the 1998-99 season. However, he only made a handful of appearances under David Platt before O'Leary replaced him with a young Luciano Spalletti by the end of the year. He finished the unsuccessful season with just three appearances in Sampdoria's relegation battle.

Later, he spent a brief period with Icelandic club Grindavik, announcing his retirement at the age of 32. The following year, in 2004, he exited retirement for a similarly short term at non-league team Garforth Town.

Peter Crouch

The six-foot-seven striker played for 11 teams in England, rising from his amateur start at a lesser-known club, Dulwich Hamlet, to starting in a Champions League final for Liverpool. A truly remarkable career journey.

After his loan stint at Dulwich, Tottenham sent a 19-year-old Crouch to IFK Hassleholm, who were playing in the Swedish third-tier division at that time. He scored three goals in eight appearances for the club before his parent club transferred him to Queens Park Rangers.

We have listed six of his clubs, so there should be no excuses for not getting a perfect score on our Crouchy quiz.

Ryan Shawcross

English international? Ryan Shawcross.

spectacular long-range bicycle kick.

To gain experience with the Belgian club.

In addition to Eriksson's squad, other notable players including Danny Simpson, Jonny Evans, Fraizer Campbell, Darron Gibson, and Ritchie De Laet trained at Busraustadion during that year.

Ryan Mason

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His early days with Spurs saw him temporarily transferred on at least three occasions to Doncaster Rovers, Millwall, Swindon Town and Yeovil Town.

Buried amid the traditional rites of passage of playing in the Football League was a single spell with French side Lorient. At the time, the player was 21 years old, however, he made no appearances for the first team in the Ligue 1 league championship, opting instead to continue his development by playing in several games for their reserve team.

David Bentley

It's surprising, but Bentley is less than a year older than his former Tottenham teammate Luka Modric.

As Modric continues to excel professionally at Real Madrid, Bentley, by contrast, stopped playing over ten years ago at the age of 29. He decided to end his career, saying that he had lost his passion for football.

To be fair, we can understand why it happened given the way his career fizzled out with a series of unremarkable loans away from Tottenham. Spells at Birmingham City, West Ham, and a return to Blackburn Rovers failed to rekindle his spark.

Among those was a half a season with FC Rostov, where he became the first Englishman to play in the Russian Premier League. He made eight appearances for the club but was unable to score any goals or provide assists, and his time in the port city ended prematurely due to an ankle injury.

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Scientists have evidence that Adam and Eve existed

Leading researchers believe there is accumulating evidence that humans might be the direct descendants of the biblical individuals Adam and Eve.

There is controversy over the existence of Adam and Eve, but there is common ground among the three major monotheistic faiths—Christianity, Judaism, and Islam—they are all in agreement that Adam and Eve were created by God and brought forth the human species.

Study results suggest that the Garden of Eden may not be just a myth based on biblical accounts, but a real location that has left evidence of its presence on Earth.

Archaeologists have found evidence suggesting that the Garden of Eden was not merely a legendary site, but also the origin of humanity's fundamentals. Simultaneously, biologists assert that humans universally descend from a single common ancestor.

It is thought that the Garden of Eden was situated in ancient Mesopotamia, which currently encompasses a large portion of Iraq and smaller areas of Syria, Iran, and Turkey.

(

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Bundesliga: Who pays to police high-risk games?

Germany's Supreme Court will soon make a ruling on the constitutionality of requiring Bundesliga clubs to pay for the expenses incurred by the police during league matches, which has been a contentious issue for 10 years.

Do football clubs have a legal obligation to cover the costs of police presence at "high-risk" matches?

What constitutes a high-risk match?

According to the DFL, "high-risk matches are matches in which, based on general experience or current knowledge, there is sufficient probability that a particularly dangerous situation will occur." The primary responsibility for deciding whether any given match should be designated as high-risk rests with the home club. However, the German Football Association (Deutscher Fussball Bund) also has the authority to classify a match as particularly at risk of rioting "based on its own findings."

What is the threshold for determining the assessment of a match as high-risk?

Around one in 12 top-tier league matches in Germany are considered high-risk, and this group includes several high-profile regional rivalries.

What led to the legal disagreement?

In 2015, the Bremen police sent the DFL a bill for $438,000 for the police operation to secure a match between Werder Bremen and Hamburg. This was the first time they had done this. The total amount of the disputed bills has since risen to over $3 million.

The legal basis for this is a regulation adopted by the city-state of Bremen in 2014. This regulation states that a fee should be implemented for "profit-driven events" with over 5,000 attendees if extra police are needed at the event location or its vicinity "owing to anticipated acts of violence."

Bremen's right to pass on the costs to the football clubs was upheld twice in higher courts. The DFL then filed an appeal with Germany's highest court.

What points are being presented in support of an argument?

The DFL claims that while clubs are responsible for stadium security, it is the government's job to ensure public safety outside the stadiums. The DFL says this is because the government has the power to use force, so it should fund this task through taxes, not user fees. The DFL also objects to the city-state of Bremen unilaterally classifying matches as high-risk with unclear criteria.

At the Constitutional Court hearing, Bremen's Interior Minister Ulrich Mäurer emphasized the significant financial burden on German states if they were required to significantly increase police officers for potential trouble-prone matches.

"They are being carried by the taxpayers," Mäurer said, arguing that measures implemented by the football clubs for increased security had not yet yielded the desired effect.

Germany's second tyre manufacturer is advocating for major German football leagues to cover the estimated costs of police presence at high-risk matches.

What implications will the Constitutional Court's judgement have?

If Bremen emerges victorious in this case, it could prompt other German states to adopt a similar approach by requiring clubs to cover a portion of the policing expenses for events deemed high-risk. The city-state of Hamburg has already expressed its intent to follow suit.

How do other EU countries address this issue?

In France, since 1995, football clubs have been responsible for the extra costs of police presence at high-risk matches. In Italy, such costs have been shared by the clubs since 2014. In Spain and the UK, the state covers all expenses related to police operations at football events.

This article was originally published in the International English language.

Author: Stefan Nestler

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EV-Swapped 1928 Ford Model A Pickup Is A Prohibition Electric Truck

• This Plaid-Powered Cobra Is Shockingly Speedy
• Can You Electrify Your Vintage Mazda Miata with This Conversion Kit?
• This Hellcat is a Tesla Model S Plaid disguised: 'It fits perfectly.'
• Audi's Electric A2 Restomod Might Be More Pragmatic Than You Expect
• The interior of the EV6 features a comfortable space and user-friendly design, giving drivers an enjoyable driving experience. The fabric and optional leather seating arrangement assure passengers are worthy of their large space, ñand conquer the maneuvre rotation".
• Why the UK is Enamored with Converting Classic Vehicles to Electric

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Feast before you ride? Tuck into unexpected fine-dining bistros in Europe’s popular railway stations

Feeling hungry before a long train ride is common, but where can you stop to replenish your energy?

The days when your options for a pre-train journey snack were limited to a burger or a packet of crisps are no longer in the past, thanks to the numerous excellent restaurants now open in Europe's busiest train stations.

From London to Paris and Amsterdam to Stockholm, Euronews Travel is on its way to bring you the finest culinary experiences at railway stations.

Bookings Office, 1869, London, UK

ticket office.

In 2021, French architect Hugo Toro reimagined the space, drawing inspiration from a traditional Victorian-style winter garden. The space is characterized by large palm trees and plant-patterned chandeliers, each featuring 275 intricately hand-cut brass leaves. Other notable features include the deliberately exposed brickwork and a 22-metre bar crafted from marble and walnut.

A charcuterie board is an ideal option for lunch.

The Blue Train, Paris, France

The train station was established in 1901, when the former French president Emile Loubet inaugurated it.

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The walls are adorned with priceless watercolour paintings and the atmosphere is amplified by luxurious elements such as chandeliers, gilt-framed mirrors, frescos, and leather banquettes.

When it comes to the food, expect refined interpretations of French classics – there’s a delectable Provençal-style octopus stew, although one of the most popular dishes is the carvery-style roasted leg of lamb, carved tableside.

Wagon Restaurant, Athens, Greece

This project, now in its’ fabulous form, a restaurant - and has transformed them into a cultural center that also features a theater and a bar.

Ligari's inspiration came from the famous train theatre mentioned in Jules Verne's "Around the World in 80 Days" and, fittingly, many of the dishes are inspired by cuisines from around the world. We suggest trying the slow-cooked veal with rigatoni, rich tomato sauce, warm spices like cinnamon and allspice, and a touch of red pepper.

Luzette, Stockholm, Sweden

Including replicas of the original lamps that lit up the station in the 1920s.

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Specialties of seafood and seasonal cuisine are served here, with almost all dishes coming from local suppliers, and the restaurant also has its own fishing boat.

Grand Café Restaurant 1e Klas, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

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The temperature was adjusted according to the preferred British Conditions.

Be on the lookout for the restaurant's rather distinctive mascot, a white cockatoo named Elvis, who often sits at the bar and enjoys rocking out with a headbanging session.

The menu is a diverse collection of options, ranging from high-quality burgers to omelettes, showcasing a culinary variety that includes an especially popular item: the smoked raw beef sausage.

A restaurant named after the Tsar, located in Białowieża, Poland.

The railway station where this restaurant is situated is no longer in service, but due to its proximity to the tracks, which is highly desirable for diners, this may be a blessing in disguise.

Constructed in 1903 at the behest of Tsar Alexander III, who had selected Białowieża as the site for his expansive hunting reserves - and wolves can be seen here to this day.

All the original features, such as intricately decorated stucco, wooden floors, and terracotta trim, have been meticulously maintained.

The menu is primarily composed of local specialties, highlighting a particularly delicious deer tenderloin steak served with a savory mixture of mushrooms and fresh horseradish.

The Counter, Zurich, Switzerland

The city's main railway station.

This top-notch restaurant, located in the heart of the station, has an intimate feel despite its central location. It accommodates just 23 people in a secluded space.

The minimalist decor, enlightened by pendant lights suspended from the ceiling, guarantees that the attention stays firmly on the food.

It's not cheap – the lunch tasting menu starts at 195 francs (approximately 208 euros) – but then again, this isn't your average train station food option. Highlights, especially for those with a sweet tooth, include the bite-sized meringue with cherry and fennel.

Platform Restaurant, Dorset, UK

, southern England.

It closed in the 1930s, not that you'd notice – you'll find Platform inside one of several restored railway carriages, including Brunel, which was built in 1911.

is famous for.

For a pre-dinner drink, visit the Beeching, a lovely carriage dating back to 1958.

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What happens to your body when you walk 10,000 steps per day?

Taking 10,000 steps every day can greatly enhance your physical and mental well-being, and improve your overall health in numerous ways, including elevating your mood, facilitating weight loss, and boosting your immune system.

It has emerged that there is strong evidence for the numerous advantages of meeting this daily stride goal.

Improves mood and cognitive abilities.

He or she found noticeable mental health improvements, providing relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Research demonstrates that routine walking has a positive impact on cognitive functions and memory.

Enhances mobility and joint well-being

Going for a walk can be beneficial for the health of joints, especially for individuals who suffer from knee osteoarthritis, as demonstrated by data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative centre. Walking can also decrease knee pain without introducing the risk of needing knee replacement surgery.

Rachel MacPherson, a certified personal trainer with Garage Gym Reviews, notes: "Walking, a fundamental human movement, improves joint health and boosts blood circulation without the impact of more strenuous exercises like running."

Strategies for Sustaining a Healthy Weight Reduction

According to a journal, walking at different paces resulted in fat loss among postmenopausal women, emphasizing its role as a straightforward, low-impact physical activity accessible to all fitness levels.

Enhances lung function

It's stated that walking is strengthened respiratory muscles, boosts breathing ability, and improves overall respiratory performance, which leads to enhanced endurance and better overall health.

Enhances immune capabilities

Indicates that adults who walk at least 10,000 steps daily are 43% less likely to contract a cold than those who engage in less walking. This lowered risk is attributed to enhanced mobility of immune cells, more effective lymphatic system function, and reduced inflammation.

Promotes speedier recovery

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6 forgotten players who fell off the footballing map after moving to Turkey

The Turkish Super Lig is renowned for its history of bringing in well-known names from the top European leagues, with Victor Osimhen, Edin Dzeko and Ciro Immobile illuminating the competition in the 2024-25 season.

But what about the footballers who venture to Turkey and suddenly disappear from the spotlight? The lists of former stars from top clubs such as Tottenham, Liverpool, and Arsenal, who have experienced a decline in their careers after signing with top-flight Turkish Super Lig clubs, are long.

Here are six players who have gone completely under the radar since they signed with Turkish Super League clubs.

Dele Alli

We have nothing but admiration for Dele after his refreshingly honest confessions about his personal challenges.

We'd love to see him achieve his goal of being part of England's 2026 World Cup team, though it appears increasingly unlikely, given his lack of club affiliation with each passing month.

Dele Alli's problems began with his declining form at Tottenham and a lackluster stint at Everton to revitalize his career, but a dismal loan season at Besiktas in 2022-23, marked by vocal disapproval from fans and harsh criticism from the club president, clearly took a toll on him.

It's nearly two years since the 28-year-old last appeared in any professional game.

Jonjo Shelvey

Shelvey has had a decade of experience playing for prominent clubs, including Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Nottingham Forest, but never a Yorkshire club, until joining Eyupspor.

The 32-year-old's professional life had already shown signs of stagnation prior to his trip to Turkey, as he had lost favor at Newcastle United after a significant shakeup of the midfield following the team's ownership change.

The intended outcome failed to materialize.

Shelvey dropped out of the mainstream football spotlight in September 2023 when he transferred on a free contract to Caykur Rizespor in the Super Lig. He actually played consistently for the team during a forgettable season, but then left for Eyupspor at the end of that season.

The newly-promoted team, led by coach Arda Turan, is currently experiencing great success in the Super Lig. They're fourth in the table as of now, but Shelvey had difficulty finding opportunities to play and was recently let go by the club.

Burnley, which is currently fighting for promotion, is reportedly eyeing a talent who may still have a resurgence left in him.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

The Gunners' all-time highest transfer fee received. It's a quite remarkable figure, isn't it?

Oxlade-Chamberlain looked well worth the money in his early days with Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, rubbing extra salt into the Gunners' wounds by solidifying their usual spot within the top four.

Injuries gradually diminished his impact, but he still managed 30 appearances in the Reds' Premier League-winning campaign in 2019-20.

By the time of his 2023 departure, however, he had largely become a secondary figure. Nineteen years old when he was released, the midfielder still had time ahead of him to restart his career elsewhere.

Unfortunately, Oxlade-Chamberlain has not so far been able to reach the same level at Besiktas.

He began less than a third of their matches last season, as they finished a distant sixth, 46 points behind their Istanbul rivals Galatasaray, and has only one Super Lig start under his belt so far in 2024-25.

Andros Townsend

The entire complexion of English international players from a bygone era sees Townsend transferring his allegiance to Turkey only quite recently.

Like his fellow teammates, it is likely that a declining career was either the reason for or a sign of his transfer to Antalyaspor.

Actually, he handled the setback well and played a key role for an enterprising Luton Town team last season, despite a devastating ACL injury cutting short his stint at Everton.

We can only applaud Townsend for taking on a new challenge in a foreign setting at the age of 33, especially considering he must have received offers from clubs in the First Division at that time, particularly after Antalyaspor's transfer issue led to a temporary halt in his career.

Bruma

Fairly speaking, having moved to Turkey the first time around did not particularly harm Bruma's career.

When he was a youngster, Bruma joined Galatasaray from Sporting in 2013 for a €10 million fee.

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The Portuguese winger returned to the Super Lig and his arch-rivals Fenerbahce's squad, but unfortunately, his stay at the club dipped slightly. He made only five appearances during his loan stint with Galatasaray in the 2022-23 season and zero appearances after that, when he joined the club permanently.

To be fair, he's performed admirably since then back at Braga, winning the Portuguese League Cup last season and reaching double figures in consecutive seasons.

But unless you're an avid follower of top-level Portuguese football, it's likely you'll have entirely forgotten about this former wonderkid.

Adem Ljajic

The Serbian youngster was famously pictured holding a Manchester United shirt alongside then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2009 after signing a contract with the club. However, his transfer to Old Trafford from Partizan was ultimately blocked due to visa requirements.

The midfielder recovered from that setback to have a respectable career in the 2010s - a reliable player for Serbia's national team who represented them at the 2018 World Cup.

He scored 45 goals and made over 200 appearances in the Serie A for Fiorentina, Roma, Inter, and Torino, during which time, he was often rumored to be on the verge of moving to the Premier League.

It's safe to say that he's largely fallen off the radar since signing with Besiktas in 2018. He was instrumental in their Super Lig triumph during the 2020-21 season, which was heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, but he has since joined Fatih Karagumruk.

Perkez Liacic, who still only 33 years old, has not been selected for Serbia in four years and has been playing for his home team, FK Novi Pazar, in recent seasons.

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California Wildfires: Statue of biblical Mary remains standing amid charred ruins

• A family in California suffered a devastating house fire, but a statue of the biblical figure Mary somehow survived unscathed.
• It stood intact, amidst remnants of the charred remains that had once been their abode for 37 years.
• 'It's the most fascinating and inexplicable occurrence that only the Supreme Being can comprehend,' read one of the comments

Among the devastating wildfires that ravaged southern California, a remarkable symbol of hope and faith originated from the charred ruins of a California family's home—a statue of the biblical figure Mary.

In a viral Instagram video, a statue stood virtually intact, amidst the backdrop of smoldering debris.

It all started when the Halpins' home of 37 years was devastated and reduced to a pile of rubble by the devastating Eaton Fire.

Peter Halpin, the family's father, shared a touching personal account during a media interview, describing a truly remarkable moment.

"It was astonishing how everything else had been completely destroyed, but the statue of Mary and another of Saint Joseph had miraculously survived intact," he said.

Their unshakeable conviction brought them back to the site last week, in spite of the government's prohibitions.

Surrounded by her six children and other loved ones, the family sang a hymn to the statue, captured in a heartwarming video that has since gone viral on the social media platform Instagram.

Our intention was not for this to become a viral phenomenon at all," Peter stated. "It was primarily meant for family purposes, but the community's response has been incredible and touched our hearts.

Peter's wife, Jackie, recalled her reaction when she saw the statues still intact.

Her son-in-law had visited the site the day before and took a photo of the Mary statue, inspiring the family to make their pilgrimage.

I collapsed to the ground," Jackie said. "I realized we had to visit there to express our gratitude to God for the wonderful years we spent in that house.

They have long been people of strong faith, and eight years ago, they consecrated their home to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Jackie expresses her sincere appreciation for the happiness and sense of belonging they've created there.

We have entertained guests for years and hold the value of hospitality in high esteem. I simply wished to express a heartfelt prayer, saying, 'If we have the opportunity to do it again, that would be wonderful.'

This home in Malibu is untouched by the LA wildfires.

A comparable situation was highlighted by a widely shared online photo of a solitary, intact Malibu mansion standing amidst the devastation of surrounding homes.

The house was photographed following the devastating Los Angeles wildfires that had been ongoing for days.

Details suggest that the $8 million (approximately KSh 1 billion) mansion, constructed in 2000, is owned by Mr. David Steiner, the CEO of a waste management company.

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7 outstanding works of modern architecture to visit in Japan

In the field of architecture, Japan engages in a subtle game more than any other place. The seven architectural works by notable figures such as Kengo Kuma and Tadao Ando demonstrate how the Japanese archipelago's past is being transcended to shape its future.

Here are seven iconic masterpieces that disrupt the boundaries of what is possible, from the rural town of Yusuhara to the capital of Tokyo, representing Japan's architectural innovation. Temples that harness light, museums that thrive underground, and stadiums that blend seamlessly into the surrounding forest are just a few examples of what Japanese architects have achieved.

Do you like architecture? Here are some articles you might find of interest. :

• Six Iconic Buildings Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright: Must-See Architectural Marvels Worldwide
• Arctic Cathedral: a masterpiece of modern architecture.
• Zaha Hadid's 6 must-see works of art around the globe

Key elements include a local craft processing factory, a woodcuts collection house, and the grave and statue of sculptor Korin Fujimori who the town's design is said to be enshrine.

He has designed six buildings that resemble a large construction set. The town hall is clad with cedar, the museum takes the form of a suspension bridge, and the library is disguised as a forest. Each building reinterpret ancestral Japanese construction techniques to create a city that is unprecedented in the country.

The Church of Light, designed by Tadao Ando in 1989, is a phenomenal example of spiritual architecture that blurs the lines between nature and man-made structures. With its minimalist design and emphasis on light, this sanctum has intrigued architects and designers worldwide. Situated in MODERN LAURI, a residential area in Ikeda, Osaka, the Church of Light is Tadao Ando's reinterpretation of a Japanese architectural style.

A rusty block of concrete in Osaka's suburbs holds a special spiritual significance. The simple, cruciform notch behind the altar transforms natural light into art. The beam of light from the notch cuts through the church's stark interior, the only ornament in this unadorned building, where Tadao Ando shows that a crack in a wall can be more moving than a grand Gothic cathedral. One of the defining works by this influential Japanese architect.

Takasugi-an Teahouse, a work of the Japanese architect Terunobu Fujimori, is another expression of his concept of a small teahouse.

In the mountains of Nagano, a tiny teahouse, aptly named Takasugi-an ("a house built too high up"), cleverly defies gravity, nestled six metres above ground on two chestnut trunks. This whimsical creation by Fujimori elegantly combines the traditional Japanese tea ceremony with a creative twist of fantasy. A humble ladder serves as the entrance to this elevated space, which feels like a serene and artistic oasis, reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli-inspired set.

The Chichu Art Museum is a modern museum situated on the northern coast of Naoshima Island in Japan. Tadao Ando is the architect behind this breathtaking structure.

Renowned architect Tadao Ando has challenged the conventional concept of a museum by burying it beneath the earth's surface. Invisble from the outside, the Chichu Art Museum can only be observed from the air. Within this labyrinthine expanse of rugged concrete, strategically positioned shafts of light cast Monet's, Turrell's, and De Maria's works in a captivating display that subtly transforms as the hours progress. A stairway illuminated from above leads to a room where the ever-changing sky interacts with Monet's water lilies. In this space, the building itself becomes a masterpiece, harmoniously blending the celestial, terrestrial, and human-made elements to create a distinctive and immersive sensory experience.

Oita Prefectural Art Museum (2014) - Shigeru Ban Design who focuses on decentralized structure, octagonal and particulate approach

- the exterior corridor reminiscent of traditional Japanese homes - the museum fosters a constant dialogue between the street and the artworks on display. The upper facade is decorated with a trellis evoking local bamboo craftsmanship, adding a touch of refinement to this distinctly modern building.

I couldn't find any information on an entity called "Enoura Observatory (2017)" associated with an individual named "Hiroshi Sugimoto".

He has designed a contemporary temple: a 100-metre gallery that gradually lights up with the summer solstice, while a 70-metre tunnel runs through the mountain to capture the winter sun. On a glass stage floating above the sea, a stone theatre awaits the equinoxes.

Like he had pioneered a dear method that unites the quest of nature with descriptive contexts of a place specific to culture of Japan, focusing basic ground where demolition of old-event opponent leaves footprints set as chosen place for shaping this Japan National Stadium before the Tokyo 2020 Games. Like alive streets with streams and underscores flow side by side.

century.

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7 of the richest magicians in the world – net worths, ranked: from LasVegas stalwarts Penn ; Teller to the legendary David Copperfield, and“clown” Hans Klok

Here is the paraphrased text: From David Copperfield down to David Blaine, and from Lance Burton to Penn & Teller, we present to you 7 of the wealthiest magicians and illusionists who amaze the world

They astonish their audiences with their incredible feats, creating alternative worlds that few people will ever decipher. Magicians and illusionists are constantly extending themselves: whether it's David Blaine risking his life with increasingly daring stunts, or the renowned Penn & Teller continuing to perplex audiences nearly 40 years after their debut, these performers have turned their skills into lucrative careers.

For parents worried that their child's fascination with magic tricks may be a futile pursuit, take a look at the impressive bank accounts of the world's most renowned magicians. One of them even boasts a net worth exceeding $1 billion ...

7. Hans Klok

Estimated net worth: $25 million

With him being honored as my assistant and also receiving the prestigious Silver Clown Award in 2014.

Our innovative platform featuring a collection of carefully selected content, including explanatory articles, frequently asked questions, in-depth analyses and visual representations through infographics, brought to you by our esteemed team of award-winning experts.

6. David Blaine

Estimated net worth: $40 million

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5. Criss Angel

Estimated net worth: fifty million US dollars

Expanding his popularity. From books to merchandise, TV shows, and podcasts, Angel has rapidly increased his brand's significance. His friendships with celebrities like Donny Osmond and Debbie Gibson, which has enabled him to have them participate in his acts, has also contributed to his fame, positioning him as a highly sought-after performer in Vegas.

4. Lance Burton

Estimated net worth: approximately $100 million

Magician Lance Burton was the first American and the youngest magician to secure the Grand Prix award from the Federation Internationale des Societes Magiques in 1982. Throughout his 30-year career, he is estimated to have performed in more than 15,000 shows, primarily in Las Vegas and Monte Carlo. Although he is now mainly retired, he continues to provide guidance to aspiring young magicians.

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Combined net worth: approximately four hundred million US dollars

They have held a long-running residency at The Rio in Las Vegas that began in 2001, making theirs the longest-running engagement on The Strip.

1. David Copperfield

Estimated net worth: One billion United States dollars.

This ticketed theatre has been performing since 2003, showing 15 plays a week as well-established cardboard sign creators since. The celebrity also owns a chain of 11 islands in the Bahamas made available for private housing rentals; however it consistently seems to cost similarly expensive wealth required for the district of Why Not Cay.

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China deploys advanced marine vessel to enhance research opportunities and deepen its involvement in the Arctic realm.

This article originally appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), the prominent news medium reporting on China and Asia.

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