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What’s going on in Korea? Soul caught a love bug that no one wants

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What’s going on in Korea? Soul caught a love bug that no one wants



CNN
–

South Korea has recently suffered another surge in love bugs.

However, romance is certainly not in the air for residents of Seoul and neighboring Incheon, who have been troubled by these nasty insects, as temperatures have risen due to climate change-induced climate expansion.

Dozens of government workers were sent to Yayang San, a mountain west of the capital on Friday, to manage the “very severe outbreak,” the country’s Environment Ministry said in a statement.

A social media video earlier this week shows the scenic hiking trail along the peak transformed into a bustling hallway of chaos.

The footage shows a hiker slamming a swarm of thumbnail-sized bugs, showing one person scooping out black-winged creatures and another man scooping thousands of small bodies off the trail.

In the YouTube video, a man gathered thousands of insects, took them home and turned them into burgers.

On July 3, 2025, a man cups his hand to hold dozens of love bugs in a mount gear.

Scientifically known as the Precia Londi Force, the Lovebug gets nicknames from their mating behavior when they jump into each other while flying.

They are found in subtropical areas such as southeastern China, Taiwan and the Longzi Islands in Japan. It also occurs in parts of Central America and the southern United States, including Texas and Florida.

According to the Ministry of the Environment, it was first detected in South Korea in 2015 and is believed to have arrived from southern China. Since 2022, they have appeared in Seoul, particularly in port areas between June and July.

Experts say climate change and warming temperatures are driving Lovebugs northwards into areas such as Seoul and Incheon.

Global warming is a planetwide problem, but scientists have identified Seoul as a region where temperatures are rising at a faster pace than the rest of the world.

This is exacerbated by the effects of urban heat, where temperatures are much higher than nearby rural areas, as artificial structures absorb and retain more heat.

“We must remain vigilant throughout the summer as climate change is increasing ecological instability,” said Kim Theo, director of the Ministry of the Environment.

Love bugs do not communicate illnesses or stab humans. But there is an increasing number of complaints that they cling to car windows, homes, restaurants and subway train walls.

So far, authorities have advised local workers and residents to spray water instead of chemical pesticides or use sticky pads to fight herds.

Although the population is expanding in the northwest of South Korea, the potential spread remains unknown.

“Compared to the past two years, the number of love bugs has skyrocketed in the mountains last weekend,” Wang Hyun-jung from Gyang district said on Tuesday.

Regions with warm, humid climates can attract them and may be a favorable condition for survival and reproduction.

The insect, scientifically known as the Precia Londi Force, painted a photograph of it flying over a tree on Mount Giyan on July 3, 2025.

The Seoul Municipal Government considers Lovebugs “ecologically beneficial,” poses no health risks to humans and supports flower pollination as larvae convert plant material into organic components.

However, local media reports that complaints against the city have more than doubled, increasing from 4,418 last year to 9,296 last year, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

On Friday, the Minister of the Environment agreed to strengthen and invest in the latest post-outbreak response procedures, which have been described as “very serious.”

“We will closely monitor the situation and work with local governments from the early stages of the outbreak,” Kim said.

However, it is reportedly set up natural population control as birds such as sparrows and magpies learn to eat bugs and their numbers decrease.

Is Costco open on July 4, 2025 or is it closed? What do you know

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Is Costco open on July 4, 2025 or is it closed? What do you know

play

Independence Day is Friday, and is the day to celebrate the birth of American independence from the UK.

Many national retailers, grocery stores and restaurant chains will be open on July 4th, but banks, post offices and stock markets will be closed.

If you need to travel quickly and last minute to the store to pick up something for the July 4th gathering, Costco is not an option for you this year.

You can find out what you need to know about other retail and grocery chains and whether or not they will open on July 4th.

Will the grocery store be open on July 4th?

The next grocery store will be like that open On July 4th, the times of the companies that provided them are listed.

  • Walmart
  • Kroger Family Companies (Baker, City Market, Dillon, Dillon, Food 4 Wrestle, Food Company, Fred Meyer, Fry, Gelves, Jay C Food Store, King Sheepers, Kroger, Mariano, Metro Market, Payless Supermarket, Pickn’s Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, QFC)
  • Sam’s Club. Plus members are open from 8am to 6pm, and club members are open from 10am to 6pm
  • Trader Joe
  • Major; Late night from 6am
  • Publix
  • Aldi
  • Whole Foods
  • Food Lion
  • Wegman
  • Harveys Supermarket
  • Windixy
  • Most stores in the Albertsons family of businesses (Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Shaw’s, Vons, Tom Thumb)
  • lidl
  • Harris Teaser
  • A giant eagle

Will the retailer be open on July 4th?

The stores listed below are: open On July 4th, the times of the companies that provided them are listed.

  • target
  • Home Depot
  • Lowes
  • Ace Hardware
  • TJ Maxx
  • Marshall
  • Home Goods
  • Macy’s
  • Nordstrom
  • jcpenney;10am to 6pm
  • Coles; 9am to 7pm
  • Sephora
  • Berg; 10am to 7pm
  • gap
  • Old Navy
  • Banana Republic
  • Athleta
  • Base Pro Shop
  • Cavera
  • Rei; 10am to 6pm
  • Burlington
  • Ikea
  • Petko; 9am to 8pm
  • Petsmart
  • Office Depot and OfficeMax; 9am to 6pm
  • Tractor Supply Company; 8am to 6pm

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter for USA Today. You can follow him with X @geuna Alternatively, email him at gdhauari@gannett.com.

There is a possibility of major changes in PSLF. What does that mean to you?

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There is a possibility of major changes in PSLF. What does that mean to you?

The Trump administration has convened a panel of experts to decide how the president’s executive order will curb exemptions from public service loans. The three-day lecture ended without any resolution.

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WASHINGTON – A group of 10 from the U.S. Department of Education was able to make a big decision before the July 4 holiday.

After three days of hard work negotiations, the fate of a major student loan repayment program was in their hands. Ultimately, a panel of lobbyists, former students, university administrators and experts could not agree to a path forward.

The thousands of borrowers currently employed in jobs where the country relies on functions are waiting for more uncertainty.

A public service loan exemption, or program under scrutiny, called PSLF, allows Americans in public service careers (such as nurses, firefighters, and some non-profit occupations) to cancel student debt after a decade of hourly payments.

Congress approved the program in 2007 with bipartisan support, and former President George W. Bush signed it into law. More than a million people have been allowed tens of thousands of dollars in loans following the reforms made by former President Joe Biden.

The PSLF was recovering from what student loan experts and Democrats described as years of fraud management, so President Donald Trump turned to change it. In March he signed an executive order suggesting that certain employers disqualify workers from being eligible to not benefit from the program.

“Meet in court”: Trump moves to correct eligibility for student loan forgiveness

The type of work Trump wanted to put on the chopping block was not clear exactly. However, he emphasized that organizations with “substantially illegal purposes” are in trouble.

Based on language in his order, the university’s affordable advocates began to fear chasing employers who support gender-affirming minors’ gender-affirming care and undocumented immigrants and Palestinian rights.

Borrowers are worried that their occupation will no longer qualify for PSLF, and they are forced to switch jobs or live longer with debts that the government has promised to cancel.

The borrower is worried that he was “left in lurch”

The Education Department convened a panel of experts in the first week of July to help ploy regulatory ploys to implement Trump’s orders. If they reach a consensus, their recommendations will likely be set on stones.

But they didn’t. Betsy Mayott, president of the Student Loan Advisor Institute, a nonprofit that provides free advice on repayments to borrowers, was the only hold on hold in the final vote.

She told USA Today about her decision, “I’m really on the fence.” Ultimately, she decided she could not vote for a proposal empowered by the Department of Education that she and other advocates believe they did not have legally.

“For me, it is very doubtful that the Department of Education has the ability to remove PSLF-qualified status from government employers or 501(c)(3),” she said, referring to tax codes for some organizations’ status. “That alone was a big problem for me.”

Mayotte and other policy experts spent several days drafting ways to limit the scope of Trump’s executive order. Among their proposals was a process in which one of the roughly 2 million PSLF-qualified employers in the United States could appeal efforts to target them. The panel also proposed new “severe and broad” standards that could provide another guardrail to protect employers from political pressure.

Although it is not guaranteed, it is still possible for these ideas to make it into the final regulations.

No matter what the education department decides, it should open up protection for the hundreds of thousands of people already registered with the PSLF, said Alyssa Dobson, the university’s financial aid manager who worked for the panel with Mayotte.

“They are making life decisions based on something they really believe is available,” she said in an interview. “And that’s just pulling out from under them. In my opinion, that’s not right.”

In a statement, James Bergeron, an actor under the education secretary, said the committee failed to reach a consensus but “helped fulfill one of President Trump’s promises to ensure that the PSLF does not subsidize organizations that violate the law.”

I want forgiveness of the loan

Among the many borrowers concerned about the future of PSLF is Maryland researcher Tracey Blake. She and her husband have over $240,000 in student debt, but if her employer is still eligible to provide it, she is only two years away from getting loan forgiveness through PSLF.

“I’m afraid the rug will be pulled out from under me,” she said in the public comments section of the meeting to discuss the new regulations. “It’s unfair to choose who gets forgiveness and chooses and leaves a family like me in the worst.”

Zachary Schermele is an education reporter for USA Today. You can contact him by email at zschermele@usatoday.com. Follow him on X at @Zachschermele and follow Bluesky at @Zachschermele.bsky.social.

Chicago lamented four people lost in mass shootings, and 14 people were injured

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Chicago lamented four people lost in mass shootings, and 14 people were injured

Taylor Walker’s vigil took place in the evening after mass shootings in the city’s northern river. Walker, 26, has four people killed.

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Chicago – She is the person her friends turned to for the issue, whether it’s fixing their hair or personal advice.

On the evening of July 3rd, dozens of people stayed up all night on the south side of Chicago, and one of the Taylor Walkers was killed in a drive-by shoot the previous evening.

The massive shooting outside the album release party at the Ritsey River North Neighborhood in Chicago shocked a city that leaders thought had begun to turn the tide into violence. In addition to those who died, 14 people were injured in the shooting.

“I can’t believe they took my baby that way, oh god,” said Sharonda Booth, Walker’s mother.

Booth stood in the centre of a large crowd outside Chicago Vocational High School for an all-night stay. According to classmates, Walker learned beauty and danced at the South Side facility many years ago.

Chicago police have not been arrested and are investigating what prompted them to film at the Southside rapper’s album release party. It said that at about 11pm on July 2, a dark-colored vehicle passed by and fired fire at a crowd of people standing outside before quickly fleeing the scene. The incident occurred outside the Artis Restaurant and Lounge, where the release party was held.

In addition to Walker, the dead victims included 23 men and 25 women, ages 26 and 27. The injured ranged between the ages of 21 and 32 and were taken to a local hospital, police said. Three of the injured were in danger. One was shot in the back, the second was shot in the leg and the other was shot in the mouth.

“Heart of Gold”

Friends and family remembered Walker as a skilled hairdresser and dancer. Among those attending the all-night stay were important others of Walker.

“She knew so many people,” said Nia Colkitt, who grew up in the same south neighborhood as Walker. “She was really popular. She was pop. Hairstylist. Dancer. Party.”

Many of the vigils wore pink in connection with Walker’s favorite colour, and the crowd released dozens of pink balloons in her honor.

“She had a heart of gold,” said Jordan Rose Johnson, who knew Walker at Southside High School. The two appeared together on the field at many of the same school’s games and events, but Rose Johnson was a cheerleader and Walker belonged to another dance program. “Just the sweetest person,” Rose Johnson said.

Moria Jones, who studied beauty in high school with Walker, said her friend was inspiring.

“She was just happy and a bubbla guy,” Jones said.

Other things you need to know about filming

The filming took place at the album release party for Chicago drill rapper Melobuckt. The album is called “Hollywood.”

The important others in Buckts were among those killed, she said in a social media post. The Chicago Sun-Times identified him as Devonte Williamson, 23.

“We had so much fun together in our personal life,” Bucks said when he posted a montage of photos and videos with Williamson. “We couldn’t glue each other to our waists every day,” Bucks was also posted on social media after the filming, saying, “I pray for my sister God, and I wrap the arms of the last one.” In another post, she added:

Where did the filming happen?

The filming took place outside the Arts restaurant and lounge, in a nearby lounge along the city’s river.

“An act of violence occurred near our restaurant last night, and it really rocked us,” Artis said in a social media post, adding that it was created as a safe space for people of color, LGBTQ people and allies. “This moment is painful, but it only strengthens our commitment to retaining space for those who need it the most.”

The restaurant said it is working with the authorities. Police ordered the restaurant to be closed during an ongoing investigation.

City leader: “frustration”

Eighteen people were shot dead “in seconds,” police chief Larry Snelling said at an afternoon press conference on July 3rd.

“Obviously there were some targets. This wasn’t a random shooting where someone just decided to shoot this particular group of people,” Snell told reporters. He said police still don’t know the motive for the shooting.

Snelling said multiple shell casings were found on the scene, including what appears to be from a rifle.

The incident was one of two major shootings in Chicago on the night of July 2nd, Mayor Brandon Johnson said. The other left four victims hospitalized on the south side.

Both are the most violent in the city on the weekend of July 4th, usually every year, just days after Johnson praised the administration’s efforts to reduce violence in the city.

“Violent crime is at a level that we don’t see in our city for at least 10 years,” Johnson said at a July 1 press conference. In the fall in violence, Chicago records recorded less than 200 murders in the first six months of the year for the first decade.

Johnson threw another tone on July 3rd. He said he was “irritated and angry at this pointless, coronavirus act.”

“Shocks like this are tragic reminders of how far we still have to be a city,” he said.

Why was there so much confusion at Wimbledon this year?

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Why was there so much confusion at Wimbledon this year?


London
CNN
–

If there is a lump of comfort to a seed player already discarded from Wimbledon, then this is this: you are not alone.

The biggest name of tennis has fallen at an unprecedented rate during the first week of this year’s tournament, with the male and female draw sections wide open.

It gave us a period of soul searching for the best players in the world. World No. 3 Jessica Pegra called the 58-minute defeat to Elisabetta Cocchialett “probably the worst result of the year.”

The boys’ third seededalexander Zverev felt “very alone” and was even more straightforward when he said he was trapped in a “hole” on the tennis court after his defeat to Arthur Lindernek.

Pegra and Gouf joined the team at the exit of the first round, with fellow top ten seeds Zheng Qinwen and Paula Badosa, while Zverev, Lorenzo Musetti, Holger Rune and Daniil Medvedev having a similar fate to a male draw.

According to Opta, it was the first time during the open era that eight players (eight male or female players) seeded among the top 10 were eliminated in the first round of a Grand Slam.

Additionally, a 13-seeded player in the men’s draw tournament record lost the opening match, but Gough became the third woman in the open era, which ended in the first round of Wimbledon, who won the French Open a few weeks ago.

As of Friday, 19 seeded players were knocked out of the male draw, causing 17 to fall into female charm.

For Gough, she believes that the French open title may have been a problem with the loss of Wimbledon. The American star said the deep run at Roland Garros had prevented her from entering Grasuchi’s swing, while also citing it as a broader reason for the majority of the confusion she saw this week.

Coco Gough watches in his first round defeat at Wimbledon.

The transition from clay to grass tournaments is short, with players having infamous demands, making the form dip even higher.

“Historically, I feel that Wimbledon has always had so much confusion in the first round here,” Gouf told reporters. “I think it’s always a topic. I think it’s a really quick turnaround. Most species get deeper in Roland Garos…and you have to come and try to adapt to the grass.

“Bracking all of these tends to be in a hurry because of how fast the turnaround is from the clay,” she added.

Clay and grass require contrasting tactics and style play. In the former, the ball bounces higher and rotates more dramatically. In the latter, shots tend to remain low and net play rather than long baseline gatherings tend to pay off.

Furthermore, the play is slower and more orderly on the clay, but the grass is much faster. And while players can stretch and slide the clay, the Grass Court usually doesn’t offer the same luxury to the player.

“The grass moves are completely different,” longtime coach Patrick Mouratoglow previously explained on his YouTube channel. “It feels completely different. It’s a completely different way of moving.”

Perhaps the shift from clay to glass has become even more challenging, as Wimbledon courts are slower than usual due to the hot weather before and after the tournament. Speed ​​of play was an issue that players mentioned over and over again.

“It felt slow and slippery. Igawi Tek, a clay coat specialist who has been struggling with grass in movement, said after her first round victory.

“But in the heat and everything, the ball bouncing off differently what happens the next day… We need to adjust to a slightly different condition each day. The grass is a living surface.

Few players have mastered the clay to grass switch, as Carlos Alcaraz is the obvious exception. The Spaniard won his second title with Queens just two weeks after winning the French Open last month, but struggled in his first round match at Wimbledon and needed five sets to watch Fabio Fognini.

The often-used saying that there are no easy matches in Grand Slams than ever before can be true during this year’s Wimbledon. It is a testament to the depth of talent currently on display in sports, and is a huge slavery that can lurk in any round.

“The game is really tough,” Francis Tiafoe said after his second loss by former Wimbledon semi-finalist Cameron Norry, who hasn’t been seeded in this year’s tournament.

“That’s not how you were where you could be, I cite, quote, “make your seeds easier.”

“The game is incredibly deep right now. If you’re not ready to go, you’ll lose.

Francis Tiafoe leaves the court after his defeat against Cameron Norry.

That depth is always more obvious in Grand Slams where stakes are high and where ranking drops play in such a way that there is nothing to lose. And for the larger name of a draw, the nerves become larger than the other events, creating a more general situation.

“The first round is really, really tough, especially as a seeded player,” U.S. Ten Seed Emma Navarro told reporters Tuesday. “There’s nothing to lose (who) players, and nothing to feel like they’re chasing everything. I know the consequences of losing the first round of a Grand Slam.

“It’s easy to feel like there’s a mountain in front of you,” Navarro added. “The first challenge may not be the most difficult, technically or tennis, but it’s the first match at a new venue. Even if you played the previous year, things always feel different.

Also, Wimbledon arrives mid-year in the calendar year. This is the point where fatigue is beginning to accumulate and physical demand for tours is at the expense of it. This could be even worse for the higher ranked players who will deepen the tournament and ultimately play more matches.

“To be honest, I think everyone is a bit tired,” America’s sixth seed Madison Keys told reporters after progressing to the third round. “The season is already long. It’s tough. Six months have passed and we all feel like we’ve just played a lot of games.

For those who are still in male and female draws, this week’s Wimbledon could be a chance to run that defines a deep career in the Grand Slam. Only two of the remaining eight players get a quarter of the female draw that is seeded. This is a great opportunity for the Dark Horse to reach more than the semi-finals.

“Hopefully there’s no more confusion in this tournament, if you know what it means,” she was half-joking, realising that she had already happened to some of her biggest rivals.

Is Walmart open on July 4, 2025 or is it closed? What do you know

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Is Walmart open on July 4, 2025 or is it closed? What do you know

play

July 4th is Friday, celebrating the birth of America’s independence.

Many national retailers, grocery stores and restaurant chains will be open on July 4th, but banks, post offices and stock markets will be closed.

If you need to travel quickly and last minute to get snacks and snacks for a July 4th gathering, Walmart is an option for you this year as stores are open at normal hours on Independence Day. Most Walmart stores are open from 6am to 11pm local time.

You can find out what you need to know about other retail and grocery chains and whether or not they will open on July 4th.

Will the grocery store be open on July 4th?

The next grocery store will be like that open On July 4th, the times of the companies that provided them are listed.

  • Kroger Family Companies (Baker, City Market, Dillon, Dillon, Food 4 Wrestle, Food Company, Fred Meyer, Fry, Gelves, Jay C Food Store, King Sheepers, Kroger, Mariano, Metro Market, Payless Supermarket, Pickn’s Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, QFC)
  • Sam’s Club. Plus members are open from 8am to 6pm, and club members are open from 10am to 6pm
  • Trader Joe
  • Major; Late night from 6am
  • Publix
  • Aldi
  • Whole Foods
  • Food Lion
  • Wegman
  • Harveys Supermarket
  • Windixy
  • Most stores in the Albertsons family of businesses (Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Shaw’s, Vons, Tom Thumb)
  • lidl
  • Harris Teaser
  • A giant eagle

Costco’s warehouse will be Closed According to the company’s website, it was July 4th.

Will the retailer be open on July 4th?

The stores listed below are: open On July 4th, the times of the companies that provided them are listed.

  • target
  • Home Depot
  • Lowes
  • Ace Hardware
  • TJ Maxx
  • Marshall
  • Home Goods
  • Macy’s
  • Nordstrom
  • jcpenney;10am to 6pm
  • Coles; 9am to 7pm
  • Sephora
  • Berg; 10am to 7pm
  • gap
  • Old Navy
  • Banana Republic
  • Athleta
  • Base Pro Shop
  • Cavera
  • Rei; 10am to 6pm
  • Burlington
  • Ikea
  • Petko; 9am to 8pm
  • Petsmart
  • Office Depot and OfficeMax; 9am to 6pm
  • Tractor Supply Company; 8am to 6pm

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter for USA Today. You can follow him with X @geuna Alternatively, email him at gdhauari@gannett.com.

Australian police arrest two people for “Chinese blessing fraud” targeting elderly Asian women

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Australian police arrest two people for “Chinese blessing fraud” targeting elderly Asian women


Brisbane, Australia
CNN
–

Two con artists accused of scamming an elderly woman from tens of thousands of dollars of cash were arrested by Australian police for investigating a spurt in “Chinese blessing fraud.”

China’s blessing fraud has been reported worldwide in the past 25 years or so, including the United States, the UK, Canada, and New Zealand.

Criminals usually target older Asian women and are convinced that a member of the family is cursed or at risk. Victims are said to be the only way to drive away negative spirits by blessing their wealth.

“It’s stealth robbery. These criminals crowd these vulnerable victims, usually Asians, older women. They crowd like a herd of hyenas,” said Guy Maggie, New South Wales Police Department Criminal and Criminal Superintendent.

The 63-year-old woman was detained at Sydney International Airport after “extensive enquiries” by Strike Force Sentinel, a special task force formed in April to investigate 80 reports of fraud. She has been charged with many crimes.

Her suspected accomplice, 63-year-old man, was taken into custody at Brisbane Airport on Friday. He is expected to be billed soon.

Detective superintendent Maggie said on Friday that perpetrators of China’s blessing fraud were targeting the entire east coast of Australia.

“They fly. They’ll prey on vulnerable people in their communities. They’ll exploit that community’s vulnerability with regard to superstition,” he said.

Usually, older victims are taken by someone who claims to be spiritual healers, who tell them to put their money and valuables in their bags.

“They will convince them that it is blessed and they will tell them not to open the bag for a certain number of months.

“Unfortunately, the victims have opened those bags to find money, and the gems are simply not there. That’s a disgrace.”

The two suspects arrested this week are accused of scaming a 77-year-old woman with $130,000 ($85,000) worth of cash and jewels in the western Parramatta, a suburb of Sydney in June.

NSW police say they believe 50 people are involved in the fraud and have identified 25 suspects by name. It is said that another 25 people were taking part on camera. Eleven arrest warrants have been issued.

“It’s like role-playing. There’s nothing coincidental about what they do. They all have a deliberate role,” Maggie said.

He said police believe the crime is “deeply underreported” because of the shame of the victim’s embarrassment and shame. He added that the number of cases is “probably twice as much” police estimate.

Last November, New Zealand police arrested three Chinese citizens for attempting to leave for a flight to China after allegedly stealing thousands of dollars.

Police claim that within October and days the trio has arrived in the country, starting to target seniors in the community.

The con artist seduced two victims of New Zealand’s roughly $30,000 ($18,000) of cash and gems, police said in a statement.

“A significant amount” of money was collected, they added.

NSW police have issued advice to the community to be wary of people seeking direction from herb doctors and spiritual healers in China.

“Don’t take strangers home,” Advice said. Do not hand your valuables to strangers. “Don’t put money or jewelry in your bag for the ritual of blessings,” he added.

Is Target open on July 4, 2025 or is it closed? What do you know

US-NEA
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0
Is Target open on July 4, 2025 or is it closed? What do you know

play

Friday is July 4th, and is the day to celebrate the birth of American independence from the UK.

Many national retailers, grocery stores and restaurant chains will be open on July 4th, but banks, post offices and stock markets will be closed.

If you need to make a quick and final trip to the store to pick up something for the July 4th gathering, this year’s target will be your option.

You can find out what you need to know about other retail and grocery chains and whether or not they will open on July 4th.

Is the target open on July 4th?

Yes, the company told USA Today that its store will open on July 4th.

Which retailers are open on July 4th?

The stores listed below are: open On July 4th, the times of the companies that provided them are listed.

  • Home Depot
  • Lowes
  • Ace Hardware
  • TJ Maxx
  • Marshall
  • Home Goods
  • Macy’s
  • Nordstrom
  • jcpenney;10am to 6pm
  • Coles; 9am to 7pm
  • Sephora
  • Berg; 10am to 7pm
  • gap
  • Old Navy
  • Banana Republic
  • Athleta
  • Base Pro Shop
  • Cavera
  • Rei; 10am to 6pm
  • Burlington
  • Ikea
  • Petko; 9am to 8pm
  • Petsmart
  • Office Depot and OfficeMax; 9am to 6pm
  • Tractor Supply Company; 8am to 6pm

Which grocery stores will be open on July 4th?

The next grocery store will be like that open On July 4th, the times of the companies that provided them are listed.

  • Walmart
  • Kroger Family Companies (Baker, City Market, Dillon, Dillon, Food 4 Wrestle, Food Company, Fred Meyer, Fry, Gelves, Jay C Food Store, King Sheepers, Kroger, Mariano, Metro Market, Payless Supermarket, Pickn’s Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, QFC)
  • Sam’s Club. Plus members are open from 8am to 6pm, and club members are open from 10am to 6pm
  • Trader Joe
  • Major; Late night from 6am
  • Publix
  • Aldi
  • Whole Foods
  • Food Lion
  • Wegman
  • Harveys Supermarket
  • Windixy
  • Most stores in the Albertsons family of businesses (Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Shaw’s, Vons, Tom Thumb)
  • lidl
  • Harris Teaser
  • A giant eagle

Will the retailer be closed on July 4th?

In particular, Costco will be closed on July 4th.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter for USA Today. You can follow him with X @geuna Alternatively, email him at gdhauari@gannett.com.

Winners (and losers) from major Supreme Court decisions

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Winners (and losers) from major Supreme Court decisions

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WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump celebrated what he called a “surprising decision” and thanked each of the conservative Supreme Courts after the court ended its term on June 30th.

Conservative religious parents supported the decisions of major courts in their favour as the court continued its surveillance trend with religious groups.

But advocates such as immigration, LGBTQ+ rights activists shook their heads and vowed to find other ways to continue fighting the issues that opposed them.

and the Court of Appeals, where the Supreme Court has proven to be more conservative than more losses.

This is a list of winners and losers for the court term that began in October.

winner

President Trump

The President called for a surprise press conference shortly after the Supreme Court issued its final ruling for office to praise the judiciary, including the opinion that “we are very pleased.”

“The Constitution was brought back,” Trump said of the conservative majority decision. Limits the ability of a judge to stop his policies from becoming effective while he is filing a lawsuit. The uncertain opinion that babies born in the US will automatically become citizens has sparked a shock wave among immigrant communities.

Even before that decision, the Supreme Court was supporting Trump by lifting the order through an emergency order.

Roberts, Kavanaugh and the Barrett Trio

There is no doubt about who controlled the court, which continues to move the law in a conservative direction, although not as much as some justice would like.

Supreme Court Justice John Roberts was a majority in almost every decision, followed by Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Connie Barrett.

On decisions that split the courts, they sometimes sided with three other conservatives, including when the superior court ruled that it had gone too far when blocking changes to birthright citizenship.

Six conservatives united when three liberals supported the ban on minor care, age verification requirements for porn websites, age verification requirements for planned parent-child relationships, and parents’ desire to remove children from their class when books of LGBTQ+ characters are being read.

But sometimes Roberts, Kavanaugh and Barrett joined the Liberal Party of the Court, and joined Justice Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsch. These decisions included rejecting conservative challenges to Obamacare and rejecting the federal grant program for internet and telephone services for the poor and rural communities funded by user fees.

Don’t you like the Supreme Court decision? Secretary John Roberts has an idea

Religious organizations

The religious groups continued their recent winning streak in the High Court, with exceptions. The largest of three cases filed by religious groups – the Oklahoma Catholic Church’s bid to create the country’s first religious charter school – nearly died 4-4. However, that was because Barrett rejected himself from the case, and the matter is expected to return to court with various participants who have no connection with Barrett.

The court has already pioneered a case based on another religion for the fall, whether prison officials will be sued for violating the religious rights of Rastafarian prisoners who were forced to shave by Louisiana prison guards.

Tiktok

The January court unanimously upheld a law aimed at effectively banning Tiktok in the United States. So why do Tiktok and its tens of millions of users become winners? This is because Trump has repeatedly refused to enforce the law and says he is working on alternative solutions to national security concerns.

more: Trump wins again. Conservatives like Amy Connie Barrett are once again. Supreme Court takeaway

loser

5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

Arguably the most conservative court of appeals in the country, again failed. Justice agreed to hear more appeals from Louisiana-based 5th Data compiled by Scotusblog shows that the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is more of an appeal than other circuits, further reversed its decision.

Their times they were included in the Biden administration’s ruling in favor of the Biden administration’s untraceable “ghost gun regulation, food and drug administration rejection of fruit and candy-flavored vaping products, and Obamacare’s requirement that insurers must cover cancer screening and other preventive care services recommended by the task force.

Environmental regulations

The court continued its longstanding trend to narrow down federal protections in the environment, including stealing the tools the Environmental Protection Agency used to control water pollution.

The court also reduced the environmental review of the project in cases involving the construction of a Utah railroad.

The court then said fuel producers could challenge California standards regarding vehicle emissions and electric vehicles under the federal Air Pollution Act.

LGBTQ+ Rights

Five years after transgender people and gay and lesbians found themselves protected by groundbreaking civil rights laws excluding workplace sex discrimination, the court upheld a gender ban that affirms the care of minors.

The ideologically divided court said the prohibition does not discriminate against trans people, as restrictions change age and purpose of treatment.

In another case, the court said parents who challenged books of LGBTQ+ characters must be allowed to exclude their children from classes when those books are being used.

And in an emergency order, the court allowed Trump to enforce his ban on transgender people serving the military while his policies are challenged.

A few days after the summer postponement, the court announced it would take up a state ban on next term office on trans athletes participating in women’s sports teams.

Mixed results

Gun control

The court said “ghost guns” could be subject to background checks and other requirements, but rejected Mexican attempts to hold them accountable for violence by Mexican drug cartels armed with weapons.

However, gun violence prevention groups followed the shooters to reassure the courts that they had not sought a wide range of immunity from the gun industry. The group hopes that if they break the law, they can continue to hold gun manufacturers accountable.

Parent’s rights

The court ruled against Tennessee parents who wanted to gain genders who wanted to affirm their children’s care, but Justice upheld parental rights in a case about LGBTQ+ picture books.

And the court’s decision to uphold the Texas age verification law on porn websites could have been foreshadowed during oral debate when Barrett said from his experience as a parent of seven children that he knows how difficult it is to keep up with the devices that were offered as better alternatives to Texas law.

Rights of disabled people

The court sued the school for failing to deal with her unusual form of epilepsy that makes it difficult for a Minnesota teen to use Minnesota’s Disability Act to join classes by midday. The decision will make it easier for families to use the ADA to sue the school for damages for lack of accommodation due to learning disabilities.

However, the courts held aspects against retired firefighters who claimed that the ADA would protect those who could work with retirees. The judge said firefighters who left the military due to Parkinson’s disease were unable to sue their former employers to reduce medical benefits for disabled retirees.

Did Cathy agree with Diddy? There is no consent in abuse.

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Did Cathy agree with Diddy? There is no consent in abuse.

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The New York ju-described believed that Cassandra Ventura Fine had agreed.

To the escort urinating in her mouth. For an inflatable baby oil pool. For sex with strangers.

Ultimately, the ju-decides discover that then-boyfriend Shaun “Diddy” Comb is not guilty of forcing her to “freak-off,” or sex sessions with the escort. Combs only committed the crime of transporting another woman, known only as Jane, for her and prostitution.

The defensive version of the event won. With the entry of his lawyers himself, Kushi is an abuser with a “out of control” temperament. But this was also a lifestyle. Neither of him was on trial.

But when there is abuse, is there any kind of person really free to agree? When will consent survive? If so, perhaps the victim said no, because they met with a punch in the face.

Ventura Fine testified that she sometimes told Combs what he wanted to hear.

“The victim knows what their partner can do and there could be a “consent” under obsession,” says Katy Ray Jones, CEO of the domestic domestic violence hotline. “That should not be considered consent.”

In abuse, there is no consent, victims and supporters say. Your head always has an invisible gun.

In the Didy Trial Abusive Lifestyle vs. Criminal Business: What a Verdict means

Trauma with the abuser

“You’ve returned to him for 11 years,” Combs’ attorney Tenny Jelagos said during the trial.

Ventura Fine has paused.

“I wouldn’t use ‘come back’,” she said.

If you don’t fight back, are you giving consent? This was the central question of the two accusations in this case and a crucial question for many sexual abuse cases.

Ventura Fine was with Combs at the now shuttered InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles for “freak-off” when he attacked her in 2016. He ran into the hallway after her as she was about to leave.

She curled into the ball to protect herself. The comb pushed her into the ground, pulling her with her hair, dragging her and kicking her.

She didn’t fight back. She did so early in her relationship.

It “will make it worse for yourself,” she said. The counterattack would say “I want to make the comb stronger and push me harder.”

The video was shown to the ju judge, but the defense argues that it merely shows abuse rather than coercion.

Judge Arun Subramanian ruled that psychologist Dawn Hughes was not permitted to discuss “forced control,” a type of domestic abuse. However, she was allowed to discuss the victim’s coping strategies and explain why the victim would remain in an abusive or violent relationship.

Victims can form trauma with the abuser, she testified.

Hughes compared the trauma coupling with a slot machine. “Most of the time, someone knows they pretty much lose, but when you hit the money, it feels good and you’re always following that feeling, so victims are often trying to chase those wonderful moments with their abusive partners.

Sometimes survival can mean keeping yourself safe, and it can remain in an abusive relationship, Ray Jones says. “Don’t confuse it with consent.”

Diddy’s Verdict: Message that sends to survivors of sexual assault

Ventura Fine met Combs when she was 19 and 37. He took control of her career, her finances.

She learned that saying no and retreating from abuse has encountered more abuse. At one point, Combs either asked for money from his parents or he released a sex tape. He forced her to carry a handgun.

“I was going to do anything that didn’t make him angry or threaten me,” she testified.

And it can be the only option the victim can see.

“People underestimate how strong and courage they have to go outside. That means that victims have strength and courage every day when they live in an abusive or dominant relationship just to stay alive,” says Ray Jones. “It’s very difficult to survive just. It’s very strong.”

Cathy moves beyond the verdict

The defense attorney said Ventura Fine simply wanted money. This is Harvey Weinstein, R. Similar stories unfold in other sexual abuse cases, including Kelly, Johnny Depp.

Ventura filed a civil lawsuit against Combs in November 2023. New York’s Adult Survivors Act gave victims of sexual abuse a short window into filing civil claims even after the restriction law expired. Comb solved the case the following day for $20 million.

In the stands, prosecutor Emily Johnson raised a question to Ventura Fine.

“If that means I had to go on a freak-off, I’ll pay the money back,” she said. “I’d have agency and autonomy. I didn’t have to work hard to get it back.”

Combs is no longer a part of Cathy’s life.

They passed the pass on May 13th for the first time in seven years, and she testified against the comb.

She didn’t even look at him. She looked straight.

He sat there, a broken man with seven children from four moms, a story that he once paid people to keep secrets exposed. He will learn his sentence later this year for two charges. Each count has a maximum penalty of 10 years.

Since leaving Combs in 2018, Ventura Fine has worked to improve inpatient rehabilitation, treatment, and self-reflexia.

She rebuilds her life with her husband, Alex. He sat in court every day of testimony. They have two beautiful girls and a gorgeous new boy. A dog named French fries.

Her life is when she makes matcha with a momentary notification. Pancakes for girls.

The life she agreed to.

And tonight, Combs will sleep in Brooklynsell, where he has been his home since September 2024.

Laura Trujillo is a national columnist focused on health and wellness. She is the author of “Back from the Shelf: A Daughter’s Truth and the Exploration of Updates” and can be contacted at ltrujillo@usatoday.com.

If you are a sexual assault survivor, Rainnoffers will assist you through the national sexual assault hotline at 800.656.hope (4673) and hotline.rainn.org and enespañolainn.org/es.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the domestic domestic violence hotline at 800-799-7233 or call 88788 on the text “Start.”

Joey Chestnut reveals his goat secret

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Joey Chestnut reveals his goat secret

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Joey Chestnut is scheduled to return to Nathan’s Hot Dog Meal Contest on Friday, July 4th, after a one-year ban due to a contractual dispute. What’s puzzling is his position at an event officially launched in 1972.

He is a goat.

Over the past 20 years, Chestnut has won 16 contests. Ten more times than other Eaters have won male competition in the history of the event.

He also holds a record of most hot dogs and bread consumed in a 10-minute contest, ten-minute, ten-minute contest, than other competitors ate.

In an interview with USA Today Sports, Chestnut (41) shared details on how he became the best ever after Nathan’s contest debut after eating 32 hot dogs and bread in 2005.

Chestnut said his internal drive will remain high after 20 years.

“I want to push myself,” he said. “There’s room for growth. I’ve seen how little things can be done to make everything better. I enjoy setting up these crazy contests at home.”

Despite winning 16 mustard belts awarded to Nathan’s champions, Chestnut said nothing will change as the contest approaches.

“I’m still nervous,” he said.

Joey Chestnut loosens everything

On the day of the contest, Chestnut uses an electrical stimulator on the abdomen.

“We’ll loosen everything to make it work,” he said. “I’m working really hard to relax everything.”

For competitive people, standard training involves drinking excess water to stretch your stomach, increasing the ability of hot dogs and bread, and simulating hot dog contests.

However, Chestnut takes his training and preparation to another level. He said he wouldn’t reveal all of his secrets, but his novelty includes a neck bulge with a 16-pound bag attached to a leather strap hanging from the mouthguard, according to Chestnut.

“When I raised him (his neck), I have to keep my chin clenching all the time,” he said. So I stick my tongue into the leather strap where the mouthpiece is glued.

“That’s a little better on my chin and my neck.”

Next is the burping exercise, explained Kuri.

“When you’re outside, you can practice swallowing and then burp, and you can make all those muscles and esophagus work together,” he said.

He also said he is taking Primatene, an over-the-counter drug used for mild, intermittent asthma.

“I noticed quickly and quickly, it helped me breathe through my nose while I was eating,” he said. That’s one of my small tricks.”

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Competitors participate in the annual Nathan Hot Dog Meal Contest

The champions and contestants faced off on weigh-in for Nathan’s hot dog meal contest at Coney Island.

Joey Chestnut’s attention to detail

There is very little detail that lets the chestnuts escape, such as the water used to dunk the pan of a hot dog.

“I like about 116 degrees of my water,” he said. “Hot water, helps digestion, helps the muscles relax and maintain fat liquid. The muscles stretch, and the hot water really helps it.”

At home, according to Chestnut, he practices at water temperatures of 111 and 121 degrees, as it is difficult to get the water to exactly 116 degrees on the day of the contest. He also said that Nathans practices rapid introduction of water to the right temperatures as they have limited time to introductory and start the competition.

“Everyone brings their own water. They have a two-gallon bag in another bag, which holds it pretty close (116 degrees). They get a little hot, drink some cold water and pour a little water.

“And (while training) I practice mixing it into a temperature I really like right away.”

Joey Chestnut slams his anger

Generally speaking, Kuri said, he is a gentle man. However, he learned to lead anger when he was competing at Nathan.

“I hid how competitive it was, meaning that it seemed really crazy to be competitive in food.

“I like having this perfect mix of anger and I’ve got it up. But I can also breathe calmly. It sounds really weird, but I can at the same time be angry and calm.”

Anger flares up during the 2022 contest, flares up as he temporarily placed the protesters in a chokehold after the man came on stage and slammed chestnuts.

“I watched the video and it looked really, really angry,” Chestnut said.

Immediately I resumed the chestnuts. He won the contest with 15 hot dogs and bread margins.

Kuri said he wasn’t too prominent about his intensity, attracting lingering anger over the ban this year and last year.

“I’m going to let it go,” the goat said.

A Russian strike hit Kiev after Trump said there was no progress in meetings with Putin

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A Russian strike hit Kiev after Trump said there was no progress in meetings with Putin



CNN
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The Russian strike struck the Russian capital Kiev overnight until Friday, hours after President Donald Trump said “no progress” in the ceasefire contract during a call with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Eight people were injured in the attack over the next few hours, according to Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s junta.

Earlier on Friday morning, the Ukrainian Air Force said several missiles were launched towards Kiev and warned about ballistic missiles approaching the capital. Shortly afterwards, a huge explosion was heard in the city.

Heavy smoke fills the air in some areas of the city centre, with drones being heard overhead, according to CNN journalists.

In recent weeks, Russia has launched close-range air attacks on Ukraine, including hundreds of missiles and drones. Earlier this week, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister said in June alone that Russia fired more than 330 missiles against Ukraine, including around 80 ballistic missiles, 5,000 combat drones and 5,000 sliding bombs.

On Thursday, Trump made a nearly hour-long call with Putin before expressing his dissatisfaction over the ceasefire negotiations.

Overnight evacuation at a subway station during a missile strike in Kiev on July 4, 2025.

“We called. It was a pretty long call. We talked about a lot of things, including Iran. And, as you know, we talked about the war with Ukraine,” Trump said. “I’m not happy about it.”

Trump was asked if he felt he had made progress with Putin in his deal with Ukraine. He added, “I made no progress with him today.”

A strike will arise when the Trump administration suspends the shipment of weapons to Ukraine, including air defense missiles, following a review of military spending and US support to foreign countries.

Trump said a decision has been made to protect US stockpiles.

The US has been the largest donor of military aid to Ukraine since Russia began a full-scale invasion in 2022, supplying Ukraine with air defense systems, drones, rocket launchers, radar, tanks and anti-armor weapons, raising concerns about a decline in US inventory.

However, the balance of aid to Ukraine has changed significantly since Trump returned to power, bringing questions about the future of US support for Kiev.

Citing Kremlin aides, Trump and Putin did not discuss the suspension of shipments to Ukraine during their calls. But Trump ended the war “as soon as possible.” According to Tas, Putin replied that Russia would not “retreat” from its war goals in Ukraine.

What will be open on July 4th, 2025? Details of shops, restaurants, etc.

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What will be open on July 4th, 2025? Details of shops, restaurants, etc.

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July 4th is Friday, and consumers need to either shop last minute or look for food.

That’s because most retailers, groceries and restaurant chains will remain open at some capacity on Friday, July 4th, with the stock market closing on banks, post offices and holidays.

The origins of July 4th date back to July 4th, 1776, when the United States unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence.

However, annual public observations occurred regularly after the war in 1812, when events such as the Ellie Canal and groundbreaking rituals of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad began to coincide with the July 4th festival, according to the Library of Congress. Congress passed a law on June 28, 1870, which marked Independence Day as a federal public holiday.

Here’s what you need to know about what will be open and closed on July 4th, 2025:

When is July 4th?

Independence Day is Friday, July 4th.

Is Walmart open on July 4th?

Yes, the Walmart location will be open from 6am to 11pm in July. It’s best to check with your local Walmart or check your online store directory and check a few hours before you go to the store.

Is the target open on July 4th?

Yes, the Target Store will be open on July 4th, the company told USA Today. Store times vary by location, so check with your local store for specific holidays.

Will Starbucks open on July 4th?

Starbucks storage times vary depending on where they are. You can use the Starbucks app to find time for a particular store.

Will McDonald’s open on July 4th?

The company’s statement to USA Today says that although times vary by location, most McDonald’s locations in the US are open on holidays.

Will Costco or Sam’s Club open on July 4th?

The warehouse will be closed on Friday, July 4th, according to the Costco website.

According to the company’s website, Sam’s Club warehouse will be open from 8am to 6pm for Plus members and from 10am to 6pm for club members on July 4th.

Are CVs and Walgreens open on July 4th?

  • CVS The store will be open on July 4th, but in some locations, hours may be short. Customers are encouraged to call their local store before visiting or checking on cvs.com.
  • Retail in Walgreen It will be open under normal hours on July 4th, but with the exception of the 24-hour location and other select pharmacies, the majority of Walgreens pharmacies will be closed, a company spokesman told USA Today. Customers are encouraged to check the company’s online store locator to determine the time of their local store.

Is Home Depot, Lowe or Ace Hardware open on July 4th?

  • Home Depot According to a company spokesperson, the store will be open during normal hours on July 4th and will close at 8pm local time.
  • Lowes The store will also be open on July 4th as usual.
  • Ace Hardware The stores are owned and operated independently, so times vary depending on the location. Customers are encouraged to contact their local store to check their opening hours on July 4th.

Will banks, post offices, UPS and FedEx open on July 4th? Will the email be sent?

  • all post office According to the US Post Office website, on Friday, July 4th, it was closed for retail transactions and there will be no regular residential or business postal delivery on Friday, July 4th.
  • UPS and FedEx According to the company’s website, pickup and delivery services will not be available on July 4th. FedEx opening hours will also be changed.
  • branch of Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, Citibank, jpmorgan chain and Capital 1 The company confirmed with USA Today when it was closed on the holidays. Capital One Cafes remains open.

Is the restaurant open on July 4th?

The following restaurants are available open On Friday, July 4th, time will be provided to businesses that provided them.

  • McDonald’s
  • Starbucks
  • Dunkin’
  • Chipotle: Most restaurants close at 3pm local time
  • Chickfill A
  • Cracker Barrel
  • Wendy’s
  • Burger King
  • Golden Coral
  • Olive Garden
  • Longhorn Steakhouse
  • Applebee’s
  • Buffalo Wild Wings
  • Irby
  • ihop
  • Waffle House
  • KFC
  • subway
  • Jimmy Johns
  • Taco Bell
  • Bonefish Grill
  • Firehouse Subs
  • Cheesecake Factory
  • Panera bread
  • Krispy Cream
  • Whataburger
  • Longhorn Steakhouse
  • First clock
  • Zaxbys

Will the grocery store be open on July 4th?

The next grocery store will be like that open On Friday, July 4th, time will be provided to businesses that provided them.

  • Walmart
  • Kroger Family Companies (Baker, City Market, Dillon, Dillon, Food 4 Wrestle, Food Company, Fred Meyer, Fry, Gelves, Jay C Food Store, King Sheepers, Kroger, Mariano, Metro Market, Payless Supermarket, Pickn’s Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, Ralphs, QFC)
  • Sam’s Club: Open from 8am to 6pm for Plus members, and 10am to 6pm for club members
  • Trader Joe’s: Store will close at 5pm local time
  • Major; Late night from 6am
  • Publix
  • Aldi
  • Whole Foods
  • Food Lion
  • Wegman
  • Harveys Supermarket
  • Windixy
  • Most stores in the Albertsons family of businesses (Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Shaw’s, Vons, Tom Thumb)
  • lidl
  • Harris Teaser
  • A giant eagle

Will the retailer be open on July 4th?

The next retailer will be open On Friday, July 4th, time will be provided to businesses that provided them.

  • target
  • Home Depot
  • Lowes
  • Ace Hardware
  • TJ Maxx
  • Marshall
  • Home Goods
  • Macy’s
  • Nordstrom
  • JCPenney: 10am to 6pm
  • Coles: 9am to 7pm
  • Sephora
  • Berg: 10am to 7pm
  • gap
  • Old Navy
  • Banana Republic
  • Athleta
  • Base Pro Shop
  • Cavera
  • REI: 10am to 6pm
  • Burlington
  • Ikea
  • Petco: 9am to 8pm
  • Petsmart
  • Office Depot and OfficeMax: 9am to 6pm
  • Tractor Supply Company: 8am to 6pm

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter for USA Today. You can follow him with X @geuna Alternatively, email him at gdhauari@gannett.com.

California’s biggest flame will grow on July 4th

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California’s biggest flame will grow on July 4th

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Fast moving wildfires in Central California reached the state’s biggest this year after exploding overnight as hot temperatures and dry conditions increased the risk of wildfires ahead of the July 4 holiday.

According to Cal Fire, Madre Fire broke out on the afternoon of July 2nd in a remote central California area near Highway 166. The fire spread rapidly to more than 35,000 acres overnight as it burned grasslands in parts of Rospadres National Park.

By 5pm on July 3rd, Cal Fire data showed that the fire had risen to over 52,000 acres, including only 5%. Evacuation orders and warnings have been issued for small communities near Highway 166 as the fire moved towards Kariso Plain National Monument, about 69 miles southeast of San Luis Obispo, California.

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles said images of the satellite show flames affecting the interior of San Luis Obispo County, with smoke feathers spreading southeast of the fire in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Videos and images shared by the US Forest Service showed smoke-filled skies and flames along hill-like terrain.

“Due to current weather, terrain and fuel conditions, the fire has seen exponential growth in several counties surrounding the San Luis Obispo County area within 24 hours,” the U.S. Forest Service said in a statement on July 3. “The effects of smoke will be far-reaching.”

The Madre Fire is now California’s largest wildfire in 2025, surpassing the Los Angeles area fire that devastated parts of the area. According to Cal Fire, Eton Fire burned more than 14,000 acres in January, while Palisade Fire burned more than 23,000 acres.

Wildfire smoke map: Track the latest wildfires, red flag warnings across us

The cause of the Madre fire is under investigation

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office said the fire would begin on federally managed land and spread towards the state. The governor’s office noted that the state “surges” “critical” Cal fire resources to support fire responses and is working with federal and local partners.

“(Cal Fire) has rapidly deployed airlines and ground resources to support federal partners,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement. “The nation always appears to protect all communities — even if a fire begins.”

As of July 3rd, no injuries or damages have been reported as a result of the fire, according to the Cal Fire. The San Luis Obispo County Fire Department said about 208 people had been evacuated earlier that day, and 50 structures were threatened by the flames.

The California Bureau of Land Management (BLM) said all BLM land in the Kariso Plain National Monument has been closed for public access due to the fire.

“This emergency closure is for the safety of public and firefighters,” BLM said in a statement. “Entry is prohibited and offenders face federal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation, Cal Fire said.

2025 has become a fatal start: How bad is wildfire season this year in the US?

The fire will arrive before the holiday on July 4th.

The Madre Fire will come in the same way as many of the US braces, one of the most prone to wildfires of the year, USA Today reported.

“There is a huge surge in the number of human-raised wildfires in the United States around the July 4 holiday in connection with improper use of fireworks,” AEM senior meteorologist James Aman previously told USA Today.

Aman said the highest concentration of wildfires caused by fireworks occurs in the western half of the country, mainly in national parks, national forests and other rural areas.

Cal Fire warned the public of the risk of wildfires from the July 4th fireworks. Since 2024, fireworks have caused more than $35 million in property damage across California, causing 1,230 fires.

On July 2, Cal Fire said it has responded to more than 65 wildfires (which burned more than 150 acres) across the state in the last 24 hours. The fires have encouraged evacuation in some areas, caused smoke-like conditions, and affected infrastructure and habitat.

A wolf fire in Riverside County near Bananing, California, about 85 miles east of Los Angeles, has burned more than 2,000 acres since it began on June 29th.

“As we enter July, California is intensifying, and the risk of wildfires is also increasing,” Cal Fire said in a statement. “It’s more important than ever to practice fire safety at home and outdoors, as hot and dry conditions come first.”

Contributed by: Doyle Rice, USA Today

Trump suggests that farmers can guarantee immigrant workers

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Trump suggests that farmers can guarantee immigrant workers

The Iowa speech came on the same day that the House gave final approval to Trump’s tax cuts and Medicaid cuts legislative package.

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  • Trump proposed to host the UFC Championship fight at the White House, honoring the National Park in its 250th anniversary.
  • In an Iowa speech, Trump also suggested that farmers be able to ensure longtime migrant workers are prevented from their removal under his stricter immigration enforcement policies.
  • Trump also said that he signed a legislative package for tax cuts and Medicaid cuts, which would sign at a patriotic ceremony with military pier flying overhead.

President Donald Trump told the Iowa crowd that he would sign a massive legislative packaging at a patriotic ceremony on July 4th, focusing resources in the national parks and hosting the ultimate fighting championship match at the White House.

“The incredible birthday victory we achieved a few hours ago is unlikely to have a better birthday present for America when Congress passes one big beautiful bill to make America great again,” Trump said in a bid to call for a “salute to the American celebrations” at the Iowa trade fair in Des Moines.

White House spokesman Caroline Levitt said after his speech that Trump was “dead” about holding a mixed martial arts battle.

Trump said he would sign the bill at the White House, added by House Speaker Mike Johnson, r-louisiana. Senate Majority Leader John Tune, R-South Dakota. And many Congressional Republicans. Trump said the military pilot who successfully bombed Iran will be guests on military plane overpasses during a patriotic ceremony.

“We’re going to fly the B-2, F-22 and F-35 just above the White House,” Trump told reporters before flying to Iowa. “We sign a beautiful plane flying just above our head.”

Trump promises amendments to immigration enforcement for farmers

One of Trump’s top priorities is improving border security and deporting illegal immigrants to the country. But after hearing concerns that farmers are losing the migrant workers they rely on, Trump outlined how Homeland Security Secretary Christy Noem is developing legislation that effectively allows farmers to allow their workers to stay.

Trump said similar Rennience will be expanded to hotel and leisure industries.

“We don’t want to take all the workers off the farm,” Trump said. “We have to work with the farmers.”

“We’re going to take charge of you,” Trump told the crowd.

A series of state fairs begin in Iowa: Trump

Trump – who has long embraced the themes and images of patriotism to complement his “America First” agenda – had already had a controversial taxpayer-funded military parade on the streets of Washington, D.C., June 14 marked the 250th anniversary of the US military and fell to Trump’s 79th birthday.

In Iowa, Trump announced his efforts to create the Great American State Fair, a concept that he touted on the 2024 campaign trail as “a unique year exhibition featuring pavilions from all 50 states.” He said the following year, events at fairgrounds across the country would peak at the National Mall in Washington, DC.

“We’re coordinating what we call the Great American State Fair and starting in Iowa,” Trump told the cheers. “We’re going to have a lot of people.”

Trump says he will hold a UFC fight at the White House

To boost national parks, Trump proposed raising admission fees for foreigners as part of his “America First” strategy.

“All of our national park battlefields and historic locations will host special events at American Honor 250,” Trump said. “And I think we’ll even fight the UFC. We’re going to fight the UFC on the White House property.”

“Championship Fight – Full Fight,” he added.

No strangers in the mixed martial arts scene Trump has attended several events in the past, including UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden in New York City after winning the 2024 presidential election. UFC President Dana White also featured Trump on the stage on the final night of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

The first UFC battle held under the ownership of White and his partners took place at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City. Trump “gives us a start when no one spoke to us,” White told Fox News in 2018.

Voluntary conservation efforts

Trump signed an executive order during his flight to Iowa, creating the Make America Beautiful Commission in the “National Park Service and Forest Service” to overcome what he called “mismanagement, excessive regulation, and neglect of daily maintenance.”

The committee includes Secretary of Defense Pete Hegses, Secretary of Agriculture Brook Rollins, Director General of Environmental Protection Agency, and the Office of Business and Budget.

Through voluntary conservation efforts, Trump is seeking to expand access to public lands and retrieve fish and wildlife populations.

“Land use restrictions stripped hunters, fishermen, hikers and outdoorsmen of access to public lands that belong to them,” the order said.

The National Park Service has $23 billion in postponed maintenance on roads, trails and historic landmarks, the order said. The Forest Service’s postponed maintenance is $10.8 billion, the order said.

Contributors: James H. Williams, George Fabe Russell, James Powell, USA Today

Donald Trump Announces UFC Events at the White House for America 250

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Donald Trump Announces UFC Events at the White House for America 250

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President Donald Trump has announced that the White House will hold a UFC event in 2026 in honor of America’s 250th birthday.

Trump was talking to the crowd at the Iowa Fairgrounds on Thursday, July 3rd. He said Dana White and the UFC will use the space available at the White House to host nearly 25,000 spectators for upcoming fight cards.

“We’ll be holding some incredible events, some professional events, some amateur events. But the UFC fight will be a big deal,” Trump said.

Donald Trump and Dana White’s friendship

Trump is familiar with mixed martial arts scenes that he has attended several events in the past, including UFC 302 and 309.

The president was spotted on UFC broadcasts in the past sitting with White, including UFC 314 at the Kaseya Center in Miami.

Trump received a rather positive response from the crowd as he left and walked towards his seat, playing Kid Rock’s “American Bad Ass.”

White also featured Trump on stage on the final night of the 2024 Republican National Convention.

Every morning, the biggest story. Stay up to date with all major sports developments by subscribing to the USA Today Sports newsletter.

How will student loans and repayments be changed under the “Big Beautiful” bill?

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How will student loans and repayments be changed under the “Big Beautiful” bill?

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Federal student borrowers are among those involved after both Congress passed President Donald Trump’s mega spending bill.

Following the July 3rd negotiations day and the 218-214 House vote, “Big, Beautifulville” is Trump’s signature from making the 2017 tax cuts that were permanently introduced for his first term.

The bold, nearly 900 pages of bill sets narrow tax cuts for tips and overtime. Launching new corporate benefits and rolling back former President Joe Biden’s Clean Energy Tax Credit. It also cuts profit programs such as Medicaid and removes accessibility of the 2 million Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program, as nearly 12 million Americans are not covered by insurance.

Trump has largely shaped student loans by cutting the number of repayment plans available to borrowers, alongside the majority of Republican homes and the Senate. Biden-era programs that adjusted payment requirements to suit a person’s income will be replaced by a new fixed-rate program that is disadvantaged for low-income families.

Those planning to continue their education beyond their undergraduate degrees will be affected by the new caps for alumni, medical and law students. The bill also affects the amount parents can borrow to help parents pay tuition.

Here’s a breakdown of what it would look like to take out a federal student loan if the bill is signed to the law:

What’s the new cap for your student loan?

The bill would implement a lifetime cap of borrowing $100,000 for graduate students and borrowing a $200,000 cap for medical and law school students.

The law also reduces opportunities for deferral and tolerance of loans for part-time students.

How do student loan repayments differ?

Paying off student debt is expected to change as Bill Gutslawn’s forgiveness program has been in place for many years and changes payment requirements that previously benefited low-income families.

There are currently two repayment plans, including a standard repayment plan that allows borrowers to repay over 10-25 years based on the amount of loan, regardless of their income. The other is a “repayment support plan” based on borrowers, with monthly payments being paid between 1% and 10% of discretionary income.

How will your parents be affected?

The bill also sets a $65,000 cap on parents and loans, unsubsidized loans offered to parents that are intended to support their undergraduates.

These loans will no longer qualify for the repayment program.

What happens to the save program?

Approximately 8 million borrowers have signed up for Biden’s save repayment plans awaiting a judge’s decision on the legality of the program.

The bill requires that between July 2026 and the end of June 2028, it is necessary to find a new repayment plan to save borrowers.

If this does not occur after July 1, 2028, you will be automatically registered in your repayment support plan based on your discretionary income.

Which student loan borrowers are not affected?

The new changes are most likely to affect new federal student loan borrowers, not more than the more than 40 million Americans who are already in student loan debt.

Contributed by: Zachary Schermele and Sarah D. Wire, USA Today

Man convicted of fraud for posing as flight attendant to fly for free

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Man convicted of fraud for posing as flight attendant to fly for free

(CNN) – A man accused of falsely posing as a flight attendant to reap dozens of free flights has been convicted of wire fraud and fraudulently entering the secure area of an airport.

Tiron Alexander, 35, was found guilty by a federal jury after taking 34 free flights that he obtained by pretending to be a flight attendant or a pilot, the U.S. District Attorney in Southern Florida said in a news release Tuesday. He was also convicted of entering the secure area at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport under false pretenses, authorities said.

The man was employed by an unidentified airline based in Dallas beginning in 2015, court documents said, but not as a pilot or a flight attendant. The scheme to obtain free tickets, for a Florida-based airline, began in 2018 and continued until 2024, according to court documents.

Alexander was indicted on these charges in Florida. He was arrested in California in February.

The tickets Alexander secured are reserved for flight attendants and pilots. Free flights are among the top perks of working as a pilot or flight attendant. The benefit is based on seniority and tenure. Using the airlines’ online ticketing systems, Alexander claimed to have worked intermittently for seven different carriers, according to the prosecutors’ news release.

He was convicted of four counts of wire fraud and one count of falsely entering the airport’s secure area.

Alexander was represented by attorneys in the public defender’s office in Miami. CNN has reached out to them for comment.

Authorities allege Alexander had booked more than 100 flights by falsely posing as a flight attendant.

Alexander will be sentenced in August. He faces up to 20 years in prison for the wire fraud counts and up to 10 years for entering the airport’s secure area, according to the indictment.

How this will affect you

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How this will affect you

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Millions of Americans who have health insurance through Medicaid face new hurdles after the House passes President Donald Trump’s massive tax cuts and spending bills.

Trump’s marquee bill extends tax cuts in 2017, ends tips and overtime taxes, and bolsters border security. It also aims to become Medicaid, a federal and state health program aimed at 78.6 million low-income children and adults as of March 2025, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

bill, It was approved by the Senate on July 1, and on July 3, the House is projected to cut $1 trillion from its Medicaid and Affordable Care Act insurance plans, removing 11.8 million insurance over the next decade.

According to previous CBO analysis, the bill made former President Joe Biden’s Covid-19 pandemic-era tax credits cheaper for consumers, making another five million people likely to lose their health insurance.

Health policy experts say the law corresponds to a partial rollback of health insurance benefits under former President Barack Obama’s 2010 Health Care Act, also known as Obama Care.

“We’ve seen a lot of experience in children and families,” said Joanne Alker, research professor, executive director and co-founder of Georgetown University’s Children and Family Center.

But Republicans say Medicaid overhauls are essential to protect taxpayers while motivating non-disabled Medicaid recipients to seek work to maintain compensation.

Shortly before the House moved the bill forward to Trump’s desk, Speaker Mike Johnson said the job requirements would “restore dignity and purpose to those with taxpayer-funded benefits.”

How will the bill change Medicaid?

Affordable Care Act established federal and state exchanges where people could purchase subsidized health insurance plans. Obama’s health law also gave states the option to expand Medicaid to eligible residents who earn up to 138% of federal poverty levels for individuals or $21,597.

A total of 40 states and Washington, DC expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Ten states, including Florida and Texas, are not expanding Medicaid.

Currently, under the GOP bill, these Medicaid expansion states require that a system be set up that doubles two per year eligibility checks and verify individual employment or exemption status.

The law requires “healthy” Medicaid recipients to work 80 hours a month or qualify for exemptions such as students, caregivers, disability, and more. Job checks apply to parents of children over the age of 13.

Medicaid: Where You Live

The GOP bill requires that two annual eligibility and job verification checks be carried out by the end of 2026. Therefore, by January 2027, legislative obligations must begin these checks.

However, the Senate version of the language allows Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy to extend the “good faith” exemption and allow states to perform job requirement checks more time.

State may also choose to launch work requirements earlier by filing a waiver with CMS, the federal agency that oversees Medicare and Medicaid.

During the first Trump administration, 13 states sought Medicaid job requirements. Arkansas was the only state during Trump’s first term, as it would implement work requirements and remove people from compensation within the first seven months of the program before a federal court order ends work requirements – removing more than 18,000 residents from Medicaid.

Georgia – of the 10 states that did not broaden Medicaid, it has not expanded to low-income adults – is the only state that currently has Medicaid work requirements. Georgia’s routes extend Medicaid to adults eligible to work at least 80 hours a month, and qualify for exemptions such as full-time students and volunteers. The Biden administration stalled the program, but Georgia sued, and the program began registering people in 2023.

As of April 30, fewer than 7,500 Georgians were protecting Medicaid under the Georgia State Route Program, according to data analyzed by the Georgia Institute of Budget and Policy.

State could also be motivated to act faster as the bill changes the number of states that fund a portion of Medicaid. The state is adopting a “provider tax,” which assesses the taxes of hospitals and other healthcare providers, in order to take advantage of larger Medicaid payments from the federal government.

The GOP bill freezes current tax rates and requires that in 2028 the state cut provider tax from the current 6% limit to 3.5%. The bill does not require states up to states to begin cutting provider taxes until 2028, but some states may choose to act earlier to address potential budget gaps.

“The state is anticipating losses in revenue and is considering making changes,” said Jennifer Tolbert, Medicaid’s deputy program director and an uninsured person with KFF, a health policy nonprofit.

Consumer Advocates: Medical Debt Concerns Mount

Consumer advocates said the health insurance losses for millions of Americans are likely to result in more people being able to take on medical debt.

Healthcare costs account for more than half of consumer credit records, according to a 2022 report from the Consumer Financial Protection Agency.

Before Biden resigned, the CFPB established medical debt rules that banned medical debt on credit reports and prohibit lenders from using a person’s medical debt history to make loan decisions.

The three biggest credit reporting companies have already agreed to remove unpaid medical debts of less than a year and remove medical debts of less than $500. Biden’s rules would have also eliminated greater debt. However, the CFPB is attempting to erase a rule that prohibits the inclusion of all medical liabilities in its credit report.

The CFPB had a layoff earlier this year, and the GOP bill will further cut consumer protection agency funding.

Sally Greenberg, CEO of the National Consumers League, said the combination of consumer watchdogs and losses in health insurance coverage is harmful to consumers.

“Consumers are going to pay — patients are going to pay big hours,” Greenberg said.

Tropical disturbances lurk off the southeast coast. Will it land?

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Tropical disturbances lurk off the southeast coast. Will it land?

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Hurricane predictors are turning to tropical disturbances brewing off the coast of the southeastern US coast.

The interference 1 has a 20% chance of generating about 60% over the next 7 days and a 20% chance of generating over the next 48 hours, the National Hurricane Centre said on July 3. Regardless of its formation, it could have some impact, especially in the southeastern state of Florida, and in particular in Florida.

The Florida Department of Emergency Management said that it is not a direct threat to Florida in the near future, but could increase shower and thunderstorm activity later in the week. Heavy rain is expected in southeastern coastal regions, including Florida, Georgia and Carolina.

Local beach fans may experience showers and thunderstorm activity over holiday weekends, with worsening wave conditions reported by Accuweather.

According to the exit, if clusters of thunderstorms and pressure drop begin to rotate around the center with winds of 35-38 mph, the disturbance is considered tropical depression. According to the Hurricane Center, it could occur over the weekend or early next week as the system moves north or northeast.

Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1st and continues until the end of November.

Aggressive hurricane weather usually peaks between mid-August and mid-October.

Look at what you’re brewing in the Atlantic Ocean

Get ready for a hurricane now

Potentially delaying preparations for salvation can mean waiting until it’s too late. “Get disaster supply while the shelves are still in stock and flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period, so get that insurance inspection early,” the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recommends.

Get ready for a hurricane now: This is what you need to do to stay safe before the storm arrives

  • Establish an evacuation plan: If you are at risk of a hurricane, you will need an evacuation plan. Now is the time to plan where you will go and how you will get there.
  • Assemble disaster supply: Whether you’re evacuating or evacuating, you’ll need supplies not only to get through the storm, but also for the potentially long aftermath.
  • Get an insurance inspection and document your property: Contact your insurance company or agent now to ask for an insurance inspection and make sure you have sufficient insurance to repair or replace your home or belongings. Remember that home insurance and tenant insurance don’t cover floods, so you’ll need a separate insurance for that. Flood insurance is available through your company, agent, or through your national flood insurance program. Flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period, so take action now.
  • Create a family communication plan: NOAA just said that you took the time to write down your hurricane plan and share it with your family. Determine where family gatherings are to be met and include out-of-town locations in case of evacuation.
  • It strengthens your home: Now is the time to improve your home’s ability to withstand the effects of a hurricane. Trim the wood; attach storm shutters, accordion shutters, and/or impact glass. Seal the wall opening.

How do hurricanes form?

Hurricanes originate in the tropical regions above warm waters. Thunderstorm clusters can develop across the ocean when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If conditions are correct, clusters are swirling into tropical waves and storms known as tropical depression.

Tropical depression becomes a named tropical storm when its sustained wind speed reaches 39 mph. When the wind reaches 74 mph, the storm officially becomes a hurricane.

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