Big Lots to reopen 132 stores in May. Here’s where.

As the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) faced dismantlement in early February, aid workers and officials took urgent steps to preserve vital programs, particularly those aligned with the "America First" agenda. Despite these efforts, the remaining initiatives primarily address immediate crises like disease and hunger, neglecting long-term stability and development, raising concerns among aid experts about the future effectiveness of U.S. foreign aid. Need More Context? 🔎

Tens of millions of Americans are facing extreme heat alerts this week, particularly in the Northeast, with warnings for Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston starting Sunday, and a heat watch for Washington, D.C. and Baltimore on Monday. New York City officials are activating emergency heat plans, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and power usage as temperatures are expected to peak at 100 degrees on Tuesday. Need More Context? 🔎

At least three people have died in rural North Dakota due to tornadoes that caused significant damage, particularly in Enderlin, where emergency responders found the victims. The National Weather Service had issued multiple tornado warnings across eastern North Dakota, with reports of at least three tornadoes touching down in surrounding counties. Need More Context? 🔎

Authorities in New York, Washington, and Los Angeles have heightened security in response to U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, with law enforcement monitoring religious and cultural locations for potential threats. While no credible threats have been identified, police are increasing patrols and enhancing vigilance, particularly around sites linked to the Israeli conflict and Shia mosques. Need More Context? 🔎

A Colorado grand jury has indicted Barry Morphew for the first-degree murder of his wife, Suzanne Morphew, who was reported missing on Mother's Day in May 2020 and found dead in September 2023. Barry, who was previously charged in 2021 but had those charges dropped in 2022, is accused of using a sedative mixture he had access to, with evidence suggesting marital discord prior to her disappearance. Need More Context? 🔎

A federal appellate court ruled that Louisiana's law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public school classrooms is unconstitutional, citing a violation of the separation of church and state. The decision is seen as a significant victory for civil liberties advocates and may lead to an appeal by the state's attorney general, as similar laws face legal challenges in other states. Need More Context? 🔎