After months of hesitation, Turkey has finally agreed to forward Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) to its parliament, potentially clearing the way for Sweden to become the 32nd member of the military alliance. Sweden and Finland had both applied for NATO membership last year following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. While Finland's membership was approved in April, Turkey and Hungary had yet to give the green light to Sweden's bid. Turkey had insisted on certain concessions from Sweden, claiming that the country had not done enough to combat the activities of Kurdish groups within its borders. However, Sweden amended its constitution and expanded its counter-terrorism cooperation against the PKK, a Kurdish militant organization. In addition, Sweden agreed to resume arms exports to Turkey and to work closely with the Turkish government on security and counter-terrorism. Now that Turkey has approved Sweden's bid, it will be submitted to the national assembly for ratification. Hungary has also indicated its intention to ratify Sweden's inclusion in NATO.
The Northeast is bracing for more rain and potential flooding after heavy rainfall caused flash flooding and claimed at least one life in New York. The Hudson Valley was hit the hardest, with up to eight inches of rain recorded in some areas. Roads were washed out, bridges collapsed, and homes were flooded. The National Weather Service predicts that more rain and flash flooding are possible on Monday, particularly in Vermont and the Champlain Valley. The region has already experienced 200 to 300 percent of its normal rainfall over the past 14 days, meaning that even a little rain could worsen the situation. Residents are advised to avoid driving on flooded roads and to take precautions to stay safe. Meanwhile, other parts of the country are also facing extreme weather conditions, with a cold front in the Great Plains bringing damaging wind gusts and large hail, and oppressive heat in Arizona, Texas, and Florida. Stay tuned for updates on the weather situation in the Northeast and beyond.
A devastating landslide in Rolling Hills Estates, Southern California, has destroyed 12 houses, further highlighting the danger of shifting earth in the area. The landslide occurred in a gated community on Peartree Lane, where residents initially reported a water leak to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Upon arrival, firefighters noticed cracks in the ground and quickly ordered evacuations. Residents were given just 20 minutes to gather their belongings and leave their million-dollar homes. By Sunday afternoon, several of the homes had already started collapsing into the canyon below. Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, who visited the area, witnessed a fissure winding its way through the homes and observed that the land had moved about six feet since the previous night. The evacuated homes were leaning or crumbling, with cracked and misshapen driveways, slanted door and garage frames, and visible damage throughout. The median value of an owner-occupied home in Rolling Hills Estates is nearly $1.5 million. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess the extent of the damage caused by the landslide.
President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are set to meet at the NATO summit, where the potential membership of Ukraine in the alliance will be among the top discussions. Biden has previously expressed that there is no unanimity within NATO about bringing Ukraine into the alliance during an ongoing war. However, Zelensky has emphasized that Ukraine should receive clear security guarantees before joining NATO. The meeting between Biden and Zelensky is an important sign of unity as Ukraine's attendance at the summit had been in question. Russia's war in Ukraine remains a key agenda item for NATO leaders. The summit will focus on finding a future pathway for Ukraine to join the alliance and providing military assistance as the country's counteroffensive continues.
Ukraine plays a crucial role in the NATO summit's agenda as NATO leaders aim to stay united against Russia's invasion. The meeting between Biden and Zelensky will determine the next steps in Ukraine's path towards NATO membership and ensure the country receives the necessary security guarantees. Both leaders have had multiple high-profile meetings in recent months, demonstrating their commitment to a stronger partnership. The outcome of the meeting will have significant implications for Ukraine's future and its relationship with NATO.
James W. Lewis, the leading suspect in the 1982 Tylenol killings, has died, reopening the cold case investigation into the deaths of seven Chicago-area residents. Authorities found Lewis unresponsive in his Cambridge, Massachusetts home. While his death doesn't close the case, it presents a new opportunity for investigators to gather information, possibly from Lewis' widow, Leann. Chuck Walsh, retired Elk Grove Village police chief, believes that focusing on Leann could provide valuable insights into the case. When police previously interviewed James Lewis, he provided some information that only the person responsible for the poisonings would know. However, his dominant personality may have prevented his wife from sharing any additional information. The Tylenol murders, which involved cyanide-laced capsules, led to widespread panic and nationwide reforms in medication product packaging. The investigation has remained open and unresolved for over four decades. The deaths caused a lasting impact on public trust and safety, highlighting the need for increased precautions in the manufacturing and packaging of medications.
The Valley is in the midst of a relentless heat wave, with no end in sight. Heat alerts for the area have been extended well into next week, as temperatures of 110 degrees or higher are expected. The combination of sizzling hot daytime highs and warmer than normal overnight lows increases the risk for heat illness, especially next week. Phoenix is set to reach temperatures between 110 and 116 degrees each afternoon, with overnight lows cooling into the mid to upper 80s through the weekend. However, by the middle of next week, lows may not drop out of the 90s in Phoenix. The heat is not only a risk for humans but also poses a threat to pets and increases the risk of wildfires due to dry conditions and increased winds. The risk of wildfires is particularly high in Mohave County, where a Red Flag Warning is in effect Sunday and Monday. Additionally, air quality is a concern with an Ozone High Pollution Advisory and Ozone High Pollution Watches in effect for the Phoenix area. It is essential for residents to take extra precautions during this heat wave, including limiting time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, staying hydrated, and keeping a close eye on vulnerable populations.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen described her trip to China as successful in forging relationships and creating opportunities for ongoing communication between the United States and China. Yellen met with top Chinese leaders, including Premier Li Qiang and Vice Premier Liu He, discussing major issues like national security, technology, and trade. She emphasized the importance of establishing person-to-person relationships and open channels of communication. Yellen stated that healthy economic competition is sustainable and mutually beneficial in the long term.
However, while Yellen's visit was seen as encouraging by many, underlying tensions between the US and China remain. It is suggested that a diplomatic breakthrough will require significant political capital from both sides. The Treasury Secretary's meeting with Chinese female economists and entrepreneurs faced criticism from online nationalists, who accused them of betraying their country. Yellen's exchange with these women highlighted her focus on female representation in decision-making.
Overall, Yellen's trip laid a foundation for ongoing diplomacy, but the deeper issues between the two countries must still be addressed.
The U.S. Marine Corps is facing an unprecedented situation as it finds itself without a confirmed leader for the first time in over a century. Gen. David Berger stepped down as commandant on Monday, and his nominated successor, Gen. Eric Smith, has yet to be confirmed by the Senate due to a hold placed by Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville.
Under the law, Smith can serve as the acting commandant; however, he is unable to assume the full responsibilities of the position until he receives Senate confirmation. This means he cannot move into the main residence or the commandant's office, nor can he issue new formal commandant's planning guidance. Despite these limitations, Smith does have the authority to implement new policies regarding budget, training, and personnel decisions.
Senator Tuberville's hold on nominations for senior military positions stems from his disagreement with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's decision to have the Defense Department pay for travel when service members need to go out of state for reproductive care, including abortions. Tuberville, an Alabama Republican, has also expressed frustration with President Joe Biden for not addressing this matter.
In a ceremony at the Marine Barracks Washington, Defense Secretary Austin and Gen. Berger called on the Senate to take action and confirm Gen. Smith as the new commandant. The Marine Corps needs a confirmed leader to ensure a smooth and timely transition of leadership and to carry out the vital mission of defending the United States.
After a 36-hour manhunt, murder suspect Eric James Abril has been captured by Rocklin police. The search for Abril began on Sunday morning when he escaped from Roseville's Sutter Medical Center. The intense manhunt involved dozens of police officers, who combed through rough, rocky terrain using dogs, drones, and aircraft. Abril, 35, was taken into custody near Antelope Creek behind 5855 Zion Court. His capture was confirmed through scanner traffic and later announced by Placer County sheriff's officials. The arrest of Abril was made without incident, with the suspect obeying commands and walking towards the officers with his hands up. Abril's lawyer expressed relief at his capture, stating, "I'm glad he's safe, and I hope nobody else is hurt." Residents in the Zion Court area witnessed the commotion as they watched helicopters flying overhead and armored cars driving down their streets. The apprehension of Abril brings an end to the search for the accused killer and provides closure to the community affected by the violent incident at Mahany Park.
The Home Run Derby is always an exciting event during the MLB All-Star Game festivities. This year, the Derby will take place at T-Mobile Park in Seattle. So, who will come out on top and win the 2023 Home Run Derby?
There are several favorites to consider. According to a report by ESPN, the best story would be a final between Rodriguez-Rutschman. Rodriguez, a hometown favorite, and Rutschman, a Pacific Northwest-born-and-raised kid, would showcase the talent of the next generation of baseball. Additionally, the report mentions that Rodriguez has previous Derby experience and is determined to win after finishing as the runner-up in 2022.
On the other hand, according to Buster Olney, Pete Alonso is a serious contender for the Derby title. Olney highlights Alonso's dedication to the event, as he always participates when asked. Being a veteran of the Derby, Alonso knows how to handle the pressure and make the necessary adjustments.
However, Jeff Rogers predicts an upset. He believes that Luis Robert, despite being the No.1 seed, will come out on top. Rogers praises Robert's effortless home run swing and his ability to avoid wasting pitches.
One thing to consider is the length of the home runs. Alden Gonzalez reports that Rodriguez has hit the second-longest home run among the Derby participants, at 454 feet. His familiarity with the ballpark may give him an advantage.
So, who will hit the longest home run of the night and ultimately win the 2023 Home Run Derby? Will it be Rodriguez, Alonso, or Robert? Tune in to ESPN on Monday night at 8 p.m. to find out.
Sources:
- ESPN: Passan, Olney, Rogers
- The Boston Globe: Finn
Pete Alonso, the New York Mets slugger, is set to participate in this year's Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game. However, his recent slump has raised questions about whether his participation will be as thrilling as in previous years.
Alonso has been struggling at the plate, with a batting average of just .213 in his last 91 at-bats. His slump, combined with a hand injury that landed him on the injured list for a week in June, has dampened the excitement surrounding his Home Run Derby appearance.
Furthermore, Alonso's performance in other areas of the game has been lacking. His .189 BABIP (Batting Average on Balls In Play) is the worst among all qualified players, indicating that he relies heavily on hitting home runs and doesn't contribute much else to the team.
While the Home Run Derby is often a fan-favorite event, the timing of Alonso's participation raises concerns. The Mets are currently in fourth place in the NL East and are not significant contenders for the Wild Card spot. With the team's playoff hopes dwindling, seeing Alonso focus on hitting home runs may not be as exciting for fans.
Overall, Alonso's participation in the Home Run Derby is met with mixed emotions. While fans may still enjoy watching him compete, the slump he is currently in raises doubts about how thrilling his performance will be. Only time will tell if Alonso can break out of his slump and put on a show in the Home Run Derby.
Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers has been on fire this season, hitting 26 home runs before the All-Star break. He has even set a franchise record for leadoff home runs with 10. Now, Betts will test his power in the Home Run Derby in Seattle. Despite his smaller stature, Betts has proven that he can outslug other bigger players in the league. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has been impressed with Betts' power, praising his ability to generate torque and ground force in his swing. Betts will face tough competition in the derby, including Vladimir Guerro Jr., Pete Alonso, and Julio Rodriguez. However, Betts' recent hot streak and his determination to bring awareness to Black culture in baseball make him a strong contender. If he wins, he plans to credit his wife for encouraging him to participate. Can Betts continue his home run success in the Home Run Derby and claim the title? Only time will tell.
As the Home Run Derby prepares to take place in Seattle, baseball fans are eagerly anticipating the event, especially with the hometown hero Ken Griffey Jr. previously dominating the derby. Griffey, a legend with the Seattle Mariners, won the Home Run Derby three times in his career - in 1993, 1998, and 1999.
The anticipation is high for Griffey to repeat his success as fans recall the beauty and power of his swing, which often sent baseballs flying over the fence. While Seattle's ballpark has a reputation for having long distances between the plate and the outfield fences, Griffey was known for defying odds and launching monster home runs even in such conditions.
Despite the excitement, it's worth noting that the current lineup for the Home Run Derby has not yet been confirmed. However, the possibility of seeing Griffey in action again and witnessing his incredible power and precision has fans buzzing with anticipation.
The Home Run Derby in Seattle promises to be an event filled with nostalgia and excitement as fans hope to see Griffey recreate his past success. Whether he will be able to repeat his previous victories or if new talent will steal the show remains to be seen. But one thing is for certain - the anticipation for the Home Run Derby in Seattle is building, and fans are eager to see if Griffey can reclaim his title.
SKIP STORY
Recent rumors circulating on social media have suggested that Archive of Our Own (AO3), a popular platform for fanfiction and fan works, may be facing a potential shutdown. However, these rumors appear to be largely unfounded, according to a report by Piunikaweb.com.
While AO3 has experienced temporary slowdowns and outages in recent days, these issues have already been resolved. The platform has even introduced a new muting tool to enhance the user experience. It is important to approach these rumors with skepticism until official communication is released regarding the situation.
In 2015, when similar shutdown rumors arose, AO3 promptly addressed user concerns and clarified that the platform would continue to operate. It is expected that AO3 will communicate any significant developments regarding the current situation soon.
As of now, there are no official announcements confirming the shutdown of AO3. Users should not believe unverified information shared on social media and should rely on official statements from AO3. The website is experiencing an outage, but it is not indicative of an impending shutdown.
Piunikaweb.com will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if any significant developments occur. Users can rest assured that AO3 will remain accessible for their enjoyment.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays has joined his father, Vladimir Guerrero Sr., as the first father-son duo to win the MLB Home Run Derby. Guerrero Jr. clinched the title by hitting 25 home runs in the final round, defeating Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays, who hit 23 home runs. Guerrero Jr. had a slow start in the finals but picked up the pace and hit 14 homers in the last 1 minute and 13 seconds of regulation. He finished the two-minute regulation period with 20 home runs and added another five in his bonus time. Arozarena had a strong performance, hitting a total of 82 home runs throughout the event, but fell short in the final round. Guerrero Jr. set a record for the longest home run of the night, hitting one that traveled 445 feet. He also had an average home run distance of 408 feet and an average exit velocity of 104.6 mph. Guerrero Sr. won the Home Run Derby in 2007.
The T-Mobile Home Run Derby is one of the most exciting events of the MLB All-Star weekend, and this year's lineup is stacked with powerful participants. The Derby will be taking place on Monday, July 10th at T-Mobile Park in Seattle and will be broadcast live by ESPN.
The seeding for the Derby is determined by the home run totals from the first half of the season. Luis Robert Jr. earned the #1 seed this year with 25 homers. Other participants include Pete Alonso, Julio Rodriguez, Adolis Garcia, Randy Arozarena, Adley Rutschman, Mookie Betts, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Pete Alonso, a two-time champion, will be competing in his fourth Home Run Derby. Julio Rodriguez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will both compete in their second Derby, while the rest of the field will be making their first appearances.
Braves first baseman Matt Olson declined an invitation to participate, even though he leads the National League in home runs. Ronald Acuna Jr. also declined an invitation.
Fans can expect an exciting display of power and long balls as these sluggers battle it out for home run supremacy. Who will take home the crown in this year's T-Mobile Home Run Derby? Tune in to find out.
Authorities in Alabama have issued an Amber Alert for a 9-month-old girl who was kidnapped in Parrish. Harlow Darby Freeman was taken from a residence on Crest Avenue at around 6:50 PM on Monday. It is believed that she is in extreme danger. Harlow is described as a white female with brown hair and blue eyes, and was last seen wearing a tie-dye onesie and light pink shorts. The subjects may be traveling in a white 2009 Lexus RX350 with Alabama license plate number 3880AR8, which has damage on the rear passenger side that is taped with clear tape.
Parrish officials are urging anyone with information about the abduction to come forward and help find her. There is a $5,000 reward for the safe return of Harlow. Authorities are asking the public to call the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-The-Lost (1-800-843-5678), the Parrish Police Department at 205-686-9991, or 911 with any information regarding the missing child.
The search for Harlow Freeman is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
North Korea has accused the United States of violating its airspace with reconnaissance aircraft and has warned that it may shoot them down in the future. North Korea claims that US surveillance aircraft flew over waters east and west of the Korean Peninsula between July 2 and July 9 to conduct "provocative aerial espionage," according to a statement from the country's Defense Ministry. North Korea specifically mentioned the crewed RC-135 and unmanned RQ-4 Global Hawk as the aircraft that violated its airspace. The statement from North Korea's Defense Ministry warned that the US would have to pay a dear price for its actions and that there is no guarantee that US aircraft would not be shot down.
South Korea's military denies North Korea's claims and describes their joint aerial reconnaissance with the US as routine. The US Forces Korea has not yet responded to the accusation.
North Korea has intercepte
Flash flooding in Vermont has caused devastation in the village of Weston, with the West River overflowing and cutting off the village for several hours on July 10, 2023. Firefighters were forced to move their trucks out of the fire station as the water began to rise, and by 5 a.m., the station was submerged in 5 feet of water. The floodwaters have since receded, but the damage is extensive. The bridge at Lawrence Hill Road was washed out, leaving debris caught in fences and roads in disarray. Residents have been evacuated from their homes and vehicles, with rescue operations ongoing. At least one person has died in the flooding in New York's Hudson Valley.
The situation is expected to worsen as more rain is forecasted for the region. Flash flood warnings have been issued for parts of Vermont, and the upper level low moving through the area is likely to induce more heavy rainfall, posing a high risk of further flooding. The threat is expected to diminish by Tuesday morning, but concerns remain about the saturated ground causing trees and power lines to come down. Flight cancellations and delays are also expected due to the storm system affecting major Northeast hubs.
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Title: Will More Rain Worsen Flash Flood Situation in Vermont?
Flash flooding in Vermont has caused devastation in the village of Weston, with the West River overflowing and cutting off the village for several hours on July 10, 2023. Firefighters were forced to move their trucks out of the fire station as.
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Torrential rainfall in New York and New England has led to flash flooding, leaving roads and bridges washed away and homes damaged. At least one person has died in the flooding, and there are reports of missing individuals. The excessive rainfall has made search and rescue efforts challenging due to damaged infrastructure. The Governor of New York has declared a state of emergency for two counties, and thousands of homes are without power. The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for millions of people in the northeastern US. The areas most at risk include Vermont and northeastern New York. Residents have been advised to stay at home if possible and to check road conditions before driving. Climate change is believed to be a contributing factor to the extreme rainfall, making events like this more likely. The effects of the heavy rain are expected to persist, with more rain and thunderstorms forecasted for the coming days. Flights to New York airports have also been canceled due to the severe weather.
James Lewis, the prime suspect in the 1982 Tylenol poisonings that left seven people dead, has been found dead in his Cambridge, Massachusetts, home. Police confirmed that Lewis, who was 76 years old, was found unresponsive and his death was determined to be not suspicious. Lewis served more than 12 years in prison for sending an extortion note to Johnson & Johnson, the maker of Tylenol, demanding $1 million. However, he was never charged in the deaths of the seven victims who consumed the cyanide-laced pills.
Lewis had been a person of interest in the case for 40 years, but officials were never able to bring charges against him for the murders. CBS Chicago's investigation uncovered that Lewis had been a prime suspect since the beginning, and there was circumstantial evidence to support his involvement in the poisonings. However, without sufficient evidence, he was never officially accused.
The Tylenol poisonings in 1982 prompted a nationwide panic and led to significant changes in the packaging and safety of over-the-counter medications. Despite Lewis's death, the investigation into the Tylenol murders remains unsolved.
As extreme heat engulfs Phoenix and other parts of Arizona, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon - the monsoon season. The monsoon, a seasonal wind pattern that brings storms and increased moisture to the region, is expected to ramp up this week, potentially providing some relief from the oppressive heat.
According to meteorologists, the best chance for storms will be from Tucson to the south and east this afternoon and evening. These storms could bring lightning, gusty outflows, blowing dust, and brief downpours. The increase in moisture is also expected to result in slightly lower temperatures, with highs today only pushing a few degrees above normal.
While the monsoon may provide some temporary relief, the overall heat wave is still a cause for concern. Parts of Arizona, including Phoenix, are under an excessive heat warning, and temperatures could approach 120 degrees this week. Climate change is making heat waves more intense and likely, with record global ocean temperatures contributing to heat waves over land.
It's important for residents to take precautions to stay safe during this extreme heat event. This includes staying cool, hydrated, and informed about the latest weather conditions. Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, can be life-threatening and may require urgent medical attention.
As the monsoon season continues, Arizonans will be watching closely to see if these storms can provide some relief from the extreme heat.
Soap opera actress Andrea Evans, known for her roles on "One Life To Live" and "The Young And The Restless," has died at the age of 66. The news of her passing was announced by casting director Don Carroll, although details of her cause of death have not been disclosed.
Evans rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s with her portrayal of Tina Lord on the ABC series "One Life To Live." She left the show in 1981 to join the cast of "The Young And The Restless" as Patty Williams. She later returned to "One Life To Live" and was nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 1988.
Throughout her career, Evans also appeared on other popular soap operas such as "The Bold and the Beautiful" and "Passions." She had a thriving career in the industry but took a break from the public eye for nearly 10 years due to the traumatic experience of being stalked. Her stalker's violent actions led her to leave her career temporarily.
Fans and colleagues have been expressing their condolences and remembering Evans for her talent and vibrant personality. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in the soap opera world.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested that he may lift his veto on Sweden's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) if Turkey is admitted to the European Union (EU). This proposal has raised concerns among the US and its European allies about Erdogan's reliability as an ally within multilateral organizations. Despite a breakthrough on Sweden's membership, Erdogan's EU proposition has sparked further skepticism.
During a press conference in Istanbul before leaving for NATO's summit in Lithuania, Erdogan stated, "First, come and open the way for Turkey in the EU; after that we'll open the way for Sweden just like we did for Finland." He also criticized countries that have kept Turkey waiting at the EU's door for almost 50 years.
Erdogan's opposition to Sweden's NATO membership is effectively a veto, as all NATO members must approve new ones. While Hungary's Viktor Orban is also holding out, it is unlikely to be the final roadblock. Erdogan insists that Sweden has not done enough to crack down on individuals with ties to Kurdish militants and other groups that Turkey considers terrorists.
Sweden has been making diplomatic efforts to convince Turkey to approve its NATO bid. Talks between Swedish and Turkish officials have made progress, according to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. However, unresolved issues remain.
The impasse continues, and it remains uncertain whether Sweden will join NATO during the Vilnius summit. Erdogan's proposal raises questions about the reliability of Turkey as an ally within multilateral organizations.
The highly anticipated 2023 Home Run Derby is set to take place tonight, featuring eight powerful sluggers vying for the title. This year's participants include familiar names like Pete Alonso, Mookie Betts, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., as well as first-timers like Luis Robert Jr. and Adolis Garcia. With reigning champion Juan Soto absent from this year's competition, there's an opportunity for a new champion to emerge.
Julio Rodriguez, who impressed in last year's Derby with a second-place finish, returns to prove himself once again. The Mariners outfielder has the advantage of familiarity with T-Mobile Park, where the event is being held. In fact, Rodriguez hit an impressive 32 home runs in the first round of last year's competition.
While rookies like Luis Robert Jr. and Adolis Garcia may seem like long shots, they shouldn't be underestimated. Both players possess immense power and have shown the ability to hit the ball out of the park with ease.
In terms of the longest home run of the night, the over/under line has been set at 483.5 feet. Statcast data suggests that the players have the potential to surpass this mark, especially considering it's a batting practice-type environment with pitchers accommodating their swings.
Overall, the 2023 Home Run Derby promises to be an exciting showdown between some of the game's best power hitters. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.