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Cleric Warns Muslims Against Supporting Actor Vijay, Cites 'Anti-Islamic' Film Portrayals

Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, the national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat (AIMJ), has issued a strong advisory to the Muslim community, urging them to stay away from Tamil actor and politician Vijay, president of the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) party.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, the Uttar Pradesh-based cleric accused Vijay of consistently portraying Muslims in a negative light, particularly as terrorists in some of his past films. He stated that such depictions have harmed the image of Islam and created damaging stereotypes.

"In response to a query from a Muslim individual in Chennai, I issued a fatwa urging the Muslim community in Tamil Nadu to keep their distance from Vijay and his political party," said Maulana Razvi. "He has shown a pattern of portraying Islam in a negative context. Supporting him or including him in religious functions would be inappropriate."

The cleric emphasized that Vijay’s transition into politics appears to be laced with opportunism, especially in the context of seeking support from minority communities. "His recent attempts to engage with Muslims through public gestures do not align with his past actions on screen," he added.

Maulana Razvi cautioned Muslims against inviting Vijay to community or religious events and advised that no political or social support be extended to the TVK leader. He further alleged that Vijay's actions in cinema and politics are part of a broader attempt to tarnish the Muslim identity.

This warning comes amid broader discussions in Tamil Nadu about religious sensitivities and the responsibilities of public figures as they transition into political roles.

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Controversy Erupts Over Actor Vijay’s Iftar Event; Cleric Issues Fatwa Alleging Political Gimmickry

Tamil actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay has landed in the eye of a storm after a prominent Sunni cleric from Uttar Pradesh issued a fatwa against him, criticizing his recent Iftar party held in Chennai. The event, hosted by Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on March 8 at the YMCA grounds, has drawn sharp criticism from religious groups who claim it was a political move that disrespected Islamic traditions.

Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilly, the National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat and Chief Mufti of Chashme Darul Ifta, released the fatwa accusing Vijay of exploiting religious sentiments for political gains. “Vijay’s history shows clear signs of anti-Muslim representation. Hosting an Iftar party now is a clear attempt at Muslim appeasement,” the cleric alleged.

Razvi referenced Vijay’s 2022 film Beast, in which he claimed the Muslim community was unfairly portrayed. “The film depicted Muslims in a negative light, and now, for political gain, he’s donning a skullcap and hosting Iftar to clean that image,” he said.

The Iftar event itself came under scrutiny after reports surfaced that individuals allegedly under the influence of alcohol and with no association with Islamic practices were invited. The cleric called this act “sinful” and an insult to the sanctity of Ramadan, urging Tamil Nadu Muslims to steer clear of Vijay and not involve him in future religious functions.

Supporting this view, the Tamil Nadu Sunnat Jamath lodged a formal complaint with the Chennai Police Commissioner on March 11, criticizing the mismanagement of the event and stating that it disrespected the spirit of Ramadan. “This is not about publicity. We want legal action to ensure such insensitivity doesn’t happen again,” said Syed Kous, treasurer of the organisation.

Vijay, during the event, participated in the evening prayers, broke fast with attendees, and was seen wearing a skullcap—a gesture some appreciated, while others labeled it as superficial symbolism.

The controversy also drew reactions from political circles. Former BJP Tamil Nadu president K. Annamalai lashed out at Vijay, questioning his authenticity. “You glorify smoking and drinking in your films, and now you speak against Tasmac? Wearing a skullcap and attending one Iftar doesn’t prove commitment to minorities,” he said.

The incident has triggered a broader debate on the line between cultural outreach and religious insensitivity, particularly when politics is involved. While some see the Iftar as an inclusive gesture, others argue it crosses the line into opportunism, potentially alienating the very community it sought to engage.

As the political landscape in Tamil Nadu heats up ahead of elections, Vijay’s every move is under scrutiny—and this latest controversy has certainly added fuel to the fire.

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Rising Aviation Concerns: Mid-Air Collisions and Safety Trends in 2025

A mid-air collision between two small planes near Marana Regional Airport in Arizona has resulted in two fatalities, marking the latest in a series of aviation incidents across the U.S. this year. The accident occurred around 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, approximately 20 miles northwest of Tucson, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local authorities.

This tragic event follows another devastating mid-air collision last month near Washington, D.C., where a military Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines commercial jet crashed, claiming the lives of all 67 people onboard. That accident was the first major commercial airline disaster in the U.S. in 15 years, sparking renewed concerns about aviation safety.

While experts emphasize that air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation, a string of recent crashes has drawn increased scrutiny. Just days before the Arizona crash, a Delta Air Lines regional jet carrying 80 passengers overturned upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Though 18 people were injured, there were no reported fatalities.

U.S. Aviation Accidents in 2025

According to data from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there have been 94 aviation accidents so far this year, with 63 occurring in January and 31 in February. The number of fatal crashes stands at 14 as of Wednesday, with 10 recorded in January and three in February before the latest Arizona collision.

Despite these incidents, aviation analysts reaffirm that stringent safety regulations continue to make flying statistically safer than other forms of transportation. However, the recent accidents highlight the need for ongoing improvements in pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and air traffic management to ensure passenger and crew safety.

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Bianca Censori Steps Out in Modest Outfit After Bold Grammy Appearance

Bianca Censori made waves at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, where she stunned onlookers with a revealing red carpet look. The fashion-forward moment, where she wore a sheer, skin-tight dress, sparked significant attention. However, just days after the glamorous night, the fashionista opted for a completely different style when stepping out with her husband, Kanye West.

The couple was spotted enjoying a date night, where Bianca embraced a more modest yet chic look. She donned a white zip-up jacket, paired with grey, form-fitting leggings. Accessories included stylish sunglasses and matching heels, giving off a sophisticated vibe that contrasted her earlier appearance.

Following the Grammys, Bianca’s provocative red carpet look became the subject of much discussion. Kanye defended his wife’s fashion choice in a now-deleted Instagram post, claiming that Bianca became the "most Googled person on the planet" after her appearance. He even shared Google analytics screenshots to highlight the spike in interest.

Kanye, who was nominated for Best Rap Song with his track "Carnival," lost out to Kendrick Lamar. There were rumors suggesting that the couple was escorted out of the ceremony, but a source from the Grammy Awards clarified that they simply left after their red carpet walk.

The 2025 Grammy Awards, hosted by Trevor Noah, saw major wins for artists such as Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, and Bruno Mars.

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US Open Announces LIV Golf Exemption for 2025 Tournament

In a historic move, the US Open has become the first major tournament to offer players from the LIV Golf series an exemption based on rankings. The United States Golf Association (USGA) revealed that the top player from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour, who isn't already exempt, will secure a direct spot in the US Open field.

Moreover, the top 10 players in the LIV Golf standings, as of April 7, will bypass local qualifying and instead advance to the final 36-hole qualifying round.

The 2025 US Open will take place at the Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania from June 12 to 15.

Scott O'Neil, CEO of LIV Golf, commented, "Every golf fan wants to see the best players compete on golf's grandest stages at the majors. LIV Golf is committed to working alongside golf's governing bodies to elevate the sport globally."

John Bodenhamer, USGA chief championships officer, explained, "True to our tradition, we continuously assess the talent on professional tours and in amateur events, which has led us to introduce this new exemption category."

So far, no other major tournaments have granted a direct exemption tied to the LIV Golf points system.

While the US Masters and the PGA Championship have extended special exemptions to LIV golfers like Joaquin Niemann and Sergio Garcia, neither tournament has implemented LIV ranking-based exemptions.

Niemann and Garcia, who finished second and third, respectively, in the 2024 LIV standings behind Jon Rahm, have received special invitations for these majors. Rahm, already exempt for all of this year's majors due to his past victories, remains a prominent figure in the field.

Other LIV players, including Bryson DeChambeau, who won the 2024 US Open, and champions like Brooks Koepka, Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson, and Phil Mickelson, are also exempt based on their past major wins.

Meanwhile, the PGA Tour is engaged in ongoing discussions with LIV's backers, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), to resolve the ongoing rift in professional golf.

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Global AI Power Struggle Heats Up at Paris Summit

World leaders, tech moguls, and AI experts are converging in Paris for a high-stakes summit that could redefine the future of artificial intelligence. The Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, set in the historic Grand Palais, brings together representatives from 80 countries to discuss AI’s rapid advancements and its growing influence on global power dynamics.

While the official agenda focuses on AI’s opportunities and risks, an undercurrent of competition is driving the discussions. China’s DeepSeek, an ultra-efficient AI model, has shifted the balance of AI supremacy, challenging the long-standing dominance of U.S. tech giants like OpenAI and Google. DeepSeek’s emergence has made China a formidable player, raising the stakes for Western companies and governments.

A New AI Battleground

European leaders, led by French President Emmanuel Macron, see the summit as a turning point for AI leadership. A French official described the event as a "wake-up call," emphasizing that Europe must seize the AI revolution rather than be left behind.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making a rare appearance at the summit, underscoring the country’s ambitions in AI development. Meanwhile, the U.S. is sending heavyweights such as Vice President JD Vance, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and Google’s Sundar Pichai to reaffirm its leadership. However, the notable absence of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signals shifting priorities in the UK’s AI strategy.

China is expected to have a prominent presence, with senior official Ding Xuexiang—a close ally of President Xi Jinping—reportedly attending. Speculation is also swirling around whether DeepSeek’s creator, Liang Wenfeng, will make an appearance.

Rethinking AI’s Future

The summit marks a shift from previous AI gatherings. The first AI safety-focused summit in the UK, held at Bletchley Park in 2023, emphasized minimizing risks associated with AI. While safety remains a concern, this summit leans more toward global AI dominance and economic competition.

Experts like Prof. Geoffrey Hinton warn of AI’s existential risks, from misinformation to potential AI-controlled warfare. Others, such as Prof. Max Tegmark, argue that humanity is closer to developing powerful AI than figuring out how to control it. The question remains whether world leaders will unite to implement safeguards or whether the race for AI dominance will escalate unchecked.

As discussions unfold in Paris, one thing is clear—AI is no longer just about innovation; it’s a geopolitical force shaping the future of global power.

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Google Scales Back Diversity Hiring Initiatives Amid Policy Shift

Google has become the latest major U.S. corporation to step away from its diversity-focused hiring targets, marking a significant shift in its corporate strategy. The decision follows an internal review of company policies, signaling a broader reevaluation of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

The tech giant is reportedly reassessing various DEI programs in response to changing political and legal landscapes. A Google spokesperson reaffirmed the company's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace while acknowledging adjustments in its approach.

"As a federal contractor, we are reviewing necessary changes in light of recent court rulings and executive orders," the spokesperson stated.

A Broader Corporate Trend Google’s decision reflects a wider rollback of corporate diversity policies across several major firms, including Meta, Amazon, McDonald's, and Walmart. These shifts come amid growing political pressure and legal scrutiny surrounding DEI initiatives, particularly following recent actions by President Donald Trump’s administration to eliminate such programs from federal agencies.

Once a vocal proponent of DEI, Google had previously pledged to increase leadership representation from underrepresented groups by 30% over five years. The company has reported progress in diversifying its leadership ranks, nearly doubling the proportion of Black executives since 2020 while also increasing the representation of women and Latino leaders.

However, its latest investor report, published this week, omits previous language emphasizing DEI as a core corporate priority. The move aligns with similar adjustments made by other major companies facing legal and political challenges to their diversity programs.

DEI Under Fire The pushback against DEI policies has intensified in corporate America. Last month, Apple took a different stance, urging shareholders to reject a proposal from a conservative advocacy group seeking to dismantle the company’s diversity programs.

Meanwhile, Target recently faced a shareholder lawsuit alleging the company misled investors about potential financial risks linked to its DEI policies. The legal action follows a backlash over LGBTQ+ merchandise in 2023, which led to declining sales and stock value.

The Trump administration has also been vocal in its opposition to diversity programs. Last week, the president speculated—without evidence—that DEI policies may have contributed to an air crash in Washington, D.C., reinforcing his administration’s broader efforts to roll back such initiatives.

As companies navigate this shifting landscape, Google's latest move signals a potential recalibration of corporate diversity strategies in response to mounting legal and political pressures.

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Trump's Real Estate Vision Clashes with His 'America First' Agenda

When a real estate mogul becomes president, it’s no surprise that his foreign policy takes on a developer’s mindset. Donald Trump’s latest proposal exemplifies this approach—an audacious plan to transform war-ravaged Gaza into a luxurious global tourist destination, branding it the "Riviera of the Middle East."

This idea, as radical as it sounds, raises a question that has followed Trump since he entered the political arena: Should his vision for Gaza be taken literally, seriously, both, or neither?

A Controversial Plan with Global Backlash Trump’s proposal suggests U.S. "ownership" of Gaza, coupled with relocating over two million Palestinians. The response has been swift and fierce. Palestinians have vehemently rejected the idea, and Arab nations—who would play a crucial role in any such resettlement—have dismissed it outright. International critics, including American lawmakers, have condemned the plan as impractical and offensive.

"Turning a war zone into a Trump resort isn’t diplomacy; it’s an insult," stated Democratic Congressman Troy Carter. Even within Trump's own party, some Republicans have expressed skepticism.

Senator Lindsey Graham, usually a staunch Trump ally, voiced concerns over deploying U.S. forces in Gaza. "Most South Carolinians wouldn’t be thrilled about sending American troops to take over Gaza," he remarked. Senator Rand Paul was even more direct, posting on social media, "America First means no new occupations."

The Contradictions of Trump’s Foreign Policy Trump’s plan for Gaza represents an apparent contradiction in his foreign policy approach. While he has pushed for reducing U.S. involvement overseas—cutting foreign aid and focusing on domestic priorities—his rhetoric has hinted at expansionist ambitions.

His interest in acquiring Greenland remains strong, with administration insiders confirming his seriousness. His previous comments about making Canada the "51st state" and reclaiming the Panama Canal have moved beyond offhand jokes. Now, his Gaza proposal marks another shift from his longstanding opposition to U.S.-led nation-building efforts, such as the Iraq War.

A Pattern of Viewing Foreign Policy as a Business Venture This isn’t the first time Trump has framed global conflicts as business opportunities. During his meetings with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in 2018, he spoke about the country’s "great beaches," envisioning high-end hotels lining the coast. While those ambitions never materialized, his Gaza proposal follows the same pattern.

Trump has also been vocal about Gaza’s economic potential for years. During his 2024 campaign, he suggested the region could be "better than Monaco" if Palestinians had taken advantage of their "prime location in the Middle East." Shortly after taking office, he told reporters that Gaza needed to be "cleaned out" and its people resettled.

Potential Consequences for Middle East Stability While some might see Trump’s unconventional strategy as an attempt to push Middle Eastern nations toward finding their own solutions, the risks are significant. His comments could jeopardize the fragile Israeli-Hamas ceasefire, alienate Arab states that previously engaged in diplomatic talks under the Abraham Accords, and embolden Israeli hard-liners to expand settlements.

Given Trump’s history, there’s also no guarantee that he will follow through with this idea. His attention could shift overnight—from trade battles with Canada to development ventures in Greenland or elsewhere. If history is any indication, his Gaza vision may end up as another unrealized business pitch rather than a serious policy initiative.

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U.S. Backs New U.N. Security Council Seats for Africa and Small Island States

The United States is set to endorse two permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council for African nations and a rotating seat for small island developing states, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield, will announce on Thursday.

This initiative marks a strategic effort by the U.S. to mend relations with African countries, who have expressed discontent over Washington's stance on the Gaza conflict, and to strengthen ties with Pacific Island nations crucial for countering China's influence.

Thomas-Greenfield aims to advance this proposal as part of President Joe Biden's legacy, hoping it will pave the way for broader Security Council reforms. The U.S. has also long advocated for permanent seats for India, Japan, and Germany.

Calls for permanent seats on the Security Council have been ongoing, with developing nations seeking greater representation in the UN's most powerful body. However, past reform efforts have been largely unsuccessful, and it remains uncertain if U.S. support will spur significant action.

Ahead of the announcement at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, Thomas-Greenfield emphasized that the U.S. does not support expanding the veto power beyond the current five permanent members: Russia, China, France, the U.S., and Britain.

The Security Council, tasked with maintaining international peace and security, has 15 members, including 10 elected states and the five permanent veto-wielding nations. Since its expansion in 1965, discussions about further reform have been ongoing, with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres supporting changes to address legitimacy and effectiveness issues.

Reforming the Security Council requires amending the U.N. Charter, a process that demands approval from two-thirds of the General Assembly, including the Security Council's permanent members.

The U.S. plans to propose negotiations on a draft resolution to amend the U.N. Charter, a move Thomas-Greenfield acknowledges may take considerable time.

Currently, Africa holds three nonpermanent seats on the Security Council, which Thomas-Greenfield argues limits the continent's ability to fully contribute to the council's work. She also supports a rotating seat for small island developing states to highlight critical issues such as climate change.

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missed opportunity" and noting that Trump failed to stay focused and missed chances to highlight his achievements.

Chris Christie, a former Trump ally who is now a critic and ran against Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, described Harris as "exquisitely" prepared and criticized Trump for being unprepared. Christie, who had helped Trump with debate preparation in 2016, said Trump did not perform well.

The Trump campaign has not yet commented on whether there will be any changes to his debate team.

With the election just eight weeks away and early voting set to begin soon, the debate provided a significant opportunity to engage with millions of viewers. Nielsen data shows that the debate attracted 67.1 million TV viewers, surpassing the 51 million who watched Trump debate then-candidate Joe Biden in June. This figure does not include online viewership, which continues to grow.

Several Republican donors and advisers, speaking anonymously, expressed disappointment with Trump’s performance, noting his difficulty in staying on message and his controversial remarks about Haitian immigrants.

In response to her debate performance, Harris' campaign has challenged Trump to a second debate in October. Opinions among donors vary, with some unsure about the benefit of another debate and others believing that a second debate could help Trump regain momentum.

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Paddling Through NYC’s Past: Kayaking the Waters That Shaped the City

As New York City celebrates its 400th anniversary, a unique way to explore its remarkable evolution is by kayaking the rivers that helped build it.

Near Inwood Hill Park, the last vestige of Manhattan’s original forests, the city's usual din fades away, replaced by the serene sounds of nature. Paddling along, I marveled at the gnarled tree roots and ancient boulders left by the Ice Age, and watched a great blue heron land gracefully on a sandy cove—perhaps a scene that early inhabitants of the island might have recognized.

This year marks four centuries since the Dutch founded New Amsterdam, which would grow into one of the world’s most iconic cities. As New Yorkers reflect on this milestone, the challenge has been balancing celebration with recognition of the city’s complex history.

Russell Shorto, author of The Island at the Center of the World, notes that this Dutch settlement was the birthplace of “the world’s first modern city,” characterized by pluralism and capitalism. “Manhattan is where America began,” Shorto asserts, highlighting its role in shaping the nation’s ethos of diversity and opportunity. Yet, the Dutch also contributed to the displacement of Native peoples and the importation of enslaved Africans, adding layers of complexity to the city’s legacy.

In light of this, the city's quadricentennial events are designed to acknowledge both its achievements and its darker chapters. “We are viewing this anniversary more as a commemoration than a celebration,” said Sarah Cooney of the Holland Society of New York. A picnic on Governors Island, where the Dutch first landed in 1624, will mark the occasion.

Manhattan’s development from a fur trading post to a global metropolis is deeply intertwined with its waterways. “The entire city is about the water,” says Captain Jonathan Boulware of the South Street Seaport Museum. The harbor's natural advantages—its depth, its wide expanse, and its connectivity—were crucial in transforming New York into a major commercial hub.

When Henry Hudson explored the region in 1609, he uncovered a natural harbor that would become a gateway for trade and growth. The Dutch quickly recognized its potential and established a thriving trade center, which later evolved into the bustling, multi-ethnic city we know today.

As Manhattan expanded, its original landscape was dramatically reshaped. The 1811 grid plan leveled hills and filled marshes, paving the way for modern development. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, linked New York City to the Midwest, cementing its status as a key player in global trade and immigration.

Today, as I kayak around Manhattan, the city’s deep connection to its waterways is both a reflection of its past and a guide for its future. This journey through the city’s rivers serves as a poignant reminder of how Manhattan's natural environment played a critical role in shaping its history and identity.

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McLaren Shifts Focus to Boost Norris’ Title Chances Over Piastri

McLaren has decided to prioritize Lando Norris over his teammate Oscar Piastri in their bid to secure both Formula 1 world championships this season. Team principal Andrea Stella emphasized that this shift in strategy would be implemented while maintaining the team's principles of fairness and sportsmanship.

Stella told BBC Sport, "Our goal is to win, but we want to achieve it in a manner that upholds our values. We are determined to support Lando, but it will be done within the framework of fairness."

As the Azerbaijan Grand Prix approaches, Norris trails Red Bull's Max Verstappen by 62 points in the drivers' championship, with a total of 232 points still up for grabs. Piastri, currently in fourth place, is 86 points behind Verstappen.

Stella explained, "We will favor Lando but without compromising our principles. Our primary concern is team interest, and we want to ensure fairness to both drivers."

Previously, McLaren allowed Norris and Piastri to race each other without team interference. However, recent developments, including the Italian Grand Prix in Monza where Piastri's early overtaking led to a detrimental outcome for the team, prompted a reassessment of this approach.

"We need to prevent situations like Monza where we lose out despite starting in a strong position. After Monza, we focused on three objectives: ensuring team interests are safeguarded, striving to win both championships, and maintaining responsible racing strategies," Stella added.

Despite Verstappen's dominance earlier in the season, with seven victories to his name, he has not won a race since the Spanish Grand Prix in June. Red Bull is struggling to understand why their performance has dipped.

Both McLaren drivers have reportedly been receptive to the new strategy. Stella noted, "The discussions have been collaborative. Even when I asked Oscar if he would sacrifice a victory for the team's benefit, he agreed, showing impressive team spirit and maturity."

Stella refrained from detailing specific tactics but confirmed that decisions would be made on a case-by-case basis. He also stressed that Norris is supportive of fair competition and is comfortable with occasional support from his teammate if it aligns with team principles.

In addition to focusing on the drivers' championship, McLaren is also eyeing the constructors' title. They are just eight points behind Red Bull and could potentially take the lead this weekend. Ferrari trails McLaren by 31 points.

Stella concluded, "While we are focusing on the drivers' championship, we must not lose sight of the fact that the constructors' title is also a key objective."

This shift in McLaren's strategy is distinct from the informal "papaya rules," which refer to maintaining respectful and non-risky racing between the two McLaren drivers.

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American Cyclist Sets New Record as Fastest Woman to Bike Around the World

Lael Wilcox, an American ultra-endurance cyclist, has set a new world record for the fastest time to bike around the globe. The 38-year-old from Alaska completed her journey in 108 days, 12 hours, and 12 minutes, covering a distance of 29,169 km (18,125 miles). Wilcox’s route began and ended in Chicago, surpassing the previous record of 124 days, 11 hours set by Scottish cyclist Jenny Graham in 2018.

Wilcox embarked on her epic ride on May 28, crossing 21 countries across four continents before returning to Chicago around 21:00 local time on Wednesday (02:00 GMT). During her journey, she cycled up to 14 hours daily and will now have her achievement verified for the Guinness Book of World Records.

Ultra-endurance cyclists like Wilcox are known to burn between 6,000 and 10,000 calories per day. Anne-Marije Rook, North America editor at Cycling Weekly, praised Wilcox’s physical stamina and mental resilience: "It's a tremendous effort to sustain such extreme exertion day in and day out for 108 days straight."

Wilcox, a trailblazer in endurance cycling, previously became the first female rider to win the TransAm Bike Race, a 4,000-mile trek across the US, and has set records in the Tour Divide, which traverses the American continental divide along the Rockies.

The Guinness World Records’ criteria for this "world ride" require that riders start and end in the same location, maintaining a single direction of travel. The total journey, including flights, ferries, and public transit, must cover a distance equivalent to the Earth's equator—40,000 km—with the bike segment exceeding 28,970 km.

Wilcox’s route took her from Chicago to New York, then across the Atlantic to Portugal. From there, she traveled through Amsterdam, Germany, the Alps, the Balkans, and Turkey, before flying to Australia. She cycled from Perth to Brisbane, flew to New Zealand to complete both islands, and finally returned to her hometown of Anchorage. Her journey continued along the Pacific coast to Los Angeles before finishing with a ride along Route 66 back to Chicago.

Jenny Graham, the previous record-holder, expressed her support for Wilcox: "It's incredible to see women pushing the limits of their sport. I'm a huge fan."

Rook highlighted the significance of Wilcox's and Graham’s achievements: "Their efforts are not only pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in cycling but also challenging the limits set for female athletes."

Wilcox documented her adventure through social media videos and a daily podcast with her filmmaker wife, Rugile Kaladyte. However, her record may soon face competition from Vedangi Kulkarni, a 25-year-old Indian ultra-cyclist who is currently about 7,700 km into her own attempt to complete the ride within 110 days.

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Singapore Prepares for Pope Francis's Historic Visit with Hymns, Volunteers, and Security Measures

Singapore is bustling with activity as it prepares to host Pope Francis, who will celebrate Mass at the National Stadium on Thursday evening. The venue, known for hosting global stars like Taylor Swift and Madonna, is now gearing up to welcome the Pope as part of his 12-day Asia-Pacific tour.

The 87-year-old pontiff's visit to Singapore is significant, given that less than 10% of the nation's 400,000 population identify as Catholic. His trip marks the culmination of his tour, which included stops in Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and Papua New Guinea—the latter being the farthest he has traveled to meet with followers.

Arriving in Singapore on Wednesday afternoon, Pope Francis’s three-day visit includes meetings with government officials, religious leaders, and students. This trip represents the longest foreign visit of his papacy, and, considering his recent health struggles, many volunteers and organizers view it as a remarkable feat.

Karen Cheah, a volunteer, expressed the excitement and dedication of the 5,000-strong team preparing for the visit. "Since we were told he was coming, we’ve been praying," she said. "The reality hit once he was on his way: we are next."

The stadium is undergoing a transformation ahead of the Mass. Workers are laying down rubber flooring and arranging rows of chairs, while the choir rehearses hymns in preparation. Security volunteers, who have undergone extensive training, are working closely with police to ensure safety, especially in light of recent threats, including a foiled plot in Indonesia targeting the Pope.

The Pope’s tour has touched on various global issues, from advocating for fair treatment of workers in Papua New Guinea to promoting peace and inter-religious dialogue in Jakarta. His comments on family sizes in Indonesia and protection for young people in Timor-Leste have sparked discussions and reactions.

Monsignor Stephen Yim, co-chair of the organizing committee, emphasized the importance of the visit. "The Pope is not only conveying a message but is also the message itself," he said.

This visit is Singapore's second papal visit, the first being Pope John Paul II’s brief stop in 1986. As excitement builds, demand for seats at the Mass has been high, with many unable to secure a spot. The visit has also resonated beyond the Catholic community, reflecting a broader appreciation for the Pope’s message of unity and peace.

For attendees like Stephanie Yuen and Sherilyn Choo, the opportunity to see the Pope in person is a profound spiritual experience. Meanwhile, local carpenter Govindharaj Muthiah, who crafted special chairs for the Pope, finds the visit a symbol of global unity.

As the day approaches, the anticipation and preparations continue, underscoring the significance of Pope Francis’s visit to Singapore.

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Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori Dies at 86

Alberto Fujimori, former President of Peru, has passed away at the age of 86, according to his daughter. Fujimori, who led Peru from 1990 to 2000, was known for his controversial presidency marked by significant human rights abuses and corruption.

Fujimori’s tenure was marked by his aggressive stance against the left-wing guerrilla movement, which earned him both praise and criticism. While his supporters credit him with defeating insurgents and stabilizing the economy, his administration was also accused of severe human rights violations, including the use of death squads.

Fujimori’s political career ended in scandal, leading to his resignation amid corruption allegations. After fleeing Peru, he was arrested, extradited, and subsequently convicted of multiple charges, including corruption and human rights abuses. He served over 15 years of a 25-year prison sentence before his release in December due to a reinstated presidential pardon.

His daughter, Keiko Fujimori, announced his death on social media, stating he had been battling tongue cancer. Dr. Jose Carlos Gutierrez confirmed Fujimori’s death was due to complications related to his cancer treatment.

Fujimori's legacy remains deeply divided. Supporters view him as a savior who stabilized Peru, while critics see him as a dictator who presided over a regime responsible for numerous atrocities. His daughter Keiko, currently a prominent political figure in Peru, has indicated plans to run for president again in 2026.

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Harris and Trump Set for High-Stakes Debate as 2024 Election Heats Up

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are set to face off in their first—and potentially only—televised debate on Tuesday, September 10, a critical moment in the 2024 US presidential race. As millions of voters prepare to tune in, the debate could significantly impact the tight race, with both candidates closely matched in the polls.

For Harris, 59, the debate represents a crucial opportunity to introduce herself to voters and strengthen her position after her sudden shift to the Democratic candidate role in July, replacing President Joe Biden. Trump, 78, will aim to challenge Harris on key issues like the economy and immigration, while potentially continuing his pattern of controversial remarks.

The debate will be held in Pennsylvania, hosted by ABC News, marking the first time Harris and Trump meet in person. The format includes muted microphones when not speaking, a Trump team request designed to minimize interruptions.

Harris, the first female, Black, and South Asian vice president, has been preparing intensively, while Trump, known for his debate prowess, has taken a more relaxed approach. The debate is expected to highlight contrasting styles: Harris’s sharp, measured responses versus Trump’s aggressive rhetoric.

With recent polls showing Trump narrowly leading by 48% to 47% in key battleground states, Harris faces pressure to clarify her policy positions. Trump’s team suggests that debating him is akin to facing a top-tier boxer, adding to the debate’s high stakes.

The outcome could be pivotal as Harris seeks to solidify her campaign and Trump aims to leverage his debate experience to sway undecided voters.