Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • The family-owned soda firm that still uses returnable glass bottles

    The family-owned soda firm that still uses returnable glass bottles

    In an industry dominated by disposable plastics, Wisconsin-based Twig’s Beverage maintains a century-old packaging tradition that has all but vanished from the American marketplace. While approximately 127 billion plastic bottles are purchased annually across the United States, this family-operated enterprise continues to sell its signature Sun Drop citrus soda in returnable glass bottles through a deposit system that dates back to pre-1960s America.

    Founded in 1951 by Floyd Hartwig, Twig’s operates as an independent bottler within Shawano County despite Sun Drop being owned by beverage giant Keurig Dr Pepper. The company’s distinctive approach involves charging customers a $20 deposit per case of 24 bottles, refundable when containers are returned to either retail locations or directly to the Twig’s factory. Remarkably, some bottles still in circulation bear manufacturing dates from the 1960s, demonstrating the durability of this sustainable packaging solution.

    Beyond its environmental distinction, Twig’s maintains historical production methods by using real sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup—a formulation choice that has become increasingly rare in the soft drink industry. The company additionally produces its own line of fruit sodas in flavors ranging from root beer to black cherry, which it now aims to distribute across the Midwest through an expanding network of distributors.

    Now in its third generation of family leadership under Ben Hartwig and his siblings, Twig’s has become woven into the cultural fabric of Shawano—a community of 9,000 that hosts annual Sun Drop Dayz celebrations. The company maintains an on-site museum and offers production tours, highlighting its handcrafted manufacturing process.

    Despite challenges including fluctuating sugar prices and competition from major brands, Twig’s has achieved approximately $6.5 million in annual revenue while employing 20 local staff. The American Beverage Association notes that such family-owned enterprises represent a significant segment of the industry, with many maintaining generational traditions despite market consolidation.

    Hartwig attributes the company’s 75-year longevity to community loyalty and family dedication, expressing hope that future generations will continue both the returnable bottle system and the company’s commitment to traditional soda craftsmanship.

  • Shot in school uniform: BBC reveals police order led to Gen Z protest killings

    Shot in school uniform: BBC reveals police order led to Gen Z protest killings

    A groundbreaking BBC investigation has uncovered that Nepal’s former police chief authorized lethal force against thousands of unarmed young demonstrators during September’s Gen Z protests, resulting in 19 fatalities and triggering governmental collapse. The investigation reveals specific operational details showing how security forces deployed live ammunition against predominantly student protesters wearing school uniforms.

    The events of September 8th in Kathmandu represented a critical turning point in Nepal’s democratic journey. What began as organized anti-corruption demonstrations escalated into one of the most violent confrontations in Nepal’s recent history. The BBC’s forensic analysis of over 4,000 videos and photographs, combined with leaked internal police documents and insider testimonies, provides the most comprehensive account of the tragedy.

    Central to the investigation is the identification of former Police Inspector General Chandra Kuber Khapung (call sign ‘Peter 1’) as the officer who issued the ‘deploy necessary force’ order just ten minutes after a curfew was imposed. While Nepal Police claims this authorization came through proper channels from a government security committee, the committee’s chairman has denied approving live ammunition.

    The human tragedy is embodied in 17-year-old Shreeyam Chaulagain, the youngest victim, who was shot in the back of the head while walking away from the protest wearing his school uniform. His case exemplifies the disproportionate response against demonstrators who showed no evidence of armed aggression according to visual evidence analyzed by the BBC.

    The protests emerged from widespread frustration among Nepal’s youth generation (aged 14-29) regarding systemic corruption and unemployment affecting approximately 20% of young Nepalis. Organized primarily through Discord after the government banned mainstream social media platforms, the demonstrations unexpectedly drew 30,000 participants—ten times police expectations.

    The security apparatus demonstrated critical failures in intelligence gathering, crowd assessment, and command coordination. Officers reported inadequate communication infrastructure, with the command center struggling to establish stable internet connections to monitor events unfolding at parliament.

    The subsequent violence on September 9th, which claimed 77 additional lives and resulted in the prime minister’s resignation, represented a direct response to the previous day’s killings. Despite widespread allegations of political manipulation behind the destruction, the BBC found no substantiating evidence.

    Five months later, as Nepal approaches general elections on March 5th, no individual or institution has accepted responsibility for the deaths. A public inquiry continues to examine the events, while families of victims await justice in a nation still grappling with the trauma of its bloodiest day since transitioning to republic status in 2008.

  • Cuba coast guard kills four on US-registered speedboat

    Cuba coast guard kills four on US-registered speedboat

    A fatal maritime incident has dramatically heightened diplomatic friction between the United States and Cuba, following a lethal exchange of gunfire involving Cuban coast guard forces and a US-registered vessel. Cuban authorities confirmed that four individuals aboard the speedboat were killed and six others wounded during the confrontation near Cayo Falcones, just one nautical mile off Cuba’s northern coastline.

    According to an official statement from Cuba’s Interior Ministry, their patrol vessel encountered the Florida-registered speedboat (FL7726SH) operating illegally in Cuban territorial waters. The situation escalated when occupants of the private vessel allegedly opened fire, injuring the Cuban coast guard commander before security forces returned fire in what Havana describes as a defensive response.

    The nationalities of the deceased and wounded remain undisclosed, with Cuban officials emphasizing that medical assistance was promptly provided to the injured. This incident occurs against a backdrop of intensified US sanctions that have severely constrained Cuba’s access to Venezuelan oil imports, creating economic desperation that has fueled increased migration attempts and maritime smuggling operations.

    US officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance have adopted a cautious stance, emphasizing the need for independent verification of events before formulating an official response. Meanwhile, Florida’s attorney general has initiated a separate investigation into the killings, reflecting the complex jurisdictional and diplomatic dimensions of this international incident.

    This confrontation highlights the ongoing challenges of maritime security in the Florida Straits, where incidents related to human smuggling and drug trafficking have frequently occurred. The timing is particularly sensitive as Washington recently eased certain restrictions on Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba for humanitarian purposes, following concerns raised by Caribbean leaders about the potential collapse of the Cuban economy under the weight of US sanctions.

    International responses have emerged with Mexico deploying military vessels carrying humanitarian aid and Canada announcing substantial financial assistance, indicating broader regional concerns about stability and humanitarian conditions in Cuba.

  • Man kidnapped, assaulted by four men in Dural: cops

    Man kidnapped, assaulted by four men in Dural: cops

    In a dramatic police operation, a 53-year-old man has been successfully rescued after being violently abducted from a tobacco store in Mount Pritchard, southwestern Sydney. The incident, which occurred at approximately 6:15 AM on Tuesday, saw four masked men assault the victim before forcibly placing him into a Hyundai hatchback.

    The breakthrough came Thursday morning when strike force detectives and tactical operations unit officers raided a property in Dural, located approximately 30 kilometers from the original crime scene. The rescue operation took place in the same vicinity where 85-year-old Chris Baghsarian was allegedly held captive before his death in what authorities describe as a botched kidnapping scheme.

    Police confirmed the rescued victim received immediate medical attention from NSW Ambulance paramedics before being transported to a local hospital in stable condition. During the operation, authorities arrested a 16-year-old male at the Dural property who is currently being held for questioning at Castle Hill police station. No formal charges have been filed at this time as the investigation continues to unfold.

    The connection to the Baghsarian case has intensified the investigation, with police examining potential links between the two incidents. The recovery of this latest victim marks a significant development in what appears to be an emerging pattern of organized criminal activity in the region. Authorities have indicated that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

  • North Korea warns it could destroy South if threatened, but leaves door open for US dialogue

    North Korea warns it could destroy South if threatened, but leaves door open for US dialogue

    In a stark escalation of regional tensions, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared his nuclear-armed nation possesses the capability to “completely destroy” South Korea if its security is threatened, according to state media reports Thursday. The threats emerged as Kim concluded a pivotal Workers’ Party congress that outlined his military and diplomatic objectives for the coming five-year period.

    While adopting an uncompromising stance toward Seoul, which he characterized as a “permanent enemy state,” Kim notably left diplomatic channels with Washington conditionally open. He asserted that improved relations with the United States would require the abandonment of what he perceives as “hostile policies” toward Pyongyang, including sanctions and pressure campaigns targeting North Korea’s nuclear program.

    The military parade concluding the congress showcased Kim’s commitment to advancing his weapons systems, though state media did not confirm whether intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland were displayed. Kim specifically called for developing innovative armaments including submarine-launched ICBMs, expanded tactical nuclear arsenals targeting South Korea, artificial intelligence-equipped attack drones, and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities.

    Analysts interpret Kim’s simultaneous aggression toward Seoul and conditional openness to Washington as strategic positioning. His increasingly hard-line approach toward South Korea reflects a calculated shift from previous reunification rhetoric, while leaving room for potential negotiations with the United States that could eventually provide sanctions relief and tacit recognition of North Korea’s nuclear status.

    This positioning occurs against the backdrop of Pyongyang’s growing alignment with Moscow, including substantial military support for Russia’s operations in Ukraine, which experts suggest may be exchanged for technological assistance and aid. Kim’s remarks emphasize that the future of U.S.-North Korea relations “depends entirely on the U.S. attitude,” stating his readiness for either “peaceful coexistence or permanent confrontation.”

  • Trump’s surgeon general pick won’t commit outright to vaccines, and other key takeaways

    Trump’s surgeon general pick won’t commit outright to vaccines, and other key takeaways

    Washington D.C. – President Donald Trump’s controversial nominee for Surgeon General, Dr. Casey Means, endured a rigorous confirmation hearing before lawmakers on Wednesday, facing intense bipartisan interrogation over her unconventional health views, ethical commitments, and professional qualifications.

    The 38-year-old Stanford-educated physician, who leads the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ movement aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., found herself defending her lack of an active medical license and her history as a health influencer promoting dietary supplements and teas. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut presented evidence alleging dozens of Federal Trade Commission violations, claiming Means failed to disclose compensation received while promoting corporate products. Means vehemently denied these allegations, calling the documentation ‘incorrect’ and a ‘false representation.’

    The hearing’s most contentious moments centered on vaccine policy. Means repeatedly declined to commit to advocating universal immunization against diseases like measles and Hepatitis B, instead emphasizing individual medical autonomy. ‘I believe each patient, mother, parent, needs to have a conversation with their pediatrician,’ she stated, while acknowledging vaccines ‘save lives’ and are key to public health strategy.

    Regarding Hepatitis B vaccinations specifically, Means described them as ‘life-saving’ but controversiallly asserted they weren’t necessary for all newborns—contradicting American Association of Pediatrics guidelines recommending administration within 24 hours of birth.

    When questioned about vaccines and autism, Means acknowledged scientific evidence shows no link but notably added ‘science is never settled,’ while describing the autism crisis as ‘devastating’ to families. Her comments aligned with recent CDC guidance updates under Secretary Kennedy that now state a connection cannot be ruled out, contrary to established medical consensus.

    The nominee also addressed past controversial statements about contraceptive pills, which she had previously called ‘a disrespect of life’ and claimed Americans use ‘like candy.’ During the hearing, she affirmed support for accessibility of both contraceptives and mifepristone (the abortion pill) while emphasizing their potential ‘horrifying’ side effects for certain women.

    Means confirmed she had been fully cleared by the Office of Government Ethics and committed to divesting from her business interests if confirmed. The committee is expected to vote on her nomination soon, with the outcome determining whether she will lead the 6,000-person U.S. Public Health Service.

  • ‘We don’t know where we are going’: Asian businesses brace for more Trump tariff turmoil

    ‘We don’t know where we are going’: Asian businesses brace for more Trump tariff turmoil

    A landmark US Supreme Court decision striking down the legal foundation of former President Donald Trump’s tariff regime has generated widespread uncertainty across Asian export economies, potentially strengthening China’s manufacturing position despite original intentions to reduce dependence on it.

    The court’s ruling invalidated billions in levies imposed under emergency powers legislation, prompting Trump to immediately sign an executive order instituting a new 10% global tariff using alternative legal authority. Within days, administration officials suggested rates might increase to 15%, creating confusion about final tariff levels and implementation timelines.

    Asian manufacturers and exporters report operational paralysis as uncertainty outweighs the actual tariff rates themselves. Singapore-based wellness brand Haldy, which produces turmeric mints in China, abandoned its US market entry plans after extensive preparations. Founder Push Sharma noted, ‘We had completed trademark registrations, groundwork, and distributor discussions when everything suddenly felt drastic enough to defer our plans.’

    The persistent ambiguity has forced fundamental strategic shifts across supply chains. Thai garment exporter Lanna Clothing’s general manager Tomi Mäkelä reported clients renegotiating or canceling orders amid the uncertainty. ‘I can’t eat the cost forever, so I need to increase prices,’ Mäkelä stated, capturing the dilemma facing manufacturers.

    Singapore Business Federation CEO Kok Ping Soon observed, ‘Businesses can plan for known cost increases, but they struggle when the target keeps moving. Some are holding back on major investment and routing decisions as a result.’

    Logistics providers face unprecedented complexity. DHL Global Forwarding Asia-Pacific CEO Niki Frank noted, ‘It is too early to assess how potential refunds may be processed. We are monitoring legal developments to ensure customers can exercise their rights.’ Rival FedEx has filed litigation seeking full refunds of tariffs paid under the invalidated regime.

    Paradoxically, the tariff chaos may reinforce China’s manufacturing dominance rather than diminish it. China’s unparalleled scale, efficiency, and cost advantages remain compelling despite tariff pressures. As Sharma noted, ‘It’s very hard to keep China out of play. If it’s made in China, there’s a 25% tariff.’

    With Trump scheduled to visit China in March and potentially negotiate new agreements, businesses anticipate further policy shifts. Verisk Maplecroft Asia research head Reema Bhattacharya warned that while the immediate tariff burden has eased, ‘the legal pivot increases the risk of more targeted trade tools down the line.’

    As Asian exporters diversify toward Canadian, Australian, European, and Middle Eastern markets, the only certainty appears to be continued uncertainty, with China maintaining its central position in global manufacturing networks despite geopolitical tensions.

  • Vinicius seals Real Champions League progress as PSG edge out Monaco

    Vinicius seals Real Champions League progress as PSG edge out Monaco

    A night of high drama in the UEFA Champions League play-offs culminated in several elite clubs securing their progression to the last 16, though not without significant tension and controversy. Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Atalanta each navigated challenging second-leg fixtures to book their places in the next round.

    At the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid overturned a first-half deficit to defeat Benfica 2-1 (3-1 on aggregate), with Vinicius Junior delivering the decisive blow. The Brazilian forward, recently embroiled in a racism controversy during the first leg in Lisbon, provided a powerful on-field response by scoring the winning goal in the 79th minute. His strike came after an early opener from Benfica’s Rafa Silva was quickly canceled out by Aurélien Tchouaméni. The match was notably absent of both Benfica’s suspended coach, José Mourinho, and the player accused of racially abusing Vinicius, who was provisionally banned by UEFA.

    In Paris, the reigning champions PSG narrowly avoided a shocking elimination despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Ligue 1 rivals Monaco, advancing 5-4 on aggregate. The match turned on a pivotal moment early in the second half when Monaco’s Mamadou Coulibaly received two quick yellow cards, reducing his side to ten men. Almost immediately, PSG capitalized with goals from Marquinhos and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to seemingly secure the tie, though a late consolation goal from Jordan Teze ensured a nervy finish. The match was played under a cloud of off-field controversy, with PSG’s Achraf Hakimi starting despite facing an ongoing trial for alleged rape.

    The most spectacular narrative unfolded in Turin, where Juventus mounted a heroic but ultimately futile comeback attempt against Galatasaray. Despite being reduced to ten men after Lloyd Kelly’s dismissal, Juventus fought back from a 5-2 first-leg deficit to force extra time with a 3-2 victory on the night, drawing the aggregate score level. Goals from Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, and Weston McKennie completed the stunning regulation-time turnaround. However, Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen and Baris Yilmaz scored in extra time to crush Juventus’s hopes and secure a 7-5 aggregate victory for the Turkish side.

    In the night’s most dramatic conclusion, Atalanta secured their progression with a last-gasp penalty deep into stoppage time against Borussia Dortmund. Serbian midfielder Lazar Samardžić converted the spot-kick to seal a 4-1 victory on the night (4-3 on aggregate), after a catastrophic performance from Dortmund’s Algerian defender Ramy Bensebaini. Bensebaini was directly involved in Atalanta’s first two goals through deflections and was sent off in the final moments for conceding the decisive penalty with a high boot.

  • ‘Highest level’: Storm strengthens pathways program by joining forces with powerhouse club

    ‘Highest level’: Storm strengthens pathways program by joining forces with powerhouse club

    In a significant strategic expansion, the Melbourne Storm National Rugby League (NRL) franchise has announced a landmark partnership with Mounties Rugby League, substantially enhancing its player development framework. This collaboration represents a pivotal advancement in the club’s ambitious ‘Road to AAMI Park’ campaign, designed to cultivate homegrown Victorian talent for elite competition.

    The alliance establishes a sophisticated multi-tiered pathway system. Players not selected for the Storm’s inaugural NSW Cup reserve grade side, debuting this season, will now gain access to high-caliber competitive opportunities in the Ron Massey Cup through Mounties. This ensures a continuous development trajectory, preventing talent stagnation and maintaining competitive sharpness.

    Football Director Frank Ponissi emphasized the strategic value of the partnership, stating, ‘Mounties Rugby League possesses a formidable reputation for cultivating athletes and instilling professional standards. We perceive this alignment as an invaluable asset that will underpin emerging talent and fortify our developmental ecosystem for the foreseeable future.’

    The synergy is already yielding tangible results. Seven athletes from the Mounties program have received invitations to trial with the Storm’s Jersey Flegg (U-21s) squad. Furthermore, Mounties club captain Joseph Tramontana showcased the pipeline’s potential by featuring in the Storm’s recent NRL trial match against the Raiders.

    Alex Miller, Football Manager for Mounties, highlighted the mutual benefits, noting, ‘This partnership is fundamentally about optimizing success for our players and our program. Aligning with an organization of Melbourne Storm’s caliber establishes a new benchmark for developmental offerings. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and professional development resonates deeply with our core values.’

    This move is a cornerstone of the Storm’s broader strategy to deepen its local roots and brand dominance in Australia’s sporting landscape. The program’s overhaul also includes the introduction of teams in two women’s NSW competitions, creating a comprehensive and inclusive pathway from grassroots to the professional NRL stage.

  • Watch: BBC on streets of Mexican city gripped by deadly cartel violence

    Watch: BBC on streets of Mexican city gripped by deadly cartel violence

    The streets of Culiacán, the capital of Mexico’s northern Sinaloa state, have become the epicenter of a brutal resurgence in cartel-related violence, compelling international media scrutiny. BBC’s international correspondent, Quentin Sommerville, embarked on a critical field assignment to document the escalating security crisis following a series of deadly confrontations.

    The report paints a harrowing picture of a city gripped by fear, where the authority of the state is persistently challenged by powerful drug cartels. Sommerville’s on-the-ground investigation reveals the palpable tension among residents, who navigate daily life under the shadow of extortion, kidnappings, and open warfare between rival factions. The recent surge in hostilities underscores the fragile and volatile security situation, which has led to significant civilian casualties and widespread disruption.

    Background analysis indicates that Culiacán’s strategic importance for narcotics trafficking routes has long made it a battleground for control among competing criminal organizations. The latest explosion of violence is attributed to internal power struggles within the cartel landscape, particularly following high-profile arrests and leadership changes. This ongoing conflict not only devastates local communities but also poses profound challenges to national and regional stability, highlighting the immense difficulties faced by Mexican authorities in curbing organized crime.