Good morning, Delmarva! We’re starting off this beautiful Sunday with plenty of sunshine and pleasantly mild temperatures reaching 64 degrees. It’s a perfect day to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, though you’ll want to secure any loose items as we’re dealing with breezy northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 30 mph throughout the afternoon.
Tonight, we’ll see some clouds rolling in as temperatures drop to a comfortable 46 degrees – perfect sleeping weather! You might want to crack those windows open.
Looking ahead to Monday, get ready for an even warmer start to the work week! Sunshine returns with temperatures climbing to a lovely 74 degrees. Monday night stays pleasant with mostly clear skies and lows around 58.
Overall, it’s shaping up to be a fantastic couple of days across the peninsula. Whether you’re planning outdoor activities today or gearing up for the week ahead, Mother Nature is certainly cooperating. Stay safe in those gusty winds today, and I’ll see you tomorrow morning with your updated forecast!
VIENNA — Authorities in eastern Austria have taken a 39-year-old individual into custody following the discovery of rat poison inside baby food containers sold at grocery stores throughout central Europe.
Baby food manufacturer HiPP issued a statement Saturday expressing they were “greatly relieved” about the arrest and promised to share additional updates once confirmed information becomes available. The company had previously pulled certain baby food products from store shelves in Austria, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic after the contamination was discovered last month.
According to the Burgenland State Criminal Police Office, working alongside prosecutors, the investigation began when poison was discovered in a baby food container bought at a grocery store in Eisenstadt on April 18.
Officials stated the suspect is currently being interviewed, though they declined to release additional information at this time. The Burgenland prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation for suspected “intentional endangerment of the public.”
The Austrian Press Agency noted that toxicology experts are still analyzing the poison. According to APA, authorities recovered five contaminated baby food containers before anyone could eat the contents.
Law enforcement previously determined the contamination affected 190-gram containers of carrot and potato baby food designed for 5-month-old infants, which were distributed through SPAR grocery chains in Austria.
As a safety measure, HiPP pulled all its baby food products from SPAR retailers — including SPAR, EUROSPAR, INTERSPAR and Maximarkt locations — throughout Austria. Retailers in Slovakia and the Czech Republic also voluntarily removed all HiPP baby food from their stores.
The manufacturer emphasized the recall resulted from external tampering rather than any manufacturing or quality control issues, stating the containers left their facilities in “perfect condition.”
According to police, a shopper initially noticed signs of tampering on a container and alerted authorities, though fortunately no one had eaten any of the contaminated food.
The Germany-based company, headquartered in Pfaffenhofen, revealed they became a “victim of extortion” when an unknown individual sent threatening messages to a company email address, which prompted them to immediately contact law enforcement.
Workers paid by the hour in multiple sectors are facing increasingly unpredictable work schedules and reduced income as companies deploy automated systems designed to minimize labor expenses and boost operational efficiency.
The scheduling technology has become a source of frustration for employees who say the computer-driven approach to workforce management has made their financial situations more precarious.
Among those affected are interpreters at LanguageLine, where workers have seen significant reductions in available hours. The company attributes the cuts to decreased client demand and the implementation of new scheduling technology.
At a press conference held outside New York City Hall in April, interpreter Yves Valerus joined colleagues in speaking out about the impact of these changes. Some LanguageLine employees are now exploring union organization as a potential solution to their workplace concerns.
The trend reflects a broader shift in how companies manage their workforce, with many businesses turning to algorithmic solutions to optimize staffing levels and control labor costs, often at the expense of worker stability and earnings.
Diplomatic tensions between China and the Philippines intensified this weekend as both nations leveled accusations against each other regarding activities in contested South China Sea waters.
Beijing alleged that five Filipino personnel illegally set foot on Sandy Cay, a disputed reef, while Philippine officials announced plans to send vessels to remove Chinese ships they claim are conducting unauthorized research operations.
The confrontation represents the latest escalation in ongoing disputes between the two countries over Sandy Cay, an uninhabited sandbar that has become a flashpoint for territorial claims.
China’s Coast Guard reported identifying the Philippine personnel on Sandy Cay and labeled their presence as “illegal,” according to the state-controlled Global Times publication. The report did not detail any additional measures taken by Chinese authorities.
The Philippine response came after Manila deployed its coast guard forces to the area following media coverage that showed Chinese coast guard members on Sandy Cay displaying a Chinese flag, according to officials.
Relations between Beijing and Manila remain tense due to ongoing territorial disagreements throughout the South China Sea, where China asserts control over nearly the entire maritime region.
Additionally, a Philippine Coast Guard representative stated that Manila had spotted four Chinese vessels performing what they characterized as unauthorized research activities in Philippine territorial waters. Officials threatened to send both aircraft and naval vessels to compel the Chinese ships to leave the area.
Neither China’s foreign ministry nor the Philippine embassy in Beijing provided immediate responses when contacted for official statements.
Ukraine conducted widespread drone operations across Russian territory on Sunday, targeting the significant Baltic Sea oil facility at Primorsk and sparking brief fires at the installation, according to regional administrator Alexander Drozdenko’s social media announcement.
Drozdenko reported that Russian forces intercepted more than 60 unmanned aircraft during overnight operations in the northwestern Leningrad region. The regional leader confirmed that the Primorsk attack did not result in petroleum spillage and emergency crews successfully contained the blaze.
The targeted Primorsk facility represents a crucial component of Russia’s energy export infrastructure, with daily processing capabilities reaching 1 million barrels of crude oil. Recent months have seen repeated Ukrainian operations against this location as Kyiv intensifies campaigns against Russian energy facilities and strategic assets amid stalled diplomatic efforts mediated by the United States.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced on Sunday that his forces also engaged two vessels from Russia’s shadow tanker fleet operating near the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.
“These tankers had been actively used to transport oil – not anymore,” Zelenskiy said on Telegram. “Ukraine’s long-range capabilities will continue to be developed comprehensively – at sea, in the air, and on land.”
Multiple Russian administrative regions experienced drone incidents over the weekend period.
Moscow region administrator Andrei Vorobyov confirmed Saturday evening that a 77-year-old civilian perished in a rural area following an unmanned aircraft impact. Moscow city mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that defensive systems neutralized four drones approaching the Russian capital.
In the western Smolensk region, governor Vasily Anokhin stated that three individuals, including one minor, sustained injuries Sunday when a drone struck a residential building complex.
Simultaneously, Russian military forces continued advancing toward the Ukrainian city of Kostiantynivka in the eastern Donetsk region, according to Ukraine’s senior military leadership on Saturday.
Oil-producing nations within the OPEC+ alliance are preparing to approve another modest increase in production quotas on Sunday, according to industry sources, though the boost will have little real-world impact while the U.S.-Iran conflict continues to block Gulf shipping lanes.
Industry insiders report that seven OPEC+ nations have reached preliminary agreement to boost their collective oil production targets by approximately 188,000 barrels daily starting in June. This marks the third straight month of planned increases.
The decision signals the coalition’s readiness to expand supply once hostilities end, sources indicate. The group is also moving forward with production plans despite the United Arab Emirates’ exit from OPEC+ earlier this week.
Sunday’s meeting includes representatives from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Algeria, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Oman. While OPEC+ now consists of 21 member nations including Iran following the UAE’s departure, only these seven countries plus the UAE have historically participated in monthly production planning.
The conflict that erupted February 28 and subsequent blockade of the Hormuz shipping channel have severely limited exports from key OPEC+ producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE. These nations were previously the only group members with capacity to meaningfully increase output.
Industry executives and global oil traders say any production increase will remain mostly symbolic until Hormuz shipping resumes, with several weeks or months needed afterward for supply chains to normalize.
The supply disruption has driven oil prices to four-year peaks above $125 per barrel this week, with analysts warning of potential jet fuel shortages within one to two months and rising global inflation pressures.
OPEC data from last month shows combined crude output from all member nations averaged 35.06 million barrels daily in March, representing a decline of 7.70 million barrels from February levels. Iraq and Saudi Arabia experienced the steepest production drops due to export constraints.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is planning a diplomatic visit to the Vatican and Italy this week, according to reports from two major Italian newspapers, as tensions simmer between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo following recent social media clashes.
Italian publications La Repubblica and Corriere della Sera reported Sunday that while it remains unclear if Rubio will have a direct audience with the pontiff, the Catholic Secretary of State is expected to sit down with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who serves as the Vatican’s top diplomatic representative.
This upcoming visit follows Rubio’s previous encounter with Pope Leo in May 2025, when he and Vice President JD Vance attended the first American pope’s inaugural Mass at St. Peter’s Square and participated in a private audience with the religious leader the following day.
Pope Leo, who initially kept a relatively quiet presence on the world stage during his early papal months, has recently become more vocal in condemning the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran and has strongly opposed the Trump administration’s strict immigration stance.
In April, Trump took to social media multiple times to criticize the pope, at one point describing Leo as “terrible.”
Neither the State Department, Vatican communications office, nor Italian government representatives immediately provided comments when asked about these travel reports.
According to the newspaper accounts, Rubio’s itinerary will also include discussions with Italy’s foreign and defense ministers, with the diplomatic mission focused on reducing friction between the two nations after Trump’s harsh public criticism of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni last month, despite her being among his strongest European supporters.
La Repubblica noted that while the visit’s agenda remains fluid, a potential meeting with Meloni has not been ruled out, and Corriere reported that scheduling details are still being finalized.
This diplomatic outreach occurs just days after the Pentagon’s Friday announcement of a 5,000-troop reduction from Germany, America’s largest European military installation, as disagreements over the Iran conflict and trade disputes continue to strain U.S.-European relationships.
Italy hosts one of Europe’s largest American military contingents, with nearly 13,000 active-duty personnel stationed across six bases as of late 2025.
JERUSALEM – The Israeli defense ministry announced Sunday that the government has granted final authorization for a major military aircraft acquisition involving two new combat squadrons.
The substantial defense contract will see Israel purchasing F-35 and F-15Ia fighter jets from American aerospace giants Lockheed Martin and Boeing. Officials described the transaction as worth tens of billions of shekels.
The ministry’s announcement on May 3 confirmed the completion of the approval process for what represents a significant expansion of Israel’s air combat capabilities through advanced American-manufactured aircraft.
SEOUL, May 3 – South Korea successfully deployed its second next-generation Earth observation satellite into orbit using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket that lifted off from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center, according to Yonhap News Agency reports on Sunday.
Korea Aerospace Industries spearheaded the development of the 500-kilogram satellite, which is designed to enhance land management capabilities and improve disaster response operations while promoting advancement in private sector space technology, Yonhap reported.
Iranian authorities have carried out the death sentence of a man found guilty of participating in the killing of a security officer during the widespread demonstrations that swept the nation in 2022, according to reports from the country’s judicial news service Mizan on Sunday.
Officials identified the executed individual as Mehrab Abdollahzadeh, whom they characterized as a primary figure in the death of security officer Abbas Fatemiyeh. The officer was killed during the nationwide uprising that began after Mahsa Amini, a young woman, died while being held by police.
According to Mizan’s reporting, Abdollahzadeh had admitted to attacking the security officer. However, the rights organization HRANA cited a knowledgeable source claiming that Abdollahzadeh endured torture designed to force him into making confessions. The country’s highest court had confirmed his death sentence in late 2025.
Sussex County motorists are being advised to find alternate routes as East Trap Pond Road remains shut down following a vehicle crash.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report the roadway is completely impassable between Big Mill Road and West Piney Grove Road due to the collision.
No details have been released regarding the severity of the crash, number of vehicles involved, or potential injuries. The duration of the road closure has not been announced.
Drivers traveling in the area should seek alternative routes until the roadway reopens.
The Carolina Hurricanes dominated the Philadelphia Flyers 3-0 in Saturday’s Eastern Conference semifinal opener at Raleigh, N.C., powered by Logan Stankoven’s two-goal performance and Frederik Andersen’s stellar goaltending.
Stankoven found the back of the net twice while Jackson Blake contributed one goal and one assist for Carolina, who swept Ottawa in the first round before delivering this commanding playoff victory in the best-of-seven series opener.
Between the pipes, Andersen turned away 19 shots to record his seventh career postseason shutout and second of these playoffs. Mike Reilly contributed two assists to the winning effort.
Philadelphia’s Dan Vladar made 20 saves in the losing effort. The Flyers will look to bounce back when Game 2 takes place Monday in Raleigh.
Carolina, who topped the Eastern Conference during regular season play, has yet to fall behind at any point during this Stanley Cup playoff run, maintaining that streak behind their most productive scorer.
The 23-year-old Stankoven extended his goal-scoring streak to five straight games when he opened the scoring just 91 seconds after puck drop. Reilly launched a shot from the point that Stankoven redirected past Vladar. The young forward has made history as the youngest player ever to find the net in five consecutive games to begin the playoffs.
In four of Carolina’s five postseason contests, Stankoven has provided the opening goal.
“I felt since the Olympic break, things were starting to turn and pucks started going in the net,” Stankoven said postgame.
Blake extended Carolina’s advantage to 2-0 six minutes later with a spectacular individual effort. The forward maneuvered past multiple defenders before sliding the puck home for his second goal of this postseason.
“We had a good start. That’s what won the game,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “There wasn’t much happening (after) but the first period was good.”
At that juncture, Philadelphia had managed just one shot attempt on Andersen.
“I don’t know if we were mentally prepared to play tonight. Winning our playoff series, (almost) not making the playoffs,” Flyers coach Rick Tocchet said. ” … There was a lot of excitement. I don’t think we got down to earth quick enough for this game.”
Stankoven completed his two-goal night during the second period’s closing minutes. Following a Philadelphia turnover, Seth Jarvis delivered a pass to Stankoven in the scoring area, and he immediately converted the opportunity with 3:44 left in the middle period.
Carolina controlled the remainder of the contest despite a series of aggressive penalties by Philadelphia and responding actions from the Hurricanes’ players.
Following multiple players receiving game misconduct penalties midway through the third period, the intensity subsided and Carolina secured the victory.
The Philadelphia 76ers completed one of basketball’s most challenging feats Saturday night, overturning a 3-1 series deficit to eliminate the Boston Celtics 109-100 in a decisive Game 7 of their Eastern Conference first-round matchup.
Joel Embiid dominated with 34 points, 12 rebounds and six assists, while Tyrese Maxey contributed 30 points and 11 rebounds in the crucial victory. The triumph marks just the 14th time in NBA history that any franchise has rallied from being down 3-1 in a playoff series.
“We handled playing (in a hostile environment) just enough, but I think it was really good for us to experience it,” said 76ers head coach Nick Nurse.
The seventh-seeded 76ers now advance to face the third-seeded New York Knicks, with Game 1 of their second-round series scheduled for Monday night.
Boston coach Joe Mazzulla pointed to Embiid’s return as the turning point in the series. “What changed in the series is Joel Embiid came back, and they’re a completely different team,” Mazzulla explained.
The star center had been sidelined since April 6 following emergency appendix surgery during a team road trip in Texas, but returned to play the final three contests of the series.
Despite trailing 99-98 after Neemias Queta’s pair of free throws, Philadelphia seized control when Maxey erupted for eight consecutive points, extending the lead to 107-98 with just 15 seconds remaining.
Rookie VJ Edgecombe provided valuable support with 23 points, while Paul George chipped in 13. The 76ers received minimal bench production, with only three points coming from reserves, all scored by Quentin Grimes.
Boston played without star forward Jayson Tatum, who was scratched due to left knee stiffness. Tatum had exited Game 6 early in the third quarter with a leg injury and was averaging 23.3 points and 10.7 rebounds through six playoff appearances this season.
The six-time All-Star had been working back from a devastating right Achilles rupture suffered in last May’s playoffs, returning to action March 6 and averaging 21.8 points and 10.0 rebounds across 16 regular-season games.
Jaylen Brown paced the Celtics with 33 points and nine rebounds, while Derrick White contributed 26 points. Queta provided 17 points and a team-leading 12 rebounds off the bench. Boston starters Baylor Scheierman, Luka Garza and Ron Harper Jr. were held scoreless, though reserves Payton Pritchard (13 points) and Sam Hauser (11 points) offered some offensive spark.
The Celtics struggled from beyond the arc, connecting on just 26.5% of their three-point attempts (13 of 49) and shooting 39.8% overall (37 of 93). Philadelphia was more efficient, making 39.3% from long distance (11 of 28) and 47.6% from the field (39 of 82).
“We’re always going to play to the strength of our team,” Mazzulla said.
“In the last two games and portions of this one, we guarded the ball very well,” Nurse noted. “We weren’t giving them great looks. That probably for the whole series was the big key.”
Philadelphia burst out of the gate with nine unanswered points and extended their advantage to 30-15 on an Embiid jumper with 1:55 left in the opening period. The visitors held a 32-19 edge after the first quarter.
The Celtics responded with 18 of the first 22 second-quarter points, briefly taking their only lead of the night at 37-36 following a Pritchard three-pointer with 6:52 remaining in the half. However, Philadelphia regrouped to carry a 55-50 advantage into the locker room.
An 8-0 surge gave the 76ers a 63-52 cushion in the third quarter, and they appeared to take command when Edgecombe’s three-pointer pushed the margin to 84-66 with 2:24 left in the period. Philadelphia led 88-75 entering the final frame.
Boston mounted one last charge, opening the fourth quarter with a 16-4 run that trimmed the deficit to a single point at 92-91 with 7:59 to play. The contest remained tight at 95-94 with 5:52 on the clock.
“(The Celtics) just played in transition for about 12 straight minutes, and then we finally got them stopped to get in their sets,” Nurse explained. “Defensively, that was the difference for us in the last three minutes. We had them in halfcourt until maybe the final 90 seconds when they were just coming up and firing.”
Despite the disappointing outcome, Mazzulla remained positive about his team’s approach. “Loved the looks that we got, loved the process that we had, but hate the result,” he said.
Southbound traffic on Coastal Highway has been completely shut down at New Orleans Street following a pedestrian accident.
According to DelDOT traffic reports, a person was hit by a vehicle in the area, forcing officials to close the roadway to allow emergency responders to work at the scene.
Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes and expect significant delays in the area until the investigation is complete and the roadway can be safely reopened.
No additional details about the condition of the pedestrian or circumstances surrounding the incident have been released at this time.
St. Louis continued their impressive run with a 3-2 victory over Los Angeles on Saturday, marking their sixth consecutive win while extending the Dodgers’ losing streak to four games.
Jordan Walker provided the offensive spark for the Cardinals, connecting for a two-run home run as part of a two-hit performance. Starting pitcher Michael McGreevy delivered six shutout innings to earn his second victory of the season against two losses, surrendering just three hits while walking three and striking out three batters.
The Cardinals maintained their lead through eight innings as relievers Ryne Stanek and JoJo Romero each contributed scoreless frames. However, the Dodgers mounted a late rally in the ninth inning against closer Riley O’Brien, who allowed four consecutive hits after recording two quick outs.
Kyle Tucker and Teoscar Hernandez reached base with back-to-back infield singles before Max Muncy and Andy Pages delivered RBI hits. O’Brien managed to escape further damage by striking out pinch hitter Dalton Rushing to secure his ninth save of the campaign.
Los Angeles starter Rori Sasaki took the loss, falling to 1-3 after allowing three runs on five hits over six innings. Despite the rough start, Sasaki finished strong by retiring the final 10 batters he faced while throwing a career-high 104 pitches. The Dodgers’ offensive struggles continued as they have managed three runs or fewer in seven of their past 11 contests.
In other Saturday action, Pittsburgh made history by drawing seven consecutive walks during a 17-7 demolition of Cincinnati. The Pirates became just the third major league team ever to accomplish this feat and scored five runs in the second inning without recording a hit.
Konnor Griffin led Pittsburgh’s 19-hit attack with four hits, including a double and triple, while Ryan O’Hearn contributed three RBIs. Starting pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski struck out a career-best 10 batters over 5 2/3 innings to improve to 2-2.
Atlanta remained the only undefeated team in series play this season with a dominant 9-1 victory over Colorado. Chris Sale pitched seven outstanding innings, allowing one run while striking out 11 batters to improve to 6-1. Drake Baldwin homered and drove in four runs to lead the Braves’ offensive assault.
The Yankees strengthened their hold on first place in the AL East with a 9-4 win over Baltimore behind Cody Bellinger’s perfect 4-for-4 performance that included two solo home runs and four RBIs. New York has now won 12 of their last 14 games.
Chicago’s White Sox extended their winning streak to five games with a 5-0 shutout victory over San Diego. Sean Burke tossed six scoreless innings, allowing just four hits and one walk while fanning eight batters, including Xander Bogaerts three times.
Toronto erupted for eight runs in the eighth inning to defeat Minnesota 11-4, with Brandon Valenzuela’s three-run homer capping the decisive rally. The Blue Jays took a 2-1 lead in their four-game series with the Twins.
Other winners included the Cubs over Arizona 2-0, Cleveland over Oakland 14-6, Milwaukee over Washington 4-1, Tampa Bay over San Francisco 4-1, Houston over Boston 6-3, Miami over Philadelphia 4-0, Detroit over Texas 5-1, Kansas City over Seattle 3-2 in 10 innings, and the Angels over the Mets 4-3 in 10 innings.
PLANDISTE, Serbia (AP) — Cheerful bird songs ring out among tall trees in a small forest located in Serbia’s northeastern region. Below, footprints from various animals can be spotted pressed into the damp earth and moss covering.
This 5-acre tract of land, known as the Nightingale’s Forest, represents an unusual pocket of dense vegetation within Serbia’s predominantly flat agricultural landscape. Serbia’s Bird Protection and Study Society purchased this property in the previous year using online fundraising efforts to safeguard the woodland and demonstrate environmental stewardship.
“This woodland was privately owned, and we saw it was put up for sale,” society representative Uros Stojiljkovic told The Associated Press, noting that the trees likely would have been harvested if different buyers had acquired the property.
“The value of timber was higher than its (land) price,” Stojiljkovic said. “We protected it this way.”
The crowdfunding campaign’s success reflects increasing public concern for environmental conservation in Serbia, as the nation grapples with challenges including contaminated air and waterways, waste disposal issues, and development projects that endanger natural spaces, especially in urban centers.
Government officials have promised enhanced environmental oversight as part of Serbia’s bid to join the European Union, though conservation organizations caution that meaningful progress remains limited.
The Nightingale’s Forest supports diverse wildlife and bird populations that depend on its humid ecosystem, Stojiljkovic noted. The organization now intends to catalog the flora and fauna while maintaining the forest in its natural state.
The 8,000 euro ($9,500) purchase amount was raised in under 30 days, and hundreds of contributors continue providing donations for research activities and potential future land acquisitions, according to Natasa Jancic, who participated in the fundraising effort.
“Individually, we can’t do much, but as an active and stable community, we can achieve a lot,” Jancic said.
Originally established three decades ago as a specialized group for experts only, the Bird Protection and Study Society has expanded into a broader community of environmental enthusiasts, further evidence of rising ecological awareness, Jancic explained.
“We have many families who are members, many nature lovers who may not be that active in the field but they want to contribute somehow,” Jancic added.
While protecting just 5 acres won’t create significant large-scale impact, it represents an important beginning, Stojiljkovic noted.
“Every village or town should have a Nightingale’s Forest of its own for a cumulative effect,” he said. “It is important to start somewhere.”
HAVANA — Store worker José Luis Amate López hasn’t seen a customer in nearly two weeks at his government-operated food store in central Havana, aside from a thin brown cat that wanders through the empty aisles.
The shelves that were packed with merchandise during his youth now stand virtually bare, offering little to the 5,000 customers who rely on this state-operated store for affordable groceries.
The government’s food allocation system that previously ensured adequate nutrition and kept families well-fed throughout the month continues to deteriorate.
With Cuba’s economy in freefall and costs skyrocketing, increasing numbers of residents cannot afford to shop elsewhere and must survive on minimal wages in this socialist nation of almost 10 million people, where essential items are increasingly priced in American dollars.
“No Cuban can truly survive on the products from the ration book anymore,” Amate López said.
Former leader Fidel Castro created the food allocation system — known as “la libreta” — during the early 1960s. The program provided deeply discounted items from dairy products to seafood and tobacco. Residents could count on their designated store being fully stocked with necessities by each month’s beginning.
The allocation system diminished during Cuba’s “Special Period” in the 1990s when Soviet assistance disappeared and widespread hardship struck the island. Research published in medical journals showed Cubans lost between 5% and 25% of their body weight during that era, as staples like bread, dairy, eggs and poultry became extremely limited.
However, many Cubans who experienced that difficult time say today’s circumstances are more severe.
Amate López remembered when his designated store was so crowded with goods “you could barely walk.”
Today it’s a vacant space with faded advertisements listing prices for nearly two dozen unavailable products, including yogurt, noodles and soap bars. Two large freezers that once held meat and poultry now only chill Amate López’s water bottle. During April, his only available merchandise was rice, sugar and split peas.
Cuban teenagers celebrating their 15th birthday, a significant milestone in Latin American culture, previously received cake and multiple cases of beer. Currently they receive only 3 kilograms of ground beef. The government recently began marking 65th birthdays with gifts of sardines, soap and toilet paper. However, Amate López said those items aren’t available either.
Havana resident Ana Enamorado, 68, said she could only purchase split peas and 1 kilogram of sugar from her assigned store during April.
She struggles to buy remaining essentials at small private shops called “mipymes” with her combined salary and pension totaling approximately 8,000 Cuban pesos ($16) monthly.
Thirty eggs cost about 3,000 pesos ($125), 2 pounds of ground meat costs nearly 900 pesos ($37) and 1 pound of cornmeal runs roughly 200 pesos ($8).
“There’s hardly anything in the ration book,” she said. “We’re practically living off air.”
Her meals consist of rice, seasoned ground meat and cornmeal, or sometimes nothing. She remembers when she could enjoy pork, lamb, stew, fried plantains and beans with rice.
“Now we have to cut back, have one meal a day and live on memories,” Enamorado said.
The island imports approximately 80% of its food supply, including items sold at government stores that are increasingly unavailable due to insufficient state resources.
“They just don’t have the money to do it anymore,” said William LeoGrande, an American University professor who has studied Cuba extensively, regarding the government’s funding shortfall. “Things come in an ad hoc way.”
LeoGrande said officials “bungled” the 2021 consolidation of Cuba’s dual currency system, and the resulting inflation continues because the state spends far more than it collects.
The government must stop printing currency and balance its budget without severely reducing social programs, which is challenging since most state funds support healthcare, education, welfare and food imports, he explained.
“Any major cuts in state spending are going to have a profound social impact, which is why they haven’t done it,” LeoGrande said, noting that government tourism investment is “way higher” than actual tourism demand, which has dropped significantly.
Recently, Cuban officials have discussed subsidizing needy individuals rather than products. This approach would free funds for importing fuel, medicine and other necessities, LeoGrande explained.
However, many Cubans still depend on their allocation books while the island’s problems worsen amid severe electrical outages, fuel shortages and ongoing U.S. trade restrictions.
Cuban comedians have mocked the ration system, creating a character called “Pánfilo” who sings in a recent online video: “Place the notebook in a cemetery, because it’s ready to be buried.”
On a recent afternoon, Lázaro Cuesta, 56, waited in line for his daily allowance of two small bread rolls for himself and his wife.
“Before it was 80 grams and cost 5 (Cuban) cents. Now it’s 40 grams and costs 75 cents,” he said. “And the quality is worse.”
Cuesta works in food service earning 6,000 Cuban pesos ($250) monthly. His wife, a retired nurse, receives 4,800 pesos in pension. They also get $200 monthly from her brother and daughter living overseas.
The money from abroad allows them to eat avocados, eggs and beans with rice, Cuesta said.
“If not for the remittances,” he said while gesturing to his throat, “hang yourself.”
About 60% of Cubans receive money from relatives abroad, but Havana’s Rosa Rodríguez, 54, is not among them.
“Everything is scarce here — everything — even that wretched bread they give us,” Rodríguez said. She earns 4,000 Cuban pesos ($8) monthly, which she considers decent for Cuba, but “no matter how hard you work, it’s simply not enough.”
Rodríguez said the only item she obtained from her assigned store in April was a charitable donation of 1.8 kilograms of rice, while she struggles to purchase other basics.
“If you buy beans, then you can’t buy sugar,” she said, explaining that most of her salary goes toward a large carton of eggs. “If I retire, I die.”
Israeli defense forces on Sunday issued emergency evacuation orders for residents living in 11 communities throughout southern Lebanon, directing them to leave their homes immediately and relocate to open areas at least 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) away from their current locations.
Military officials stated they are actively conducting operations targeting Hezbollah forces after what they characterized as breaches of the existing ceasefire arrangement. Authorities warned that civilians remaining near Hezbollah operatives or installations face significant danger.
Israeli forces have maintained their military campaign throughout southern Lebanon’s region, with troops currently controlling portions of the country’s southern territory. The military has been systematically demolishing residential structures they claim serve as operational infrastructure for Hezbollah activities.
Meanwhile, the Iranian-supported militant organization has maintained its campaign of drone strikes and rocket launches targeting Israeli military personnel stationed in Lebanon as well as communities in northern Israel.
San Diego’s Major League Baseball franchise has reached a historic ownership deal, with the Padres announcing Saturday they will be sold to a partnership led by married investors Kwanza Jones and Jose E. Feliciano for an unprecedented $3.9 billion.
The groundwork for this transaction was established in April according to various news outlets, though the deal must still receive approval from three-quarters of MLB’s ownership group to become official. That crucial vote is expected to take place during the league’s next quarterly ownership gathering in June.
Should the sale receive the green light, it would demolish the existing record for a baseball franchise purchase, surpassing Steve Cohen’s $2.42 billion acquisition of the New York Mets in 2020.
“The Padres are more than a baseball team; they are a unifying force in San Diego, rooted in community, connection, and belonging,” the married couple expressed in a joint statement distributed by the organization. “As life and business partners, and as a family, we are honored to lead this next chapter together.”
“We have worked hard for everything we have achieved, and we have built it together. We see that same spirit in this team and its fans, and we know what it takes to win,” they added.
Feliciano, who founded Clearlake Capital and serves as a billionaire private equity executive, also holds partial ownership in Chelsea FC of England’s Premier League. Both he and Jones participated in the bidding process organized by the Seidler Family for the team’s purchase.
The franchise’s long-standing owner Peter Seidler passed away in 2023, leaving the family divided regarding team control. His brother John Seidler, who currently serves as the Padres’ chairman, announced in November that the organization would be put up for sale. Forbes valued the Padres at $3.1 billion heading into the 2026 season.
Through Clearlake Capital, Feliciano controls more than 60% of Chelsea’s ownership.
“We are committed to showing up, listening, and earning the trust of this community, while building on the strong foundation established by the Seidler family,” Jones and Feliciano stated.
“This is about more than baseball — it’s about boosting the pride, energy, and connection that define the Padres, investing in community, deepening belonging, and ensuring this team remains accessible and endures for generations. We are all in — with the goal of bringing a World Series championship to San Diego.”
The organization has not disclosed specific purchase terms or detailed information about the investment group. ESPN and The Athletic have reported that Feliciano and Jones will hold up to 40% ownership stake in the franchise, while certain Seidler family members and associates will retain some equity.
According to The Athletic’s reporting, the incoming ownership will purchase approximately 60% of the team, with additional investors anticipated to include San Diego’s Jacobs family, led by Qualcomm co-founder Irwin Jacobs, and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. The publication also indicates that a group featuring Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees and Vuori investor Michael Persall may join as investors.
Feliciano is projected to assume the role of control person, taking over from John Seidler, who is Peter Seidler’s older brother.
“I’m thrilled that after a highly competitive process, Kwanza Jones and Jose E. Feliciano will become the next majority owners of the Padres,” John Seidler commented. “When I became control person, my goal was to continue building on our recent success in pursuit of a World Series championship for the city of San Diego and our faithful fans. Now, as I pass the baton to Kwanza and Jose, I do so with full confidence that they share that vision, as well as the Padres deep commitment to San Diego. It’s what the team, our fans, and the community deserve.”
“Our family loves this team,” he added. “This is a bittersweet moment for us as we reflect on what the Padres have accomplished since my brother Peter became the steward of the franchise. I congratulate Kwanza, Jose, and the Padres, and wish them nothing but success. We look forward to a smooth transition.”
Seattle Mariners infielder Will Wilson has been sidelined with a broken left thumb, leading the team to place him on the 10-day injured list this Saturday.
The roster move was made effective Thursday. To fill the gap, Seattle brought up catcher Jhonny Pereda from their Triple-A Tacoma affiliate.
Wilson, age 27, appeared in just two contests this season, posting a .200 batting average with one hit in five at-bats. His lone hit was a home run in his debut at-bat during Seattle’s 11-9 victory over St. Louis on April 25. The thumb injury likely occurred during his second appearance Wednesday, when he went hitless in three at-bats with one walk and one strikeout in a 5-3 win against Minnesota.
The Angels drafted Wilson 15th overall in 2019 from North Carolina State University.
Playing second and third base, Wilson entered the majors in 2025 with Cleveland, where he hit .192 across 34 games with 15 hits in 78 at-bats, driving in two runs and recording four doubles. He joined Seattle as a free agent this past January.
The 30-year-old Pereda brings major league experience from stints with Miami in 2024 and both Oakland and Minnesota in 2025, compiling a .241 career average with eight RBIs over 48 games.
Seattle also made additional roster changes Saturday, sending left-handed pitcher Josh Simpson, 28, down to Tacoma while promoting right-hander Nick Davila, 27, from Double-A Arkansas.
BOULDER, CO – The a2 Milk Company announced on May 2, 2026, that it is voluntarily pulling three specific batches of its a2 Platinum Premium infant formula from American store shelves after discovering the presence of cereulide in the products.
The recalled formula is specifically the a2 Platinum Premium USA label version designed for infants aged 0-12 months. This particular product line is distributed exclusively within the United States market.
Cereulide is a heat-resistant toxin that poses potential health risks to infants who consume contaminated formula. The company initiated the recall as a precautionary measure after detecting this substance during quality testing.
Parents and caregivers who have purchased a2 Platinum Premium infant formula should check their product batch numbers against the recalled lots. The company advises consumers to stop using any formula from the affected batches immediately.
This recall affects only the specific batches identified by the company and does not extend to other a2 Milk Company products or different lot numbers of the same formula.
Authorities in Australia’s Northern Territory announced Sunday that they have arrested a man in connection with the murder of a young Indigenous child, following days of violent unrest in a remote outback community.
Jefferson Lewis, age 47, faces murder charges in the death of 5-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby, whose name follows traditional Indigenous naming practices, according to territorial police officials.
“This is an horrific event and an horrific set of circumstances, and our thoughts remain strongly with the family,” stated Northern Territory Police Commissioner Martin Dole during a press conference broadcast from Alice Springs.
Authorities say Lewis voluntarily approached one of the camps located on the town’s outskirts before being taken into custody Saturday night. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance Tuesday in Darwin, the territory’s capital city. Records show Lewis has previous convictions for violent crimes and was recently released from incarceration.
The young girl’s murder, combined with the suspect’s capture after locals found and severely beat him, triggered massive demonstrations involving approximately 400 Indigenous residents near Alice Springs on Thursday evening.
During the unrest, protesters hurled objects and set fires, resulting in injuries to several law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel. The violence also caused significant damage to police cruisers, ambulances and fire department vehicles. Television coverage captured crowd members demanding traditional Aboriginal justice, known as payback.
Law enforcement deployed tear gas to break up the demonstrations, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, regional leaders and representatives speaking for the victim’s relatives urged community members to remain peaceful.
The ongoing tensions highlight Australia’s decades-long struggle to address injustices against its Indigenous population, who have called the continent home for approximately 50,000 years but faced systematic oppression under British colonial control. Indigenous Australians represent 3.8% of the nation’s population and continue experiencing significant challenges including prejudice, substandard healthcare and educational opportunities, and disproportionately high imprisonment rates.
Many Indigenous families, including the murdered child’s relatives, reside in temporary camp settlements where basic housing and essential services remain severely lacking. One-fifth of Alice Springs’ population identifies as Indigenous.
Search teams discovered the victim’s remains Thursday after hundreds of volunteers combed through thick wilderness surrounding the town, which serves as a major tourist hub but has previously experienced problems with alcohol-related violence.
Tournament organizers have pushed up the final round of the Cadillac Championship to begin at 7:30 a.m. ET on Sunday morning, with players starting from both the first and tenth tees, as forecasters predict severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in the Miami area.
The Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix has also adjusted its schedule, moving the race start time from 4 p.m. to 1 p.m. to avoid the expected severe weather.
Cameron Young commands a commanding six-stroke advantage going into Sunday’s finale at the Blue Monster Course at Trump National Doral after carding a 2-under 70 in Saturday’s third round, bringing his tournament total to 15-under-par. This elevated PGA Tour event offers a substantial $20 million prize pool.
Young is scheduled to begin play in the championship group at 9:42 a.m. alongside top-ranked golfer Scottie Scheffler and South Korea’s Si Wo Kim, who share second place with Norway’s Kristoffer Reitan at 9-under-par.
“I think I tend to play well at difficult golf courses, difficult setups, difficult conditions,” Young commented following Saturday’s third round, which featured much windier conditions than the opening two days. “This is all of those things. I think it plays into my hands a little bit.”
The final round represents Young’s opportunity to capture his second win this season and third career PGA Tour victory.
“I’m sure it will not be as easy as I want it to be,” Young acknowledged. “Sounds like the weather is not going to be great. It will be a fight from the beginning and just looking to execute the way that I did for the most part today.”
Scheffler posted a third-round 69 to secure his position in the runner-up spot by day’s end.
“The tournament’s in (Young’s) hands right now,” Scheffler observed. “I can go out and have a really good round, and if he has another really good round he’s going to be a tough guy to catch.”
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware baseball team honored the memory of former head coach Bob Hannah during a special tribute game on Saturday, securing an 8-3 victory over Conference USA opponent Florida International University.
The memorial event drew more than 60 former Blue Hens players back to campus, creating a meaningful reunion at Hannah Stadium as the current team celebrated the lasting impact of their late coach.
Delaware’s Fightin’ Blue Hens dominated the contest against FIU, using the emotional backdrop of the tribute day to fuel their performance on the field where Hannah once led the program.
The game served as both a competitive matchup and a heartfelt remembrance of Hannah’s contributions to University of Delaware baseball, bringing together past and present members of the program for a day of celebration and remembrance.
Atlanta Braves star outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. was forced to exit Saturday’s matchup against the Colorado Rockies after experiencing tightness in his left hamstring.
The incident occurred during the second inning in Denver when Acuna clutched his hamstring and slowed down while attempting to reach first base on a ground ball. Following an evaluation by Atlanta’s medical team, the player walked off the field on his own, though with a noticeable limp.
The reigning National League MVP from 2023 has been batting .248 this season with two home runs and nine RBIs across 33 games. Earlier in Saturday’s contest, Acuna started the game strong by reaching base safely on a single and later came around to score when teammate Drake Baldwin connected for a home run.
Eli White stepped in to take over right field duties for the remainder of the game. White has posted a .186 batting average with two homers and seven RBIs through 19 games this season.
Cleveland Browns offensive lineman Dawand Jones has accepted a modified contract for the 2026 season, according to a Saturday report from NFL Network.
The restructured agreement reduces Jones’ base salary to $1.5 million, with $1.145 million guaranteed. The 24-year-old appeared in only three contests this past season before suffering an LCL injury in his right knee that ended his campaign.
Originally, Jones was set to earn $3.674 million in 2026 after triggering an NFL salary escalator by participating in more than 35% of his team’s offensive plays during two of his initial three seasons. The former Buckeye qualified through the Proven Performance Escalator, which applies to fourth-year compensation for non-first-round draft picks on rookie deals.
Following his selection in the fourth round of the 2023 draft from Ohio State, Jones signed an initial four-year contract worth $4.63 million.
However, injuries have plagued each of his three professional campaigns, limiting him to 24 total appearances with 20 starts.
During his first year, he started nine contests before an MCL tear in his right knee cut short his rookie season. The following year in 2024, he participated in 10 games before a broken left fibula concluded his second campaign.
Texas Tech’s starting quarterback Brendan Sorsby has secured legal representation from high-profile attorney Jeffrey Kessler as he navigates an NCAA investigation into alleged sports gambling violations, according to ESPN reports released Saturday.
The quarterback, who joined the Red Raiders from Cincinnati during the recent transfer period, announced earlier this week that he would be entering a treatment program to address gambling addiction issues and stepping away from team activities for an indefinite period.
Kessler brings significant experience in college athletics litigation, having served as the primary legal counsel in the landmark House vs. NCAA lawsuit. That case, which received approval in June 2025, established the framework for revenue sharing between schools and student-athletes, allowing institutions to distribute $20.5 million annually to players starting this past July, with yearly increases built into the agreement.
The attorney has also built a reputation representing professional athletes, including his work with the NFL Players Association in cases involving high-profile players like Tom Brady, Ezekiel Elliott, Adrian Peterson, and Ray Rice.
Current NCAA regulations strictly prohibit student-athletes from placing wagers on any sporting events – whether college or professional – for which the organization conducts championship competitions. Reports indicate Sorsby placed bets on both college football contests and Major League Baseball games.
The ongoing NCAA investigation could result in Sorsby losing his eligibility for the 2026 season, depending on the findings.
According to reporting from On3, Sorsby’s betting activity was extensive, with more than 10,000 sports wagers placed since 2022. The outlet reported he was making an average of 20 bets daily across various sportsbook platforms in multiple states.
The gambling activity reportedly included wagers on Indiana University games during 2022 when Sorsby was redshirting his freshman season. ESPN’s reporting indicates all those bets favored Indiana to win, and none were placed on the single game in which he appeared – a 45-14 defeat against 16th-ranked Penn State.
Sorsby entered this season as ESPN’s highest-rated transfer quarterback, bringing impressive credentials from his time with Cincinnati. Over his final two seasons with the Bearcats, he compiled 5,613 passing yards with 45 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions across 24 games, while also contributing 1,027 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns.
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has successfully completed a surprise diplomatic mission to the African nation of Eswatini, defying Chinese efforts to prevent the journey and drawing harsh criticism from Beijing officials.
The Taiwanese leader arrived in Eswatini on Saturday to attend the 40th anniversary celebration of King Mswati III’s reign, using an unannounced travel strategy after China had previously interfered with his planned route.
During his meeting with the king, Lai emphasized Taiwan’s sovereignty and international standing. “The Republic of China, Taiwan, is a sovereign nation and a Taiwan that belongs to the world,” he stated, according to Taiwan’s presidential office. “The 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to engage with the world, and no country has the right — nor should any country attempt — to prevent Taiwan from contributing to the world.”
The visit came after China successfully pressured three Indian Ocean nations last month to deny overflight permissions for Lai’s aircraft, forcing the cancellation of his original travel plans to reach the small southern African kingdom.
Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory and opposes any diplomatic recognition of the island, responded with particularly harsh language. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office accused Lai of having “skulked” his way to Eswatini and described his actions as resembling “a rat scurrying across the street,” predicting international ridicule for the Taiwanese president.
Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council fired back at the Chinese criticism, stating that Lai required no permission from Beijing for his travels and dismissing the harsh rhetoric as “fishwife’s gutter talk.”
The president traveled aboard an aircraft provided by Eswatini’s government, employing what diplomatic sources call an “arrive then announce” strategy commonly used in sensitive international visits to avoid potential interference.
A senior Taiwan security official, speaking anonymously due to the delicate nature of the situation, explained that this approach helps minimize “uncertain risks of potential interference from external forces.”
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland and home to approximately 1.3 million people, represents one of only twelve nations worldwide that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan rather than China.
The diplomatic tensions surrounding Lai’s original canceled travel plans had previously drawn criticism of China from the United States, along with expressions of concern from the European Union, Britain, France, and Germany.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — University of South Florida’s St. Petersburg campus experienced an emergency Saturday evening when flames erupted inside a marine science laboratory building, leading officials to order an evacuation.
Thick gray smoke could be seen rising from the research facility as emergency crews responded to the scene. Both campus police and local fire officials confirmed that no one was hurt in the incident.
Investigators have not yet determined what sparked the blaze. Campus police indicated they would provide additional details as their investigation progresses.
The National Hockey League announced Saturday that Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy will face a disciplinary hearing with the Department of Player Safety following a stick-swinging incident during Friday’s playoff elimination.
The 28-year-old defenseman was ejected from Boston’s season-ending 4-1 defeat to Buffalo in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference first-round series after receiving a major slashing penalty and game misconduct.
The controversial play unfolded with 1:31 remaining in the final period when Buffalo’s Zach Benson tripped McAvoy while both players pursued a loose puck. After getting back on his feet, McAvoy rushed toward Benson and swung his stick in a baseball bat-like motion at the opposing player.
Following the elimination loss, McAvoy appeared unconcerned about potential league discipline when asked by reporters.
“I don’t play another game until September,” McAvoy said. “Can’t imagine it really matters much.”
The NHL’s decision to offer an in-person hearing indicates McAvoy could face a suspension of six games or longer, as the league typically handles shorter penalties through phone conferences. Players have the option to decline face-to-face meetings and conduct proceedings by phone instead. The specific hearing date has not yet been announced.
Since Boston’s season has concluded, any punishment would carry over to the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
This season marked a career year for McAvoy, who tallied 61 points with 11 goals across 69 regular season games. He contributed two assists during the Buffalo series.
Throughout his nine-year career with Boston, McAvoy has accumulated 71 goals and 361 points in 573 regular season contests. His playoff statistics include six goals and 50 points over 97 postseason games.
McAvoy recently represented Team USA at the Winter Olympics, helping secure the gold medal in what marked the nation’s first men’s Olympic hockey championship since the memorable 1980 triumph at Lake Placid.
MIAMI – Formula One officials have moved up Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix by three hours to a 1 p.m. start time in hopes of avoiding severe weather that’s forecast for the area.
The scheduling change came after organizers and the sport’s governing body FIA held discussions following Saturday night’s qualifying session at Hard Rock Stadium.
“This decision has been taken to ensure the least amount of disruption to the race, and to ensure the maximum possible window to complete the grand prix in the best conditions and to prioritise the safety of drivers, fans, teams and staff,” officials explained in their announcement.
The time adjustment has forced cancellation of a Porsche race along with several other supporting events scheduled for race day.
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who currently leads the championship standings, secured the top starting position for the fourth race of this season.
Competitors have not yet encountered rainy racing conditions during this new engine era that began with the Australian race in March, and the updated vehicles have already presented challenges even in dry weather.
Race organizers are especially worried about lightning strikes and have established protocols for suspending competition and implementing shelter procedures for racing teams if dangerous conditions develop.
In a groundbreaking moment for horse racing, Golden Tempo crossed the finish line first at the Kentucky Derby, creating history for trainer Cherie DeVaux who became the first woman ever to train a winner of the Triple Crown’s opening event.
The victory came as a major upset, with Golden Tempo entering the race at 23-1 odds before claiming the crown at the 152nd running of the prestigious race at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
Jockey Jose L. Ortiz guided Golden Tempo to the historic win, helping DeVaux shatter a barrier that had stood since the Derby’s inception. The achievement marks a significant milestone in a sport traditionally dominated by male trainers.
Religious institutions nationwide are confronting significant demographic shifts as marriage rates plummet to unprecedented levels. According to new data, 42 percent of American adults are currently unmarried and not cohabiting—marking the highest percentage in the nation’s recorded history.
This transformation poses particular challenges for faith communities, which have traditionally relied on married couples and families as the foundation of congregational participation. Research shows that couples sharing religious beliefs typically demonstrate stronger observance and are more likely to pass their faith traditions to children. However, current trends suggest this pattern may be shifting permanently, with 25 percent of 40-year-olds having never married and projections indicating one-third of Generation Z may remain single throughout their lives. Birth rates have simultaneously declined consistently over recent decades.
In other religious news, Nassau Presbyterian Church in Princeton, New Jersey, is preparing to launch the Samuel Adams Herr Series—a five-part lecture program commemorating the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence. Church officials indicate the presentations will examine how Presbyterian communities transformed New Jersey’s stance from neutrality to active support for revolution. Historical records show that King George III labeled the independence movement “the Presbyterian Rebellion,” while British loyalists attributed the uprising’s origins to Presbyterian influence. The Princeton congregation notably counted two Declaration of Independence signers and five Continental Congress members among its membership.
Turning to political developments, voters in Missouri, Nevada, and Virginia will decide abortion-related ballot measures this November. Missouri legislators are seeking to overturn reproductive freedom protections added to the state constitution in 2024. Nevada requires a second voter approval for a constitutional amendment permitting abortion through 24 weeks of pregnancy, having passed the measure once in 2024. Virginia’s proposed ballot language would constitutionally protect reproductive choices, including contraception access and abortion decisions during the first two pregnancy trimesters. Advocacy groups are investing substantial resources in campaigns across all three states.
Finally, the Trump administration has initiated a federal investigation into New York City’s Department of Education following allegations of antisemitic practices. Federal education officials report receiving complaints about teacher and staff seminars titled “Palestine, Zionism, and Resistance” that allegedly encouraged educators to promote pro-Palestinian viewpoints to students as young as five years old. The Department of Education stated, “No child should be taught by his or her teachers to hate their peers. Neither should Jewish children be taught that being Jewish somehow makes them inherently guilty.”
President Donald Trump is working to organize a May 11 summit at the White House bringing together Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, according to reports from Lebanese media outlet Al-Mayadeen citing diplomatic sources.
The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon released a statement backing the potential summit, stating: “A direct meeting between President Aoun and Prime Minister Netanyahu, facilitated by President Trump, would give Lebanon the chance to secure concrete guarantees on full sovereignty, territorial integrity, secure borders, humanitarian and reconstruction support, and the complete restoration of Lebanese state authority over every inch of its territory—guaranteed by the United States.”
President Aoun has shown mixed signals about participating in direct talks with Netanyahu, sometimes rejecting the idea while at other moments suggesting such discussions might occur later in diplomatic negotiations rather than as an opening move.
In Beirut on Saturday, Lebanese Army Commander Rodolphe Haikal held discussions with U.S. General Joseph Clearfield, who oversees the ceasefire monitoring operations, at a Lebanese Air Force installation. Their conversation centered on Lebanon’s security conditions, regional developments, and methods to “maximize the effectiveness of the existing mechanism and improve its operations,” with emphasis on expanding the Lebanese military’s responsibilities.
At the same time, Israeli Defense Forces announced they conducted extensive military operations targeting Hezbollah positions throughout southern Lebanon on Saturday, reporting the destruction of approximately 70 buildings utilized by the organization and around 50 additional infrastructure locations. Military officials said the targeted sites included operational headquarters, weapons storage compounds, and other facilities linked to Hezbollah.
Israeli forces also reported that Hezbollah launched multiple rockets at Israeli troops stationed in southern Lebanon, though the projectiles struck uninhabited areas.
Brigadier General Avichay Adraee, who serves as the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman, broadcast evacuation notices for residents in southern Lebanese communities, urging civilians to evacuate the area.
In a separate incident, security alerts were activated at Kibbutz Yiftah in the Upper Galilee region following a drone infiltration, with Israeli military officials stating they are continuing to investigate the circumstances.
The Lightning track and field teams from Goldey-Beacom College wrapped up competition at the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Championship this weekend, with strong performances across both squads during the two-day meet held in Lakewood, New Jersey.
The women’s team delivered an impressive showing, accumulating 129 points to secure the runner-up position in the conference standings. Meanwhile, the men’s squad finished in fifth place overall with a total of 88 points.
Georgian Court University dominated both divisions of the championship, claiming the top spot for both their men’s and women’s programs. The Lightning women’s second-place finish represents a solid performance against strong conference competition throughout the weekend meet.
Leon Botstein, who has served as president of Bard College in New York for decades, has revealed plans to step down from his position. His announcement comes several months following public revelations about extensive connections to Jeffrey Epstein that had not been previously disclosed.
The retirement decision follows intense examination of Botstein’s ties to the convicted sex offender, which were found to be far more substantial than what the college community and public had understood before the information became public.
Botstein has led the liberal arts institution in Annandale-on-Hudson for an extended period, but the controversy surrounding his association with Epstein has cast a shadow over his tenure at the prestigious college.
LIMA, May 2 – Election officials in Peru announced Saturday they are requesting a complete technology review of their April 12 presidential election results, according to an official statement from the country’s National Electoral Board.
With nearly 98% of votes tallied, the final outcome of the first round remains uncertain as ballot counting continues. Conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori holds the lead, but no definitive opponent has been determined for a potential runoff election.
President Trump has turned down Iran’s most recent peace offer while an Iranian military leader cautioned that warfare could restart, even though the White House notified Congress on Friday that hostilities with Iran have concluded.
Mohammad Jafar Asadi, a high-ranking official in Iran’s military central command, stated that “a renewed conflict between Iran and the United States is likely,” as reported by the Fars news agency.
Asadi’s comments came after President Trump rejected an offer that would have included reopening the Strait of Hormuz, halting combat operations and the naval blockade, and postponing talks about Iran’s nuclear program for future negotiations.
“They want to make a deal,” President Trump informed reporters, but added, “I’m not satisfied with it.”
While Trump didn’t detail his specific objections, he has consistently stated that any agreement must tackle Iran’s nuclear program and stop the Islamic Republic from creating nuclear weapons.
“They’ve made strides, but I’m not sure if they ever get there,” President Trump commented about Iran’s leadership, which he characterized as having “tremendous discord.”
The White House’s message to Congress declared that combat with Iran has concluded, even as ongoing statements from both sides suggest continued uncertainty about the circumstances.
In Israel, the political-security cabinet is set to meet Monday evening to address several matters, including the U.S.-Iran talks, continuing combat in Lebanon despite a ceasefire agreement, and the Gaza situation with Hamas’s unwillingness to disarm, according to Ynet.
Israeli leaders are also making preparations for the potential immediate restart of combat with Iran should negotiations fail.
Despite the unclear status of negotiations and potential renewed fighting, President Trump sent correspondence to Congress on Friday stating that “The hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have terminated,” as the War Powers Resolution deadline expired without congressional action.
The 1973 legislation mandates congressional authorization within 60 days of military involvement, or 90 days with an extension. Trump cautioned that the Iranian threat “remains significant.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated, “We are in a ceasefire right now, which our understanding means, the 60-day clock pauses or stops.” President Trump added, “Every other president considered it totally unconstitutional, and we agree with that.” Congress took no enforcement measures as lawmakers departed Washington following an unsuccessful Democratic attempt to force an end to the conflict.
The relatives of 2023 Nobel Peace Prize recipient Narges Mohammadi are calling for her urgent freedom from Iranian custody following what they describe as a dramatic worsening of her medical situation.
Mohammadi was recently moved from her prison cell to a medical facility after her family’s organization reported a “catastrophic deterioration in her health condition” following months of imprisonment without proper medical attention.
Her family’s foundation stated the hospital transfer occurred “after 140 days of arbitrary detention and the persistent denial of specialized healthcare.”
The activist, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 while being held at Evin Prison in Tehran, has experienced serious medical problems over recent months. Her foundation announced in February that she had started refusing food, and by March they declared her situation “critical” following what doctors believed was a cardiac episode.
The foundation reports that Mohammadi was denied medical care throughout this entire period.
Both the Nobel Peace Prize Committee and Mohammadi’s relatives are demanding Iranian officials free her so she can get treatment from her personal physicians, cautioning that “her life remains in danger.”
Speaking to the BBC on Saturday, her brother Hamidreza Mohammadi explained that her current health crisis involves multiple serious conditions: “Her current problems include low blood pressure and a heart attack, but her previous conditions, such as pulmonary embolism (…) and having undergone stenting and angiography, make any treatment by the doctors in Zanjan effectively impossible.”
Throughout her life, Mohammadi has been taken into custody 13 separate times and given prison terms totaling 31 years plus 154 lashes, her foundation reports.
Starting in 2021, she began serving a 13-year prison term for allegedly engaging in “propaganda activity against the state” and “collusion against state security,” accusations she has rejected.
International groups and her family continue to focus attention on her situation, pressing for her release due to growing worries about her medical condition.
President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on European Union automobiles beginning next week, claiming the EU has failed to honor trade agreement terms. The move has drawn sharp criticism from European officials and could significantly impact global economic markets.
Bernd Lange, who chairs the European Parliament’s trade committee, condemned Trump’s automotive tariff increase as “unacceptable.” Lange accused the Trump administration of “keeps breaking its commitments,” pointing to previous disputes over steel and aluminum import taxes. While Trump claims the EU isn’t following through on a previously negotiated trade agreement, he has not provided specific details about his concerns. The original deal, negotiated between Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last July, established a 15% tariff rate on most imported goods.
In separate defense news, the Pentagon announced Friday it has secured agreements with seven technology firms to integrate their artificial intelligence systems into classified military networks. Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, OpenAI, Reflection and SpaceX will provide resources to “augment warfighter decision-making in complex operational environments,” according to defense officials. Anthropic was notably excluded from the partnerships following legal disputes with the Trump administration regarding AI ethics in warfare applications. While the Defense Department continues expanding AI integration, concerns persist about potential privacy violations and autonomous targeting capabilities.
Trump also indicated his administration remains open to a government bailout of struggling Spirit Airlines, though he emphasized any deal must benefit taxpayers. The president suggested an announcement could come as early as Friday or Saturday, though he provided no specifics. Critics from both political parties and within the administration have opposed using public funds to rescue the budget carrier. Spirit Airlines declined to comment, stating only that operations continue normally, while competing airlines have offered to assist stranded passengers if the carrier fails.
Wall Street continued its record-setting streak Friday, with the S&P 500 gaining 0.3% to reach another all-time high and completing its fifth consecutive winning week. Apple drove much of the gains after reporting stronger-than-expected quarterly profits, with CEO Tim Cook calling it the company’s best March quarter ever. The tech giant earned $29.58 billion, or $2.01 per share, representing a 22% increase from the previous year. Revenue climbed approximately 17% to $111.18 billion, surpassing analyst projections. Cook’s upcoming departure and replacement by John Ternus later this year has also captured investor attention.
For travelers affected by Spirit Airlines’ potential collapse, industry experts recommend seeking “rescue fares” from competitors including American, United, Delta, JetBlue, Frontier and Southwest airlines. Passengers should preserve all documentation and request refunds immediately, while Spirit employees are being offered travel assistance and preferential job interviews with other carriers.
At the Federal Reserve, Trump’s nominee Kevin Warsh faces an unusual situation if confirmed as chair, with current chair Jerome Powell remaining on the board – creating a potential dual power structure unprecedented in nearly 50 years. Recent dissenting votes from multiple Fed officials suggest Warsh may encounter resistance to policy changes.
China has expanded its tariff-free trade program to include Africa’s 20 largest economies, including South Africa and Nigeria, for the next two years. This move contrasts sharply with Trump’s protectionist trade policies and builds on China’s existing tariff elimination for 33 smaller African nations. However, analysts note that most African raw materials like oil and minerals already entered China duty-free, and China’s trade surplus with Africa continued growing last year.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — History was made at Churchill Downs Saturday when Golden Tempo crossed the finish line first in the Kentucky Derby, making trainer Cherie DeVaux the first woman ever to prepare the winner of thoroughbred racing’s most prestigious event.
Jockey Jose Ortiz guided Golden Tempo from dead last in the early stages to a stunning victory in the 1 1/8-mile contest, delivering at longshot odds of 23-1. Renegade finished second under Irad Ortiz Jr., while Ocelli rounded out the top three positions.
“I don’t even have any words right now,” DeVaux said. “I just cant. Just so, so so happy for Golden Tempo. Jose did a wonderful job, a masterful job of getting him there. He was so far out of it.”
DeVaux becomes only the second female trainer to capture any Triple Crown series race, following Jena Antonucci’s victory with Arcangelo in last year’s Belmont Stakes. This Derby triumph comes in DeVaux’s debut attempt at the race, eight years after establishing her own training operation.
“I’m glad I can be a representative of all women everywhere that we can do anything we set our minds do,” DeVaux said.
Throughout Derby week, DeVaux evolved from minimizing the significance of potentially becoming the first female Derby-winning trainer to embracing her position as an inspiration for young girls pursuing similar dreams. She joins an exclusive group as just the 18th woman to enter a horse in the Kentucky Derby.
Jose Ortiz demonstrated the exceptional skill that has brought him success at Churchill Downs recently, finally capturing his first Derby victory after 11 previous attempts. The triumph came less than a day after Ortiz also claimed the Kentucky Oaks, the premier race for three-year-old fillies.
The Derby field was reduced to 18 horses following a late withdrawal of Great White, who was removed after flipping over and unseating his rider. Track veterinarians decided to scratch the longshot, who had only earned a spot in the race Wednesday when Silent Tactic was withdrawn due to a hoof problem.
The University of Delaware softball program took time to honor their departing senior players during their recent home contest versus Western Kentucky University.
The annual Senior Day tradition allows the Blue Hens to celebrate the achievements and dedication of players completing their collegiate careers. These student-athletes have contributed significantly to the program throughout their time at the university.
The recognition ceremony took place as part of the team’s final home game of the season, providing an opportunity for fans, families, and teammates to show appreciation for the graduating players’ commitment to Blue Hens softball.
PITTSBURGH — During Saturday’s matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Cincinnati Reds matched a Major League Baseball record by issuing seven consecutive walks to Pirates hitters in a single inning.
According to the Elias Sports Bureau, this marked only the third occurrence of such a streak in MLB history and the first time it has happened in more than 40 years.
Remarkably, Pittsburgh batters were also on the receiving end when the Atlanta Braves walked seven consecutive Pirates players during the third inning of a 1983 contest. The only other instance occurred in 1909, when the Chicago White Sox gave seven straight free passes to Washington Senators batters.
Cincinnati’s historic walk parade started in the second inning when pitcher Rhett Lowder issued a base on balls to Brandon Lowe with one out and empty bases. Lowder continued by walking Bryan Reynolds and Ryan O’Hearn to fill the bases, prompting Cincinnati to make a pitching substitution and bring in Connor Phillips.
Phillips proceeded to walk Nick Gonzales, Marcell Ozuna, Spencer Horwitz and Konnor Griffin, forcing home four Pittsburgh runs before the Reds called upon Sam Moll from the bullpen. Moll finally ended the inning when Henry Davis grounded into a fielder’s choice at second base, which also scored the fifth and final run of the frame.
A close-knit community of pickleball enthusiasts is grieving the loss of five club members who perished when their small aircraft went down in Texas Hill Country.
Texas Department of Public Safety officials confirmed Saturday that Justin Appling, Hayden Dillard, Brooke Skypala, Stacy Hedrick and Seren Wilson lost their lives when their Cessna 421C crashed Thursday evening. Appling was serving as the pilot for the flight.
The plane had taken off from Amarillo and was bound for New Braunfels National Airport when it went down in Wimberley, located approximately 40 miles southwest of Austin, according to state safety officials.
According to the Amarillo Pickleball Club’s social media announcement, all five victims were club members traveling to compete in a pickleball tournament in New Braunfels.
Both Dillard and Appling, who was known by the nickname Glen, operated a manufactured home dealership in Amarillo. The company announced Friday morning it would remain closed through the weekend.
Sarah Lister, who knew Dillard and Appling through tournament play, remembered them as authentic individuals. She recalled how Appling constantly brought humor to their group, while Dillard excelled as both a businesswoman and mother.
According to Lister, Dillard leaves behind two daughters, including one preparing to enter college. She noted that Dillard and Appling had been longtime mixed doubles partners, while Skypala served as Dillard’s women’s doubles teammate.
“The pickleball world is super, super small, even though it’s huge at the same time,” Lister explained. “And when one of us has a tragedy like this, it’s like it’s the whole community that gets hit.”
Club member Leroy Clifford, who had flown separately to the tournament, viewed all five as family members despite having met Wilson only recently. The group had competed together in Pro Pickleball Association-sanctioned events across the nation, from Dallas to Las Vegas. Their bond formed through high-level competition, though they maintained a lighthearted approach to the sport.
“One thing I can say about this group is this group, you wanted to be around this group. They were fun, carefree, not uptight, just relaxed, loved to joke with each other, make fun of each other,” Clifford shared. “You couldn’t ask for better friends, honestly.”
Clifford played most frequently with Skypala, whom he characterized as sharp-minded and naturally athletic.
“She was very witty, super sweet and very funny,” Clifford remembered.
Skypala, a married mother, had recently achieved a professional goal she’d pursued for ten years. She announced on Facebook last month that she had begun accepting clients as a counselor. With a master’s degree in education from West Texas A&M University, Skypala specialized in helping clients dealing with “anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions,” according to her social media post.
During the previous summer, Skypala had helped organize a pickleball camp for children from the Amarillo Children’s Home nonprofit organization.
Clifford described Hedrick as someone who embraced laughter, maintained an optimistic attitude, and “had a big heart.” Her aggressive playing style earned her the nickname “Rippy” from Appling, which other players adopted.
“She was a very good tennis player. In pickleball, you have to be able to do drop shots,” Clifford explained. “We gave her that nickname because all she did was rip. All she did was smash the ball or forehand it really hard.”
Wilson, the youngest of the group, had distinguished herself as a talented tennis player. She captured the University Interscholastic League team tennis state championship in 2022, according to the tennis booster club at Amarillo High School, her alma mater.
A Wilson family member declined to speak when contacted by phone Saturday.
The pickleball club wrote on Facebook that “Seren loved big and her presence, encouragement, and spirit will be deeply missed by so many.”
Federal investigators are now examining the circumstances that led to the crash.
Audio recordings reveal that another pilot in the vicinity confirmed the aircraft’s emergency locator device had activated, prompting an air traffic controller to contact emergency services.
Weather conditions included mostly cloudy skies in the New Braunfels area before the crash, with thunderstorms developing two hours afterward, the National Weather Service reported.
The Cranky Pickle facility in New Braunfels, located about 30 miles northeast of San Antonio, canceled Friday’s tournament events following the tragedy, according to head professional Martin Robertson.
“We’re very heavy-hearted, heartbroken from this,” Robertson said. “Everybody knows everybody.”
Clifford said the Amarillo club is now concentrating on supporting those closest to the five victims and working to “lift these families up in prayer.”
“It’s going to be a long road ahead. But there’s a lot of love and support from everyone that knew these people,” Clifford concluded.
Salisbury University’s men’s track and field squad secured the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference outdoor championship this weekend at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
The Sea Gulls competed at the Battleground Athletic Complex, where they earned their 18th conference championship in program history. This marks their first conference title since capturing the crown in 2023.
Seven C2C member schools participated in the outdoor championships, with Salisbury’s women’s team finishing in third place among the competing programs.
The championship victory continues Salisbury University’s strong tradition in conference track and field competition, adding another title to their extensive collection of conference honors.
WEST PALM BEACH, Florida – Former President Donald Trump suggested on Saturday that the United States might consider launching military strikes against Iran once again.
The former president made these remarks while addressing members of the media in West Palm Beach, Florida, responding to questions from reporters about potential military action.
Trump’s comments came during a May 2nd press interaction, though he did not elaborate on specific circumstances that might trigger such military intervention.
The Minnesota Wild will face the Colorado Avalanche in Sunday night’s playoff opener without defenseman Jonas Brodin, who remained behind instead of making the trip to Denver with his teammates.
Additionally, forward Joel Eriksson Ek’s availability for the first game of the Western Conference second-round matchup remains in doubt.
The 32-year-old Brodin suffered a lower-body injury in the fifth game of Minnesota’s opening playoff round against Dallas. The injury occurred in the second period when he blocked a shot attempt from Dallas player Mikko Rantanen.
After missing Thursday’s series-clinching sixth game, Brodin recorded just one assist throughout the entire Dallas series. During the regular season, he contributed four goals and accumulated 18 points across 62 games.
Eriksson Ek’s injury happened during Game 6 when his right leg collided with the boards. The forward was absent from Saturday’s practice session.
Wild head coach John Hynes acknowledged he’s still weighing his options regarding Eriksson Ek’s roster spot given the uncertainty surrounding his condition.
“I’m kind of going through that a little bit right now,” Hynes said. “So, now you kind of go down that decision-making process of what would we do if he’s not ready.”
The 29-year-old Eriksson Ek contributed three goals and five total points against Dallas. Throughout the regular season, he netted 19 goals and tallied 51 points in 70 games played.
BOSTON – Legal counsel for the individual charged with attempting to kill President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner has filed a motion requesting a federal judge lift his client’s suicide watch status at a Washington detention facility.
Cole Tomas Allen is accused of breaching a security perimeter and discharging a shotgun near the high-profile media event on April 25.
Upon his arrival at the detention center on April 27, Allen was placed in what officials term a “safe cell,” which court documents describe as a cushioned room requiring round-the-clock confinement and mandating the wearing of “a vest akin to a strait jacket.”
His conditions were later modified to “suicide precautions,” which continue to prohibit Allen from making telephone calls, receiving visitors other than his attorneys, or leaving his cell except for legal meetings or bathing under supervision, court filings indicate. Although a medical professional recommended Friday that these restrictions be lifted, they remained active during a recent visit from one of his court-appointed attorneys.
The defense filing argues that Allen’s current conditions “amounts to punishment” and prevents him from accessing resources including a facility tablet “which would permit him to communicate with loved ones outside of the jail.”
Federal prosecutors have charged Allen with attempted assassination, firing a weapon during a violent crime, and unlawfully moving firearms and ammunition between states. Allen has yet to formally respond to the charges.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un addressed representatives at the ruling party’s youth organization conference in Pyongyang, according to state media reports released Sunday. The government continues to position young citizens as essential to domestic initiatives and military operations supporting Russia in Ukraine.
The Socialist Patriotic Youth League’s Eleventh Congress wrapped up last week following several days of mass demonstrations, torch-lit processions, and ceremonial events throughout the capital. This major political assembly occurs every five years and focuses on engaging citizens between approximately 14 and 30 years old.
During his Saturday address to conference participants, Kim described youth as the “vanguard” for achieving national objectives, characterizing the organization as a crucial component for implementing party policies. He called for stronger organizational structure and ideological commitment before taking a commemorative photo with attendees, state media KCNA reported.
A Friday statement from the ruling Workers’ Party directly connected youth dedication to Pyongyang’s participation in the Ukraine conflict, informing congress members that young military personnel deployed internationally had “become bombs and flames” while protecting national dignity.
Intelligence sources from South Korea, Ukraine, and Western nations estimate North Korea deployed approximately 14,000 military personnel to assist Russian operations in the Kursk region. These officials report that over 6,000 North Korean service members have died in the fighting.
Kim recently dedicated a new monument in Pyongyang commemorating soldiers who lost their lives during these overseas missions.
The focus on youth oversight occurs alongside increased crackdowns on foreign cultural materials, with access to South Korean entertainment, movies, and language now considered severe political violations. Kim positions youth policies as fundamental to maintaining social order.
The leader has also begun regularly bringing his young daughter, reportedly named Ju Ae, to significant government ceremonies.
North Korea’s foreign ministry dismissed American allegations of cyber threats on Sunday, labeling the accusations as fabricated claims designed to justify Washington’s hostile policies, according to state media KCNA reports from Seoul.
A ministry representative stated that the United States was distributing misleading information regarding a “non-existent ‘cyber threat’” from North Korea for political motives, characterizing the allegations as “nothing but an absurd slander to tarnish the image of our country.”
The representative cautioned that Pyongyang would proactively implement all required actions to defend state interests and safeguard citizens’ rights in the digital realm, KCNA reported.
American officials have consistently blamed North Korea for government-backed cyber operations, including computer intrusions, digital currency theft, and networks of international IT personnel used to fund weapons programs.
This past March, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned six people and two organizations connected to North Korean IT worker schemes, stating they assisted in funneling illegal profits through cryptocurrency. American authorities indicated these operations continue today.
The Treasury and State Department had previously imposed sanctions in July targeting North Korean cyber operatives and international enablers, claiming Pyongyang sends thousands of IT workers overseas and employs cyber theft to finance missile and nuclear programs.
The U.S. Justice Department and FBI have also cautioned that North Korean hacking groups represent an ongoing danger to governments, corporations, and vital infrastructure globally.
BOSTON — Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum will not play in tonight’s decisive Game 7 matchup against Philadelphia due to left knee stiffness, the team announced approximately 90 minutes before the elimination contest begins.
The absence comes at a critical moment for the Celtics, who face the Philadelphia 76ers in a winner-take-all first-round playoff battle on Saturday evening.
“He just came in today with knee discomfort. The medical team and myself decided for him not to play,” head coach Joe Mazzulla told reporters during his pregame press conference.
Boston has not yet revealed who will take Tatum’s spot in the starting lineup for the crucial matchup.
During Game 6, Tatum temporarily exited the contest in the third quarter to receive unspecified treatment for his calf. The star player is currently just 22 games into his comeback from a torn right Achilles tendon injury that occurred during last season’s postseason run.
Following Game 6, the Celtics minimized concerns about Tatum’s condition. The forward himself described his leg as feeling “a little stiff” after the game. He explained that following a brief evaluation and some time on an exercise bike, he chose not to return because the game’s outcome was already decided and the main rotation players had been removed from action.
MINNEAPOLIS — Toronto Blue Jays star George Springer was forced to exit Saturday’s 11-4 victory against the Minnesota Twins during the third inning after taking a pitch to his left foot.
The injury scare occurred just four days following Springer’s return from the 10-day injured list, where he had been recovering from a broken left big toe sustained on April 11 when he fouled off a ball during another matchup with Minnesota.
Medical imaging revealed no additional breaks, and the condition hasn’t worsened from its previous state, according to manager John Schneider’s postgame comments. Schneider noted he had already intended to rest Springer during Sunday’s contest.
The veteran outfielder was struck by Connor Prielipp’s 88 mph slider and collapsed in obvious discomfort. Following several minutes of attention from team medical staff, Springer carefully made his way off the field while Jesús Sánchez took his place in the lineup.
Now in his sixth campaign with Toronto, the 36-year-old veteran is batting .212 with two homers and seven RBIs through 66 at-bats over 18 appearances this season.
The former 2017 World Series MVP with Houston is playing out the concluding year of his six-year, $150 million contract with Toronto.
A fatal vehicle collision at a Portland, Oregon athletic facility early Saturday morning has drawn the attention of federal investigators after authorities discovered evidence of an explosive device at the scene.
The deadly incident took place just before 3 a.m. at the Multnomah Athletic Club, according to the Portland Police Bureau. Officials report that one individual perished in the crash, which resulted in a fire at the facility.
The victim was discovered inside the vehicle after firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, police confirmed.
The Multnomah Athletic Club describes itself as America’s largest private athletic and social facility, established in 1891 with a membership exceeding 21,000 people.
Club representative Adam Linnman released a statement confirming that the collision happened during closed hours, ensuring no members or employees were harmed. He noted that club leadership is cooperating with local and federal investigators for further information.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has deployed special agents to assist with the investigation, the federal agency announced.
Portland police have released limited details about the circumstances surrounding the incident as the investigation continues.
The Goldey-Beacom Lightning softball team’s season came to an end this week after falling in both opening-round games of the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Tournament held in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
The Lightning, making their fourth consecutive appearance in the CACC Tournament, suffered defeats by scores of 8-0 and 7-5 to Bridgeport, resulting in their elimination from the competition.
Despite the disappointing finish, the team’s return to the tournament for the fourth year in a row demonstrates the program’s consistent competitive level within the conference.
MIAMI – Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli captured his third consecutive pole position Saturday during qualifying for the Miami Grand Prix, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen earning the second starting spot for Sunday’s race.
The 19-year-old Italian, who currently leads the Formula One championship standings, posted a qualifying time of one minute 27.798 seconds on a sweltering afternoon in Miami. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc claimed the third position, while defending world champion Lando Norris of McLaren will start fourth after winning Saturday’s earlier sprint race.
Antonelli’s pole position serves as a strong bounce-back performance after dropping to sixth place in the sprint – marking Mercedes’ first race loss of any format this season. The teenager is pursuing his third consecutive grand prix victory following recent wins in China and Japan, which helped make him the youngest driver ever to lead the championship.
“It’s been an amazing day to be on pole again,” Antonelli commented after qualifying. “It was a difficult start with the Sprint where it didn’t go our way but super happy with the recovery. It was a good quali, got a little bit excited in that last lap in Q3 but the first lap was good enough.”
Verstappen managed to close the gap to just 0.166 seconds by the session’s end, though Antonelli’s initial time remained unbeaten despite the Mercedes driver running wide at turn one during his final attempt.
Mercedes teammate George Russell, who trails Antonelli by seven points in the championship battle, qualified fifth. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, now driving for Ferrari, will start sixth.
Last year’s Miami winner Oscar Piastri of McLaren secured seventh position on the grid at a track where passing opportunities should be plentiful under the current regulations.
Franco Colapinto delivered an impressive eighth-place qualifying performance for Alpine, with Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar and Alpine’s Pierre Gasly rounding out the top ten starting positions.
The qualifying session experienced a brief delay during the second phase when Gabriel Bortoleto’s Audi suffered brake failure and caught fire, forcing the Brazilian driver to stop on the back straight. Bortoleto finished last in the timing sheets.
Sunday’s race faces potential weather disruptions, with forecasters predicting possible rain and thunderstorms throughout the weekend.
The Orlando Magic will be without forward Franz Wagner for Sunday’s pivotal Game 7 showdown against the Detroit Pistons, team officials confirmed.
The 24-year-old sustained a calf injury during Game 4 of the series and has been sidelined for the past two games as a result.
Injuries have plagued Wagner throughout this season, limiting his availability to just 34 regular season appearances.
Despite his limited time on the floor, Wagner remains a cornerstone of Orlando’s offensive attack, ranking second on the team with 20.6 points per game while contributing 5.2 rebounds per contest, good for third on the squad.
During this playoff run, Wagner has posted averages of 16.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.8 steals per game.
Orlando, seeded eighth in the playoffs, once held a dominant 3-1 advantage over the top-seeded Pistons but has watched Detroit mount a comeback to even the series and force Sunday’s winner-take-all contest.
Stand-up performer Sheng Wang has mastered the art of turning everyday experiences into comedy gold in his latest Netflix release. The comic transforms ordinary activities – such as selecting dental care products – into hilarious material that resonates with audiences.
During a conversation with NPR’s Emily Feng, Wang shared insights about his approach to discovering humor in life’s simple pleasures and routine experiences. His comedy special showcases how the most ordinary situations can become sources of entertainment when viewed through the right lens.
FREDERICKSBURG, VA. – Salisbury University’s women’s tennis team concluded their season Saturday afternoon following a 4-0 defeat against the nationally-ranked Mary Washington Eagles during the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference Tournament semifinals.
The Sea Gulls entered the match as the fourth seed but were unable to overcome the top-seeded Eagles, who hold the No. 25 ranking in the nation. The contest took place at the Hegmann Family Courts on Mary Washington’s campus in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
Despite the loss, the Sea Gulls advanced to the conference tournament semifinals, marking a successful season for the program under the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference banner.
The University of Delaware track and field squad wrapped up their regular season competition this past weekend, traveling to Princeton University in New Jersey for the Larry Ellis Invitational.
Delaware’s athletes took part in the two-day event held Friday and Saturday, May 1-2, marking their last chance to compete before the Conference USA Championships begin.
The Blue Hens used the Princeton meet as their final tune-up opportunity ahead of the upcoming CUSA tournament, where they will face off against conference rivals for championship honors.
In a recent NPR interview, Emily Feng sat down with historian Peter Canellos to examine the Supreme Court’s latest ruling on voting rights matters. The conversation focused particularly on the role Justice Samuel Alito played in shaping the court’s decision.
Canellos provided historical context and analysis of how the ruling may impact voting rights protections across the country. The interview explored Justice Alito’s judicial philosophy and his approach to interpreting voting rights legislation.
Authorities in New Castle County have activated a Gold Alert as they search for a missing 13-year-old girl from Wilmington.
Police are looking for Ayona Bradley, who vanished Friday evening, May 1, 2026, from the Maryland Park Apartments complex. The teenager was last observed near the 600 block of Robinson Lane at approximately 10:00 p.m.
Law enforcement officials say they have conducted thorough search operations but have not been able to find Ayona or establish communication with her. The Gold Alert system is typically used for missing persons who may be in danger or require immediate assistance.
The New Castle County Division of Police is asking anyone with information about Ayona’s whereabouts to contact authorities immediately.
TAMPA, Fla. — After six nail-biting contests decided by a single goal and four games requiring overtime, the Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lightning will settle their Eastern Conference first-round playoff battle in a winner-take-all Game 7 on Sunday evening.
The dramatic conclusion became necessary when Gage Goncalves scored in overtime Friday evening, keeping Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes alive and sending Montreal back on the road for the decisive matchup.
“We haven’t won anything yet,” Lightning head coach Jon Cooper explained. “All we did was win a game to send us back to Tampa and keep our season alive. You don’t want to rain on the parade… but we haven’t accomplished anything yet.”
The series has showcased remarkable balance between the two clubs. Each squad has captured two victories away from home, while Tampa Bay’s home ice advantage has proven elusive during their recent playoff runs. The Lightning hold just a 2-10 record in their past dozen postseason contests at home, despite consistently drawing capacity crowds through 460 straight sellouts.
The statistical breakdown reveals just how evenly matched these teams are. Both clubs have found the net 14 times, with nine goals coming during even-strength play. The scoreboard has shown either a tie or one-goal difference for all but six minutes of the entire series.
“In 14 years in the league, I’ve been in a number of Game 7s, some where we weren’t as good as the other team and some where I thought we were as good as the other team,” Cooper noted. “And this right here is so even from special teams to the goaltending to everything and that’s how you get Game 7s. To win this, you have to have a special game from your team. I’m assuming the team that wins is going to get one more break than the other one.”
Tampa Bay enters this crucial game carrying recent disappointment. Following their failure to complete a Stanley Cup three-peat in 2022, the Lightning have suffered first-round eliminations in each of the last three postseasons.
Meanwhile, Montreal seeks to end a five-year drought without advancing past the opening round.
“You’ve just got to embrace the situation,” said Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis, a Hockey Hall of Fame inductee who experienced Game 7 victories as a player in Tampa Bay. “Things are meant to be. Things are meant to be for our growth, things are meant to be that we’re playing a Game 7. I think it’s going to help us pull toward what’s next for us.”
Historical precedent favors Tampa Bay in decisive games, as they hold a 7-3 record in Game 7 situations, including a 4-1 mark on home ice. Their most recent winner-take-all victory came against Toronto in 2022 during a first-round series.
Montreal brings a 15-9 overall Game 7 record into Sunday’s contest, with a 7-6 mark in road Game 7s.
Between the pipes, Tampa Bay’s Andrei Vasilevskiy delivered a stellar 30-save shutout performance in Game 6, marking his eighth career playoff shutout. The former Vezina Trophy finalist and two-time Stanley Cup champion brings extensive big-game experience to the crease.
For Montreal, rookie netminder Jakub Dobes will face his first Game 7 pressure, though he has performed exceptionally throughout the series.
Offensively, Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel has been a consistent threat, lighting the lamp six times through the first six contests.
Game 7 is scheduled for Sunday at 6 p.m. Eastern Time, with TNT providing television coverage.
DENVER — When the puck drops Sunday night in Denver, two remarkably similar hockey teams will face off in what promises to be an epic second-round playoff battle.
The Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild possess striking similarities that make this matchup particularly intriguing. Both squads feature dynamic superstars — Nathan MacKinnon leading Colorado’s attack while Kirill Kaprizov anchors Minnesota’s offense.
The parallels extend throughout their lineups: elite defensemen Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes, reliable goaltending from Scott Wedgewood and Jesper Wallstedt, plus seasoned players like Brent Burns and Nick Foligno still chasing their first Stanley Cup championship.
History suggests this series could go the distance. When these Central Division foes have clashed in previous playoffs, two of their last three encounters required all seven games, including a 2014 first-round series where Minnesota defeated Colorado in MacKinnon’s initial NHL postseason appearance.
“It’s going to be another big battle,” said Marcus Foligno, whose Wild eliminated Dallas in six games to reach this round. “We’re mentally ready for it.”
Regular season meetings between these clubs were deadlocked at 2-1-1, with each team claiming one regulation victory and suffering one shootout loss against the other.
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar, whose team swept Los Angeles in the opening round, acknowledged the challenge ahead. “As the coach, I can steer them which way I think … how hard it’s going to go,” Bednar explained. “But they’ve got to go and feel it. They have to go and engage in it.”
The timing favors Colorado, as the Avalanche enjoyed a week of rest while Minnesota battled through a physical series against Dallas. However, Colorado demonstrated versatility against the Kings, capturing two low-scoring 2-1 victories, including an overtime win.
Despite earning the Presidents’ Trophy as the league’s top regular-season team, the Avalanche embrace their role as Cup favorites with measured confidence.
“It doesn’t really mean nothing unless you’re the last team standing,” forward Nazem Kadri stated. “We’re going to have to be ready for everything they throw at us.”
Both teams enter with injury concerns. Colorado defenseman Josh Manson is managing an upper-body ailment, while Minnesota faces uncertainty with forward Joel Eriksson Ek questionable due to a lower-body injury. Defenseman Jonas Brodin didn’t travel with the Wild.
The defensive matchup features the last two Norris Trophy winners. Makar concluded the regular season with 20 goals and 59 assists, then scored in consecutive playoff games. Hughes, acquired from Vancouver on December 12, contributed five goals and 48 assists during Minnesota’s regular season while averaging nearly 28 minutes per game — a number that’s climbed to 31:40 in the playoffs.
“It’s no surprise,” teammate Brock Faber said of Hughes’ performance. “Big-time players step up in big-time games, and that is what he did.”
Several players share Olympic memories from Team USA’s dramatic 2-1 overtime victory over Canada for gold. Brock Nelson, Hughes, Faber, and Matt Boldy helped deliver America’s first Olympic hockey championship in 46 years, while Canada’s roster included Avalanche stars Devon Toews, Makar, and MacKinnon.
“Something we will remember forever,” Nelson reflected. “But now put friendships on pause.”
Minnesota carries the weight of playoff struggles, posting a 5-14 record in postseason series throughout their 25-year existence. Their advancement past the first round marks just the second time since 2003, and their first since 2015 — when current defenseman Faber was nearly 12 years old.
“I don’t remember it,” Faber admitted. “We write our own story. Every team has their own story. Every team has their own ups and downs.”
For Colorado’s Brent Burns, this represents perhaps his final opportunity to capture the Stanley Cup that has eluded him through 22 NHL seasons. The 41-year-old defenseman began his career with Minnesota, who selected him 20th overall in 2003 and where he played until 2011.
“That’s a long time ago,” Makar said with a smile when asked about Burns’ Minnesota connection.
Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark appears ready to take the court Sunday against Nigeria for the team’s final preseason matchup, as her name does not appear on the official injury report following a scary fall during Thursday’s contest in Indianapolis.
The All-Star point guard was forced to exit Thursday’s game against Dallas after taking a hard tumble during the third quarter. Clark was going up for a long-range shot with 7:51 remaining in the period when she made contact with Wings player Alanna Smith, resulting in a painful landing directly on her right knee. Despite the impact, she managed to sink two of her three subsequent free throw attempts before heading to the bench for the remainder of the game.
Speaking to reporters afterward, Clark downplayed the incident, saying “I feel good. I just landed on my kneecap really hard.”
Before her early departure, the two-time All-Star had been having an outstanding performance, racking up 21 points during just 16 minutes of action in what became a 95-80 defeat for Indiana.
Team officials anticipate Clark will suit up for Sunday’s matchup with the Nigerian squad.
The talented guard made a spectacular debut in 2024, posting averages of 19.2 points and 8.4 assists while connecting on 122 shots from beyond the arc during her inaugural WNBA campaign. Her stellar rookie performance earned her both Rookie of the Year recognition and a spot on the All-WNBA First Team. However, her offensive production dipped to 16.5 points per contest in 2025 before a persistent groin problem limited her to just 13 appearances last season.
Meanwhile, Fever teammate Aliyah Boston is slated to make her preseason debut on Sunday. The veteran forward, now in her fourth professional season, has been sidelined while recovering from a leg injury sustained during the conclusion of the Unrivaled season. Throughout her three campaigns with Indiana, Boston has contributed 14.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, and the organization has taken a cautious approach with her recovery process.
Military officials from Russia and Ukraine are presenting opposing accounts regarding control of a border village in Ukraine’s Sumy region, with each side claiming different outcomes from recent combat operations.
On Saturday, Russia’s Defence Ministry announced that its forces had successfully seized the village of Myropillia, located in Ukraine’s northern Sumy region. According to a statement posted on the ministry’s Telegram channel, motorized military units supported by drone operations “drove Ukrainian nationalists out of the village. Enemy reserves were destroyed in advance by our artillery.”
Russian officials also released footage purporting to show aerial bombardments conducted in the northern Ukrainian area, which sits close to the Russian border.
However, Ukraine’s Kursk military group quickly countered the Russian claims through a Facebook post, labeling the report as a “complete lie…Our units control the area, there is no enemy advance, nor has there been any assault actions in that area over the past few days.”
Independent confirmation of either military account could not be obtained by Reuters.
Berkshire Hathaway’s Chief Executive Greg Abel warned investors during the company’s annual shareholder meeting that the insurance industry is facing mounting competitive pressures that are making it difficult to price policies appropriately.
Speaking to shareholders gathered in Omaha, Nebraska on Saturday, Abel explained the challenges facing the conglomerate’s insurance operations. “The reality is that … as our insurance business softens, we cannot realize the value we should for the related risk,” he stated.
The Warren Buffett-led company saw its first-quarter revenue climb to $81.1 billion, up from $77.6 billion in the same period last year. Abel attributed this increase to what he described as a “pretty benign period” for insurance claims, noting the absence of major disasters like hurricanes or wildfires.
However, Abel pointed out that fresh capital flowing into the insurance market is creating pricing pressures. In response, Berkshire’s insurance operations “will be much more cautious, specifically across the primary and reinsurance businesses” as they navigate the challenging environment between competitive premiums and underwriting risks.
The company’s auto insurance subsidiary, Geico, exemplifies these market challenges. Abel noted that finding the proper balance has been a key priority for the brand.
“We’ve seen unprecedented shopping activity across the auto space” as drivers search for lower-cost coverage, Abel observed. He added that Geico has “worked hard to segment” its customer base to maintain retention despite rising premium costs.
“It’s not going to be easy to just restart the growth engine,” Abel acknowledged regarding Geico’s future prospects.
Geico previously held the number two position in auto insurance market share behind State Farm, but Progressive moved ahead after making earlier investments in technology for better driver assessment and pricing accuracy, industry analysts note.
Under former CEO Todd Combs’ leadership in recent years, Geico regained traction by strengthening its underwriting practices and reducing operational costs, including cutting nearly one-third of its staff to 29,541 employees by the end of 2025.
Berkshire’s Vice Chairman of Insurance Operations Ajit Jain reported in 2025 that Geico had matched competitors in telematics technology, which uses vehicle-installed devices to track driving behaviors like speed, braking patterns, mileage, and distracted driving. This system rewards safe drivers with lower rates while charging higher premiums to riskier drivers.
During the first quarter, Geico’s pre-tax underwriting profits dropped 35% as the company increased advertising spending while facing higher accident claim costs.
Combs departed Geico in December to join JPMorgan Chase, with Nancy Pierce taking over as his replacement. Pierce, who previously served as the insurer’s chief operating officer, has been with Geico since 1986.
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Salisbury University’s men’s tennis squad wrapped up their season on Saturday morning after falling to UC Santa Cruz 4-1 in the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference Tournament’s third place contest at Mary Washington’s Hegmann Family Courts.
The Sea Gulls entered the match as the tournament’s third seed, while their opponents from UC Santa Cruz held the fourth seed position. Despite the higher seeding, Salisbury was unable to secure the victory against the Banana Slugs in what became their final match of the season.
The defeat marked the end of the campaign for the Sea Gulls, who had advanced to the third place match after competing in the C2C Tournament bracket. The match took place on the courts at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
New Castle County Police are renewing their appeal for information in a double homicide that has remained unsolved for over 20 years.
The victims, 32-year-old Hydge Green and 25-year-old Damon Allen, were killed on May 2, 2002, in the Dunleith neighborhood of New Castle.
Police officers were called to the 100 block of Bunche Boulevard around 4:00 p.m. that day to investigate the fatal shooting of both men.
Despite more than two decades passing since the murders, the case remains active and investigators continue working to identify those responsible for the deaths.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about this cold case to contact New Castle County Police to help bring closure to the families of both victims.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced comprehensive changes to its regulations in preparation for the 99th Academy Awards ceremony in 2027.
The updated guidelines introduce significant protections for industry professionals against artificial intelligence concerns, specifically targeting safeguards for writers and actors. Additionally, the revised rules expand qualification opportunities for international film submissions.
These modifications represent one of the most substantial regulatory updates the Academy has implemented in recent years, reflecting the organization’s response to evolving industry challenges and technological advances.
The changes come as the entertainment industry continues to grapple with questions surrounding AI technology’s role in creative processes and the need to protect traditional filmmaking roles.
The 99th Academy Awards will take place following these newly established guidelines, marking a pivotal moment for how the prestigious ceremony adapts to modern filmmaking landscapes.
A married investment team has struck a deal to purchase the San Diego Padres baseball franchise for a record-breaking $3.9 billion, the Seidler family announced Saturday.
Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano will lead the ownership group taking control of the Major League Baseball team, pending league approval of the transaction.
The Seidler family, who inherited the team following Peter Seidler’s passing two years ago, made the formal announcement of the agreement. The deal represents the highest valuation ever recorded for an MLB franchise purchase, though specific financial terms and investor group details were not disclosed in Saturday’s announcement.
“The Padres are more than a baseball team; they are a unifying force in San Diego, rooted in community, connection and belonging,” Jones and Feliciano said in a joint statement. “As life and business partners, and as a family, we are honored to lead this next chapter together. We have worked hard for everything we have achieved, and we have built it together. We see that same spirit in this team and its fans, and we know what it takes to win. We are committed to showing up, listening and earning the trust of this community while building on the strong foundation established by the Seidler family.”
The couple added: “This is about more than baseball — it’s about boosting the pride, energy, and connection that define the Padres, investing in community, deepening belonging and ensuring this team remains accessible and endures for generations. We are all in — with the goal of bringing a World Series championship to San Diego.”
The Seidler family initiated discussions about selling the franchise last November, following Peter Seidler’s death in 2022. Peter Seidler had taken primary ownership of the team in 2020, with his brother John assuming leadership responsibilities after his passing.
“When I became control person, my goal was to continue building on our recent success in pursuit of a World Series championship for the city of San Diego and our faithful fans,” John Seidler said in a statement. “As I pass the baton to Kwanza and José, I do so with full confidence that they share that vision as well as the Padres’ deep commitment to San Diego. It’s what the team, our fans and the community deserve. Our family loves this team.”
Peter Seidler initially became part of the Padres ownership when John Moores sold the franchise in 2012 for $800 million to Ron Fowler’s investment group. After taking control, Seidler gained fan support through his willingness to invest heavily in the team, supporting general manager A.J. Preller’s efforts to build a competitive roster that has made four playoff appearances in six seasons.
The franchise has become increasingly popular in recent years as San Diego’s sole representative among major North American professional sports leagues, finishing second in MLB attendance rankings last season. Under Preller’s management, the team has started this season strongly with a 19-12 record, placing second in the National League West division ahead of Saturday night’s home game against the Chicago White Sox.
The prospective new owners have already begun engaging with the organization, attending the Padres’ Mexico City series against the Arizona Diamondbacks last month, where they were seen with team CEO Erik Greupner.
When the sale is finalized, Feliciano will become only the second Latino owner in Major League Baseball, joining Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno. Latino and Hispanic athletes represent approximately 30% of current major league players.
Drivers on Interstate 95 northbound are facing traffic delays this evening as authorities have shut down the right lane near the Airport Road off-ramp due to police activity.
The Delaware Department of Transportation is advising motorists to expect slower travel times and to use caution when approaching the area. The lane closure is located on the northbound side of I-95 just prior to reaching the Airport Road exit.
Officials have not released details about the nature of the police activity that prompted the lane restriction. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible or allow extra travel time when passing through this section of the interstate.
DelDOT continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the incident develops.
OMAHA, Nebraska – During Saturday’s annual meeting, Berkshire Hathaway investors decisively voted against a shareholder proposal that would have required the investment giant to create a public report detailing how it manages its massive workforce spanning nearly 200 companies and more than 387,000 workers.
The same shareholders gave their blessing to board-supported measures regarding executive compensation, including a non-binding endorsement of how the company pays its top leadership and establishing a three-year cycle for advisory votes on executive pay packages.
Investors also returned all 13 board members to their positions, including Chairman Warren Buffett and CEO Greg Abel.
Shareholder Myra Young, who put forward the workforce oversight proposal, argued that Berkshire’s hands-off management style has created “inconsistent approaches to human capital management” across its various businesses.
Young pointed to specific examples including safety and training complaints from pilots at NetJets, the company’s private aviation subsidiary, and a devastating 2021 blaze at a Lubrizol chemical facility in Illinois that resulted in $380 million in property losses.
Company leadership defended their decentralized approach, stating that this management philosophy reflects Berkshire’s core values and allows individual subsidiary companies to make workforce decisions that best suit their specific operations. They argued this structure makes a comprehensive oversight report both unnecessary and counterproductive.
Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer was forced to exit Saturday’s matchup with the Minnesota Twins during the third inning after taking a pitch to his left foot from Minnesota’s Connor Prielipp.
The veteran outfielder collapsed in pain when struck by the 88.2 mph slider and was immediately substituted with pinch runner Jesus Sanchez.
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for Springer, who had only recently come back from the injured list this week following a fractured left big toe sustained when fouled a ball off his foot on April 11. He had opened Saturday’s contest with a line drive out to center field.
Through 18 games this season, Springer is hitting .212 with two home runs and seven RBIs. The veteran has compiled a .266 batting average across 1,462 career games, collecting 295 home runs and 803 RBIs during his 13-year tenure split between the Houston Astros from 2014-20 and the Blue Jays.
Boston’s championship hopes may hang in the balance as All-Star forward Jayson Tatum faces uncertainty for Saturday evening’s decisive Game 7 matchup against Philadelphia, with team officials listing him as questionable due to left knee stiffness.
The 28-year-old star was sidelined for the final quarter of Thursday’s 106-93 defeat to the 76ers in their Eastern Conference opening round series, spending time on a stationary bicycle in the hallway while his teammates finished the contest.
Following Thursday’s loss, Tatum minimized concerns about his condition, explaining to the media: “You guys probably saw when I went to the back, saw me on the bike. My leg just was a little stiff when I came out in the third quarter. But just kind of assessing the moment, the game was a little out of reach.”
The knee discomfort is unrelated to the severe right Achilles tendon rupture that sidelined Tatum last May, an injury that occurred during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against New York and kept him away from basketball until March 6 of the current season.
“It was my other leg, not the one I injured last year,” Tatum clarified on Thursday. “I mean, I wasn’t like overly concerned. … I came out at four minutes, like I was supposed to. Just kind of assessed the game. (Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla) took the starters out fairly early in the fourth quarter.”
During Friday afternoon’s media conference call, head coach Mazzulla indicated that Tatum would be ready for the elimination game, while the player himself expressed confidence at Thursday’s press conference, stating: “I expect to play.”
Throughout the current series against Philadelphia, Tatum has posted impressive numbers with 23.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per contest.
During Game 3 of this series, Tatum reached a significant milestone by becoming just the fourth Celtic in franchise history to surpass 3,000 career playoff points. With 3,005 postseason points, he now ranks behind only legendary players Kevin McHale (3,182), John Havlicek (3,776), and all-time leader Larry Bird (3,897).
The six-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA first-team honoree, who has also captured two Olympic gold medals representing Team USA, maintains career averages of 23.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists across 601 NBA regular season appearances.
On Philadelphia’s injury report, Paul George is listed as probable despite battling an illness on his 36th birthday. Center Joel Embiid, recovering from appendix surgery, also carries a probable designation, while guard Tyrese Maxey has been cleared to play despite a finger injury.
A top Federal Reserve official cautioned Saturday that recent inflation figures represent troubling developments for the central bank, requiring careful consideration before implementing any interest rate reductions.
Chicago Federal Reserve President Austan Goolsbee told Fox News’ “The Journal Editorial Report” that policymakers must receive clear confirmation they’re moving toward their inflation goal. “We have got to get some assurance that we are going back to the 2% inflation target,” Goolsbee stated, referencing last week’s data showing the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index climbed to a 3.5% annual rate in March.
The Fed official expressed particular concern about price increases spreading beyond sectors typically affected by trade policies and energy costs related to the ongoing U.S.-supported conflict with Iran. Goolsbee observed that inflation was accelerating even in service sectors generally protected from such external pressures.
The current makeup of rising prices “doesn’t look good,” Goolsbee remarked. While he doesn’t vote on interest rate decisions this year, he previously opposed a December rate reduction due to concerns about mounting inflation pressures, which have grown more intense recently as oil prices have climbed.
During their most recent gathering, Fed officials maintained the benchmark interest rate within the 3.5% to 3.75% range through an 8-4 vote marking the most significant division since 1992. Three dissenting votes challenged language suggesting the central bank’s next action would likely involve lowering rates.
Goolsbee explained that the divided outcome demonstrated the challenges of providing “forward guidance” regarding future monetary policy directions, particularly when it generates opposition from officials who otherwise supported the actual rate decision.
When questioned about current Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s plan to continue serving as a Fed governor following incoming Chair Kevin Warsh’s expected Senate confirmation, Goolsbee expressed positive sentiments about both leaders. “I like (Powell) quite a lot. I will be happy he is going to switch to a governor’s seat but still be there. He has been judicious and he has insights,” Goolsbee commented. Regarding Warsh, he added he was “excited to see him come in and see what mark he is going to make.”
SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury University’s women’s lacrosse program continued their championship dominance Saturday afternoon, securing their sixth straight Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference title with an 11-9 victory over Christopher Newport University at Sea Gull Stadium.
The second-ranked Sea Gulls faced off against the 21st-ranked Captains in what has become an annual championship matchup between the two programs. Saturday’s triumph marks the 24th conference championship in Salisbury University women’s lacrosse history.
The Sea Gulls have now established themselves as the premier program in the C2C, having claimed the conference crown in each of the past six seasons. The victory extends their remarkable streak of championship success and solidifies their position as one of the top women’s lacrosse programs in the nation.
Saturday’s championship game took place at Salisbury’s home venue, where the Sea Gulls were able to celebrate another title victory in front of their supporters. The win caps off another successful season for the program as they captured both the regular season and tournament championships.
A vehicle accident has forced authorities to shut down southbound Philadelphia Pike at Parkway Avenue, according to DelDOT traffic officials.
The crash has completely blocked traffic flow in the southbound direction, prompting transportation officials to close the roadway while emergency crews respond to the scene.
Motorists traveling in the area are being advised to find alternative routes to avoid delays. DelDOT has not yet provided information about when the roadway might reopen or the severity of the collision.
This is a developing situation and drivers should expect continued traffic disruptions until the scene is cleared and normal traffic flow can resume.
A traffic accident has resulted in the closure of southbound lanes on Centerville Road at its intersection with Old Capitol Trail, according to DelDOT officials.
The crash has completely blocked southbound traffic in the area, forcing drivers to find alternative routes while emergency crews and cleanup teams work at the scene.
DelDOT has not yet provided details about the cause of the accident, the number of vehicles involved, or potential injuries. Officials have also not indicated when the roadway might reopen to normal traffic flow.
Drivers traveling in the area are encouraged to use alternate routes and expect delays until the situation is resolved.
A Michigan snack food manufacturer has announced a voluntary product recall due to potential allergen contamination that could pose serious health risks to consumers with specific food sensitivities.
Second Nature Brands, based in Madison Heights, Michigan, is pulling certain 10-ounce containers of their SECOND NATURE KETO CRUNCH SMART MIX from store shelves. The company discovered that these products may contain cashews, pistachios, and cherries that are not properly disclosed on the packaging labels.
This undeclared ingredient issue creates significant health concerns for people who suffer from tree nut allergies or have severe reactions to these specific ingredients. Consumers with such allergies could experience dangerous reactions if they consume the product without knowing about the presence of these allergens.
The recall affects only specific batches of the 10-ounce packaging size of the keto snack mix product. Customers who have purchased this item should check their packages and avoid consumption if they have relevant food allergies.
RIO DE JANEIRO — Colombian music icon Shakira is set to take the stage at Rio de Janeiro’s world-famous Copacabana Beach Saturday evening for a massive free concert that city officials predict will attract roughly 2 million spectators to the legendary shoreline.
The spectacular beach performance continues a tradition established by Madonna in 2024 and Lady Gaga the year before, both of whom drew enormous crowds that celebrated across the expansive sandy coastline. Saturday’s show represents part of Shakira’s global “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” (“Women No Longer Cry”) tour, which takes its name from her 2024 album release.
Speaking with Brazil’s TV Globo network, the Latin music sensation revealed her anticipation that the Copacabana performance will mark the largest concert of her entire career.
“For me it’s a dream. I always dreamed of singing on this beach, because I think it’s a magical place,” she shared during the interview conducted in Portuguese, noting that she mastered Portuguese even before learning English.
Shakira first found success in Brazil during the 1990s, building a strong fanbase through her magnetic stage presence and deep connection with Brazilian audiences, explains Felipe Maia, an ethnomusicologist currently working toward his doctorate in popular music and digital technologies at Paris Nanterre University.
According to Maia, her enduring popularity in Brazil stems largely from “the fact that she comes from Colombia, a country whose culture has many similarities with Brazil.” He describes Saturday’s performance as something that “crowns the relationship she has had with Brazil for a very long time.”
Early Saturday morning, eager fans began gathering on the beach to secure prime viewing positions for the evening show. Local vendors set up shop selling refreshments and meals, along with practical items like toilet paper, deodorant, and even bags of sand for concert-goers hoping to gain height for better stage visibility near the Copacabana Palace.
The entertainment schedule begins with DJ performances during the late afternoon hours. Shakira’s main performance is slated to begin at 9:45 p.m. local time and should run approximately two hours. Following her set, another DJ will continue the music — a strategic addition designed to keep audiences engaged while facilitating an organized departure, according to Rio city officials.
These complimentary beach concerts represent a strategic initiative by Rio’s municipal government aimed at stimulating economic activity during the period between Carnival and New Year’s celebrations and the upcoming month-long Saint John’s Day festivities scheduled for June.
“For us, parties are serious business. Because parties generate jobs, income, development, and identity for the city,” declared Rio Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere during Wednesday’s presentation of the city’s operational strategy for the event. “Our investment in this show will give us a financial return 40 times greater,” the mayor stated.
Economic projections suggest Shakira’s concert could generate approximately 777 million reais (roughly $155 million) in revenue, based on research conducted by Rio’s City Hall in partnership with Riotur, the city’s tourism agency. This financial boost comes from increased tourist spending at local restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments.
Tourism data shows increased visitor numbers to Rio during May in years featuring these major concerts — 2024 and 2025 — compared to 2023 figures. The 2024 data revealed a 34.2% increase on May 1, just before the concerts, versus the previous year. In 2025, the growth reached 90.5% compared to 2023 levels.
In preparation for Shakira’s appearance, Airbnb announced in an April 22 statement that booking data showed rising numbers of guests planning to travel from various Brazilian regions, other Latin American countries, and even European cities including Paris and London.
The Big Ten Conference has reached a milestone with its announcement of a historic $1.37 billion revenue distribution among its 18 member universities for the 2024-25 fiscal year, following conference expansion and strong performance in the College Football Playoffs during the 2024 season.
This achievement makes the Big Ten the second collegiate athletic conference to surpass the $1 billion mark. Earlier, the Southeastern Conference revealed it had distributed $1 billion among its 16 member schools in February, marking a $200 million jump from the previous fiscal year.
The Big Ten’s massive $1.37 billion payout reflects a substantial $487 million increase compared to the 2023-24 fiscal year. Two key drivers behind this surge were the conference’s addition of UCLA, Southern California, Oregon and Washington in August 2024, plus the playoff appearances of Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State and Penn State in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format during December and January.
Ohio State claimed the 2024 national championship with a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame in Atlanta on January 20, 2025. The Buckeyes’ athletic program received the conference’s largest distribution at $91.57 million, while Penn State, which reached the national semifinals in football, collected $88.29 million.
Established full-time conference members received distributions ranging from $76.01 million to $79.87 million, while newcomers Oregon and Washington collected $48.4 million and $46.7 million respectively. UCLA and USC, classified as fully-vested members, received the higher distribution amounts.
Tampa Bay has brought back left-handed pitcher Garrett Cleavinger from the injured list on Saturday, according to reports from the Tampa Bay Times. To clear roster space, the organization removed right-hander Yoendrys Gomez from the team.
The 32-year-old Cleavinger hasn’t taken the mound since March 30 due to tightness in his right calf muscle. During his limited action this season, he posted a 1-1 record with a 7.71 earned run average across three relief appearances. Earlier this year, he also contributed a clean inning for Team USA during the World Baseball Classic.
Throughout his seven-year major league career, with Tampa Bay being his home for the past five seasons, Cleavinger holds a 14-17 record and 3.25 ERA across 193 games, including one starting assignment.
The departing Gomez, age 26, struggled during his time with Tampa Bay this year, recording a 6.23 ERA over nine relief outings. His overall major league statistics show a 3-3 record with a 5.11 ERA spanning four seasons across four different organizations, having spent his initial three campaigns with the New York Yankees from 2023-25.
Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz announced Saturday that prospect Trey Gibson will take the mound for his first major league appearance Sunday when the team faces the New York Yankees.
The 23-year-old right-handed pitcher gets his opportunity due to several injuries plaguing Baltimore’s starting rotation. Left-hander Trevor Rogers was placed on the injured list earlier this week due to illness, while right-hander Dean Kremer remains sidelined with a quad injury. Additionally, starter Zach Eflin is done for the year after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.
Gibson’s promotion comes after spending four years developing in the minor league system. This season with Triple-A Norfolk, he has compiled a 2-2 record with a 5.84 ERA across six starting assignments.
The young pitcher joined the Orioles organization in 2023 as an undrafted free agent following two collegiate seasons at Liberty University. MLB Pipeline currently ranks Gibson as Baltimore’s third-best prospect in their farm system.
Philadelphia Phillies star catcher J.T. Realmuto returned to active duty Saturday as the team activated him from the 10-day injured list.
The 35-year-old backstop had been sidelined since April 22 when he was placed on the IL due to back spasms that forced him out of action.
This season marks Realmuto’s eighth campaign with Philadelphia, where he’s posted a .259 batting average through 17 games, collecting one home run and driving in four runs. The veteran catcher brings impressive credentials to the lineup as a three-time All-Star selection and two-time Gold Glove award recipient.
To create space on their 26-man active roster for Realmuto’s return, Philadelphia released utility player Dylan Moore through designation for assignment. The 33-year-old Moore struggled in his debut season with the Phillies, failing to record a hit across 15 plate appearances.
A high-ranking Iranian official revealed Saturday that Tehran has put forward a new diplomatic proposal that would restore shipping access through the Strait of Hormuz and halt U.S. blockade measures against Iran, while deferring nuclear program discussions to future negotiations.
President Donald Trump, who has consistently stated that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons, expressed his displeasure with Iran’s most recent diplomatic overture on Friday. Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign minister indicated Tehran remains open to diplomatic engagement if Washington modifies its current strategy.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump outlined his dilemma when asked about available options: “Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever? Or do we want to try and make a deal?”
The President also revealed Friday that he does not favor military action against Iran “on a human basis” and informed Congressional leadership that he doesn’t require their authorization to continue military operations beyond legally mandated deadlines since the ceasefire had “terminated” active fighting.
During remarks in Florida later Friday, Trump emphasized that America would not conclude its standoff with Iran prematurely “and then have the problem arise in three more years.”
Despite Trump’s repeated claims that he feels no urgency to act, domestic political pressure continues mounting for him to break Iran’s control over the strategic waterway. This blockade has eliminated 20% of global oil and gas shipments, driving up fuel costs for American consumers. Trump’s Republican Party risks electoral consequences from angry voters facing higher prices during November’s midterm congressional races.
The President spent Saturday at his Florida properties, including Mar-a-Lago resort and Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, with plans to visit Trump National Doral near Miami for the PGA Cadillac Championship.
Four weeks have passed since the United States and Israel halted their aerial assault campaign against Iran, yet the parties appear no nearer to reaching an agreement that would conclude a conflict causing unprecedented disruption to worldwide energy markets, destabilizing global financial systems, and sparking fears of broader economic recession.
For over two months, Iran has prevented virtually all Gulf shipping except its own vessels from passing through the strait. The U.S. responded last month by implementing its own embargo on ships departing Iranian harbors.
Washington has consistently maintained it will not terminate the military campaign, which has resulted in thousands of casualties, without securing guarantees that Iran can never develop nuclear weapons capability. This objective was Trump’s stated justification for launching February airstrikes during ongoing nuclear negotiations. Iran maintains its nuclear activities serve only peaceful purposes.
The senior Iranian official, speaking anonymously about sensitive diplomatic communications, described Tehran’s decision to separate nuclear discussions from immediate concerns as a major concession designed to facilitate agreement.
Iran’s framework would end hostilities with assurances that Israel and America would not resume attacks. Tehran would restore strait access while Washington would terminate its shipping blockade.
Subsequent negotiations would address restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief, with Iran insisting Washington acknowledge its right to peaceful uranium enrichment, even if Tehran agrees to temporary suspension.
“Under this framework, negotiations over the more complicated nuclear issue have been moved to the final stage to create a more conducive atmosphere,” the official explained.
News outlets reported throughout the previous week that Tehran was considering reopening the strait before resolving nuclear matters. The official confirmed this revised timeline has now been formally presented to the United States through diplomatic intermediaries.
Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc acknowledged he went too far with his angry radio outburst targeting Formula One championship leader Kimi Antonelli during Saturday’s sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix.
The Mercedes driver Antonelli crossed the finish line in fourth place but received a five-second time penalty that dropped him to sixth position due to multiple track limit violations.
During the race, an frustrated Leclerc vented over his team radio about the teenage Italian’s driving style. “Kimi is so bad on wheel-to-wheel (racing). He moved under braking. It’s unbelievable. We are going to crash,” the third-place finisher declared during the heated moment.
However, Leclerc later softened his stance when speaking with media after the race.
“I was being a bit harsh maybe with the adrenaline inside the car,” he explained.
The Monaco driver elaborated on their racing history and the unique situation of competing against Italy’s only current F1 representative while driving for the sport’s most famous Italian team.
“It’s true that we’ve had our moments with Kimi in the past and I hope this calms down a little bit going ahead. Especially as he’s the only Italian on the grid against Ferrari,” Leclerc noted.
“I wish it was with someone else. I really like Kimi as a person,” Leclerc continued. “It’s just sometimes a little bit too close for comfort and not really needed as well. So in this particular case, I was quite angry in the car. But the comments were probably a bit too harsh.”
At just 18 years old, Antonelli holds the distinction of being Formula One’s youngest-ever championship leader. He also became the first Italian driver to capture back-to-back race victories since Alberto Ascari accomplished the feat in 1953, creating enormous excitement in Italy where Ferrari enjoys legendary status.
The young Mercedes driver acknowledged his difficulties during Saturday’s sprint, explaining how a disappointing start affected his entire race performance.
“After that, I was really frustrated and didn’t even drive well. I did a lot of mistakes and got track limits, which is something I need to avoid,” Antonelli admitted.
Looking ahead to the rest of the Miami weekend, the championship leader remained realistic about the challenges facing his team.
“This weekend has been more difficult but it was expected with everyone bringing big upgrades. We just need to maximise the result and now focus on qualifying.”
Budget-conscious travelers across the nation expressed grief Saturday following the sudden shutdown of Spirit Airlines, describing the ultra-low-cost carrier’s closure as a devastating blow to affordable air travel for working families.
The Florida-based airline unexpectedly grounded all flights Saturday morning, leaving passengers and crew members stranded across the United States, Caribbean, and Latin America. The carrier succumbed to mounting financial difficulties, including dramatically increased fuel expenses tied to the ongoing Iran conflict.
Social media users on platforms like Reddit and X shared stories of how the airline had served as a crucial resource for cost-conscious flyers seeking affordable transportation options.
“They truly were one of the last cheap — ‘get me there as fast and cheap as possible’ — options,” one Reddit user named AioliUpset7805 posted in a discussion about the airline’s demise. “I’ll miss them.”
Since beginning commercial operations in the early 1990s, Spirit had built its reputation around offering rock-bottom fares while eliminating traditional airline perks. The carrier famously charged passengers for bottled water and featured non-reclining seats throughout its fleet.
Despite frequently becoming the subject of internet jokes due to its bare-bones service model, numerous passengers credited Spirit with making family vacations and visits to distant relatives financially possible for millions of Americans.
“I can only imagine how many millions of families (there are) out there where vacations are now out of reach,” another Reddit user called BigBubby305 commented, noting that ticket price differences between Spirit and major carriers like Delta and American Airlines sometimes exceeded $1,000 for family travel.
At Orlando International Airport overnight, electronic departure boards displayed rows of red cancellation notices for Spirit flights bound for destinations ranging from Nashville to San Juan, Puerto Rico.
In response to Spirit’s operational halt, several competing airlines including Frontier, JetBlue, and Southwest quickly announced discounted fare offerings and new summer route plans. Major carriers Delta and American Airlines also began providing temporary fare reductions for displaced Spirit customers.
The airline’s collapse occurs amid broader economic inflation throughout the United States, conditions worsened by the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Industry analysts expect Spirit’s shutdown, combined with recent doubling of jet fuel prices, to significantly increase travel costs for American consumers. Aviation data firm Cirium reported that Spirit had over 4,000 domestic flights scheduled through May 15.
“I always took great pride in knowing we were saving people money and allowing those to travel who couldn’t afford to otherwise,” shared a Reddit user identifying as Coryntrevors, who claimed to have piloted Spirit’s distinctive bright yellow Airbus aircraft from Las Vegas for more than ten years.
“To shut down forever tonight has been one of the saddest experiences of my life.”
A pharmaceutical manufacturer has turned to the nation’s highest court for help after losing the ability to ship abortion medication through the mail.
On Saturday, Danco Laboratories submitted an emergency request to the U.S. Supreme Court, asking justices to halt an appeals court decision that suspended postal delivery of mifepristone, a medication used to terminate pregnancies.
The company is seeking to overturn the temporary restriction that prevents patients from receiving the abortion drug via mail order services.
The NFL has removed Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium from its Super Bowl hosting rotation due to facility requirements not being met, according to Dolphins owner Stephen Ross in recent comments.
The South Florida venue has welcomed 11 Super Bowls throughout its history, matching New Orleans for the most hosted championships. However, the stadium hasn’t held the big game since February 2, 2020, when Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes led the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over San Francisco in Super Bowl LIV.
Hard Rock Stadium, which opened 38 years ago, previously welcomed Super Bowls in 1989, 1995, 1999, 2007 and 2010. Prior to those games, Miami’s Orange Bowl served as the Super Bowl venue in 1968, 1969, 1971, 1976 and 1979.
Speaking with the South Florida Business Journal, Ross explained the situation: “We normally have one every five years. Miami is not really in line for one. It’s always exciting to have the Super Bowl but that was before we had all the other events. Miami has by far the best weather. It’s in their best interest to have one here but at this point they don’t believe we meet all the requirements and the demands.”
The stadium’s ability to accommodate Super Bowl festivities has been compromised after adding facilities for both the annual Miami Open tennis championship and Formula 1 racing events. These additions have significantly reduced the available space needed for Super Bowl hospitality functions.
Ross indicated efforts are underway to address the shortcomings. “We are looking at how to make improvements,” he stated. “I want to make the stadium always feel like a new stadium (and) we are looking at what the next phase will be and making the fan experience that much better.”
The league has already announced locations for upcoming championships: Los Angeles area’s SoFi Stadium will host in 2027, followed by Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2028, and Las Vegas area’s Allegiant Stadium in 2029.
Pittsburgh Pirates have activated infielder Jared Triolo from the 10-day injured list in time for Saturday’s matchup against the Cincinnati Reds at home.
The 28-year-old player had been sidelined since April 3rd with a patellar tendon injury affecting his right knee.
Before his injury, the former Gold Glove recipient posted a .217 batting average, collecting five hits in 23 at-bats with one RBI across six appearances for Pittsburgh. During his recovery period, Triolo showed improvement while playing rehabilitation games, posting a .278 batting average with one home run and three RBIs through five games split between Class A Bradenton and Double-A Altoona.
Pittsburgh cleared roster space for Triolo’s return by sending utility player Nick Yorke to Triple-A Indianapolis following Friday’s decisive 9-1 victory over Cincinnati.
The 24-year-old Yorke recorded a .221 batting average with one home run and six RBIs during his 23-game stint with the major league club.
New York Mets backup catcher Luis Torrens received quite the birthday gift this weekend, securing his future with a lucrative contract extension just as he turned 30 years old on Saturday.
According to reports from The Athletic, Torrens has signed a two-year deal worth $11.5 million that will cover the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
The veteran backstop is currently in his ninth MLB campaign and third year wearing a Mets uniform. This season, he has appeared in 13 contests, posting a .200 batting average along with two doubles and four RBIs. His current contract pays him $2.275 million for the 2026 season.
While Torrens has built his reputation primarily on his defensive skills behind the plate, his offensive numbers throughout his career reflect his role as a backup. Over 421 major league games, he has compiled a .226 batting average with 27 home runs and 127 RBIs during stints with multiple franchises including the San Diego Padres (2017, 2019-20), Seattle Mariners (2020-23), Chicago Cubs (2023), and now the Mets.
Spain’s foreign minister demanded Saturday the immediate freedom of an activist held by Israeli authorities following the interception of a Gaza-bound aid convoy in international waters by Israel’s navy.
Israeli forces detained Saif Abukeshek, who holds both Spanish and Swedish citizenship and is of Palestinian heritage, along with Brazilian national Thiago Ávila on Saturday for interrogation. According to a legal advocacy organization, both individuals have started refusing food.
Greek coast guard officials rescued dozens of additional activists following Israel’s maritime operation and transported them to Crete.
“This is a case of illegal detention in international waters, outside the jurisdiction of Israeli authorities. I have made this clear to my Israeli counterpart,” José Manuel Albares stated during a public radio interview.
The Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel, known as Adalah, confirmed representatives visited both detained men at a holding facility in Ashkelon, an Israeli coastal city. The organization reported both activists claimed to be refusing meals after allegedly suffering repeated physical abuse during their imprisonment.
“Adalah maintains that the treatment of the two activists, including the use of isolation, prolonged blindfolding and physical beatings, constitutes a grave violation of international law,” the organization stated.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry posted online that authorities were questioning Abukeshek and Ávila regarding potential connections to Hamas, the militant organization. Officials confirmed both men received visits from their respective consular representatives.
The detention of Abukeshek has intensified diplomatic friction between Israel and Spain, a nation that has vocally condemned the Gaza conflict and officially acknowledged Palestinian sovereignty in 2024.
During a Friday campaign rally for upcoming regional elections in southern Spain, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez directly addressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“Now that Netanyahu has taken foreign citizens, including a Spanish national, and brought them to Israel, I have a few things to say to Prime Minister Netanyahu,” Sánchez told cheering Socialist party supporters.
“First, Spain will always protect its citizens. Second, we will always uphold international law — and this is yet another violation of it,” he declared. “And third, we demand the release of the Spanish citizen who has been illegally detained by the Netanyahu government.”
Baltimore Orioles left-handed pitcher Dietrich Enns returned to active duty Saturday as the team activated him from the 15-day injured list following his recovery from a foot infection.
The Orioles made multiple roster adjustments on Saturday, bringing up left-hander Nick Raquet from their Triple-A Norfolk affiliate while sending right-hander Tyler Wells down to Norfolk. The team also placed right-hander Albert Suarez on waivers.
The 34-year-old Enns was sidelined on April 6 due to an infection in his left foot. Prior to his injury, he appeared in three relief outings without recording a win or loss, posting a 4.15 earned run average.
Raquet, age 30, struggled during his previous stint with Baltimore last month, surrendering three earned runs on three hits over 1 2/3 innings across two bullpen appearances for a 16.20 ERA.
Wells, 31, compiled an 0-1 record with a 3.44 ERA through 14 relief appearances this season. The pitcher recorded 18 strikeouts against four walks in 18 1/3 innings of work.
The 36-year-old Suarez holds a 1-0 record with a 3.45 ERA and one save through six relief outings. However, he has issued seven walks in his most recent 6 2/3 innings, including four free passes during Friday’s 7-2 defeat to the New York Yankees on the road.
Brazilian fighter Carlos Prates delivered a commanding performance against Australian Jack Della Maddalena in Saturday night’s main event at UFC Fight Night in Perth, Australia, overwhelming the local favorite in front of his home crowd.
The Brazilian fighter sent Della Maddalena crashing to the mat with a devastating calf kick in the closing moments of round two, then continued his assault in the third round by scoring three additional knockdowns using a powerful knee strike, head kick, and another leg kick before officials halted the contest.
Following his victory, Prates immediately set his sights on championship gold, challenging whoever emerges victorious from the anticipated welterweight title bout between current champion Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry.
“I can punch, I can knee, I can kick … so I’m better and now I feel like I’m the No. 1 contender,” Prates said after his win. “I can’t wait to see Makhachev and Ian, and then I’m going to fight the winner.”
The victory marked Prates’ third consecutive win, bringing his professional record to 24-7 with 19 knockout victories. The 32-year-old’s dominant showing came at the expense of the 29-year-old Della Maddalena, who suffered his second straight defeat and now holds an 18-4 record with 12 knockout wins.
In the evening’s co-main event, Australian fighter Quillan Salkilld celebrated his own victory, improving his record to 12-1 after stopping lightweight veteran Beneil Dariush with a first-round technical knockout. The 26-year-old Salkilld defeated the 36-year-old Dariush in impressive fashion.
The main card featured several other notable results: flyweight Steve Erceg earned a unanimous decision victory over Tim Elliott, featherweight Marwan Rahiki stopped Ollie Schmid by TKO, heavyweight Brando Pericic knocked out Shamil Gaziev in the second round, and heavyweight Louie Sutherland defeated Tai Tuivasa by unanimous decision.
VIENNA – Law enforcement officials in Austria announced Saturday the capture of a 39-year-old individual linked to a disturbing extortion scheme involving contaminated infant food products.
Authorities successfully recovered five tampered jars of HiPP-brand baby food last month across Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia before any could reach consumers. The products had been laced with rat poison as part of what the German manufacturer described as an extortion attempt. One additional contaminated jar believed to be somewhere in Austria remains missing.
A police representative from Burgenland, the eastern Austrian state where one tainted jar was discovered, confirmed the arrest. The spokesperson stated: “Today we succeeded in arresting a suspect, 39-year-old man,” but refused to share additional information that might compromise the ongoing investigation.
According to the Austrian tabloid Kronen Zeitung, authorities apprehended the suspect in Salzburg, a state that shares a border with Germany.
Details about the extortion demands emerged through Austrian media reports. Die Presse newspaper revealed that HiPP received an electronic message in March demanding 2 million euros (approximately $2.3 million) within six days. However, the company failed to notice the threatening communication until two weeks beyond the specified deadline.
Company representatives later explained that the threatening message had been delivered to a group email address that receives infrequent monitoring.
MIAMI, May 2 – Formula One world champion Lando Norris captured victory in Saturday’s Miami Grand Prix sprint race, delivering McLaren a commanding one-two finish alongside teammate Oscar Piastri as Mercedes experienced their first setback of the season.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc claimed the final podium spot in third place after beginning the race from fourth position.
While Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell initially finished fourth and fifth, the Italian driver was subsequently dropped to sixth after receiving a five-second time penalty for multiple track limits infractions, promoting Russell to fourth place.
The penalty reduced the 19-year-old’s championship advantage over Russell to just seven points, following his victories in the previous two races in China and Japan.
Red Bull’s four-time world champion Max Verstappen benefited from Antonelli’s demotion, moving up to fifth position, while Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton placed seventh.
Pierre Gasly from Alpine earned the final championship point in the 100-kilometer race conducted under sweltering and humid weather conditions.
Starting from pole position, Norris crossed the finish line with a comfortable 3.7-second margin over Australian teammate Piastri, maintaining control throughout the race.
“Nice to be back on the top step. A good day for us,” Norris commented after his victory.
“I was pushing, trying to find that balance of pushing and staying relaxed to not make mistakes. A good start to the weekend but now I’ve got to do it all over again.”
Sunday’s main grand prix approaches with weather forecasts predicting rain and potential thunderstorms, with qualifying scheduled for later Saturday evening.
This victory marked Norris’s second sprint triumph at Hard Rock Stadium, repeating his 2025 success at the venue where the British driver earned his maiden F1 victory in 2024. Reid Wiseman, commander of the recent Artemis II Lunar flyby mission, presented the winner’s trophy.
Racing Bulls rookie Arvid Lindblad was unable to participate due to technical difficulties, while Nico Hulkenberg’s race ended before it began when his Audi vehicle caught fire en route to the starting grid.
Devastating storms across northeastern Brazil have claimed six lives and forced more than 3,000 residents to evacuate their homes over the past two days, federal officials announced Saturday.
The deadly weather struck hardest in Pernambuco state, where torrential downpours triggered flooding and dangerous landslides around the capital city of Recife. Four fatalities occurred in the metropolitan area – two deaths in Recife itself and two more in the adjacent city of Olinda. Approximately 1,500 residents were forced to abandon their homes or seek emergency shelter.
Neighboring Paraiba state also suffered significant damage, with two confirmed deaths and 1,800 people displaced from their residences. Brazil’s Integration and Regional Development Ministry reported that the hardest-hit areas included Conde, the state capital of Joao Pessoa, and Campina Grande.
“The National Center for Risk and Disaster Management issued 22 alerts during the critical period of rains. Due to the impacts in Pernambuco and Paraiba and the weather forecast for the region, the operational level was raised to maximum alert,” ministry officials stated.
While the intense rainfall has diminished and conditions are stabilizing, authorities emphasized that continued monitoring remains essential throughout Saturday.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva confirmed on social media that he had contacted regional leaders to coordinate federal assistance. “The government continues to monitor the situation to provide all necessary assistance,” the president wrote.
Delaware motorists are experiencing traffic delays on northbound Interstate 95 near Exit 8 following a vehicle accident that has blocked the right lane.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports the lane closure is currently in effect as crews work to clear the scene of the crash. Drivers traveling through the area should anticipate slower traffic conditions and consider alternate routes if possible.
Officials have not yet released information about any injuries or the number of vehicles involved in the incident. The timeline for reopening the affected lane remains unclear at this time.
Economic concerns dominated American households’ attention this past week as families witnessed noticeably higher costs at grocery stores and gas pumps compared to the previous year.
The following economic developments and data releases offer insight into current financial trends affecting consumers nationwide.
March witnessed a significant spike in a critical inflation indicator closely watched by the Federal Reserve, driven primarily by escalating fuel costs linked to the ongoing Iran conflict. This surge signals potential delays in anticipated interest rate reductions.
The Fed’s preferred inflation measurement climbed 0.7% between February and March, representing a sharp acceleration from the prior month, according to Commerce Department data released Thursday. Year-over-year price increases reached 3.5%, marking the steepest rise in nearly three years.
When removing volatile food and energy sectors, core inflation advanced 0.3% monthly in March, with annual growth reaching 3.2% – exceeding February’s 3% rate.
Fuel costs experienced dramatic increases, establishing new multi-year peaks across four straight days beginning Tuesday. Regular gasoline prices recorded their largest single-day jump since the conflict commenced Friday, reaching $4.39 per gallon, with continued increases through Saturday.
Economic growth gained momentum during early 2026, with the nation expanding at a moderate 2% rate throughout the first quarter following recovery from autumn’s 43-day federal government closure. However, the Iranian conflict creates uncertainty for future projections.
Thursday’s Commerce Department report showed gross domestic product – measuring national goods and services output – bounced back from the final quarter of 2025’s weak 0.5% growth. Federal spending and investment surged at a 9.3% annual pace during the first quarter, contributing over half a percentage point to overall growth after reducing fourth-quarter 2025 expansion by 1.16 percentage points.
American consumer sentiment experienced slight improvement in April despite mounting concerns over soaring energy costs resulting from the Iranian war.
Tuesday’s Conference Board report indicated their consumer confidence measurement edged upward to 92.8 in April from March’s 92.2 reading.
While the indicator has shown two consecutive monthly gains, current levels remain near pandemic-era lows experienced during COVID-19.
Survey participant feedback regarding prices, petroleum, gasoline, and warfare intensified during April as national average fuel costs jumped 30 cents within one week to reach $4.43 per gallon.
Home lending rates increased this week, elevating borrowing expenses for potential buyers during peak spring purchasing season.
The standard 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 6.3% from the previous week’s 6.23%, mortgage purchaser Freddie Mac announced Thursday. This remains below last year’s 6.76% average.
The uptick concluded a three-week decline, returning average rates to levels seen two weeks prior.
Weekly unemployment benefit filings plummeted to their lowest point in more than five decades despite various economic challenges including the Iranian conflict.
Jobless assistance applications for the week concluding April 25 decreased by 26,000 to 189,000, down from the preceding week’s 215,000 total, Thursday’s Labor Department data revealed. This significantly undershot the 214,000 new filings predicted by FactSet-surveyed analysts.
Unemployment benefit requests serve as an indicator for American job losses and provide near real-time employment market health assessments.
High Frequency Economics noted this week’s new jobless aid applications represented the smallest figure since September 1969.
Wall Street established additional records to conclude the week following strong Apple performance and other major technology company earnings that drove market gains. Petroleum prices maintained upward momentum despite Friday’s moderation. Numerous global stock exchanges remained closed Friday observing May Day.
The S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq composite all finished the week with gains.
