Kathy Willens, groundbreaking Associated Press photographer known for capturing sports and more, passes away at age 74
NEW YORK (AP) — An influential photojournalist who played a significant role in establishing women in the field of photography during her almost 45-year career at The Associated Press has passed away. Kathy Willens, aged 74, died at her Brooklyn home from ovarian cancer, as confirmed by her nephew Ben Willens. Her cancer was diagnosed shortly after her retirement in 2021. Willens was one of the first female staff photographers at The AP, starting in 1976. Over the years, she captured over 90,000 images, covering a wide range of subjects including presidents, Pope John Paul II, protests, wars, sports events, and human tragedies. With a specialization in sports photography, Willens earned recognition from the New York Yankees upon her retirement.
Jarren Duran’s 2-run homer secures a 5-3 win for the AL over the NL in All-Star Game featuring rookie pitcher Skenes
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Boston’s Jarren Duran, the MVP of the All-Star Game, hit a crucial two-run homer in the fifth inning to lead the American League to a 5-3 victory over the National League, marking the AL’s 10th win in the last 11 All-Star Games. Pittsburgh rookie Paul Skenes made an impressive debut, pitching a hitless first inning for the NL and clocking speeds of 100 mph. Shohei Ohtani’s three-run homer in the third inning initially gave the AL a 3-0 lead. The NL fought back with Juan Soto’s two-run double and David Fry’s single to tie the score in the third, but Duran’s homer off Cincinnati’s Hunter Greene secured the win for the AL. Oakland’s Mason Miller earned the win after delivering a 103.6 mph fastball in a perfect inning. Cleveland’s Emmanuel Clase closed the game with two strikeouts in the ninth for the save.
Transformation of The Mirage into part of large Hard Rock renovation after reshaping Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS (AP) — The iconic Mirage hotel-casino is set to disappear from the Las Vegas Strip as it closes its doors for a massive renovation. The resort, known for its tropical island theme, will make way for Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming to undergo a three-year makeover. The new plans include replacing the resort’s famous fire-spewing volcano with a modern guitar-shaped hotel featuring 600 rooms. The rebranded Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas is scheduled to open in 2027.
Country singer Ingrid Andress admits to being drunk during her MLB anthem performance and seeks treatment
Country singer and Grammy nominee Ingrid Andress revealed that she was intoxicated during her criticized rendition of the national anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby. In a statement posted on Tuesday, the singer acknowledged her performance and announced plans to seek treatment. Andress’ a cappella performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” has garnered negative reactions on social media, drawing comparisons to past lackluster renditions by Rosanne Barr and Fergie. The MLB declined to comment on the situation, and Andress’ representative stated that there will be no further comment at this time.
Tenacious D cancels tour following controversial remarks by bandmate Kyle Gass
The comedy rock duo Tenacious D has decided to cancel the remainder of their tour after band member Kyle Gass made controversial remarks regarding an assassination attempt on Donald Trump. During a concert in Sydney, Australia, Gass’ comments were widely circulated on social media. In response, bandmate Jack Black announced on Instagram that the tour will be halted, and all future creative plans are put on hold. Gass issued an apology for his remarks.
Elon Musk announces relocation of SpaceX and X headquarters from California to Texas
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Tech mogul Elon Musk revealed plans to move the headquarters of SpaceX and social media company X from California to Texas. Musk highlighted a new law signed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom as the reason for the relocation, citing that the law prohibits school districts from requiring staff to inform parents about their child’s gender identification changes.
Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of Kobe Bryant, passes away at 69
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant, has died at the age of 69. La Salle University, Bryant’s alma mater, confirmed his passing, mentioning that he recently suffered a massive stroke. Joe Bryant played in the NBA for eight seasons with three different teams, averaging 8.7 points in 606 games.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. apologizes following leak of private phone call with Donald Trump
PHOENIX (AP) — Robert F. Kennedy Jr. issued an apology after a video surfaced online showing part of a private phone conversation between himself and former President Donald Trump. In the video, Trump discusses disproven claims about childhood vaccines, an issue that has garnered support for Kennedy. The video also shows Trump attempting to secure Kennedy’s endorsement for his campaign. Kennedy’s spokesperson confirmed that he has no plans to drop out of the race.
MSNBC host Joe Scarborough expresses surprise and disappointment over show being pulled from air
MSNBC “Morning Joe” host, Joe Scarborough, expressed his surprise and disappointment after the news and talk show was unexpectedly taken off the air. Scarborough mentioned that the explanation provided did not justify the decision to preempt the show with a live news stream. MSNBC did not comment on Scarborough’s remarks.
NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Davis recounts unjust detainment and removal from flight
DENVER (AP) — Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Davis described feeling “humiliated” after being wrongfully handcuffed and removed from a United Airlines flight. Davis explained that he had tapped a flight attendant on the arm, which led to his removal by law enforcement upon landing. United Airlines confirmed that the incident is currently under review and the flight attendant involved has been temporarily removed from duty.
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