Latest news with #Laird
USA Today
a day ago
- USA Today
Nude Iowa woman arrested after stealing American flags, burning them: Police
A southern Iowa woman is facing charges after authorities say she took her clothes off, stole American flags and set them on fire this month. Brianna Laird, 21, is facing charges after a caller said she burned stolen American flags on June 16, per court documents obtained by USA TODAY. While burning American flags is protected under the First Amendment, Laird was charged with third-degree arson, assault on an officer, indecent exposure, interference with official acts, fifth-degree criminal mischief, possession of drug paraphernalia and fifth-degree theft, per online court records. A lawyer for Laird did not immediately respond to requests for comment on June 20. Court documents: Woman hit and kicked officer while resisting arrest On June 16, someone called dispatchers about a woman in Bussey, Iowa, about 60 miles southeast of Des Moines. The caller said a nude woman was 'lighting American flags on fire,' according to court documents obtained by USA TODAY. When Marion County deputies arrived, they allegedly found Laird, who had an American Flag tied around her head and was not wearing pants or underwear. Authorities said Laird had taken the flags, which belong to the city of Bussey, and damaged them. She gave police a fake name and when deputies tried to arrest her, she hit one of them in the face, the documents said. Deputies eventually got her into the back seat of a patrol vehicle, but before one deputy could shut the door, she kicked them. When she arrived at the jail, authorities searched Laird's bag and found drug paraphernalia inside, the court documents say. Is it legal to burn the American flag? Past cases involving flag burning Flag desecration and burning have long been a point of discussion among U.S. lawmakers. The issue has been hotly contested in past cases, such as a June 1966 incident in which a Brooklyn veteran burned an American flag on a street corner after he learned that civil rights activist James Meredith was shot, according to the Freedom Forum. When the veteran was arrested for violating a New York flag desecration law, he said, 'Yes, that is my flag; I burned it. If they let that happen to Meredith, we don't need an American flag.' The New York Court of Appeals argued that flag burning was an attempt to incite violence, posing a danger to public peace. While the Supreme Court did not rule on the flag desecration law he was accused of breaking, it did rule that he could not be punished for "verbally disrespecting the flag," per the Freedom Forum. The Supreme Court reversed and remanded the case because lawmakers could not come to an agreement about whether he was convicted for burning the flag or the words he said at the time. While there are some state flag desecration laws, if enforced, they are likely to be overruled. What can people be charged with in relation to American flags? According to the Freedom Forum, freedom of speech applies to more than spoken words. That means expressions such as burning the flag, books, newspaper articles, online posts, theater and dance and even video games are considered "symbolic speech." There are some instances in which citizens could be charged for desecrating the flag even if the act of burning the flag itself is protected, the Freedom Forum said. Those who burn the flag in places with high fire risks could face charges for the act of burning something, the Freedom Forum said. And like the most recent case out of Iowa, stealing someone else's flag to burn could also be criminal, the organization said. "Burning the flag to deliberately provoke a violent response from someone else or in order to incite others to imminent lawless violence is not protected either," the Freedom Forum said. Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@
Daily Record
11-06-2025
- Sport
- Daily Record
Stirling Uni golfer helps international squad claim Stateside success
Ross Laird was part of the team taking on a US squad in the Ryder-Cup style event held in South Carolina Stirling Uni golfer Ross Laird is celebrating after securing victory Stateside as part of an international squad in a prestigious team event. Laird was competing in the Arnold Palmer Cup, an annual team event held between college/university golfers from the United States and an international squad, with this year's event being held at Congaree Golf Club in South Carolina. The second-year finance student was the only member of the international side to be based outside of the US and came up trumps with a point in the foursomes as the internationals secured a 35-25 win. The 21-year-old said: 'The week was great – I loved playing and representing Scotland as part of Team International. 'I really enjoyed being able to play as a team and in different formats, and to have the opportunity to learn and meet a lot of new people within the game. 'It meant a lot beating the United States on their home soil too.' The Ryder Cup-style event is often a milestone for up-and-coming golfers, with many who have competed in the event going on to play on the PGA, LPGA, and European Tour. Several golf scholars from Stirling have competed in the Cup, including Graeme Robertson, Hazel MacGarvie and Lorna McClymont. At this year's competition, which ran June 5-7, Laird and partner Elice Fredriksson lost 3&2 in the Mixed Fourball (opponents were three holes up, with two holes left) to Team USA's Mary Kelly Mulcahy and Jase Summy. In the Foursomes, Laird paired with Filip Jakubcik – beating Team USA's Josiah Gilbert and Michael La Sasso - who will compete in this week's US Open - 2&1. In the Mixed Foursomes, Laird and Caitlyn Macnab were beaten by Meghan Ganne and Jacob Modleski 6&5, before Laird lost his singles match to La Sasso by the same margin. It was Team International's first win in the series since 2022, and the first time they had won in the United States since 2020. Team USA now leads the series 15-13, with one draw. The university's head of golf, Dean Robertson, added: 'A huge congratulations to Ross on a fantastic win with Team International at the Arnold Palmer Cup. Ross played an important part in a brilliant competition, and he should be proud of his efforts. 'Ross continues to grow and develop as a golfer and experiencing major international competitions such as the Arnold Palmer Cup will strengthen his game.' The win in South Carolina is just the latest success for Laird. Last season, he was crowned the best male student golfer in the UK, winning the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) Order of Merit. He was second in this year's Order of Merit, and has recently returned from Spain, where he represented Scotland at the Men's European Nations Championships. Notably, he also finished tied fifth in last year's Torneo Internacional Copa Juan Carlos Tailhade competition in Argentina.
Daily Mirror
07-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Optometrist says eat 19p item now to help avoid sight loss later
The specialist said our eyes are something many people overlook when it comes to looking after their health We're told every day that diet impacts the heart, skin, and weight. But what's often forgotten is the eyes. While young people may prioritise their skin, it could hinder them in the long run if they overlook their vision. However, an eye expert says there are things we can do to help us have strong vision well into our adult life - for as little as 19p. Neil Laird, specialist optometrist at Pure Optical, said: 'If you care about your future eyesight, prevention really needs to start earlier - ideally, with your weekly shop. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) gets talked about as an older person's disease, but by the time symptoms show up, a lot of the damage is already done." He said large-scale studies suggest certain nutrients may help protect against the oxidative stress and inflammation that gradually damage the retina over time. But he said it's not all just down to eating leafy greens and salmon. In fact, some of the most effective nutrients for eye health come from places you might not expect. What foods help make my vision better? 1. Lutein and zeaxanthin The expert suggests picking up eggs, sweetcorn and some meats to help with this - and you can pick up individual eggs in most supermarkets now for around 19p. They explain that plant-based antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin play a key role in filtering harmful blue light and protecting the central area of the retina. 2. Omega-3 fatty acids These vital fats help maintain the structure of retinal cells and combat inflammation. Commonly found in oily fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, they're particularly beneficial for young adults looking to establish lasting eye-health habits. For those who avoid fish, flaxseeds and walnuts provide a modest amount of omega-3s in the form of ALA. 3. Zinc and vitamin C Zinc and vitamin C work together to strengthen immune defenses and reduce oxidative stress in eye tissues - a major factor in the progression of AMD. You can find these nutrients in foods like shellfish, citrus fruits, seeds, and red peppers. Oysters, in particular, offer a rich source and are ideal for those who want to try something on the fancier side. Never do this While a healthy diet supports eye health, certain habits can speed up the progression of macular degeneration. Smoking is a significant risk factor, as it restricts blood flow to the eyes and heightens oxidative damage. Diets high in sugar, refined carbs, and trans fats are also associated with increased inflammation and added stress on the retina. 'We often blame screen time for eye strain, but what's really damaging vision in the long term is invisible - it's what's happening inside the retina,' Laird explained. 'Dietary inflammation and oxidative stress quietly build up for years. The good news is, this is one area where we really do have control, because what we eat can have a genuine, lasting impact on the health of our eyes.' Vision-friendly diet - breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner ideas • Breakfast: Boiled eggs with wholegrain toast and a citrus fruit• Lunch: Spinach and salmon salad with pumpkin seeds and olive oil• Snack: A handful of walnuts or sunflower seeds• Dinner: Grilled mackerel with steamed kale and roasted sweet potato'You don't need to cut everything out,' Laird added. 'You just need to work vision-friendly ingredients into your routine, most of which you're probably eating already. "If you want to keep reading, driving, working, and simply seeing well into old age, start now. Your eyes will thank you later.'
The National
05-06-2025
- Sport
- The National
Ross Laird relishing team tussle against in Palmer Cup
The barman at the Congaree Club, the host venue for the Ryder Cup-style tussle between US college students and their International counterparts, may have his knowledge of beverages tested, however, should Scotsman Ross Laird ask him to rustle up a 'John Panton'. Laird, the Stirling University student, is a member at Glenbervie, the Larbert club where the celebrated, decorated Panton served as club professional for 40 years. In that time, a few of his eponymous libations made up of ginger beer, lime and Angostura bitters were served up too. Whatever drinks are doing the rounds this week, Laird will be hoping he's raising a glass to an International team success. The 21-year-old played in last weekend's Scottish Open Amateur Strokeplay Championship at North Berwick before hopping on a transatlantic flight on Monday to join up with his team-mates in the US. It's been quite the whirlwind but should be worth it. 'It's the opportunity of a lifetime,' said Laird of an event which has featured college standouts like Jon Rahm, Rickie Fowler, Luke Donald and Francesco Molinari down the seasons. Interestingly, Laird is the only member of the International team not studying in the US. He did have a brief stint at Cal Poly in California as a teenager but a return to the home comforts of Stirling University has suited him down to a tee. 'I went to California for a semester, but it wasn't for me at the time,' he reflected. 'It wasn't run the way I thought it would be. I had a few friends who were at Stirling at the time. 'One of them, George Cannon, was playing the best golf of his life and he said how good it was. If it was working for him, I thought it could work for me. And it has.' Stirling University, of course, has become the place to be for those wanting to pursue a golf scholarship on this side of the pond. Catriona Matthew and Richie Ramsay both graduated from there, as did The Herald's former golf correspondent, John Huggan. Quite a triumvirate, eh? These days, the golf programme is run by Dean Robertson, the current captain of the GB&I Walker Cup team. Since starting in his role as head of golf back in 2010, the popular Paisley man has been such a success, he'll probably get immortalised in a monument on the Abbey Craig. The experience, expertise and sage counsel that Robertson offers continues to stand Laird in good stead. 'Dean has played a big part in my development,' said finance student Laird, who won the British Universities and College Sport order of merit last season. 'He's very understanding, very knowledgeable and just a great guy to go to about anything. 'My game as a whole has improved. Dean has helped me review the stats, what's working, what's not and focus on the areas that I need to improve in. "Golf is always a work in progress. That's what I love about it. The constant search for improvement.' While Robertson's nurturing continues to bear fruit, the emergence of Robert MacIntyre on the global stage has given Laird plenty of inspiration too. 'One day, I want that to be me,' added Laird as he aims for the stars. 'He's someone we all want to be; a young man from small town Scotland playing with the best. "It's amazing what he's achieved, and it shows what can be done with talent and hard work.' Laird's own golfing career began at the age of eight when he was bitten by the bug. 'Nobody played golf in my family,' he said. 'I only started as my best friend at school played. 'We both joined Falkirk which had an amazing junior section. We'd start on the nine-hole academy course then work our way up. I'd tried a lot of different sports, but nothing really jumped out at me until I got on the golf course. That was me hooked. "I was out every day. In the summer, we'd be dropped off at the course at 9am and stay there until 8pm at night. We loved it.' Back in 1961, the aforementioned Panton, one of Scotland's greatest golfers of yore, lost to Palmer in the foursomes of the Ryder Cup at Lytham. Perhaps another Glenbervie golfer will have better luck in the Palmer Cup? And raise a 'John Panton' to celebrate?
The Herald Scotland
05-06-2025
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
Ross Laird relishing team tussle against in Palmer Cup
Laird, the Stirling University student, is a member at Glenbervie, the Larbert club where the celebrated, decorated Panton served as club professional for 40 years. In that time, a few of his eponymous libations made up of ginger beer, lime and Angostura bitters were served up too. Whatever drinks are doing the rounds this week, Laird will be hoping he's raising a glass to an International team success. The 21-year-old played in last weekend's Scottish Open Amateur Strokeplay Championship at North Berwick before hopping on a transatlantic flight on Monday to join up with his team-mates in the US. It's been quite the whirlwind but should be worth it. 'It's the opportunity of a lifetime,' said Laird of an event which has featured college standouts like Jon Rahm, Rickie Fowler, Luke Donald and Francesco Molinari down the seasons. Interestingly, Laird is the only member of the International team not studying in the US. He did have a brief stint at Cal Poly in California as a teenager but a return to the home comforts of Stirling University has suited him down to a tee. 'I went to California for a semester, but it wasn't for me at the time,' he reflected. 'It wasn't run the way I thought it would be. I had a few friends who were at Stirling at the time. 'One of them, George Cannon, was playing the best golf of his life and he said how good it was. If it was working for him, I thought it could work for me. And it has.' Stirling University, of course, has become the place to be for those wanting to pursue a golf scholarship on this side of the pond. Catriona Matthew and Richie Ramsay both graduated from there, as did The Herald's former golf correspondent, John Huggan. Quite a triumvirate, eh? These days, the golf programme is run by Dean Robertson, the current captain of the GB&I Walker Cup team. Since starting in his role as head of golf back in 2010, the popular Paisley man has been such a success, he'll probably get immortalised in a monument on the Abbey Craig. The experience, expertise and sage counsel that Robertson offers continues to stand Laird in good stead. 'Dean has played a big part in my development,' said finance student Laird, who won the British Universities and College Sport order of merit last season. 'He's very understanding, very knowledgeable and just a great guy to go to about anything. 'My game as a whole has improved. Dean has helped me review the stats, what's working, what's not and focus on the areas that I need to improve in. "Golf is always a work in progress. That's what I love about it. The constant search for improvement.' While Robertson's nurturing continues to bear fruit, the emergence of Robert MacIntyre on the global stage has given Laird plenty of inspiration too. 'One day, I want that to be me,' added Laird as he aims for the stars. 'He's someone we all want to be; a young man from small town Scotland playing with the best. "It's amazing what he's achieved, and it shows what can be done with talent and hard work.' Laird's own golfing career began at the age of eight when he was bitten by the bug. 'Nobody played golf in my family,' he said. 'I only started as my best friend at school played. 'We both joined Falkirk which had an amazing junior section. We'd start on the nine-hole academy course then work our way up. I'd tried a lot of different sports, but nothing really jumped out at me until I got on the golf course. That was me hooked. "I was out every day. In the summer, we'd be dropped off at the course at 9am and stay there until 8pm at night. We loved it.' Back in 1961, the aforementioned Panton, one of Scotland's greatest golfers of yore, lost to Palmer in the foursomes of the Ryder Cup at Lytham. Perhaps another Glenbervie golfer will have better luck in the Palmer Cup? And raise a 'John Panton' to celebrate?
