Latest news with #189
Hype Malaysia
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
1MDB-Seized Paintings Put Up For Auction; Netizens Question Validity Of Online Auction Website
It has been five years since one of the biggest scandals involving the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) took place. Since then, the United States Government has seized 4 renowned paintings—and they've now put these artworks up for auction. This move aims to offer art lovers and collectors a rare chance to own a piece of history. The auction runs from the 16th July (Wednesday) to the 4th September (Thursday). Furthermore, buyers won't have to pay any premium fees. However, concerns have already emerged about the entire process. From a questionable website to the drastic drop in starting prices, all eyes are now on these 4 artworks. According to documents filed by the US Justice Department, one of the pieces, 'Child with a Toy Hand Grenade' (1962), photographed by Diane Arbus, initially sold for $750,000 (RM3,189,375). Yet, the current starting bid is only $4,400 (RM18,711). Another piece, 'Red Man One' (1982), illustrated by Jean-Michel Basquiat, sold for $9.4 million (RM39.97 million) back in 2012 but now lists at just $2.975 million (RM12.65 million). Meanwhile, Picasso's 'Tête de taureau et broc' (1939) was acquired for $3.28 million (RM13.9 million) back in 2013. Alongside it, Basquiat's 'Self Portrait' (1982) is currently being auctioned at $850,000 (RM3.6 million). Some advisors speculate that the drastic price drops result from the artworks' ties to Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low (刘特佐), an affiliate of the 1MDB case. Due to the artworks' connection to multiple international fugitives and such a high-profile scandal, attracting serious buyers has proven challenging. On top of that, the auction website chosen by the U.S. Marshals lacks the sophistication expected for pieces of this value, which further reduces its appeal. Its overly simple design is so basic that some potential buyers might even mistake it for a scam. 'Most of my clients would not be interested in sitting on this website and bidding on it just because the website is so terrible,' said Arushi Kapoor, an art advisor, in an interview. 'If someone sent me this website that wasn't you, I would probably be like, 'someone's trying to scam me.' However, another art advisor pointed out that the rough website might serve as a filter, attracting only well-versed bidders who can look beyond the site's shortcomings. Ultimately, the combination of scandal and presentation casts a shadow over what could otherwise be a highly sought-after auction. Source: ARTNews Zaima Humaira contributed to this article
Hans India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Former Pathikonda MLA Kangati Sridevi counters Minister's claims, highlights Jagan's welfare achievements
Pattikonda: Former MLA Kangati Sridevi strongly condemned the recent remarks made by the Labour Minister during his visit to Pattikonda. She criticized the coalition government, stating that they came to power in the previous elections by making false promises. Responding to the minister's claims on development, she said that 70% of the work under the Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi project was completed during the previous TDP government, and alleged that the current government failed to provide even a single new ration card or pension during its early tenure. Speaking to media persons on Sunday at Pathikonda, countered the allegations, Sridevi pointed out that by the time former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy assumed office in June 2019, only 12.7% of the Handri-Neeva project had been completed. She claimed that under Jagan's leadership from 2019 to 2024, nearly 80% of the project was completed and water was released. She added that in the last five years, around 4 lakh new ration cards were sanctioned and the number of pension beneficiaries rose from 39 lakh to 65 lakh across the state. She also rebutted the Minister's claim that no welfare scheme was implemented for women. Highlighting the efforts of the YSRCP government, she said that loans worth Rs.25,570 crore were waived under YSR Aasara for 78.94 lakh women and Rs.19,189 crore was distributed to 26.98 lakh women under YSR Cheyutha. Furthermore, nearly 30 lakh house site pattas were given in the names of women and the Amma Vodi scheme also focused on empowering mothers, she added. The former MLA called the Minister's comments baseless and laughable, questioning his awareness as a cabinet member. She rejected the 'psycho governance' label made by the Minister, asserting that the previous YSRCP regime ensured inclusive and welfare-oriented administration. She further accused the coalition government of misleading the public and declared that people, deceived once, are now ready to teach them a befitting lesson in the next elections. 'Welfare schemes are synonymous with the YSR family,' she stated.
What's On
18-07-2025
- What's On
31 of the best summer staycation offers in the UAE
Staycation in the UAE are endless and now that the summer is heating up, there are unlimited staycation offers to choose from whether you want ultra-luxury, or a fun break with the kids. Address Dubai Mall, Dubai Stay in the city's beating heart at Address Dubai Mall. Guests receive 10% off the best available rate, two complimentary tickets to an Emaar attraction (like Dubai Aquarium or Skyview Observatory), and access to a Burj Khalifa-facing pool. Offer valid until end of September. Location: Address Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai Dates: Until September 30, 2025 Offer: 10% off + 2 attraction tickets + pool access Rates from: Dhs1,189 Contact: (0)4 245 8888 | @addressdubaimall Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort Set on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Anantara The Palm offers a luxurious island-inspired escape with overwater villas, lagoon-access rooms, award-winning dining, and a serene Thai-style spa. With the summer staycation offer, Exclusive GCC & UAE Resident Special , guests enjoy up to 25% off rooms and villas, daily breakfast, and discounts across dining, spa, and activities. Location: Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Dates: June to September 2025 Offer: Up to 25% off rooms + breakfast + resort-wide discounts Contact: (0)4 567 8999 | @anantaradubai Anantara World Islands, Dubai Escape to a private island paradise at Anantara World Islands with 40% off best available rates, optional daily breakfast, and a resort credit of up to Dhs750. Choose from ocean-view suites or villas with private pools. Location: Anantara World Islands Resort, Dubai Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: 40% off + breakfast + up to Dhs750 credit Rates from: Dhs1,300 Contact: (0)4 567 8777 | @anantaraworldislandsdubai Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal Choose between two icons. UAE residents get 25% off at Atlantis The Palm or 20% off at Atlantis The Royal, with unlimited access to Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers. Location: Atlantis Resorts, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Up to 25% off + unlimited attraction access Rates from: Dhs1,225 Contact: @atlantisthepalm | @atlantistheroyal Bab Al Shams, Dubai Set in the heart of the golden Al Marmoom desert, Bab Al Shams is a timeless retreat blending heritage with luxury. This summer, enjoy 25% off rooms and suites or 20% off villas, with a gourmet breakfast buffet at Zala, a Dhs250 resort credit for spa and leisure activities, plus complimentary falconry and camel rides. Location: Bab Al Shams, Al Marmoom Desert, Dubai Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Up to 25% off and 30% off dining, plus Dhs250 daily resort credit Rates from: Dhs900 Contact: (0)4 809 6100 | @babalshamshotel FIVE LUXE, JBR Whether you're after a buzzing pool scene, a private sky villa for sky-high pool parties, or an action-packed playcation, your perfect Dubai stay awaits at FIVE LUXE. Book direct and enjoy a complimentary night with Pay 3, Stay 4 , plus exclusive summer perks designed for longer, more luxurious escapes. Location: FIVE LUXE, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Dates: Now until end of summer 2025 Offer: Pay 3, Stay 4, early check-in/late check-out and 20% off spa treatments Contact: (0)4 275 9999 | @fiveluxejbr Grand Hyatt Dubai Unwrap a dreamy city escape this summer at Grand Hyatt Dubai. GCC Residents and Nationals can enjoy an exclusive staycation with 20% off room rates, 20% off dining at selected restaurants, and 20% off selected spa treatments. Start each day with a complimentary buffet breakfast and make the most of a luxurious getaway in the heart of the city. Booking Code: GCC20 Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai, Oud Metha, Dubai Dates: Valid all summer for GCC Residents & Nationals Offer: 20% off rooms, dining & spa and breakfast included Contact: (0)4 317 1234 | @grandhyattdubai Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City Turn your summer into a story worth sharing with Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City's Stay Longer & Save More offer. Book a 5-night stay and enjoy 2 complimentary nights, plus daily breakfast for the whole family. Located in the heart of the city, this urban escape includes exclusive perks like beach access, discounted La Perle show tickets, 10% off dining, 25% off Silk Spa treatments, and fun for the kids with a club and outdoor pools. Location: Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Dates: June to September 2025 Offer: Book 5 nights, get 2 free + breakfast + resort-wide discounts & experiences Contact: (o)4 437 3333 | @hiltondubaiahc Hilton Dubai The Palm Soak up sun and luxury at Hilton Dubai The Palm with early check-in at 11am, Dhs200 F&B credit, breakfast, late check-out at 4pm, and 20% off dining and spa. Book by September 26 for stays until September 27. Location: Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah Dates: Until September 27, 2025 Offer: Dhs200 F&B credit, early/late check-in, 20% off dining and spa Rates from: Dhs650 Contact: (0)4 230 0000 | @hiltondubaipalm Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights Step into a thoughtfully curated city escape with Creekside Nights at Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights. This summer, UAE residents can enjoy a relaxing stay with complimentary amenities, daily buffet breakfast at Sufra, and a three-course dinner at the lively La Tablita Mexican restaurant. Make the most of your stay with early check-in from 10 AMor late check-out until 3pm, subject to availability. Promo code: StayC Location: Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, Dubai Healthcare City Dates: June to September 2025 Offer: Breakfast + three-course dinner + welcome amenities + flexible check-in/out Contact: (0)4 553 1234 | @hyattregencydubaicreek JA The Resort, Dubai Go big on your family break with the JAcation offer at JA The Resort. Get up to 30% off stays, 20% off dining, 20% off spa and activities, and complimentary stays for kids. Early check-in and late check-out subject to availability. Location: JA The Resort, Jebel Ali, Dubai Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Up to 30% off stays, 20% off dining, 20% off spa, kids stay free and resort-wide discounts Rates from: Dhs440 Contact: (0)4 814 5555 | @jatheresort NH Collection Dubai The Palm Turn your family break into a playful summer escape at NH Collection Dubai The Palm. With the Summer Playcation offer, guests enjoy private beach access, daily buffet breakfast and dinner at Maiora, and fun-filled afternoons at the View 180 rooftop pool. Kids are in for a treat with unlimited complimentary ice cream served daily from 2 to 3pm, while adults can unwind with a Dhs100 spa voucher. Upon arrival, spin the wheel for a chance to win exclusive surprises, and enjoy thoughtful in-room welcome amenities. Families also get access to the Kids' Club and Premium Lounge, with scheduled activities running from 10am to 6pm daily—making it the perfect staycation for every member of the family. Location: NH Collection Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Until August 31, 2025 Offer: Daily breakfast, Dhs100 spa voucher Rates: Starting from Dhs555 Contact: (0)4 549 7777 | @nhcollectiondubaithepalm One&Only The Palm, Dubai Indulge in a luxurious summer retreat with Dhs500 resort credit for suite bookings and Dhs1,000 for villas. Extras include complimentary child stays, complimentary sundowners, and daily waterpark access. See the offer here. Location: One&Only The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Credit + child perks + daily waterpark access Suite rates from: Dhs3,510 Contact: (0)4 440 1010 | @oothepalm SIRO, One Za'abeel, Dubai Located in the iconic One Za'abeel development, SIRO is Dubai's first fitness and recovery hotel, offering a sleek, wellness-focused urban escape and they now have some summer staycation offers. With the GCC Urban Retreat package, residents of any Gulf country get 20% off the best available room rate and dining across One Za'abeel, plus unlimited access to the Garden pool and all SIRO workout classes. Location: SIRO, One Za'abeel, Dubai Dates: Ongoing (GCC resident offer) Offer: 20% off rooms and dining + pool and class access Contact: (0)4 666 4444 | @siroonezaabeel SLS Dubai Check into a sleek skyscraper escape at SLS Dubai with a stay in a signature king room, a 60-minute massage for two at Ciel Spa, and access to the sky pool Privilege and thermal areas. Offer available until September 30. Location: SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Business Bay Dates: Until September 30, 2025 Offer: Room + spa treatment for two + pool & wellness access Rates from: Dhs1,499 Contact: (0)4 607 0757 | @slsdubai Th8 Palm, Dubai Enjoy one of Palm Jumeirah's best-value staycations with Th8's Dhs888 deal. Includes a suite upgrade, dinner at Envy, a welcome cocktail, breakfast, and late check-out at 8pm. Kids under 12 stay and dine free. Location: Th8 Palm, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Suite upgrade + dinner + late check-out + kids free Rates from: Dhs888 Contact: (0)4 525 8888 | @th8palm The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai Set along the Dubai Canal in Business Bay, The Lana blends timeless elegance with contemporary design as part of the prestigious Dorchester Collection. This summer, UAE residents can book the Elevate Your Summer package with a guaranteed double upgrade and daily breakfast. Rates start from Dhs1,500. Location: The Lana, Marasi Bay, Business Bay, Dubai Dates: Until September 30 Offer: Double upgrade + daily breakfast Contact: (0)4 540 8888 | @thelanadubai Vida Hotels & Resorts – Dubai UAE residents, it's time to turn up the summer vibes with up to 35% off stays at select Vida Hotels & Resorts across Dubai. Enjoy daily breakfast, free stays for kids under 12, and early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability). Whether you're after beachfront bliss, skyline views, or a city escape, Vida brings laid-back luxury with a side of Insta-worthy design. Location: Vida Hotels & Resorts, Dubai Dates: Until September 30, 2025 Offer: Up to 35% off stays + breakfast + kids stay free + flexible check-in/out Contact: W Dubai – The Palm The summer staycation offer at W Dubai – The Palm includes a guaranteed upgrade to a fabulous room, daily breakfast at LIV, and Dhs100 credit per night for food and drinks. Access to Wet Deck, Fit Gym, and the private beach included. Location: W Dubai – The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Dates: Until August 31, 2025 Offer: Room upgrade + breakfast + F&B credit Rates from: Dhs754 Contact: (0) 4 245 5555 | @wdubaipalm Summer Staycation Offers in Abu Dhabi Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa If you're looking for a really good summer staycation offer in the UAE, specifically Abu Dhabi, Al Wathba is a really good choice. Nestled among Abu Dhabi's sweeping dunes, Al Wathba offers a secluded desert escape infused with Arabian charm. This summer, choose from two seasonal all-inclusive offers: the Ultimate All-Inclusive Escape with unlimited drinks, all-day snacks, and adventure activities, or the All-Inclusive Desert Retreat featuring full-board dining and select beverages. Both packages include spa and fitness access, with kids under 12 staying and dining for free. Location: Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi Dates: 1 May – 30 September 2025 Offer: Two all-inclusive packages with dining, drinks, activities, and spa access Contact: (0)2 204 4444 | @alwathbahotel Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat Tucked away along Abu Dhabi's coast, Anantara Santorini offers a serene, adults-only escape inspired by the Greek isles. With the Santorini Couple's Serenity package, couples can enjoy sea-view luxury, wellness breakfasts, private yoga, and signature spa experiences designed for total relaxation. Location: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, Abu Dhabi Dates: June to December 15 2025 Offer: Two-night wellness stay with spa treatments, yoga, and breakfast Contact: (0)2 817 0000 | Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Book a two-night stay with half board dining and receive theme park tickets for any Yas Island attraction. Includes pool access and views from one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic towers. Book here. Location: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: 2-night stay with half board and Yas theme park tickets Rates from: Dhs1,926 (for two nights) Contact: (0)2 811 5555 | @conradetihadtowers Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Make it a family getaway to remember with the Kids Go Free package. Stay for two adults and up to two children, and enjoy complimentary theme park access for kids under 12—choose from Yas Waterworld, Ferrari World, or Warner Bros. World. Children also dine free on the same meal plan as parents. Perfectly located by Yas Bay Waterfront for non-stop adventure. Location: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Yas Bay Waterfront Dates: Until 30 September 2025 Offer: Kids Go Free – free theme park access & meals for kids under 12 Rates: Starting from Dhs1,425 Contact: (0)2 208 6888 | @hiltonabudhabiyasisland Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Experience the stunning white sands of Saadiyat Island at the luxury hotel Jumeirah Saadiyat Island. UAE residents can experience a break for 25% off the flexible night rate. This offer is until July 31 so enjoy it while it lasts. Location: Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi Dates: Until July 31 Offer: 25% off flexible rate for GCC residents Contact: (0)2 811 4555 | @jumeirahsaadiyatisland Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi A summer staycation includes breakfast, a room upgrade, late check-out, a complimentary poolside drink, and 20% off food and drinks. For UAE residents only. Location: Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, Al Marina Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Upgrade, 20% off dining, a complimentary poolside drink Rates from: Dhs699 Contact: (0)2 498 0000 | @rixosmarinaabudhabi Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Stay in style with one-night in a luxe room or suite, buffet breakfast, and Dhs800 dining credit to enjoy the resort's fine restaurants. Available until September 30. View the offer and book here. Location: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Dates: Until September 30, 2025 Offer: Breakfast and Dhs800 dining credit Rates from: Dhs1,160 Contact: (0)2 509 8888 | @shangrilaabudhabi The Abu Dhabi EDITION Enjoy a design-forward escape with the Edition Escape, which includes a three-course dinner at Alba Terrace, overnight stay, and breakfast at Market at EDITION. Location: The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast Rates from: Dhs735 Contact: (0)2 208 0000 | @abudhabiedition The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Unwind in elegance this summer at the breezy beachfront sanctuary of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Enjoy a luxurious stay in modern guest rooms with a daily buffet breakfast for two adults and up to two children at Olea. Plus, indulge in 24-hour butler service – a signature St. Regis experience. Location: The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island Dates: Ongoing Offer: Summer stay with daily buffet breakfast & signature butler service Rates: Starting from Dhs1,170 Contact: (0) 2 498 8888 | @stregissaadiyatisland Summer Staycation Offers in the Northern Emirates Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah Enjoy an all-inclusive escape on the east coast with an ocean view room, three meals a day, and selected beverages. Use booking code D60. Location: Le Méridien Al Aqah, Dibba Road Dates: Summer 2025 Offer: All-inclusive package with ocean view Rates from: Dhs1,275 Contact: (0)9 244 9000 | @lemeridienalaqah The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert This summer, retreat to the heart of Ras Al Khaimah's desert and unwind in your own private Pool Villa. Wake up to a gourmet breakfast at Kaheela restaurant and enjoy Dhs500 resort credit per stay – perfect for indulgent dining, spa treatments, or unique resort experiences. Whether you're looking for romantic seclusion or a serene family escape, this is a luxurious getaway you won't forget. Location: The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert Dates: Stays until September 15, 2025 Offer: Private villa stay with breakfast and Dhs500 resort credit Rates: From Dhs2,810 per night Contact: (0)7 206 7777 | @ritzcarltonalwadidesert The Cove Rotana Resort – Ras Al Khaimah Make your summer last longer with The Cove Rotana Resort's Extended Summer Escape . Book a 2-night stay and receive the third night free, giving you more time to enjoy the resort's 600m private beach, infinity pools, lush gardens, and charming Nubian-inspired architecture. Indulge in Mediterranean flavors at Basilico, unwind at the adults-only Laguna Pool, and let the little ones enjoy splash pools and water slides. The perfect Ras Al Khaimah retreat to relax, recharge, and reconnect. Location: The Cove Rotana Resort, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Salem Road Dates: Until September 2025 Offer: Book 2 nights, get 1 night free + beach, dining & family activities Contact: (0)7 206 6000 | @thecoverotanaresort Images: Provided/Website/Archive
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Penang posts RM65m Q1 surplus for 2025 amid new revenue push
GEORGE TOWN, May 19 — The Penang state government recorded a surplus of RM65.3 million for the first quarter ending March 31, 2025, attributed to new revenue streams and expenditure cuts, the state legislative assembly was told today. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that the state registered revenue totalling RM268,463,025.36 against an expenditure of RM203,189,122.16 as at March 31. 'This resulted in a surplus of RM65,273,903.20 for the state's finances as at March 31, 2025,' he said in reply to a question from Goh Choon Aik (PKR-Bukit Tambun). Chow attributed this positive outcome to several initiatives undertaken by the state finance department to identify new revenue streams for 2025. He detailed that as at March 31, 2025, the state's Consolidated Fund stood at RM1.535 billion, comprising a Consolidated Revenue Account of RM199.22 million and a Consolidated Trust Account of RM1.33578 billion. Providing context from the previous year, Chow said the state's unaudited financial statement for the year ending 2024 showed the Consolidated Fund at RM1.38474 billion, compared to RM1.46604 billion in 2023. This comprised a Consolidated Revenue Account of RM155.94 million and a Consolidated Trust Account of RM1.22880 billion. For 2024, the Consolidated Revenue Account decreased by RM174.09 million compared to 2023, while the Consolidated Trust Account increased by RM92.79 million, Chow noted. 'The state government concluded the 2024 financial year with a deficit totalling RM174.09 million, which is lower compared to the 2023 deficit of RM358.8 million,' he stated. Chow explained that while revenue collected in 2024 reached RM810.46 million, the deficit arose from operating expenditure of RM719.55 million and transfers to the Development Fund totalling RM265 million. 'The state received an advance of RM100 million from the federal government to cover cash flow, which, among other things, contributed to the increase in the Consolidated Trust Account,' he added. Responding to an additional question on strategies to increase revenue, Chow outlined nine approaches. These include selling more state land, collecting an estimated RM6 million in quit rent arrears, and reviewing land title conversion processes. Chow added that the state is also considering a review of liquor licence fees, entertainment duty, and hotel room fees. 'We are also looking at reducing our expenditure, but it keeps increasing each year due to salary realignments, which impacts emoluments,' he said, also noting that expenditure for the i-Sejahtera social welfare aid programme has risen as more people qualify. Chow clarified that billions in foreign investments do not directly translate into state revenue, except through land sales. 'The benefits from investments manifest as job opportunities and a trickle-down effect for local suppliers,' he explained, adding that investors and suppliers pay taxes directly to the federal government. 'These are our limitations; we do not have natural resources to generate more state revenue,' he said. Regarding the RM100 million advance from the federal government, Chow said the state applied for it as a standby fund in case of a deficit. 'The projected deficit of more than RM500 million (for 2024) did not materialise, as we managed to increase our revenue and lower the deficit to about RM100 million,' he said, referencing the RM1.047 billion budget for 2024 tabled in November 2023. He confirmed the RM100 million fund remains available, but must eventually be returned to the federal government.
Miami Herald
05-05-2025
- Health
- Miami Herald
Eighth grader has brain bleed after shot put hits him in track meet, IL dad says
An eighth grader suffered a skull fracture and a brain bleed during an accident at a track and field meet in Illinois, his father said. Parker Swaar's injuries occurred Saturday, May 3, when the Illini Central Middle School student was struck in the head with a shot put, according to a Facebook post from Illini Central School District #189. The boy's father, Ryan Swaar, said his son was hospitalized and initially intubated after the incident. But the family received good news, as the boy's injuries did not require immediate surgery over the weekend. 'They are not concerned about his brain bleed and it looks like that part of the worry is over for now,' the father said in a Facebook post. 'His last CT came back with good news so they were able to take the tube out, he woke up fairly quickly and is in good spirits.' Showing his resiliency, Parker even asked if he could compete in his school's next track meet, his father said. But Ryan Swaar had to break the news to his son that his season was now over. The father said, May 4, it was still unclear if Parker needed surgery. 'He's so far everything and been good news, but even fracture and skull depression is right against his brain on an artery,' Ryan Swaar said. The school district said it would be conducting a 'thorough review' of its safety protocols for athletic events. It said it was 'encouraged' by Parker's initial signs of recovery. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with Parker and the entire Swaar family during this incredibly difficult time,' the district said, adding that it 'is fully committed to supporting' the student's family. Illini Central Middle School is in Mason City, about a 30-mile drive north from Springfield.
