Long Grove’s famous ‘Apple Fest’ kicks off this weekend – NBC Chicago

China has expanded its visa-free transit policy, allowing eligible foreign travelers, including Americans, to stay for up to 10 days in various parts of the country. This measure aims to attract more overseas visitors and is effective immediately for passport holders from 54 countries. The move comes as China continues to ease its visa policies in an effort to revive international tourism after years of pandemic-related isolation. Full Article

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, is proposing to eliminate taxes on tips, potentially returning $70 million annually to Virginia workers in industries such as food service and hospitality. This move aims to increase take-home pay for over 250,000 workers, stimulate local economies, and reduce financial burden. The proposal must be approved by the Democratic-controlled General Assembly in the upcoming legislative session. Full Article

Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force conducted a "Shoplift With a Cop" operation resulting in the arrest of 37 suspects, recovery of stolen property worth $2,000, and seizure of narcotics like fentanyl and methamphetamine. The operation, held at Pacific View Mall in Ventura, involved a collaborative effort with law enforcement agencies and retail security teams to address significant shoplifting challenges. Retailers in the county are encouraged to participate in similar blitz operations by contacting...

A Minnesota man convicted of first-degree murder is facing sentencing for killing his girlfriend, whose 2023 disappearance following dropping off their children at daycare gained national attention. The disappearance led to a massive search effort involving thousands of volunteers. The man's sentencing is scheduled for Tuesday. Full Article

Russian Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, accused by Ukraine of using chemical weapons, was assassinated in Moscow with a bomb hidden in an electric scooter. The incident, which also resulted in the death of his assistant, is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism. Kirillov led Russia's Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection Troops and was targeted amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Full Article

Jayson Tatum was drafted by the Celtics with the No. 3 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, despite initially wanting to play for the Lakers. Magic Johnson revealed that Tatum's agent didn't want him to work out for the Lakers due to the team's surplus of forwards, leading the Lakers to draft Lonzo Ball instead. Tatum ultimately flourished with the Celtics after a rocky start, winning an NBA title in 2024 and signing a record-breaking...