An extraordinary Lewis chessman carving has fetched an impressive £735,000 at auction. Hidden away in a drawer for more than 55 years by the family of the dealer, this remarkable figure was revealed as a warder, part of the legendary Lewis Chessmen collection. Originally found in 1831, this collection comprises 93 intricately carved pieces from 1150 to 1200 AD, though the auction leaves four original pieces still unaccounted for.An extraordinary Lewis chessman carving has fetched an impressive £735,000 at auction. Hidden away in a drawer for more than 55 years by the family of the dealer, this remarkable figure was revealed as a warder, part of the legendary Lewis Chessmen collection. Originally found in 1831, this collection comprises 93 intricately carved pieces from 1150 to 1200 AD, though the auction leaves four original pieces still unaccounted for.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/in-1964-an-edinburgh-antiques-dealer-paid-just-5-for-a-small-carved-warrior-after-spending-decades-in-a-family-drawer-it-was-identified-as-a-missing-lewis-chess-piece-and-sold-for-735000/articleshow/135436670.cms
01 November, 2026
Scientists have developed a new technology that could make electric car batteries smaller, lighter and longer-lasting, potentially letting drivers travel farther on a single charge without carrying a heavier battery
Scientists from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a new technology for anode-free batteries. This innovative approach focuses on enhancing lithium deposition to improve battery efficiency and longevity. By restructuring the copper surface for lithium storage, they have addressed issues with dendrite formation. Applying a thin layer of MXene further stabilizes the battery's performance.Scientists from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a new technology for anode-free batteries. This innovative approach focuses on enhancing lithium deposition to improve battery efficiency and longevity. By restructuring the copper surface for lithium storage, they have addressed issues with dendrite formation. Applying a thin layer of MXene further stabilizes the battery's performance.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/discovery/scientists-have-developed-a-new-technology-that-could-make-electric-car-batteries-smaller-lighter-and-longer-lasting-potentially-letting-drivers-travel-farther-on-a-single-charge-without-carrying-a-heavier-battery/articleshow/135428057.cms
UK Labour minister under fire for claiming employers are not ‘working people’
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/uk-labour-minister-under-fire-for-claiming-employers-are-not-working-people/articleshow/135432016.cms
Poland’s top court turns into battleground as Tusk and pro-Trump president clash
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/polands-top-court-turns-into-battleground-as-tusk-and-pro-trump-president-clash/articleshow/135433808.cms
Beavers set to return to Loch Ness after 500 years, with 15 family groups approved for release.
In an exciting development, wild beavers are about to return to Loch Ness after centuries of absence. The Scottish nature agency NatureScot has sanctioned their release as part of a transformative rewilding project. Over the next three years, conservationists will introduce family groups of beavers to the area’s waterways, focusing on enhancing biodiversity and wildlife habitats, while also implementing strategies to resolve any conflicts with local farmers and landowners.In an exciting development, wild beavers are about to return to Loch Ness after centuries of absence. The Scottish nature agency NatureScot has sanctioned their release as part of a transformative rewilding project. Over the next three years, conservationists will introduce family groups of beavers to the area’s waterways, focusing on enhancing biodiversity and wildlife habitats, while also implementing strategies to resolve any conflicts with local farmers and landowners.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/after-nearly-500-years-without-beavers-around-loch-ness-scottish-conservation-groups-have-won-approval-to-reintroduce-up-to-15-family-groups-over-three-years-the-first-releases-are-expected-within-weeks/articleshow/135431152.cms
Florida has allocated $3 million to acquire a 642-acre property along the Suwannee River; officials say ending its current land use could save 159,000 gallons of water daily and reduce nutrient inputs
Florida has allocated $3 million for the acquisition of property along the Suwannee River to reduce water consumption. The Suwannee Sandhill Tract-Drew Property will help conserve approximately 158,800 gallons of water daily. This initiative is part of a larger $100 million investment aimed at various water conservation projects. The acquisition will facilitate the restoration of the land for wildlife habitats and public recreation.Florida has allocated $3 million for the acquisition of property along the Suwannee River to reduce water consumption. The Suwannee Sandhill Tract-Drew Property will help conserve approximately 158,800 gallons of water daily. This initiative is part of a larger $100 million investment aimed at various water conservation projects. The acquisition will facilitate the restoration of the land for wildlife habitats and public recreation.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/nature/florida-invests-3-million-to-protect-suwannee-river-ecosystem-and-save-159000-gallons-of-water-daily/articleshow/135425469.cms
'They'll become garbage': Trump says he'll become 'Mr. Veto' if Democrats win midterms
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/us-mid-term-elections/news/theyll-become-garbage-trump-says-hell-become-mr-veto-if-democrats-win-midterms/articleshow/135433773.cms
12-year-old London boy raises £13,000 for wildlife, wins Attenborough's praise
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/a-12-year-old-boy-from-south-london-has-raised-more-than-13000-for-endangered-wildlife-built-a-35000-strong-online-following-and-caught-david-attenboroughs-attention-through-his-animal-videos-and-campaigns/articleshow/135428246.cms
82-year-old Florida man’s 70-year collection includes a letter from Elizabeth Taylor
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/an-82-year-old-florida-man-has-spent-seven-decades-collecting-magazines-photographs-and-celebrity-memorabilia-his-one-man-museum-now-includes-a-thank-you-letter-from-elizabeth-taylor/articleshow/135425118.cms
He was homeless twice, now he is a billionaire
John Paul DeJoria overcame homelessness not once, but twice, before establishing thriving ventures in the hair-care and spirits sectors. A dedicated philanthropist, he signed the Giving Pledge to relinquish a minimum of half his fortune. Through the JP’s Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation, he champions diverse initiatives, especially food security. Notably, the Grow Appalachia program has empowered countless families to cultivate their own food.John Paul DeJoria overcame homelessness not once, but twice, before establishing thriving ventures in the hair-care and spirits sectors. A dedicated philanthropist, he signed the Giving Pledge to relinquish a minimum of half his fortune. Through the JP’s Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation, he champions diverse initiatives, especially food security. Notably, the Grow Appalachia program has empowered countless families to cultivate their own food.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/he-once-lived-in-his-car-while-building-a-hair-care-company-with-700-now-billionaire-john-paul-dejoria-backs-an-appalachian-food-project-that-has-helped-families-grow-nearly-8-million-pounds-of-produce/articleshow/135429517.cms
Delaware couple wins disputed backyard land after 20 years, despite neighbours' $30,000 demand
After two decades of contention, a Delaware court officially awarded Joseph W.C. Murray, Jr. and Danielle F. Murray ownership of a long-disputed parcel of land. The case arose when the Preradovic family challenged property lines after purchasing an adjacent lot. Failed negotiations led to litigation, ultimately resulting in the court granting the Murrays the rear yard while their claims to the front areas were rejected.After two decades of contention, a Delaware court officially awarded Joseph W.C. Murray, Jr. and Danielle F. Murray ownership of a long-disputed parcel of land. The case arose when the Preradovic family challenged property lines after purchasing an adjacent lot. Failed negotiations led to litigation, ultimately resulting in the court granting the Murrays the rear yard while their claims to the front areas were rejected.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/a-delaware-couple-cared-for-a-backyard-triangle-for-over-20-years-before-neighbours-demanded-30000-to-let-them-keep-the-fenced-land-an-october-30-court-ruling-has-now-awarded-the-entire-disputed-strip-to-the-couple/articleshow/135430923.cms
Texas court reopens insurance dispute after landslide destroys two homeowners' backyards
A legal dispute involving home insurance coverage in Travis County has been returned to court for further hearings. The Texas Third Court of Appeal overturned a previous ruling that held the insurer liable for damages. Homeowners claimed that earth movement caused significant damage to their properties, leading to a denial of their insurance claims. The appeals court requires the insurer to demonstrate the cause of the landslide.A legal dispute involving home insurance coverage in Travis County has been returned to court for further hearings. The Texas Third Court of Appeal overturned a previous ruling that held the insurer liable for damages. Homeowners claimed that earth movement caused significant damage to their properties, leading to a denial of their insurance claims. The appeals court requires the insurer to demonstrate the cause of the landslide.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/two-texas-homeowners-saw-their-backyards-collapse-down-an-80-foot-creek-slope-leaving-houses-unsafe-after-insurers-refused-payment-an-appeals-court-reopened-the-fight-over-whether-landslides-are-covered/articleshow/135431907.cms
Could Einstein’s equations explain the universe’s expansion?
Researchers from UC Davis have proposed that dark energy may not be necessary to explain the universe's acceleration. They found weak points in the Lambda-cold dark matter model using Einstein's equations. By examining instabilities in Friedmann spacetimes, they suggest alternative explanations for cosmic expansion. Their work raises questions about the Copernican principle in the context of current models. This research could lead to significant shifts in our understanding of cosmology.Researchers from UC Davis have proposed that dark energy may not be necessary to explain the universe's acceleration. They found weak points in the Lambda-cold dark matter model using Einstein's equations. By examining instabilities in Friedmann spacetimes, they suggest alternative explanations for cosmic expansion. Their work raises questions about the Copernican principle in the context of current models. This research could lead to significant shifts in our understanding of cosmology.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/discovery/einsteins-equations-if-applied-more-carefully-may-hold-the-answer-to-why-the-universe-is-expanding-faster-without-any-need-for-mysterious-dark-energy-say-scientists/articleshow/135431178.cms
In 1913, an Ohio couple sent their eight-month-old son to his grandmother through the postal service
In the year 1913, the US Postal Service unveiled Parcel Post, permitting the mailing of bigger packages. Ingenious parents even started shipping their small children to reduce travel expenses, gaining notoriety when six-year-old May Pierstorff was dispatched 73 miles away. This phenomenon sparked national debate, leading to the ban of child parceling, although similar incidents lingered until 1915, prompting stricter postal regulations to curb such extraordinary practices.In the year 1913, the US Postal Service unveiled Parcel Post, permitting the mailing of bigger packages. Ingenious parents even started shipping their small children to reduce travel expenses, gaining notoriety when six-year-old May Pierstorff was dispatched 73 miles away. This phenomenon sparked national debate, leading to the ban of child parceling, although similar incidents lingered until 1915, prompting stricter postal regulations to curb such extraordinary practices.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/the-bizarre-tale-of-an-ohio-couple-mailing-their-baby-for-just-15-cents-in-1913/articleshow/135426296.cms
A Neanderthal who died 75,000 years ago may have been killed by a wooden spear deliberately aimed at his heart, scientists say, offering rare evidence of targeted violence among our closest ancient relatives
A recent archaeological find in Shanidar Cave revealed a Neanderthal skeleton showing signs of lethal violence, potentially from a wooden spear, suggesting that early human emotional responses might mirror those of today. The evidence hints at both a targeted attack and social care, as the skeleton bore previous injuries. This discovery serves as a window into the dualities of early human life, showcasing their capacity for both violence and compassion.A recent archaeological find in Shanidar Cave revealed a Neanderthal skeleton showing signs of lethal violence, potentially from a wooden spear, suggesting that early human emotional responses might mirror those of today. The evidence hints at both a targeted attack and social care, as the skeleton bore previous injuries. This discovery serves as a window into the dualities of early human life, showcasing their capacity for both violence and compassion.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/archaeology/neanderthal-skeleton-reveals-evidence-of-targeted-violence-a-75000-year-old-murder-mystery-uncovered-by-scientists/articleshow/135426863.cms
12th century Nepalese Manjushri statue sold for about Rs 166 crore in 2026
A 12th-century Manjushri sculpture from Nepal recently sold for around ₹166 crore, illuminating the exceptional artistry of Newar creators from the Kathmandu Valley. This sculpture's intriguing journey through different collections illustrates its cultural significance and uniqueness. Furthermore, the influence of Newar craftsmanship on Buddhist art permeated throughout Tibet and Asia, showcasing Nepal's profound artistic legacy and its vital role in international art history.A 12th-century Manjushri sculpture from Nepal recently sold for around ₹166 crore, illuminating the exceptional artistry of Newar creators from the Kathmandu Valley. This sculpture's intriguing journey through different collections illustrates its cultural significance and uniqueness. Furthermore, the influence of Newar craftsmanship on Buddhist art permeated throughout Tibet and Asia, showcasing Nepal's profound artistic legacy and its vital role in international art history.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/12th-century-gilt-copper-manjushri-statue-from-nepal-sells-for-166-crore-at-auction-a-record-for-himalayan-art/articleshow/135424633.cms
California doctor Violetta Mailyan gets 15 years for $45 million Medicare fraud and fake Botox claims
California doctor Violetta Mailyan has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for defrauding Medicare of more than $45 million through fake Botox injection claims. Prosecutors said she used the money to buy five properties, two Tesla vehicles, including a Cybertruck, and expensive collectibles. She must also pay $32.9 million in restitution.California doctor Violetta Mailyan has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for defrauding Medicare of more than $45 million through fake Botox injection claims. Prosecutors said she used the money to buy five properties, two Tesla vehicles, including a Cybertruck, and expensive collectibles. She must also pay $32.9 million in restitution.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/california-doctor-defrauded-medicare-of-more-than-45-million-through-fake-botox-claims-spent-the-money-on-five-properties-two-teslas-and-expensive-collectibles-sentenced-to-15-years-in-federal-prison/articleshow/135431989.cms
Dorothy Dandridge Home Listed: Former Hollywood Hills residence hits $5.499 million; price up nearly 90% from 2014 sale
A stunning Mediterranean-style home in Hollywood Hills, once owned by the iconic actress Dorothy Dandridge, is now on the market for nearly $5.5 million. Covering 4,368 square feet, the residence boasts four luxurious bedrooms and five opulent bathrooms. Dandridge's impactful legacy as a pioneering Black actress echoes through this property, complemented by breathtaking views of Los Angeles. The current owners have thoughtfully renovated it while respecting its historic charm.A stunning Mediterranean-style home in Hollywood Hills, once owned by the iconic actress Dorothy Dandridge, is now on the market for nearly $5.5 million. Covering 4,368 square feet, the residence boasts four luxurious bedrooms and five opulent bathrooms. Dandridge's impactful legacy as a pioneering Black actress echoes through this property, complemented by breathtaking views of Los Angeles. The current owners have thoughtfully renovated it while respecting its historic charm.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/real-estate/news/the-hollywood-hills-home-of-dorothy-dandridge-the-first-black-woman-nominated-for-the-best-actress-oscar-has-four-bedrooms-stained-glass-windows-and-skyline-views-it-last-sold-for-2-9-million-in-2014-and-is-now-listed-for-5-5-million/articleshow/135388545.cms
Idaho Supreme Court revives condo owners' challenge to property changes approved by 88% vote
The Idaho Supreme Court has revived a legal dispute involving condominium owners challenging changes to property ownership. The contentious amendments were made by the Crystal Beach Condominium Association, affecting owners' shares and rental rules. A previous dismissal by a lower court has been partly overturned, confirming owners' rights to challenge changes impacting their property. Plaintiffs now have their claims for declaratory relief and title slander allowed to proceed.The Idaho Supreme Court has revived a legal dispute involving condominium owners challenging changes to property ownership. The contentious amendments were made by the Crystal Beach Condominium Association, affecting owners' shares and rental rules. A previous dismissal by a lower court has been partly overturned, confirming owners' rights to challenge changes impacting their property. Plaintiffs now have their claims for declaratory relief and title slander allowed to proceed.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/in-2020-an-idaho-condominium-association-changed-owners-common-property-shares-and-rental-and-boat-mooring-rules-an-october-30-supreme-court-ruling-revived-a-challenge-to-the-ownership-allocations-despite-an-88-vote/articleshow/135435991.cms
Ranch Easement Preserves Habitat: Winn descendants shield 165 acres; Blanco River recharge gains
Four Winns Ranch in Texas, a treasured historical site, is preserved through dedicated efforts by the Winn family alongside conservation partners. Spanning 165 acres, this land is vital for protecting local wildlife habitats and water sources. Originally acquired by the noteworthy artist James Buchanan Buck Winn Jr., the ranch possesses rich cultural heritage while fostering agricultural and ecotourism activities, aiding the survival of rare birds and endangered aquatic species.Four Winns Ranch in Texas, a treasured historical site, is preserved through dedicated efforts by the Winn family alongside conservation partners. Spanning 165 acres, this land is vital for protecting local wildlife habitats and water sources. Originally acquired by the noteworthy artist James Buchanan Buck Winn Jr., the ranch possesses rich cultural heritage while fostering agricultural and ecotourism activities, aiding the survival of rare birds and endangered aquatic species.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/in-1937-texas-artist-buck-winn-bought-1164-acres-in-hill-country-his-descendants-have-now-protected-165-acres-permanently-beside-the-blanco-river-preserving-rare-bird-habitat-historic-fences-and-two-miles-of-creek/articleshow/135388656.cms
02 October, 2026
Elizabeth Mata bought 94 acres in North Carolina in 1973; an I-540 corridor later restricted 9.93 acres
In a landmark decision, the North Carolina Supreme Court has resolved a crucial land dispute involving landowner Elizabeth Mata. The court ruled that the state’s long-standing restrictions on her property, stemming from a proposed highway project, constituted indefinite takings. This ruling mandates proper compensation under eminent domain principles. The determination of the exact compensation will now be delegated back to trial courts, marking an essential step in the legal proceedings.In a landmark decision, the North Carolina Supreme Court has resolved a crucial land dispute involving landowner Elizabeth Mata. The court ruled that the state’s long-standing restrictions on her property, stemming from a proposed highway project, constituted indefinite takings. This ruling mandates proper compensation under eminent domain principles. The determination of the exact compensation will now be delegated back to trial courts, marking an essential step in the legal proceedings.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/elizabeth-mata-bought-94-acres-in-north-carolina-in-1973-an-i-540-corridor-later-restricted-9-93-acres-for-nearly-20-years-before-the-state-supreme-court-sent-her-compensation-case-back-for-valuation/articleshow/134644881.cms
Nebraska farmer finds father’s 1946 John Deere rusting, restores family tractor decades later
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/a-nebraska-farmer-found-his-fathers-1946-john-deere-gm-rusting-under-a-tree-decades-after-it-left-the-family-he-recognised-it-by-a-hand-clutch-modified-after-a-childhood-mishap-and-restored-it/articleshow/134594695.cms
Israeli investigators to question Omani co-pilot in UAE-led flydubai probe: Report
Israeli investigators are expected to question the Omani co-pilot involved in the flight attack incident. The investigation is led by UAE authorities to determine the motives and background of the co-pilot. The attack occurred during flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, resulting in an emergency landing. The Indian captain was stabbed but managed to regain control and land safely.Israeli investigators are expected to question the Omani co-pilot involved in the flight attack incident. The investigation is led by UAE authorities to determine the motives and background of the co-pilot. The attack occurred during flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, resulting in an emergency landing. The Indian captain was stabbed but managed to regain control and land safely.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/israeli-investigators-to-question-omani-co-pilot-in-uae-led-flydubai-probe-report/articleshow/134642111.cms
New visa rules in Australia from October 2: No more visa hopping for international students, agents selling 'false hope' under scrutiny
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/new-visa-rules-in-australia-from-october-2-no-more-visa-hopping-for-international-students-agents-selling-false-hope-under-scrutiny/articleshow/134644103.cms
A Maryland homeowner received an unsolicited $234,368.25 check tied to an offer for her property
Effective October 1, Maryland introduced legislation banning unsolicited checks sent with home purchase offers. This initiative is designed to safeguard homeowners from misleading marketing strategies from property investors. Consumer advocates highlighted the risk of vulnerable owners being tricked into agreements upon receiving such checks. Historical precedents in consumer lending underline the necessity for legal protections, advising homeowners against accepting random financial items received through mail.Effective October 1, Maryland introduced legislation banning unsolicited checks sent with home purchase offers. This initiative is designed to safeguard homeowners from misleading marketing strategies from property investors. Consumer advocates highlighted the risk of vulnerable owners being tricked into agreements upon receiving such checks. Historical precedents in consumer lending underline the necessity for legal protections, advising homeowners against accepting random financial items received through mail.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/a-maryland-homeowner-received-an-unsolicited-234368-25-check-tied-to-an-offer-for-her-property-a-state-law-that-took-effect-on-october-1-now-bans-sending-such-checks-with-unsolicited-purchase-offers/articleshow/134644540.cms
Australia turned waste plastic into railway sleepers in 2015; they can last 50 years
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/australia-began-turning-waste-plastic-into-railway-sleepers-in-2015-saving-timber-the-recycled-material-could-last-up-to-50-years/articleshow/134642774.cms
New 11,400-sq-ft Fisher House to offer 12 free suites for veteran families in New York
A new Fisher House has opened its doors in Montrose, New York, dedicated to assisting the families of veterans undergoing medical treatment. Offering complimentary lodging, this facility alleviates the financial strain often linked to healthcare. With 12 wheelchair-accessible suites and multiple communal spaces, families can bond while supporting their loved ones during vital recovery times. This venture underscores the steadfast dedication to honoring and aiding veteran families in challenging moments.A new Fisher House has opened its doors in Montrose, New York, dedicated to assisting the families of veterans undergoing medical treatment. Offering complimentary lodging, this facility alleviates the financial strain often linked to healthcare. With 12 wheelchair-accessible suites and multiple communal spaces, families can bond while supporting their loved ones during vital recovery times. This venture underscores the steadfast dedication to honoring and aiding veteran families in challenging moments.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/a-new-11400-sq-ft-fisher-house-in-new-york-will-give-veteran-families-12-free-suites-near-medical-care-at-full-occupancy-the-home-is-expected-to-save-families-a-combined-700000-in-lodging-costs-each-year/articleshow/134614844.cms
Life in US is fake luxurious: Mumbai man with $360k savings says he plans to return to India to take over father's business
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/life-in-us-is-fake-luxurious-mumbai-man-with-360k-savings-says-he-plans-return-to-india-to-take-over-fathers-business/articleshow/134646478.cms
1852 California Gold $50 coin from Gold Rush era sells for $367,875 in auction
A remarkable California Gold $50 coin from 1852 fetched an impressive $367,875 at auction, showcasing its extraordinary rarity. This piece was part of the esteemed Centennial Collection of Territorial Rarities, consisting of eight certified coins and linked to Augustus Humbert and the Gold Rush era. The auction highlighted strong interest, receiving 475 bids, emphasizing the ongoing allure of valuable historical gold coins for passionate collectors.A remarkable California Gold $50 coin from 1852 fetched an impressive $367,875 at auction, showcasing its extraordinary rarity. This piece was part of the esteemed Centennial Collection of Territorial Rarities, consisting of eight certified coins and linked to Augustus Humbert and the Gold Rush era. The auction highlighted strong interest, receiving 475 bids, emphasizing the ongoing allure of valuable historical gold coins for passionate collectors.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/an-1852-california-gold-50-coin-from-the-gold-rush-era-sold-for-367875-on-september-6-the-rare-piece-was-one-of-eight-territorial-coins-in-a-collection-that-drew-475-bids-from-collectors/articleshow/134618899.cms
3-ft python in car, runaway pig, knife-wielding crab: 5 strange stories from US you missed
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/3-ft-python-in-car-runaway-pig-knife-wielding-crab-5-strange-stories-from-us-you-missed/articleshow/134646179.cms