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The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East launched a new online educational platform, the Orthodox Learning Ladder, on February 15, according to a statement released by the Patriarchate. The platform is intended to support and strengthen Christian education ministries within parishes under its jurisdiction.

The Orthodox Learning Ladder aims to provide resources for educators at all experience levels, from those new to parish school ministry to seasoned pedagogical professionals. The initiative seeks to bolster existing educational efforts rather than replace established curricula, though details regarding specific program compatibility remain limited.

The launch comes as Orthodox educational institutions increasingly explore digital learning opportunities. Orthodox University, a global online learning platform dedicated to sharing Orthodox Christian theological wisdom, offers a range of courses in theology, Church history, and liturgical life, according to its website. Illumination Learning too provides a variety of resources for Orthodox Christian education, including lessons and activities for church school classrooms, and families.

The Patriarchate of Antioch, one of the oldest sees in Christendom, has been led by Patriarch John X. Recent announcements from the Patriarchate, posted on its official website, include an encyclical for the Great Lent of 2026 and details of a meeting with the president of the German Bishops’ Conference Council for World Affairs. The Patriarchate’s website also lists upcoming feast days and saints’ commemorations, including those of Martyr Quadratus and Saint Symeon the New Theologian in March.

Further details about the Orthodox Learning Ladder, including specific course offerings and subscription information, are available on Orthodoxie.com, though access to full articles requires a subscription. As of March 6, 2026, the Patriarchate has not issued a follow-up statement detailing initial user engagement or future development plans for the platform.

Austin, Texas – The Austin Police Department (APD) and the FBI released surveillance video and body camera footage on Thursday detailing the chaotic moments of the mass shooting at Buford’s on 6th Street on March 1, 2026. The shooting, which left three people dead and 14 wounded, is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism, authorities said.

The released footage provides a harrowing gaze at the scene as the gunman opened fire with an AR-15 rifle, sending crowds scattering in panic. The incident began shortly after midnight, transforming a lively entertainment district into a scene of terror. Police responded within 57 seconds, confronting and ultimately killing the suspect, according to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis.

Investigators have identified the shooter as Ndiaga Diagne. Evidence suggests a possible connection to terrorism, with Diagne wearing clothing featuring an Iranian flag design and the words “Property of Allah” during the attack. The FBI is working to determine the shooter’s motives and any potential affiliations, according to Alex Doran, the acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s field office in San Antonio. “Any declarations on what led to that motive would be premature,” Doran stated during a news conference on Monday.

The victims have been identified as Ryder Harrington, 19, and Savitha Shan, 21. A third victim died Monday after being taken off life support, Chief Davis announced. Two other individuals remain in critical condition. The investigation is still in its early stages, with authorities prioritizing the determination of the shooter’s motives.

911 Calls Reveal Panic and Chaos

Newly released 911 calls paint a vivid picture of the fear and confusion that gripped Sixth Street during the shooting. One caller frantically urged people to flee, shouting, “You necessitate to head that way and get down! Notice people dead over here. There’ve been multiple people shot,” while another described hearing gunshots and hiding between cars. These calls underscore the immediate and widespread panic that ensued as the gunman opened fire. You can listen to the 911 calls here.

Investigation Focuses on Potential Terrorist Ties

The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism, prompted by the suspect’s clothing and other indicators. Authorities discovered indicators in the suspect’s vehicle that suggest a “potential nexus to terrorism,” Doran said during a briefing on Sunday. The investigation is focused on uncovering any connections Diagne may have had and understanding the factors that led to the attack. The AP reported that the suspect was living in Pflugerville, Texas. More details on the investigation are available here.

Surveillance video released by the Austin Police Department shows the suspect flashing a gun in a parking lot before the shooting began. The footage captures the moments leading up to the attack, providing investigators with crucial evidence. The AP also published photos of the suspect, showing the clothing he was wearing during the shooting. View the photos and read the full report here.

Community Response and Ongoing Investigation

The shooting has deeply impacted the Austin community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for the victims and their families. Local leaders have expressed their condolences and vowed to work towards preventing future tragedies. The Austin Police Department and the FBI continue to collaborate on the investigation, meticulously examining evidence and interviewing witnesses.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. The investigation remains active, and officials are committed to uncovering the full truth behind this devastating event. The focus remains on understanding the shooter’s motives and ensuring the safety and security of the Austin community.

As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to provide updates to the public. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The long-term implications of this event are still unfolding, and the city of Austin is grappling with the aftermath of this tragic shooting.

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Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio, the 30-year-old son of the late EssilorLuxottica founder Leonardo Del Vecchio, is seeking a multibillion-dollar deal to acquire the stakes held by two of his siblings in the family’s holding company, Delfin, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The proposed transaction would see Del Vecchio increase his control over Delfin, which holds a controlling interest in the world’s largest eyewear company, EssilorLuxottica. He currently serves as chief strategy officer at EssilorLuxottica. According to reports, he is nearing an agreement to purchase the stakes from his siblings, though the exact terms of the deal remain undisclosed.

Reuters reported on February 19, 2026, that Del Vecchio is planning to buy an additional 25% stake in Delfin from two of his siblings. This move signals a potential consolidation of power within the Del Vecchio family and a reshaping of the ownership structure of the eyewear giant.

EssilorLuxottica, formed through the 2018 merger of Italian eyewear group Luxottica and French lens maker Essilor, has a significant presence in the global eyewear market, owning brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Vogue Eyewear. The company has been involved in numerous mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and commercial real estate transactions, totaling 30 signals identified by Usearch.

The Financial Times reported that Del Vecchio is the only family member currently holding an executive role within EssilorLuxottica. The outcome of the proposed deal and its potential impact on the company’s strategic direction remain to be seen.