Page 807 – THE LOCAL REPORT ARTICLES

‘Dogs bless Barron’: Satirical website calls for president’s son Barron Trump to go to war

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March 3, 2026

‘Dogs bless Barron’: Satirical website calls for president’s son Barron Trump to go to war

A website called DraftBarronTrump.com called on President Donald Trump’s son, Barron Trump, to join the war in the Middle East after the United States and Israel launched an attack on Iran that left three American service members dead in the conflict. The satirical website is filled with false claims about President Trump and his sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. A TikToker claims South Park writer Toby Morton launched the site to target Barron Trump.“This site is dedicated to honoring the strongest and bravest voices of war. When power is projected abroad, it’s a given that power exists at home. If you’re looking for proven genes, inherited courage, and unquestionable determination, look no further than the Trump family. Leadership starts somewhere,” the site’s “About Us” reads, along with a photo of Donald Trump, who can be seen with his eyes closed. The website states: “America is strong because its leaders are strong. President Trump proves that every day. And of course, his son Barron is more than ready to defend the country his father so boldly commanded. Service is honor. Strength is inherited. Dog bless Barron.” The United States has had no military draft since 1973. The draft requires authorization from the president and Congress. Several presidents’ sons have served in the U.S. military. Theodore Roosevelt Jr. was the son of President Theodore Roosevelt and served in World War I and World War II after his father left office. Roosevelt’s son, Quentin Roosevelt, also served as a pilot in World War I and was killed in combat. John Eisenhower, the son of President Dwight Eisenhower, served in World War II and Korea. President Joe Biden’s son, Beau Biden, served in Iraq before his father became president.“People come up to me in tears and they say, ‘Sir, you are the strongest. Send Barron into battle.’ I have always been strong. Very strong. Stronger than anyone could have ever imagined. Some say the strongest of all time. And strength matters. Trust me,” reads an erroneous quote from President Trump on the site.

Iran war: Flights from West Asia resume, bringing stranded Indians home

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March 3, 2026

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Iran war: Flights from West Asia resume, bringing stranded Indians home

NEW DELHI: In a bid to bring relief to hundreds of thousands of people stuck in West Asia since Saturday, Emirates, flydubai and Etihad Airways started operating special flights from Monday, including some to India.The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also asked Indian operators to resume flights to open airspaces such as Oman and Saudi Arabia, with Air India Group and IndiGo starting services from Tuesday. There is huge demand for scheduled and charter flights from Indians stranded in conflict-torn West Asia, but operations depend on the situation in the region. IndiGo plans 10 special relief flights from Jeddah to India on Tuesday “to facilitate the return of stranded passengers, subject to necessary approvals and prevailing airspace conditions,” a government statement said.Air India Express will resume scheduled flights between Muscat and Delhi, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Mumbai and Tiruchirappalli from Tuesday. Air India has resumed flights to the US, Canada, Europe and the UK.Emirates said “priority will be given to customers who have booked in advance and those who have rebooked on these limited flights will be contacted directly by Emirates.”Monday’s flights include flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. As the airport resumed partial operations, 15 Etihad Airways flights also took off from Abu Dhabi “within three hours”, one each to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kochi.“Special arrangements are being made to facilitate the movement of stranded passengers. Airlines are deploying additional capacity as required and are closely coordinating with foreign aviation authorities and Indian missions abroad to ensure safe and orderly movement of passengers,” India’s aviation ministry said in a statement.Air India has approached the Muscat authorities to operate charter flights (which is served by AI Express, which has only single-aisle in its fleet) as the group wants to deploy wide-body aircraft to transport as many people as possible. AI also plans to resume scheduled flights to Jeddah from Tuesday, using Boeing 777 aircraft with up to 342 seats. IndiGo is also planning multiple flights as it is also receiving a large number of requests for charter flights. Air India has received many requests for charter flights to Muscat, mostly from passengers stranded in the UAE.“There is AI Express service in Muscat, but AI does not operate there. AI wants to deploy wide-body aircraft, which besides carrying more passengers, have longer diversion range in areas where airspace is currently closed. Wide-body aircraft can have diversion airports in Mumbai or Ahmedabad. We are waiting to hear from the Muscat authorities,” said a person familiar with the matter.Gautam Sahni, managing director of Subha Aviation, India’s leading charter operator, said: “We have received an unprecedented number of group charter requests from Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and elsewhere to multiple destinations across India. We are watching the window when the UAE airspace opens up to operate these flights and apply for permission accordingly. The indications we are getting are that this may happen within a day or two.”“

IRS update: When will the $8,046 tax refund be deposited? Possible reasons for delay

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March 3, 2026

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IRS update: When will the $8,046 tax refund be deposited? Possible reasons for delay

this IRS An important update was shared for the millions of taxpayers still waiting for their tax refunds of up to $8,046.

IRS update: What happened to the $8,046 tax refund and may it be delayed? (Reuters)

This update primarily affects those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). The IRS has warned that refunds for these taxpayers may be delayed due to PATH Act.

Under the law, the IRS must hold refunds until at least mid-February to help prevent fraud.

“This includes your entire tax refund, not just the portion related to the credits you claimed on your tax return,” the IRS says.

“If you claim the EITC or ACTC, we may need more information from you on your tax return. We will send you a letter if required.”

Because of this rule, many people may not see their refunds until late February or early March. Officials said those who filed online, opted for direct deposit and returned without issues should receive their refunds by Monday. However, some payments may take longer if the bank requires additional time to process the deposit.

Taxpayers can track the status of their refund using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” tool.

Also read: 2026 IRS Refunds: Why Some Refunds Are Delayed Under the PATH Act; View February Schedule

How much are credits worth?

2026 is expected to be the biggest tax refund season ever, and many Americans are waiting for their payments.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
The EITC is a fully refundable federal tax credit For low- and moderate-income workers.

For the 2025 tax year, the maximum credit for taxpayers with three or more qualifying children is $8,046.

Taxpayers with two children could receive up to $7,152.

People with one child could receive up to $4,328.

People without children can receive up to $649.

Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
The ACTC is the refundable portion of the child tax credit. It helps taxpayers who have little to no tax liability.

If someone qualifies for the child tax credit and their tax bill drops to $0 before using the full credit, they can receive a refund of up to $1,700 per qualifying child.

To qualify for the ACTC, taxpayers must meet the basic requirements for the child tax credit and have an income of at least $2,500.

Documents required for tax filing

The IRS recommends that taxpayers wait until they have all necessary documentation before filing. These include:

W-2 form provided by employer
1099 forms from banks, government agencies and other payers, including unemployment benefits, dividends, pensions, annuities or retirement plan distributions
Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2 or other gig economy job income statement
Interest Income Form 1099-INT
Other income records and digital asset transaction records
Form 1095-A (Health Insurance Market Statement) is used to reconcile a prepayment or claim a premium tax credit
Letter from the IRS or other agency
CP01A notification with new identity protection PIN

Middle East Tensions: PM Modi speaks to Saudi and Bahrain leaders; thanks them for protecting Indian communities

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March 3, 2026

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Middle East Tensions: PM Modi speaks to Saudi and Bahrain leaders; thanks them for protecting Indian communities

File photo

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Saudi Prime Minister, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Bahrain King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and thanked both leaders for their concern for the Indian community amid the instability in West Asia. He also condemned the attack on Saudi Arabia, saying it “violated its sovereignty and territorial integrity.” On February 28, the United States and Israel launched a joint strike against Iran called “Operation Roaring Lion”, which resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Subsequently, the military situation in Iran and the Gulf region continued to escalate.

Modi breaks silence on Middle East crisis, urges calm and dialogue amid Israel-Iran tensions

“I discussed developments in West Asia with His Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. India condemns the recent attack on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which violates its sovereignty and territorial integrity. We agreed that it is crucial to restore peace and stability in the region at the earliest possible date. I appreciate his concern for the welfare of the Indian community in this difficult situation,” he said in a post on X.“I had a productive telephone conversation with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain. India condemned the attack on the Kingdom of Bahrain and expressed its solidarity with its people in this difficult situation. I thank him for his continued support to the Indian community in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” he said in another post on X.Earlier in the day, he discussed the situation in West Asia with Canadian Foreign Minister Mark Carney.“The situation in West Asia is a matter of serious concern to us,” Prime Minister Modi explain. “We will continue to work with countries in West Asia to ensure the safety of Indians there,” he added.Referring to the situation in West Asia, Prime Minister Modi said: “India supports the resolution of all conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.”

Middle East top updates: Indian-origin investor says she spent two hours with Trump before US attacked Iran

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March 3, 2026

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Middle East top updates: Indian-origin investor says she spent two hours with Trump before US attacked Iran

Asha Jadeja Motwani, an Indian-origin venture capitalist, says she spent two hours with President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago on the night he chose to stop all negotiations with Iran and start war. “We were honored to meet with President Trump for two hours last night at Mar-a-Lago,” Motwani said. “On a night that will forever change the history of our planet… the president chose to stop all negotiations with Iran and begin war – with brave Israelis leading the entire operation.” At the dinner table, the main discussions were about the midterm elections and the war with Iran. “Throughout three days at Mar-a-Lago, I watched Steve Witkoff, Rubio, Hegers, Jared Kushner, Susie and the entire team shuttle back and forth between the ‘War Room’ and the Presidential Residence. Trump was working around the clock, as always. Seven days a week,” Motwani wrote. Motwani added: “Beyond the usual excitement of meeting our extremely positive president, I most importantly heard first-hand the latest high-level news from the Middle East from Steve Witcoff (I am buying a small house near him in Miami) … and got to know the family.” U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday that the attack was the “last and best chance” to attack Iran. U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegers said that unlike the operation in Iraq, this operation will not continue indefinitely because they have a clear mission, which is to eliminate the threat of Iranian ballistic missiles, destroy the country’s navy and ensure that “there are no nuclear weapons.”“This is not a so-called regime change war, but regimes do change and the world is better for it,” Hegseth said, adding that it was “not a nation-building quagmire, nor a democracy-building exercise.” “Our goals are clear. First, we are destroying Iran’s missile capabilities… Second, we are eliminating their navy… Third, we are ensuring that the world’s number one sponsor of terror never obtains a nuclear weapon. And finally, we are ensuring that the Iranian regime cannot continue to arm, fund and command terrorist armies abroad,” Hegseth said.

Cuba’s president urges ‘urgent’ changes to island’s economic and business model

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March 3, 2026

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Cuba’s president urges ‘urgent’ changes to island’s economic and business model

HAVANA – Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Monday that the Cuban government should “immediately” focus on an emergency transformation of the island’s economic and social model to serve as an oil reserve in caribbean countries reduce.

The comments came as Cuba is feeling the pressure during a meeting of the Council of Ministers. The latest oil blockade Venezuelan oil shipments halted after U.S. Attack on South American countries January.

“We must immediately focus on implementing the urgent and most necessary transformation of our economic and social model,” he was quoted as saying by state media.

According to state-owned media reports, Díaz-Canel said that promoting the transformation of Cuba’s economic and social model is closely related to factors such as business and municipal autonomy, as well as the adjustment of the size of state machinery, government and institutions.

He called on municipalities to manage issues including foreign direct investment; economic partnerships between the state and non-state sectors; and investments with Cubans living abroad, according to state media.

Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz says Cuba’s top priorities are food production and revamping the island’s power grid Severe power outages and fuel supply disruptions persist in.

State media quoted Energy and Mines Minister Vincent de la Rio Levy as saying that despite the distribution of solar panels to doctors, teachers and children, progress on municipalities developing transition strategies remained slow. Municipalities need to develop a sustainable development strategy that relies on their own resources, he said.

Last month, Cuba implemented austerity measures Fuel saving measuresincluding stopping some public transportation and taking classes online.

Last week, the U.S. Treasury Department slightly eased restrictions on Venezuelan oil sales to Cuba, but the island’s energy and economic crisis is expected to persist.

except its energy issuesCuba is facing a sharp increase in U.S. sanctions. Government statistics show that Cuba lost nearly $8 billion in revenue from March 2024 to February 2025, an increase of nearly 50% from the previous period.

Follow Latin America coverage: /hub/latina

This article was generated from automated news agency feeds without modifications to the text.

Delhi govt sets up 50 ‘Pink Saheli’ card centers; distribution starts from Tuesday

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March 3, 2026

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Delhi govt sets up 50 ‘Pink Saheli’ card centers; distribution starts from Tuesday

New Delhi: The Delhi government has set up around 50 centers across the city to facilitate the issuance of ‘Pink Saheli’ cards and the distribution process will begin from Tuesday.President Droupadi Murmu on Monday launched the Pink National Universal Transport Card, which will provide free bus travel to women and transgender people and seamless access to multiple public transport systems through a single smart card, in line with the ‘One Nation, One Card’ initiative.Around 50 card issuance centers have been set up, including at the offices of district magistrates and divisional magistrates, as well as at selected Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) locations, a statement said.“Distribution will be conducted at 50 centers from 9 am to 5 pm throughout the day from March 3,” the DTC said in a statement.Each pink card will be linked to the beneficiary’s mobile number and Aadhaar to verify age, gender and Delhi residence, the statement said.The pink card will allow eligible female residents of Delhi to travel on DTC buses and cluster buses free of charge and can also be used for paid travel on other public transport services including delhi metro and the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), which enables commuters to use one card across systems.The pink card will replace the existing paper pink tickets and provide contact-free travel, digital journey recording and improved revenue transparency and accounting, making public transport more accessible, technology-enabled and safe while reducing daily commuting expenses for women, the statement added.The scheme will issue three types of mobility cards – pink for eligible female residents, blue for general commuters and orange for monthly pass users. Pink and blue cards will be launched in the first phase, with orange cards coming later, the statement said.The DTC has authorized Hindon Mercantile Limited (MufinPay) and Airtel Payments Bank Limited to issue the cards, the statement said, adding that the cards will be integrated with the existing automated fare collection system in the national capital’s public transport network.The Pink Card will be provided free of charge by the government.There is also a dedicated Pink Saheli Card online portal with guide booklet for women in Hindi.

Don’t drink too much: Nancy Mace says her thoughts are with Ilhan Omar after Khamenei killing

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March 2, 2026

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Don’t drink too much: Nancy Mace says her thoughts are with Ilhan Omar after Khamenei killing

Congresswomen Ilhan Omar and Nancy Mace had a sharp and acerbic exchange after the U.S. eliminated Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Republican Nancy Mace saying her heart goes out to Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib. “Thoughts and prayers go out to them,” Nancy Mace wrote, mocking the two Muslim congresswomen. Ilhan Omar fired back and concluded Nancy Mays must have had too much to drink. Ilhan Omar wrote: “I hope you are not drunk and have listened to the staff’s advice, Rashida and I do not know this man and I believe he does not care about us. Please do not drink too much as your staff has warned you not to use social media while drunk. I pray that in his holy month you find peace of mind and respect for yourself.”

Death toll of U.S. military in Iran attack rises to 4, Trump vows revenge Watch

Nancy Mays points out a mistake in Ilhan Omar’s English, proving she’s not drunk and is actually a grammar Nazi. “Honey, it’s ‘please don’,’ not ‘please refrain.’ That’s what happens when your employees are from the third world and don’t speak proper English,” Nancy Mace wrote. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib have both condemned U.S. attacks on Iran. “Trump has launched an illegal regime-change war. As someone who has lived through the horrors of war, I know that military strikes will not make us safer; they will increase tensions and plunge the region further into chaos. When we abandon diplomacy, we choose destruction,” Ilhan Omar wrote. “He doesn’t care about our loved ones in the military. He doesn’t care about the fact that Americans don’t want this war. He doesn’t care about the Iranian people. He has become corrupt. Don’t believe the lies,” Rashida Teliab wrote. U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegers said on Monday that the U.S. war in Iran will not be endless like in Iraq. America will not be drawn into conflict. “Four weeks, two weeks, six weeks. It could go up, it could go down,” Hegseth said of the U.S. exit strategy.

Doping crisis grows, doctors told to be careful prescribing drugs

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March 2, 2026

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Doping crisis grows, doctors told to be careful prescribing drugs

New Delhi: A used syringe was found in a stadium washroom. Athletes fail doping tests. Doctors are now being told to check the prescriptions they write.With doping cases on the rise in sports, the National Medical Council (NMC) has asked doctors, hospitals and medical colleges across the country to exercise caution while treating athletes. The concern is that banned substances may enter sport not only through deliberate cheating, but also through contaminated supplements or even regular prescriptions.In a recent announcement, the National Medicines Council asked doctors to familiarize themselves with WADA’s banned list and ensure that drugs containing banned ingredients are prescribed only when medically necessary and properly documented, after the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports informed about rising doping cases.Medical schools and institutions are asked to increase awareness of anti-doping regulations among faculty and practitioners, particularly when treating athletes, and to promote responsible prescribing practices. The NMC also recommends that basic anti-doping awareness be integrated into undergraduate medical education and continuing professional development programs where feasible.The move follows a series of positive tests this year. In 2025, seven Indian athletes were provisionally suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency. On January 5, Uttarakhand cricketer Rajan Kumar tested positive for three banned substances.Restrooms at several national and state conferences have reportedly been found littered with used syringes, suggesting organized abuse of performance-enhancing drugs. The situation became so serious that Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya directed the authorities to step up action.The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has warned that many doping cases are not always intentional. Athletes sometimes consume supplements that are mislabeled or contaminated. Others may unknowingly take prescription drugs prohibited by global anti-doping rules.A sports medicine expert said: “Many GPs may not always be aware of the frequent changes to WADA’s banned list. Medications commonly used by the general public – certain painkillers, steroids and even cough syrups – can cause athletes to test positive. The responsibility lies with both parties. Athletes must inform their doctor that they need to undergo a doping test, and the doctor must verify whether the prescribed medication is allowed. If a banned drug is medically necessary, it should be supported by a therapeutic use exemption. “Officials are also concerned about imported supplements and products sold online that may contain banned substances. The ministry has called for greater coordination with regulatory agencies such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to strengthen regulation.The message is clear: the fight against doping is no longer just about catching athletes. Now it involves doctors, pharmacists, supplement sellers and regulators – all of whom have a role to play in keeping sports clean.

Who is Ryder Harrington? First victim of Austin bar shooting identified as Texas Tech student; GoFundMe launched

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March 2, 2026

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Who is Ryder Harrington? First victim of Austin bar shooting identified as Texas Tech student; GoFundMe launched

A Texas Tech University student was among the two victims of a mass shooting at a Texas bar. austinAs reported by House Speaker Dustin Burrows in a social media update.

Texas Tech University student Ryder Harrington killed in Austin bar shooting. A GoFundMe has been started for his family. (go support me)

one to fund me The event was held to help Ryder Harrington’s family.

This tragic shooting resulted in 3 deaths and 14 injuries.

The FBI is investigating the shooting as a possible act of terrorism.

Also read: What is DraftBarronTrump.com? Satirical website calls on Trump’s youngest son to join Iran war, ‘Dogs bless…’

Who is Ryder Harrington? It’s all in his GoFundMe campaign

Harrington is a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity’s fall 2024 pledge class. The fraternity announced via an Instagram post that a candlelight vigil would be held in his honor Monday night.

A vigil is scheduled for 8 p.m. at 1410 Orlando Ave.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our brother Ryder Harrington, a member of the Fall Pledge Class of 2024,” to fund me read.

“His character and genuine spirit made our chapter stronger and our friendship deeper. The energy he carried, the joy he spread and the way he made everyone feel welcome are things we will never forget. He made the world around him a better place just by being in it,” the statement continued.

“Ryder had the rare ability to truly enjoy life, make people laugh, make moments better, and make ordinary days memorable. If anyone embodies what it means to live life to the fullest and love deeply, it’s Ryder.”

As of Monday morning, the GoFundMe campaign had raised more than $41,000, approaching its $50,000 goal.

Also read: ‘Has World War III just begun?’: Escalating US-Iran conflict sparks social media fears

Dustin Burrows

Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows said Sunday night that Harrington’s death had a particularly profound impact on families on Burrows’ team.

“Ryder was our brother-in-law and our hearts aches with his loved ones,” Burrows said. “Elizabeth and I are praying for Avery and Ryan, the entire Harrington family, and everyone who loved Ryder — a number that seems countless. We ask that you pray for them too.”

Who is the suspect in Austin bar shooting?

The suspect in the Austin bar shooting has been identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said Diagne, who was shot by police, did not enter the bar but instead opened fire with a rifle and handgun at patrons on the street.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting and the motive behind Diagne’s actions.