Debt-stricken Sri Lanka marks independence day as new president pledges to rebuild the country

A Chicago fire captain, David Meyer, 54, died in the line of duty while responding to a garage fire early Wednesday morning, prompting a "mayday" alarm. Meyer, a 28-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department and father of four, was pronounced dead at the hospital after the garage collapsed during salvage operations. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed condolences, highlighting Meyer's dedication to public service and urging the community to support the grieving family and recognize the...

Two police officers were injured during a gunfire exchange with a suspect during a traffic stop in Fairfax County, Virginia, on Wednesday at approximately 3 p.m. The officers, whose identities remain undisclosed, were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while the suspect is in custody; it's unclear if they were injured. The Fairfax County Police Department has closed Majestic Lane for investigation and plans to release further information as the situation develops. Full Article

SummaryHubert Montoya, a U.S. citizen, humorously reacted to a DHS email urging him to leave the country, part of a glitch related to the revocation of CBP One permits affecting over 900,000 individuals who entered the U.S. under a temporary policy. The abrupt cancellation notices, which have created confusion and fear among recipients—including attorneys and legal residents—lack transparency, with some fearing targeted harassment. Advocates highlight the chaos caused by these actions, emphasizing the urgent need...

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has urged companies to phase out all petroleum-based food dyes by the end of next year, aiming to replace them with natural alternatives. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary emphasized the expedited review of natural color additives, noting safety concerns regarding artificial dyes. The food dye industry, however, defends these additives as crucial for food consistency and consumer trust, with several popular...

SummaryDefense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered renovations to a green room adjacent to the Pentagon press briefing room, adding a makeup studio for television appearances, at a cost of several thousand dollars amid ongoing cost-cutting efforts. The upgrade was suggested by Tami Radabaugh, a former Fox News producer, and has received approval from key Pentagon officials, despite Hegseth's previous lack of press briefings. Additionally, Hegseth faces scrutiny over sharing sensitive military information in group chats,...

FBI Reports Record Scam Losses in 2024Scammers stole a record $16.6 billion in 2024, a 33% increase from the previous year, with over 250,000 complaints averaging losses of $19,000. The elderly, particularly those over 60, reported the highest losses at $4.8 billion, with investment scams being the leading cause at $6.5 billion. Cryptocurrency was predominantly used in these scams, highlighting the escalating threat of cybercrime as nearly all aspects of life become digitally interconnected. Full...