2025-04-06 18:05:45.943

A horrific incident unfolded in Brooklyn on Sunday morning when a man wielding a butcher knife attacked multiple people, including several children. The attack, which occurred around 10 a.m. on 84th Street, left several victims covered in blood. Witnesses described seeing children, aged between 8 and 16, severely injured. One neighbor recounted seeing girls "covered in blood." Police responded to a 911 call and engaged the suspect, who lunged at officers with the knife. The suspect was shot multiple times and sustained life-threatening injuries. All victims were transported to Maimonides Medical Center, with at least one child in critical condition. The suspect, described as approximately 40 years old, was also taken to the hospital. The mother of the children was reportedly not home at the time. State Assemblyman Lester Chang suggested that one victim may have been a babysitter. A police press conference was expected at the scene.

2025-04-03 06:00:55.874

Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia, is piloting a program requiring students to store their phones in locked pouches all day. This follows a state executive order promoting "phone-free education." Initially, students resisted, but the results have been surprising. Teachers report a significant decrease in classroom distractions and a renewed focus on learning. Students say they feel more present and are socializing more. Even interpersonal violence has decreased. While some educators and parents raise concerns about emergencies and digital literacy, proponents highlight the positive impact on mental health and academic performance. The policy's success is still being evaluated, but early signs suggest a potential shift in how we approach technology in schools. The issue is gaining bipartisan support across the country, with several states implementing similar policies.

2025-04-01 00:00:38.381

NEW YORK (AP) — For once, things are working out for Wile E. Coyote. After being shelved by Warner Bros. in 2023, the Looney Tunes film “Coyote vs. Acme” has found a new home. Ketchup Entertainment announced Monday that it acquired worldwide distribution rights to the film for an undisclosed sum. The deal gives new life to one of the three fully completed films that Warner Bros. elected to take a tax write-off on rather than release. The tactic, which followed a change in leadership at Warner Bros. coming out of the pandemic, was widely disparaged by creatives and fans, alike. The other two shelved movies — the $90 million DC Studios production “Batgirl” and the animated “Scoob! Holiday Haunt” — remain unreleased. But “Coyote vs. Acme” will be salvaged from the dustbin. Ketchup Entertainment plans a theatrical release at an unspecified future date. “We’re thrilled to have made a deal with Warner Bros. Pictures to bring this film to audiences worldwide,” Gareth West, chief executive of Ketchup Entertainment, said in a statement. “‘Coyote vs Acme’ is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling, capturing the essence of the beloved Looney Tunes characters while introducing them to a new generation.” RELATED STORIES ‘Novocaine’ leads numbingly slow weekend at domestic box office Ahead of the 2025 Oscars, AP hands out its own awards 'Snow White' opens with $43 million at box office Directed by Dave Green and based on a New Yorker article by Ian Frazier, “Coyote vs. Acme” follows Wile E. Coyote in a lawsuit against Acme Corporation for the many faulty products that failed to catch him the Road Runner. The live-action animated hybrid stars John Cena and Will Forte. Deadline earlier reported that Ketchup paid about $50 million for the film, which cost $70 million to produce. Ketchup, a distribution company launched in 2012, also recently released another Looney Tunes film jettisoned by Warner Bros.: “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie.” In three weeks of release, it’s grossed $8.2 million in domestic ticket sales.

2025-04-01 00:00:38.375

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissed a lawsuit challenging Georgia's election overhaul, claiming the Biden administration's allegations of voter suppression were false. The lawsuit, filed in 2021, alleged the law denied Black voters equal access to the ballot. Georgia's Republican Governor Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger celebrated the dismissal, while voting rights advocates criticized the decision, arguing the law made voting harder for many Georgians. The law added a voter ID requirement for mail ballots, shortened the time for requesting them, reduced ballot drop boxes in Democratic-leaning areas, and banned food and water distribution to voters in line. While Bondi cited increased Black voter turnout, an analysis by the Brennan Center for Justice showed a slight decline in Black voter turnout relative to population growth. Several other lawsuits challenging the law remain pending.

2025-03-30 06:07:18.221

Miriam Yarimi, 32, a wigmaker with a luxurious lifestyle and a vanity plate reading "WIGM8KER", is accused of causing a fatal car crash in Brooklyn that killed a mother and her two daughters. Driving with a suspended license, Yarimi's Audi collided with another vehicle before striking the family, who were leaving Shabbat services. Yarimi's Instagram displays a lavish lifestyle, including luxury vehicles like a Porsche and an Audi. Court documents reveal she won a $2 million settlement from the NYPD in a lawsuit alleging she was raped by an officer as a minor. Despite this, she accumulated over 93 traffic violations, including speeding tickets and red-light violations, totaling over $10,000 in fines. Police have yet to announce charges in the fatal crash, which claimed the lives of an 8-year-old and 6-year-old, alongside their mother. Yarimi is also a mother of a young child, whose photos frequently appear on her Instagram.

2025-03-29 18:00:58.495

Andrew Tate, a social media influencer known for his misogynistic views, is facing a new lawsuit filed by his ex-girlfriend, Brianna Stern, who accuses him of sexual assault and battery. This adds to the existing legal trouble Tate faces in Romania, where he is charged with human trafficking and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women. His brother, Tristan Tate, is also implicated. Stern's lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles, describes an incident at the Beverly Hills Hotel where Tate allegedly choked and beat her, resulting in a post-concussion diagnosis. Tate's attorney denies the allegations, calling the lawsuit a 'money grab'. The lawsuit details a pattern of abuse, starting with Tate's initially charming behavior, which later turned abusive, including threatening messages and claims of ownership. Tate's attorney dismisses the evidence as falsified. The Tate brothers, dual U.S. and British citizens, were arrested in Romania in late 2022 and indicted last year. Andrew Tate also faces a rape charge. They deny all allegations. Stern met Tate in July 2024 and was invited to Romania to model for his cryptocurrency meme coin. After returning to the U.S., Tate's communications became threatening and manipulative. The lawsuit details a violent encounter at a hotel where Tate allegedly beat and choked Stern during sex, threatening to kill her if she crossed him. Tate, a former kickboxer, has amassed millions of followers online despite being banned from several platforms for hate speech. He and his brother are vocal supporters of Donald Trump. The brothers recently returned to Romania after a trip to the U.S., where a Florida investigation was opened into their activities. Four British women are also suing Tate in the U.K. Stern stated her fear in coming forward but felt compelled to speak out. Her attorney praised her courage.

2025-03-27 18:06:52.053

Multiple crises engulf the Trump administration: a Signal chat scandal involving top officials discussing sensitive military operations, leading to calls for investigations and a lawsuit; the Department of Health and Human Services plans to cut 10,000 full-time employees; President Trump's 25% tariff on imported cars and car parts draws international condemnation and internal Republican concerns; and the nomination of Elise Stefanik to be US ambassador to the United Nations faces uncertainty due to the narrow House Republican majority. The Signal chat controversy is the focus of an emergency hearing, with officials deflecting blame and downplaying the leak. Lawmakers are divided, with some calling for investigations and others urging to move on. Meanwhile, the auto tariffs are met with criticism from foreign leaders, including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the EU. The administration defends its actions, while concerns remain about potential trade wars. The HHS cuts are part of a larger government overhaul, while the Stefanik nomination remains in limbo. In other news, an Iranian student is detained by ICE, deportation flights to Venezuela resume, and a major MS-13 leader is captured.

2025-03-26 12:03:16.009

National Security Advisor Mike Waltz admitted responsibility for accidentally adding Atlantic magazine's editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, to a Signal group chat discussing military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen. The leak revealed internal deliberations and planning of the March 15th airstrikes. Waltz stated that he created the group and that Goldberg's number was somehow included, though he claimed not to know how. He described the incident as embarrassing and vowed to investigate. While Waltz and President Trump insist no classified information was discussed, Goldberg maintains that the leaked messages included details about targets, weapons, and timing of the attacks. Goldberg, a known critic of Trump, has shared some screenshots but withheld others citing national security concerns. The incident sparked debate about the security of sensitive information and the potential for intentional leaks.

2025-03-19 06:02:42.455

Court documents and transcripts in the legal battle over Prince Harry's U.S. immigration were released, but heavily redacted. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) withheld Harry's immigration records entirely, citing potential "harm and harassment." The Heritage Foundation, which requested the documents, alleges Harry concealed past drug use as admitted in his memoir, "Spare." They claim this warrants investigation into whether he received preferential treatment. The DHS countered that the Heritage Foundation hadn't demonstrated public interest outweighing Harry's right to privacy and that he received no special treatment. While admitting past drug use on a visa application can lead to rejection, the final decision rests on various factors. Lying on the application carries severe consequences, including a lifetime ban from the U.S. President Trump commented on the situation, stating he wouldn't deport Harry.

2025-03-19 06:02:42.452

President Donald Trump fulfilled his promise to release thousands of previously unreleased documents related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. While the release was touted as unprecedented, initial reactions from historians and researchers suggest that the majority of the documents contain little new information, with much of the content having been previously released. The documents, totaling 80,000, were released without redactions, as promised by Trump. Despite the hype, many experts believe that the files are unlikely to reveal any game-changing information about the assassination, with some describing the trove as "impenetrable" due to a lack of annotation and identifying information. The release comes amidst ongoing debates regarding the handling of other sensitive government documents, such as those related to Jeffrey Epstein. While some celebrate the transparency, others remain skeptical, questioning whether the release will significantly advance our understanding of the Kennedy assassination.

2025-03-18 12:03:27.812

L.A. Reid is trying once again to sell his massive Los Angeles mansion. The Bel Air estate has been relisted for $17.5 million. The home boasts 7 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and over 11,000 square feet of living space. Amenities include a large pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, grassy yard, gym, home theater with an en-suite bar, and a 300-bottle wine cellar. It also offers stunning canyon and city views. Reid has attempted to sell the property multiple times, initially listing it in 2019 for $22.9 million. The price has been adjusted several times since then, reaching as high as $21.5 million in 2023 and dropping below $20 million last year before being relisted in 2024 for $20 million. The Oppenheim Group holds the current listing.

2025-03-12 00:00:32.86

US markets experienced a dramatic seesaw on Tuesday, driven by President Trump's renewed threat of hefty tariffs on Canada. All three major indexes initially dropped sharply, with the Dow falling over 700 points at one point. However, losses were partially recouped in the afternoon following announcements of US-Canada talks to de-escalate trade tensions and renegotiate trade policy. The Dow ultimately closed down 478 points (1.14%), the S&P 500 fell 0.76%, and the Nasdaq dropped 0.18%. The S&P 500 neared correction territory, closing down 9.3% from its February high, while the Nasdaq, already in correction territory, closed 13.6% below its December high. Despite the market decline, President Trump expressed no concern, emphasizing the need to rebuild the country. Market analysts attributed the volatility to uncertainty surrounding the administration's trade policy. The Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) fell after an earlier surge, reflecting some easing of investor anxiety. The decline continues a recent market rout, raising concerns about the potential for a prolonged downturn. White House officials described the market fluctuations as a "snapshot of a moment in time" and expressed confidence in the President's economic policies. Airline stocks were among the hardest hit, following a decline in Delta's earnings forecast. Ford also experienced significant losses. The uncertainty surrounding Trump's tariff policies fueled "extreme fear" among investors, according to CNN's Fear and Greed Index, and the anxiety spread globally, impacting European markets.

2025-03-11 18:02:49.69

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is releasing its preliminary report today on the mid-air collision between a regional jet and a military helicopter on January 29 over the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. All 67 people on board—64 on the American Airlines plane and three in the Black Hawk helicopter—died in the collision, making it the deadliest aviation disaster in the US since 2001. Investigators are examining data from both aircraft and air traffic control to determine the cause. Today's report will focus on factual information and will not identify a probable cause, which typically takes over a year to determine. The American Eagle flight 5342 was nearing landing when the helicopter struck the jet's right side at approximately 300 feet. Among the victims were three soldiers, four flight crew members, 28 figure skaters and family members, seven friends on a hunting trip, and other passengers. The report includes details about some of the victims, such as the Livingston family (parents and two daughters) and Captain Rebecca Lobach, the Black Hawk pilot. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will hold a news conference after the NTSB releases its report.

2025-03-11 12:05:52.446

Wall Street is in turmoil, with sell-offs triggered by the mention of tariffs. While tariffs are a concern, the article argues that the broader context of Trump's economic plan—tax cuts, deregulation, and reduced government involvement—is more significant. The current economic situation is likened to a junkie withdrawing from government spending, causing short-term pain but potentially leading to long-term gains. The author suggests ignoring the market's short-term volatility and focusing on the long-term positive effects of the economic plan. The article draws parallels to the Reagan era, highlighting that initial market uncertainty eventually gave way to economic prosperity. The conclusion emphasizes the need to focus on the bigger picture and avoid knee-jerk reactions to market fluctuations.

2025-03-11 12:05:52.434

Russia's Ministry of Defense reported a record-breaking drone attack on Tuesday, with at least 337 Ukrainian drones targeting Russian territory. This unprecedented attack occurred shortly before US-Ukrainian negotiations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The attack surpasses a previous record set by Russia on February 23rd, when 267 drones were launched at Ukraine. While Ukrainian officials haven't commented, the attack is seen as a potential show of strength ahead of the talks. The attack targeted various regions, including Kursk, where Ukraine has been losing ground recently, and Moscow. The increased attacks follow a meeting between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and US President Trump, which led to Russia escalating its attacks on Ukraine with over 1,550 drones and 80 missiles since February 28th. Experts suggest the Tuesday attack may be a response to this escalation. The US, meanwhile, has halted intelligence sharing with Kyiv, citing a desire to prevent further Ukrainian offensives into Russia. This decision, along with the recent losses in Kursk, further complicates the situation. The attack highlights the ongoing conflict and the potential for further escalation.

2025-03-11 00:05:45.959

Mahmoud Khalil, a Syrian-born Palestinian who recently graduated from Columbia University, was arrested by ICE on March 9, 2025. The arrest followed an investigation into his alleged ties to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. A White House source stated that Secretary of State Marco Rubio was presented with intelligence indicating Khalil posed a national security threat. Khalil was a prominent figure in anti-Israel protests at Columbia, leading several campus demonstrations and building takeovers. The arrest was lauded by President Trump, who called it the "first of many" arrests targeting pro-Hamas activists on college campuses. Khalil's attorney, Amy Greer, alleges the arrest is an act of repression against student activism and political speech. A Manhattan federal judge temporarily halted Khalil's deportation after he filed a petition alleging illegal detention. The incident has sparked debate regarding the balance between national security concerns and freedom of speech, particularly on university campuses.

2025-03-08 18:00:32.439

Gene Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa, passed away from Hantavirus, a rare virus spread through contact with rodent droppings. Authorities revealed that she died approximately a week before Hackman, who succumbed to heart disease and complications from Alzheimer's. Hantavirus, often misdiagnosed as a chest cold due to its rarity, quickly progresses and has a mortality rate of one in three. Arakawa's final days were marked by increasing difficulty breathing, ultimately leading to her death after losing consciousness in the bathroom. Dr. Jeffrey Klausner, an infectious disease expert, explained that early diagnosis and hospitalization are crucial for improving survival rates, comparing the virus to severe pneumonia.

2025-03-08 06:00:48.35

D’Wayne Wiggins, singer and guitarist for the popular R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, died after a battle with cancer, his family announced on the group’s verified social media Friday. He was 64. “With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” their statement read. “Over the past year, he has been privately and courageously battling bladder cancer. Through this fight, he remained committed and present for his family, his music, his fans and his community.” Wiggins was one of the co-founders of the group, which included his half-brother, Raphael Saadiq, on bass and vocals and cousin, Timothy Christian Riley, on drums/keyboards. Tony! Toni! Toné! formed in their native Oakland, California, in 1986. They released their debut single, “One Night Stand,” the following year. Their album “Who?” and their hit single “Little Walter” debuted in 1988. They became some of the stars of the New Jack Swing music movement of the ’80s and ‘90s. Their hits, including “Feels Good,” “Whatever You Want,” “Anniversary,” “It Never Rains (in Southern California)” and “Just Me and You” are now classics. The three singers eventually broke off to pursue solo projects, but managed to stay close in ways that have escaped many other groups like them. “There’s nothing like being at home and being on stage together is like being at home in our living room,” Wiggins told CNN in 2023, when the group came back together to tour after 25 years. “Timing is everything.” He told CNN they learned from artists like Earth Wind and Fire to hone their craft with time. “It’s about building a brand,” Wiggins said at the time. “Not many R&B or even in hip-hop artists understand that, but we do.” His family reflected on his accomplishments in their statement. “D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California,” they wrote. “He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor and founding member of Tony! Toni! Tone! He was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many.” Wiggins’ family highlighted his efforts help to shape the early careers of artists such as Destiny’s Child, H.E.R, Keyshia Cole and Alicia Keys. “He created musical sanctuaries for established and emerging artists to cultivate their talents in studio and stage spaces where all night jam sessions were legendary,” his family said in a statement to CNN on Friday afternoon. “Services are being planned so we can honor his life and his pioneering legacy,” they added. “We will share more details as they are available.” The announcement of his death came days after a post which stated that Wiggins was “experiencing medical complications.”

2025-03-07 06:00:48.275

LONDON (AP) — Glastonbury Festival is clearly aiming to go out with a bang this summer before taking one of its regular fallow years off to allow the southwest England farmland where the music fest takes place to recover after hosting some 200,000 revelers. Festival organizers announced the lineup on Thursday, including the headline acts, for arguably the world’s most famous music festival. This year, it will take place at Worthy Farm from June 25 to June 29. The main news is that English band The 1975 will headline the main Pyramid Stage on the festival’s Friday night, while American singer and actress Olivia Rodrigo will take top billing on the Sunday evening. Neil Young, the legendary 79-year-old Canadian-American singer-songwriter, was previously announced as the headliner for the Saturday night, while his Scottish peer Rod Stewart had been confirmed for the coveted legends slot on the Pyramid Stage on Sunday afternoon. Not making the top of the bill, but very much in vogue and likely to draw huge crowds, is Charli XCX, who will perform on the Other Stage on the Saturday night. Last week, the singer behind the “Brat summer” phenomenon, won five Brit awards. The word “brat,” used by the singer as the title of her sixth studio album, was declared word of the year by Collins Dictionary. For those not in the know, it’s been defined as “characterized by a confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude.” Closing out the Other Stage on the festival’s Sunday night will be English electronic group The Prodigy, most famous for the pumping 1996 track “Firestarter.” The performance will be particularly poignant as it will mark the band’s first at the festival since the death of frontman Keith Flint in 2019. Other acts include Canadian singer Alanis Morissette, making her Glastonbury debut, and the recently reformed U.S. pop group Scissor Sisters. There are no scheduled performers on the festivals first two days, Wednesday and Thursday, though many ad hoc events take place as attendees arrive and pitch up their tents. A lot of interest will focus on Manchester-formed The 1975, which is fronted by Matty Healy. The band has headlined various festivals in the United Kingdom — but not Glastonbury — and elsewhere, with controversial stage antics. Last month, a London judge ruled that the band cannot be held personally liable for losses of a Malaysian music festival that was shut down by authorities after lead singer Healy kissed a male bandmate on stage. The organizers of the Good Vibes Festival were claiming 1.9 million pounds ($2.4 million) in losses after Healy criticized the country’s anti-homosexuality laws and then kissed bassist Ross MacDonald at the Kuala Lumpur show in July 2023. Footage of the kiss sparked a backlash in the predominantly Muslim country, where homosexuality is a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison and caning. Some LGBTQ+ groups also criticized the band for endangering its community and disrupting the work of activists pushing for change. There will be more acts named over the coming weeks and those who haven’t got tickets yet will be able to do so in a resale. As always, the festival, which was first held in 1970, was sold out quickly despite the ticket price — nearly 380 pounds ($490) each. While the price may be fixed, the mid-summer weather isn’t. As always, the hopes of everyone going are the same: Please, no mudbath!

2025-03-07 00:04:27.669

Sam Bankman-Fried, the convicted crypto fraudster, recently revealed in an interview with Tucker Carlson that he has formed unlikely friendships with fellow inmates at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. This includes Sean "Diddy" Combs, who is awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Bankman-Fried described Combs as "kind" and noted the unusual circumstances of their shared confinement. Other inmates in their isolated unit include alleged ex-gang members and other high-profile individuals awaiting trial. Despite the harsh conditions, Bankman-Fried found common ground with some inmates, even playing chess. He noted the surprising chess skills of some of his fellow prisoners, and reflected on the shared experience of incarceration. Bankman-Fried is serving a 25-year sentence for stealing over $8 billion from FTX customers, while Combs is awaiting trial. The Metropolitan Detention Center has a history of housing high-profile inmates and is known for its less-than-ideal conditions, including power outages and issues with food quality.

2025-03-05 06:00:20.625

Tyga and Madelaine Petsch are officially dating, according to sources. The relationship is new, but they've been close friends for a while. Cynthia Bailey is also revealing her new boyfriend, a musician from Amsterdam named LePrince. Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner were seen hugging at their son's birthday party. Celebrity chef Curtis Stone shared what he would cook for President Trump. Bald eagles Jackie and Shadow welcomed two new eaglets. Rapper G$ Lil Ronnie and his 5-year-old daughter were tragically shot and killed. Paulina Ben-Cohen is seeking a restraining order against Golnesa Gharachedaghi. Gypsy Rose Blanchard is open to meeting with President Trump about prison reform. Alec Baldwin's new reality show is facing criticism from Halyna Hutchins' family. Teddi Mellencamp was released from the hospital after being diagnosed with multiple brain tumors. Chris Hemsworth was seen surfing in Australia. Woah Vicky shared sexy travel photos from Africa. Hilaria Baldwin revealed Alec contemplated suicide after the "Rust" shooting. Quinton Aaron was hospitalized with the flu and pneumonia. The Menendez brothers' resentencing hearing has been postponed. Montana Yao filed for legal separation from Malik Beasley.

2025-03-05 06:00:20.617

Sources tell TMZ that Tyga and Madelaine Petsch are officially dating. The relationship is new, having blossomed from a friendship of several years about a month ago. The couple was recently seen together at the Vanity Fair and Instagram's Vanities Party at the Chateau Marmont. Tyga is reportedly leaning on Madelaine following the recent death of his mother. Madelaine was previously linked to Anthony Li, while Tyga's last public relationship was with Avril Lavigne. Representatives for both Tyga and Madelaine have yet to comment.

2025-03-04 22:36:21.947

The Trump administration's new tariffs on goods from China, Mexico, and Canada are already causing significant price increases for American consumers. Target is raising prices on fruits and vegetables due to increased costs from Mexican imports, while Best Buy anticipates price hikes on electronics in the coming months due to tariffs on Chinese goods. Gas prices in the Northeast are expected to jump by as much as 40 cents a gallon, and toy prices are also on the rise, with Basic Fun increasing the price of its new Tonka trucks and Stretch Armstrong dolls. Even everyday items are affected; California egg prices have surged to $9 per dozen due to bird flu outbreaks. Many companies, including Mattel and Hasbro, are considering further price increases later in the year.

2025-03-02 06:03:59.702

Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with Donald Trump ended disastrously. The article argues that Zelensky, advised by anti-Trump Democrats, rejected a proposed mineral deal that could have brought peace to Ukraine. Senator Chris Murphy confirmed a pre-Trump meeting where Zelensky was advised to reject the deal. The author contends that Zelensky's actions were a betrayal of his countrymen, leaving Ukraine without crucial American protection. The author criticizes the Democrats for using the situation to attack Trump and promote their Russia-related narratives, accusing them of prioritizing political gain over Ukraine's well-being. The article highlights the proposed mineral deal as a potential first step towards a ceasefire, offering economic benefits and deterring further Russian aggression. The author believes Trump genuinely wants peace and that Zelensky's rejection of the deal was a tragic mistake, leaving Ukraine reliant on unreliable European support.

2025-03-01 18:00:35.593

Observant Muslims worldwide will soon observe Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer, and charity. This year, however, the month begins amidst the aftermath of the Israel-Hamas war, which has devastated Gaza and created a humanitarian catastrophe. Many Muslims are focusing on supporting Palestinians during Ramadan through donations and prayers. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, its start traditionally determined by the sighting of the crescent moon (expected around March 11th). Fasting, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset. It's seen as an act of worship, promoting self-restraint, gratitude, and empathy for the less fortunate. Ramadan is marked by increased prayer, Quran recitation, and charity, including providing iftar meals for the needy. Exemptions from fasting exist for illness or travel. Cultural traditions vary widely, with some common practices including decorating homes, attending communal iftars, and watching special television programs. Concerns exist about commercialization, but many see a balance between festive celebrations and religious devotion. Examples of diverse Ramadan traditions across Indonesia, India, and the United States are highlighted, showcasing the varied cultural expressions of this important Islamic month.

2025-02-28 06:05:21.146

Mary Kate Cornett, a University of Mississippi student, and her boyfriend, Evan Solis, are speaking out against false rumors that went viral online. The rumors allege Cornett had a relationship with Solis's father. Both Cornett and Solis have vehemently denied these claims, calling them "unacceptable" and "unequivocally false." Cornett specifically criticized Pat McAfee, Antonio Brown, and Barstool Sports for amplifying the rumors. While Barstool CEO Dave Portnoy denied involvement, McAfee's show and Barstool personalities did discuss the rumor. Cornett has started a GoFundMe page, stating she's been the victim of a "deliberate and coordinated cyber attack" and has hired legal and forensic investigators. She and her family have filed reports with the University of Mississippi campus police, local authorities, and the FBI. Cornett expressed hope that this experience will help others who face similar online attacks.

2025-02-27 08:03:13.135

Khloe Kardashian shared an embarrassing yet impressive moment with her mother, Kris Jenner. After Khloe complained about a basketball player ghosting her, Kris Jenner's unsolicited advice involved a specific sexual act, suggesting it was the reason for the lack of communication. Khloe was mortified but also impressed by her mother's direct and confident approach to dating. This isn't the first time Kris Jenner has offered unconventional dating advice; she previously encouraged Khloe to send nude photos to men she was interested in. The article highlights Kris Jenner's bold and perhaps controversial methods of guiding her daughter in the dating world.

2025-02-27 07:43:45.152

Matt Sauerhoff, CEO of The LIV Method fitness center and a former "Today" show guest, was caught on video verbally attacking celebrity chef Eddie Huang in their Manhattan building's lobby. The argument stemmed from an unleashed dog; Sauerhoff refused to leash his dog, leading to a heated exchange filled with expletives, including Sauerhoff telling Huang to "suck a d--k." Huang, who was watching a UFC fight on a patio with his Doberman, stated that Sauerhoff's dog startled them, causing them to fall. The argument escalated, with Sauerhoff accusing Huang of not living in the building and demanding the doorman remove him. Huang shared the video online after a subsequent encounter with Sauerhoff's mother-in-law, who he felt was issuing a veiled threat due to her husband being a state judge. Sauerhoff has not commented publicly, while an employee at his gym defended him, claiming he's a "great guy." Huang hopes the incident is over, though he would prefer Sauerhoff move out.

2025-02-27 07:43:04.451

NEW YORK (AP) — Michelle Trachtenberg, a former child star who appeared in the 1996 “Harriet the Spy” hit movie and went on to co-star in two buzzy millennial-era TV shows — “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl” — has died. She was 39. Police responded to a 911 call shortly after 8 a.m. at a 51-story luxury apartment tower in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood where officers found Trachtenberg “unconscious and unresponsive,” according to an NYPD statement. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene. No foul play was suspected and the New York Medical Examiner is investigating the cause of death, police said. “The family requests privacy for their loss,” Trachtenberg’s representative, Gary Mantoosh, said in a statement Wednesday. Trachtenberg was 8 when she began playing Nona Mecklenberg on Nickelodeon’s “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” from 1994 to 1996 and then starred in the title role in the film adaptations of “Harriet the Spy” and “Inspector Gadget,” opposite Matthew Broderick. “Michelle comes off as genuine because she really is a genuine kid. Everyone can identify with her,” said Debby Beece, president of Nickelodeon Movies in 1996. In 2000 Trachtenberg joined the cast of “Buffy,” playing Dawn Summers, the younger sister of the title character played by Sarah Michelle Gellar between 2000 and 2003. Trachtenberg thanked Gellar for speaking out against Joss Whedon in 2021, following abuse allegations made against the “Buffy” showrunner. “I am brave enough now as a 35-year-old woman to repost this,” she wrote on social media, and alluded to “his not appropriate behavior” she experienced as a teenage actor. In 2001, she received a Daytime Emmy nomination for hosting Discovery’s “Truth or Scare.” Trachtenberg went on to recurring roles on “Six Feet Under,” “Weeds” and “Gossip Girl,” where she played the gang’s scheming nemesis, Georgina Sparks. For her fan-favorite role, she was nominated as a TV villain at the Teen Choice Award in 2012. “It’s definitely a lot more fun than playing the good girl,” she told Seventeen in 2009. I love the reaction you get. I never understood why some actors don’t want to play villains or evil characters.” She was one of the original series’ stars to return for a pair of guest appearances in the 2021 “Gossip Girl” revival. Blake Lively on Instagram on Tuesday honored her “Gossip Girl” co-star: “The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle. May her work and her huge heart be remembered by those who were lucky enough to experience her fire.” As if to cement herself in millennial culture, Trachtenberg made a cameo in Fall Out Boy’s music video for the “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race” alongside Seth Green. Hollywood took to social media to mourn one of their own, one who had made the transition from kid star to teen queen to adult actor. “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” co-star David Boreanaz said on Instagram it was “so very sad.. horrible news.” Melissa Gilbert, who starred with Trachtenberg in the 1996 film “A Holiday for Love,” wrote on Instagram: “My heart aches for your family and all those who loved you so.” Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in her “Harriet the Spy” debut, said her death was “heartbreaking:” “I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.” Glee star Chris Colfer remembered her this way: “Michelle was the absolute sweetest and one of the most supportive people I knew,” he wrote. Trachtenberg’s later credits included “Ice Princess” in 2005, playing a math prodigy and aspiring figure skater. The AP said it had “a good, though feeble, heart and the best of intentions” and said Trachtenberg was “mining the same nervous twitter from her kid-sister days on ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer.’” The New York City-born Trachtenberg also appeared in the 2004 teen sex comedy “EuroTrip,” she co-starred with Zac Efron and Leslie Mann in 2009’s “17 Again” and played a murderous stalker and abductor on an episode of “Criminal Minds.” For “Killing Kennedy,” the 2013 film in which she played the wife of Lee Harvey Oswald, around 80% of Trachtenberg’s dialogue was in Russian. She had learned the language from her mother growing up. Other credits included supporting roles in the films “Mysterious Skin” in 2004 and “Black Christmas” in 2006. She also starred on the NBC medical series “Mercy” (2009–2010) opposite Taylor Schilling. More recently, she hosted the true-crime docuseries “Meet, Marry, Murder” on Tubi. ___ Associated Press Writer Michael R. Sisak contributed to this report.

2025-02-27 07:39:39.147

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in "Gossip Girl" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has tragically passed away at the age of 36. Her mother discovered her unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment. Law enforcement sources suggest that a recent liver transplant may have been a contributing factor, possibly due to organ rejection. Trachtenberg was reportedly active and out with friends just days before her death. Tributes have poured in from fellow actors and co-stars, remembering her talent and vibrant personality. The news has shocked fans and the entertainment industry.

2025-02-27 07:39:33.224

Khloe Kardashian shared an embarrassing yet impressive moment with her mother, Kris Jenner. While discussing why a basketball player wasn't returning her calls, Kris Jenner's unsolicited advice involved a specific sexual act, suggesting it as the reason for the ghosting. Khloe was mortified but also impressed by her mother's direct and confident approach to dating. This isn't the first time Kris Jenner has offered unconventional dating advice; Khloe previously revealed her mother encouraged her to send nude photos to men she was interested in. Kris Jenner's bold and slightly naughty dating tips are definitely memorable.

2025-02-27 05:18:00.879

The ongoing debate over the budget bill in the US Congress could significantly impact Americans' access to healthcare. House Republicans aim to extend trillions in expiring tax cuts, but to offset this, they are considering cuts to federal programs, potentially including up to $880 billion from Medicaid over 10 years. While Republicans, including Senator Josh Hawley, express support for Medicaid, particularly for working individuals, the proposed cuts remain a concern. President Trump, while pledging not to cut Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security, left room for fraud reduction measures. Medicaid, a crucial part of the US social safety net, provides health insurance to over 72 million Americans (more than one in five). Coverage and eligibility vary widely by state. Funding is a joint federal and state effort, with the federal government covering a significant portion. Republicans argue that Medicaid is rife with waste, fraud, and abuse, justifying cuts. Proposed cuts could involve work requirements (risking coverage for 36 million), reducing the federal match for expansion populations, and implementing per capita caps on federal funding. These changes could lead to millions losing coverage. While the Medicaid improper payment rate has decreased, the program remains on the GAO's high-risk list for potential mismanagement and waste. Despite this, Medicaid enjoys high public approval.

2025-02-27 05:16:00.273

Nvidia reported a massive surge in fourth-quarter profit and sales, reaching $39.3 billion in revenue—a 12% increase from the previous quarter and a staggering 78% year-over-year jump. This success is largely attributed to the skyrocketing demand for their Blackwell chips, crucial for powering artificial intelligence systems. Adjusted earnings reached 89 cents per share, exceeding analysts' predictions of 85 cents per share and $38.1 billion in revenue. Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, attributed the success to the "amazing" demand for Blackwell chips, highlighting the increasing importance of compute power in AI development. Data center sales were a key driver, reaching $35.6 billion—a 93% increase year-over-year. The company's involvement in the Stargate project, a joint venture investing up to $500 billion in AI infrastructure, further contributes to this growth. Nvidia's CFO, Colette Kress, revealed that fourth-quarter Blackwell sales exceeded expectations, reaching $11 billion—the fastest product ramp in the company's history. Large cloud service providers accounted for approximately 50% of data center revenue. Nvidia's market value has soared to over $3 trillion, making it the second-largest company on Wall Street. Despite concerns about inflation and potential economic challenges, the company forecasts continued growth, projecting $43 billion in revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2026. While acknowledging uncertainty regarding potential tariffs, Nvidia remains optimistic about the future of AI, particularly highlighting the emergence of "agentic AI," "physical AI," and "sovereign AI." The company also addressed the recent impact of DeepSeek's large language model, commending its innovation while emphasizing the model's compliance with export controls.

2025-02-27 05:16:00.266

The Trump administration announced the elimination of more than 90% of the U.S. Agency for International Development's (USAID) foreign aid contracts, amounting to $60 billion in overall U.S. assistance cuts worldwide. This action significantly reduces U.S. development and humanitarian aid abroad, leaving few USAID projects for advocates to fight for in ongoing court battles. The administration detailed its plans in an internal memo and court filings, revealing the scale of its retreat from decades-long U.S. foreign aid policies. The memo cited "clearing significant waste stemming from decades of institutional drift" and a desire to "use taxpayer dollars wisely to advance American interests." President Trump and Elon Musk, who headed the Department of Government Efficiency, criticized USAID projects as advancing a liberal agenda and wasting money. A 90-day review of foreign assistance programs resulted in a funding freeze, halting thousands of programs and leading to staff firings and forced leave. Successful programs combating Ebola and HIV/AIDS were also affected. Nonprofits owed billions in unpaid contracts described the contract terminations as a maneuver to circumvent court orders temporarily lifting the funding freeze. Senator Chris Murphy called the administration's actions an attempt to bypass Congress and the courts. A coalition of businesses, NGOs, and former officials expressed shock, demanding transparency. The State Department confirmed Secretary Marco Rubio's review of the terminations. The administration stated it eliminated 5,800 of 6,200 USAID contracts ($54 billion) and 4,100 of 9,100 State Department grants ($4.4 billion). While the administration claimed to be processing back payments, the Supreme Court temporarily blocked a lower court order to unfreeze billions of dollars in aid. The plaintiffs have until Friday to respond. The administration also filed an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court in another case.

2025-02-27 00:00:38.516

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in "Gossip Girl" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has passed away. Law enforcement sources suggest a possible complication from a recent liver transplant may be a factor in her death. She was found unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene. Tributes have poured in from fellow actors and fans, remembering her positive energy and talent. Other news includes Jay Leno responding to Monica Lewinsky's claims about his jokes, Brianna LaPaglia discussing a large NDA offer, updates on the Menendez brothers' parole, and Karen Huger's sentencing for DUI. A TikToker clarifies her viral Elon Musk video, and Billy McFarland discusses his Fyre Festival comeback. Additionally, Teddi Mellencamp shares a health update, and Sylvester Stallone participates in a charity event.