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Samantha Busch reflects on watching her son race after Kyle Busch’s death

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Samantha Busch reflects on watching her son race after Kyle Busch’s death

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The racetrack continues to feel like home to Samantha Busch and her family, even after the shocking death of her husband and two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch.

Samantha Bush expressed as much in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, her 11-year-old son Brexton got behind the wheel of the Legend Car at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the Summer Shootout, finishing sixth on Monday night. On Tuesday, Tom (Kyle Busch’s 72-year-old father) took an honorary lap around the track in his No. 51 Legend car as Brexton waved its flag.

As Brexton drove the neon green No. 18 car around the track in Concord, North Carolina, Samantha said she remembered Kyle.

Samantha Busch wrote, “It’s heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time to see Brexton back on the track, because we see a glimpse of Kyle in him, the same determination, the same passion, the same brilliance. And for a moment, it feels like a piece of him is still with us.” “While these moments are incredibly painful, they also serve as a reminder that Kyle’s story is not over. It lives on through the dreams he inspired and the two children he loved more than anything.”

When Kyle was admitted to hospital before his tragic death on May 21 at the age of 41, Samantha said she promised her children she would do everything in her power to help them pursue their dreams.

“For Brexton, that dream is racing,” Busch wrote. “It wasn’t a dream that Kyle chose for him. It was something the two of them shared. They spent countless hours talking about race cars, working together, dreaming together and building a bond around what they both truly love. Racing is what lights up Brexton, and as long as that is the dream that is in his heart, I will be right by his side, rooting for him every step of the way.”

Ahead of this past weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Michigan, Richard Childress reiterated that Kyle’s stylized No. 8 jersey will remain retired until Brexton wants to use it, even if it belongs to another team. Kyle has raced for Team RCR in Childress for the past four seasons.

Samantha said she and Kyle’s daughter, 4-year-old Lennix, just got her first cart for her birthday.

“The racetrack has been home for our family for nearly 20 years. It’s where our best memories were made, where our children grew up, and where much of our life together happened,” Busch wrote. “At a time when so much of our world feels foreign, it’s one of the few places that still feels like home.

“Every time we get to the track, we’re reminded that someone on our team is missing. The person who should be next to us isn’t there. That part is heartbreaking. But it’s also where we feel closest to him, surrounded by memories, people, and the dreams he helped build. So we keep racing.”

Kyle Busch passed away from complications from severe pneumonia that progressed to sepsis. He is the winningest driver of all time in NASCAR’s top three touring series with a total of 234 wins. His sudden death shocked NASCAR, and drivers continued to pay tribute to him. Denny Hamlin ran around with a specially stylized No. 18 flag during his victory lap after tying Busch, his former Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, for the ninth Cup Series victory Sunday at Michigan.

In an emotional moment before the Coca-Cola 600 race, with Samantha, Brexton, Lennix, Kyle’s parents and brother Kurt standing next to him, NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell told the Busch family, “Everyone here, everyone in the back, everyone watching on TV, everyone in the grandstands is your family. And we’re going to protect you.”

How to tell if a job applicant is exaggerating their abilities

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How to tell if a job applicant is exaggerating their abilities

Johnny C. Taylor Jr.
| USA TODAY Special Feature

Johnny C. Taylor Jr. answers workplace questions every week on USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of SHRM, the world’s largest human resources professional organization, and author of Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.

Have a question? Please submit here.

Question: As a hiring manager, I frequently encounter candidates who: resumes They seem great, but their actual skills don’t match what they claim in interviews. How can employers effectively validate real-world competencies without creating overly rigid or discouraging hiring processes? – Near

Answer: At SHRM, we use the term to describe what you’re describing as “skill fishing,” or presenting qualifications, skills, and experience that don’t fully translate to real-world execution. Actually, this is nothing new. For as long as employers have been recruiting, candidates have been exaggerating their abilities. What has changed is how easy it has become to use artificial intelligence to construct sophisticated, professional narratives that may or may not reflect authentic depth.

So how do you differentiate between actual ability and strong self-promotion? Start before the interview even begins. When reviewing applications, look for indicators that the candidate has invested in developing and validating their expertise. Relevant certifications, licenses, portfolios, or demonstrated project work provide a useful baseline. These are not foolproof, but they can help employers differentiate between those who have studied a subject and those who have actually practiced it.

Improved teamwork: How do you build trust and unify dysfunctional work teams? Ask Johnny

From there, the interview itself becomes your most valuable tool. Don’t let candidates speak in general terms. Ask them to give specific examples of how they applied the skills they claim to have. What was the situation like? What decisions did they make? What obstacles did they encounter? What was the outcome? People with authentic experiences tend to speak specifically and clearly because they have lived it.

The important thing here is not to stop at the first answer. Ask follow-up questions. Would they do things differently today? What trade-offs did they consider? What went wrong along the way? Real-life experiences have texture. It includes setbacks, adjustments, and lessons learned. People who rely on surface-level familiarity often struggle when the conversation moves beyond their rehearsed talking points.

Practical assessments can also be incorporated if desired. That doesn’t mean turning the hiring process into an obstacle course. But asking a candidate to review a case study, solve a real-world problem, or demonstrate part of their job can convey much more than another conversational interview. The best ratings reflect the actual demands of the role, rather than trying to “catch” someone making a mistake.

To be clear, a rigorous hiring process doesn’t necessarily have to feel adversarial. Strong candidates usually appreciate thoughtful questions and clear expectations. High performers want to know that their organization is about substance, not just presentation.

At the same time, employers must remember that recruiting is not just about polish but also about potential. Not all great candidates interview perfectly. The goal is not to eliminate all risks. It’s about creating a process that gives people a fair chance to prove whether they can really do the job.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

Work break: Is taking a sabbatical a bad career change? Ask Johnny

America’s actions as World Cup host are shameful

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America’s actions as World Cup host are shameful

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IRVINE, Calif. – The United States has already lost this World Cup.

With the U.S. men’s national team on a historic run, the tournament could be filled with great goals and fascinating games. It doesn’t change the fact that we have shown ourselves to be a hateful and greedy nation. A nation whose leaders are only willing to welcome the world they want to see rather than the one that exists, where the love of the game is exploited for top dollar.

That is the legacy of this World Cup and it will be a shame. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the best of America and embrace the joy that soccer brings to the world, but instead we choose to be ugly Americans.

The World Cup is magical, unlike the sporting events typically seen in the United States. The Brazilian crowd, all wearing their familiar canary yellow jerseys, were singing and having a great time. The Dutch turned the streets around the stadium into a sea of ​​orange. Japanese fans cleaning the stadium after the match.

You can’t help but be fascinated by this sight. Anyone who has experienced this sight will feel that the world is a little smaller and much friendlier than we think.

“All these people want to enjoy a moment of happiness, a moment when they can put their day-to-day problems aside and just enjoy the game,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said at a press conference on Wednesday, June 10.

“Cry when your team loses, cry when your team wins, and feel those emotions in community with others.”

That’s the tragedy of all this. Instead of using the World Cup to unite us, we have used it as an excuse to divide.

Iran, visas and ticket prices cast a shadow on World Cup

Infantino played down his animosity towards the Iranians, characterizing their participation despite their disgraceful treatment as a victory. Iran had to move its base camp to Mexico in the 11th hour, was not allowed to stay in the United States despite all three group games being played in Mexico, and also lost its ticket allocation to fans.

He also downplayed the US decision to deny entry to Somali referee Omar Altan. Artan, who refereed World Cup qualifiers and last year’s U-20 World Cup, was one of several people turned away at the U.S. border for questionable reasons.

“We’re working very closely to make sure the right people come to our country,” President Donald Trump said Wednesday in response to a question about the denial.

However, the United States should be the host of the World Cup, not its bodyguard.

The World Cup should be a party for everyone

Throwing a global party means you have to welcome everyone, not just your favorite people. There’s no need to be happy that a referee from Iran or Somalia comes. But you need to show them the same courtesy you would give to people coming from Spain or Argentina, for example.

I can’t even manage that.

“This is anathema to the purpose of this tournament,” New York Mayor Zoran Mamdani said earlier this week when asked about the visa restrictions.

“If we cannot even allow the players, the teams, and the journalists who cover those teams to visit this country, it casts great doubt on our commitment to the spirit of this tournament,” Mamdani said. “We want this to be a tournament that reflects our determination to be part of something bigger than ourselves.”

Ordinary fans make the World Cup more expensive

Its commitment to the spirit of the World Cup was questionable, as ticket prices were so high that it was unaffordable for ordinary fans.

What makes soccer a beautiful game is that everyone can participate. Your race, ethnicity, gender, religion, socio-economic status, none of that matters. If you have the ball and space, you can play.

The World Cup should reflect that. But this tournament is shaping up to be no different than the Super Bowl or the Final Four, adding another “experience” to the corporate set’s bucket list.

Hosting the World Cup could have been transformative for the United States. It may have brought us closer to the rest of the world and given us a new appreciation for people and places we didn’t know about before.

It could also have reminded the world of America’s eternal strength. We are generally friendly people, sociable and approachable. Imagine the impression we could have made, the disbelief and disappointment we could have dispelled.

Instead, we chose to show the world our worst selves. This is the biggest loss in the World Cup.

Follow USA TODAY sports columnist Nancy Armour on social media @nrarmour.

The new Bearista Cup is coming soon to Starbucks. see new design

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The new Bearista Cup is coming soon to Starbucks. see new design

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Starbucks’ Bearista Cup is back with a twist.

The Seattle-based coffeehouse chain is releasing a new Bearista Cup featuring a soccer-themed cap, more than six months after the OG version debuted and broke the internet in the process.

Starbucks said the sports-themed design of the Bearista Cup was inspired by the World Cup, a “global game” that begins on June 11, the same day the cup goes on sale.

The new Bearista Cup will be sold at participating coffeehouses in Canada, Latin America and Asia Pacific, but as it is an online-only product, customers in the U.S. will not have the same benefits.

Is “Bearista” cup back in stock at Starbucks? Disappointed fans say it should.

“The new drinkware taps into the excitement of the moment and celebrates fans around the world,” reads a Starbucks press release.

Here’s everything we know about Starbucks’ new Bearista Cup, including how to get it.

How to get Starbucks’ new Bearista Cup

Starting June 11th, Starbucks Rewards Reserve Tier members can purchase the new Bearista Cup at Starbucks Shops while supplies last.

In addition to the new Bearista Cup, Starbucks drinks of all sizes, including brewed coffee and brewed tea, will receive a “free U.S.-only cup sleeve.” Participating Starbucks U.S. coffeehouses will distribute the sleeves on June 11th.

Starbucks says the red, white and blue sleeves are “inspired by the captain’s armband,” celebrating the unifying power of global fans and the game.

A new poll says this fried chicken chain is the best. See ranking

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A new poll says this fried chicken chain is the best. See ranking

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What do Chick-fil-A, KFC, Popeye’s, and Raising Cane’s all have in common? Chicken, chicken, and more chicken. But the real question is, which are the top chicken chains?

A YouGov poll released this month ranked Georgia’s Chick-fil-A as the most popular fried chicken fast-food chain in the United States. The restaurant, known for its Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches and helpful employees, ranks higher than other restaurants such as KFC, Popeye’s and Raising Cane’s, according to a YouGov poll.

Chick-fil-A took first place, with 25.3% of respondents ranking it as their favorite place to eat fried chicken. KFC was second with 17.9%, Popeyes was third with 16.2%, and Raising Cane’s was fourth with 6.8%.

The poll conducted by YouGov received over 44,000 responses between March 2025 and February 2026.

Five Guys, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell top other categories

Chick-fil-A has established itself as the best fast food restaurant for fried chicken, while Five Guys, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell have outperformed their competitors in the burger, pizza, and taco categories.

Among burger restaurants, Five Guys took first place with 15.5% of the votes, followed by Burger King in a close second with 15% of the total votes. California staple In-N-Out was a close second with 12.1%, followed by Wendy’s in fourth place with 10.2%.

McDonald’s received 8.7% of the vote.

Pizza Hut ranked first in this category with 19.1%. This was followed by Domino’s Pizza (17.1%), Papa John’s (11.4%), Little Caesars (5.3%), and Marco’s Pizza (4.7%). When it comes to tacos and burritos, Taco Bell comfortably leads the category with 30.3% of the votes, followed by Chipotle in second place with 20.6%.

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_.

Complete list of historic World Cup countries, past winners and prize money

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Complete list of historic World Cup countries, past winners and prize money

Every four years, people around the world prepare for the biggest sporting event on earth: the FIFA World Cup.

For the first time ever, Canada, Mexico and the United States will co-host the 23rd edition of the tournament, which will feature teams from 48 countries spread across 16 cities from June 11 to July 19.

With over 1.5 billion people tuning in to the 2022 final, the World Cup is not only one of the most-watched sports tournaments, but also one of the most-watched events of all time. Even in non-participating countries such as China and India, millions tuned in to watch Argentina narrowly defeat France four years ago.

The number of countries participating in the 2026 World Cup is the highest ever

A record 48 countries have qualified for this year’s tournament, which will feature 104 matches, 40 more than in 2022.

Four countries will be participating in the tournament for the first time: Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan and Uzbekistan. Curaçao is making history as the smallest country to ever participate, in terms of land area and population indicators. The country has a population of just over 150,000 people and a land area of ​​171 square miles.

Which countries have participated in the past?

Since the tournament began in 1930, nearly 90 countries from every continent (excluding Antarctica) have participated. The tournament was only interrupted once in the 1940s, due to two consecutive cancellations during World War II.

Even as borders have changed and nations disintegrated over the past century, the World Cup has endured.

Bar graph race visualization

The only country participating in all tournaments is Brazil. Germany comes in a close second, having only missed two tournaments since its inception.

Both countries participated despite the split, but East Germany only appeared in 1974 when West Germany hosted the tournament. West Germany were one of the most dominant teams in early World Cup history, reaching 100 World Cup goals in just eight tournaments, fewer than any other team.

The first tournament, held in 1930 and won by Uruguay, attracted 13 countries from two continents: Europe and America. The first African country to participate in the competition was Egypt in 1934. Asia entered the scene in 1938 with the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia), but no matches have been played since. In 1974, Australia finally made its debut.

Who won the tournament?

Brazil has won the most tournaments with five, followed by Germany and Italy with four. Germany won three titles in 1954, 1974 and 1990 as West Germany, and one title in 2014 as unified Germany.

chart visualization

Although Uruguay has officially won the World Cup twice, FIFA recognizes the two Olympic soccer championships in 1924 and 1928 as equivalent to championships, which is why the team’s coat of arms features four stars.

How has the prize money changed?

This year’s winning team will receive $50 million in prize money from FIFA out of a total prize pool of $727 million. The amount increases based on championship standings, but each team participating is guaranteed to take home at least $10.5 million.

FIFA first publicly awarded prize money to World Cup champions in 1982. The winner took home $2.2 million, or approximately $8 million in 2026 dollars.

In addition to receiving funding from FIFA, countries have also rewarded teams for performing well in tournaments. Some notable rewards include:

5 Affordable Car Brands You Can Buy Now for Under $40,000

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5 Affordable Car Brands You Can Buy Now for Under ,000

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  • The average price of a new car in the U.S. was nearly $50,000 in April 2026.
  • The price hike is driven by demand for larger vehicles and lack of supply in certain segments.
  • Only five major auto brands had average transaction prices below $40,000 in May.

Only five major auto brands had average selling prices below $40,000 in the U.S. in May 2026, as car buyers feel the pinch as the average new car price remains near $50,000.

Consumers paid an average of $49,220 for a new car in April 2026, according to Cox Automotive’s Kelley Blue Book. According to the group, the average price of a new car in April was 0.5% lower than the average price of $49,456 in April 2026 and up 1.2% compared to the average price of $48,627 in May 2025.

Cox also said the average manufacturer’s suggested retail price (also known as sticker price) for automakers is $51,595, which the group said is 3.4% higher than the average sticker price in May 2025.

Erin Keating, an executive analyst at Cox Automotive, said in a statement that Americans’ demand for larger vehicles, combined with tight supply in some key segments such as pickup trucks, is contributing to the high average new vehicle price.

“Converging product cycles and supply dynamics are driving average transaction prices up 2% to 4% year over year across major automotive segments,” he said. “Redesigned SUVs from Toyota, Kia, Jeep and Hyundai have been commanding higher prices since the beginning, but production constraints on Ford’s F-Series have tightened truck inventories and increased average transaction prices. New Ram pickups are stepping in to capture upscale buyers.”

With this in mind, the USA TODAY Cars team looked at five car brands and their best-selling models with an average selling price of less than $40,000 in May.

1. Subaru

Average transaction price in May: $36,862

Rate of change from April: -0.1%

best selling car in usa: Subaru Crosstrek

2. Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance

Average transaction price in May: $37,236

Rate of change from April: -0.3%

best selling car in usa: Nissan Rogue

3.Mazda

Average transaction price in May: $37,444

Rate of change from April:2.0%

best selling car in usa:Mazda CX-5

4.Honda

Average transaction price in May: $38,816

Rate of change from April: -0.2%

best selling car in usa:Honda CR-V

5. Hyundai

Average transaction price in May: $39,228

Rate of change from April:0.8%

best selling car in usa:Hyundai Tucson

North Carolina graduation ceremony faces anti-Semitic ‘dog whistle’ controversy

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North Carolina graduation ceremony faces anti-Semitic ‘dog whistle’ controversy

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At a ceremony in North Carolina over the weekend, a high school valedictorian gave a speech that some people perceived as an anti-Semitic reference, sparking backlash from the valedictorian and later prompting another student to take the microphone to speak.

At Hoggard High School’s graduation ceremony held in Wilmington on June 6, valedictorian Kyler William Hosek concluded his speech with these words: “As one of my greatest inspirations once said, ‘Every human being has something of value to offer.'”

Hosek did not reveal who his “biggest inspiration” is. But fellow alumnus Sarah Haley Rudeshir believed the quote was a reference to anti-Semitic comments made by Ye, the rapper known as Kanye West, several years ago, and took to the microphone to let the audience know, the Wilmington Star-News, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported.

Before she could finish her sentence, the microphone was cut off.

The incident is the latest example of controversy surrounding graduation ceremonies as high school and college graduation season continues across the country. At another high school’s graduation ceremony in North Carolina, the valedictorian was stopped during his speech after he deviated from his script by making comments related to Palestine and America’s immigration crackdown. Ceremonies in Arizona, Tennessee and Florida were interrupted after audience members booed at the mention of artificial intelligence.

In Hoggard High School’s case, Hosek’s speech was reviewed and approved before graduation, the district said. New Hanover County Schools Superintendent Christopher R. Burns said the district had no problem pre-approving the speech, but regrets that it was received negatively.

Here’s what happened:

Student says speech referenced anti-Semitic quote

About an hour after Josek’s speech, Rudeshir grabbed the microphone and spoke to the crowd as diplomas were being presented, but before the microphone was cut off, the Star News reported.

“Valedictorian Kyler William Hosek quoted Kanye West’s 2022 interview from InfoWars,” Rudeshir said. “What Kyler forgot was to finish the estimate.”

Ludeshir’s microphone was then cut off before he could continue.

The quote Rudeshir is believed to be referring to comes from a 2022 interview with Yeh by Alex Jones on the now-defunct website InfoWars.

The words spoken at the graduation ceremony are similar to those spoken by West in a controversial interview in which he specifically mentioned Hitler by name and continued to make anti-Semitic statements.

The controversy surrounding Hosek’s speech has attracted national attention.

more: Here’s why people are booing college commencement speakers this year

Rudeshir said in an interview with Star News that Hoggard alumni began responding to Hosek’s speech via text message immediately after he finished speaking.

Rudeshir said that after Hosek’s speech, he received a text from a friend saying, “That was crazy.”

Rudeshir said a friend who is Jewish has been subjected to anti-Semitic comments in Hoggard’s halls. “She’s heard (that word) before. She’s had it yelled at her before.”

Rudeshir said the students began exchanging messages, summarizing some of the messages and saying, “This is insane. That he stood there as valedictorian and said those words.”

Rudeshir said she decided to take action while waiting in line to receive her diploma.

“If no one said anything, I would have just kept quiet,” she says.

The graduates were supposed to hand the announcer a card with their name written on it for the announcer to read, but they “just grabbed the microphone” and continued speaking until the microphone went off.

Rudeshir said Hoggard Principal Christopher Madden instructed her to leave the stage without receiving her diploma. Rudeshir said he received his diploma when he went to the school on June 8, and said he hoped the valedictorian would “take responsibility for what he said.”

Community wants clarification on speech

Star News attempted to contact Hosek and his parents multiple times, but they did not respond.

According to local broadcaster WWAY, Hosek’s family issued a statement to the news agency calling Hosek’s speech “a positive outlook for the future of AI, emphasizing that we all have increasing opportunities to make great achievements in society in the future, that we all have something to offer and contribute, and that we all have value.”

Neither Josek’s speech nor his family’s statement mentioned the person he called his “biggest inspiration.”

Asked about Hosek’s speech, New Hanover County School Board member Tim Merrick said, “I don’t want to think he was blowing a dog whistle, but I want to be clear.”

Merrick added, “I respect (Rudosheel’s) positive comments about what he thought was wrong.”

Barnes, the district superintendent, said in a statement that the district rejects “messages of hate, discrimination, anti-Semitism, and other harmful ideologies.”

“We regret the concern and confusion this situation has caused,” Burns said. “As part of the process we have established, this speech underwent the district’s standard review procedures, which include a review of the speech in its entirety. Although the district did not identify any connections during the review process, we understand that some members of our community received this language in a different light.”

Burns added, “Our goal is for graduation ceremonies to remain focused on celebrating students, honoring their accomplishments, and uniting the community.”

John Staton is Star News’ arts and culture reporter. Please contact us at jstaton@usatodayco.com.

Cash App has released a tap-to-pay magic wand. How does it work?

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Cash App has released a tap-to-pay magic wand. How does it work?

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Bibbidi bobbidi boo! Cash App is having a bit of a quirky summer.

On June 4, Cash App launched the Cash App Wand, a plastic magic wand that, when linked to your Cash App account, can be used for tap-to-pay like a debit or credit card. The pearlescent wand has a green gemstone and a keychain clip.

“We believe there is a unique opportunity here to make payments visible and social for the first time,” Thomas Templeton, head of Block Hardware, said in a Cash App news release. “Early testers said they loved carrying the cane around and showing it off at checkout, so we believe there’s a strong desire for this among customers.”

Cash App Wand is the first of many tap-to-pay methods the peer-to-peer payment system will launch this year.

money: These brands have abandoned Pride Month. It can harm them.

How does the Cash App wand work?

The Cash App Wand has a Cash App tag. The wand utilizes Near Field Communication (NFC), a short-range wireless technology, that allows you to make payments securely, just like tap-to-pay debit and credit cards.

Is the Cash App wand safe?

Although the Cash App Wand is marketed as a wearable accessory, users should keep in mind that at the end of the day, it functions like a tap-to-pay debit or credit card.

According to a Cash App news release, the wand features real-time transaction alerts, 24/7 fraud monitoring, and the ability to lock and unlock the device within the Cash App mobile app. Users can disable the wand in the app at any time.

Who can purchase the Cash App Wand?

The Cash App Wand is available only to Cash App cardholders. Adults interested in opening a Cash App Card can order one through the mobile app. The Cash App Card is linked directly to your Cash App balance.

Where can I purchase the Cash App Wand?

The Cash App Wand can be purchased on the Cash App mobile app.

How much does the Cash App Wand cost?

According to a Cash App news release, the Cash App Wand costs $25 plus tax.

Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

See photos of the chicken coop the Vances installed at the Vice President’s residence in D.C.

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See photos of the chicken coop the Vances installed at the Vice President’s residence in D.C.

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The White House isn’t the only official residence with new animals added.

Months after the first family unveiled a beehive shaped like a miniature presidential mansion, the second family installed a chicken coop at the Naval Observatory, the official home of the vice president.

The custom-made in America structure was designed to match the architectural elements of a Victorian mansion, according to Vice President J.D. Vance’s office. The cabins were built at no additional cost to taxpayers, according to people familiar with the project.

The vice president has joked in the past about children’s egg consumption. On the 2024 campaign trail, Vance said his two young sons “eat about 14 eggs every morning,” talking about the soaring egg prices he blamed on then-Vice President Kamala Harris.

Exclusive interview: JD Vance talks blind ambition, Catholicism, and President Trump’s faith

Carolina Coops, a small, family-owned business, designed the co-op as the Vice President’s residence. According to the company’s website, founders Matt and Gounon Dubois started the company in 2008 as a personal quest for fresh eggs, but “quickly turned into a passion for building sheds that were as functional as they were beautiful.”

Here’s what you need to know about the Naval Observatory’s new chicken coop.

“True American Dream Moment”

Matt Dubois called the design of the chicken coop for the Naval Observatory project “one of the most memorable milestones of his career.”

“As a small business owner, this is a true ‘American Dream’ moment for me and my family,” he said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and am excited to continue sharing the benefits and joy of raising chickens with people across the country, and how having a chicken coop can benefit families and teach children valuable life lessons.”

Matt Dubois added that “this project is more than just a chicken coop” and “reflects the dedication of our entire team and the values ​​that have guided us from the beginning.”

The Naval Observatory’s new facility debuted at the annual “Camp VPR” event. Local 4-H students worked with the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to teach participating children about co-ops.

The 19th-century white house in Number One Observatory Circle on the grounds of the United States Naval Observatory (USNO) was originally built in 1893 to house the USNO observer. In the past, vice presidents lived at home due to the high cost of securing a private residence, but in 1974 Congress agreed to allow vice presidents to use the Naval Observatory House as their home.

Over the years, several vice presidents have left their mark here. Joe Biden added heritage gardens. Mike Pence’s wife Karen Pence added a beehive. And Kamala Harris updated her mansion’s library with pink wallpaper.

How many chickens does JD Vance have in his coop?

Vance has about 12 chicks in his coop, according to a person familiar with the new additions.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at sshafiq@usatodayco.com and follow X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.

President Trump says US will attack Iran amid stalled negotiations: Live update

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President Trump says US will attack Iran amid stalled negotiations: Live update

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WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said the United States will launch a new attack against Iran on Wednesday, June 10, after warning that Middle Eastern countries “will have to pay a price” for stalled peace deal negotiations.

Trump’s escalation of the war comes after the US military launched an attack on Iran the day before in retaliation for Iran’s downing of a US Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.

“They took too long to negotiate a deal that would have been great for them. Now they’re going to have to pay the price!!!” President Trump said in a June 10 Truth Social post, which signaled a shift in rhetoric after previously downplaying the slow pace of peace deal negotiations.

“We’re going to attack them, and we’re going to attack them very, very hard,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office later, when asked what he meant by the threat.

“We hit them hard yesterday, and we’re going to hit them hard today,” Trump said. “And look what happens with this deal. We were really close to a deal and they keep taking us. They keep making fun of us.”

President Trump dismissed concerns about a sharp rise in consumer prices as gasoline prices remain high as a result of the U.S. war with Iran, telling reporters he welcomes the fact that gasoline prices remain high.

President Trump made the remark on Wednesday when asked if he was concerned about the Labor Department’s latest consumer price index, which showed prices up 4.2% in May from a year ago — a statement that is sure to win support from Democrats. It was the first time since 2023 that the inflation rate exceeded 4%, and the growth rate was the largest in three years.

“No, I love it. The numbers were great. You know what I really love? I love inflation. You know why?” Trump said. “Because as soon as this war is over, you can say now what you didn’t know.”

The president also revealed that the United States was secretly extracting “millions of barrels of oil” through the Strait of Hormuz, an effort he said was helping to prevent oil prices from skyrocketing during the war that started with the U.S. attack in late February.

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President Donald Trump tells reporters he loves inflation

Asked if he was concerned about the latest inflation numbers, President Donald Trump told reporters he loves inflation.

As the Iran war drags on and peace talks remain stalled, Mr. Trump and the Republican Party risk making the conflict’s soaring gasoline prices a focus of November’s midterm elections. Republicans face an uphill battle to maintain their slim majority in the House, and Democrats are increasingly confident they have a path to control the Senate.

Asked if he expected inflation to fall by November, President Trump said, “Once the war is over, inflation will start to fall.” “It will fall like a rock.”

– Joey Garrison

President Trump said the U.S. military was conducting a “secret mission” to help oil tankers transit the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in 100 million barrels of oil reaching the market as the conflict with Iran over the waterway sparks new hostilities.

“Last month, I directed our great American military to carry out a top-secret mission to assist oil tankers and other commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump said in a social media post Wednesday. “Today, I am pleased to announce that as a result of this effort, more than 100 million barrels of oil have been transported through the Straits to the open market.”

President Trump downplayed concerns about inflation at an Oval Office event Wednesday, saying the military mission is helping prevent oil prices from rising further. Iran’s stranglehold on the strait, which carried about 20% of the world’s oil supplies before the war, has disrupted the global economy and frustrated President Trump as he seeks to secure a deal to end the conflict.

In a social media post, President Trump said 200 commercial ships had “safely passed through the strait” and that “the United States controls the Strait of Hormuz.” But American forces have clashed with Iran over the strait in recent days, and Reuters reported late last month that shipping remains restricted and remains well below pre-war levels.

– Zack Anderson

U.S. Central Command said in a statement that the U.S. military has disabled an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, accusing it of violating the current U.S. blockade by attempting to transport oil from Iran.

Late on Tuesday, June 9, U.S. forces fired ammunition into the oil tanker’s engine compartment after the crew “repeatedly failed to follow instructions,” the statement said.

The incident marks the eighth time the U.S. military has disabled a ship since a blockade of Iranian ports and ships went into effect in April. Centcom said more than 130 ships had been ordered to turn back.

– Christopher Kang

President Trump has insisted for weeks that Iran wants a deal with the United States, even as the country presses forward with demands against the disposal of highly enriched uranium and abandonment of its nuclear weapons program. Iran said waiving enrichment rights was non-negotiable.

President Trump has previously spoken of his intention to “wait out” Iran in long-term negotiations. President Trump said on May 27 that he mistakenly assumed that Iran would backtrack on its demands during negotiations to avoid a prolonged standoff leading up to the 2026 midterm elections. “‘We’re going to outsmart him. He’s got the midterms in his hands,'” Trump said. “I don’t care about the midterms.”

As the U.S. war with Iran drags on, Trump and the Republican Party risk making the conflict’s soaring gasoline prices a focus of November’s midterm elections. Republicans face an uphill battle to maintain their slim majority in the House, and Democrats are increasingly confident they have a path to control the Senate.

President Trump has frequently said that the U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has cut Iran off from vital trade, has proven more effective than bombing Iran.

Most recently, on Tuesday, June 9, President Trump expressed hesitation in resuming military action against Iran. “If we bomb, a lot of people will be killed. Who would want to do that? I don’t want to do that,” Trump told reporters, adding that the deal signed with Iran would be “actually more powerful than the bombing.”

U.S. Central Command, which oversees operations in the region, announced that U.S. forces launched their latest attack on Iran at around 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday. Military officials described the attack as a “self-defense” attack in “response” to the attack on the helicopter. President Trump said the two pilots on board were unharmed and safe.

Iranian state media reported that the US attacked two areas near Hormuz: Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Qeshm.

“This operation was a proportionate response to recent attacks on U.S. military and international commercial vessels transiting nearby waters,” military officials said.

Barron Trump-backed energy drink company debuts. $39 for 12 pack

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Barron Trump-backed energy drink company debuts. $39 for 12 pack

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The Barron Trump-backed beverage company has officially launched its first product.

According to the company’s website, Soros is a beverage brand “built around the Florida lifestyle” started by a group of “close friends between the ages of 19 and 23 who lived and grew up in South Florida.” Barron Trump, President Donald Trump’s youngest son, is listed as a founding partner and director of the company.

The company has launched one flavor, Pineapple + Coconut, which it calls “Perfect” and is now available for purchase on the company’s website and at select retailers across South Florida. Priced at $39 for a 12-pack, the drink includes Brazilian yerba mate, organic pineapple and coconut flavors, and is sweetened with organic sucrose, organic raw honey and organic monk fruit extract, according to a listing on Soros’ website.

The company says each can contains 120mg of natural caffeine and 50 calories.

“SOLLOS is designed around the cycles of the sun, making it a versatile drink that can be enjoyed all day long,” the company’s website says. “From a crisp, crisp start to your morning, to your afternoon pick-me-up, to your clean mixer at night, SOLLOS is built to move with your day.”

The company says its story began with Cabana with the simple goal of “creating drinks that actually complement life in the Sunshine State.”

It’s unclear at this time if or when the company will release new flavors.

Who is Barron Trump?

Barron Trump is President Donald Trump’s fifth and youngest child and his only child with First Lady Melania Trump.

He was born in 2006 and is currently a student at New York University.

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

President Trump says fuel prices are ‘not that high’ as ​​Iran war limits supplies

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President Trump says fuel prices are ‘not that high’ as ​​Iran war limits supplies

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President Donald Trump said fuel prices are “not that high in relative terms,” ​​even though the ongoing Iran war has driven up gasoline prices and some Americans are growing frustrated with the Trump administration’s handling of the conflict.

The president’s comments to reporters earlier this week came after a new Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 60% of Americans do not support a U.S. military strike against Iran, and a majority expect gasoline prices to continue rising.

The average price of a gallon of regular gasoline as of June 10 was $4.15, down from $4.26 the previous week and down from $4.52 a month ago, according to AAA. This time last year it was $3.12.

The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has restricted global oil supplies. The price of regular gasoline has increased by nearly 40% since the conflict began. Gasoline prices rose 7% in May, following a 5.4% rise in April and 21.2% in March, according to data released by the Labor Department on June 10.

“The numbers were great,” President Trump told reporters, reacting to the Consumer Price Index report showing annual inflation rose to 4.2% in May. “I love inflation. Do you know why?”

Additionally, President Trump said the United States is “extracting millions of barrels of oil” from Iran, adding that these efforts are aimed at helping bring down fuel prices.

more: May inflation report shows prices rose sharply again

The president told reporters last month that Americans’ economic problems were “peanuts” compared to the possibility of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. He asked Americans for patience and said the price hikes would not last “for very long.”

But many Americans don’t believe prices will come down anytime soon.. Of the 4,531 Americans surveyed in the Reuters/Ipsos poll, 59% said they thought gas prices would worsen next year as a result of the war, including 83% of Democrats, 61% of independents, and 34% of Republicans.

And rising gas prices have soured Americans’ sentiment about the economy in 2026. The University of Michigan’s index of consumer sentiment fell in May to its lowest level since the survey began recording more than 70 years ago. Joan Hsu, director of consumer research, said the majority of those surveyed (57%) said high prices were “eroding their personal finances.”

Fuel prices have been falling since early last month on hopes for a easing of tensions in the Middle East and reports that some tankers were successfully evacuated from the Gulf.

“There’s a lot of oil coming out of the Strait of Hormuz,” President Trump told reporters after watching Game 3 of the NBA Finals. “There are a lot of nuclear weapons coming out, and before you know it, the price is not that high, relatively speaking. I mean, it’s lower than it was during the Biden administration, and the Biden administration hasn’t stopped countries from getting nuclear weapons.”

In April, more than a month after the war began, the price of oil reached $117.60 per barrel. As of the afternoon of June 10th, it was trading at $90.30. This is still relatively high, but not as high as in March 2022, when prices rose to a record high of $130.50 per barrel following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which, like the Iran war, limited global oil supplies.

Contact Rachel Barber rbarber@usatoday.comFollow her on X @rachelbarber_and subscribe to her newsletter Making More of Your Money here.

Reversing gay and transgender pride could be damaging to brands. Here’s how:

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Reversing gay and transgender pride could be damaging to brands. Here’s how:

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Levi Strauss & Co.’s Pride collection celebrates queer biker clubs as “guardians of the community who have become symbols of strength, safety, and solidarity.” Non-binary artist Alva Skog created a rainbow clothing and gear collection for REI, including camping chairs.

Apple offers Pride-themed sports loop watch bands and Pride wallpapers for iPhone and iPad. Abercrombie & Fitch’s “Made with Pride” lineup comes with a $400,000 donation to youth crisis intervention organization The Trevor Project.

But this year’s Pride Month still has far fewer rainbows and fewer corporate sponsors.

Pride Month has been marked by corporate defections since gay and transgender rights emerged as a flashpoint in the culture wars and the Trump administration cracked down on efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion.

As support for same-sex marriage and other LGBTQ+ issues wanes, major brands have cut budgets and weakened support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people in the country to avoid the “wake up, go bankrupt” backlash that roiled Bud Light, Harley-Davidson and Target.

But that approach can also have consequences.

About 77% of LGBTQ+ shoppers and 86% of LGBTQ+ Generation Z respondents said they would pay more for brands that meaningfully support gay and transgender people and issues, according to new data provided exclusively to USA TODAY by Harris Poll. Two-thirds said they would have paid more.

Nearly three-quarters of respondents say they’re more likely to stick with a brand that supports a cause or community they care about, even if they’re on a tight budget.

When a brand pulls back, it’s a red flag for LGBTQ+ shoppers, with a survey of nearly 5,000 U.S. adults, including more than 1,000 LGBTQ+ consumers, finding that 42% of them said they had less trust in the brand and 38% were looking for another brand.

A more subdued approach to Pride may lessen public backlash, but it also risks alienating customers who expect companies to hold fast to their values, Tim Osiecki, director of thought leadership and trends at the Harris Poll, told USA TODAY.

“LGBTQ+ consumers say they notice when brands are pulling back, they know when they feel support is effective, and they often shop differently when support is removed,” he said.

Non-LGBTQ+ shoppers surveyed felt less strongly, but four in 10 said they would pay more for brands that meaningfully support LGBTQ+ people and issues, and just over a quarter said they had done so in the past year. More than half said they would stick with brands that support a cause or community they care about, even if they were on a budget.

Additionally, 80% said they are more likely to support a brand that stands up for their values ​​in the face of public criticism, and 77% said they feel more positive about a brand that supports the community to which their loved one belongs.

“LGBTQ+ inclusion is not as niche as some brands make it out to be. More than half of Americans say they identify as LGBTQ+ or personally know someone who is LGBTQ+. This is a great reminder for brands that it’s not just about speaking to one individual audience,” Osiecki said. “For brands, LGBTQ+ support reaches out to friends, family, co-workers, and even parents. If brands are holding back because they think LGBTQ+ support only matters to a small group, they may be seriously misunderstanding how personally connected many Americans are to this community.”

Pride Month, held each June, celebrates the rise of the modern gay and transgender movement after the 1969 police raid on New York’s Stonewall Inn.

In recent decades, corporations have emerged as important allies in the fight for gay rights, promoting LGBTQ+ equality with inclusive policies internally, publicly supporting same-sex marriage, and opposing transgender bathroom laws.

Pride Month has become a trigger for “Rainbow Capitalism.” It’s a great opportunity for companies to win LGBTQ+ wallets with flashy promotions that show support for LGBTQ+ people.

These shoppers represent a huge customer base, with annual purchasing power of $1.4 trillion, according to a 2023 Merrill Lynch analysis.

At the same time, its customer base is also expanding. Gallup estimates that nearly 1 in 10 U.S. adults identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or something other than straight, which is higher than the 7% measured in 2021-2023 and more than double the rate in 2012.

The number is increasing most rapidly among young people. Nearly a quarter of adults under 30 identify as LGBTQ+, according to a Gallup poll.

Bob Wytek, president of LGBTQ+ marketing firm Wytek Communications, says these younger LGBTQ+ consumers especially expect and want trust.

“What we know is that consumer trust is one of the most accurate measures of a brand’s reputation, and that it is hard-won and all too easily squandered,” Witek said.

Donald Trump says his wish for his 80th birthday is ‘world peace’

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Donald Trump says his wish for his 80th birthday is ‘world peace’

President Donald Trump celebrated his birthday in a big way on Sunday, June 14, and revealed what he wants as a present.

President Trump answered questions from reporters while signing the National Security Act in the Oval Office on June 10. President Trump was asked what his birthday wish was, besides peace in the Middle East.

He thought for a moment and then answered, “Peace to the world!” President Trump also said that his New Year’s resolution for 2026 is “world peace.”

Earlier this year, the US military captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a surprise attack in January. A few months later, the United States and Israel bombed Iran in an ongoing conflict. He began his remarks by pledging to continue a “very tough offensive” in response to Iran’s downing of a U.S. Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump continues to insist that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.

more: President Trump says US will launch new attack on Iran to prolong negotiations

UFC Fight Night is scheduled at the White House on President Trump’s birthday

President Trump will turn 80 on June 14th. On his birthday this year, an Ultimate Fighting Championship event will be held on the South Lawn of the White House.

The arena has been raised in recent weeks to be taller than the roof of the White House, and President Trump said it could hold about 5,000 spectators.

President Trump said the night’s fight would be “the biggest event ever held at the White House.” It was planned as part of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the country.

Last year, on President Trump’s birthday, which also happens to be Flag Day, he attended a military parade and celebration to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Army. His administration claimed it was a coincidence.

Contributor: Joey Garrison, USA TODAY

Kinsey Crowley is a Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact KCrowley@usatodayco.com. follow her X (Twitter), thread, blue sky and TikTok.

Donald Trump hits back at Stephen A. Smith, calling him an ‘arrogant idiot’

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Donald Trump hits back at Stephen A. Smith, calling him an ‘arrogant idiot’

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The feud between US President Donald Trump and ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith continued on Wednesday, June 10, with both men publicly insulting each other since Trump’s NBA Finals appearance.

President Trump doubled down on criticism of Smith’s rumored political aspirations in an early morning post on his site Truth Social. The president declared Smith an “arrogant idiot” and “stupid as a rock, and even more so, completely unfit to even consider running for high political office!”

Mr. Trump and Mr. Smith initially sparred over Mr. Trump’s appearance at Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday. Smith first criticized Trump ahead of Game 3, saying he would blame Trump for the Knicks’ loss because of how the president’s decision to attend the game would disrupt the environment.

NBA Finals: What history says about the 2-1 NBA Finals lead

“This is a story about an individual who has a really disturbing level of narcissism,” Smith said. “He has no business here tonight. It has nothing to do with politics. It has everything to do with the enthusiasm that exists around the New York Knicks, and he’s disrupting everything that the Knicks are excited about.”

When asked about Smith’s comments by reporters after Game 3, when the Knicks lost to the Spurs, Trump first addressed Smith’s comments.

“I think he’s a good guy, but you have to have certain qualifications to run for president,” Trump said. “You need a high IQ. I don’t know if Stephen has it. I don’t think he really has it.”

Smith fired back Tuesday on ESPN’s “First Take” and podcast, challenging Trump to a one-on-one debate over the president’s “IQ” comment. With patriotic music in the background, Smith told viewers, “Obviously I blame him” for the Knicks’ Game 3 loss.

He also criticized President Trump for the traffic jams around Madison Square Garden, the cancellation of a Knicks game party outside the arena for fans who couldn’t afford tickets to the Finals, and the loss of business in surrounding areas due to security regulations surrounding the president’s visit. Smith also criticized some photos of Trump taken during the game in which he appeared to be falling asleep.

“If it was so important to you to be there, why did you appear to be asleep?” Smith said. “Didn’t you call former President Joe Biden ‘Sleepy Joe’? Well, what should we call him? Because he wasn’t awake.”

“I called them narcissistic and selfish to see them in this position and disrupt the momentum they’ve built,” Smith later added on the podcast. “Why would I do that? Because it’s Donald Trump, that’s why. Because it’s factually correct, that’s why. Because he had no business in the game.”

Smith’s podcast has served as a platform for his political commentary in recent years, separate from ESPN. Although Mr. Smith has been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate, he has not so far run for any political office. President Trump may have taken aim with his latest response Wednesday morning.

“He will be annihilated in a debate between the most incompetent politicians,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Joe Biden’s now ‘legendary’ performance will look great compared to what this loud-mouthed charlatan is delivering, but that’s not a big deal! In a few weeks they’ll be laughing at him and banning him from politics!!!”

ESPN’s “First Take” was scheduled to begin just hours later. Smith certainly has something to say.

Gold fell 4.47% on June 10, 2026

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Gold fell 4.47% on June 10, 2026

How much is gold per ounce today?

As of 12:05 PM ET on June 10, 2026, the spot price of gold is: $4,126.42 per oz., according to the latest market data. This is a decline of 4.47% and $193.11 from the previous closing price of $4,319.53.

One year ago, gold was trading at $3,321.45 per ounce, which represents a 24.24% increase in price over the past 12 months.

Key levels to look out for this week:

52 week low: $3,267.56

52 week high: $5,477.79

Gold is trading 24.67% below its 52-week high. It is 26.28% above its 52-week low.

What is the historical price of gold?

today 1 week ago 1 month ago 1 year ago
$4,126.42 $4,475.63 $4,681.74 $3,321.45

A week ago, gold was trading at $4,475.63 per ounce. Since then, the price has fallen by 7.80%.

A month ago, gold was trading at $4,681.74 per ounce. Since then, the price has fallen by 11.86%.

USA TODAY is an independent publisher and not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or trading advice. We recommend that you seek independent advice from a qualified professional regarding any specific financial decisions you may make. Trading commodities, futures, and options involves significant risk of loss. Individual investment results may vary. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Prices can change rapidly and unpredictably due to factors such as supply/demand, weather, and geopolitical events. Our company assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information.

What is driving the price of gold today?

The price of gold is driven by inflation expectations, central bank policies, global economic conditions, and investor demand. The strength of currencies, especially the US dollar, can influence daily prices, as well as physical and industrial demand. For more on the market, read the latest investment news on USA TODAY Money.

What is XAU/USD?

XAU/USD is the ticker symbol used to track the spot price of gold in US dollars.

XAU stands for 1 troy ounce of gold and USD stands for US dollar. The estimated price tells you how many dollars it costs to purchase one ounce.

Prices are usually quoted per troy ounce, which is slightly heavier than a standard ounce.

Spot prices reflect real-time market transactions and serve as a benchmark for futures contracts, ETFs, and retail bullion prices.

how to invest in gold

Investing in gold can be done by buying physical coins and bars, buying ETFs that track the price of gold, or investing in mining stocks. Be sure to weigh costs, storage needs, and risk tolerance before making a decision. The retail price of a coin or bar typically includes a premium over the spot price.

Disclaimer: This USA TODAY Money article was automatically generated using live market data from Alpha Vantage. If you think we made a mistake or have feedback, please use this form.

Carmelo Anthony case updates after guilty verdict and sentencing

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Carmelo Anthony case updates after guilty verdict and sentencing

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A Texas jury on June 9 found a teenager guilty of killing a classmate and a competitor at a high school track meet last year, marking the end of a trial that drew national attention and shocked the city of Frisco.

Carmelo Anthony, 19, was found guilty of murder in the April 2025 stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalfe. A Collin County jury later sentenced him to 35 years in prison.

Prosecutors argued that Anthony had threatened Metcalfe before the stabbing, but the defense argued that Anthony acted in self-defense. Both men were 17 years old at the time of the incident.

The incident raised questions about school safety and fueled racial tensions in the community. Supporters for the defense and prosecution gathered outside the courtroom daily, and fundraisers on both sides raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations.

The highly emotional trial included graphic footage of the incident, including footage of Anthony’s mother pleading with the jury for mercy. At the sentencing, Metcalf’s mother spoke directly to Anthony, saying: “You may have just been sentenced to 35 years in prison, but you should count yourself lucky because I was sentenced to a life without my son.”

Here’s what you need to know about the case and the controversial trial.

What happened in Carmelo Anthony’s trial?

The trial, which began with jury selection on June 1, included emotional testimony from witnesses and video recordings of the chaos at Frisco’s Kuykendall Stadium. The judge in the case prohibited cameras, live streaming, and audio recording in the courtroom.

Prosecutors argued the stabbing was an unprovoked attack that stemmed from a disagreement over Anthony’s presence under the team tent at Memorial High School during a rainy track meet, the Associated Press reported. The defense argued that after physical contact, Anthony believed she was being threatened and acted to protect herself.

Prosecutors called 21 witnesses before adjourning the case on June 6, according to Fox 4 News.

Why did he do that? The motive for Austin Metcalf’s stabbing was at the center of murder trial

Witnesses recalled statements made by Anthony shortly after the stabbing that prosecutors noted as an admission of guilt.

School resource officer Eduardo Cortez testified that when he reported that he was being handcuffed by the “alleged suspect,” Anthony responded, “I’m not the suspect, I did it.”

NBC DFW reported that prosecutor Bill Wilsky told jurors that Anthony began a confrontation with Austin inside the tent, admitted to stabbing him moments later, and told a bystander that Austin had touched him first “as if to justify the murder he had just committed.”

According to NBC DFW, Anthony’s attorney Mike Howard painted Austin and his twin brother as aggressors. Howard said Anthony warned him not to touch Austin and said he had the right to protect himself once Austin initiated physical contact.

“There is no evidence that Carmelo did anything other than truly believe he was protecting himself in that moment of confusion,” Howard said on June 9.

Carmelo Anthony sentencing details

Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison. The jury could have sentenced Anthony to a minimum of two years in prison and a maximum of life in prison. (Under Texas law, Anthony was 17 years old at the time of the incident, but could be prosecuted as an adult.)

Hundreds of people gathered outside the courtroom for the June 9 verdict and sentence. After the news broke, two people from the tense crowd were arrested on suspicion of assault, FOX 4 reported.

The ruling also drew attention from celebrities including Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B, who expressed outrage at the decades-long prison sentence.

“Wow! So amazing! Disgusting… This is not justice, this is trying to make an example!!!” she wrote to X.

Contributors: N’dea Yancey-Bragg, Amanda Lee Myers and anthony thompson

The frustrating truth about finding the cheapest flight tickets

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The frustrating truth about finding the cheapest flight tickets

Airline prices are notoriously unpredictable, but experts share strategies to help travelers avoid overpaying.

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  • Airline pricing is intentionally complex, with many factors influencing the final cost.
  • Rather than waiting for the absolute lowest price, travel experts recommend booking a flight that fits your schedule and budget.
  • You can find better deals by using online tools and being flexible with your travel dates and airports.

Cruising Altitude is a weekly column about air travel. Have a suggestion for a future topic? Fill out the form or email us at the address at the bottom of this page.

There’s no surefire way to know if you’re getting a good deal on a flight.

I recently proved this once again when I booked a trip overseas, only to find that the ticket price had dropped by a few hundred dollars a few days later. This shows that even aviation experts cannot always analyze airline pricing.

It’s frustrating and frustrating to know I’ve spent too much money, but it helps to know I’m not alone.

“I remember talking to a pricing director at a major airline and asking him about this,” said Henry Harteveldt, president of travel industry analysis firm Atmosphere Research. “He said, ‘Henry, even I couldn’t find the lowest freight rate from A to B except by going to an analyst and telling him to open the inventory.'”

If even revenue managers at major airlines can’t find the best price, what hope is there for the rest of us?

While I can’t give you a clear solution to this perplexing problem in modern aviation, I can help you learn from my mistakes. Here’s expert advice you should have followed before booking a non-refundable international ticket.

How do airlines set prices?

Airline pricing is intentionally opaque. Airlines have many fare buckets, and factors like the timing of your flight, how far in advance you book, and major events at your destination can all come into play.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that there are easily 75 different fares on a 100-seat aircraft,” William J. McGee, senior fellow for aviation and travel at the American Economic Liberties Project, previously told me.

This is one of the reasons why buying a flight ticket and knowing when to buy it can be so difficult. It’s like trying to hit a moving target blindfolded.

How do I know if my flight is a good deal?

At the end of the day, intuition is just as important as any other tool.

“If there’s an airline you like, or at least an acceptable fare, and a schedule that works for you, book it,” Harteveldt said.

But that’s cold comfort to saps like me who think they’ve found something tolerable only for the lower part to fall off after a few days.

Expedia travel expert Melanie Fish said there are several strategies travelers can use to at least get an idea of ​​what’s available.

“Getting the best deals on flights is not just about when you book, but how you shop,” she said. Fish added that it’s important to remember that the cheapest airfare doesn’t automatically mean the best deal.

“When we talk about great deals on flights, the goal is not the cheapest at any cost, but what’s the best value for the trip you actually want to take,” Fish said.

Harteveldt added that online booking tools like Google Flights, Expedia, Kayak and Skyscanner can help travelers gauge availability, but it’s important to do research beyond list price.

“Airfare comparison engines are certainly very helpful in understanding which airlines are operating in a market and what their airfares are, but they may not provide enough context as to what the restrictions are,” he said.

It is important to check the actual airline website to see all terms and conditions for each ticket. You don’t want to get stuck with a ticket that’s less flexible than you expected.

Is there a good day or time to book or fly?

Although every situation is different, Fish says there are some big trends that can help you find a flight.

“There are some patterns that emerged in Expedia’s annual Airhack report: International flights are cheapest on Fridays and most expensive on Sundays,” she said. “For domestic travel in the United States, Tuesday is the cheapest day and Sunday is the most expensive day.”

Still, Fish pointed out that these are just average trends. This doesn’t apply to all flights, so it’s important to do your research.

Fish and Harteveldt also said flexibility is key.

“A hack or pro technique to know whenever you book a flight, no matter where you book a flight, is to use flexible dates to expand your deal pool,” Fish said.

“Embrace non-traditional airlines and non-traditional routes,” Harteveldt added. “Even if you live in a hub, it may be worth checking to see if cheaper fares are available from another nearby gateway or city.”

If the price drops after I purchase a ticket, can I get a refund?

Sometimes it depends on the specific airline you fly and their policies. For example, many US airlines do not charge change or cancellation fees. This means you can cancel your ticket if the price drops, receive a free credit from the airline, rebook at a lower price, and keep your credit balance available for future trips.

Unfortunately for me, and for my big trip, I’m on an airline based overseas and don’t have that kind of flexibility.

Some locations also offer compensation for air tickets. For example, Expedia offers paid price reduction protection on certain flight bookings. Google Flights also offers a price guarantee on select bookings. Both services will refund the difference if the ticket price drops after you book.

For Fish, buying a flight boils down to what she calls the “three Ds”: discovery, decision, and defense. She defines them as researching available airfares, using tracking tools to monitor prices and trying to get the best deal before booking, and using price drop protection or similar tools for added peace of mind.

“I know I can buy that ticket today, and I’m not going to take a loss if the price goes down,” she said.

But ultimately, if you’ve booked a flight, the best thing you can do for yourself is to stop looking at the price after that and start enjoying the trip instead.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and can be reached at zwichter@usatoday.com.

Trump’s role at the World Cup suggests he will be in the game

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Trump’s role at the World Cup suggests he will be in the game

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  • President Donald Trump attended the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
  • FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced that President Trump will co-present the trophy.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly boasted that he will be inducted into three major U.S. events: the USA 250, the 2028 Summer Olympics, and the World Cup. One of them starts on June 11th.

The 2026 Men’s World Cup was won under first president Donald Trump and will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Trump has attended several sporting events as president, including the FIFA Club World Cup final on July 13, where he celebrated on stage with the winning team. FIFA President Gianni Infantino is also a key ally of President Trump. Trump was awarded the first FIFA Peace Prize in December, before the United States and Israel attacked Iran.

Will President Trump attend a World Cup game? Here’s what we know:

more: Somali judge’s ‘biggest dream’ crushed by US Border Patrol

Infantino gave Trump the role and indicated he would attend.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on President Trump’s World Cup plans.

Infantino announced in January that President Trump would co-present the World Cup trophy on July 19 after the final.

“This trophy will be handed over to the captain of the team that will win the World Cup on July 19,” Infantino said. “I present it with the president of the host country, the United States. No one is allowed to touch this trophy.”

Is DC a World Cup host city?

No, Washington, D.C. lost its bid to host the games. Mayor Muriel Bowser said of the failed bid, “We tried.”

Here are the locations where World Cup matches will be held:

  • atlanta
  • boston
  • dallas
  • Guadalajara
  • houston
  • kansas city
  • Los Angeles
  • mexico city
  • miami
  • Monterrey
  • new york and new jersey
  • philadelphia
  • San Francisco Bay Area
  • seattle
  • Toronto
  • vancouver

Contributors: Marcus D. Smith, Victoria Hernandez, america today

Kinsey Crowley is a Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact KCrowley@usatodayco.com. follow her X (Twitter), thread, blue sky and TikTok.

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