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DCLM Daily Manna 4 July 2026 — Lot of The Foolish

DCLM Daily Manna 4 July 2026 Devotional by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi — Lot of The Foolish

TOPIC: Lot of The Foolish (DCLM Daily Manna 4 July 2026)

KEY VERSE: The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise – Proverbs 12:15

TEXT: Proverbs 12:14-20 (KJV)

14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

16 A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

DCLM Daily Manna For Today MESSAGE:

A man who was hard-of-hearing was in the company of new acquaintances. One of the people entertained them with a funny story that sent everyone laughing. They observed that the man was not tickled by the story and suspected that he had a hearing impairment. When he realised what was happening, he belittled the story that caused the laughter, and told them he had a funnier story. They listened to him repeat the same story that had been told earlier. This confirmed the people’s suspicion, and as they laughed at his blunder, he interjected, “Didn’t I tell you I’d tell a funnier story that would cause you more laughter?”

The unwarranted pretence of the hard-of-hearing man is akin to the self-conceit of a fool. Today’s text highlights some of the traits of a foolish person and their bitter consequences. Many things are associated with foolishness, but the worst is that the fool’s way is right in his own eyes. By this, he prevents himself from ever getting wise. Foolery spares no aspect of the fool’s life. He speaks indiscreetly, walks loftily, acts sinfully, and thinks deceitfully and vainly. He brings upon himself unimaginable misery here and hereafter. Conversely, the wise treads cautiously and righteously and experiences true fulfilment, peace, and joy now and in eternity.

Someone is not a fool because of an occasional decision or choice. Sometimes, we make such mistakes. The Bible says, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.” A fool is, therefore, a person who disregards God; a practical atheist who acts as if there is no God. This disposition is at the root of all the deviant behaviours and wicked practices around us. The grim consequences of this indiscretion are too glaring to ignore – premature death, preventable diseases, unfulfilled careers, miserable living, and dishonour, to mention a few.

God invites you to savour His wisdom and the associated truth and righteousness, which result in satisfaction, peace, joy, and fulfilment. True wisdom is not gained from intellectual or academic exertion or exposure through travel and interactions. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). Rudimentary knowledge of God is not enough. The more you understand God’s word, the wiser you become.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Recovery from foolishness starts when a fool realises his foolishness

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Genesis 11-13

Deeper Life Daily Manna For Today 2025 was written by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Rhapsody Of Realities 4 July 2026: Circumcision Is Of The Heart

Rhapsody Of Realities 4 July 2026 By Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (Christ Embassy): Circumcision Is Of The Heart

TOPIC: Circumcision Is Of The Heart (Rhapsody of Realities 4 July 2026)

But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God (Romans 2:29).

Rhapsody Of Realities For Today’s MESSAGE:

God’s definition of your identity isn’t based on outward signs or experiences but on inward realities, the transformation that has taken place in your spirit. The Bible makes it clear: true circumcision isn’t in the flesh; it’s of the heart, in the spirit. This is the mark of the new covenant—an inward transformation that defines who you are before God.

The challenge for many isn’t the absence of this reality but the absence of its consciousness. You may have something, but if you’re not conscious of it, you may never experience or live in its power. Consider David: he knew he was in covenant with God. That consciousness produced uncommon boldness in him to confront and defeat Goliath.

But Saul, who was king at the time and was head and shoulders above everyone else in Israel, had the same covenant but he lacked the consciousness, and therefore, he recoiled in fear against Goliath. The difference wasn’t in what they possessed; it was in what had dawned on their hearts.

That’s the call to you today. You’ve been circumcised in the heart. This isn’t symbolic; it’s a spiritual reality. It’s the token of your oneness with Christ. It’s the seal that you’re the heir of the Abrahamic blessings: “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:29).

This has to dawn on your spirit and be the only perspective from which you reason and view life. Be ever conscious that you carry within you the life of God, the incorruptible, invincible life of divinity. If this isn’t real to you, you may live beneath your privileges; limited in experience, though unlimited in potential. You may be religious, yet ineffective.

But the moment this truth grips your spirit, everything changes: Your thinking aligns with your identity. Your words carry authority. Your life produces results. There’s no seemingly hopeless situation that you can’t change. That’s your heritage as one who’s circumcised in the spirit.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the reality of my new life in Christ. I’m circumcised in the heart, in the spirit, and I live in the full consciousness of this truth. Your life in me is active, and I walk in dominion, growing in grace and in the knowledge of your truth steadily, in Jesus’ Name.

FURTHER STUDY

Genesis 17:12-13 (KJV)
And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed. [13] He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant.

Colossians 2:11 (KJV)
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

Philippians 3:3 (NIV)
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Acts 17:1-15 & Job 3-5

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 13:1-6 & Isaiah 23-24

DIVINE HEALTH CONFESSIONS – 4TH JULY 2026

Christ lives in me; His life and immortality have been unveiled to me! I am a partaker of the God-life, a life that is superior to sickness, disease, death, and the devil. I walk in dominion today, and I dwell in the realm of light and life.

Keep saying it, don’t stop talking it! Remember, you can make your way prosperous with words. Get talking today!

Remember to share with all your friends and loved ones today. Thank you and God bless you richly.

Rhapsody of Realities 2026 Devotional was written by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (D.Sc., D.D.). President of Loveworld Inc. aka Christ Embassy Int’l.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Discover Why Mexico’s £20m Wonderkid Gilberto Mora Is a Key Threat to England and on the Radar of Man City and Real Madrid

Before the World Cup kicked off, the name Gilberto Mora buzzed among aspiring football pundits.

This teenage sensation from Mexico, who England faces this Monday morning at the iconic Azteca Stadium, became a fixture on the front page of every team-by-team guide for the tournament in magazines, websites, and newspapers alike, largely because the co-hosts were placed in Group A. Yet unlike some young talents whose potential remains unfulfilled in such prestigious tournaments, Mora has not only matched the expectations but surpassed them.

At just 17, and donning the jersey for Liga MX club Tijuana, Mora stands as the youngest competitor at the World Cup, yet he shoulders the aspirations of an entire nation.

A number of elite football clubs both in England and across Europe are closely monitoring his development, anticipating a heated contest for his signature. Here’s why he draws such attention…

Mexico's Gilberto Mora, 17, is the youngest player at the World Cup and has forced his way into his country's starting line-up

Mexico’s Gilberto Mora, at just 17, is the youngest player at the World Cup, having earned his place in his country’s starting lineup.

Mora is already carrying the hopes of a nation despite his tender age

Mora is already carrying the hopes of a nation despite his tender age

What’s the fuss about?

A creative midfielder for Club Tijuana, Mora was still only 16 when he was named in Mexico’s starting XI for last year’s Gold Cup final.

‘I believe he can be a key figure for the national team and someone who inspires the next generation,’ said Wolves forward Raul Jimenez, his international team-mate.

Mora is already represented by Rafaela Pimenta, one of the game’s most prominent agents who also handles the affairs of Erling Haaland, former Liverpool manager Arne Slot and others.

‘I always say, if you are really a player, then you sleep with the ball,’ said Mora’s representative in a recent interview. ‘The ball is there, the ball is your best friend. That’s exactly how Gil was as a child, and it’s how he is now.’

Mora is the youngest player at this World Cup, the youngest to ever represent Mexico and was the second-youngest to start a knockout match. The player he was behind? Pele. It feels apt that Mora is stepping up in Estadio Azteca where the great Brazilian had some of his most famous nights.

Mora got his first start of the World Cup in the final group game against the Czech Republic but then kept his place for the Ecuador match in the round of 32. He started on the right of a midfield three but drifted and could cause Nico O’Reilly a few problems on Monday morning. 

When Mexico hosted the World Cup in 1986, their hero was Hugo Sanchez, an outstanding forward for Real Madrid from 1985 to 1992. Mora has some way to go to reach Sanchez’s status but he certainly has the talent to do it. Mora also idolised Cristiano Ronaldo as a child which, allied to Sanchez’s history, makes a move to Real Madrid one day feel inevitable.

Perhaps showing a maturity beyond his years, Mora is said to have a special admiration for some cult heroes of the past including Jorge ‘El Magico’ Gonzalez, who was once a virtuoso player for El Salvador.

England's left-back Nico O'Reilly will have to have his wits about him in the Azteca when he comes up against Mexico's wonderkid

England’s left-back Nico O’Reilly will have to have his wits about him in the Azteca when he comes up against Mexico’s wonderkid

‘I believe he can be a key figure for the national team and someone who inspires the next generation,’ said Wolves forward Raul Jimenez, his international team-mate

‘I believe he can be a key figure for the national team and someone who inspires the next generation,’ said Wolves forward Raul Jimenez, his international team-mate

Who does he compare to?

Tijuana coach Juan Carlos Osorio reckons the man they all call ‘Gil’ is like the great Spanish midfielder Andres Iniesta.

‘He knows how to move with and without the ball, he reminds me of Iniesta,’ said Osorio recently. ‘We decided to play him as an inverted winger, so he could drift inside and show his talent. He touched the ball four or five times and I thought, “This kid is different”.’

A year ago, after Mora helped Mexico win the Concacaf Gold Cup, Tijuana president Jorge Alberto said: ‘Gil is only 16 and already he is competing with men at the highest level and making an impact for his country.

‘To see a player who grew up here, at our club, at Tijuana, go and perform like that – it’s special. It’s pride for me personally, pride for the club, and pride for the city.’

Who wants him?

The Tottenham-born rapper Avelino watched Mora play when doing a gig abroad and got straight on the phone to his friend Carlton Cole, the ex-England striker who is now loans and pathway manager at West Ham.

So it is fair to say the Hammers are on the tail of Mora but, with all due respect, they will not stand a chance.

All the usual suspects, from Real Madrid to both Manchester clubs, Chelsea and Liverpool are aware of the player’s abilities. His contract is said to include a £20m release clause, according to Mexican media outlets.

Given what we have heard and seen about him, that seems like a bargain.

Mora takes on the Ecuador defence during his country's 2-0 round of 32 victory in Mexico City

Mora takes on the Ecuador defence during his country’s 2-0 round of 32 victory in Mexico City

Mora is already the centre of attention around the Mexico camp

Mora is already the centre of attention around the Mexico camp

What else do we know about him?

Just before the World Cup, Mora was asked how he would celebrate if Mexico won the World Cup. ‘Yeah, with an ice cream,’ he replied. ‘Vanilla.’

Apparently he reads books on the way to matches to help him focus. Striker Santiago Gimenez said on Instagram recently: ‘I glanced over and saw Mora reading a book, that’s when I thought, “This guy is different”.’

After the Gold Cup win last summer, Mora did not even have his phone at the party so he could remain in the moment and not get lost in taking selfies and videos. Agent Pimenta went to the family home the next morning to speak to the family, but the player was missing. He was at his cousin’s house playing on the PlayStation.

It appears he takes success in his stride and arrogance is not a problem.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Star-Studded Wedding Wraps Up at Madison Square Garden with a Memorable Night

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce celebrated their wedding in style, with an ensemble of top-tier celebrities reveling late into the morning hours.

Among the last to depart the star-studded event at Madison Square Garden around 1:00 a.m. on Saturday were Selena Gomez, Gigi Hadid, and Bradley Cooper.

Also seen leaving around the same time were Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid, player Chris Jones, and former teammate Khalen Saunders—who shares a connection through his brother Kam, a dancer on Swift’s “Eras” Tour.

Initially reported by Page Six on Friday, both Swift and Kelce, aged 36, hosted an opulent matrimonial adventure in New York City, graced by celebrities such as Dakota Johnson, Ethan Hawke, Karlie Kloss, and others.

The “Blank Space” singer had a strong support network in attendance, including longtime friend Abigail Anderson, along with Selena Gomez, Gigi Hadid, and Ed Sheeran, adding to the event’s glamour.

Doors opened at 3:30 p.m. ET, with cocktail hour beginning at 4 p.m. ET.

Celebs were spotted leaving MSG at various times throughout the night.

Tom Brady was one of the first A-listers who we spotted leaving the party early, around 10 p.m. ET, followed shortly behind by George Stephanopoulos.

Other celebs who made earlier exits included Chris Rock, Michael Strahan, Stephen A. Smith, Steven Spielberg, Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid, Hugh Grant and Jessica Alba.


Here’s latest on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding at MSG:


Swift — who wore a Christian Dior wedding dress — reportedly performed at her own wedding. Earlier in the evening, a man seemingly working the event was overheard saying she was already at the venue and would be performing with Stevie Nicks and Paul McCartney, per the New York Times.

Page Six previously reported that Swift and Kelce invited approximately 1,000 wedding guests to their celebration, where they would be treated to performances by Nicks, McCartney and country singer Tim McGraw.

The couple held a much more intimate rehearsal dinner Thursday, inviting 100 of their closest friends and family. Guests included Gomez, Jack Antonoff, Hadid, Cooper and more.

“Guests ate, drank and hung out on a pink carpet,” a spy told Page Six of the rehearsal dinner.

The menu was catered by one of Taylor’s favorite restaurants, Sartiano’s. Another spy told us the venue’s decor featured a pink chandelier, which seemed to be the color scheme, as the outside of MSG was lit up in blush pink lights.

Page Six exclusively reported Thursday that Swift and Kelce had already wed ahead of their big MSG bash in a much more private affair.

Sources told us the couple exchanged vows in front of a tiny group of loved ones.

“They are already married,” one source in the know insisted.

Discover the Star-Studded Lineup: Which A-List Celebrities Are Backing Andy Burnham?

Andy Burnham may soon be stepping into the role of the UK’s Prime Minister, following Keir Starmer’s recent resignation. The Labour Party has outlined a schedule for a leadership race, but currently, there appears to be a strong consensus for Burnham as the only viable candidate. Sources suggest that the party is rallying behind the newly elected MP for Makerfield to lead them forward.

Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, along with Housing Secretary Steve Reed, who had been loyal supporters of Starmer, have both indicated that Labour MPs are favoring a direct move to appointing Burnham without a competitive race. Burnham himself laid out an ambitious vision for the economy and greater local governance during a pivotal speech in Manchester on Monday, June 29.

Yet, as soon as Burnham finished his address, he faced a barrage of criticism. Among the most vocal was Jeremy Clarkson, who expressed concern over Burnham’s potential impact on the British public. On the platform X, a user queried, “Do you think Andy Burnham will be worse than Starmer?” The 66-year-old automotive enthusiast tersely replied, “Yes.”

Despite the criticism, Burnham is not without high-profile supporters as he makes his bid for leadership. Several celebrities have thrown their weight behind the contender, brightening his prospects for a potential move to 10 Downing Street.

Steve Coogan

2026 BAFTA Television Awards With P&O Cruises - Arrivals

Among those cheering for Burnham is the actor Steve Coogan, renowned for his portrayal of Alan Partridge. During Burnham’s recent campaign for the newly elected MP position, Coogan, 60, featured in a video with Burnham, who confessed to experiencing a deficit in campaign posters and noted that his rivals had secured celebrity endorsements. Coogan’s support is a significant boost for Burnham, reflecting his appeal across various spheres.

Coogan then appears in frame, joking: “Andy wanted a slightly classier celebrity to endorse his campaign, but he had to put up with me instead.”

(Image: Getty)

Carol Vorderman

2026 Women's Football Awards - Arrivals

Another celebrity to voice her support for Burnham is none other than Labour supporter, Carol Vorderman. The former Countdown star, 65, reacted to his win in Makerfield in an Instagram video.

She commented: “I’m so happy… Burnham wins resoundingly by about 55% of the vote. Isn’t that fantastic?

“Congratulations, Makerfield. As someone who came from the North – and I’m not a South East bird, I’ve lived in Bristol nearly 20 years now –

it’s like, finally, we’re gonna have someone who thinks about places outside the South East. And it’s just gonna be marvellous, Andy Burnham for prime minister.”

(Image: Getty)

Experts Raise Alarms Over Advancements at Iran’s Underground Nuclear Facility

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A prominent American research institute specializing in Iran’s nuclear activities has raised concerns this week about an underground site located in Iran’s Zagros Mountains that remains unexamined by international inspectors.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors have not been granted access to this clandestine site, referred to as Pickaxe Mountain.

This heavily secured facility brings into question Iran’s commitment to the memorandum of understanding (MOU) established with the Trump administration. In response, the United States and Israel initiated Operation Epic Fury on February 28, 2026, aimed at undermining Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure.

Experts from the Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) suggest that halting operations at Pickaxe Mountain and permitting IAEA inspections would serve as a crucial step to gauge Iran’s readiness to end its longstanding evasive behaviors.

Pickaxe Mountain tunnel complex in Natanz

A satellite image provides a view of the tunnel complex at Pickaxe Mountain in Natanz. (Vantor/Handout via Reuters)

Spencer Faragasso, a senior fellow with the group who covers Iran, North Korea, illicit trade, and nuclear issues, wrote on X: “Important update by us at @TheGoodISIS. The ongoing work at Pickaxe Mountain is deeply concerning. This work has continued steadily since at least 2020. In my view, this is a hedge by Iran in case negotiations fail — they will then have a nuclear facility in a late stage of construction. We assessed that Pickaxe is likely large enough to hold an enrichment plant.”

Iran has used facilities at Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan to enrich uranium, the key material for a nuclear weapons program.

Faragasso added, “If Iran is serious about negotiating, it should halt construction at Pickaxe Mountain as a token of good faith. But what can be expected from a regime as brutal and conniving as Iran’s?”

The institute posted a detailed analysis of new satellite imagery from late June 2026 showing continued activity at Pickaxe Mountain. 

Vice President JD Vance in Switzerland

Vice President JD Vance prior to a meeting between the United States, Iran, Pakistan and Qatar at the Bürgenstock luxury hotel complex overlooking Lake Lucerne, Switzerland, June 21, 2026. (Fabrice Coffrini/Keystone via AP)

The institute wrote that “at Pickaxe Mountain, vehicle activity can be seen on the roads leading to the open set of Western tunnel portals, indicating that construction inside the tunnel complex, as well as hardening of the tunnel entrance, are ongoing. The MOU signed between the United States and Iran requires that Iran maintain the status quo, which should prohibit construction at any nuclear-related facility, including Pickaxe Mountain.”

In late June, the IAEA declined to answer a detailed News Media query on whether it would seek access to the Pickaxe Mountain facility. According to the satellite imagery obtained by the institute, “at Natanz, little activity can be seen. The access points to the below-ground enrichment halls have not been repaired. 

“The personnel entrances remain destroyed, and vehicle entrances remain severely damaged. A single vehicle can be seen on the road outside of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP), which was destroyed in June 2025 but was later covered by Iran.”

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi

As U.S.-Iran talks opened Sunday in Switzerland, and a dispute over who controls and monitors billions of dollars in potentially unfrozen Iranian assets emerged. (Fabrice Coffrini/Pool via Reuters)

The institute also reported, “As of June 29, 2026, there is no observed activity at Esfahan. The tunnel portals remain backfilled with dirt.” ISIS tracked developments at the Fordow site, buried inside a mountain north of the holy Islamic city of Qom.

“At Fordow, as earlier reported by the Institute, between May 10 and May 18, Iran added passive defensive measures in the form of earthen/rocky mounds and other objects on the roads leading to the tunnel entrances. The alternating placements of the piles/objects are very precise, which creates a series of chicanes, indicating they are not intended as obstructions but rather to prevent rapid ingress and egress by any vehicle toward the tunnels.”

The institute added, “The June 21 Vantor image shows that the objects along the road remain there. The tunnel portals also remain backfilled with dirt” at Fordow.

News Media sent questions to the State Department and the Iranian Mission to the United Nations.

Washington DC Cancels Iconic 4th of July Parade Amid Intense Heat Wave Concerns

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In Washington DC, the highly anticipated National Independence Day Parade, meant to mark America’s 250th anniversary, has been called off due to an intense heat wave enveloping the region.

The announcement of the parade’s cancellation was made on Friday evening via Facebook. Organizers expressed their regret, highlighting the ‘extreme heat’ conditions affecting the capital.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has released an extreme heat warning for Washington DC and nearby regions. This warning is set to last from Friday at 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Saturday. For further details, you can view the official NWS report here.

The NWS cautions that the heat index is anticipated to reach a dangerously high level, ranging between 110 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

NBC4 has reported that Washington DC experienced a record-breaking temperature of 112 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday. Further coverage can be accessed by visiting their site here.

The National Independence Day Parade was set to feature performers from across the US marching down Independence Avenue. It was scheduled for 10.30am Saturday.

Organizers of the parade explained that it was canceled after ‘extensive consultation’ with the DC government, the National Park Service and Freedom 250.

They wrote that the decision was made with ‘careful consideration of the safety of our participants, spectators, and staff as the top priority.’

The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning for parts of Washington DC from 10am Friday through 9pm Saturday

The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning for parts of Washington DC from 10am Friday through 9pm Saturday

Organizers for the National Independence Day Parade on America's 250th anniversary said the event would be canceled due to the 'extreme heat' engulfing the DC area

Organizers for the National Independence Day Parade on America’s 250th anniversary said the event would be canceled due to the ‘extreme heat’ engulfing the DC area

The National Independence Day Parade, which is held annually, was scheduled for 10.30am Saturday before the abrupt cancellation on Friday night

The National Independence Day Parade, which is held annually, was scheduled for 10.30am Saturday before the abrupt cancellation on Friday night

The National Independence Day Parade is celebrated annually as part of Fourth of July celebrations in DC.

It was set to be live streamed on Facebook and C–SPAN before the sudden cancelation credited to the blistering hot weather.

It is not the only event in DC that has been impacted around the holiday weekend.

On Friday, the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, which is set to run until July 10, was temporarily closed until 5pm.

The DC Fire and EMS Department treated multiple people for ‘heat–related illnesses’ at the fair on Friday, BBC News reported.

A spokesperson for the department told the outlet that the people had been treated due to the ‘record–breaking temperatures.’

The DC fire department added that they were expecting a ‘very busy weekend’ for the Fourth of July, though that was not necessarily atypical compared to other years.

‘We know that there are going to be heat–related illnesses on and off the Mall, and we encourage our residents and visitors to take precautions if you’re going to be out in the heat,’ the department told the Washington Post.

The Great American State Fair on the National Mall temporarily closed on Friday until 5pm due to the heat

The Great American State Fair on the National Mall temporarily closed on Friday until 5pm due to the heat

Washington DC hit a record high temperature of 112 F on Friday, which could be even higher over the holiday weekend

Washington DC hit a record high temperature of 112 F on Friday, which could be even higher over the holiday weekend

The DC Fire and EMS Department said it had treated multiple people for 'heat–related illnesses' at the fair

The DC Fire and EMS Department said it had treated multiple people for ‘heat–related illnesses’ at the fair

President Donald Trump is among those to have noted the sweltering temperatures expected Saturday, teasing an extensive address despite that.

‘On July 4th, it’s going to be approximately 107 degrees out, and I’m going to go, and I’m going to make a really long speech,’ he said on Wednesday.

‘Just to show that I can do anything,’ Trump added. ‘It’s gonna be 107.’

Trump is scheduled to speak at 9.45pm Saturday at the Salute to America event, according to the Freedom 250 website.

The President’s address will be followed by what is being touted as the world’s largest fireworks display. That is currently scheduled for 10.30pm.

More than 850,000 fireworks will be launched from ten sites across DC, according to Politico.

Freedom 250, which is organizing the event, has urged guests to utilize the free hydration stations on site and drink plenty of water.

Parade organizers said the event had been canceled after 'extensive consultation' with the DC government, the National Park Service and Freedom 250 (Photo of DC Mayor Muriel Bowser)

Parade organizers said the event had been canceled after ‘extensive consultation’ with the DC government, the National Park Service and Freedom 250 (Photo of DC Mayor Muriel Bowser)

Trump is set to speak at 9.45pm on Saturday at the Salute to America event, followed by a massive fireworks display

Trump is set to speak at 9.45pm on Saturday at the Salute to America event, followed by a massive fireworks display

Event organizers have said that air-conditioned cooling buses and cooling tents will be available, while urging guests to remain hydrated throughout the day

Event organizers have said that air-conditioned cooling buses and cooling tents will be available, while urging guests to remain hydrated throughout the day

Air–conditioned cooling buses and cooling tents will also be available during the day, the organization said Friday on X.

Guests have been asked to arrive at the Washington Monument no more than one hour before 5pm in order to minimize prolonged exposure to the suffocating heat. 

In total, more than 185 million Americans were under heat alerts due to the triple-digit temperatures on Friday, according to CBS News.

This Fourth of July could be the hottest one on record for millions, prompting safety concerns, as well as other cancelations.

In Philadelphia, the city’s Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade was scrapped because of the heat, according to FOX 29.

More than 50 marching bands and about two dozen floats were meant to participate before the cancelation.

Friday’s highs in Philadelphia topped 100 degrees, with a feel like temperature around 112.

About 185 million Americans were under heat alerts on Friday because of the scorching temperatures

About 185 million Americans were under heat alerts on Friday because of the scorching temperatures 

Philadelphia, which saw temperatures topping 100 degrees on Friday, also canceled its Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade

Philadelphia, which saw temperatures topping 100 degrees on Friday, also canceled its Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade 

Parts of New York City were asked to conserve energy because of the massive onslaught of heat

Parts of New York City were asked to conserve energy because of the massive onslaught of heat

New York City hit its hottest temperature ever recorded at midnight on Friday, according to FOX Weather. 

New York’s electric grid was under heavy strain because of the heat, with energy giant Con Edison asking some customers in Queens and Brooklyn to conserve energy.  

Neighboring New Jersey saw all of its counties placed under an excessive heat warning on Friday, according to WUSA9.

Most of Massachusetts and Connecticut were also given the same warning, while huge parts of Rhode Island and Maryland could also expect to be blasted by the heat.

In Delaware, the Bethany Beach Independence Day parade was canceled due to the heart, WDEL reported. 

The Daily Mail has reached out to the National Independence Day Parade for further comment.

America Marks 250 Years with Fireworks, Heat, and Political Discourse

WASHINGTON – As the United States readies itself to celebrate its 250th anniversary of independence, the nation finds itself amidst a heated wave both politically and meteorologically. With the mercury rising and intensifying divisions, millions are experiencing extreme temperatures as the country kicks off the celebratory events nationwide this Saturday.

The milestone, which commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence—a powerful symbol of democratic ideals—will be recognized through a variety of events. President Donald Trump is set to headline the events in Washington, delivering remarks at the National Mall before the anticipated grand-scale fireworks display that promises to illuminate the capital. On Friday, Trump addressed a crowd at Mount Rushmore, warning of perceived threats of communism, all while the monumental visages of four key presidents provided a historic backdrop.

In other parts of the country, fireworks will light up the skies over Chicago’s Navy Pier and New York City, where festivities comparable to New Year’s Eve will take place, including a midnight ball drop. Bristol, Rhode Island, a town renowned for hosting the oldest annual Independence Day celebrations since 1785, continues its tradition. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Queen Latifah steps into the spotlight as host of a concert showcasing performances by The Smashing Pumpkins, Chris Stapleton, and a featured guest appearance by Chaka Khan.

The anticipation for this historic celebration has been mounting all year, offering a moment for Americans to contemplate their journey from being colonial subjects to a dominant global power. However, meticulously planned events have faced possible disruption, with the East Coast enduring unusually high temperatures, often exceeding 100 degrees, forcing some festivities to adapt or cancel altogether.

Across many regions, the heat is undeniably shaping the holiday weekend.

In Washington, the Great American State Fair was closed for several hours Friday afternoon during the worst of the heat. The city’s Independence Day parade scheduled for Saturday was canceled.

To the chagrin of many on the East Coast, the weather was downright pleasant on the other side of the country. The Pacific Northwest enjoyed temperatures in the 60s on Friday with a few light showers.

In the Seattle suburb of Issaquah, Megan Kurowski, 31, brought her two dogs to the dog park so they could get some exercise before she went to work. Kurowski said she was feeling positive about America’s 250th anniversary and was planning a possible paddleboard to watch the fireworks.

“Everyone’s just, from what it seems, been pretty excited about celebrating 250 years,” she said.

Other American pastimes are overlapping with the holiday.

More than a dozen Major League Baseball games are on the schedule for Saturday. The World Cup, being hosted in the U.S. for the first time in 32 years, will have matches in Houston and Philadelphia on Saturday following a nail-biter overtime win by Argentina over Cape Verde on Friday outside Miami. Pop culture enthusiasts can obsess over Taylor Swift’s Friday wedding to football player Travis Kelce at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. And Madonna released her 15th studio album, a collection of dance tracks.

An uneasy nation gets ready to celebrate

The celebrations are unfolding against the backdrop of a deep divide that has been expanding for years, visible in everything from political expression to cultural norms to age-old questions over race, class and immigration.

At Mount Rushmore on Friday, Trump spoke of communism as a “mortal threat to American liberty.”

“It is the greatest threat to our country, including World War I, World War II, Pearl Harbor or even 9/11,” he said.

Without naming Trump, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a Democrat who is also a democratic socialist and recently backed several successful congressional candidates in their primaries, appeared to reference Trump during a speech Friday.

“Those ideals upon which our nation was built — they are strong enough to endure any authoritarian regime, but only if we reach for them,” he said.

Ahead of the holiday, auto technician Joe Fuqua-Bejarano in Topeka, Kansas, sized up “what makes us awesome” as a people. It is clearly not the politics, in his view, but rather resilience.

“We’ve just all got to find unity somewhere, whether that’s in laughter or perseverance, and keep everybody cool,” he said from the fireworks stand where he is doing a booming business as a side hustle.

Jerry Chin of Newcastle, Washington, said he wasn’t aware that the U.S. was celebrating its 250th anniversary and planned to stay low-key around the holiday. He and his wife generally skip the fireworks and instead stay home with their fearful dogs to keep them calm.

“America’s a great place,” he said, “but there are some concerns.”

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Associated Press writers Martha Bellisle in Seattle and John Hanna in Topkea, Kansas contributed to this report.

Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Chilling Crime: Woman Dissects Wealthy Neighbor’s Corpse in Gruesome Estate Theft

Federal prosecutors unveil a disturbing tale involving Caroline Herrling, a woman who not only proved to be a truly awful neighbor but was also concealing a grim secret. Known to some as “Carrie Phenix,” Herrling’s actions unveil a chilling narrative that has shocked many.

The shocking revelation started when Herrling and her associates stumbled upon the body of a wealthy property owner from Sherman Oaks inside his dilapidated house. Instead of alerting the authorities, Herrling took a macabre turn and transported the deceased to her West Los Angeles apartment, as detailed in a statement issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Once there, she attempted to dissolve the body using chemicals, all the while scheming to claim the late man’s estate for herself. This heinous act was part of a broader pattern of exploiting “vulnerable victims,” according to prosecutors.

Neighbor Bella Baskin, reflecting on the immense shock she felt, shared her disbelief in Netflix’s Worst Neighbor Ever. “I couldn’t believe that I was only 50 feet away from her chopping up a body,” she said. “I never in a million years thought Carrie would be capable of all the things she did.”

Who Was Caroline Herrling?

Initially, her neighbor Bella Baskin thought of Carrie as the perfect neighbor—approachable yet not overly intrusive. This perception dramatically shifted once the stark reality of Carrie’s hidden life came to light.

“Carrie’s apartment was across from me, one apartment down. She had a vibe of being business casual,” Bella remembered in the docuseries. “She seemed very smiley and cheery and very normal.”

But by 2020—as they were all stuck at home during the COVID pandemic—Carrie’s neighbors noticed some unusual changes in her personality.

“She started to have dark circles under her eyes,” Bella said. “She started wearing, you know, hoodies. She didn’t make eye contact. She wasn’t friendly or talkative anymore.”

According to Bella, Carrie also began to hang out with “suspicious characters,” who often came into the small apartment building at all hours of the night. Carrie also began hosting regular parties, blaring loud music throughout the night and making loud noises. 

During one late night party, Carrie’s neighbor Ashley Lee allegedly overheard her through the wall talking about keeping meth in the apartment.

“My automatic thought was just fear,” Ashley remembered. “I did not feel safe.” 

Who Was Charles Wilding? 

What Carrie’s neighbors didn’t know was that she would soon become embroiled in a disturbing missing persons investigation.

As LAPD homicide detective Mark O’Donnell explained in the docuseries, he received a call from a woman in October 2021 concerned about the welfare of Charles Wilding, the sole heir of a multi-million dollar estate. She feared that Charles may have been the victim of foul play. 

O’Donnell learned that officers were initially dispatched to Charles’ Sherman Oaks home months earlier, in December 2020, after his worried neighbors hadn’t seen him for several days. 

Police went to Charles’ home and found Carrie at the property. She told them in body camera footage replayed in the docuseries that Charles was staying in Carpinteria and she had been named the “trustee of the estate.” 

Officers went inside the disheveled home to look for Charles, but didn’t find him. Now, months later, there was still no sign of the elderly man. 

Concerned, O’Donnell said he reached out to Carrie and asked her to help him get in touch with the missing man. 

Although a man claiming to be Charles did call him, per Worst Neighbors Ever, Carrie could never produce Charles in person, causing authorities to dig deeper.

Meanwhile, Carrie was evicted and moved into a West Hills home she claimed to be running as a sober living house—yet neighbors reported frequent visitors, loud music and a yard full of trash.

After investigators discovered she’d used money from her fraud schemes to purchase the property, they served a search warrant at the home and made a chilling discovery, according to the docuseries.

“It almost seemed like something out of a movie scene,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Brown said. “She had 16 firearms including assault rifles ziptied to her bedroom closet door. Many of them loaded and several of them being untraceable ghost guns.”

Investigators said they also found heroin, methamphetamine, police badges, FBI identification cards and numerous financial documents connected to Wilding’s estate. 

What Happened to Charles Wilding?

They also found evidence that Carrie had been involved in defrauding other estates, in what federal prosecutors described as a “near-$3.9 million scheme.”

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Carrie and her co-conspirators “preyed on vulnerable victims by looking for properties in affluent neighborhoods that appeared unkempt.”

It was during one such mission that her co-conspirator Matthew Jason Kroth—who went by Jason—told investigators in an interrogation replayed in Worst Neighbor Ever that he stumbled upon Charles’ home and broke in, only to discover him already dead inside. 

“I smelled a smell. It was bad,” Jason said. “And then I kinda shined the light up and I see old what’s-his-face.”

Prosecutors believe Charles died sometime in September 2020, per the statement, although the exact cause of death remains unknown.

Rather than report the death, Jason reached out to Carrie, who decided to gain control of his finances and estate by forging documents that gave herself power of attorney. 

“Herrling and her co-conspirators moved the victim’s body to her apartment in West Los Angeles, where they attempted to dissolve his body in a concoction of chemicals, investigators found,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. “When that did not work, Herrling and her co-conspirators dismembered the body, placed the pieces in vacuum-sealed bags and moved the victim’s body to the Bay Area. Another member of the conspiracy who owned a sailboat assisted in disposing of the mutilated remains of the deceased victim into San Francisco Bay, the investigation revealed.”

Where is Caroline Herrling Now?

After the fraud scheme was exposed, Carrie pled guilty in March 2023 to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She was sentenced to 240 months in a federal prison.

When handing down her sentence, U.S. District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong remarked that rather than seeing Charles as a “man and a human being” she saw him more as a “cash register,” prosecutors said.

She’s currently being housed at the Federal Medical Center Carswell in Fort Worth, Texas, according to prison records reviewed by Oxygen.

Where is Matthew Jason Kroth Now?

Jason pled guilty in October 2023 to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He was sentenced to 200 months in federal prison, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California.

He remains in custody at FCI Victorville in Victorville, California, according to prison records.

Carrie’s former neighbors were shocked to discover her criminal acts.

“In hindsight,” Bella said, “now I realize that you never really know who your neighbors.”

Shocking Outcome for Man Who Boasted of Drugging and Filming Woman Revealed

Inset: Thomas Spencer (Ada County (Idaho) Sheriff’s Office). Background: Ada County (Idaho) District Court (Google Maps).

An Idaho resident has received a life sentence after boasting about administering drugs to a woman to facilitate sexual abuse, which he then recorded and distributed to an online chat group.

Thomas Spencer, aged 51, will spend the rest of his life in prison following a guilty plea to charges of rape on June 29.

The Ada County Prosecutor’s Office revealed in a press statement that Spencer was an active participant in a Telegram community that exchanged videos showcasing the drugging and sexual assault of unconscious victims.

Throughout the investigation, it was discovered that Spencer had shared at least eight videos depicting repeated assaults on a female victim, with hundreds more videos coming to light during the inquiry.

“Can’t count how many times I’ve done that!” he wrote in one post, according to prosecutors.

Spencer had apparently been sharing this type of content since 2019. In his posts to the group on the encrypted chat platform, Spencer used the victim’s name when he boasted about assaulting her.

“In another message, he described drugging her specifically so he could violate her without her knowledge or consent,” the press release said, adding that Spencer had remained active in the group until his arrest.

When shown the videos, the victim recognized herself in the footage, but she had no memory of what happened to her, the press release said.

“She described waking up after drinking wine with unexplained headaches and pain consistent with sexual assault, and recalled once confronting Spencer after noticing he had taken photos of her,” the press release said.

District Judge Annie McDevitt called the crimes “unfathomable,” the prosecutor’s office said.

“The conduct in this case is horrific,” she told the defendant. “I don’t think there’s a word strong enough to describe how egregious your behavior was.”

The victim spoke at the sentencing hearing, describing the heavy toll Spencer’s assaults have taken. She told the court that she has experienced sleeplessness and fear, and has struggled to come to terms with the realization that she had been manipulated for years, the press release said.

“I ask the court to consider the lasting and irreversible impact his crime has had on my life and my children’s lives,” the victim said, according to the press release.

Prosecutor Jan Bennetts praised the victim for speaking out.

“I commend this victim for her incredible courage,” Bennetts said in the press release. “This wasn’t a stranger who attacked her in a moment of opportunity — this was someone she trusted completely, who chose to violate her again and again, then shared it with strangers for their entertainment.” The sentence, Bennetts said, “reflects just how serious that betrayal of trust was, and sends a clear message that this conduct will not be tolerated.”

The prosecutor’s office thanked federal law enforcement for partnering in the case.

“This case was only uncovered because the FBI was watching for exactly this kind of exploitation, and Meridian Police moved quickly once the tip came in,” the press release said. “The Ada County Prosecutor’s Office is grateful for that partnership — without it, this victim may never have known what happened to her.”

In exchange for the guilty plea, four additional counts of rape, as well as a count of video voyeurism and delivery of a controlled substance, were dismissed. Spencer may be eligible for parole after serving 40 years.