Kathy Willens, pioneering Associated Press photographer known for capturing a wide range of subjects, including sports, has passed away at the age of 74.
New York (AP) — An innovative photojournalist who played a significant role in establishing women’s presence in the field at The Associated Press for nearly 45 years has died. Kathy Willens, aged 74, passed away at her Brooklyn residence due to ovarian cancer, which was diagnosed shortly after her retirement in 2021. Willens was one of the first female staff photographers at The AP, commencing her journey with the news cooperative in 1976. Over the years, she amassed a collection of more than 90,000 images that encompassed various subjects ranging from presidents and Pope John Paul II to protests, wars, sports achievements, and tragedies. Specializing in sports photography, Willens gained such acclaim that the New York Yankees honored her upon her retirement.
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Jarren Duran of Boston, the MVP of the All-Star Game, delivered a crucial two-run home run in the fifth inning, leading the American League to a 5-3 victory over the National League in the event. The AL secured its 10th win in the last 11 All-Star Games. Pittsburgh newcomer Paul Skenes impressed with a hitless first inning for the NL, showcasing his remarkable pitching skills by reaching 100 mph twice. Shohei Ohtani contributed with a three-run homer in the third inning, giving the AL an initial lead of 3-0. The NL fought back with Juan Soto’s two-run double, followed by David Fry’s single, leveling the score in the third inning before Duran’s critical homer off of Hunter Greene from Cincinnati.
LAS VEGAS (AP) — The iconic Mirage hotel-casino in Las Vegas is set to undergo a transformation as part of a major renovation project by Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. The resort, known for its tropical island theme, will be closing on Wednesday to pave the way for this renovation. During the final days of operation, patrons have been flocking to try and secure $1.6 million in slot machine progressive jackpot winnings, which regulators claim cannot be recorded once the venue shuts its doors. The new owners plan to revamp the resort over a three-year period, replacing the renowned fire-spewing volcano with a modern guitar-shaped hotel featuring 600 rooms. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas is slated to open in 2027.
Country singer and four-time Grammy nominee Ingrid Andress has publicly acknowledged that she was under the influence of alcohol during her performance of the national anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby. Andress, in a statement released on Tuesday, expressed her intent to seek treatment following the widely criticized rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The performance has drawn comparisons to past lackluster renditions by artists like Rosanne Barr and Fergie. The MLB has opted not to comment on the matter, and Andress’s representative has indicated that no further statements will be made at this time.
The comedy rock duo Tenacious D has decided to cancel the remainder of their tour following a controversial remark made by band member Kyle Gass regarding an assassination attempt on Donald Trump. During a concert in Sydney, Gass’s comment in response to a birthday wish was widely circulated on social media, prompting bandmate Jack Black to apologize and announce the suspension of all future creative plans. Gass has expressed regret for his statement.
Billionaire Elon Musk has revealed his plans to relocate the headquarters of SpaceX and X from California to Texas. Musk cited a new California law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom as the primary reason for the move, specifically objecting to regulations that prevent school staff from notifying parents about their child’s gender identification change. SpaceX will be moving to Starbase, Texas, while X is set to transition to Austin from San Francisco.
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant, has passed away at the age of 69 as confirmed by his alma mater, La Salle University. Joe Bryant, who enjoyed a successful NBA career with various teams, suffered a massive stroke recently, according to reports from La Salle coach Fran Dunphy. Known as the No. 14 draft pick by Golden State in 1975, Bryant went on to play for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets, averaging 8.7 points across 606 games.
PHOENIX (AP) — Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has issued an apology subsequent to the leak of a video where he is heard conversing with Donald Trump on a call. In the footage, Trump discusses debunked claims related to childhood vaccines, a subject that has garnered Kennedy a following despite the scientific consensus favoring vaccines. Trump also appears to float the idea of securing Kennedy’s endorsement for his political campaign. Kennedy’s spokesperson has clarified that he has no intention of withdrawing from the race.
DENVER (AP) — Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Davis has expressed feeling “humiliated” after being wrongly handcuffed and escorted off a United Airlines flight over the weekend. Davis recounted an incident where he lightly tapped a flight attendant’s arm, resulting in a misunderstanding that led to his removal from the flight in handcuffs upon landing. Law enforcement eventually apologized for the error and released Davis, while United Airlines has taken precautionary measures by suspending the involved flight attendant pending a review of the situation.
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