Briefs (Press, 12 August 1989)

On 12 August 1989, various notable news events were reported, highlighting a mixture of quirky stories and serious legal decisions across different regions. In the United States, the savings-and-loan crisis has led the federal government to take control of numerous failing small banks and their assets. This unusual turn of events has resulted in taxpayers now reportedly owning an assortment of unexpected assets, including racehorses, McDonald's franchises, a bordello in Nevada, a significant share of the Dallas Cowboys, and a nitrogen-cooled tank containing vials of buffalo semen. Meanwhile, a landmark ruling from New York State's highest court has provided a win for gay couples. The Court of Appeals issued a 4-2 decision allowing a partner in a long-standing homosexual relationship to inherit the couple's rent-controlled apartment after the death of the leaseholder. The court's ruling asserts that the term "family members" should encompass adults demonstrating long-term financial and emotional commitment to one another, broadening the definition beyond conventional family structures. Across the Atlantic, a light-hearted incident involving the Queen occurred during her visit to the Isle of Man. After a gust of wind blew a woman's stylish pink hat into the sea, the Queen initiated a royal rescue mission. Sue Peers, the wife of the Douglas Town Clerk, was present when the hat was blown away. The Queen assured Peers that it would be retrieved, and a naval rating aboard the royal barge successfully fished it out using a boathook. In a significant move for Vanuatu, the Council of Ministers has tentatively approved the nationalisation of the country’s two domestic airlines, altering the landscape of aviation in the Pacific nation. In South Korea, the Supreme Court made a controversial ruling affirming that a woman acted in self-defence when she bit off the tongue of a man attempting to rape her. Previously given a six-month suspended sentence by a lower court, Pyon Wol-Soo’s actions were now deemed justifiable under the circumstances. In Bavaria, Germany, a chaotic scene unfolded as police, firefighters, and veterinarians pursued approximately 100 piglets that fled following a truck accident. The truck, carrying the piglets, had overturned, resulting in the tragic death of another 500 animals, while the driver and his companion sustained injuries. In Uganda, a grim report surfaced regarding a tragic incident where at least 10 people died after consuming hippopotami meat from animals found dead in a lake. It was suspected that the hippos had been poisoned, sparking a public health concern. Lastly, a remarkable rescue operation was undertaken by the Royal Navy for a pregnant cow named Tinkerbelle. After the cow fell 55 metres down a cliff while trying to access greener grass, she was safely lifted back to her field by a Navy helicopter, sustaining only minor injuries. These stories reflect a blend of societal issues, legal advancements, and unusual incidents both uplifting and sobering.

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