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Alabama Basketball Guard Aden Holloway Arrested on Marijuana Possession Charges Ahead of NCAA Tournament

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Aden Holloway

Alabama Crimson Tide guard Aden Holloway, the team’s second-leading scorer this season, was arrested Monday morning on drug-related charges after authorities discovered more than a pound of marijuana during a search of his residence, according to multiple reports and law enforcement officials.

Aden Holloway
Aden Holloway

Holloway, 21, faces charges of first-degree possession of marijuana and failure to affix a tax stamp, a spokesperson for the Tuscaloosa Police Department confirmed to 247Sports. The West Alabama Narcotics Task Force executed the search, recovering marijuana, drug paraphernalia and cash from the location. Holloway was booked into the Tuscaloosa County Jail with bond set at $5,000. He was released later Monday after posting bond.

The arrest comes at a critical juncture for the No. 4-seeded Crimson Tide, who open NCAA Tournament play Friday against No. 13 seed Hofstra in the first round of the March Madness bracket. Alabama, coached by Nate Oats, enters the postseason as one of the tournament’s top contenders after a strong SEC campaign, though the team suffered a quarterfinal exit in the conference tournament to Ole Miss.

Holloway has been a key contributor since transferring to Alabama from rival Auburn ahead of the 2025-26 season. The junior guard averages 16.8 points per game, shooting 48.1% from the field, and provides reliable scoring from the perimeter alongside leading scorer Mark Sears. His production has helped Alabama maintain a high-octane offensive identity, ranking among the nation’s leaders in scoring and three-point shooting.

The timing of the arrest has drawn immediate attention across college basketball circles, with analysts and fans speculating on potential team impacts. No official statement from the University of Alabama or Coach Oats had been released by late Monday, though athletic department policies typically involve internal reviews for such incidents. NCAA rules require schools to address eligibility concerns promptly, though marijuana possession often results in suspensions rather than permanent bans, depending on circumstances and prior offenses.

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Holloway’s background adds layers to the story. A former five-star recruit out of high school, he began his college career at Auburn, where he played two seasons before entering the transfer portal in spring 2024. The move to Alabama — crossing the bitter Iron Bowl rivalry — sparked controversy among fans but paid dividends on the court. In his first year with the Crimson Tide, Holloway adapted quickly, contributing to deep tournament runs and earning praise for his shooting and composure under pressure.

This season, Holloway has delivered standout performances, including a 26-point outburst in a blowout win over UNLV in November 2025 and clutch plays against Auburn in February 2026, where he scored nine straight points late to secure a road victory over his former team. His growth has been credited with helping Alabama sustain momentum despite injuries and roster turnover.

The charges stem from Alabama law, where possession of more than one pound of marijuana qualifies as first-degree, a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines. The failure to affix a tax stamp charge relates to state requirements for certain controlled substances. Authorities have not released additional details on the investigation, including whether the search was part of a broader probe or stemmed from specific tips.

Reactions on social media and in sports forums were swift, with some expressing disappointment given Holloway’s on-court contributions and others noting the prevalence of similar incidents in college athletics amid evolving marijuana laws nationwide. Alabama remains a state where recreational marijuana is illegal, though medical use is permitted under strict conditions.

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The Crimson Tide’s tournament preparation continues amid the uncertainty. Oats has emphasized discipline and focus throughout the season, and the program has navigated off-court issues before, including past player suspensions. Holloway’s status for Friday’s game remains unclear pending any university or NCAA decisions.

Alabama enters the NCAA Tournament with high expectations, bolstered by veteran leadership and defensive improvements in recent weeks. The loss of Holloway’s scoring would represent a significant blow, though the team’s depth — including guards like Labaron Philon and others — provides options.

As details emerge, the incident underscores ongoing challenges for student-athletes balancing high-profile competition with personal conduct. Holloway’s case joins a list of recent college basketball arrests involving marijuana, reflecting broader societal shifts even as legal consequences persist in many jurisdictions.

For now, attention shifts to the Crimson Tide’s response and whether Holloway will be available when Alabama tips off against Hofstra. The program’s resilience will be tested as it pursues another deep March run.

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Positive Signs Emerge as Star Eyes Return Before 2026 World Cup

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Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the highest-profile recruits of the Saudi Pro League

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Cristiano Ronaldo’s hamstring injury, which sidelined the 41-year-old Al-Nassr captain since late February, shows encouraging progress, with reports indicating he could return to action in April and remain available for Portugal’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the highest-profile recruits of the Saudi Pro League
AFP

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner suffered the setback during Al-Nassr’s 3-1 Saudi Pro League victory over Al-Fayha on Feb. 28, 2026, when he was substituted in the 81st minute after limping noticeably. Al-Nassr confirmed the diagnosis as a hamstring injury the following day, March 3, stating Ronaldo had begun rehabilitation and would be evaluated “day by day.” Initial fears of a lengthy absence grew when coach Jorge Jesus described the issue as “more serious than expected” on March 6, prompting the club to send Ronaldo to Madrid for specialized treatment with his longtime personal physiotherapist.

Ronaldo underwent advanced recovery methods, including pressotherapy — a compression therapy technique to improve circulation and reduce swelling — as he raced against time ahead of the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada starting June 11. The injury raised concerns about his participation in Portugal’s pre-tournament friendlies and final camp, with some outlets warning he risked missing key buildup matches against teams like the United States and Mexico.

Recent updates paint a more optimistic picture. As of mid-March 2026, Ronaldo’s recovery has advanced significantly. Saudi media outlet Al-Sharq Al-Awsat reported he is expected to return to Riyadh by the end of March, positioning him for a potential comeback in early April. Sources close to the situation indicate the timeline aligns with the original 2-to-4-week estimate for a hamstring strain, avoiding complications that could have extended his absence.

Portugal’s national team setup remains confident. Reports from reliable sources suggest Ronaldo is on track to feature in upcoming international fixtures, including high-profile friendlies that serve as final preparations for the World Cup. One update highlighted his likely inclusion against Mexico and the United States, marking his first appearance on Mexican soil. The encouraging news serves as a subtle warning to opponents like the U.S. Men’s National Team and Christian Pulisic, underscoring Ronaldo’s enduring threat even at 41.

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Al-Nassr, where Ronaldo has been a dominant force since joining in 2023, has felt his absence keenly. The Riyadh-based club sits atop the Saudi Pro League standings, chasing its first title in years, but has navigated recent matches without its star forward. Ronaldo’s goal tally and leadership have been pivotal in their strong campaign, and his return could provide a timely boost as the season enters its decisive phase.

The injury marks a rare fitness setback for Ronaldo, who has maintained remarkable durability throughout a career spanning more than two decades. He has avoided major long-term issues in recent seasons, crediting rigorous training, diet and recovery protocols. This hamstring problem, while concerning given his age and the World Cup proximity, appears manageable with his proactive approach — traveling to Spain for elite care rather than relying solely on club facilities.

Fans and analysts have closely monitored developments on social media and through club statements. Al-Nassr’s official channels provided initial updates, while Ronaldo’s personal posts and training glimpses (including indoor gym work shortly after the injury) signaled the issue was not catastrophic. By March 12, reports indicated substantial improvement, with expectations he would participate in Portugal’s upcoming matches.

The broader context adds stakes. Ronaldo aims to feature in his sixth World Cup, potentially capping his international career with another deep run for Portugal. The Seleção qualified convincingly, and his presence remains central to their ambitions. Missing the final pre-tournament camp would have been a blow, but current trajectories suggest he will be fit and available when the tournament begins.

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For Al-Nassr, the injury timeline allows Ronaldo to miss a limited number of games before resuming club duties. With the league title in sight, his return in April could prove decisive in the closing fixtures. The club has managed without him, but his scoring prowess and experience are irreplaceable.

As recovery continues, Ronaldo’s discipline stands out. Pressotherapy and targeted rehab reflect his commitment to defying age-related decline. At a stage where many legends retire, he pursues excellence on multiple fronts — club success in Saudi Arabia and international glory with Portugal.

The football world watches closely. If progress holds, Ronaldo could soon resume training with Al-Nassr and join Portugal’s squad, ready to chase records and silverware. The hamstring setback tested resilience, but early March indications point to a swift, successful return — ensuring the iconic forward remains a focal point ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

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Kurdish Authorities Reject Baghdad Request to Restart Oil Exports via Ceyhan

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24/7 Oil Futures Hold Steady Above $100

Iraq’s request that the Kurdistan Region restart exports of around 300,000 barrels of oil a day through the pipeline linking the northern part of the country to Turkey’s Ceyhan port has been rejected.

Baghdad had called for an immediate restart of exports through the Kurdistan pipeline network, but Kurdish authorities attached several conditions that Iraq considers “unrelated,” the ministry of oil said in a statement.

The Kurdish government accused Baghdad of imposing an economic blockade by restricting regional access to U.S. dollars through a new customs system. It also added that repeated strikes from pro-Iranian groups on energy infrastructure have halted production and Baghdad has done little to stop the strikes.

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Cruise lines hit by rising fuel costs as Iran war drives oil prices up

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Cruise lines hit by rising fuel costs as Iran war drives oil prices up

Cruise lines are facing headwinds as rising oil prices push their fuel costs higher amid the Iran war, as analysts are warning that Carnival could see the biggest hit to its 2026 profit.

Oil prices have risen over 35% since the war with Iran began amid attacks on oil and transportation facilities as well as threats to oil tankers and other vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz.

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The prices for West Texas Intermediate crude have risen above $90 a barrel in recent days, while Brent crude has been just above $100 a barrel in that timeframe. Those prices were between $60 and $70 a barrel a month ago before the conflict began.

Cruise lines rely on heavy fuel oil and marine gas and typically try to hedge against volatility in oil prices through financial contracts, though Carnival Corp. is an exception to that practice.

TRAVEL EXPERT WARNS AMERICANS TO ‘BOOK NOW’ AS OIL PRICES THREATEN HIGHER AIRFARES

A Royal Caribbean cruise ship in the water

Cruise lines are facing higher fuel costs due to the Iran war causing a surge in oil prices. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

A 10% change in fuel cost per metric ton would reduce Carnival’s 2026 net income by $156 million, compared with $57 million for its rival Royal Caribbean, according to the latest corporate filings.

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Norwegian Cruise Line said it hasn’t updated its fuel hedges from its earnings report in early March, when it indicated the 10% change would cut full-year profit per share by 7 cents. That would be equivalent to a roughly $90 million decrease in net income, according to calculations by Morningstar Research.

The world economy experienced an energy price shock in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine. That year, Carnival’s fuel costs were 17.7% of its total revenue, compared with 12.1% for Royal Caribbean and 14.2% for Norwegian.

TRUMP SAYS US ‘LARGEST OIL PRODUCER IN THE WORLD,’ BUT PRIORITY REMAINS STOPPING IRAN NUCLEAR CAPABILITIES

Ticker Security Last Change Change %
CCL CARNIVAL CORP. 24.71 +0.72 +3.02%
RCL ROYAL CARIBBEAN GROUP 280.81 +8.21 +3.01%
NCLH NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE HOLDINGS LTD. 19.84 +0.96 +5.08%

CFRA analyst Alex Fasciano noted that Carnival “owns a larger fleet, meaning the level of consumption is also higher than their counterparts.”

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Carnival told Reuters in a statement that the cruise line’s “best hedge against fuel costs is to use less, so we focus on using less fuel in the first place.”

“We’ve cut our fuel use by 18% since 2011 despite increasing capacity by nearly 38% during that time,” Carnival added, noting that it doesn’t see a long-term net benefit in hedging.

AMERICAN FARMERS PINCHED BY HIGH DIESEL PRICES AHEAD OF SPRING PLANTING SEASON

Carnival Glory cruise ship

Carnival doesn’t hedge its fuel prices and instead focusing on limiting consumption. (Gerard Bottino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Cruise lines are facing the volatility in oil prices during the industry’s busiest booking period, known as the “wave season,” which runs between January and March and typically sees operators offer special deals and discounts for trips this year.

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These cruises tend to run during the third quarter and have a disproportionately large contribution to cruise operators’ incomes, according to Lizzie Dove, analyst at Goldman Sachs.

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Dove noted that the oil shock could impact Americans’ bookings to Europe, particularly for higher-priced transatlantic trips.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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Fight To Be Streamed Exclusively on Netflix

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Aden Holloway

LOS ANGELES — Ronda Rousey, the trailblazing former UFC women’s bantamweight champion whose dominance reshaped mixed martial arts and propelled women’s fighting into the mainstream, made a stunning return to professional wrestling on March 15, 2026, interrupting All Elite Wrestling’s Revolution pay-per-view event.

Ronda Rousey

The appearance at the event, held in a high-profile venue, saw Rousey storm the ring following “Timeless” Toni Storm’s victory over Marina Shafir. Videos circulating online captured Rousey calling out Storm directly, igniting speculation about a potential new chapter in her wrestling career. The moment, broadcast live, drew immediate reactions across social media and combat sports outlets, with fans and analysts debating whether this signals a full-time shift back to pro wrestling or a one-off crossover tied to her broader comeback narrative.

Just weeks earlier, Rousey had confirmed her long-rumored return to MMA after nearly a decade away from the cage. On May 16, 2026, she will face fellow pioneer Gina Carano in a featherweight bout at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The fight, promoted by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and streamed exclusively on Netflix at no additional cost to subscribers, has been billed as one of the biggest super fights in women’s combat sports history.

Rousey, 39, last competed in MMA at UFC 207 in December 2016, suffering a first-round knockout loss to Amanda Nunes that effectively ended her run as the promotion’s inaugural women’s champion. Inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018, she transitioned to WWE, where she captured championships and headlined major events before stepping away amid reported frustrations with the company.

In recent interviews, Rousey has been vocal about her decision to bypass the UFC for her comeback. Speaking on The Jim Rome Show, she revealed that the promotion had offered what she called the “best PPV deal ever” for a New Year’s Eve fight, but the agreement fell apart due to shifts involving Paramount. She has since criticized UFC fighter pay structures, describing a recent “White House card” as underwhelming and suggesting the organization has changed fundamentally since her heyday.

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“This fight is about challenging the monolith,” Rousey said in a recent ESPN interview, referring to the UFC’s dominance in the sport. She expressed excitement about partnering with MVP, founded by Al Haymon and backed by figures like Jake Paul, emphasizing better compensation and a platform for legends like herself and Carano.

Carano, 44, a former Strikeforce standout and star of films like “Haywire” and “The Mandalorian,” has not fought since 2009. Her 7-1 record includes notable wins over elite competition, but she has been out of the cage for over 15 years due to acting commitments and other pursuits. The matchup pits two of women’s MMA’s earliest superstars against each other in a highly anticipated grudge match that blends nostalgia with modern streaming power.

The event also features Francis Ngannou making his MMA return on the undercard, adding further star power. Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion who left the promotion in a high-profile dispute, is scheduled to face an opponent yet to be fully detailed in announcements. Promoters have ramped up hype with promotional reels showing countdowns—recently hitting the nine-week mark—and urging fans to buy tickets and predict outcomes.

Rousey’s AEW cameo adds another layer to her multifaceted comeback. While she has previously stated she is done with professional wrestling—citing personal reasons and industry frustrations in 2025 interviews—the surprise interference suggests lingering ties or new opportunities in the space. AEW has positioned itself as a rival to WWE, and Rousey’s history with the latter could fuel storylines if she pursues more appearances.

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Beyond the ring and cage, Rousey has maintained a lower public profile in recent years, focusing on family life with husband Travis Browne and their children. Earlier reports had mentioned a pregnancy announcement, though current coverage centers squarely on her athletic pursuits.

As the May 16 date approaches, both fighters are undergoing extensive medical and neurological testing to ensure clearance for the bout, per standard protocols for high-profile returns. Tickets remain available through official channels, and the Netflix broadcast is expected to draw massive global viewership, potentially rivaling major UFC pay-per-view numbers.

Rousey’s journey—from Olympic judoka to UFC pioneer, WWE superstar, and now a crossover icon—continues to captivate. Whether her AEW moment leads to a sustained wrestling run or serves as promotion for the Carano fight, it underscores her enduring draw in combat sports.

For now, all eyes are on Los Angeles in May, where two legends aim to prove they still belong among the elite. Rousey has framed the clash as a celebration for fans “past, present and future,” a nod to the legacy she helped build and hopes to extend.

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LARRY KUDLOW: GOP must message better to win the midterms

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LARRY KUDLOW: GOP must message better to win the midterms

Messaging is so important in policy and politics. You could have several million parents and children going south on spring break, but then the entire trip can be ruined by waiting three to four hours in TSA lines, all because Democrats won’t finance the Department of Homeland Security bill. After four votes in the Senate, Democrats are willing to ruin your vacation. How many more votes? How many more ruined vacations? Well there’s a couple of messages that Senate Republicans, indeed the entire Republican Party may want to be asking repeatedly.

The former House speaker, Newt Gingrich, is wondering why Democratic senators in Georgia aren’t helping America’s biggest airport and the most profitable airlines based in their home state. I bet a lot of people are wondering whether the Democratic majority leader, Chuck Schumer, gets to go to the front of the line instead of waiting three to four hours. Kind of seems unfair, don’t you think? I’d want to message that, too, if I were a Republican leader.

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Then there’s Democratic blockade of the voting rights bill called the SAVE America Act. The Committee to Unleash Prosperity has a list of at least 65 things that you need a photo ID for. These include, say, getting on an airplane, joining a gym, adopting a pet, buying tobacco, adopting a child, buying a cellphone, donating blood, applying for a job, picking up mail, and the list goes on and on and on. There’s only one thing that doesn’t require a photo ID: voting. 

Does that strike you as odd? Sounds to me like Republicans should be messaging it on a daily basis. President Trump is doing it. And there’s gonna be a hell of a fight in the Senate. Yet the polling is about 80 percent to 20 percent in favor of the GOP position. And here’s another messaging thought. A number of presidential spokesmen have talked about how oil and gasoline prices are going to come down after the American military mission in Iran has been successfully completed. And I agree with that. Prices will come down. Yet rather than forecast energy prices, I think a better message would remind Americans what the mission is.

For example, new polls by McLaughlin and Company show tremendous support among likely voters for eliminating Iran’s nuclear threat. And nearly as much support for eliminating Iran’s terrorism threat.

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A clear majority wants to end Iran’s nuclear weapons, and their terrorism, and their decades-long hostility to the United States. That majority agrees with Mr. Trump’s mission in Iran. And incidentally, the majority spans independents and even more than a fifth of Democratic voters. Yet a temporary energy price increase is a small price to pay in order to abolish the current Iranian regime, and the 47-year war it has waged against America.

Republicans would be advised to emphasize the mission in Iran, rather than trying to figure out the timing or the ultimate decline in energy prices. Americans are smarter and even more patriotic than politicians and the legacy press seem to think. Whooping Iran is going to be a sleeper issue in the midterms.

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NY school district finds electric buses cost 9 times more than diesel

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NY school district finds electric buses cost 9 times more than diesel

School districts in several states are facing mandates to incorporate electric buses into their school bus fleets, with the EVs bringing with them different operating costs and posing new challenges.

Several states, including New York and California, have implemented requirements that school districts buy zero-emission school buses with their new purchases. New York’s rule takes effect in 2027 for all new school bus purchases and has a fleet-wide goal of 2035 for the transition, while California’s new purchase mandate will take effect in 2035 with five-year extensions available for rural school districts.

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Some school districts are getting ahead of the mandates and are experimenting with electric school buses and a new report on the operating costs shows that electric school buses pose different challenges for school districts than diesel school buses.

NEW YORK PARENTS SAY KIDS ‘FREEZE’ ON MANDATED ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES DURING BRUTAL WINTER WEATHER

Electric school buses charging

Electric school buses pose new operational challenges for school districts transitioning their diesel school bus fleets. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

report by News10NBC of Rochester, New York, examined the financial impact of the Naples Central School District’s experience with electric buses, as the district used federal grants to buy two electric buses and related infrastructure that have now been in use for almost two full school years.

Transportation director and head mechanic Pat Elwell told News10NBC that the EVs that consumers drive as personal vehicles are “ahead of the curve” while electric buses “are not” because the “technology is not there, the batteries are not there.”

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ARCTIC BLAST FUELS SCRUTINY OF BIDEN’S $8B ELECTRIC BUS PUSH AS WATCHDOGS CITE OVERSIGHT FAILURES

Bus driver

Electric buses offered a smoother ride and performed better going up hills, according to the report. (David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

He said that the district’s drivers report that the electric buses perform better in some respects, such as getting up hills and offering a smoother ride. However, he cautioned that performance is dependent on the temperature as they work best between 20 and 80 degrees, but temperatures outside that range can impact battery life.

Elwell told the outlet that about half of the time this winter, the district opted against using the electric buses since about 20% of their battery charge was going to heating the vehicles and that required a midday recharge to ensure they had sufficient battery for their afternoon routes.

ELECTRIC BUSES ARE SITTING UNUSED IN CITIES ACROSS THE US; HERE’S WHY

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Kids getting on bus in the snow

The report noted that electric buses struggle to maintain their batteries in cold and hot temperatures outside the 20 to 80 degree range. (iStock)

The outlet asked about how electric buses compare to diesel school buses in terms of operating costs, and Elwell said the district pays about 36 cents per mile to operate its diesel buses – which he noted is relatively stable because the district can buy fuel through state contracts.

“The electric on the other hand is all over the place because you never know from month to month what it’s going to be, so by the time you start factoring in your kilowatt-hour for the supply and the delivery and all the other charges just the same as you would for your diesel bill, we’re paying $3.18 per mile for an electric bus,” he told News10NBC.

Superintendent Kevin Swartz told the outlet that the difference in costs between an electric bus and a diesel bus is about $300,000 and that because of that differential, the district doesn’t have plans to buy additional electric buses at this time.

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Swartz said in the report that Naples is a “relatively small district who replaces two buses a year. Typically, that’s $600,000 in additional monies that the taxpayers would have to come up with and that’s exclusive of any charging or infrastructure upgrades we’d have to bring in if we went any further.”

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Thailand Facilitates Safe Return of 952 Citizens Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

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Thailand Facilitates Safe Return of 952 Citizens Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

On March 16, 2026, the Middle East situation escalated with air strikes involving Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Thailand advises nationals in high-risk areas to leave and supports safe returns home.


Key Points

  • On March 16, 2026, the Joint Management and Monitoring Center reported escalating tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing air strikes involving Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Iranian strikes targeted Gulf states, while the U.S. and Israeli efforts focused on Iranian military infrastructures.
  • The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs cautioned nationals in high-risk areas to consider leaving and stay updated through embassies. Twenty crew members from the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree returned safely, with ongoing efforts to rescue three remaining members.
  • Since the conflict’s start, 952 Thai nationals have returned home, with government coordination to assist those wishing to leave. Thailand urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic resolutions to the conflict.

On March 16, 2026, the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East on March 16, 2026, reported that the situation in the Middle East continues to escalate, with ongoing exchanges of air strikes involving Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Iranian strikes have targeted infrastructure in several Gulf Cooperation Council member states, while the U.S. and Israeli strikes targeted military infrastructures in Iran.

​The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises Thai nationals in high-risk areas to consider leaving and to closely follow updates and guidance from Thai embassies and consulates.

Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Panidone Pachimsawat also reported that twenty Thai crew members from the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree have safely returned to Thailand. He added that Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow has spoken by telephone with his Iranian counterpart to coordinate the rescue and assistance of the three remaining crew members and to discuss safe passage for Thai cargo vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Since the conflict began, 952 Thai nationals have been assisted in returning home from the region. The government continues to coordinate among ministries, consulates, and embassies to support and facilitate Thai nationals, especially those wishing to return to Thailand.

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​Thailand has also called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomatic means.

Source : Thailand Assists 952 Nationals Returning Home as Middle East Conflict Escalates

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How the UK and China Trade Agreement Could Shape UK Businesses in 2026

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China has been cautioned against retaliating to President Trump’s aggressive new tariff regime by offloading its massive holdings of US government bonds — a move that analysts warn could damage its own economy more than it harms Washington.

Economic partnerships and trade agreements among countries often change the direction of trade and investment between them. Most of the time, this results in business expansion, increased foreign direct investment, and greater market access across sectors.

In January 2026, the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited China to reset trade ties between the two countries, which had been strained for years.

The visit was also aimed at boosting economic growth and exploring new global power dynamics between the two nations. This marked the first visit of a UK Prime Minister to China in 8 years. However, beyond the agreement, partnership, and memorandum of understanding, new trade cooperation initiatives are prompting questions about how the UK-China trade agreement in 2026 could positively influence companies operating in the United Kingdom.

For British companies, the issue is not only about export opportunities. It also concerns access to investment, talent, supply chains, and regulatory cooperation. Chinese company owners seeking to relocate their companies to the United Kingdom must meet the UK sponsor licence requirements for businesses.

As a business owner, meeting the sponsor licence requirements UK makes you eligible to obtain a sponsor licence, which you can use to recruit overseas workers. If you’re a UK-based business owner, you may want to understand how strengthened UK China trade relations 2026 could shape your business’s growth strategies.

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UK China Trade Agreement Business Perspective

Keir Starmer’s January visit to Beijing resulted in a series of targeted agreements aimed at reducing friction and laying the foundation for future trade. While the UK is the second-largest exporter of services, China is the world’s second-largest economy and also the UK’s third-largest trading partner.

The trade agreement is significantly beneficial for both countries. The crucial strategic trade cooperation documents and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the UK and China include:

Bilateral Trade Services Partnership

The UK and China committed to cooperate to increase market access for UK services firms in areas such as legal, financial, education, and digital services. This includes supporting Renminbi (RMB) trading, fostering fintech, and easing entry for UK firms in China.

Joint Feasibility Study

Both the UK and China agreed to explore the potential for a formal, legally binding Trade in Services Agreement. This would provide greater certainty for UK exporters in the future.

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Reduced Tariffs

China is committed to reducing the tariff on Scotch whisky from 10% to 5%. This groundbreaking move is estimated to generate over £250 million for the United Kingdom in 5 years.

Visa-free Travel

The Chinese government committed to allowing British citizens to travel to China for up to 30 days without a visa. China has implemented this 30-day visa-free policy for UK citizens from February 17, 2026, until December 31, 2026. This helps UK citizens expedite business transactions and travel to China for tourism and family visits.

Impact of the UK China Trade Deal on SMEs

The reset of UK-China trade relations in January 2026 holds a significant impact on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). While the potential for increased exports clearly exists, UK SMEs are exposed to various opportunities, including:

Targeted Sector Growth

Several sectors in the UK are positioned to benefit from the revitalised UK China business trade deal. Opportunities for UK SMEs come from financial services, clean energy technologies, advanced manufacturing, creative industries, and life sciences. UK businesses operating in these fields may benefit from an increased demand for specialised expertise, innovation partnerships, and export-ready products.

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Digital and Technology Collaboration

Technology partnerships may become more prominent as the evolving UK-China bilateral trade agreement progresses. The UK SMEs in Artificial Intelligence (AI), financial technology (Fintech), and biotechnology could explore joint research, investment, or product development opportunities with Chinese companies. Additionally, London’s established role as an offshore RMB trading hub and global financial centre may also support cross-border digital finance initiatives.

Market Access

Due to the UK China economic partnership, there’s an expansion of market access for British exporters. UK SMEs producing high-quality food, beverages, and agricultural products could benefit from growing Chinese consumer demand for premium imported goods. As this bilateral trade agreement is expected to ease trade barriers, smaller British producers may have greater opportunities to distribute their products through Chinese retail networks and e-commerce platforms.

Investment from China Set to Spur UK Business Activities

Following the UK-China trade deal, some Chinese investments can significantly spur business activity in the UK. Several overseas companies, especially Chinese firms, have expressed interest in investing in the United Kingdom. These developments highlight how expanding economic ties between the UK and China may spur business activity. These economic ties also attract foreign direct investment and create employment opportunities across multiple sectors of the British economy.

Various companies have already announced investment projects that could contribute to local economic development. Energy storage manufacturer HiTHIUM, for example, has outlined plans to invest approximately £200 million in the UK. The project is expected to create around 300 jobs while also supporting the UK’s transition toward a more resilient and sustainable energy grid. These investments align with the UK’s broader goals of expanding renewable energy infrastructure and strengthening energy security.

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In the transport and manufacturing sector, Cheryl Commercial Vehicles has announced plans to establish its European headquarters in Liverpool. This move is expected to support the development of the local green automotive supply chain. Consequently, it reinforces Liverpool’s position as a centre for advanced vehicle technologies.

Consumer and retail investment is also emerging. Chinese entertainment and collectables brand Pop Mart plans to develop London as its European hub. It proposes opening seven UK retail stores and creating more than 150 jobs.

Meanwhile, pharmaceutical and life sciences company Asymchem is expanding its operations in the UK. The expansion could generate up to 150 highly-skilled roles in research and manufacturing over the next 5 years. This significantly further strengthens the UK’s reputation as a leading European hub for life sciences innovation.

Key Takeaways

The reset in the bilateral trade relationship between the UK and China offers opportunities and considerations for both British and Chinese businesses. While this trade agreement offers opportunities for investment, exports, and sectoral collaboration, UK companies must still assess market conditions and their long-term strategic goals. With this opportunity, UK businesses can grow through international partnerships and expanded market access.

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Similarly, Chinese business owners seeking to relocate to the UK have opportunities to invest and sponsor foreign workers, provided they meet the sponsor licence requirements UK. For clarification on business trips to China from the UK and vice versa, it is advisable to consult an immigration advisor about your visa options. Additionally, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer to help you meet visa requirements, gather the necessary documents, and comply with recent immigration updates, which can be overwhelming.

Chinese businesses seeking to have their non-UK workers in the UK must sponsor them, and this is only possible if they meet the UK sponsor licence requirements. Generally, UK and Chinese businesses that remain informed, adaptable, and strategically prepared to adjust to immigration rules will be positioned to benefit from any developments in the UK-China trade agreement.

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American Outdoor Brands: I'm Buying The Weakness

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American Outdoor Brands: I'm Buying The Weakness

American Outdoor Brands: I'm Buying The Weakness

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Mixed DNA Evidence Offers Hope for Breakthrough

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Nancy Guthrie

TUCSON, Ariz. — More than six weeks after 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Catalina Foothills home, the Pima County Sheriff leading the investigation says he believes the crime was targeted — but warned the suspect could strike again.

Nancy Guthrie
Nancy Guthrie

Sheriff Chris Nanos, in an interview with NBC News that aired March 13, revealed that investigators have developed a working theory about why Guthrie, mother of “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was taken from her residence in the early morning hours of Feb. 1.

“We believe we know why he did this, and we believe that it was targeted,” Nanos told NBC correspondent Liz Kreutz. “We’re not 100% sure of that, so it would be silly to tell people, ‘Yeah, don’t worry about it, you’re not a target.’”

The sheriff’s candid assessment came as the investigation entered its 44th day, with no suspect in custody and Guthrie’s whereabouts still unknown. The case has drawn national attention since FBI Director Kash Patel released doorbell camera footage on Feb. 10 showing an armed, masked man approaching Guthrie’s front door.

Mixed DNA Evidence Could Provide Breakthrough

Among the most promising developments, Nanos said, is mixed DNA evidence recovered from Guthrie’s property that remains under analysis. When asked whether that evidence could lead to a match, the sheriff expressed optimism.

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“Absolutely, that’s going to get us to somebody, we hope,” he said.

The DNA samples represent a critical piece of the puzzle for investigators who have been working to identify a suspect described as a male approximately 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall with an average build. The individual was captured on camera wearing a black ski mask, gloves, and a backpack — later identified as an Ozark Trail Hiker Pack — with what appeared to be a weapon in a holster.

Earlier DNA testing on black gloves found about two miles from Guthrie’s home hit a dead end when analysis showed they belonged to a restaurant worker with no connection to the case, the sheriff’s department announced March 4.

However, other DNA samples recovered from inside Guthrie’s home — material not belonging to the victim or her inner circle — continue to be processed.

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Internet Disruption Raises Questions About Pre-Meditation

Investigators are also examining whether the suspect used sophisticated equipment to disable Guthrie’s home security systems. Nanos confirmed authorities are looking into a potential internet disruption that occurred the night of the abduction.

“If you look at that timeline, there was a timeline when things went offline,” Nanos said. “So we’re looking into that. Why did that occur? We checked with our power companies. We checked with others in the neighborhood.”

On March 5, investigators canvassed Guthrie’s neighborhood asking residents whether they experienced internet service issues that night. Three homeowners told NBC News that investigators mentioned multiple people in the area had reported glitches.

The possibility that a Wi-Fi jammer was used suggests a level of planning that has concerned law enforcement officials.

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A damaged utility box near Guthrie’s home has also been examined, though Nanos said investigators do not currently believe it is connected to the case.

Timeline of a Disappearance

According to the timeline established by doorbell camera footage and digital records, Guthrie spent the evening of Jan. 31 with family, returning home at approximately 9:48 p.m. Her garage door closed two minutes later.

The first sign of trouble came at 1:47 a.m. on Feb. 1, when the doorbell camera disconnected. At 2:12 a.m., smart home software detected a person on the camera. By 2:28 a.m., Guthrie’s pacemaker app showed it had disconnected from her phone.

When Guthrie failed to appear at a friend’s house to watch a church service online — a routine engagement — the friend contacted Guthrie’s daughter Annie, who lives nearby. The family checked on her at 11:56 a.m., called 911 at 12:03 p.m., and patrol cars arrived at 12:15 p.m.

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Community Support Remains Strong

As the investigation stretches into its seventh week, the Tucson community has maintained visible support for the Guthrie family. Residents have created signs, banners, and artwork calling for Nancy’s safe return.

Local artist Donna Preuss, known as “Pinky,” has been leaving canvas paintings outside Guthrie’s home, including one reading, “Nancy, all of us are praying for you to come home now.”

Despite the prolonged investigation, no arrests have been made in connection with Guthrie’s disappearance. Several individuals have been detained in unrelated matters, including a man who allegedly sent a false ransom note to the family and another arrested on misdemeanor DUI charges in front of Guthrie’s home.

Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with information to contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov, or call the Pima County Sheriff’s Department at 520-351-4900 or 88-CRIME.

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