Roger W. Watson, Author at Iba magazine

World's first 150mph car returns to beach where it broke record

17 Jul

World’s first 150mph car returns to the beach that made it famous

One hundred years after setting a milestone in automotive history, a trailblazing land speed vehicle has come back to the same coast where it initially amazed spectators. This car, famous for surpassing the 150 mph mark—an achievement deemed unattainable in its time—has made its way back to the beach that was its testing site, serving as a strong emblem of human ambition and the unyielding quest for advancement.This return is more than a nostalgic gesture. It’s a moment of reflection on a pivotal era in engineering, when daredevils and innovators challenged the limits of technology on stretches of sand instead…

Why China is betting on theme parks like Legoland to boost spending

17 Jul

Exploring why China chooses theme parks like Legoland to increase spending

Roger W. WatsonInvestments and Business

The text initiatives for boosting internal consumption and rejuvenating the services industry in China emphasize a somewhat surprising driver of economic boost: amusement parks. Including international giants such as Legoland and locally established entertainment venues, the nation is placing significant resources into these recreational locations to draw in families along with young tourists. This particular strategic approach to leisure development underscores the government’s wider vision to shift the economy from a reliance on investment-driven expansion towards one more reliant on domestic consumption.For years, China’s rapid economic expansion was underpinned by exports and infrastructure development. However, with slowing growth, global uncertainties,…

China begins building world's largest dam, fuelling fears in India

17 Jul

World’s largest dam being built by China, India raises objections

Roger W. WatsonInternational

China has begun building what is anticipated to be the biggest hydroelectric dam globally, a massive infrastructure endeavor situated close to its southwestern frontier. Although this development marks a crucial step in China’s renewable energy goals, it has raised increasing concerns in nearby India, mainly because of the dam’s placement on a river that continues into the Indian subcontinent.The construction of the new dam is underway along the Yarlung Tsangpo River located in Tibet. This river is known as the Brahmaputra when it flows into India. Being a crucial river that sustains agriculture, communities, and biodiversity in northeastern India and…

17 Jul

Retro gaming arcade saved from immediate closure

Roger W. WatsonScience and Technology

In a time where advanced visuals and online multiplayer experiences prevail, the pixelated charm of vintage gaming carries a distinct sense of comfort. For numerous individuals, these arcades serve a purpose beyond amusement—they embody treasured memories and a link to an era when gaming was less complicated. A particular location, admired by fans of classic games, was recently in danger of closing down. However, with significant backing from the community, it was able to remain open and keep its gaming alive—at least for the moment.The arcade had long been a fixture in its local area, drawing in patrons of all…

17 Jul

Beef prices are the new egg prices. They’re soaring

Roger W. WatsonInvestments and Business

Grocery shoppers are facing sticker shock once again—this time not in the egg aisle, but at the meat counter. Beef prices have seen a significant jump in recent months, adding new strain to household budgets already stretched by inflation. As one of the most popular proteins in American diets, the rising cost of beef is prompting many consumers to reconsider their meal plans, while experts warn that this trend may persist well into the future.Several factors are driving the spike in beef prices, with supply chain challenges and herd reductions playing a central role. In recent years, drought conditions in…

Harvard and Trump lawyers take funding fight to court

17 Jul

Harvard and Trump lawyers wage court battle over funding

Roger W. WatsonInternational

A legal dispute has surfaced between lawyers for Harvard University and those associated with former President Donald Trump. The focus is on a controversial disagreement regarding financial support and its effects on freedom of expression, donor impact, and the autonomy of the institution.The dispute, now unfolding in the courtroom, revolves around financial contributions and whether such funding can—or should—affect the direction of academic programming and faculty decisions. While the legal arguments are specific in scope, the broader stakes speak to the growing tension between higher education institutions and political figures over the influence of money, ideology, and power.At the heart…

How Canada became the centre of a measles outbreak in North America

17 Jul

Canada’s path to becoming the centre of a measles outbreak in North America

Roger W. WatsonHealth

At one time considered managed across most of North America, measles has seen a worrisome resurgence recently. Within the nations experiencing renewed difficulties, Canada has unexpectedly become a significant center of the outbreak. A disease that was previously uncommon and avoidable is now re-emerging, triggering discussions about immunization rates, health policies, and the societal influences on health-related actions.The recent uptick in measles cases across Canada has drawn significant attention from health officials and the public alike. While isolated incidents of measles are not unheard of, the scale and speed of transmission in some Canadian regions have raised alarms. This resurgence…

China blocks Wells Fargo banker from leaving due to 'criminal case'

17 Jul

Wells Fargo banker held in China because of ‘criminal case’

Roger W. WatsonEconomy

A senior banker from Wells Fargo has been prohibited from leaving mainland China as authorities pursue an investigation tied to an active criminal case. This development, confirmed by sources familiar with the matter, has raised fresh concerns about the legal and regulatory environment facing foreign businesses operating in the country, especially within the financial sector.The person, a citizen of the United States working for the major American bank, is apparently not officially detained but is currently under an exit restriction. This is a tactic employed by Chinese officials in specific legal scenarios to prevent foreign citizens from departing the country.…

Car maker Stellantis says US tariffs have cost it €300m

17 Jul

Stellantis points to €300m loss amid US tariffs

Roger W. WatsonEconomy

Automotive giant Stellantis has disclosed that it has incurred €300 million in additional costs due to tariffs imposed by the United States, offering a stark illustration of how ongoing trade tensions are affecting the global auto industry. The figure, revealed in the company’s latest financial update, sheds light on the economic strain placed on multinational manufacturers navigating increasingly complex geopolitical landscapes.Stellantis, one of the world’s largest automakers formed through the 2021 merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, operates across multiple continents with a wide portfolio of brands, including Jeep, Dodge, Peugeot, Citroën, and Ram. Given its expansive manufacturing…

Mineral v chemical sunscreen: Which one should you be using?

17 Jul

Mineral vs chemical sunscreen: Pros and cons explained

Roger W. WatsonHealth

When it comes to protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, choosing the right sunscreen is essential. Among the many options available, two main types dominate the market: mineral and chemical sunscreens. Both offer effective sun protection, but they work in different ways and may suit different skin types and lifestyles. Understanding the differences between them can help make sun safety a more personalized and effective part of your skincare routine.Sunscreen serves as an essential barrier against ultraviolet (UV) rays, which may lead to early aging, sunburn, and heighten the likelihood of developing skin cancer. The active…