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Tag: Takes
Mace Takes to House Floor With Charges of Rape and Sexual Predation
Representative Nancy Mace, the South Carolina Republican who in recent weeks has floated a run for governor, on Monday night accused her former fiancé and three other men of having drugged and raped her and other women, and of filming and taking lewd photographs of women and underage girls without their consent.
In a stunningly graphic speech on the House floor that had little precedent, Ms. Mace said the men, whom she named and displayed photographs of on a placard where lawmakers more typically display charts and graphs on policy issues, were involved in the “premeditated, calculated exploitation of innocent women and girls in my district.”
“You’ve booked yourself a one-way ticket to hell,” she said, referring to the men directly at one point in a speech that lasted close to an hour. “It is nonstop. There are no connections. So I and all of your victims can watch you rot into eternity.”
On the floor of the House, Ms. Mace was protected by the speech and debate clause, even as she accused the men of repeatedly assaulting incapacitated women and filming it. She offered no evidence to support the accusations, although she said she had plenty of such material.
She refused to answer any follow-up questions from reporters outside the Capitol on Monday night and did not respond to a separate request to provide corroboration. The New York Times has not independently verified any of the allegations.
In a statement not long after Ms. Mace finished speaking, Patrick Bryant, the former fiancé whom she accused by name, denied her account.
“I categorically deny these allegations.,” he said. “I take this matter seriously and will cooperate fully with any necessary legal processes to clear my name.”
Ms. Mace has long made her personal trauma part of her political brand. In the past, she has shared the story of being molested at a swimming pool when she was 14 and said that for years she blamed herself, because she had been wearing a two-piece bathing suit. She said she was raped when she was 16, leading her to drop out of high school, before pulling herself out of a downward spiral and becoming the first woman to graduate from the military college the Citadel.
Ms. Mace has tried to position herself as the ultimate defender of women’s rights, even as she has expressed unequivocal support for President Trump, who has been found liable for sexual abuse, and a cabinet member who has been dogged by an accusation of sexual assault that he has denied. In recent weeks, Ms. Mace has made a campaign out of her measure to bar transgender individuals from using women’s restrooms and changing rooms in the Capitol complex.
A onetime moderate who has made a full-bore turn to Trumpism as she has tried to game out her own political future in a tribal party, Ms. Mace has been vocal in recent weeks about her interest in running for governor in her state.
So has Alan Wilson, the South Carolina attorney general, whom she targeted in her speech on Monday as a “do-nothing attorney general” and accused of treating women who came forward like criminals.
“During the last year, as I turned everything over to law enforcement, I was told I, as a victim, would be investigated,” she said.
A spokeswoman for Mr. Wilson, Jaqueline Lane, said that Ms. Mace’s statements regarding the conduct of the attorney general were “categorically false.”
“At this time, our office has not received any reports or requests for assistance from any law enforcement or prosecution agencies regarding these matters,” said Ms. Lane, who added that neither Mr. Wilson nor anyone in his office had heard of Ms. Mace’s allegations until she spoke out on Monday night.
She said that while Ms. Mace and Mr. Wilson had been at multiple events together over the last six months and the congresswoman had the attorney general’s cellphone number, “not once has she approached or reached out to him regarding any of her concerns.”
On the House floor, Ms. Mace said that on her last night with her former fiancé, he “physically assaulted me,” leaving a permanent mark on her body. Before that, she said, she had found about a dozen compromising photos of underage girls on his phone, as well as more than 10,000 videos documenting assaults of other women who appeared to be incapacitated at the time, and graphic images of women that appeared to have been recorded surreptitiously.
She was shocked, she said, to zoom in on one of the videos and discover that she was one of the women who had been filmed nude, without her consent.
Ms. Mace gave her speech in a mostly empty chamber after House votes. But three female Republican lawmakers, Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Anna Paulina Luna of Florida and Victoria Spartz of Indiana, sat behind her in solidarity.
In a shocking turn of events, Representative Mace took to the House floor today to deliver a powerful speech accusing several members of Congress of rape and sexual predation. With a trembling voice and tears in her eyes, Mace detailed the harrowing experiences of victims who had come forward to share their stories with her.She called for a full investigation into the allegations and urged her colleagues to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Mace emphasized the importance of creating a safe and respectful work environment for all members of Congress and their staff.
The room fell silent as Mace concluded her speech, leaving a palpable sense of unease and anger in the air. The gravity of her accusations reverberated throughout the Capitol, sparking a national conversation about the pervasive culture of abuse and harassment in politics.
As the dust settles and the fallout from Mace’s speech continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the fight against sexual misconduct in the halls of power is far from over. It is up to all of us to stand up, speak out, and demand justice for the victims of these heinous crimes.
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#Mace #Takes #House #Floor #Charges #Rape #Sexual #Predation
Rob Gronkowski takes NFL officials to task over alleged Chiefs favoritism
Surely, referees in the National Football League don’t actually favor the Kansas City Chiefs, do they?
Well, Rob Gronkowski has the mind of the NFL fan and thinks that something is up.
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The Chiefs are in their third consecutive Super Bowl, and it’s fair to say they got some benefit from the officiating in the AFC title game against the Buffalo Bills.
Rob Gronkowski (Jim Rogash/Getty Images/File)
A pivotal 4th-and-1 rush by Bills quarterback Josh Allen was ruled short (it could be argued the Bills crossed the marker on third down). The Chiefs responded by scoring a touchdown on the next drive. And while the Bills did tie it up, the field was clearly tilted afterward.
This version of the Chiefs is being talked about like Gronk’s New England Patriots used to be talked about: favoritism from the refs but still difficult to beat. Gronk joked in a recent interview with Fox News Digital that even his quarterback Tom Brady got the favor of the whistle.
“It was Tom, but he deserved it at the time. He was an 18-year vet, and he took his punishment as a young buck during his first eight years in the league. Oh my lord, he used to get lit up. It was understandable he got calls,” Gronk said.
And perhaps the Chiefs have gotten that same benefit, Gronkowski added, saying the refs are “definitely … more lenient” toward the Chiefs.
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“It’s been shown throughout the regular season and extending into the playoffs,” Gronk quipped.
He later added, “I just feel like there’s something, like, maybe give them an extra call or two. Don’t make it too obvious, but make it a little obvious.”
Referee Carl Cheffers speaks to Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes during a break in the third quarter against the Houston Texans on Dec. 21, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (David Eulitt/Getty Images)
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Gronkowski will get to see firsthand how much the refs actually favor the Chiefs, if at all, as he’ll be in New Orleans on behalf of Bounty to clean up the mess that comes with dirty eating during Super Bowl Sunday.
“You can’t have football without wings, there’s no doubt about that. But you can’t have wings without Bounty,” Gronk said ahead of his trip to Bourbon Street, where there will be food aplenty.
His wingman, Saints legend Drew Brees, will try to show him the best wings in town, but he doesn’t think anything will beat his hometown Buffalo wings, similar to the Chiefs.
Gronkowski added that even though the Chiefs may have some help from the zebras, it’s “no excuse” for the Bills or anyone to fall short when they have their chances.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes talks to referee Clete Blakeman prior to the AFC Championship against the Buffalo Bills on Jan. 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)
“You have opportunities to beat them, you got to overcome all situations, and the Buffalo Bills need to make championship plays in championship moments, and they didn’t come through. You got to make plays in order to beat the Chiefs, and you can’t blame it on the refs,” Gronk continued.
“It doesn’t matter, you still got to beat the Chiefs, and you still got to come through with big plays at the end of the game in order to beat them, and no team has done that yet.”
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Gronk won four Super Bowls in his career, but with a Kansas City win on Feb. 9, this era of Chiefs will have matched him.
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Rob Gronkowski, former NFL tight end and current analyst, is not holding back when it comes to his thoughts on the officiating in the NFL. In a recent interview, Gronkowski took aim at the league’s officials, accusing them of showing favoritism towards the Kansas City Chiefs.Gronkowski pointed to several instances during the Chiefs’ recent games where he felt the officiating was biased in their favor. He cited missed calls, questionable penalties, and overall inconsistency in the way the game was being officiated.
“It’s clear to me that the officials have a bias towards the Chiefs,” Gronkowski said. “I’ve seen too many calls go their way, too many missed calls against them. It’s not fair to the other teams in the league who are playing by the rules and not getting the same treatment.”
Gronkowski’s comments have sparked a debate among fans and analysts alike, with some agreeing with his assessment and others dismissing it as sour grapes. Regardless, it’s clear that Gronkowski is not afraid to speak his mind when it comes to the integrity of the game.
As the NFL continues to address concerns about officiating and fairness, Gronkowski’s comments serve as a reminder that even former players are paying close attention to how the game is being officiated. Only time will tell if the league takes any action in response to Gronkowski’s accusations.
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- Rob Gronkowski
- NFL officials
- Chiefs favoritism
- NFL controversy
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- NFL officiating
- Chiefs bias
- Gronkowski comments
- NFL rules
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#Rob #Gronkowski #takes #NFL #officials #task #alleged #Chiefs #favoritism
Simone Biles ‘Obsessed’ With Baby Biles While Jonathan Owens Takes New Role To Help Make Her Gymnastics Competition a Success
Last year before the Olympics Simone Biles shared a photo of her niece Ronni dressed in a replica of her aunt’s black leotard from the 2023 Xfinity Gymnastics Championships. The Olympic champion introduced her as the “WCC’s newest elite team member,” and since then the aptly named Baby Biles has become somewhat of a regular at the World Champions Centre as she looks to follow in the footsteps of the GOAT.
Last October, we saw a video of her jumping around enthusiastically, climbing mats, and balancing herself on the trampoline, at Biles’ family-owned gym in Spring, Texas. Previously at the center, she has been spotted wearing a GK leotard as she tried to ace a floor routine like her TT. During the Paris Olympics, Ronni also wore an adorable mini-version of Biles’ red, white, and blue leotard, adorned with silver stars.
So, it is no surprise as the Simone Biles Invitational returned to the World Championships Center this season, Ronni was once again with her gymnast aunt, this time in another cute outfit.
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After wrapping up a successful Paris Olympics, the Gold Over America Tour, and supporting her husband Jonathan Owens’ NFL season, Simone Biles has finally come down home, to Houston, for a generous stretch. But, she’s still not retreated into rest mode. Instead, she’s making the most of her time, and her latest actions prove it. After all, she has multiple things in the pipeline like finalizing details on her new house and, of course, hosting the 8th annual Simone Biles Invitational.
Ronnie was present at the Biles Invitational in a World Championship Center-themed tracksuit and her aunt couldn’t stop but gush over her cuteness. Taking to Instagram, she shared a story of the toddler looking at her and added the caption, “Miss girl is soooo cute. ms. ronni biles.” In another story, she also swooned over the fact that “baby sized stuff just looks so much cuter! I’m obsessed.”
Baby Biles seems to follow her aunt wherever she goes, cheering her on from Paris to her homecoming in Houston for the Gold Over America Tour. Hoisted on her mother’s shoulders she yelled “TT go, TT go,” as they made their way to the Toyota Center last October during the Tour. But it’s her early adventures on the mat that have turned a lot of heads.
Last year, the two-year-old was captured in a video by her mother Sammi Biles, as she played around at the facility donning a mini Team USA leotard and a red bow. She made it across different stages from the mat to jumping onto the foam pit cubes, all by herself, drawing encouragement from her mother who said, “See you did it, good job!” Meanwhile, Simone Biles also shared a glimpse of the supporters from her family who had turned up to volunteer at the Invitational which was scheduled from January 31 to February 2.
She shared a small snippet on her IG Story of a row of people including her husband, Jonathan Owens, seated and volunteering at the meet. And guess what? All of her tribe members were donning custom-made Simone Biles Invitational t-shirts. No wonder she captioned the story, “family that volunteers your competition [cry & heart emoji].”
Well, this hardly surprises us as we’ve seen Owens being Simone Biles’ rock all through. From flying to Paris to boost her morale at the Olympics and to surprising her in a Milwaukee hotel during the GOAT Tour, Owens hasn’t been shy in showing his love for Biles.
While Biles cherishes moments with baby Biles, Ronnie, she confirmed plans of having kids of her own in the future. Talking on the Today Show after the Paris Olympics she mentioned, “Me and Jonathan always talk about kids. He would have them, like, yesterday if he could have. Obviously, we both have goals that we want to achieve before we start a family. But yes, that’s definitely in our future.”
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Well, motherhood can still be some time away for Biles, but she continues to be an inspiration to the young generation. Recently, a 3-year-old toddler pleasantly surprised Simone Biles in another adorable interaction.
Simone Biles’ new fan is adorable
On the first day of the meet, Biles shared an adorable clip of her 3-year-old fan, Sloan, who was dialing Biles on her toy phone. She was saying, “I have a balance beam for Christmas, Sibone Miles. What? You’ve a balance beam for Christmas. Awww..” The little one looked absolutely obsessed with Biles!
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The veteran gymnast even met the toddler and shared the story on her IG.”“My heart [emoji] I got to meet sweet Sloan today!!!! she did her sassy [emoji] pose w/me! so adorable! DAY MADE,” she wrote.
We are sure there will be many such moments to come and more with Ronnie Biles as well. Simone Biles has inspired a legion of young fans and it looks like their love for her isn’t going away anytime soon.
Simone Biles, the Olympic gold medalist gymnast, has recently revealed that she is “obsessed” with her new puppy, Baby Biles. The adorable furry friend has quickly become a beloved member of Biles’ family and has been stealing the spotlight on social media.But while Baby Biles may be getting all the attention, Biles is still focused on her gymnastics career and is working hard to prepare for her upcoming competitions. To help her succeed, her boyfriend Jonathan Owens, who is a professional football player, has taken on a new role in supporting her training and competition preparations.
Owens has been by Biles’ side every step of the way, offering encouragement, motivation, and assistance in any way he can. Biles has expressed her gratitude for his unwavering support and dedication to helping her achieve her goals in gymnastics.
With Baby Biles providing some much-needed joy and positivity in her life, and Owens stepping up to help make her gymnastics competition a success, Biles is feeling more motivated and determined than ever to continue making her mark in the world of gymnastics.
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- Simone Biles
- Jonathan Owens
- Baby Biles
- Gymnastics competition
- Teamwork
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- Dedication
#Simone #Biles #Obsessed #Baby #Biles #Jonathan #Owens #Takes #Role #Gymnastics #Competition #Success
Thunder’s Chet Holmgren takes significant leap in injury recovery process
As the Oklahoma City Thunder gear up for their four-game homestand, starting against the Sacramento Kings, injured forward Chet Holmgren is making significant progress in his recovery from a pelvic injury.
After a brief two-game road trip, topped by a 116-109 Thunder loss to the Golden State Warriors, Holmgren joined Oklahoma City during a team shootaround ahead of Saturday’s matchup.
Holmgren was seen running up and down the floor with his teammates, and in one video clip, threw down a dunk, per the Thunder Wire’s Clemente Almanza.
There’s no word if Holmgren is ahead of schedule, but he is slated to make his return either before the All-Star break or after the 2025 All-Star Game, which is when he’s most likely to be back in uniform. This is the second significant step in his recovery process. Holmgren made his first big step earlier this month, joining Oklahoma City amid its 15-game win streak in January.
Thunder’s Chet Holmgren made his last appearance in a 127-116 loss against the Warriors, where he suffered the injury. Chet has played in only 10 games this season while averaging 16.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, and 2.0 assists in 2024-25. The Thunder will host the Kings without All-Star Jalen Williams (right sprained wrist) on Saturday.
Jalen Williams’ ‘blessed’ take for himself, Thunder
Related Oklahoma City Thunder NewsArticle continues below
Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images Thunder forward Jalen Williams has evolved into an All-Star, a well-deserved honor for the 23-year-old forward who’s only strived to improve his game every season.
“Expectations are good. I think the inverse of that is nobody expects anything from you. Then, that kind of sucks,” Williams said. “So I take that as a blessing. I’m not really worried about what other people expect from me. I have a lot of the perspective. I know I’m in my third year. So it’s one of those things I’m constantly searching how to get better.”
It’s an approach that’s led to vast growth for Williams and the Thunder.
“I always say in our exit meeting, above everything else, I want to look back on the year and think about how much better did I get each game and how much better I get throughout the year,” Williams added. “So I think I do a good job of keeping perspective of it. I don’t really care about a lot of the outside noise that’s going on.”
Without Williams, the Thunder will begin their four-game homestand against the Kings at the Paycom Center.
Chet Holmgren, the highly touted center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has taken a significant leap in his recovery process from a recent injury.Holmgren, who suffered a setback earlier in the season, has been putting in long hours of rehab and working tirelessly to get back to full strength. His dedication and determination have paid off, as he has made significant progress in his recovery.
The Thunder organization is thrilled with Holmgren’s progress and is excited to see him back on the court in the near future. Holmgren’s unique skill set and versatility make him a valuable asset to the team, and his return will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the Thunder’s performance.
Fans are eagerly anticipating Holmgren’s comeback and are looking forward to seeing him back in action. With his work ethic and determination, there’s no doubt that he will come back stronger than ever and make a significant impact for the Thunder. Stay tuned for updates on Holmgren’s recovery process and return to the court.
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#Thunders #Chet #Holmgren #takes #significant #leap #injury #recovery #process
Ongoing transfer saga takes another twist as Wolves now in ‘pole position’ for centre-back after talks elsewhere break down
Wolves are braced for a busy end to the January transfer window. The Old Gold still want to make more signings and could be close to securing one of their longest targets.
Plunged into the relegation zone after losing at home to Arsenal last weekend, Vitor Pereira is very much up against it as he looks to retain the side’s top-flight status.
There are no easy fixtures in the Premier League so having a wealth of options is important. Unfortunately, Wolves aren’t blessed with quality in depth, so new signings are needed before next week’s transfer Deadline Day.
Pereira has already confirmed he wants a new centre-back and midfielder. Consequently, Wolves have made an offer to sign Soungoutou Magassa from Monaco and remain in discussions for a defender.
Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images Kevin Danso to Wolves back on
Despite wanting to sign Kevin Danso from RC Lens for most of the window, Wolves have yet to get a deal across the line.
The Old Gold looked to be well out of the chase for the Austrian after other clubs entered the mix. Both Aston Villa and Juventus have expressed an interest in signing Danso.
However, even though Danso has been in talks to join Juventus, according to Sebastien Denis, those negotiations have now broken down.
negos rompus avec la Juve pour Kevin Danso
Wolverhampton repasse en pôle pour récupérer le joueur en prêt
l’objectif pour Danso est de s’exposer en Premier League pendant quelques mois, ce qui peut être parfait aussi bien pour le joueur que pour le RC Lens… https://t.co/wDFzXMySwm pic.twitter.com/pqNR0TjsLQ
— Sébastien Denis (@sebnonda) February 1, 2025
Although there is clearly still a lot of work to be done before an agreement can be reached, Wolves are once again viewed as the team in ‘pole position’ to secure the 26-year-old’s signature.
Loan likeliest option
Working out Danso’s immediate future is top priority for RC Lens, who understandably don’t want the saga dragging for much longer.
While all options remain open, Danso leaving France on a six-month loan before moving on a permanent in the summer is the likeliest outcome.
If Wolves can sign the 26-year-old, Pereira’s chances of surviving the drop will be significantly boosted.
Not only that but at the end of the season, should the Old Gold overcome the threat of relegation, they’ll be in a much better position to negotiate Danso’s permanent transfer.
During his four years at RC Lens, the centre-back, who has two-and-a-half years left on his contract, has directly contributed to 10 goals in 128 games in all competitions.
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The transfer saga surrounding the future of a highly sought-after centre-back has taken another unexpected twist, with Wolves now reportedly in “pole position” to secure his signature.After talks with other clubs broke down, it seems that the Premier League side has emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign the talented defender. The player’s future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks, with a number of top clubs expressing interest in acquiring his services.
Despite initial reports suggesting that a deal with another club was imminent, it now looks like Wolves have stolen a march on their rivals and are close to securing a deal for the centre-back. This latest development has added another layer of drama to what has already been a protracted transfer saga.
Fans of the club will no doubt be eager to see the deal finalized and the player donning the famous gold and black shirt. With the new Premier League season fast approaching, time is of the essence, and Wolves will be hoping to wrap up the deal as soon as possible.
As the saga continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Wolves to see if they can successfully navigate the complexities of the transfer market and secure the services of the highly-rated centre-back. Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.
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#Ongoing #transfer #saga #takes #twist #Wolves #pole #position #centreback #talks #break
Torrillo Takes First In 5000m & Padron Breaks Program Record At Metropolitan Championship
Staten Island, NY – The Hofstra men’s track and field team had a very successful day at the Metropolitan Indoor Track & Field Championship in Staten Island, New York, on Friday with Daniel Torrillo taking first place in the 5000m race and Alec Padron breaking the program record in the 400m dash.Torrillo took first place in the 5000m race with a time of 15:17.44, while William Thu came in second with a time of 15:30.65. John Ortiz was took ninth place in 16:40.21. In the 400m dash, Alec Padron broke the program record with his time of 53.87 to take 26th place. Sameer Grewal came in 14th place in the 500m dash with a time of 1:09.74, while Steiger Devil finished the 200m dash with a time of 24.51 to take 43rd place. Nayan Chatterjee, Devil, Greg Franzetti and Padron came in 7th place in the 4x200m relay with a time of 1:37.60. In the shot put event, James Watterson finished 21st with a mark of 9.68m while Philip Park was 23rd with a mark of 9.16m.
The Pride are back in action on Friday, February 7, for the FastTrack Invitational.
The Metropolitan Championship saw some incredible performances this weekend, with Torrillo taking first in the 5000m and Padron smashing the program record.Torrillo’s victory in the 5000m was a display of sheer determination and skill, as he powered through the race to take the top spot on the podium. His time was impressive, showcasing his strength and endurance on the track.
But it was Padron who stole the show, breaking the program record in a stunning display of speed and agility. Her performance was nothing short of spectacular, and she has set the bar high for future athletes to follow.
Congratulations to both Torrillo and Padron on their outstanding achievements at the Metropolitan Championship. Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and they deserve all the recognition and praise for their incredible performances.
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- Padron program record
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#Torrillo #Takes #5000m #Padron #Breaks #Program #Record #Metropolitan #Championship
Taliban govt-run corporation takes over luxury Kabul Serena hotel | Billings News
Afghanistan’s Taliban government took over management of Kabul’s famed Serena hotel on Saturday, a hotel statement said, a luxury property targeted by Taliban attacks during their insurgency.
The Kabul Serena Hotel was run for nearly 20 years by the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development in the Afghan capital and was popular with business travellers and foreign guests.
“Kabul Serena Hotel shall be closing its operations effective February 01, 2025,” a statement from Serena on Friday night said.
Hotel operations are now handled by the Hotel State Owned Corporation (HSOC), the statement added.
“Since opening in 2005, Kabul Serena Hotel has been an integral part of Kabul’s social fabric, an iconic presence in the city, and a symbol of our unwavering commitment to the people of Afghanistan,” the statement said.
Taliban government spokesmen did not immediately respond to requests for comment and AFP journalists were not allowed onto the property on Saturday morning.
On Saturday, the hotel’s website only showed the statement about the handover and Kabul has been removed from the Serena brand’s list of destinations.
The Switzerland-based organisation also did not respond to AFP requests for comment.
The Serena has been the target of multiple deadly attacks by the Taliban before they swept to power in 2021, ousting the foreign-backed government.
In 2014, just weeks before a presidential election, four teenage gunmen with pistols hidden in their socks managed to penetrate several layers of security, killing nine people, including an AFP journalist and members of his family.
In 2008, a suicide bombing left six dead, in an attack blamed on the current Taliban interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani.
In 2021, the United States and Britain warned their citizens to avoid hotels in Afghanistan, singling out the Serena, underlining the shaky security situation in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover.
In the years since their return to power, however, the Taliban authorities have worked to attract tourism to Afghanistan, touting a return to security.
bur-sw-cgo/sn
In a shocking turn of events, the Taliban government has taken over the luxurious Kabul Serena hotel, transforming it into a government-run corporation. This move has sparked outrage among residents and tourists alike, who have long viewed the Serena hotel as a symbol of luxury and hospitality in the war-torn capital.The Taliban’s decision to seize control of the hotel comes as part of their efforts to assert control over key businesses and assets in Kabul. The move is seen as a clear indication of the group’s intention to establish a firm grip on power and impose their strict Islamic laws on the Afghan population.
Many are concerned about the impact this takeover will have on the hotel’s reputation and the livelihoods of its staff. The Serena hotel has long been a popular destination for foreign diplomats, journalists, and aid workers, who now face uncertainty and fear for their safety under the Taliban’s rule.
As the situation in Kabul continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the Taliban’s takeover of the Serena hotel will affect the city’s hospitality industry and the overall economy. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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- Kabul Serena hotel
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#Taliban #govtrun #corporation #takes #luxury #Kabul #Serena #hotel #Billings #News
Taliban govt-run corporation takes over luxury Kabul Serena hotel | Nation
Afghanistan’s Taliban government took over management of Kabul’s famed Serena hotel on Saturday, a hotel statement said, a luxury property targeted by Taliban attacks during their insurgency.
The Kabul Serena Hotel was run for nearly 20 years by the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development in the Afghan capital and was popular with business travellers and foreign guests.
“Kabul Serena Hotel shall be closing its operations effective February 01, 2025,” a statement from Serena on Friday night said.
Hotel operations are now handled by the Hotel State Owned Corporation (HSOC), the statement added.
“Since opening in 2005, Kabul Serena Hotel has been an integral part of Kabul’s social fabric, an iconic presence in the city, and a symbol of our unwavering commitment to the people of Afghanistan,” the statement said.
Taliban government spokesmen did not immediately respond to requests for comment and AFP journalists were not allowed onto the property on Saturday morning.
On Saturday, the hotel’s website only showed the statement about the handover and Kabul has been removed from the Serena brand’s list of destinations.
The Switzerland-based organisation also did not respond to AFP requests for comment.
The Serena has been the target of multiple deadly attacks by the Taliban before they swept to power in 2021, ousting the foreign-backed government.
In 2014, just weeks before a presidential election, four teenage gunmen with pistols hidden in their socks managed to penetrate several layers of security, killing nine people, including an AFP journalist and members of his family.
In 2008, a suicide bombing left six dead, in an attack blamed on the current Taliban interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani.
In 2021, the United States and Britain warned their citizens to avoid hotels in Afghanistan, singling out the Serena, underlining the shaky security situation in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover.
In the years since their return to power, however, the Taliban authorities have worked to attract tourism to Afghanistan, touting a return to security.
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In a shocking turn of events, a Taliban government-run corporation has officially taken over the luxurious Kabul Serena Hotel. The iconic hotel, known for its opulent accommodations and top-notch service, is now under the control of the militant group.The move comes as part of the Taliban’s efforts to assert control over key businesses and properties in Afghanistan following their takeover of the country. The Kabul Serena Hotel, once a symbol of Western influence and modernity in the capital city, is now under the management of the Taliban, raising concerns about the future of tourism and hospitality in the region.
Many are worried about the impact this takeover will have on the reputation and operations of the hotel, as well as the safety and security of guests and staff. The Taliban’s track record of human rights abuses and strict enforcement of their interpretation of Islamic law has raised fears about the treatment of employees and guests at the hotel.
As the Taliban continues to consolidate their power in Afghanistan, the takeover of the Kabul Serena Hotel serves as a stark reminder of the new reality facing the country. The once-glamorous hotel now stands as a symbol of the changing landscape in Afghanistan, with uncertain implications for its future.
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#Taliban #govtrun #corporation #takes #luxury #Kabul #Serena #hotel #NationTaliban govt-run corporation takes over luxury Kabul Serena hotel
Afghanistan’s Taliban government took over management of Kabul’s famed Serena hotel on Saturday, a hotel statement said, a luxury property targeted by Taliban attacks during their insurgency.
The Kabul Serena Hotel was run for nearly 20 years by the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development in the Afghan capital and was popular with business travellers and foreign guests.
“Kabul Serena Hotel shall be closing its operations effective February 01, 2025,” a statement from Serena on Friday night said.
Hotel operations are now handled by the Hotel State Owned Corporation (HSOC), the statement added.
“Since opening in 2005, Kabul Serena Hotel has been an integral part of Kabul’s social fabric, an iconic presence in the city, and a symbol of our unwavering commitment to the people of Afghanistan,” the statement said.
Taliban government spokesmen did not immediately respond to requests for comment and AFP journalists were not allowed onto the property on Saturday morning.
On Saturday, the hotel’s website only showed the statement about the handover and Kabul has been removed from the Serena brand’s list of destinations.
The Switzerland-based organisation also did not respond to AFP requests for comment.
The Serena has been the target of multiple deadly attacks by the Taliban before they swept to power in 2021, ousting the foreign-backed government.
In 2014, just weeks before a presidential election, four teenage gunmen with pistols hidden in their socks managed to penetrate several layers of security, killing nine people, including an AFP journalist and members of his family.
In 2008, a suicide bombing left six dead, in an attack blamed on the current Taliban interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani.
In 2021, the United States and Britain warned their citizens to avoid hotels in Afghanistan, singling out the Serena, underlining the shaky security situation in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover.
In the years since their return to power, however, the Taliban authorities have worked to attract tourism to Afghanistan, touting a return to security.
bur-sw-cgo/sn
The luxury Kabul Serena hotel, known for its opulent accommodations and high-end amenities, has been taken over by a government-run corporation controlled by the Taliban.The stunning development has left both guests and staff at the hotel in shock, as the Taliban’s presence in the capital city continues to grow in the wake of the U.S. military withdrawal.
The takeover of the Kabul Serena hotel by the Taliban has raised concerns about the future of the hospitality industry in Afghanistan, as well as the safety and security of those who frequent such establishments.
Many are wondering what changes may come to the hotel under Taliban control, and how it will impact tourism and business in the region.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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#Taliban #govtrun #corporation #takes #luxury #Kabul #Serena #hotel
Anne Hathaway Takes Center Stage As Verity Crawford
Anne Hathaway is making waves once again as she takes on the role of Verity Crawford, the protagonist of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling thriller novel, adapted for the big screen. Set to captivate audiences with its gripping narrative, the film promises to deliver drama, suspense, and the ever-charming presence of Hathaway, who is also serving as one of the producers.
According to PEOPLE, Hathaway’s character, Verity, finds herself embroiled in a mysterious and dark tale surrounding her family. The plot follows struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh, who, seeking financial stability, jumps at the chance to complete the books left unfinished by Verity, who is rendered unable to finish them after an unforeseen accident. Upon arriving at the Crawford estate, Lowen realizes things are not as straightforward as they seem. The story hints at chilling admissions sealed within Verity’s secret manuscript, forcing Lowen to discern whether the hidden truths are simply the makings of fiction or warnings from someone deeply disturbed.
Hathaway’s chemistry with director Michael Showalter promises to shine once again, having previously collaborated on “The Idea of You,” which debuted earlier this year. This partnership cements Hathaway’s return to the literary adaptation trend, as audiences have recently seen Hoover’s other bestseller, “It Ends with Us,” reach box-office success, leaving fans curious about future adaptations, including “Reminders of Him” scheduled for 2026.
Adding to the excitement surrounding her recent roles is the actress’s unwavering ability to confound aging perceptions. Hathaway, at 42, has left fans astonished by her seemingly ageless appearance. Clips resurfacing on social media platforms have incited reactions ranging from disbelief to admiration, with some fans jokingly dubbing her a ‘vampire.’ One fan commented, “She looks so good,” and another quipped, “It’s either she has amazing skincare or she’s not aging at all!” The enthusiasm reflects the actress’s impressive career from iconic roles in “The Princess Diaries” to “Les Misérables,” showcasing her remarkable versatility.
Aside from her film projects, Hathaway remains relatively private about her personal life, especially concerning her marriage to actor Adam Shulman. An interesting twist adds to their narrative; during her appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, Hathaway discussed a whimsical conspiracy theory—that her husband might be William Shakespeare reincarnated. Responding to the light-hearted proposition, Hathaway remarked, “It would be great if it were true, but even if it’s not, it’s still kinda’ great.” This playful banter showcases Hathaway’s ability to engage with her fans, reinforcing the fascination surrounding her.
Looking forward, Hathaway is reportedly working on a sequel for “The Devil Wears Prada,” as well as plans for the third installment of “The Princess Diaries.” With more books by Colleen Hoover set to be translated onto the silver screen, Hathaway’s presence continues to be felt spanning generations as she straddles her vibrant career with adaptability.
It’s clear Anne Hathaway resonates deeply within the public consciousness—not merely as the versatile actress redefining age standards, but as someone who constantly evolves with each new endeavor. With her recent commitments and inherent charm, Hathaway remains at the forefront of Hollywood, ensuring fans will keep watching for years to come.
Anne Hathaway has once again proven her versatility as an actress in her latest role as Verity Crawford in the highly anticipated drama series. The Oscar-winning actress has captivated audiences with her portrayal of the enigmatic and complex character, bringing her to life with depth and authenticity.In a departure from her previous roles, Hathaway shines as Verity Crawford, a woman with a dark and troubled past who is thrust into the spotlight when her husband’s political ambitions threaten to unravel. Hathaway’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing, as she navigates the complexities of Verity’s character with a raw and emotional intensity that is truly captivating.
As Verity Crawford, Hathaway commands the screen with a presence that is both powerful and vulnerable, drawing viewers in with her magnetic performance. With each episode, she delves deeper into the intricacies of Verity’s character, revealing layers of depth and complexity that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Verity Crawford is a testament to her incredible talent as an actress, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and captivating performers. With each episode, she continues to impress and astound, reminding audiences why she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.
Don’t miss Anne Hathaway’s unforgettable performance as Verity Crawford in this must-see drama series, where she takes center stage and delivers a tour de force performance that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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