Eagles Trade for WR Jahan Dotson from Commanders

 

PHILADELPHIA   The Washington Commanders traded former first-round pick Jahan Dotson, along with a 2025 fifth-round pick, to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick and two seventh-round picks.

With the acquisition of Dotson, the Eagles have bolstered their receiving corps, securing a strong No. 3 option to complement star wideouts A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, both of whom signed long-term extensions this offseason.

Dotson's arrival adds another dynamic weapon to quarterback Jalen Hurts' arsenal, which already includes running back Saquon Barkley and tight end Dallas Goedert.

The WR3 spot in Philadelphia saw plenty of competition this summer, with veterans Parris Campbell and Britain Covey, along with rookie Johnny Wilson, all getting first-team reps.

Last season, 24-year-old Dotson recorded 49 catches for 518 yards and four touchdowns with the Commanders.

Washington selected Dotson with the 16th overall pick in 2022 after trading back five spots. However, over two seasons, Dotson didn’t quite evolve into the key receiver Washington hoped for, finishing his stint with 84 receptions, 1,041 yards, and 11 touchdowns in 29 career games.  

Dotson struggled to secure the No. 2 receiver role alongside Terry McLaurin this summer. Though he was used in various positions, he was considered most effective in the slot. Coaches had previously noted that Dotson needed to improve his play strength for greater consistency. Last season, he had a drop rate of 7.4%, ranking 10th in the NFL.

Dotson’s performance this summer has yet to impress. Just last week, coach Dan Quinn mentioned that the team was still evaluating who would fill that role. They drafted Luke McCaffrey in the third round for a similar position, and McCaffrey had a strong showing against the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, recording two catches for 30 yards, along with solid blocking and special teams contributions.

The Commanders also have veteran slot receivers Olamide Zaccheaus and Jamison Crowder. Additionally, they signed veterans Byron Pringle and Martavis Bryant after camp began. Pringle brings more size to the table and could also serve as a kick returner if he makes the roster.

Read More

Shiveluch Volcano Erupts in Russia Following Powerful Magnitude 7.0 Earthquake

 

A volcano near a major naval base on Russia's eastern coast erupted early Sunday following a powerful magnitude-7.0 earthquake in the Pacific, approximately 63 miles away, according to Russian state-run media.

The Shiveluch volcano sent a towering ash plume 5 miles above sea level and unleashed a flow of lava, TASS reported Sunday morning, citing scientists from the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Located about 280 miles from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a coastal city with over 181,000 residents in Russia's Kamchatka region, the volcano is part of a landscape dotted with volcanic activity and is situated near a key Russian submarine base across the bay.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake struck 18 miles beneath the Pacific Ocean, with its epicenter located around 63 miles east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries from the quake.

This photo, released by the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences on Sunday, August 18, 2024, captures the eruption of the Shiveluch volcano. The eruption was reportedly triggered by a 7.0-magnitude earthquake located approximately 102 kilometers (63 miles) east of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula.

The earthquake triggered a tsunami warning, which was later lifted.

Initially, the U.S. National Weather Service's Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu cautioned that hazardous tsunami waves could affect coastlines within 300 miles (480 kilometers) of the earthquake's epicenter. However, the center later announced that the threat had passed.

They also noted that minor sea level fluctuations might still occur in some coastal areas near the earthquake site for several hours.

Read More

Several Individuals Charged in Connection with Actor Matthew Perry's Overdose Death.

 

Several people have been charged in connection with the accidental overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, law enforcement sources informed NBC News on Thursday.

Perry, 54, was discovered face down in the heated section of his pool at his Pacific Palisades residence on October 28, 2023. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that his death resulted from the acute effects of ketamine, a powerful anesthetic with psychedelic properties.

Sources reported that at least one person was arrested in Southern California early Thursday. Federal prosecutors are expected to unseal an indictment later today, revealing the charges against that individual and others involved.

In May, Los Angeles police confirmed they were collaborating with federal authorities to trace the source of the ketamine that Perry had ingested.

Ketamine has long been a popular party drug, but in recent years, it has emerged as a promising alternative treatment for depression. An increasing number of clinics now offer ketamine infusions or injections to address a variety of mental health conditions.

Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy for depression and anxiety; however, his final session occurred more than a week before his death. The medical examiner determined that the ketamine found in Perry’s system could not have come from his infusion therapy, citing the drug's short half-life.

The medical examiner found that the ketamine levels in his body were significantly high—comparable to those used for general anesthesia in surgery.

The coroner classified his death as an accident, with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder.

Perry, widely known for his role as Chandler Bing on “Friends,” had openly discussed his long battle with opioid addiction and alcoholism, detailing his experiences in his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing.” However, according to the medical examiner’s report, he had been sober for 19 months at the time of his death.

In cases like this, it’s not uncommon for law enforcement to investigate—and sometimes prosecute—those who provided the drugs leading to a high-profile death.

Following Michael Jackson's death in 2009, his personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for administering a lethal dose of powerful drugs to the singer. More recently, in 2021, federal prosecutors in New York charged four men for supplying actor Michael K. Williams with the fentanyl-laced heroin that led to his death.

Read More

Rachael Lillis, Voice of Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie, Passes Away at 46.

 Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash Ketchum in "Pokémon," announced the passing of Rachael Lillis following her breast cancer diagnosis in May 2024.

By Variety

Rachael Lillis, the voice actor known for her roles as Misty, Jessie, and other characters in the "Pokémon" series and films, passed away on August 10 at the age of 46.

Lillis had been diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2024. Her "Pokémon" co-star, Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash Ketchum, shared the news of Lillis' passing in a statement on X Monday morning.

“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, August 10, 2024,” Taylor wrote. “Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing.

"She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she brought to life, especially her iconic performances as Misty and Jessie in ‘Pokémon,’" Taylor added. "Rachael was deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support she received during her battle with cancer. It truly made a difference. Her family also wishes to extend their thanks as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial will be planned for a future date.”

Lillis began her voice acting career in the 1990s, contributing to hundreds of TV shows, anime series, video games, and more over the next few decades. 

In 1998, she brought to life Misty, the water-type gym leader, in the original "Pokémon" anime. Misty quickly became one of the franchise's most beloved characters, joining Ash, Pikachu, and Brock in the early adventures of the "Pokémon" universe. Lillis also lent her voice to Jessie, the iconic Team Rocket member, who, alongside James and their talking Meowth, became a memorable antagonist in the series.

Lillis brought the pink, singing Pokémon Jigglypuff to life, along with several other characters in the Pokémon universe. She voiced Jigglypuff in all four entries of Nintendo’s popular "Super Smash Brothers" fighting game series, as well as the Pokémon Goldeen. Lillis also reprised her roles as Misty and Jessie in the 1999 film “Pokémon: The First Movie” and continued to voice them in several other films, including “Pokémon: The Movie 2000,” “Mewtwo Returns,” “Spell of the Unown,” “Pokémon 4Ever,” “Pokémon Heroes,” “Jirachi Wish Maker,” “Destiny Deoxys,” and “Lucario and the Mystery of Mew,” among others.

“We all know Rachael Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her terrific comic timing, and her remarkable acting skills,” Taylor wrote. “I was lucky enough to know Rachael as a friend."

"She had unlimited kindness and compassion, even until the very end," Taylor said. "She had a great sense of humor, was wonderful to be with, incredibly intelligent, and had such a memory. She worked hard and cared deeply. I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it. Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachael was a magnificent wonder and truly special. She burned bright and vanished too soon. She will live on in our memories for eternity.”

Outside of "Pokémon," Lillis has lent her voice to roles in "Your Lie in April," "Hunter x Hunter," "Winx Club," and several other projects.

Read More

**2024 Olympic Soccer Final Showdown: USWNT vs. Brazil - Preview and Key Insights**

 

The 2024 Olympic women's soccer tournament will reach its climax in Paris on Saturday with a thrilling final between the United States and Brazil. The USWNT, under new head coach Emma Hayes, has been in superb form, winning every match so far. In contrast, Brazil struggled in the group stage but found their stride in the knockout rounds, overcoming World Cup champions Spain and hosts France.

Will the revamped USWNT secure their fifth Olympic gold, the first since 2012? Or will Brazilian icon Marta finally capture her first international trophy? Although the U.S. has had the upper hand against Brazil recently, tournament soccer is always unpredictable.

In anticipation of Saturday's final, ESPN's Sam Borden and Jeff Kassouf dive into the matchup, address the key questions, and share their predictions.

Why could the USWNT win?

Call them whatever you like – though "Triple Trouble" seems to be catching on – but Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Smith have been the driving force behind this team throughout the tournament. This trio has netted nine of the 11 American goals over five games in France, showcasing their versatility with strikes from distance, precise cutbacks, through balls, and even chaotic scrambles.

While it's clear that the U.S. will need a full team effort to overcome a strong Brazil side, there's no question that any American success will likely hinge on one of their frontline stars delivering something extraordinary. Rodman had her moment in the quarterfinals, and Smith shone in the semifinals – could the final be Swanson's time to shine?

Why could Brazil win?

Brazil's attacking depth is impressive, so much so that 2023 NWSL MVP Kerolin—who made a remarkable comeback to the team despite not playing for her club this year due to an ACL tear last fall—was brought off the bench in the semifinal, where she scored in stoppage time. This journey has been achieved without Marta for the last 2½ games. Marta, who has shed many tears in recent years as she fights her final battles for Brazil, will return from suspension for what will be her last Olympic game. It's a fitting narrative for her final chapter. Sending off the six-time world player of the year with a major title, after several close calls—including the gold medal losses to the USWNT in 2004 and 2008—will be a powerful motivation for this squad.

Which duel do you think will be decisive in the final?

The spotlight will naturally be on the USWNT's front three, especially with the likelihood of one-on-one matchups emerging if Brazil sticks to a three-back formation. However, the real battle will unfold in the midfield. Brazil is expected to crowd the central areas with a rotating lineup, similar to Germany's approach in their semifinal against the U.S. For the USWNT, the midfield trio of Sam Coffey, Lindsey Horan, and Rose Lavelle will be crucial—they need to find more opportunities to control the ball and distribute it with precision. Meanwhile, Marta, who has defied her 38 years with a standout season for both club and country, will be determined to leave her mark in what could be her last major showdown against one of her long-time rivals.

I completely agree with you, Jeff. One area where the U.S. has struggled in France is the midfield—Horan and Lavelle have been inconsistent. However, I'm focusing a bit further back on the field. Naomi Girma has been exceptional throughout the tournament, and she'll need to lead another solid defensive effort. As you mentioned earlier, Brazil poses significant attacking threats, including off the bench, and their coach, Arthur Elias, encourages his forwards to press high and often. Spain struggled with that pressure from players like Gabi Portilho and Priscila, and the U.S. will need to handle it better if they want to come out on top.

USWNT player to watch

Trinity Rodman.  It's tough to argue against Girma as the top center-back in the world right now, but I believe Rodman is the player who will capture the attention of a broader audience. Picking just one standout from that dynamic front trio of Rodman, Smith, and Swanson is no easy task, but Rodman brings a unique energy to the pitch. Her fitness is unparalleled, as she dominates the right wing, often driving the USWNT's attacks with more than just her three goals. While it’s been a collective effort to reach this stage, Rodman is the one in form and poised to take charge in this final.

Brazil player to watch

Marta.  How can you not root for Marta? Even the most die-hard USWNT fan, if they truly love women's soccer, has a small part of them that wants Marta to finally have her moment. The Queen of Football has a legendary résumé, and at 38, she's competing in her sixth Summer Games for Brazil. Yet, despite all her achievements, she’s never won a World Cup or an Olympic title. Although the Brazilian team no longer revolves around her as it once did, Marta is set to return after sitting out the last 2½ games due to a straight red card. This is her last chance to shine on the biggest stage, and it’s a show you can't afford to miss.

Score prediction

United States 2-1 Brazil.   Neither of these teams was widely expected to make it this far, and whichever one wins will create an incredible story. For the U.S., it’s a chance at redemption after last year's dramatic World Cup failure; for Brazil, it’s a poetic farewell for one of the sport's greatest legends. Both teams will be battling fatigue, leading to mistakes, but I believe the U.S. front three is better equipped to capitalize on those opportunities against Brazil.

United States 3-2 Brazil.   I’m totally with you on the storylines, Jeff—whether it’s an epic finale for Marta or a phenomenal debut for Hayes, it's going to be something special. As for the match itself, I might be overly optimistic, especially since international finals are often tight affairs, but I have a feeling we could see more goals this time. I’ve mentioned before that Hayes has a certain spark, so I’m sticking with it: USWNT to win in a thriller.

Read More

White Sox fire Pedro Grifol, name Grady Sizemore interim manager.

 

CHICAGO  The Chicago White Sox, who recently matched an American League record with a 21-game losing streak, have parted ways with manager Pedro Grifol and appointed former All-Star outfielder Grady Sizemore as the interim manager.

Grifol's dismissal was part of a broader shake-up announced by the White Sox on Thursday. The team, holding the worst record in the majors at 28-89, had just ended Major League Baseball's longest losing streak since 1988, when the Baltimore Orioles also lost 21 consecutive games.

In addition to Grifol, the White Sox also let go of bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar.

The White Sox snapped their record-tying losing streak with a 5-1 win against the Athletics in Oakland on Tuesday night, only to lose a two-run lead in a 3-2 defeat the following day.

Pedro Grifol, 54, was hired in November 2022 following Tony La Russa's resignation due to health concerns. Grifol came in with a pledge to bring a sharper, more disciplined style of baseball, but that promise fell short as the White Sox regressed under his leadership. This was particularly evident last season when the team, despite having a more competitive roster, struggled significantly. Under Grifol's management, Chicago ended with a record of 89-190.

"As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels," said White Sox general manager Chris Getz.

"Despite the challenges on the field and the lack of success, we want to acknowledge the effort and professionalism that Pedro and his staff brought to the ballpark every day. The past two seasons have been incredibly difficult, and while the results were not what we hoped for, we believe a change is necessary as we focus on the future and look to inject new energy into the team."

Sizemore, 42, joined Chicago's coaching staff earlier this year after previous stints as a minor-league instructor with the Guardians and a minor-league coach with the Diamondbacks.

A three-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove-winning center fielder, Sizemore had a 10-year major league career with Cleveland, Philadelphia, Tampa Bay, and Boston.

The White Sox also announced that Doug Sisson will serve as bench coach, Justin Jirschele as third base coach, and Mike Gellinger as assistant hitting coach for the remainder of the season.

Grifol's first year as manager was marked by clubhouse issues and mounting losses, leading to the dismissal of top executives Kenny Williams and Rick Hahn.

Following midseason and winter trades, including the deal that sent ace pitcher Dylan Cease to the San Diego Padres, the White Sox were not expected to contend for the postseason in 2024. However, no one anticipated they would flirt with the dubious distinction of challenging the 1962 New York Mets, who lost 120 games, the most in a single season in the modern era (since 1900)."

Earlier this season, the White Sox endured a separate 14-game losing streak, during which manager Pedro Grifol made headlines by bluntly criticizing his team. After a 4-1 loss to Baltimore in May, where Orioles starter Kyle Bradish shut them out for seven innings, Grifol didn't mince words, saying his players were "f---ing flat."

The White Sox had made the playoffs in 2020 and captured the AL Central title in 2021, but things have unraveled since. Tony La Russa stepped down after a .500 season in 2022, and Grifol was brought in to replace him. Grifol, a former minor league catcher with four seasons of managing experience in the Seattle Mariners' system, had spent 10 years in various coaching roles with the Kansas City Royals from 2013 to 2022.

Last season, the White Sox were among the worst-hitting teams in baseball, leading to the August firings of executives Ken Williams and Rick Hahn. Although Grifol retained his position after Chris Getz was promoted to GM, the team’s struggles have continued. 

In the offseason, relievers Aaron Bummer and Gregory Santos were traded, followed by Dylan Cease being sent to San Diego in March. To compound matters, All-Star center fielder Luis Robert Jr. and key hitters Yoan Moncada and Eloy Jimenez were sidelined by significant injuries early in the season, leaving Grifol with little to work with on Chicago’s South Side.

The White Sox have struggled with underwhelming performances from first baseman Andrew Vaughn, the third overall pick in the 2019 MLB draft, and veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi, who signed a five-year, $75 million contract for the 2023 season.

At last week's trade deadline, the White Sox held on to key players like Luis Robert and ace pitcher Garrett Crochet but traded Eloy Jiménez to Baltimore, pitcher Tanner Banks to Philadelphia, and infielder Paul DeJong to Kansas City.

The team is on track for its sixth 100-loss season, marking the first time in franchise history this would happen in consecutive years. Their worst-ever winning percentage (.325) was set in 1932, with a 49-102-1 record, and the 2024 squad is on pace to surpass that dismal mark.

Read More

Morgan Stanley Approves Wealth Advisors to Offer Bitcoin ETFs, a First for Major Banks

 **Key Points**

- **Morgan Stanley's New Offering:** Morgan Stanley announced it will allow its financial advisors to offer bitcoin ETFs to select clients, marking a first among major Wall Street banks.

- **Advisor Participation:** Starting August 7, Morgan Stanley's approximately 15,000 financial advisors can begin soliciting eligible clients to invest in bitcoin ETFs.

- **Available Funds:** The two bitcoin ETFs available are BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust and Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund.

Morgan Stanley announced on Friday that it will soon allow its financial advisors to offer bitcoin ETFs to select clients, a first among major Wall Street banks, according to CNBC.

Starting Wednesday, the firm's approximately 15,000 financial advisors can recommend shares of two bitcoin exchange-traded funds to eligible clients. These funds are BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust and Fidelity's Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, as per sources familiar with the policy.

This move by Morgan Stanley, one of the largest wealth management firms globally, marks a significant step in the mainstream adoption of bitcoin. In January, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approved applications for 11 spot bitcoin ETFs, introducing an investment vehicle for bitcoin that is easier to access, cheaper to own, and more readily traded.

Bitcoin has weathered market sell-offs, the spectacular collapse of the crypto exchange FTX, and criticism from prominent financial figures like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon and Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett.

Given this context, it’s not surprising that Wall Street's major wealth management businesses were initially hesitant to embrace the new ETFs. They prohibited their financial advisors from pitching these products and only permitted trades if clients specifically requested them.

According to spokespeople at Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, this cautious approach is still in place at these institutions.

Morgan Stanley has made this move in response to client demand and to align with the evolving digital assets marketplace, according to sources familiar with the bank's internal policies who requested anonymity.

Despite this shift, the bank is maintaining a cautious approach: Only clients with a net worth of at least $1.5 million, a high risk tolerance, and an interest in speculative investments are eligible for bitcoin ETF solicitations. These investments are limited to taxable brokerage accounts, not retirement accounts, the sources noted.

Morgan Stanley will also monitor clients' crypto holdings to ensure they don't have excessive exposure to this volatile asset class.

Currently, the only approved crypto investments for solicitation at Morgan Stanley are bitcoin ETFs from BlackRock and Fidelity. The bank phased out private funds from Galaxy and FS NYDIG, which had been available since 2021, earlier this year.

Morgan Stanley is monitoring the market for newly approved Ether ETFs and has not yet decided whether it will offer access to them, according to sources.

Read More

**Bangladesh Prime Minister Resigns Amid Deadly Anti-Government Rallies**

 

**Dhaka, Bangladesh (CNN)** — Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, resigned on Monday following weeks of deadly anti-government protests that engulfed the South Asian nation.

The announcement came from Bangladesh’s army chief, Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman, after protesters stormed the prime minister's official residence in Dhaka.

Images showed flames rising from vehicles near Hasina’s residence, with police struggling to control crowds of people charging towards the area. Scenes also depicted protesters climbing a statue of Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's independence leader, in Dhaka and hacking at its head with an axe, according to Reuters.

Earlier, military and police forces had clashed with demonstrators rallying in the vicinity, reported a CNN journalist in Dhaka.

At least 91 people were killed and hundreds injured on Sunday in clashes between police and protesters demanding the abolition of quotas for government jobs and the resignation of the prime minister. Critics argue that the civil service job quotas are discriminatory.

The death toll on Sunday, which included 13 police officers, was the highest for a single day of protests in the country’s recent history, surpassing the 67 deaths reported on July 19 when students protested against the quotas, according to Reuters. UNICEF reported on Friday that at least 32 children were killed during last month's protests.

The widespread unrest, which spread to cities such as Rajshahi, Barisal, and Chittagong, led the government to impose an indefinite nationwide curfew over the weekend. Human rights groups accused authorities of using excessive force against protesters, a charge the government denies.

Following Hasina’s resignation, the military will form an interim government, according to the army chief, who called on students “to maintain peace and help us.”

"Whatever demands you have, we will fulfill to bring back peace to the nation. Please help us in this and stay away from violence," Zaman said on Monday. He added, "The military will not fire at anyone, and the police will not fire at anyone. I have given orders."

The US embassy in Dhaka has urged US citizens to "shelter in a safe place," according to new travel guidance issued Monday. Authorities also advised US nationals in the capital to consider returning to their home country amid the "unpredictable and volatile" atmosphere.

The main flight hub in Dhaka, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, was temporarily closed following Hasina’s resignation, according to the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) state news agency.

On Sunday, Hasina labeled the student protesters as “terrorists” attempting to “destabilize the nation,” according to Reuters. “I appeal to our countrymen to suppress these terrorists with a strong hand,” she stated.

Earlier this year, human rights organizations raised concerns about the rise in political violence following a general election in which Hasina secured a fourth consecutive term.

The main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, boycotted the national vote in January, with critics warning that Hasina's government was heading toward a one-party system plagued by accusations of authoritarianism.

Reactions to her resignation on Monday were mixed, ranging from jubilation to cynicism.

“Hasina may be gone, but there is still a long road ahead for Bangladesh. Until our religious and ethnic minorities are protected and justice is served to them as well, the nation is not free,” Khatib Zahin, 28, told CNN.

Another resident, Arifeen Mahmood Khan, remarked, “Let’s be better, stronger, and kinder than we’ve ever been before. Let’s work together to build the better Bangladesh we’ve always dreamed of.”

**Police 'Brutally Beating' Protesters in Dhaka**

Earlier today, police opened fire on protesters in Dhaka, as reported by a CNN journalist, amidst growing scrutiny over the security forces' violent crackdown on demonstrators.

At least four individuals were injured during a protest at Dhaka Medical College on Monday, with one person sustaining a gunshot wound to the head.

Protesters informed CNN that the military was blocking the Bakshibazar Gate of Dhaka Medical College. Additionally, police deployed tear gas against the demonstrators, according to a protester on the scene.

Students and protesters at Dhaka University Campus and the Shaheed Minar, a national monument in the capital, were beaten by police as they gathered at these locations.

Protesters reported that the police tried to disperse the crowd by "brutally beating" them with bamboo sticks and using tear gas.

"Direct open firing took place in Shahbag area 15 minutes ago. We don’t have an estimate of how many were injured. It is still ongoing. Near Motijhil Shantinagar, tear gas has been fired on common people," one demonstrator told CNN.

Sheikh Hasina is pictured on November 11, 2021. Protesters celebrated her resignation on Monday as nationwide rallies over government job quotas swept the country. (Christophe Ena/AP)

In other parts of Dhaka, the military has fired warning shots both into the sky and towards protesters.

Information and videos are limited as Bangladesh is experiencing a "near-total national internet shutdown after earlier social media and mobile cuts," according to Netblocks, a global internet monitor.

Video posted on social media and verified by CNN showed security forces firing live rounds into the air near protesters on the N1 highway in Dhaka.

Protesters in Dhaka told CNN that the university campus had been surrounded by armed forces.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that at least 91 people were killed in clashes on Sunday.

Read More

## Iran Reports Hamas Leader Assassinated at Close Range.

 

Ismail Haniyeh attended the inauguration of Iran's new president in Tehran.

Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed by a "short-range projectile" fired from outside his guesthouse in Tehran, according to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The paramilitary organization reported that the 7kg (16lbs) projectile caused a "strong blast," killing Haniyeh and his bodyguard last Wednesday. Haniyeh had been in the Iranian capital for the inauguration of President Massoud Pezeshkian. The IRGC accused Israel, with support from the US, of orchestrating the attack. Israel has not commented on Haniyeh's death. This account contrasts with Western media reports suggesting that Israeli operatives planted explosives in the guesthouse.

The failures surrounding Haniyeh's death, especially on a day marked by intense security, have caused embarrassment for Iran and the IRGC. Dozens of IRGC officers have been arrested or dismissed in the days since Haniyeh's death, the New York Times reported on Saturday. The paper noted that the organisation's intelligence agency had taken over the investigation, with staff members at Haniyeh's guesthouse being interrogated and their phones and other electronics seized.

Meanwhile, the security details of Iranian politicians have been overhauled. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led prayers for Haniyeh on Thursday but was quickly whisked away by his security detail after the ceremony. The IRGC's statement on Saturday followed a report by Britain's Daily Telegraph, which said Haniyeh was killed by bombs planted in his room by agents of Israel's Mossad intelligence agency.

Citing Iranian officials, the paper reported that two Mossad agents had entered the guesthouse and planted explosives in three rooms. The Iranians, after viewing CCTV footage of the operatives, stated that the two agents left the country before detonating the bombs from outside Iran. The New York Times also reported that Haniyeh was killed by explosives detonated in his room, suggesting they could have been planted up to two months earlier. The BBC has not been able to verify these claims.

However, Hamas officials told the BBC earlier this week that Haniyeh had stayed at the same guesthouse before, having made up to 15 visits to Iran since becoming the head of the political bureau in 2017. If the reports are accurate, this would signify a significant failure for the IRGC, who have long controlled internal security in the country. Experts also noted that it would underscore the extent to which Mossad can operate with impunity in Iran.

Regardless of the manner of Haniyeh's death, both Iran and Hamas have vowed to retaliate.

The IRGC stated on Saturday that Israel would face "severe punishment at the appropriate time, place, and manner." Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia and political group in Lebanon, has also vowed reprisals following the death of one of their top commanders, Fuad Shukr, in an Israeli strike last Tuesday. Earlier this year, after an Israeli operation killed IRGC Brig. Gen. Mohammad Reza Zahedi in Damascus, Iran responded by launching 170 drones, 30 cruise missiles, and at least 110 ballistic missiles towards Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Israelis that "challenging days lie ahead... We have heard threats from all sides. We are prepared for any scenario." This weekend, his ministers were sent home with satellite phones in case of an attack on the country's communication infrastructure. 

Despite these warnings, the mood appeared relaxed on Tel Aviv's seafront, where bronzed bodies lazed under beach umbrellas. However, few doubt that the Middle East stands perilously close to full-scale war. Israel is on high alert, and several international airlines have suspended flights to the country. 

The US has also deployed additional warships and fighter jets to the Middle East to help defend Israel from possible attacks by Iran and its proxies, according to the Pentagon. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has warned that the risk of rapid deterioration on the ground is rising. 

Meanwhile, at least 10 people have been killed in an Israeli airstrike on a school sheltering displaced people in Gaza's Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, the Hamas-run government media office has reported.

Israel has announced that an airstrike in the occupied West Bank killed a Hamas commander and four senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad fighters on Saturday. The Israeli military reported that the airstrike targeted a vehicle as the men were en route to carry out an attack.

In other developments, Israeli officials, including the directors of Mossad and the internal security agency Shin Bet, have arrived in Cairo for new ceasefire talks. They are scheduled to meet with Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel and other senior military officials in an attempt to negotiate a truce. However, U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged on Friday that the death of Haniyeh, who was significantly involved in the negotiations, had negatively impacted the talks. President Biden stated that Haniyeh's death "doesn't help" efforts to resolve the ten-month conflict.

The conflict began in October when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of 251 individuals who were taken to Gaza as hostages. This attack prompted a substantial Israeli military response, which, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, has resulted in the deaths of at least 39,550 Palestinians.

Read More

**Critical DMs: Chicago Mix - The Vince Vaughn of Popcorn**

 

**Critical DMs:**

Critical DMs are lightly edited Slack conversations between members of the MPR News arts team, delving into Minnesota art and culture.

This week, arts editor Max Sparber and arts reporter and critic Jacob Aloi discuss Candyland’s Chicago Mix popcorn.

**Max Sparber:** All right, popcorn ahoy.

**Jacob Aloi:** Despite currently being in Chicago, I was unable to procure Chicago Mix. But I think that’s okay, considering it isn’t really from Chicago, right?

Sparber: The origin of the concept isn't clear—mixed popcorns have been around forever. However, you're right: the name is a Minnesota creation, specifically from Candyland in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Stillwater.

Garrett Popcorn in Chicago branded their version as "Chicago Mix," leading Candyland to file a lawsuit.

Aloi: "Chicago Mix" does have a more appealing ring to it than "Twin Cities Mix." Sorry, MSP metropolitan area.

Sparber: Candyland thought so too when they named it. "Chicago Mix" just sounds like popcorn you'd want to eat.

Let's describe it.

Aloi: Candyland's Chicago Mix is a combination of cheese popcorn, caramel popcorn, and what has been described as "seasoned" popcorn.

Sparber: The cheese is cheddar powder, and for those concerned about the seasoning, it's just popcorn oil and salt.

I've had mixed popcorn with hot pepper seasoning—this isn't that.

Aloi: Salt is definitely a seasoning — great marketing!

Sparber: No argument here!

Aloi: What I love about the mix is the balance of savory and sweet, with an extra kick from the "seasoned" popcorn.

Sparber: It’s a staple in my home. I eat a lot of it, my girlfriend eats a lot of it, and our dog always begs for it too.

Aloi: Do you have it all year round? I used to associate it with winter until I started working at MPR, where it’s the go-to meeting snack.

Sparber: I get it whenever I pass by Candyland. Since I live near downtown Minneapolis and there’s a Candyland a few blocks from our St. Paul office, that happens quite often.

I also buy the Chicago Mix knockoffs from grocery stores. They have their merits, but most lack the seasoned popcorn, creating a clash of sweet and savory.

Aloi: Yeah, you need the regular stuff to balance the stronger flavors.

Sparber: Exactly. Despite its name, the Candyland version feels like the iconic Minnesotan treat.

**Aloi:** Chicago Mix: the Prince of snack foods.

**Sparber:** That is a very good slogan.

**Aloi:** The snack food formerly known as Chicago Mix.

**Sparber:** Chicago Mix: It lives inside your own heart, Matt Damon.

Actually, it’s more like Vince Vaughn. He was born in Minneapolis but insists he’s a Chicagoan, where he was raised.

**Aloi:** Well, whatever it is, I think Candyland has earned the title of definitive supplier of Chicago Mix.

**Sparber:** By law!

It’s weird to me that everybody went bananas for the Jucy Lucy a few years ago, and yet Chicago Mix doesn't feel like it has the same sort of local food cache.

**Aloi:** Name recognition. It’s a confusing title that makes it very marketable and precludes it from being a hometown hero.

**Sparber:** Yeah, I guess if the Jucy Lucy had called itself the Santa Fe Lucy, none of us would be talking about it.

Chicago Mix giveth and Chicago Mix taketh away.

Read More