https://meenews.co/post/6a4b079bc2ca79de2364462c NYC health officials warn Central Park visitors after Legionnaires’ outbreak grows on Upper East Side te 2026-07-06T01:40:43.612Z NYC health officials warn Central Park visitors after Legionnaires’ outbreak grows on Upper East Side A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on Manhattan’s Upper East Side has grown to 14 confirmed cases, New York City health officials said Sunday. The cases are tied to ZIP codes 10028, 10128 and 10075, covering parts of the Upper East Side, including Yorkville and Carnegie Hill. At least one patient lives, works or recently visited the 10075 area, health officials said. Officials are also urging anyone who spent time along the east side of Central Park between East 76th Street and East 97th Street to watch for flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, chills and muscle aches. MYSTERY PARASITE LEAVES AMERICANS BATTLING ‘EXPLOSIVE' ILLNESS AS CDC INVESTIGATES "I want to acknowledge the NYC Health Department’s staff of epidemiologists, water ecologists, community health workers, and many more who spent the last few days working to keep New Yorkers on the Upper East Side informed and safe," NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin said in a statement. Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. People can become infected by breathing in contaminated water droplets, and the illness can be dangerous — even deadly — without quick treatment. WEST NILE VIRUS DETECTED IN SOUTHERN STATE AS HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN RESIDENTS ABOUT MOSQUITOES The source of the outbreak remains under investigation. Officials say they are testing cooling towers in the affected area as a possible source, though no specific source has been identified. Cooling towers, often found on rooftops, can release mist carrying Legionella bacteria. The Health Department said all cooling towers in the affected area are being tested. The cluster was first announced Thursday, when only two cases had been confirmed. The area of investigation has since expanded as more illnesses were reported. RARE TICK-BORNE VIRUS TURNS DEADLY FAST AS US CASES REACH RECORD HIGH, EXPERTS WARN "We identified the cluster early when there were just two confirmed cases, and we’ve acted swiftly and decisively, setting holiday plans aside to step up for our fellow New Yorkers. There is more work to do in the days ahead as we learn more about the source of exposure and confirmed cases," Martin said.  New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the outbreak is not tied to building plumbing or indoor air conditioning units, and residents in the area can safely drink tap water, bathe, shower, cook and use their AC at home. Officials said they will continue providing updates as more information becomes available. "Please contact a health care provider immediately if you live, work or visited the area since late June and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as cough, fever or difficulty breathing," Mamdani wrote on X. Last summer, a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Central Harlem led to more than 100 confirmed illnesses, according to FOX 5. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4afe26c2ca79de236444f7 How Trump Put Himself in the Middle of America’s 250th te 2026-07-06T01:00:22.780Z How Trump Put Himself in the Middle of America’s 250th The president placed his image and initiatives front and center, blurring the line, critics said, between loyalty to nation and loyalty to him. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4afbccc2ca79de236444a4 First American Woman Rows Solo From California to Hawaii te 2026-07-06T00:50:20.459Z First American Woman Rows Solo From California to Hawaii Kelsey Pfendler, a Grand Canyon river-rafting guide, completed the journey of more than 2,300 miles in a rowboat named Lily in just under 44 days, according to data from the Ocean Rowing Society International. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4af516c2ca79de236443e4 Georgia teacher receives almost $300K settlement over Charlie Kirk assassination post te 2026-07-06T00:21:42.360Z Georgia teacher receives almost $300K settlement over Charlie Kirk assassination post Former Georgia teacher Michelle Mickens settled her lawsuit with the Oglethorpe County School District on Wednesday after claiming she was unfairly punished over quotes related to Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk after his assassination. In October, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) filed a lawsuit on behalf of Mickens after she was placed on indefinite leave and reportedly encouraged to resign for making controversial comments about Kirk's assassination on her private Facebook page in September. "I think it's worth it. I think it's worth to have a cost of, unfortunately, some gun deaths every single year so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our other God-given rights.- Charlie Kirk," her initial post read. MARYLAND TEACHER FACES CALLS FOR RESIGNATION OVER CONTROVERSIAL CHARLIE KIRK MEME Mickens later took part in a discussion with a Facebook friend who disagreed with her post, where she condemned political violence but added that the world was "safer" without Kirk. "Yeah, you took this way too far. You make a lot of horrible assumptions here, but that says more about you than it does about me. I don’t condone violence of any kind, and I certainly don’t condone this, but he was a horrible person, a fascist full of hate for anyone who was different," Mickens wrote. Her post continued, "While I’m sad that we live in a country where gun violence is an epidemic, the world is a bit safer without him. I didn’t respect him at all, and he’s part of the hatred and vitriolic language we hear so much now. I pray that without him, people can be kinder and more tolerant to one another." MIKE DAVIS: CHICAGOLAND, WHERE TEACHERS CAN SUPPORT CHARLIE KIRK'S KILLING, BUT NOT ICE After a former classmate shared the post across X, Mickens was called to the office to address a complaint regarding her comments. Mickens claimed that while the principal and superintendent initially suggested she delete the post and issue an apology, she was later asked to remain home with access to her school emails revoked. According to records obtained by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Mickens received approximately $270,420 for "alleged emotional distress" as well as $17,080 to cover legal fees. Mickens also agreed to not seek employment at the district again. Fox News Digital reached out to the Oglethorpe County School District superintendent and SPLC for comment. PROFESSOR FIGHTING DISMISSAL FOR CALLING CHARLIE KIRK A 'NAZI' HANDED LEGAL WIN, FUELING FREE SPEECH DEBATE In a press release after the settlement, SPLC senior supervising attorney Sam Boyd said, "We are pleased to reach a mutually amicable settlement of this matter. As courts across the country have recognized in other cases involving firings over comments about Charlie Kirk, and many other topics, ‘public school employees, including teachers, have a constitutionally protected right to free speech.’" In the immediate days following Kirk's assassination at Utah Valley University, several teachers faced suspension and even termination for social media comments that justified or celebrated Kirk's death. Since then, some teachers have been reinstated following controversial statements or lawsuits. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4af502c2ca79de236443db How to watch USA vs Belgium: Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 te 2026-07-06T00:21:22.904Z How to watch USA vs Belgium: Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 Momentum is in full gear for Team USA following their win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. And what was originally a bittersweet ending in the San Francisco Bay Area due to the red card to striker Folarin Balogun has since changed thanks to FIFA’s announcement that the USMNT star will be able to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium on Monday night. Balogun’s controversial red card, which came in the 64th minute of the 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, changed the trajectory of the USMNT’s hopes to make a World Cup Final run. After all, Balogun has been the perfect striker for this squad since the start of the tournament, securing his third World Cup goal in the Round of 32. WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION However, Balogun will now be available for the U.S. in a stunning twist following the uproar over his red card. The Athletic, which first reported Balogun’s playing status on Sunday, noted that part of FIFA’s disciplinary code is "the judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure." "If the person benefiting from a suspended sanction commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked by the judicial body and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement," the rule added. FOX Sports also confirmed that Balogun would be able to play. The report noted that the play should not have been flagged to head referee Raphael Claus, who ultimately gave Balogun the red card after a VAR review. WATCH USA VS BELGIUM In turn, head coach Mauricio Pochettino will be able to run with his regular starting XI instead of having to figure out what to do about Balogun. On the other side, Belgium was 10 minutes plus stoppage time away from a shocker against Senegal in the Round of 32. Senegal owned a 2-0 lead late in the second half, but Belgium was able to force extra time with some clutch goals from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans. BELGIUM COMPLETES STUNNING WORLD CUP COMEBACK AGAINST SENEGAL TO SET UP POTENTIAL SHOWDOWN WITH USA In extra time, just before a penalty shootout appeared to be the only way to solve the deadlock, a foul was committed by Senegal in their own box, and Tielemans was awarded a penalty to decide the match. The veteran didn’t squander the opportunity, and Belgium kept their World Cup alive. Now, both these squads will meet in Seattle, which was an electric atmosphere for the USMNT’s victory over Australia in the group stage. It’s expected to be even more raucous, as the U.S. aims to do what only one team in its history had done prior – reach the quarterfinals. Here's how to watch the game, including start time, TV information and streaming options. When: Monday, July 6 at 8 p.m. ET Where : Seattle Stadium, Seattle, Washington TV: FOX Stream: Watch on FOX One and FOX Sports Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4af4efc2ca79de236443d2 Pilot declares mayday before seaplane comes down in New York City’s East River te 2026-07-06T00:21:03.456Z Pilot declares mayday before seaplane comes down in New York City’s East River Eight people were rescued after a seaplane made a hard landing in New York City's East River on Sunday afternoon, prompting a swift emergency response from firefighters after the aircraft came down near the city's only seaplane terminal, officials said. The New York City Fire Department told Fox News Digital it received a call at 12:01 p.m. reporting a plane in the water near the NY Skyport at East 23rd Street and FDR Drive in Manhattan. Fire crews arrived to find the seaplane upright in the water. FDNY units removed all eight people aboard before the aircraft was towed back to a nearby dock, the department said. Two civilians suffered minor injuries but declined medical attention at the scene, according to the FDNY. No additional injuries were immediately reported. FAA PROBES JFK NEAR MISS AFTER ANOTHER RECENT CLOSE CALL FUELS SCRUTINY OF AIR TRAFFIC SAFETY The Federal Aviation Administration identified the aircraft as a Kodiak 100 seaplane and told Fox News Digital the pilot made a hard landing in the East River at about noon local time, causing a wing strut to snap. The aircraft departed East Hampton Airport on Long Island and was headed to the Skyport seaplane terminal in Manhattan, according to The New York Times and CNN. WATCH: HARROWING FOOTAGE CAPTURES MOMENT UNITED FLIGHT'S LANDING GEAR STRIKES TRACTOR TRAILER The NY Skyport on Manhattan's East Side is New York City's only seaplane terminal, serving scheduled and charter flights to destinations throughout the Northeast. The FAA said eight people were aboard the aircraft, which is registered as N726SH. The agency said it is investigating the incident and noted the information released Sunday is preliminary and subject to change. Air traffic control recordings captured the moments surrounding the incident, including the pilot declaring a mayday before the aircraft came down in the river. Separate radio traffic captured a New York City Police Department helicopter responding to reports of a "plane down in the water." HELICOPTER REPORTS NEAR MISS WITH RC PLANE NEAR JFK AFTER JETBLUE DRONE STRIKE Authorities have not identified the pilot or passengers, and it was not immediately clear what led to the hard landing. Video from the scene showed first responders surrounding the aircraft as it floated upright in the East River while rescue crews worked to remove those aboard. Additional video showed the seaplane being towed back toward the dock after the rescue operation concluded. The incident prompted a large emergency response to the East River waterfront as FDNY marine units and other first responders converged on the area. The FAA directed questions regarding the people on board to local authorities. Fox News Digital has reached out to the New York City Police Department for additional information. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4af040c2ca79de23644345 Erling Haaland fires Norway past Brazil to end up in World Cup quarterfinals for first time in history te 2026-07-06T00:01:04.352Z Erling Haaland fires Norway past Brazil to end up in World Cup quarterfinals for first time in history The Viking row continues on at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and it’s the superstar Erling Haaland who every Norwegian can thank for that after another masterful performance Sunday against Brazil. Norway is moving on to its first-ever quarterfinals at the World Cup after Haaland scored twice in the 2-1 victory over Brazil, which heads home earlier than they likely expected. But this tournament has proven Haaland, no matter how many touches he gets on the ball, is just like Thanos: he’s inevitable. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Norway, which had grade-A chances throughout the match, as did Brazil including a key penalty shot very early on, found yet another in the box when a short cross came across the goal front. The Brazil defense lost track of Haaland for a split second, and that’s all the 6-foot-5 Norwegian needed to leap and flick his head onto the ball, which went past goalkeeper Allison for the go-ahead goal. It was the 79th minute of the match, and it felt like that was finally the decider in a back-and-forth bout between these two countries. KYLIAN MBAPPÉ'S SEVENTH GOAL OF THE WORLD CUP LIFTS FRANCE PAST PARAGUAY IN PHYSICAL ROUND OF 16 MATCH Both keepers, including Norway’s Ørjan Nyland, had a tremendous match. But Nyland’s save on a penalty kick by Bruno Guimarães in the 14th minute changed the trajectory of this match. Many wondered why Vini Jr., a superstar who had four goals in the World Cup before this match, handed the ball to Guimarães to take his first career penalty for Brazil. And they were justified considering the result. Brazil had other threats on Norway, including a dangerous cross of the boot of Gabriel Martinelli in the first half, but Nyland once again kept the door slammed shut with a 0-0 draw. Haaland’s breakthrough late in the second half turned Norway into a defensive-minded squad, while Brazil, which had subbed in Neymar Jr. to the delight of the sold-out crowd in New Jersey, was trying desperately to tie things up again. But leave it to the Manchester City superstar striker to find an opening and exploit it. Haaland sealed victory for Norway when he inched the ball forward with his left foot just outside Brazil’s box and fired a low strike to the right side past the sprawling Allison to make it 2-0 at the 90th minute. There was no pomp and circumstance by Haaland, though his teammates screamed and jumped on his back. This is what he does – score goals. He now has seven in this World Cup, tying him with France's Kylian Mbappé and Argentina's Lionel Messi as they contend for the Golden Boot Award as the top goalscorer in the tournament. Brazil was awarded another penalty shot shortly after Haaland’s second goal, which Neymar took this time. After he and Nyland were seen jawing back and forth, Neymar buried the attempt, which was ultimately a consolation goal. He and Nyland exchanged words again, but Norway was the only ones delighted when the whistle blew at New York/New Jersey Stadium. This is Norway’s first World Cup in 28 years, and they’ve done more than just represent their country well. They’ve taken down a five-time champion in Brazil to keep their title hopes alive, and Haaland continues to play a large role in making it happen for his squad. It’s why there was no other person to lead that Viking row in the stands after the match, as Haaland gleefully banged the drum to orchestrate one of the best celebrations this tournament has seen throughout a fantastic World Cup. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4aeb8ec2ca79de236442ad How a 93-year-old soccer referee credits wartime rations and discipline for his longevity te 2026-07-05T23:41:02.033Z How a 93-year-old soccer referee credits wartime rations and discipline for his longevity At 93, sprightly referee Frank Foster is still brandishing red and yellow cards and running the field three times a week for his local soccer association. Having taken charge of around 5,500 matches over a 46-year officiating career, the great-grandfather credits his longevity and match-day stamina to a lifetime of healthy habits and a foundational diet, news agency SWNS reported. Foster puts his remarkable fitness down to the strict wartime rations he was fed as a teenager, noting that it ensured he grew up eating "healthy food" rather than "sweets and cakes." FITNESS EXPERT REVEALS 6 PILLARS OF STRENGTH TRAINING THAT OLDER ADULTS SHOULD MASTER Decades later, his game-day preparation is still fueled by wholesome nutrition, always starting with a morning bowl of oatmeal, cereal or marmalade on toast to give him the energy to last the full 90 minutes. The meal keeps him active enough to referee men's, women's and children's games, a hobby he jokes he will never blow the final whistle on. His sharp mind and authoritative presence on the field are just as strong as his physical endurance. A military veteran who aced his referee exam in 1980 with a 98% score, Foster relies on old-school discipline to keep matches under control, SWNS reported. 7 COMMON FITNESS MISTAKES OLDER ADULTS MAKE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM FOR BETTER WORKOUTS He believes modern elite officials are too "soft" and allow player antics to ruin the sport. To maintain order and keep players from acting out, he lays down strict ground rules before kickoff. He has no patience for intimidation or theatrical diving. "Those who go down like they have been shot, well, I would just book them," he said.  He is equally uncompromising when squads try to crowd him on the field. "I wouldn't let them surround me at all," Foster told SWNS. CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES "I would say to the players, 'Stay where you are,' and 'If you move one more inch, I will give you a yellow card.' You need to stamp your authority and let them know who is in control." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER He also avoids the modern stress of video-reviewing plays, which he believes creates unnecessary "aggression and disappointment" over microscopic offside calls, adding, "I think it spoils the game." "Sometimes it is only the player's toe that is offside — it is ridiculous." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Foster says he "never thought" he’d still be doing this at age 93, but he makes the most of that gift. He keeps his kit freshly washed, making sure it is "neat and tidy" for when he gets on that field. Foster, of South Yorkshire, England, also scrubs his black Adidas boots after every game, making sure they are "nice and clean" for his next match. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4add7ec2ca79de23643f03 Ex-NFL Pro Bowler Marcellus Wiley arrested, charged with domestic battery during Fourth of July te 2026-07-05T22:41:02.899Z Ex-NFL Pro Bowler Marcellus Wiley arrested, charged with domestic battery during Fourth of July Marcellus Wiley, the former NFL Pro Bowler and sports broadcaster, was arrested on charges of domestic battery on Saturday. Wiley was arrested by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, which court records showed. He is currently being held without bond. There have been no additional details provided on Wiley’s arrest. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM This arrest of Wiley, 51, comes after a recent Rolling Stone article, which cited accusations of sexual assault by four women in April 2026. FOUR MORE WOMEN ACCUSE FORMER NFL PLAYER OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AMID EXISTING ALLEGATIONS: 'BLATANT LIES' Wiley was also previously sued by three women for allegedly raping them while at Columbia, where he played his college football. He denied those allegations on his "More To It with Marcellus Wiley" podcast, claiming to have evidence to prove what he called "alleged misrepresentations." Wiley had also called the allegations while at Columbia "B.S." Wiley’s wife is Annemarie Wiley, who used to star on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills." The Rolling Stone article notes two of the women who claim Wiley sexually assaulted them came between 1995-1999. There was another woman who claimed that Wiley groomed her since she was 13 years old during his time playing for the Buffalo Bills. Then, she claims that Wiley raped her when she was 18 in Dallas. She claims to have been flown out by Wiley as he was playing for the Cowboys, per Rolling Stone. "Marcellus Wiley raped me on my 18th birthday, after grooming me from the age of 13," the victim wrote, adding that he referred to her as ‘little momma.’ "If Columbia had properly pursued the complaints… I would never have been groomed and raped." Also, a woman who used to be a production assistant at ESPN – Wiley has worked as a broadcaster for ESPN and FOX Sports – alleged Wiley deceived her about joining him in a hotel room for a working meeting in 2009. But she claims h sexually assaulted her during that time. "The assault was devastating to me, and I will live with the effects to this day," the fourth woman wrote in a court filing, per Rolling Stone. Wiley was the 52nd overall pick of the 1997 NFL Draft out of Columbia, landing with the Bills where he would play for his first four NFL seasons. But Wiley earned his first and only Pro Bowl nod in 2001 with the San Diego Chargers, where he would star for three years. He also played with the Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars before his playing career came to an end after the 2006 season. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4adb25c2ca79de23643e92 WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield finds new tag partner in social media company focused on sports te 2026-07-05T22:31:01.550Z WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield finds new tag partner in social media company focused on sports WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) is throwing his hat into the social media ring after decades in pro wrestling and is doing so with BZZR. BZZR is one of the newest social media platforms to hit the internet vowing to unite sports fans and cut out the noise. The company has already bolstered its roster with famous names in pro wrestling, including MVP, Kayla Becker and Dwayne Swayze. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Layfield told Fox News Digital he decided to partner with BZZR after learning that his favorite baseball team, the Texas Rangers, were doing business with the company. "I got a good friend, I call him ‘Shooter’ (Chris) Dunn. He’s been with WWE before. He’s now with BZZR. BZZR seems like a great platform," he said. "I’m a huge Texas Rangers fan and the Rangers have partnered with BZZR. My grandfather was blind but before he passed away and for several years he used to listen to the Rangers on the radio every afternoon and every night and I’d go over and sit there with him. "I’m huge Ranger fan because of that and they’re working with BZZR so it kinda got my interest because the Texas Rangers are involved with them but it seems like such a wonderful platform so I’m glad to be involved." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Layfield said one feature spoke to him specifically – keeping the platform about sports only. BZZR calls itself "the world’s first streaming and social media platform built exclusively for sports without any nonsense or slop." "Isn’t that amazing? You actually go on something and you don’t expect anyone to tell you, ‘You suck’ or you ‘look stupid’ or you don’t know anything about anything. ‘Remember back in the 1930s there a big,’ No. I don’t actually remember because I have a life," he told Fox News Digital. "It’s unbelievable. I don’t know what you do with the social media but the one thing BZZR is doing, which is great, I think you have to have your name on there, you have to have your picture. The people that hide behind psyedonyms or can become keyword warriors – it gives people a voice that some should not have a voice. Some should but some should not." Layfield was the 20th Triple Crown champion in WWE history and 10th Grand Slam champion. He’s also appeared as a commentator for AAA Lucha Libre Worldwide. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ad6b3c2ca79de23643e0b Delta flight struck by fireworks while landing in Chicago on Fourth of July, FAA investigates te 2026-07-05T22:12:03.325Z Delta flight struck by fireworks while landing in Chicago on Fourth of July, FAA investigates A Delta Air Lines flight was struck by a fireworks mortar while descending into Chicago Midway International Airport on the Fourth of July, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Delta Flight 1076 landed safely at Midway around 8:30 p.m. local time Saturday after the crew reported that a fireworks mortar struck the aircraft shortly before landing, the FAA said in a statement. The flight departed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta at 7:51 p.m. ET and landed at Midway at 8:33 p.m. CT, a spokesperson for Delta Air Lines told Fox News Digital. HELICOPTER REPORTS NEAR MISS WITH RC PLANE NEAR JFK AFTER JETBLUE DRONE STRIKE The Airbus A319 was carrying 52 passengers and six crew members. No injuries were reported, Delta said. "The flight safely landed and taxied to the gate," a Delta spokesperson said. The crew did not declare an emergency, and the aircraft landed without incident, according to the airline. Delta said mechanics inspected the aircraft after it arrived at the gate and found no damage. FAA PROBES JFK NEAR MISS AFTER ANOTHER RECENT CLOSE CALL FUELS SCRUTINY OF AIR TRAFFIC SAFETY Chicago police told CBS Chicago the firework caused minor paint damage to the aircraft and that the plane was undergoing additional inspections to determine whether it sustained further damage. Delta, however, told Fox News Digital that mechanics found no damage during its post-flight inspection. The FAA said it will investigate the incident. It remains unclear where the fireworks were launched from or whether authorities have identified those responsible. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Chicago Department of Aviation and the Chicago Police Department for additional information. Delta said it will fully cooperate with the FAA and other authorities as they review what happened. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ad69fc2ca79de23643e02 Josh Shapiro warns Democrats face ‘battle over what we believe in’ after socialist’s upset primary victories te 2026-07-05T22:11:43.372Z Josh Shapiro warns Democrats face ‘battle over what we believe in’ after socialist’s upset primary victories Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a Sunday "State of the Union" interview that Democrats must confront a fight over the party's direction after New York Democratic socialist Darializa Avila Chevalier defeated Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., in their party's primary. "I think what our party has to go through that will be very healthy and something we’ve not really done since the 1992 election cycle is to have a battle over what we believe in," Shapiro said. "To have a battle over the ideas that we are going to hold on to and campaign on and then deliver on as a way to make people’s lives better." Shapiro was asked by CNN’s Dana Bash what message he took from Democratic voters in New York choosing three candidates backed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whom Bash described as "far left and Democratic socialist candidates." BILL MAHER'S DIRE MIDTERM ELECTION WARNING TO DEMS AFTER 'REALLY CRAZY' SOCIALISTS WIN PRIMARIES "Those were races in individual districts in a whole other state," Shapiro said. "I think you’re seeing very different-looking congressional races and certainly different Democratic candidates here in Pennsylvania." The Pennsylvania Democrat said candidates who generate activist enthusiasm will now have to show they can govern. "I think what is important are the people who are making a lot of noise, who are engaging in these performative politics, have to now figure out how to deliver results," Shapiro said. FETTERMAN UNLEASHES ON 'DIRTBAG' WING OF DEMS AFTER FAR-LEFT VICTORIES: 'ORGY OF SOCIALISM' Shapiro said campaign rhetoric was not enough for voters facing economic pressure, healthcare concerns and cost-of-living issues. "It’s one thing to speak in platitudes during a campaign," Shapiro said. "It’s a whole other thing to actually deliver for people who are genuinely hurting." When asked specifically about Chevalier, Shapiro said voters in her district made their choice but made clear he had little in common with her politics. MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALIST IN HOT SEAT AGAIN OVER DELETED POSTS PRAISING COMMUNISM, MARXISM: 'CRAZYPANTS' "Her district voted for her, but I have profound differences from that particular candidate," Shapiro said. "And she’s not someone who seemingly I would agree with on many things or that we share similar values." Chevalier defeated Espaillat, D-N.Y., after the Associated Press projected her the winner of the Democratic primary. With more than 86% of the expected vote counted, Chevalier had 49.4% of the vote to Espaillat's 45.9%, according to NY1. The district includes parts of Upper Manhattan, including Harlem, and parts of the Bronx. Chevalier, a Democratic Socialists of America member, was one of Mamdani's endorsed congressional candidates. Chevalier told supporters after her primary win that the result marked a political turning point for the district. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "I know that each of us are seeing what I’m seeing right now: a new dawn for this district," Avila Chevalier said, according to NY1. Her campaign website lists priorities including "Abolish ICE," "Babies, Not Bombs," "Medicare-for-all," "Housing for All," "Quality Education" and "Fighting Corporate Greed." Avila Chevalier has pushed back on criticism over past social media posts, saying the focus should be on the district’s future. "My opponent wants to live in the past," Avila Chevalier told CNN, according to The National News Desk. "I have grown considerably since in the years since these tweets, and I am focused on our community and our community’s future." Shapiro also said Democrats should focus on nominees who can turn campaign promises into results. "I think we, as a party, need to find our way toward candidates who actually can deliver for people and make their lives better," Shapiro said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ad68ac2ca79de23643ded Pa. House committee unanimously advances foster youth benefit bill te 2026-07-05T22:11:22.877Z Pa. House committee unanimously advances foster youth benefit bill A bipartisan bill to prevent state entities from intercepting foster youths’ Social Security benefits has advanced from the Children and Youth Committee and will soon go to a full House vote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ad676c2ca79de23643de4 County Attorney could get $15,000 boost for deferred prosecution program te 2026-07-05T22:11:02.917Z County Attorney could get $15,000 boost for deferred prosecution program There are criminal defendants in Mohave County who can benefit more from the county’s deferred prosecution program than incarceration. But that requires money and manpower, and the program is currently lacking both. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ad1c6c2ca79de23643d3e Country singer drops 70 pounds, sets new weight loss goal after years of breathlessness on stage te 2026-07-05T21:51:02.962Z Country singer drops 70 pounds, sets new weight loss goal after years of breathlessness on stage Nate Smith is a new man thanks to his weight loss journey. The country music star admitted he used to feel out of breath performing simple tasks, but losing more than 70 pounds has given him his life back. While attending the Sports Illustrated and Tight End University's Tight Ends & Friends Concert at The Pinnacle in Nashville last month, the "Bulletproof" singer told People magazine he has a new goal in mind. BILLY RAY CYRUS CHEATED DEATH DURING SEPSIS, VOCAL PARALYSIS BATTLE BEFORE STAGING MUSIC COMEBACK "I think I want to get under 200 lbs.," Smith said. "So I was like 275 lbs., somewhere in that world. But I want to get down to like 185 lbs. again." When asked what motivates the "Whiskey on You" singer to pursue a healthier lifestyle, Smith said he wanted to be able to perform at his best for his fans. LIONEL RICHIE REASSURES FANS HE IS 'DOING WELL' AFTER DIZZY SPELL FORCED CONCERT CANCELLATIONS "Keeping the energy on stage and making sure I do that, because I think that takes care of the fans," Smith noted before adding, "I just feel better. It's nice to be able to wear clothes that I like." While referring to his red carpet attire, Smith said, "This is a large. I've been double X for the last five or six years, so I'm feeling really good." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER The "World on Fire" musician boasted about the endless positive benefits from his change. "I don't sweat anymore, which is amazing," Smith said. "I used to be totally out of breath tying my shoes." LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS He added, "I can jump around a lot more." Following a medical scare in 2024, Smith began addressing health issues including overeating and drinking too much. Within a few months, the singer was already down nearly 50lbs. from simply reducing his daily caloric intake. "I still struggle with some binge eating," Smith also told the outlet at the time. "And if I want to have it, I'm going to have it. "But I want to find a way to make it a treat versus a lifestyle thing. If I decide I'm going to have mac and cheese, it's okay." He added, "I'm not even close to my goal. But I'm way happier where I'm at, and I feel like better about the way I look." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4acf44c2ca79de23643ccc Uber’s European expansion plans may have hit a speed bump te 2026-07-05T21:40:20.569Z Uber’s European expansion plans may have hit a speed bump Back in February, Uber announced ambitious plans to launch in seven new European markets in 2026 — but now five of those launches are reportedly on hold. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4accedc2ca79de23643c8d Shootings in Nine States Mar Fourth of July Celebrations te 2026-07-05T21:30:21.991Z Shootings in Nine States Mar Fourth of July Celebrations Shootings occurred across the country, including in New York, Florida, Texas, Illinois and Tennessee. More than 50 people were shot, and at least five people have died. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4acabec2ca79de23643c5f Lionel Richie reassures fans he is 'doing well' after dizzy spell forced concert cancellations te 2026-07-05T21:21:02.537Z Lionel Richie reassures fans he is 'doing well' after dizzy spell forced concert cancellations Lionel Richie thanked his fans for their support after suffering a health scare on stage which forced him to cancel a string of shows. Richie, 77, smiled widely and danced on stage in a carousel of concert images posted on Instagram over the weekend. "Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love," he wrote online. "I’m doing well, and I’m grateful for all of you. LIONEL RICHIE HOSPITALIZED AFTER OPENING NIGHT HEALTH SCARE TRIGGERS CONCERT CANCELLATIONS "Pittsburgh and Detroit were an absolute joy. The energy, the dancing, the faces in the crowd… we made real memories together." Richie added, "See you in Toronto... let’s party all night long!" Nearly one week ago, Richie was singing a less optimistic tune after he was forced to postpone shows from falling "dizzy" during his tour-opener in Minnesota. COUNTRY STAR RADNEY FOSTER CANCELS UPCOMING SHOWS AFTER SERIOUS INFECTION SENDS HIM TO THE ICU The United Center announced at the time that Richie's scheduled concerts in Chicago, and Columbus, Ohio, would no longer take place due to doctors' orders. APP USERS CLICK HERE TO VIEW POST  "Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his next two shows," the Instagram post read in part. "Lionel is heartbroken to postpone these two shows and cannot wait to be back performing for his fans." A St. Paul Fire Department public information officer confirmed to Fox News Digital last month that an individual was "transported from Grand Casino Arena late on June 24, 2026, to a local hospital by Saint Paul Fire-EMS." ROD STEWART CALLED 'TONE-DEAF' FOR ATTENDING WORLD CUP GAME A DAY CANCELING CONCERT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES No additional details about the nature of Richie's health scare have been released. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER The "American Idol" judge was nearly an hour into his concert at the Grand Casino Arena when fans noticed a change in Richie. While performing his upbeat classic "Dancing on the Ceiling," Richie paused and took a seat on a platform before later revealing to the crowd that he was feeling lightheaded, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune. "When you're feeling dizzy, sit your a-- down," he joked. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS In a fan video, Richie transitioned to the piano, where he delivered a seated performance of "Three Times a Lady." Shortly afterward, he stepped away for what audience members initially believed would be a brief intermission. Fans waited nearly 40 additional minutes before receiving an official update of the show cancellation, according to the outlet. Fox News Digital's Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ac868c2ca79de23643c01 Toddler declared dead after near-drowning was found alive in hospital morgue hours later, police say te 2026-07-05T21:11:04.868Z Toddler declared dead after near-drowning was found alive in hospital morgue hours later, police say Arizona police have recommended felony child abuse charges against the parents of an 18-month-old boy who investigators say nearly drowned after they admitted using marijuana and failed to properly supervise him during a Super Bowl party earlier this year. The child later drew national attention after he was mistakenly declared dead before being found alive hours later in a hospital morgue. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office is reviewing the Gilbert Police Department's recommendation that Vincent Fiordilino's parents face felony child abuse charges, according to AZFamily. No charges have been filed. Investigators say Vincent disappeared from his parents' view during the gathering before guests found him floating face down in a backyard swimming pool. According to a police report obtained by AZFamily, both parents later admitted to smoking marijuana during the party. The report alleges Vincent's fall into the pool went unnoticed because both parents were impaired by marijuana and/or other mind-altering substances. After Vincent was pulled from the water, first responders transported him to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, where a doctor pronounced him dead that evening, according to police. The case took an extraordinary turn hours later when medical personnel discovered the toddler was alive and breathing after he had already been transferred to the hospital's morgue around 7:23 p.m., according to police. Vincent was immediately airlifted to Phoenix Children's Hospital for treatment. MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER, RELEASED AFTER ALLEGEDLY FORCING TODDLER INTO CROCODILE ENCLOSURE AT ZOO The police report alleges responding officers and Vincent's parents questioned whether the toddler had actually died before he was pronounced dead, saying they believed he was still showing signs of life. Hospital staff reportedly told them Vincent was exhibiting agonal breathing, an involuntary reflex that can occur near death. According to the report, a nurse later reported detecting a pulse after the child had been pronounced dead. Detectives allege the physician who made the initial determination maintained his assessment was correct and instructed hospital staff to stop lifesaving measures despite concerns from Vincent's parents and responding officers that the toddler still appeared to be breathing. Police did not recommend criminal charges against the physician, according to AZFamily. EX-NFL PLAYER DOUG MARTIN'S FAMILY SUE OAKLAND POLICE, ALLEGE RESTRAINT ASPHYXIA IN FATAL MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS According to AZFamily, a Dignity Health spokesperson said the hospital conducted a review following the incident. "This is a heartbreaking situation. We immediately conducted a thorough review of all aspects of the care that was provided to learn what happened and to make meaningful changes to strengthen our care," the spokesperson said in a statement. "Out of respect for the patient's privacy, we cannot discuss details. We continue to work with the family and their representative. Patient safety and exceptional care is our highest priority." A GoFundMe campaign created for the family described Vincent as a "miracle baby" after he survived the ordeal. "Vincent was declared deceased," the fundraiser says. "His devastated parents were sent home in unimaginable grief. But God had other plans. A little after 11:30 p.m., the family received a call no one expected: the medical examiner had detected a faint heartbeat." According to the fundraiser, Vincent's kidneys, lungs and liver began shutting down after he arrived at Phoenix Children's Hospital. An MRI initially identified two small areas of potential brain damage, but later testing reportedly found no brain damage. The fundraiser says Vincent continues to require extensive therapy, ongoing medical monitoring and treatment as he recovers. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, Gilbert Police Department, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and Phoenix Children's Hospital for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ac3b3c2ca79de23643b4f Trump called FIFA president to review Folarin Balogun's red card ahead of USA-Belgium match, source says te 2026-07-05T20:50:59.356Z Trump called FIFA president to review Folarin Balogun's red card ahead of USA-Belgium match, source says President Donald Trump intervened in Folarin Balogun’s red card controversy in the World Cup, calling FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of the controversial decision in the Round of 32 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a source confirmed to Fox News. It’s unknown what exactly Trump said to Infantino, who the 45th and 47th president has called a "great leader in sports" and a friend. The USMNT striker, who has three goals in this World Cup including one prior to his red card in the Round of 32 match, has been cleared to play in a stunning twist of events. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The Athletic, which first reported Balogun’s playing status on Sunday, noted that part of FIFA’s disciplinary code stated, "the judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure." "If the person benefiting from a suspended sanction commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked by the judicial body and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement," the rule added. FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION FIFA confirmed Balogun’s suspension was for a probationary period of one year. "We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow," U.S. Soccer said. "Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans." Meanwhile, Belgium, which narrowly escaped Senegal in the Round of 32, was "astonished" by FIFA’s decision to allow Balogun the right to play on Monday night. The Royal Belgian Football Association said it will be " investigating all potential options" to reverse this decision on Balogun. Team USA manager Mauricio Pochettino and his staff were thinking about how to replace Balogun atop their formation, but now that has all changed, allowing them to run out their regular starting XI against a formidable Belgium squad. While the USMNT will hope to beat Belgium, and other opponents moving forward, Trump and Infantino will be together at New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19 for the World Cup Final. Just as they did last year at the FIFA Club World Cup Final, Trump will hand out the World Cup trophy to the winning team’s captain on the field, which Infantino said on " Fox & Friends." If the USMNT takes down Belgium on Monday night, they would just be the second team in the country’s history to reach the quarterfinals. They would also face the winner of Portugal and Spain if they can take care of Belgium first. Fox News’ Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ac39fc2ca79de23643b46 Belgium 'considering all possible options' after FIFA clears Team USA's Folarin Balogun te 2026-07-05T20:50:39.907Z Belgium 'considering all possible options' after FIFA clears Team USA's Folarin Balogun Belgium is crying foul after FIFA cleared USMNT star Folarin Balogun before Monday's World Cup Round of 16 showdown in Seattle. The Royal Belgian Football Association released a statement on the overturned suspension, saying they were "stunned by FIFA's decision to declare suspended American player Folarin Balogun eligible to play," arguing the ruling violates both the FIFA Disciplinary Code and World Cup regulations. The federation concluded by saying it is "considering all possible options" to protect "the legitimate rights of all participating teams and preserve the fundamental principles of fair play." FIFA MAKES FINAL RULING ON US SOCCER STAR FOLARIN BALOGUN'S CONTROVERSIAL RED CARD SUSPENSION FIFA, however, wasn't persuaded. "Pursuant to article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the application of the automatic suspension of American player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year," the FIFA Disciplinary Committee said in an official statement. The ruling means Balogun, who was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, is eligible to face Belgium on Monday night. USA WORLD CUP STAR CALLS LACK OF APPEAL PROCESS FOR TEAMMATE'S RED CARD 'BOGUS' President Trump celebrated the ruling on Truth Social, thanking FIFA "for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump also praised Balogun's reinstatement and predicted a strong performance from the Americans against Belgium. It's not hard to see why Belgium wanted Balogun sidelined. The American striker leads the United States with three goals this tournament. Balogun scored against Bosnia and Herzegovina before being shown a red card in the 64th minute after a VAR review upgraded the challenge. FORMER TEAM USA STAR WANTS TO SEE RED CARD RULE CHANGE AFTER FOLARIN BALOGUN CONTROVERSY The dismissal immediately sparked debate among fans and pundits, many of whom believed the punishment was overly harsh. The U.S. learned of FIFA's decision while arriving for Sunday morning training in the Seattle area. Belgium enters Monday's Round of 16 match ranked No. 9 in the FIFA World Rankings after handing the United States a 5-2 loss in a March friendly. But World Cup knockout soccer is a different animal. Come kickoff Monday night in Seattle, Balogun will be exactly where Belgium hoped he wouldn't be: on the field. "The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) is stunned by FIFA's decision to declare suspended American player Folarin Balogun eligible to play in the United States-Belgium match scheduled for Monday, July 6 at 5 p.m. (Seattle time). "FIFA bases its decision on article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This provision states that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee may decide to suspend the application of a previously imposed disciplinary sanction. "However, article 66.4 of the same FIFA Disciplinary Code clearly provides that a red card (sending-off) automatically results in a suspension for the team's next match, as has been the case for all red cards shown earlier during this FIFA World Cup. "Moreover, and independently of the above, this decision directly contradicts the provisions of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Regulations, as set out in article 10.5: "'If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution), he will be automatically suspended for his team's next match. In addition, further sanctions may be imposed.' "The automatic nature of such a suspension was also explicitly reaffirmed in FIFA World Cup 2026 circular no. 16, which was distributed to all participating member associations on May 12, 2026. "This rule is reiterated at every FIFA World Cup 2026 match coordination meeting before each game and appears in all workshop presentations dedicated to the FIFA World Cup 2026. "In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and preserve the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both during this FIFA World Cup and in future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is considering all possible options." Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ac15dc2ca79de23643af0 Trump's bold prediction for historic UFC White House fight revealed in new Fox Nation documentary te 2026-07-05T20:41:01.016Z Trump's bold prediction for historic UFC White House fight revealed in new Fox Nation documentary The UFC Freedom 250 event made history as the first professional sporting event held on the White House lawn. Now for the first time, mixed martial arts fans can uncover how the Trump administration and event organizers helped put on the star-studded event. "UFC Fight House: The Making of the Biggest Fight in History" is a two-part documentary now streaming on Fox Nation. The episodic event details the intense planning and logistics behind how the White House pulled off hosting the big fight, including the construction of 'the Claw,' which held seating for thousands of attendees. New, exclusive commentary features UFC President and CEO Dana White and President Donald Trump, alongside many of his prominent allies. White compared the idea of the event to a Hollywood film, reflecting on the significance of what he and his team pulled off. TRUMP SHOWS RENDERINGS FOR UFC WHITE HOUSE EVENT: 'GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH' "You just couldn't write a better script than this," White said. "If you scripted this out like a movie, this is a documentary of what really happened. If this were a script of a movie, you'd call bullsh-- on a hundred things that happened; it's pretty amazing. You could never imagine that this would happen. You could never imagine that we would be asked to do an event at the White House." "When President Trump tells you, 'Let's do something,' and you agree to it, now we have to deliver," he continued. "There isn't anything we can't do. You saw the idea of what we wanted to do. Now this is the reality." Nine long months was what it took to host the premier sporting event of America's 250th anniversary. But Trump said in the documentary that the UFC Freedom 250's legacy could last much longer than just one of many Independence Days. FEDERAL LAWSUIT SEEKS TO BLOCK UFC FREEDOM 250 FROM BEING HELD ON THE WHITE HOUSE SOUTH LAWN "I think this is going to go down as one of the greatest sporting events and maybe one of the greatest events ever," he said. The UFC Freedom 250's viewership numbers seemed to match the organizers' lofty ambitions. UFC announced its total global viewership for the event was an estimated 34 million people, making it one of the most-watched events in the sport's history. Paramount+ reported that 17 million viewers alone watched the event on their platform across the United States and Latin America, solidifying the event as a groundbreaking success. White revealed his more personal reasons for holding the UFC event at the White House, citing the country's history of fighting dating all the way back to the Revolutionary War. "Americans have been fighting since day one, since the birth of America," White said. "We fought to get independence and to build this country. It started with a fight. So to have a fight on the White House lawn on the 250th birthday of America, no other sport would make sense." TRUMP MARKS 80TH BIRTHDAY WITH PATRIOTIC UFC FREEDOM 250 SPECTACLE ON WHITE HOUSE SOUTH LAWN Fox Nation also takes viewers inside the mind of UFC executive producer Craig Borsari, the "architect" of the Freedom 250's production. Borsari in the documentary is seen at one point calmly sipping his morning coffee but clarified that outside those peaceful moments, preparing for the massive White House event was a constant rush of energy. "When I'm enjoying my cup of coffee, the rest of my day is anything but that," he said. "When you plan for an event of this magnitude, you kind of get that adrenaline rush. You want the adrenaline; you want that nervous kind of tension a little bit because it keeps you sharp. It keeps the team seeking out all the opportunities to make this event an incredible one." CLICK HERE TO JOIN FOX NATION Fox Nation programs are viewable on demand and from your mobile device app but only for FOX Nation subscribers. Go to Fox Nation to start a free trial and watch the extensive library from your favorite FOX Nation personalities. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ac149c2ca79de23643ae7 Paige Spiranac insists 'great cans' aren't AI after Fourth of July post called into question te 2026-07-05T20:40:41.565Z Paige Spiranac insists 'great cans' aren't AI after Fourth of July post called into question When the Fourth of July rolls around, you can count on Paige Spiranac to deliver. Whether it's showing hot dogs who's boss or slipping into patriotic swimwear of various styles, she's there. This year she kept the tradition going and it shouldn’t surprise anyone. She's built an entire social media brand on her consistency, her authenticity, and her creativity. Her "Happy 4th of July!" message arrived as expected Saturday afternoon. What wasn't expected is that the image's authenticity would be called into question. NELLY KORDA ROCKS USA SOCCER JERSEY ON COURSE AT US WOMEN'S OPEN, DELIVERS PATRIOTIC MESSAGE That transpired shortly after Paige posted it. Doubt crept into the mind of at least one person who called out the golf influencer for using AI. The image included in the Fourth of July post features her wearing a patriotic bikini while standing in front of a background that isn't real. "Paige you’re better than AI!," the person questioning the image wrote. "Still, great cans." ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! The image, according to Paige, isn’t the product of AI and those cans featured in the string bikini are all hers. What people are seeing is the magic of a calendar photo shoot and the work of a graphic designer. "Not AI. This image was from my 2026 calendar," Paige responded. "We shot it in studio and then a graphic designer made the background." The explanation was good enough to erase any doubt from the mind of the person who had made the AI claim. They replied, "Forgive me!! You look spectacular!!!!" EPIC GOLF TRIP, GERMAN SOCCER FAN FREDDY STUNNED BY SMALL-TOWN OHIO IN CUP TRAVELS, SOFIA VERGARA STOPS & MEAT Still there are those who aren't going to buy it. Paige isn’t worried about them. She addressed it and moved on. She has golf content to make and more important concerns to address than what people believe is AI and what they believe isn't. It's always something. Before AI, it was filters and Photoshop. Some people choose to be miserable. For everyone else, happy Fourth of July from Paige Spiranac. Mark your calendars and we'll do it again next year. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4abeddc2ca79de23643a7b Trump memecoin investors lost $3.8 billion, analysis finds te 2026-07-05T20:30:21.242Z Trump memecoin investors lost $3.8 billion, analysis finds Nearly 1 million people have lost a total of $3.8 billion after buying President Donald Trump’s $TRUMP memecoin, while Trump made $636 million. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4abc98c2ca79de23643a45 Burgum clashes with CNN host, blasts media for questioning vandalism of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool te 2026-07-05T20:20:40.534Z Burgum clashes with CNN host, blasts media for questioning vandalism of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Interior Secretary Doug Burgum clashed with CNN's Dana Bash on Sunday over damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., saying officials can prove vandals cut the newly installed liner after she questioned whether the Trump administration’s renovation work had failed ahead of the Fourth of July celebration. Bash asked Burgum whether he was "100% sure" vandalism caused the damage and whether he could prove it. "Absolutely you can," Burgum said. "And as we drain it, we’ve got all the photographs we can see." FORMER US OLYMPIAN DAVID HEARN INDICTED IN ALLEGED REFLECTING POOL VANDALISM Bash pressed Burgum on whether officials had photographs of "a person or people cutting a 300 or 350 ft gash" in the bottom of the pool. "Dana, I’m not sure why you and others in the media think that you want to keep trying to question… this is an industrial liner," Burgum said. Burgum said the material installed in the pool was not paint, comparing it to the sprayed-on liner used in pickup truck beds. "Every farmer and rancher in America that’s had their pickup liner lined by this sprayed-on liner knows that you literally, literally, it would never just like peel off or fall off," Burgum said. "This is like a strong material, and it’s the size of eight football fields." TRUMP ANNOUNCES MAJOR NEW LANDMARK PROJECT IN DC'S WEST POTOMAC PARK HONORING AMERICA'S GREATEST HEROES Burgum said the pattern of the damage showed it had been deliberately cut. "The only way you can end up with actual slices in one spot and not the other is that someone physically cut it," Burgum said. The secretary said the pool itself had been fixed after leaking tens of thousands of gallons of water per day. "The pool itself, it’s not leaking," Burgum said. "It was leaking 45,000 gallons a day. It’s finally been fixed by President Trump and the American flag blue is working perfectly." JULY 4 HEAT DELAYS AMERICA 250 CELEBRATION AS STATE FAIR GUESTS SHARE LOVE OF USA Burgum said the broader issue was the condition of the nation’s capital before the renovation work. "The real scandal is about the fact that the state of our capital was in such total disrepair," Burgum said. "No one was reporting about the pro-Hamas graffiti." Bash noted that the Reflecting Pool was closed during the Fourth of July celebration. "It was closed because it’s surrounded by fireworks," Burgum said. "It’s closed every year on the Fourth of July." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Burgum said the fencing around the pool was tied to the fireworks display and would come down afterward. "You can’t have people around fireworks when they’re being set up," Burgum said. "The fence was there because of the fireworks." Bash also asked whether President Donald Trump’s motorcade could have damaged the coating when it crossed the pool in May. "No," Burgum said. "He didn’t take the Beast. We were driving in a… Cadillac Escalade." Burgum said the administration would use the same company to repair the damage rather than seek new bids. "We’ll use the same company because they did a fantastic job," Burgum said. "Thankfully, the vandalism was small. It was bad. I mean it could cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair." The Associated Press reported Sunday that Burgum said the pool would have to be at least partially drained in the coming week and that repairs would not be opened to new contractors. The report claimed Green Water Solutions received a $1.7 million contract for a water-purification system, while Atlantic Industrial Coatings received a $14.7 million contract to repaint and waterproof the pool’s concrete floor. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ab5a3c2ca79de2364395b Rob Reiner's final role draws fierce criticism 6 months after legendary director's tragic death te 2026-07-05T19:50:59.795Z Rob Reiner's final role draws fierce criticism 6 months after legendary director's tragic death Rob Reiner's final on-screen appearance in Larry David's latest HBO comedy provoked online criticism. A once vocal critic of the current administration, the late director's surprise cameo in "Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness: An Almost History of America," was considered Reiner's "last laugh" against President Donald Trump, director Jeff Schaffer told Variety. "It’s coming out on Fourth of July weekend, and if it in any way spoils a sad octogenarian’s weekend, then oh well," Schaffer told the outlet. Social media users quickly criticized the posthumous cameo and its political framing nearly six months after Rob and wife Michele Reiner were found dead inside their Brentwood home. HOLLYWOOD CELEBRITIES CRASH AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY WITH A GRIM HOLIDAY WARNING ABOUT TRUMP "Pretty sure Reiner would have preferred to be alive instead of getting the 'last laugh' here," one user wrote, while another quipped: "I'm going to go ahead and say that he definitively did not get the last laugh." ROB REINER'S SON NICK FIGHTS FOR $1.5M TRUST FUND ACCESS TO BANKROLL HIGH-POWERED MURDER TRIAL DEFENSE "Sorry but if your son stabs you and your wife to death there are no 'last laughs,'" another user wrote. "That’s basically as bad a thing as could possibly happen. I know we’re 11 years into this now and you haven’t figured it out yet but you really don’t need to do this stuff anymore." Another X user noted, "The man and his wife were murdered by their son. He spent his last years on our planet obsessing over Trump and believing every media lie he was told. There isn’t a last laugh to be had. It was a tragic end."\ While portraying George Washington in the historical comedy, Reiner declares he will not seek a third term in office and proposes Congress pursue a constitutional amendment prohibiting presidential power. David, dressed in colonial attire, asked, "Well, what if there’s some a----le in office, some narcissistic p---k who doesn’t follow the Constitution?" NICK REINER LOSING POWERHOUSE DEFENSE ATTORNEY MAY COME DOWN TO MONEY, EXPERTS SAY Reiner stressed the importance of a peaceful transfer of power before David interjects, "He could use the presidency to enrich himself and his family. He could send troops into American cities to terrorize and even kill American citizens, all to distract from the fact that he’s friends with a pedophile!" Fellow Trump antagonist Jimmy Kimmel made a surprise appearance and offered, "Are you suggesting that the president would taketh the time to challenge anyone who dare make fun of him? As if he were a big baby?" As the colonists argue among themselves, Reiner notes, "We're f---ed" before an In Memoriam card honored the late "Princess Bride" director. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER The sketch was reportedly filmed on Nov. 13, nearly one month before Reiner's son, Nick Reiner, allegedly killed his parents. Los Angeles Fire Department officials responded to a Brentwood-area home at around 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 14, where two bodies were discovered. Officials later confirmed the bodies to be of Rob and his wife, Michele. Nick quickly became a person of interest and was taken into custody the night of Dec. 14. He was formally charged two days later with two counts of first-degree murder with a special circumstance of multiple murders. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Nick pleaded not guilty during his Feb. 23 arraignment. A spokesperson for the Reiner family told Fox News Digital, "They have the utmost trust in the legal process and will not comment further on matters related to the legal proceedings." Last month, Nick demanded access to his $1.5 million trust fund after he was allegedly blocked from a massive payout that would have funded his decision to hire top-notch celebrity attorney Alan Jackson. According to court documents obtained by Fox News Digital, the trustee's alleged refusal to release money forced Nick into using a court-appointed public defender despite Jackson's firm already devoting substantial resources to his defense. Nick is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty after being charged with two counts of first-degree murder. White House representatives did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment about Reiner's cameo. Fox News Digital's Lauryn Overhultz contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ab57cc2ca79de23643940 Trump Asked FIFA to Review Balogun’s Suspension. He Is Now Eligible to Play. te 2026-07-05T19:50:20.887Z Trump Asked FIFA to Review Balogun’s Suspension. He Is Now Eligible to Play. The reversal is highly unusual and the first time since 1962 that FIFA has allowed a player to appear in a game when they would have been suspended. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ab34ec2ca79de236438fb 'Supergirl' suffers catastrophic 73% drop in, gets obliterated at box office by patriotic 'Young Washington' te 2026-07-05T19:41:02.270Z 'Supergirl' suffers catastrophic 73% drop in, gets obliterated at box office by patriotic 'Young Washington' James Gunn was supposed to revamp and revitalize DC Studios at Warner Bros. The director of "Guardians of the Galaxy" would, in theory, bring the type of overarching creative vision that Kevin Feige had so successfully demonstrated at Marvel Studios. Two movies into Gunn's vision of DC Studios, it's safe to say that this reboot has been an unmitigated failure. The 2025 edition of "Superman" was, at best, a moderate success. While hardly the type of franchise-changing success the studio and Gunn hoped for, box office results and reviews were acceptable, if not a bit underwhelming. Thanks in some part to Gunn's bewildering decision to tell audiences that the film was about politics, calling the Superman character an "immigrant." 'SUPERGIRL' PRE-RELEASE TRACKING LOOKS DISASTROUSLY BAD FOR HOLLYWOOD AFTER LEAD ACTRESS' BIZARRE COMMENTS But the real test for Gunn's reboot and the power of the DC Studios brand was the follow-up film, "Supergirl," starring Milly Alcock. And boy has it failed the test. Alcock spent most of the press campaign making herself as unlikeable as possible, insulting potential moviegoers, bizarrely claiming that audiences felt "ownership" of her body, then doubling down after the inevitable backlash. The trailers looked awful, with a predictably sloppy anti-hero feel, atrocious visual effects, and an uninteresting plot and villain. Still, as recently as May, hopes were that "Supergirl" could make as much as $65 million in its opening weekend. In actuality? It made just over $37 million. NEW STREAMING DATA PAINTS SHOCKINGLY GRIM PICTURE FOR DISNEY'S AWFUL "STAR WARS" SEQUELS With an estimated production budget of around $175 million, and a massive marketing campaign that likely cost Warner Bros. at least $100 million, the film needed to reach at least $450-500 million globally to break even. That opening weekend, and an anemic international debut, meant it was tracking towards a significant loss. The only hope? That positive word of mouth would overcome the apathy towards the film's plot and the off-putting remarks from Alcock. Well, we now have the second weekend box office data, and not only did word of mouth not help "Supergirl," it may have destroyed it. Friday grosses dropped an astonishing 80.4% from opening day on June 26 to just $3.6 million. Saturday estimates are for just $2.6 million, another 77% drop, despite the Independence Day holiday. All told, it's a remarkable 74% drop from the first weekend to the second. Total domestic gross for "Supergirl" now sits at just $58.4 million. On a $275 million production, from a major studio, with a massive marketing campaign, and the creative backing of James Gunn. If the third weekend has a similar fall, grosses would plummet to just $2.49 million. For an entire weekend. A film that needed to make $200 million+ at US theaters to break even may not even reach $80 million. And considering the woeful international numbers, it's going to cost Warner Bros. hundreds of millions in losses. For context, "Young Washington," a patriotic film about George Washington's early life and military service from Angel Studios, carried just a $20 million budget. It made an estimated $21 million in its first weekend, per tracking site The Numbers. Playing in just 2,700 theaters, that's a $7,721 per theater average. "Supergirl?" Just $2,665. That's what happens when your star insults moviegoers or goes off on tangents about the characters's sexuality. Unsurprisingly, "Young Washington" has received middling reviews from critics, but has an exceptional 92% positive audience score. With word of mouth that positive, could "Young Washington," a little-known, barely marketed film with a low budget, outgross "Supergirl" at the domestic box office when all is said and done? CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM If Hollywood had a shred of intelligence, awareness, and objectivity, it would realize the message they're getting. Nobody wanted a "Supergirl" movie, particularly not the one they made. Women weren't interested, as is typically the case with superhero films, and men were either put off by Alcock's divisive comments, or apathetic after seeing the underwhelming trailers. Meanwhile, "Young Washington" has been a tremendous success, because outside of the powerful progressive echo chamber in the entertainment industry, there is still an enormous appetite for stories about the United States, its founding, and prominent historical figures. Lazy, uninteresting stories made by people who obviously despise their audiences is a recipe for disaster. That's exactly what "Supergirl" is, a disaster. All while the polar opposite film is tracking towards being a massive financial success. Gunn started his tenure at DC off with an unforced error, then backed it up by losing his studio as much as $200 million on a vanity project. Between Star Wars and DC, it's hard to believe that two massive franchises are in such dire straits. But that's modern Hollywood for you. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4ab327c2ca79de236438e0 Trump Asked FIFA to Review Balogun’s Suspension. He Is Now Eligible to Play. te 2026-07-05T19:40:23.365Z Trump Asked FIFA to Review Balogun’s Suspension. He Is Now Eligible to Play. The reversal is highly unusual and the first time since 1962 that FIFA has allowed a player to appear in a game when they would have been suspended. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4aae89c2ca79de2364385e Michigan Democrat Mallory McMorrow drops out of Senate race weeks before primary te 2026-07-05T19:20:41.101Z Michigan Democrat Mallory McMorrow drops out of Senate race weeks before primary Mallory McMorrow announced Sunday that she is suspending her campaign for the U.S. Senate. The Michigan state senator's decision leaves the Democratic primary as a two-way race between Rep. Haley Stevens and former Wayne County Health Department Director Abdul El-Sayed.  McMorrow's name will remain on the ballot for the Aug. 4 primary as ballots have already been printed and distributed to absentee voters, according to Bridge Michigan. In a video posted on X announcing her decision, McMorrow did not provide a specific reason for ending her campaign. She instead thanked her staff and supporters for helping build what she described as a campaign powered by small-dollar donations and no corporate PAC money. MICHIGAN SENATE CANDIDATE ABDUL EL-SAYED TAKES HEAT FOR KHAMENEI COMMENTS, HASAN PIKER EVENT McMorrow also pledged to fully support whichever Democrat wins the Aug. 4 primary and will likely face Mike Rogers in November, in what is expected to be one of the nation's most competitive Senate races. "So here's what we do next. Every day through November 3rd. We win this Senate seat and send Mike Rogers back to Florida for good," she said. "Whoever wins this primary on August 4th will have my full support." MICHIGAN DEMOCRATIC SENATE CANDIDATE CLAIMS ISRAEL 'JUST AS EVIL' AS HAMAS Following McMorrow's announcement, Stevens praised her fellow Democrat by calling her an "important voice" for policies that benefit Michigan families.  Stevens then argued that she is the strongest Democratic candidate to win the primary and defeat Rogers in November.  "As we enter the final month of the primary election, I'm excited to continue to make my case to Michiganders why I'm the strongest Democrat to defeat Mike Rogers this November, lower costs, protect manufacturing jobs, and stand up to Trump's abuses of power." MAMDANI-BACKED SOCIALISTS LOOK TO TAKE NEW YORK PLAYBOOK NATIONWIDE AFTER PRIMARY VICTORIES In his statement, El-Sayed praised McMorrow for having the "courage" to challenge what he described as a rigged political system, accusing Democratic Party insiders of spending millions to influence the primary. While he did not name specific groups, the remarks appeared to reference corporate PACs and party leaders such as Chuck Schumer, who has endorsed Stevens.  He then invited McMorrow’s supporters to join his progressive movement to combat big money in politics and defeat the political establishment.  "Throughout this campaign, Senator McMorrow showed what it looks like to fight back against politics that rigs the system against too many of us. While we have policy disagreements, I never questioned whether Senator McMorrow would fight for a better America for my daughters and hers," he said.  "The same party insiders she had the courage to challenge have been bullying anyone who opposes their chosen candidate. After spending $30 million to drown Senator McMorrow and me out, they’re now spending even more to attack me. It’s everything we are standing up against." "I welcome her supporters to our movement to stand up against money in politics, to put money back in pockets, and pass Medicare for All. We cannot allow the establishment to decide our nominee for us." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4aa796c2ca79de23643779 NYPD detective, children shot in separate Brooklyn shootings over holiday weekend te 2026-07-05T18:51:02.739Z NYPD detective, children shot in separate Brooklyn shootings over holiday weekend A New York City police detective and four children were among those wounded in separate Brooklyn shootings over a violent Fourth of July holiday weekend. New York Police Department Detective Robert Karroll of the Sex Offender Monitoring Unit was shot in the back of his ballistic vest during an encounter with an armed 18-year-old in Crown Heights early Sunday morning, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed at a news conference hours later. Karroll was taken to Kings County Hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. A second officer suffered contusions to the face and shoulder during the incident. Detectives' Endowment Association President Scott Munro denounced the spate of violence. AMERICA'S WOUNDED COPS FIND HOPE, HEALING AND SECOND CHANCE THROUGH OFFICERS WHO REFUSE TO LEAVE THEM BEHIND "This has to stop," he said at a Sunday morning news conference. "Three weeks ago we had a detective shot – in the same hospital. This has the stop. Our members are out there day and night hours and hours protecting the people of the city of New York doing a job that they took an oath to take and they need to be respected and thank God this detective is going home." He sighed relief that "we're not planning a funeral today." Tisch said officers assigned to a mobile field force detail were parked in an unmarked police vehicle near Nostrand Avenue and St. Johns Place around 4:14 a.m. ET when a person approached the car. "Given the lack of body-worn camera in this incident, the circumstances of the approach are still unclear," Tisch said, adding the shooting happened "quickly and unexpectedly." MAMDANI WALKS BACK PLAN TO INCREASE NYPD HEADCOUNT FOLLOWING DSA PRESSURE That shooting came hours after four children were injured in Coney Island, where at least eight people were shot. The victims included two men, two women and four children, ages 14, 12, 7 and 6. All were taken to hospitals. Seven were listed in stable condition, while a 21-year-old woman was in critical condition, police said. In the shooting of the officers, Tisch said officers got out of the vehicle and tried to engage the armed suspect before three officers fired their weapons. The suspect was not struck, she said. The police vehicle had ballistic damage, including bullet holes in the front and rear windshields and on the passenger side. FEDS DISMANTLE ALLEGED GUN TRAFFICKING RING THAT FUNNELED DOZENS OF FIREARMS FROM GEORGIA TO CHICAGO GANGS After a foot chase, the suspect was apprehended several blocks away near Rogers Avenue and Union Street. Tisch said he resisted arrest and refused to be handcuffed before officers deployed a taser and took him into custody. A SAR 9mm firearm was recovered. "I'm relieved that the officer, Detective Robert Karroll, was wearing a bulletproof vest and was not seriously injured as a result of it," New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said at the news conference, relieved at the survival of "a husband and father of three children." Tisch said the officers had been reassigned to the area shortly before midnight as part of the department’s Fourth of July violence reduction plan targeting ongoing crew violence. Investigators were canvassing nearby businesses for surveillance footage because there was no body-camera video of the shooting itself. Reuters contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4aa540c2ca79de23643727 How a 93-year-old soccer referee credits war time rations and discipline for his longevity te 2026-07-05T18:41:04.048Z How a 93-year-old soccer referee credits war time rations and discipline for his longevity At 93, sprightly referee Frank Foster is still brandishing red and yellow cards and running the field three times a week for his local soccer association. Having taken charge of around 5,500 matches over a 46-year officiating career, SWNS reported that the great-grandfather credits his longevity and match-day stamina to a lifetime of healthy habits and a foundational diet. Foster puts his incredible fitness down to the strict wartime rations he was fed as a teenager, noting that it ensured he grew up eating "healthy food" rather than "sweets and cakes." FITNESS EXPERT REVEALS 6 PILLARS OF STRENGTH TRAINING THAT OLDER ADULTS SHOULD MASTER Decades later, his game-day preparation is still fueled by wholesome nutrition, always starting with a morning bowl of oatmeal, cereal, or marmalade on toast to give him the energy to last the full ninety minutes. The meal keeps him active enough to referee men's, women's, and children's games, a hobby he jokes he will never blow the final whistle on. His sharp mind and authoritative presence on the field are just as strong as his physical endurance. A former military veteran who aced his referee exam in 1980 with a 98 percent score, Foster relies on old-school discipline to keep matches under control. 7 COMMON FITNESS MISTAKES OLDER ADULTS MAKE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM FOR BETTER WORKOUTS He believes modern elite officials are too "soft" and allow player antics to ruin the sport. To maintain order and keep players from acting out, he lays down strict ground rules before kickoff. He has no patience for intimidation or theatrical diving, stating, "Those who go down like they have been shot, well I would just book them." He is equally uncompromising when squads try to crowd him on the field. "I wouldn't let them surround me at all," Foster told SWNS. CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES "I would say to the players 'stay where you are' and 'if you move one more inch, I will give you a yellow card'. You need to stamp your authority and let them know who is in control." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER He also avoids the modern stress of video reviewing plays, which he believes creates unnecessary "aggression and disappointment" over microscopic offside calls, adding, "I think it spoils the game." "Sometimes it is only the player's toe which is offside — it is ridiculous." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Foster says he "never thought" he’d still be doing this at 93, but he makes the most of that gift. He keeps his kit freshly washed, making sure it is "neat and tidy" for when he gets on that field. Foster also scrubs his black Adidas boots after every game making sure there are "nice and clean" for his next match. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9e4ac2ca79de23643611 Trump shares news of 'crystal clear' Reflecting Pool, calls for vandalism suspect's arrest te 2026-07-05T18:11:22.024Z Trump shares news of 'crystal clear' Reflecting Pool, calls for vandalism suspect's arrest President Donald Trump and his Interior Department are declaring an America 250 victory over algae in the Lincoln Reflecting Pool. Trump shared photos on Truth Social on Sunday showing the pool and the reflection of the Washington Monument appearing clear and blue, and made a call out with a "Wanted" poster for vandals. "The U.S. Park Police is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the individual in the notice below in connection with a Destruction of Government Property investigation related to the Reflecting Pool," Trump wrote Sunday on Truth Social. Trump also shared an Interior Department statement crediting "advanced nanobubbler technology" and National Park Service cleanup work. FORMER US OLYMPIAN DAVID HEARN INDICTED IN ALLEGED REFLECTING POOL VANDALISM "The advanced nanobubbler technology very effectively killed the algae that has plagued every Lincoln Reflecting Pool reopening — most infamously Obama’s reopening — since 1922," Dei Gratia Minerals founder Greg Wischer, Interior’s deputy assistant secretary for land and minerals management, wrote in a letter shared with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Trump. "The Reflecting Pool water is crystal clear, and our National Park Service team is now vacuuming up the dead algae resting on the bottom of some parts of the Reflecting Pool — just like the destroyed Iranian Navy resting on the bottom of the Persian Gulf." The photos shared by Trump show the Reflecting Pool stretching toward the Washington Monument under blue skies. One image appears to show the pool from the Lincoln Memorial end, while a second closer view shows the Washington Monument reflected in the water. Trump also shared a U.S. Interior Press social media post hailing the technological success, quoting that Wischer memo. YOSEMITE, GRAND CANYON LEAD NOTABLE LIST OF NATIONAL PARK CAMPGROUNDS FOR AMERICA'S 250TH "The vacuuming is the final maintenance step after refilling the pool, and it will be complete in a few days," his memo continued. "Already, the section of the Reflecting Pool closest to the Lincoln Memorial has been vacuumed up, and the beautiful American Flag Blue coating on the bottom of the pool can be seen clearly." Trump's Interior Department has praised the technology for overcoming past challenges on keeping the pool clear, including dunking on former President Barack Obama. "Previous administrations — most notably under Obama — failed to maintain the Reflecting Pool, and after refilling the pool, the water would quickly become murky and thick with massive clumps of algae floating on the surface," the memo concluded. INTERNAL EMAILS EXPOSE HOW JULY 4TH BASH IS BEING DERAILED BY DEM-RUN COUNTY: 'OFFENSIVE' "The photos below show how the nanobubbler technology and vacuuming have been incredibly effective, making the water crystal clear with the American Flag Blue coating shining brightly on the bottom of the pool. "As our National Park Service team noted, the Reflecting Pool is now so 'blue' that the Fake News Media, which has been staked out at the Reflecting Pool for weeks, has fled!" The 6.75 million-gallon pool has been targeted by Trump critics and leftist anti-Trump activists for attacks both verbally and physical, Burgum discussed with ABC's "This Week" on Sunday. "The Reflecting Pool has been a big success," he said. "And we've got 340 million people in this country that are celebrating 250. We did have a few vandals, but all that's going to be repairable, and that'll all be fixed in the coming weeks as we go forward." Burgum now believes that the pool might not require a full draining after its "multiple gashes that add up to 350 feet," he added. "We don’t know if we need to drain the whole thing or not because, you know, the cutting happened on the edge, and, of course, it slopes from the edge," according to Burgum. "We may be able to partially drain it and do the repair. To be able to fix it, we may not have to drain the whole thing, but it could go very quickly." While the media and Trump critics are pointing to added costs of the reflecting pool refurbishment, Burgum pointed to the vandalism causing that. "We weren’t expecting that we were going to have a small group of people that wanted to try to destroy effectively what is part of the Lincoln Memorial," Burgum told ABC. "There’s plenty of cameras around the Lincoln statue and around the memorial, but the Reflecting Pool had gone for, you know, decades without vandalism." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9e36c2ca79de23643608 99-year-old WWII veteran awarded Purple Heart after waiting more than 80 years te 2026-07-05T18:11:02.589Z 99-year-old WWII veteran awarded Purple Heart after waiting more than 80 years A Kentucky World War II veteran wounded fighting Nazi Germany has finally received one of the nation's most solemn military honors after waiting more than eight decades. For 81 years, Glenn Fisher lived without the Purple Heart he believed he earned on a World War II battlefield. On Wednesday, the 99-year-old Army veteran finally received it. "I've been so excited, I haven't been able to sleep at night thinking about what a wonderful thing is happening," Fisher said during Wednesday's ceremony at Louisville's Frazier History Museum. "Sometimes I'd wake up and say, 'now, is this really true?' And it is, it's really true." The Purple Heart, awarded to U.S. service members wounded or killed by enemy action, comes just months before Fisher's 100th birthday and follows years of unsuccessful efforts to have his wartime injuries formally recognized. ‘NOBODY SHOULD GO ALONE’: 1,500 STRANGERS HONOR WWII VETERAN WITH NO KNOWN FAMILY WHAS11 first reported Fisher's story in March as he sought to receive the award before turning 100. According to previous reporting by WHAS11, Fisher enlisted in the Army in 1943 at just 16 years old after obtaining his parents' permission. He later landed on Utah Beach in France and was wounded on March 25, 1945, while waiting to cross the Rhine River after German artillery struck his unit. Fisher previously said his injuries were never properly documented during the war, which he said delayed his receiving the Purple Heart. "Never did hear back from them," Fisher previously said of one of his early attempts to obtain the medal. Years later, he tried again but said the Army informed him it could not find sufficient evidence to approve the award. ‘NOBODY SHOULD GO ALONE’: 1,500 STRANGERS HONOR WWII VETERAN WITH NO KNOWN FAMILY Despite those setbacks, Fisher continued pursuing the recognition with help from longtime friend Jeff Thoke, who spent years researching Fisher's military service and compiling hundreds of pages of historical records for military officials. "He represents the best of America," Thoke said Wednesday. "We can't thank him enough for all that he has done. He loves his country; he's one of the most patriotic men." According to previous reporting, Fisher served with the Army's 556th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Weapons Battalion. He fought during the Battle of the Bulge before being wounded near the Rhine River in the closing months of World War II. WHAS11 reported Fisher returned to his unit weeks after being wounded, later met Soviet forces at the Elbe River one day before Victory in Europe Day and eventually served as part of the official escort for President Harry S. Truman during Truman's arrival in Antwerp, Belgium, before returning home. Wednesday's ceremony appeared to mark the end of a journey Fisher had spent decades pursuing. "It's really true," he said. Fox News Digital has reached out to the U.S. Army for additional information about Fisher's Purple Heart but did not immediately receive a response. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9bf4c2ca79de236435cd Sedona native rides in 2026 Pan-Mass Challenge te 2026-07-05T18:01:24.525Z Sedona native rides in 2026 Pan-Mass Challenge Elizabeth McGinnis from Sedona will be among the more than 6,000 cyclists and 4,000 volunteers participating in the Pan-Mass Challenge, an annual bike-athon across Massachusetts, on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 1 and 2. The event is meant to raise money for cancer research and care at Dana-Farber Cance Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9be0c2ca79de236435ac World Cup comes between professional soccer couple, she loses and he gets kicked out of bed te 2026-07-05T18:01:04.560Z World Cup comes between professional soccer couple, she loses and he gets kicked out of bed There was a lot riding on the Portugal and Croatia match-up last week. Sure, the chance to advance to the Round of 16 in the World Cup was on the line, but for one professional soccer couple, their bed was also on the line. Depending on which team won, a one-way ticket to the couch was going to be issued. Croatian soccer player Ana Maria Markovic posted on Instagram, "Someone’s sleeping on the couch tonight." The announcement included pictures of her and her Portuguese soccer player boyfriend Tomas Ribeiro. He responded to the post he was tagged in, "Guess who's gonna be?" ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! The couple put on their opposing jerseys and headed out to watch the game. Let's be honest here for a second, Ribeiro was in a no-win situation from the word go. If his team loses, they're out. If his team wins, he ends up being kicked out of the couple's bed and can't even celebrate advancing to the next round from the comfort of his bed. To make matters worse for him, Markovic, once dubbed the "World's Most Beautiful Soccer Player," checked in during the game surrounded by fans rooting for Portugal. VAR DENIES CROATIA'S GAME-TYING GOAL AS CRISTIANO RONALDO LEADS PORTUGAL TO ROUND OF 16 "I’m literally the only Croatian here," she said from the bar where she and Ribeiro were watching the game, according to The Sun. Being in an environment like that had to make Croatia's 2-1 loss that much harder of a pill to swallow for the 26-year-old, who currently plays for Brooklyn FC of the USL Super League. You're not going to be shown an ounce of mercy after that. Markovic seemed to confirm that she had the bed all to herself after the loss and that it was a hard pill for her to swallow. WORLD CUP SUPERSTAR IVANA KNOLL INVADES AT&T STADIUM TO TURN HEADS AND SUPPORT CROATIA The Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa defender's team is taking on Spain on Monday afternoon. Maybe Ana Maria Markovic will decide to throw her support behind his team. Or maybe she'll do the right thing by rooting against him and keeping him on the couch until his team loses too. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a99acc2ca79de23643541 Netanyahu rejects reports of a rift with President Trump, says the two remain aligned on Iran te 2026-07-05T17:51:40.472Z Netanyahu rejects reports of a rift with President Trump, says the two remain aligned on Iran Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied a rift with President Donald Trump while drawing a hard line on Iran as Washington pursues a broader nuclear agreement with Tehran. Netanyahu said Israel and the U.S. shared the same goal on Iran, even as Trump pressed ahead with talks that have drawn criticism from some Israeli officials. "But I can tell you this, deal or no deal, as long as I’m prime minister, Iran will not have a nuclear weapon," Netanyahu told host Jacqui Heinrich on "The Sunday Briefing." TRUMP’S MASSIVE GOP FAITH BLOC RAISES RED FLAG ON IRAN DEAL: TRUST HIM, NOT HIS TEAM Asked whether his relationship with Trump had frayed over Iran, Netanyahu said any disagreements between the allies were being handled directly. "I don’t think there’s a rift," Netanyahu said. "I think America has no greater ally than Israel, and Israel has no greater ally than the United States." Netanyahu said Trump acts in U.S. interests while he acts in Israel's interests, but argued the two leaders usually align. AMERICA AND ISRAEL: A COVENANT, NOT A CONTRACT "President Trump is the leader of the United States. He does what’s good for America. I am the leader of Israel, the one and only Jewish state. I do what’s good for Israel," Netanyahu said. "Ninety-nine percent of the time we see eye-to-eye." Heinrich pressed Netanyahu on Trump's comments to Axios that the Israeli leader "knows who the boss is" and previous comments to the Financial Times saying Netanyahu would have "no choice" but to accept a U.S.-Iran deal. EXPERTS ‘DEEPLY’ CONCERNED OVER IRAN’S WORK AT UNDERGROUND NUCLEAR SITE Netanyahu said Washington and Jerusalem still had the same strategic objective. "We want to see Iran give up its nuclear weapons program," Netanyahu said. "We want to see the nuclear-enriched material removed. We want to see the enrichment sites for nuclear materials dismantled." When asked whether he was comfortable with talks extending past an August deadline, Netanyahu said he would judge the outcome only once negotiations conclude. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "I would say it’s not over. I would judge it when it’s over," Netanyahu said. Netanyahu also responded to Vice President JD Vance, who warned Israeli officials not to attack Trump over the Iran deal, saying the U.S. was the "only powerful ally" Israel has left. "First of all, I respect JD Vance. We have a very good relationship, but it doesn’t mean that I agree with everything that he says," Netanyahu said. Netanyahu said Trump remained Israel's strongest supporter in the White House. "Donald Trump is a great, the greatest friend we’ve ever had in the White House, and I stand by that completely," Netanyahu said. Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment, but did not immediately hear back. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9970c2ca79de2364351a Mallory McMorrow Ends Senate Bid in Democrats’ Heated Michigan Primary te 2026-07-05T17:50:40.026Z Mallory McMorrow Ends Senate Bid in Democrats’ Heated Michigan Primary The state senator sought to carve a middle path between a left-wing candidate and one backed by the party establishment, but she gained little traction. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a995cc2ca79de23643505 Amazon will stop accepting new customers for Mechanical Turk te 2026-07-05T17:50:20.066Z Amazon will stop accepting new customers for Mechanical Turk These may be the last days of Amazon’s Mechanical Turk. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9743c2ca79de236434cf Patriotic pride on display as America 250 guests share reflections: 'Awesome to be here' te 2026-07-05T17:41:23.032Z Patriotic pride on display as America 250 guests share reflections: 'Awesome to be here' The Great American State Fair was packed this Independence Day, drawing crowds for a mix of holiday celebration and personal reflection. As the festivities unfolded, attendees shared what spending the Fourth of July with their families means to them. "It kind of makes us emotional because of our country and the people who died, you know, and gave up what they've done," Tom Rutledge, a grandfather who traveled to the fair from Texas, told Fox News Digital. HEART ATTACKS AND STROKES RISING WITH EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS, RESEARCH SUGGESTS Rutledge brought his 13-year-old grandson along so he could experience the Fourth of July celebration firsthand. "I wanted him at 13 to experience this," Rutledge said. "There's a gap, maybe, in our younger generation. The education ... has not been really communicating what this country's about, how many people love it." Despite those concerns, the fair's youngest attendees showed plenty of patriotic spirit. Many young children expressed joy at being there, undeterred by long travels, storm warnings and summer heat waves. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES "I’m excited for the fireworks," one young girl told her father, while another child could be heard cheering as planes flew low overhead. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER For the adults in the crowd, the fair offered a welcome reminder of national unity. A father who traveled from Florida said the best part of the day was simply being surrounded by fellow patriots, from the youth to the service members who protect the nation. "I'm just looking forward to being around all the American citizens who make this country awesome," he said. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ That sense of community was on full display throughout the fairgrounds, where tight crowds seemed to bring out the best in people rather than testing their patience. "It is amazingly crowded, [and] people are amazingly nice," one couple said. "We’re making friends!" They then gestured to another couple next to them, whom they had just met while waiting in line for the Ferris wheel. Despite hailing from opposite corners of the country — Tennessee and New Jersey — the new friends had quickly bonded over their shared patriotism and holiday spirit. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9705c2ca79de236434ae More Severe Weather Looms as Over 800,000 Remain Without Power te 2026-07-05T17:40:21.590Z More Severe Weather Looms as Over 800,000 Remain Without Power Strong storms knocked out power this week to customers from Oklahoma to Connecticut. As they waited on Sunday for the lights to come back on, the forecast called for more severe weather. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a9292c2ca79de23643037 USA World Cup star Folarin Balogun available to play vs Belgium in stunning twist te 2026-07-05T17:21:22.275Z USA World Cup star Folarin Balogun available to play vs Belgium in stunning twist USA World Cup star Folarin Balogun will be able to play in Monday’s game against Belgium in the Round of 16 match after all following an uproar over a red card he received against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun received the red card after he stepped on the foot of Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic. The red card was given after Brazilian referee Raphael Claus stopped the match for a VAR review to determine whether Balogun had committed a severe foul. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! It was ruled that Balogun did and he was sent off. The Athletic, which first reported Balogun’s playing status on Sunday, noted that part of FIFA’s disciplinary code stated, "the judicial body may decide to fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure." "If the person benefiting from a suspended sanction commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probationary period, the suspension shall be revoked by the judicial body and the sanction enforced without prejudice to any additional sanction imposed for the new infringement," the rule added. FOX Sports confirmed that Balogun would be able to play. The report noted that the play should not have been flagged to Claus. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM FIFA confirmed that the suspension was suspended for a probationary period of one year. "We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow," U.S. Soccer said. "Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans." Balogun scored against Bosnia and Herzegovina. He spoke to reporters Friday about the red card. "First and foremost, it was totally unintentional, which I'm sure a lot of people know. But, you know, I think the choice of the referee was, of course, his choice, but I don't think it was the correct call," he said. "I think a yellow card would have been fair due to it not being intentional. There's not many places I can place my foot in such a scenario. But it's happened, and it's something that I have to accept and move forward from. "There’s been lots of different emotions. I’ve been upset, I’ve been happy, it’s been surreal to be honest," he added. "But for me it was just important to stay calm. I never want to react out of anger and emotion. There’s still lots of people we’re inspiring. Little kids, boys and girls are watching. We have to show them the correct way to handle things even when you think it’s unjust, so I felt I did that. I’m happy with the support, not just I’m receiving but the team. I think we’re all looking forward to seeing what we can do against Belgium." U.S. Soccer had no way to appeal the ruing. Article 9.6 of the 2026 World Cup regulations reads, "No protests may be made about the referee’s decisions regarding facts connected with play. Such decisions are final and not subject to appeal, unless otherwise stipulated in the FIFA Disciplinary Code." "If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution), they will automatically be suspended from their team’s subsequent match," Article 10.5 adds. Fox News' Jonathan Hunt contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a927ec2ca79de2364302e Bill Clinton blasts Trump as Americans mark nation's 250th anniversary te 2026-07-05T17:21:02.832Z Bill Clinton blasts Trump as Americans mark nation's 250th anniversary Former President Bill Clinton took a swipe at President Donald Trump in a statement posted to X marking the nation's 250th birthday, urging Americans to reject division and embrace the country's founding ideals without mentioning Trump by name. In the statement, released Saturday, Clinton reflected on the nation's founding and warned that the United States was experiencing another period of deep political division. TOP HIGHLIGHTS FROM TRUMP'S LATE NIGHT JULY 4 ADDRESS: 'NO DREAM IN HISTORY IS BIGGER' "Today, we celebrate this milestone amid another period of deep division, renewed questions about America's future and role in the world, and serious threats to our own institutions and to our democracy itself," the former president wrote. Clinton, whose wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, was defeated by Trump in the 2016 presidential election, did not mention the president by name during his remarks. "The people in charge have unleashed masked agents on American communities to seize people from their homes, workplaces and the street," Clinton said.  "They have started an unconstitutional war on a whim, with no clear objectives or exit strategy, and zero regard for the consequences to the lives of millions of people around the world," he added. WE ASKED AMERICANS TO GRADE THE ECONOMY. THEN WE ASKED IF IT WOULD CHANGE THEIR VOTE The former president then broadened his criticism to the federal government and the courts. "With the help of lifetime appointees to the Supreme Court and a compliant Congress, they have weaponized government to settle personal scores, prosecute enemies, stamp out free speech and made the federal government a new profit center for themselves and their allies," he added. Clinton's statement came as Trump presided over separate America250 festivities in Washington, D.C., where he touted what he called America's "Golden Age" and highlighted his administration's accomplishments, the U.S. military and the country's economic outlook. Clinton encouraged Americans to think about the nation's future as it enters its next 250 years, arguing that preserving democratic institutions requires citizens to value common purpose over political grievance. Trump, meanwhile, used his Independence Day address to celebrate the nation's founding while touting his administration's achievements, criticizing progressive Democrats and promoting priorities including election integrity measures, border security and a renewed emphasis on patriotism. While both men celebrated the nation's founding, their messages highlighted vastly different views of the country's current political climate. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a8df7c2ca79de23642ee1 Mohave County supervisors to consider $115K underwater drone for Sheriff's Office te 2026-07-05T17:01:43.246Z Mohave County supervisors to consider $115K underwater drone for Sheriff's Office The Mohave County Board of Supervisors is expected to consider Monday whether to approve the purchase of an underwater drone system for the Mohave County Sheriff's Office using grant funding from the Arizona State Parks Board. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a8de3c2ca79de23642ed8 Mohave County to consider nursing student clinical partnership with Mohave College te 2026-07-05T17:01:23.279Z Mohave County to consider nursing student clinical partnership with Mohave College The Mohave County Board of Supervisors is expected to consider a two-year agreement Monday that would allow Mohave College nursing students to complete clinical practicums and externships with the Mohave County Department of Public Health. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a8dcfc2ca79de23642ecf Product Images (No Background) - 2 te 2026-07-05T17:01:03.317Z Product Images (No Background) - 2 SRV- 8 Professional Underwater ROV System Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a8b4cc2ca79de23642e51 Navy Ends Search for Missing Crew Member After Arabian Sea Helicopter Crash te 2026-07-05T16:50:20.856Z Navy Ends Search for Missing Crew Member After Arabian Sea Helicopter Crash The cause of the crash was still under investigation, but the military said it was not the result of hostile fire. A total of 14 U.S. service members have been killed in the war against Iran. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a86dbc2ca79de23642ddf NCAA president Charlie Baker reacts to Supreme Court ruling on transgender athletes te 2026-07-05T16:31:23.298Z NCAA president Charlie Baker reacts to Supreme Court ruling on transgender athletes NCAA president Charlie Baker said Sunday he doesn’t think the organization’s policy on transgender-athlete participation will be changed after the Supreme Court’s decision. The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in favor of West Virginia and Idaho on Tuesday against trans athletes who sued to gain access to girls' sports. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! In the highly anticipated rulings in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox, the high court upheld state laws requiring student-athletes to compete on sports teams that correspond with their biological sex at birth rather than their gender identity. Baker appeared on CBS’ "Face the Nation" and was asked whether the NCAA will have to "tweak" its policy. "I don’t think so. I mean, generally speaking, we try to establish policies from most of our programs that can hopefully have a national standard to it," Baker said. "I’ve said to folks, Democrats and Republicans in Washington after I got this job, that we needed some sort of clarity around on what the national standard for this would be and we adopted and complied with the standard that was put forth by the Trump administration. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "I think what happens at the state level is a different question. Although, I do think our national standard is going to be what we expect our schools to use with respect to eligibility issues for college sports." The NCAA changed its gender-eligibility policy in February 2025 after President Donald Trump signed the "No Men in Women’s Sports" executive order. The new policy, which reversed a previous policy that had been in place since 2010 allowing trans athletes in women's sports, now states "a student-athlete assigned male at birth may practice on an NCAA women's team and receive all other benefits applicable to student-athletes." Many critics have insisted this policy does not go far enough or establish clear enough barriers to protect women's athletes in the college ranks. The most common criticism has been that the policy allegedly allows trans athletes to bypass the restriction by changing the gender on their birth certificate. In the U.S., 44 states do allow birth certificates to be altered to change a person's birth sex. The only states that do not allow this are Florida, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Montana. Meanwhile, there are 14 states that allow sex on a birth certificate to be changed without any medical documentation required, including California, New York, Massachusetts and Michigan. Fox News’ Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a86c7c2ca79de23642dd6 Hi Mom text scam: How to spot fake emergency texts te 2026-07-05T16:31:03.849Z Hi Mom text scam: How to spot fake emergency texts A scam text showed up today that would make many parents stop cold. The message said: "Hi mom, text me here on my work phone. Dropped my actual phone in the sink earlier and it's completely unresponsive now." The text came from an unknown number. Then it asked me to text a different unknown number. That detail is important. The scammer wants to move you into a new conversation before you stop and verify who is really on the other end. The message seems personal right away. There is no weird link. There is no obvious demand for money. Instead, it starts with a little family panic and a believable excuse. That is what makes the Hi Mom text scam so sneaky. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report YOUR FAMILY COULD BE ONE PHONE CALL FROM A BANK SCAM This scam works because it sounds ordinary. A child texting from a work phone seems possible. A phone dropped in a sink sounds believable. A short message from someone who sounds rushed can feel real enough to make you respond. That is exactly the point. Scammers know parents may react quickly when a child appears to need help. They do not need a perfect story. They only need a small opening. Once you reply, the scammer can keep the conversation going. Then the request may change from "text me here" to "can you help me pay for a new phone?" or "I need money right now." Here's how the scammer uses each part of the message to make a strange number feel believable. The scammer does not use a real name. That makes the message easier to send to many people. Still, if the person reading it is a mother, it suddenly feels personal. That one phrase tries to create an instant emotional connection. This tells you to respond on the scammer's terms. It also keeps the exchange inside text messages. That gives the scammer time to think, type and adjust the story based on how you respond. This explains why the number looks unfamiliar. The scammer knows you may wonder why your child is texting from a strange number. So the message gives you an excuse before you even ask. This is the hook. People drop phones in sinks, toilets, pools and puddles all the time. The detail feels normal enough that you may not question it. This word creates a fresh problem without giving many details. It suggests the accident just happened. However, it avoids specifics that you could check. This line blocks the most obvious verification step. If you try to call the real phone, the scammer has already given you a reason it may not work. That can make you more likely to text the new number instead. GLOBAL SCAM CRACKDOWN LEADS TO 276 ARRESTS The first message may seem harmless. The second one may start the real scam. The scammer may claim they need money for a replacement phone. They may ask you to pay a bill because their banking app is locked. They may push you to use Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, crypto or gift cards. Some scammers may also ask for a one-time security code. They may pretend the code is needed to restore the phone, verify an account or fix a payment problem. Do not share that code. A verification code can let a scammer break into your bank, email, Apple ID, Google account or phone carrier account. Parents are wired to respond when a child sounds stuck. Scammers know that. They use concern, timing and confusion to lower your guard. The message also avoids overexplaining. That makes it feel more natural. Many real texts from family members are short, rushed and a little messy. However, the biggest warning sign is the two-number setup. One unknown number sends the message. Another unknown number gets placed inside the text. That handoff is the scammer trying to pull you deeper into the trap. Before you respond to a message like this, run through these steps to make sure you are dealing with your real family member. Avoid answering, even to say the sender has the wrong number. A reply can confirm your number is active. That may lead to more scam texts later. Use the phone number already saved in your contacts. Do not call or text the number inside the suspicious message. If your child or family member does not answer, try another trusted way to reach them. Ask something only the real person would know. Make the question specific. Avoid anything a stranger could guess from social media. Pause before sending money because of any urgent family message. Be extra careful with Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, gift cards and crypto. These payment methods can be fast, and some are hard to reverse. Never send a one-time passcode from your bank, Apple ID, Gmail, phone carrier or payment app. A real family member should not need your private security code. Strong antivirus software can help protect your phone, tablet and computer from malicious links, phishing pages and hidden threats. This becomes even more important if a scammer sends a follow-up link after you reply. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com A data removal service can help reduce how much of your personal information appears online. That matters because scammers often use exposed details to make their messages feel more convincing. No service can remove every piece of data, but it can help cut down what strangers can find. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com. On iPhone, tap Report Spam or Report Junk if the option appears. Then delete the message. You can also forward unwanted texts to 7726 , which spells SPAM. On Android, block the sender and report the conversation as spam in Google Messages. If you already responded, focus on ending the conversation, protecting your accounts and saving proof before the scammer pushes harder. The Hi Mom text scam works because it feels familiar. The scammer starts with a small family problem instead of a big demand. That makes the message feel less suspicious and more urgent. The safest move is to pause before you reply. Call the real person using a number you already trust. If the story checks out, you can help. If it does not, report and block the message. That tiny pause could protect your money, your accounts and someone else in your family. Have you ever received a fake family emergency text that sounded almost believable, and what detail gave it away? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a846ec2ca79de23642d80 Classes promote gentle fitness te 2026-07-05T16:21:02.916Z Classes promote gentle fitness The JFCS Center for Senior Enrichment and Creative Aging will offer two opportunities for the Valley’s older residents get active and support their health and wellbeing this month. Beginning July 14 at 10:30 a.m., join a gentle Zoom exercise class combining Tai Chi movements with relaxation breathing techniques to support overall health and wellness. The class focuses on improving balance, flexibility, coordination and stress reduction through simple stretching, mindful movement and guided practice. The class is designed for all levels. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Participants can wind down their week with Friday Cool Down: Fitness and Stretching led by Zoe. This energizing 35-minute class begins with 20 minutes of light movement to get your body moving, followed by 15 minutes of relaxing stretches designed to improve flexibility and leave you feeling refreshed. No weights are needed – just come ready to move and unwind. Find a complete list of available classes and registration information online at www.jfcsaz.org/our-services/older-adults-services. To contact staff, send an email to seniorcenter@jfcsaz.org or call 480-670-8073 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a823dc2ca79de23642d3c Princess Diana's honeymoon letter reveals a young bride 'playing with grown-ups' in the royal family te 2026-07-05T16:11:41.633Z Princess Diana's honeymoon letter reveals a young bride 'playing with grown-ups' in the royal family Princess Diana believed she was headed for a fairy-tale future with then-Prince Charles — until her dream unraveled. Katherine Hanbury, who attended West Heath Girls' School with the late Princess of Wales between 1973 and 1977, is partnering with U.K.-based auction house Gorringe's to auction photographs and letters beginning July 7. "She was completely hopeful," the royal's childhood friend told Fox News Digital. "She thought she'd met her prince. And we all hope, don't we, when we get married, that we've found somebody we're going to spend the rest of our lives with, have children with and have a lovely, happy life." PRINCESS DIANA'S BOLD REQUEST WAS THE ONE THING HER DESIGNER REFUSED: 'YOU ARE A PRINCESS' "She wanted to build a family of her own," Hanbury reflected. "She had all of those aspirations. She was such a lovely, caring girl. And that was definitely what she wanted more than anything else: to have a family of her own, to be loved and cared for, as we all do, really." "I've had these letters and photos in my desk for the last 45 years or so," Hanbury said. "I'm not getting any younger, and I can't take them with me. I thought now is the time to give somebody else the opportunity to have the pleasure and the joy of looking at and reading them, as they gave to me." At the girls' school, they became fast friends. Diana was described as "good fun" and "very ordinary" — meant as a compliment. "My memory of her was that she really enjoyed all the everyday girl things," Hanbury said. "She was very giggly, very caring. That's my memory of her: a young girl who was absolutely delightful. She was just Diana, another girl at the school in our group. She was actually Lady Diana Spencer, but she just went by Diana." WATCH: PRINCESS DIANA'S BALLET TEACHER RECALLS SURPRISE ‘UPTOWN GIRL’ DANCE "She loved all the domestic things," Hanbury said with a laugh. "I remember our headmistress had a small flat within the school, and she asked whether she could go in and clean it for her. She loved tidying people's rooms, organizing drawers and lockers. She loved the domestic side of life. And she was sporty, too. She was good at swimming and loved tennis." "I remember us riding our bikes down a hill," she continued. "We rode the whole way, just shrieking and hollering, making an awful lot of noise while pedaling as fast as we could. She just loved doing things with you. One of our simple pleasures was riding our bikes and screeching all the way down. She was just a girl like any of us." Diana left West Heath at 16. She remained in touch with Hanbury. Charles and Diana didn't begin dating until 1980. The couple married on July 29, 1981. "I remember her going home for the weekend and coming back so excited," Hanbury said. "Prince Charles had been at Althorp, her parents' country estate. Prince Charles was a friend of her two older sisters, and he happened to be there that weekend when she came home. So when she came back, she was thrilled because she had met the prince. Then the romance was revealed in the papers." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER It was through the press that Hanbury discovered her "ordinary" friend was engaged to the future king of England. "She was so young; she was only 20," Hanbury said. "She seemed barely out of school. It was portrayed as very romantic. She was definitely smitten with him. I'm sure when she was at school with us, she never thought that one day she would marry a prince. We were all surprised." The lot includes "The Honeymoon Letter," which the newly minted Princess of Wales wrote to her friend. "We had a blissful honeymoon with endless sun and luckily calm seas," Diana wrote. "We are now up in Scotland until the end of October, which is a big treat for us — I adore being outside all day & hate London! Its [sic] wonderful being married — I think its [sic] safe to say that after two months...!" In the letter, Diana hinted at what it was like adapting to her new life as a member of the royal family, writing, "Its [sic] a case of playing with grown-ups!" "You have to remember she was so young," Hanbury said. "It was all a new playground for her. I imagine she was thinking, 'I'm married, and now I'm a grown-up. I need to start my family.'" LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Hanbury believed Diana's future as a royal was set. "She was always caring for people," Hanbury said. "She was very thoughtful, kind and loving. She wanted to be loved by everybody. She was a giver. There was no other side to her. She was genuinely kind. When she entered this whole new world — the royal family — everything we saw of her was real. That was Diana. She never lost that, even when her life changed suddenly. That's who she was." The two women took dramatically different paths. While Diana was thrust onto the world stage, Hanbury continued her education and quietly built a life of her own. Even from afar, she never stopped thinking about her old friend. "I wondered what it would be like when Charles eventually became our king of England," said Hanbury. "There was always a lot of hope for Diana." Charles and Diana's marriage was marked by years of turmoil under relentless public scrutiny. After welcoming two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, the couple announced their separation in 1992. Their divorce was finalized in 1996. Less than a year later, on Aug. 31, 1997, Diana died after suffering injuries in a car crash in Paris. She was 36. "You could smell the flowers in London from miles away before you even got to where they were being laid in front of the palace gates," Hanbury said quietly. "It was unbelievably sad. I still can't put it into words. She was so young, and then to die in such a way after enduring all the awfulness that had come before, with her marriage falling apart. It was an absolute tragedy." "I felt immense sadness," she said. "But millions of people around the world felt the same way, which was remarkable. She was so loved, always. I don't think there will ever be anybody like her." Today, Hanbury hopes her letters and photographs will introduce the public to another side of the girl she called a friend. "She was the real deal," Hanbury said. "She never tried to be anyone or anything other than her real self. I think that's something that's missing in a lot of the royal family today, probably. But that's who she was. She was Diana." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a822ac2ca79de23642d33 Ryan Weathers' 0.66 day game ERA makes under 8.5 the smart bet in Yankees vs Twins matchup te 2026-07-05T16:11:22.176Z Ryan Weathers' 0.66 day game ERA makes under 8.5 the smart bet in Yankees vs Twins matchup It wasn't the most exciting day for me with baseball yesterday. I took the over and the St. Louis Cardinals on the moneyline as they took on the Chicago Cubs and split those plays. The good news is that the Cardinals were a plus-money play, so it wasn't a losing day. It has been that kind of baseball season for me so far, but each day gives an opportunity for a turnaround. Today, we shift over to the American League for a different series that closes out as the Minnesota Twins take on the New York Yankees. The Twins were one of those teams that was very surprising this season. Even though they've dropped below .500, they are still surprising. They are 43-47 for the year, which puts them on pace for about 80 wins this year. It is unlikely they will be able to win enough to make the postseason. Their team has the second and third-ranked players in terms of trade value. This was supposed to be a rebuild year for the Twins, but they've had more success. Part of that is because Byron Buxton (the second-ranked player) has been phenomenal. He would be a great addition for a lot of teams. Another big addition for teams would be today's starter, the third-ranked player, Joe Ryan. I wouldn't say that Ryan is going to lead your team as the starter through the postseason, but he absolutely could be a difference maker and a good possibility for being the second-best option in the rotation. For the season, Ryan is 5-5 with a 3.61 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM I could see him using this start as an audition for most of the teams that are looking. Ryan has been phenomenal in day games with a 1.21 ERA in six starts. However, he has been worse on the road with a 4.09 road ERA. He is coming off of his two worst starts of the season, allowing 10 earned runs over his past 10 innings. Yankees hitters have been decent against them at .231 over 65 at-bats. The Yankees are one of the best teams in baseball, and that was the expectation for this season. They are in the middle of a slump of sorts for them, but they are still 10 games over .500. Since June 18, they are 4-12. I fully expected them to start slipping after Aaron Judge went on the injured list, but they maintained their success until now. Perhaps this is just a blip in a long season. All teams go through something like this at some point, but when you're in it, the players and fans both start adding pressure. Looking to stop the skid a bit for the Yankees today is Ryan Weathers. For the season, Weathers is 3-6 with a 4.08 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP. He has been better at home, throwing to a 3.74 ERA in Yankee Stadium. Even better news for the Yankees is that he has a 0.66 ERA during day games, having allowed just two earned runs over 27.1 innings. Weathers lasted just 1.2 innings in his last start, allowing two earned runs on seven hits. Twins hitters have very little experience against Weathers, getting three hits in 10 at-bats. Anthony Volpe has been great against Ryan with a 6-for-12 with two extra-base hits. Byron Buxton is 2-for-2 against Weathers with a double. Volpe is a little bit better of a sample to go off of, but I don't think either is especially reliable in this situation. Volpe is also better at hitting during the day, so maybe consider him for 2+ total bases. In today's game, the Yankees are the favorite, but the money is helping to move the line toward the Twins. I do think Ryan is the better pitcher, but this isn't the most ideal spot. Weathers is actually in a better spot when you consider all of his splits. I do think the best bet here is to take the under. Both of these starters have done well in day starts, and I think it continues here. Give me the under 8.5. For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a8216c2ca79de23642d2a Zohran Mamdani's wife skips America 250 for Islamic ‘spiritual wellness’ retreat in Spain te 2026-07-05T16:11:02.274Z Zohran Mamdani's wife skips America 250 for Islamic ‘spiritual wellness’ retreat in Spain Rama Duwaji, wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, faced criticism over the Fourth of July weekend after she reportedly traveled to Mallorca, Spain, for an Islamic "spiritual wellness" retreat while New York and the rest of the nation celebrated America's 250th anniversary. The New York Post reported that Duwaji was seen Monday at Newark International Airport before boarding a flight to Palma and heading to a sold-out retreat run by The Women Sanctuary. "Nothing says ‘America 250’ quite like skipping the celebration for a Mediterranean vacation, but I am not surprised because she has made her hatred for America very evident," Councilwoman Joann Ariola, R-Queens, told The Post. MAMDANI BLASTS ICE AGENTS, ELON MUSK AND 'SUPREMACY' IN AMERICA 250 SPEECH AHEAD OF JULY 4 WEEKEND Councilman Frank Morano, R-Staten Island, also criticized Duwaji’s absence during the semi-quincentennial celebration, saying officials’ family members can take trips but should recognize the importance of the milestone. "It’s disappointing that the First Lady chose to be overseas instead of taking part in one of the biggest civic events our city and country will mark this year," Morano told The Post. Morano said the issue was not whether Duwaji was allowed to travel, but whether she should have appeared at events in the city during the 250th anniversary. "No one is saying elected officials and their families can’t take vacations, but this was a moment to show up for the city and for the country, and she missed it," Morano said. INTERNAL EMAILS EXPOSE HOW JULY 4TH BASH IS BEING DERAILED BY DEM-RUN COUNTY: 'OFFENSIVE' Fox News Digital reached out to the mayor's office for comment, but did not immediately hear a response. Mamdani's office told The Post that Duwaji was not accompanied by officers assigned to the couple's taxpayer-funded NYPD detail. Conservative commentator Arynne Wexler posted photos of Duwaji at a United Airlines gate and criticized the timing of the trip. "Funny how when @ZohranKMamdani was telling New Yorkers to lower their AC his wife Rama Duwaji was boarding a flight to party in Mallorca," Wexler said on X, according to The Post. The Women Sanctuary’s website lists the event, "Plants Of The Quran | 6th Edition," as a sold-out retreat, among other sold-out events. A separate retreat page describes the Mallorca program as centered on plants mentioned in the Quran, including olives, pomegranates, dates and figs, with workshops, meals and spiritual reflection. Mamdani remained in New York City during a heat wave and the city's America 250 events. His office said July 1 that the city was expanding cooling centers, extending pool hours and asking businesses and New Yorkers to set thermostats to 78 degrees during peak demand. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7fd2c2ca79de23642ce0 Brooklyn Bridge catches fire amid NYC fireworks display as Trump hails it in DC speech te 2026-07-05T16:01:22.842Z Brooklyn Bridge catches fire amid NYC fireworks display as Trump hails it in DC speech While President Donald Trump was hailing the Brooklyn Bridge in his National Mall speech as "one of the greatest architectural feats of all time," firefighters in New York City were fighting to protect it from burning down late Saturday night. It was a contrast of moments from a pair of incredible America 250 fireworks displays Saturday night into early Sunday morning between New York City and the nation's capital. A fire broke out on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York during the city’s July Fourth fireworks show. Crowdgoers on Saturday could see flames spreading on the bridge and setting off a plume of smoke before firefighters extinguished the blaze. No injuries were reported. JULY 4 HEAT DELAYS AMERICA 250 CELEBRATION AS STATE FAIR GUESTS SHARE LOVE OF USA The city's fire department said two fire engines were used to put out the blaze on the bridge, which had been closed to traffic during the show. The show was moved up early because of the threat of severe weather that canceled and delayed other celebrations along the East Coast. That includes Washington, D.C., where a storm prompted an evacuation of the crowd on the National Mall. Coincidentally, Trump was hailing that very bridge in his Salute to America 250 speech. LEE GREENWOOD SAYS HE'S 'VERY PROUD' TO STAND NEXT TO TRUMP DURING AMERICA'S 250TH CELEBRATION "We also have the first flag ever to fly over one of the greatest architectural feats of all time, a thing called the Brooklyn Bridge: One of the most beautiful bridges anywhere in the world – built a long time ago," Trump said in his 37-minute speech, which was also delayed by summer thunderstorms. Trump's mention of the Brooklyn Bridge came during his address, highlighting historic American flags, along with ancestors of some of America's iconic figures. "American grit, boldness and daring forged heroes like Davy Crockett, Wyatt Earp, Annie Oakley, Teddy Roosevelt, and the legend of the Wild West, Buffalo Bill Cody: These were great, powerful people whose incredible grandchildren happened to be with us tonight," Trump said, as one presented a flag that first waved over the Brooklyn Bridge. THE STORY BEHIND BETSY ROSS AND THE FIRST AMERICAN FLAG AS AMERICA CELEBRATES 250TH BIRTHDAY "And they stand alongside one of the first American flags ever to fly over our expanding nation. It was carried west just as Lewis and Clark began their journey in 1803. "Thank you very much. Great to have you. Great to have you to honor this audacious and indomitable soul of America." The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7fbfc2ca79de23642cd7 Dave Chappelle admits he sees why Trump ‘gets mad’ at CNN over American pride question te 2026-07-05T16:01:03.397Z Dave Chappelle admits he sees why Trump ‘gets mad’ at CNN over American pride question Comedian Dave Chappelle said Friday that he understood why President Donald Trump "gets mad" at CNN during a live interview with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen, as the network counted down to America's 250th birthday in New York City's Times Square. During the segment, Cohen asked Chappelle why he was proud to be an American and how he viewed the country. "Boy, that’s a loaded question," Chappelle said. "Now I see why Trump gets mad at y’all all the time. Why would you ask me that?" DAVE CHAPPELLE SAYS HE’S CONSIDERING REVISITING ‘CHAPPELLE’S SHOW’ DECADES AFTER WALKING AWAY Chappelle then answered the question by saying his pride in America came from the people who live in the country, not from every decision made by the government. "I don’t agree with everything that our government does, but the one thing that I’ve really consistently believe in that I love about being an American is my countrymen," Chappelle said. Chappelle said he felt a connection with Americans when he encountered them abroad. WORLD CUP SOCCER FANS ARE DISCOVERING AMERICA’S GREATNESS. IT’S TIME AMERICANS DID, TOO "If I’m overseas or around the world, anytime I see an American over there, we just give each other the 'Fight Club' look, because we live in a madness that only we really understand what it’s all about," he said. The comedian also said he remained optimistic about the country despite its political divisions. "And I have faith in my countrymen, no matter how crazy all of this will make it feel that the sun will rise and that I feel like I’m part of a very incredible community," Chappelle said. "So God bless my countrymen and let us make this country absolutely great." HOLLYWOOD CELEBRITIES CRASH AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY WITH A GRIM HOLIDAY WARNING ABOUT TRUMP Chappelle closed the exchange with a direct message to Trump about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, after Cohen and Cooper raised a toast to him. "Hey, give me a beer, would you?" Chappelle said. "And Mr. Trump, please leave those Haitians in Springfield alone. We love them. We love the Haitians." Springfield became a national political flashpoint during the 2024 campaign after Trump and others amplified claims about Haitian immigrants there. Chappelle also spoke about his "summer camp" show in Yellow Springs, which he said began in 2020 after COVID-19 shut down entertainment venues and after George Floyd was killed. CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE "What it is, is my neighbor’s cornfield was not in use," Chappelle said. "Every great production person in the state of Ohio was out of work. So we all got together and we just started throwing shows." He said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine allowed the shows to proceed, and the comedian credited the series with becoming a local tradition. "We could have got shut down any minute, but shout out to the governor, DeWine," Chappelle said. "He gave us an opportunity to do these shows." Live Nation announced in June that "Dave Chappelle’s Summer Camp" would return to the Wirrig Pavilion in Yellow Springs with shows in July and August. The company described the shows as a pandemic-era response that grew into a summer tradition in Chappelle’s hometown. Chappelle said the first night of the event came after he recorded a piece about Floyd that was released through Netflix’s YouTube channel. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7d66c2ca79de23642c67 Letter to the Editor: Congratulations on a successful Flagstaff Piano Festival te 2026-07-05T15:51:02.236Z Letter to the Editor: Congratulations on a successful Flagstaff Piano Festival Congratulations to Silvan Negrutiu, Director of Piano Studies at NAU, his piano colleagues in NAU’s Kitt School of Music Aimee Fincher and Ken Osowski, and Michelle Wachter (Executive Director of the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra). Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7d52c2ca79de23642c5e Letter to the Editor: Catastrophic fires the norm without the timber industry te 2026-07-05T15:50:42.263Z Letter to the Editor: Catastrophic fires the norm without the timber industry “I told them that the forests would burn!” For decades, I’ve watched with sadness as wildfires have destroyed the forests I grew up in, along with homes and communities. My family spent four generations running sawmills and working in the… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7d3ec2ca79de23642c55 Letter to the Editor: Put Flagstaff's heritage first te 2026-07-05T15:50:22.303Z Letter to the Editor: Put Flagstaff's heritage first This letter is to commend the Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) for their stand to preserve the former City Hall on N. Beaver. The recent Arizona Daily Sun article mentions comments that say few locals are interested in historic preservation. I… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7bafc2ca79de23642c21 Test your pop culture: From Hollywood to the Heartland te 2026-07-05T15:43:43.572Z Test your pop culture: From Hollywood to the Heartland The Pop Culture Quiz is your weekly test of what’s making headlines and breaking the Internet, from the Heartland to Hollywood. This week's quiz spotlights Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's love story and wedding buzz. Can you get all 7 questions right? For more Entertainment articles, visit www.foxnews.com/entertainment To try your hand at more quizzes from Fox News Digital, click here. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b88c2ca79de23642c11 WireFree seeks to expand broadband service to Havasu Heights, Donkey Acres, Crystal Beach and Yucca te 2026-07-05T15:43:04.143Z WireFree seeks to expand broadband service to Havasu Heights, Donkey Acres, Crystal Beach and Yucca Residents in Havasu Heights, Donkey Acres, Crystal Beach and Yucca could gain access to expanded broadband service under a proposed franchise agreement now headed to the Mohave County Board of Supervisors. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b74c2ca79de23642c08 Mohave County sheriff seeks $75,000 for first responder mental health training te 2026-07-05T15:42:44.173Z Mohave County sheriff seeks $75,000 for first responder mental health training KINGMAN — The Mohave County Sheriff's Office is asking the Board of Supervisors to accept a $75,000 award from Arizona Complete Health to help pay for mental health training for first responders. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b60c2ca79de23642bff Mohave County updates five-year road plan with new Kingman, Golden Valley projects te 2026-07-05T15:42:24.205Z Mohave County updates five-year road plan with new Kingman, Golden Valley projects Mohave County supervisors are scheduled to consider adopting an updated five-year Capital Improvement Road Program on July 6, adding several new transportation projects while removing two others from the county's long-range road construction plan. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b4cc2ca79de23642bf6 Arizona lottery results for Sunday, July 5, 2026 te 2026-07-05T15:42:04.272Z Arizona lottery results for Sunday, July 5, 2026 Powerball - July 1 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b38c2ca79de23642bed 13 air fryer recipes ’cause it’s too hot to turn on the oven te 2026-07-05T15:41:44.269Z 13 air fryer recipes ’cause it’s too hot to turn on the oven When the kitchen is already too warm, these 13 air fryer recipes keep dinner, snacks, sides, and dessert moving without the oven, from crisp wings to cookies and sweet potatoes.The post 13 air fryer recipes ’cause it’s too hot to… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b24c2ca79de23642be4 17 summer desserts for lazy summer afternoons te 2026-07-05T15:41:24.302Z 17 summer desserts for lazy summer afternoons Summer afternoons do not need heavy dessert planning. These 17 recipes cover ice cream, fruit cobbler, chilled bars, mousse cups, pie, and creamy cakes, with quick treats and make-ahead options in the mix.The post 17 summer desserts for lazy summer… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7b10c2ca79de23642bdb 7 delicious beef recipes my family never gets tired of te 2026-07-05T15:41:04.341Z 7 delicious beef recipes my family never gets tired of Plain beef dinners get old fast. These 7 recipes cover air fryer steak bites, slow cooker rump roast, taco salad, stuffed vegetables, a burger, and cabbage casserole for more ways to serve it.The post 7 delicious beef recipes my family… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a78b6c2ca79de23642b94 Missouri mom of 5 fatally shot while buying slushies with children; police search for gunman te 2026-07-05T15:31:02.332Z Missouri mom of 5 fatally shot while buying slushies with children; police search for gunman A Missouri mother of five was fatally shot while buying slushies with two of her young children after gunfire erupted outside a gas station, leaving investigators searching for the shooter. Shakeela Martin, 35, was killed just before midnight Tuesday outside a BP gas station at South Florissant and Woodstock roads in Ferguson after an altercation that began inside the convenience store spilled into the parking lot, according to the Ferguson Police Department. Martin had stopped at the gas station with two of her children, ages 9 and 6, to buy frozen drinks on a hot summer night when multiple rounds of gunfire broke out outside, police said. Investigators believe Martin was an innocent bystander who was struck by gunfire as she walked back to her vehicle with the children. "She was here to purchase some soft drinks for her young kids," Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle told First Alert 4. "They’re physically unhurt but obviously hurt emotionally. You can only imagine what a child would go through watching their mom being murdered in front of them." PENNSYLVANIA MOTHER OF THREE FATALLY SHOT WHILE ALLEGEDLY TRYING TO PROTECT WOMAN OUTSIDE BAR: REPORT A second victim, an adult man, was also struck by gunfire and hospitalized in critical condition. Police have not said whether he was involved in the altercation or was the intended target. Investigators said the confrontation began inside the gas station before spilling into the parking lot, where shots were fired. No arrests have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing. NFL STAR'S BROTHER CHARGED WITH MURDER OF MOTHER AFTER POLICE FOUND HIM SELF-BARRICADED NEAR BODY Martin leaves behind five children and a grieving family that says she was on the verge of beginning a new chapter in life. According to a GoFundMe campaign, Martin was preparing to move her family into a new home the day after she was killed. To celebrate, she had taken her children to the BP station for slushies before the family's plans were shattered by gunfire. "Our hearts are shattered as we mourn the unimaginable loss of our beloved Shakeela Martin, who was taken from us far too soon at just 35 years old," the fundraiser states. The campaign describes Martin as "a devoted mother to five beautiful children who were the center of her world" and says she did not have life insurance. Organizers said donations will help cover funeral and burial expenses, with any additional funds going toward the immediate needs of her children. "We will forever cherish Shakeela’s memory and the love she gave so freely to everyone around her," the fundraiser site says. The Ferguson Police Department is asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact investigators at 314-522-3100 or CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a7672c2ca79de23642b49 Newsom blames Trump for DOJ probe, but reports say investigation predates his administration te 2026-07-05T15:21:22.007Z Newsom blames Trump for DOJ probe, but reports say investigation predates his administration California Gov. Gavin Newsom's claims that President Donald Trump's Justice Department launched a politically motivated "fishing expedition" against him are facing new scrutiny after multiple reports indicated key federal investigations predate Trump's second administration. The timeline has emerged as a central point in the dispute. While Newsom argues the current Justice Department is weaponizing the investigations against a political rival, multiple news organizations, citing sources familiar with the matter, have reported that at least some of the investigative activity began before Trump returned to the White House. According to CalMatters, at least two criminal investigations involving Newsom's orbit have been underway for about a year in the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California. The outlet, citing a Justice Department source familiar with the matter, reported the investigations originated from whistleblowers and local complaints in Sacramento, while one inquiry involving former Newsom chief of staff Dana Williamson was opened during the Biden administration. CBS News, Axios, the Financial Times and The Guardian have also reported similar timelines, citing sources familiar with the investigations. Newsom has maintained that the current Justice Department has expanded or politicized the investigations, even as the reported chronology has fueled questions over whether the inquiries themselves originated under Trump's administration. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEWSOM-LINKED CHARITIES REPORTEDLY CAUGHT IN DOJ’S SIGHTS The outlet also reported that one investigation involving former Newsom chief of staff Dana Williamson was opened during the Biden administration. Williamson pleaded guilty earlier this year to corruption charges in a case that did not implicate Newsom. CBS News, Axios, the Financial Times and The Guardian have also reported, citing sources familiar with the investigations, that at least one federal inquiry began roughly a year ago and originated in California rather than at Justice Department headquarters in Washington. Despite that reported timeline, Newsom has maintained that the current Justice Department is weaponizing the investigations in retaliation for his criticism of Trump and his national political profile, describing the inquiry as a politically motivated "fishing expedition." His administration has also sought records through the Freedom of Information Act in an effort to determine who ordered or directed the current investigation. ACTING AG TODD BLANCHE SAYS NEWSOM'S DOJ CLAIMS ARE NOT 'GROUNDED IN FACT' Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche pushed back on that characterization this week. While declining to comment on any ongoing investigations, Blanche told reporters he was "not sure [Newsom's] words are in any way grounded in fact," adding that the California governor "would have to address that." Blanche did not confirm or deny whether any investigation exists. Newsom's office responded by mocking Blanche on social media, posting a meme captioned, "Why you always lyin," while the governor's press office said, "Trump goons know that it's not a crime to lie to a reporter." SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER According to CalMatters, Newsom's office contends federal prosecutors expanded their inquiries after failing to build a case from the Williamson investigation, broadening their scrutiny to include Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the couple's finances and their associates. The outlet reported investigators have examined the first partner's tax filings, nonprofit organizations and certain behested payments, though it did not allege those payments were unlawful. Fox News Digital previously reported, citing federal sources, that investigators have opened inquiries involving Jennifer Siebel Newsom, but that Fox News had not learned of any federal investigation directly targeting Gov. Newsom himself. The Department of Justice, the White House and Newsom's office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a765ec2ca79de23642b40 Drivers urged to plan ahead as rest areas close along busy coastal corridor te 2026-07-05T15:21:02.045Z Drivers urged to plan ahead as rest areas close along busy coastal corridor Drivers traveling along California's scenic Highway 101 this summer will need to plan ahead after roadside rest areas in both directions of the highway closed because of a water shortage. The northbound and southbound Gaviota Roadside Rest Areas in Santa Barbara County closed July 1 and are expected to remain closed through Oct. 1, according to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The closure affects both directions of Highway 101 near the Gaviota Tunnel, a heavily traveled stretch between Buellton and Goleta. The shutdown leaves travelers with roughly 35 miles without a state-operated roadside restroom, California publication Edhat reported. DOLLY PARTON REIMAGINES TRAVEL FOR TRUCKERS, FAMILIES AND ROAD TRIPPERS IN HOT NEW VENTURE The closure is due to a lack of available water needed to fully operate the facilities, Caltrans said. The Gaviota rest areas serve one of California's busiest coastal corridors, used by commuters, tourists and long-distance travelers moving between Southern and Central California. With the facilities unavailable, Caltrans is encouraging travelers to plan ahead by identifying alternate places to stop for fuel, food, restroom breaks and rest before beginning their trip. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Officials said the rest areas will remain closed until a reliable water supply is restored, with no reopening expected before Oct. 1. The issue appears to stem from the area's water supply rather than routine maintenance. Local reports indicate the facilities rely on water from an inland spring that is outside Caltrans' control, and the same rest area experienced a similar extended summer closure last year. The Gaviota shutdown comes as other California rest areas are also temporarily unavailable. In Kern County, Caltrans has closed the northbound and southbound Interstate 5 Tejon Pass rest areas while crews upgrade water and wastewater facilities, Caltrans said. That project is expected to continue through August 2027. CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES The latest closure also sparked discussion among drivers familiar with the route, many of whom said the Gaviota rest areas have become known for frequent shutdowns. "Keeping the Gaviota rest stop open longer than six months ... impossible!" one Reddit user joked. Others said the closures have become so common that they now expect to find the facilities unavailable. "I don't remember ever seeing them open other than during holidays," another commenter wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a742ec2ca79de23642af0 Mexico takes on Harry Kane and England in 2026 World Cup quarterfinal without conceding a single goal te 2026-07-05T15:11:42.032Z Mexico takes on Harry Kane and England in 2026 World Cup quarterfinal without conceding a single goal I hope everyone had a happy, safe, and fun Fourth of July. My daughter and I walked onto the front porch around 9:30 last night, and the entire block was filled with smoke from all the fireworks. That's how it should be with the 250th birthday celebration. While the fireworks were bursting, the bets were going up in flames as I lost both my World Cup plays from yesterday. Today we get another pair of games, and they could be fantastic. Let's try to make them enjoyable either way with some wins. The first game on the slate features two very strong teams. One of them probably is a better team (Brazil), and the other has one of the best goal scorers in the game (Norway). That's a clash that you really don't want to miss! After starting with a draw against Morocco, who won yesterday and looks like one of the better teams in the league, Brazil has won three straight. They beat Haiti and Scotland 3-0 in the two remaining games of the Group Stage. In the Round of 32, they escaped with a tough 2-1 win over Japan. I think one of my favorite things about this team is that they have a good balance of being aggressive, but also a strong defense. Brazil will need a strong defense against Norway and its attack. The team relies heavily on their forward Erling Haaland. He has five goals already this World Cup and has scored in each of the games he has played. They started their World Cup with a win over Iraq, a game that saw Haaland find the net twice. Then in the next match against Senegal, it was a tougher opponent, but Norway still prevailed at 3-2. Against France, Norway had nothing to gain, so they sat their starters and lost 4-1. The Ivory Coast made Norway sweat a bit as they tied the game late before a Haaland goal gave them a 2-1 lead for good. I think there is some value on Norway at +350, but I think you're relying on Brazil making a mistake. I think both teams will be aggressive, but it may be tough for them to get great looks. I'm going to take over 9.5 corners for this game. I expect a lot of deflected shots that should lead to the over. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Chicago has a very large Mexican population, and you can tell how excited many are for this game. Mexico looks like one of the best teams in the World Cup. Watching their last game against Ecuador, they seemed significantly faster than their opponent. They definitely are energized off of the crowd in Mexico City, and a lot of attention is given to the altitude change, which seems to be in favor of Mexico. This team has been solid in so many ways. They haven't allowed a goal in the World Cup, and they have won all of the games - no draws, only wins. If England plays the way they did in their last game, this could be a disaster of a game for them. They struggled to beat the Congo DR in the Round of 32. They did get a 2-1 victory after Harry Kane found a way to score two goals in the second half for them. I expect Mexico to put its full attention to stopping Kane, which means that someone else for England has to step up. Considering he has five goals for them and they've only scored eight goals for the World Cup, they will need someone. I fully expect that the game goes under 2.5, but at -160 it is pricey. I also like Mexico to win this game. I know England is good and has a strong history, but I think Mexico looks like a great team. Give me Mexico to win this game. I think they will win in 90 minutes as well. To advance is a little less risky, and I'll take both. For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024 Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a741ac2ca79de23642ae7 Noah Wyle, Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio still captivating audiences well into their 50s te 2026-07-05T15:11:22.574Z Noah Wyle, Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio still captivating audiences well into their 50s Hollywood actors are aging like fine wine. Born between 1965 and 1980, actors belonging to Generation X continue to win audiences over with their dapper good looks. With each new episode of "The Pitt," fans can't help but gush over how handsome Noah Wyle is, while Ryan Gosling recently won fans over again in his latest film, "Project Hail Mary." ‘THE PITT’ STAR NOAH WYLE CREDITS GEORGE CLOONEY FOR LESSONS HE STILL USES TODAY Here are some of the best-looking actors belonging to Generation X. Born in 1971, Wyle is still a Hollywood heartthrob at 55 years old. He first broke onto the scene in season one of "E.R.," playing Dr. John Carter. He continued on the show for over 250 episodes, and earned five Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Award nominations. The actor went on to have a successful film and television career following his time on "E.R.," and has since returned to his medical drama roots in the highly successful HBO Max show "The Pitt," for which he received an Emmy Award. "What I’m enjoying now, is this very rare second lightning strike, which is allowing me an opportunity to be extremely grateful and humbled by it without feeling necessarily like I have to fake my way through it," he told The Hollywood Reporter in June about the success of "The Pitt." Born in 1970, the 55-year-old actor has had fans swooning over him since he first gained national attention for his Academy Award-winning movie, "Good Will Hunting." Damon won the award along with Ben Affleck for their work as screenwriters on the film, which led to both of them blossoming in their acting careers. Damon went on to star in "Saving Private Ryan" and "The Talented Mr. Ripley," before landing the starring role in the Jason Bourne Franchise. In addition to those films, Damon has been involved in other acclaimed movies, including "The Departed," "The Martian" and "Interstellar." "The journey is everything! It’s a cliché, but I have really felt it in my own life, in the 25 or 30 years I’ve been in this," he told The Talks in December 2019. "The goal is the process, really enjoying the process. You can’t really predict what is going to happen with movies… I have made movies that I thought were really going to be well received and successful, and they failed miserably. And I have made movies that were very successful that I didn’t see coming." Born in 1974, Leonardo DiCaprio has been stealing hearts since he first appeared on-screen as a child actor in "Parenthood." The 51-year-old actor earned his first Academy Award nomination at the age of 19 for his role in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape," following that up with notable roles in big movies before starring as Jack in his career-defining role in 1997's "Titanic." He continued starring in many acclaimed films, and was nominated for his roles in "The Aviator," "Blood Diamond," "The Wolf of Wall Street" and "The Revenant," which featured the role that finally won him the Oscar. He later received another nomination for "Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood." "I knew this was going to be somewhat of a silent performance; that’s part of what was exciting," he told Variety about "The Revenant" in January 2016. "But more than anything, I think I learned a lot about being an actor on this movie. It has a lot to do with trust. Trusting the people you’re working with, giving yourself over to a unique process, and trusting that if the people you’re working with are committed like Alejandro [González Iñárritu, the movie's director], you can focus on being in the moment and rely on your instincts and trust the journey." Born in 1975, the 51-year-old actor has often been referred to as an internet daddy. Pedro Pascal spent decades building his resume with small roles in popular TV shows before breaking through with the role of Prince Oberyn Martell in season four of "Game of Thrones." He continued the momentum that role earned him, starring in TV shows such as "Narcos," "The Mandalorian" and most recently, "The Last of Us," as well as films such as "Wonder Woman," "Gladiator II" and "Fantastic Four: First Steps." "The whole world of gaming really opened up to me when I took on this part," he told NPR in August 2025 about his role in "The Last of Us." "My nephews lost their minds when they found out that I had gotten this job and I hadn't heard of [the game]." Born in 1980, Gosling has been enchanting audiences since his days on "The Mickey Mouse Club" in the 90s. Following his time on the show, the 45-year-old actor appeared in a number of TV shows and movies, before capturing the audience's hearts as Noah in the 2004 movie "The Notebook." "The fact that I wasn’t really right for it was exactly why he thought I was right for it," Gosling told GQ in May 2023 about "The Notebook" director, Nick Cassavetes, adding he "straight up told me: ‘The fact that you have no natural leading man qualities is why I want you to be my leading man.’" He has since been a leading man in many films, including "Half Nelson," "La La Land" and "Barbie," all three of which earned him Oscar nominations. Born in 1971, Jon Hamm worked as a high school teacher before transitioning to acting with early roles in "CSI: Miami" and "The Division." The 55-year-old actor gained international recognition when he landed the leading role of Don Draper in the hit AMC show "Mad Men," which earned him an Emmy Award as well as many other nominations. "'Mad Men' was a show that penetrated the culture, and while a lot of that is luck and right place/right time stuff," he told USA Today in April 2025. "There are elements in this new show that speak directly to the times we're living through, specifically this bizarre fascination with more, (and) how 'more' has become the watchword, instead of 'enough.'" He followed that up with roles in films such as "Bridesmaids," "Baby Driver" and "Top Gun: Maverick," and television shows such as season five of "Fargo," "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" and "The Morning Show," most recently starring in season two of "Your Friends and Neighbors." Born in 1971, Bradley Cooper has only gotten better since starting his acting career with an appearance in a 1999 episode of "Sex and the City." The 51-year-old actor had his big break in the 2009 movie "The Hangover," following that up with multiple Academy Award-nominated roles in "Silver Linings Playbook," "American Hustle" and "American Sniper." In addition to voicing Rocket Racoon in multiple films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he also tried his hand at directing. His work on "A Star Is Born," "Nightmare Alley" and "Maestro" all went on to earn Academy Award nominations for best picture. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "As the director, you decide early on things that you will die on the sword for, because you know that they are necessary for the film," he told The Hollywood Reporter in February 2024 about directing "Maestro." "One example is when we were looking at locations, and we came across that Fairfield, Conn., house that they lived in. It was so concretized in my mind as the director that that was where we needed to film. That brought with its challenges, but as the producer, knowing that the director really felt that it was essential, we did everything we could to make that work." Born in 1968, Hugh Jackman has long been showing his chiseled abs on camera, as he's been playing Wolverine since his breakout role in 2000's "X-Men." The 57-year-old actor has since played the character in 10 films, most recently in the 2024 action/comedy "Deadpool & Wolverine." Aside from his roles in action movies, Jackman has also embraced his love of musical theater, appearing on Broadway in many musicals, even winning the Tony Award for best actor in a musical for his role in "The Boy From Oz." He's also starred in the movie musicals "Les Miserables," which earned him an Academy Award nomination, and "The Greatest Showman." LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS "Vocally, sometimes you have those ‘I can do anything’ days, and the next day you’re at 80%, so on those days when you’re feeling great, we would just pop over to the studio and record," Jackman told Variety in December 2017 about "The Greatest Showman." "There’s a couple of bits where I sing notes that I’ve never sung. I couldn’t have done that live." Born in 1969, Matthew McConaughey has been charming audiences with his southern drawl since he first broke out onto the scene in "Dazed and Confused" in 1993. He continued to steal hearts as a leading man in many iconic romantic comedies, including "The Wedding Planner," "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days" and "Fool's Gold." Around 2012, he began establishing himself as a dramatic actor, proving himself in "Dallas Buyers Club," which earned him an Oscar, and later in season one of "True Detective," which earned him an Emmy Award. "Every character is a journey into finding who are they in me, at some point," he told The Talks in September 2025. "Look, I can find a way to understand and believe in someone if they have identity — and boy, if you get good writing and the identity is there, like with Rustin Cole, my character in 'True Detective,' the identity was there. I didn’t have to act as much because the words were so good. It was just about understanding the words, believing in them and saying them. Don’t explain them!" Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a73dcc2ca79de23642ab8 5 desk gadgets that can make your workday better te 2026-07-05T15:10:20.117Z 5 desk gadgets that can make your workday better The right desk gadgets can help you reduce clutter, stay focused, and add a little extra convenience to your day. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a6cfdc2ca79de236429df Navy suspends search for sailor who went missing when helicopter went down in Arabian Sea te 2026-07-05T14:41:01.892Z Navy suspends search for sailor who went missing when helicopter went down in Arabian Sea The U.S. Navy suspended the active search for a sailor missing since Wednesday. The sailor was reported missing after an MH-60S helicopter went down in the Arabian Sea. The efforts concluded following an extensive search by the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force under the U.S. Central Command.  "The efforts concluded following an extensive search by the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility," the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command said in a social media post. "The Sailor’s name is being withheld until at least 24 hours after next-of-kin notification is complete in accordance with Navy policy." This is a breaking news report. Check back here for more updates. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a6aa5c2ca79de2364298b German World Cup fan breaks down in tears after being blown away by kindness of Americans te 2026-07-05T14:31:01.732Z German World Cup fan breaks down in tears after being blown away by kindness of Americans A German soccer fan came to the United States for the World Cup worried he might find the dangerous, crime-riddled country he’d heard about on the news. Instead, he found a place so magical he broke down crying on local television. During an interview with NBC 10 Boston, Sebastian Krause became visibly emotional while explaining how deeply moved he was by the kindness he experienced from Americans during his visit. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE Germany's World Cup run came to an abrupt end in the Round of 32 after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss to Paraguay. Tough way to go out. But apparently, not even a crushing soccer loss could compete with the power of American hospitality. In the news segment, reporter Oscar Margáin said Krause "never imagined his trip to America would be so emotional." The video shows Krause wiping tears from his eyes, turning away from the camera and using his Germany jersey to dry his face as he tried to explain what the trip meant to him. "I fall in love with this country and this was so emotional, I even cried in the stadium," Krause said. WORLD CUP SOCCER FANS ARE DISCOVERING AMERICA’S GREATNESS. IT’S TIME AMERICANS DID, TOO That is not exactly the reaction the rest of the world is often told to expect when visiting the U.S. Krause admitted he had been nervous before the trip because of what he had heard about America from news coverage overseas. "To be honest, I was a bit scared or had a fear to travel to the United States. News about shootings and criminals and that the country’s not safe," Krause said. Then he actually got here. Funny how that works. Instead of finding some dystopian wasteland, Krause found regular Americans being regular Americans. In one clip from his phone, Krause was picked up and driven to his hotel by a group of Boston locals. He was so touched by the gesture that he reportedly watched the clip back dozens of times. "America is great," Krause said in the video. Take that, all you smug European travel bloggers! "Americans are not rude. Germans are not rude," he said. "If we are together, we can achieve great things." Now, that’s just beautiful. Krause is hardly the only international World Cup fan who has discovered that America is much better than advertised. The 2026 tournament has turned into a full-blown tourism campaign for the United States, and the reviews from foreign fans have been glowing. The best-known example is another German fan named Freddy, who went viral on X while documenting his World Cup road trip across the U.S. Freddy became an internet sensation by reacting with unfettered joy to some of America’s most sacred institutions: Waffle House, Buc-ee’s, Taco Bell, Walmart and absurdly large fountain drink machines. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM It's culture shock in the best way. International fans have been blown away by free refills, American breakfast portions, air conditioning, drive-thrus, barbecue, fast food chains and the fact that a stranger in Boston might just give you a ride because it’s raining. And don't even get them started on the ranch dressing. Foreign World Cup fans have fallen hard for ranch. So hard, in fact, that airport shops have started stocking bottles of Hidden Valley Ranch past security because fans were trying to fly home with it. The TSA even had to remind travelers that ranch counts as a liquid and larger bottles cannot be stored in your carry-on. This is what makes Krause’s interview so perfect. The viral food posts are hilarious, and yes, watching Europeans discover Waffle House should be preserved in the Library of Congress. But Krause’s reaction gets to something deeper. He was told to be afraid of big, bad USA. Then he came here and found kindness. So much kindness that he didn’t even care when his team got bounced early. God bless America. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a684fc2ca79de2364293b JONATHAN TURLEY: Shapiro could've been a contender, but he caved to the loons te 2026-07-05T14:21:03.830Z JONATHAN TURLEY: Shapiro could've been a contender, but he caved to the loons Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has finally reached his Terry Malloy moment. In the classic movie "On the Waterfront," the character tells his brother of losing it all; his shot to be a champion and a person of respect: "You don't understand! I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I could've been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am, let's face it." Shapiro decided to deliver his defining moment on MS NOW's "Morning Joe" when he abandoned all principle and decided to join other Democratic establishment leaders in offering up the Supreme Court to the radical left. Shapiro used the common coded reference to court packing, calling for "radical reform of the Court." The only "radical" reform being seriously discussed is packing the institution with an immediate liberal majority to reverse a series of recent decisions and to greenlight an equally radical agenda for changes to our political system. What is so disappointing is that Shapiro truly could have been a contender, an alternative to the cringing, accommodating politicians who are yielding to the demands of the mob. Figures from Kamala Harris to Pete Buttigieg have recently embraced the scheme to show their bona fides to a rising socialist and radical movement in the Democratic Party. JOSH SHAPIRO READS 'A LITTLE MORE JEWISH' THAN OTHER DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES, CNN ANCHOR REMARKS Shapiro could have been different. He could have offered the country moderation and pushed back on the radical elements of his party. Shapiro was reportedly rejected as a vice presidential candidate due to being Jewish and is a member of a party that is careening toward open anti-Semitism. He could have been that mature voice within his party cautioning restraint before destroying one of our core institutions. Instead, he chose to just be another bum in American politics. "I think we need radical reform that’s actually going to ensure that the voices of the people are heard from, that the voices of the people are represented in the three branches of government," Shapiro told MS NOW. "We don’t have that right now." DEMOCRATIC SENATOR CLAIMS GOP 'STOLE' TWO SCOTUS SEATS IN 2016, 2020, CALLS FOR EXPANSION The comment echoes the remarks of other court-packers like Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who insisted the court was illegitimate for rendering decisions against "widely held public opinion." The Supreme Court was never designed to be the "voice of the people." On the contrary, it was meant to be a counter-majoritarian check on the people's impulse. It is that body that is designed to stand against the majority to protect minority interests and to maintain a constitutional system meant to blunt popular impulse. In my book, "Rage and the Republic," I discuss how the Framers sought to avoid a direct democratic system, which had failed repeatedly in history. These systems (based on channeling public demands) became what Benjamin Rush called a "mobocracy." The Supreme Court is a vital part of in preventing our Republic from destroying itself. TRUMP SUFFERS MAJOR SUPREME COURT DEFEAT AS JUSTICES UPHOLD BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP For years, professors and pundits have quietly urged a hostile takeover of the Court to remove the barrier to fundamentally changing our system. Now, on the 250th anniversary of our Republic, they are close to getting their way. Years ago, Harvard professor Michael Klarman laid out a radical agenda to change the system to guarantee Republicans "will never win another election." However, he warned that "the Supreme Court could strike down everything I just described." Therefore, the court must be packed in advance to allow these changes to occur. Former Obama Attorney General Eric Holder has put packing the Supreme Court front and center, explaining, "[We’re] talking about the acquisition and the use of power if there is a Democratic trifecta in 2028." James Carville declared, "If the Democrats win the presidency and both houses of Congress, I think on day one, they should expand the Supreme Court to 13. F— it. Eat our dust. Don’t run on it. Don’t talk about it. Just do it." Now Shapiro has joined these ignoble ranks. Shapiro and others are demanding the radical reforms despite the current Court repeatedly ruling against the Trump administration, including most recently on birthright citizenship. Without acknowledging that the decision again showed the Court's independence, Shapiro griped, "this case should have taken a nanosecond to decide and it should have been 9-0." What does that mean? Should the courts not have heard arguments, or should the Supreme Court have issued an immediate ruling from the bench during oral arguments? Nevertheless, that is enough for Shapiro to toss the Court to the mob. It is transparent and frankly pathetic. Shapiro added that too much power was being given to the Executive Branch. This is a court that just ruled against the president on issues from citizenship to tariffs. It has drawn sharp rebukes from President Trump for curtailing his powers. Now Shapiro appears ready to repeat his controversial move against his neighbor and exercise a type of adverse possession against the Court. However, he lacks the courage (as do figures like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries) to come out and call it court packing. They simply refer to "radical" changes. It is part of conditioning voters to the type of structural changes contemplated by the Left to guarantee Republicans "will never win another election." Most voters still oppose court packing. You have to wait until voters are angry enough to take a hammer to a system that remains the oldest, most stable democracy in history. The Court could well fall in the coming years to this mad frenzy, but it will be preceded by the fall of figures like Shapiro. He and his establishment colleagues are deluding themselves into believing that they will be spared in this mobocracy that they are making. Refusing to have his state participate in the 250th celebration on the Mall and offering up the Supreme Court will not appease an increasingly violent and anti-Semitic far-left movement. Despite his own pandering to the mob, the socialists recently chanted "you're next" when they saw Jeffries' image on a screen at a New York victory party. Yesterday's armchair revolutionaries like Shapiro will soon be treated as today's reactionaries by the very mob that they are trying to enlist. What will be left is a lament of what Shapiro could have been at this moment in our history. As Terry Malloy said, he "coulda had class. [He] coulda been a contender. [He] could've been somebody." CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM JONATHAN TURLEY Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a6634c2ca79de236428f2 'The Passion of the Christ' returns to theaters in 4K with a 'Resurrection of the Christ' sneak peek te 2026-07-05T14:12:04.930Z 'The Passion of the Christ' returns to theaters in 4K with a 'Resurrection of the Christ' sneak peek Mel Gibson's biblical blockbuster "The Passion of the Christ" will return to theaters nationwide for a limited-time run this September ahead of the release of its highly anticipated sequel in 2027. Lionsgate and Fathom Entertainment announced Wednesday that the 2004 film, which depicted the final 12 hours of Jesus' life leading up to his crucifixion, will return to the big screen from September 10 through September 17. The movie has been remastered in 4K and Dolby Atmos sound. Audiences will also get an exclusive sneak peek of the sequel to "The Passion," "The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One," which will be released on May 6, 2027. "The Resurrection of the Christ: Part Two" is scheduled to debut May 25, 2028, over Memorial Day weekend. MEL GIBSON'S 'RESURRECTION OF THE CHRIST' REVEALS FIRST PHOTOS AFTER LONG-AWAITED PASSION SEQUEL "The Passion of the Christ remains one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created," Kevin Grayson, president of worldwide distribution for Lionsgate, said in a press release. "For millions of people, it was far more than a film — it became a powerful shared cultural and faith experience. Bringing it back to theaters in a stunning new restoration allows longtime audiences to experience it in an entirely new way while inviting a new generation to discover it in theaters for the very first time." "The Passion of the Christ" was a hit with audiences, grossing more than $610 million worldwide on a reported $30 million budget. It also earned Academy Award nominations for its makeup, score and cinematography. The film also drew controversy at the time for its graphic violence and subject matter. For 20 years, "The Passion" held the record for the highest-grossing domestic R-rated film of all time, before being surpassed by 2024's "Deadpool & Wolverine." MEL GIBSON WARNED JESUS ACTOR IN ‘PASSION OF THE CHRIST’ ROLE COULD COST HIM HOLLYWOOD CAREER Lionsgate dropped a new full-length theatrical trailer as a way to celebrate "The Passion's" return to theaters. Tickets will be available starting July 24, online and at participating theaters. A list of theaters can be found on Fathom Entertainment's website. "Few modern-day films have made as much of an impact on the cultural landscape as The Passion of the Christ," Ray Nutt, Chief Executive Officer for Fathom Entertainment, said in a press release. "Twenty years ago, faith-based and more secular-leaning audiences alike embraced Mel Gibson’s film cinematic masterpiece and made it a true success, ushering in an era of opportunity for future religious-themed projects." CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE Actor Jim Caviezel, who was lauded for his portrayal of Jesus Christ in the original movie, was recast for the sequels due to challenges of de-aging technology and scheduling conflicts. Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen will portray Jesus in the new films, while Mariela Garriga will play Mary Magdalene, taking over the role from Monica Bellucci. Gibson has said that the upcoming sequels will explore "the spiritual realms" and the battle for the "soul of mankind." The director recently hailed the projects as coming to life "exactly as I envisioned it." "This film represents a major part of my life’s work, and it has demanded everything of me as a filmmaker and as an artist," he said in May about "The Resurrection: Part One." "This is far more than a film to me. It’s a mission I’ve carried for over 20 years to tell what I believe is the most important story in human history." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a6621c2ca79de236428e9 Rare cannonball emerges from ground at the Alamo, likely untouched for nearly 190 years te 2026-07-05T14:11:45.474Z Rare cannonball emerges from ground at the Alamo, likely untouched for nearly 190 years Archaeologists have uncovered a cannonball that may have been fired during the 1836 Battle of the Alamo — just three months after making a similar rare discovery. The cannonball was discovered on June 2.  The Alamo Trust, the nonprofit organization that oversees the Alamo Mission, announced the discovery on June 16. SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING It was found outside the northeast corner of the Alamo Church, in an adjacent excavation unit where another intact cannonball was unearthed in March. Pictures show heavy rust covering the newly discovered iron cannonball, which appears orange-brown in color. Because it was found at roughly the same depth as the first cannonball in a neighboring excavation unit, archaeologists believe it likely remained undisturbed for nearly 190 years. "So whenever they were dropped, the very first time — possibly in 1836, probably — they haven’t been touched since," Tiffany Lindley, director of archaeology at the Alamo, said in a press release. ANCIENT VIKING SWORD DISCOVERED 'STICKING UP OUT OF THE GROUND' AFTER 1,300 YEARS "And that’s what makes them extra special." One of the most important conflicts in Texas history, the Battle of the Alamo was fought between Mexican forces and Texian rebels. Lasting from Feb. 23 to Mar. 6, 1836, the battle saw Texian forces — including Davy Crockett and William B. Travis — hold off a much larger Mexican army. The 13-day siege ended with Mexican troops overrunning the Texian defenders, a loss that became a rallying cry for the Texas Revolution. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Researchers were surprised to find the second cannonball, Lindley told Fox News Digital. She said the site has undergone extensive use over the years, including occupation by the U.S. military quartermaster and commercial development around the historic grounds. "All of that has impacted a significant portion of the underground resources," said Lindley. "It was amazing to find one cannonball, and then to follow it up a couple of months later with a second was quite surprising." CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES The recently found cannonball "isn't as well-preserved as the first due to the type of metal," said Lindley. The first one was made of solid bronze, while the second one is made from solid iron. "However, it's still in pretty good condition," she added. "We are hoping to send both artifacts off for conservation." While the team hopes to find more artifacts related to the Battle of the Alamo, Lindley said the excavation yields dozens of historic finds every day. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "We are finding dozens of exciting historic artifacts every day, along with hundreds of maybe not so exciting artifacts, like nails and brick," said Lindley. "We find what gets left behind, and often that means broken and discarded items." Lindley added that, though exciting, the cannonball is only "one small part in this project." "After excavations end, analysis of the data will provide valuable insight into the daily lives of the inhabitants of the site," she said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a660ec2ca79de236428e0 America at 250: Supporting Israel honors our nation’s founding principles te 2026-07-05T14:11:26.018Z America at 250: Supporting Israel honors our nation’s founding principles As Americans celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, we have an opportunity to reflect on more than our history. We have an opportunity to remember the values that made America possible. For me, those values are inseparable from the Judeo-Christian principles that shaped our founders and influenced the development of our nation. The concepts of liberty, human dignity, justice and moral responsibility did not emerge in a vacuum. They were deeply influenced by a biblical worldview that has guided generations of Americans. I’M AN ARAB MUSLIM — I STILL DON’T UNDERSTAND THE ANTISEMITIC BDS MOVEMENT Our American system of government is rooted in truths that God spoke to the Jewish people more than 2,500 years ago. Our three branches of government were inspired by the prophet Isaiah, who wrote that "the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king" (Isaiah 33:22). The laws that govern our nation are informed by the Old Testament and the Ten Commandments. When we look at the back of a one-dollar bill and see the motto, "In God We Trust," which God are we trusting? We are trusting the God who appeared to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Our founding principles are one more reason to support Israel. As vice president of the Young Leadership affinity group for the Washington, D.C., chapter of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), I have witnessed firsthand the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who defend Israel. Following the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks, I traveled to Israel and met soldiers, families and communities whose lives were forever changed. What stood out most was not only their resilience but also their commitment to defending freedom while maintaining a strong moral framework under incredibly difficult circumstances. Support for Israel should not be viewed solely through a political lens. It should be rooted in faith, history, and a recognition of the unique role the Jewish people have played in shaping the values that we as Americans cherish today. Their values are the values that guided our nation’s founders. SIGN UP FOR ANTISEMITISM EXPOSED NEWSLETTER A poll from last September by Infinity Concepts and Grey Matter Research shows that while American Evangelicals are still strong supporters of Israel and the Jewish people, unfortunately, younger generations are increasingly disconnected from those foundations. The report titled, "The Crossroads of Belief: Evangelicals and the Jewish People," found that only 29% of evangelicals under 35 believe the Jewish people are God’s chosen people. That statistic should concern anyone who values the historical and biblical roots of our nation. Let us recommit ourselves to the principles that have sustained our republic. Principles that began with the ancestors of our Jewish neighbors and friends. As we have supported Israel, we have thrived as a nation. Will we continue to stand by Israel as a strong ally, supporting the people whom God has already promised to be with until the end of time? CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION The joint operations by the U.S. and Israel last year and this year to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions represent the cooperation and partnership that should typify the relationship between our two great nations. Such camaraderie is the natural outcome of our historic common bond that is built on the shared foundations of hope, truth and freedom.  The longstanding friendship of the U.S. and Israel is something that we need to continue to foster, support and protect with vigor and vigilance. As we mark 250 years of American freedom, let us stand with our Jewish neighbors and with our ally, Israel, honor our moral foundations that come from our God who made them His chosen people, and remember that freedom survives only when each generation chooses to stand up and preserve it. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a65d0c2ca79de236428b8 New COOLTainer opens on Tucson's South Side te 2026-07-05T14:10:24.809Z New COOLTainer opens on Tucson's South Side Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a6403c2ca79de236428a6 VSAR mourns Hajek, founder of its drone program te 2026-07-05T14:02:43.110Z VSAR mourns Hajek, founder of its drone program Sedona volunteer died June 18 while hiking trails Jerry Hajek Jr., 70, died on June 18, of natural causes doing what he loved: Hiking Sedona trails. Hajek was a member of the Verde Search and Rescue Posse volunteer auxiliary force for the last four years. “Our hearts are heavy with the passing of Je Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a63efc2ca79de23642886 WWE legend Torrie Wilson slipped into bikinis for the Fourth of July, models got patriotic on Instagram & meat te 2026-07-05T14:02:23.151Z WWE legend Torrie Wilson slipped into bikinis for the Fourth of July, models got patriotic on Instagram & meat Welcome to the July 5th Sunday Screencaps. Hopefully you're arriving with the same number of fingers and hands you entered the holiday weekend with and are simply recovering from going too hard for America's 250th. I did get a little bit too much sun yesterday, but other than that, I survived in one piece. We went into the Fourth of July this year without any plans whatsoever. I ended up taking the little guy to the pool in the early afternoon, then we had an unexpected guest stop by for a few hours, and before I knew it, I was watching the neighborhood fireworks along with everyone else. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! So much for no plans and watching the fireworks from our yard, which is what we did last year. By the end of the night, the little guy was worn out, and we didn’t even set off the small fireworks we bought. We'll be doing that tonight. This year it seemed like there were a lot more suburban heroes out setting off fireworks. It was nonstop from all directions from the time the sun went down until early this morning. We thank them, and I'm confident they'll be out tonight doing it again. We're also thanking WWE legend Torrie Wilson. WWE STAR TOUTS PRO WRESTLERS TEARING IT UP ON INDEPENDENT CIRCUIT On a very patriotic day on Instagram this the Fourth of July, she managed to stand out. The Hall of Famer had a couple of bikinis for the occasion and wished the USA a happy 250th birthday in them. Torrie, unlike us in the Joseph household, had a plan. Get out the red, white and blue, grab the denim and the patriotic bikini, a couple of American flags and get to work. This year's holiday weekend was a big one after all. The pressure to deliver could be too much for some. It's not for Torrie Wilson. She's still a star, and she's not afraid of the bright lights at all. That's obvious, even at 50. LIVVY DUNNE GETS EMOTIONAL AFTER PAUL SKENES' INCREDIBLE GESTURE TO BASEBALL KIDS, SPURS FAN BEATEN & MEAT Happy Fourth of July weekend from one of the best to ever do it. - Chris B from Johnson City writes: SeanJo, Sorry it’s late, but I wanted to fulfill your request for meat. I was off Thursday and Friday (my company always gives us two days for the Fourth). With that much down time I acted on an idea that I had in the cold days of winter and spring. I used some gift cards and got a little charcoal grill. I got a Weber Jumbo Joe to be exact. The inaugural cook was obviously the 250th July 4th. It’s so hot that the family wasn’t that hungry, but I tried hard to fill it up. I have some ideas for how I’m going to use it going forward. God Bless America. SeanJo Chris, I have to admit that teared up a little seeing this one. This is what it's all about. From the two days off to the purchasing a charcoal grill and the breaking it out for July 4th, it's perfect. This is how you celebrate the holiday weekend. I hope you enjoyed it. I also hope there are plenty of charcoal grilling days this summer. Thanks for sending your meat my way. - Mike writes: Sean, Unfortunately, forgot to get a shot while the tri tip was on the grill, but the end result was great. My wife did a rub and it was fantastic. Also wanted to share that we'll be taking a cruise to Alaska and I thought you'd like one of the port adventures offered. Keep up the great work. SeanJo Thanks for the support and for sending this in. The meat looks great and so does the "Alaska Bigfoot Adventures." I hope you're not passing up on an opportunity to see some natures and sightsee. Who knows? Maybe you'll even have a Bigfoot encounter that nobody manages to capture on camera. That's worth the $149 if you ask me. SeanJo Homebrew Bill and Troy, thanks for sending your meat my way. I'm going to have to give the bacon wrapped stuffed peppers a try. I've had them before, I've never tried to make them myself. I'm going to have to give it a shot. And you know what they say about smoking meat on skewers. If you're going to have something keep splitting in two, let it be the mushrooms. ########## That's it. That's all I have for the first Sunday in July as we make the most of what's left of the holiday weekend. Enjoy and if you toss your meat on a grill, remember I want to see it. The inbox is always open, sean.joseph@outkick.com. You can also follow me on Twitter and over on Instagram and slide into the DMs over there. Have a great Sunday as we wrap up the Fourth of July weekend. Also, I'm not getting rid of Steve Largent. He'll be back. I tossed Don Mattingly in there this week because his handsome mug showed up in my feed, and he was my favorite player when I was young. I've put him in before, and I'll likely do it again. I pick and choose my spots with Donnie Baseball. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a63dbc2ca79de2364287d Top highlights from Trump's late night July 4 address: 'No dream in history is bigger' te 2026-07-05T14:02:03.690Z Top highlights from Trump's late night July 4 address: 'No dream in history is bigger' President Donald Trump delivered a 37-minute speech for America's 250th birthday after a weather delay in the dark of night that was lit up by a Guinness world-record-setting fireworks display stretching from July 4 into July 5 at Washington, D.C.'s National Mall. While thousands outlasted the rain and dodged nature's thunderstorm light show, many Americans might have missed the president's historic remarks. Here is a recap of some of the highlights. AMERICA’S NEXT 250 YEARS DEPEND ON PASSING FAITH AND FREEDOM TO OUR CHILDREN 'No dream in history is bigger' than the American experiment "In this country, we could achieve the wildest and most impossible dreams, and no dream in history is bigger or more incredible than the one that started on July 4th, 1776," Trump said. "The war for independence was launched by minutemen, farmers, blacksmiths, tradesmen who took up their muskets against the mightiest army on earth, the most powerful army and unbeatable army – until they met us." "No one made them do it. They fought because they knew that a free people must have a free country. Over 250 years, the world has seen the great empires, vast kingdoms, mighty nations and terrible tyrants: They came and they went, but after 2 1/2 centuries, this American republic still stands tall and strong," the president added. TRUMP HAILS AMERICA AS 'MOST EXCEPTIONAL NATION EVER TO EXIST' IN MOUNT RUSHMORE SPEECH 'America is a nation of winners' "Americans won the West and built the modern world, because America is a nation of winners, and today our country is winning again, and we're winning like never before," Trump said just before the midway point of the speech. "America is back and we want to keep America great." "Together, we are also reasserting the truth that American strength and power is not something to be ashamed of. It is something that we are very, very proud of," Trump continued. "This country has been the greatest force for peace and justice on earth in the last century. We defeated tyrants, demolished evil, and saved freedom again and again and again." 'Nothing Americans cannot do' "There is no challenge Americans can not overcome," Trump said before his concluding remarks. "There is no place we cannot go. There is no goal we cannot reach. And there is nothing that Americans cannot do." Thanking those staying into the late hours "If you think that was easy, it wasn't," Trump began in an unscripted salute to the patient and devoted crowd. "And I want to thank everybody because they did the right thing. They saw lightning. And I said, 'there's no way; if we have to speak in front of one person at 4 in the morning, I'm going to be here.' "There's no way we can be deterred. And they estimated they had 375,000 people before everybody had to leave, and they now have 150,000 people. It's the craziest thing anyone's ever seen. "And I want to just thank you. And I feel so badly about some people. They left it; they couldn't get back. But, you're very special people, and we have a very special country. Thank you very much." '56 patriots put everything at risk' for 'victory for the ages' "They declare that all men are created equal; that they are endowed with sacred unalienable rights by the hand of our creator, and that among these are life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," Trump said, "and signing their names to the roster of freedom." "Those 56 patriots put everything at risk. Stepped onto the stage of destiny and seized a victory for the ages. And that's what it was," he said. "And this is an evening for the ages. I believe this is something very special. This is bigger than if we didn't have the lightning blaring. We had lightning blaring. But this is bigger, little more inconvenient, but it's bigger, I think, in its own way it's more beautiful. From the beginning, we were a nation that live by the motto victory or death and live free or die." 'We will always be the best' "God bless the immortal patriots of 1776, and long live the cause of independence," Trump said. "May it reign forever and ever and ever. We will always be on top. We will never let our country fall. We will always be the best." "Our founders not only won our liberty, they secured it with the most righteous political document ever conceived: It's called the Constitution of the United States," Trump said. "Very special, and it's because of their genius that we remain the finest people on the planet." Honoring 11 Gold Star families "We are honored to be joined by 11 Gold Star family members," Trump said. "The Gold Star family – that is one of the great tributes. It's one of the great honors, a tough honor. There's nothing tougher than that. But these are amazing people." Next stop, the moon, then a mission to Mars "We're going to be going to Mars very soon, and I think that's something that we do have in my mind," Trump said, hearkening to the historic John F. Kennedy going to the moon speech excerpt. "And we're going to do the moon and we're going to go from there. We're going to go to Mars, and we're going to continue to be way ahead." Defeating communism: We 'cast the hammer and sickle into oblivion' "All these talks from the communists, they haven't got a chance – not even a chance," Trump said; a theme he reiterated multiple times in the speech. "We don't want communists in our country. Never worked and it never will work." Communism will always be "a loser," Trump added later. "Our warriors did not fight communism on battlefields across the world only to have that menace rears its ugly head right back here in America. We're not going to let it happen. We like to stop a threat like that immediately and before it begins," Trump said. "It's like a cancer. You got to cut it out. You got to cut it out fast." Trump added a warning to potential future communist opposition around the globe. "The Stars and Stripes cast the hammer and sickle into oblivion before," Trump said, "and we will do it again if necessary." "I don't think it's going to be necessary. I think people have learned. They've learned what to do and how to handle it, and we'll get a handle it very well." 'Our destiny is written by God' "We have thrived and flourished because our founders were great, our cause was just, our people are brave, our culture is exceptional, and our destiny is written by God," Trump said near the end of the speech he apparently cut short after vowing earlier this week to deliver an hours-long address to the world. "And as we can see here tonight, after 250 years, the spirit of 1776 still lives within us all. It still roars in the hearts of our nation's capital. It still burns in the heart of every patriot, thunders through every city and town, and is still lights the entire world with the glow of American liberty. And there is nothing like that." 250 and 'just getting started': 'Best is yet to come'; 'dawn of the golden age' "At 250 years old, we may be the oldest constitutional republic on earth, but our country is just getting started because the best is yet to come: This is only the dawn of the golden age of America," Trump said in his conclusion, leading directly into the National Mall fireworks display. "And on this 250th 4th of July, we declare, just as they did two and a half centuries ago, that for our country and for our children and for the cause of liberty, we are going to take our country to new levels, to levels not reached," Trump continued. "We're going to make it bigger, better, stronger, and we're going to love it even more." "And I just want to thank you," he added, finishing with words off the script. "The inconvenience of lightning can do that, but lightning will never stop you. And I want to thank everybody and we love you all. And it's an honor to be your president. Thank you. God bless you all." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a639ec2ca79de2364285d Bill Archer, Influential Texas Congressman, Is Dead at 98 te 2026-07-05T14:01:02.248Z Bill Archer, Influential Texas Congressman, Is Dead at 98 Serving for 30 years, he eventually wrote virtually all tax laws considered by the House and was a major influence on budget bills as Ways and Means chairman. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a638ac2ca79de2364284f Flagstaff City Council hears recommendations on ways to change zoning code to further housing and climate goals te 2026-07-05T14:00:42.790Z Flagstaff City Council hears recommendations on ways to change zoning code to further housing and climate goals The Flagstaff City Council moved forward with recommendations that are the outcome of a years-long effort to assess and make changes to city code to help Flagstaff meet its housing and climate goals. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a6376c2ca79de23642846 Sex offender notification te 2026-07-05T14:00:22.325Z Sex offender notification The Flagstaff Police Department would like to make the following sex offender notifications: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5f2ac2ca79de236427c2 Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's viral finger-pointing meme reaches WWE te 2026-07-05T13:42:02.550Z Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's viral finger-pointing meme reaches WWE Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham’s point toward Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner amid a heated skirmish during their game has gone mega viral. The point turned into a meme that has reached all corners of the internet, including the White House’s social media accounts. On Friday, pointing was also seen in the ring. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Chelsea Green, Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair took on Jade Cargill, Michin and B-Fab in a six-woman tag team match on "Friday Night SmackDown." Green and Stratton stood in front of Flair and began to point at their opponents in Cunningham’s style. "When @WWE meets @WNBA," Green wrote on X. Cargill’s team defeated Flair, Stratton and Green in the match. Cunningham shared her thoughts on the White House's post while speaking to reporters on Friday. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM "I think everyone around the world is posting it," she said when asked about the White House's post. "Every company has done it. So I don't really think twice about it. I just think they're another group posting about it." Cunningham said on her podcast that her technical foul she got for the pointing gesture during the game against the Mercury was "the weakest thing I’ve ever seen in my life" and explaining that she "didn’t say a word" while "all I was doing was literally pointing." "I couldn't help myself. I could not. She was losing her s--- and all I was doing was literally pointing," Cunningham said. Fox News’ Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5f17c2ca79de236427b9 Jordan Davis faces fan backlash over Hawaii axis deer hunt despite strong conservation backing te 2026-07-05T13:41:43.093Z Jordan Davis faces fan backlash over Hawaii axis deer hunt despite strong conservation backing Country music star Jordan Davis is getting a crash course in the internet's complicated relationship with hunting. The Louisiana native recently shared photos from what he described as an "absolute bucket list" axis deer hunt in Hawaii, proudly posing with the harvested animal and several friends. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE "Axis deer in Hawaii. Absolute bucket list hunt with some great people," Davis wrote on Instagram. The post quickly drew a mixed reaction from fans. While plenty congratulated the singer on checking off a dream hunt, others called the photo "horrifying," "disappointing" and "unnecessary." Some fans said they didn't mind that Davis hunts but questioned why he felt the need to share the photo publicly. Others took issue with the hunt itself. The backlash may sound familiar. Just last month, fellow country star Cody Johnson found himself in similar hot water after posting photos from a grizzly bear hunt in Alaska. Johnson eventually defended the hunt as a "conservationist effort" and a "meat-harvesting hunt." Davis has not publicly responded to the criticism. CODY JOHNSON FIRES BACK AT CRITICS, CALLS ALASKA GRIZZLY BEAR HUNT A 'CONSERVATIONIST EFFORT' Context matters here, though, because axis deer are an invasive species in Hawaii. The spotted deer, which are native to India, were introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in the 1860s and eventually spread to Maui, Lanai and Molokai. With no natural predators and the ability to breed year-round, their populations have exploded over the decades. Today, wildlife officials and conservation groups consider axis deer a major ecological problem. The animals damage agricultural land, consume native vegetation, contribute to soil erosion and compete with livestock for forage. Overpopulation has become such a concern that hunting is widely viewed as one of the primary tools for controlling their numbers. The fact that axis venison is often regarded as some of the best-tasting wild game in the world is an added perk. Still, as both Davis and Johnson have learned, the conservation argument doesn't always end the debate. For some fans, the issue isn't necessarily that country artists hunt. It's that they don't want dead animals popping up in their Instagram feeds. And that's fair. Then again, odds are those same folks wouldn't bat an eye at a photo of a cheeseburger. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5ed8c2ca79de2364278e A troubling milestone: Most Supreme Court rulings are secretive votes with little justification te 2026-07-05T13:40:40.625Z A troubling milestone: Most Supreme Court rulings are secretive votes with little justification Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5ec4c2ca79de23642780 What is Bending Spoons? The little-known AOL and Vimeo owner that’s now public te 2026-07-05T13:40:20.668Z What is Bending Spoons? The little-known AOL and Vimeo owner that’s now public Bending Spoons remains largely unknown, even as its portfolio of products has served more than a billion people. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5a66c2ca79de236426ee Australian healing with 'beautiful messages' after losing arm to shark attack te 2026-07-05T13:21:42.083Z Australian healing with 'beautiful messages' after losing arm to shark attack Leah Stewart, an Australian mother and teacher who lost an arm after a shark attack at Sydney’s Coogee Beach, has been reading messages from supporters around the world during sleepless nights as she continues her long recovery, her family said. "We’ve been sharing some of the beautiful messages we’ve received with Leah and she’s loved them, finding inspiration from the care and love you’ve all shared," her brother, Joshua Stewart, wrote in a GoFundMe update on Sunday. "Leah has had some challenging days but has found real strength from your kindness and support," he added. Leah Stewart has struggled with sleep in her recovery and has leaned on the wave of support from family, friends and strangers. AUTHORITIES IDENTIFY WOMAN KILLED IN ALLIGATOR ATTACK WHILE SWIMMING WITH FRIENDS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA "Since the incident Leah has had difficulty sleeping, and on those nights she’s been reading back through your messages, not only from her family and community in Australia and her whānau in New Zealand, but also from people all across the world," he wrote, using the Maori word for family. "They’ve given her real comfort and strength." Stewart, mother to a 1-year-old daughter and passionate teacher, was attacked June 13 while on a morning swim close to shore and within the flags at Coogee Beach, according to her family. She suffered life-threatening injuries, including multiple bites across her arms and legs, lacerations, fractures and extreme blood loss. She was placed on life support, put under a medically induced coma and underwent multiple surgeries in the days after the attack. Her treatment required the amputation of one arm, and the family said more surgeries were scheduled as doctors worked to save her life and stabilize her condition. Stewart, who woke up from her 10-day coma after doctors reduced her sedation, told her mother and partner, Fernando, "I love you." Her brother said at the time that her first thoughts were with her young daughter, August. SHARK ATTACK SURVIVOR WAKES FROM 10-DAY COMA AND SHARES FIRST WORDS WITH FAMILY AT HER HOSPITAL BEDSIDE "Leah has a long road ahead," Joshua Stewart wrote after she briefly woke, calling the moment a hopeful first step in her recovery. Joshua Stewart said the family wanted to apologize for delays in responding to supporters, explaining they have had issues with the GoFundMe messaging system. "Leah is beyond overwhelmed at the amazing support she has received and that her story has resonated with so many people," he wrote. "Thank you!" The fundraiser was launched to help Stewart, her partner and their young daughter through what her family described as a heartbreaking situation. The money will support her recovery, prosthetics, rehabilitation, ongoing care and the major adjustments she will need as she works toward returning to life as a mother. Her family also thanked the lifesavers, first responders, helicopter crew and medical team at St. Vincent’s Hospital who helped care for Stewart after the attack. "As a family we are shocked and devastated that this could happen to our beloved partner, daughter and mother who is so full of life and energy," Joshua Stewart wrote. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5a28c2ca79de236426ca Mission Garden cultivates spot on National Register of Historic Places te 2026-07-05T13:20:40.641Z Mission Garden cultivates spot on National Register of Historic Places Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5a15c2ca79de236426c1 Marshall Gulch trailhead to close July 6 for reconstruction te 2026-07-05T13:20:21.192Z Marshall Gulch trailhead to close July 6 for reconstruction Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5835c2ca79de23642699 NFL star Brandon Aiyuk appears to go after Commanders' Jayden Daniels in latest social media rant te 2026-07-05T13:12:21.306Z NFL star Brandon Aiyuk appears to go after Commanders' Jayden Daniels in latest social media rant San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s apparent attempt to get traded to the Washington Commanders in the offseason may have come to a screeching halt. Aiyuk posted a video to his social media on Saturday, taking aim at Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. He seemingly referred to Daniels as "5" – the star’s jersey number. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! "‘5’ gonna text me talking about some, ‘You’re on my team now. You follow my rules.’ Boy, I’m a grown a-- man, boy," Aiyuk said. "You gonna have to start running behind your momma and I might believe what you talking about. But until then, (No)." He tagged Daniels specifically in a separate post, which read, "Tf always so funny lil n---a. Turn your savage up." In a third post, Aiyuk was seemingly interested in joining Daniels on the Commanders again. "Let’s run it 5! Let’s see! Need you available all szn and I’ll do the same," the post read. The 49ers have been looking for a trade partner for Aiyuk, who signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the 49ers in August 2024. But it probably isn’t helping that general manager John Lynch not only said Aiyuk is done, but these public displays of displeasure from Aiyuk don’t paint him in the best light despite his talent. Aiyuk has invoked the Commanders numerous times, seemingly trying to re-join his Arizona State teammate in Daniels. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Aiyuk began speaking out about his frustration with San Francisco earlier this month, including videos where he called the 49ers "dumb" and "stupid" for giving him his extension. He also claims the team is scared to release him because of how he might perform elsewhere in the league. The rift between Aiyuk and the 49ers has gone on for almost a full year now after the team voided the remaining guaranteed money he was owed on his extension. The 49ers did so after Aiyuk didn’t participate in rehab sessions for a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus he suffered in his right knee during the 2024 season. Then, the 49ers placed Aiyuk on the reserve/left team list back in December after he stopped showing up to the team facility. Before getting injured in 2024, Aiyuk tallied 24 catches for 374 yards during that season. He broke out with 1,342 yards on 75 receptions and seven touchdowns during the 2023 season for the 49ers, helping them reach the Super Bowl. Fox News’ Scott Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a5821c2ca79de23642690 'Tanmaxxing' trend could come at a dangerous cost, skin cancer experts warn te 2026-07-05T13:12:01.844Z 'Tanmaxxing' trend could come at a dangerous cost, skin cancer experts warn Summer fun in the sun is being taken to a new extreme. "Tanmaxxing" is a social media trend that involves maximizing sun exposure and tanning the skin more intensely. Popular among Gen Z, the practice combines time spent in direct sunlight with a variety of tanning products like oils, bronzers and gels. POPULAR FRUIT MAY HELP PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS Creators on social media are showing off their dramatic tan lines and outdoor set-ups — some even forgoing sun protection or adding tanning bed sessions. While spending time outdoors can help boost mood, support the body's production of vitamin D and reduce screen time, dermatologists warn that excessive sun exposure — especially as promoted by the tanmaxxing trend — can be dangerous. New York-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Tassavor, MD, emphasized that there is "no such thing as a safe, natural tan." CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES "Tanning is damage," he said in an interview with Fox News Digital. "Tanfluencers sell a deep tan as a ‘wellness upgrade,' but a tan isn't a glow-up — it's your skin's visible distress signal that DNA damage has already happened." "As a skin cancer specialist, I've taken care of thousands of skin cancers on patients who 'tanmaxxed' before it had a name. Most regret it." The World Health Organization classifies UV radiation and tanning beds as Group 1 carcinogens, which is the same category as tobacco and asbestos. Using a tanning bed before age 35 can raise melanoma risk by about 75%, Tassavor noted. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ "The damage compounds silently and shows up years later, once the easy window to intervene has closed," he said. According to Tassavor, two common beliefs behind tanmaxxing are false: Skipping sunscreen does not produce a "better" tan, and a base tan does not protect the skin from future sunburns. Sunlight "isn’t the enemy," the dermatologist noted, but there’s no need to chase it. "Most of your vitamin D can come from diet and supplements, and your skin is efficient enough to [get] what it needs from ordinary incidental exposure," he said. "Vitamin D matters for bone density, and sun does give some people a genuine mood lift, but there's no evidence that anyone has to go out of their way to sunbathe for it, and no evidence that diligent sunscreen use harms bone health." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER To safely expose yourself to the sun, Tassavor recommends using SPF 30 sunscreen and reapplying every two hours. Tanning beds should be avoided "entirely," he cautioned, because there is "no safe dose" of UV exposure and using them accelerates skin aging. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a580ec2ca79de23642687 Nicki Minaj, Anna Nicole Smith and more stars who got their start waiting tables at Red Lobster te 2026-07-05T13:11:42.388Z Nicki Minaj, Anna Nicole Smith and more stars who got their start waiting tables at Red Lobster Stars are just like us. Before becoming famous, Nicki Minaj, Anna Nicole Smith and more worked everyday jobs at one of America's biggest chain restaurants. The rapper worked at a number of locations, while Smith worked at Red Lobster as a young mom when she first welcomed her son, Daniel, when she was 19 years old. LONGEST-RUNNING RED LOBSTER LOCATION IN AMERICA IS CLOSING AFTER 56 YEARS Damola Adamolekun, the youngest CEO the chain restaurant has ever seen at 37 years old, acknowledges the company's storied history with celebrity, and has been talking up the brand since taking over. "People just really care about this brand. It has a deep legacy and a deep meaning to people." he told Vanity Fair in June, adding, "I like that I’m giving people a different sort of role model—a different path for people that they might not be aware of otherwise." Here are some of the biggest names who once worked at Red Lobster. Nicki Minaj had experience as a waitress prior to making it big as a record-setting female rapper. During an appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," she spoke about her time working at Red Lobster as a waitress, saying "I probably waited on people in this audience for a matter of fact," adding, "If you've ever eaten at Red Lobster, I probably took your order." "That's what made me wanna hurry up and follow my dream, because I was like, 'Oh my God, this is not for me. I gotta hurry up and get out of here before it's too late,'" Minaj said about working at the chain restaurant. She went on to find success with her debut album, "Pink Friday," which featured one of her biggest songs of all time, "Super Bass." This led to record-breaking success, as she became the best-selling female rapper of all time, selling over 100 million records worldwide. Anna Nicole Smith once chose to work at Red Lobster to support herself and her son, Daniel. In an interview with Daily Mail in February 2017, Smith's mother, Virgie Arthur, shared that her daughter once worked at the popular chain restaurant before quitting to work as an exotic dancer at the Executive Suite. She recalled going into the Executive Suite one night and finding Smith dancing for a man, telling her, "You’re not going to do that kind of work. You’re supposed to be working at Red Lobster." "She said, ‘Momma, I know you don’t understand this but I work at Red Lobster all night long and my back and my feet are killing me,’" Arthur told the outlet. "‘I can go work at the Executive Suite one night and make $1,000 dollars.’" In 1991, while dancing at another local club, Smith met billionaire oil tycoon J. Howard Marshall. With his support, she was able to quit dancing and began modeling — she never looked back. Chris Rock spent his teenage years working at Red Lobster in New York. The actor and comedian spoke about his time working at the restaurant after dropping out of high school in the 10th grade during his 2008 HBO comedy special, "Kill the Messenger," saying he "used to scrape shrimp into the garbage can and then load up the dishwasher." "I never got a raise, I never got a promotion," he said. "They kept me in the back because I had really f---ed-up teeth, and they didn’t want people to think that shrimp f---ed up your teeth." He went on to say that the job "killed me," but says he has been "blessed" and has a successful career. He got his start doing stand-up as a teenager, later landing a spot on the cast of "Saturday Night Live." He established himself as a comedian with numerous specials, which earned him many Emmy Awards. He has also had a successful movie career. LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Jonathan Majors had "a crazy journey" on the way to finding success as an actor. The Marvel actor opened up about his experience working at Red Lobster when he was a teen during his opening monologue for "Saturday Night Live," which he hosted in 2021, sharing that he worked there to support himself while he was "homeless." "I lived in my car, working at Red Lobster and Olive Garden, but you know what I learned from that experience? You know what I learned? That Red Lobster and Olive Garden are owned by the same parent company, so you can work at both places with no problem," he joked. He then pointed out that many stars started their careers at the restaurant, joking, "I don't know what they're putting in those cheddar baked biscuits, but it's working." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER On a more serious note, he added that working at both restaurants taught him the value of hard work and that "if you trust a plan, great things can happen." While Majors found success in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, his career slowed down when he was convicted of two misdemeanor counts — reckless assault in the third degree and harassment — in December 2023, following an altercation with his girlfriend in March 2023. Jamie Kennedy loved his time working at Red Lobster. During an interview on "The Jason Show" in June 2024, Kennedy said he started working at the chain restaurant because his mom thought it would be good for him. "It was my first job ever. My mother's like, ‘You got to learn about life so go to Red Lobster,’" he said. "I got a job there when I was 16, and then I loved it so much that when I moved to L.A. to pursue my dream, I got a transfer. I got recommended as a busboy to the North Hollywood location because I was such a good busboy at the Philly one. So I worked there." He ultimately found success as an actor playing Randy Meeks in the 1996 movie "Scream," and went on to have a successful movie and television career. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a57d0c2ca79de2364265a Carpenter's Column: Looking ahead to the Tricentennial te 2026-07-05T13:10:40.947Z Carpenter's Column: Looking ahead to the Tricentennial This week's column from Tom Carpenter, the longtime humorist for the Arizona Daily Sun. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a57bcc2ca79de2364264c Flagstaff History: Flagstaff held Pow Wow as part of Bicentennial celebration te 2026-07-05T13:10:20.984Z Flagstaff History: Flagstaff held Pow Wow as part of Bicentennial celebration This week's look back into Flagstaff's history. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a530cc2ca79de236425b2 Almost 90 new unicorns have been minted so far this year — here they are te 2026-07-05T12:50:20.633Z Almost 90 new unicorns have been minted so far this year — here they are With AI igniting an investor frenzy, more startups are achieving unicorn status every month. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a4c2fc2ca79de23642505 American Olympic runner Nikki Hiltz, who identifies as transgender nonbinary, reacts to Supreme Court ruling te 2026-07-05T12:21:03.064Z American Olympic runner Nikki Hiltz, who identifies as transgender nonbinary, reacts to Supreme Court ruling Nikki Hiltz, an American Olympic runner who identifies as transgender nonbinary, reacted to the Supreme Court ruling on transgender athletes on Saturday. The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in favor of West Virginia and Idaho on Tuesday against trans athletes who sued to gain access to girls' sports. The states were backed by the law firm Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), while the trans athletes were represented by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Cooley Legal. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! In the highly anticipated rulings in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox, the high court upheld state laws requiring student-athletes to compete on sports teams that correspond with their biological sex at birth rather than their gender identity. Hiltz competed in the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, winning the mile race with a 4:17.49. "I wasn’t surprised, but I was obviously still disappointed," Hiltz said of the ruling, via The Athletic. "For me, I want to show that trans people can be in sport, be affirmed in their gender. We’re not these big, scary things." Hiltz added, "It’s a really weird time in our country for a lot of different communities, mine specifically." CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Hiltz, who has always competed in women's races, previously opened up about gender identity. "The best way I can explain my gender is as fluid," Hiltz wrote in an Instagram post last year. "Sometimes I wake up feeling like a powerful queen and other days I wake up feeling as if I’m just a guy being a dude, and other times I identify outside of the gender binary entirely." Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote the Supreme Court opinion. "Consistent with Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause, we hold that the States may maintain women’s and girls’ sports for biological females. They may determine eligibility for women’s and girls’ sports based on biological sex," the opinion read. Now, more than half of the states in the U.S. are empowered to enforce the protection of women's sports without fear of a legal challenge. However, there are still 23 states, including California, New York and Massachusetts, that don't have any such laws, and some of those have laws to protect trans athletes in girls' sports. Fox News’ Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a49fdc2ca79de236424ae Manson murders allegedly tied to CIA mind control experiments: congressional testimony te 2026-07-05T12:11:41.992Z Manson murders allegedly tied to CIA mind control experiments: congressional testimony House Republicans revisited long-standing questions last week about possible links between the CIA's infamous MKUltra program and Charles Manson's murderous cult, as lawmakers revealed newly discovered agency records are being prepared for declassification. Tuesday's hearing before the House Oversight Committee's Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets quickly delved into allegations that the CIA concealed the true scope of its Cold War-era mind-control program, with witnesses reviving claims involving Manson, Jack Ruby and decades of alleged government secrecy. Task Force Chair Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., opened the hearing by accusing the CIA of carrying out illegal human experimentation on unwitting Americans before destroying evidence to hide the program. GABBARD SAYS DECLASSIFIED BIOLAB RECORDS VALIDATE CONCERNS PREVIOUSLY DISMISSED AS MISINFORMATION "This hearing is about the crimes committed by the Central Intelligence Agency against American citizens," Luna said. "The American people deserve a complete and truthful record." Luna also revealed she recently traveled to CIA headquarters with Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., after reports surfaced that previously unknown MKUltra records had been located. She said the agency is currently declassifying those files, which she said pertain to a forgery program housed under MKUltra. 🔍 Have information the public should know? 📩 stepheny.price@fox.com 📸 @fndstephprice 🎥 @StephenyPrice If you have firsthand knowledge, documents, photos, video, or a story that deserves a closer look, contact me. Your information could help uncover answers and drive future coverage. Much of the hearing centered on testimony from investigative journalist Tom O'Neill, author of Chaos, who told lawmakers his decades-long investigation uncovered correspondence between CIA chemist Sidney Gottlieb, the architect of MKUltra, and psychiatrist Dr. Louis "Jolly" West discussing experiments involving LSD, hypnosis, memory manipulation and behavioral control. O'Neill testified that West later established operations near a San Francisco clinic where Manson and members of his inner circle received free medical treatment in 1967, the same period Manson transformed from a recently paroled criminal into the cult leader who would order the Tate-LaBianca murders two years later. STRING OF SCIENTIST DEATHS, VANISHINGS FUELS EXPERT TALKS OF SHADOW OPS AND SILENCED SECRETS: 'VERY SERIOUS' "I believe Congress was never told the truth about what this program actually achieved," O'Neill testified, arguing the CIA misled lawmakers in the 1970s when it characterized MKUltra as a failed experiment. The hearing reached its most dramatic exchange near the close when Luna asked O'Neill whether it was his opinion that Manson had been an intelligence asset connected to MKUltra. UFO WHISTLEBLOWER CLAIMS BILLIONS IN SECRET SPENDING HIDDEN FROM CONGRESS O'Neill responded that he has never been able to prove such a theory regarding Manson, describing it as theoretical. He testified, however, that federal authorities repeatedly allowed Manson to violate parole, avoid prosecution and continue building his cult while under government supervision. When asked about Ruby, the man who killed Lee Harvey Oswald, O'Neill testified he believes West's involvement after Ruby's arrest prevented Ruby from ever publicly telling his story, a claim that has not been established by official government investigations. After O'Neill described West's role, Luna responded simply: "Wow." Historian Stephen Kinzer, author of "Poisoner in Chief," testified that MKUltra amounted to "the most extreme experiments on human beings" ever carried out by a U.S. government agency, alleging victims included prisoners, psychiatric patients and unwitting civilians in the United States and overseas. Kinzer argued the CIA intentionally obscured the program by destroying records before congressional investigators could review them and urged lawmakers to seek the removal of decades-old redactions from surviving documents. FOLLOW US ON X Later in the hearing, Kinzer alleged he identified what he believes was an early CIA "black site" in Germany where MKUltra experiments were conducted alongside former Nazi scientists. He testified that residents told him people died there and may be buried nearby — allegations that have not been independently verified. Luna pledged to contact the German government. "If there are indeed people that were victims of this... we would like to know who those people are and who their families are as well," she said. Republicans repeatedly questioned why no CIA officials were prosecuted after former Director Richard Helms ordered MKUltra files destroyed before leaving office. "No one went to prison. No victim was ever formally compensated," Luna said. CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., asked witnesses directly whether MKUltra represented "a massive cover-up by the U.S. government." "It's certainly a cover-up of what happened in the past," Kinzer replied. "Oh, absolutely yes," O'Neill answered. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., also questioned whether advances in technology and social media could accomplish today what MKUltra attempted during the Cold War. O'Neill declined to speculate about modern cases, saying he had no evidence connecting current events to government programs, though he testified he believes technology has advanced significantly since the 1950s. David Barrett, a Villanova University professor, told Fox News Digital that while Tuesday's hearing revisited provocative questions about MKUltra, much of the program's documented history is already well established. "The thinking was, 'The other side is doing it, so we need to do it,'" Barrett said of the Cold War mindset that gave rise to MKUltra, referring to U.S. intelligence officials' belief that China and North Korea were using drugs to influence American prisoners during the Korean War. Barrett said there is no dispute that MKUltra existed or that unwitting Americans were subjected to drug experiments. GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS "We know the program existed. We know drug tests were done on unwitting human subjects," he said. "We don't know the number." He also noted that the historical record remains incomplete because Helms ordered most MKUltra files destroyed in the early 1970s. "Most of the records, as far as we can tell, were in fact destroyed, but not all of them," Barrett said. Still, Barrett cautioned against expecting the newly discovered records now being reviewed by the CIA to dramatically rewrite the historical record. SEND US A TIP "I don't think there's going to be a smoking gun," Barrett said, adding that he expects the files are more likely to be operational records than documents revealing major new information about senior-level decision-making. Luna concluded the hearing by promising lawmakers will continue pressing the CIA to release additional records, including the newly discovered MKUltra documents currently under review. While the CIA has long acknowledged the existence of MKUltra and previous congressional investigations documented unethical human experimentation during the Cold War, many of the hearing's most explosive allegations, including purported links to Manson and Ruby, remain disputed and have not been confirmed by official government findings. The CIA has previously pushed back against O'Neill's claims. "The author cannot definitively tie Manson to MK-ULTRA or CHAOS; he can only imply it on circumstantial evidence," the CIA said in a review of O’Neill’s book. Fox News Digital's Julia Bonavita contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a49eac2ca79de236424a5 Washington rewards failure. It’s time to send career politicians home te 2026-07-05T12:11:22.537Z Washington rewards failure. It’s time to send career politicians home Washington, D.C., is broken. I don't think that's a controversial statement anymore. Eighty-three percent of Americans support term limits on Congress — and even more Alaskans do — and approval of Congress sits at around 12%. People aren't wrong to feel that way. I say this as someone who's been there. I went to Congress to carry on the legacy of my Republican predecessor, Don Young, who spent decades putting Alaska first by working across the aisle and delivering real results. What I found was different: a place more focused on staying in power than getting things done, on trading stocks than passing laws, on keeping donors happy than keeping constituents afloat. SENATE PLOTS PERMANENT END TO GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWNS WITH BIPARTISAN PUSH Congress has become a performance. And working people are paying for it. Corruption dominates. Our officials trade stocks while having access to insider information. They take meetings with the special interests bleeding working people dry. And while they're cashing in, their constituents are facing skyrocketing prices. I see it everywhere I go in Alaska. This used to be a place of abundance. Now, in every city, town and village, I hear the same thing: groceries and gas are through the roof, buying a home feels impossible, and people are choosing between heating their houses and putting food on the table. That's not a red problem or a blue problem. That's what happens when the people making decisions in Washington have stopped feeling the consequences of those decisions. TRUMP VOTERS SAY COSTS ARE CRUSHING THEIR WALLETS — BUT LOOK PAST PRESIDENT FOR BLAME The reason immigration hasn't been fixed in decades isn't that it's too hard for us to wrap our heads around. It's that the system rewards politicians for fighting about it, not solving it. The same goes for the cost of living, drug prices, housing — you name it. Career politicians have every incentive to keep the fight going and no real deadline to deliver. That's the problem term limits fix. I'm calling for 12-year term limits on Congress. To those who serve in the House of Representatives or the Senate, if you can't get something worthwhile done in 12 years, it's time to go home. This isn't radical. It's accountability. The kind every working person in this country already lives with. SENATE PLOTS PERMANENT END TO GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWNS WITH BIPARTISAN PUSH The only people who don't support term limits are the ones who benefit from not having them. The career politicians who've turned public service into a career advancement strategy. The committee chairs who've been in Washington so long their biggest donors are the industries they're supposed to regulate. The members who go to Washington and come home three times richer than when they left. My time in Congress made it crystal clear to me that the system is rigged. Most members of Congress aren't there to deliver; they're there to stay in office and get rich along the way. The result is exactly what you'd expect: partisan gridlock, institutional rot, and corrupt policies engineered to benefit the same powerful special interests that fund the machine. You can't fix the cost of living without first fixing the people in charge of fixing it. I've called on Alaska to lead by passing term limits at the state level to open a legal pathway through the courts. As Alaska's next senator, I'll fight to pass them federally. Alaska has led the country before on government reform. We can do it again. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION Term limits won't solve everything. But they will force Congress to work on our timeline, not theirs. They'll replace career politicians beholden to donors with representatives who actually have to deliver, because they know the clock is running. And they will help ensure that the voices of hardworking Americans are heard at the highest levels of government, not the voices of wealthy elites. Working people across this country can't afford more of the same. We need a system that works for them, not career politicians and the shady special interests who keep them in their seats. Red or blue, we all benefit from a Congress that has a deadline. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a49d7c2ca79de2364249c Americans once survived on squirrel pie, whiskey and homemade cheese after British imports dried up te 2026-07-05T12:11:03.086Z Americans once survived on squirrel pie, whiskey and homemade cheese after British imports dried up A new documentary exploring Revolutionary-era food has given host Capri Cafaro a firsthand look at the ingenuity that helped colonial Americans adapt, survive and ultimately break from Great Britain. As Americans celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary, Cafaro said the biggest lesson from making the "America the Bountiful: America's 250th Anniversary Special" was seeing how colonists transformed local crops, livestock and wild game into a self-sustaining food system when European imports were no longer reliable. "Food is a really interesting anchor, culturally," Cafaro told Fox News Digital. "It has an opportunity to tell infinite stories from economics to agriculture to the environment to science." GEORGE WASHINGTON'S 1757 BEER RECIPE BROUGHT BACK TO LIFE AHEAD OF AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY In planning the show's 250th anniversary special, Cafaro said she was "really looking to identify the ways in which colonial settlers were able to adapt in North America without being able to rely on European imports." She traveled to landmarks of colonial America to trace the roots of foods that are integral to the nation's palate today, including cheese and whiskey. Colonists turned milk into cheese because fresh milk spoiled quickly. They used the byproducts of the grain they milled for many different things, including making alcohol, Cafaro said. In the documentary, Cafaro is shown sampling whiskey produced as it would have been at George Washington's Virginia estate, Mount Vernon. She described it with a laugh as "alcohol-grain-forward" and contrasted it with a whiskey suited to "more of a modern-day palate." CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS The most challenging experience Cafaro said she had while making the show involved hunting and eating small game. Squirrel pie and stew were popular in 18th- and 19th-century America, she said, and are something people can still find today, particularly in the Appalachian regions of the United States. "It was tough for me to be part of a squirrel-hunting process and then be faced with having to eat it," Cafaro said. "I joked at the time that I may be a vegetarian in the 18th century, having to rely on small game like squirrel." Many U.S. presidents, including James A. Garfield, were fans of squirrel stew and squirrel pie, Cafaro said. TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Colonists diversified crops, developed preservation techniques for meat and dairy and varied their hunting and trapping methods for small game, Cafaro said she learned while making the documentary. She added that the documentary also explores the roles Indigenous peoples, European settlers and enslaved people played in growing, harvesting and preparing food. For example, Indigenous people shared their knowledge of making tea from local plants and herbs with colonists. After American patriots held the Boston Tea Party, these Liberty Teas turned "an everyday beverage into a symbol of independence," the documentary says. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Cafaro said she was most struck by "the innovation and the ingenuity that settlers employed, and ... that became a hallmark of the American identity." She said she hopes the documentary amplifies the voices of farmers, ranchers, fishers and "anyone who works to put food on our table." "The American identity isn't possible without their resourcefulness and hard work," she said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a4754c2ca79de23642441 8 Wounded in Coney Island Shooting on Fourth of July te 2026-07-05T12:00:20.543Z 8 Wounded in Coney Island Shooting on Fourth of July The victims included two boys, aged 6 and 7, and one woman who remained in critical condition on Sunday, the police said. No arrests had been made. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a4526c2ca79de236423f9 Paraguay goalie tosses ball at France's Kylian Mbappé after World Cup showdown te 2026-07-05T11:51:02.094Z Paraguay goalie tosses ball at France's Kylian Mbappé after World Cup showdown French World Cup superstar Kylian Mbappé was involved in a heated post-match incident with Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill on Saturday. Mbappé, who scored on a penalty in the 70th minute, was riling up the crowd at Philadelphia Stadium following France’s 1-0 victory in the Round of 16. As he yelled toward the crowd, he stepped in front of Gill who reached out his hand for a handshake and then threw the ball at him. ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW! Gill said he was going to shake Mbappé’s hand but lost his cool. "I tried to shake his hand, but since he didn’t pay me any attention, I lost my temper," Gill said. It marked the end of a physical match between the two squads. Gill said he believed his teammates handled their plan of attack well. Paraguay midfielder Andrés Cubas grabbed Mbappé in the offensive third, sparking a 35th minute showdown between the players. Later in the first half, Matias Galarza made contact with Mbappé off the ball. Juan José Cáceras kicked Mbappé in the right shin in the 77th minute. CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Paraguay didn’t receive a yellow card for any of the fouls. France was the only team of the two to receive yellow cards during the match – all three. "We knew what kind of match it was going to be," Mbappé said. "We can also get our hands dirty. We know how to do it. We know how to play ugly football. Guess they were thinking we were going to show up in tuxedos, but we were ready. Even at that kind of game, we were better than them." France’s coach Didier Deschamps called out Paraguay’s physicality. "They pull out every trick in the book," he said. "It’s not the kind of football that draws people to the stadium. Each team played the way they want. But there were insults from the other bench that I could do without." The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3e45c2ca79de23642124 Murdaugh wants Idaho murders DNA dream team behind Kohberger case to help rewrite second murder trial te 2026-07-05T11:21:41.081Z Murdaugh wants Idaho murders DNA dream team behind Kohberger case to help rewrite second murder trial Alex Murdaugh’s attorneys want a Texas forensic DNA lab known for helping crack some of the nation’s most notorious murder cases to test unknown male DNA found beneath Maggie Murdaugh’s fingernails as the disgraced South Carolina attorney heads toward a new double-murder trial. Murdaugh, once a powerful personal injury attorney in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, was convicted in 2023 of killing his wife, Maggie, 52, and their younger son, Paul, 22, at the family’s hunting estate in June 2021. His convictions were later overturned, and a new trial has been tentatively set for April 2027. His attorneys have pointed to DNA found beneath Maggie's fingernails that they say belonged to an unknown, unrelated male. They have asked for independent testing by Othram Inc., a Houston-area forensic genetic genealogy company whose technology has been used in high-profile murder investigations and decades-old cold cases. ALEX MURDAUGH RETRIAL FIGHT BEGINS AS JUDGE WEIGHS DNA TEST, SHACKLES AND TRIAL DATE Prosecutors disputed the significance of additional DNA testing, arguing that the evidence has already been tested by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and produced only a mixture of Maggie’s DNA and what the state described as a "very partial and incomplete" profile from another contributor. The unknown profile, prosecutors said, did not contain enough identifying information to be submitted to CODIS, the national DNA database. Othram, based in The Woodlands, Texas, specializes in advanced DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy, a method that can help investigators identify suspects or unknown victims when traditional law enforcement databases do not produce a match. Here are some of the high-profile cases Othram has helped crack. COLD CASE CRACKED AS ILLINOIS SUSPECT CHARGED IN BRUTAL 1993 KILLING OF MOTHER FOUND SLAIN IN FIELD Othram’s work came under national scrutiny in the investigation into the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students: Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Investigators recovered DNA from a knife sheath found near one of the victims inside the off-campus Moscow, Idaho, home where the students were killed. Othram has said Idaho State Police Forensic Services, Moscow police and the FBI teamed with the company to help identify Bryan Kohberger as the suspect. Kohberger later pleaded guilty to four counts of murder and was sentenced to life in prison without parole. COLD CASE CRACKED AS ILLINOIS SUSPECT CHARGED IN BRUTAL 1993 KILLING OF MOTHER FOUND SLAIN IN FIELD Othram also played a role in the investigation into the killing of Rachel Morin, a Maryland mother of five whose body was found near the Ma & Pa Trail in Bel Air in August 2023. Harford County authorities and the FBI worked with Othram after DNA evidence did not immediately identify the unknown male suspect through traditional methods. Victor Antonio Martinez-Hernandez, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, was later arrested and charged in Morin’s rape and murder. He was convicted in 2025. The 1974 murder of 17-year-old Carla Walker in Fort Worth, Texas, went unsolved for more than four decades before advanced DNA testing helped investigators identify her killer. Walker was abducted, raped, tortured and murdered after attending a Valentine’s Day dance with her boyfriend. SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST TRUE CRIME NEWS A break came in 2020 after crime scene DNA was uploaded to a public genealogy website, leading to the identification of then 77-year-old Glen Samuel McCurley. Authorities confirmed the match after obtaining his DNA from trash. Othram worked with Fort Worth police to identify McCurley as the man responsible. McCurley later pleaded guilty to murder, giving Walker’s family answers after 46 years. One of New England’s most infamous unidentified victim cases was solved with help from Othram nearly 50 years after a woman’s body was found in the dunes of Provincetown, a summer vacation hot spot at the tip of Massachusetts in 1974. The 49-year-old cold case was eventually solved in August 2023. FOLLOW THE FOX TRUE CRIME TEAM ON X The woman, long known only as the "Lady of the Dunes," was found dead in 1974. For decades, authorities could not determine her name. The FBI, Massachusetts State Police, Provincetown police and prosecutors partnered with Othram to identify her as Ruth Marie Terry. Her husband at the time, Guy Rockwell Muldavin, was identified as her killer, Cape and Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois said. Terry was a 37-year-old Tennessee native newlywed when her nearly decapitated body was found in the sand dunes. Muldavin and Terry were married only a few months before she vanished. For decades, she was only known as "Lady of the Dunes" until her jaw was tested using genetic genealogy at Othram. Othram’s technology was also used to help identify Karen Vergata, previously known as "Fire Island Jane Doe," in a case tied to the broader Gilgo Beach investigation on Long Island. Vergata’s remains were found in 1996, but she was not publicly identified until decades later. In 2022, the Suffolk County Police Department in collaboration with the FBI teamed with Othram to determine if advanced DNA testing could help to identify "Fire Island Jane Doe." Vergata was 34 years old at the time of her death and she went missing on Valentine's Day in 1996. In April 2026, Rex Heuermann admitted that he intentionally killed Vergata, along with seven other women, as part of a plea agreement. The request for Othram testing does not mean the unknown DNA will change the outcome of Murdaugh’s case. Still, Murdaugh’s attorneys are expected to argue the testing could support an alternate-suspect theory as they prepare for a second trial. GOT A TIP? "They decided that night he was the guy and everything they did after that excluded any other thought," Murdaugh's lead defense attorney, Dick Harpootlian, previously told Fox News Digital. "And that's why they have no evidence connecting him with the murder scene." The state, however, characterized the request as unsupported and aimed more at "public consumption" than viable forensic evidence. LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST During Murdaugh’s first status hearing on Monday, June 29, Judge Debra McCaslin did not rule on the DNA evidence, telling defense attorneys to clarify if the sample was viable. Fox News Digital reached out to Othram. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3e31c2ca79de23642082 Prince William’s surprising American roots trace back to patriots who battled the British: book te 2026-07-05T11:21:21.646Z Prince William’s surprising American roots trace back to patriots who battled the British: book The future king of Britain descends from American patriots who fought against the crown he is destined to inherit, according to a new book tracing Prince William's family tree. In "American Crown," Stephanie Green traces the Prince of Wales' extraordinary American lineage to Revolutionary War patriot Nathan Hale and other colonial ancestors. "The more I read about the family, the more interesting it was," Green told Fox News Digital. "All the characters in the family tree are so fascinating, and it's an American success story. The fact that he has this American bloodline — I don't even know if he's aware of it." PRINCESS DIANA, HOT DOGS AND A PRESIDENTIAL MATCHMAKING ATTEMPT: ICONIC ROYAL VISITS TO AMERICA Fox News Digital reached out to Kensington Palace for comment. A spokesperson for the palace previously told Fox News Digital it does not comment on books. Green said that through William's mother, the late Princess Diana, his lineage traces back to Benajah Strong. "The Strongs have been in this country for a very long time, since the 1600s," Green said. "Benajah was from Coventry, Connecticut, which places him not only in the heart of the American Revolution but at its very beginning. Coventry was a hotbed of anti-monarchist sentiment, and Benajah's role during the American Revolution was to spread the word that the British were on the march. He was part of what we call 'The Lexington Alarm.'" WATCH: PRINCE WILLIAMS SURPRISING TIES TO THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION REVEALED "Benajah's grave is still in Coventry," Green added. The first Strong ancestor emigrated from England to New England in 1635, according to The Washington Post. William's sixth-great-grandfather was born in Coventry in 1740 and enlisted as a private in the Connecticut militia. Strong's nephew was Nathan Hale, whom Green described as "our most famous American martyr and one of our most famous American patriots." "He was the son of Benajah's sister," Green said. "He was captured and hanged by the British in 1776, shortly after the American Revolution began. Unfortunately, his remains have never been found. People in Coventry have memorials in his honor and still hope his remains will one day be found and returned to his hometown." Hale, who studied at Yale, was a teacher in Connecticut when the Revolutionary War began, according to The Washington Post. Like his uncle, Hale joined the Connecticut militia. The outlet reported that Hale later joined Knowlton's Rangers, widely considered the first organized U.S. military intelligence unit. In 1776, Hale traveled to British-occupied Long Island on a spying mission, posing as an unemployed Dutch schoolteacher. Some historians have argued that Hale's fatal mistake was carrying his Yale diploma with him. He was captured by British forces in Queens.  After being interrogated, Hale was hanged at age 21, about two months after the Declaration of Independence. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Hale's reported last words were, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." During her research, Green said she discovered a surprising connection to America's first president. "Everyone who follows the royal family knows about the Spencer family, a very aristocratic family from England," Green said. "Diana, of course, was Lady Diana Spencer when she married the Prince of Wales in 1981, but people probably don't know that the Spencer family and George Washington's family go way back." "I have a whole chapter on Sulgrave Manor, which is George Washington's ancestral home in England," Green said. "It's right down the road from Althorp, the Spencer family estate. In fact, the Spencers and the Washingtons were quite friendly. The Spencer girls worked at the Washington home, and the Washington children were friends with the Spencer children. The families were very close." "The Washington family moved to America, as many families did," Green continued. "But Sulgrave Manor is still there. You can visit it and learn more about George Washington's family." One ancestor, Green said, instantly reminded her of Diana. LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS "The most shocking and fascinating character is Fannie Work, later known as Fannie Roche, or Frances Burke Roche," Green said. "She's the great-great-great-grandmother of the future king." "She was a fascinating woman," Green said. "She was an American heiress born around 1857. She came of age during the Gilded Age and was associated with many of the era's luminaries. She knew Alice Roosevelt." "What fascinated me most was that she lived life on her own terms. She had two scandalous divorces during a time when people rarely even said the word 'divorce' in polite society. She was determined to live life her own way. The more I read about her, the more I realized how many similarities she shared with Diana." "They were both beautiful," Green said. "They were both glamorous. They both courted scandal. They seemed to have everything going for them. People were fascinated by them, yet they were rebels at heart." Depending on the account, Work either never regained her social standing or lived lavishly between New York, Newport, Rhode Island, and Paris while avoiding another marriage, according to American Aristocracy. She later bought an apartment on New York City's Fifth Avenue, where she died in 1947 at age 90. Green believes that, had Diana lived, she would have embarked on a new life across the Atlantic. "She was spending a lot of time in America during the last years of her life," Green said. "She had many American friends. She was also planning to move here. I interviewed her priest and, according to him and other sources, she loved America and planned to settle here. She was looking into buying a home in Beverly Hills or the Malibu area. How ironic and wonderful that she might have returned to the land of her ancestors." What would William's ancestors say today, knowing their descendant will become king? It depends on whom you ask, Green said. "I think some of them would be delighted that one of their own will be king," Green said. "I think William's ancestors would be delighted not only that he will be king, but that he is a good man. He's a devoted family man. He has a wonderful wife and wonderful children. I think they would admire the fact that he has many American qualities." "He's very independent," Green said. "He has a rebellious streak. He can be stubborn, and he loves his family. He loves his country, and he's a patriot in his own way. I think that even though they might be amused that their descendant is part of the monarchy they once fought against, they would be very proud that one of their own has become such a good and beloved man." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3e1ec2ca79de23642070 REP MARIO DIAZ-BALART: We are stopping Cuba from trafficking doctors for profit te 2026-07-05T11:21:02.120Z REP MARIO DIAZ-BALART: We are stopping Cuba from trafficking doctors for profit A new law authored by me and passed by Congress in February 2026 punishes countries that are complicit in the human trafficking of Cuban doctors by way of the Castro regime’s medical missions abroad. The same law for the fiscal year 2027 is expected to be voted on in the House soon. For decades, the Cuban dictatorship has made billions by coercing its medical professionals to work in places no one wants to go, under the worst labor conditions.  But the doctors themselves see very little of that money. The regime on the island earns an estimated $4-8 billion per year from the program, and regime operatives keep 75-95% of what the doctors are paid. US SANCTIONS FIVE CUBAN ENTITIES, CASTRO FAMILY MEMBER IN LATEST PRESSURE CAMPAIGN, RUBIO SAYS The U.S. State Department says the regime confiscates the doctors’ passports, forces their families to stay in Cuba as leverage, assigns handlers to watch them and punishes families if a doctor defects.  Since 2010, State Department reports have called the program exploitative. Appropriately, State labeled the practice "human trafficking" or "forced labor" run by the Cuban regime in 2020. A new provision in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 targets countries that pay the authoritarian dictatorship for these exploited medical workers. The State Department must now list every country or group that pays for these personnel and notify them they’re on the list.  If a country stays on the list for two years in a row, it loses all U.S. foreign aid. Foreign officials involved can be banned from entering the United States, and their finances and property here may also be frozen. The law is already obtaining results. Guatemala, Jamaica, Guyana, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Paraguay and Honduras are reducing or outright ending their use of Cuban doctors.  CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION Some, like the Bahamas, are changing terms by trying to pay doctors directly instead of paying the regime – something the dictatorship has rejected before. Consequently, the Trump administration has enforced this law by imposing visa restrictions on officials from Brazil, Grenada and some African countries tied to the program. This legislation ensures accountability, something that past Democratic administrations were willing to overlook. It exposes those who benefit from the program and hits them with real punitive consequences: the loss of U.S. aid, travel bans and financial sanctions. The law also strongly supports the oppressed Cuban people by protecting Cuban doctors from exploitation and abuse, while cutting off a critical financial lifeline to the regime. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3bc5c2ca79de23642028 China’s robot-run hotel opens to public in 2027 te 2026-07-05T11:11:01.997Z China’s robot-run hotel opens to public in 2027 Pudu Robotics has announced what it calls the first "full-scenario robot-serviced hotel." The project will use robots across the entire guest experience, from reception and room service to cleaning, food preparation and guest support. The hotel is set to open in 2027, with trial rooms and robot-powered services expected to begin in late 2026. Early guests will be able to try robot check-in and autonomous in-room delivery before the full launch. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join. COULD THE NEXT CHINESE THREAT WALK INTO YOUR KITCHEN ON TWO BATTERY-POWERED LEGS? The hotel will sit on West Artificial Island, a man-made island tied to the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link in Guangdong Province. That cross-sea bridge and tunnel project is one of the Pearl River Delta's biggest transportation projects. The location feels fitting. Shenzhen already has a reputation as one of China's major technology hubs. Room-service delivery robots are already common in hotels across many large Chinese cities. However, this project goes much further. Instead of adding a few robots to assist hotel staff, Pudu wants to create a connected robot service system that can handle the entire guest experience. The planned hotel will include 44 high-end rooms, a restaurant, a gym and other guest spaces. Robots will take on roles across the property, including reception, room service, cleaning, food preparation and guest support. That means you could check in with a robot, have luggage delivered by a robot and order drinks from your phone without calling the front desk. Then, cleaning robots would handle waste detection and room upkeep using AI. Pudu says its robots will work from one shared intelligence framework. In other words, different machines will handle different jobs while staying connected through the same software system. Pudu's FlashBot will run an intelligent vending system, allowing guests to order drink deliveries by smartphone. The PUDU T300 will move luggage from the lobby to rooms. Meanwhile, the PUDU CC1 Pro and PUDU MT1 cleaning robots will handle cleaning tasks using AI waste-detection technology. At the Shenzhen launch event, BellaBot Pro served coffee while KettyBot Pro delivered refreshments and snacks. That kind of robotic service may still surprise many travelers. In Shenzhen, though, it already fits into a broader tech culture where robot baristas and drone food delivery are becoming more visible. HUMANOID ROBOTS WORK NONSTOP IN PACKAGE TEST The hotel will rely on PuduFM 1.0, the company's embodied intelligence foundation model. It will also use PuduAgent to manage intelligent operations across the hotel. "This partnership represents an important step toward large-scale deployment of embodied intelligence in premium hospitality environments," said Cong Guo, co-founder and CTO of Pudu Robotics. He also said the project gives the company a chance to explore new service models where AI and robotics work together to deliver connected service experiences. That may sound ambitious, yet the rollout will be gradual. The first public trial is expected in late 2026. A broader hotel opening is planned for 2027. China has already embraced service robots in hotels, restaurants, airports and public spaces. The robot-run hotel takes that trend into a more advanced phase. Shenzhen Culture & Tourism Industry Development will work with Pudu Robotics to turn West Artificial Island into a robotics and technology destination. The hotel is only one part of that larger plan. Over the next four years, the island is expected to add more robotics across tourism and hospitality. That could turn the area into a testing ground for how travelers react when robots handle nearly every service touchpoint. If this hotel works well, it could change what you expect from travel in the future. Faster check-in, automated deliveries and round-the-clock service may sound convenient, especially when you arrive late or need something quickly. However, there is another side to this. A robot-run hotel also raises questions about jobs, privacy, safety and what kind of hospitality guests actually want. Some travelers may love the speed and efficiency. Others may miss the warmth of a person who can read the room, handle a strange request or help when something goes wrong. That is where this project becomes important. It may show whether people are ready for hotels where AI handles the stay from start to finish. Your phone holds your email, passwords, photos, banking apps and personal data. In this free CyberGuy Live replay, Kurt the CyberGuy walks you step by step through simple phone security fixes you can do at your own pace. You’ll learn how to improve your privacy settings, spot the latest phone scams, use trusted security tools and walk away with a simple checklist to stay protected. Watch the replay and get our checklist here: CyberGuyLive.com China's first robot-run hotel feels like a major test of how far hospitality automation can go. We have already seen delivery robots roll through hotel hallways. Yet this project puts robots at the center of the entire stay. The convenience could be impressive. You could check in, order drinks, receive luggage and get room support without waiting on a busy front desk. For travelers who value speed, that may feel like a win. Still, hospitality has always been about more than efficiency. A great hotel stay often comes from small human moments. A kind greeting, a helpful suggestion or a quick fix when something goes sideways can make a trip feel easier. If a robot-run hotel can give you faster service, would you miss the human touch or happily skip the front desk altogether? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a39a9c2ca79de23641fd6 "BLEACH Mirrors High" Begins Closed Beta Test Applications, Unveils New Trailer and New Soul Reapers at Anime Expo 2026 te 2026-07-05T11:02:01.932Z "BLEACH Mirrors High" Begins Closed Beta Test Applications, Unveils New Trailer and New Soul Reapers at Anime Expo 2026 LOS ANGELES, July 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At Anime Expo 2026, Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. opened Closed Beta Test applications for BLEACH Mirrors High, the new mobile action game that depicts the story following the Thousand-Year Blood War arc of… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3996c2ca79de23641fcd "BLEACH Mirrors High" Begins Closed Beta Test Applications, Unveils New Trailer and New Soul Reapers at Anime Expo 2026 te 2026-07-05T11:01:42.425Z "BLEACH Mirrors High" Begins Closed Beta Test Applications, Unveils New Trailer and New Soul Reapers at Anime Expo 2026 ©Tite Kubo/Shueisha, TV TOKYO, dentsu, pierrot ©Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3982c2ca79de23641fc4 Anime "Kagurabachi" Takes Anime Expo by Storm!~ Taihi Kimura; "I'm so happy to absorb everyone's passion!" Moved by the World Premiere! te 2026-07-05T11:01:22.458Z Anime "Kagurabachi" Takes Anime Expo by Storm!~ Taihi Kimura; "I'm so happy to absorb everyone's passion!" Moved by the World Premiere! Manga Editor & Anime Producer Also on Stage, Revealed Behind-the-Scenes Stories of the Voice Recording and Anime Adaptation Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a396dc2ca79de23641fbb Anime "Kagurabachi" Takes Anime Expo by Storm!~ Taihi Kimura; "I'm so happy to absorb everyone's passion!" Moved by the World Premiere! te 2026-07-05T11:01:01.913Z Anime "Kagurabachi" Takes Anime Expo by Storm!~ Taihi Kimura; "I'm so happy to absorb everyone's passion!" Moved by the World Premiere! “Bachi Pose” commemorative photo (PRNewsfoto/CyberAgent, Inc.) Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a36efc2ca79de23641f5e At Trump’s Direction, Federal Agencies Are Abandoning Discrimination Cases te 2026-07-05T10:50:23.419Z At Trump’s Direction, Federal Agencies Are Abandoning Discrimination Cases President Trump has tried to scale back anti-discrimination regulations that date back decades. Federal agencies have heeded his call. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a34bec2ca79de23641f28 Grand Canyon rafting guide becomes first American woman to row solo across Pacific in record-breaking fashion te 2026-07-05T10:41:02.525Z Grand Canyon rafting guide becomes first American woman to row solo across Pacific in record-breaking fashion Grand Canyon rafting guide Kelsey Pfendler completed a record-breaking solo row across the Pacific Ocean on Friday, arriving in Hawaii after a more than 2,400-mile journey from California. Pfendler arrived at Honolulu Harbor aboard her 21-foot boat, Lily, after rowing alone for just under 44 days. Hundreds of supporters gathered to cheer her arrival after nearly a month and a half at sea. She launched from Monterey, California, in May with the goal of becoming the first American woman, the youngest woman and the fastest woman to row solo across the mid-Pacific, according to her website. She appears to have achieved all three milestones. YOSEMITE, GRAND CANYON LEAD NOTABLE LIST OF NATIONAL PARK CAMPGROUNDS FOR AMERICA'S 250TH According to records maintained by Ocean Rowing Society International, which adjudicates ocean-rowing achievements for Guinness World Records, Pfendler's time of just under 44 days broke both the previous women's record of 86 days and the men's record of 52 days for the same route. Throughout the journey, Pfendler documented life alone at sea for hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, sharing the physical and mental challenges of crossing one of the world's largest oceans. Her videos showed blistered hands, sleepless nights battling wind and currents, and the daily routines that kept her alive, including making fresh water, cooking meals, washing clothes and protecting herself from the relentless sun. SIX FLAGS MYSTERY COASTER ALREADY DOMINATES SKYLINE, WITH MORE RECORD-BREAKING HEIGHT TO COME Some updates captured emotional moments as she reflected on the isolation of the voyage, while others highlighted lighter moments, including joking about her pronounced hat tan line and reliance on caffeine pills. "I just love boats in the middle of nowhere," Pfendler said in one video. As she neared Oahu, Pfendler said she hoped the journey would inspire others to take on challenges they might think are beyond their reach. "If any part of this made at least one person feel a little bit more powerful in their own skin, I couldn't ask for anything else, and I'm happy," she said. Pfendler has worked as a professional river guide since she was 18 and has spent the past eight years leading rafting trips through the Grand Canyon along the Colorado River, according to her website. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3048c2ca79de23641e97 As America marks 250 years, our greatest chapters are still ahead of us te 2026-07-05T10:22:00.655Z As America marks 250 years, our greatest chapters are still ahead of us Our Founding Fathers are still with us. The story of America that they started in 1776 is only just beginning—and they will be with us all the way. That’s because their legacy lives on not just in our laws, our Constitution and their fundamental proposition that all men are created equal with the same unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—rights that are God-given, not government-given. Their legacy also lives on in the spirit with which they wrote and signed the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago. That spirit animated our Founders’ bold vision of the future; their drive to take decisive action to make that vision happen; and their willingness to risk it all, including "their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor," to accomplish their goal. It didn’t die with the revolutionary generation. AMERICA’S NEXT 250 YEARS DEPEND ON PASSING FAITH AND FREEDOM TO OUR CHILDREN It lives on in what we can call founders’ fire. That same combination of bold vision, relentless drive and the willingness to see risk as opportunity is baked into our American culture. It’s the core of what is called American exceptionalism. Because no other country or society has embraced that founders’ fire to the same extent or made it part of the original creation of a nation and a people. In fact, it predates our founding. It grew up with the very first settlers on this continent, with their "errand into the wilderness" to create a new church under God, a new society and a new life for themselves, by taking on the risks and challenges of an unknown land in order to build what John Winthrop and then Ronald Reagan called a shining city upon a hill. MIKE PENCE: THE NEXT GENERATION NEEDS FAITH IN GOD AND CONFIDENCE IN THE AMERICAN IDEAL That founders’ spirit grew and thrived along the American frontier, turning a vast continent into a land of opportunity for all, an "empire of liberty" in Thomas Jefferson’s phrase. It was fundamental to how the Founding Fathers in 1776 were able to seize the moment to create a new nation. It also lives on with the two great gifts the original Founders left for the nation they created—and for the founders of American businesses, enterprises and institutions that followed. The first is embedded in the Constitution itself, in Article 1, Section 8: the right to own intellectual property and to acquire government-licensed patents to protect that right. Since George Washington signed the Patent Act in 1790, and for more than 200 years, that right has unleashed what Abraham Lincoln — who was himself a patent holder — called the "fire of genius" to grow and sustain the freest and richest economy on earth, from Samuel Morse’s telegraph and Edison’s light bulb to Henry Ford’s automobile and Steve Jobs’ personal computer, right down to today’s AI companies and the builders of tomorrow’s quantum computers. HOW AMERICAN ENERGY HELPED BUILD 250 YEARS OF FREEDOM AND OPPORTUNITY The second gift is contained in the Declaration’s commitment to upholding "the pursuit of happiness" as every person’s unalienable right. Unlike property or life, or even liberty, it’s a right that’s entirely subjective: It’s left to the individual to decide what path is best for him or her, not government or some megacorporation, not even our family or neighbors. We — and no one else — decide as individuals what path to take and where it leads in order to achieve a happy life in the United States. CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION That’s why tens of millions of immigrants, both legal and illegal, have come to these shores for more than two centuries. The best of them understand that, while happiness is not guaranteed, they are freer to pursue the path that’s best for them than in any other society on earth. And when that pursuit is suffused with the founders’ fire—including with immigrant founders like Andrew Carnegie, Elon Musk and NVIDIA’s Jensen Huang—the result is the fountainhead of creative possibilities and invention that characterizes American life. A fountainhead that empowers and expands the pursuit of happiness for other Americans, and ultimately for the entire world. That’s why the American story has just begun. Because it still carries within it that founders’ spirit, which will always inspire someone to commit, regardless of the risks, their body and soul to the enterprise of making our country stronger, safer and more prosperous, both to our benefit today and to future generations. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM ARTHUR HERMAN Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3035c2ca79de23641e8e Homeowners terrorized by pro squatters turning dreams into nightmares in palm-lined paradise, experts say te 2026-07-05T10:21:41.199Z Homeowners terrorized by pro squatters turning dreams into nightmares in palm-lined paradise, experts say Professional squatters are exploiting fake leases, forged documents and legal loopholes to take over homes in Los Angeles, experts say, leaving some homeowners locked in costly legal battles while investigators and former law enforcement officials warn that unlawful occupancy has become a growing public safety concern. Former Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Moses Castillo and veteran private investigator Michael Youssef told Fox News Digital that some squatter cases extend far beyond traditional landlord-tenant disputes, involving allegations of fraud, identity theft, forged property documents and, in some instances, gang activity, narcotics activity and extortion-style demands for money. Both men argue Los Angeles should consider creating a dedicated anti-squatter task force to help law enforcement distinguish legitimate tenant disputes from cases involving criminal conduct. 'SQUATTERS' HOST FLASH SHELTON SLAMS BROKEN SYSTEM THAT HANDS INTRUDERS THE KEYS TO YOUR HOME Castillo said the creation of such a task force is "way overdue," arguing that California's laws have too often favored unlawful occupants over property owners. "These professional squatters know how to work the system," Castillo said. "They know how to cause the worst nightmare for a property owner." Castillo said many homeowners are forced to endure months of financial losses, legal expenses and emotional stress while attempting to regain possession of their own properties. NYC LANDLORD PLEADS FOR HELP AS '9-YEAR-SQUATTER' CONTINUES TO DRAIN HIM DRY IN COURT SAGA: 'TWILIGHT ZONE' "It impacts their health, their stress levels, and their finances," he said. "They're literally losing money while somebody else is taking over their property." 🚨 Know something about crime or public safety in your area? 📩 Email: stepheny.price@fox.com 📸 Instagram: @fndstephprice 🎥 X: @StephenyPrice Your tip could become our next story. According to Castillo, one of the most significant failures has been the tendency to treat many squatter complaints as civil disputes rather than criminal investigations. "When somebody breaks locks, breaks windows, gains access to a vacant property and then claims residency, that's not a housing dispute," Castillo said. "That's a burglary. You're breaking and entering to commit a crime. It should be investigated as a crime from the very beginning." KASH PATEL TOUTS FBI 'FULL-THROTTLE MISSION' AFTER OPERATION SPRING CLEANING YIELDS 615 INDICTMENTS/COMPLAINTS Castillo said responding officers are often left trying to determine whether they are dealing with a legitimate tenancy dispute or criminal conduct, but argued that obvious cases of unlawful entry should not automatically be pushed into the civil court system. "But they're not doing that," Castillo said. "They're saying it's a civil matter, go to the courts and get an eviction. They wash their hands of it and leave the victims, the clients and the landlords hung out to dry." Youssef, chief investigator for Blue Systems International and a licensed private investigator with more than three decades of experience investigating property fraud, unlawful occupancy and real estate-related crimes, said many squatter cases involve far more than a disagreement between a property owner and a tenant. FOLLOW US ON X "They basically hijack the property and they hold it hostage until you pay them off," Youssef said. "Most landowners describe it as hijacking. Their houses get hijacked." "They're basically holding the house hostage," he added. "It's almost like the property is being held for ransom." Youssef said many squatters have become increasingly sophisticated, using online forums, social media groups and what he described as "criminal consultants" who provide step-by-step instructions on exploiting tenant-protection laws. "They have forums and I call them criminal consultants that actually teach these people how to squat and what to do and how to deal with law enforcement," Youssef said. "They give you step-by-step what to do and what laws to invoke." According to Youssef, many occupants learn how to exploit procedural delays, create documentation designed to support false residency claims and remain in properties for extended periods of time. WATCH: 'Squatters' host Flash Shelton uses handyman ruse to confront alleged squatter in home CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS "They'll make fake leases. They'll try to get mail to them so they can prove their residency to law enforcement," Youssef said. "It's crazy." Castillo said professional squatters are often unconcerned by the prospect of police involvement because they understand how the system works. "They're not afraid of the police. They're not afraid of attorneys," Castillo said. "What they do fear is when a private investigator gets involved because they know somebody is going to start digging into their background and exposing what they've been doing." One investigation in particular, Youssef said, illustrates how quickly an unlawful occupancy complaint can evolve into a serious public safety threat. GET BREAKING NEWS ALERTS According to Youssef, individuals associated with documented gang activity allegedly occupied a Long Beach residence, attempted to transfer ownership through a fraudulent quitclaim deed and demanded approximately $500,000 in exchange for vacating the property. The situation escalated far beyond a property dispute, he said. "They were asking for half a million bucks," Youssef said. "They fraudulently transferred title to the house." WATCH: LA home inspectors send squatters packing before changing locks Youssef said the homeowner's wife had died and the homeowner was hospitalized when the alleged scheme unfolded, allowing the occupants to establish themselves at the property. Youssef alleged the property later became associated with gang activity, narcotics activity, prostitution and violence. "We had a very aggressive case in Long Beach where a gang was squatting in a house and there was prostitution, selling drugs," Youssef said. "This nice neighborhood in Long Beach was completely ruined. It went as far as a shooting." Youssef said investigators assisted in exposing the allegedly fraudulent ownership claims and helped the owners regain possession of the property without paying the $500,000 demand. The case, he said, demonstrates why squatting can create risks not only for homeowners but also for entire communities. "It's very dangerous, not just for the homeowners and landlords, but also dangerous for the communities," Youssef said. "All of a sudden, your neighbors are criminals." SEND US A TIP Both men argue that cases like the Long Beach incident demonstrate why squatting should not automatically be viewed as a landlord-tenant issue. "These are simply criminals," Youssef said. "They go from one property to another property and continue doing it because they know nobody is going to stop them." Castillo said the impact on homeowners can be deeply personal. "I've heard this described when a victim of a sexual assault gets violated — it's a huge violation," Castillo said. "These squatters, it's like a house rape. It's horrible to even say that, but that's what it's like for these homeowners. Their castle has been taken over." Castillo said many owners are left feeling as though they can no longer enjoy their own homes after unlawful occupants have damaged the property, engaged in criminal activity or left behind significant destruction. The financial burden can also be staggering. Castillo said some homeowners are forced to hire attorneys, private investigators and eventually pay so-called "cash for keys" settlements simply to persuade unlawful occupants to leave. "You want me out? Then pay me $20,000. Pay me $40,000," Castillo said. "That's what's happening." WATCH: Alleged 'serial squatter' who terrorized Malibu's Point Dume enclave is now the subject of a Hulu docuseries Youssef said he has seen even larger demands. "In the Long Beach case, they were asking for half a million dollars," he said. Youssef added that one of the biggest shortcomings in many squatter investigations is the lack of follow-up fact gathering. "A simple investigation could reveal who these people are and how they got into the property," Youssef said. He argued that investigators who identify occupants, verify documents, interview neighbors and conduct background checks can often uncover evidence that fundamentally changes how a case should be viewed. Youssef said investigators conducting background checks during the Long Beach investigation discovered that one occupant allegedly had an outstanding warrant for battery and assault. "If they had simply identified him and ran his name, they would have found the warrant," Youssef said. Youssef said responding officers are often required to make immediate decisions based on limited information and frequently classify complaints as civil matters before additional facts can be developed through investigation. GOT A TIP? "A lot of times law enforcement is going to ask a couple of questions and tell the property owner to evict the person," Youssef said. "A thorough investigation can reveal what's really going on." Castillo said he hopes Los Angeles officials will consider creating a dedicated anti-squatter task force that would provide property owners and investigators with direct access to officials who can quickly assess complaints and intervene when criminal activity is suspected. WATCH: Multimillion dollar Hollywood Hills mansion turned into eyesore by squatters, taggers "I want to know how people can connect with these detectives or police officers or officials if a task force is created," Castillo said. "How can we have access to them so they can get some justice and hopefully minimize the harm they've already suffered?" He also argued Los Angeles should serve as a model for other jurisdictions facing similar problems. "I think Los Angeles should create a task force, and other cities throughout this country should follow that lead," Castillo said. "Property owners are being held hostage in their own homes, and that's not acceptable." Fox News Digital reached out to the LAPD, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass' office, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office and the Long Beach Police Department for comment. The LAPD and Long Beach police said they could not confirm the alleged Long Beach case based on the limited information provided. The mayor's office and the district attorney's office did not immediately respond. For Youssef, the issue has grown beyond a housing dispute and into a broader public safety concern. "This is a growing crime," he said. "A task force is really needed right now more than ever." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a3021c2ca79de23641e85 Expert who fled Cuba warns of ‘vicious cycle’ that will lead to ‘communists in double digits’ in Congress te 2026-07-05T10:21:21.742Z Expert who fled Cuba warns of ‘vicious cycle’ that will lead to ‘communists in double digits’ in Congress A national security expert who fled to the U.S. from Cuba is warning that one "vicious cycle" currently dominating American politics could lead to "communists in double digits" serving in Congress. Mike Gonzalez, a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation who fled communist Cuba in the 1970s, said in an interview with Fox News Digital that the socialist "threat is real now." Gonzalez likened this trend to a "takeover of a host body, the Democratic Party," saying, "It's being taken over by body snatchers and they're not able to mount any defense of it whatsoever even if they wanted to." Under the current political environment, Gonzalez predicted, "We're going to get communists in double digits in the House of Representatives at least, there's no doubt of that." BILL MAHER'S DIRE MIDTERM ELECTION WARNING TO DEMS AFTER 'REALLY CRAZY' SOCIALISTS WIN PRIMARIES Over the course of a year, New York City elected a socialist mayor, Zohran Mamdani, while three of his endorsed socialist congressional candidates — Brad Lander, Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier — defeated establishment Democrats, including two incumbents. On the other side of the country, Seattle elected a socialist mayor, Katie Wilson. Just this week, Colorado congressional candidate Melat Kiros defeated 15-term Democratic incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette, further illustrating socialists’ ability to topple entrenched party figures. While these politicians identify as socialist, Gonzalez pointed out that to the authors of the communist manifesto, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, "there was no difference between socialism and communism, they were interchangeable." "These people are communists, and when you catch them unawares, they actually say, ‘Oh, yeah, I know we want communism,’" he said. According to Gonzalez, the widespread success of socialist candidates in races across the U.S. is due to several factors, including the breakdown of immigrants assimilating to American culture, increased hatred of the U.S. and even White guilt combined with a real affordability crisis in cities like New York. "A very important component of this and one that conservatives sometimes forget is that a lot of these votes are White votes, White young kids who have come in from the suburbs, who feel guilty about a number of things," he explained. SOCIALISM GOES WEST AS DSA-BACKED CHALLENGER OUSTS LONGTIME DEMOCRAT "They have gone to very expensive Ivy League schools and they're trying to make a living in New York City without being a banker. And you can't make a living in New York City if you're not a banker, sorry, you're going to have an affordability crisis." This, Gonzalez said, makes socialist promises of handouts, such as free tuition, free bus fares and public-run grocery stores, an easy sell. "So, they end up voting for this. This is a very bad vicious cycle that is taking place and that is going to produce communism in this country if we're not careful." Meanwhile, Neetu Arnold, a young immigrant to the U.S. who now works as a policy analyst for the Manhattan Institute, emphasized that the socialist trend is not just isolated to cities like New York but becoming increasingly prevalent in cities across the U.S. "The rise in the socialism in America, it's going to shape our politics. I think it's going to make things more extreme," Arnold said in an interview with Fox News Digital. DSA CO-CHAIR PUSHES BACK ON SOVIET UNION COMPARISONS, WANTS PRISONS TO BE 'LESS NECESSARY' "What the socialist candidates have tapped into are real frustrations and grievances, but the solutions that they're offering is essentially more government involvement rather than trying to address the underlying problems," she explained. "What a lot of younger people are finding out is that it's not that easy to get housing. They're in student debt, they are struggling to find stable jobs, and so the things that they were promised are not necessarily coming true." SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER As a naturalized U.S. citizen, Arnold said she hopes both sides of the political aisle recognize that "socialist policies are a threat to the American way of life." "In this country we value merit, we value wealth, and the ability to move upward in this society," she said. "I've seen my life change before my eyes by being here in this county, by having the opportunities that I did, and that I saw for my family, and I think that was only possible because of free markets and the opportunities that we had in this country." "Socialist policies essentially restrict what we are able to do," Arnold continued. "So, I do take it seriously and I hope that Democrats, Republicans, they all take the rise of socialism seriously." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a300ec2ca79de23641e7c American Culture Quiz: Test yourself on Founding Fathers and vaccine victories te 2026-07-05T10:21:02.320Z American Culture Quiz: Test yourself on Founding Fathers and vaccine victories The American Culture Quiz is a weekly test of our unique national traits, trends, history and people — including current events and the sights and sounds of the United States. This week's quiz highlights America's Founding Fathers, vaccine victories — and much more. Can you get all 8 questions right? Give it a try and see how you do! CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES To try your hand at more quizzes from Fox News Digital, click here.  Also, to take a recent News Quiz — published every Friday — click here. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a201dc2ca79de23641c94 America's 250th celebration in nation's capital boosted by iconic automaker's 2-week tribute to innovation te 2026-07-05T09:13:01.960Z America's 250th celebration in nation's capital boosted by iconic automaker's 2-week tribute to innovation WASHINGTON, DC - As dozens of travelers arrived at Union Station Wednesday morning, many stopped to photograph historic Ford Motor Co. cars, trucks, tractors and artifacts celebrating America's 250th anniversary and the automaker's role in shaping the nation. For two weeks, Ford is hosting "Driving America Forward: A Ford Experience at Union Station," a free public exhibit showcasing vehicles and artifacts from the Ford Heritage Vault in Dearborn that trace the company's legacy, from the Model T, the iconic mass-produced car, to a 1934 Ford pickup on loan from legendary late-night host Jay Leno. The exhibit, part of Ford's marquee America 250 celebrations, features 10 vehicles displayed behind museum-quality glass, including a 1941 Ford GP prototype that helped lead to the military Jeep, a 1951 Ford 8N tractor, a 1954 F-100 from Virginia's Red Truck Bakery and a 2026 Oracle Red Bull Racing Formula One car. Visitors can also create a free postcard at an interactive photo station and shop for Ford merchandise. "America's celebrating its 250th anniversary," Ted Ryan, Ford's archives and heritage brand manager, told Fox News Digital. "We've been here for almost half of that journey, and we've had such a material impact on America." HISTORIC BIG BOY STEAM LOCOMOTIVE DRAWS CROWDS AS AMERICA 250 TOUR HEADS EAST "Whether it's industrializing, building the moving assembly line, mass transportation with the Model T, the best-selling car in the world for a number of years, or even the tractor that transformed farming. Ford has been there." Ryan said the exhibit was designed to turn heads and reveal surprising stories about the company's influence on American industry, transportation and pop culture over the past 123 years. "I was challenged to create an exhibit that would stop people in their tracks to take pictures or learn new facts about the Ford Motor Company," he said. "So we have 10 amazing vehicles that go throughout our entire 124-year history... These are cars that are stopping people in their tracks, and then the exhibit cases are full of material that will tell people stories they don't expect to hear." LDS CHURCH CELEBRATES DELIVERING 6.5M MEALS ACROSS ALL 50 STATES FOR AMERICA250 ANNIVERSARY In a news release, Ryan said Union Station was a fitting location because it has "a particular kind of magic." "For more than a century, it has served as the front door to the nation's capital, a place where presidents have arrived to be inaugurated, where soldiers have shipped off to war, and where ordinary Americans, by the millions, have stepped off a train and into the heart of their democracy," he wrote. But Ryan said Ford's contributions to America go far beyond building cars. "Ford built Mission Control at Johnson Space Center," he said. "We developed tracking beams for airplanes. Ford invented the mail sorter. Hopefully we're teaching people about the critical role that Ford has played in America during half of its 250 years." MINNESOTA BROTHERS LAUDED FOR PATRIOTISM AFTER RAISING $60K FOR VETERANS GROUP WITH LEMONADE STAND Ryan said the vehicles are meant to spark memories for visitors, whether they remind someone of their first car, a family road trip or a vehicle passed down through generations. "I hope people take wonderful photos of cars that remind them of vehicles Ford has produced that they fell in love with, and that they'll leave with information they didn't know ahead of time," he said. Through wars, natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, Ryan said Ford has consistently stepped up to support the country through its "Answering the Call" initiative, which highlights the company's long history of helping the nation during times of need. "Ford is always there and always will be there to answer the call whenever America or our local communities need us," he said. As visitors walk through the exhibit, Ryan hopes they leave with a deeper appreciation for Ford. "America's turning 250, and it's a great time to celebrate," he said. "Ford has been here for half of it, and we're doing our best to tell our story and the role we've played in America." The exhibit is open daily through July 14, with no tickets or registration required. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a200ac2ca79de23641c8b Before the Boston Tea Party, there were New Hampshire's Pine Tree Riots te 2026-07-05T09:12:42.533Z Before the Boston Tea Party, there were New Hampshire's Pine Tree Riots NASHUA, N.H. - As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its independence, the actions of Massachusetts colonists in contributing to the outbreak of the American Revolution will once again be in the national spotlight. But Gov. Kelly Ayotte in neighboring New Hampshire, which was another of the 13 colonies that broke away from the British Empire, told Fox News Digital that the Pine Tree Riot in her state also deserves attention, as an event that may have inspired the Boston Tea Party a year and a half later. "Before the Boston Tea Party, we had the Pine Tree Riots here in New Hampshire. That's because the British tried to come in and tax our pine trees and take them for their own, and we said no way," Ayotte explained. CLICK HERE FOR FOX NEWS AMERICA 250 COVERAGE The riot was in opposition to a longstanding British policy preventing colonists from cutting down White pine trees larger than 12 inches in diameter in order to reserve them for Royal Navy use as masts on their ships. And it was significant because it demonstrated that colonists could defy British policies. "We were early joiners of the revolution, very, very proud of this nation," the governor emphasized. "New Hampshire has a very special role in the history of this country." Ayotte also noted that New Hampshire was "the ninth state to ratify the Constitution, so we were the deciding state to make sure that we had the Constitution," and added that "we were the first state in the nation to draft our own Constitution." The Pine Tree Riot and New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation state Constitution are highlighted in the state's exhibition at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington D.C. ONE OF THE BIGGEST MYTHS ABOUT THE BOSTON TEA PARTY IS REVEALED "New Hampshire is so proud to be part of the fair on the National Mall. In fact, in that fair, we are displaying the history of New Hampshire. We have a video that's running where we have prominent figures throughout our state, on both sides of the aisle, reading from the Declaration of Independence. We also talk about our history. We'll be giving out some great New Hampshire maple syrup," the governor said. Back home in the Granite State, Ayotte noted that "at our own Statehouse, we are going to have our visitors center open. We're going to have some very special documents there." They include one of the Dunlap Broadsides, which were the first printings of the Declaration of Independence, and one of the original 1823 William J. Stone engravings of the historic document. Cities and towns in New Hampshire have long taken a lead in celebrating the Fourth of July, with parades, fairs and fireworks, and other festivities, and this year is no different. Ayotte, a former U.S. senator and former state attorney general who is running for re-election this year, noted in her Fox News Digital interview ahead of the holiday that she would be marching in four Independence Day parades on July 3 and 4. "It's going to be fantastic." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1ff7c2ca79de23641c82 9/11 Museum CEO reflects on lasting impact of terror attacks as America marks 250th birthday te 2026-07-05T09:12:23.070Z 9/11 Museum CEO reflects on lasting impact of terror attacks as America marks 250th birthday As America marks its 250th anniversary, 9/11 Memorial and Museum President and CEO Elizabeth L. Hillman said this year's milestone coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, highlighting the nation's past and its resilience. "This year, America's 250th birthday coincides with the 25th anniversary of 9/11, which means that what's happening at our site is very much connected to the history of the country and to the recognition of this important milestone," Hillman told Fox News Digital. "9/11 is an important part of our nation's history, but especially now as the nation turns 250." Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the terrorist attacks when hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. SECRETS OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR BATTLEFIELDS EMERGE 250 YEARS AFTER AMERICA'S FOUNDING Hillman said it is more important than ever for future generations to learn about the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to understand how they helped shape the nation and "where we are today." "Now, 25 years have passed since that date, so if we don't elevate 9/11 in the eyes of the 100 million Americans who were born since or were too young to remember 9/11 when it happened, we'll lose the opportunity for them to understand what happened on that day and how the world came to heal, how the nation came together, and how this city and the other sites, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, worked to recover afterward," she said. Hillman said the nation's recovery after 9/11 shows that even after a devastating tragedy, people can come together, heal and rebuild. "I think everyone's hungry for evidence that we can survive things that are difficult," she said. "There's nothing like 9/11 to help people realize, given how the nation has recovered since, that it is possible to persevere, to heal, to recover, even in the face of really unfathomable loss, and that's what 9/11 has the chance to teach us." Reflecting on the museum's role, Hillman said the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks affected not only New York City but the entire country, calling the museum "a testament to the resilience of the city" and to "the perseverance that enabled us to actually rebuild." 9/11 MUSEUM TO OFFER FREE ADMISSION FOR VETERANS AHEAD OF MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND "At the center of the rebuilt World Trade Center is a monument to the people who were killed that day and a testimony, really, to what we can do when we come together after that kind of catastrophe," she said. This year, the museum opened "Our Flag Was Still There," an exhibition featuring flags, artifacts and photographs that tell stories of resilience from first responders, veterans and Americans who lived through 9/11. The exhibit includes the Ground Zero flag raised by FDNY firefighters, the flag draped over the Pentagon by soldiers and firefighters, a flag raised over the last column of the South Tower, and one carried during the mission that killed Usama bin Laden. "It reveals how important the flag was in the healing and the coming together that happened after 9/11," Hillman said. Hillman said commemorating 9/11 is especially important at a time when "many things seem to be splitting us apart." TUNNEL TO TOWERS ANNOUNCES 'STEEL ACROSS AMERICA' TOUR TO MARK 25 YEARS SINCE 9/11 ATTACKS "The opportunity to bring people together around a symbol like the flag and around a symbol like the rebuilding of the World Trade Center after 9/11, it's a great opportunity, especially right now," she said. On July 4, Hillman said the museum will place an American flag at each victim's name on the memorial, "to recognize how important the flag was as a symbol of the country on its birthday, but also of the recovery from 9/11 that happened and continues to happen now as we remember that day at this site." Looking ahead to fall, Hillman said the museum will also start offering free admission to veterans whose "willingness to serve after 9/11" helped rebuild the World Trade Center and unite the nation. "If there's one message that we feel we can elevate now that we couldn't do 25 years ago because we didn't know enough about what would happen afterward, it's that so many people were inspired to serve their country, serving in the military," she said. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1fbac2ca79de23641c67 At Trump’s Direction, Federal Agencies Are Abandoning Discrimination Cases te 2026-07-05T09:11:22.652Z At Trump’s Direction, Federal Agencies Are Abandoning Discrimination Cases President Trump has tried to scale back anti-discrimination regulations that date back decades. Federal agencies have heeded his call. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1fa7c2ca79de23641c5e Trump Administration Rolls Back Dozens of Gun Regulations te 2026-07-05T09:11:03.196Z Trump Administration Rolls Back Dozens of Gun Regulations Critics say the administration is weakening public safety. Proponents say regulations would be where they were before President Joseph R. Biden took office. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1f93c2ca79de23641c55 Yosemite Offers Many Wonders. Crushing Crowds Are Now One of Them. te 2026-07-05T09:10:43.739Z Yosemite Offers Many Wonders. Crushing Crowds Are Now One of Them. Visitors are enduring especially long waits at the popular national park after the Trump administration eliminated a summer reservation system. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1f80c2ca79de23641c4c America Marks Its 250th Birthday With Storms, Sweat and Fire te 2026-07-05T09:10:24.291Z America Marks Its 250th Birthday With Storms, Sweat and Fire Independence Day celebrations were canceled nationwide and the Brooklyn Bridge briefly caught fire. Yet Americans still found countless ways to celebrate. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1d7ac2ca79de2364182e Arizona Unemployment Rate Hits Post-Pandemic High, Per New Data te 2026-07-05T09:01:46.711Z Arizona Unemployment Rate Hits Post-Pandemic High, Per New Data By Staff Reporter | Arizona’s unemployment rate has now hit a new high following the COVID-19 pandemic. The state’s unemployment rate neared 5% according to a new data analysis report from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona (CSI). Based on this newly calculated rate, Arizona has the 12th-highest unemployment rate in the nation. Unemployment hit 4.8% in May, with CSI saying broader data indicators have revealed the state’s labor market to be cooling despite job growth.  The addition of 2,000 non-farm jobs in May put Arizona at 30th for national job growth. Overall, the nation experienced growth with the addition of 172,000 jobs. As for job growth year-over-year, Arizona added over 21,200 jobs. That qualified the state as the 10th best in the nation for job growth year-over-year.  Mining jobs increased by about 1,300 over the past year. CSI attributed this growth to the increased demand for copper by electric vehicles, artificial intelligence technology, and data centers.  Manufacturing jobs also increased by 500 over the past year. Trade, transportation, and utility jobs declined by 1,600 over the past year.  Arizona’s labor participation also hit a post-pandemic milestone. The state’s labor force participation rate fell just below 61 percent: the lowest level seen since 2020. Last May, the labor force participation rate was over 62 percent.  Along with rising unemployment and compressed labor participation, Arizona’s private-sector wages increased by over three percent over the year to $35.78. However, that total lags behind the national average of $37.53. Arizonans may have felt these changes to Arizona’s employment climate more acutely due to major year-over-year changes with state spending.  CSI attributed the state’s budget shortfall to overspending. Another recent analysis released earlier this month by CSI found that the state budget has experienced rapid growth over the past decade. In just 10 years, the state budget doubled and now amounts to more than 10% of the state’s gross domestic product.  Per CSI, spending pressures have remained elevated despite normalized revenue growth.  Some items that CSI said to blame were the disparities between Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) enrollment and member costs, elevated demands from the Development Disabilities Program (DDP), and federal payment error rates impacting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) obligations.  AHCCCS enrollment fell by about 10% (over 200,000 people) but average per-member costs increased by 14%.  DDP was projected to require an additional $400 million in state spending by next year.  And the state may have to cover $300 million in annual SNAP cost-sharing obligations should federal payment error rates fail to be reduced in the near future.  Total state spending reached over $70 billion in the 2026 fiscal year, and estimates projected spending to approach $75 billion in the 2027 fiscal year. Of the 2026 fiscal year total state spending, close to $50 billion is expected to come from non-appropriated funds.  CSI found that spending not subject to regular legislative appropriations has grown by more than 150% over the past decade, though appropriated spending grew by about 100%. AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Arizona Unemployment Rate Hits Post-Pandemic High, Per New Data first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1d65c2ca79de23641825 School Choice Opponents Report Turning In Over 420K Signatures To End Universal ESAs te 2026-07-05T09:01:25.720Z School Choice Opponents Report Turning In Over 420K Signatures To End Universal ESAs By Staff Reporter | Activists reported that they have turned in more than 420,00 signatures for a ballot initiative that would end the universality of Arizona’s school choice program. Supporters wearing red shirts reading “Public School Proud” affiliated with Save Our Schools Arizona (SOSA) gathered outside the secretary of state’s office to watch the box truck delivery of the boxes containing the signatures for the ballot initiative. Both SOSA and the Arizona Education Association (AEA) were behind the initiative. SOSA and the AEA contend the universality of the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program diverts far too much in funding away from public schools. Families within the program don’t have to depart their public schools; however, since the expansion of the ESA program to all students in 2022, enrollment in public schools has declined. Defenders of the ESA program counter that per-pupil spending in the program costs less than in public schooling. ESA program funds may be used for private school tuition, tutoring, online courses, homeschool curriculum, educational therapies, textbooks, educational software, testing fees, and college courses.  The Protect Education Act (PEA) would impose income restrictions on the ESA program.  Estimates show that approximately 20,300 current students in the ESA program would be disqualified under the PEA initially, though that number would grow to exclude more than half of Arizona’s families with school-aged children due to inflationary impact on incomes outpacing the income cap adjustment.  The act would also impose accreditation requirements and further restrictions on spending. The ESA program has reported the enrollment of more than 100,000 students. More than 8,200 were listed as new students enrolled for the next school year.  Those who support keeping the universality of the ESA program have been maneuvering to preserve protections for some member families. The Republican majority in the state legislature passed a ballot measure of their own last month: HCR 2048, the “Military Families College Savings and Scholarship Protection Act,” which would amend the Arizona Constitution to prohibit the confiscation of ESA program funds from students belonging to military families.  Should voters approve both the lawmakers’ measure and PEA, it is likely the latter would be voided under language included in the former.  In addition, Doug Ducey, the former governor who signed universal school choice into Arizona law, made an announcement Thursday of a political action committee dedicated to securing school choice protections for military families. Ducey was announced as the chairman of the Protect Military Families PAC.  “Out-of-state special interests and their union allies are trying to take educational scholarships away from the children of Arizona’s military families,” said Ducey.  Serving alongside Ducey on the political action committee is Ashley Ragan, president of InCompliance AZ. Out-of-state special interests and their union allies are trying to take educational scholarships away from the children of Arizona’s military families. That is why today, we are proud to launch Protect Military Families PAC @ProtectMilFam. Our mission is simple: keep Arizona’s… pic.twitter.com/RMH725E3MN — Doug Ducey (@DougDucey) July 2, 2026 The Goldwater Institute, a public policy think tank and litigation organization, filed a motion in the Maricopa County Superior Court earlier this week on behalf of two military families involved in the ESA program.  The organization said that about 1,000 other military families stand to be disqualified from the ESA program should the universalization end.  AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post School Choice Opponents Report Turning In Over 420K Signatures To End Universal ESAs first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a1d51c2ca79de2364181c Arizona Election Law Unchanged After Supreme Court Absentee Ballot Ruling te 2026-07-05T09:01:05.247Z Arizona Election Law Unchanged After Supreme Court Absentee Ballot Ruling By Staff Reporter | A new ruling from the Supreme Court on absentee ballots won’t have any impact on Arizona’s upcoming elections, according to a state senator. In the Watson v. Republican National Committee decision issued earlier this week, the Supreme Court upheld a Mississippi law requiring the acceptance of absentee ballots postmarked by Election Day and received within five days after Election Day. Some refer to this post-Election Day acceptance of ballots as a “grace period.” The Supreme Court rejected the argument that federal law prevents Mississippi from allowing a grace period.  “[W]hile federal law dictates when ballots must be cast, state law governs when they must be received,” stated the court. “The electorate’s choice is made when voting is complete, not when ballots are received.” The ruling declared that states have the authority to establish their own laws and regulations concerning deadlines for receiving ballots.  While this may have an impact on elections elsewhere, State Sen. Vince Leach (R-LD17) issued a press release advising that this ruling wouldn’t impact Arizona because state law doesn’t allow for a grace period. Instead, state law requires county election officials to receive early ballots by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day.  Therefore, Leach advised Arizona voters to exercise caution by relying on in-person voting rather than mail-in voting should they cast their ballots closer to Election Day. Election officials recommend voters return their primary ballots by July 14 at the latest to allow sufficient time for the primary election, which is scheduled to take place on July 21. As of this report, early voting is underway.  “Ballots that arrive after that deadline cannot be counted, regardless of when they were mailed or postmarked. Returning ballots early helps ensure every legal vote is counted while supporting the timely administration of Arizona’s elections,” said Leach. “If you’re getting close to Election Day, don’t take chances with the mail. Use an official ballot drop box or vote in person. The rules are clear, and following them is the best way to make sure your vote is counted.” President Donald Trump called the Supreme Court ruling a “tremendous loss” for voters’ rights. Trump advocated for the passage of the SAVE America Act, which would establish federal requirements for voter ID and proof of citizenship as well as limiting mail-in ballots to those with illnesses, disabilities, military deployment, or approved travel.  The Republican National Committee (RNC) seconded Trump’s call to action.  pic.twitter.com/F4p5hYxjgD — RNC Election Integrity (@RNCVoteProtect) June 29, 2026 The Supreme Court issued its decision the same day it announced it would take up the RNC’s case defending Arizona’s law requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote.  RNC Chairman Joe Gruters said the Supreme Court decision had risked the country’s ability to implement fair and secure elections. “Democrats are inviting chaos at the ballot box by allowing elections to drag on for days and weeks after voters cast their ballots,” said Gruters. “Republicans are not going to be deterred by this decision, and the RNC will keep fighting to have elections end on Election Day as Americans want.”  🚨RNC @ChairmanGruters released the following statement on today’s Supreme Court decision on Watson v. RNC: pic.twitter.com/aW53vFExvq — RNC Election Integrity (@RNCVoteProtect) June 29, 2026 AZ Free News is your #1 source for Arizona news and politics. You can send us news tips using this link. The post Arizona Election Law Unchanged After Supreme Court Absentee Ballot Ruling first appeared on AZ FREE NEWS. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a116cc2ca79de236416c4 Guam and Northern Mariana Islands Prepare for Typhoon Bavi te 2026-07-05T08:10:20.689Z Guam and Northern Mariana Islands Prepare for Typhoon Bavi Typhoon Bavi, a tropical cyclone barreling through the Pacific Ocean, was forecast to pass near the U.S. territories on Monday with the force of a Category 5 hurricane. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a0ce5c2ca79de23641657 NAU ROUNDUP: Defending Big Sky champion Lumberjacks unveil 2026 volleyball schedule te 2026-07-05T07:51:01.847Z NAU ROUNDUP: Defending Big Sky champion Lumberjacks unveil 2026 volleyball schedule NAU volleyball's 2026 schedule is here, featuring strong non-conference matchups and the opportunity to host the Big Sky Conference Tournament in November. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a0a8ec2ca79de236414f2 Revolutionary War cannons debut at Savannah History Museum for America 250 te 2026-07-05T07:41:02.493Z Revolutionary War cannons debut at Savannah History Museum for America 250 A piece of Revolutionary War history that spent more than two centuries hidden underwater is now on display in Georgia's oldest city, just in time for America's 250th anniversary. Nineteen cannons discovered at the bottom of the Savannah River were unveiled Thursday as a part of a new exhibit at the Savannah History Museum. The cannons spent nearly 240 years underwater. "This is the largest discovery of 18th century artillery from a single Revolutionary War naval event," said Nora Fleming Lee, CEO of Coastal Heritage Society. "So the discovery is really significant nationwide, not just for Savannah." A crew with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stumbled upon the cannons in 2021 while dredging the river to accommodate larger cargo ships. MILITARY ALLIES, HISTORIC TALL SHIPS CONVERGE ON NEW JERSEY SHORES TO LAUNCH AMERICA 250 CELEBRATIONS "In total, they brought up 19 cannon and a dozen or so are small artifacts.… They had quite a bit of concretion on them, oyster shells, all kinds of marine life that had attached itself to the cannon," explained Fleming Lee. Some of the cannons were found still packed with cannonballs and gunpowder charges, along with other small artifacts. After being pulled from the river, most of the cannons left Georgia for several years for cleaning and preservation work at a Texas A&M University lab.  "Running electrical currents essentially through a water bath that they were in, and it desalinates the iron works, so it stabilizes iron to be on land," said Fleming Lee. "And then in the final treatments, they're painted with acid and given a spa treatment and waxed and that they can have a very long life here on land." Seventeen cannons were restored. The other two were left unrestored to allow visitors a side-by-side comparison. All 19 are permanently on display as a part of the new "Loyalists & Liberty: Savannah in the American Revolution" exhibit. THE FORGOTTEN 14TH COLONY: ST AUGUSTINE SHOWCASES ITS REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY AHEAD OF AMERICA'S 250TH Historians believe the cannons sank shortly before the siege of Savannah in 1779. At the time, Savannah was under British occupation. "We believe these cannons are the last of several ships that were scuttled, at the narrowest part of the Savannah River to act as a blockade for the French fleet to prevent them from sailing up river and reclaiming Savannah for the American side," said Fleming Lee. AMERICA 250 IS COMING: WHAT TO KNOW AND THE BEST COMMEMORATIVE GEAR TO BUY The cannons would've sunk just weeks before the Battle of Savannah, known as one of the bloodiest battles of the Revolutionary War, with over 800 casualties in under an hour. It was fought on the very ground where the Savannah History Museum now stands. "The cannons are really the tangible artifacts that are telling the story of revolution," said Fleming Lee. "And through that lens, we're expanding Georgia's revolutionary story. More about the naval events, but more importantly, we're telling the story through the lens of those who aren't often focused on." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER The new exhibit tells the story of Savannah's role in the birth of America from the lens of five unique historical figures, including indigenous, free and enslaved people, women and children. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a0822c2ca79de23641167 Outgoing Mohave elections director's consulting contract heads to supervisors te 2026-07-05T07:30:42.863Z Outgoing Mohave elections director's consulting contract heads to supervisors Former Mohave County Elections Director Allen Tempert could return to the Elections Department as a temporary consultant under a contract worth up to $25,000 if the Board of Supervisors approves the proposal at its July 6 meeting. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a4a0388c2ca79de236410e3 The story behind Betsy Ross and the first American flag as America celebrates 250th birthday te 2026-07-05T07:11:04.644Z The story behind Betsy Ross and the first American flag as America celebrates 250th birthday As America celebrates its 250th birthday, historic sites in Philadelphia are spotlighting the people and places tied to the nation’s earliest days — including one of its most enduring symbols: the American flag. While the Founding Fathers are often at the center of Revolutionary War history, one of the country’s most recognizable symbols is traditionally associated with an ordinary woman working from her home in Philadelphia. Betsy Ross, a 24-year-old upholsterer, is traditionally credited with sewing what many believe was the first American flag in the summer of 1776 after reportedly being approached by members of a flag committee that included George Washington.  According to Lisa Acker Moulter, director of the Betsy Ross House, the historic site is helping visitors understand how that moment may have unfolded. LEARN MORE ABOUT BETSY ROSS "She said she'd never made one before, but she would certainly try," said Lisa Acker Moulter, director of the Betsy Ross House. "She did suggest one change though, the flag that they showed her that was drawn on a piece of paper had six-pointed stars and she recommended five-pointed stars because they were easier to make. She had a method that she had learned as a child to fold a piece of cloth or paper and she cut a perfect five-pointed star with just one snip of her scissors." Ross is believed by tradition to have worked in secrecy, sewing the flag by hand at night — likely in her home rather than in her upholstery shop — and completing it in about a week. At the time, the colonies were still under British rule, making the creation of a national flag a potentially dangerous act. ANOTHER AMERICAN HERO WHO RISKED HIS LIFE FOR OUR FREEDOM "You have to remember that we were a British colony at the time, so making the flag would have been considered an act of treason. If she had been caught by the British or loyalists, she could have been at the very least imprisoned or possibly even executed," said Lisa Acker Moulter, director of the Betsy Ross House. The original design featured 13 stripes representing the colonies and 13 stars arranged in a circle to symbolize equality among them. It was later adopted as the nation’s first official flag after the Continental Congress passed a resolution on June 14, 1777. Lisa Acker Moulter, director of the Betsy Ross House, says the story of Betsy Ross reflects a broader truth about who contributed to America’s founding. "It shows that ordinary people can contribute important things to this country as well. You know, this country wasn’t just founded by wealthy, powerful white men, the Founding Fathers. It was women, it was free and enslaved people, it was new immigrants, all of them contributed to the founding of this nation. And that’s represented through that first flag," said Lisa Acker Moulter, director of the Betsy Ross House. THE AMERICAN FLAG, A SYMBOL OF UNITY In its early years, the flag was primarily used on battlefields, military forts, and ships as a form of identification. It did not become a widespread symbol of national identity until later in U.S. history. "They weren’t a symbol of our national identity as they are today. That didn’t happen until the Civil War. So from the Civil War until today, that’s when you started seeing flags flown over schools, flown on government buildings, flown on houses. So the flag has changed over time. It’s become much more powerful and meaningful to people," said Lisa Acker Moulter, director of the Betsy Ross House. Over time, the flag evolved as new states joined the Union. The first major update came in 1795 with the addition of two stars for Vermont and Kentucky, and the most recent change came in 1960 after Hawaii became the 50th state. From its disputed origins to its modern meaning, the American flag remains one of the country’s most powerful symbols — now taking center stage again as Philadelphia marks America’s 250th anniversary. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49fefdc2ca79de23640f2a Mohave County supervisors to consider $115K underwater drone for Sheriff's Office te 2026-07-05T06:51:41.263Z Mohave County supervisors to consider $115K underwater drone for Sheriff's Office The Mohave County Board of Supervisors is expected to consider Monday whether to approve the purchase of an underwater drone system for the Mohave County Sheriff's Office using grant funding from the Arizona State Parks Board. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49fee9c2ca79de23640f21 Mohave County to consider nursing student clinical partnership with Mohave College te 2026-07-05T06:51:21.296Z Mohave County to consider nursing student clinical partnership with Mohave College The Mohave County Board of Supervisors is expected to consider a two-year agreement Monday that would allow Mohave College nursing students to complete clinical practicums and externships with the Mohave County Department of Public Health. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49fed5c2ca79de23640f18 Mohave County sheriff seeks $75,000 for first responder mental health training te 2026-07-05T06:51:01.012Z Mohave County sheriff seeks $75,000 for first responder mental health training KINGMAN — The Mohave County Sheriff's Office is asking the Board of Supervisors to accept a $75,000 award from Arizona Complete Health to help pay for mental health training for first responders. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49fec0c2ca79de23640f0f Mohave County updates five-year road plan with new Kingman, Golden Valley projects te 2026-07-05T06:50:40.854Z Mohave County updates five-year road plan with new Kingman, Golden Valley projects Mohave County supervisors are scheduled to consider adopting an updated five-year Capital Improvement Road Program on July 6, adding several new transportation projects while removing two others from the county's long-range road construction plan. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49e4e4c2ca79de236409e2 In Fourth of July Speech, Trump Celebrates America and Derides Foes te 2026-07-05T05:00:20.793Z In Fourth of July Speech, Trump Celebrates America and Derides Foes A centerpiece address for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration devoted time to American history, but had all the hallmarks of a Trump rally. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49e306c2ca79de236409a5 Modern pitching forces MLB Hall of Fame voters to rethink greatness te 2026-07-05T04:52:22.604Z Modern pitching forces MLB Hall of Fame voters to rethink greatness With starters' roles rapidly changing as the game evolves, some voters believe that Texas Rangers ace Jacob deGrom could become the new model for how Baseball Hall of Fame worthiness is measured. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49e2f2c2ca79de2364099c Modern pitching forces MLB Hall of Fame voters to rethink greatness te 2026-07-05T04:52:02.128Z Modern pitching forces MLB Hall of Fame voters to rethink greatness PHOENIX – When Tim Kurkjian talks about starting pitching, he doesn’t begin with numbers and analytics. The longtime ESPN baseball writer starts with the games he watched as a kid. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49e2dec2ca79de2364098a Female American rower completes record-breaking solo journey from California to Hawaii te 2026-07-05T04:51:42.158Z Female American rower completes record-breaking solo journey from California to Hawaii A Grand Canyon river rafting guide who aimed to become the first American woman to row across the mid-Pacific solo has completed a record-breaking journey from California to Hawaii. Local media report hundreds gathered to cheer on Kelsey Pfendler as… Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49e2cac2ca79de23640981 For the WNBA, NIL has skyrocketed visibility, creating unprecedented leverage for players te 2026-07-05T04:51:22.190Z For the WNBA, NIL has skyrocketed visibility, creating unprecedented leverage for players DALLAS — In the last several years of his 25 seasons as the women's basketball coach at mid-major South Florida, Jose Fernandez spoke more with agents and lawyers than parents. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49e2b5c2ca79de23640978 SPORTS-BKL-NIL-PLAYER-VISIBILITY-FILEPIC-DA te 2026-07-05T04:51:01.729Z SPORTS-BKL-NIL-PLAYER-VISIBILITY-FILEPIC-DA Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) signs autographs for fans after a game against the Phoenix Mercury at College Park Center on Sept. 11, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49c681c2ca79de236406cb U.S. Ambassador to Canada Hosts July 4 Party Amid Tension Over New Bridge te 2026-07-05T02:50:41.361Z U.S. Ambassador to Canada Hosts July 4 Party Amid Tension Over New Bridge Pete Hoekstra had made false claims that Canada hadn’t fully paid for the $4.5 billion Gordie Howe Bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49c66dc2ca79de236406c2 The Brooklyn Bridge Briefly Catches Fire During a Fireworks Display te 2026-07-05T02:50:21.910Z The Brooklyn Bridge Briefly Catches Fire During a Fireworks Display The fire appeared to have been extinguished by shortly after 10 p.m., the police said. No injuries were reported. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49bf67c2ca79de2364060d This California Town Banned Fireworks. Then Came the Dogs. te 2026-07-05T02:20:23.329Z This California Town Banned Fireworks. Then Came the Dogs. People flock to the coastal town of Cambria, which has become known for its fireworks ban, to give their dogs some respite on the Fourth of July. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49b3c0c2ca79de236404e8 These Runners Celebrate July 4 at the Mount Marathon Race te 2026-07-05T01:30:40.771Z These Runners Celebrate July 4 at the Mount Marathon Race The Mount Marathon Race plays a big role in the Independence Day festivities of Seward, Alaska. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49b3adc2ca79de236404df Nancy Pelosi’s Husband Could Face Charge Over Napa County Car Crash te 2026-07-05T01:30:21.321Z Nancy Pelosi’s Husband Could Face Charge Over Napa County Car Crash The police said Paul Pelosi was the driver of a convertible that struck a parked car on Friday. The district attorney will decide whether Mr. Pelosi will be charged. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49af27c2ca79de23640477 New Jersey coastal city clashes over proposal to transform amusement park into luxury hotel te 2026-07-05T01:11:03.465Z New Jersey coastal city clashes over proposal to transform amusement park into luxury hotel Officials in New Jersey sparked mixed reactions after voting to pave the way for the redevelopment of a former iconic amusement park. Gillian's Wonderland Pier in Ocean City was a Jersey Shore landmark that entertained families for decades. David Gillian founded Gillian's Fun Deck around 1930. Roy Gillian began operating the business as Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in 1965. The park became known for its carousel, monorail and 144-foot Giant Wheel. It closed in October 2024 after years of mounting financial pressures, including rising inflation, insurance premiums and operating costs. Disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and Superstorm Sandy also reportedly contributed to the business’ financial woes. "I tried my best to sustain Wonderland for as long as possible, through increasingly difficult challenges each year," Ocean City mayor and one-time Wonderland Pier owner Jay Gillian wrote in a letter posted to Facebook. "It’s been my life, my legacy and my family. But it’s no longer a viable business." SIX FLAGS MYSTERY COASTER ALREADY DOMINATES SKYLINE, WITH MORE RECORD-BREAKING HEIGHT TO COME "It’s not going to be like it was every year we come down, something is taken away," 72-year-old Pennsylvania resident KR Watkin told FOX 29 at the time. "It’s surreal actually," said employee Andrew Boyland. "I can’t believe this is happening. I’m upset about it but at the same time the amount of people that have come here ever since we announced we are closing is amazing." TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ Icona Resorts owner Eustace Mita acquired the property in 2021. After the park closed, he proposed building a 252-room hotel on the site. In a 5-2 vote recently, Ocean City councilmembers approved rezoning the site as "in need of rehabilitation," thereby allowing the city to begin the redevelopment process. The vote does not approve construction of the hotel itself, however. The next step in the process involves the city drafting a redevelopment plan outlining development standards before holding public hearings and seeking additional approvals. Some residents said they are in favor of the hotel, arguing it will bring more visitors to the city that is home to roughly 11,000 year-round residents and regularly attracts more than 100,000 tourists per day during the summer. Others expressed concern that the development would alter the boardwalk’s character. Community advocacy group Ocean City 2050 criticized the vote in a statement, calling the council’s decision a "strategic blunder" that results in "a stronger hand for the developer, and a worse outcome for residents." CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS The group announced it plans to join other groups in filing suit against the city challenging the rehabilitation designation. "The council’s failure to meet the statutory requirements for rehabilitation, its arbitrary decision-making, its willful disregard of known financial conflicts and its breach of fiduciary duty to the citizens it serves" are reasons the group cited for the lawsuit. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Ocean City 2050 said it supports a recent subcommittee report that called for "using traditional planning tools, not rehabilitation designation, to address this site." The group said it would support a redevelopment plan that "enhances entertainment, respects the neighborhoods and protects our boardwalk’s iconic look and feel." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49aca4c2ca79de236403dd Crowds Evacuated as Storms Menace Washington Ahead of Trump Speech te 2026-07-05T01:00:20.917Z Crowds Evacuated as Storms Menace Washington Ahead of Trump Speech Thousands of people stood in security lines for hours in severe heat to reach the National Mall, only to be ordered to leave as events were set to start. Some refused. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49a81fc2ca79de23640342 Trump set to deliver 'historic' speech celebrating America's 250th anniversary te 2026-07-05T00:41:03.119Z Trump set to deliver 'historic' speech celebrating America's 250th anniversary President Donald Trump is set to deliver what the White House is calling a "historic" speech Saturday night before a massive fireworks display celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Trump is still expected to take the stage at 10 p.m. at the conclusion of the Salute to America celebration on the National Mall, though timing of events may fluctuate due to adverse weather, per a senior White House official. The president's address is expected to look back on America's history since its founding 250 years ago, a senior White House official told Fox News. THE LESSON WE CAN LEARN FROM BICENTENNIAL HISTORY IS TO PARTY LIKE IT’S 1976 Trump will deliver a "unique" speech featuring the stories of American heroes. "It will be a unique speech unlike any other he’s given before," the official added. Earlier Saturday, Trump celebrated what he described as a "stronger than ever" America in a Truth Social post, praising the "incredible" crowds gathered in Washington despite the heat and storms. FOURTH OF JULY APP GUIDES SPECTATORS THROUGH NINE-HOUR AIR SHOW FROM NASA JETS TO B-1 BOMBERS The president also highlighted the air shows over the nation's capital, saying the pilots and aircraft were "at a level never seen before." Trump also addressed recent vandalism at the Reflecting Pool, calling those responsible "Vandal Thugs" and promising the pool would be drained and repaired after the holiday weekend. The president's remarks come one day after he delivered a patriotic speech at Mount Rushmore, where he called the United States the "most exceptional nation ever to exist" and warned that communism posed the nation's greatest threat. TRUMP HAILS AMERICA AS 'MOST EXCEPTIONAL NATION EVER TO EXIST' IN MOUNT RUSHMORE SPEECH "Communism is the exact opposite of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness — it is death, tyranny and the pursuit of evil. A severe thunderstorm swept through Washington on Saturday evening, prompting emergency officials to urge people on the National Mall to seek shelter. Freedom 250, the event organizer, said it would provide updates on the evening's schedule as weather conditions developed. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a49a346c2ca79de236402c8 Movies in Flagstaff: 'Trailblazers' documentary takes path to Flagstaff te 2026-07-05T00:20:22.856Z Movies in Flagstaff: 'Trailblazers' documentary takes path to Flagstaff Movies in Flagstaff Series continues Wednesday, July 8, with the showing of "Trailblazers." Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/post/6a499ebdc2ca79de2363f6f7 Kylian Mbappé's seventh goal of the World Cup lifts France past Paraguay in physical Round of 16 match te 2026-07-05T00:01:01.339Z Kylian Mbappé's seventh goal of the World Cup lifts France past Paraguay in physical Round of 16 match The United States may not have been in action on Independence Day, but France — who fittingly played an important role in the Revolutionary War — was on the pitch in Philadelphia against Paraguay in a massive Round of 16 clash for a trip to the quarterfinals. It was a hot day in the birthplace of our nation, and that made things difficult for both teams in more ways than one. While Paraguay is a great squad, they were significant underdogs against a heavily favored French team led by superstar Kylian Mbappé, who has been lighting it up this tournament. THIS 'AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL' RENDITION BEFORE THE FRANCE VS PARAGUAY MATCH WILL GIVE YOU GOOSEBUMPS Obviously, the heat itself is a factor, but it also made for a slower pitch, something that was believed to play into the hands of Paraguay. However, most of the action in the first half was played on their end as France put the pressure on through the first half hour of the match. It was intense, and that intensity boiled over in the 35th minute with some pushing and shoving after Mbappé and Paraguay's Andrés Cubas started a wild shoving match. VAR DENIES CROATIA'S GAME-TYING GOAL AS CRISTIANO RONALDO LEADS PORTUGAL TO ROUND OF 16 But while the intensity ramped up — and stayed high for pretty much the entire game — Paraguay weathered the storm and had every reason to feel good about reaching halftime with the game scoreless. France got some more scoring opportunities in the early part of the second half, including a near-breakaway for Mbappé. In the 67th minute, France was awarded a penalty kick for a foul against Desire Doue that had to go to VAR for review, and it was Mbappé who took it. MESSI, ARGENTINA AVOID A SHOCKING UPSET IN WILD KNOCKOUT STAGE MATCH AGAINST CAPE VERDE Mbappé has tended to do most of his damage in the second half, and that trend continued here with him drilling the penalty past Paraguay goaltender Orlando Gill. That was his 19th career World Cup goal, and his seventh of this tournament alone, tying him with Argentina's Lionel Messi for the tournament lead. Paraguay seemed to fade after the Mbappé goal, but turned it on again late, forcing Mike Maignan to make his first save of the day about 89 and a half minutes into the match. It seemed like Paraguay's plan was to try and get a rise out of the French, and they succeeded in drawing three yellow cards. In fact, they even tried to keep that going after the match with players meeting near midfield for some more pushing and shoving. But France is moving on, and they will take on Morocco in a quarterfinal match on Thursday in Boston. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana https://meenews.co/home