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Massachusetts DOJ Uncovers $1.4M Benefits Fraud: 11 Suspected Illegal Immigrants Among 15 Arrested

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Massachusetts DOJ Uncovers $1.4M Benefits Fraud: 11 Suspected Illegal Immigrants Among 15 Arrested

This week, Massachusetts found itself in the crosshairs of a sweeping nationwide initiative aimed at clamping down on welfare fraud. Federal authorities announced the arrest of 15 individuals, among whom 11 are reportedly illegal immigrants. These arrests are tied to allegations of siphoning more than $1.4 million from programs funded by American taxpayers.

The accused are said to have fraudulently tapped into a range of assistance programs. These include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), MassHealth, Social Security disability benefits, housing aid, and unemployment payments, as reported by the Department of Justice.

At a press conference held in Boston, Acting Assistant Attorney General Colin MacDonald expressed concern, highlighting that the majority of the arrested individuals are suspected illegal immigrants. “Alarmingly, 11 of the 15 charged defendants are suspected illegal aliens, some of whom assumed stolen identities to steal these taxpayer-funded benefits and avoid detection,” MacDonald stated.

Among the accused, Heriberto Rodriguez from Framingham, Massachusetts, stands out. He allegedly orchestrated a scheme that defrauded MassHealth, Social Security, housing, and SNAP benefits, amounting to over $546,000. Other suspects are accused of securing tens of thousands of dollars in government aid through fraudulent declarations, identity theft, and other deceptive tactics.

The news conference, also attended by U.S. Attorney Leah Foley, underscored the ongoing efforts by federal authorities to combat welfare fraud and protect taxpayer resources.

MacDonald argued the alleged crimes did more than drain public coffers, saying some Americans were effectively locked out of programs intended to help them because their identities had already been used by fraudsters.

“In some cases, the victims of these crimes, the rightful beneficiaries of these funds, could not access benefits they needed,” MacDonald said. “American citizens were boxed out of these programs because illegal aliens took their names to then take their money.”

A a podium with the Department of Justice seal in Washington, D.C.

Officials said the arrests are “just the beginning of our work” as the nationwide fraud crackdown continues under the Trump administration. (Cheriss May/NurPhoto via Getty Images, File)

U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said the arrests represent only the latest phase of a broader federal effort targeting fraud across Massachusetts.

MASSACHUSETTS AUDITOR TAKES TRANSPARENCY FIGHT TO HIGH COURT AFTER ALLEGED $12M FRAUD UNCOVERED

According to Foley, federal prosecutors have charged more than 65 defendants in fraud-related cases since January, alleging more than $56 million in losses. Combined with previously announced cases, authorities say they have charged roughly $63 million in alleged fraud losses over the last seven months.

Foley described the cases announced Thursday as evidence of “unchecked, unbridled, rampant fraud” across the Commonwealth.

Several Social Security cards placed on a $100 bill.

Some defendants are accused of fraudulently obtaining Social Security disability payments, officials said. (iStock)

“There isn’t any place else in the world where you can go and be handed free food, free housing, free healthcare and free monthly checks while being in the country illegally,” Foley said. “However, it appears that you can come to Massachusetts and steal as many benefits as you want without fear and without any accountability.”

Federal officials said the investigation was conducted with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and multiple inspector general offices. They vowed additional arrests and charges are forthcoming as investigators continue examining benefit programs for fraud.

“The further we look, the more fraud we find,” MacDonald said. “And this is just the beginning of our work.”

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Blake Corum and Wife Spark Laughter with Viral TJ Maxx Video: A Must-See Comedy Moment

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Blake Corum and Wife Spark Laughter with Viral TJ Maxx Video: A Must-See Comedy Moment

Los Angeles Rams running back Blake Corum and his wife, Makiah, are clearly enjoying their offseason downtime.

Recently, a playful video featuring the couple surfaced online, humorously highlighting Makiah’s shopping tendencies, particularly her fondness for TJ Maxx.

In the video, Makiah lip-syncs to a popular audio clip, saying, “Clap if you’re against… it,” and gestures toward a TJ Maxx sign before cheekily adding, “Joke’s on him, I already shopped online.”

Immediately after her part of the video ends, the camera pans over to Blake, clapping his hands, who follows it up with a hilarious jump into an action pose.

When the Corums haven’t had a chance to relax and have fun, they’ve been busy at home taking care of their newborn child as they welcomed in their daughter, Zara Corum, this past March.

Blake and Makiah have been together since 2022, when they met while attending Michigan. Blake was a standout football player, while Makiah was actively involved in her academic and advocacy work on campus.

In June, 2024, Blake proposed to Makiah, and the two got married in April, 2025.

Blake was originally scheduled to be at the Rams mandatory minicamp this week, until head coach Sean McVay decided to cancel the camp as a way to allow players to get a head start on their summer break.


Blake Corum and Makiah Corum posing for a photo.
Blake Corum and his wife Makiah Corum after Blake won the Rose Bowl with Michigan on January 1st, 2024. Instagram/@makiahds

Running back Kyren Williams of the Los Angeles Rams in action.
Los Angeles Rams running back Blake Corum runs during an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks. Getty Images

The summer break is the final break of the offseason for NFL players until they return to their teams for training camp. Once teams start training camp, it’s a full-on sprint the rest of the way as it’s the final workout program of the offseason.

The Rams have not announced when they will return to training camp, but usually, teams begin camp during the final week of July and will have it go on for a month’s duration.

Blake Corum is coming off his second season in the NFL, where he saw a major increase in workload production, carrying the ball 145 times for 746 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Blake spent last season sharing snaps with Kyren Williams, who took the majority of the load last season and is expected to again this season, for a Rams team that has aspirations of winning the franchise’s third Super Bowl.

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Houston Dance Company Brings Black History to Life Through Performance

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Houston Dance Company Brings Black History to Life Through Performance

HOUSTON, Texas — A dance company in Houston is bringing Texas’ Black history to life on stage through captivating performances.

Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective is dedicated to fostering art and wellness projects, particularly from the perspectives of Black women and girls.

“We launched our journey in 2018,” shared Stacey Allen, the artistic director and founder of Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective. “Our goal was to authentically convey African American narratives using the mediums of dance and art.”

The collective, which spans multiple generations, trains its dancers in a unique blend of African Diaspora dance, ballet, and modern dance techniques.

“We have the opportunity to narrate the stories of our ancestors and our rich history, especially focusing on Black history,” explained dancer Mia Hall. “I also have a deep appreciation for the Afro-modern dance style we practice. It was unfamiliar to me before joining, but now that I’m immersed in it, I’ve developed a real passion for it.”

“Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective tries to focus on bridging generations,” said Allen. “So we have a group of adult professional dancers who are the main company members, but every show we always are very intentional about inviting young people to come and join us.”

Since 2022, Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective has been performing a historically-inspired dance and theater production called The Fairytale Project across Texas. The Fairytale Project tells the real-life love story of Jim and Winnie Shankle, who founded one of Texas’ earliest freedom colonies, Shankleville. Nia’s Daughters founder Stacey Allen has a personal connection to their story, since some of her own family members are descendants of the Shankles.

“Jim and Winnie were enslaved on a plantation in Mississippi, and then Winnie, the wife, was sold to a plantation in Texas,” said Allen. “Jim decided he did not want to live without his wife and his family, and so he escaped, traveling through slave territory, crossing the Mississippi River, and reconnecting with his wife in Newton County.”

For a second year, Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective is producing and hosting the official Juneteenth Return in Galveston. You can see The Fairytale Project performed at 2pm on Friday, June 19, at the Juneteenth Legacy Headquarters, located at 2217 The Strand.

For more information on Nia’s Daughters, visit niasdaughters.com.

JD Vance Questions Imminence of Iran Peace Deal

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JD Vance Questions Imminence of Iran Peace Deal

Just a day remains before a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding with Iran is anticipated to be inked in Switzerland, yet Vice President JD Vance has cast doubt on whether the event will proceed as planned.

This memorandum aims to establish an agreement between the United States and Iran to halt hostilities and initiate talks to conclude the conflict that has persisted for over three months.

President Donald Trump, at the historic French palace of Versailles, signed the agreement, which includes the immediate lifting of sanctions on Iran’s oil exports, late Wednesday evening.

The deal further stipulates the allowance of free passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz and the cessation of the US Naval blockade in the region.

President Trump has announced that Vice President JD Vance will be responsible for overseeing the signing ceremony in Lucerne, Switzerland, which is set for Friday. Trump humorously remarked, “If everything goes well, I’ll take the credit. If it doesn’t, JD is to blame.”

Pressed on whether the trip will still occur on Thursday, Vance told reporters that he ‘suspects’ he will still go, casting doubt on whether he actually will. 

‘I plan to go to Switzerland … we think these technical negotiation areas start sometime this weekend,’ Vance said. ‘That’s still the plan, but that could change because it’s not an easy country, Iran, to get out of, and so we’re trying to figure out exactly when that’s going to happen.’

Vice President JD Vance cast doubt on the scheduled signing ceremony for the MOU between Iran and the US, set for Friday in Switzerland

Vice President JD Vance cast doubt on the scheduled signing ceremony for the MOU between Iran and the US, set for Friday in Switzerland 

Vance explains that he 'suspects' that the trip is still on, noting how Iran is 'not an easy country'

Vance explains that he ‘suspects’ that the trip is still on, noting how Iran is ‘not an easy country’

‘I suspect this weekend, but I’m not sure,’ he added. ‘We’re trying to figure that out as we speak, but again, I suspect it will happen this weekend.’

There have been mixed signals from the administration over when the MOU was signed and what has been agreed to. 

Senior administration officials told reporters on Monday that Trump, Vance and Iran’s Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf signed a digital version of the MOU on Sunday. 

Then an Axios report indicated the MOU had actually not been signed. 

The senior officials also said Monday the text of the MOU would be published within 48 hours, but a copy of the agreement has not been released. Instead, those senior officials relayed the contents of the MOU to reporters over a phone call. 

Then, after signalling publicly that the MOU would be signed in a Friday ceremony with Vance in Switzerland, the administration said that Trump officially signed the MOU at Versailles sometime on Wednesday evening. 

Now, Vance says the ceremony is suspected sometime this weekend, indicating the Friday event is up in the air. 

‘We are told that the Iranians are taking their sweet time to respond, proving further that they are the ones who have the leverage,’ a source familiar with the Iran talks explained to the Daily Mail. 

Trump said that a signing ceremony was to take place with Vance on Friday, joking that 'This way, if it works out, I'm going to take the credit. If it doesn't work out, I'm blaming JD'

Trump said that a signing ceremony was to take place with Vance on Friday, joking that ‘This way, if it works out, I’m going to take the credit. If it doesn’t work out, I’m blaming JD’ 

A reporter pressed Trump, saying one of the goals of Epic Fury was to destroy Iran's ballistic missiles

A reporter pressed Trump, saying one of the goals of Epic Fury was to destroy Iran’s ballistic missiles

Vance also pushed back on reports indicating that Iran will get money as part of the MOU. 

The MOU includes sanction relief for Iran if it complies with the deal, giving it access to frozen funds and a proposed $300 billion reconstruction plan.

‘The United States isn’t giving up a cent of money to Iran,’ Vance said.

‘What President Trump and his talented national security team – including both Vice President Vance and Secretary Rubio – achieved on the battlefield and at the negotiating table is nothing short of remarkable and will strengthen American security for years to come,’ White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales said in a statement.

‘Everyone is fully behind President Trump’s efforts to ensure Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon.’

Though some Republicans on Capitol Hill are skeptical of the deal and are demanding to know more. 

‘I don’t wanna see JCPOA 2.0,’ GOP Iowa Senator Joni Ernst said of the MOU, referring to ex-President Barak Obama’s deal with Iran that Trump has criticized. 

GOP skeptics are concerned about the $300 billion reconstruction fund and whether US taxpayer funds will go into it – which the administration claims won’t happen. 

There’s also questions about why the administration is fine with Iran retaining its ballistic missile capabilities after the White House repeatedly stressed that one of the goals of the war was to obliterate the Islamic Republic’s ballistic missile program. 

Vance and the President have said that it is crucial for Iran to retain an ability to defend itself while answering questions about why the country is being allowed to retain its missiles. 

‘The Iranians don’t give up the right of self defense in their country, but we do expect that as part of the final deal they are not going to be able to build the kind of missiles that can broadly threaten the entire world,’ Vance said. 

Master These 4 Single-Leg Exercises for Exceptional Balance Stability

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Master These 4 Single-Leg Exercises for Exceptional Balance Stability

Four single-leg exercises reveal whether your balance is truly top-notch.

Balance is a crucial indicator of overall fitness, mobility, and healthy aging. While strength and endurance typically steal the spotlight, balance is essential for translating these qualities into real-world movement. Navigating uneven terrain, ascending stairs, stepping over obstacles, and changing direction all hinge on the ability to manage your body on a single leg. Since each step involves a brief moment of single-leg support, any balance issues often emerge before significant mobility concerns arise.

Single-leg exercises are an excellent tool for evaluating balance since they engage the ankles, knees, hips, core, and nervous system all at once. Unlike standing with both feet where the body has a broad support base, single-leg activities compel the stabilizing muscles to continuously work to maintain control. Even those with considerable strength might uncover weaknesses when tasked with balancing on one leg for an extended time or executing movements while balanced.

The four exercises below are designed to test various facets of balance, coordination, stability, and lower-body control. Successfully performing all four with minimal shaking, a steady posture, and smooth movements indicates that your balance skills are exceptionally strong. The aim isn’t to achieve perfection, but to exhibit control, confidence, and stability throughout each exercise.

The four exercises below test different aspects of balance, coordination, stability, and lower-body control. If you can perform all four with minimal wobbling, steady posture, and smooth movement, your balance ability ranks exceptionally well. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s demonstrating control, confidence, and stability throughout each exercise.

Single-Leg Stand

The single-leg stand remains the gold standard for evaluating balance. Although the movement appears simple, it quickly exposes weaknesses in ankle stability, hip strength, core control, and body awareness. Many people discover that one side feels significantly less stable than the other, revealing imbalances that may affect everyday movement. Strong performance indicates that the stabilizing muscles throughout the lower body are working efficiently together. If you can hold this position comfortably without excessive swaying, your balance foundation is excellent. This exercise also serves as the building block for more advanced balance challenges.

How to Do It

  • Stand tall near a wall or chair
  • Shift your weight onto one foot
  • Lift the opposite foot off the floor
  • Keep your chest upright
  • Focus on a fixed point ahead
  • Maintain steady breathing
  • Hold for 30 seconds
  • Repeat on both sides.

Single-Leg Clock Reach

The clock reach challenges balance while introducing movement. Instead of simply standing still, the body must stabilize while the free leg reaches in multiple directions. This creates a much greater demand on the hips, core, and supporting leg. Many individuals who perform well during static balance tests struggle once movement enters the equation. Strong performance demonstrates advanced body control and coordination. The exercise also closely mimics real-world situations that require reaching, stepping, and adjusting balance simultaneously.

How to Do It

  • Stand on one leg
  • Imagine a clock surrounding you
  • Reach the free foot toward 12 o’clock
  • Return to center
  • Reach toward 3 o’clock
  • Return to center
  • Continue through multiple directions
  • Repeat on both sides.

Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift Reach

This exercise tests balance, hip stability, and body control simultaneously. The movement requires maintaining alignment while hinging forward and extending the opposite leg behind the body. Strong glutes, hamstrings, core muscles, and stabilizers must work together continuously. Many people find this exercise more challenging than standing still because the center of gravity shifts throughout the movement. Smooth, controlled repetitions indicate outstanding lower-body stability and coordination. Strong performance often translates into better athleticism and safer everyday movement.

How to Do It

  • Stand on one leg
  • Slightly bend the supporting knee
  • Hinge forward at the hips
  • Extend the opposite leg behind you
  • Keep your back flat
  • Reach toward the floor
  • Return slowly to standing
  • Perform 8 repetitions per side

Single-Leg Knee Drive Hold

This exercise combines strength, posture, and balance into a single movement. Holding the knee elevated forces the standing leg to stabilize while the core maintains alignment. The exercise closely resembles the balance demands experienced during walking, stair climbing, and many athletic movements. Many adults underestimate how challenging maintaining stillness becomes once the knee rises. Strong performance reflects excellent coordination between the hips, core, and lower-body stabilizers. It also demonstrates the ability to control balance during movement transitions.

How to Do It

  • Stand tall
  • Shift your weight onto one foot
  • Lift the opposite knee to hip height
  • Tighten your core gently
  • Keep your chest upright
  • Avoid leaning backward
  • Hold for 20 seconds
  • Repeat on both sides.

Behavioral Analyst Testifies: Suspect in Palisades Fire Allegedly Motivated by ‘Societal Revenge

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Behavioral Analyst Testifies: Suspect in Palisades Fire Allegedly Motivated by ‘Societal Revenge

Palisades arson trial begins

In the unfolding federal arson trial, William La Jeunesse, a senior national correspondent for Fox News, provides insights into the case of Jonathan Rinderknecht. Rinderknecht is accused of igniting the previous year’s devastating Palisades Fire. While the defense suggests that fireworks were to blame, prosecutors have introduced electronic evidence, including cell phone data and screenshots showing inquiries on ChatGPT about whether a cigarette could start a fire.

Jonathan Rinderknecht, who was arrested in October 2025, faces charges of property destruction by fire. He pleaded not guilty in connection with the Palisades Fire, which erupted in January 2025. The trial, currently taking place in California, has brought to light expert testimony suggesting that Rinderknecht’s actions may be motivated by a desire for “societal revenge.”

Behavioral analyst Kevin Kelm, who testified in court, likened Rinderknecht’s behavior to that of someone seeking revenge against society. According to Kelm, such individuals often focus on personal issues they find challenging, such as financial troubles, relationship problems, or work-related stress. Kelm’s expertise stems from his previous roles as a supervisory special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and as part of the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit.

This testimony adds a compelling dimension to the case, as the court continues to examine the motivations and evidence surrounding the Palisades Fire, a tragedy that continues to impact the community.

Jonathan Rinderknecht standing in front of a microphone at a press event

Jonathan Rinderknecht was charged with igniting the blaze that became the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles. (USAttyEssayli/X)

One of the ways Kelm said these kind of individuals don’t cope with these issues, and in this case, the act of setting a fire gives them some kind of emotional relief from the problems they face.

Kelm also said the defendant’s use of ChatGPT was to make a “dystopian image” of the world, where he designed an image representing a barrier between rich people and other individuals who don’t have as much money.

Jonathan Rinderknecht seated inside federal court in Orlando, Florida, shown in a courtroom sketch.

Jonathan Rinderknecht appears in federal court in Orlando, Florida, on Oct. 9, 2025. He faces charges for allegedly starting a New Year’s Day fire that killed 12 people in Pacific Palisades, California. (Neftali Melendez/Unknown)

He said, however, ChatGPT wasn’t responding how Rinderknecht wanted, which frustrated him and shows he’s not able to deal with stresses.

Kelm’s assessment of a possible “societal revenge” motive stemmed from witness statements, video, pictures, academic literature and more.

Flames burning a building on Sunset Boulevard during the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles

Flames from the Palisades Fire burn a building on Sunset Boulevard amid a powerful windstorm in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on Jan. 8, 2025. (Apu Gomes/AFP)

Rinderknecht is charged with destruction of property by means of fire, arson affecting property used in interstate commerce and timber set afire. News Media reached out to his lawyers for comment.

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Debate Ignites Over Placement of Pride Flags Beside Veterans’ Tribute in New York

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Debate Ignites Over Placement of Pride Flags Beside Veterans’ Tribute in New York

A conflict has erupted in a Long Island village over the placement of Pride flags and banners paying tribute to local veterans. The issue arose when officials decided to remove some of the Pride flags after receiving complaints about their positioning next to banners honoring military veterans.

Mayor Donna Koch explained that the decision to take down the Pride flags came after the Northport American Legion expressed concerns about these flags being displayed above the “Hometown Heroes” banners, according to a report from CBS News.

“The removal of the Pride flags was not influenced by my personal views on the Pride community. I wholeheartedly support them, as well as our veterans,” stated Koch.

On Monday, ABC’s Eyewitness News reported that American Legion Commander William McKenna commented, “Having the Pride banners placed above the tributes to our veterans is unacceptable.” He further mentioned, “If a Pride flag is placed near one of my veterans, I will ensure they are all taken down.”

“If you put a pride flag by one of my veterans, I’m taking every one of them down,” McKenna said.

ABC’s Eyewitness News reported that McKenna sent a letter to Koch and the village board which said, in part, “The concern being expressed is not at the pride flags themselves, nor is it intended to diminish the importance of recognizing any group within our community. Rather, many veterans and families feel that placing another banner above the veterans’ banners diminishes the recognition and prominence that was originally intended for those who served our country.”

Jeff Cusick, treasurer for Northport Pridefest, called the situation “very offensive” in a quote published by CBS News.

“We love and support our vets, but the Hometown Heroes program was apparently given the rights to these lamp posts from May to November, which is the entire outdoor season, and that doesn’t leave room for other community members. We believe it’s a point to leverage patriotism for discrimination against us,” Cusick added.

The outlet reported that the Pride flags and veterans’ tribute banners are now being displayed separately, and that PrideFest organizers said they would hang the removed Pride flags on the vacant flagpoles at Village Hall during Tuesday night’s meeting, with the mayor saying that the village would cover the cost of the necessary hardware.

CBS News reported that Army veteran Bruce Adams said he has no issue with the Pride flags, but added, “The American flag should be superior to all other items. I looked up and saw my lamp post bare.”

Resident Angel Deleva told CBS News, “Pride flags should not be above our veterans because they risked their lives for us.”

Fox News Digital attempted to reach Koch, the Northport American Legion, and Northport Pridefest for comment but did not immediately receive responses.

Juneteenth 2026: A Guide to What’s Closed

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Juneteenth 2026: A Guide to What’s Closed


On Friday, the nation will commemorate a significant historical milestone—161 years since the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, a full two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth, the day that marks this momentous occasion, was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021 under the administration of President Joe Biden. Despite remarks last year from former President Donald Trump, who noted the U.S. may be financially burdened by “too many non-working holidays,” Juneteenth remains a federal holiday. This means a range of services will be unavailable this Friday.

For instance, postal services will halt for the day, with no mail delivery and post offices closed. Juneteenth is one of the 11 holidays observed by the U.S. Postal Service in 2026. However, businesses like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS will continue to operate as usual, maintaining their regular business hours.

For example, you won’t be receiving any mail, and your local post office won’t be open. Juneteenth is one of 11 holidays the U.S. Postal Service observes in 2026. Unlike other holidays, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS will observe normal business hours on Juneteenth.

Federal reserve banks and branches will also be closed on Friday, as will any of your local banks and credit unions. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will take the day off as well.

A previous report by the Congressional Research Service reported that in at least 30 states and the District of Columbia, Juneteenth is a permanent paid and/or legal holiday, according to Nexstar’s NewsNation. That means some state and local offices and services may not be available on Juneteenth, like your local library, the DMV, and even state-run liquor stores.

Unlike previous years, you will no longer receive free admission into fee-charging national parks. The Trump administration changed the list of fee-free days for 2026, with the next coming over Independence Day weekend.

Retailers, including grocery stores, and major restaurant chains are expected to remain open. You may want to call ahead to confirm a local business is operating normal hours.

Since Juneteenth falls on a Saturday in 2027, you’ll likely see fewer services impacted.

Family Sues Hospital Over Alleged Negligent Baby Discharge: Claims of Rushed Evaluation

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Family Sues Hospital Over Alleged Negligent Baby Discharge: Claims of Rushed Evaluation

Inset: Liam Hallissey (Spear Miller Funeral Home). Background: Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut where Liam Hallissey was allegedly evaluated before his death (Google Maps).

A tragic case has emerged from Connecticut, where a 1-year-old boy named Liam Hallissey passed away after being sent home from a hospital without adequate attention to his symptoms. A lawsuit filed by his parents claims that a physician assistant at Yale New Haven Hospital failed to recognize signs indicative of sepsis during a December 2025 visit.

According to the legal complaint, the physician assistant ignored Liam’s symptoms, which included tachycardia, lethargy, and concerns raised by his pediatrician. These symptoms prompted his pediatrician to recommend he be taken to the hospital, where the boy’s condition was apparently not given the necessary scrutiny.

The complaint details that Liam’s pediatrician had reported a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit, alongside symptoms such as lethargy, hypotonia, a droopy appearance, acute illness, and a positive test for Influenza A.

Upon his arrival at the hospital, Liam’s vital signs were recorded at approximately 4:39 p.m. His temperature was noted at 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, and he had an elevated heart rate of 169 beats per minute. The evaluation by the physician assistant took place about an hour later at 5:58 p.m., where she reportedly deemed him “well appearing” and found “no concern for bacterial illness, sepsis, or bacteremia,” according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit further alleges that “the patient was discharged 21 minutes after his medical evaluation.” It also criticizes the hospital staff for not conducting a more comprehensive examination, which should have included repeated vital signs checks, laboratory tests, imaging, or continued observation, beyond a repeat nasal swab.

The following morning, Liam’s mother found her son “limp, cyanotic and not breathing in his crib” and immediately called 911. She initiated CPR until first responders arrived.

“Upon the arrival of EMS personnel, the minor decedent was cold, pale, and cyanotic,” the complaint says, referring to a condition in which someone’s skin turns blue due to lack of oxygen. “EMS personnel attempted defibrillation, chest compressions, and ventilation and transported the minor decedent to St. Vincent’s Medical Center.”

Shortly after arriving at the emergency room, medical staff intubated Liam and he received CPR, defibrillation, and multiple rounds of epinephrine. He was pronounced dead less than 20 minutes after arriving.

“The pathologist who performed the minor decedent’s autopsy concluded that the cause of death was septic complications of acute influenza A and rhinovirus respiratory infections,” the complaint says.

Liam’s parents allege that his death was the result of “carelessness and negligence” caused by the hospital and its staff. Yale New Haven Hospital has released a statement in response to their lawsuit, saying:

Yale New Haven Hospital is aware of this lawsuit and extends our deepest condolences to the family for the loss of their child. This is a heartbreaking situation, and our thoughts are with all those who loved and cared for him. We remain deeply committed to providing safe, compassionate and high-quality care to every patient and family we serve. Because this matter is currently in litigation, we are unable to comment on the specific allegations.

The family’s lawyer, Jennifer L. Amdur, told local ABC affiliate WTNH that Liam was the victim of “a system in which patients and families are too often rushed through the hospital without the safeguards they deserve.”

“Liam was more than a patient, he was a cherished son and brother whose life mattered deeply to his family,” Amdur said. “The loss they have endured is unimaginable, and they continue to live with the consequences of failures that should never have occurred.”

Meghan Markle Reveals Heartfelt Tips for Expressing Gratitude to Your Dad

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Meghan Markle Reveals Heartfelt Tips for Expressing Gratitude to Your Dad

Meghan Markle has unveiled her ideas for expressing gratitude to fathers in a new newsletter from her lifestyle brand, just in time for the upcoming Father’s Day celebration.

This past Sunday, the Duchess of Sussex, 44, shared her suggestions on how to honor the occasion with an email to subscribers of her brand, As Ever. The message, titled ‘Breakfast for Him,’ offers creative ways to celebrate the day.

Following her own recommendations, it seems Prince Harry, 41, might enjoy a delightful morning spread of pastries and croissants, paired with her £11 strawberry preserve. This would be accompanied by a warm smile and a mug of herbal tea.

The newsletter states, “Whether you’re looking for a simple way to say ‘thank you’ to Dad or you wish to create a cozy morning experience, breakfast in bed is the ideal gesture.”

Additionally, Meghan highlighted other items available on her website, such as an £83 ‘Morning Ritual’ set. This set includes a scented candle that captures the ‘ease and joy’ reminiscent of her and Prince Harry’s wedding day.

According to its description, the candle harks back to Meghan’s ‘cherished memories’ of her nuptials at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle as well as the ‘spirit of happiness’ and being ‘surrounded by love’.

At the time, some royal fans were confused by the release as the build-up to Harry and Meghan’s wedding featured an apparent row with Kate over bridesmaids’ dresses and the last-minute drama of her father not attending.

The Father’s Day newsletter released by Meghan also includes links to As Ever’s wildflower and orange blossom honey set, worth £46, and £10 lemon and ginger tea.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex pictured with their daughter, Princess Lilibet, in a photo shared on her fifth birthday on June 4

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex pictured with their daughter, Princess Lilibet, in a photo shared on her fifth birthday on June 4

On Sunday, the Duchess of Sussex, 44, shared her top tips for celebrating the holiday in an email sent to As Ever's subscribers titled 'Breakfast for Him'

On Sunday, the Duchess of Sussex, 44, shared her top tips for celebrating the holiday in an email sent to As Ever’s subscribers titled ‘Breakfast for Him’ 

It comes amid reports that Prince Harry is expected to bring Meghan and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, on a rare visit to Britain next month. 

 The Duke could be set to take his family to the UK for the first time in four years to attend the one-year countdown party for the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham.

The children have not seen their grandfather, King Charles III, in person since their last trip to Britain in June 2022 for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The Duchess has not made a prolonged trip to the UK since the late Queen’s funeral that September, apart from occasional stopovers in London for foreign tours.

Harry is said to be satisfied with security arrangements for the visit in mid-July and is now planning for Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, to make the trip from California.

The prince has seen his father just twice in two years, and is still thought to be waiting for a decision on what security provision he and his family are entitled to in Britain.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment today on the Sussexes’ planned trip, but the Daily Mail understands that royal aides view all matters of security as an issue for the Home Office, which is now thought to be nearing a decision on Harry’s appeal.

One of the duke’s business associates based in Los Angeles claimed there had been a ‘warming of the frost’ between Harry and Charles in recent months

The new reports today mark an about-turn from the situation just last Friday, when sources told the Sussex-friendly US publication People that Meghan and the children were not expected to join Harry on the trip because of security concerns.

In recent years, Harry, who stepped down as a working royal in 2020, has levelled a barrage of accusations at the King and his stepmother Queen Camilla in his Oprah Winfrey interview, Netflix documentary, other interviews and tell-all memoir Spare.

But in a tentative step towards repairing their troubled relationship, the duke joined Charles for a private tea when he visited the UK last September, spending 54 minutes with his father at Clarence House after not seeing him face-to-face in 19 months.

A source close to Harry told News.com.au: ‘It’s been a real point of great sadness – for Harry especially – that he’s been unable to bring his wife and kids back to the UK safely to reconnect with friends and family, but anyone would understand his desire to put their safety first.

Prince Harry and Meghan with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in a photo released by the duchess for the couple's Christmas greeting in December 2025

Prince Harry and Meghan with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in a photo released by the duchess for the couple’s Christmas greeting in December 2025

‘He would love to introduce the children to his wider family, to show them the UK, where he grew up – his homeland. That would be a natural thing for any parent.’

Earlier this week, Meghan unveiled a new matcha collaboration with ‘my favourite gal’ Hannah Mendoza, who co-founded the wellness drinks brand the Duchess invested in after quitting the Royal Family.

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, has been an investor in California-based Clevr Blends since December 2020 and even appeared as a background extra in an Instagram advert for the company in 2023.

Now taking their partnership one step further, Meghan yesterday revealed that her lifestyle company As Ever has created ‘The Strawberry Matcha Set’ in collaboration with Clevr Blends.

Meghan explained that she has ‘proudly supported’ the co-founder and CEO of Clevr Blends ‘for years’ while sharing a picture of the pair on her Instagram Stories.

‘I’ve proudly supported Hannah and Clevr Blends for so many years now,’ Meghan captioned the snap.

‘Thrilled about this collaboration with one of my favourite gals and two of my favourite brands.’

Clevr is a wellness brand that specialises in oat-milk ‘Super Lattes’ enriched with adaptogens, probiotics, and reishi mushrooms.

Reposting Meghan’s story, Hannah wrote how ‘nothing compares to having badass women in your life that lift you up’ and that the ‘collab’ with As Ever is now live.
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