Florida’s population surpasses 23 million for the first time as residents move from other states
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The population of Florida exceeded 23 million residents for the first time last year due to an influx of people relocating from other states. According to the state Demographic Estimating Conference, Florida added nearly 359,000 individuals last year. Florida ranks as the third most populous state in the U.S. and has been experiencing a growth rate of 350,000 to 375,000 people annually this decade. However, it is projected that growth in Florida will peak this year and gradually decrease in the following years due to a decline in the number of final baby boomers entering retirement.
Investigation launched into Delta’s flight cancellations and response to global tech outage
U.S. aviation regulators have initiated an investigation into Delta Air Lines, which is still facing challenges in restoring operations more than four days after a technological disruption caused by a faulty software update. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the investigation on social media platform X Tuesday morning to ensure that the airline is complying with regulations and addressing the widespread disruptions affecting passengers. As of Tuesday morning, Delta accounted for a significant number of flight cancellations out of the total 654 flights canceled within, into, or out of the U.S., with 440 cancellations attributed to Delta.
Colombian bullfighters protest new ban on tradition and pledge to continue practicing
CHOACHI, Colombia (AP) — Colombian bullfighter Sebastián Caqueza remains committed to the tradition of bullfighting despite a new law that will ban the practice in Colombia within three years. Caqueza, who became a professional matador at the age of 33, vows to persevere in keeping the centuries-old tradition alive. He acknowledges the challenges ahead in making a living as a bullfighter but expresses his determination to continue participating in bullfighting outside of Colombia even after it becomes illegal. Caqueza emphasizes the significance of bullfighting in his life and states that supporters will continue to organize events in defiance of the ban.
Evacuation order issued due to wildfires near Canada’s Jasper National Park
EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Multiple wildfires have erupted in Canada’s largest national park, prompting the evacuation of visitors and thousands of residents who must navigate mountain roads through darkness, smoke, and ash to seek safety. Images shared on social media depicted a late-night exodus of vehicles from Jasper National Park and the townsite of Jasper, home to 4,700 residents. Located in the province of Alberta, Jasper National Park is a popular tourist destination known for its campgrounds and extensive trail networks.
Jon Stewart urges VA to support veterans exposed to uranium post-9/11
WASHINGTON (AP) — Comedian Jon Stewart is advocating for the Biden administration to address a loophole in veterans aid legislation that excludes some troops who were exposed to high levels of uranium while deployed near Afghanistan following the September 11 attacks. Stewart highlights the health issues faced by troops stationed at Karshi-Khanabad, Uzbekistan, or “K2,” due to contamination. While legislation has provided care for veterans exposed to contaminants in conflicts like Afghanistan and Iraq, those at K2 have not been covered for radiation-related illnesses.
Google reverses decision to remove ad-tracking cookies on Chrome browser
LONDON (AP) — Google has abandoned its plan to eliminate cookies from its Chrome web browser, reversing a four-year effort to phase out the technology used for tracking users for advertising purposes. The decision to retain third-party cookies follows concerns raised by the online advertising industry regarding the potential impact on publishers, advertisers, and the broader online advertising ecosystem. The proposal to retire third-party cookies was part of Google’s privacy enhancement initiative known as Privacy Sandbox.
Maya Rudolph’s return to “SNL” sought after Biden’s election news
NEW YORK (AP) — Speculation has intensified regarding Maya Rudolph reprising her role as Vice President Kamala Harris on “Saturday Night Live” following President Joe Biden’s recent announcement. While Rudolph, an “SNL” alum, has garnered Emmy nominations for her various projects, her potential return to the show remains uncertain as discussions are ongoing. Rudolph portrayed Harris during the 2020 election cycle and earned an Emmy for her portrayal.
Paris Olympics to feature basketball star Victor Wembanyama as a top attraction
PARIS (AP) — Basketball phenom Victor Wembanyama is set to become a prominent figure at the Paris Olympics, distinguishing himself as a sports star in a cultural landscape dominated by food, fashion, and the arts. The 7-foot-4 athlete gained popularity during his NBA rookie season and is anticipated to draw significant attention at the Paris Olympics as the standout name in France’s delegation.
Horses en route to Paris Olympics for equestrian eventing with passports and carry-ons
PARIS (AP) — The U.S. eventing team’s horses embarked on a journey from Pennsylvania to France for the Paris Olympics, traveling via a flight from JFK airport to Luxembourg and then by road to Vittel, their pre-Olympic base camp. Following a period of rest and acclimatization, the horses will undergo Olympic check-in at Versailles Palace before the eventing competition commences, featuring team and individual dressage.
Eminem dethrones Taylor Swift’s No. 1 reign with new album, Stevie Wonder’s record preserved
Eminem’s latest album, “The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce),” debuts at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, ending Taylor Swift’s 12-week stint at the top with “The Tortured Poets Department.” Swift’s record was rivaled only by Whitney Houston’s “Whitney” and Morgan Wallen’s “One Thing at a Time.” However, Stevie Wonder’s iconic “Songs in the Key of Life,” which spent 13 weeks at No. 1 following its debut, maintains the record for the longest consecutive run at the top.
