A new culture war is brewing — and Coca-Cola’s AI Christmas ad is at the center

Hundreds of Voice of America (VOA) journalists have been laid off by the Trump administration, effectively dismantling the US-funded news outlet, which was created during WWII to combat propaganda. The administration cited dysfunction and bias as reasons for the firings, which have resulted in over 85% of VOA's staff losing their jobs since March, raising concerns about the future of independent journalism that supports democratic ideals. Need More Context? 🔎

As protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continue in Los Angeles, federal agents dressed in tactical gear were spotted near Dodger Stadium but were denied entry by the Dodgers organization. This follows reports of ICE raids in the area and growing criticism from protesters urging the team to take a stand against the ongoing immigration enforcement actions. Need More Context? 🔎

MOCKSVILLE, N.C.The pilot of a small plane that crashed near Sugar Valley Airport on June 3 raised a wheel after landing to avoid a turtle on the runway, according to a preliminary NTSB report. The crash resulted in the deaths of the pilot and one passenger, while a second passenger sustained serious injuries; the plane ultimately crashed in a forested area, catching fire but remaining mostly intact. Need More Context? 🔎

A man named Arturo Gamboa, accused of threatening protesters with an assault-style rifle at a "No Kings" rally in Salt Lake City, has been released from jail while investigations continue into the June 14 incident that resulted in the death of demonstrator Arthur Folasa Ah Loo. Gamboa, who did not fire his weapon, was arrested after the shooting, and the circumstances surrounding the event remain under review by law enforcement. Need More Context? 🔎

Early Sunday morning, Katherine Legge aims to set a new record at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb while driving the Acura Integra Type S DE5. A veteran driver with experience in NASCAR and IndyCar, Legge missed the current TA1 division record by just three seconds last year and is prepared to tackle the challenging 12.42-mile course with 156 turns and harsh weather conditions. Need More Context? 🔎

A 20-year-old man, Richard Barrington, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for a car crash that killed Hartford police officer Robert Garten and seriously injured his partner, Officer Brian Kearney, after fleeing a traffic stop. Barrington, who expressed remorse in court, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and other charges, while Garten's family criticized the sentence as insufficient. Need More Context? 🔎