‘False Hindu God’: Republican Leader Alexander Duncan Faces Criticism For Controversial Post On Lord Hanuman Statue In Texas

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**Texas Republican Leader Sparks Controversy Over Lord Hanuman Statue**

A Texas Republican leader has ignited a controversy with his remarks about a Hindu deity. Alexander Duncan, a Republican Party Senate candidate, called Lord Hanuman a “false god” in a statement concerning a statue of the deity located in Sugar Land, Texas.

Duncan’s comments, made in an X post, read: “Why are we allowing a false statue of a false Hindu God to be here in Texas? We are a CHRISTIAN nation!” These words drew strong criticism from Hindus living in the United States and prompted widespread backlash.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) condemned Duncan’s remarks as “anti-Hindu and inflammatory.” In response, the HAF urged the Republican Party to take disciplinary action against Duncan. They questioned the party’s commitment to its own anti-discrimination guidelines, stating on X:

*”Hello, TexasGOP, will you be disciplining your senate candidate from your party who openly contravenes your own guidelines against discrimination—displaying some pretty sordid anti-Hindu hate — not to mention disrespect for the 1st Amendment’s Establishment Clause.”*

### Public Reaction on Social Media

Many netizens voiced their opposition to Duncan’s statement, emphasizing the importance of religious freedom in the United States. One user wrote, “We are a nation full of people who hold different religious beliefs. It’s called freedom of religion. If the followers of a religion are not harming or oppressing others then their religion is protected under our U.S. constitution.”

Another user commented, “What do you mean by ‘false Hindu god’? All gods are equally false. I understand you dislike having foreign symbols build up like that, but do not portray others’ gods as being more false than yours—that is preposterous.”

A third user highlighted the ancient origins and significance of Hindu texts: “Just because you’re not Hindu, doesn’t make it false. The Vedas were written almost 2000 years before Jesus walked the earth and are extraordinary texts. And there’s obvious influences on Christianity…so it would be wise to honor and research the ‘religion’ that predates and influences yours.”

### Duncan’s Response to Critics

In his defense, Duncan cited Bible verses, responding directly to his critics on X. He wrote:

*”I’m just calling it what it is, an IDOL. ‘You must not have any other god but me. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea.’ Exodus 20:3-4″*

*”They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.” Romans 1:25*

In a separate post, Duncan urged Americans to “preserve” Western culture.

### About the Statue of Lord Hanuman in Texas

The statue in question, known as the **Statue of Union**, was unveiled in 2024. It is a 90-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman, located at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas. The statue stands as a significant cultural and religious symbol for the Hindu community in the region.

—

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious symbols in public spaces and the broader dialogue about religious tolerance and freedom in the United States.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/false-hindu-god-republican-leader-alexander-duncan-faces-criticism-for-controversial-post-on-lord-hanuman-statue-in-texas

28 Billion Yen Debt Pushes Fukushima’s Hawaiians Resort Into Foreign Hands

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The main attraction of the resort remains the Hula Girls, a troupe of 43 dancers performing three times daily. Next year, the resort will mark its 60th anniversary, celebrating decades of entertaining visitors with its unique cultural charm.

The resort is operated by Joban Kosan, a local company. President Sekine, a Fukushima native who took the helm last year, recalls his childhood memories at the park. “I could never go to the real Hawaii, so this place became my Hawaii, filled with family memories,” he said.

However, as president, Sekine faced the harsh reality of running a facility under severe financial strain. Hawaiians was forced to close for more than six months following the March 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, which caused extensive damage. Later, the COVID-19 pandemic led to another three-month closure, driving the resort deeper into debt.

The combination of these crises left the company burdened with around 28 billion yen in liabilities. On top of that, the aging facilities made new investment difficult, threatening the resort’s future.

The turning point came last November when Fortress Investment Group, a US private equity firm managing over 7 trillion yen in assets, launched a takeover. The firm had already made headlines in Japan in 2023 with its acquisition of Sogo & Seibu. Fortress gradually increased its stake in Joban Kosan until it surpassed 85 percent, solidifying control of Hawaiians.

“We were cautious at first, but our aim is genuine revitalization,” said Fortress executive Shunsuke Yamamoto, who spearheaded the acquisition. “Given the current finances, it would be difficult for Hawaiians to thrive for another 50 or 60 years. Many Japanese now travel to the real Hawaii, so this resort needs a bold transformation.”

Fortress is no stranger to hotel turnarounds. It has acquired and revived numerous underperforming resorts across Japan through its subsidiary, MyStays Hotel Management, where Yamamoto serves as chairman.

In 2021, Fortress took over most of Japan Post’s Kanpo no Yado inns, rebranding them as Kamenoi Hotels and significantly lifting occupancy rates. The company also bought the Hotel New Akao in Atami, transforming its seaside location into a destination for marine activities.

Today, Fortress owns 184 hotels nationwide, making it the sixth-largest operator in the Japanese hotel industry. Its strategy combines large-scale capital investment with localized enhancements to maximize each property’s unique strengths.

“There are many excellent facilities across Japan that face closure due to delayed investment. Supporting them is our mission,” Yamamoto said.

For Hawaiians, Fortress has already begun reviewing operations. Yamamoto, who once visited as a guest, returned to inspect every corner of the resort—from the entrance and food courts to the shops—pointing out areas that needed modernization. He has been appointed chairman of Joban Kosan and promises significant investment to ensure the resort’s long-term competitiveness.

At the same time, Fortress has acquired Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki, once a symbol of the bubble economy, with plans to rebuild it as a family-oriented resort. The company’s broader ambition is to reshape how Japanese people travel and modernize aging resorts across the country.

While many locals welcome the injection of capital, others worry that the unique history and atmosphere of Hawaiians could be lost. “It’s scary because we don’t know what will happen,” one resident said. “I hope the history and spirit of this place won’t disappear.”
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146983.php

Troubled footy star Jamarra Ugle-Hagan to part ways with Western Bulldogs

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Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is set to try and make an AFL comeback, but it won’t be with the Western Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs were expected to make a call on Ugle-Hagan’s future early this week as the out-of-favour forward prepared for his exit interview. However, it now appears the Bulldogs star has made the decision for them.

The former No. 1 draft pick had previously been linked to the Sydney Swans, but their interest has reportedly cooled. The Dogs could seek a negotiated settlement on the remainder of his deal, which runs until the end of 2026, if no club picks Ugle-Hagan up before the end of the trade period.

This decision comes at the end of a difficult season in which Ugle-Hagan did not play a single game at any level, leaving both his career and the club in limbo. Despite remaining under contract until the end of 2026 on a deal worth upwards of $800,000 a year, it is widely believed he will not be at Whitten Oval next season.

The Bulldogs are currently weighing up whether to explore a trade, pursue a negotiated settlement, or find another way to cut their losses.

The 21-year-old’s turbulent year reached a low point in August when he was caught up in a nightclub shooting in Prahran. There is no suggestion that he was involved in the incident, but he was present at the Love Machine nightclub when it happened.

Ugle-Hagan later revealed he was standing just a metre from where a bullet struck, describing himself as “lucky to be alive.” This frightening episode highlighted off-field issues that have increasingly dominated discussions about his career, raising further concern about his wellbeing and lifestyle choices.

This incident followed months of absence from football. Ugle-Hagan began the year on a flexible training program following personal tragedy and officially took a leave of absence in April to focus on his mental health.

He later admitted to experiencing suicidal thoughts and a deep loss of connection with the game. In June, he delivered an emotional video message to teammates apologising for his struggles and vowing to try again.

Although he returned briefly to training, he never pushed for selection and by season’s end had failed to feature in either the AFL or VFL sides.

For the Bulldogs, managing this situation has meant balancing support for a young man in crisis with the practical realities of a list spot and a heavy salary commitment. Coach Luke Beveridge has acknowledged the delicacy of the situation, recently stating that Ugle-Hagan needs a “fresh start.”

While Beveridge would not confirm whether that fresh start might still exist at the Bulldogs, his comments underline the growing belief that the club and player will part ways.

Trade speculation is already underway, with Sydney floated as a potential suitor. Any rival club would need to conduct extensive due diligence before considering a deal, cautious about taking on both the contract and the associated risks.

Ugle-Hagan’s management, however, insists he is capable of redemption. Prominent agent Paul Connors said last week he still believes in his client’s talent and commitment, pointing to Jesse Hogan’s successful revival at Greater Western Sydney as proof that players can rebuild careers after serious setbacks.

“He looks fit, he’s got an appetite for training, he trains hard,” Connors said. “I think he can still play, so it’s just if someone is going to give him an opportunity. You might have to go ten steps back to go twenty forward, but let’s see.”
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/afl/article-15124703/Troubled-footy-star-Jamarra-Ugle-Hagan-ways-Western-Bulldogs.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490

Loewe’s elite new headphones deliver 24-bit Hi-Res Audio, Dolby Atmos, and the best volume control we’ve ever tried – but it comes at quite the price

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**Loewe Leo Headphones Launch: Luxury Audio with 65-Hour Battery and Dolby Atmos for $1,299 / TBC**

Loewe has introduced its new Leo headphones, a more affordable yet still luxurious alternative to their ultra-expensive, diamond-studded predecessors. Priced at €1,299 (approximately $1,530 USD / AU$2,320), these headphones offer a premium listening experience without the extravagant price tag associated with Loewe’s high-end models.

### Design and Build Quality
The Loewe Leo headphones are crafted with a focus on comfort and style. They feature leather ear cushions and a generously padded headband for extended wear. The frame is made from anodized aluminum and includes a convenient fold-flat design, making them easy to store and transport. Each pair comes with a hard case and a lamb leather bag. The headphones are available in two elegant colors: midnight blue and moonlight beige.

One standout design element is the wonderfully tactile rotary volume control, which is ingeniously located on the outer disc of the earcups, providing a satisfying and precise way to adjust volume.

### Audio Features
Loewe markets the Leo as more than just headphones — they are positioned as a “standalone HiFi audio solution.” Inside, they house a high-quality DAC supporting LC3+ at 96kHz/24-bit hi-res audio. The 50mm drivers utilize diaphragms made from Olefine Composite Elastomer, a material that Loewe says is both exceptionally light and highly responsive, delivering refined sound quality.

The headphones support Bluetooth LE Audio and Dolby Atmos, enhancing the immersive listening experience. Additional audio enhancements include Mimi sound personalization via the companion app, active noise cancellation (ANC) with transparency mode, and multi-point connectivity for seamless switching between devices.

### Smart Features
Beyond excellent sound, the Loewe Leo incorporates several smart features to enhance user convenience:
– Voice assistant support
– AI-powered translation
– Long battery life of up to 65 hours on a single charge

### Pricing and Availability
While still positioned as a luxury product, the Loewe Leo headphones are significantly more accessible than the brand’s six-figure diamond-studded models. The recommended retail price is set at €1,299, with UK pricing yet to be confirmed but expected to align closely. Loewe products typically have limited availability in the US market.

### Final Thoughts
The Loewe Leo headphones offer a compelling mix of sophisticated design, premium materials, and advanced audio technology. They represent a credible and attractive option for audiophiles seeking high-end features without the astronomical prices of luxury competitors.

**You might also like:**
[Links to related articles or products could be inserted here]
https://www.techradar.com/audio/wireless-headphones/loewes-elite-new-headphones-deliver-24-bit-hi-res-audio-dolby-atmos-and-the-best-volume-control-weve-ever-tried-but-it-comes-at-quite-the-price

28 Billion Yen Debt Pushes Fukushima’s Hawaiians Resort Into Foreign Hands

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Its main attraction remains the Hula Girls, a troupe of 43 dancers performing three times daily. Next year, the resort will mark its 60th anniversary. The resort is operated by Joban Kosan, a local company.

President Sekine, a Fukushima native who took the helm last year, recalls childhood memories at the park. “I could never go to the real Hawaii, so this place became my Hawaii, filled with family memories,” he said.

Yet as president, Sekine faced the harsh reality of running a facility under severe financial strain. Hawaiians was forced to close for more than six months following the March 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, which caused extensive damage. Later, the COVID-19 pandemic led to another three-month closure, driving the resort deeper into debt. The combination of these crises left the company burdened with around 28 billion yen in liabilities. On top of that, the aging of the facilities made new investment difficult.

The turning point came last November, when Fortress Investment Group, a US private equity firm managing over 7 trillion yen in assets, launched a takeover. The firm had already made headlines in Japan in 2023 with its acquisition of Sogo & Seibu. Fortress gradually increased its stake in Joban Kosan until it surpassed 85 percent, solidifying control of Hawaiians.

“We were cautious at first, but our aim is genuine revitalization,” said Fortress executive Shunsuke Yamamoto, who spearheaded the acquisition. “Given the current finances, it would be difficult for Hawaiians to thrive for another 50 or 60 years. Many Japanese now travel to the real Hawaii, so this resort needs a bold transformation.”

Fortress is no stranger to hotel turnarounds. It has acquired and revived numerous underperforming resorts across Japan through its subsidiary, MyStays Hotel Management, where Yamamoto serves as chairman. In 2021, it took over most of Japan Post’s Kanpo no Yado inns, rebranding them as Kamenoi Hotels and lifting occupancy rates significantly.

Fortress also bought the Hotel New Akao in Atami, transforming its seaside location into a destination for marine activities. Today, Fortress owns 184 hotels nationwide, making it the sixth-largest operator in the industry. Its strategy combines large-scale capital investment with localized enhancements to maximize each property’s unique strengths.

“There are many excellent facilities across Japan that face closure due to delayed investment. Supporting them is our mission,” Yamamoto said.

For Hawaiians, Fortress has already begun reviewing operations. Yamamoto, who once visited as a guest, returned to inspect every corner of the resort—from the entrance and food courts to the shops—pointing out areas that needed modernization. He has been appointed chairman of Joban Kosan and promises significant investment to ensure the resort’s long-term competitiveness.

At the same time, Fortress has acquired Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki, once a symbol of the bubble economy, with plans to rebuild it as a family-oriented resort. The company’s broader ambition is to reshape how Japanese people travel and to modernize aging resorts across the country.

While many locals welcome the injection of capital, others worry that the unique history and atmosphere of Hawaiians could be lost.

“It’s scary because we don’t know what will happen,” one resident said. “I hope the history and spirit of this place won’t disappear.”
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146983.php

Income Tax Refund Still Not Credited? This Shocking Reason Behind The Delay Will Surprise You

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**Income Tax Refunds Delayed Due to Detection of Fake Claims Under Old Tax Regime**

*New Delhi:* If you filed your Income Tax Return (ITR) on or before 16 September 2025 and are expecting a refund, this update is important for you. Many taxpayers have reported delays in receiving their refunds this year. After investigating, the Income Tax Department has identified the primary reason behind these delays.

### Fake Tax Deductions Discovered Under Old Tax Regime

The department uncovered that a significant number of taxpayers made incorrect claims for tax deductions, predominantly under the Old Tax Regime. These fraudulent claims included fake medical expenses and bogus donations. Leveraging advanced computer systems and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the department was able to detect these false claims effectively.

### Fake Claims Worth Rs 700 Crore Detected

The Income Tax Department caught fake claims amounting to approximately Rs 700 crore. Most of these fraudulent claims were made by individuals earning more than Rs 20 lakh per annum. This has consequently slowed down the refund processing this year.

A senior official revealed that many taxpayers who previously made fake claims are repeating the same fraudulent activities this year.

### Why Are Refunds Taking More Time?

Refund processing is taking longer than usual due to ongoing investigations into these false refund claims. Delays are especially pronounced in cases where the refund amount exceeds Rs 10 lakh.

Compared to last year, the total refunds issued have decreased by 24 percent. Up to 17 September, the department has released Rs 1.60 lakh crore in refunds, whereas last year it was Rs 2.10 lakh crore.

### Actions Taken by the Income Tax Department

The Income Tax Department launched a nationwide investigation in July targeting individuals who filed fake claims and incorrect tax deductions. As a result:

– 30,161 taxpayers declared foreign assets worth Rs 29,208 crore and foreign income totaling Rs 1,089 crore.
– Taxpayers withdrew fake claims amounting to Rs 963 crore.
– An additional Rs 409.50 crore in tax has been deposited by these taxpayers.

### Notices Being Sent to Taxpayers

The department has begun issuing notices to taxpayers who made incorrect claims, giving them an opportunity to rectify their tax returns. A senior official stated that efforts are underway to clear the pending refunds as quickly as possible.

—

If you have filed your return and are awaiting a refund, it is advisable to keep track of any communication from the Income Tax Department and respond promptly to avoid further delays.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/income-tax-refund-still-not-credited-this-shocking-reason-behind-the-delay-will-surprise-you

NHM Issues Alert In Madhya Pradesh As Melioidosis Disease Becomes Endemic

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Melioidosis Alert in Madhya Pradesh: National Health Mission Issues Warning

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The National Health Mission (NHM) has issued an alert in Madhya Pradesh regarding Melioidosis, a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, commonly found in soil and water. The risk of infection significantly increases during the rainy and humid seasons.

High Mortality Rate: 4 out of 10 Patients Die

Melioidosis has now become endemic in Madhya Pradesh. Alarmingly, 4 out of every 10 patients affected by this disease succumb to it. One of the challenges in treatment is that its symptoms often resemble those of tuberculosis (TB), leading to misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment. This delay allows the infection to spread throughout the body, increasing the risk of severe complications.

What Do Doctors Say?

Doctors warn that Melioidosis can be life-threatening, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, kidney problems, or weakened immunity. A recent report from AIIMS Bhopal reveals that over the past six years, more than 130 cases have been reported across 20 districts in Madhya Pradesh.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has also included Melioidosis among the list of ‘emerging neglected diseases.’ After Southeast Asia and Australia, India—particularly the states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha—is witnessing the emergence of new hotspots.

AIIMS Bhopal Issues Warning

Anyone experiencing a fever lasting more than 2-3 weeks, showing no improvement with anti-TB medications, or suffering from recurring abscesses should get tested for Melioidosis immediately.

Since 2023, AIIMS Bhopal has trained over 50 doctors and microbiologists to enhance detection and diagnosis of this disease. In recent months, hospitals in Bhopal, Sagar, and Indore have reported 14 new cases. Experts attribute the increase in reported cases to improved testing and faster identification.

Symptoms of Melioidosis

  • Sudden high fever and blood infection (sepsis)
  • Severe pneumonia (lung infection)
  • Skin and soft tissue infections
  • Abscesses in organs such as liver, spleen, prostate, or salivary glands
  • Bone and joint infections
  • Long-term symptoms that mimic TB, including weight loss, persistent cough, fever, and lung damage

How is Melioidosis Diagnosed?

Accurate testing is essential for diagnosis and includes:

  • Testing samples of blood, pus, sputum, urine, or spinal fluid
  • Culturing bacteria on special media
  • Microscopic examination showing characteristic “safety-pin” staining
  • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing where available

Precautions and Prevention

  • Wear boots and gloves when working in fields or handling soil and water
  • Keep open wounds covered and away from soil and water sources
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you notice suspicious symptoms
  • Undergo timely antibiotic treatment and complete the prescribed course to ensure full recovery

Health experts emphasize that increasing public awareness and early detection are crucial steps to prevent loss of lives due to Melioidosis.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/nhm-issues-alert-in-madhya-pradesh-as-melioidosis-disease-becomes-endemic

28 Billion Yen Debt Pushes Fukushima’s Hawaiians Resort Into Foreign Hands

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Its main attraction remains the Hula Girls, a troupe of 43 dancers performing three times daily. Next year, the resort will mark its 60th anniversary. The resort is operated by Joban Kosan, a local company.

President Sekine, a Fukushima native who took the helm last year, recalls childhood memories at the park. “I could never go to the real Hawaii, so this place became my Hawaii, filled with family memories,” he said.

Yet as president, Sekine faced the harsh reality of running a facility under severe financial strain. Hawaiians was forced to close for more than six months following the March 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, which caused extensive damage. Later, the COVID-19 pandemic led to another three-month closure, driving the resort deeper into debt.

The combination of these crises left the company burdened with around 28 billion yen in liabilities. On top of that, the aging of the facilities made new investment difficult.

The turning point came last November, when Fortress Investment Group, a US private equity firm managing over 7 trillion yen in assets, launched a takeover. The firm had already made headlines in Japan in 2023 with its acquisition of Sogo & Seibu. Fortress gradually increased its stake in Joban Kosan until it surpassed 85 percent, solidifying control of Hawaiians.

“We were cautious at first, but our aim is genuine revitalization,” said Fortress executive Shunsuke Yamamoto, who spearheaded the acquisition. “Given the current finances, it would be difficult for Hawaiians to thrive for another 50 or 60 years. Many Japanese now travel to the real Hawaii, so this resort needs a bold transformation.”

Fortress is no stranger to hotel turnarounds. It has acquired and revived numerous underperforming resorts across Japan through its subsidiary, MyStays Hotel Management, where Yamamoto serves as chairman.

In 2021, it took over most of Japan Post’s Kanpo no Yado inns, rebranding them as Kamenoi Hotels and lifting occupancy rates significantly. Fortress also bought the Hotel New Akao in Atami, transforming its seaside location into a destination for marine activities.

Today, Fortress owns 184 hotels nationwide, making it the sixth-largest operator in the industry. Its strategy combines large-scale capital investment with localized enhancements to maximize each property’s unique strengths.

“There are many excellent facilities across Japan that face closure due to delayed investment. Supporting them is our mission,” Yamamoto said.

For Hawaiians, Fortress has already begun reviewing operations. Yamamoto, who once visited as a guest, returned to inspect every corner of the resort, from the entrance and food courts to the shops, pointing out areas that needed modernization. He has been appointed chairman of Joban Kosan and promises significant investment to ensure the resort’s long-term competitiveness.

At the same time, Fortress has acquired Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki, once a symbol of the bubble economy, with plans to rebuild it as a family-oriented resort. The company’s broader ambition is to reshape how Japanese people travel and to modernize aging resorts across the country.

While many locals welcome the injection of capital, others worry that the unique history and atmosphere of Hawaiians could be lost.

“It’s scary because we don’t know what will happen,” one resident said. “I hope the history and spirit of this place won’t disappear.”
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146983.php

28 Billion Yen Debt Pushes Fukushima’s Hawaiians Resort Into Foreign Hands

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The main attraction at the resort remains the Hula Girls, a troupe of 43 dancers performing three times daily. Next year, the resort will mark its 60th anniversary. Operated by Joban Kosan, a local company, the resort holds a special place in the hearts of many.

President Sekine, a Fukushima native who took the helm last year, recalls his childhood memories at the park. “I could never go to the real Hawaii, so this place became my Hawaii, filled with family memories,” he said. However, as president, Sekine soon faced the harsh reality of running a facility under severe financial strain.

The resort was forced to close for more than six months following the March 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, which caused extensive damage. Later, the COVID-19 pandemic led to another three-month closure, driving the resort deeper into debt. The combination of these crises left the company burdened with around 28 billion yen in liabilities. On top of that, the aging facilities made new investments difficult.

The turning point came last November when Fortress Investment Group, a U.S. private equity firm managing over 7 trillion yen in assets, launched a takeover. The firm had already made headlines in Japan in 2023 with its acquisition of Sogo & Seibu. Fortress gradually increased its stake in Joban Kosan until it surpassed 85 percent, solidifying control of Hawaiians.

“We were cautious at first, but our aim is genuine revitalization,” said Fortress executive Shunsuke Yamamoto, who spearheaded the acquisition. “Given the current finances, it would be difficult for Hawaiians to thrive for another 50 or 60 years. Many Japanese now travel to the real Hawaii, so this resort needs a bold transformation.”

Fortress is no stranger to hotel turnarounds. It has acquired and revived numerous underperforming resorts across Japan through its subsidiary, MyStays Hotel Management, where Yamamoto serves as chairman. In 2021, it took over most of Japan Post’s Kanpo no Yado inns, rebranding them as Kamenoi Hotels and significantly lifting occupancy rates.

Fortress also bought the Hotel New Akao in Atami, transforming its seaside location into a destination for marine activities. Today, Fortress owns 184 hotels nationwide, making it the sixth-largest operator in the industry. Its strategy combines large-scale capital investment with localized enhancements to maximize each property’s unique strengths.

“There are many excellent facilities across Japan that face closure due to delayed investment. Supporting them is our mission,” Yamamoto said.

For Hawaiians, Fortress has already begun reviewing operations. Yamamoto, who once visited as a guest, returned to inspect every corner of the resort—from the entrance and food courts to the shops—pointing out areas that need modernization. He has been appointed chairman of Joban Kosan and promises significant investment to ensure the resort’s long-term competitiveness.

At the same time, Fortress has acquired Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki, once a symbol of the bubble economy, with plans to rebuild it as a family-oriented destination. The company’s broader ambition is to reshape how Japanese people travel and modernize aging resorts across the country.

While many locals welcome the injection of capital, others worry that the unique history and atmosphere of Hawaiians could be lost. “It’s scary because we don’t know what will happen,” one resident said. “I hope the history and spirit of this place won’t disappear.”
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146983.php

Mumbai News: Celebrity Stylist Thompsun Fernandes Gives 150 Free Haircuts At Bandra Fair

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Celebrity stylist Thompsun Fernandes gave nearly 150 free haircuts over the two Sundays of the annual Bandra fair, which ended on September 21. The fair is held after the feast of Mother Mary at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount.

Fernandes, who owns a hair and make-up salon on Chapel Road, said the free service is intended for those who cannot afford a visit to a hair salon. “It is thanks to Mother Mary for helping me succeed in the profession,” he said.

In 2024, Thompsun gave 60 free haircuts, while the year before, 120 people received the service. To accommodate this free initiative, Thompsun creates a temporary shed outside his salon for the haircuts, explaining that the salon itself could intimidate people who think it is expensive.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-celebrity-stylist-thompsun-fernandes-gives-150-free-haircuts-at-bandra-fair