Ohio governor grants Browns public funding for new stadium

Ohio governor grants Browns public funding for new stadium

TheCleveland Brownsare one step closer to moving to the suburbs. They had already bought the plot of land, and on Monday night, they got the public funding. Ohio governor Mike DeWinesigned a new budgetinto law on Monday that allocates $600 million in unclaimed funds to partially fund the Browns' new stadium project in the southeastern Cleveland suburb, according to92.3 The Fan. The budget decision came three days after the Haslam Sports Group officially purchased a 176-acre plot of land for $76 million, according to Cuyahoga County Fiscal Office viaSportico. The Browns originally revealed the plans to move to Brook Park in August 2024, at the time calling it "a modern, dynamic, world-class venue that would greatly enhance the fan experience and enable the State of Ohio and our region to compete for some of the biggest events in the world 365 days a year." BROWNS NEWS:Haslams grateful for 'responsible way to support' Browns stadium funding after budget signed The Browns estimate the project to build a new, domed stadium will cost $2.4 billion in total. They've now received $600 million from the state of Ohio for the stadium, and the team expects to use an additional $400 million from Brook Park's income taxes for the new Huntington Bank Stadium. Haslam Sports Group has also committed $2 billion to mixed-use area development surrounding the stadium. Though they've officially received the public funding, the Browns still have a bit to go before they can begin building the stadium. According to theColumbus Dispatch, former Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann and former state Rep. Jeff Crossman announced they would immediately file a lawsuit if the state budget included funding the Browns' stadium project with unclaimed funds. BROWNS STADIUM LAWSUIT:Former Ohio leaders say they will sue over plan using unclaimed funds That said, Gov. DeWine already helped the Browns clear another potential road bump by adjusting language in the Modell Law. The law is nicknamed after infamous former Browns owner Art Modell, who moved the team to Baltimore in 1996. Its actual title isOhio Revised Code 9.67, which requires any Ohio-based team to give their city six months' notice to allow "political subdivision or any individual or group of individuals who reside in the area the opportunity to purchase the team." DeWine passed an amendment that changes language in the Modell Law to only apply to teams attempting to leave the state. SHEDEUR SANDERS:Browns rookie pays speeding tickets, addresses citations at team event Thrilled to move forward on a transformative project with generational impactpic.twitter.com/gym7FVv2o2 — Cleveland Browns (@Browns)July 1, 2025 With the Ohio governor backing their project and providing a sizable portion of the state's budget, the Browns are pushing ahead. Team principal owner Jimmy Haslam says he hopes to break ground in Brook Park by early next year. "We respect the firm commitment and leadership that Governor DeWine, and the Ohio Senate and House have shown in their collaborative work to find a responsible way to support such a transformative project, one that will create a generational impact for our region and the State," the Haslams said in a statement. "Our fans deserve a world-class facility, and we are committed to building a state-of-the-art enclosed stadium that resonates with Cleveland, highlighting our loyal and passionate fans and the Dawg Pound, while also incorporating innovation, bold design, and an immersive experience. The new enclosed Huntington Bank Field will be completely fan-centric, a first-of-its-kind design in the NFL, and a dynamic venue that draws visitors from across Ohio and beyond, for concerts and significant sporting events throughout the year. "This premiere facility will anchor a major lifestyle and entertainment development and be a catalyst for one of Northeast Ohio's largest economic development projects ever and something our community will be proud of and can enjoy for years to come. We appreciate the support of State leaders and their belief in this transformative project." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Browns stadium: Ohio governor grants team $600 million in funds

byAlpha World

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July 01, 2025

Ohio governor grants Browns public funding for new stadium

Ohio governor grants Browns public funding for new stadium TheCleveland Brownsare one step closer to moving to the suburbs. They had already...

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Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Addresses 'No. 1 Question' She Gets About Her Rare Hairstyle

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Addresses 'No. 1 Question' She Gets About Her Rare Hairstyle

Sam Hodde/Getty Ava Lahey of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders addressed in an Instagram Reel why she styles her hair straight, as opposed to the iconic curls her squad is known for wearing at games The Florida native explained that her hair would "fall flat" after approximately 20 minutes, ruining the curls she put in place Lahey acknowledged that her straightened hairstyle isn't the "big and bouncy curls" the DCC is known for wearing; however, she confirmed she got the "reassurance" she needed It's all about the hair. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are synonymous with their long, bouncy locks that whip and flip on the field as they perform their famed choreography during each game; however, Ava Lahey's 'do is an exception. In a recentInstagram Reel, Lahey — who also stars in Netflix's hitAmerica's Sweetheartsseries — addressed why she's allowed to wear her hair straight as opposed to the iconic curly, like the rest of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders on the team. "The number one question I get asked as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is 'Why do I get to wear my hair straight?'" she said in a voiceover shared on Saturday, June 28. "Well, here's the real story," she began in the clip. Richard Rodriguez/Getty "When I made it to training camp for the first time, I tried curling my hair, but it never really held," the Florida native explained while demonstrating how she styles her hair. "It would just fall flat after 20 minutes and look really stringy." "My hair is naturally really soft and fine," she added. "During rookie makeovers, they told me to try wearing it straight, and I'll never forget it. When I went back to rehearsal, one of the comments was, 'It dances better'." "I did end up getting cut from training camp that year, but when I made it back to training camp again, I wore it straight right off the bat," Lahey continued. "Now fast forward to makeovers again, they said they loved it straight, sleek and blonde, and I was so happy!" "It just feels so me," she admitted, adding, "And now, it's my signature look." Lahey noted that she's asked for "reassurance" about her straight hair a few times, but confirmed that her unique look is "still the vibe" for her, despite the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders being "typically known for their big and bouncy curls." Fortunately, Lahey's outward appearance effortlessly aligned with her internal spirit, which is what resonates with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders' motto. "It's all about looking your best and standing out while still fitting the DCC image," she shared, concluding, "Wearing my hair straight is what makes me feel and look my best!" Ava Lahey/Instagram The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have been known for theirstrict rules and guidelinesregarding their appearance as a franchise synonymous with its iconic image. Members of the squad have opened up about it in the past, in addition to it being highlighted in the Netflix series. For hair specifically, it must be worn down. Even during rehearsals, the locks must be flowing. "We not only have our hair styled and down the entire game, but our dances almost always have some form of 'hairography,' " a third-year vet named Melissa told PEOPLE in 2016. In fact, Cowboys cheerleader choreographer Judy Trammell previously told PEOPLE that the movement of the hair is more important than the length. Whether short or long, hairstylesshould be "current" and never hide one's face. The girls must maintain the look they established with DCC officials, which is how they appear in their publicity photos. Richard Rodriguez/Getty All upkeep takes place year-round at the DCC's official salon, Tangerine. "That's actually kind of exciting and that's a real fun perk, especially for the girls that come from small towns and went to a little local beauty parlor and then you come to this Dallas salon with two stories, 20 stylists, and equipment that looks like you could fly to the moon in it," Finglass said. "It's really quite glamorous," she added. In December 2024, DCC member Armani Latimer wentviral for dancing without a wigfor the first time since revealing her alopecia diagnosis — and was praised for doing so,leaving her teammates, coaches and fans inspired. "Confidence takes center stage for Alopecia Awareness 💙#MyCauseMyBoots | #DCCheerleaders," the caption read on the post. Read the original article onPeople

byAlpha World

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July 01, 2025

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Addresses 'No. 1 Question' She Gets About Her Rare Hairstyle

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Addresses 'No. 1 Question' She Gets About Her Rare Hairstyle Sam Hodde/Getty Ava Lahey of the Dallas Cowb...

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Greece, EU to press Libya on migrant crossings as Mediterranean numbers surge

Greece, EU to press Libya on migrant crossings as Mediterranean numbers surge

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — TheEuropean Union's commissioner for migration says Europe will take a "firm" approach with authorities in Libya following a spike in illegal migration across the Mediterranean. Commissioner Magnus Brunner plans to travel toLibyanext week with government representatives from Greece, Italy and Malta, seeking tougher measures from Libyan authorities to stop boats carrying migrants from leaving for Europe. "That is actually a question which bothers us quite a lot at the moment. Libya is, of course, at the top of the agenda, and we're traveling together to Libya next week because we have to be fast, I think, and firm," Brunner said Tuesday at a conference in Athens. Brunner, who discussed the upcoming visit at a meeting with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, said the delegation would meet with representatives from both the United Nations-recognized government in western Libya and a rival authority in the east. Greecerecently announced plans to send warships to international waters in the region following a surge in crossings from Libya to the southern Greek island of Crete — a more perilous route than the more frequently used passage between Turkey and nearby Greek islands. In 2023, hundreds died when the fishing trawler Adriana, carrying migrants from Libya to Italy,sank off Greek waters. ___ Follow AP's global migration coverage athttps://apnews.com/hub/migration

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July 01, 2025

Greece, EU to press Libya on migrant crossings as Mediterranean numbers surge

Greece, EU to press Libya on migrant crossings as Mediterranean numbers surge ATHENS, Greece (AP) — TheEuropean Union's commissioner for...

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Iran-linked hackers threaten to release Trump aides' emails

Iran-linked hackers threaten to release Trump aides' emails

By Raphael Satter WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Iran-linked hackers have threatened to disclose more emails stolen from U.S. President Donald Trump's circle, after distributing a prior batch to the media ahead of the 2024 U.S. election. In online chats with Reuters on Sunday and Monday, the hackers, who go by the pseudonym Robert, said they had roughly 100 gigabytes of emails from the accounts of White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Trump lawyer Lindsey Halligan, Trump adviser Roger Stone and porn star-turned-Trump antagonist Stormy Daniels. Robert raised the possibility of selling the material but otherwise did not provide details of their plans. The hackers did not describe the content of the emails. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi described the intrusion as "an unconscionable cyber-attack." The White House and the FBI responded with a statement from FBI Director Kash Patel, who said: "Anyone associated with any kind of breach of national security will be fully investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law." "This so-called cyber 'attack' is nothing more than digital propaganda, and the targets are no coincidence. This is a calculated smear campaign meant to damage President Trump and discredit honorable public servants who serve our country with distinction," cyberdefense agency CISA said in a post on X. Halligan, Stone and a representative for Daniels did not respond to requests for comment. Iran's mission to the United Nations did not return a message seeking comment. Tehran has in the past denied committing cyberespionage. Robert materialized in the final months of the 2024 presidential campaign, when they claimed to have breached the email accounts of several Trump allies, including Wiles. The hackers then distributed emails to journalists. Reuters previously authenticated some of the leaked material, including an email that appeared to document a financial arrangement between Trump and lawyers representing former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. - now Trump's health secretary. Other material included Trump campaign communication about Republican office-seekers and discussion of settlement negotiations with Daniels. Although the leaked documents did garner some coverage last year, they did not fundamentally alter the presidential race, which Trump won. The U.S. Justice Department in a September 2024 indictment alleged that Iran's Revolutionary Guards ran the Robert hacking operation. In conversations with Reuters, the hackers declined to address the allegation. After Trump's election, Robert told Reuters that no more leaks were planned. As recently as May, the hackers told Reuters, "I am retired, man." But the group resumed communication after this month's 12-day air war between Israel and Iran, which was capped by U.S. bombing of Iran's nuclear sites. In messages this week, Robert said they were organizing a sale of stolen emails and wanted Reuters to "broadcast this matter." American Enterprise Institute scholar Frederick Kagan, who has written about Iranian cyberespionage, said Tehran suffered serious damage in the conflict and its spies were likely trying to retaliate in ways that did not draw more U.S. or Israeli action. "A default explanation is that everyone's been ordered to use all the asymmetric stuff that they can that's not likely to trigger a resumption of major Israeli/U.S. military activity," he said. "Leaking a bunch more emails is not likely to do that." Despite worries that Tehran could unleash digital havoc, Iran's hackers took a low profile during the conflict. U.S. cyber officials warned on Monday that American companies and critical infrastructure operators might still be in Tehran's crosshairs. (Reporting by Raphael Satter; Additional reporting by Gram Slattery and Kanjyik Ghosh; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Michael Perry)

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July 01, 2025

Iran-linked hackers threaten to release Trump aides' emails

Iran-linked hackers threaten to release Trump aides' emails By Raphael Satter WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Iran-linked hackers have threatened...

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Soccer ban sparks fears of widening trans exclusion in the UK

Soccer ban sparks fears of widening trans exclusion in the UK

LONDON (AP) — It was not herbest goal or most important soccer match, but when the ball hit the back of the net in Natalie Washington's debut on a women's team in 2017, she felt a sense of belonging that had been missing. It was long in coming: Washington had struggled to fit in on a men's team and eventually stopped playing when she decided to transition to being a woman and go through gender-affirming surgery. When she joined a women's team, she quickly felt accepted. Now, after theUnited Kingdom's highest courtin April said that for anti-discrimination purposes the terms "woman" and "man" refer to biological sex, Washington's opportunity to play the sport she loves in the league she wants is in doubt. The head of theU.K's Equality and Human Rights Commissionfollowed the ruling a day later by saying the court had provided clarity and that transgender women would be excluded from women-only spaces such as toilets, single-sex hospital wards and sports teams. The Football Association, the regulatory body for soccer in the U.K., followed up by banning transgender players from women's teams in England and Scotland, a ban that took effect at the start of June. "It feels like things are being taken away from trans people on an almost daily basis," Washington said. "It's another blow, another kick at a time when people are already hurting." Long a divisive issue Beyond Britain, inclusion of trans players in sports has long been a divisive issue, with arguments primarily focused on whether it's fair to have athletes born as boys compete against girls and women. In the U.S., it has been particularly politicized, with most Republican-controlled statesbanning transgender athletes in girls' sportsand PresidentDonald Trumpsigning an executive order toprohibit participation of transgender athletesfrom girls' and women's sports. The U.K. court said trans people were still protected from discrimination under British law, such as in employment, housing and education, but the ruling means access to certain single-sex facilities could be curtailed. Trans rights groups condemned the decision, which is likely to have a profound effect for thousands. Out of some 66 million people in England, Scotland and Wales, about 116,000 identified as trans in the latest census count. The feminist groups who led the legal challenge cheered the ruling and others, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, welcomed the clarity it brought. "Everyone knows what sex is and you can't change it," said Susan Smith, co-director of For Women Scotland, which brought the case. A difficult decision Washington, who leads the group Football v Transphobia, was one of 28 transgender women registered with the Football Association to play amateur soccer. In order to play the women's game, they had to have testosterone levels reduced to the range of biologically born females. After the ruling, the organization changed its rules, saying that although it had aimed to make soccer accessible to as many people as possible, it was always prepared to alter its policy if there were changes in the law or science. "We understand that this will be difficult for people who simply want to play the game they love in the gender by which they identify," the FA said, adding that it would contact transgender women currently playing to explain the changes and how they can remain involved. Some clubs have responded by finding ways around the ban. Goal Diggers FC, a women and nonbinary inclusive soccer club based in London, has withdrawn from all FA-affiliated leagues. On June 1, the day the ban took effect, Goal Diggers hosted an inclusive women's tournament in London, drawing more than 100 players in a show of solidarity. "I'll always have a place here and I'll always be a trans woman," said Billie Sky, a 28-year-old trans player for Goal Diggers. "No one can take that away from me." Other voices, other sports Groups that have campaigned to keep trans athletes from girls' and women's teams, citing a matter of safety and fairness, welcomed the move by the FA. "The FA had ample evidence of the harms to women and girls caused by its nonsensical policy of letting men who identify as women play in women's teams," said Fiona McAnena of Sex Matters. Groups that oversee cricket and netball, an offshoot of basketball that is played mainly by women, also limited women's competition to those who were assigned at birth as females. The England and Wales Cricket Board said transgender women and girls could continue playing in open and mixed cricket. England Netball said it would allow anyone to play in a new mixed category beginning in September. How the ruling came about The legal case involved a 2018 Scottish law requiring at least half of the seats on public boards to be held by women. Trans women with certificates recognizing their gender were to be included in meeting the quota. The court said that using the certificates to identify someone's gender clashes with the definitions of man and woman. Under the ruling, a transgender person could not claim they had been discriminated against if barred from a single-sex space. Alexander Maine, a senior lecturer at The City Law School specializing in gender, sexuality and law, said the ruling clouds the value of a document sanctioned by the U.K. Gender Recognition Act that allows them to later update their birth certificate reflecting their acquired gender. "There may be a challenge at the European Court of Human Rights brought by trans individuals who say that there is a problem where they may be two sexes at once," Maine said. Someone could hold "a gender recognition certificate stating that they are their acquired gender, whereas under the U.K. Equality Act, they are still recognized in their birth gender," he said. Washington and many others say they worry the ruling may lead to more hatred aimed at trans people. "For the first time in a long time, I felt scared about how people are going to react to me in public," Washington said. "I don't feel anymore that I can guarantee I have support to turn to from authorities." ___ Brian Melley in London contributed to this report.

byAlpha World

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July 01, 2025

Soccer ban sparks fears of widening trans exclusion in the UK

Soccer ban sparks fears of widening trans exclusion in the UK LONDON (AP) — It was not herbest goal or most important soccer match, but when...

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