Motorists traveling on Calhoun Road southbound are encountering lane restrictions today due to ongoing construction work.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the right shoulder is closed along the southbound lanes between Shawnee Road and the Evan Dukes Lane/Countryside Drive intersection.
The shoulder closure is scheduled to remain in effect until 6 PM today. Drivers are advised to use caution and expect potential delays while traveling through the construction zone.
Motorists traveling on W North Street should prepare for temporary traffic disruptions overnight as crews conduct work requiring intermittent lane restrictions.
The affected area spans the stretch of W North Street from Saulsbury Road to Banning Street, where drivers may encounter periodic lane closures throughout the night.
According to DelDOT officials, the lane restrictions will remain active until 6 AM, after which normal traffic patterns are expected to resume.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when navigating through the work zone during the overnight hours.
American naval forces successfully defended against Iranian military attacks targeting three U.S. Navy vessels while traveling through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, according to military officials.
The confrontation took place on Thursday as Navy destroyers were making their passage through the waterway, U.S. Central Command announced on social media.
Following the defensive action, American forces conducted retaliatory strikes against Iranian military installations that officials say were responsible for launching the attacks on U.S. personnel.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region as American naval vessels continue regular operations through one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are conducting construction work that requires periodic closure of westbound lanes on Paper Mill Road overnight.
The affected stretch runs from Polly Drummond Hill Road to North Star Road, where drivers may encounter intermittent lane restrictions as work continues.
According to DelDOT, the westbound lane closures are expected to remain in effect until 5 AM. Motorists traveling through the area should plan for possible delays and consider alternate routes if available.
WASHINGTON — A federal trade court delivered a blow to the Trump administration Thursday, declaring that worldwide tariffs implemented by the president violated federal law.
The Court of International Trade in New York issued a divided ruling, with two of three judges determining that 10% tariffs imposed globally were unlawful following legal action brought by small business owners.
In their majority opinion, two judges concluded that Trump exceeded the authority Congress granted to the executive branch regarding tariff implementation. They described the tariffs as “invalid” and “unauthorized by law.”
The dissenting judge believed federal law provides the president with broader discretion in tariff matters.
Legal experts anticipate the administration will challenge Thursday’s ruling, which would move the case to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington before potentially reaching the Supreme Court again.
The disputed tariffs were implemented as a temporary measure following the Supreme Court’s February decision that overturned more extensive tariffs the administration had placed on nearly all nations worldwide last year. These worldwide 10% tariffs, established under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, were scheduled to end on July 24.
NEW YORK (AP) — New York’s governor is standing firm against warnings from President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement leader, who has vowed to significantly increase federal agents in the state if lawmakers approve restrictions on local cooperation with deportation efforts.
Governor Kathy Hochul made clear Thursday that intimidation tactics won’t change her course of action.
“I don’t take well to threats,” Hochul stated. “We’re going to pass what we think is important to protect New Yorkers.”
The confrontation highlights growing friction as Democratic leaders work to establish boundaries around the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement following what they describe as disorganized and aggressive deportation operations.
The pending legislation would prohibit state and local police from forming partnerships with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or serving in immigration enforcement roles. The measures would also require ICE agents to obtain court orders before entering protected areas like educational institutions and medical facilities.
Additional proposals from the Democratic governor include prohibiting law enforcement officers from covering their faces with masks during operations and establishing legal pathways for citizens to file lawsuits against ICE personnel.
After announcing Thursday that she had secured agreement from legislative leadership to incorporate the immigration measures into the state’s budget plan, Hochul emphasized her willingness to collaborate on serious criminal cases.
“This does not restrict our ability to help in criminal situations and I want people to understand that, but my God, it has gone too far,” she explained, adding that the state would “help you go after the hardened criminals, the violent, the worst of the worst.”
Border enforcement chief Tom Homan responded to the proposed restrictions during a Fox News appearance, promising substantial increases in federal personnel.
“Of course we’re going to increase manpower, a lot” if New York proceeds with the legislation, Homan declared.
“They can put up all the roadblocks they want, but we’re going to do this job,” he added.
The two officials previously met face-to-face at New York’s state Capitol earlier this year. While their discussion remained private, Hochul revealed Thursday that Homan had assured her “the era of the surges is over” during their conversation.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman opposed the governor’s initiative, arguing that his Long Island county’s partnership with ICE has effectively removed “bad people out of our community” while maintaining organized immigration enforcement procedures.
WASHINGTON — Despite President Donald Trump’s ongoing warnings that ‘Cuba is next’ and his suggestions about positioning American naval vessels near the Caribbean island, federal officials confirm no immediate military intervention against Havana is currently being planned.
Government sources involved in early-stage discussions with Cuban leadership told reporters they hold little hope that Cuba’s communist administration will agree to accept an American proposal worth tens of millions of dollars. The package includes humanitarian assistance, two years of complimentary Starlink internet service for Cuban citizens, farming support, and infrastructure development.
However, these officials noted that Cuba has not yet completely rejected the proposal, even after the Trump administration implemented additional economic penalties on Thursday targeting Havana. The aid package comes with requirements that Cuba’s government has historically opposed.
Speaking anonymously to discuss confidential negotiations, the sources emphasized that time remains for Cuba’s leadership to consider the offer. They warned that Trump maintains the flexibility to alter his approach and that military alternatives remain available.
The new economic penalties followed Trump’s executive order from last week that broadened his administration’s power to impose restrictions on Cuba. Both the Treasury and State departments announced these measures.
Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez characterized the sanctions as ‘collective punishment’ and criticized what he called the U.S. government’s ‘genocidal intent against Cuba.’
‘These actions rely on the assumption that the United States can impose its will on the world while threatening foreign citizens and businesses with illegitimate coercion,’ Rodríguez wrote on X.
During a Friday speech following the executive order signing, Trump referenced that ‘Cuba’s got problems’ and hinted at potential military demonstrations near the island.
He said one of the U.S. aircraft carriers on its way back from the Middle East could ‘come in, stop about 100 yards offshore, and they’ll say: Thank you very much. We give up.’
An official participating in the discussions explained that the expanded sanctions authority was designed to communicate to Cuban leaders that the Trump administration’s primary objective is ‘not regime change, but changing the regime’s failed policies.’
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whose parents emigrated from Cuba and who has consistently opposed Cuba’s current leadership, has repeatedly stated that the island’s government has been unsuccessful. This week, he argued that Cuba’s economic system is broken and current leaders ‘can’t fix it.’
‘And the reason that they can’t fix it is not just because they’re communist. That’s bad enough,’ he told reporters Tuesday at the White House. ‘But they’re incompetent communists. The only thing worse than a communist is an incompetent one.’
Rubio is currently visiting Rome and Vatican City, scheduled to meet Pope Leo XIV on Thursday partly to address Cuban matters, where the Catholic Church maintains considerable influence.
One federal official described uncertainty about whether Cuba’s senior leadership would agree to American requirements, which encompass freeing political detainees, ending political and religious oppression, and allowing American private sector investment.
Simultaneously, the official indicated that opportunities for dialogue remain open that could benefit both nations given Cuba’s geographic closeness to America. The United States views China and Russia’s growing presence on the island as a national security concern, including intelligence gathering and logistical cooperation.
Cuban representatives firmly maintain that the country’s internal governance remains non-negotiable.
‘Negotiations on issues like regime change or removing the president are out of the question,’ Cuban Ambassador to the United Nations Ernesto Soberón Guzmán told reporters last week. ‘No internal affairs of Cuba are on the table.’
Guzmán also informed reporters last month that Havana would not comply with any American ‘ultimatums’ regarding political prisoner releases and that Cuban leadership is ‘preparing for all scenarios’ should Trump follow through on intervention threats.
The White House did not immediately respond when asked about potential military action concerning Cuba.
Communication between the Trump administration and Cuba has intensified, including an earlier meeting this year in St. Kitts and Nevis between Rubio and Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, who reportedly holds substantial influence in Havana as the grandson of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro.
More recently, two high-ranking State Department officials — Jeremy Lewin, who oversees all American foreign assistance, and Michael Kozak, the senior U.S. diplomat for Latin America — headed a delegation to Havana on April 10 and met with Castro’s grandson, according to one federal official familiar with the encounters.
The senior State Department participants had not been previously disclosed. This marked the first U.S. government aircraft to land in Cuba outside of the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay since 2016, during former President Barack Obama’s period of improved relations with the island.
The meeting was described as ‘professional and cordial’ but failed to yield concrete outcomes, leaving American delegates doubtful that Cuban leadership would consider even minor reforms that might improve worsening humanitarian circumstances, the official stated.
American officials have frequently dismissed Cuban assertions that the U.S. trade embargo and, more recently, the Trump administration’s energy restrictions are causing the country’s difficulties.
However, Cuba’s problems have worsened following the energy restrictions, implemented after the U.S. removed Nicolás Maduro as Venezuela’s leader in January, eliminating Cuba’s primary energy source.
Cuban officials have condemned American dismissal of their grievances.
‘Traveling 4,500 miles to meet with the Pope, supposedly to request his good offices in delivering U.S. humanitarian assistance to the Cuban people through the Church, while at the same time claiming that the blockade does not exist, is a blatant insult to human intelligence,’ Guzmán said Thursday in a statement.
Storm chaser Ashton Lemley was navigating through the devastation of a Mississippi mobile home community when he detected the distinct cry of a small cat cutting through the early morning silence.
The residential area had been completely destroyed just hours before when severe weather systems generated no fewer than three tornadoes throughout southern Mississippi, leaving a dozen people hurt at the mobile home park in the small town of Bogue Chitto.
Though Lemley couldn’t pinpoint the kitten’s location, he remained committed to locating the animal. The crying suddenly ceased after several minutes, leaving Lemley worried about the kitten’s fate.
However, the meowing resumed five minutes afterward.
“I said, ‘Oh, he’s still alive!’” Lemley shared with The Associated Press on Thursday.
Lemley immediately began digging beneath insulation material from a destroyed wall until his flashlight illuminated the kitten — soaked, frightened and crouched between two wooden supports.
The rescue was recorded on video: “Oh my goodness, I found him!” he tells the camera. “Are you OK? Come here – it’s OK. … We’ll get you cleaned up, baby. Don’t you worry.”
After cradling the kitten briefly, Lemley transferred it to a United Cajun Navy commander, a volunteer emergency response organization member, who dried the animal and ensured its safety. Lemley was amazed the kitten showed no signs of harm.
“I’ve been in these situations so many times,” explained Lemley, who has pursued severe weather since 2010. “I don’t try to get overly emotional. But it is very heartbreaking to see any type of animal or human go through something like that.”
According to Lemley, numerous people have expressed interest in adopting the kitten should its original family not be found. Several potential adopters, he noted, want to call it Tornado.
The kitten won’t be joining Lemley’s household, however: he has a cat allergy.
A dairy operation based in Vernon Center, New York has issued a voluntary recall of their sour cream and onion flavored cheese curds after discovering potential salmonella contamination.
Stoltzfus Family Dairy announced the recall due to concerns that their cheese curd product may contain salmonella bacteria, which poses significant health dangers to vulnerable populations including infants, senior citizens, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Health officials warn that salmonella infections can lead to severe illness and in some cases may prove fatal, especially among high-risk groups. The contaminated dairy product was distributed from the company’s New York facility.
Consumers who have purchased the affected sour cream and onion cheese curds are advised to dispose of the product immediately and contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of foodborne illness.
For years, Dalene Basden has made it her mission to support struggling families in her community. The dedicated volunteer spends her days working with families who have special needs children, then heads to local soup kitchens to serve meals to those facing hardship.
But now, Basden finds herself confronting the same financial challenges she helps others navigate. Rising fuel costs and grocery store prices are making it increasingly difficult for her to balance her own budget while continuing her volunteer work.
The situation highlights how inflation and economic pressures are affecting even those who dedicate their time to community service. Basden’s experience reflects a growing trend where volunteers and community helpers are themselves feeling the squeeze from increased living expenses.
Despite her own financial concerns, Basden continues her volunteer efforts, demonstrating the commitment that has defined her decades of service to families and individuals in need throughout the community.
The relatives of Austin Tice, an American reporter who vanished in Syria more than ten years ago, now suspect he may have been transported to Iran after Bashar Assad’s government collapsed in 2024, according to his sister Naomi Tice.
Tice, a former Marine whose work appeared in The Washington Post and McClatchy publications, vanished at a Damascus-area checkpoint in August 2014 during his coverage of Syria’s civil war. Video footage released soon after showed armed individuals escorting him away.
According to Houston Public Media, Naomi Tice stated the family suspects Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps could have relocated him from Syria when Assad’s administration fell.
Naomi Tice explained that while Assad repeatedly denied detaining Austin Tice, certain Syrian detention centers operated under Iranian supervision. This arrangement could explain Assad’s denials if Iranian authorities managed facilities housing prisoners.
“With the regime change, we do think, at that point, Austin might have been brought over to Iran during that time,” Naomi Tice said. “Once again, this isn’t confirmed, but we have strong reason to believe that might be the case.”
Extensive searches following Assad’s downfall, including examinations of former Syrian government detention facilities, failed to locate Tice.
Earlier this year, The Media Line’s Rizik Alabi reported the discovery of human remains potentially belonging to Tice in a secluded section of Aleppo province in northern Syria.
Three sets of remains were reportedly found based on information from a former Islamic State operative allegedly connected to the abduction and murder of journalists and activists during Syria’s early conflict years.
Following DNA analysis in the United States, officials confirmed the remains did not match Austin Tice. FBI and Qatari search teams subsequently found additional remains thought to belong to Islamic State casualties, though Tice’s family disputed claims that his remains were discovered and continue asserting he remains alive.
The family is pressing the Trump administration to reach out to Iranian contacts and reports ongoing discussions with US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz about potential negotiations for Tice’s freedom.
They are also requesting President Trump to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to obtain information from Assad, who currently lives in Russian exile, regarding the journalist’s location.
The Tice family has additionally requested Israeli help concerning Khaled al-Halibi, a former Syrian brigadier general currently held in Austria facing war crimes charges. The New York Times publicly identified al-Halibi as a double agent connected to Israeli intelligence.
Jacob Tice, Austin’s brother, believes the FBI should interrogate al-Halibi to gather information that might help determine Austin’s condition or whereabouts.
Family members of Raphael Lemkin, the Polish Jewish scholar who created the word “genocide,” are calling on Pennsylvania state officials to examine a nonprofit organization that bears his name and has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
The controversy involves a Pennsylvania-based charitable organization called the Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention, which claims to focus on preventing mass atrocities and protecting human security. Those opposing the group argue it has exploited Lemkin’s reputation to give credibility to statements critical of Israel. The organization has dismissed these claims and characterized the effort against it as politically motivated.
According to initial reporting by The Algemeiner, Joseph Lemkin, a descendant of Raphael Lemkin, joined forces with the European Jewish Association to petition Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and the state’s Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. Their complaint seeks formal action under Pennsylvania’s charitable organization laws rather than simply voicing public opposition to the institute’s stance.
The Washington Free Beacon subsequently revealed that over 100 academics specializing in Holocaust and genocide studies endorsed a letter backing the Lemkin family’s concerns. These scholars contend that the organization’s appropriation of the Lemkin name misrepresents the heritage of a Holocaust survivor who supported Zionism and contributed to developing the Genocide Convention.
The institute made genocide accusations against Israel soon after the October 7, 2023 Hamas assault on Israel, during which militants murdered approximately 1,200 individuals and kidnapped over 250 others. Israeli officials have firmly rejected any genocide allegations, maintaining that their military operations in Gaza constitute legitimate self-defense against Hamas. Meanwhile, South Africa’s genocide lawsuit against Israel continues at the International Court of Justice, which has implemented temporary protective orders but has yet to issue a final determination.
Efforts to strip the organization of its federal tax-exempt standing would encounter significant legal obstacles. The Internal Revenue Service manages federal 501(c)(3) designations, while Pennsylvania’s charitable oversight bureau handles state registration requirements and fundraising regulations. Typically, advocacy work alone, even when highly controversial, does not result in the loss of nonprofit tax benefits.
Drivers using Route 10 in the Lebanon Road and Willow Grove Road area should plan for potential delays today due to ongoing landscaping activities.
Delaware Department of Transportation reports that mowing crews are working along the roadway near the intersection with S Bay Road. The maintenance operation is expected to wrap up by 1 PM this afternoon.
Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and consider alternate routes if possible to avoid delays.
Israel’s Education Minister Yoav Kisch has issued a stark warning to university administrators, demanding they eliminate political activities from their campuses or risk losing government funding through new legislation.
In a Wednesday announcement, Kisch outlined his expectations for university leadership to follow “three clear principles,” which include avoiding political position statements, maintaining continuous campus operations, and “clarifying that there is no place for strikes motivated by political reasons.”
The minister’s directive also seeks to ban political disruptions, campus shutdowns, and work stoppages at higher education institutions.
The Education Ministry defended the initiative, stating “the move is intended to prevent division, preserve the proper functioning of the institutions, and allow all faculty members and students to study, teach, research, and express opinions freely and responsibly.”
Kisch emphasized that higher education institutions should not function as venues for political activism and cautioned that lawmakers might pursue legislation against schools that refuse his demands.
“We are putting an end to the politicization of university presidents,” Kisch declared. “If they wish to promote a political agenda, they are welcome to resign from their positions and run in elections.”
“Academic institutions that enter the political arena — we will advance legislation that will deny them funding,” he continued.
The minister has gained backing from several legislators, including Avichay Buaron.
However, the Association of Heads of Research Universities has firmly rejected Kisch’s demands and criticized him for exploiting academic institutions for political gain.
“We will not allow the Education Minister to drag academia into his political survival battles,” the organization stated.
“It is deeply regrettable that at a time when higher education is fighting international boycotts, the minister chooses to weaken it from within in order to scrounge for votes in the primaries,” the association continued.
The university leaders’ group expressed shock at the minister’s statements, noting that Kisch “never approached us and no discussions were held with him on the matter.”
“To remove any doubt, the heads of higher education have never agreed to any harm to the independence of institutions of higher education,” their statement concluded.
Mysterious explosion-like sounds reported near Iran’s strategic Strait of Hormuz region have injected new complications into delicate US-Iran ceasefire negotiations currently underway.
Iranian news outlets reported hearing multiple blast-like noises Thursday evening near Bandar Abbas, a major port city, and Qeshm Island, both located close to the vital shipping corridor. The source of these sounds remains unclear, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
The timing is particularly sensitive as Iran continues evaluating a ceasefire proposal from the United States. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei confirmed that Tehran is still reviewing messages delivered through Pakistan, which has served as an intermediary between the two nations. “Iran has not yet reached a conclusion, and no response has been given to the US side,” Baghaei stated.
The peace initiative aims to end hostilities and restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, though major disagreements persist over Iran’s nuclear activities, American sanctions, maritime access rights, and Iran’s military presence across the region.
President Trump has characterized the negotiations as encouraging while maintaining both military and economic pressure on Iran. American naval forces continue blockading Iranian ports, and Washington is advancing a UN Security Council resolution alongside Bahrain that would impose additional penalties if Iran doesn’t cease ship attacks, stop placing mines in the strait, eliminate vessel tolls, and permit humanitarian shipments.
US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz met with Gulf state representatives at UN headquarters Thursday as the Security Council moved forward with the proposed resolution. Waltz criticized Iran’s newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority, saying it forces commercial ships to “check in and pay a bribe, pay a toll” for passage rights. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Qatar support the American-Bahraini initiative, though China and Russia are anticipated to oppose or block the measure.
European leadership is also becoming more involved in diplomatic efforts. Following discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Trump announced they were “completely united that Iran can never have a Nuclear Weapon,” explaining that “a regime that kills its own people cannot control a bomb that can kill millions.” Von der Leyen has advocated for any Iranian agreement to cover both nuclear and missile programs while guaranteeing safe passage through Hormuz waters.
The Strait of Hormuz continues serving as the central flashpoint in this standoff. Iran’s establishment of its Persian Gulf Strait Authority to oversee and tax vessels using the waterway has sparked international concerns about navigation freedom. Maritime companies, insurance providers, and energy markets remain uncertain whether Iran’s announced reopening means truly free passage or transit requiring Iranian approval and payment.
Regional powers are increasingly influencing this crisis alongside Washington and Tehran. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have reportedly removed restrictions on American military access to their facilities and airspace, representing a potential shift after earlier Gulf reluctance to become more deeply involved. This development, initially reported by The Wall Street Journal, would signal significant changes in regional military cooperation if verified, particularly as America seeks to maintain Iranian pressure while preventing broader Gulf warfare.
Saudi Arabia’s stance has proven especially delicate. Riyadh previously resisted American requests to utilize Saudi airspace and bases for “Project Freedom,” the proposed mission to escort commercial vessels through Hormuz. Saudi officials worried that an unclear maritime operation could transform Gulf nations from anxious observers into direct war participants against Iran.
The United Arab Emirates faces greater exposure to the conflict. Iranian strikes on UAE infrastructure and shipping have increased Abu Dhabi’s desire for restored secure navigation, while the eastern Fujairah port remains essential for Gulf commerce beyond Hormuz’s narrowest sections. The UAE has also expressed growing dissatisfaction with regional energy politics, including its reported withdrawal from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries during this crisis.
Bahrain is contributing diplomatically through the UN initiative regarding Hormuz. This involvement carries significance since Bahrain hosts major American naval facilities and has maintained close security partnerships with Washington. Bahrain’s participation in the draft resolution demonstrates how the maritime crisis has become a measure of whether Gulf states can convert their reliance on open shipping lanes into unified diplomatic pressure against Iran.
Israel remains connected to the broader conflict through both Iranian and Lebanese fronts. The current war started with American and Israeli attacks on Iran, followed by Iranian missile and drone strikes against Israel and Gulf Arab nations. While US-Iran ceasefire discussions continue, Israel has also targeted Hezbollah positions in Beirut and eastern Lebanon, reportedly eliminating a senior Hezbollah leader. This keeps Lebanon within the conflict’s sphere, despite formal negotiations occurring between Washington and Tehran.
Thursday evening’s explosion reports introduce additional uncertainty to an already complex situation. Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency documented multiple blast-like sounds near Bandar Abbas, with other Iranian sources describing similar noises on Qeshm Island near shipping channels. The cause remains undetermined, with no confirmed information about casualties, destruction, or responsibility.
These explosion reports require careful evaluation at this point. No verified evidence indicates whether they resulted from airstrikes, sabotage, air defense activity, naval operations, or industrial accidents. However, the location is significant. Bandar Abbas and Qeshm are positioned near Iran’s maritime infrastructure center, and any unexplained incidents there can disturb diplomatic progress, insurance markets, and shipping decisions.
The current situation represents managed instability rather than peace. Washington seeks Iranian reopening of Hormuz without acknowledging Iranian authority over the waterway. Tehran desires sanctions relief without abandoning its nuclear advantages. Gulf states want shipping restored while avoiding becoming targets themselves. Europe aims to prevent Iranian nuclear weapons development while protecting global energy supplies. Israel seeks Iranian weakening and Hezbollah containment. Lebanon remains susceptible to spillover effects from both conflicts. Currently, a ceasefire proposal awaits response, the strait remains restricted, regional players are reassessing positions, and the Gulf stands one unexplained explosion away from another dangerous escalation.
Government ministers in Israel are preparing to cast votes this Sunday on controversial legislation that would limit citizenship eligibility to those who undergo Orthodox Jewish conversions only, effectively overturning a significant 2021 Supreme Court decision that had acknowledged Reform and Conservative conversions under the nation’s Law of Return statute.
The legislation comes from Simcha Rothman, who serves as chairman of the Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee and represents the Religious Zionism party.
Under Rothman’s proposal, Jewish conversion would be narrowly defined as procedures carried out “in accordance with halakha,” which refers to traditional Jewish religious law.
Should the bill become law, it would nullify Reform and Conservative conversion ceremonies conducted within Israel when it comes to immigration and citizenship matters.
Rothman defended the legislation by stating it aims to restore “the principles established by the founders of the state” while preserving “the unity of the Jewish people” both within Israel and internationally.
The new proposal stands in direct opposition to the groundbreaking 2021 Supreme Court ruling, which determined that individuals who underwent non-Orthodox conversions within Israel should be acknowledged as Jewish under the Law of Return and thus qualify for Israeli citizenship.
Currently, Israel’s immigration policy accepts non-Orthodox conversions for Law of Return purposes, though the Orthodox-dominated Chief Rabbinate does not recognize these conversions for marriage and divorce proceedings.
The proposed changes are anticipated to strain relationships with Jewish communities beyond Israel’s borders, especially in North America, where Reform and Conservative movements hold significant influence in Jewish community affairs.
This legislative push follows a previous unsuccessful attempt last year by Avi Maoz from the Noam party, who tried to eliminate automatic immigration privileges for people with Jewish grandparents who don’t meet religious law criteria for Jewish identity.
Should the Ministerial Committee on Legislation give its approval to Rothman’s proposal, the bill would gain official government support as it moves forward through the Knesset’s legislative procedures.
Health officials in Argentina are conducting an investigation to determine if their nation served as the starting point for a deadly hantavirus outbreak that struck passengers aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship during an extended Atlantic Ocean journey.
The outbreak resulted in fatalities among passengers and led to the identification of at least eight suspected cases of the dangerous virus during the month-long voyage. Medical testing has verified two infections with the Andes strain of hantavirus, while three individuals required emergency medical evacuation from the ship this past Wednesday.
Investigators are working to pinpoint exactly where passengers may have been exposed to the virus. Officials are reviewing travel records and timelines to establish whether contact occurred prior to the ship’s April 1st departure from Argentina bound for Antarctica, during a port call at an isolated South Atlantic island, or while passengers were on the ship itself.
According to the World Health Organization, Argentina holds the distinction of having the globe’s highest rate of hantavirus infections. The disease transmits through exposure to contaminated rodent bodily fluids including saliva, urine, and droppings.
Data from Argentina’s Health Ministry shows 101 hantavirus cases have been documented since June 2025, representing approximately twice the number seen in the prior year.
The specific Andes strain discovered among MV Hondius passengers is capable of triggering hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a serious lung condition that frequently proves deadly.
Argentine medical experts believe environmental shifts may be playing a role in the virus’s expansion.
Infectious disease specialist Hugo Pizzi explained to the Associated Press: “Argentina has become more tropical because of climate change, and that has brought disruptions, like dengue and yellow fever, but also new tropical plants that produce seeds for mice to proliferate.”
“There is no doubt that as time goes by, the hantavirus is spreading more and more,” he said.
Medical authorities across several nations are actively tracking passengers and crew members linked to the disease outbreak.
The Netherlands has taken in three evacuated individuals for medical care, while Swiss health officials have confirmed a positive test result in a passenger who returned to their home country. Meanwhile, South Africa is providing intensive care treatment for a British patient.
Additional passengers are being monitored in isolation in Britain, the United States, and Singapore, with most showing no symptoms at this time. Dutch authorities are also conducting tests on a KLM airline crew member who may have been exposed through contact with a passenger who died last month in South Africa.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog conducted a groundbreaking diplomatic mission to Panama City on May 6, 2026, marking the first time an Israeli head of state has officially visited the Central American nation. During the historic trip, Herzog and Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino committed to deepening collaboration across multiple sectors including security, commerce, technology, agriculture, innovation, health, and water management.
The Israeli leader received an official welcome at the Presidential Palace, where he participated in both private discussions and expanded bilateral talks with Mulino aimed at enhancing strategic partnerships between their nations.
Following their discussions, Herzog expressed gratitude for Panama’s longstanding support of Israel and highlighted the strong relationship between the countries.
“We will never forget how Panama stood with the Jewish people at the dawn of our statehood, supporting the historic resolution on Israel’s establishment, and formalizing relations just weeks after our independence,” Herzog said.
The Israeli president also spoke about his country’s ongoing conflict with Iran-supported organizations following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
“Since the horrific massacre of October 7th, 2023, Israel has faced a multi-front war with Iran and its terror proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis,” Herzog said. “We did not seek this war. But we will defend our people.”
Herzog cautioned that Iran’s influence reaches far beyond Middle Eastern borders and recalled Hezbollah’s 1994 bombing attack in Panama.
“Latin America has felt the long arm of Iranian terror,” he said. “Right here on Panama’s soil, Hezbollah murdered 20 innocent civilians in a horrific terror attack in 1994.”
“The international community cannot turn a blind eye to the chaos that the Iranian regime seeks to spread throughout the world,” he added.
The Israeli leader also commended President Trump’s approach to addressing Iran’s nuclear program, describing it as “courageous and necessary.”
Mulino characterized Herzog’s trip as “a historic milestone in Israel-Panama relations” and noted that the partnership between their countries has developed over more than seven decades based on “trust, mutual respect, and cooperation.”
Prior to the presidential meetings, Herzog visited the Panama Canal with Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha Vásquez, where he learned about the waterway’s strategic significance and potential areas for cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and innovation.
While at the canal, Herzog drew comparisons between Panama’s role in maintaining global shipping lanes and the disruptions to maritime traffic occurring in the Middle East.
“This is a beautiful example of how to lead and enable freedom of navigation and maritime freedom, as opposed to what we see in the Straits of Bab al-Mandab in the Red Sea, or in the Strait of Hormuz in the Gulf,” Herzog said. “We must all stand up firmly against any blockage of maritime capability and movement around the world.”
Vásquez described the visit as “a very historic and symbolic visit” and expressed Panama’s desire to strengthen partnerships with Israel in commerce and innovation.
Before traveling to Costa Rica to attend President-elect Laura Fernández Delgado’s inauguration, Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog met with members of Panama’s Jewish community, including students and community leaders.
Speaking to Jewish students, Herzog emphasized the importance of community unity.
“Our unity means a lot,” he said. “Our enemies don’t differentiate between the way we practice Judaism, and Jews all over the world should have the full right to practice their Judaism without harassment, without fear.”
NEW YORK — New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby is dealing with a right hamstring strain but appears to have dodged a major injury after exiting during the final moments of Game 2 in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
According to a source familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on Thursday, Anunoby’s status for Friday’s Game 3 matchup in Philadelphia remains uncertain, with team officials listing him as questionable. The injury will be monitored on a day-to-day basis.
The source requested anonymity since no official team announcement had been made regarding Anunoby’s condition. ESPN initially broke the news of his injury status.
During Wednesday’s contest, Anunoby was delivering another solid performance when he appeared to injure his leg and signaled to be substituted out of the game. He departed for the locker room and never returned to the sideline as the Knicks secured a 108-102 win, extending their series advantage to 2-0.
The talented forward contributed 24 points in that victory and has been exceptional throughout the playoffs, posting averages of 21.4 points per game while connecting on an impressive 61.9% of his field goal attempts and 53.8% from beyond the three-point arc.
The 6-foot-7 Anunoby, who serves as New York’s premier defensive player, previously dealt with a hamstring issue during the second round two seasons ago when the Knicks held a 2-0 series lead against Indiana. That injury sidelined him for four consecutive games, and he managed only limited minutes in Game 7 as the Pacers mounted a comeback to eliminate New York from the playoffs.
NEW YORK (AP) — Wealthy individuals who purchase expensive second residences in New York City while maintaining their primary residence elsewhere will face a new property tax under a preliminary agreement announced as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s budget proposal Thursday.
The measure represents a compromise that falls short of Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s broader goal of implementing sweeping income tax increases on New York’s wealthiest residents — a campaign promise that helped propel him to office with supporters chanting demands to “tax the rich.”
This proposed levy on multi-million-dollar secondary residences, commonly called pied-à-terres, emerges as Democratic leaders attempt to balance voter concerns about cost of living with maintaining positive relationships with the business sector ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
Opposition has come from various quarters, including influential business figures, Republican officials, and centrist Democrats, who argue that imposing additional taxes on wealthy individuals who own apartments and homes in New York without claiming them as primary residences will simply drive the ultra-rich away from the city.
While specific details remain under development, Hochul indicated the tax would target properties exceeding $5 million in value. The policy would exclusively affect second homes within New York City limits, excluding other wealthy enclaves across the state such as the Hamptons on Long Island.
Governor Hochul projected the tax would generate a minimum of $500 million in annual revenue for the city.
Following the governor’s announcement, state legislative leaders cautioned that significant negotiations remained ahead. Democratic Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie emphasized that “There is no budget deal,” noting that crucial financial components of the budget still required resolution.
The New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, which counts Mamdani among its members, criticized the budget proposal through text messages to supporters, arguing it inadequately addresses the city’s multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall or provides sufficient funding for essential social programs.
“Hochul is trying to shove a deal down our throats with no new taxes on the rich besides the pied-a-terre tax, which only fills 10% of NYC’s deficit,” stated organization co-chair Gustavo Gordillo.
Governor Hochul, a Democrat seeking reelection, has rejected broader tax increases on wealthy residents, expressing concerns that such measures could prompt affluent individuals and businesses to relocate to states with lower tax burdens.
“We were able to accomplish this extraordinary budget, with all these accomplishments, without raising statewide taxes at all,” Hochul explained to reporters Thursday.
Mayor Mamdani has characterized the pied-a-terre tax as a political win while continuing to advocate — sometimes through personal appeals — for additional targeted tax increases on the extremely wealthy.
In a publicity move last month designed to generate enthusiasm for the new tax proposal, the mayor filmed himself outside a luxury building where billionaire hedge fund executive Ken Griffin acquired a penthouse for approximately $239 million.
“When I ran for mayor, I said I was going to tax the rich,” Mamdani declared in the video, which garnered over 52 million views on X, before specifically naming Griffin. “Well today, we’re taxing the rich.”
Griffin subsequently expressed alarm about the video, describing it as “frightening” and potentially compromising his personal security. He referenced the recent shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in the same area, allegedly by someone motivated by anger toward corporate greed. Griffin announced his company’s decision to expand operations in Miami.
“What the mayor of New York has made clear to my partners, and principally my New York partners, is we need to double down on our bet in Miami,” he commented at an economic conference in California this week. “Because we want to be in a state that embraces business.”
Flight data recently made public indicates that fuel was deliberately shut off to both engines of a China Eastern Airlines aircraft before it crashed into a mountain in 2022, claiming the lives of all 132 passengers and crew members.
The National Transportation Safety Board disclosed findings from the Boeing 737-800’s flight data recorder following a public records request. U.S. investigators joined the Chinese probe since American manufacturers built both the aircraft and its engines, with the NTSB recognized globally for its expertise in black box analysis following aviation disasters.
While aviation safety specialists concur that the information demonstrates both engines failed and someone forced the aircraft into a steep dive plus a complete 360-degree rotation, definitive conclusions remain elusive. China’s Civil Aviation Administration has not yet published its final investigation findings more than four years after the incident, despite international protocols recommending crash reports be completed within approximately one year.
The NTSB document bears a July 1, 2022 date and was made public on May 1, though media coverage only emerged this week.
John Cox, CEO of Safety Operating Systems, explained that Boeing 737 fuel controls are engineered to prevent accidental activation. “The levers lock into place, so it’s likely that someone deliberately moved them both to the cutoff position,” Cox stated. Operating these controls requires pulling them outward first to unlock them before movement is possible.
Recording ceased while the aircraft remained at 26,000 feet after the flight recorder and hydraulic systems lost power, but the preceding 12 minutes of data provide crucial insights into the sequence of events.
Though the cockpit voice recorder continued functioning on battery power, the NTSB has not released transcripts from those recordings, leaving that disclosure to Chinese authorities.
Former NTSB and Federal Aviation Administration crash investigator Jeff Guzzetti believes the flight information points to a cockpit confrontation and potential pilot suicide, similar to previous incidents including a 2015 Germanwings crash in the French Alps that killed everyone aboard.
“Typically when you want to roll an airplane, it’s a smooth movement of the control wheel in one direction. But here you have it moving back and forth, back and forth, as if someone is trying to counter the initial movement of the roll,” Guzzetti explained. “So it’s not conclusive, but it sure has the earmarks of a struggle in the cockpit.”
These revelations highlight ongoing aviation industry worries about pilot mental health support. Many aviators hesitate to seek psychological assistance due to fears of losing medical certification and being prohibited from flying. Recertification processes can extend for months without pay, while some nations ban pilots from using standard psychiatric medications like antidepressants.
“Clearly pilots — and very understandably so — are oftentimes reluctant to come forward, knowing that to get recertified after having gone through a mental health evaluation, it can be very arduous and very lengthy,” Cox noted.
Guzzetti referenced an Egypt Air co-pilot suspected of deliberately crashing his aircraft into the ocean near New York in 1999. More recently in 2023, an off-duty pilot who had consumed psychedelic mushrooms attempted to disable engines on a Horizon Air flight while occupying the cockpit jump seat.
The March 21, 2022 disaster occurred as the jet traveled from Kunming in southwestern China to Guangzhou near Hong Kong. The aircraft entered a steep descent from approximately 29,000 feet, briefly appeared to recover, then struck the mountainside. Impact created a 65-foot crater and ignited surrounding forest.
Flight crew members reported no difficulties before losing communication with air traffic controllers. Chinese investigators found no mechanical defects with the aircraft or crew issues, nor adverse weather conditions.
Cox confirmed the NTSB findings show no indication of aircraft malfunction.
The tragedy marked an unusual safety failure for China’s airline industry, which significantly enhanced its safety record following fatal accidents during the 1990s. China Eastern operates as one of four major government-owned carriers in the nation.
A handwritten message that Jeffrey Epstein’s former cellmate says he discovered following the financier’s initial suicide attempt in 2019 has now been released to the public through an unexpected legal avenue – not through Justice Department document releases, but via separate court proceedings.
Federal officials maintain they had no prior knowledge of the document’s existence.
“The note has not yet been authenticated, and this is the first time DOJ is seeing it as well,” the department stated Thursday when questioned about why the document wasn’t included in the extensive Epstein file releases.
Nicholas Tartaglione reported finding the handwritten message inside a book following the incident where the convicted sex offender was discovered in their shared Manhattan federal detention facility cell with bedsheet material wrapped around his neck. Following this event, Epstein was relocated to different housing, where he would later be found deceased several weeks afterward in what was ruled a suicide.
Tartaglione, a former law enforcement officer who was then facing homicide charges, explained he turned the note over to his legal team as protection against potential accusations that he had injured Epstein during their time as cellmates. At the time, Epstein was being held while awaiting trial on sex trafficking allegations.
The document had been stored in a federal court vault in New York since 2021. It became entangled in legal disputes between Tartaglione and his attorneys regarding their representation in his murder case. All materials related to this conflict were kept confidential by judicial order due to attorney-client privilege protections.
Tartaglione, a former suburban New York police officer who later became involved in drug trafficking, received a conviction in April 2023 for strangling one victim and executing three others. He claimed to have found the note while reading in his detention cell.
The New York Times filed a petition with U.S. District Judge Kenneth Karas requesting the note’s release, pointing out that Tartaglione, now serving life imprisonment, had discussed it publicly. The judge granted the request Wednesday, stating that Epstein’s privacy concerns regarding the note had been “vastly reduced” following his death.
“They investigated me for month — found nothing!!!” reads the brief message, which contains some illegible portions and remains unverified. “It is a treat to be able to choose” the “time to say goodbye,” the note continues. “Watcha want me to do — Bust out cryin!!
“NO FUN. NOT WORTH IT!!” the message concludes.
Detention facility records indicate Epstein sustained friction marks and neck irritation from the suspected July 23, 2019, suicide attempt. Correctional officers reported he was breathing laboriously but remained conscious. Epstein initially told guards that Tartaglione had assaulted him, but subsequently withdrew this claim.
Following the incident, jail administrators placed Epstein under suicide watch for 31 hours before reducing his status to psychiatric observation, which remained his classification when he took his own life on August 10, 2019.
The Justice Department raised no objections to making the note public. Deputy U.S. Attorney Sean Buckley informed the judge that the public had legitimate interest in understanding the circumstances of Epstein’s death.
Buckley also explained that while two Justice Department attorneys participated in the 2021 proceedings between Tartaglione and his legal counsel, the judge prohibited them from sharing any information from those sessions to preserve attorney-client privilege. Therefore, even if they had viewed the note, they were legally prevented from disclosing its existence.
MINNEAPOLIS — A Minnesota resident who attacked Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar by dousing her with vinegar during a public meeting entered a guilty plea Thursday in federal court following negotiations with prosecutors.
Anthony Kazmierczak, 55, now faces sentencing after admitting to the assault charge.
Appearing in court wearing bright orange detention attire, Kazmierczak offered only limited details Thursday about the January 27th incident, which occurred during heightened tensions in Minneapolis following deadly encounters between federal agents and civilians during an immigration enforcement operation that brought thousands of officers to Minnesota.
When asked by U.S. District Judge Joan N. Ericksen to describe his recollection of the attack, Kazmierczak responded: “It’s fuzzy.”
During Omar’s January public forum, Kazmierczak suddenly stood up from his seat in the audience when the congresswoman demanded the removal of then-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Court records indicate he discharged liquid from a syringe while yelling that Noem would remain in her position and accusing Omar of “splitting Minnesota apart.”
Security personnel immediately subdued Kazmierczak, who informed them the substance was vinegar.
“I didn’t want anybody to think she was in danger,” he stated Thursday.
Omar sustained no injuries and proceeded with the town hall following Kazmierczak’s detention.
Investigation revealed he had sprayed her with a combination of water and apple cider vinegar. Federal prosecutors charged him with assaulting a government official.
Legal filings reveal that Kazmierczak, who opposed Omar politically and posted content supporting President Donald Trump online, previously told an acquaintance years earlier that “somebody should kill” her.
Omar, who came to the United States as a Somali refugee, has frequently been targeted by Trump’s anti-immigration messaging. Following her election seven years ago, Trump suggested she should “go back” to Somalia. He has called her “garbage” and demanded investigations into her conduct.
Trump has additionally claimed Omar orchestrated the attack herself, telling ABC News, “She probably had herself sprayed, knowing her.”
During Thursday’s proceedings, Kazmierczak informed Judge Ericksen that he receives treatment for Parkinson’s disease and has been diagnosed with ADHD and a type of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Following his detention, his former legal counsel indicated he lacked access to necessary medications for Parkinson’s and other serious medical conditions.
Minnesota court files show Kazmierczak was found guilty of felony vehicle theft in 1989 and has faced multiple drunk driving arrests along with numerous traffic violations. Records also suggest he has experienced substantial financial difficulties, including two bankruptcy proceedings.
In online posts, Kazmierczak had attacked former President Joe Biden and labeled Democrats as “angry and liars.” He wrote that Trump seeks to make America “stronger and more prosperous.”
Congressional security data shows threats against lawmakers have risen in recent years, reaching a high point in 2021 after the January 6 Capitol riot by Trump supporters, then declining briefly before increasing again.
A Triple-A baseball manager for the Detroit Tigers organization has been dismissed from his position after acknowledging he sent an inappropriate text message to a female coworker.
Detroit’s front office announced on Tuesday that Gabe Alvarez was terminated due to what officials described as a “violation of club policy,” though they declined to provide specific details about the infraction.
Speaking to ESPN on Wednesday, Alvarez explained that he had sent “a single text message to a colleague that I intended as a lighthearted joke.”
“Shortly after sending it, I recognized that the message was inappropriate and did not reflect the values and judgment I strive to uphold, and I immediately reached out to clarify my intent,” Alvarez stated.
“I never intended to cause discomfort or offense, and I regret that the message created this situation. This was an isolated incident and not reflective of my long-standing record of professionalism, respect for colleagues, and conduct over the course of my career.”
The 52-year-old Alvarez spent portions of three major league seasons playing third base for Detroit and the San Diego Padres before transitioning to coaching at USC. Detroit brought him aboard as a minor league hitting coordinator in 2021, where he managed Double-A Erie starting in 2022 before his recent promotion to oversee Triple-A Toledo in 2025.
This dismissal comes amid broader concerns within the Tigers organization regarding workplace conduct. Last September, The Athletic published findings showing that Detroit had at least eight staff members facing allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women during a two-year period. That investigation spanned from April 2025 and involved interviews with 45 current and former personnel, plus examination of emails, HR files, text communications and legal documents.
According to the report, six of the eight men allegedly involved in harassment and abuse were either fired or not offered contract renewals, while another received a suspension following The Athletic’s inquiry about the accusations.
At the time, the organization released a statement emphasizing its “commitment to a culture of respect, safety, and inclusion.”
With Alvarez’s departure, hitting coach Mike Hessman has stepped into the interim manager role. Speaking to media in Toledo on Tuesday, Hessman indicated the team’s focus remains on baseball despite the recent upheaval.
“There will be questions, we don’t have a lot of answers,” Hessman remarked. “Main message is getting back to baseball. Things happen throughout a season. … One hurdle we’ll jump over.”
Following a challenging period for government employees nationwide, a group of United States Department of Agriculture scientists has received recognition with the prestigious Service to America medal. The research team’s multi-decade efforts have fundamentally transformed dairy farming operations.
The award comes during what has been described as a difficult time for those working in federal agencies across the country. Despite these challenges, the USDA team’s commitment to agricultural innovation has continued to drive significant advances in the dairy sector.
The Service to America medal represents one of the highest honors available to federal employees, recognizing exceptional contributions to public service and national welfare.
For years, Dalene Basden has dedicated her life to supporting those who struggle financially. However, escalating fuel and food costs are now putting financial pressure on Basden herself.
Basden works full-time assisting families who have children with special needs, then volunteers her time at a community soup kitchen. Despite her commitment to helping others, the current economic climate has made it increasingly difficult for her to manage her own household expenses.
The rising prices at gas stations and grocery stores have created a challenging situation for someone who has made serving others her life’s mission. Basden represents many community volunteers and social workers who find themselves caught between their dedication to helping others and their own financial struggles.
NEWARK, Del. – Delaware’s ice hockey team has landed another transfer player to bolster its roster for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign. Head coach Allison Coomey revealed Thursday that defenseman Shea Frost will be joining the Blue Hens program.
The Andover, Massachusetts native brings substantial collegiate experience to Newark, having competed for four seasons with the Boston College Eagles. Frost represents the second transfer acquisition for Delaware’s hockey program within the current month.
The addition of Frost continues the Blue Hens’ efforts to strengthen their defensive corps as they prepare for the 2026-27 ice hockey season under Coomey’s leadership.
The University of Delaware baseball squad is preparing for a road trip to Texas this weekend as they face Sam Houston State University in a Conference USA series.
The Blue Hens will take on the Bearkats in what promises to be an important conference matchup for both teams. This weekend series continues Delaware’s participation in Conference USA competition.
The games will be played at Sam Houston State University’s home facility as part of the regular conference schedule. Further details about game times and broadcast information are expected to be announced.
NEW YORK — The New York Yankees dominated the Texas Rangers with a 9-2 victory on Thursday, extending their impressive streak to 16 victories in their last 19 contests, though the win came at a cost when outfielder Jasson Domínguez sustained an injury.
Domínguez was carted off the field after colliding with the outfield wall while making a catch on Brandon Nimmo’s fly ball to start the game. Following the contest, team officials announced that Domínguez suffered a minor AC joint sprain in his left shoulder and will be placed on the injured list. Initial concussion evaluations came back negative.
Trent Grisham delivered the decisive blow with a three-run double during a decisive six-run rally in the sixth inning, helping the American League-leading Yankees capture their sixth consecutive series victory while the Rangers dropped their seventh game in their past 10 outings.
The Yankees faced an early challenge when scheduled starter Ryan Weathers was ruled out due to illness. Paul Blackburn took the mound for the opening frame, while 27-year-old right-handed pitcher Brendan Beck made his major league debut, surrendering two runs on two hits and three walks across three-plus innings.
Brent Headrick earned his third victory of the season by throwing 1 1/3 scoreless innings without allowing a hit. Both Grisham and Cody Bellinger collected three hits apiece in the offensive showcase.
Max Schuemann made his season debut at shortstop and recorded his first Yankees hit and RBI with a double in the seventh frame.
Texas right fielder Joc Pederson, making his first outfield appearance since 2023, contributed to the Yankees achieving a rare feat – recording two triples in the opening inning for the first time since Carlos Beltrán and Chase Headley accomplished it on April 22, 2015.
The Rangers struggled with difficult sun conditions throughout the afternoon, mishandling four separate plays. Pederson and center fielder Evan Carter both pursued Paul Goldschmidt’s opening drive off MacKenzie Gore (2-3), allowing the ball to carom into center field for a triple. Pederson later attempted a diving backhand catch on Bellinger’s liner, but the ball bounced to the wall as Goldschmidt crossed home plate.
Additional defensive miscues plagued Texas when Grisham’s fourth-inning popup landed on the infield grass in front of shortstop Corey Seager after third baseman Josh Jung retreated. Later, following Bellinger’s sixth-inning walk, left fielder Alejandro Osuna initially broke backward on Amed Rosario’s routine fly ball and couldn’t adjust as it dropped for a single.
After Ryan McMahon drew a walk, Grisham connected on an opposite-field double that reached the left-center wall, giving the Yankees a 4-2 advantage. J.C. Escarra, Aaron Judge, and Bellinger then delivered consecutive RBI singles against the Rangers’ relief pitching.
Ezequiel Durán provided Texas with two RBIs, highlighted by a third-inning home run. Rangers right-hander Peyton Gray exited the game after taking a line drive from McMahon off his pitching hand in the eighth inning.
Looking ahead, the Rangers will send RHP Kumar Rocker (1-3, 4.71) to the mound Friday night at home against the Chicago Cubs, while the Yankees will start LHP Max Fried (4-1, 2.39) in Friday night’s series opener at Milwaukee against RHP Jacob Misiorowski (2-2, 2.84).
Drivers using Old Mill Bridge Road are experiencing traffic delays this evening as construction crews work along a busy stretch of the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that flaggers are managing traffic flow between Waters Run and County Lane, where lanes are being temporarily closed as work progresses. The construction activity is expected to wrap up by 8 PM tonight.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when approaching the work zone. Drivers should follow the directions of flagging personnel and maintain reduced speeds through the construction area.
Escalating fuel costs are creating financial pressure for the overwhelming majority of American families, according to recent findings. The burden of higher prices at the pump is stretching household budgets across the nation.
The economic strain is reaching even those whose careers involve supporting families in need. One social services worker shared how the mounting costs are now impacting her own financial situation, despite her role in helping others navigate similar challenges.
State authorities in New Mexico have revived a criminal probe and established a legislative panel to examine abuse allegations connected to Jeffrey Epstein’s massive ranch property.
The renewed investigation focuses on the sprawling 10,000-acre estate once owned by the disgraced financier. Officials have simultaneously created a legislative committee dedicated to reviewing the claims of misconduct at the remote property.
The dual approach represents a significant development in ongoing efforts to investigate activities that may have occurred at Epstein’s various properties before his death in federal custody.
New Castle County Police continue their investigation into a fatal shooting that claimed the life of a 46-year-old man more than a decade ago in Newark.
Ruben Maldonado was killed on May 7, 2013, at the Cedar Wood Apartments located at 758 Christiana Road. Police officers arrived at the scene around 11:14 p.m. that Tuesday evening after receiving reports of gunfire in the apartment complex.
When officers reached the location, they found Maldonado, who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Despite years of investigation, the case remains unsolved and is classified as a cold case homicide.
The New Castle County Police Department continues to seek information from the public that could help solve this case. Anyone with knowledge about the circumstances surrounding Maldonado’s death is encouraged to contact investigators.
This case represents one of several unsolved homicides that local law enforcement continues to actively investigate, hoping that new information or advances in investigative techniques might provide the breakthrough needed to bring closure to the victim’s family.
Federal courts are currently reviewing cases that could eliminate telemedicine options for obtaining mifepristone, a key medication in abortion procedures that involves two different pills.
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans is among the judicial bodies examining this issue, with recent developments occurring this week that could shape future access to the medication.
The legal proceedings focus specifically on whether patients should continue having the ability to receive mifepristone prescriptions through remote medical consultations rather than requiring in-person visits.
These court decisions could have widespread implications for how reproductive healthcare is delivered across the United States, particularly affecting patients in areas with limited access to medical facilities.
The ongoing litigation represents part of broader legal challenges surrounding reproductive healthcare access and the role of telemedicine in modern medical practice.
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman carries himself with quiet confidence despite leading a university during turbulent times. As president of Yeshiva University for nearly nine years, he has navigated rising antisemitism, campus unrest, and the rapid emergence of artificial intelligence with what he describes as an opportunity-focused mindset.
“We were made for this moment,” Berman states, reflecting on challenges ranging from COVID-19 to the aftermath of October 7th attacks.
While acknowledging he couldn’t have foreseen many recent crises, Berman maintains his approach remains consistent. “My approach to all of the changes and challenges of these past years is where can you find the opportunity?” he explains.
The university leader takes firm positions on controversial topics, particularly regarding anti-Israel sentiment on campuses. “Anti-Zionism is definitely antisemitism,” he declares, arguing that singling out Israel’s right to exist while accepting other religious states represents clear discrimination.
Following October 7th, Berman organized university leaders nationwide, creating what he calls “a coalition of universities united against terrorism.” More than 100 institutions joined the effort, which he views as crucial when some universities remained silent during the crisis.
The campus climate has significantly impacted student enrollment patterns. Berman reports “a sharp increase in transfer students” and notes that early decision applications have surged “over 70% over the past two years.” These represent top-tier students who previously would have chosen Ivy League institutions.
Faculty recruitment has also shifted dramatically. “It’s a story that’s not yet being told,” Berman observes, describing how professors are leaving prestigious institutions for Yeshiva University. Recent additions include the former mathematics department chair from Rutgers, a former electrical engineering chair from Cooper Union, and a computer science professor from MIT.
These faculty moves coincide with YU’s aggressive expansion into technology fields. The university recently launched an engineering program supported by major donations and is positioning itself at the forefront of AI research, particularly in healthcare applications.
For Berman, artificial intelligence represents both opportunity and moral challenge. Students must learn to utilize AI “positively and ethically with values,” he emphasizes. “AI itself is obviously morally neutral. The question is how it’s deployed, and what are the policies, and what are the innovations that we’re going to afford.”
He expresses particular concern about AI’s role in spreading misinformation. “This is going to be the key issue of the age,” he warns, describing the challenge as learning to distinguish truth from falsehood while ensuring ethical values shape AI development. “The good AI must learn to beat the bad AI.”
Berman’s commitment to ethical AI development led him to Hiroshima, where he signed the Rome Call of AI and Ethics alongside religious leaders from multiple faiths. A memorable exchange with a Buddhist monk about whether there’s “a Buddha in AI” highlighted the complexity of these discussions.
“You have to be in the leadership. You have to have a seat at the table in terms of how it’s unfolding right now,” Berman insists. YU now participates in a consortium with Brigham Young University and Notre Dame focused on faith perspectives in AI development.
Beyond technology, Berman emphasizes building positive narratives about Jewish communities. He argues that media focus on antisemitism overshadows what he terms “pro-semitism” – widespread support for Jewish traditions and Israel from diverse religious communities.
This philosophy has expanded YU’s international reach, including partnerships with Christian universities in South Korea where Jewish texts are taught in Korean. Berman sees AI as enabling broader educational access across language barriers.
The university president views tradition as providing stability rather than hindering progress. Using a rabbinic metaphor, he explains: “a tree without roots easily breaks in torrential winds. But a tree with roots can withstand times of great turmoil and instability.”
This balance between tradition and innovation extends to addressing parental concerns about digital-age child-rearing. Citing conversations with researcher Jonathan Haidt, Berman argues that faith communities create protective “bubbles” that filter harmful influences while embracing beneficial technological advances.
Looking ahead, Berman anticipates expanded international partnerships, particularly following the Abraham Accords, and continued growth in research capabilities. His vision extends beyond institutional success to broader societal impact.
“We’re looking to build a better world for all,” he concludes, positioning Yeshiva University not merely as an educational institution but as a model for combining ancient wisdom with future-focused innovation.
President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to the European Union, demanding the 27-nation alliance finalize last year’s trade agreement by July 4 or face increased tariff rates on their goods entering the United States.
The president’s Thursday social media declaration appears to extend a previous deadline after Trump announced last Friday that European automobiles would be subject to a 25% tariff beginning this week. The president has expressed frustration that the European Parliament has not yet completed the trade framework negotiated in the previous year. The situation became more complex in February when the Supreme Court determined Trump did not have legal authority to declare an economic emergency for imposing the original tariffs that pressured the EU into negotiations.
In related economic news, Americans with lower incomes are bearing the brunt of rising fuel costs following the Iran conflict, according to new research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York released Wednesday. Despite significantly cutting back on gas purchases, these households still face higher expenses at gas stations, exacerbating economic disparities.
Wealthy Americans, conversely, increased their fuel spending while making minimal reductions to consumption patterns. Middle-class families experienced impacts somewhere between these extremes. Economists describe this phenomenon as contributing to the “K-shaped economy.”
AAA data shows regular gasoline prices have increased 31 cents over the past week, reaching an average of $4.54 per gallon Wednesday. This represents a 52% increase from pre-war levels. The primary driver of higher prices is oil tankers stranded near the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict.
Oil prices dropped below $100 per barrel Wednesday amid renewed optimism for a peace agreement. While this could eventually reduce gas prices, energy analysts predict it will take several months for costs to return to pre-conflict levels.
The economic pressures are affecting major corporations as well. McDonald’s reported stronger-than-anticipated first-quarter sales but warned that elevated fuel costs and consumer concerns could impact spring sales. Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski noted progress in attracting lower-income customers through value meals and promotional pricing, while acknowledging gas prices will disproportionately affect this demographic.
The fast-food giant’s global same-store sales increased 3.8% during January through March, exceeding Wall Street projections. However, April saw declining same-store sales. Revenue climbed 9% to $6.52 billion in the first quarter, also surpassing analyst expectations.
Appliance manufacturer Whirlpool is also feeling economic strain, with the Iran conflict creating what the company calls a “recession-level industry decline” in America as consumer confidence plummeted in late February and March. The maker of KitchenAid, Maytag and Whirlpool brands has raised prices to stabilize its North American operations as Americans postpone major purchases. Revenue fell nearly 10% as major appliance sales in North America dropped more than 7%.
Despite broader economic challenges, the U.S. job market remains relatively stable. Weekly unemployment claims rose by 10,000 to 200,000 for the week ending May 2, according to Thursday’s Labor Department report. This figure came in below the 205,000 new applications economists had predicted and remains at historically low levels despite inflation and other economic pressures.
The previous week’s claims, representing the lowest figure since 1969, were adjusted upward by 1,000 to 190,000. Total Americans receiving unemployment benefits for the week ending April 25 decreased by 10,000 to 1.77 million.
College basketball’s biggest tournament is getting bigger. The NCAA revealed that March Madness will feature 76 teams in both men’s and women’s brackets beginning next season, adding eight additional spots to each tournament.
The expanded format will include 12 preliminary games featuring 24 teams during the opening week, with victorious squads advancing to join the traditional 64-team field. Men’s games will begin on Thursday, while women’s competition starts Friday. Officials expect most of the additional berths to benefit major conference programs.
In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid is making a desperate appeal to 76ers supporters not to sell their playoff seats to New York Knicks fans. With the Knicks holding a commanding 2-0 series advantage, Games 3 and 4 will take place in Philadelphia on Friday and Sunday.
The 2023 NBA MVP missed the second game due to injury concerns, leaving his team in a precarious position. Despite Philadelphia’s attempts to restrict ticket sales to area residents using geographic restrictions, secondary market platforms continue to make seats available to visiting fans. The true test of this strategy will be visible in the arena’s crowd composition Friday evening.
New York Yankees outfielder Jasson Domínguez suffered a left shoulder sprain during Thursday’s contest against Texas after colliding with the outfield wall while making a spectacular catch on Brandon Nimmo’s first-inning line drive. The team confirmed Domínguez sustained a minor AC joint sprain and will be placed on the injured list, though concussion evaluations came back clear.
Playing left field for just his second appearance this season, Domínguez sprinted 81 feet to snare Nimmo’s 101 mph blast, making the grab 375 feet from home plate before his shoulder struck the video board. The impact sent him tumbling to the warning track, prompting manager Aaron Boone and trainer Tim Lentych to rush onto the field.
Despite the injury concern, New York dominated the Rangers 9-2, with Trent Grisham delivering a crucial three-run double during a six-run sixth inning rally. The victory marked the Yankees’ 16th win in their last 19 games and extended their winning streak to six consecutive series.
Soccer’s upcoming World Cup faces potential star power shortages as injuries pile up just five weeks before kickoff. French superstar Kylian Mbappe is currently dealing with a hamstring problem, while Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal and Brazilian talent Estevao are both sidelined for the remainder of their club seasons.
While Mbappe is anticipated to return for Real Madrid this month with no indication the injury threatens his World Cup participation, any setback to France’s premier player raises concerns. Yamal, recovering from a leg muscle strain, is also expected to make Spain’s roster for his debut World Cup appearance.
Tennis players are escalating their fight for increased prize money at major tournaments, with world number one Jannik Sinner joining calls for better compensation at the French Open and beyond. Fellow top-ranked player Aryna Sabalenka suggested earlier this week that athletes might consider boycotting tournaments.
“It’s more about respect. Because I think we give much more than what we are getting back,” Sinner explained, though he stopped short of committing to a boycott. “I think in the next couple of weeks we know also the prize money we’re going to have in Wimbledon. We truly hope that it’s going to be better. Then, of course, U.S. Open.”
The WNBA’s groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement is establishing new benchmarks for women’s professional sports, providing a template for emerging leagues including the WPBL, PWHL and WER. The historic deal features revenue sharing arrangements, significant salary cap increases, and enhanced travel and healthcare benefits.
These improvements reflect years of player activism and the league’s growing commercial success. Leaders of newer women’s leagues are closely examining these achievements, particularly how player solidarity drove meaningful change, though they acknowledge that differences in funding and organizational maturity mean similar progress will require time and sustained investment.
Detroit Tigers Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez revealed he was terminated this week following what he described as sending an “inappropriate” text message to a female coworker. While the Tigers announced Tuesday that Alvarez was dismissed for violating team policy without providing specifics, the 52-year-old told ESPN he sent “a single text message to a colleague that I intended as a lighthearted joke.”
Alvarez, who played three major league seasons with Detroit and San Diego, joined the Tigers organization as a minor league hitting coordinator in 2021 before managing Double-A Erie in 2022 and earning promotion to Triple-A Toledo this season.
New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby has been diagnosed with a strained right hamstring and is listed as questionable for Friday’s Game 3 in Philadelphia, according to a source familiar with the situation. The injury appears minor, with Anunoby considered day-to-day after leaving late in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Chicago Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd underwent surgery to repair a partial meniscus tear in his left knee that occurred while playing with his children on Wednesday. Manager Craig Counsell expects the 35-year-old left-hander to miss approximately six weeks, adding to an injured list that already includes starters Cade Horton, Justin Steele and Jordan Wicks.
MILFORD — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer made a special trip to Milford today to honor National Small Business Week, touring two locally-owned establishments and putting his signature on a pair of executive orders designed to boost opportunities for small and minority-owned enterprises statewide.
During his visit, Meyer emphasized the critical role these businesses play in Delaware’s economic landscape. “Small businesses are the life blood of the economy. At a time when small businesses are getting squeezed, this” action demonstrates the state’s commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs, the governor noted.
The two executive orders signed during the Milford visit are specifically crafted to expand access and create new pathways for small and diverse business owners across Delaware. The timing of the announcement coincides with the national recognition week dedicated to celebrating the contributions of small business owners.
Meyer’s choice to visit Milford businesses for this announcement underscores the administration’s focus on supporting local entrepreneurs throughout Delaware’s communities.
Health authorities worldwide are working to track down cruise ship passengers who may have been exposed to a deadly hantavirus outbreak that has claimed three lives, though officials remain confident the situation won’t develop into a widespread epidemic.
The virus typically doesn’t transmit easily from person to person, but health officials in multiple countries are conducting thorough contact tracing to locate and monitor individuals who may have encountered infected passengers.
Hantaviruses typically infect people when they breathe in contaminated particles from rodent waste. While human infections are uncommon, small clusters of cases have occurred globally. However, the Andes virus involved in this cruise ship incident might have the unusual ability to pass between people in certain circumstances, and viruses have the potential to evolve.
Researchers are racing to understand more about this particular virus, including whether genetic changes have occurred and the exact mechanisms of transmission.
Contact tracing aims to notify potentially exposed individuals, monitor them for developing symptoms, and stop further transmission to others.
The tracking process presents challenges because people naturally interact socially, move around frequently, spend time in busy locations, and travel extensively.
During this cruise ship incident, less than twelve individuals are believed to have developed symptoms, with only five confirmed infections, though many more passengers may have encountered the virus.
Approximately 140 passengers continue aboard the vessel as it travels toward the Canary Islands for disembarkation, with no reported illnesses among this group.
However, officials are attempting to locate dozens of passengers who departed the ship roughly two weeks after an initial death occurred, but before authorities identified hantavirus as the cause. These individuals came from at least twelve nations, including multiple U.S. states such as Arizona, California, Georgia, and Texas, according to disease specialists and state health departments.
Officials from St. Helena, the isolated volcanic British territory in the South Atlantic where passengers disembarked, reported they are observing a small group of individuals classified as “higher-risk contacts.” These people have been instructed to remain isolated for 45 days, the St. Helena government announced.
British health authorities report that two former ship passengers who flew home during the voyage are self-isolating without symptoms. The U.K. Health Security Agency stated that “a small number” of people who contacted these two individuals are also self-isolating but remain symptom-free.
Singapore health officials said they are observing two men who left the ship at St. Helena, traveled to South Africa, then returned home. These men, who arrived in Singapore at separate times, were undergoing hantavirus testing and quarantined at the nation’s National Center for Infectious Diseases, authorities reported.
The U.S. government has shared limited information regarding its contact tracing efforts.
Texas health officials announced Thursday that public health workers successfully contacted two people who departed the ship on April 24. These individuals report no symptoms and had no contact with sick passengers during the voyage. They agreed to conduct daily temperature monitoring and contact health officials if any signs of illness appear, authorities stated.
Two Canadian passengers who disembarked are currently in Ontario and have been instructed to self-isolate since returning home, according to the province’s health minister.
Beyond tracking individuals, scientists are also working to comprehend the pathogen itself. The Andes virus, part of the hantavirus group found in South America, may be among the uncommon hantaviruses capable of human-to-human transmission. Argentine officials suspect the initial cases may have originated during a birdwatching expedition in the southern city of Ushuaia.
Argentina’s Health Ministry has not yet deployed the team, but researchers from the government-funded Malbrán Institute planned to visit Ushuaia “in the coming days,” the ministry informed The Associated Press.
Scientists are examining the virus’s genetic makeup to determine if mutations have made it more easily transmissible.
They are also investigating the precise transmission methods, explained Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, chief executive officer of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Researchers believe people are primarily contagious when showing symptoms, and if the virus spreads between people, it may transmit through tiny droplets expelled when infected individuals speak, cough, or sneeze.
WASHINGTON — Federal officials have launched a new enforcement initiative targeting parents who have fallen behind on child support payments by canceling their U.S. passports.
State Department officials announced Thursday that the passport cancellations would commence Friday, initially targeting individuals who owe $100,000 or more in unpaid support. Data from the Department of Health and Human Services indicates approximately 2,700 American passport holders fall into this category.
The enforcement action, which was initially disclosed by the Associated Press in February, will soon broaden significantly to include parents owing more than $2,500 in delinquent child support payments — a threshold established by a rarely enforced 1996 federal statute.
Officials could not specify Thursday how many passport holders owe amounts exceeding $2,500, as Health and Human Services continues gathering information from state agencies that monitor these figures. However, authorities suggest the number could reach into the tens of thousands.
Previously, only individuals seeking passport renewals faced this penalty. Under the updated enforcement approach, HHS will notify the State Department about all overdue payments exceeding $2,500, leading to passport revocation for affected parents.
“We are expanding a commonsense practice that has been proven effective at getting those who owe child support to pay their debt,” stated Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar. “Once these parents resolve their debts, they can once again enjoy the privilege of a U.S. passport.”
Following the Associated Press report on the program’s expansion in February, department officials noted that “hundreds of parents took action and resolved their arrears with state authorities since news broke that the State Department would start proactively revoking passports.”
“While we can’t confirm the causation in all of those cases, we are taking this action precisely to impel these parents to do the right thing by their children and by U.S. law,” the department explained.
Prior to this expansion, officials described the program as a “powerful tool” for compelling payment compliance. Since its implementation in 1998, states have recovered approximately $657 million in overdue support, including more than $156 million through over 24,000 individual lump-sum payments during the past five years.
Parents whose passports are canceled will receive notification that their travel documents are no longer valid and must apply for new passports after confirming payment of their outstanding obligations.
Passport holders currently overseas when their documents are revoked must visit a U.S. embassy or consulate to secure emergency travel documentation for their return to the United States.
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A jury in Ohio has convicted a former Franklin County sheriff’s deputy of reckless homicide Thursday in the fatal shooting of Casey Goodson Jr., a Black man who was carrying sandwiches to his grandmother’s home when he was killed in December 2020.
Jason Meade, who is white, was acquitted of the more serious murder charge after jurors indicated they could not reach a unanimous decision on that count, leading the judge to declare a mistrial on the murder charge.
The 47-year-old former deputy, who also serves as a Baptist minister, claimed his actions were justified when he shot the 23-year-old Goodson six times — five bullets striking him in the back and one in the side. Meade maintained he witnessed Goodson holding a firearm and turning toward him in the doorway of the Columbus residence. However, no other witnesses corroborated seeing Goodson with the weapon he was legally permitted to carry, and no video footage captured the incident.
This conviction marks Meade’s second trial, following a hung jury that resulted in a mistrial two years earlier. The verdict makes him only the second white police officer in Ohio to face conviction for killing a Black person since George Floyd’s death in 2020 ignited nationwide demonstrations for police accountability.
In his previous testimony, Meade stated he followed Goodson after the young man allegedly brandished a weapon at him when their vehicles passed each other. Family members and prosecutors countered that Goodson was carrying a bag from Subway in one hand and his house keys in the other while wearing earbuds and listening to music when the shooting occurred.
According to prosecutors, evidence indicates the firearm was not in Goodson’s grasp but secured in a loose holster beneath his belt. They said the weapon was discovered underneath his body with the safety still activated as he lay dying on his grandmother’s kitchen floor.
Meade left his position with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department in 2021. His legal team defended his version of events and argued the shooting was warranted.
Christopher Corne, who was driving in the area during the incident, provided testimony for prosecutors in both trials. He described seeing Goodson appearing to dance and sing in his vehicle moments before the shooting occurred. During the initial trial, Corne stated he did not observe a gun in Goodson’s possession. Defense lawyers highlighted discrepancies in Corne’s account, noting he described Goodson as having either an afro or ponytail when the victim was actually wearing a skull cap.
Columbus police Officer Samuel Rippey testified in the second trial that while providing emergency medical care to Goodson, he observed the firearm with an extended magazine on the grandmother’s floor.
The shooting death sparked significant public anger throughout Ohio as fatal encounters between white officers and Black citizens intensified calls for law enforcement reform in the wake of George Floyd’s killing in 2020. Protesters displayed banners on Columbus highway overpasses with messages reading “Justice for Casey Goodson Jr.” and “Convict Murderer Meade.” The presiding judge directed authorities to remove these displays during trial proceedings.
Prior prosecutions of similar cases in Ohio have yielded just one conviction — Columbus police officer Adam Coy, who faced murder charges in the 2020 killing of Andre Hill.
Ohio law enforcement has been involved in the fatal shootings of at least three Black children: 12-year-old Tamir Rice in Cleveland in 2014, 13-year-old Tyre King in Columbus in 2016, and 16-year-old Ma’Khia Bryant in Columbus in 2021.
Additional Black individuals killed by white officers in Ohio include John Crawford III in Beavercreek in 2014, Samuel DuBose in Cincinnati in 2015, Miles Jackson in Westerville in 2021, Donovan Lewis in Columbus in 2022, Jayland Walker in Akron in 2022, and pregnant Ta’Kiya Young in Columbus in 2023.
Delaware’s motor vehicle division is participating in a nationwide campaign this May focused on protecting motorcyclists on state roadways. The initiative, coordinated with federal highway safety officials, emphasizes that keeping motorcyclists safe requires cooperation from all drivers.
State transportation authorities are urging motorists to provide motorcycles with additional stopping distance and room to navigate traffic. Officials stress the importance of checking for motorcycles before making turns or switching lanes, as these vehicles can be more difficult to spot than cars and trucks.
The awareness campaign runs throughout the month of May, when warmer weather typically brings more motorcycles onto Delaware’s roads and highways.
Delaware high school students from New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties got a hands-on civics lesson during County Government Day on April 7, 2026, participating in a simulated County Council meeting.
The educational initiative gave students the opportunity to experience local government operations firsthand by taking on the roles of council members in a mock legislative session.
A video recording of the student-led mock council session is available for viewing online through the county’s media portal.
Three decades of former Ohio State football players, including several who went on to NFL careers, have decided to become part of a federal legal action against the university regarding sexual abuse committed by a team physician years ago, according to an attorney involved in the case who spoke Thursday.
Attorney Rocky Ratliff explained during an interview that these men decided to step forward approximately eight years following the initial filing of the lawsuit because they had to work through feelings of shame about disclosing their sexual abuse by another male and concerns about publicly challenging the university.
The former players are “tearful and living with it,” Ratliff explained. “But as this case progresses on, they see how Ohio State’s treating athletes from the university and I think they want people to know it’s OK, even if it is male to male (sexual abuse), to come forward.”
Since 2018, Ohio State has been defending against federal court cases brought by former student athletes regarding the university’s inability to prevent abuse committed by Dr. Richard Strauss. Hundreds of individuals claim they experienced abuse from Strauss, who served at the institution between 1978 and 1998. Strauss passed away in 2005.
According to Ratliff, the men have executed agreement letters to become part of a legal case filed by other student-athletes who identify as Strauss victims.
Among the 30 individuals, just three have consented to public identification, Ratliff noted. These individuals are Al Washington, Ray Ellis and Keith Ferguson. All three were part of the 1980 Rose Bowl squad and were brought to the team by and competed under famous coach Woody Hayes. The Associated Press maintains a policy of not naming individuals who report being sexual abuse victims unless they voluntarily make their identities known.
According to Ratliff, some additional former football players have reached confidential settlement agreements with the institution that maintained their anonymity.
Ohio State issued a statement saying it has “sincerely and persistently tried to reconcile with survivors, including former football student-athletes, through monetary and non-monetary means, including settlements, counseling services and other medical treatment.”
Through April 15, the university has reached settlements with 317 survivors totaling over $61 million, and continues active participation in mediation processes, the institution stated.
During an interview, Washington described the difficulty of discussing his abuse experience and remembered enduring “unlawful” physical examinations from Strauss when he was 18 or 19 years old. He and fellow players attempted to cope by making light of the situation and joking among themselves.
“But it was really uncomfortable,” Washington, who is now 67, stated.
He avoided discussing the matter with others for decades, but viewing the 2025 documentary “Surviving Ohio State” brought the memories back to the forefront.
“As a matter of fact, I couldn’t make it through that movie,” Washington explained. “The pain and anguish that I saw, I just couldn’t take it.”
Strauss served on Ohio State’s faculty and medical team. He stepped down in 1998 with emeritus recognition. University trustees removed that honorary designation three years ago.
The New York Jets selected Washington in the 1981 draft, and he competed for one season with the franchise. Ellis, who played defensive back, enjoyed a seven-year NFL career spanning 1981 to 1987 with the Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns. Ferguson, a former defensive end, competed in the NFL from 1981 to 1990, including time with the San Diego Chargers and Detroit Lions.
Technology company Akamai Technologies announced Thursday that its upcoming second-quarter financial results will likely miss analyst projections, citing difficulties from rising memory infrastructure expenses and reduced corporate investment.
The surge in memory infrastructure pricing has created widespread challenges throughout the tech sector, forcing companies like Akamai to allocate additional resources to obtain essential hardware components.
Market analysts have also expressed concerns about how emerging artificial intelligence security solutions from firms like Anthropic might affect established security technology providers.
For the second quarter, Akamai projected revenue ranging from $1.08 billion to $1.10 billion, falling short of the $1.10 billion target set by Wall Street analysts, based on LSEG data.
The company anticipates adjusted earnings between $1.45 and $1.65 per share for the quarter, while financial experts predicted $1.68 per share.
First-quarter revenue reached $1.07 billion, meeting Wall Street projections.
The company reported earnings of 71 cents per share, down from 82 cents per share during the same period last year.
Basketball committees for both men’s and women’s Division I programs gave unanimous backing Thursday to grow the NCAA tournaments from their current 68-team format to 76 teams, according to reports from several media outlets.
The decision came during what sources described as an urgent joint session between the two committees.
Before the changes can take effect, the proposal must still receive approval from basketball oversight committees for both tournaments, the Division I cabinet, and ultimately the NCAA Board of Governors.
According to ESPN’s Wednesday reporting, discussions about tournament growth have been ongoing for more than twelve months, and with media partnership agreements for the men’s competition nearing finalization in late April, the remaining approval steps are anticipated to proceed without major obstacles.
Reports from last month indicate the NCAA’s plan would place 52 teams directly into the main tournament bracket, while the remaining 24 teams would compete in a dozen matchups scheduled for the Tuesday and Wednesday following Selection Sunday. The victorious teams from these contests would then complete the Round of 64 field.
The current “First Four” designation will be retired under the new format, with officials planning to use “opening round” for the preliminary games and “first round” for what is now known as the Round of 64.
The dozen opening round contests are planned for Dayton, Ohio, which currently hosts the First Four, along with an additional location that has not yet been announced.
The women’s tournament currently holds its First Four games as individual contests at college campus venues.
This would represent the tournament’s first growth since 2011, when the field expanded from 65 to 68 teams through the introduction of the First Four format. Prior to that change, the tournament had maintained either 64 or 65 teams since 1985.
Yahoo Sports reported in April that the Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conference had been the primary advocates pushing for tournament expansion. NCAA president Charlie Baker has also publicly endorsed the idea.
“I said all along that I think there are some very good reasons to expand the tournament,” Baker told ESPN in February. “So, I would like to see it expand.”
Federal officials announced Thursday they have reached a settlement agreement with an Indiana-based data company that was accused of facilitating anti-competitive behavior in the meat industry, a move that could lead to lower prices at grocery stores.
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche revealed that the Department of Justice, along with six states, has concluded their civil case against Agri Stats without going to trial. The lawsuit, originally filed in September 2023, claimed the company’s weekly industry reports on pricing and sales data helped create unfair advantages in the chicken, pork, and turkey markets.
According to Blanche, Agri Stats had been operating a system that allowed meat producers exclusive access to sensitive market information, which he said “putting buyers of meat – like grocery stores and restaurants – at a competitive disadvantage.”
The resolution comes as the Trump administration faces mounting pressure over rising living costs, with many Americans expressing dissatisfaction with how inflation has affected their household budgets.
Under the settlement terms, Blanche explained on social media that the agreement “forces Agri Stats to make its reports available to all buyers and sellers to ensure every level of the food supply chain operates on an even playing field. This settlement means that meat prices will go down for consumers.”
Agri Stats had previously denied the allegations, calling them unfounded and arguing that their services actually helped reduce prices. The company has not yet issued a statement regarding Thursday’s settlement announcement, and specific details of the agreement have not been made public.
This resolution represents the latest in a series of legal challenges for Agri Stats. Earlier this year, the company agreed to resolve a separate federal class action lawsuit that accused it of working with major red meat processing companies to artificially suppress wages for plant workers across the United States.
The company also settled another wage-related antitrust case in October, this time involving allegations that it collaborated with poultry processors in Maryland federal court to keep worker compensation below market rates.
As part of these previous settlements, Agri Stats committed to modifying how it handles and reports labor-related information going forward.
Federal highway safety regulators announced Thursday that Tesla’s 2026 Model Y has become the first automobile to successfully complete newly implemented driver-assistance technology evaluations.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed that Model Y vehicles built starting November 12, 2025, have met the requirements of these recently introduced assessments, which are now part of the agency’s New Car Assessment Program. The evaluations examine four key safety technologies: automatic emergency braking for pedestrians, lane-keeping assistance, blind spot alerts, and blind spot intervention capabilities.
These pass-or-fail evaluations received approval from NHTSA in November 2024 and took effect for 2026 model year vehicles following a congressional mandate.
Car manufacturers highly value the coveted five-star safety ratings because many consumers consider them when purchasing new vehicles. These ratings operate independently from NHTSA’s required safety standards.
The timing of these enhanced safety measures comes as traffic fatalities experienced a significant increase following the COVID-19 pandemic, with pedestrian deaths reaching their highest point since 1981 in 2022. However, NHTSA reported last month that U.S. traffic fatalities dropped to their lowest level since 2019.
The five-star New Car Assessment Program, which has operated since 1978, serves as a resource for potential car buyers to evaluate vehicle safety features.
The Trump administration postponed these program modifications by one year in September after automotive manufacturers requested additional preparation time.
NHTSA has previously incorporated other driver-assistance technologies into the assessment program, including electronic stability control, forward collision alerts, and lane departure warnings in 2011; backup camera systems in 2013; and automatic emergency braking in 2015 for 2018 model year vehicles.
Meanwhile, NHTSA continues conducting separate investigations into Tesla, including an examination of the company’s Full Self-Driving system amid concerns it may not adequately detect hazards or alert drivers during poor visibility conditions.
The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles is joining forces with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration this month to emphasize the importance of motorcycle safety on state roads.
As part of the annual May motorcycle awareness campaign, DMV officials are urging drivers to take extra precautions when sharing the road with motorcyclists. The initiative highlights that protecting motorcyclists requires vigilance from all motorists.
State transportation officials are asking drivers to provide motorcycles with additional stopping distance and room to navigate. They emphasize the need for heightened awareness during turns, lane changes, and when approaching intersections where many motorcycle accidents occur.
The collaborative effort between Delaware’s DMV and the federal highway safety agency aims to reduce motorcycle-related crashes and injuries throughout the state during the peak riding season.
Drivers traveling on Route 13 northbound in Sussex County should expect delays due to ongoing construction work affecting traffic flow.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that construction crews have closed the right lane on Sussex Highway (Route 13) in the northbound direction. The lane closure extends from Waller Road to Brick Yard Road.
The construction work and associated lane restrictions are scheduled to continue until 8 PM today. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and to allow extra time for their commute.
Authorities have released the identity of a motorcyclist who lost his life in a Tuesday evening crash in Newark. Delaware State Police say Keith Stewart, 29, of Wilmington, was the rider who died in the collision on Churchmans Road.
The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the deadly accident. Investigators are seeking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to reach out to Master Corporal R. Kunicki at (302) 365-8417. Tips can also be submitted through a private message to the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.
Those affected by sudden loss or crime-related trauma can access support through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center. The service provides round-the-clock assistance via their toll-free helpline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Support can also be requested by emailing [email protected].
Delaware State Police have released the identity of the motorcyclist who lost his life in Tuesday evening’s deadly crash on Christiana Road in Newark. The victim has been identified as Jared Thompson, a 34-year-old Newark resident.
Investigators with the Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit are continuing their examination of the fatal accident. Officials are seeking assistance from the public and urge anyone who saw the crash happen or has video footage to reach out to Corporal K. Oakes at (302) 365-8483. Tips can also be submitted through private messages to the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Those affected by crime, witnesses to incidents, or families who have experienced the sudden loss of a loved one can receive support through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and the Delaware Victim Center. Help is available around the clock via their toll-free line at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Support can also be accessed by emailing [email protected].
A Wisconsin-based company has announced a voluntary product recall affecting certain seasoning products over concerns about bacterial contamination.
JCB Flavors, LLC, located in Watertown, Wisconsin, is pulling select topical seasoning items from the market after discovering they may contain Salmonella bacteria.
Health officials warn that Salmonella can lead to severe illness and, in some cases, life-threatening complications. The risk is particularly high for young children, senior citizens, and individuals whose immune systems are compromised.
The company initiated the recall as a precautionary measure to protect consumer safety. Anyone who has purchased the affected seasoning products should stop using them immediately.
Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings joined forces with 23 other states Monday to challenge a controversial U.S. Postal Service proposal that would permit firearms to be shipped through the mail system.
The coalition submitted a formal comment letter expressing strong opposition to what they describe as an illegal plan that would enable prohibited weapons to cross state lines via mail delivery.
Current federal regulations have prohibited the U.S. Postal Service from handling firearm shipments since 1927, when the restriction was enacted by a Republican-controlled Congress and approved by a Republican president.
The multistate effort represents a significant pushback against the postal service’s proposed policy change, with Jennings serving as a co-leader of the opposition coalition.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa — A deadly hantavirus outbreak has swept through passengers aboard a cruise ship during its weeks-long journey across the Atlantic Ocean, leaving three people dead and several others seriously ill.
The outbreak has prompted international health authorities to launch an urgent effort to locate passengers who previously left the vessel and anyone who may have come into contact with them. More than 140 passengers and crew remain aboard the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius as it makes its way toward Spain’s Canary Islands.
Hantavirus spreads through contact with infected rodents, and while person-to-person transmission is extremely uncommon, the World Health Organization maintains that public risk remains minimal since the virus does not easily pass between humans.
The tragic sequence of events began when the vessel departed from Ushuaia in southern Argentina, with planned destinations including Antarctica and remote islands in the South Atlantic.
A 70-year-old Dutch passenger developed illness symptoms including fever, headache and mild diarrhea while aboard the ship. Prior to boarding, he and his Dutch wife had been touring Ushuaia and other locations throughout Argentina and Chile, according to WHO reports.
The Dutch man’s condition deteriorated as he experienced breathing difficulties, ultimately dying aboard the vessel. At that time, cruise officials could not determine what caused his death.
When the ship docked at Tristan da Cunha, a remote British territory in the South Atlantic, six new passengers boarded while the deceased man’s body remained on the vessel.
The body was removed when the ship reached St. Helena island, also part of the British territory. His wife departed the ship along with more than two dozen other passengers.
The Dutch woman, who had begun showing signs of illness, boarded a commercial flight from St. Helena to South Africa. That aircraft carried 88 passengers and crew members, though it remains unclear how many other cruise passengers were on that same flight.
The woman collapsed at a South African airport while attempting to board another flight home and subsequently died.
Meanwhile, after the ship left St. Helena, a third passenger — a British man — became ill and was evacuated to Ascension Island. He was later transferred to a South African hospital and placed in intensive care, suffering from high fever, breathing problems and pneumonia symptoms that can result from hantavirus infection.
As the vessel continued toward Cape Verde off Africa’s western coast, a German woman passenger also fell sick.
Nearly one month after the initial case, the German woman died aboard the ship, becoming the third fatality.
On that same day, South African health officials received confirmation that the British man in intensive care had tested positive for hantavirus — marking the first confirmed identification of the virus in this outbreak.
The World Health Organization announced it was responding to a suspected hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship, which had by then reached Cape Verde waters.
South African health authorities later received posthumous test results confirming hantavirus in the Dutch woman who died at the airport. Officials decided to test her remains after the British man’s positive result.
WHO officially classified the situation as an outbreak at that point.
A tense standoff developed between the cruise ship and Cape Verde authorities over whether additional sick passengers could be evacuated and others allowed to disembark. While Cape Verde sent medical personnel to assist the vessel, officials refused to allow anyone off the ship. Two crew members, including the ship’s doctor, were seriously ill, and another person was under medical observation.
Those three individuals, two of whom tested positive for hantavirus, were eventually evacuated and flown to specialized European hospitals. The ship then departed for Spain’s Canary Islands after Spanish authorities agreed to accept the vessel.
Swiss authorities announced another positive hantavirus case involving a man who had left the cruise at St. Helena, bringing the total confirmed cases to five.
Health officials in South Africa and Switzerland identified the strain as Andes virus, the only known hantavirus that spreads between humans. This particular virus is typically found in South America, especially Argentina and Chile.
Health agencies across Switzerland, Britain, Netherlands, France, Singapore, South Africa and other nations are now isolating individuals who previously departed the cruise and returned home. They are also working to identify anyone who may have had contact with cruise ship passengers.
WASHINGTON — Following a phone conversation he characterized as positive with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum Thursday via social media, warning that European Union products will be subject to increased tariff rates unless the 27-nation alliance finalizes last year’s trade agreement by Independence Day.
The president expressed frustration that the European Parliament has not yet completed approval of the trade framework negotiated in the previous year. The situation became more complex in February when the Supreme Court determined that Trump did not possess the constitutional power to declare an economic emergency as justification for the original tariffs that pressured the EU into negotiations.
In his social media statement, Trump wrote: “A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Deal and, as per Agreement, cut their Tariffs to ZERO! I agreed to give her until our Country’s 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels.”
Authorities in France are moving forward with criminal charges against tech billionaire Elon Musk and his social media company X over serious allegations involving child exploitation material and other illegal content on the platform.
Officials from the Paris prosecutor’s office announced Wednesday they have launched a formal investigation targeting X on multiple charges, including involvement in possessing and sharing sexual abuse imagery of children and illegally gathering personal information. The probe also examines accusations related to spreading non-consensual explicit content and denying historical atrocities.
Neither X nor Musk’s aerospace company SpaceX provided responses to requests for comment on Thursday.
The legal action follows events from nearly three weeks ago when Musk and Linda Yaccarino, X’s former chief executive, were called in for voluntary questioning about these allegations. Both failed to appear for the interviews, though French officials indicated this would not slow their investigation.
The summons came after authorities conducted a search at X’s French offices in February, connected to an investigation launched in January 2025 by Paris prosecutors’ cybercrime division. Both Musk and Yaccarino were contacted in their roles as X executives during the timeframe being investigated. Yaccarino served as CEO from May 2023 through July 2025.
French investigators began their inquiry following complaints from a French legislator who claimed biased algorithms on X were likely interfering with automated data systems. The scope widened after X’s artificial intelligence feature, Grok, created content that reportedly denied the Holocaust – which constitutes a criminal offense in France – and produced sexually explicit deepfake imagery.
The investigation is examining alleged involvement in possessing and distributing sexual abuse material featuring minors, creating explicit deepfakes, denying crimes against humanity, and manipulating automated data systems as part of an organized operation, among other potential violations.
Grok, developed by xAI and accessible through X, generated international controversy this year when it produced numerous sexualized non-consensual deepfake images after receiving requests from platform users.
The AI system also published a widely circulated post in French claiming gas chambers at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp were intended for “disinfection with Zyklon B against typhus” instead of mass murder – terminology commonly linked to Holocaust denial.
In subsequent X posts, the chatbot corrected its position and admitted its previous response was incorrect, stating it had been removed, and referenced historical documentation proving Zyklon B was used to murder over 1 million people in Auschwitz gas chambers.
In March, Paris prosecutors contacted the U.S. Department of Justice and Securities and Exchange Commission, suggesting “that the controversy surrounding sexually explicit deepfakes generated by Grok may have been deliberately orchestrated to artificially boost the value of the companies X and xAI — potentially constituting criminal offenses,” according to prosecutors.
VENTURA, Calif. — A former college instructor from Southern California has accepted responsibility for involuntary manslaughter and battery charges connected to the death of a Jewish counter-demonstrator during Israel-Hamas war protests in 2023.
Loay Abdelfattah Alnaji, age 53, was charged with hitting Paul Kessler using a megaphone during a November 2023 altercation at what began as a pro-Palestinian rally in Thousand Oaks, located northwest of Los Angeles.
Kessler was part of a pro-Israel demonstration group that arrived at what had been promoted as a peaceful assembly, authorities reported. Following the impact, Kessler tumbled backward and his head struck the concrete. The 69-year-old man passed away at a medical facility the following day.
The charge of involuntary manslaughter refers to the accidental killing of another individual.
Alnaji, who previously taught computer science at Moorpark College, remained at the location and informed deputies he had contacted emergency services.
He also acknowledged a special enhancement for personally causing severe bodily harm and accepted aggravating circumstances including weapon use and victim vulnerability, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office reported.
Defense attorney Ron Bamieh stated that both he and his client have received numerous death threats, with Alnaji concerned that trial publicity might further endanger his family. Alnaji remains free on $50,000 bond.
The judge has informed Alnaji he should anticipate jail time followed by supervised release, Bamieh explained. With good conduct, he would probably serve approximately six months behind bars. The maximum penalty for these charges reaches four years imprisonment.
Bamieh noted that brief incarceration followed by supervised release represents the typical outcome for defendants who were not the initial aggressor in fatal altercations.
Prosecution officials have opposed this approach.
“Alnaji should be sentenced to prison for his violent behavior, and our office strongly objects to any lesser sentence,” District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said in a statement. “While no amount of punishment will ever fully account for the Kessler family loss, a prison commitment underscores the severity of this crime and will deter others from committing similar acts of violence.”
Alnaji’s sentencing is set for June 25.
A top federal antitrust official delivered a stern message to corporate America on Thursday, cautioning businesses against making false claims about artificial intelligence when seeking government approval for mergers.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Omeed Assefi, who leads the Justice Department’s merger review operations, spoke at a New York University event where he addressed what he sees as a growing trend of companies misrepresenting AI’s impact on their industries.
While Assefi emphasized that his department welcomes communication from companies throughout the merger approval process, he made clear that deceptive tactics won’t be tolerated.
“We know when you are trying to mislead us,” Assefi stated during his remarks.
The federal official specifically addressed companies’ tendency to exaggerate AI’s disruptive effects as justification for proposed business combinations.
“We know you will be tempted to tell us that AI is replacing your industries. We get it. We hear that a lot. For us to take it seriously, we expect it to be backed up with actual evidence,” he explained, according to his prepared statement.
The warning comes as artificial intelligence continues to reshape various business sectors, with companies increasingly citing technological disruption as grounds for merger approvals.
Transportation officials in New Jersey announced Thursday they are cutting round-trip ticket prices for World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium from $150 to $105, according to local news outlets, following pushback from FIFA over the original pricing.
Despite the reduction, the new fare remains dramatically higher than the under-$15 cost for the same journey on regular days and surpasses the $80 round-trip price for FIFA’s dedicated shuttle to the 82,500-capacity venue. MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup contests, culminating with the championship match on July 19.
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri previously defended the elevated pricing last month, pointing to enhanced security requirements and anticipated passenger volume increases resulting from restricted public parking near the stadium.
Reuters reached out to NJ Transit seeking additional details about the fare adjustment.
Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, had criticized the initial $150 cost, stating it would have “a chilling effect” on supporters.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill had earlier argued that FIFA should cover transportation expenses, noting that NJ Transit faced being “stuck with a $48 million bill” to guarantee fan security.
NEW YORK — Yankees outfielder Jasson Domínguez was transported by cart to NewYork-Presbyterian hospital Thursday after a dramatic collision with the left field wall during the team’s matchup with Texas.
The incident occurred in the opening inning when Domínguez sprinted 81 feet to snag Brandon Nimmo’s blistering 101 mph line drive. While successfully making the catch 375 feet from home plate, Domínguez’s shoulder slammed forcefully into the video advertising board along the wall.
The impact sent Domínguez tumbling to the warning track, landing chest-first as his sunglasses were knocked off. Center fielder Trent Grisham quickly rushed over while manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees’ medical staff — including head trainer Tim Lentych, assistant trainer Jimmy Downam, and sports medicine director Michael Schuk — hurried onto the field.
After approximately one minute on the ground, Domínguez sat up while holding his head in his glove. He gestured toward his shoulder and moved his neck during the medical examination before walking independently to the cart that transported him off the field.
Medical staff took Domínguez for an MRI of his left shoulder, and he was placed in Major League Baseball’s concussion protocol as a precautionary measure.
The Yankees adjusted their defensive alignment following Domínguez’s departure, shifting Cody Bellinger from right field to left field, moving Amed Rosario from third base to right field, and bringing Ryan McMahon into the game at third base. This marked only Domínguez’s second appearance in the outfield this season for New York.
The major appliance manufacturer Whirlpool Corporation finds itself in an unexpected downturn despite manufacturing roughly 80% of its products in U.S. facilities during an era when domestic production has been prioritized.
The company reported this week that quarterly revenues fell almost 10%, with North American major appliance sales declining 7% compared to the previous period.
Whirlpool, which also manufactures KitchenAid and Maytag brand products, attributed the downturn to ongoing international conflicts that have created what they termed a “recession-level industry decline” affecting consumer purchasing confidence.
The appliance giant implemented a 10% price increase in April – marking its steepest hike in ten years – and plans an additional 4% increase for July to combat what the company describes as “multiyear inflationary cost pressures.”
Previously, Whirlpool had been absorbing increased operational costs without transferring them to consumers, but this strategy became unsustainable following a first-quarter loss of $82 million, contrasting sharply with the previous year’s profits.
During a Thursday conference call, CEO Marc Bitzer drew historical comparisons to the current market conditions.
“This level of industry decline is similar to what we have observed during the global financial crisis and even higher than during other recessionary periods,” Bitzer explained.
The company also cited challenges from the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn emergency tariffs previously imposed, noting that competing appliance manufacturers are pursuing refunds that further destabilize industry pricing structures.
According to Whirlpool’s earnings presentation, the tariff impact affected competitors by approximately 10% to 15%, while the company’s own operations saw roughly 5% impact.
Economic pressures from elevated food costs and increasing fuel prices are causing consumers to postpone major purchases, opting instead to extend the life of existing appliances.
“People are looking at the price of replacing appliances and realizing it’s not something they want to deal with right now,” stated Mark Stevenson, managing director and product designer at Stove Shield. “Instead, they’re asking how to avoid the damage in the first place.”
The Michigan-based company has dramatically reduced its annual earnings projection to $3-$3.50 per share, down from the previous forecast of $6 per share. Additionally, Whirlpool has suspended dividend payments as part of debt reduction efforts.
Company stock prices dropped more than 12% on Thursday following the announcement.
Growing anxiety about artificial intelligence development has prompted technology companies to seek an unexpected source of guidance: religious leaders. This represents a dramatic shift from Silicon Valley’s historically secular approach to innovation.
Representatives from major AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic gathered with faith leaders last week in New York for the first “Faith-AI Covenant” discussion. The meeting, organized by the Geneva-based Interfaith Alliance for Safer Communities, focused on incorporating moral principles into rapidly advancing AI systems. Additional sessions are planned for cities including Beijing, Nairobi, and Abu Dhabi.
Baroness Joanna Shields, a former Google and Facebook executive who later entered British politics, emphasized the urgency of direct collaboration between tech leaders and faith communities.
“Regulation can’t keep up with this,” she said. “This dialogue, this direct connection is so important because the people who are building this understand the power and capabilities of what they’re building and they want to do it right — most of them.”
Shields envisions developing a comprehensive framework of ethical guidelines influenced by diverse religious perspectives, spanning Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and other traditions.
The roundtable included delegates from numerous faith organizations: the Hindu Temple Society of North America, the Baha’i International Community, The Sikh Coalition, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Several religious groups had already established AI guidelines before companies began seeking their input. The Mormon church’s handbook offers cautious endorsement of the technology, stating: “AI cannot replace the gift of divine inspiration or the individual work required to receive it. However, AI can be a useful tool to enhance learning and teaching.”
The Southern Baptist Convention adopted a resolution in 2023 declaring: “We must proactively engage and shape these emerging technologies rather than simply respond to the challenges of AI and other emerging technologies after they have already affected our churches and communities.”
Rabbi Diana Gerson, who participated in the roundtable as associate executive vice president of the New York Board of Rabbis, acknowledged the complexity of finding universal principles across different faiths. “Religious communities see priorities differently,” she noted.
This collaboration reflects an emerging partnership between technology and faith sectors, driven by efforts to develop morally responsible AI systems—though what constitutes “moral AI” remains hotly debated.
Anthropic has been particularly active in engaging religious leaders, incorporating their input into the “Claude Constitution” that guides its chatbot’s behavior. The company states it wants “Claude to do what a deeply and skillfully ethical person would do in Claude’s position.”
This outreach follows Anthropic’s earlier conflict with the Pentagon over military AI applications, after the company announced restrictions on using its technology for autonomous weapons or mass surveillance of Americans.
Brian Boyd, U.S. faith liaison for the nonprofit Future of Life Institute, sees mixed motivations behind these efforts. “There’s some aspect of PR to it. The slogan was ‘Move fast and break things.’ And they broke too many things and too many people,” he said. “There’s both a moral obligation on the part of the companies that they’re belatedly recognizing, as well as I think, for some members of the companies, an earnest questioning.”
However, some AI safety advocates question whether these initiatives represent genuine commitment to ethical development.
“At best it’s a distraction. At worst it’s diverting attention from things that really matter,” said Rumman Chowdhury, CEO of nonprofit Humane Intelligence and former U.S. science envoy for AI under the Biden administration.
Chowdhury doubts religion provides the best framework for addressing AI ethics but understands the appeal for technology companies.
“I think a very naive take that Silicon Valley has had for a couple of years related to generative AI was that we could arrive at some sort of universal principles of ethics,” she explained. “They have very quickly realized that that’s just not true. That’s not real. So now they’re looking at maybe religion as a way of dealing with the ambiguity of ethically gray situations.”
The extent to which these traditionally secretive companies will implement guidance from faith leaders remains uncertain. Some critics worry that discussions about creating ethical AI systems deflect attention from fundamental questions about AI’s role in society.
Dylan Baker, lead research engineer at the Distributed AI Research Institute, expressed concern about the framing of these conversations. “Under the guise of, ‘We’re gonna build all this stuff. That’s a given. And when we do build these things in these ways, how do we make sure that the end result is maybe good,’” he said. “It’s like, ‘Wait, wait, wait. We need to question whether we want to be building these things at all.’”
LONDON — Two men holding both British and Chinese citizenship were found guilty Thursday of conducting espionage activities for China through what authorities described as unauthorized law enforcement operations on British territory.
Peter Wai, age 40, and Bill Yuen, 65, falsely presented themselves as official police or intelligence personnel while conducting surveillance and collecting data on Hong Kong democracy advocates and dissidents, according to prosecutors.
London’s Central Criminal Court jury delivered guilty verdicts on charges that both men breached the National Security Act through their assistance to a foreign intelligence operation. Wai received an additional conviction for public office misconduct.
Bethan David, who leads counterterrorism efforts at the Crown Prosecution Service, stated: “These convictions send a clear message that transnational repression, foreign interference, unauthorized surveillance, and attempts to operate outside the law will not be tolerated on British soil. This conduct was deliberate, coordinated and carried out with full knowledge of who it would benefit.”
Following the verdicts, British officials called Chinese Ambassador Zheng Zeguang to the Foreign Office.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis declared in an official statement: “The activities carried out by these men, on behalf of China, are an infringement of our sovereignty and will never be tolerated. We will continue to hold China to account and challenge them directly for actions which put the safety of people in our country at risk.”
Hong Kong’s administration responded by stating it was not involved in the legal proceedings while strongly rejecting what it called baseless accusations against the territory or its London trade office.
Wai held positions with the U.K. Border Force and served as a special constable for the City of London while operating a private security business.
Yuen previously served as a superintendent with Hong Kong Police and worked in London for the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, which serves as Hong Kong’s official overseas representative.
Hong Kong officials had posted bounties reaching nearly 100,000 pounds ($136,000) for capturing or obtaining information about pro-democracy advocates.
According to prosecutors, Yuen exceeded his designated role as office manager by helping collect intelligence about the whereabouts and activities of Hong Kong activists and political figures who relocated to the U.K. following the implementation of comprehensive national security legislation in the Asian financial center.
Prosecutors said Wai, who received payments through the trade office account, was found guilty of misconduct for improperly accessing police computer systems during off-duty hours to obtain the intelligence.
Text message evidence revealed the pair conducted surveillance on former Hong Kong legislator Nathan Law and activists they described using derogatory terms.
Yuen instructed Wai to focus particularly on Parliament members and government workers, providing names of notable politicians in 2023, including Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith, who co-chairs the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China.
The scheme came to light when counterterrorism officers, conducting their own surveillance operation, interrupted an attempt by nine individuals to break into a northern England residence belonging to a Hong Kong woman in May 2024.
The homeowner, Monica Kwong, faced accusations from her former employer, Beijing-based Australian businesswoman Tina Zou, of committing fraud worth 16 million pounds ($21.8 million). Kwong maintained the allegations were fabricated.
Those arrested at Kwong’s West Yorkshire home included Zou, Wai, and two additional former Hong Kong police officers. Yuen, who maintained contact with the group, was taken into custody in London.
Investigators subsequently assembled communication records demonstrating that Yuen had tasked Wai with conducting espionage for Hong Kong and Chinese authorities.
The charges also included Matthew Trickett, a U.K. immigration enforcement officer arrested at Kwong’s residence, who was later discovered dead in what authorities believe was suicide. Zou never faced charges.
The jury was unable to reach decisions on additional charges alleging the men engaged in foreign interference through the break-in at Kwong’s home.
A federal judge has ordered the release of what appears to be Jeffrey Epstein’s final written message, discovered by his former cellmate after the convicted sex trafficker’s first attempt to end his life in July 2019.
The document had remained sealed in court records until this week, when it was made public following a legal petition filed by the New York Times.
According to court documents, the note was found by Epstein’s cellmate after his initial suicide attempt at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York, approximately one month before his death in August 2019.
The Justice Department has previously released millions of pages of evidence and photographs related to the criminal investigation into Epstein since December, but this particular document had been kept confidential as part of separate legal proceedings.
The release of this document may signal that additional sealed materials related to the case could become public in the coming weeks or months.
In the 1980s, Virginia’s wildlife agency underwent significant changes as conservation efforts intensified following decades of overhunting that had decimated native species populations. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, which later became the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, gained enforcement authority in 1982, empowering game wardens to better protect the state’s recovering wildlife.
Game Warden Rick Perry, stationed in Henrico County since 1978, had long suspected illegal activity along the remote Pamunkey River. The waterway’s isolation made it perfect habitat for recovering populations of waterfowl, deer, and turkey, but Perry had heard persistent rumors about hunters using dogs to drive deer into the water where accomplices waited in boats.
In late 1984, Perry finally received credible intelligence from a local trapper who confirmed the illegal hunting was indeed taking place. Armed with this information, Perry mapped out surveillance points along the river’s canals and islands using his department-issued jon boat, preparing for what would become a career-defining operation.
On a bitter January morning in 1985, Perry departed at 3:30 a.m. in his Ford Crown Victoria with the boat in tow, leaving detailed plans with his wife in case he didn’t return by dark. Radio communication wouldn’t be available until 8 a.m., and he carried only his personal Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum for protection.
After launching into the frigid darkness, Perry’s 18-horsepower motor failed halfway to his destination. As he worked frantically to clear water from the fuel line, he heard another boat engine start across the river, adding urgency to his repairs. Once mobile again, he reached his chosen creek and concealed his boat with camouflage netting.
At daybreak, Perry watched three hunters pass his position and set up in a duck blind several hundred yards downstream. They deployed decoys and began calling, soon attracting waterfowl. However, Perry noticed additional gunshots beyond what the duck hunting would explain.
A second boat carrying two men and a young boy moved through the area, stopping periodically to fire shots before continuing upriver. Meanwhile, Perry could hear dogs barking from a nearby island, confirming his suspicions about the illegal deer drives.
The dramatic climax came when the duck hunters suddenly ducked out of sight in their blind. Through his binoculars, Perry spotted a magnificent 10-point buck entering the water, swimming directly toward the blind. All three hunters emerged simultaneously and opened fire on the trophy animal, which managed to dodge multiple volleys and escape to the opposite shore.
Perry immediately moved to intercept the hunters, removing his camouflage and approaching the blind. After identifying himself and securing their hunting licenses, he was questioning the men when the boat with the family returned. Despite Perry’s commands and badge display, the boat initially ignored him, forcing the warden to run along the shoreline shouting orders.
When the boat finally stopped, Perry discovered two shotguns and three soaking wet doe deer inside. The 8-year-old boy initially denied involvement, but his father quickly claimed responsibility. The condition of the deer – completely wet and shot at close range in the head with buckshot – clearly indicated they had been killed while swimming.
Managing two separate groups of suspects alone, Perry used psychological tactics to maintain control, falsely claiming he had backup wardens on the island and radio support available. The strategy worked, allowing him to complete his investigation safely.
The grandfather defended their methods, claiming traditional hunting rights, but Perry explained that shooting deer from boats in water violated state law regardless of any perceived permissions. Since he hadn’t directly witnessed the deer killings, Perry confiscated the animals as evidence and planned to seek additional penalties through the court system.
Perry briefly followed a blood trail from where the large buck had escaped but decided against pursuing it alone given the day’s tense encounters. He contacted his supervisor, Sergeant Don Montgomery, who arrived to assist with processing the evidence.
The operation resulted in 15 total citations among the five hunters involved. The father and grandfather faced additional charges for shooting deer from a boat, though they avoided boat confiscation by quickly selling the vessel. In New Kent County court, they were convicted and ordered to pay $200 replacement cost for each deer.
The three duck hunters were prosecuted as accomplices and found guilty. One appealed to avoid losing his hunting license, requesting New Kent County’s first-ever jury trial for a game violation. Despite the appeal, Perry’s case held up in court.
Perry’s exceptional work on this case earned him the 1985 Virginia Game Warden of the Year award, recognizing his dedication to wildlife protection and law enforcement excellence.
Perry, originally from Franklin, Virginia, began his wildlife law enforcement career in 1978 after completing 14 weeks of training. His district covered Henrico, Chesterfield, Charles City, and New Kent counties. While excelling as a warden, he also pursued education, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University. In 1985, he received both state and regional recognition as Game Warden of the Year. Perry later joined the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a Special Agent in 1987, retiring as Special Agent in Charge in 2009. He now enjoys outdoor activities, training his rescue Labrador, and notably, riding his unicycle.
Wildlife experts view black bears through many different lenses – some see them as misunderstood creatures, others as culturally important animals, while still others consider them dangerous or problematic. Despite these varying perspectives, most agree that bears serve a crucial function in ecosystems throughout Virginia and worldwide. Virginia is home to just one bear species – the American black bear – which ranks among North America’s most widespread and extensively researched mammals.
While scientists have gathered extensive knowledge about black bear behavior and population dynamics, recent developments show there’s still much to discover about these animals. Historically, parasites and diseases haven’t significantly threatened black bear survival rates. Instead, human-related factors like hunting, car strikes, removal permits, and habitat loss remain the primary causes of adult bear deaths. However, a troubling parasitic condition has gained attention over the past ten years: sarcoptic mange.
This highly transmissible skin ailment, triggered by microscopic mites, impacts numerous wild and domesticated animal species. The specific parasite Sarcoptes scabiei is most commonly responsible for mange symptoms observed in Virginia’s bear population.
Between 2014 and 2018, isolated mange cases in Virginia bears were mainly concentrated in the northern Shenandoah Valley region. Starting in 2020, incidents have become more frequent and geographically widespread. By January 2026, wildlife officials have documented confirmed mange cases in 37 Virginia counties.
Many aspects of how mange develops and spreads among bears remain unclear to researchers. Affected animals may experience scratching, fur loss, rough and parched skin, behavioral changes, and in serious cases, deteriorating physical condition. Studies and field observations indicate that numerous bears with minor to moderate infections can survive and eventually overcome mange symptoms. Evidence from other states with longer exposure to sarcoptic mange shows no definitive proof that the disease causes lasting population damage. Nevertheless, recent localized population decreases have been noted in some Virginia areas affected by mange, especially in counties that previously allowed more liberal hunting seasons.
Many residents contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) asking about response efforts to this disease. In 2017, DWR partnered with The Wildlife Center of Virginia on an experimental treatment research project. Results showed that medical intervention could eliminate visible symptoms, but failed to prevent reinfection, which typically proved more severe in subsequent cases. A research paper detailing these findings is currently under review for publication.
Pennsylvania researchers compared survival rates between treated and untreated bears, finding no meaningful difference – 88 percent of treated bears survived compared to 74 percent of those receiving no treatment, according to a study titled “Resolution of Clinical Signs of Sarcoptic Mange in American Black Bears (Ursus americanus), in Ivermectin-Treated and Nontreated Individuals.”
The USDA-WS Conflict Helpline assists in monitoring disease occurrence and expansion through public reports. Citizens can contact the USDA-WS Wildlife Conflict Hotline at 855-571-9003 or email [email protected] to report suspected cases. These reports help officials track disease prevalence in established areas and monitor how quickly and in which directions it spreads. This data guides educational outreach efforts, shapes management decisions, and identifies locations for research studies.
Virginia organized the first mange-focused conference in 2022, welcoming representatives from 22 other states along with partners including the National Park Service, the Southeast Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study from the University of Georgia, and Penn State University. This gathering elevated mange as a priority discussion topic across multiple agencies, fostering multi-state research collaborations that continue today while helping states standardize data sharing among wildlife managers.
In 2025, Virginia created and implemented a Bear Mange Management Plan. This document standardizes the state’s approach to studying and managing bears affected by mange in their natural habitat. The plan serves as a strategic guide for management approaches while maintaining flexibility for specific actions.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, DWR established additional methods for public involvement in learning about this disease to improve bear population management. In 2024, DWR personnel operated voluntary sample collection sites throughout the mange-affected region, allowing hunters to bring harvested bears for sampling. This provided opportunities to collect samples from healthy bears in mange areas for comparison with infected samples, potentially revealing why some bears develop mange while others remain unaffected.
In 2025, hunters received logging materials to record bear sightings and condition assessments, plus sample collection kits for use during hunting season. The hunter logs will enhance population data collection in these regions, while sample kits provide researchers with larger sample sizes to strengthen results and conclusions.
From 2022 through 2026, DWR has participated in multiple mange research initiatives with both Virginia and external partners. These studies include Bear Mite Burden (multi-state), Mange Toxicology (multi-state), Bear Mange Microbiome Study (multi-state), Genetic Health Marker Testing in Mange Bears (multi-state), Human Dimensions of Mange Management (multi-state), and Population and Demographic Impacts of Sarcoptic Mange on Virginia Black Bears and Implications on Harvest Season Structure based on Predictive Densities in Mange and Non-Mange Affected Areas (Virginia Tech).
Numerous questions about this disease remain unanswered, but through collaboration, partnerships, and research, scientists have begun developing better understanding of mange’s impact on American black bears. Officials pledge to continue using all available resources to ensure management strategies effectively maintain this important species at sustainable population levels and optimal health despite the presence of this disease.
Additional information about Virginia bears and bear mange is available on the black bear section of the DWR website. To report suspected mange cases in bears, contact the toll-free USDA-WS Conflict Helpline at 855-571-9003 or email [email protected].
Carl Tugend serves as DWR Black Bear Project Leader and Katie Martin works as DWR Deer/Bear/Turkey Biologist.
ATLANTA — A group of wounded U.S. military veterans discovered therapeutic healing and wonder during an extraordinary aquatic experience at Georgia Aquarium this week, where they swam alongside massive marine creatures including a whale shark.
The Wednesday event provided members of the Wounded Warrior Project with a therapeutic escape from their ongoing recovery challenges and daily stressors. This organization supports injured veterans and their families through various programs.
“It gives them, you know, 30 or 40 minutes to just relax,” explained Jason Bush, who oversees the aquarium’s Military Salute program. This weekly initiative allows service members to swim or dive alongside marine creatures.
“Whether it’s swimming in the water or scuba diving in particular, you’re weightless,” Bush explained. “So physically, it takes away even for a moment physical pain that you feel when you’re on land.”
During their visit, the veterans swam and snorkeled with Yushan, the massive whale shark, along with stingrays and numerous other sea creatures. Yushan, who was saved from a Taiwanese fish market years ago, represents the sole whale shark living in captivity throughout the Western Hemisphere, aquarium representatives confirmed.
“They go in nervous and they come out saying it’s the best experience they’ve had in their life,” Bush noted.
Marine Gunnery Sergeant William Mund, who sustained injuries during his Iraq deployment, described how the aquatic environment improves his circulation. He called his encounter with the whale shark a “once-in-a-lifetime thing.”
Army Colonel Quentin Collins, who suffered two separate injuries in Iraq from mortar fire and an improvised explosive device that left him paralyzed, said his highlight was “surfing” alongside the whale shark.
“Actually, its wake pulled me with it,” Collins said with enthusiasm. “So I was swimming forward and the next thing I know, I’m going backwards and I realized the whale shark is right below me.”
Collins had been unable to enter water since 2020 due to his injuries. His son Ian Collins witnessed the remarkable moment.
“It’s a wonderful thing to see my dad being able to enjoy things he couldn’t anymore,” Ian said. “It’s a great thing to see.”
Fishing enthusiasts looking to combine competition with conservation will find plenty of opportunities in Maryland’s 2026 tournament lineup focused on invasive species removal. These events offer participants the chance to win cash prizes while helping protect the Chesapeake Bay’s native wildlife.
Here are the scheduled Maryland competitions targeting blue catfish and other non-native species:
Mid-Shore Fishing Club Invasive Species Tournament – Ongoing until December 1
The Mid-Shore Fishing Club of Maryland hosts this competition where participants pursue blue catfish and snakeheads (Chesapeake Channa) within Eastern Shore waters. Winners receive payouts for catching the most fish and the biggest specimens. All tournament entries must be kept rather than released to earn rewards.
Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative Reel Rewards Program – April 25 through July 18
This Baltimore nonprofit returns for its third year, paying anglers up to $30 per fish for harvesting Chesapeake channa, blue catfish, and flathead catfish from Baltimore Harbor waters extending to the former Key Bridge location. The program supports invasive species removal while providing researchers with specimens to study environmental impacts. Participants can find drop-off sites listed on the organization’s website.
Reel Invasion Fishing Derby: Anacostia River – June 7
Maryland DNR partners with the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment for this no-cost community event and competition designed to teach proper invasive species harvesting techniques. The derby addresses the serious ecological damage these fish inflict on regional waterways. Activities include expert fish cleaning demonstrations, beginner fishing instruction, and prize distributions.
Eric Altemus Memorial Catfish Tournament – June 13
This charitable competition at Safe Harbor Bohemia Vista in Chesapeake City combines family entertainment with fundraising for local causes while distributing cash awards to winners.
Snakes on the Dundee V – June 13
Entering its fifth season, this Northern Snakehead-focused tournament and educational event welcomes fishing enthusiasts at all skill levels to Dundee Creek Marina within Gunpowder Falls State Park. Maryland DNR and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service sponsor this free competition featuring bowfishing demonstrations, fish preparation tutorials, door prizes, and activities for families.
Nanticoke River Invasive Fishing Derby – Summer date pending
Salisbury University Assistant Professor Noah Bressman organizes this research-focused competition for the fifth straight year at Cherry Beach Park in Sharptown. The event awards over $2,000 in prizes while collecting blue catfish and Chesapeake Channa specimens for laboratory analysis of ecosystem impacts. Post-weigh-in activities include an awards ceremony and complimentary catfish cookout featuring participants’ catches.
Madness on the Marshyhope – Summer date pending
Coastal Conservation Association Maryland returns to Federalsburg Marina Park for this tournament’s fourth edition. Past events have drawn more than 50 competitors who landed nearly 200 catfish weighing over 400 pounds combined. The day concludes with awards followed by a fish fry showcasing the blue catfish’s culinary appeal. Youth participants receive complimentary fishing gear and bait, though all ages may compete.
Chester River Catfish Tournament – August 29
The Maryland Wildlife & Heritage Association presents this annual Chester River competition promoting invasive species removal while generating funds for state conservation efforts. Thousands of dollars in prize money awaits those landing the heaviest blue, flathead, and channel catfish. Last year’s event included over 60 junior participants.
Fish For A Cure – November 7
This dual-purpose tournament and fundraiser supports local cancer care initiatives through a Chesapeake Bay competition followed by an Annapolis Shore Party celebration. The event includes a dedicated invasive species division.
Understanding Blue Catfish
These apex predators feed on native species including blue crabs, white perch, and menhaden, disrupting the natural food chain.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges fishing enthusiasts to support Chesapeake Bay ecosystem recovery by actively catching and removing blue catfish from state waters.
Regulations impose no size restrictions, bag limits, or seasonal closures for blue catfish harvesting. These fish can reach enormous proportions – Maryland’s 82-pound record specimen has remained unmatched since 2012.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials are alerting drivers about a lane restriction on Interstate 95 northbound that could impact travel times near the Pennsylvania border.
Construction crews have shut down the right lane on I-95 north in the area spanning from the Pennsylvania state line to mile marker 2. The lane closure is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 PM today.
Motorists planning to travel through this section of the interstate should anticipate possible delays and consider allowing extra time for their commute. Drivers are encouraged to use caution when approaching the work zone and merge safely into the available lanes.
Delaware State Police have taken a 28-year-old New Castle resident into custody after authorities say he fatally struck a pedestrian and left the scene without stopping.
Cole Burgess now faces multiple charges in connection with the deadly crash that occurred in the early morning hours of May 6, 2026, along Airport Road near East Edinburgh Drive in New Castle.
According to investigators, Burgess was driving his Jeep Cherokee north on Airport Road around 12:20 a.m. when he collided with Teddy Huff Jr., a 60-year-old New Castle man who was walking in the same direction on the roadway. Emergency responders declared Huff dead at the scene.
Police say Burgess drove away immediately after the impact without rendering aid or contacting authorities. Detectives later traced the Jeep back to Burgess and discovered the damaged vehicle hidden behind his home, showing collision damage that matched the crash scene evidence.
Authorities apprehended Burgess during a separate traffic stop for an unrelated violation, where officers also discovered he was carrying an unlawful concealed firearm.
Following his arrest, Burgess was processed at Troop 2 headquarters and appeared before Justice of the Peace Court 2. He received charges for the fatal crash and was released after posting a $5,100 unsecured bond.
The hit-and-run charges include:
• Leaving Scene of a Collision Resulting in Death (Felony)
• Failure to Report a Collision Resulting in Injury or Death
Additional charges from the traffic stop include:
• Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon – Firearm (Felony)
• Traffic Violation
For these charges, Burgess was released on his own recognizance.
The Delaware State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit remains actively investigating this fatal incident. Authorities are seeking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or captured video footage to contact Corporal K. Oakes at (302) 365-8483. Tips can also be submitted through the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Victims and their families affected by this tragedy can access support services through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center, available around the clock at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461) or via email at [email protected].
Authorities in Wicomico County are requesting community assistance to help find a teenager who has been missing for several days.
Fourteen-year-old Chester Fitchett III disappeared on May 5 and was last observed around 3 p.m. on Baptist Street in the 200 block area of Salisbury, Maryland. Law enforcement describes the missing teen as an African American male standing about 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing roughly 120 pounds. He has black curly hair and brown eyes. When he was last seen, Fitchett was dressed in a royal blue “Nike Tech” jacket, blue jeans, and white and black Nike sneakers. Authorities suspect he might currently be located near Smith Street in Salisbury.
The Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack is encouraging anyone who has information about Fitchett’s whereabouts to call 410-749-3101. The search for the missing teenager continues as an active investigation.
The United States Postal Service may soon allow private citizens to ship handguns through the mail system, marking a potential end to restrictions that have been in place for almost a century. The proposed regulation has drawn strong opposition from Democratic attorneys general across 24 states who submitted a formal letter of protest this week.
The current prohibition dates back to 1927 when lawmakers banned the postal service from handling concealable weapons unless shipped by licensed firearms dealers, a measure designed to reduce criminal activity. This past January, the Department of Justice challenged the nearly century-old restriction, declaring it unconstitutional and claiming it infringes upon Second Amendment rights, prompting officials to push for regulatory changes.
Justice Department officials stated that when Congress operates a shipping service, “the Second Amendment precludes it from refusing to ship constitutionally protected firearms to and from law-abiding citizens, even if they are not licensed manufacturers or dealers.”
The postal service introduced its proposed regulation last month, which would permit anyone to ship concealable weapons including pistols and revolvers through the mail. While the USPS already accepts certain firearms such as long-barrel rifles and shotguns for shipping, these must be unloaded and properly secured. The same safety measures would apply to handguns under the new proposal, acknowledging that firearm technology has advanced significantly since the original 1927 ban. Postal officials indicated they are currently examining public feedback submitted by Monday’s deadline before finalizing any modifications.
Nevada’s Attorney General Aaron Ford, who is seeking the governor’s office, expressed concern that the regulatory change would undermine state efforts to reduce gun violence. Nevada was the site of America’s most devastating mass shooting in recent history when a gunman fired from the Mandalay Bay hotel in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017, resulting in 60 deaths. In response to that tragedy, Nevada enacted legislation requiring state-conducted background checks for most private firearm sales and transfers.
“Our state has suffered enough, and to suggest we make it easier for criminals and abusers to access firearms is a slap in the face to gun violence survivors and law enforcement,” Ford stated.
The proposed regulations would permit intrastate gun sales and shipments between individuals within the same state. Interstate shipping rules would be more restrictive, allowing people to mail firearms only to themselves in care of another person, with the requirement that the original owner personally retrieve the package. This provision aims to help travelers who want to transport firearms to other states for recreational activities.
Justice Department representatives argue that the complex web of varying state gun laws creates obstacles for lawful firearm transportation across state boundaries for legitimate activities including target practice, hunting, and personal protection. Officials noted that many people lack alternatives for traveling with firearms, making postal delivery the “only viable method of transportation.”
In their Monday letter, Ford and fellow attorneys general from approximately two dozen states called on the postal service to abandon the proposed rule, warning it would facilitate gun access for prohibited individuals such as convicted felons and domestic violence offenders. They also expressed concern that the change would complicate criminal investigations involving firearms. The state officials argued that the executive branch lacks authority to disregard congressional legislation and that the rule would supersede state firearms laws.
According to the attorneys general, state regulations encompass requirements such as firearms training courses, background investigations, and mental health evaluations. These safeguards are administered through state agencies that would be circumvented if the proposed rule takes effect. They contended there would be no mechanism to ensure compliance or prevent illegal interstate handgun shipments to unauthorized recipients.
The state officials also noted that law enforcement agencies would need to develop new tracking systems for postal firearm shipments, creating additional financial strain on state budgets.
Private shipping companies including UPS and FedEx currently limit firearm shipments to customers holding federal firearms licenses, such as importers, manufacturers, dealers, and collectors. FedEx policy requires licensed shippers to collaborate with company account representatives to secure shipping approval, according to their website.
The proposed change has received praise from firearms advocacy organizations while drawing criticism from gun safety groups.
National Rifle Association lobbying executive John Commerford hailed the development as a significant win for responsible gun owners.
“Thanks to President Trump and his administration, USPS will finally allow these firearms to be shipped under the same commonsense safety conditions as rifles and shotguns,” Commerford declared in a Wednesday statement.
Everytown for Gun Safety president John Feinblatt warned the rule change would transform the postal service into a “gun trafficking pipeline” for illegal weapons “while stripping law enforcement of the tools they need to prevent and investigate gun crime.”
ATLANTA — A federal appeals court based in Atlanta has struck down the Trump administration’s policy that denies bond hearings to immigrants facing deportation proceedings, adding to a growing disagreement among federal courts nationwide on this immigration enforcement strategy.
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals delivered its 2-1 decision on Wednesday. This marks the second federal appeals court to reject the policy, following a similar ruling by the 2nd Circuit in April. However, the 8th and 5th circuit courts have previously supported the administration’s approach that took effect in July. Adding to the confusion, a 7th Circuit panel issued a three-way split decision Tuesday, with judges reaching different conclusions on the matter.
Given the widening disagreement among federal circuits, the U.S. Supreme Court may need to step in to settle the dispute.
The Atlanta court’s decision arose from cases involving two Mexican nationals who had been residing in the United States without legal status since 2019 and 2015. Both men were detained during traffic stops in Florida in September and subsequently entered into removal proceedings.
Under the Department of Homeland Security’s current approach, bond hearings are being refused for individuals in immigration custody, including those who have lived in the country for extended periods without any criminal background. Before this policy change, most non-citizens without criminal records who weren’t apprehended at the border could request a bond hearing while their immigration matters proceeded through the courts.
Bonds were frequently approved when individuals weren’t considered likely to flee. Mandatory custody was typically limited to people who had recently crossed into the U.S.
Senior Circuit Judge Stanley Marcus, nominated by former Democratic President Bill Clinton, authored the majority opinion with support from Circuit Judge Robin Rosenbaum, an Obama appointee. Circuit Judge Barbara Lagoa, appointed by Trump, wrote the dissenting opinion.
The majority decision stated they were “unpersuaded by the Government’s re-interpretation” of federal law provisions that the administration claims authorize indefinite detention without bond for people “seeking admission” to the country.
“Simply put, the language that Congress has chosen to use does not grant to the Executive unfettered authority to detain, without the possibility of bond, every unadmitted alien present in the country,” the court wrote. The judges noted that based on the statutory language, “it appears to us that Congress has instead preserved the longstanding border-interior distinction for the purposes of detention, a position it has taken for over a hundred years.”
Judge Lagoa disagreed with her colleagues, stating, “There is no dispute that unlawfully present aliens are applicants for admission pursuant to the deeming provision.”
“The majority’s argument amounts to the claim that the provision fits arriving aliens better. Maybe so,” she wrote, while adding that “a more comfortable fit does not allow us to read an exception” into existing law.
Government attorneys have maintained that the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 justifies the mandatory detention approach. That legislation streamlined deportation procedures for recent arrivals lacking proper documentation, though separate laws permitted people already residing in the country to request bond from immigration judges.
However, Todd Lyons, acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, announced in July that all individuals in removal proceedings would receive the same treatment as recent border crossers.
Without access to immigration judges for bond requests, detained individuals are filing habeas corpus petitions in federal court to contest their confinement. This has created an overwhelming caseload for federal courts, with over 30,000 lawsuits submitted by people held without bond as the Trump administration implements widespread deportation efforts.
Federal investigators have concluded that the shooter who opened fire at a downtown Austin bar in March, claiming three lives and injuring more than a dozen others, carried out the attack without assistance from terrorist organizations, according to an FBI report released Thursday.
The bureau issued a two-page summary of their investigation into the early morning March 1 assault at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, which concluded when the attacker, Ndiaga Diagne, was fatally shot by responding officers.
The violence occurred following military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran. During the attack, Diagne wore clothing featuring Iranian flag imagery and text reading “Property of Allah.”
While investigators could not establish a definitive motive, they believe Diagne’s violent actions were sparked by the military conflict with Iran, “culminating in a violent, impulsive attack” at the establishment, according to the federal report.
The investigation revealed that Diagne held deep admiration for Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had been killed. Authorities determined his support for Iran and its former leader likely influenced his decision to carry out the solo assault.
“The investigation to date indicates Diagne was a lone actor,” the federal report stated. Prior to the shooting, he had never been under FBI surveillance or investigation.
The 53-year-old perpetrator was a Senegal native who initially arrived in the United States in 2000 using a B-2 tourist visa, later obtaining permanent residency status in 2006 following his marriage to an American citizen, Department of Homeland Security records show.
“There is no evidence at this time that he was associated with a Foreign Terrorist Organization or that he received any direction, funding, or operational support for his attack,” investigators concluded.
The targeted venue sits within Austin’s bustling entertainment district filled with bars and nightlife establishments. According to police accounts, the gunman initially drove past the location before returning to open fire from his SUV on pedestrians and patrons. He subsequently exited his vehicle armed with a rifle and continued shooting at people on the street until law enforcement arrived and neutralized the threat.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis previously reported that officers reached the scene within 56 seconds of receiving the initial emergency call and eliminated the shooter after he opened fire on police personnel.
The victims claimed in the attack were identified as 21-year-old Savitha Shan, 19-year-old Ryder Harrington, and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson.
Federal authorities indicated their investigation into the deadly incident continues.
Former FBI Director James Comey is asking a federal judge to cancel his scheduled Monday court appearance in North Carolina, arguing the hearing is redundant since he has already surrendered to authorities in Virginia on charges stemming from an alleged threat against President Donald Trump.
Federal prosecutors filed a two-count criminal indictment against Comey last week, accusing him of “knowingly and willfully” making threats against Trump through an Instagram photograph showing seashells arranged to form the numbers “86 47.”
According to the indictment, investigators believe the image was intended as a threat against Trump, who serves as the nation’s 47th president. Comey maintains he discovered the shell formation on a beach and viewed it as political commentary rather than incitement to violence, adding that he deleted the post after realizing some viewers interpreted it as threatening.
Defense attorneys filed paperwork Thursday requesting the cancellation of Monday’s hearing in Greenville, North Carolina federal court. They emphasized that Comey has already completed the surrender process and appeared before a Virginia judge near his residence, with Justice Department officials agreeing to the request.
This marks the second criminal case Trump’s Justice Department has initiated against Comey, who has long been viewed as an opponent by the Republican president. A previous unrelated case charging Comey with providing false testimony to Congress was thrown out after a judge determined the prosecutor lacked proper appointment authority.
Several legal analysts have raised doubts about whether prosecutors can satisfy the demanding burden of proof required to show Comey genuinely intended his social media post as a threat. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche claims investigators possess additional evidence beyond the Instagram image alone, though he has declined to provide specifics.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary, which The Associated Press uses as its standard reference, defines “86” as slang meaning “to throw out,” “to get rid of” or “to refuse service to.” The dictionary notes that while the term has recently been extended to mean “to kill,” this definition is not officially included due to its limited and recent usage.
PORTLAND, Maine — Maine’s Republican Senator Susan Collins has publicly revealed she lives with a benign essential tremor, marking the first time she has addressed this health matter during her extensive political tenure as she campaigns for reelection in a competitive Senate battle.
Collins confirmed her condition to Maine’s WCSH-TV on Wednesday following inquiries about her health sparked by recent video appearances, including footage from her campaign launch.
The medical condition results in shaking that affects Collins’ hands, head, and voice, something she has experienced throughout her almost 30-year Senate tenure. The disorder impacts millions of Americans beyond age 40 and “does not interfere” with her professional duties, Collins explained in a Thursday statement to The Associated Press. She emphasized it is not a progressive neurological disease.
“The tremor is occasionally inconvenient, and sometimes the subject of cruel comments online, but it does not hinder my ability to work and, as I said, is something that I have lived with for decades,” her statement read.
Candidate health and age have become prominent topics in major elections after Democratic President Joe Biden chose not to pursue reelection in 2024 at 81 years old. Similar concerns persist regarding Republican President Donald Trump, age 79, who has recently appeared with hand bruising, sometimes covered with cosmetics. The White House confirmed last year that Trump received a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency.
Collins faces reelection in a seat that Democrats must win to potentially regain Senate control. Her expected challenger is Democrat Graham Platner, an oyster farmer and military veteran, following Democratic Governor Janet Mills’ campaign suspension last week. Age has emerged as a campaign factor, with Collins at 73 and Mills at 78 being more than three decades senior to the 41-year-old Platner.
Platner has been transparent about his own health challenges from early in his campaign. He has discussed ongoing pain in his shoulder and knees resulting from combat duty, and has shared his post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis following wartime service. Platner holds a 100% disability designation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs while maintaining his work as an oyster farmer.
“There are a lot of disabled combat veterans, or just disabled vets, at 100%, who still work,” Platner explained to WCSH last year. “It’s a very normal thing.”
Collins began her Senate service in 1996 and confirmed in her statement that the condition has been present throughout her tenure. The tremor has been observable during Collins’ debates and numerous public engagements over the years.
Serving as chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Collins has taken a leading role in the chamber’s numerous budget battles this Congress, frequently directing floor discussions and delivering the GOP’s final arguments. She regularly speaks with media in the Capitol corridors. Her record of consecutive Senate votes has reached 9,966, representing the second-longest unbroken voting record in the chamber’s history.
Tremors occur when nerve signals fail to communicate properly with specific muscles. Essential tremor, also known as benign essential tremor, ranks among the most prevalent movement conditions, according to the National Institutes of Health.
The likelihood of developing this condition grows with age, though at least half of instances are hereditary, indicating family history, and these typically emerge earlier in life. The condition nearly always includes hand trembling or shaking but may also impact the head, voice, or legs.
Japanese telecommunications giant SoftBank Corp is exploring partnerships with American semiconductor leader Nvidia and Taiwan-based manufacturing company Foxconn to develop domestic artificial intelligence server technology, according to a Friday report from the Nikkei newspaper.
The telecommunications conglomerate is reportedly examining the possibility of launching design work and component assembly operations before 2030, the Japanese business publication stated.
The potential collaboration would bring together SoftBank’s telecommunications expertise, Nvidia’s cutting-edge AI chip technology, and Foxconn’s manufacturing capabilities to create Japan-based AI server infrastructure.
Federal regulators are investigating suspicious oil market activity totaling $7 billion that occurred just before President Trump made critical announcements regarding Iran policy, according to market data analysis and industry sources.
The sophisticated trading strategy involved wagering that oil prices would drop, with positions placed across major exchanges including the Intercontinental Exchange and Chicago Mercantile Exchange during March and April. These bets proved remarkably profitable as oil prices tumbled following Trump’s policy statements.
The investigation has expanded beyond initial reports that focused on $2.6 billion in questionable trades. Market experts and exchange data now show the suspicious activity was far more extensive, involving crude oil, diesel, and gasoline derivatives across multiple trading platforms.
Unusual market activity first caught traders’ attention on March 23, when large short positions were established just minutes before Trump announced he would delay planned military strikes against Iranian infrastructure. Oil prices immediately fell following the announcement.
This pattern repeated itself on April 7, when similar trades preceded Trump’s ceasefire announcement with Iran, causing benchmark Brent crude futures to plummet as much as 15 percent. Additional suspicious trading occurred on April 17 ahead of discussions about reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and again on April 21 before Trump extended the ceasefire agreement.
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission is conducting an investigation into the trades, though the agency has not officially confirmed the probe. The administration has already issued warnings to staff about using confidential government information for personal financial gain.
Market investigators have not yet determined who executed the trades or whether they originated domestically or internationally. Both the Intercontinental Exchange and Chicago Mercantile Exchange declined to provide comments about the ongoing investigation.
The Justice Department, CFTC, and White House have not responded to requests for comment regarding the federal probe into the suspicious oil market activity.
WASHINGTON – Federal appeals court judges voiced skepticism Thursday about the Pentagon’s efforts to discipline Arizona Democratic Senator Mark Kelly over public comments he made encouraging military personnel to reject unlawful commands.
During more than an hour of arguments before a three-judge panel at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, the judges questioned the government’s position against Kelly, a former Navy captain.
“These are people who serve their country. Many of them put their lives on the line,” Circuit Judge Florence Pan questioned a Justice Department attorney. “You’re saying that they have to give up their retired status in order to say something that is a textbook example — taught at West Point and the Naval Academy — that you can disobey illegal orders?”
Speaking to reporters outside the Washington courthouse following the proceedings, Kelly emphasized the broader implications. “This was a day in court not just for me, but for the First Amendment rights of millions of us,” Kelly said.
Neither the Pentagon nor White House provided immediate responses when asked for comment.
Kelly filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon in January, claiming the Trump administration’s decision to strip his rank and cut his retirement benefits constituted retaliation that violated First Amendment free speech protections.
The Pentagon challenged a February ruling by U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, who issued a temporary order preventing the administration from proceeding with its disciplinary action against Kelly.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth initiated sanctions against Kelly, a former astronaut, following Kelly’s participation in a November 2025 video. The recording came amid growing controversy over the Trump administration’s use of National Guard forces in American cities and approval of deadly force against suspected Latin American drug trafficking vessels. In the footage, Kelly declared: “Our laws are clear: you can refuse illegal orders.”
During Thursday’s hearing, the government’s representative argued that constitutional protections don’t extend to military officers who encourage defiance of legitimate orders, regardless of retirement status.
“It’s very clear that this is about a pattern and totality of conduct, not any one line or any one statement taken in isolation,” Justice Department lawyer John Bailey told the court.
The Trump administration maintains that retired officers continue as part of the military structure, remain eligible for reactivation, and possess influence over active service members.
Kelly’s legal team argued the Pentagon’s response constituted punishment for constitutionally protected political expression on issues of public importance.
“The punishments imposed on Senator Kelly are textbook retaliation against disfavored speech,” Kelly’s attorney, Benjamin Mizer, told the appeals panel. “The censure letter says on its face that it’s targeting the Senator for his public statements.”
IndyCar officials have pulled a promotional T-shirt from their online store following customer complaints that the garment’s wording could be viewed as racially insensitive.
The controversial merchandise was created to advertise the upcoming August Freedom 250 race in Washington, featuring an illustration of President Abraham Lincoln donning a racing helmet. The design included the text “ONE NATION” positioned above Lincoln’s image and “ONE RACE” printed below it.
Critics argued the phrasing might carry racist implications, sparking heated discussions across social media platforms during the shirt’s short time for sale.
“A shirt was removed from IndyCar’s online store following feedback from customers,” IndyCar officials said in their response. “We understand that some individuals found its phrasing concerning and therefore have remedied the situation.”
The Washington racing event carries a patriotic focus as part of commemorating America’s upcoming 250th independence anniversary. President Donald Trump has praised the competition as a key component of the White House’s “Freedom 250” festivities.
During the race, IndyCar drivers will navigate a course that passes by significant Washington monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial, which appears to have inspired the T-shirt’s design. Lincoln remains celebrated primarily for his leadership during the Civil War, which ultimately abolished slavery throughout the United States.
The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Tournament moves forward with second and third round competition scheduled to take place. Teams across the nation are preparing for the next phase of championship play as the field narrows toward the final rounds.
The tournament bracket continues to unfold as collegiate lacrosse programs battle for positioning in the quest for a national title. Second round matchups will determine which teams advance to face additional competition in the third round of play.
Championship action represents the culmination of the college lacrosse season, with participating teams having earned their spots through regular season performance and conference tournament results. The elimination format ensures only the strongest programs continue their pursuit of the national championship.
Salisbury, MD – Major construction work is transforming the gymnasium at Truitt Community Center, delivering significant enhancements to one of the area’s most popular community facilities.
The comprehensive renovation encompasses several key improvements to the gym space, including enhanced insulation throughout walls and ceiling areas, protective padding installation, and new metal surface coverings designed to withstand heavy recreational activity and provide better durability.
The gymnasium shut down on May 4 to accommodate the construction work, with facility officials anticipating a reopening timeline by late June once outside construction crews finish the upgrade project.
“These upgrades will provide a more updated, suitable space for the community,” said Muir Boda. “We’re looking forward to reopening the gym and welcoming residents back into an improved environment.”
Alongside the physical improvements, facility management plans to launch a new booking system on July 1 designed to make it easier for local groups and community members to reserve space at the center.
The facility remains a vital community hub for area residents, and these enhancements will strengthen its capacity to host recreational activities, social gatherings and various community programming.
Residents can stay informed about construction progress and reopening announcements through official City communication platforms.
Two University of Delaware women’s golf players have been recognized with conference honors following Thursday’s announcement from Conference USA officials.
Junior Mary Grace Dunigan and freshman Rhianna Gooneratne both received All-Conference USA Third Team selections, marking a successful season for the Blue Hens golf program.
The conference recognition came after head coaches from across the league cast their votes to determine the all-conference squads. Both Delaware players stood out among their peers to earn spots on the third team.
Dunigan, now in her third year with the program, and Gooneratne, completing her first collegiate season, represented Delaware well throughout Conference USA competition this spring.
Terror groups with ties to Al Qaeda launched deadly nighttime raids on two villages in central Mali Wednesday, resulting in approximately 50 deaths among civilians and pro-government defense forces, according to three sources who spoke with international media Thursday.
The violence marks the most lethal incident since the Al Qaeda-affiliated organization Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) joined forces with the Tuareg-led rebel organization Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) for synchronized strikes throughout the West African nation in late April. Intermittent combat has continued since those initial attacks.
The raids targeted two communities within the Mopti region, according to an aid worker, diplomatic official, and security source who provided information about the incidents.
A local resident from Bankass, located close to the attacked areas, verified that assaults occurred Wednesday evening but was unable to specify casualty numbers or identify those responsible.
“Unidentified armed men burst in, opening fire and ransacking the village,” the person said.
Officials have not determined how many victims were non-combatants. Village protection often falls to local defense militias and hunter groups that work alongside Mali’s military forces to defend against extremist attacks in the region.
Military representatives have not yet responded to requests for information regarding the latest attacks.
During a Wednesday press briefing in Bamako, Mali’s army commander Djibrilla Maiga explained that extremist fighters were working to regroup following the April 25 strikes, which resulted in the death of the defense minister and forced Russian forces supporting Mali’s leadership to withdraw from the strategically important northern city of Kidal.
“The threat is still present,” Maiga said, though he added that the military was disrupting their manoeuvres.
JNIM recently declared its intention to establish a blockade around the capital city Bamako through checkpoint installations on approaching roadways.
Maiga reported that militants were concentrating efforts on routes toward Kayes and Kita, hampering movement to western Mali, while other passages including those to Segou in central Mali remained open for travel. Kita sits approximately 180 kilometers from Bamako, with Kayes located roughly 580 kilometers away.
In northern Mali, where FLA militants captured Kidal and the strategic Tessalit base, military leadership is relocating specific units as part of their counter-response, Maiga explained without offering additional specifics.
Beyond assassinating Defense Minister Sadio Camara through an explosive-laden vehicle attack on his residence, the militants also targeted the home of Assimi Goita, who leads the government that assumed control through military coups in 2020 and 2021, according to Maiga.
Security personnel “contained the threat and defused the vehicle”, he said.
Goita made a state television appearance on April 28, declaring that Mali’s situation remained under government control.
Mali’s armed forces have “neutralised” several hundred “terrorists” following the April 25 attacks, Maiga reported.
While Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby battles to maintain his college playing status, multiple NFL franchises are reportedly considering him as a potential pick in the supplemental draft if his collegiate career comes to an end.
The signal-caller joined the Red Raiders from Cincinnati during the off-season and took part in spring workouts, but his regular season participation remains uncertain as the NCAA examines gambling allegations. NCAA regulations strictly forbid student-athletes and staff members from placing bets on any NCAA championship events, including football.
According to reports from ESPN and Cleveland.com, professional teams are conducting evaluations to assess Sorsby’s potential value should he decide to enter the supplemental draft before the June 30 cutoff date.
The investigation centers on Sorsby’s alleged wagering activities involving Major League Baseball and college football contests, including reported bets on Indiana football during his 2022 redshirt season with the Hoosiers.
Despite the controversy, Sorsby demonstrated strong performance on the field. During his redshirt freshman campaign at Indiana in 2023, he recorded 15 touchdown passes. Across his three seasons with both the Hoosiers and Bearcats (2024-25), he accumulated 82 total touchdowns, including 22 rushing scores, while throwing 17 interceptions.
His most recent season at Cincinnati saw him throw 27 touchdown passes against just five interceptions.
The NFL last conducted a supplemental draft in 2019. Established in 1977, this special draft was designed to provide opportunities for players experiencing “sudden eligibility changes” to transition from college to professional football. The league will likely conduct a thorough review of Sorsby’s situation before deciding whether to proceed with a July supplemental draft.
Texas Tech announced that Sorsby would participate in a gambling addiction treatment program and take an indefinite break from team activities. The university has retained Jeffrey Kessler, a prominent sports attorney, to fight for Sorsby’s eligibility restoration. Kessler served as the lead counsel in the House vs. NCAA settlement approved in June 2025, which established revenue sharing in college sports. This agreement allows schools to distribute $20.5 million annually to athletes, with yearly increases built in.
Kessler has previously represented the NFL Players Association in cases involving high-profile players including Tom Brady, Ezekiel Elliott, Adrian Peterson, and Ray Rice.
An On3 report indicates that Sorsby has placed over 10,000 sports bets since 2022, averaging up to 20 daily wagers across various sportsbook applications in multiple states.
Notable players who entered the NFL through the supplemental draft include former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar (1985), Hall of Fame receiver Cris Carter (1987), and wide receiver Rob Moore (1990), who played for the Jets and Cardinals.
The University of Georgia and Florida State University have canceled their planned two-game football series that was set for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
Both universities cited scheduling conflicts as the reason for scrapping the matchup after the Southeastern Conference and Atlantic Coast Conference each expanded to nine-game conference schedules.
The scheduling change leaves little flexibility for both programs, as the Seminoles and Bulldogs each maintain important non-conference rivalry matchups with in-state opponents – Florida State faces Florida annually while Georgia plays Georgia Tech. These commitments mean both teams already face 10 Power 4 conference opponents each season.
Despite canceling the home-and-home arrangement, the possibility remains for the teams to meet at a neutral venue. Florida State’s athletic director Michael Alford expressed he was “optimistic” about arranging such a matchup, according to ESPN.
Historically, Georgia holds the advantage in the series between these programs with a 7-4-1 record against Florida State. Their last encounter was a decisive 63-3 victory by the Bulldogs in the Orange Bowl on December 30, 2023.
Chicago Cubs left-handed pitcher Matthew Boyd underwent surgical repair on Thursday for a torn meniscus in his left knee, an injury that occurred while he was playing with his children on Wednesday.
Cubs skipper Craig Counsell anticipates the 35-year-old pitcher will be out of action for roughly six weeks following the procedure.
“It’s kind of the minor meniscus surgery so we know he’s going to miss a month, six weeks,” Counsell explained before his team faced the Cincinnati Reds. “Probably closer to six weeks with getting it ramped back up. That’s what we’re hopeful for. Obviously, we’ll see how it all goes and I think the important thing is how much time do we miss throwing. That’s probably the biggest thing right here. The knee is going to recover pretty quickly, but how much throwing down time do we have to take?”
Boyd’s injury adds to Chicago’s growing list of sidelined starting pitchers, joining Cade Horton, Justin Steele, and Jordan Wicks on the disabled list. Horton faces a season-ending elbow injury, while Steele’s elbow problem will keep him out until the second half of the season.
With Boyd (2-1, 6.00 ERA) scheduled to start Friday against the Texas Rangers, Counsell has not yet determined his replacement. Both Javier Assad and Ben Brown are being considered as potential rotation fill-ins.
“We’re just trying to think about the innings puzzle moving forward here,” Counsell noted. “And then you’re also just trying to consider what’s next. You have to play that game, unfortunately. You always have to play that game: What do we do if something else happens? We just have to make sure we’re covered there. … I don’t think we have anybody completely stretched out as a starter right now. So that’s what I’m talking about, the puzzle. We’re just going to have to put that together. We’ll just see what we get there on that day and what that means.”
The Cubs made roster adjustments this week, bringing up reliever Trent Thornton from Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday. On Thursday, they called up Gavin Hollowell while releasing Corbin Martin.
Martin’s departure came after surrendering three runs in Wednesday’s ninth inning, allowing the Reds to erase Chicago’s 4-2 advantage. The Cubs eventually prevailed 7-6 on a walk-off walk in extra innings, marking their third consecutive walk-off victory, 14th straight home win, and eighth victory in a row. Martin posted a 10.80 ERA across seven outings.
Thornton earned the victory in his Cubs debut by throwing a clean 10th inning.
The 28-year-old Hollowell recorded a 2.25 ERA in six games at Iowa before his call-up.
Chicago wraps up their four-game series with Cincinnati on Thursday, with Shota Imanaga (3-2, 2.40) taking the mound against Rhett Lowder (3-2, 5.09).
ABUJA, Nigeria — Military forces in Nigeria have successfully freed nine individuals who were kidnapped during an armed assault on an orphanage facility last month, according to a Thursday announcement from army officials.
Officials in Nigeria’s Kogi state reported that armed attackers targeted an unlicensed Islamic orphanage and seized 23 students in a remote section of Lokoja, the state’s capital city, on April 26. Military personnel were able to immediately free 15 of the kidnapped victims.
The remaining nine hostages were located and recovered by troops operating in a forested region of the state, according to army spokesperson Hassan Abdullahi, who issued the statement on Wednesday with public release on Thursday.
“The rescued victims comprised five boys, two girls, and two adult females, believed to be the wives of the proprietor of the orphanage,” Abdullahi said.
Based on these numbers, it appears one additional student may still be missing, though the military statement did not address whether anyone remains unaccounted for.
No organization has stepped forward to take credit for the kidnapping operation. Security experts note that militant groups frequently target educational facilities and capture students because these attacks generate significant public attention and can result in substantial ransom payments. Hundreds of students have fallen victim to abduction incidents throughout Nigeria.
WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency under the Trump administration plans to introduce changes that would relax certain drinking water regulations for PFAS chemicals established during the Biden presidency, according to a top agency official.
Jessica Kramer, who leads the EPA’s Office of Water, announced Thursday at a Washington conference that the agency intends to eliminate and reconsider specific restrictions she claims the previous administration implemented incorrectly. This action follows through on commitments the EPA made a year earlier.
The upcoming proposal will initiate the official process to roll back portions of the nation’s first comprehensive PFAS drinking water standards, which Biden administration officials determined could reduce risks of heart disease, certain cancer types, and low birth weight in newborns.
While complete details remain under wraps, agency leaders have previously indicated they would eliminate regulations covering three PFAS categories, including GenX chemicals discovered in North Carolina waters. The agency also plans to remove a standard addressing combinations of multiple PFAS types before reconsidering these restrictions.
‘We need drinking water rules that are legally defensible. We need drinking water regulations that are not susceptible to legal challenge because the explicit process in the Safe Drinking Water Act wasn’t followed. And so that is a huge concern,’ Kramer stated during the conference focused on ensuring universal access to clean drinking water and wastewater services.
Kramer explained the goal involves restarting the regulatory process while adhering to proper legal procedures. The Biden administration faced criticism for allegedly bypassing correct legal protocols by rushing regulations on less common PFAS types that are now targeted for elimination.
The agency maintains its dedication to supporting water utilities in reducing PFAS contamination through technical guidance and billions in additional funding to help with expensive and complex treatment systems required to eliminate these chemicals.
The previous administration’s regulations established stringent limits of 4 parts per trillion for two prevalent PFAS types known as PFOA and PFOS. The EPA plans to maintain these standards while extending the compliance deadline by two years to 2031.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin previously described the deadline extension as ‘common-sense flexibility’ when the agency first announced this approach.
‘This will support water systems across the country, including small systems in rural communities, as they work to address these contaminants,’ he stated at that time.
Regarding broader drinking water policy, the Trump administration has committed to maintaining strong lead reduction standards for tap water, contrasting with their approach to environmental protections for coal and other polluting energy industries.
‘Where they may have taken a wrecking ball to those rules, this is a little more surgical and measured in part because of the resonance of these issues among voters,’ said Melanie Benesh, vice president of government affairs with the Environmental Working Group nonprofit.
According to the organization, requiring utilities to treat multiple PFAS types helps ensure other potentially dangerous substances are also filtered from water supplies.
Benesh also questioned the legality of the proposed changes, noting that the Safe Drinking Water Act, which gives EPA authority to regulate drinking water contaminants, prohibits officials from creating weaker regulations than existing ones.
The announcement comes as the agency faces pressure from the Make America Healthy Again movement regarding PFAS and pesticide issues. This group, supported by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., advocates against corporate environmental damage.
Public comment periods will be available before any final changes take effect.
VENICE, Italy — Utah sculptor Alma Allen found himself with only a few months to create his exhibition for one of the art world’s most prestigious events after a controversial selection process for the Venice Biennale went down to the final moments.
The self-taught artist, who creates his work in Mexico, understands his position as an outsider in the exclusive art community and is preparing for intense scrutiny as he steps onto one of contemporary art’s most important platforms.
The selection process, which critics have labeled as lacking transparency, has created controversy surrounding the exhibition’s debut.
Major art institutions that usually compete for the highly sought-after Biennale commission stayed away, apparently worried about becoming entangled in political issues after the application requirements dropped language about diversity, equity and inclusion in favor of promoting “American values.”
In what appears to be a tongue-in-cheek response, Allen crafted a bronze evil eye to display on the outside of the brick, Jefferson-style U.S. Pavilion as protection against negative energy, he said with humor. This piece joins eleven other new works he created for an exhibition that could become the defining achievement of his three-decade career.
However, just days before Saturday’s Biennale opening, the protective evil eye sculpture had yet to be delivered.
“This is really the first circumstance in my life as an artist where I felt the need to defend myself, or my work,” Allen shared with The Associated Press during a recent tour of the pavilion. He admitted that working away from critical attention for thirty years “has been actually a pleasure.”
Allen creates organic-shaped sculptures using wood, stone and bronze, and prefers not to title them so viewers can have “a moment of creation when they can decide what it is.”
His Biennale display, called “Call Me the Breeze,” features pieces spanning the past two decades alongside his newest creations. Allen explained he selected this title to represent his talent for navigating around barriers.
“And that’s been my necessity and it’s also because of being self-taught and not having any institutional support very often in life,” he said.
Exhibition commissioner Jeffrey Uslip said Allen’s independence from institutions was attractive to him.
“I am deeply interested and invested in artists who are not, I guess, academicized … or lobotomized,” he said.
An earlier proposal featuring artist Robert Lazzarini, organized by art historian John Ravenal, collapsed in September despite receiving U.S. State Department approval when the required institutional sponsor withdrew, Ravenal explained to AP.
When State Department efforts to connect the Lazzarini project with the newly established American Arts Conservancy failed, the current project featuring the AAC as sponsor, Uslip as curator and Allen as artist was quickly announced.
Uslip refused to provide details about the selection process.
Ravenal described the process as extremely unusual, lacking any apparent committee review or formal application procedure, and pointed out that the application deadline had passed in July.
“It’s really a loss of a 40-year history of open call and peer review,” Ravenal told AP by phone, characterizing Allen as “a pawn in this whole thing.”
Allen recognizes that his decision to proceed with the exhibition has generated some criticism. However, he maintains that the Trump administration has not influenced the show in any manner.
“My art is not propaganda,” he said.
In the pavilion’s central courtyard, a headless sheep sculpture stands without direction, serving as Allen’s self-portrait as an outsider. He characterized it as “a bit shunned because it’s the wrong sheep.”
His newest pieces include bronze wall sculptures treated with chemicals in a painting technique, handling the solid metal “as an instantaneous material, like watercolor,” he explained.
Allen’s path to the Biennale included a time of homelessness in New York City when he sold his artwork from an ironing board, a desperate action that inadvertently launched his artistic career and attracted his first collectors.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Palm Springs Art Museum have acquired Allen’s works, and he was featured in the 2014 Whitney Biennial. He made his European debut in Brussels in 2022.
After receiving the Biennale commission, he visited Venice for the first time in November to examine the U.S. Pavilion, a neoclassical brick structure built around a courtyard and rotunda. A Hieronymus Bosch painting called “The Visions of Hereafter” at Venice’s Accademia, showing heaven, hell and purgatory, provided the organizing concept for his exhibition.
“I wanted there to be a bit of the chaos that we go through,” he said.
Beyond his artistic portfolio, Allen credits his selection to his ability to handle last-minute challenges and embrace unexpected opportunities.
“When they do, I’m prepared to try it, and fail at it. That’s fine,” he said.
WASHINGTON – According to a Thursday report from Semafor, the Trump administration is reaching out to chief executives from several major American corporations to join the president during his scheduled visit to China next week.
The potential business delegation includes top leaders from technology giant Nvidia, iPhone maker Apple, and oil company Exxon Mobil, along with aerospace manufacturer Boeing, the report indicates.
Additional corporate executives receiving invitations include those from chip manufacturer Qualcomm, investment firm Blackstone, financial services company Citigroup, and payment processor Visa, according to the same reporting.
When contacted for verification, White House officials have not yet provided a response to requests for comment regarding the reported corporate invitations.
The National Hockey League announced Thursday that Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar has earned his sixth straight nomination for the league’s top defensive honor.
Makar, who has claimed the prestigious award twice previously in 2021-22 and 2024-25, will compete against Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin and Columbus Blue Jackets standout Zach Werenski for this year’s recognition.
The honor recognizes the league’s top defenseman as determined by votes from the Professional Hockey Writers Association. League officials will reveal the winner at a future date.
The 27-year-old Makar compiled 79 points this season, including 20 goals and 59 assists, while posting a plus-32 rating across 75 games.
Dahlin, 26, achieved personal bests with 74 points on 19 goals and 55 assists, along with a plus-18 rating in 77 games. This marks his first nomination for the award, and a victory would make him the first Sabres player to earn the distinction.
At 28, Werenski has now earned back-to-back nominations for the honor. He accumulated 81 points through 22 goals and 59 assists over 75 games during the 2025-26 campaign.
Two major figures from the Boston Celtics organization have entered the competition to acquire the Seattle Seahawks NFL franchise, according to a Thursday report from Sportico.
Steel industry executive Aditya Mittal, who holds a stake in the Celtics, along with former Celtics primary owner Wyc Grousbeck, have formally submitted their interest to Allen & Company, the investment firm managing the team’s sale on behalf of late owner Paul Allen’s estate.
The Seahawks entered the market officially on February 18, just over a week following their second franchise championship victory at Super Bowl LX.
The duo joins other high-profile potential buyers, including technology leaders Mark Zuckerberg from Meta and Apple’s Tim Cook, who reportedly showed interest in acquiring the franchise last week according to Front Office Sports.
At age 50, Mittal serves as chief executive of Luxembourg-based steel corporation ArcelorMittal. According to Sportico, he invested approximately $1 billion as part of Bill Chisholm’s investment group that acquired the Celtics from the Grousbeck family in 2025.
Grousbeck, now 64, established the ownership consortium that purchased the Celtics in 2002 and is expected to maintain his role with the basketball team until 2028 to ensure a seamless ownership transition.
According to the Sportico investigation, “since Mittal lives in London, Grousbeck would reside in Seattle part-time and effectively operate the franchise.”
Microsoft co-founder Allen acquired the Seahawks in 1997 for $194 million before his death in 2018.
While Forbes valued the franchise at $6.7 billion in its latest assessment, industry analysts anticipate the final purchase price could range between $8 billion and $11 billion. The current NFL sale record stands at $6.05 billion, set by the Washington Commanders transaction in 2023.
LONDON, May 7 – British officials announced Thursday they will call in China’s ambassador following the criminal convictions of two individuals found guilty of conducting espionage operations for Hong Kong authorities and China.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis condemned the intelligence activities in a Thursday statement, describing them as a breach of British national sovereignty.
“The activities carried out by these men, on behalf of China, are an infringement of our sovereignty and will never be tolerated,” Jarvis said.
The minister emphasized Britain’s commitment to confronting China over actions that threaten public safety within the country’s borders.
“We will continue to hold China to account and challenge them directly for actions which put the safety of people in our country at risk,” Jarvis stated.
“That is why the Foreign Office will summon the Chinese Ambassador to make it clear activity like this was, and will always be, unacceptable on UK soil,” the security minister added.
A man who threw homemade gasoline bombs at supporters of Israel during a peaceful demonstration in Boulder, Colorado has admitted his guilt to all criminal charges against him in state court.
Mohamed Soliman, a 46-year-old Egyptian citizen, accepted responsibility Thursday for dozens of serious criminal counts, including first-degree murder charges that each carry mandatory life sentences without parole eligibility.
Using an Arabic language translator, Soliman responded “guilty” to every charge read aloud by the Boulder County District Court judge. Court officials anticipated his formal sentencing would occur after a short break in proceedings.
The defendant faced a total of 184 criminal counts related to his June 1, 2025 assault, including various murder charges, attempted murder, assault, and illegal use of explosive and fire-starting devices.
Court documents from both prosecutors and defense attorneys indicate Soliman hurled two homemade firebombs at participants in a peaceful downtown Boulder demonstration organized to highlight the situation of Israeli captives taken by Hamas fighters from Gaza on October 7, 2023.
District attorneys stated that Soliman also wielded an improvised flamethrower created from a commercial weed-killing sprayer during his assault, shouting “Free Palestine” while the gasoline-filled bottles he threw exploded in flames among the crowd.
Officials documented 29 total victims from the incident, including individuals who suffered burns or injuries while escaping and others who were positioned close enough to be considered targets of murder attempts. Karen Diamond, an 82-year-old victim, succumbed to her injuries weeks later that same month.
The Salisbury University Sea Gulls softball squad is making final preparations as they head into the 2026 Coast to Coast Conference Championship tournament.
The upcoming championship represents a significant opportunity for the Sea Gulls program as they compete against other top teams in the conference for the coveted title.
Tournament organizers have released preview materials highlighting the key matchups and storylines that will define this year’s championship competition.
The Sea Gulls will look to capitalize on their season’s preparation as they vie for conference supremacy in what promises to be an exciting championship tournament.
Arts organizations and community groups across Delaware will receive a boost thanks to more than half a million dollars in new state funding announced this week.
On Tuesday, the Delaware Division of the Arts revealed it has awarded $572,573 through its second round of grants for the 2026 fiscal year. The funding comes through various rolling and recurring grant programs designed to support arts initiatives that serve local communities throughout the First State.
These grant opportunities focus on backing timely, community-centered arts programming that brings cultural experiences directly to Delaware residents. The awards represent the state’s continued commitment to making arts accessible across all three counties.
The funding announcement comes as part of the division’s ongoing effort to distribute resources throughout the fiscal year rather than in a single annual cycle, allowing organizations to respond to emerging opportunities and community needs as they arise.
NEW CASTLE – Medical expenses throughout Delaware reached $11.3 billion during 2024, representing an 8.7% rise compared to the previous year’s figures, according to state health officials.
When calculated on an individual resident basis, healthcare costs climbed between 6.4% and 12.2% across different categories. The dramatic increase far exceeded Delaware’s established benchmark of limiting annual medical spending growth to 3.0%, the Department of Health reported.
The substantial cost escalation highlights ongoing challenges in controlling healthcare expenses at the state level, as medical spending continues to outpace targeted growth rates by significant margins.
A motorcycle racer lost his life Thursday during qualifying sessions at the North West 200 racing event in Northern Ireland, according to event organizers.
Officials have not released the rider’s identity, honoring the family’s request for privacy. The family has also given their consent for the racing event to proceed as scheduled, organizers stated.
“The session was immediately red flagged and emergency services attended the scene but unfortunately the rider succumbed to his injuries,” organizers said in their official statement.
The North West 200 began in 1929 as a handicap competition, originally covering 200 miles through northwestern Ireland. Today’s racers navigate closed public roadways during the event.
This marks the 21st death in the event’s history. The previous fatality occurred in 2016 when British rider Malachi Mitchell-Thomas was killed during competition.
