How do cicadas produce their distinctive, eerie, and incredibly loud sound?
WHEATON, Ill. (AP) — The most noticeable aspect of a cicada invasion is the sound they emit. It’s a constant, eerie, and incredibly loud song that fills one’s ears and drowns out other sounds. Surprisingly, this sound is produced by the smallest of bugs. This song is exclusive to male cicadas and serves as a mating call. The mechanism behind it is similar to how a drum operates. They have a white membrane on their midsection designed to vibrate. With the aid of some air to create a good echo chamber, this results in a loud sound. Upon closer listening, one can distinguish two basic types of cicada calls: a buzzy wave that rises and falls, and a steady whirring hum interspersed with a sound like fffaaaro, fffaaaro.
Chinese soccer fans have been flocking to a food stall run by Singapore’s goalkeeper. Here’s why
Chinese soccer fans have shown their support — both emotionally and financially — for a Singaporean goalkeeper’s food stall following his performance in a recent game, which indirectly contributed to China advancing to the third qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup. Hassan Sunny gained overnight fame on Chinese social media after Singapore’s 3-1 loss to Thailand. China’s advancement depended on Thailand winning by three goals, which Sunny’s saves prevented. Chinese fans have been queuing up at the stall run by him and his wife in Singapore and sending money using the stall’s QR payment code.
Reported birth of a rare white buffalo calf in Yellowstone park fulfills Lakota prophecy
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The rumored birth of a rare white buffalo calf in Yellowstone National Park fulfills a prophecy of the Lakota tribe, signaling better times ahead. However, members of the American Indian tribe caution that it also serves as a reminder that more efforts must be made to protect the earth and its animals. Chief Arvol Looking Horse, the spiritual leader of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota Oyate, and the 19th keeper of the White Buffalo Calf Woman Pipe and Bundle, states that for the Lakota, the birth of a white buffalo calf with a black nose, eyes, and hooves is comparable to the second coming of Jesus Christ.
R.E.M. reunites at Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony, also honoring Timbaland and Steely Dan
NEW YORK (AP) — A reunion of R.E.M. was a surprising highlight at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which also paid tribute to legendary band Steely Dan, R&B and rap producer Timbaland, Nashville hitmaker Hillary Lindsey, and Dean Pitchford, who collaborated with Kenny Loggins on “Footloose.” Performers like SZA, Jason Isbell, Carrie Underwood, Trey Anastasio, and Kevin Bacon brought the songwriters’ work to life during the event at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City Thursday night.
Trump describes Milwaukee as ‘horrible’ right before the city hosts the Republican convention
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Former President Donald Trump reportedly criticized Milwaukee as a “horrible city” during a meeting with Republican lawmakers. The statement, made on Thursday, sparked debate among those present about Trump’s intentions when referring to the predominantly Democratic city slated to host the Republican National Convention next month. Trump made the remarks during a meeting with members of Congress, his first visit to Capitol Hill since leaving office. Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung mentioned on X that Trump “was referring to issues like crime and voter fraud.” President Biden’s campaign responded, saying, “If Donald Trump holds such negative views of Milwaukee, then he should not visit our city.”
Barkov, Bobrovsky, and the Panthers defeat the Oilers 4-3, inching closer to Stanley Cup victory
EDMONTON, Alberta (AP) — Aleksander Barkov and Sergei Bobrovsky played pivotal roles as the Florida Panthers moved within one win of claiming their first Stanley Cup title, securing a 4-3 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 3 of the final. Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday night in Edmonton. Barkov assisted on a goal and scored one himself, while Bobrovsky made 32 saves, showcasing his dominance in the series. The Panthers capitalized on turnovers and quieted an enthusiastic Edmonton crowd, witnessing the first Cup final game with fans in the city in 18 years.
McIlroy showcases top form with a bogey-free 65 to share US Open lead with Cantlay
PINEHURST, N.C. (AP) — Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay are tied for the lead after the first round of the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2. McIlroy displayed exceptional control on a course that demands precision, carding a bogey-free 65 in the afternoon. In the morning, Cantlay recorded six birdies in his 65 round. McIlroy has not had a bogey-free start to a major since his last victory at the British Open 10 years ago. They hold a one-shot lead over Ludvig Aberg, with Bryson DeChambeau shooting a 67 and sharing third place with Matthieu Pavon of France.
The FAA and NTSB are investigating an unusual rolling motion of a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max
WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal officials are conducting an investigation into an uncommon rolling motion observed during a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max flight. The Federal Aviation Administration announced on Thursday that it is collaborating with Boeing and the National Transportation Safety Board on the inquiry. The incident occurred on May 25 during a Southwest flight from Phoenix to Oakland, California. The crew managed to regain control of the plane, landing safely in Oakland with no reported injuries. The FAA reported damage to a unit responsible for the plane’s rudder backup power, noting that other airlines have not reported similar issues.
Historically Black Coconut Grove in Miami nurtured young athletes. Now that legacy is under threat
MIAMI (AP) — West Coconut Grove, a historically Black neighborhood nestled among some of Miami’s most affluent areas, once flourished with sports and economic activity. It fostered the early careers of Olympic gold medalists and football stars such as NFL receiver Amari Cooper and former professional running back Frank Gore. Today, few traces of that proud Black heritage remain. Years of economic neglect followed by recent gentrification have eroded much of the neighborhood’s cultural foundation. Now, this once-vibrant community faces the risk of disappearing altogether.
Dozens of hikers fell ill during visits to waterfalls near the Grand Canyon
Several tourists reported becoming ill after visiting a popular Arizona tourist spot known for its striking blue-green waterfalls. Hikers experienced symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea during a period of extreme heat. The waterfalls are located on the Havasupai Tribe’s reservation, accessible by foot, helicopter, or horseback. Local health authorities received reports of a group of people suffering from gastrointestinal illnesses. The Havasupai Tribe Tourism Office assures regular testing of water from a spring, commonly used by campers during their visits, which has been deemed safe for human consumption.
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