Jamie 'Iceman' Stevenson, a notorious gangster from Scotland, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for orchestrating a global drug trafficking operation involving £100m worth of cocaine smuggled in bananas. The article details his rise from a street thug in Glasgow to a prominent figure in organized crime, culminating in his dramatic fall as he faced justice alone in Glasgow's High Court. The narrative highlights the extensive reach of his criminal activities and the eventual legal consequences he faced.

City officials and union leaders in Glasgow are calling for urgent action to clean up the city ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, fearing that tourists might encounter a 'rat race' due to the city's cleanliness issues. The GMB union and local councillors criticize the city's past efforts to cover up these issues during major events. Glasgow City Council has expanded its street cleansing team, but doubts remain about the effectiveness of these measures. The Games, with a budget of £150 million, are expected to attract thousands of visitors, despite being a scaled-back version compared to previous events. First Minister John Swinney praises Glasgow's reputation for hosting international events, while Health Secretary Neil Gray emphasizes the collaborative decision-making process behind hosting the Games.

The article draws parallels between the actions of Putin in Ukraine and Hamas in Israel with the atrocities committed by the Nazis during World War II. It highlights the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, emphasizing the brutality and evil of the attacks on civilians. The author argues that the West must recognize these threats and take a united stand to prevent history from repeating itself, warning of the devastating consequences of inaction.

Aberdeen City Council plans to demolish 504 homes built with dangerous RAAC concrete, causing significant financial distress for homeowners like John Meiklejohn, who faces a potential £100,000 loss in equity. The decision has sparked outrage among residents, with calls for a public inquiry into the council's handling of the situation. Labour councillor Simon Watson warns of potential rent increases for 20,000 council tenants to cover demolition and rehousing costs. The council emphasizes safety as the priority, promising support for affected families.

Oasis has announced two major concerts in Edinburgh as part of their Live '25 tour, coinciding with the busy Fringe Festival. Fans are eager to secure tickets and accommodation, with hotel prices soaring due to high demand. The concerts are expected to boost the local economy, despite logistical challenges. Fans express excitement over the reunion of Liam and Noel Gallagher, with many anticipating a nostalgic experience. Ticket sales are expected to be competitive, and fans are advised to be cautious of scams.

Residents of Whitecross, near Linlithgow, express serious safety concerns after bus services were cut, leaving them to walk along dangerous, unlit roads. A recent incident where a boy was hit by a van's wing mirror has heightened fears. Councillor Claire Mackie-Brown and locals criticize Falkirk Council and McGill's Buses for inadequate services, emphasizing the isolation and risk faced by the community, especially on Sundays. The council cites budget constraints and low usage for the service cuts, while residents demand improved safety measures and reliable transport options.

Students who don't achieve their desired grades on results day have several options, including clearing, which offers a second chance to secure a university place. Skills Development Scotland's Career Advisor, Gina Kelly, emphasizes that panicking is natural but unnecessary, as there are various paths to achieving educational goals. Students can explore apprenticeships or college as alternatives to university. The UCAS website and direct university contact are recommended for clearing opportunities. Skills Development Scotland provides a Results Helpline for guidance, available until the end of the week.

The North Coast 500 (NC500) in Scotland offers breathtaking scenery but has led to significant local frustration due to the negative impacts of increased tourism. Issues such as littering, illegal parking, and road damage have arisen, prompting the Highland Council to introduce a parking pass to manage the situation. This measure, however, has sparked controversy among campsite owners who fear it may deter visitors. The article highlights the broader challenges of balancing tourism's economic benefits with preserving natural beauty and respecting local communities.

The article argues that Hamas poses a threat not only to Israel but to Western civilization as a whole. It recounts violent incidents involving Hamas and Hezbollah, highlighting the impact on Israeli civilians and the broader implications for global security. The narrative emphasizes the need for Western nations, particularly the United States, to support Israel in combating terrorism. The piece also discusses efforts to rebuild affected communities in Israel and criticizes those opposed to providing aid. The overarching message is a call for unity against terrorism and support for Israel.

The Cheam First Nation and Sardis Community Church have embarked on a seven-year journey of reconciliation following the release of Canada's Truth and Reconciliation report in 2015. Initiated by Don Klaassen of Sardis Community Church, the partnership has involved various community-building activities and has led to a significant shift in attitudes and relationships. The collaboration is seen as a model for reconciliation, with both communities benefiting from the shared journey. The article emphasizes the importance of peacemaking and reconciliation as central to Christian teachings and highlights the ongoing impact of historical injustices on the Cheam First Nation.