Lantern Festival celebrated with lights, rice dumplings in Taiwan and China

A shooting in New York City on Saturday resulted in one death and four injuries, including a 17-year-old girl in critical condition. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. near Haffen Park during a basketball tournament, and police have taken four individuals into custody, suspecting gang involvement. Want More Context? 🔎

A federal judge ruled that Minnesota's law excluding religious colleges from a state program for high school students violates religious freedom, favoring Crown College and the University of Northwestern, which require students to sign a faith statement. The ruling overturns a 2023 law aimed at protecting LGBTQ+ rights and emphasizes that states cannot disqualify religious schools from participating in publicly funded programs. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands of Australians protested in support of Palestine, marking two weeks since the country's recognition of a Palestinian state, with around 350,000 participants across more than 40 rallies, according to the Palestine Action Group. The protests called for an end to violence in Gaza and faced criticism from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remained resolute amid attacks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Want More Context? 🔎

Residents of the Western U.S. are enduring a dangerous heat wave, with around 1.2 million people under extreme heat risk, particularly in Tucson, Arizona, where temperatures are expected to reach between 102 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit. In Portland, Oregon, record highs prompted emergency responses, with increased hospital visits linked to the Hood to Coast relay race, highlighting the severe impact of the heat on participants. Want More Context? 🔎

The journey along the Angus coast features attractions like the crumbling Red Castle, a 15th-century relic, and the sustainable Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery, known for its climate-positive spirits and family-run heritage. Visitors can enjoy tours, tastings, and unique accommodations with stunning views, highlighting the region's rich history and modern innovations. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands of Australians participated in pro-Palestinian rallies on Sunday, with organizers claiming around 350,000 attendees across more than 40 protests nationwide, amidst diplomatic tensions following the Australian government's recognition of a Palestinian state. The protests, spearheaded by groups demanding an end to violence in Gaza, drew criticism from Jewish leaders who argued they created an unsafe environment, coinciding with escalating rhetoric from Israeli leadership. Want More Context? 🔎