Latest World News: Obama’s personal chef drowns near Martha’s family home

Tafari Campbell was employed by the Obamas and visited Martha’s Vineyard.

Tafari Campbell (left) was former US President Barack Obama's personal chef. (AP, Facebook/Obama)Tafari Campbell (left) was former US President Barack Obama’s personal chef. (AP, Facebook/Obama)

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Former President Barack Obama’s personal chef drowned near the family home in Marthas Vineyard.

Massachusetts State Police confirmed the paddleboarder whose body was found Monday in Edgartown Great Pond was Tafari Campbell, 45, of Dumfries, Virginia.

Campbell was employed by the Obamas and visited Marthas Vineyard. The Obamas were not home at the time of the accident.

In a statement, the former president and his wife, Michelle Obama, called Campbell a beloved member of our family.

When we first met him, he was a talented White House sous chef who was creative and passionate about food and its ability to bring people together, the couple said. In the years since, we have come to know him as a warm, fun, and extraordinarily kind person who has made our lives a little brighter.

That’s why, as we were about to leave the White House, we asked Tafari to stay with us, and he generously agreed. He’s been a part of our lives ever since, and our hearts are broken that he’s gone, they said.

The search for the missing paddleboarder began on Sunday after reports from another paddleboarder that he struggled to the surface, fell and did not resurface.

The search was halted Sunday night, but on Monday state police said a boat’s sonar located the body about 100 feet from shore at a depth of about 8 feet. Campbell was not wearing a life jacket, police said.

The Obamas said Campbell is survived by his wife and their twins.

First published on: 2023-07-25 at 10:05 IST





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An Overview of Global Events in 2023

In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.

Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.

Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.

Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.

Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.

Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.

Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.

In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.