US stands by decision that 50 million air bag inflators are dangerous, steps closer to huge recall
DETROIT (AP) — U.S. auto safety regulators confirm the danger of over 50 million airbag inflators and recommend a massive recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s move on Wednesday includes inflators manufactured by ARC Automotive Inc. and another parts supplier, despite opposition from automakers. These inflators, installed in approximately 49 million vehicles from 13 manufacturers, have the potential to explode and cause harm to occupants. The agency has linked these inflators to at least seven injuries and two fatalities in the United States and Canada since 2009.
German city renamed ‘Swiftkirchen’ for Taylor Swift concerts gets 1,400 bids for the signs
BERLIN (AP) — The German city of Gelsenkirchen, which temporarily changed its name to “Swiftkirchen” ahead of Taylor Swift’s three concerts, received around 1,400 bids for the signs bearing the new name. These signs, part of the fan attractions during the concerts on July 17, 18, and 19, were auctioned off, with the highest bid reaching 3,000 euros. The city will inform the top 20 bidders via email and announce the total auction earnings once all payments are received.
Florida school board suspends employee who allowed her transgender daughter to play girls volleyball
PLANTATION, Fla. (AP) — A Florida school employee faces a 10-day suspension from the Broward County school board for permitting her transgender daughter to join the girls’ volleyball team. The board voted 5-4 in favor of the suspension, stating that termination would be too severe. While the employee cannot return to work at Monarch High School, she will be offered an equivalent position with matching pay and responsibilities. Some board members believed that firing her was too extreme, while others argued that she knowingly violated the law. The employee, Jessica Norton, is uncertain about her return to work.
Boar’s Head expands recall to include 7 million more pounds of deli meats tied to listeria outbreak
Boar’s Head, a popular deli meat brand, is recalling an additional 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat products due to an ongoing investigation into a listeria outbreak. The expanded recall covers 71 products manufactured between May 10 and July 29 at the company’s Virginia plant. This follows a previous recall of over 200,000 pounds of sliced deli meats and poultry. The newly recalled items include deli meats intended for slicing at delis and packaged meat and poultry products. The outbreak has resulted in two deaths and numerous illnesses across 13 states.
Simone Biles and Team USA earn ‘redemption’ by powering to Olympic gold in women’s gymnastics
PARIS (AP) — Simone Biles led Team USA to a gold medal in women’s gymnastics, marking the culmination of ‘The Redemption Tour.’ Biles showcased her exceptional talent as the U.S. women’s team clinched victory at Bercy Arena with a total score of 171.296, surpassing Italy and Brazil. This triumph underscores Biles’ unparalleled dominance in gymnastics, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest athletes in Olympic history.
White House chef retires after nearly 30 years, 1st woman and 1st person of color to have the job
WASHINGTON (AP) — Cris Comerford, the White House’s executive chef, has retired after nearly three decades of serving meals to five presidents and their families. Comerford, the first woman and person of color to hold this prestigious position, concluded her tenure with a state dinner honoring Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife. First Lady Jill Biden expressed gratitude for Comerford’s dedicated service in a statement on Tuesday.
A centuries-old secret script called nĂĽshu is empowering young Chinese women
BEIJING (AP) — Chen Yulu is promoting nĂĽshu, a script historically known among women in southern China. Initially developed as a form of communication by women denied formal education, nĂĽshu originated within the women’s quarters of houses in Jiangyong, Hunan province. Today, young advocates like Chen are revitalizing nĂĽshu, fostering supportive communities and showcasing the script in various settings across China, from subway ads to craft fairs.
French police investigating abuse targeting Olympic opening ceremony DJ over ‘Last Supper’ tableau
PARIS (AP) — French authorities have launched a police investigation following complaints from DJ Barbara Butch, who experienced online harassment and threats after performing at the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony. Butch’s lawyer filed a formal complaint alleging hate crimes, including death threats and insults. While the complaint doesn’t identify specific perpetrators, the Paris prosecutor’s office assigned a specialized police unit to probe the matter.
Terrell Davis says United banned him after flight incident. Airline says it was already rescinded
DENVER (AP) — Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Davis received a temporary ban from United Airlines following an incident on July 13, as indicated in an email he shared. However, United officials clarified that the ban had been rescinded weeks earlier and communicated to Davis’ team. Davis alleged mistreatment during the flight and demanded an investigation, but his attorney stated they were unaware of the rescinded ban.
Olympics bet against climate change with Seine swimming. For days, it looked like they would lose
The Paris Olympics faced challenges when heavy rains, a symptom of climate change, threatened the Seine River swimming events. The contaminated water forced delays and cancellations, underscoring the impact of climate change on event planning. Organizers eventually deemed the water safe for swimming, though critics argue that inadequate consideration of climate change contributed to the initial difficulties.
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