Chicago-area residents, charities step up LA wildfire relief efforts – NBC Chicago

Democracy Forward Sues for Epstein Investigation RecordsAn advocacy group, Democracy Forward, has filed a lawsuit against the Justice Department and FBI for records related to their handling of the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking investigation, including communications involving Donald Trump. This lawsuit follows a lack of response to Freedom of Information Act requests and comes amid heightened scrutiny and frustration over the government's withholding of documents since Epstein's 2019 death. Want More Context? 🔎

Deaths from the "flesh-eating" bacteria Vibrio vulnificus are increasing along the southeastern U.S. coasts, with at least ten fatalities reported this year, primarily in Florida and Louisiana. Experts note the rise in infections correlates with warmer water temperatures and may be influenced by environmental factors, including hurricane activity, highlighting the need for preventive measures and immediate medical attention for potential infections. Want More Context? 🔎

American businesses are preparing for the impact of President Trump's new tariffs, which could cost households up to $2,400 this year, as uncertainty looms over price increases. The Yale Budget Lab reports these tariffs are the highest in nearly a century, raising concerns about economic repercussions. Want More Context? 🔎

Hillary Cohen, a former assistant director in Hollywood, founded Every Day Action to address the waste of leftover food on film sets, which often gets discarded due to liability concerns. Since 2020, her nonprofit has redistributed over 270,000 meals to those in need in Los Angeles, utilizing industry contacts and a paid driver program to efficiently collect and deliver surplus food. Want More Context? 🔎

A rapidly spreading brush fire, named the Canyon Fire, has prompted evacuations for around 2,700 residents and threatened 700 structures in the mountainous area north of Los Angeles, with 400 personnel battling the blaze that has grown over 7.6 square miles. Dangerous conditions, including extreme heat and dry weather, have exacerbated the situation, while another major wildfire, the Gifford Fire, continues to burn in Central California. Want More Context? 🔎

A bull moose near the Goodman Mountain trail in New York's Adirondacks, which led to the trail's closure due to its unusual behavior and deteriorating health, was euthanized after wildlife officials determined its condition was severe and unlikely to improve. A necropsy will be conducted to investigate the causes of its decline, while the area remains under study to assess moose foraging behavior and habitat. Want More Context? 🔎