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Selena Gomez denies throwing shade at Taylor Swift after Knicks win

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Selena Gomez denies throwing shade at Taylor Swift after Knicks win

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Selena Gomez isn’t here for the drama, especially when it comes to BFF Taylor Swift.

The “Calm Down” singer set the record straight on a seemingly questionable statement she made after the New York Knicks’ victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, revealing that she woke up to “so many emails.”

“I never meant to insult my friend and it was not an insult. This comment was a response to the first slide on the page,” Gomez said.

Gomez’s comments follow a wave of speculation that she was throwing shade at Swift after she commented “lol” on a post shared by MTV on Instagram showing Swift and Mariska Hargitay hugging tightly after her win.

Gomez, a true San Antonio Spurs fan, added that he and his friends have bet on the outcome of games.

more: Monica McNutt apologizes for assuming Taylor Swift wasn’t a Knicks fan

“I lost, but I was making fun of my opponents and my friends. Believe it or not, I have other friends. But quickly forget that most people think otherwise,” Gomez said. “Also… it’s a basketball game.”

Game 4 of the NBA Finals, “Celebrity Row” was packed

From Taylor Swift to Timothée Chalamet, Madison Square Garden’s Celebrity Row was packed with every big star you could think of.

Notably, Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, Spike Lee, Scooter Braun and Sidney Sweeney were among the 100 or so stars cheering the Knicks courtside.

However, all eyes were on Swift, who arrived at the Garden with her Haim sisters Alana and Este.

The trio wore “funny” T-shirts featuring the names of their Hollywood pals, tailored to incorporate the Knicks. Swift read “Stevie Nicks,” Este read “Nickelback,” and Alana read “Nickel Kidman.”

Contributor: Sidney Henderson, USA TODAY

Cost, ROI, and annual savings

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Cost, ROI, and annual savings

Upgrading your HVAC system can significantly reduce your energy costs. Here’s how much homeowners typically save and what affects the results.

If there’s one surefire way to save money on your energy bills, it’s by eliminating your old, outdated HVAC system and replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. But how much you’ll actually save isn’t just about unpacking your shiny new system.

“Compared to 20 years ago, most systems today will see savings of at least 20% to 30% just by upgrading to today’s efficiency,” said Steve Wade, senior director of operations and procurement at ARS, a national HVAC service provider.

Want to know how much energy you can save in your home? These are the factors you need to consider.

Average energy savings for HVAC

Most homeowners can expect the following: Save at least 20% While you may save money on energy bills when replacing an old HVAC unit, you could potentially save more than double that percentage. In dollar terms, this equates to: Savings of $300 to $500 per year Especially if you choose a heat pump.

“You would You can comfortably save 30% to 40% “It’s a comparison of the electricity usage of today’s system versus a system from 20 years ago, assuming similar usage and weather conditions,” Wade says. Although other factors are involved, we expect the following:

  • Older systems (more than 10-15 years): Annual savings of 20% to 40%
  • Very old system: Annual savings of 10% to 20%

Compare HVAC costs and savings

These cost and savings projections are based on national averages from January 2025 to January 2026. For the most accurate pricing, contact your local HVAC contractor.

Types of HVAC systems average cost Annual savings potential
central air conditioning $13,000 to $16,000 $150 – $500+
furnace $6,500 to $9,000 $50 – $300+
heat pump $12,000 and $15,000 $300 – $1,000+

Figures are drawn from ARS National Service data for completed housing jobs from January 2025 to January 2026 (more than 3,000 system installations; component figures come from a larger sample). The range reflects variation by system type, home size, market, and scope of work.

Things to note:

  • Central AC tends to offer greater savings than furnaces because “efficiency standards have improved significantly over time,” Wade says.
  • Furnace profits are smaller because the baseline efficiency hasn’t changed much over the past few decades.
  • Heat pumps offer the greatest savings, especially when replacing older electrical systems or in mild climates.

What affects your savings?

Exactly how much you save each year depends on your home, energy usage, and climate. All of these factors must be considered to accurately estimate how much money you can save when purchasing a new HVAC system.

Don’t wait: 93% of homeowners put off HVAC and plumbing repairs. Here’s why you shouldn’t.

Age and efficiency of current system

The new system features upgraded technology that improves the performance of your air conditioner, among other things. Features such as variable speed blowers adjust airflow more precisely, reducing energy waste and maintaining a more constant indoor temperature.

Systems that are compatible with smart thermostats can be set to fluctuate the temperature throughout the day, allowing you to set your preferred temperature when you’re home. When you are away, you can enter eco mode to save money. “Lowering your body temperature by 7 to 10 degrees while you’re out and about can save you hours of energy each day,” Wade says.

The more efficient you are (i.e., the higher your SEER or EER rating), the more money you save. “SEER is similar to miles per gallon in a car; the higher the number, the more efficient the system is,” Wade says. SEER is relative, meaning a 20 SEER AC unit is twice as efficient as a 10 SEER unit.

house size and layout

The larger your home and the more rooms you have to maintain, the more your HVAC unit will run. You’ll likely also need a larger HVAC unit, and in some cases, dual controls may prove to be a better (albeit more expensive) option for maintaining your home’s preferred temperature.

climate and location

“Savings are always weather-related, and the amount of cooling time you have throughout the year impacts your total energy usage,” says Wade. Warmer climates that rely less on heating and cooling naturally result in lower energy costs throughout the year. Regions that experience extreme heat or cold use more energy.

Energy costs in your area

Energy costs have a big impact on how much money you can save with a new HVAC unit. “While there will certainly be some variation in electricity costs and usage, assuming the same conditions from year to year, you should be able to expect significant savings,” says Wade.

The national average energy cost is 18.83 cents/kWh, but in some states like New York, California, and Connecticut, energy bills are nearly double that cost. If you live in an area with high electricity costs, you’ll see the most significant cost savings by switching to a new HVAC system.

your energy usage

How often you run your HVAC system has a direct impact on your overall costs. People who prefer cooler temperatures during heat waves, or fairly warm settings in the winter, will typically see higher electricity bills due to increased system demand, and vice versa.

How long does it take to see return on investment (ROI)?

Most homeowners realize the full ROI of their new HVAC system. 3 to 7 years. Climate, usage, system costs, and energy costs all affect how quickly you can recover your initial cost.

“Upgrading to current efficiency standards will reduce overall power consumption, especially on the cooling side,” Wade says. No matter how often you use your HVAC unit, your energy bills will be reduced to some extent.

Will a more expensive HVAC system provide more savings?

Contrary to appearances, Expensive HVAC units don’t automatically lower your energy bills. More importantly, how well it is installed, whether it is properly sized, and how it is used.

“A properly installed standard system will perform better than an improperly installed high-end system,” says Wade. Your HVAC professional will perform a load calculation to determine the system size you need for your home. When sized and installed correctly, your home ecosystem will function like a well-oiled machine.

When does HVAC replacement make the most sense?

It makes sense to replace your HVAC system if:

  • Even though energy costs are stagnant, you can see that your utility bills are increasing compared to a few years ago.
  • HVAC units are more than 10-15 years old.
  • Your home may have unstable temperatures, humidity issues, or poor airflow.
  • The system will run longer than before just to maintain the same comfort level.
  • If you meet the criteria for the $5,000 HVAC rule, that means the repair cost is more than $5,000 and a complete replacement makes the most sense.

If you don’t save much

Even newer, 80% efficient furnaces will perform well, so you may not need to splurge on a high-efficiency 96% model just to save money. “You may still be using a relatively inefficient furnace, which means your gas usage may not change much,” Wade says. In warm climates or homes with low heating demands, the difference in annual energy savings between medium- and high-efficiency systems may be so small that the cost may not be justified.

Another reason not to buy a super-efficient HVAC system is if you’re moving soon. If you’ve invested in a system like this and plan to buy a new home in the near future, you may not have had enough time in your home to see the full ROI. In that case, a new system that meets minimum efficiency standards may be your best option.

Additionally, if your home is poorly insulated and sealed, you may not see any meaningful savings. Drafts, poor insulation, and air leaks can degrade even the most efficient furnace, allowing heated air to escape and increasing system load. Your money would be better spent upgrading your insulation.

Energy prices where you live also matter. If natural gas prices are relatively low in your area, the cost savings from increased efficiency will not be significant. This means it can take much longer to break even on high-efficiency upgrades than in regions with higher fuel costs.

Tips for maximizing HVAC energy savings

Even the most energy-efficient HVAC system won’t perform as well when certain barriers are present, so here’s how to maximize your energy savings.

  • Select ENERGY STAR certified models: ENERGY STAR certified HVAC models maximize efficiency and reduce energy costs.
  • First, upgrade the insulation and seals for leaks. When your home is poorly insulated, all the warm or cool air you need indoors slowly leaks out, doubling the load on your HVAC system and raising your utility bills.
  • Installing a programmable or smart thermostat: “Smart thermostats allow you to control your system from anywhere and optimize usage based on your schedule,” says Wade. This saves you money because your system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your preferred temperature when you’re not home.
  • Schedule regular maintenance: Regular HVAC maintenance ensures that your system is working properly and catches small problems before they escalate into expensive repairs or, in the worst case, complete replacement.
  • Get a properly sized system: Bigger systems don’t necessarily mean more AC. The system will simply not work properly. They stop and start too quickly, failing to dehumidify your home and ultimately increasing your energy costs.
  • Work with licensed contractors: Companies like ARS have a national presence, have the proper licenses, and are more likely to be around if you need to cash out your HVAC warranty, but smaller companies with solid reputations are also good options. “The biggest contractor is not always the best, but reliability and long-term service are important,” Wade says.

FAQ

How much will a new HVAC system reduce my energy bills?

A new HVAC system can reduce your HVAC bill by up to 40%, but it could be as much as 20% to 30%.

Which SEER rating will save you the most money?

The higher the SEER, the more efficient your unit will be and the more money you will save. “The numbers are relative: a 20 SEER system is twice as efficient as a 10 SEER,” Wade says.

Is a heat pump cheaper to run than an air conditioner + furnace?

Depending on the situation, heat pumps are generally cheaper to run than air conditioner and furnace combinations. However, “heat pumps run more continuously, so while they are more efficient, they may require more regular maintenance over time,” Wade says.

How long does an HVAC system last?

Most HVAC systems have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. Proper HVAC maintenance will help you see the upper end of that range.

Judges reject President Trump’s last-minute bid to keep his name on the Kennedy Center

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Judges reject President Trump’s last-minute bid to keep his name on the Kennedy Center

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President Donald Trump took his fight to keep his name on the Kennedy Center to the high court on June 12, filing an emergency motion to halt any attempt to remove his name from the iconic Washington, D.C., concert hall.

But that was quickly rejected by a judge, paving the way for the president’s name to be removed from the building as crowds of onlookers watched the workers go about their work.

Even with intermittent thunder and lightning, the audience gathered around the building to watch the spectacle, much like the crowds that gather in front of a typical concert venue. Dressed in flashy clothes and in a festive mood, they watched as workers prepared scaffolding for the anticipated name removal.

Carolina Clarence, a former kindergarten teacher who lives nearby, comes by in the afternoons and evenings with her dog Rufino.

“We’re going to see this situation subside,” she said. Trump said it was “ridiculous” to release his name. “He has suffered a lot of hurt. … A lot of donations have stopped, some performances have been canceled. They’re going to destroy the Kennedy Center.”

Katrina Clark, a local artist and actor, held a placard with a line from Shakespeare’s Hamlet: “The play is the point, where I capture the king’s conscience.” She said she once worked at the Kennedy Center.

“This is my artistic home,” she said, noting that adding Trump’s name to the monument to slain President John F. Kennedy was “morally and ethically wrong.” She said her friends at the center have been fired, furloughed and treated as union violations. She sees in them “an active sadness.” Removing Trump’s name is “a step of hope,” she said. And she said the trial shows “something is working in our democracy.”

Trump’s lawyers have petitioned the District of Columbia Court of Appeals to suspend a lower court judge’s order to remove the president’s name from the building. The application came after U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled that Trump’s name was added illegally and must be removed.

Mr. Cooper has canceled repeated efforts to keep Mr. Trump’s name on the building. The latest remarks came early Friday as Trump rejected a June 11 motion by his lawyers in court to suspend the removal.

Trump’s promise that his name would be removed drew crowds to the area in hopes of seeing the judge’s order carried out. Trump’s name remained on the building as of Friday evening. However, scaffolding has been erected that appears to be assisting workers in removing Trump’s name.

USA TODAY has reached out to the White House for comment.

The judge’s ruling drew crowds to the Kennedy Center.

Crowds gathered at the Kennedy Center on Friday afternoon in hopes of seeing President Trump’s name removed from the building in the wake of the Cooper decision. Several media outlets, including MS Now, the Associated Press, and a group called Hands Off the Arts, livestreamed on their YouTube channels footage of workers climbing scaffolding along the building’s exterior, where Trump’s name appears above Kennedy’s.

The workers left the scaffold around 4 p.m. Eastern time as some lifeguards held up umbrellas.

The judge’s ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), a member of the Kennedy Center’s board of directors.

President Trump began implementing the Kennedy Center’s vision last year.

President Trump began enacting his vision for the world-renowned arts center in February 2025, when he abruptly fired the board, replaced board members with political allies, and appointed himself the new board chair.

To keep the venue from being “woke,” he canceled several scheduled performances and set aside $257 million in federal funds for renovations he said were badly needed.

The newly appointed board of directors voted in December to change the name of the Kennedy Center to the Trump Kennedy Center, and officials appear to have installed new signage on the building less than 24 hours after the decision, which President Trump called “unanimous.”

This is a developing story. This story has been updated with new information.

Contributors: Michael Loria, Mike Snider, Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY. and Reuters.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@usatodayco.com.

Is Quicken Simplifi worth it? Honest reviews and prices 2026

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Is Quicken Simplifi worth it? Honest reviews and prices 2026

Quicken Simplifi is a popular personal finance app that features budgeting solutions and automatic expense tracking. The sinking fund feature helps users set savings goals according to various life events, such as emergencies or vacations, and track their progress towards achieving their goals.

In addition to standard budgeting features like bill tracking, this app allows you to quickly see your projected monthly expenses and allocate money to different categories, all within a seamless interface. Plus, you can get a bird’s-eye view of all your investments and net worth.

In this guide, our team details Quicken Simplifi’s features, pros and cons, and how it compares to other budgeting apps.

Best budgeting apps of 2026: Which one is right for your money goals?

Quicken Simplifi overview

What is Quicken Simplifi?

Quicken Simplifi is a customizable budgeting app that helps you manage and track your spending, subscriptions, savings, and investments. Unlike many budgeting apps, it offers a web version, which is convenient for those who prefer to work on a computer. When you connect your bank accounts, loans, credit cards, and investments to the app, Simplifi automatically syncs them so you can keep up with your money in one place.

Simplifi has expanded to include a retirement planning tool that helps you plan for your future nest egg by running scenarios based on your expected retirement age, pension, and monthly income. As part of your retirement planning, you can also model future financial decisions by seeing how different choices, such as changing jobs, will affect your finances.

Key features of Quicken Simplifi

Spending plans (core functionality)

Simplifi’s spending plan is a comprehensive overview of all your accounts and transactions for the month.

This dashboard breaks down your income, bills, planned expenses, other expenses, and progress toward your goals. For example, if you set a goal to donate $250 to your emergency fund this month, and you’ve donated $50 so far, you’ll see a quick summary of how much you’ve donated so far and how much you have left to reach your goal. All of these goals are displayed in neat pie or bar graphs, making everything organized, visually appealing, and easy to understand at a glance.

automatic transaction tracking

One of Quicken Simplifi’s best features is automatic transaction tracking. This allows you to visualize all your spending in one place and see your exact balance. It also shows you how much money you have left after your planned expenses, bills, and other expenses.

Custom categories and watchlists

Once you’ve added regular expenses like your mortgage or utilities to Simplifi, you can create custom category bubbles to categorize your remaining expenses. Bubble categories can be easily moved and changed to suit how you want to categorize your spending.

Click on any bubble to see the complete list of transactions that make up this category, and adjust your transactions to fit into another category if it suits your budgeting style. Some users have reported issues with transactions reverting to the previous category, so keep this in mind.

Bill and subscription tracking

Simplifi easily displays the total of your monthly recurring bills such as utilities, subscriptions, and rent. Other monthly bills, such as credit card payments or transfers, will appear in the (Excluded this month) section below your regular bill.

You can adjust your billing amount or subscription cost at any time by setting a custom amount. This is useful if your bill is about to change. Similarly, if you cancel your subscription or no longer receive a particular charge, you can also remove recurring expenses here.

Reports and insights

Simplifi offers many great features, including predicting more consistent non-bill expenses like rent and subscriptions. The following screenshot shows an example of a report that shows how much you’re likely to spend outside of regular bills based on past spending. I like the ability to use custom buffers to predict average spending, giving you more control within your budget.

learn more: How to choose a household accounting app that suits your financial goals

Quicken Simplifi Pricing

Free version

At this time, Quicken Simplifi does not offer a free version or free trial. However, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

premium version

Quicken Simplifi has one tier, typically $6.99 per month (billed annually) for the first year, or $3.99 per month (billed annually). When our team downloaded the app, we were offered a new monthly subscription option for $9.99.

The premium version of Quicken Simplifi includes personal finance features such as net worth and expense tracking, investments, and cash flow, all in one dashboard. There is a mobile version and a web version.

additional cost

Quicken Simplifi doesn’t have any in-app features that cost extra, but it can be bundled with one of Quicken’s other services, LifeHub.

Quicken LifeHub is a life organization system that stores important family information such as wills, health directives, internet passwords, travel documents, and emergency health information. You can also save your pet’s records and care instructions, so you can keep everything together if you suddenly need to leave your pet with someone.

Quicken LifeHub currently costs $3.99 per month for the first year (billed annually) or $1.99 per month (billed annually).

Pros and cons of Quicken Simplifi

Strong Points

  • Offers both mobile and desktop apps
  • Provides a complete overview of all your financial accounts in one place
  • Connect to over 14,000 different financial institutions

Cons

  • No free trial or free version offered
  • Parameter options are missing when viewing or creating a report
  • No bill payment function

Are budgeting apps safe? What you need to know before linking your accounts

Comparing Quicken Simplifi to other budgeting apps

Let’s take a quick look at how Quicken Simplifi compares to other budgeting apps in terms of pricing, availability, partner access, security features, and best users.

Recommendation: Who is Quicken Simplifi best for?

Budgeters who prefer a simple interface of pie and bar charts will enjoy setting up Simplifi. If you like tapping into your savings, the Savings Goals feature is especially useful because it allows you to instantly set savings goals specific to your specific needs, such as an emergency fund or vacation fund. That way, your spending plan will help you figure out how much you’re saving toward that fund each month.

Overall, I recommend Quicken Simplifi to anyone looking for a flexible budgeting app. Unlike other budgeting apps, Simplifi doesn’t force you to choose a specific budgeting system. Instead, it uses your monthly income and expenses to create a personalized spending plan that automatically adjusts as your spending changes. This gives you the flexibility to follow multiple budget plans, such as the 50-30-20 plan and envelope budgets.

Who should skip?

If you want customized feedback on your investments and spending, Simplifi is not for you. Other apps that use AI or offer financial advisory services, such as Origin, specialize in tracking market trends and providing accurate investment feedback, so they may be better options for meticulous investors. Simplifi is more of an investment tracking and forecasting tool than an in-depth investment analysis tool.

Want to switch budgeting apps? How to keep your financial data safe

Bottom line: Is Quicken Simplifi worth it?

Quicken Simplifi is valuable for users interested in customized spending plans, user-friendly interfaces, and sinking fund-style savings plans. The app’s detailed savings plans, affordable pricing, and personalized reports make it a top-notch option for both beginners and experienced budgeters interested in detailed categories, projected spending plans, and sinking fund creation.

FAQ

Is Quicken Simplifi free?

No, Quicken Simplifi is not free, but the provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Is Quicken Simplifi better than Mint?

Quicken Simplifi is considered one of the best options since the closure of Mint. Simplifi offers an ad-free experience, more comprehensive spending planning options, and faster and more extensive account syncing than Mint. Simplifi is one of the most affordable budgeting apps on the market and, according to customer reviews, offers reliable financial management features with better automation than Mint.

Does Quicken Simplifi track my investments?

Yes, Quicken Simplifi has a pretty dashboard that displays your investments’ current market value, today’s changes, and total profit. Easily check overall performance and individual holdings.

Is Quicken Simplifi suitable for beginners?

Quicken Simplifi is considered suitable for beginners due to its minimalist, clean dashboard and built-in automated features to track and categorize your spending and monitor your net worth.

Is Quicken Simplifi safe?

Quicken Simplifi is a secure app that uses robust data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and advanced encryption for sensitive data at rest. Simplifi meets rigorous security certifications such as SOC 2, which is part of a comprehensive external audit that assesses the security, confidentiality, and privacy of program data.

President Trump must restore history, put science exhibits in parks, and decide rules

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President Trump must restore history, put science exhibits in parks, and decide rules

Nate Raymond and David Thomas
|Reuters

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BOSTON – A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to reinstall exhibits and signage on topics such as slavery and climate change that it removed from parks and monuments across the country because they “do not align with the Trump administration’s preferred narrative.”

U.S. District Judge Angel Kelly in Boston issued a preliminary injunction on June 12, at the request of groups representing park conservationists, historians, and scientists, alleging that the Interior Department is waging a “sustained campaign to erase history and undermine science.”

Removing these signs “not only undermines the integrity of our national parks, but also sets a dangerous precedent for censorship and sanitization,” Kelly said.

Kerry said he has ordered the government to restore the sign within 21 days “to properly honor America’s outstanding achievements in time for the 250th anniversary.”

Lawyers for the plaintiffs, the National Park Conservation Association, the American State and Local History Association, and four other organizations did not respond to requests for comment, nor did an Interior Department spokeswoman.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order in March 2025 targeting what he calls a “revisionist movement” that depicts the United States as “inherently racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed.”

President Trump’s order directs the Interior Department to make changes to parks, monuments and memorials to address what the White House says has occurred in recent years, a “false historical revision.”

Plaintiffs argued that the Interior Department’s removal of signs and exhibits from parks violates Congressional orders governing how more than 430 national parks are managed, and that it employs an illegal policy that lacks a reasonable explanation as to why various signs and exhibits must be removed.

An Interior Department spokeswoman previously said the policy requires the nation’s parks to “completely and accurately tell America’s history.”

Nate Raymond reports in Boston and David Thomas reports in Chicago. Editing: Mark Porter and Tom Hogue

A TMNT-themed pizzeria is coming to the state. Check when the door opens

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A TMNT-themed pizzeria is coming to the state. Check when the door opens

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brings their favorite food to life.

The first-ever official TMNT-themed pizzeria is set to open in Santa Monica, California on June 20th, giving fans the chance to enjoy pizza surrounded by decor, merchandise, and experiences inspired by Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo.

The restaurant, located at 1444 Third Street on the Third Street Promenade, is being touted as the franchise’s first official pizzeria and marks the next chapter in Paramount’s efforts to expand the decades-old brand beyond film, television and toys.

Entrepreneur Andy Nguyen, who helped develop the concept, announced the opening on social media and said the four turtle brothers will appear in person at the grand opening celebration, scheduled for June 20 at 11 a.m.

First TMNT official pizzeria opens in Santa Monica

According to the Santa Monica Daily Press, the restaurant is operating in a limited soft opening phase and plans to suspend operations after June 14th until it reopens for its official opening.

Nguyen is known for creating fan-centric dining experiences tied to popular entertainment series. His previous projects include One Piece Cafe in Little Tokyo in Los Angeles and Sonic the Hedgehog Speed ​​Cafe in Atlanta. He has also worked on concepts related to “Hello Kitty,” “Naruto,” and “Rick and Morty.”

As reported by the Santa Monica Daily Press, Nguyen first teased the Santa Monica project in 2025, describing it as a “cheesy slice of classic New York style” with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-esque twist that has been years in the making.

USA TODAY has reached out to Nguyen for additional comment.

What can customers expect?

The family-friendly restaurant features wall-to-wall TMNT-themed decor, including neon lighting, references to the series’ signature mutagenic ooze, and other homages to the half-shelled hero.

The menu focuses on classic pizza, but visitors can also purchase exclusive merchandise such as T-shirts, pins, keychains, and other collectibles. Staff will wear franchise-inspired uniforms, and a small bar will serve alcohol on weekends.

Part of Paramount’s larger TMNT expansion

The Santa Monica restaurant is one of three TMNT-themed pizzerias that Paramount has announced globally, with additional locations planned for Monterrey, Mexico and São Paulo, Brazil.

The restaurants are part of a broader franchise expansion that includes a new preschool-focused YouTube animated series, a worldwide licensing agreement with Mattel starting in 2027, and upcoming films such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2, scheduled for release on August 13, 2027.

Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT.

How many grams of dietary fiber does a banana contain?

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How many grams of dietary fiber does a banana contain?

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Bananas may be the most portable and healthiest fruit. But for people who want to include fruit in their diet to prioritize fiber (a necessary feature in snacks to keep you feeling full until your next meal), you may be wondering how useful bananas are.

Bananas contain a good amount of fiber, but not as much as apples or other high-fiber foods. “One medium-sized banana contains about 3 grams of fiber, which is a little less than other fruits,” says Lisa Valente, a registered dietitian based near Burlington, Vermont. “Apples contain 4 grams of fiber, and 1 cup of raspberries contains 8 grams of fiber. While they may not have the most fiber, it’s a good idea to get fiber from a variety of sources to feed your gut bacteria and ensure you’re getting a variety of nutrients in your diet.”

Types of dietary fiber contained in bananas

If you’re looking to diversify the types of fiber in your diet, bananas are a great source of multiple fibers.

Bananas contain soluble and insoluble fiber, both important types, Valente said. “Soluble fiber helps the heart work and may improve blood sugar levels. Insoluble fiber helps move substances through the body smoothly. Bananas, especially green bananas, also contain resistant starch.” She added that resistant starch is a prebiotic fiber that is beneficial to the health of your gut bacteria, as it feeds your gut bacteria and enables the production of short-chain fatty acids that help reduce inflammation.

How to get the most fiber from eating bananas

Not all bananas are the same when it comes to dietary fiber. Color and ripeness are important. “Resistant starch is higher in green bananas than in ripe bananas. As bananas ripen, resistant starch begins to turn into sugar,” Valente says. Of course, yellow bananas have more sugar, so eating green bananas may not be as enjoyable as yellow ones. Research shows that a green banana contains about 6 grams of fiber, while an overripe banana contains about 2 grams.

So if you’re concerned about fiber, consider color, ripeness, and sweetness to determine if you’re getting the most fiber from bananas.

Banana before training: A nutritionist says why bananas are the perfect pre-workout snack

More reasons to love bananas

Bananas are sometimes said to be “too sweet,” but Valente says that’s irrational. It does contain natural sugar, but unless you are diabetic, there is no need to worry.

“Banana probably won’t top your list of nutrient-dense fruits, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have a lot of nutrients,” she says. “Banana is one of the most affordable fruits in the grocery store and a great way to add nutrition to your diet. Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be eaten plain, used in smoothies, or mashed into baked goods.”

Elon Musk opens Nasdaq ahead of SpaceX IPO

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Elon Musk opens Nasdaq ahead of SpaceX IPO

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Elon Musk opened the Nasdaq market on Friday, June 12, announcing the availability of shares in his commercial rocket company SpaceX.

SpaceX’s initial public offering was the largest IPO in history. The move also made Musk, the co-founder and leader of Tesla, Neuralink and The Boring Company, the world’s first millionaire.

Musk, who also owns social media platform X as part of SpaceX, said his company wants to launch up to 1 million AI satellites into space to operate orbital data centers. SpaceX also includes Starlink internet service.

SpaceX, founded in 2002, appears unlikely, Musk said Friday morning over a video link between SpaceX’s headquarters and the Nasdaq Market site in New York. He thought the company “would fail.”

SpaceX: 5 things to know about IPOs

Nevertheless, Musk said the company’s mission is important and different from competing space companies, including Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin.

“They simply weren’t pursuing the technology needed to make life multiplanetary, to make Star Trek, to make the exciting sci-fi futures we read about come true,” Musk said. “That’s what SpaceX is about…to take the fiction out of science fiction.”

Musk announced SpaceX plans to build a city on the moon as part of its goal to colonize Mars.

Mike Snyder is a national trends news reporter for USA TODAY. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, and X, and email him at: mike snyder & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com.

Were the deadly California wildfires “revenge”? The jury decides.

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Were the deadly California wildfires “revenge”? The jury decides.

Prosecutors say Jonathan Rinderknecht set the fire to take revenge on society. His defense claims this is an “ridiculous” slur against his political beliefs.

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The political leanings of the man accused of arson are a key issue in a high-stakes lawsuit over the cause of the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history.

The wildfires that ripped through Los Angeles’ wealthy Pacific Palisades neighborhood were part of a revenge plot by a man with a grudge against the wealthy, prosecutors said in opening statements on June 10.

But Jonathan Rinderknecht’s defense says the theory is an “ridiculous” attempt to link his political beliefs to the case.

Prosecutors argued that Linderknecht set the fire because he wanted “revenge on society, because he blamed society for all his problems.”

A month before the trial, prosecutors argued that the former Palisades resident was “obsessed” with Luigi Mangione, who was charged in December 2024 with the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. According to court documents, the defendant said the arson could have been an act of “desperation” comparable to Thompson’s murder.

Steve Haney, one of Rinderknecht’s attorneys, said Rinderknecht had become a scapegoat for the Los Angeles Fire Department’s failure to fully extinguish the Luckman Fire, which flared into the Palisades Fire. He accused prosecutors of “character assassination by advancing inaccurate, misleading, and even false allegations.”

Investigators said in court documents that Linderknecht, who was working as an Uber driver, had dropped off passengers hours before the Lachman fire and walked along a path to the top of the hill where the fire started. Who actually caused the fire is one of the central issues in the case.

Linderknecht is charged with three arson-related charges for starting the Lachman fire on January 1, 2025. Although the initial fire was extinguished, it continued to smolder in secret until it flared up a week later as the Palisades Fire.

Prosecutors will need to prove that Linderknecht acted “with malice,” which would require that he either intentionally caused the damage to the property or ignored the possibility of harm that could result from his actions. Prosecutors do not need to prove a specific motive or plan existed.

Prosecutors said in a memorandum that Rinderknecht used search terms such as “Free Luigi Mangione,” “Kill all the billionaires,” and “Kill all the billionaires on Reddit,” a claim Haney strongly criticized.

“I think it’s just ridiculous that the government is trying to use my client’s left-wing ideology to politicize and motivate him, and worse, use it as evidence,” Haney said. “This is America. We should be able to believe, think, and say things contrary to the beliefs of others without fear of having our ideas criminalized, and this is the country we have become.”

Meanwhile, some residents sued the local government over its response to the fire.

In October, lawyers filed a lawsuit on behalf of residents against the city of Los Angeles, the state of California, and several utility companies, alleging they were responsible for the Palisades fire.

Specifically, the lawsuit says drainage of local reservoirs depleted fire hydrants, and a lack of land inspection after the Luckman Fire left embers smoldering.

The outcome of the arson case could also affect other civil lawsuits against local authorities, Reuters and the Los Angeles Times reported. In this case, residents and their insurance companies could be largely responsible for the damage caused by the fire.

Rinderknecht pleaded not guilty in October. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 45 years in prison.

Contributor: Janine Santucci

Middle-class income in Miami and other Florida cities

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Middle-class income in Miami and other Florida cities

A relatively wide range of salaries in Miami meet middle-class income standards, according to a recent report.

The study, released earlier this year by SmartAsset, ranks all 50 U.S. states and 100 largest cities by middle income range. The report reviewed 2024 U.S. Census Bureau data on median household income and applied “a variation of Pew Research’s middle-income household definition, which defines the middle-class salary range as two-thirds to twice the U.S. median salary” to arrive at that number.

According to the study, the “upper end” of middle-class income in Miami is $132,674 and the “lower end” is $44,225. Median household income is $66,337, the report added.

According to the 2026 income limits established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the median household income in the Miami-Miami Beach-Kendall HUD Metro Fair Market rental area is $89,800.

When ranked by the “upper end” of the middle class, Florida ranked 26th overall. The upper end of the state’s middle-class income range was $155,470, and the “lower end” was $51,823. Median household income was $77,735. In contrast, the state with the highest middle-class income limit was Massachusetts, at $209,656. The state’s minimum income was $69,885, and the median household income was $104,828.

How did other Florida cities rank?

  • 33. Port St. Lucie:
    • Upper middle class income: $172,482
    • Lower middle class income: $57,494
    • Median household income: $86,241
  • 36. Cape Coral
    • Upper middle class income: $171,168
    • Lower middle class income: $57,056
    • Median household income: $85,584
  • 41. Tampa
    • Upper middle class income: $168,228
    • Lower middle class income: $56,076
    • Median household income: $84,114
  • 56. Orlando
    • Upper middle class income: $155,194
    • Lower middle class income: $51,731
    • Median household income: $77,597
  • 62. St. Petersburg
    • Upper middle class income: $146,096
    • Lower middle class income: $48,699
    • Median household income: $73,048
  • 63. Jacksonville
    • Upper middle class income: $144,778
    • Lower middle class income: $48,259
    • Median household income: $72,389
  • 76. Miami
    • Upper middle class income: $132,674
    • Lower middle class income: $44,225
    • Median household income: $66,337
  • 93. Hialeah
    • Upper middle class income: $114,302
    • Lower middle class income: $38,101
    • Median household income: $57,151

Sarah Perkel is a South Florida Connect reporter on USA TODAY Network’s Florida Connect team. Sign up for our free newsletter to receive all of Florida’s best content straight to your inbox every weekday. florida today.

President Trump hints at possibility of US ‘taking back’ DC after mayoral election

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President Trump hints at possibility of US ‘taking back’ DC after mayoral election

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With the Washington, D.C., mayoral primary just days away, President Donald Trump suggested the federal government could “take back” the nation’s capital if a progressive candidate wins.

President Trump did not name a candidate, but appeared to be referring to D.C. City Council member Janice Lewis George, a self-described democratic socialist who has been leading recent polls ahead of the June 16 Democratic primary to replace outgoing Mayor Muriel Bowser.

“I don’t want that, and we’re probably going to take back Washington and run it on a federal basis,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. “We’re not going to hold back. We’re not going to lose business.”

A recent Washington Post George Mason University Schar School poll showed Louis George emerging as the front-runner in the race, with an 11-point lead over McDuffie, a Kenyan and former D.C. Council member.

In Democratic-heavy Washington, general election results are typically not competitive. The Democratic candidate won the 2022 mayoral race by nearly 60 points.

strained relationship

During his second term, Trump has pushed for an expanded role for the federal government in the area, citing concerns about crime, homelessness and public safety.

In August 2025, President Trump sent approximately 800 National Guard troops to Washington after declaring a state of security emergency. Several Republican-led states also sent Guard members to help.

The federal government’s takeover of the city’s police force ended in September, but the National Guard continues to be deployed.

Although the U.S. Constitution gives Congress “exclusive” authority over Washington, D.C., the city has operated under its current system since December 24, 1973, when the Home Rule Act allowed residents to elect a mayor and city council.

USA TODAY Network’s Mike Stunson and USA TODAY’s Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy contributed to this report.

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact us at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow us at X @fern_cerv_.

Parents say major baby food brand ‘poisoned’ children with heavy metals

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Parents say major baby food brand ‘poisoned’ children with heavy metals

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Hundreds of parents have filed a series of recently filed lawsuits against major baby food manufacturers like Gerber, accusing them of “systemic poisoning” that left their children with disabilities.

Since the beginning of 2026, more than 200 lawsuits have been filed against popular baby food brands such as Gerber Products Company, Beech-Nut, Campbell, and Nurture. In June alone, about 40 lawsuits have been filed against the company through June 10, all based on similar allegations, according to court records reviewed by USA TODAY.

As outlined in a complaint filed on June 9th on behalf of Florida mother Jennifer Garcia, the complaint alleges that the brands are “intentionally exposing children to heavy metals,” and the complaint generally alleges that “defendants knowingly marketed these baby foods to contain toxic heavy metals that are known to cause brain damage and adverse neurodevelopmental effects when ingested by infants.”

“Baby food should be safe. It should not be contaminated with toxic heavy metals. This action is intended to deter defendants from poisoning infants with contaminated baby food,” the complaint states, also alleging that Garcia’s 6-year-old child suffered “debilitating brain damage” as a result of eating contaminated food as a toddler.

Most recent complaints have cited similar alleged injuries, including autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although the initial complaint does not provide any direct evidence for these claims (such as medical testing, medical expert opinion, product-specific testing, or evidence that other potential causes have been ruled out), it is important to note that the investigation is not yet complete.

According to the FDA and the World Health Organization, the heavy metals in question (inorganic arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury) have been found to adversely affect children’s development and cause “irreversible and often permanent” brain damage even at limited exposures. Behavioral disorders such as reduced IQ, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, and antisocial behavior are the most commonly cited long-term effects.

What we know about heavy metals and autism and ADHD

However, there are no conclusive studies establishing a causal relationship between heavy metal intake and autism. Some studies have shown that children with autism have higher levels of heavy metals, but researchers have not proven that these exposures cause autism, and results vary widely depending on factors such as geography, testing methods, and study design. For ADHD and lead in particular, the evidence is stronger, but still inconclusive in terms of proving a direct cause.

Furthermore, the current scientific consensus does not identify a single cause of autism or ADHD, but generally considers them to be multifactorial diseases involving both genetic and environmental factors.

This is one reason why there are still no limits on heavy metals in baby food, food safety attorney Bill Mahler told USA TODAY. Mr. Mahler is not involved in the lawsuits mentioned.

“It’s difficult to prove a link between heavy metals and direct injury,” he says. “Companies will continue to try in vain, saying they can’t prove it, saying they don’t have the right data and need more research.”

USA TODAY has reached out to the FDA for comment.

Baby food products subject to lawsuits

The lawsuit names several companies that make baby food products, including Beech-Nut Nutrition Company, Gerber Products Company, Hain Celestial Group, Inc., Nurture, LLC, Plum Organics, The Campbell’s Company, Sprout Foods, Inc., Neptune Wellness Solutions, Inc., and Walmart, Inc.

They allege contamination across nearly every major baby food category, including cereals, purees, meals, snacks, and teething products, especially those containing rice flour and root vegetables.

The product types listed in the lawsuit are:

  • infant rice cereal
  • multigrain baby cereal
  • oatmeal/oat cereal
  • rice-based snacks and cereals
  • Jarred fruits and vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, etc.)
  • Pouches or jars of fruit/vegetable puree
  • Mixed blend of fruits and vegetables
  • Meat and vegetable dinners (turkey, chicken, beef blends, etc.)
  • Stage 2 / Stage 3 Mixed Meals
  • teething biscuit/pacifier
  • puffed grain snacks
  • Mochi/snack cake for infants

USA TODAY reached out to all brands mentioned for comment on June 11.

Campbell’s said it does not comment on pending litigation, but noted that it sold Plum Organics to Sun-Maid Growers in 2021.

Congressional investigation finds arsenic and lead in baby food

Congressional investigations in February and September 2021 found that internal documents and tests found that tested commercial baby foods were “contaminated with significant levels of toxic heavy metals.” The study found that baby food products manufactured by all companies surveyed included 4. It was found to contain at least one of the three major heavy metals. brand).

Although some of these pollutants occur naturally in the environment and are not inherently toxic in certain amounts, the heavy metals listed above are considered dangerous to children even in small amounts. These amounts are typically measured in parts per billion (ppb). This is a measurement used to determine the amount of a substance in other things, such as the amount of lead in a bottle of drinking water.

More importantly for the lawsuit, the investigation also uncovered internal documents showing that the companies were aware of the presence of these metals and, in some cases, were violating their own standards. In some cases, companies tested the raw materials but not the final product and still chose to use high arsenic and lead raw materials that exceeded internal standards.

“Our heavy metal testing is conducted as part of a monitoring program and not as a condition of product release. All tested products were sold commercially,” Nurcher told the subcommittee, according to the report.

Baby food contains up to 177 times more lead than allowed: study

Meanwhile, Hain’s (Earth’s Best Organic) final products contained 28% to 93% more arsenic than expected based on ingredient testing alone. More than 25% of tested baby foods sold by Nurture had inorganic arsenic in excess of 100 ppb, while Beech-Nut used ingredients in its baby food that contained as much as 913.4 ppb of arsenic and 886.9 ppb of lead. Only one company, Nurture, even tested for mercury, and the concentration was 10 ppb.

This compares to the FDA-set maximum values ​​for bottled water (10 ppb inorganic arsenic, 5 ppb lead, and 5 ppb cadmium), which were used as a standard since there are no FDA regulations for heavy metals in baby food. The Environmental Protection Agency’s limit for mercury in drinking water is 2 ppb.

“Test results for baby food and its ingredients exceed those levels, including results up to 91 times higher than arsenic levels, up to 177 times higher than lead levels, up to 69 times higher than cadmium levels, and up to 5 times higher than mercury levels,” said a February report that reviewed Nurture, Beech-Nut, Hane and Gerber, the only parties to respond. The late September report included companies that had not previously responded to the survey.

In response to this, in February 2021, the FDA issued a “reminder” to baby food manufacturers regarding manufacturer standards.

Major baby brand ‘knowingly’ selling food containing heavy metals: lawsuit

The lawsuit points to these findings and a 2019 report by the nonprofit organization Happy Babies Bright Futures as evidence that the companies knew they were selling products containing levels of metals that, while not technically illegal, have been proven to cause adverse health effects.

“Defendants justify this callous disregard for the welfare of infants because, until recently, there were no regulations governing the presence of toxic heavy metals in baby food, and in the absence of regulations, they were free to consume them at will,” the complaint, filed between June 4 and June 10, says. It also claimed that the parents were never informed about the possible presence of these substances in the food and were therefore unable to make an informed decision.

The complaint accuses the company of negligence and other manufacturing liability and seeks a jury trial and judgment to “punish and deter” the brand.

What does the FDA do?

Contaminants in mass-produced foods, including baby food, are a focus of the MAHA movement. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced an initiative called “Operation Stork Speed” in March 2025 that planned to focus on testing infant formula for heavy metals and other contaminants.

The agency also launched a “Close to Zero” campaign to increase testing and reduce contamination of children’s food. Additionally, although this standard is not legally enforceable, it will become the first country to pass lead restrictions in baby food in 2025.

A bill called the Baby Food Safety Act, which would create enforceable limits, was reintroduced to Congress in April.

Carnival prices start low. Your final bill may surprise you.

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Carnival prices start low. Your final bill may surprise you.

From tacos to hidden fees, here’s what I learned about what’s actually included on a Carnival cruise and what could potentially increase your final bill.

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  • Carnival cruises offer many complimentary food and entertainment options, but the final cost can exceed the low starting fare.
  • Amenities include a main dining room, a variety of dining options, a pool, a fitness center, and a kids’ club.
  • Adding options like drink packages, signature dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions can add up to a significantly higher total price.

When I boarded a Carnival Cruise Line ship in late May, my first stop was the master station for the mandatory safety check-in. Our second stop was the same as always: we ate tacos on the Lido deck.

The Blue Iguana Cantina is one of several venues on the cruise line’s ships that I frequent for lunch, and often breakfast, aboard Carnival. I got two chicken tacos and loaded the salsa bar with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, tomatillo salsa, and hot sauce.

This wasn’t the last taco we had during our five-night cruise (breakfast burritos are also my favorite way to start a morning on board). In fact, I ate at nearly every included venue during my trip. From Guy’s Burger Joint (created with Food Network star Guy Fieri) to the Lucky Bowl walk-up window, which offers a daily menu of rice, noodles, and vegetable-based dishes, these were some of the best free eateries at sea on the roughly 15 cruise lines I’ve visited.

Carnival has a reputation for being budget-friendly, often offering cheaper fares than its competitors without skimping on variety.

“There’s a lot of carnival in the main dining room, the food, the entertainment, the pool,” Sally French, travel expert and co-host of NerdWallet’s Smart Travel Podcast, told USA TODAY. “If you don’t drink much and don’t have to go to specialty restaurants, it’s actually hard to win in math.”

However, your guest’s final bill may end up being higher than the attractive sticker price. Here’s what you need to know:

What does a Carnival cruise include?

Like other mainstream cruise lines, Carnival offers many dining venues and activities for free, although some cruise lines charge additional fees. Carnival Sunrise, which seats just under 3,000 guests, had at least 10 dining options included in the price during my cruise.

Some had double duty. Italian restaurant Cucina del Capitano, which normally costs $24 for adults and $11 for children under 11 for dinner, offered a free noodle bar for lunch. The included Pizzeria del Capitano also serves bagels in the morning. The Swirls ice cream station with soft serve ice cream and frozen yogurt was a hit throughout the day.

Drinks such as water, regular coffee, tea, lemonade, and hot chocolate are also included.

At Sunrise, free entertainment included the children’s Sousapalooza Parade, in which characters like Thing 1 and Thing 2 marched down Deck 5 with kids and parents, and “Soulbound,” about the troubled love story of the Witch Queen and the Soul Collector, set to covers of Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin. The cast’s voices were strong and the special effects were minimal but effective.

Other Carnival facilities include a hot tub, fitness center, Serenity adults-only retreat, and kids club.

Are Carnival Cruises cheaper than other routes?

“Carnival is actually in the highest value category of mass-market cruise ships, but in doing so it has lowered the barrier to entry into cruise,” French said. “The itineraries are skewed short, three-, four-, and five-night, and focus on drive-able ports like Galveston, New Orleans, Jacksonville, and Mobile, so families don’t have to pay for airfare, either.”

However, depending on passenger preferences, these savings can be offset by add-ons. cheers! For example, drink packages start at $69.95 per person, per day, including spirits, wine, glass of beer, soda, specialty coffee and more. Additionally, if one guest in your stateroom purchases a package, all other guests of legal age must do so as well.

Carnival also offers cheap Cheers! Zero proof and bottomless bubble soda packages or drinks can be purchased a la carte. Save even more by adding signature restaurants, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions.

Most mainstream cruise lines have similar pricing structures, but French said Carnival Cruises may not be the cheapest option when you add up the total. Not using anything superfluous also requires discipline.

“Certainly, the important point is to understand that while Carnival almost always has the cheapest advertised fare of any major route, it’s rarely the total price you pay,” she said. “This is a very à la carte model, and the total cost is unlikely to be as much of a bargain fare as you think.”

“Our strategy of operating from more U.S. homeports than any other cruise line also highlights our strong value proposition, as more than half of the U.S. population can reach a Carnival cruise within a five-hour drive,” Carnival told USA TODAY in an email.

“We offer more comprehensive dining and entertainment options at no additional charge than any other cruise line,” the cruise line added.

How much does a Carnival Cruise cost?

Cruise prices vary depending on a variety of factors, including departure date and duration of the voyage. However, cruise fares to the cruise line’s newly renovated Bahamian destination, Relax Away at Half Moon Cay, now start at $216 per person, including taxes and fees, based on double occupancy, according to the cruise line’s website.

As of June 10, the cheapest fare available on any cruise was $187 per person for two people for a three-day voyage aboard Carnival Conquest round trip from Miami to the line’s exclusive destination, Celebration Cay on Grand Bahama Island.

The French likened Carnival to a basic economy ticket or low-cost airline. These are affordable, but expensive when you factor in additional fees such as seat assignments and checked baggage.

“Many people choose Carnival (or low-cost carriers for that matter) because of the low advertised prices,” French said. Do your research and find out what’s included and what’s not. ”

This article has been updated to update the headline.

The reporter for this article received access to this cruise from Carnival Cruise Lines. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. Please contact us at ndiller@usatoday.com.

Judges clear the way for UFC Freedom 250 bout on White House lawn

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Judges clear the way for UFC Freedom 250 bout on White House lawn

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Judge Amit Mehta of the District of Columbia Federal Court ruled on June 14 that UFC Freedom 250 can be held on the White House grounds.

The lawsuit filed by the Public Integrity Project alleged that the Interior Department and National Park Service’s decision to permit the event violated federal law and the Park Service’s own regulations.

Mehta refused to issue a preliminary injunction to halt the June 14 fight card, construction of further structures on the South Lawn, and a pregame press conference scheduled for June 12 at the Lincoln Memorial.

Mehta pointed out that critics have called the “Claw” makeshift fighting arena on the South Lawn “ugly,” “grotesque” and “disgusting.” But he ruled they had not shown how they were “directly affected” by the government’s actions.

“Even if the plaintiffs had established their position, the court would still deny emergency relief because the plaintiffs have not proven irreparable harm,” Mehta wrote. “Their damage is obviously temporary as well. Claw will be dismantled starting June 15, 2026 at 10am.”

Mehta also said critics waited too long to file the lawsuit on June 7.

Mehta said critics have not identified any environmental damage significant enough to cancel the event. The UFC will spend $700,000 to repair the claw-damaged turf on the South Lawn, Mehta wrote.

The complaint said the event is not subject to the interim rules allowing events to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary because it is run by the UFC and not “the executive branch or agency that celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, or the Quincentennial Commission.” He also said that the only special event that can be held at the Lincoln Memorial is Abraham Lincoln’s birthday celebration.

UFC Freedom 250 Full Card

How to watch Justin Gaethje vs. Ilya Topuria

  • date: Sunday, June 14th
  • where: White House (South Lawn)
  • time: 8pm ET
  • stream: Paramount (free with subscription, starting at $0.99/month).

This development story will be updated.

Contributor: Josh Peter, USA TODAY Sports

Gold IRA Fees Explained

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Gold IRA Fees Explained

Gold IRAs offer investors a way to hold precious metals and benefit from the same tax benefits as traditional retirement accounts.

Gold IRAs are attractive for diversifying your portfolio and accumulating wealth, but there are some fees associated with this type of account. If you don’t plan carefully, additional costs like storage fees and dealer markups can eat into your bottom line.

Here’s how much it actually costs to store precious metals in a retirement account.

Most Common Gold IRA Fees

Gold IRAs come with some costs. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Setup fee: $0 to $100 (one-time)
  • Annual storage fee: $75 – $300
  • Annual storage fee: $100 – $300
  • Dealer price increase: 3% to 10% of bullion spot price
  • Distribution and clearing fees: 1% to 5% dealer repurchase spread, $25 to $150 storage fee

Complete breakdown of Gold IRA fees.

Account settings

  • Typical costs: 0-100 dollars

The setup fee is a one-time fee that covers basic compliance, paperwork, and onboarding when opening your account. This may also include the cost of rolling over an existing IRA or 401(k) account. Some companies may waive this initial fee.

Administrative or storage fees

  • Typical costs: $75 to $300 per year

To receive the tax benefits of a gold IRA, the IRS requires that your precious metals be held by a qualified custodian. These annual administrative or custodial fees pay for account maintenance such as recordkeeping, IRS reporting, and statement preparation to keep your Gold IRA compliant with IRS standards. Some providers combine management and storage fees into one fee.

Storage fee

  • Typical costs: $100-300 per year

Storage fees cover the cost of storing your precious metals in an insured, IRS-compliant facility. There are two main types of storage: separate and mixed. Separate storage separates your coins and bars from other investors’ holdings. Generally, it costs more than mixed storage, where your assets are held together with other investors’ assets.

dealer price increase

  • Typical costs: 3% to 10% of bullion spot price

Dealer markups are typically the highest and often the least transparent of the costs associated with gold IRAs. For example, let’s say a dealer charges a 7% spread. If you invest $100,000 in bullion, you’ll pay upfront fees of $7,000 above market value.

However, this cost is usually built into the overall price rather than being shown as a separate item. Markups can be large and lack transparency, so it’s important to always check what your provider charges before opening an account.

Distribution and clearing fees

  • Typical costs: 1% to 5% dealer repurchase spread, $25 to $150 storage fee

Expect to pay some fees when withdrawing, selling, or moving metals in your account. For example, when liquidating assets, you may pay a flat fee plus a dealer repurchase spread. Flat fees are typically between $25 and $150, and dealer markups are typically between 1% and 5% of the bullion’s market value.

Other actions such as taking required minimum distributions (RMDs), transferring assets, shipping precious metals, and closing accounts may also incur a small fee.

Flat rate vs. percentage-based pricing: which is better?

“Flat-rate fees are advantageous for large accounts,” says Michael Papis, a certified financial planner at Boldin, an online retirement planning company. “A $400 annual fee on a $500,000 gold IRA hardly registers. A $25,000 account gets 1.6% off the top before any gold moves.”

On the other hand, percentage-based fees increase with your balance, which can be advantageous for smaller accounts. “In any case, over time the gap between structures tends to widen, so perform your calculations with real balance,” says Papis.

What are the long-term costs of a Gold IRA?

Let’s say you put a $50,000 investment into a Gold IRA with an expected holding period of 10 years. A realistic cost breakdown would look like this:

  • setting: 100 dollars
  • Storage fee: $200/year
  • Storage fee: $200/year
  • Dealer spread is 7%: Prepayment $3,500

In this scenario, the total cost over 10 years is $7,600, of which $4,000 is paid in the first year.

Gold IRA vs. Gold ETF: Which is better?

A gold IRA holds physical gold and other precious metals in a tax-advantaged retirement account, while a gold exchange-traded fund (ETF) tracks the price of gold through a fund structure. Essentially, ETFs allow you to benefit from gold price fluctuations without actually purchasing the physical metal. “For most people, gold ETFs are a better way to get exposure to gold because they are lower cost, fully liquid, and have no storage headaches,” Papis says.

Bottom line: Is a Gold IRA worth the fees?

Gold IRAs offer portfolio diversification and a hedge against inflation, but they’re not suitable for everyone. Fees and markups can make them less attractive than lower-cost alternatives such as gold ETFs or traditional retirement accounts.

Although the costs are higher, this type of account is still suitable for some investors. “Gold IRAs make sense, especially for people who are dedicated to owning physical metals and have a large enough account that the fixed annual fee doesn’t significantly weigh on their returns,” Papis says.

FAQ: Gold IRA Fees

Why are gold IRA fees so high?

Gold IRA fees are typically higher than standard IRAs because they require physical storage of the precious metal, which must meet IRS compliance requirements.

Can I avoid storage fees on my Gold IRA?

Precious metals in a gold IRA must be stored in an IRS-compliant facility, so storage fees cannot be completely avoided. A low-cost way to hold gold in a retirement account is through gold ETFs. This allows you to use your gold without worrying about storage costs.

What is the cheapest way to invest in gold for retirement?

The cheapest way to invest in gold for retirement is usually through a gold ETF or gold mutual fund, rather than a gold IRA.

How do I find a Gold IRA provider with high fees?

Markups of 3% to 10% on the bullion are common with gold IRA providers. Avoid companies that don’t clearly disclose their fees and price increases upfront. “In situations where there are hidden costs or ambiguity, you should proceed with caution,” says Evan Mills, associate financial advisor and commodity specialist at Scholar Advising.

Trump’s 80th birthday. That’s not a number he likes.

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Trump’s 80th birthday. That’s not a number he likes.

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Today is his birthday, but he will ignore it if he wants.

President Donald Trump is not satisfied with his 8-0 victory.

Just three days before his 90th birthday on June 14, the president confessed:

“I don’t need to celebrate my birthday, because I’m not happy about my birthday,” Trump said. “It’s a number I’ve never really thought about. It’s not my favorite number, but I’m still here.”

He was speaking in the Oval Office on June 11 with Dr. Mehemet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, who happened to be 66 years old that day.th birthday.

In a video shared by Oz, he points to the giant Octagon set up on the South Lawn for the Ultimate Fighting Championship cage match on June 14, pretending not to know and asking the president what’s going on behind it.

more: ‘I’ll win at all costs’ President Trump wears UFC bare-knuckle image

UFC 250, part of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations, coincides with both Flag Day and President Trump’s 80th birthday.

“So, we’re going to have a fight, and it’s going to take place on June 14th, and you’re invited. And I want to celebrate your birthday. You’re a young man. You still have many years left. You’re doing a great job,” Trump said. “And you don’t have to wish me a happy birthday.”

President Trump may be nervous about being in his 80s, but he has sought to draw sharp distinctions between his own abilities and those of former President Joe Biden, who he has consistently mocked for his cognitive abilities. During the 2024 campaign, Trump mocked the then-81-year-old Biden’s lack of energy.

As for himself, he said at a mother’s health event in the Oval Office last month, “I feel the same way I did 50 years ago.”

President Trump said, “I don’t know why.” “It’s not because I eat the best food.”

Trump is known for his love of hamburgers and soda.

After that, he continued to try to solve the mystery of his health condition himself.

“Maybe junk food is good and other foods are bad,” he says, adding that he knows plenty of people who go to a restaurant and eat celery while they’re eating steak. “I know there are so many people out there who are kicking the bucket just by watching their weight.”

The latest medical report, released by White House physician Dr. Sean Barbavera after a May 26 medical examination, declared the president’s health to be “excellent.”

In fact, the memo said his cardiovascular health was comparable to someone 14 years younger. The ruling was based on AI-assisted electrocardiogram analysis.

Immediately after the test, Trump, the oldest person to become US president, certified that he was in good health, declaring in a post on Truth Social that “everything tested perfectly.”

The physical examination, the fourth of his second term, came amid public attention for visible bruises, discolored skin and swelling on his ankles.

Questions have swirled about President Trump’s health since last summer, when he appeared with swelling around his ankle and bruises on the back of his right hand. And earlier this year, a photo taken at a Medal of Honor ceremony in March showed discolored skin behind his right ear.

The White House announced that the swelling around the ankle was due to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which occurs when the veins in the legs cannot properly return blood to the heart, and that the bruising on the back of the hand was caused by frequent shaking hands and aspirin. Trump later suffered a bruise on his left hand, which he blamed on hitting a table.

The White House said the discoloration behind his right ear was due to the cream, but did not elaborate on its purpose.

The White House has not released details about his birthday. No word yet on whether there will be a cake with 80 candles.

Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is USA TODAY’s White House correspondent. You can follow her at X @SwapnaVenugopal.

See how the SpaceX IPO increased Elon Musk’s net worth to a trillionaire

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See how the SpaceX IPO increased Elon Musk’s net worth to a trillionaire

Already the richest person on the planet, Elon Musk is now the world’s first trillionaire, or someone wealthy enough to spend $1 million every day for 2,700 years, thanks to the IPO of his company SpaceX.

SpaceX’s long-awaited initial public offering (the first time a privately held company goes public by offering its shares to the public) raised $75 billion, valuing the company at about $1.77 trillion.

Instead of offering a range of stock prices like most IPOs, SpaceX set a fixed price of $135 per share. So investors had to take it or let it go. They accepted and bought 555.6 million shares. The company began trading on the Nasdaq on June 12 under the ticker symbol SPCX.

But the rise in Musk’s net worth has also garnered attention, increasing by 26% from about $793 billion to $1 trillion. Depending on SPCX’s stock price, his net worth could fluctuate further.

How much more is Elon Musk worth?

If you can’t see the graphic, click here to reload the page.

That doesn’t mean Mr. Musk has $1 trillion in cash. Instead, he has a paper net worth (an estimate based on the market value of the assets he owns, including SpaceX and Tesla) of about $1 trillion. This reflects the value of his stock in SpaceX, not actual cash.

How SpaceX’s value compares to other IPOs

How much is 1 trillion dollars?

One trillion (12 zeros) is a very large number, so it can be difficult to understand in ordinary language. Some comparisons may be helpful.

Let’s start by looking at the estimated time it would take to spend $1 trillion.

  • $1 per second: 31,700 years
  • $1 million per day: 2,738 years
  • $1 million per hour: 114 years

How big would a bundle of $1 trillion bills be? Here’s how they compare to other impressive amounts:

Or consider building up $1 trillion in cash.

  • 1 dollar bill: 67,866 miles elevation
  • 100 dollar bill: 679 miles high

How else can you measure $1 trillion?

As a percentage of:

  • US GDP: 3.1% (based on annualized GDP of approximately $31.8 trillion in Q1 2026).
  • US federal spending: 14.3% (based on approximately $7 trillion in spending in fiscal year 2025).
  • US federal deficit: 56.3% (based on the Congressional Budget Office’s fiscal year 2025 deficit figure of $1.775 trillion).

If $1 trillion were to be distributed equally among all Americans, assuming a population of 342.6 million, it would be $2,919 per person.

SOURCE USA TODAY NETWORK REPORTS AND INVESTIGATIONS. Reuters; Renaissance Capital; Forbes.com; U.S. Census Bureau. U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Investopedia; Motley Fool

What homeowners need to know about DISH TV

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What homeowners need to know about DISH TV

If you’re considering TV options other than traditional cable, DISH TV is a popular choice worth considering.

As a satellite TV provider, DISH delivers hundreds of channels including local networks, national programming, sports and on-demand content directly to your home without relying on cable.

But how does it work? And is it right for your home? In this guide, USA TODAY breaks down what DISH TV is, how its satellite technology brings entertainment to your screen, and what you can expect in terms of channels, features, and cost.

What is DISH TV? How does it work?

DISH (Digital Sky Highway) is a satellite television provider that provides local, national, sports, and on-demand content to American households. Packages include over 100 channels, with higher tiers offering nearly 300 TV channels. Watch all your favorite shows with one subscription.

Unlike cable TV, which has a wired connection, DISH relies on satellite TV coverage. DISH bypasses physical cables and sends a signal from Earth to a space satellite, which sends the signal back to your home satellite. The receiver in the box of the DISH system converts the signal into the TV programs you are familiar with. This gives DISH widespread access nationwide and makes it more convenient for rural homeowners.

Advantages and disadvantages of DISH

Strong Points

Cons

  • More expensive than some competitors
  • HOA may decide where the satellite goes
  • You must own your home and have a credit score of 550 or higher

Is DISH right for your home?

DISH isn’t the cheapest entertainment option and requires a contract that some homeowners can refuse. But if any of these apply to you, DISH may be right for you.

  • You are a sports fan. Watching sports is expensive. CBS, FOX, NBC, and ABC also only broadcast local games. If you don’t get a separate subscription (often $30 to $70 per month for a single sport), you’ll miss out on important games. Get all your favorite teams in one all-inclusive price with a DISH subscription.
  • You need a reliable TV. DISH works in bad weather, so you can watch your shows uninterrupted no matter what the outdoor conditions are.
  • Eligible for incentives. Teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, veterans and seniors receive additional incentives and increased value for their package costs when they become a DISH customer.
  • I need a TV for my family. DISH gives you access to all the best kids channels, including Disney Channel and Nickelodeon.
  • I plan to stay in my home for at least two years. DISH requires a two-year contract, and if you cancel mid-term, you will be charged a mid-term cancellation fee.
  • you live in the countryside. DISH satellite is not limited to suburban areas like cable. DISH is available for streaming to anyone. As long as the satellite has a clear view of the sky, you can get DISH.

DISH packages and prices

Even the most entry-level DISH package comes with over 190 channels, including popular channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, HGTV, Newsmax, and more. Packages start at $89.99 per month and require a two-year commitment when you sign up.

Every DISH package comes with Hopper 3, a smart DVR that can record up to 16 shows at once and store 2,000 hours of video, and includes built-in access to streaming services Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and Pandora.

Save money with DISH: Dish offers deep discounts on TVs to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary

DISH package Number of channels Monthly cost
american top 120 Over 190 channels. ESPN, Newsmax, CMT, Disney Channel, E!, Nick, HGTV, Food Network $89.99/month (1 TV)
America’s Top 120 Plus Over 190 channels. Top 120 including Big 10 Network and NFL Network $99.99/month (2 TVs)
America’s Top 200 Over 240 channels. Includes Top 120 Plus content, but adds NBA TV, NHL Network, Sundance, A&E, and Golf Channel $109.99/month (3 TVs)
America’s Top 250 Over 290 channels. All Top 200 now have 17 additional movie channels, including Turner Classic Movies, STARZ Encore Channel, and The Movie Channel. $119.99/month (4 TVs)
dish latino Over 190 channels in Spanish and English. $69.99/month

Add-on packages start at $2 per month and include:

  • sports addon
  • Premium channels (STARZ, HBO MAX, Showtime, etc.)
  • Lifestyle Channel (including Hallmark, Sportsman Channel, and Game Show Network)
  • On-demand subscriptions (Netflix, Docurama, Hallmark+, etc.)
  • international channels around the world
  • latin channel
  • pay per view
  • adult entertainment

Some costs, such as taxes, surcharges, and transaction fees, are not included in the Price Guarantee and may add to your total costs.

special offers and discounts

DISH offers incentives to certain groups, so if you belong to one of the following groups, you can receive additional benefits and discounts.

  • 55+ Offer ($400 value): Includes one on-demand movie rental per month, 6 months of DISH Protection Plan Plus with ID Recovery, priority call routing, real-time technical support, free in-home service visits, and free equipment replacement.
  • military offers (worth $400): Includes one on-demand movie rental per month and the Star-Spangled Banner pack, which includes the American Heroes channel (an add-on with eight additional channels, including the Smithsonian Channel and STARZ Encore Western).
  • first responder offer (worth $400): Includes one on-demand movie rental per month and the Stars and Stripes pack, which includes the American Heroes channel.
  • Medical worker offers (worth $300): Heartland Pack, an add-on that includes one on-demand movie rental per month and 13 family-friendly channels, including Hallmark Channel and BabyTV.
  • teacher discount (worth $300): One on-demand movie rental and Heartland pack per month.

To get these offers, you must prove you belong to one of these groups and sign up for a two-year contract.

DISH installation for homeowners

Sign up for DISH and get free professional installation ($199 value). Installation includes:

  • Research to determine the optimal location for satellite installation
  • Assembling and installing the dish
  • Installation of receivers on all TVs included in the service
  • Remote setup of TV and DISH receivers
  • Download and update all DISH receiver software

DISH aims to make installation as easy as possible, so on the day of installation you can expect:

  • Step 1: Booking details will be sent to your email.
  • Step 2: DISH will contact you the day before your reservation to confirm the date and time.
  • Step 3: You will be given a grace period of 75 minutes on the day of your reservation.
  • Step 4: Track until DISH technician arrives.
  • Step 5: A technician will install the satellite dish and whole-house DVR system.

This visit was about more than just the satellite TV installation. If you’ve recently moved into your home, DISH technicians can also mount your television, set up wireless internet, install your home theater system, and more.

How to prepare for DISH installation day

Before installing DISH, you must make the following preparations:

  • If you live in an apartment or rental, get property management approval.
  • Check your homeowners association’s requirements for where to place the dishes.
  • Select the room where you want to install the DISH receiver.
  • Make sure someone is home during the installation period
  • protect all pets
  • Allow technician access to roof or patio prior to arrival

HOA rules and satellite antenna regulations

According to federal law, you have the right to install a satellite dish or television dish on your property. HOAs cannot ban tableware, but they can have rules about where they can be placed. In most cases, you cannot install a satellite dish in a common area (a shared roof or wall) or in line-of-sight (that is, it must be installed in a backyard where it cannot be seen from the street). Nevertheless, you can object to these rules if they result in a disruption of service.

To avoid any surprises on the day of installation or afterwards, you should:

  • Check your HOA rules to understand your preferred installation zone.
  • Get written approval from your HOA (there may be a specific form).
  • If you believe the rule violates federal guidelines, please appeal the denial.

FAQ

Will DISH work in bad weather?

DISH is useful even when the weather is bad. Heavy rain, snowstorms, or thick clouds may cause service interruptions, but they do not occur frequently. DISH has safeguards in place to protect its services: Signal Protector. In the event of a service outage due to weather, the DISH channel will automatically switch to Wi-Fi.

Do I need a contract with DISH?

Yes, a 2 year contract is required. If you cancel before 24 months, you will be required to pay an early termination fee of $20 for each remaining month of your agreement.

Can I install a satellite dish anywhere on my property?

You have the right to install a satellite dish on your property in accordance with the ⁠FCC Radio Receiving Devices (OTARD) Regulations. However, you may need to follow the HOA rules (if applicable). This means you may need to locate your HOA in a secluded location, away from common areas.

Is DISH cheaper than cable?

Cable starts at $30-$50 per month, so it’s probably cheaper. However, cable is often bundled with other services like internet, phone, and streaming services, and the price usually increases after 12 months. DISH has a low cost per channel and a two-year price guarantee.

New UFO files show CIA was ‘unusually’ evasive towards scientists

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New UFO files show CIA was ‘unusually’ evasive towards scientists

The latest batch of declassified Unidentified Anomalous Phenomenon files contains no bombs so far. However, they indicate that the CIA was hiding its involvement.

play

WASHINGTON – They’re there! It’s the latest batch of newly declassified Pentagon documents regarding possible contact with aliens.

The Trump administration released the third batch of previously secret UFO files from military and civilian intelligence agencies on June 12, the same day that Steven Spielberg’s new blockbuster about alien visitors was released.

The new documents, photos, drawings and videos will be added to the government’s rapidly expanding archive of unconfirmed sightings. This archive is known in official parlance as a UAP (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomenon).

So far, there have been no bombshell statements, based on USA TODAY’s review of documents and early social media posts by other media outlets and numerous ufologists. However, the file, like previous releases, contains documentation of several sightings and other observations that investigators have been unable to explain, leaving the true details of the phenomenon unresolved.

This release is the latest chapter in a resurgence of public interest in UFOs, spurred by recent high-profile Congressional hearings on the subject. And this time, whether intentionally or not, it will coincide with the release of Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day.” The film, from a director acclaimed for other alien-themed films, is a sci-fi thriller that explores how humans would react if they found out they weren’t alone in the universe.

Declassified materials uploaded to the Pentagon’s website Friday morning provided no immediate evidence of alien visitors to Earth. But they included some interesting reports and correspondence dating back to the 1950s about the possibility that life exists outside of our floating blue sphere.

more: Look at government’s ‘never-before-seen’ UFO files

In one case, CIA officials hid their affiliation with the spy agency from Dr. Leon Davidson, a scientist who was seeking answers about an alleged “cosmic message and its transmitter.”

CIA’s ‘very informal and evasive response’

“We contacted Dr. Davidson by telephone and advised him that the matter could not be resolved because the records relating to the space message and its transmitter had been destroyed by the evaluation agency,” RPB Roman wrote in a “confidential” letter to the CIA’s “director of liaison” on January 9, 1958.

According to Columbia University archives, Leon Davidson was a chemical engineer who worked for the Manhattan Project and Los Alamos and conducted “research and collection of materials related to UFOs” from 1949 to the 1960s. Columbia University Libraries holds the “Leon Davidson Flying Saucer Collection” as part of its Rare Books and Manuscripts Library, according to its website.

“Mr. Davidson accepted this statement with the comment that he had been told something like this before,” he said, adding that he was trying to water down a pending paper on “the Air Force’s handling of space sightings” so it could be approved by the Pentagon’s national security review team.

“We appreciate the work of many cooks in the kitchen on this dish, and as a result, the very non-committal and evasive response we were directed to give Mr. Davidson was probably the only possibility possible to avoid confusion with our own and other agencies’ past statements about this man,” Roman wrote. “But that answer was not fair to Davidson and was unlikely to be fully accepted.”

Mr. Roman also noted that two officials who were dealing with Mr. Davidson “attempted to hide their CIA identities from him,” but were “reasonably confident that they were well aware of who he was dealing with.”

“I’m sure we’ll hear more from Mr. Davidson,” Roman wrote when signing the deal.

more: Aliens, UFOs are not hidden from public view (true): new Pentagon report

“Unprecedented level of interest”

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell wrote in a post on X that the files were released as part of President Donald Trump’s Presidential Opening and Reporting System for UAP Encounters (PURSUE).

“There is an unprecedented level of interest in both this topic and the release of the files stored at WAR.GOV/UFO for study by the public and a large number of UFO researchers,” Parnell said. The site has received more than 1.7 billion visits worldwide since its launch on May 8, 2026.

Parnell said the Department of Defense and our agency partners are actively working on the next release of UAP files. These agencies include the White House, various U.S. intelligence agencies, the FBI, the Department of Energy, and NASA.

Questions remain. At least the new document is available for viewing.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Police respond to active shooter in Midland, Texas. at least one person died

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Police respond to active shooter in Midland, Texas. at least one person died

An active shooting and standoff in Midland, Texas left at least one person dead, another injured and the suspected gunman dead, authorities said on June 12.

Midland police responded to a shooting in the 4600 block of West Wall Street Friday morning and were involved in a “standoff” with the suspected gunman, Midland spokesperson Stewart Doreen confirmed to USA TODAY. Doreen said police heard gunshots coming from the building and tried to clear the area. Armored units and partner law enforcement agencies were also on the scene.

Shortly before noon, city officials announced that the scene remained active, but the standoff had been resolved and the gunman was dead. Mayor Lori Bron said authorities confirmed the gunman’s killing through footage from robots and drones. Details were not immediately announced.

“Law enforcement is still providing security at the scene,” she said.

more: What happened in Midland, Texas? What we know about filming

There are 11 known victims, and at least one died at the scene, Bron said at a news conference. Doreen said multiple people were sent to the hospital.

“I implore all Midlanders to pray for the families of those affected, the victims themselves, and the families of those who have been confirmed dead,” Bron said.

more: $18 an hour to stop mass shootings: America’s workplace’s first line of defense

The public was asked to avoid the area while emergency personnel were at the scene.

Midland Memorial Hospital received nine of the victims related to the shooting. Tasa Richardson, director of planning, marketing and communications, told USA TODAY that four people are in surgery and the other five are in stable condition.

Midland Memorial Hospital was placed on lockdown at 8:20 a.m. local time due to an “active shooter incident,” Richardson said. The hospital lifted the lockdown late in the morning.

“MMH has set up a family reunion for the victim’s family on the main campus of Midland Memorial Hospital,” Richardson said. “Family members may enter through the main entrance and congregate in the hospital cafeteria. Please avoid entering the hospital unless emergency treatment is required.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott said he had been briefed on the shooting and praised the response of law enforcement.

“Cecilia and I are deeply saddened by the senseless act of violence in Midland. We are praying for the victims, their families, and our entire community,” Abbott said in a social media post, referring to Texas Premier Cecilia Abbott.

The area where the shooting was first reported is about six miles southwest of the Midland hospital. The city is located in West Texas and is part of the Permian Basin.

Midland police are also searching for a man who allegedly fired a rifle at an officer during a traffic stop on June 10, but the officer was not injured. The suspect was identified as Victor Mata Villarreal. After officers returned fire, the man fled the scene, police said. It is not clear whether the incidents are related.

more: Do you think it’s safe to have a gun in your home? You’re wrong. |Opinion

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