Latest news with #Stand
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Christian rock band respond to former member's drug abuse, sexual assault allegations
Nashville-based Christian rockers Newsboys are responding to troubling news regarding their 59-year-old former lead singer, Michael Tait. In a post on the group's official Instagram account, the Australian-founded band responded to allegations of drug abuse and inappropriate sexual conduct against Tait while also distancing him from the band. "Last night, our hearts were shattered when we read the news alleging drug abuse and inappropriate sexual actions by our former lead singer, Michael Tait. While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications," the statement read. "First and foremost, our hearts are with the victims who have bravely shared their stories. If you are a victim, we urge you to come forward. We absolutely do not condone any form of sexual assault." The quartet noted that as husbands who are fathers of 14 children in total, they were "horrified, heartbroken, and angry at this report and in many ways, we feel as if we and our families have been deceived for the last fifteen years." In January 2025, Tait, who was the lead vocalist of the group for 15 years in their four decades of existence, offered the following in a statement: "Fifteen years ago, my life was forever changed when I received the invite to step into the role of lead singer for Newsboys. The years since have been some of the most fulfilling, faith-filled, and rewarding years of my life." "I have been on an amazing journey all over the globe, performing and ministering to people of all ages, races, and backgrounds." "The decision does not come lightly and has been a shock to even myself, but admist prayer and fasting, I have clarity that this is the right decision," the statement continued. In their June 5 statement, Tait's former bandmates, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis and Adam Agee, noted that when he left the band, he "confessed" to them and their management that he "had been living a double-life." Through a nearly three-year-long investigation by The Roys Report, it was discovered that for two decades, Tait befriended three young men on Christian music tours in 2004, 2010, and 2014. The trio were all 22 at the time of their first interaction. Allegations of Tait, then two decades older than his accusers, engaging in acts of sexual assault and grooming highlight the lengthy of June 5, Tait has not officially responded to the allegations on his social media accounts or the statement from his former bandmates. As well, there have been no further comments from the group. Upon their 2021 release of "Stand," their 20th studio album, the band spoke with The Nashville Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. It's noted that when Grammy-winner Tait, formerly of DC Talk, replaced Peter Furler as the group's new lead vocalist in 2009, the band no longer had any original members in its ranks. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Newsboys address sex assault allegations against member Michael Tait
The National
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Palestinian comedians to make debuts at Edinburgh Festival Fringe
As part of The Stand's programme this year, The Palestine Comedy Club will be brought to the Fringe. PalCom is a Palestine-UK collective developing comedy unique to the Palestinian experience and organisers say it will act as a platform for Palestinian artists to share their stories. Making their debut at the Fringe will be Alaa Shehada (Jenin), Diana Sweity (Hebron) Hanna Shammas (Haifa) and Sami Abu-Wardeh (London). READ MORE: David Lammy urged to intervene as Madleen seized by Israel As well as a trio of shows at the Fringe, PalCom will also visit Stand venues in Glasgow and Newcastle. The Stand Comedy Club said it is vital that Palestine is represented at the Fringe this year. Chair of the board Tommy Shepherd said: 'All too often people have forgot the Palestinians have a thriving Mediterranean culture. This is what the Israeli government are trying to extinguish. 'We're delighted to do our part in standing in solidarity with Palestinian artists and helping them reach an international audience.' The Stand has made several moves in support of Palestine including becoming a supporter of Unite Hospitality Glasgow's Serve Solidarity, Boycott Apartheid campaign, which aims to support worker-led boycotts of PepsiCo products and Israeli fresh produce. To help fund travel costs for Palestine Comedy Club, The Stand will also hold two benefit nights that will feature some of Scotland's leading talent in Edinburgh and Glasgow. In Glasgow on Monday, June 16, host Billy Kirkwood will introduce Stuart McPherson, Ray Bradshaw, Christopher Macarthur-Boyd and Susie McCabe. Meanwhile, the Edinburgh benefit will take place on Tuesday, June 24, with Susan Morrison hosting Vladimir McTavish, Marc Jennings, Krystal Evans, Ryan Cullen and Jay Lafferty. PalCom will appear at Newcastle's Stand on Saturday, August 16, before heading to its Edinburgh branch on Monday 18, Tuesday 19 and Wednesday, August 20, with a final stop-off in Glasgow on Thursday, August 21.
USA Today
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Christian rock band respond to former member's drug abuse, sexual assault allegations
Christian rock band respond to former member's drug abuse, sexual assault allegations Nashville-based Christian rockers Newsboys are responding to troubling news regarding their 59-year-old former lead singer, Michael Tait. In a post on the group's official Instagram account, the Australian-founded band responded to allegations of drug abuse and inappropriate sexual conduct against Tait while also distancing him from the band. "Last night, our hearts were shattered when we read the news alleging drug abuse and inappropriate sexual actions by our former lead singer, Michael Tait. While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications," the statement read. "First and foremost, our hearts are with the victims who have bravely shared their stories. If you are a victim, we urge you to come forward. We absolutely do not condone any form of sexual assault." The quartet noted that as husbands who are fathers of 14 children in total, they were "horrified, heartbroken, and angry at this report and in many ways, we feel as if we and our families have been deceived for the last fifteen years." Tait told the band he had 'been living a double-life' In January 2025, Tait, who was the lead vocalist of the group for 15 years in their four decades of existence, offered the following in a statement: "Fifteen years ago, my life was forever changed when I received the invite to step into the role of lead singer for Newsboys. The years since have been some of the most fulfilling, faith-filled, and rewarding years of my life." "I have been on an amazing journey all over the globe, performing and ministering to people of all ages, races, and backgrounds." "The decision does not come lightly and has been a shock to even myself, but admist prayer and fasting, I have clarity that this is the right decision," the statement continued. In their June 5 statement, Tait's former bandmates, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis and Adam Agee, noted that when he left the band, he "confessed" to them and their management that he "had been living a double-life." Through a nearly three-year-long investigation by The Roys Report, it was discovered that for two decades, Tait befriended three young men on Christian music tours in 2004, 2010, and 2014. The trio were all 22 at the time of their first interaction. Allegations of Tait, then two decades older than his accusers, engaging in acts of sexual assault and grooming highlight the lengthy investigation. Latest on Michael Tait As of June 5, Tait has not officially responded to the allegations on his social media accounts or the statement from his former bandmates. As well, there have been no further comments from the group. Upon their 2021 release of "Stand," their 20th studio album, the band spoke with The Nashville Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. It's noted that when Grammy-winner Tait, formerly of DC Talk, replaced Peter Furler as the group's new lead vocalist in 2009, the band no longer had any original members in its ranks.
North Wales Chronicle
01-06-2025
- Health
- North Wales Chronicle
Exercise slashes risk of death in patients with colon cancer
Physical activity could also prevent the disease from coming back, as well as lifting mood, reducing fatigue and boosting strength, according to researchers. Colon cancer develops in the part of the large intestine known as the colon, part of the large bowel, which also comprises the rectum and anus. It can sometimes be referred to as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer. Cancer Research UK estimates about 31,800 people every year in the UK are diagnosed with the disease, with around 9,500 deaths. The CO21 Challenge trial, led by researchers in Northern Ireland and Canada, involved 889 people with colon cancer from six countries, including the UK. All patients had had surgery and chemotherapy for their cancer and were deemed well enough to exercise, but were not meeting recommended physical activity levels. Around half were given a three-year tailored exercise programme, which included the likes of brisk walking, circuit classes, cycling, or swimming. The plan included in-person coaching sessions for the first six months, as well as regular meetings with a physical activity consultant. The other group were offered materials that promoted exercise and nutrition. The study found that after five years, the risk of dying, relapse or developing a new cancer was 28% lower in the group with a tailored exercise plan. After eight years, patients in the physical activity group had a 37% lower risk of death. Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher for the trial and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said: 'During the trial, we supported people to reach their weekly exercise target in a way that worked for them. 'This could be a brisk walk for around 40 minutes every day, but some patients were also doing circuit classes, cycling, swimming, and many other activities. 'Our study gives clear, encouraging evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer returning for some people with colon cancer. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate.' Dr Joe Henson, associate professor in lifestyle medicine at the University of Leicester, said: 'Leading the exercise sessions in Leicester, I saw first-hand that this reduced fatigue, lifted people's mood, and boosted their physical strength. 'We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact.' The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), could 'transform clinical practice', according to experts. Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at Cancer Research UK, which part-funded the CO21 Challenge through Stand Up To Cancer, said: 'Being active has many benefits, and this study shows that exercise doesn't only improve well-being – it can also boost people's chances of surviving colon cancer. 'Everyone recovering from cancer should have access to tailored support to help them live longer, better lives. 'This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients. 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different – starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: 'These exciting findings add to the growing evidence of the benefits of physical activity for people affected by cancer, not just in helping them be fitter for treatment and boosting their immediate recovery, but reducing the risk of the disease coming back. 'This is why we've asked cancer alliances across the country to look at ways to encourage and support patients to do physical activity and ensure every healthcare professional they see can help them be in the best possible place – both physically and mentally – before, during and after treatment.'
Rhyl Journal
01-06-2025
- Health
- Rhyl Journal
Exercise slashes risk of death in patients with colon cancer
Physical activity could also prevent the disease from coming back, as well as lifting mood, reducing fatigue and boosting strength, according to researchers. Colon cancer develops in the part of the large intestine known as the colon, part of the large bowel, which also comprises the rectum and anus. It can sometimes be referred to as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer. Cancer Research UK estimates about 31,800 people every year in the UK are diagnosed with the disease, with around 9,500 deaths. The CO21 Challenge trial, led by researchers in Northern Ireland and Canada, involved 889 people with colon cancer from six countries, including the UK. All patients had had surgery and chemotherapy for their cancer and were deemed well enough to exercise, but were not meeting recommended physical activity levels. Around half were given a three-year tailored exercise programme, which included the likes of brisk walking, circuit classes, cycling, or swimming. The plan included in-person coaching sessions for the first six months, as well as regular meetings with a physical activity consultant. The other group were offered materials that promoted exercise and nutrition. The study found that after five years, the risk of dying, relapse or developing a new cancer was 28% lower in the group with a tailored exercise plan. After eight years, patients in the physical activity group had a 37% lower risk of death. Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher for the trial and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said: 'During the trial, we supported people to reach their weekly exercise target in a way that worked for them. 'This could be a brisk walk for around 40 minutes every day, but some patients were also doing circuit classes, cycling, swimming, and many other activities. 'Our study gives clear, encouraging evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer returning for some people with colon cancer. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate.' Dr Joe Henson, associate professor in lifestyle medicine at the University of Leicester, said: 'Leading the exercise sessions in Leicester, I saw first-hand that this reduced fatigue, lifted people's mood, and boosted their physical strength. 'We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact.' The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), could 'transform clinical practice', according to experts. Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at Cancer Research UK, which part-funded the CO21 Challenge through Stand Up To Cancer, said: 'Being active has many benefits, and this study shows that exercise doesn't only improve well-being – it can also boost people's chances of surviving colon cancer. 'Everyone recovering from cancer should have access to tailored support to help them live longer, better lives. 'This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients. 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different – starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: 'These exciting findings add to the growing evidence of the benefits of physical activity for people affected by cancer, not just in helping them be fitter for treatment and boosting their immediate recovery, but reducing the risk of the disease coming back. 'This is why we've asked cancer alliances across the country to look at ways to encourage and support patients to do physical activity and ensure every healthcare professional they see can help them be in the best possible place – both physically and mentally – before, during and after treatment.'
