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US consumer spending beats expectations in April; inflation picks up
US consumer spending beats expectations in April; inflation picks up
WASHINGTON (Reuters - U.S. consumer spending increased more than expected in April, boosting the economy's growth prospects for the second
2023-05-26 20:45
Timothy Bliefnick made an eerie joke about his marriage on Family Feud. Then he murdered his wife
Timothy Bliefnick made an eerie joke about his marriage on Family Feud. Then he murdered his wife
Timothy Bliefnick made headlines in his hometown of Quincy, Illinois, when he appeared in a 2020 episode of Family Feud. Cheerful, well-dressed, and with a party watching in support from home, Bliefnick answered one of the game show’s prompt questions by joking that the worst mistake on his wedding night was saying “I do”. His answer drew an audible gasp from the audience, with host Steve Harvey quipping that Bliefnick was going to face “a lot of hell to pay” when he got home. Bliefnick rushed to clarify that it “was not his [answer] to say” and that he loved his wife Rebecca “Becky” Bliefnick. “I’m going to get in trouble for that, aren’t I?” Bliefnick told Mr Harvey with a teasing smile. A year after the episode aired, the Bliefnicks filed for divorce. Bliefnick’s next turn in the headlines would come under vastly different circumstances. In March of this year, he was charged with breaking into his estranged wife’s home and shooting her 14 times. On 31 May, Bliefnick was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and one count of home invasion. Prosecutors said the killing marked the end of a long string of domestic violence and threats by Bliefnick against Becky. Bliefnick was convicted on 11 August to spend the rest of his life behind bars. Here is everything we know about the case: The crime Loved ones first became concerned when 41-year-old Becky, a doting mother and travel nurse, failed to pick up her three sons from school on 23 February. Before discovering the gruesome scene, Becky’s father William Postle received a text from Bliefnick, 39, asking him to check if she planned to pick up the children. Mr Postle told jurors at the Adam County Court House on 23 May that he drove to his daughter’s home and found the front door open, which he described as unusual. After finding Becky’s body in the bathroom, he rushed to a neighbour’s house to call 911 as he had forgotten his phone, according to KHQA. Adams County Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Jones said that shell casings found in Bliefnick’s basement matched the casings that were near his wife’s body. Crime scene investigators reportedly found Becky’s DNA in an Aldi bag found at her husband’s home. Prosecutors also claimed that DNA links Bliefnick to the crime scene. Another Aldi bag found at the scene was reportedly used as a homemade gun silencer by the killer. Mr Jones said during opening arguments that Becky spent her last moments “terrified, bleeding, and alone.” For the first week following Becky’s killing, Bliefnick was not charged or arrested in connection with her death. But on 1 March, the Quincy Police Department served a search warrant at his home. Bliefnick denied any involvement but said through an attorney that he was surprised authorities didn’t show up at his door sooner. “Given the circumstances, it is not surprising that the search warrant was issued and executed,” the attorney told local news outlet Muddy River News at the time. “My only surprise is that it took this long to do. It is just as important that QPD conduct such as investigation to rule Tim OUT as a suspect so that investigative efforts can be spent elsewhere.” Bliefnick was ultimately arrested on 13 March, and pleaded not guilty. Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented evidence they say proves Bliefnick was the perpetrator in his wife’s murder - including chilling searches for “how to wash off gunpowder,” “average police response time,” and “how to open a door with a crowbar” in his online history. On 31 March, a jury convicted Bliefnick on all counts related to Becky’s murder - after the defence declined to present any evidence. Jurors deliberated for just four hours before returning the guilty verdict. Now, Bliefnick is facing between 45 years to life in prison at his sentencing in August. Allegations of domestic violence The couple filed for divorce in early 2021, court filings show, following 13 years of marriage. Becky had filed a restraining order against Bliefnick and his father before the alleged murderer decided to also file one against his estranged wife. Mr Jones said during opening arguments that Bliefnick had reportedly told his slain wife that “she would not get his money.” According to the couple’s divorce attorney, Bliefnick was expected to pay $2,100 in maintenance and $472 per month in child support. Another attorney who took over the divorce case said the process was “very contested.” The couple was reportedly also fighting over custody arrangements. Bliefnick reportedly wanted his wife to have a psychiatric evaluation and Becky said it was his wish the children didn’t have any type of contact with her husband’s father. Becky’s boyfriend Ted Johnson also took the stand on 23 May. Testifying for the prosecution, Mr Johnson said that Becky was looking forward to having her difficult divorce finalised. Sarah Rilley, Becky’s sister, told jurors that she had first wanted to remain married to Bliefnick to keep their family together, but in the months leading up to her death had become afraid for her life. “If something ever happens to me, make sure the number one person of interest is Tim. I am putting this in writing that I’m fearful he will somehow harm me,” Becky reportedly texted her sister in 2021. A text Becky sent to a friend in May 2021 read: “He has screamed in my face, he shoved me in front of the kids, and has thrown things across the room where the kids and I were standing.” Another friend of Becky testified on 23 May that she had been told by Bliefnick that she’ll be dead before [having] any of [his] money.” At the time of Becky’s murder, there was a court order for Bliefnick to return a gun to her. He had reportedly told police he didn’t want to do it himself but law enforcement said they couldn’t get involved as it was a court ruling. ‘We’ve watched, waited, and prayed for justice’ Becky is described in her obituary as a compassionate and generous mother who had found her true calling in nursing. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she was a travel nurse at the Northeast Regional Medical Center and Hannibal Regional Hospital in Missouri. Family members and loved ones have also shared memories of the mother-of-three on social media. Following Mr Bliefnick’s arrest in March, a friend of Becky’s wrote on a Facebook post that the slain mother had been consumed by fear in the weeks leading up to her death. “... [W]e’ve watched, waited, and prayed for justice,” the post read. “We have to listen to women when they fear for their or their children’s safety. This could have been prevented. It breaks my heart to know that these boys will grow up without their mama. We have to do better.” A GoFundMe to support Becky’s children has raised more than $100,000. “Despite the circumstances of her death, she is remembered for the life she cherished—a life of compassion, generosity, faith, and fierce love for her family,” the description of the fundraiser read. Bliefnick is sentenced to life in prison Roughly six months after Becky Bliefnick’s killing, her murderer was sentenced to three life terms at a hearing on 11 August. As he handed down the sentence, Adams County Judge Robert Adrian counted to 14 — the number of bullets that Bliefnick unloaded during the attack. “You researched this murder,” Judge Adrian said, according to People. “You planned this murder. You practised this murder. Some of those shots were fired while she was lying on the ground and you did all of that while your children were upstairs at your house, lying snug in their beds.” Bliefnick, who appeared in court wearing orange and white prison scrubs and hand shackles, refused to make a statement. Loved ones of Becky Bliefnick addressed the court and slammed Bliefnick for cutting her life short during their victims’ impact statement. “When you murdered Becky you took from your boys the person who loved them the most on earth,” her grieving mother Bernadette said. “Becky’s family, friends coworkers and patients will never again see her smile, hear her laugh, feel her embrace or receive her love. We are left with emptiness that cannot be filled. We are only left with memories. Your soul is black with hate. Your heart has only love for itself. You should never be allowed to be free again.” Read More Family Feud star faces trial for allegedly shooting wife to death years after joking about marriage on show Bombshell letter where Brian Laundrie’s mother vowed to ‘dispose of body’ is given to Gabby Petito’s parents
2023-08-15 02:52
Stephen Kenny insists ‘no pressure’ on Evan Ferguson against Netherlands
Stephen Kenny insists ‘no pressure’ on Evan Ferguson against Netherlands
Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has told Evan Ferguson to play without pressure as he attempts to enhance his blossoming reputation on the international stage. The 19-year-old striker has shaken off a back injury to make himself available for Saturday evening’s final Euro 2024 qualifier against the Netherlands in Amsterdam and the chance to add to his tally of three goals in eight senior appearances for his country. Ferguson’s presence at the Johan Cruyff Arena, where he played in Brighton’s 2-0 Europa League win over Ajax last week, will excite the travelling support, although Kenny is keen not to place too much weight on his young shoulders. He said: “It’s important not to expect too much. We’ve to be cognisant of his age. He’s made the breakthrough and played international football at 18. “He’s just turned 19. He’s got an all-round game and a few goals already for Ireland. “He was in this stadium last week, of course. He’s been very positive this week, very positive. “He could easily have pulled out of the squad or opted to pull out having not been available for his club last week. “He’s here, determined to well and deserves a lot of credit for that. We’re looking forward to it. “There’ll be no pressure on him tomorrow. We want him to enjoy his football and show his quality.” Ferguson missed September’s 2-1 home defeat by the Dutch – who would clinch their place at the finals along with leaders France with a win – due to a knee injury and was a frustrated bystander as Cody Gakpo’s penalty and a second goal from substitute Wout Weghorst overhauled Adam Idah’s opener. That has been the story for much of a disappointing Group B campaign in which Ireland have beaten Gibraltar home and away, but have otherwise failed to pick up a single point. Asked how much that had affected morale, Preston midfielder Alan Browne said: “Not as much as you might think. “Given the circumstances, the opposition that we faced, it doesn’t hurt as much. When you try to go toe-to-toe with those teams and you’re not far off, you can take bit of credit, a bit of confidence from that. “We try to stay as positive as we can. I’m not saying we’re happy to lose games – we’re obviously disappointed after every game we lose, even draws to a certain extent. When you see it back and see all the positives and the moments that have cost you, you kind of think there’s not an awful lot in it Republic of Ireland midfielder Alan Browne “We reflect on those games, we analyse them. When you see it back and see all the positives and the moments that have cost you, you kind of think there’s not an awful lot in it. “Hopefully – it’s not going to be this campaign, but going into the next and the ones after it – if we can benefit from those performances and change those losses or draws into wins or into draws and keep accumulating as many point as we can, we can find ourselves in a better position.” Read More England continue unbeaten Euro 2024 qualifying run with victory over Malta Wembley celebrates life of Sir Bobby Charlton ahead of England’s Malta qualifier Alan Browne says Republic upsetting Netherlands ‘would mean an awful lot’ Stephen Kenny’s last dance? 5 talking points as the Republic face Netherlands Golden Boy award recognises Jude Bellingham’s irrepressible rise at Real Madrid Fine finish hands Nicolai Hojgaard two-shot lead at halfway stage in Dubai
2023-11-18 07:15
Katie Taylor vs Chantelle Cameron time: When does fight start in UK and US this weekend?
Katie Taylor vs Chantelle Cameron time: When does fight start in UK and US this weekend?
Katie Taylor will look to avenge the only loss of her professional career this weekend, as she takes on Chantelle Cameron in Dublin. Ireland’s Taylor, who holds the undisputed lightweight titles, moved up a weight class in May and challenged Cameron in the Irish capital, only to come up short on points. Now, England’s Cameron returns to enemy territory to defend the undisputed super-lightweight belts against the 37-year-old again. It is set to be a massive night for Taylor, Cameron, Ireland and boxing overall, with some fans believing that Taylor will walk away from the sport – whatever the result. Here’s all you need to know. We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. When is the fight? Cameron vs Taylor 2 is set to take place on Saturday 25 November at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland. The main card is due to begin at 7pm GMT (12pm PT, 2pm CT, 3pm ET). Ring walks for the main event are then due at around 10.30pm GMT (3.30pm PT, 5.30pm CT, 6.30pm ET). How can I watch it? The fight will stream live on Dazn in the UK. A subscription to the streaming service is available here at a cost of £9.99 per month. If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch the event, you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN round-up is here to help and includes deals on VPNs in the market. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are and also with the terms of their service provider. Odds Taylor – 6/4 Cameron – 4/7 Draw – 14/1 Full odds via Betway. Get all the latest boxing betting sites’ offers Full card (subject to change) Chantelle Cameron (C) vs Katie Taylor (undisputed women’s super-lightweight titles) Paddy Donovan vs Danny Ball (welterweight) Gary Cully vs Reece Mould (lightweight) Skye Nicolson (C) vs Lucy Wildheart (WBC women’s interim featherweight title) John Cooney vs Liam Gaynor (Celtic super-featherweight title) Zelfa Barrett vs Costin Ion (super-featherweight) Thomas Carty vs Dan Garber (heavyweight) Emmet Brennan Jamie Morrissey (Celtic light-heavyweight title) Giorgio Visioli vs Lee Anthony Sibley (lightweight)
2023-11-24 03:59
When George Clooney jokingly sent '$20 bill on a script' to Julia Roberts for her role in 'Ocean's Eleven'
When George Clooney jokingly sent '$20 bill on a script' to Julia Roberts for her role in 'Ocean's Eleven'
In Steven Soderbergh's heist remake, the pair traded zingers 22 years before they portrayed ex-lovers in 'Ticket to Paradise'
2023-06-10 20:23
Alleged bodies of 'non-human beings' shown in Mexican Congress
Alleged bodies of 'non-human beings' shown in Mexican Congress
The alleged bodies of two "non-human beings" were presented during a congressional hearing in Mexico, generating a mixture of surprise, disbelief and ridicule...
2023-09-14 09:59
Robinson, Adebayo key rally as Heat capture fifth straight with win over Spurs, 118-113
Robinson, Adebayo key rally as Heat capture fifth straight with win over Spurs, 118-113
Duncan Robinson had 26 points, Bam Adebayo added 24 points and 11 rebounds, and the Miami Heat rallied in the final quarter to beat the San Antonio Spurs 118-113 on Sunday night for their fifth straight win
2023-11-13 10:49
Man who stayed awake for 11 straight days shares how his brain ‘broke down’
Man who stayed awake for 11 straight days shares how his brain ‘broke down’
A man who stayed awake for 11 straight days to set a world record has spoken about how he experienced his brain starting to ‘break down’. Englishman Tony Wright went an incredible 266 hours without sleep back in 2007 and set a new record – only to see it broken by someone else just a month later. Wright spoke about his experience in a clip posted by the YouTube channel Sleep Gods, saying that an entirely different part of his brain was activated during his record attempt. "Basically, you're starving the rational mind, the egotistical mind of sleep, and it's battery is running down. And of course, it doesn't feel very good, it feels tired. Wright added: "But if you push beyond that, its ability to stay in charge starts to break down as well. And that's where you can start to get glimpses of access to the other side of the brain, the other self." Man Who Didn't Sleep For 11 Days Explains Sleep Deprivation www.youtube.com "I've spoken to a lot of people about this. Most people have recollections where they've been partying, or they've been working hard, and sure they get tired, but within that they get glimpses of something else.” He went on to say: "That kind of softness, or a more relaxed state - often more emotional, because again, there's more access to that emotional side of the brain. "Even feeling quite good, quite an altered state for brief windows, or getting a second wind even. You know, be really, really tired, no sleep, and then suddenly feeling fine for half an hour or an hour. "So all I really did, or what I was interested in, is making sense of that. And is it possible to exploit that and bring in combining techniques to tie the left side of the brain up, which initially doesn't feel great, but the reward on the other side of that makes it worth the effort." Sign up for our free Indy100 weekly newsletter Have your say in our news democracy. Click the upvote icon at the top of the page to help raise this article through the indy100 rankings
2023-09-17 19:56
30 years ago, the Kremlin crushed a parliamentary uprising, leading to strong presidential rule
30 years ago, the Kremlin crushed a parliamentary uprising, leading to strong presidential rule
Three decades ago, the world held its breath as tanks blasted the Russian parliament building in central Moscow while the Kremlin moved to flush out rebellious lawmakers in a crisis that shaped the country’s post-Soviet history
2023-10-05 00:45
Gonzalo Pineda challenges Atlanta United players ahead of game one vs Columbus Crew
Gonzalo Pineda challenges Atlanta United players ahead of game one vs Columbus Crew
Atlanta United boss Gonzalo Pineda has challenged his Atlanta United players ahead of game one vs Columbus Crew.
2023-11-01 08:29
The surprising list of actors who were up to play Ken in 'Barbie'
The surprising list of actors who were up to play Ken in 'Barbie'
Ryan Gosling may or may not be your ideal Ken in the new "Barbie" movie, but the one of the film's casting director has shared who else might have gotten the role.
2023-07-25 21:48
Bhutan's jobs woes drive an exodus to Australia
Bhutan's jobs woes drive an exodus to Australia
By Stella Qiu and Gopal Sharma SYDNEY/KATHMANDU The reopening of Australia's borders to international students after the pandemic
2023-07-28 09:55