NEW YORK (AP) — When Donald Trump steps before a judge next week to be arraigned in a New York courtroom, it will not only mark the first time a former U.S. president has faced criminal charges. It will also represent a reckoning for a man long nicknamed “Teflon Don,” who until now has managed to skirt serious legal jeopardy despite 40 years of legal scrutiny.
Trump, who is the early frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination, is expected to turn himself in Tuesday. He faces charges including at least one felony offense related to hush money payments to women during his 2016 campaign. Like any other person facing trial, he will be booked, fingerprinted and photographed before being given the chance to enter a plea.
The spectacle that is sure to unfold will mark an unprecedented moment in American history that will demonstrate once again how dramatically Trump — who already held the distinction of being the first president to be impeached twice — has upended democratic norms. But on a personal level, the indictment pierces the cloak of invincibility that seemed to follow Trump through his decades in business and in politics, as he faced allegations of fraud, collusion and sexual misconduct.
BERLIN (AP) — King Charles III won plenty of hearts during his three-day visit to Germany, his first foreign trip since ascending to the throne following the death of his mother, Elizabeth II, last year.
Charles’ tour saw a number of firsts that show the importance both countries placed on it — at a time when London and Berlin are trying to rebuild relations frayed by Britain’s departure from the European Union.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier took the unprecedented step of welcoming Charles and Camilla, the queen consort, at the Brandenburg Gate with military honors Wednesday. A day later, Charles became the first monarch to address the Bundestag, the German parliament, stressing the long-standing close ties between both countries and the importance of future cooperation.
Observers in both Germany and the U.K. said the trip sent a strong signal about the enduring strength of British-German relations.
Jens Zimmermann, a lawmaker from Germany’s center-left Social Democrats, said Charles sent a “clear message” by speaking to parliament partially in German.
“The speech in the Bundestag was very well-received,” Zimmermann told The Associated Press. “It was much more political than you might have expected. It was very connecting — I think that was very good.”
A federal judge in Tennessee temporarily blocked a law that would have restricted drag performances in front of children from going into effect.
The restraining order was issued Friday, with the judge saying the legislation was likely “vague and overly-broad” in its restriction of speech. The bill would have otherwise gone into effect on Saturday.
Tennessee Republican Governor Bill Lee signed the bill in February after it passed through the state’s legislature. The measure was designed to restrict drag performances in public or in front of children, as conservatives across the country argue that the shows are inappropriate for younger audiences.
Lee previously said the law would protect children from potentially being exposed to “sexualized entertainment” or “obscenity.”
A federal judge in Tennessee temporarily blocked a law that would have restricted drag performances in public from going into effect.
1.The Statue of Liberty :- The Statue of Liberty is one of the most famous landmarks in New York City and a symbol of freedom and democracy around the world. The statue was a gift from France to the United States and was dedicated in 1886.
The statue stands at a height of 151 feet and 1 inch (46 meters) from the base to the tip of the torch. Including the pedestal and foundation, the total height is 305 feet and 1 inch (93 meters). It is made of copper and has a green patina on its surface due to the natural weathering of the material.
Visitors can take a ferry to Liberty Island to see the statue up close and even climb to the top of the pedestal for a great view of the harbor. Those who wish to climb all the way to the crown must purchase a special ticket in advance, as only a limited number of people are allowed up each day.
The Statue of Liberty is a must-see attraction for visitors to New York City, and it remains a powerful symbol of hope and freedom for people around the world.
2. Central Park :- Central Park is a massive public park located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. The park covers 843 acres (341 hectares) and includes a variety of recreational areas, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks.
Some of the most popular attractions in Central Park include:
1.The Great Lawn: A large open space in the center of the park that is perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and sports.
2. The Central Park Zoo: A small but charming zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including penguins, sea lions, and snow leopards.
3.The Conservatory Garden: A formal garden with fountains, sculptures, and colorful flowers that is perfect for a peaceful stroll.
4.The Central Park Boathouse: A popular restaurant and event space located on the shores of the park’s scenic lake.
5.The Central Park Zoo: A small but charming zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including penguins, sea lions, and snow leopards
Visitors to Central Park can also enjoy a wide range of activities such as biking, horseback riding, ice skating, and even outdoor theater performances in the summer. With its beautiful landscapes, numerous attractions, and convenient location, Central Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New York City.
3.Times Square :- Times Square is a bustling commercial and entertainment district in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. It is known for its bright lights, billboards, and theaters, and is often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World.” is a bustling commercial and entertainment district in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. It is known for its bright lights, billboards, and theaters, and is often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World.”
Some of the top attractions in Times Square include:
1.Broadway Theaters: Times Square is home to some of the most famous theaters in the world, featuring some of the best stage productions and musicals.
2.Billboards and Signs: Times Square is famous for its giant billboards and neon signs, which light up the streets at night and create a unique and lively atmosphere.
3.Shopping: Visitors can shop for souvenirs and other items at stores such as the Disney Store, M&M’s World, and the Hershey’s Chocolate World.
4.Restaurants: Times Square is home to a variety of restaurants, ranging from fast food chains to high-end dining options.
5.New Year’s Eve Celebration: The Times Square New Year’s Eve Celebration is a world-famous event, where thousands of people gather to watch the ball drop and ring in the new year.
Times Square is a vibrant and exciting destination in New York City that offers something for everyone, from entertainment and
4.The Metropolitan Museum of Art :- The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as The Met, is one of the world’s largest and most famous art museums, located on the eastern edge of Central Park in New York City. The museum was founded in 1870 and today houses more than 2 million works of art from around the world, covering 5,000 years of human history.
Some of the highlights of The Met’s collection include:
1. Egyptian Art: The Met has one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian art in the world, featuring mummies, sarcophagi, and other artifacts.
2.European Paintings: The Met’s collection of European paintings includes works by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.
3.American Art: The Met’s American Wing houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the colonial period to the present day.
4.Asian Art: The Met’s collection of Asian art includes works from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries in the region.
5. Greek and Roman Art: The Met’s collection of Greek and Roman art includes sculptures, vases, and other artifacts that provide insight into the ancient world.
In addition to its extensive art collection, The Met also offers a range of educational programs, special exhibitions, and events throughout the year. With its world-class collection and stunning Beaux-Arts building, The Met is a must-see attraction for art lovers visiting New York City.
1. The Empire State Building :- The Empire State Building is a famous skyscraper located in New York City, USA. It was completed in 1931 and stands at 1,454 feet tall (443.2 meters), making it one of the tallest buildings in the world.
The building has 102 floors and is made primarily of steel and limestone. It was designed by William F. Lamb of the architectural firm Shreve, Lamb and Harmon, and was built in just over a year, with construction beginning in 1930.
The Empire State Building has been featured in many movies, TV shows, and other media, and has become a symbol of New York City and the United States. It is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors able to go to the observation deck on the 86th floor for views of the city. There is also an observation deck on the 102nd floor, but it is only open to private groups and events.
The building has undergone many renovations over the years, including the addition of new elevators and an energy-efficient lighting system. It has also been recognized as a National Historic Landmark and was named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers
Here are some interesting points about the Empire State Building:
1. Construction of the Empire State Building was completed in just over a year, a remarkable feat given its size and complexity. At its peak, workers were completing four and a half floors per week.
2. The building was initially built as a symbol of hope and progress during the Great Depression, and it quickly became a beloved landmark for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
3. The Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world when it was completed in 1931, and it held this title until the completion of the World Trade Center in 1971.
4. The building’s observation deck on the 86th floor is a popular tourist attraction, and it offers stunning views of the city. On a clear day, visitors can see up to 80 miles away.
5. The Empire State Building has been featured in many movies and TV shows, including King Kong, Sleepless in Seattle, and An Affair to Remember.
6. The building has a distinctive Art Deco design, with intricate details on the exterior and interior. Its lobby features beautiful murals and a stunning ceiling
7. The building’s lighting system is a notable feature, and it is often used to mark special occasions and holidays. The lights can be programmed to display a variety of colors and patterns.
8.The Empire State Building was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1986, and it is one of the most iconic structures in the United States.
An ebay seller claims that he has a chewed gum by Robert Downey Jr. The seller also claims that the chewed gum can be ‘tested for the actor’s DNA.’
Several fans of various celebrities are known to purchase items used by their idols. In fact, there are even various websites that sell old clothes, accessories, and other things which have been owned by celebrities. Now, an ebay seller claims that he has a chewed gum by Robert Downey Jr and has put it up for a bid which starts at $40,000 (approximately. ₹32,80,000).
Robert Downey Jr says that he believes in “aesthetic distance” and that he is not Tony Stark in real life(Photo:Shutterstock) Robert Downey Jr says that he believes in “aesthetic distance” and that he is not Tony Stark in real life.
Frontier Canada is a travel company that specializes in adventure tours in Canada. The company has recently released its 2023 guide to the Great White North, which features information on some of the most popular destinations and activities in Canada.
The guide includes detailed information on the best places to visit in Canada, including national parks, cities, and small towns. It also features information on popular activities such as hiking, kayaking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
One of the highlights of the guide is its focus on sustainable tourism. The company emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism and provides information on eco-friendly tours and accommodations.
The guide also includes information on cultural experiences, such as First Nations tours and festivals. It provides readers with an insight into Canada’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
In addition to practical information, the guide also features stunning photography and inspirational stories from travelers who have explored Canada’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Overall, Frontier Canada’s 2023 guide to the Great White North is a comprehensive and inspiring resource for anyone planning a trip to Canada. It provides readers with a wealth of information and ideas for exploring this beautiful and diverse country.
A United Airlines flight from Houston to Cincinnati was forced to make an emergency landing shortly after takeoff due to a possible engine fire. The incident occurred on Monday, March 28th, and involved United Flight 1118, which had 174 passengers and six crew members on board.
The plane returned to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, where emergency personnel were waiting. Passengers reported seeing smoke and flames coming from the engine during the flight, which prompted the emergency landing.
After landing, the plane was inspected by maintenance crews and passengers were rebooked on other flights to their destinations. There were no injuries reported, and United Airlines released a statement thanking the crew for their quick response to the situation. The incident is under investigation.
An expert travel advisor recently shared some top tips on how to save money on your Easter getaway bookings. These tips can help you plan a memorable vacation without breaking the bank:
1.Be Flexible: Being flexible with your travel dates can save you a lot of money. If you’re willing to travel a day or two before or after your desired dates, you may find better deals on flights and accommodations.
2. Use Points and Miles: If you have a travel rewards credit card, you can use your points and miles to book flights, hotels, and rental cars. This can help you save money on your Easter vacation and earn more rewards for future trips.
3.Book Early: Booking your flights and accommodations early can help you secure lower prices and better availability. Many airlines and hotels offer early booking discounts, so it’s worth checking out their websites and signing up for their newsletters.
4.Look for Package Deals: Booking a package deal that includes flights, accommodations, and activities can save you money and simplify your travel planning. Many travel agencies and online booking platforms offer Easter vacation packages that can help you save money.
5.Be Open to Alternative Destinations: If you’re willing to consider alternative destinations, you may find better deals on flights and accommodations. Look for off-the-beaten-path locations that are less popular with tourists but offer unique experiences and attractions
By following these travel tips, you can save money on your Easter getaway bookings and enjoy a memorable vacation without overspending.
Here are some details about the travel expert’s money-saving hacks for Easter getaway bookings:
A travel expert has shared some tips on how to save money on your Easter holiday bookings, helping travelers get the most out of their vacation budget.
One of the top tips is to book early and take advantage of early-bird discounts offered by airlines, hotels, and travel companies. Another hack is to be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying on weekdays, as opposed to weekends, which tend to be more expensive.
The expert also advises using travel rewards programs, such as frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty programs, to earn points and discounts on future travel. Another tip is to avoid peak travel periods, such as Easter weekend, and opt for shoulder-season travel, which can be less crowded and more affordable.
Other money-saving hacks include booking package deals, using comparison websites to find the best deals, and negotiating directly with hotels for lower rates.
By following these tips, travelers can save money on their Easter getaway bookings and make the most of their vacation budget.
Top Ten Tips for saving money on Easter holiday bookings:
1.Book early to take advantage of early-bird discounts offered by airlines, hotels, and travel companies.
2.Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying on weekdays, as opposed to weekends, which tend to be more expensive.
3.Use travel rewards programs, such as frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty programs, to earn points and discounts on future travel.
4.Avoid peak travel periods, such as Easter weekend, and opt for shoulder-season travel, which can be less crowded and more affordable.
5.Book package deals that include flights, accommodation, and activities to save money.
6.Use comparison websites to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars.
7.Negotiate directly with hotels for lower rates or ask for upgrades or added amenities.
8.Consider alternative accommodation options, such as vacation rentals or homestays, which can be more affordable than traditional hotels.
9.Pack light to avoid extra baggage fees and travel with a budget airline to save money on airfare.
10.Plan ahead and budget for your trip, including all travel expenses, food, and activities.
Wharf Hotels’ 11 Properties Make Global Hotel Alliance’s Green Collection Hong Kong headquartered Wharf Hotels, a hospitality group with hotel operations spanning mainland China, Hong Kong and the Philippines, announced 11 of its 16 properties have been brought under Global Hotel Alliance’s (GHA) Green Collection. The Green Collection features independent mid-scale to high-end hotel brands in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, which are deeply committed to protecting people and the planet.
Wharf Hotels’ 11 properties – under the Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels brands – listed in the Green Collection include Marco Polo Parkside, Beijing; Marco Polo Lingnan Tiandi, Foshan; Marco Polo Wuhan; Marco Polo Xiamen; Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel; Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu and Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila. The group’s Niccolo Hotels in Changsha, Chengdu Chongqing and Suzhou are also acknowleged.
“Being in GHA’s Green Collection is an additional recognition of our sustainability efforts, and at Wharf Hotels, we are proud of our inroads into reduction, replacement and renewal,” said Wharf Hotels President Thomas Salg. The Green Collection coherently aligns with our group values and we will continue making decisions and implementing effective initiatives, which are not detrimental to the environment and communities in which we operate.”
“Across GHA’s 800 properties from 40 brands, located in 100 countries around the globe, there are some world-class examples of practices and initiatives with a positive environmental and social impact, and we are incredibly proud of these efforts, which we celebrate with the launch of Green Collection,” said GHA CEO Chris Hartley. “By launching Green Collection, we are reiterating our alignment to the UN’s Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs), which guide the development of the hospitality industry for a more sustainable future,” Hartley added.
Properties in the Green Collection are taking action in line with Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC) guidelines, which encompass the implementation of effective sustainable planning; maximising social and economic benefits for local communities; enhancing the cultural heritage of destinations where they operate; and reducing negative environmental impact. Every property in the Green Collection has attained at least one globally recognised certification from leading entities including EarthCheck, Green Growth 2050, Green Key, and Green Globe
Since opening, Marco Polo Lingnan Tiandi, Foshan has been fulfilling its environmental obligations. It aims to reduce its total water consumption by 20% by the end of 2024 through two bathroom fixtures –– low-flow faucets, and low-flow and dual flushing. Up to 30 per cent and 40 per cent, per flush, of water consumption can be saved from each initiative respectively. Six months ago, the hotel took their commitment to the environment one step further by converting a minimum of 70 per cent kitchen grease, from dish washing machines and kitchen sinks, to fertiliser.
Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel is striving to reduce its electricity consumption by 15 per cent by 2030. The implemented measures are intended to be as far-reaching within the property itself and encompass switching off lighting on non-occupied guest floors; installing LED lighting, motion sensors and timer controls. Additionally, the speed of each guestroom fan coil unit is set on low mode and at 22 degrees Celsius to prevent the generation of moisture.
Marco Polo Wuhan has set an optimistic target to conserve 1,825 kilowatts of electricity annually. Last year the hotel made the move to retrofit its lighting, replacing 35-watt spotlights and 200-watt light strips with seven-watt energy saving spotlights and eight-watt light strips.
Niccolo Changsha has forged ahead with energy saving measures since opening in October 2018. These range from recovering steam condensate for boiler use; reusing the condensed water; periodically cleaning the water tank; as well as installing water metres for zone management and supervision. The hotel is also reaping the energy-saving benefits of new technology such as infrared sensors on lighting, and elevator software programming to achieve energy efficiency
Most notably, the hotel aims to – by the end of 2024 – reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 601,577 kilotonnes; reduce energy consumption by 30 per cent or save 523,860 gigawatt-hours; reduce water consumption by 30 per cent or save 28,879 mega litres; as well as save 48,838 mega litres of gas
To celebrate the launch of the Green Collection, GHA DISCOVERY is giving back to the causes important to members and its hotel brands. For every Green Collection hotel booking made on http://www.ghadiscovery.com or the GHA DISCOVERY mobile app before the end of April 2023 and completed by 31st July 2023, GHA will donate US$5 to the charities it supports as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility Programme, which includes Environmental Protection, Healthcare & Wellbeing, Children & Youth Programmes, and Animal Welfare.
About Wharf Hotels
Hong Kong SAR-based Wharf Hotels, a subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited, operates 16 owned and/or managed hotels under Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels in Hong Kong, Mainland China and the Philippines. Niccolo Hotels was added to the group’s portfolio in 2015 as the luxury brand and encompasses five contemporary chic hotels –– The Murray, Hong Kong; Niccolo Changsha; Niccolo Chengdu; Niccolo Chongqing and Niccolo Suzhou.
Marco Polo Hotels’ 11 international deluxe hotels in established locations within Hong Kong, Mainland China and the Philippines reflect the philosophies of their namesake and adventurer – Marco Polo, and invite guests to explore, discover and experience a destination. Wharf Hotels is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance. Visit wharfhotels.com.
The Alabama Tourism Department has declared 2023 as the “Year of Alabama Birding” in an effort to promote bird watching tourism in the state. Alabama is home to a diverse range of bird species, and the department hopes to showcase the state’s natural beauty and conservation efforts through this initiative
Throughout the year, the Alabama Tourism Department will organize events, workshops, and tours focused on birding, with the goal of attracting both locals and visitors to the state’s many birding sites. The department will also work with local communities to promote sustainable tourism practices that support bird conservation
Alabama is a popular destination for bird watchers, with over 450 bird species recorded in the state. The Mobile Bay area, in particular, is a popular spot for birding, with thousands of visitors coming to the area each year to see the many species that pass through during migration.
The Year of Alabama Birding is expected to provide a boost to the state’s tourism industry, which was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. By promoting birding tourism, the Alabama Tourism Department hopes to support local businesses and communities while showcasing the state’s natural beauty and biodiversity