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Trump seeks to pause federal gas tax as prices soar amid Iran conflict
Congress would have to approve the proposal, and passing the savings on to drivers, rather than oil companies, would be difficult to enforce.
Democrats vow to fight Senate Republicans' $1 billion security proposal for White House ballroom
While most GOP lawmakers have remained quiet on the proposal as they spent their recess out of Washington, some have publicly questioned whether they would support it.
BREAKING: UNC Health plans community hospital in Wilmington
WILMINGTON — UNC Health is announcing plans to build a new community hospital on a 62-acre proposed site in Wilmington. UNC Heath has identified the southeast corner of S. 17th Street and Shipyard…
UNC Health plans Wilmington hospital
UNC Health plans to create a community hospital on a 62-acre proposed site in New Hanover County, pending regulatory approvals, according to an announcement Monday morning. “Planned for the southeast corner of South 17th Street and Shipyard Boulevard, the site was selected for its accessibility and its geographic infill capacity in serving a rapidly growing region,” according to the release. “This project marks a significant step forward in UNC Health’s commitment to improving access to primary care and specialty care closer to home.” Officials said the proposed hospital would offer a range of specialties, including emergency care, cardiology, oncology, OBGYN and more. While the not-for-profit, state-owned health system’s officials are planning the hospital, the proposal still requires state approval through North Carolina’s certificate of need (CON) process before it can become a reality. UNC Health is targeting an opening date of 2030, the release stated, and “will continue to engage openly with local community leaders and residents and share updates as plans evolve and progress is made towards achieving CON approval.” The state’s CON law requires healthcare providers to obtain a CON from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services before developing or offering what the department’s website dubs “a new institutional health service.” The term encompasses a wide range of facilities, including hospitals. The news of UNC Health’s Wilmington plans follows the recent addition of Ernie Bovio to UNC Health. Bovio, who had served as president of the Novant Health Coastal Region since 2024, became regional president of UNC Health’s Southeast Coastal Region in April. “This is an important first step in our commitment to ensuring that families in Wilmington and the surrounding areas have access to the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve – right here at home,” Bovio stated in the release. “As I’ve listened to my own neighbors and community members across the region, I’ve heard a clear message: Wilmington is ready for more choice in healthcare – and UNC Health is ready to deliver it.” According to the release, Wilmington Health – one of the largest independent, physician-owned practices in Southeastern North Carolina – also supports the project, and its providers are expected to participate on the medical staff of the new facility. “Wilmington Health has served this community for more than 50 years, and we know firsthand that our patients are interested in choice,” stated Jeff James, CEO of Wilmington Health, in the release. “We strongly support UNC Health’s plan to bring a new community hospital to our region – closing critical gaps in specialty care and ensuring families across our region have options to access the services they need, right here at home.”
Doubling Down
Online sports gambling has been normalized at a breakneck pace. Is there any way to push back against a predatory culture of promo codes and prop bets?
Watch live: Trump holds event on maternal healthcare
Watch live coverage as President Donald Trump holds an event on maternal healthcare at the White House. The administration had announced a proposal to expand workplace fertility benefits and insurance coverage.
The Latest: Trump rejects Iran’s latest response to ceasefire proposal ahead of his trip to China
Iran and the United States reached an impasse again over how to end their war while their ceasefire grew increasingly shaky, with the two sides exchanging fire in recent days, ships and Gulf states being targeted, and fighting flaring between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
Bar, motel, farmland, towers: See 30 latest business, apartment, land sales ($151 to $39.8M)
See a list of property sales in Onondaga County other than residential homes.
Science of reading for all: Proposal would require Denver schools to use research-backed literacy lessons
A policy being considered by the Denver school board would require the district to ensure students with dyslexia are identified early and that all students have access to “high-quality digital apps” to practice reading at home.
‘The mouth is a gateway into your body’: the fascinating, frightening links between our gums and our health
Scientists are discovering more and more associations between poor oral health and everything from heart disease to dementia. But can flossing and brushing properly guarantee a longer life?
Trump Rejects Iran’s Response to U.S. Proposal as Oil Prices Surge
Pezeshkian responded defiantly, saying Iran would “never bow down to the enemy” and would continue defending its national interests.
Prop D vs. Prop C: San Francisco’s high-stakes fight over business taxes
San Francisco voters will soon decide on two dueling business tax measures backed with millions of dollars in campaign contributions for the June 2 San Francisco voters will decide between Proposition D’s corporate tax hikes and Proposition C’s small business tax relief in a high-stakes June election battle over the city budget and economic recovery.
Oil jumps as US and Iran fail to reach agreement on peace proposal
Oil prices jumped $3 a barrel on Monday as the United States and Iran failed to agree to a peace proposal drafted by Washington while the Strait of Hormuz remained largely closed, keeping global energy supply tight.
QVC shareholders fight bankruptcy plan they say favors creditors
QVC shareholders are challenging the retailer’s bankruptcy plan, arguing the company is improperly shifting valuable assets to creditors.
Iran responds to U.S. peace proposal after clashes test ceasefire
Details were not immediately clear. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently said he hoped the response would include a “serious offer for a ceasefire.”
Trump’s role as LIV Golf host renews scrutiny over conflicts of interest
Experts are raising conflict-of-interest and ethical concerns after President Donald Trump hosted a LIV Golf event at his Virginia property this weekend, renewing scrutiny over whether the Trump family is financially benefiting from his time in office while supporting a golf league backed by a government accused of human rights abuses.
Iran responds to US peace proposal, Iranian media reports. What we know
The Trump administration's framework proposed a pause in fighting while officials hammer out a permanent peace plan.
Science 4 Everyone: How much rain do we need to properly moisturize soil?
While the D.C. area did get some rain over the past few days, did it improve the amount of moisture in the soil? Storm Team4 meteorologist and science teacher Ryan Miller checks it out in Arlington, Virginia.
Colin Brueggemann's Milestone Night Propels OSU Baseball Past Sun Devils
Behind Colin Brueggemann, the Oklahoma State Cowboys baseball team won another series in Big 12 action.
Chicago Teachers Union wants $8.5 million dues hike to fund politics
“Has your brand become toxic?” This was a pointed question from WGN Political Editor Tahman Bradley, posed to Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates in a recent interview. Her immediate response: “I don’t understand the question.” When pressed, Gates added, “The Chicago Teachers Union is not a political party, it is a labor union.” But internal union documents show CTU leadership is trying to skim $8.5 million more from teacher paychecks explicitly for politics, while trying to silence union members critical of Gates’ leadership. Under the proposed dues hike, Chicago teachers would see up to $800 more per year flow from their paychecks to union coffers. The union already takes in more than $40 million a year, mostly from dues. And it spends less than 18 cents of every dollar on teacher representation. The No. 1 reason for the proposed dues hike? Politics. “We must win a majority of the first 21 person fully elected school board in November,” reads the first point in CTU’s member FAQ document.1 This directly contradicts CTU’s promise to members about how leadership uses dues money. The official CTU handbook tells members that the union does not use dues money for politics, so if they are interested in funding political activity, they should consider voluntary donations to CTU’s political action committee. “Our dues are not used for political purposes,” according to the handbook. “So our PAC relies on extra contributions from our members to support progressive candidates and to impact elected officials at the city, county and state levels.” This kind of double-speak is one reason members are concerned about another constitutional change slipped into the dues hike vote, which will take place on May 20-21: an attempt to stop members from holding the union accountable. A proposed amendment to the union constitution tries to place limits on when members may bring a lawsuit against the union for violating members’ rights.2 This provision is clearly a response to members’ lawsuit against union leadership regarding Gates’ years-long refusal to publish audited financial statements. The judge in that case has repeatedly denied the union’s attempts to dismiss it. Teachers opposed to these changes have been circulating this flier, urging members to vote no. What will CTU members get in return for millions of dollars in additional dues? If the 2024 school board elections are any indication—not much. CTU leadership’s record on school board races may not inspire confidence among members. A Chicago Policy Center analysis of a dozen affiliated PACs found CTU spent nearly $2.9 million on school board races in 2024. Of that spending, more than $2.1 million (75%) went to losing candidates. And while CTU-backed candidates lost six of the nine competitive seats overall, they fared worse in their biggest-spending races, losing five of six contests in which the union and its affiliates put up more than $250,000 for their candidate. The Chicago school board elections take place Nov. 3.3 Is another $8.5 million enough to clean up a toxic reputation? Not likely. Update on federal tax credit scholarship: Last week, Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she plans to opt into the federal tax credit scholarship program. If Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker follows suit, Illinois could unlock $1 billion in donor money statewide for both public- and private-school students. If Illinois does not opt in, that money will flow to other states. The Last Ward reported in February on how Illinois Democrats could unlock at least $100 million in new resources for Chicago public-school students by opting in. Update on the investigation into how Chicagoans learned about a meeting to hike their property taxes: The Last Ward reported in January on an absurd, taxpayer-funded investigation into how local media learned of a planned Chicago school board meeting to hike the district’s property tax levy. That investigation is now complete. Lawyers interviewed two dozen witnesses, and found nothing. Update on Illinois’ muni debt crisis: My colleague Joe Tabor last week published a must-read piece in Crain’s Chicago Business about how Illinois recently rejected south suburban Harvey’s request to be designated a “distressed city.” The saga shows why the state must implement a better structure to assist insolvent local governments, including allowing for the option to pursue debt relief via Chapter 9 bankruptcy. The Last Ward reported in October on how Harvey is tipping the first domino in Illinois’ municipal debt crisis. Mincing Rascals: I joined the Mincing Rascals podcast to discuss the SAFE-T Act, the millionaires tax, and more. My “green light” recommendation: Force Majeure (2014). 1 Notably, the No. 2 reason cited is “resources to fund a state-wide millionaires tax campaign in order to fully fund the state’s school funding formula.” The constitutional amendment necessary to implement a progressive income tax in Illinois recently died in the Illinois House, meaning this question would not appear on the ballot until 2028 at the earliest. 2 There is seemingly no single-subject rule for CTU constitutional amendments. So members only get one vote on the full package. One cannot vote “yes” on the dues hike and “no” on the restriction of members’ rights, for example. 3 Illinois law grants far too much power over local government to unelected officials like Gates. State lawmakers should fix that.
Editorial: Economy, health headline session
The story of the 2026 Legislature is one of making difficult spending and taxing decisions, which meant that proposals to add new spending to the balance sheet were a heavier lift.
TikTok creator's crowdfunding campaign to buy Spirit Airlines racks up more than $335M in pledges
After Spirit Airlines shut down operations and canceled all flights, a viral TikTok campaign proposing crowdfunded ownership has gained over $335 million in online pledges.
Doctor says: Close the doors, buckle up and put phones away to encourage car safety
"Parents must engage their brains. Put your kids in appropriate car seats," Dr. Scott Hamilton writes. "Teach children early, before the eye-rolling years, to buckle up before the car moves."
☕️ Laporta's latest stunt, Spalletti show and today's 5️⃣ stories
A Clásico Sunday deserves a proper start to the day. So make some coffee and toast, sit back, and enjoy the five stories shaping the football conversation first thing this morning.🥊 I don’t beli...
Bob on Business: Bootmaker proposes new parking garage for the Stockyards
Also, retail coming; manufacturer finds home; a trip where?; running honor and a golf shot.
Trump's college sports committee tackles laundry list of issues and calls on Congress to act quickly
The presidential committee asked to find solutions for spiraling costs in college sports recommended creating a task force to look at pooling media rights, limiting coaches salaries, and rewriting eligibility and transfer-portal rules, along with at least a dozen other ideas. A draft document of the committee's proposals, obtained by Yahoo Sports, wants Congress to quickly pass legislation that would create the task force, which would receive the antitrust exemption and the right to override individual state laws that the NCAA and other collegiate sports leaders are seeking.
Alex and Ani founder embroiled in family dispute. What she alleges
Carolyn Rafaelian alleges that sister Rebecca Rafaelian Caruolo and her company Air & Anchor are misappropriating the business their father started.
Will Caesars’ Narrowed Loss and New Venues Reshape Caesars Entertainment's (CZR) Investment Narrative?
In the first quarter of 2026, Caesars Entertainment reported higher sales of US$2,153 million and revenue of US$2,870 million, while reducing its net loss to US$98 million compared with the prior year. Alongside these improved results, Caesars has been expanding its entertainment offerings with new venues such as OMNIA Dayclub & Skybar in Las Vegas and the upcoming Caesars Beach Club in Atlantic City, aiming to draw more visitors to its properties. Next, we will examine how Caesars’ narrowed...
It Seems ‘Destiny 2’ And ‘Marathon’ Cannot Properly Co-Exist At Bungie
It is becoming increasingly clear that it is likely not possible to sustain both Destiny 2 and Marathon within a scaled-down Bungie.
Colorado needs a sane, viable opposition party
If you are upset with the increasing regulatory burden in Colorado, the exodus of too many large employers, accelerating property taxes, the condition of the roads, and all of the funding for transit schemes with low demand, of course, you can lay the blame on Democrats who control all levers of state government. The same […]
National mood is against Republicans, but redistricting could help prop them up
The national political landscape looks bad for President Trump and Republicans, but recent wins in the redistricting fight could soften the blow they might have suffered without them.
Khamzat Chimaev has one piece of business in the way of his UFC prophecy
It will take another monster to slay this monster. Only one titan will leave Newark with gold around his waist, and his name is Khamzat Chimaev.
Scientists found the “holy grail” gene that could one day help humans regrow limbs
Scientists studying axolotls, zebrafish, and mice have uncovered a shared set of genes that may one day help humans regrow lost limbs. By identifying powerful “SP genes” involved in regeneration, researchers discovered that disabling these genes stopped proper bone regrowth in salamanders and mice. They then used a gene therapy inspired by zebrafish biology to partially restore regeneration in mice, marking a major step toward future treatments that could replace damaged limbs with living tissue instead of prosthetics.
$20.7M land deal forces businesses near Siesta Key out
Longtime businesses near Siesta Key are being forced out after Sarasota County approved a multi-million-dollar waterfront property purchase.
Back in business: St. Johns County food truck park reopens after commission vote
A St. Johns County property owner who fought back against a county administrative ruling won, and the food truck vendors who depend on the space are back to work as of Friday.
Proposed NC constitutional amendment would ban corporate political spending
A North Carolina lawmaker wants voters to decide whether corporations should be allowed to spend money to influence elections in the state.
Bayer Crop Science and bp partner to expand camelina market for biofuels
A new partnership between Bayer Crop Science and bp could increase access to the biofuels market for farmers. Chad Bilby, biofuel crops innovation and commercial lead at Bayer, says the collaboration will commercialize camelina to produce biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. “It has a lot of great properties that allow it to be […]
NYC's pied-a-terre tax is 'political theatre,' CEO explains why
CEO of Empire State Properties Suzanne Miller joins 'Varney & Co.' to discusses New York City's pied-a-terre tax and the impact on the city's real estate and wealthy.
House Republicans Propose Cutting Science Budgets, but by Less than Trump
The House budget proposal for 2027 would cut funding across several agencies, but by far less than what the Trump administration has proposed.
2026 National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship Award
First year Materials and Nanoscience graduate student Stéphane Miaule (Tolbert group) has been awarded the 2026 National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship, one of the country’s most prestigious honors for graduate students in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). The program, jointly sponsored by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force, supports doctoral students across a broad range of scientific and technological fields of strategic importance. This highly competitive fellowship provides full tuition, fees, and a monthly stipend for three years. In 2026, only 102 fellowships were awarded nationwide, and Stéphane is the sole recipient from UCLA. Before transferring from Santa Monica College to UCLA, Stéphane interned at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center and Marshall Space Flight Center, where he researched the mechanical and thermodynamic properties of lunar regolith, as well as radiation shielding materials for lunar habitation development. At UCLA, he joined the Soft Materials Research Laboratory under Professor Qibing Pei, focusing on the synthesis and characterization of hafnium oxide nanocomposite scintillators. After earning his bachelor’s degree in chemistry, he remained in the Soft Materials Research Laboratory as a post-baccalaureate researcher for one year before joining Professor Sarah Tolbert’s group as a Ph.D. student. Stéphane’s Ph.D. research is focused on improving the properties of conjugated polymers, which are a family of plastic materials that can conduct electricity. Stéphane is specifically looking at self-assembling polymers that can be processed in water to create light-weight, flexible, high-conductivity polymer devices without the need for toxic or volatile organic solvents. After completing his Ph.D., Stéphane hopes to work in a national laboratory, researching semiconducting polymers for applications in new electronic devices. “The Graduate (1967) featured a memorable scene in which the protagonist was told that ‘there’s a great future in plastics.’ We know this still holds true today, as polymer research has expanded rapidly due to the wide variety of applications these materials enable. Through my work on semiconducting polymers, I hope to contribute to the continued development of plastic electronics,” Stéphane said. Penny Jennings, UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, penjen@g.ucla.edu.
Washington Watch: Speak up to protect the National Science Foundation’s ATE program
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is once again under pressure from the Trump administration as it proposes severe cuts for the agency and makes other moves to reduce its independence. So far,...
Caesars Entertainment (CZR) Valuation Check After Improved Results And New Venue Openings
Caesars Entertainment (CZR) just released first quarter results, with revenue and sales both higher than a year ago and the net loss narrowing, while new entertainment openings aim to keep its properties front of mind for visitors. See our latest analysis for Caesars Entertainment. The latest results and property openings come after a strong 90-day share price return of 35.38% and a 17.91% year to date share price return. However, the 1-year total shareholder return is slightly negative and...
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans presents 2026-2027 proposed budget
It includes a $7.5 million increase to the property tax levy — the first increase of its kind here in nearly five years.
Sanford Health merging with North Memorial as hospital deals keep coming
South Dakota-based health system would finally break into the Twin Cities market, more than a decade after it first proposed a merger with a health system in Minnesota.
Murfreesboro wants to sell land for $2.3M for entertainment venue
The Murfreesboro City Council, at its May 7 meeting, approved a purchase and sales agreement to sell 8.62 acres of land along Medical Center Parkway for $2.3 million to Hackberry 5 Properties, LLC for development of a large event venue and restaurant. The City-owned property, located south of Medical Center Parkway and east of Gateway
Virginia Supreme Court blocks Democratic-drawn congressional map voters approved in April
The court ruled that Democrats did not follow proper procedure when they put the constitutional amendment on the ballot in an effort to flip four House seats.
How Dante's Inferno modeled a planetary impact 500 years before modern science
New research reveals that Dante Alighieri's Inferno wasn't just a masterpiece of literature: it was a gedankenexperiment in impact physics. From multi-ring craters to shockwaves that reshaped the globe, ...
Microsoft warns of sophisticated phishing campaign heavily targeting health care organizations
Microsoft Threat Intelligence is warning of a large scale, multistage phishing campaign that disproportionately targeted the health care sector, sending “code of conduct” themed emails to lure users into credential theft and token compromise.
Mount Healthy businesses in limbo over 100+ alleged fire code violations
Small business owners at Hilltop Plaza say they are fearing for their future after court filings obtained by WLWT show the City of Mt. Healthy is seeking an injunction over alleged fire code violations at the property.
Scientists make stunning discovery that could change our understanding of the Universe
Scientists may have uncovered a surprising secret behind why life exists at all. A new study suggests that the Universe’s fundamental constants — the deep physical rules that govern everything from atoms to stars — appear to sit within an incredibly narrow “sweet spot” that allows liquids to flow properly inside living cells. Even tiny shifts in these constants could make blood too thick, water too sticky, or cellular motion impossible, potentially wiping out life as we know it.
Colorado Gov. Polis faces intense lobbying blitz from DC-based groups over credit card ‘swipe-fee’ bill
Colorado’s long‑running fight over credit‑card swipe fees entered its final round Tuesday, when lawmakers sent a proposal to Gov. Jared Polis and rival industry coalitions immediately launched competing campaigns to sway his decision. The clash pits groups urging Polis to sign the bill — restaurants, hotels, breweries, liquor stores, small businesses, and big‑box retailers — […]
How could downtown Baton Rouge change in this $1.7B plan? Youth sports complex, housing, more.
If all recommendations of the plan are brought to fruition, it would represent more than $1.7 billion in investment, bringing in a combined $37 million in sales and property tax revenue and creating about 5,500 jobs.
Commission requests more info on proposal to paint Eisenhower building white
More than 2,000 comments were sent in from the public about the proposal with messages appearing to be heavily skewed in opposition
‘Coaches can change everything’: NC bill would require mental health training for coaches
North Carolina lawmakers are considering a proposal that would require some youth sports coaches to complete mental health training to recognize warning signs, respond to student crises and connect athletes with care.
House Republican Proposes Bill to Wind Down the Iran War
Representative Tom Barrett, a Michigan Republican facing a tough re-election race, introduced a bill to impose limits the use of military force in Iran and end the fighting this summer.
Mo Farah urges against possible £120m cut to school sports in England
Athlete and sport bodies call for rethink after health and education departments each propose £60m funding cuts
Is the FDA Really Suppressing Science? Plus. . .
It’s Thursday, May 7. This is The Front Page, your daily window into the world of The Free Press—and our take on the world at large. Today: Aaron MacLean says Trump is poised to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory in the Iran war. Joe Klein on the life of CNN founder Ted Turner. Jillian Lederman on why cruise ships are here to stay. And much more. But first: Is the FDA suppressing science? On Tuesday, The New York Times published a story with an alarming takeaway. “FDA Blocked Publication of Research Finding Covid and Shingles Vaccines Were Safe,” read the headline. It is the latest in a string of stories that all have the same message: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other agencies, are engaged in a cover-up—and silencing scientists trying to get the word out about the Covid vaccine. What all these stories suggest—some more subtly than others—is that the outsiders now running the public health establishment, officials such as Marty Makary at the FDA and Jay Bhattacharya at the National Institutes of Health, are on a revenge tour. That they are doing harm to the country to get back at the scientists and bureaucrats who ostracized them for deviating from the public-health consensus during the pandemic. It’s a seductive narrative. But is it true? That’s the question we address in our latest editorial. —The Editors Read [ Marty Makary's FDA Has All the Right Enemies ](https://www.thefp.com/p/marty-makary-vaccine-study-fda) [ Trump Blinks First ](https://www.thefp.com/p/iran-peace-deal-pakistan-trump-strait-of-hormuz) Aaron MacLean In return for no detectable concessions, President Trump this week gave up on forcing open the Strait of Hormuz. Now, the Trump administration looks desperate for a deal to end the war with Iran. It’s easy to understand the desire to end the war, but are they blowing the chance at victory? Aaron MacLean makes sense of the administration’s latest moves—and Iran’s response—in his column today. Read full story Aaron MacLean and Niall Ferguson: Live in New York City Join Aaron MacLean and Niall Ferguson on May 19 for a live recording of School of War at the iconic New York Historical. In a conversation as timely as it is wide-ranging, Aaron and Niall will explore the strategic stakes of the moment, including the Middle East, China, and the future of American leadership on the global stage. Get Tickets Now [ Ted Turner, the Optimist Who Built CNN ](https://www.thefp.com/p/ted-turner-cnn-tribute) Joe Klein The man who gave us CNN and the 24-hour news cycle, Ted Turner, died Wednesday at the age of 87. Today, political writer Joe Klein—who almost ghostwrote Turner’s autobiography—remembers his friend, the American media mogul who stood out for his idealism and lack of a filter—something that got Turner in trouble more than once. “His was not a traditional intelligence, but one of horizon: Ted saw things before other people did,” Joe writes. Read full story [ Nothing Can Sink the Cruise Ship ](https://www.thefp.com/p/cruise-ship-hantavirus) Jillian Lederman A viral outbreak on a cruise ship that left three passengers dead has left some people wondering: Are cruise ships on the way out? Not so fast, says Jillian Lederman, who has been on many a cruise herself. Read her piece on why 38 million people a year take a cruise—and aren’t about to stop. Read full story [ The Great Writers Who Were Terrible People ](https://www.thefp.com/p/the-great-writers-who-were-terrible) Shilo Brooks Throughout history, some of the greatest literary geniuses have also been immoral bigots. In the latest episode of Old School, Shilo Brooks is joined by Eli Lake for a conversation about those geniuses, from Voltaire to Norman Mailer and Roald Dahl—and why we should read their work despite their odious prejudices. Listen on MORE FROM THE FREE PRESS [ Inside the Digital Intifada ](https://www.thefp.com/p/digital-intifada-social-media-hamas-terror) Warren Kinsella Read full story [ This Week in American History: Trump’s Over-Arching Problem ](https://www.thefp.com/p/this-week-in-american-history-trumps-over-arching-problem) Jonathan Horn Read full story [ Humanity Is Still Evolving—and Fast ](https://www.thefp.com/p/humanity-is-still-evolvingand-fast) Razib Khan Read full story THE NEWS Thirteen D.C. Metropolitan Police officers have been placed on administrative leave and could face termination after an internal investigation found evidence that crime statistics were manipulated to make the city look safer. The Republican-led House Oversight Committee previously alleged that former D.C. police chief Pamela Smith pressured officers to skew data. Tennessee Republicans unveiled a redrawn U.S. House map yesterday that would split up Memphis’s black-majority Democratic district, the latest move in a nationwide push to redraw congressional boundaries ahead of the midterms. The effort follows a Supreme Court ruling last week on Louisiana’s districts, which Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton said gave states the green light to redraw maps along partisan lines. Israel struck Beirut for the first time since a ceasefire with Hezbollah took effect last month, saying it targeted a commander of the militant group’s elite Radwan force in the city’s southern suburbs. The strikes risk destabilizing that truce at a delicate moment, as Iran and the U.S. report progress toward a deal to resolve their own standoff. The U.S. Air Force is aiming for a Fourth of July delivery of a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar, hoping to add it to the Air Force One fleet in time for the U.S.’s 250th anniversary, Reuters reported. (For more on the controversy surrounding the aircraft, read Jed Rubenfeld’s piece “It’s a Terrible Idea, but Trump Probably Can Accept a Free Jet from Qatar.”) Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick testified privately before Congress that he has no memory of why he and his family dined on Jeffrey Epstein’s private island in 2012, according to Reuters. The admission contradicts Lutnick’s earlier claim that he had cut ties with the convicted sex offender well before that visit. Weeks before a former JPMorgan investment banker filed a lawsuit packed with explosive allegations, the bank reportedly offered him $1 million to settle his sexual assault and harassment claims, according to The Wall Street Journal. The suit, filed by Chirayu Rana, alleges he was sexually assaulted by a female colleague, subjected to racial discrimination, and forced into a degrading dynamic at work. JPMorgan says the claims lack merit, and the female colleague’s lawyers call the accusations fabricated. A new report from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research shows that, for the first time in roughly 20 years, church attendance is trending upward, with more people volunteering and clergy expressing renewed optimism. The study’s authors described the findings, based on a survey of more than 7,400 congregations, as showing signs of widespread recovery from low attendance numbers.
Senate GOP fears $1B for White House ballroom represents political landmine
A Republican proposal to spend $1 billion in taxpayer money on security for the White House ballroom has become a political landmine in the Senate debate over funding Immigration and Customs Enforc…
New political map would keep Oak Ridge in U.S. Rep. Fleischmann's district
A political map of Tennessee lawmakers are weighing keeps Oak Ridge, a site of massive investment in science and defense, with a congressman with power over where federal money is spent.
Texas-based teleradiologist wins court battle over California income taxes
The California Franchise Tax Board had charged that the rad and his sole proprietorship could be combined to constitute a "unitary business," subject to state taxation.
West Sacramento approves property purchase near Sutter Health Park
"It’s definitely a site that has strategic value long term..."
Report: Tigers' Triple-A manager Gabe Alvarez fired over 'inappropriate' text message to colleague
The Triple-A Toledo manager was abruptly dismissed on May 5 for a "violation of club policy."
Atari acquires Wizardry IP
Atari has acquired the rights to the first five Wizardry games and the underlying Wizardry intellectual property from Drecom, the company announced.
Fair society votes to end Blackwaters talks after county backs entertainment complex plan
ALPENA COUNTY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) -- The future of the Alpena County Fairgrounds is in the spotlight after county commissioners approved a proposal from Blackwa
Florence considers fines for businesses, drivers as car lines back up onto public roads
A proposed ordinance would impose penalties up to $5,000 on businesses and citations for drivers queuing on streets, but residents are divided on who's responsible
Sports wagering group weighs in on NYS Gaming Commission's new proposed measures
New Yorkers have until next Friday, May 15th, to weigh in on new guardrails and regulations regarding sports wagering.One of the draft regulations includes "Ru
Portland leaders review report on vacancy fees as property owners push back
Portland city leaders are reviewing a report on what implementing a so-called vacancy fee could look in Portland, as property owners cite the effort as a waste
Portland leaders review report on vacancy fees as property owners push back
Portland city leaders are reviewing a report on what implementing a so-called vacancy fee could look in Portland, as property owners cite the effort as a waste
NC lawmakers propose using voucher funds, sports betting proceeds for childcare subsidies
House Bill 1066, titled the “Child Care Stabilization & Affordability Act” would use some of the money currently earmarked for school vouchers to reduce the state’s waitlist for subsidized childcare.
Carrollton shooting suspect was tired of business associates ‘taking his money,’ report says
Seung Ho Han told police he targeted the shooting victims in Carrollton over a failed $75,000 business deal involving his sushi restaurant and property investments.
Months after pitching homestead property tax repeal, Ron DeSantis still 'running studies' on how it will work
'It is doable.'
Viral TikTok trend poses serious health risks, company warns
While there may be some benefits to your health, improper preparation can cause more harm.
Republicans want to add $1 billion for Trump's ballroom security to ICE funding plan
Republicans in Congress are proposing $1 billion in funding for security for President Trump's White House ballroom as part of their partisan plan to fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Norman City Council discusses proposed TIF ordinance, Rock Creek Entertainment District
Norman City Council discussed a proposed ordinance that would create an application and evaluation process for proposed tax increment financing, or TIF, districts and the proposed 2026-27 capital improvement program
Milwaukee Congresswoman wants to fund Job Corps
President Donald Trump, in his budget for the next fiscal year, once again proposes eliminating it.
Milwaukee Congresswoman wants to fund Job Corps
President Donald Trump, in his budget for the next fiscal year, once again proposes eliminating it.
Strong month of sports propels ESPN studio shows to record viewership for April
ESPN’s signature sports studio shows continued their upward trend of viewership in April with overall and individual show increases as well as several records.
Disney CEO unveils entertainment giant's new 3-pillar growth plan
Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro outlines a three-pillar growth strategy focused on intellectual property, global consumer reach and AI-powered storytelling.
Nashville leaders consider tax adjustment, incentives as small businesses get “squeezed”
As Nashville property taxes stay in the spotlight with residents and business owners battle higher costs.
CEA Retail + Hospitality Winner: Biggers blends produce, entertainment
Biggers Market’s roots run deep, tracing back to the 1940s when founder and partner Sven Wallin’s grandfather, alongside his brothers, opened Biggers Brothers, a family-run produce business in Charlotte. Decades later, the family’s reputation for farm-fresh fruits and vegetables lives on. In 2010, Wallin opened Biggers Market, building on a reputation that endured for the past 16 years. “I learned a lot about my grandfather, who passed away when my mother was young, through my uncle. The one thing that is ingrained in me is my grandfather’s willingness to go the extra mile for a better product, not settling for what’s easy, but finding what is better,” said Wallin. “He taught me the importance of name and reputation. If your name was on it, it had better be right. Word-of-mouth was always very important to gain a good reputation.” So was hard work. Entrepreneurialism has always been central to Biggers Market’s identity, Wallin said. In high school, Wallin worked at a produce stand in Charlotte, an experience that shaped how he thought about food. “I realized all produce was not created equal, and we could focus on freshness, seasonality and flavor. Grocery stores were convenient, but the produce often didn’t have the same taste or quality,” he said. As a college graduate without a paying job, Wallin took a leap and opened a 20-by-30-foot roadside stand with just three employees. “It was so small we had to put tables with umbrellas out in the yard to accommodate everything. We didn’t have pallet jacks or forklifts to unload the trucks. We would form a line and toss watermelons to get them to where they needed to go,” he recalled. In year two, Wallin opened a market on Carolina Beach Road, still in operation today but larger, and later on Market Street, setting up tents for extra space. In 2019, the sale of the land forced a hunt for a new property, and Wallin landed on his current location at 6250 Market St. “We had ambitions beyond produce,” he said. “We wanted this market to be a place that felt different from a typical grocery store.” In 2024, Wallin added his kitchen to the Biggers brand. “I’ve blurred the lines of a market and a grocery store,” Wallin said. “It’s a place where you can shop, eat, have a drink and listen to live music with friends and family. It’s a mix of retail and social experiences cultivated over time.” What hasn’t changed, however, is Wallin’s Southern hospitality, a strong sense of pride, purpose and responsibility and a commitment to seasonality. Spring brings the garden center to life with herbs, veggie plants and jumbo ferns. Summer leans heavily into produce. Fall brings the pumpkin patch, and winter hosts a Christmas market. “It means a lot to have what we’ve built recognized, especially in Wilmington. There’s a lot that goes into the business from our team. And that’s something we’re genuinely grateful for,” Wallin said. With plans underway for a new larger Carolina Beach Road location, Wallin continues to look ahead. “It’s an opportunity to build another market from the ground up and continue growing what we’ve been doing,” he said. “We’ve been through development before, so we understand what it takes.”
Not cutting sports: Oxford Hills budget proposal includes no increase in spending
Oxford Hills says it was able to preserve all sports in the budget, but because of a reduction in state funding, taxes would go up under the budget proposal.
Advocacy groups call on APS to address mental health disparities affecting LGBTQ+ students
Two LGBTQ+ advocacy groups are calling on Arlington Public Schools to address the disproportionate mental health and safety outcomes negatively affecting its LGBTQ+ student population. In a new joint letter to APS leaders, the groups, Equality Arlington and the Arlington Gender Identity Alliance (AGIA), are asking the school system to implement a more targeted response
Businesses Call On The EU To Deliver A Strong Circular Economy Act
Major businesses have called on the European Union (EU) to deliver a strong Circular Economy Act which will deliver ambitious regulatory proposals.
National Institutes of Health Grant Terminations Disproportionately Impact Minority Scientists
Survey of nearly 1,000 researchers whose grants were cut shows BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and women investigators faced higher odds of targeted equity-related terminations, raising concerns about long-term impacts on the U.S. scientific workforce
House passes Farm Bill with pork producers long awaited 'fix' to Proposition 12
The massive farm bill approved by the U.S. House last week includes a provision that would essentially invalidate Proposition 12
Camden County homeowners and business owners oppose plans for a new data center
Hundreds of people in Camden County publicly rejected a proposal to build a new data center near their communities. Opponents of the proposed data center said t
Trump admin proposes letting companies report earnings only twice a year
Opponents of the proposal say it could reduce transparency and accountability in corporate America.
G.O.P. Proposes $1 Billion in Immigration Bill for Trump’s Ballroom Project
The money would go toward security improvements as part of an East Wing construction project, including a new ballroom that President Trump has said would be built with private dollars.
UN resolution proposal would hit Iran with sanctions for halting freedom of navigation
The draft resolution, co-sponsored by the United States and Gulf nations and obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press, also demands that Iran “immediately participate in and enable” United Nations efforts to establish a humanitarian corridor in the strait to enable the delivery of vital aid, fertilizer and other goods.
Republicans propose $1 billion in taxpayer dollars to secure Trump ballroom
The president said repeatedly that the White House ballroom would be privately funded but has raised security concerns, particularly in light of the correspondent's dinner shooting.
Senate Republicans look to fund $1 billion in security upgrades for Trump's ballroom
WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans have added $1 billion in White House security upgrades to legislation that would fund immigration enforcement agencies, a proposed boost for President Donald Trump’s ballroom project after a man was charged with trying to assassinate him at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner last week. The GOP bill released late Monday would designate the money for the U.S. Secret Service for “security adjustments and upgrades” related to the ballroom project,
SEC proposes letting companies report earnings twice a year
The SEC issued a proposed rule Tuesday that would cut the number of mandatory earnings reports for public companies to two a year.
GOP offers $1B for White House security, sparking dispute over ballroom
Senate Republicans maintain their budget reconciliation proposal would authorize security construction, but not Trump’s ballroom. The White House disagrees.
Defense Department proposes splitting military health system budget
The Defense Department wants to split its funding for the military health system to protect military facilities and care.
Simons scoop up another property along downtown's South Meridian entertainment corridor
The building is on the same block as planned Simon-backed developments for a Ritz-Carlton hotel, Live Nation music venue and Ole Red bar, restaurant and country music hall.
WakeMed and Atrium Health hold briefing about proposed take over
WakeMed will host a media briefing, alongside Atrium Health to share information, answer questions and address any misconceptions regarding Atrium's proposed take over of WakeMed.
Sen. Baldwin proposes ‘For the Fans Act’ to make watching sports games easier
Leagues would be required to offer a single, free service for fans to watch all the teams in their home state.
Clearwater left in the dark on Scientology-linked entertainment project
Clearwater officials say a $50M EVO project lacks approvals or a formal proposal, despite public messaging that suggests it is moving forward.
They answer the call for Californians in mental distress. The money is running out
California's mobile crisis teams have doubled in size. A budget proposal could undo that.