3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on Sir Chris Hoy relives earth-shattering appointment where ‘routine’ shoulder strain turned into terminal cancer diagnosis
SIR Chris Hoy has relived the earth-shattering appointment where he found out he had cancer.
ReutersSir Chris Hoy has revealed he has terminal cancer[/caption]
PAThe cycling champion is a six-time Olympic gold medallist[/caption]
GettySir Chris has continued media duties for the BBC despite his diagnosis[/caption]
PAThe Team GB legend during the London 2012 Olympics[/caption]
Sir Chris had announced in February he was being “treated for cancer” and claimed it was going well – though knew in reality it was just “management”.
The star had gone to the doctor in late September last year after feeling a strain in his shoulder.
A tumour was found, before a second scan discovered the primary cancer in his prostate.
It had metastasised to Sir Chris’s bones – including his shoulder, pelvis, ribs, and spine.
Speaking of the appointment in which he found out about the tumour, he told the Sunday Times he thought “I’m just getting a bit old for lifting heavy weights”.
Referred by his physiotherapist for a scan, he went to hospital alone, expecting to be told to lay off upper-body work in the gym for a few weeks.
“I’m really sorry,” the doctor told him. The nurse’s eyes filled with tears. “There’s a tumour in your shoulder.”
Heartbreakingly, Sir Chris’ wife Sarra was told she had incurable and degenerative MS just weeks before his cancer news – with the couple opting not to tell the kids about their mother’s illness.
They took them away for a half term holiday this week, hoping that the “dust will have settled” on Sir Chris’ bombshell interview by they time they return to school.
And despite his terminal diagnosis, the Team GB legend has continued his media duties, including covering the Paris Olympics for the Beeb over the summer.
He is currently in Copenhagen covering the World Track Cycling Championships for the BBC – and will be on TV this afternoon.
Today he has posted a photo alongside some of the broadcasting team from the Ballerup Super Arena and said it’s “great to be out”.
He told fans: “You may see in the news this weekend some articles about my health, so I just wanted to reassure you all that I’m feeling fit, strong and positive, and overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me.”
How Chris Hoy went from lad on £5 bike inspired by ET to 6-time Olympic champion
By Jonathan Rose
SIR Chris Hoy began cycling at the age of six after he was inspired by the 1982 film ET.
Before he moved on to track cycling, he rode a BMX bike until the age of 15.
Sir Chris was ranked second in Britain, fifth in Europe and ninth in the World.
His dad picked up a £5 bike from a jumble sale – four years later Sir Chris was competing in the semi-final of a BMX world championship race.
“I was six when I saw ET,” he told The Guardian in 2020. “It changed my life. I wasn’t interested in cycling at all before.”
“The bikes I’d seen in Edinburgh just seemed functional things for getting from A to B,” continued Hoy, who grew up in Murrayfield.
“Then I saw those BMX bikes on screen and I was hooked. It wasn’t the scene where they cycle across the sky, but when they get chased by the police and they’re doing jumps and skidding round corners.
“It was the most exciting thing I’d ever seen. I wanted to do that.”
Four years later he became part of the British national squad.
A world championship medal came in 1999 with silver in the team sprint.
Sir Chris went on to become the second most decorated Olympic cyclist of all time.
Sir Chris began chemo in November last year and recalled how 10-year-old son Callum kept asking if he’d lose his hair.
As a result, he wore a cold cap – which feels “like your head being in a vice” – during all six rounds over 18 weeks.
The Prime Minister has said “the whole country” is behind Sir Chris Hoy following his terminal cancer diagnosis.
Sir Keir Starmer tweeted on Sunday: “Such sad news.
“Chris is a British sporting legend. To face his diagnosis with such positivity is inspiring.
“The whole country is behind him and his family.”
Sir Mark Cavendish, who holds the record for most stages won in the Tour de France, hailed Sir Chris as a “hero of a human being”.
Amy Joy Williams, MBE, the British former skeleton racer and Olympic gold medallist, added: “A pure superhuman who everyone loves. x”
And, Paddy McGuinness shared: “Some man”, as Dame Kelly Holmes wrote: “Sending love to you Chris.” While comedian Jack Whitehall penned: “Sending you all the love mate.”
All That Matters: My Toughest Race Yet by Sir Chris Hoy is published on November 7.
Sarra HoyThe Olympic legend’s wife Sarra Kemp with their children Callum, 10, and Chloe, seven[/caption]
INSTAGRAM@CHRISHOYChris Hoy revealed his diagnosis in a statement on Instagram[/caption]
InstagramSir Chris posted this photo with the BBC team in Copenhagen today[/caption]
ReutersSir Chris taking part in celebrations for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022[/caption]
Kirby Smart was furious with the officials in his ESPN interviewESPNReutersGeorgia stunned Texas in a 30-15 victory on Saturday night[/caption]
And he took the opportunity to sound off about the referees in his post-game interview with ESPN.
The Bulldogs coach was furious with a call which happened with his team up 23-8 in the third quarter.
Georgia quarterback Carson Beck threw a ball towards his receiver Arian Smith – which was intercepted by Texas’ Jahdae Barron.
Barron came up with a 36-yard return all the way to the Georgia nine-yard line.
But the Longhorns safety was called for pass interference in an apparant reprieve that gave Georgia the ball back.
Texas fans booed the call with some throwing objects onto the field and halting play momentarily.
During the short delay, officials gathered again and decided to reverse the call, allowing the interception to stand.
Smart was left furious and launched a foul-mouthed rant during the game.
And afterwards, he told ESPN’s Katie George, “Nobody gave us a chance. Your whole network doubted us.
“Then they tried to rob is with calls.”
Smart added, “Now, we’ve set a precedent that if you throw a bunch of stuff on the field and endanger athletes that you’ve got a chance to get your call reversed.
“And that’s unfortunate because, to me, that’s dangerous.
“That’s not what we want, and that’s not criticizing officials. That’s what happened.”
The SEC was forced to release a statement after the game.
The statement said officials “gathered to discuss the play, which is permitted to ensure the proper penalty is enforced.
College football top 25 rankings
BELOW are the top 25 rankings of college football's best programs for Week 8
Texas (6-0)
Oregon (6-0)
Penn State (6-0)
Ohio State (5-1)
Georgia (5-1)
Miami (6-0)
Alabama (5-1)
LSU (5-1)
Iowa State (6-0)
Clemson (5-1)
Tennessee (5-1)
Notre Dame (5-1)
BYU (6-0)
Texas A&M (5-1)
Boise State (5-1)
Indiana (6-0)
Kansas State (5-1)
Ole Miss (5-2)
Missouri (5-1)
Pittsburgh (6-0)
SMU (5-1)
Illinois (5-1)
Army (6-0)
Michigan (4-2)
Navy (5-0)
“The calling official reported that he erred, and a foul should not have been called for defensive pass interference.
“Consequently, Texas was awarded the ball.
“While the original evaluation and assessment of the penalty was not properly executed, it is unacceptable to have debris thrown on the field at any time.”
Georgia shrugged off the incident to win 30-15 in a huge statement.
Smart added, “These guys are so resilient.
“We talk about intent. What was our intent when we walked on the field?
“Our intent was not to take pictures and do all the superstar stuff – our intent was to eat.”
3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on Inside world’s ‘swinging capital’ where 40-women orgies take over clubs and couples romp in sand dunes near nude beach
A COUPLE slip away into the sand dunes, their bikinis left strewn behind like breadcrumbs leading to a very naughty adventure.
Nearby, naked holidaymakers splash carefree in the sea, soaking up more than just the sun.
Olivia WestDozens of Brits recently descended on the swingers’ paradise of Gran Canaria[/caption]
Olivia WestThe island’s nudist beaches are a popular tourist spot[/caption]
Olivia WestShopping mall Cita Centre is described as the ‘Mecca for swinging’[/caption]
Olivia WestSun sexpert Georgie Culley was invited to cover the first overseas edition of the UK’s biggest swinging festival, Swingathon[/caption]
While the temperature may be dropping in the UK, things are seriously heating up in Gran Canaria – and we’re not just talking about the weather!
Every October, Brits descend on the tiny Spanish island, just off the northwestern coast of Africa, looking for a bit of partner-swapping fun in paradise.
With its infamous nudist beach and quirky shopping centre – where you can grab groceries by day and swing by night – it’s no wonder Gran Canaria is fast becoming the swinging capital of the world.
While Brits and Germans might battle for sun loungers in other holiday hotspots, here they’re more than happy to drop their towels and hop on together – no reservations needed.
I arrived at the tailend of Maspalomas Fetish Pride, an annual celebration of all things kink on this Catholic island.
But it’s not the only X-rated event in town. The UK’s biggest swinging festival, Swingathon, has jetted in for its very first frisky getaway, and as The Sun’s Sexpert, I’ve been granted exclusive access to cover this week-long escapade.
“Gran Canaria is filth with a healthy dose of family fun,” says Matt Mitchell, 39, a machine operator from Lincolnshire.
“The shopping centre is the Mecca for swinging. People from all over the world come here to meet other swingers.
“Last year, I came to snap some photos at one of the popular swinging clubs inside. I went upstairs, and there was a 25-person orgy happening. Standard.
“Someone spotted me and said, ‘Come in!’ and before you know it, I’m number 26, having a great time.”
Swingathon founder Matt Cole adds: “Yeah, the Cita Centre is a bit of a strange place, because in the day, you’re in there buying your clothes and stuff and then at night time it’s the swinging hotspot.
“But that’s how it is over here. It’s so accepted, whereas in England, it’s all hush-hush and out of the way.”
Swingers on tour
Matt shares how he honeymooned here last year with his wife, Stacie, 29, and loved the freedom “so much” that he decided to make it the annual destination for Swingathon-on-Tour.
When asked about the sexiest thing he’s ever witnessed unfold at a swinging club on the island, he says, “There were 40 women, all piled together and having fun. Yeah, that was pretty cool!”
Matt reveals he’s flown out with 60 fellow Brits, all bunking down at the Cordial Green Golf Bungalows.
A week on this tour will set you back around £1,000 for accommodation and flights. Most swinging clubs on the island offer free entry for women, while couples pay €20 and single men shell out €50 to keep it from turning into a “sausage-fest.”
“You don’t have to do anything in a club,” continues Matt, as he shows me around the popular swinging strip.
“You can just go for a drink, walk around in your nice underwear or naked, and obviously go for a play if you want to, or even just chill in the hot tub.
“Every club has loads of different playrooms, so there can be a playroom where you can close the door and it’s just either you and your partner or you and another couple.
“You’ve got playrooms where you can have single guys, you’ve got big orgy rooms and there’s lots of different scenarios which are all down to what you want.”
Olivia WestDenise, Josh and Kerry were among the Brits joining the ‘Swingathon on Tour’[/caption]
Olivia WestThe Cita Mall looks like any other shopping centre by day… but turns wild at night[/caption]
Olivia WestMatt Mitchell, 39, a machine operator from Lincolnshire, joined a 26-person orgy[/caption]
Olivia WestX-rated clubs and stores are situated just yards from ordinary shops[/caption]
Long-term partners Raya, 42, an admin manager, and Tim, 44, a business manager, from Peterborough, flew out with Swingathon.
The pair have been “spoilt for choice” while away and have enjoyed threesomes and foursomes on a nightly basis.
“I’m bisexual and swinging gives me the chance to enjoy men and women, often at the same time,” explains Raya. “From snogging to sex, the only limit is what you place on yourself.
“Sometimes we just go for the social scene. Other times we swing from dusk till dawn.”
There were 40 women, all piled together and having fun
Visiting the Gran Canaria with the group is the first time the couple have attended a swinging event overseas.
“Nothing could have prepared us for the variety of clubs, the diversity of people, the different fetishes and play options, and the sheer amount of swinging going on here,” says Tim.
““The scene back home is mid-level, but coming here is the pinnacle of swinging,” adds Raya.
Most nights, the couple head out to the clubs in shorts, T-shirts, or jeans. “Underneath, I wear a sexy bikini,” says Raya. “If it’s a themed event, we’ll dress up.”
This trip, they had sex as a couple in an exhibition room open to all clubbers, and they say it took their pleasure to new heights.
“Making love in an open room to each other is strangely intimate, even with a crowd watching,” Raya explains.
On other nights, they’ll meet a single girl, guy, or couple at the bar.
“We chat, and if we both like them, we use our code word, so we know we’re both interested. It’s a joint decision,” Tim shares.
“We then head to a private room and make sure to check with the other person or couple about their limits before we dive in. Some couples just want to touch, while others want full intercourse.”
SuppliedRaya and Tim were attending their first swinging event overseas[/caption]
SuppliedThey explained how they romped in an ‘exhibition room’[/caption]
After a busy night swinging, they often return to their hotel room and still have the energy to make love.
“That’s the best sex ever,” says Tim. “We’re both buzzing and turned on from the night, and we channel that into each other.”
The couple, who run a social media page called Hedon and Hell about their swinging lifestyle, believe swinging can help prevent divorces and keep marriages from getting stale.
“I know so many couples who don’t swing who end up splitting because of cheating,” Tim continues. “Swinging takes that out of the equation and brings you closer, in and out of the bedroom.”
While they admit they sometimes get “a little jealous” of each other, Raya explains, “That’s normal, but swinging as a couple means it’s minimal. One of our rules is to always make time to make love together at the end of the evening.”
Olivia WestThe dunes and nudist beaches are a haven for swingers[/caption]
Olivia WestSpecial buzzers greeted guests at accommodation venues booked by Swingathon[/caption]
Olivia WestSwingers descended upon the island’s lavish villas and hotels this month[/caption]
Olivia WestCouples even sneak away for cheeky romps in the famous sand dunes[/caption]
Olivia WestX-rated venues cater to all desires[/caption]
Naked attraction
Nearby, Josh, 29, and Dee Grant, 43, a mum of four from Manchester, are gearing up for a day at Venus – a luxurious nudist swinging resort nestled within stunning subtropical gardens right in the heart of Maspalomas.
The couple have been together for six years and are on their first swinging holiday together.
“Gran Canaria is the place to be if you’re going on a swinging getaway,” Dee says.
“The swinging scene here is so open. It’s not taboo like it is in the UK. There are big venues that are very publicised – you can go to five or six places.
“Ninety per cent of the people are in the bars leading up to these venues for the same reason, so you don’t get those awkward sideways glances, wondering if you’re all there for the same thing.”
Dee explains how their boundaries have evolved over time.
“When you first start, it’s usually, ‘Oh, we don’t want to kiss other people, and we don’t want a full swap.’ But we soon realised that a lot of those initial boundaries were quite unrealistic, which is really common.
“So we slowly learned to approach it with a rough idea of what we were expecting, not to go too wild, and to discuss it afterward. If we decide to experiment a little more that night, we just communicate about it afterwards.”
Sex and your body
Everything you need to know about sex and your body
The couple shares that they swing together and play separately and have already “made friends” with other swinging couples on the island.
“We tend to go out together,” Dee explains. “We go to the same locations, but we also go our separate ways once inside because we like different people. But that has evolved over time as well. We do swing as a couple too – I still like him,” she laughs.
Dunes of debauchery
Meanwhile, back at the beach, naughty couples are stripping off and sneaking into the sand dunes.
Officials have recently tried to cordon off the area to deter pleasure seekers from getting it on in the infamous dunes, citing concerns over damage to the ecosystem.
Despite the looming threat of jail time and hefty fines, frisky couples still flock to the protected Maspalomas Dunes for some alfresco action.
Bisexual Kerry ‘Red’ Voellner, 45, who runs the Adam and Eve’s swinging club in Manchester and helps organise Swingathon, has been revelling in the freedom of the beach.
“I’ve been in the sea with my friends today,” she says.
“We’ve all been naked. Nobody’s done anything; we’re just enjoying the feeling of freedom. Here, you can walk around with your clothes off in the sunshine with your friends. What more can you ask for?”
Which generation is having the most sex?
A new report has lifted the lid on bedroom antics.
The research, conducted by experts at Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, revealed the average number of times people of different generations have sex per month.
3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on Millions of iPhones have ‘virtual’ key to unlock your car – you can even text it so family can open motor too
IF you have an iPhone then you can unlock, lock and even start cars with a tap.
Millions of iPhonemodels support the feature – and your car might too.
AppleYou can add a virtual version of your car key to the Apple Wallet app[/caption]
First you’ll need to make sure that you have a compatible iPhone model.
That means have an iPhone XS or later, or iPhone SE (2nd generation) with the latest version of iOS.
You’ll also need to be signed into that device with your Apple ID.
Then you can begin the process, assuming you’ve got a compatible car.
Sadly Apple doesn’t have a giant list of specific car models that support this feature.
Several car brands have compatible models, including:
BMW
BYD
Chevrolet
Genesis
Hyundai
Kia
Lotus
Mercedez-Benz
Rivian
But you’ll need to check on the car-maker’s website to see if your specific model (and year) of car support the car key.
If it does support it, you can then follow the steps below.
HOW TO ADD CAR KEY TO IPHONE
Your digital car key will be kept inside the Apple Wallet app.
You might have already used that for bank cards, boarding passes for flights, or gig tickets.
Go into your car-makers app and link to your car to it.
Then follow the instructions inside the app to see up a digital key.
You’ll then be sent to Apple’s Wallet app: tap Continue, place your iPhone on the key reader and let it pair with the car.
AppleDepending on your car model, your iPhone may be able to lock and unlock a car, as well as open the boot and sound the alarm[/caption]
HOW TO USE DIGITAL IPHONE CAR KEY
Exactly how the virtual key works might depend on your model of car.
For instance, some cars will let you use it to remotely lock and unlock your car.
There’s also an option for Express Mode that lets you use your virtual car key without unlocking your device.
Some car models support “passive entry”, which lets you enter your car simply by having your iPhone with you.
Just approach your car and it should unlock – and re-lock as you walk away.
The options you have will be listed inside the Apple Wallet app when you tap on the virtual car key.
One big advantage of using a digital key is that you can text it to family or pals.
Depending on the model of your car, you may be able to send it through WhatsApp or Messages.
NO BATTERY? NO PROBLEM!
Your car key should automatically set to Express Mode, which Apple says has a huge benefit...
“You may be able to use your Express Mode cards, passes and keys on your iPhone even when your device needs to be charged,” Apple explains.
“With compatible iPhone models, you might be able to use power reserve with some cards, passes and keys that have Express Mode turned on for up to five hours when your iPhone needs to be charged.
“To see the cards, passes and keys available for use with power reserve, press the side button or the Home button when your iPhone needs to be charged.
“However, pressing the side button or Home button often may reduce the power reserve significantly.
“If you turn off your iPhone, this feature won’t be available.”
In fact, it’s even possible to AirDrop a key to someone else nearby.
Just go into the Wallet app, tap the key, and hit the share button.
You can stop sharing your key with people at any time by tapping on the key again, selecting the People button, and hitting Stop Sharing on a specific person.
It’s also worth noting that if you’ve lost your iPhone or it was stolen, you can mark it as lost in your settings.
That means whoever has it won’t be able to use your virtual car key.
However, marking an iPhone as lost won’t stop your shared keys from being used with other iPhones.
3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on Liam Payne was ‘re-working’ favourite 1D track just hours before tragic death as pal says ‘he had plans for the future’
LIAM Payne was allegedly re-working his favourite One Direction song on his laptop just hours before his tragic death, a source has claimed.
YouTubeLiam tragically fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires[/caption]
PALiam was allegedly re-working on his favourite One Direction song before his tragic death[/caption]
This is understood to be the final photo of Liam
But hours before his fatal fall, Liam was reportedly working on his favourite song from his 1D days.
A source claiming to be close to the star told the Daily Mail: “He was replicating Fireproof on his computer.
“He loved recreating instrumentals and that was his favourite One Direction song.
“He was redoing the beat.
“He was in a good place, planning for the future, looking forward to going home to Miami to his girlfriend and his dog.”
“Fireproof” is a song by One Direction from their fourth studio album, Four, released in 2014.
It talks about the strength of a relationship, with the idea that the love between the couple is indestructible or “fireproof,” no matter what challenges they face.
It was made available as a free download for 24 hours ahead of the album’s release, as a special treat for fans.
The lyrics partially read: “I think I’m gonna lose my mind, Something deep inside me, I can’t give up, I think I’m gonna lose my mind, I roll and I roll ‘til I’m out of luck.”
RexLiam Payne, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan at their ‘One Direction: Who We Are’ autobiography book signing in London, 2014[/caption]
snapchatThe insider claimed Liam was looking forward to going home to Miami to his girlfriend and his dog[/caption]
And the chorus reads: “‘Cause nobody knows you, baby, the way I do, And nobody loves you, baby, the way I do, It’s been so long, it’s been so long, maybe you were fireproof, ’Cause nobody saves me, baby, the way you do.”
The insider went on to claim that Liam “didn’t have to die”.
They said: “Liam didn’t want to die.
“He had promised us all he would never commit suicide.
They claim that when Liam spoke to US embassy officials, they queried his previous stints in rehab and said he needed to take a drugs test to prove he was clean in order to renew his visa.
GettyGeoff Payne looks down at the masses tributes left out to honour his son Liam[/caption]
ReutersFans have left a shrine of tributes to Liam Payne outside the CasaSur Hotel in Buenos Aires[/caption]
Matthew SymonsFans laid flowers, candles, pictures and heartfelt letters to the singer[/caption]
According to a source with the Buenos Aires City police, the pop star’s body has been returned to his family by the prosecutor looking into his untimely death.
They are currently finishing the necessary paperwork to have his body repatriated, the Buenos Aires Herald was told.
Liam’s grieving dad is now trying to speed up the repatriation of his son’s body to take it back home to the UK, Argentine paper Clarin reports.
But the final call will be made by judge and the prosecutor Marcelo Roma, who is in charge of an investigation for “doubtful death.”
The transfer of his body could be approved as it has been shown that no third parties were involved in the fatal fall.
But toxicological and histopathological tests – deemed essential to the outcome of the investigation – and could cause a delay.
Geoff Payne went into the Forensic Medical Corps judicial mortuary in Balvanera at around 3pm on Friday to identify his son’s body, Clarin reports.
The Argentine outlet also reported that since the judge had not yet been consulted, it was ruled out that Liam’s remains could be returned on Friday.
Geoff is said to have asked permission to enter Liam’s room at the Hotel CasaSur Palermo to remove his son’s belongings.
Champagne, prescription drugs, white powder and foil wraps were all found in Liam’s trashed hotel room after the fatal fall at around 5pm (9pm UK time).
One Direction statements in full
We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say.
But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly.
The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us.
We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam. – Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.
Louis Tomlinson wrote: “His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on.
“Thank you for shaping us Liam.
“I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.
“I wish I got a chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.”
Zayn Malik said: “Liam I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can’t help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives.
“I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life.
“When I was missing home as a 17-year-old kid, you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.”
He added: “When it came to the music, Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense.
“I knew nothing in comparison, I was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional.
“I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly.
“I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever”.
And Harry Styles wrote: “I am truly devastated by Liam’s passing.
“His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.
“Liam lived wide open, with his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious.
“He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving.
“The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.
“My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicola and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did.”
3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on Dental patients to score one-time payments up to $6,000 from data breach settlement – check for your notification
THOUSANDS of Dental patients could be eligible to score one-time payments up to $6,000 from a multi-million dollar settlement.
Great Expressions, a network of 246 dental care centers nationwide, was sued for allegedly failing to protect consumer information from a September 2023 data breach.
Getty Images - GettyThose affected can get thousands from this settlement[/caption]
Great Expressions is settling over allegations that its cybersecurity measures were insufficient, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive consumer information.
The chain has not admitted wrongdoing but agreed to settle the lawsuit to resolve the claims.
The settlement benefits those who received a notification from Great Expressions about the data breach.
It distinguishes between two subclasses based on whether the breach potentially compromised Social Security numbers.
For individuals whose Social Security numbers were accessed, the settlement offers reimbursement for up to $500 in ordinary losses and up to $5,000 for extraordinary losses.
All of this, plus compensation for up to two hours of lost time at a rate of $20 per hour.
Those whose Social Security numbers were not impacted can claim up to $40 for two hours of lost time, also compensated at $20 per hour.
Class members must submit a valid claim form by November 8, 2024 to receive settlement benefits.
Claims must include proof of data breach-related losses, such as receipts, bills, invoices, or credit reports.
Meanwhile, the final approval hearing is scheduled for December 12, 2024.
Claims must be filed under penalty of perjury, and fraudulent claims can negatively impact other eligible class members.
If unsure about eligibility, check the FAQ section on the Settlement Administrator’s website before filing.
The case is officially known as Great Expressions Data Security Incident Litigation, with case number 2:23-cv-11185-JJCG-CI.
It is being heard in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.
For further details and to file a claim, visit the settlement website here.
If you are not eligible for this settlement, you may want to explore other open class action settlements.
What's a class-action settlement?
Class action lawsuits offer groups of people, or ‘classes,’ a way to band together in court.
These suits are often brought by one or a few people who allege a company or other entity has wronged a large group of people.
When a suit becomes a class action, it extends to all “class members,” or people who may have similar complaints to those who filed the suit.
Companies often settle class actions – offering payment to class members who typically waive their right to pursue further legal action by accepting money.
These payout agreements frequently include statements by the defendant denying wrongdoing. Companies tend to settle class actions to avoid the costs of further litigation.
Pollution, discrimination, or false advertising are a few examples of what can land a class action on a company’s doorstep.
The privacy suit alleges that Tubi shared users’ personal information with third parties without getting their consent first, violating the Video Privacy Protection Act.
While the streaming company has not admitted any wrongdoing, it has agreed to pay the sum to settle the lawsuit.
And this means thousands of Tubi users now stand a chance to get a share from the million-dollar payout.
Certain Costco shoppers may soon receive refunds as part of a $3.875 million settlement for overcharges.
3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on World’s WEIRDEST cars unveiled – from EV that can SWIM, motor with square steering wheel & AI EV named after Brit icon
PETROLHEADS and car industry boffins gathered at this year’s Paris Motor Show to showcase the newest models and cutting-edge concepts – with no shortage of attention-grabbing displays.
The famous show, which runs through to Sunday, comes as European carmakers face challenges on the path to electrification.
AFPCar fans gathered at this year’s Paris Motor Show to take in the newest models and cutting-edge concepts[/caption]
SuppliedPeugeot drew attention with its Hypersquare steering wheel, which resembles a video game controller[/caption]
ReutersChinese giants BYD revealed the ‘swimming’ Yangwang U8[/caption]
GettyThe plug-in hybrid SUV can ‘swim’ for up to 30 minutes[/caption]
Iconic manufacturers such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Stellantis have issued profit warnings in recent times, with weak customer demand for EVs their main source of concern coupled with fierce competition abroad – especially from China.
Perhaps the biggest threat to the current status quo is the ever-growing car brand BYD, with the Chinese EV maker making huge strides across Europe.
Equipped with four electric motors, one for each wheel, it even boasts a roof-mounted drone to help the driver see further ahead.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom for European brands though, as Stellantis’ very own Peugeot drew attention with its Hypersquare steering wheel, which resembles a video game controller.
Set to debut in 2026, this quirky design is aimed at younger drivers and featured in the Peugeot Inception concept car.
Meanwhile, Peugeot’s French rivals Renault showcased their retro-inspired R4, a small electric SUV designed to rival Chinese budget models.
They also presented the new-and-improved Twizy – which this time is a two-seater electric runabout called the Duo.
It has twice the range and speed of Citroen’s Ami and will hit showrooms in May from £10,000.
Stellantis also introduced the Citroen C4 and C4X, which offers hybrid, electric, and combustion engine options – and even features clever pothole-proof tech.
Another stand out set of wheels from China was Xpeng’s all-electric P7+, which is curiously powered by a chip named after British computing icon Alan Turing – signalling a future of AI-powered mobility.
This comes as Elon Musk unveiled Tesla’s driverless robot bus EV – with fans spotting an eerie similarity to an iconic kids’ show.
The brand’s new Robovan can carry up to 20 people at a time and transport goods.
Elsewhere, a wacky inventor has dug a 15ft trench with a network of tunnels under his drive to store his iconic DeLorean.
The crazy compound is more than worthy of Back to the Future’s Doc Brown and has been dubbed the “biggest DIY project” in the UK.
SuppliedRenault showcased their retro-inspired R4, a small electric SUV[/caption]
The Duo is an ultra-compact city car with twice the range and speed of Citroen’s AmiSupplied
Paris Motor Show 2024 greatest hits
Alpine A110 R Ultime
Alpine’s Formula 1 efforts might be a steaming mess in 2024, but their business in the car industry couldn’t be more exciting.
The upcoming Renault 5-inspired Alpine A290 could be the hot hatchback of all hot hatchbacks for the EV era, while newly unveiled A110 R Ultime gives the loveable lightweight sports cars plenty of supercar oomph.
The R Ultime will cost the equivalent of around £222,000, and comes with 345bhp and a 0-60mph acceleration of just 3.6 seconds. Unfortunately, only 110 examples will be made.
Renault Twingo
Renault’s Twingo is making a comeback as an affordable EV, expected to cost under £17,000. It takes inspiration from both the 1990s model and the new Renault 5, with retro details like round headlights and hidden rear handles.
Leapmotor B10
Little-known Chinese brand Leapmotor showed off their B10, a C-segment SUV competing with the likes of the Mini Aceman. It will feature a customisable digital cockpit and advanced driver assistance systems.
Citroen Ami
Citroen’s updated Ami quadricycle now sports a refreshed look, with design elements inspired by the iconic 2CV and Oli concept. The drivetrain remains unchanged, featuring a 5.5kWh battery with a range of 46 miles, and miniscule 8bhp output.
3 days agoSouth TvComments Off on Harry & Meghan’s home in Portugal will ‘open return to Royal Family’ as their kids ‘will want to reconcile with William’
PRINCE Harry is ‘keeping a door open’ to the Royal Family buying a Portugal home, as it “could be a very nice way in”, claimed a royal expert.
SplashThe Sussexes have bought a property in Portugal close to Princess Eugenie and her family[/caption]
GettyThe cousins have remained close despite Harry’s family rift[/caption]
Harry and Meghan share children Archie and Lilibet, who are close in age to Eugenie’s kidsInstagramPrincess Eugenie shares two sons with husband Jack Brooksbank, August and Ernest[/caption]
As reported by the Mail, the couple plan to set up a base there after being seen in the area last September following the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany.
Royal expert Hugo Vickers told The Sun Harry’s close bond with his cousin should be “encouraged” and will ” keep these avenues of communication open”.
The royal author suggested a friendship between Harry and Eugenie’s children “could be a wonderful route in” to royal life.
The Sussexes share two children Archie, five, and Lilibet, three.
They are similar in age to Eugenie and Jack’s two sons – August, three, and Ernest, one.
Mr Vickers told The Sun: “I think what you say about you know the connection between the Brooksbank children and Prince Harry’s children could be very significant as the years go on, because they will know their cousins as they grow up. And that could be a very nice way in.
“I have always thought that it’s very sad for Archie and Lilibet that that one day it’ll dawn on them that their cousin is going to be the King of England one day, and normally you’d really rather like to get involved with all that I would have thought, it could be a very interesting extension to life, and so that could be a wonderful route in.
“I think that’s a very significant point.”
Mr Vickers also felt there is “a big part” of Harry “that wonders what he gave up”.
The royal expert believed he would “encourage” his children to have the same options he had as a working royal – something he himself “was terribly good at”.
“So by giving them proximity to Eugenie’s children as they grow up, I think that it’s a fantastic opportunity for them to all get to know each other as time goes on, and they will reach a certain age,” added Mr Vickers.
The author also said Archie and Lilibet will “make up their own minds” once they reach a certain age.
“The next generation very often tries to mend the bridges,” he added.
“You just need to keep these avenues of communication open, and that may not be the most direct avenue, but it is an avenue, and it should be encouraged.”
The royal expert also touched on the connection between Harry and Eugenie and dubbed the Princess “a very important part of his previous life”.
‘A BIG WORRY FOR HARRY’
But, Mr Vickers highlighted two other key reasons why the Sussexes may want a camp in Europe away from their Montecito mansion.
Other than the “lovely long beaches” and stunning landscape, Harry’s visa battle still hangs over him.
“It is possible that if Trump gets in one of the first things he will do as a sort of publicity stunt flexing his muscles is to chuck Prince Harry out of America on account of the fact that he once took drugs and has admitted this,” said Mr Vickers.
“So that is a big worry for Prince Harry, I would suspect so maybe he is covering his options and getting a property so that he’s got somewhere to go if that happens.”
Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie's frienship
By Summer Raemason
Eugenie was once described as being “best friends” with Prince Harry, despite the royal rift with William and King Charles.
The Sussexes were said to have made a “mega-secret romantic trip to Eugenie’s Portuguese resort without Archie & Lilibet last September.
Princess Eugenie was handed the keys to Frogmore Cottage to stay with husband Jack Brooksbank during Covid lockdowns in 2020.
But the couple now split their time between Portugal and London due to his high-flying job.
Jack works in marketing and sales at a private resort near the village on the Alentejo coast, which is situated 80 miles south of Lisbon.
Eugenie struck up a friendship with Meghan before the Sussexes began dating and the trio were believed to keep in regular contact.
She is understood to be the first member of the Firm to make the 5,500-mile trip since the couple quit the UK.
Hugo Vickers told The Sun: “I think it’s a question of family dynamics. I would say that I don’t think it’s political at all.
“I think that they just get on very well together. You know they know each other extremely well. She’s a lovely girl.
“I’ve met her a number of times over the years, and you know she’s got a very warm heart, and it’s great that they’re friends. I think this is really important, and I would encourage that.
“And so I think it’s very, very good news if indeed it’s true that he’s got a house quite near where they are in Portugal, because any amount of sort of rapprochement and friendship between those two should be encouraged.
“I mean she herself is not right in the heart of the royal family in so much as that she and her sister Beatrice don’t undertake royal duties, they do do charitable works from time to time.
“They are princesses of the royal house. Obviously they will be included in many of the big occasions.
“They just love each other, and they get on very well. You know they’re cousins, and they’ve been brought up side by side.
“They’re they’re not so far different in ages, and it’s a great friendship. I commend it highly.
“I mean Diana and Fergie were were indeed very close, and maybe maybe that’s part of the bond. I’m sure Sarah Ferguson would also be very encouraging to Prince Harry.”
The royal historian then shone a spotlight on Portugal’s convenient location and proximity to Germany which could be helpful to the dad-of-two for the Invictus Games.
“And I guess you know he’s coming a little bit closer home,” continued Mr Vickers.
“It doesn’t mean he’s going to return to to England. But Portugal is not so far from London.”
It was hoped that Eugenie could have acted as an intermediary between the Sussexes and the royal family.
Royal author Phil Dampier said previously: “They’ve always got on very well and been very close so if there is going to be an emissary, or an intermediary, between Harry and the Royal Family back home, she could well fit the bill.”
Meanwhile, in his bombshell Spare memoir, Harry spoke of introducing Meghan to his cousin: “I remember Euge hugging Meg as if they were sisters.”
And, royal authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand wrote in the Sussex biography Finding Freedom: “Out of all the Queen’s grand-children, Harry and Eugenie have one of the most natural connections.
“Like Harry, Eugenie is loyal, honest and great fun.
“The two had many nights out together in London, sneaking into back entrances of clubs, such as Mahiki, where Jack once was manager, or Tonteria, where in one of the VIP cave areas they downed shots from Mexican skull shaped glasses and a giant frozen margarita (with multiple straws).”
Nicknamed “Youj” or “Bouj” by her friends, the book also notes that like Harry, “Eugenie also struggled to carve out her own identity growing up”.
It added: “Harry had always confided in his cousin when it came to the women in his life.
“Not only did he trust her implicitly, but friends say that she gives great advice and has always been ‘beyond wise’ for her years.”
A representative for the Sussexes was contacted for comment.
AFPEugenie married businessman Jack in 2018 at St George’s Chapel[/caption]
GettyEugenie with Jack and their son Ernest[/caption]
gettyPrincess Eugenie’s first son, August, was born on February 9, 2021[/caption]
GettyThe cousins on the balcony of Buckingham Palace following the Trooping the Colour Ceremony on June 16, 2012[/caption]
GettyHarry, Eugenie and her husband Jack leaving Westminster Abbey following the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 6, 2023[/caption]
