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Conservationists in Gabon are working to protect sea turtle populations facing extremely low survival rates. Teams patrol the beaches of Pongara National Park, located about 30 minutes by boat from Libreville, to locate nests and safeguard eggs. Hatchlings are assisted in their initial 10-metre journey to the Atlantic Ocean.

A Critical Habitat Under Threat

Gabon is considered one of Africa’s most important marine turtle habitats, hosting four species – leatherback, green, hawksbill, and olive ridley – during nesting season, which runs from October to April. However, these turtles face numerous threats along Gabon’s 900-kilometre coastline, including rising sea levels, predators, plastic pollution, industrial fishing, and poaching.

Researchers emphasize the importance of hatchlings crossing the sand independently to build strength for their life in the ocean. Despite these efforts, conservation work is becoming increasingly difficult.

Funding Concerns

Local teams have warned that reduced funding and the lack of pay for eco-guards could compromise monitoring efforts during a crucial period for the species. This could lead to decreased protection for nests and hatchlings.

If funding continues to decline, monitoring efforts may be scaled back, potentially impacting the ability to protect turtle nests and hatchlings. A reduction in personnel could also mean fewer patrols and a decreased response to poaching incidents. Survival rates could further decline if these challenges are not addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What species of turtles nest in Gabon?

Leatherback, green, hawksbill and olive ridley turtles nest in Gabon.

How long is the nesting season in Gabon?

The nesting season in Gabon runs from October to April.

What are some of the threats facing sea turtles in Gabon?

Rising sea levels, predators, plastic pollution, industrial fishing and poaching are threats facing sea turtles in Gabon.

Given the multitude of challenges facing sea turtle conservation in Gabon, what role can international collaboration play in ensuring the long-term survival of these species?

Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim, is mourning the loss of Mary Reynolds (Née Murdoch), who passed away peacefully on March 27th, 2026, surrounded by family. Reynolds, formerly of Tyholland, Co. Monaghan, spent her final days under the care of the Doctors, Nurses and staff at Drumderrig Nursing Home in Boyle.

A Life Remembered

Mary Reynolds is remembered by her sons, John, Richard, and Terry, and her daughters-in-law, Julie, Laura, and Angelika. She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren, Adam, Darcey, and Jemima, as well as her sister Anne, brother John, and brothers-in-law Jimmy and Paddy.

She was predeceased by her parents, Francis and Margaret, her husband Eamonn, and her siblings, Denis, Oliver, Gertie, and Christina. Her passing will be felt by a wide circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, and friends.

Final Arrangements

Reposing will capture place at The Heritage Centre, Chapel of Rest, Church Lane, Carrick-on-Shannon (N41 KP62) on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, from 5 o’clock until 7 o’clock. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Sacred Heart Church Jamestown on Monday, March 30th, at 12:00 o’clock, followed by burial in Jamestown cemetery. The family has requested privacy at their home.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland. Messages of condolence may be left in the condolences section provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Mary Reynolds pass away?

Mary Reynolds passed away on March 27th, 2026.

Where will the Mass of Christian burial be held?

The Mass of Christian burial will be held in Sacred Heart Church Jamestown on Monday, March 30th, at 12:00 o’clock.

Where can donations be made in Mary Reynolds’ memory?

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.

What does it indicate to a community when a long-time resident passes away, and how do those left behind best honor their memory?

RENO, Nev. – Despite a strong offensive showing from Reina Zermeno, the San José State softball team (10-20, 2-5 MW) fell to Nevada (23-11, 5-1 MW) Friday night at Christina M. Hixson Softball Park, losing 10-4.

Early Lead Not Enough for Spartans

Zermeno hit a three-run homerun in the top of the first inning, bringing Leata Sherlin and Carly Cummings home. This gave San José State an early 3-0 lead. However, Nevada quickly responded with a homerun of their own in the bottom of the first, narrowing the gap to one run.

Nevada continued their momentum, scoring five runs in the bottom of the second inning to take a 7-3 lead. Sarah Deplitch added another run for the Spartans in the third, scoring Carly Cummings, but San José State was unable to add to their total.

Wolfpack Secure Victory

Nevada extended their lead with two runs in the fifth and one in the sixth, ultimately securing the 10-4 victory. Zermeno’s performance included a four-game hit streak and brought her season total to 20 RBIs.

Both Sherlin and Cummings had strong performances at the plate, each going 3-for-4. Ahmiya Noriega drew two walks during the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the game?

The final score was Nevada 10, San José State 4.

Who hit the first homerun of the game?

Reina Zermeno of San José State hit the first homerun of the game.

When is the next game for the Spartans?

The Spartans will continue their series against Nevada at 3:00 p.m. On Saturday at Christina M. Hixon Softball Park. The game can be watched on Mountain West Network.

As the Spartans continue their series against Nevada, what adjustments might they make to regain offensive momentum and challenge the Wolfpack’s strong performance?

One month has passed since the initial strikes on Tehran, which targeted Iran’s leadership in an attempt to instigate regime change. The US and Israel had anticipated a swift collapse, but Iran has proven to be a more resilient adversary than initially expected. Despite sustained attacks, Iran has disrupted Gulf nations with missile and drone strikes and maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy supplies.

How the Conflict Began

The first 24 hours of the conflict saw US and Israeli forces strike over 1,500 targets within Iran. The initial strategy aimed for a swift victory, hoping to inspire an uprising among the Iranian people following protests earlier in January. Still, no such uprising has materialized.

The first wave of strikes resulted in the deaths of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, an IRGC commander and the country’s defense minister. A subsequent missile attack on a primary school in Minab, Iran, which killed 175 people, mostly schoolgirls, drew international condemnation, later attributed to a “targeting error” by the US military.

Iran responded by launching attacks on neighboring countries hosting US military bases, utilizing over 500 missiles and 2,000 Shahed drones in the first 100 hours of the war.

Escalation and Resilience

Despite the initial strikes, the Islamic Republic has not collapsed. Following Ayatollah Khamenei’s death, Iran’s Assembly of Experts appointed his 56-year-old son, Mojtaba, as the modern supreme leader. However, Mojtaba has not been seen publicly since the appointment, with reports suggesting he may be in a coma or disfigured.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf are currently leading diplomatic efforts.

The ‘Oil War’ and Strait of Hormuz

The third week of the conflict saw an escalation in attacks on energy facilities, marking a “dramatic escalation in the ‘oil war’”. Israel targeted Iran’s South Pars gasfield, even as Iran retaliated by attacking facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Iran has established control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas supplies, through the use of mines, sea drones, and UAVs. Iran has reportedly made agreements with five “friendly countries,” including India, to allow safe passage, while restricting access for “enemy tankers.” Reports suggest Iran is charging up to $2 million to safely transit the strait.

Current Status and Potential Next Steps

US President Donald Trump initially paused planned strikes on Iran’s energy facilities for five days, later extending the deadline to April 6, citing ongoing negotiations. However, Iran has publicly denied claims of active talks, while engaging in backchannel discussions.

If negotiations fail, Trump may escalate the conflict further, potentially initiating a ground invasion. Thousands of Marines and paratroopers are reportedly nearing the Middle East, with attention focused on Kharg Island, a key economic lifeline for Iran.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many targets were struck in the first 24 hours of the conflict?

US and Israeli forces struck over 1,500 targets in Iran during the first 24 hours of the conflict.

What happened after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?

Iran’s Assembly of Experts appointed Ayatollah Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, as the new supreme leader.

What is the current situation regarding the Strait of Hormuz?

Iran maintains a constant grip on the Strait of Hormuz, turning it into a fortress with mines, sea drones, and Shahed UAVs, and is reportedly charging for safe passage.

As the conflict enters its 28th day, will Trump’s military pressure ultimately compel Iran to negotiate, or will the situation escalate further towards a wider, more protracted war?

The Australian gas industry is mounting a defense against potential modern taxes as momentum builds for the government to address profits potentially boosted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Industry Pushback and Government Consideration

The Australian Energy Producers (AEP) chief executive, Samantha McCulloch, has argued that new taxes would negatively impact relationships with key Asian trading partners, particularly as Australia seeks to secure fuel supplies amid global instability. The gas sector was reportedly caught off guard when the Treasury began modeling options for a new levy on gas and thermal coal companies, as well as potential changes to the Petroleum Resources Rent Tax (PRRT).

Shifting Public Sentiment and Political Support

Sources indicate a shift in public opinion regarding taxing resource giants, potentially giving the Albanese government more leeway to pursue changes previously considered politically risky. This shift is attributed to a campaign led by independent senator David Pocock, social media influencer Konrad Benjamin and the Australia Institute, which has focused on the tax contributions of gas companies. Labor-aligned trade unions, the Greens, and other cross-benchers are now supporting a 25% tax on gas exports, which the Australia Institute estimates could generate $17 billion annually.

The AEP has responded with a public relations campaign, including a full-page advertisement in the Daily Telegraph, to counter claims about the industry’s tax contributions. McCulloch has accused campaigners of spreading “misinformation,” a criticism echoed by shadow resources minister Susan McDonald, who stated that some groups aim to shut down fossil fuel activity in the country.

International Implications

The Japanese ambassador to Australia, Kazuhiro Suzuki, cautioned that a “surprise” tax could deter investment, mirroring concerns raised by the head of the International Energy Agency. Prime Minister Albanese has been actively engaging with regional partners, including Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and Japan, to secure consistent fuel supplies, emphasizing Australia’s role as a reliable exporter and seeking reciprocal economic relations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is driving the discussion about a new gas tax?

The potential for a new tax is linked to the conflict in the Middle East and concerns that gas companies may be profiting from the resulting energy market instability.

Who is opposing the new tax?

The Australian Energy Producers (AEP), representing gas companies like Woodside, Santos, and Chevron, is opposing the tax, arguing it would harm relationships with trading partners.

What is the current level of political support for a tax on gas exports?

Labor backbenchers, the Greens, and some cross-benchers support a 25% tax on gas exports, and there is reportedly some support within the Liberal party as well.

As the government considers its options for the May budget, will public pressure and shifting political dynamics lead to changes in how Australia taxes its gas industry?

Champaign, Illinois officials announced Friday that alcohol sales will be limited Saturday night on the University of Illinois campus, anticipating potential public safety concerns if the Illinois Fighting Illini defeat the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight and advance to the Final Four.

Restrictions Implemented

The emergency order, issued following concerns about fan behavior after Illinois’s Sweet 16 win over Houston on Thursday, includes several restrictions. All campus bars will be required to serve alcohol in paper and plastic cups. Sales of “packaged liquor” will be prohibited beginning one hour after the game’s tipoff. No campus liquor establishment can sell more than a single keg to any one customer.

The order also bans alcohol delivery to or from campus starting one hour after tipoff. Champaign Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen stated, “While we cheer the Illini basketball team on to victory this weekend, I want to remind fans to follow the team’s lead and to celebrate responsibly.”

Concerns Over Public Safety

Jeff Hamilton, deputy liquor commissioner in Champaign, told ESPN that students were observed “climbing on statues” Thursday night, prompting the city to take preventative measures. Hamilton stated the restrictions are intended to prevent glass bottles from becoming “a hazard” and emphasized that the measures are “for public safety reasons,” not an alcohol ban.

Illinois defeated Houston 75-69 at the Toyota Center in Houston on Thursday to reach the Elite Eight. Saturday’s game against Iowa will be the second meeting between the two Big Ten schools this season; Illinois won the first game 75-69 in Iowa City in January.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the alcohol restrictions?

The restrictions were issued due to concerns about potential property damage and excessive celebrations if Illinois wins its Elite Eight game against Iowa, following similar celebratory behavior after their Sweet 16 victory over Houston.

What specific restrictions are being put in place?

The order requires campus bars to use only paper and plastic cups, bans the sale of packaged liquor one hour after tipoff, limits keg sales to one per customer, and prohibits alcohol deliveries to and from campus one hour after tipoff.

Has Champaign implemented similar restrictions before?

Yes, the city implemented similar restrictions in 2005 when the Illinois Fighting Illini made a run to the championship game.

As Illinois prepares to face Iowa, how might the outcome of Saturday’s game shape the celebratory atmosphere and potential response from the community?

At least nine people are confirmed dead and 45 are missing after a migrant boat capsized off the coast of Djibouti. The United Nations’ migration agency (IOM) reported to the Associated Press that over 300 people were on board when the vessel went down on Tuesday.

Tragic Loss at Sea

The boat was traveling towards Yemen when the incident occurred in an area experiencing remarkably strong winds and high seas. This latest tragedy highlights the extreme risks faced by migrants attempting to reach Yemen, a common destination for those seeking opportunities or refuge.

Search and rescue teams are currently searching the waters for survivors, according to NTB. The challenging weather conditions are likely complicating rescue efforts.

Potential Next Steps

the number of confirmed deaths and missing persons could rise as search operations continue. A thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the capsizing may be undertaken, though the source does not indicate this. Further assistance to survivors, should any be found, is a likely next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was the boat traveling to?

The boat was traveling towards Yemen.

How many people were on board the boat?

There were over 300 people on board the boat.

When did the boat capsize?

The boat capsized on Tuesday.

What more can be done to prevent these kinds of tragedies from happening in the future?