A month to go until Mamma Mia arrives – new pictures of the cast in action

The world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical is coming to Southampton for three weeks only, including half term, from October 24 to November 8.

Set on a Greek island paradise, this captivating story of love, friendship, and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA.

Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget.

This irresistibly funny show has been thrilling audiences all around the world and now it’s back for another Southampton stint. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic!
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25494163.new-images-show-mamma-mia-cast-arriving-southampton-soon/?ref=rss

Mercury overcome 13-point deficit in 4th quarter, beat Lynx 86-81 to advance to WNBA Finals

PHOENIX (AP) — Alyssa Thomas scored 23 points, and DeWanna Bonner made two key 3-pointers in the fourth quarter as the Phoenix Mercury overcame a 13-point deficit in the final period to beat the short-handed Minnesota Lynx 86-81 in Game 4 on Sunday night. With the victory, Phoenix advances to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2021.

The Mercury will face the winner of the Indiana-Las Vegas series in the championship round. Indiana forced a decisive Game 5 earlier Sunday with a 90-83 home victory. Phoenix won the final three games of the best-of-five semifinal series to secure their spot in the Finals.

The top-seeded Lynx were without head coach Cheryl Reeve, who was suspended for Game 4 due to her behavior and comments toward officials during Game 3. Minnesota also played without All-Star guard Napheesa Collier, who suffered an ankle injury near the end of the previous game.

Phoenix trailed 68-55 heading into the fourth quarter but began their comeback with a 3-pointer from Sami Whitcomb that brought the score to 70-69 with 4:46 left in the game. Bonner then hit a crucial three-pointer to give the Mercury a 72-70 lead, followed by another triple with 2:03 remaining to extend the lead to 77-73.

Minnesota’s Kayla McBride responded by hitting her sixth 3-pointer of the second half, cutting the gap to 77-76 with 1:04 left. The 38-year-old Bonner then made a pair of free throws to push Phoenix ahead 79-76. Bonner finished the quarter with 11 points.

Satou Sabally led the Lynx with 21 points, while McBride scored a game-high 31 points, shooting 6-of-11 from beyond the arc. Courtney Williams added 20 points for Minnesota.

Earlier in the game, Phoenix’s Kahleah Copper hit a 3-pointer early in the third quarter to give the Mercury their first lead at 41-38. However, the Lynx countered with a 23-9 run, fueled by three three-pointers from McBride, regaining control of the game. Minnesota had jumped out to an early 12-1 lead, but Phoenix steadily chipped away at the deficit.

Just before halftime, Thomas assisted Bonner for a layup that tied the game at 38. Sabally led Phoenix with 18 points before the break.

Phoenix will now play in the WNBA Finals for the first time in four years, aiming to win their first championship since 2014.

— AP WNBA
https://www.mymotherlode.com/sports/basketball-general-news/10005095/mercury-overcome-13-point-deficit-in-4th-quarter-beat-lynx-86-81-to-advance-to-wnba-finals.html

Hirokazu Kore-eda Starts Shooting ‘Sheep In The Box’ With Gaga, Goodfellas Handling Sales

Japanese auteur Hirokazu Kore-eda has commenced production on his latest feature film, *Sheep In The Box*, starring Ayase Haruka and Daigo. Ayase previously appeared in Kore-eda’s acclaimed film *Our Little Sister*, while Daigo, one of Japan’s leading comedians, takes on his first-ever leading role in a feature film with this project.

Following their collaboration on Kore-eda’s last feature, *Monster*, which premiered in the Cannes competition, *Sheep In The Box* will be sold internationally by Japan’s Gaga and France-based Goodfellas. Gaga is handling the Asian territories and, in collaboration with Goodfellas, the North American sales. Goodfellas manages distribution across Europe, the Middle East, CIS, Oceania, Latin America, and Africa.

Written and directed by Kore-eda, *Sheep In The Box* is set in the near future and follows a couple who takes in a state-of-the-art humanoid robot as their son. Kore-eda shares, “This project began with the idea of bringing the dead back to life using the latest technology. A few years ago, similar concepts were already featured on Japanese television programs and attracted considerable attention. I was interested in exploring the conflicting perspectives on how technological advancement clashes with human inner values.”

He continues, “In the spring of last year, I came across an article about the popularity of resurrection businesses in China; and in the fall, I met someone actually engaged in that field. It made me realize that such developments could occur in Japan as well. With technology evolving at a pace far beyond what I had imagined, I felt that this reality might arrive sooner than expected.”

*Sheep In The Box* is being produced by Gaga alongside Fuji Television Network, Toho, and AOI Pro. Toho will also handle distribution in Japan. The film’s title draws inspiration from the world-famous French children’s novel, *The Little Prince*.

Filming began earlier this month and is currently underway. The film is expected to be released in Japan in 2026.
https://deadline.com/2025/09/hirokazu-kore-eda-sheep-in-the-box-gaga-goodfellas-1236563645/

JUST IN: MASSIVE WALKOUT ALERT | Over 100,000 federal employees are expected to resign — setting up what could be the largest exodus in U.S. history.

**JUST IN: MASSIVE WALKOUT ALERT**
Over 100,000 federal employees are expected to resign, setting up what could be the largest exodus in U.S. history.

**Source:** X.com
**Time:** 2:20 PM, September 28, 2025
**Posted by:** Tony Lane US (@TonyLaneNV)
**Shared by:** E. Pluribus Unum

These are career bureaucrats who don’t want accountability. The system is finally being exposed for what it is. The question is: is this a crisis or the reset America needs? Thoughts?

*(Excerpt)*
Read more at x.com.

### Topics:
Government

### Keywords:
wellbye

**Support this cause:**
– Donate by Credit Card [Click here]
– Donate by PayPal [Click here]
– Or send donations by mail to:
Free Republic, LLC
PO Box 9771
Fresno, CA 93794

Thank you very much and God bless you.

### Community Reactions:

**E. Pluribus Unum**
These are career bureaucrats who don’t want accountability. The system is finally being exposed for what it is.

**mewzilla:**
Swing away, Mr. President, swing away!

**Texas Eagle:**
Looks like they can find jobs at sign-making businesses.

**ProgressingAmerica:**
I hope they all get fired. Progressive President John F. Kennedy is the reason this is happening for his approval of unionizing federal workers.

**PhiloBedo:**
This is what I voted for!

**Robert A Cook PE:**
Bye, buy, by.
(Repeated twice)

**Nevernikki:**
All I got to say is PRAISE THE LORD! Don’t let the door hit you in the A$$.
(Repeated twice)

**logitech:**
Winning.

**Mark17 (Retired USAF air traffic controller, Father of USAF ISR pilot):**
I have a hard time believing they will walk out on these cushy jobs with great benefits.

**nickcarraway:**
It’s BS, a made-up talking point for Dems.

**digger48 (Mp):**
2 million excess employees to go.

**Secret Agent Man (Gone Galt; not averse to Going Bronson):**
Libsocs cashing out.

**Fzob:**
I’ll believe this when I see it. And 100k is a good start if accurate.
(Repeated three times)

**Blood of Tyrants (No Jesus. No Peace. Know Jesus. Know peace.):**
Some federal employees are hard workers. But they are quickly dragged down by the ones who do little or nothing.

*Disclaimer:* Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright.
https://freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/4343185/posts

Mets All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso will opt out of contract and test free agency again

MIAMI (AP) — Pete Alonso has announced he will opt out of his contract with the New York Mets and enter free agency again, following the team’s failure to make the playoffs this season.

Alonso previously tested the free agent market last offseason before deciding to stay with the franchise that drafted him in 2016 out of Florida. In February, he signed a two-year, $54 million contract that paid him $30 million this season, with a $24 million player option for the next year.

The All-Star first baseman indicated he would like to return to the Mets once more but emphasized his desire to win a championship.

“There’s some great guys in this clubhouse, there’s some great people on the staff,” Alonso said. “And every single day, it’s just been a pleasure coming to work and putting on the orange and blue. I’ve really appreciated it and been nothing but full of gratitude every single day. Nothing’s guaranteed, but we’ll see what happens. I’ve loved being a Met, so hopefully they’ve appreciated me in the same way.”

At 30 years old, Alonso earned his fifth All-Star selection this season, batting a career-best .272 with 38 home runs, 126 RBIs, and a career-high 41 doubles. Along the way, he broke the Mets’ franchise record for home runs, surpassing Darryl Strawberry’s previous mark of 252.

“I think the biggest thing is, I want to win,” Alonso said. “I know we didn’t this year, but we had the right pieces — I think we just didn’t do it. At the beginning of the year, you just want to have the best possible chance to hold up the trophy at the end and see yourself being a champion. So for me, it’s why I do this. I want to be on top of the mountain. I want to win a World Series. That’s the ultimate goal.”

The Mets entered Sunday’s regular-season finale needing a win and a Cincinnati loss at Milwaukee to make the playoffs. However, New York could not overcome a four-run fourth inning by the Miami Marlins and was eliminated from postseason contention following a 4-0 loss.

___
AP MLB
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/baseball/2025/09/28/mets-all-star-first-baseman-pete-alonso-will-opt-out-of-contract-and-test-free-agency-again

Top diplomats of North Korea, China agree to deepen ties and resist hegemonism

**North Korea and China Pledge to Deepen Ties and Resist Hegemonism**

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The foreign ministers of North Korea and China recently agreed to strengthen their bilateral relationship and jointly resist hegemonism and unilateralism, signaling a continued pushback against the United States.

The meeting took place in Beijing on Sunday, roughly three weeks after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first summit in over six years, where they pledged mutual support and enhanced cooperation.

Earlier, Kim and Xi attended a massive military parade in Beijing commemorating the end of World War II. The event also featured other world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. The joint appearance of Kim, Xi, and Putin—the first of its kind—highlighted a potential three-way unity against the United States. However, it remains unclear how far China is willing to go in such an anti-U.S. partnership.

During the meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui cited Kim Jong Un’s statement that further strengthening ties with China remains an unwavering position for North Korea. Choe expressed intent to deepen and develop friendly relations with China, aligning with the spirit of the Kim-Xi summit, according to the North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Wang emphasized that China is committed to solidifying bilateral ties and stressed the need to boost strategic communications and exchanges. China’s Xinhua News Agency quoted Wang as stating that China opposes all forms of hegemonism and is ready to strengthen cooperation with North Korea in international and regional affairs.

Choe echoed this sentiment by expressing North Korea’s willingness to closely cooperate with China in multilateral affairs, jointly resist unilateralism and power politics, and promote a fairer and more just world order. These remarks are likely referring to both countries’ ongoing confrontations with the United States—China due to strategic competition and North Korea regarding its nuclear weapons program.

KCNA reported that Choe and Wang exchanged views on regional and international affairs and reached a complete consensus on key issues, though further details were not disclosed.

Kim Jong Un’s attendance at the Beijing military parade marked his first participation in a major multilateral event during his 14-year rule. In recent years, North Korea has increasingly focused on expanding cooperation with Russia, reportedly supplying combat troops and ammunition to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.

However, analysts suggest that Kim now sees a pressing need to improve relations with China, North Korea’s largest trading partner and primary aid benefactor, as the war’s end approaches. For its part, China seeks to maintain its influence over North Korea, especially as bilateral ties reportedly cooled in recent years.

Attention is now turning to the composition of the Chinese delegation expected to visit North Korea next month for the 80th founding anniversary of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party. North Korea is also expected to mark the occasion with its own military parade, likely showcasing new weapons aimed at the United States and its allies.
https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/world/2025/09/28/top-diplomats-of-north-korea-china-agree-to-deepen-ties-and-resist-hegemonism

Is Alibaba Stock a Safe Buy Now?

Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA) has been a focal point for investors looking to capitalize on China’s burgeoning e-commerce market. However, recent years have seen a roller-coaster ride for the stock, driven by regulatory crackdowns and economic uncertainties in China. The question for investors now is whether Alibaba represents a safe investment opportunity or if caution is still warranted.

Alibaba’s financial performance has shown resilience despite external pressures. The company reported strong revenue growth driven by its core commerce segment and cloud computing services. These sectors remain Alibaba’s backbone, contributing significantly to its financial health. Moreover, Alibaba’s international commerce and digital media segments are gaining traction, promising further diversification.

Regulatory challenges remain a significant concern. The Chinese government’s increased scrutiny over technology companies has led to hefty fines and operational adjustments for Alibaba. These regulatory measures are part of China’s broader goal to control the tech sector’s influence and ensure data security. However, Alibaba’s proactive compliance and cooperation with authorities may mitigate long-term impacts and restore investor confidence.

The global economic landscape also impacts Alibaba’s prospects. China’s economic slowdown and trade tensions with the United States have introduced volatility in the market. As a result, Alibaba’s international expansion efforts become critical. By strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia and Europe, Alibaba aims to reduce reliance on the domestic market and tap into new growth avenues.

Investor sentiment is gradually recovering as Alibaba demonstrates adaptability and strategic foresight. The company’s innovation in cloud technology and artificial intelligence positions it well for future growth. Moreover, Alibaba’s focus on sustainability and social responsibility aligns with global trends, potentially attracting ESG-conscious investors.

In conclusion, while challenges persist, Alibaba’s comprehensive strategy and financial robustness make it a compelling option for investors with a high-risk tolerance. Those considering Alibaba should weigh the potential for significant returns against the backdrop of regulatory and economic uncertainties.

*Footnotes:*
*Featured Image: DepositPhotos @ Iurii*
https://pressreach.com/investing-news/is-alibaba-stock-a-safe-buy-now/

‘Inflation and pressure on US cos to invest domestically may keep FII money away’

Seemant Shukla, CEO of Quantum Asset Management Co., highlighted several global challenges currently impacting markets worldwide. Among these are persistent US inflation, ongoing tariffs, and increasing pressure on American companies to prioritize domestic investments.

According to Shukla, these factors are putting India’s market resilience to the test. Despite these external headwinds, the Indian market continues to demonstrate strength and adaptability in a complex global environment.
https://www.livemint.com/market/fii-selling-china-valuations-india-resilience-gst-cut-seemant-shukla-quantum-amc-11759039813233.html

Managing invisible disruptions: Key lessons for CEOs

CEOs today are faced with multiple uncertainties. Technological disruption, climate change, fractured geopolitics, and other long-term megatrends are fundamentally reshaping how business leaders lead, adapt, and grow.

Isla Lipana & Co./PwC Philippines, in collaboration with the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), has been annually documenting CEOs’ thoughts and insights on doing business in the Philippines.
https://business.inquirer.net/549640/managing-invisible-disruptions-key-lessons-for-ceos

Luisangel Acuna’s wife Dior enjoys Miami beach in a pink bikini, soaking up the sun ahead of the Mets’ must-win showdown against the Marlins

Luisangel Acuna and the New York Mets find themselves in a challenging position as the baseball season heats up.

Currently, the Mets are one of the two teams battling for the final postseason spot, competing closely with the Cincinnati Reds.

This tight race underscores the intensity and competitiveness of the playoff hunt, making every game crucial for both teams moving forward.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/news-luisangel-acuna-s-wife-dior-enjoys-miami-beach-pink-bikini-soaking-sun-ahead-mets-must-win-showdown-marlins