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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Yum Brands, the parent company of well-known fast-food chains KFC and Taco Bell, announced earlier this year its intention to divest the Pizza Hut brand.
WASHINGTON — Pizza Hut, known for its iconic red roof and classic American pizzas, is set to be acquired by Yum Brands for a sum of $2.7 billion. This decision comes as the chain grapples with challenges such as outdated infrastructure and intensifying market competition.
In February, Yum Brands indicated it was exploring the possibility of selling Pizza Hut, and the pizza giant subsequently revealed plans to shutter 250 of its U.S. locations. The chain has faced mounting pressure to modernize its offerings and facilities.
Pizza Hut’s journey began in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas. It caught the eye of PepsiCo, which purchased the chain in 1977. However, in 1997, PepsiCo spun off its restaurant division, leading to the creation of Yum Brands.
On Tuesday, it was announced that private equity firm LongRange Capital will acquire Pizza Hut, excluding its operations in mainland China, for approximately $1.5 billion. Meanwhile, Yum China Holdings Inc. will take over the mainland China segment of Pizza Hut for about $1.2 billion.
“Under LongRange and Yum China, Pizza Hut will be well positioned for future growth with ownership that brings deep expertise in the restaurant industry,” Yum Brands CEO Chris Turner said in a statement.
Yum Brands, whose other brands include KFC and Taco Bell, began a strategic review to explore options for Pizza Hut in November, with the chain reporting declining sales at comparable stores.
“Pizza Hut has long been the weak link in Yum’s portfolio,” Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData, said in a statement. “Despite efforts to revitalize the brand and shut underperforming locations, it has become increasingly clear that pushing the division back into growth will require a level of investment and patience that Yum is just not prepared to commit to.”
By selling Pizza Hut, Yum Brands can focus more on its brands with stronger sales, he added.
Yum Brands, based in Louisville, Kentucky, expects both transactions to close in the third quarter. The company’s stock declined slightly before the market open.
The highly anticipated transfer window has swung open, setting the stage for a whirlwind of activity as clubs scramble to secure key signings before the deadline on September 1. This period promises to be bustling with excitement as teams strategize for the upcoming season. Let’s dive into today’s latest updates brought to you by Simon Jones and the Daily Mail Sport team.
Hammers centre back heads to Dundee United
In a significant move, Michael Forbes, a center-back from West Ham, has signed a two-year contract with Dundee United. Despite not making a first-team appearance for the Hammers, the 22-year-old gained experience during loan spells at Bristol Rovers and Northampton. His new journey with Dundee United marks a fresh chapter in his career.
Meanwhile, Everton is on the verge of adding young talent to their roster. They are nearing a deal to acquire 16-year-old striker Kai Hutchison from Dundee United. The Scotland U17 international has opted not to accept a professional contract with Tannadice, paving the way for his potential move to Everton. This young prospect is certainly one to watch as he progresses in his career.
Toffees close on deal for Scotland U17 star
Everton are closing on a deal to sign 16-year-old striker Kai Hutchison from Dundee United.
The Scotland U17 international turned down the offer of a professional contract from the Tannadice club.
United had previously rejected offers from Wolves and Norwich City for the teenager.
Leeds weigh up bid for Southampton’s Charles… after his play-off heartbreak
Leeds United are weighing up a move for Southampton’s £20million-rated midfielder Shea Charles.
The Northern Ireland international has also been on Manchester United’s radar as he was signed by their sport director Jason Wilcox from Manchester City in a £15m deal, while he was at Southampton.
Charles thought he had scored the winning goal in the play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough only for his club to be excluded from the final on the back of Spygate, as exclusively revealed by Daily Mail Sport.
Leeds want to strengthen the centre of their midfield after tying down captain Ethan Ampadu to a new long-term deal.
Shea Charles scored the winner in the play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough – before Southampton were kicked out over the Spygate scandal
They also held extensive talks with Sporting Lisbon’s Hidemasa Morita, the 30-year-old Japan international, who is available on a free.
However, 22-year-old Charles suits their profile as they look to bring in younger, homegrown players who have greater re-sale value as well as the ability to improve their squad immediately.
Charles, a tidy, technical holding player who has the legs to break forward, has also attracted attention from abroad with his performances for Northern Ireland.
Following his composed display against France earlier this month, Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill stated that Charles’s disciplined performance against elite opposition proved that the Southampton midfielder is ‘ready for the top level’.
Rice signs on again at Rangers – and set for Kilmarnock loan move
Rangers midfielder Bailey Rice is signing a new contract with the club before heading out on loan to Kilmarnock next season.
The 19-year-old had a contract offer from German side Schalke and was offered the chance to play for Jong Ajax. Premier League sides also showed interest but Rangers made a concerted effort to get him to stay and he has committed his immediate future to the Ibrox club.
Bailey Rice is set to move to Kilmarnock on loan
After he suffered an injury-hit campaign with just one League Cup appearance last term, Rangers’ new manager Derek McInnes sees the benefit of Rice gaining more regular game time at Kilmarnock.
There he will be under the watchful eyes of Neil McCann and assistant Billy Dodds who steered Kilmarnock to Premiership safety last month and hope to kick on next season.
City eye PSG defender after he turned down new deal
Manchester City are in talks to sign Paris Saint-Germain defensive prospect Hermann Malonga.
The 18-year-old has turned down the offer of a contract with PSG and has agreed on a five-year deal in principle with City.
Malonga has represented France at youth level and was scouted extensively in the UEFA Youth League playing for the European champions.
Malonga moved to PSG in 2021 from US Senart-Moissy Jugend. He has yet to make a first-team appearance and sources in France believe City will look to loan him out to gain experience.
City are looking at building central defensive options with question marks over the future of Ruben Dias, who is among several names on Real Madrid’s list, and Nathan Ake.
Josko Gvardiol, who had interest from Madrid and Barcelona, has agreed a new contract.
Now Manchester United eye double swoop from West Ham
Manchester United are discussing a double move for West Ham pair Mateus Fernandes and winger Crysencio Summerville.
Paris St Germain have also discussed both players but have other targets they are working on also.
United have made midfielder Fernandes a priority and have Netherlands international Summerville in their sights too.
Key will be the price as West Ham want up to £140million for the pair but United will be looking to pay considerably less.
Read more on this story here
In case you missed it – click here for all of yesterday’s developments including Chelsea targeting Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix
In the aftermath of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s enigmatic divorce, the acclaimed singer made a pivotal decision to withdraw from her tour schedule, opting instead to embark on a journey of self-discovery. As Lopez candidly shared on the “SmartLess” podcast this Monday, this period of introspection, occurring “a couple of years ago now,” marked a significant turning point in her life.
During this time, the Grammy-nominated artist, now 56, posed some tough questions to herself: “What is going on with you? Forget about everybody else. There’s nobody to blame here except yourself in a certain way. … What are you doing? What do you have going on?” These reflections underscored her commitment to understanding her own role in her life’s narrative.
Lopez subtly alluded to her split from Affleck in 2024, hinting that sometimes people “don’t behave in a way that’s not great.” She jokingly remarked that she could divulge more details to podcast hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes over a casual glass of wine, illustrating her openness to sharing her personal journey with humor and grace.
She appeared to subtly reference Affleck, whom she split from in 2024, by acknowledging that sometimes “people don’t behave in a way that’s not great” — and joking she could share details with the podcast co-hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes “over a glass of wine.”
Lopez noted that she used to “attract … certain things” into her life, adding, “Whether people outside knew it or not, I felt like my life blew up in my own face.”
Lopez, notably, was first engaged to Affleck, 53, between 2002 and 2004, with the duo reuniting in 2021 and tying the knot the following year.
Since calling it quits from her “Gigli” co-star, Lopez has looked inward and studied “patterns” in her past relationships.
“I was able to go back to that little girl [I once was] and really look at her,” the performer noted. “And just kind of going like, ‘You did this. You did all of this. Give yourself a little f–king something. A little love! Stop looking for love in other things and give it to yourself.’”
Additionally, her sister Lynda Lopez provided pivotal advice, advising Jennifer to be her own “keeper.”
She said, “These are all little pieces. I feel like the journey is little puzzle pieces that you fit in little by little as you sit there … and go, ‘It’s me.’”
The actress went on to rave over how genuinely “happy” she now is.
“The past 20 years have been this one thing, the past five years have been a tumult and the last two have been kind of the healing process from that tumult where I really got to know myself,” she said. “The person I am today is so different from the person I was even two years ago. It’s crazy.”
Lopez, who has most recently been linked to her “Office Romance” co-star Brett Goldstein, walked down the aisle three times before marrying Affleck, wedding model Ojani Noa, dancer Cris Judd and singer Marc Anthony.
She welcomed twins while with her third husband, and Lopez is currently adjusting to becoming an empty nester as the 18-year-olds graduate high school and head to college.
The tearful mom of two brought up the transition during Monday’s episode, saying she plans to keep busy with “fulfilling” and “intentional” projects.
In a rapidly evolving society where traditional family structures are being redefined, many Australians are choosing to forgo parenthood in favor of a child-free lifestyle. This growing trend is explored in the Insight episode “No Kids, No Problems,” airing Tuesday, June 16, at 8:30 PM on SBS and SBS On Demand. The episode delves into the reasoning behind the decision to remain child-free, the societal pressures that accompany it, and how these choices are reshaping the notion of family.
Tanya Williams, now 54, is one such individual who made her decision early in life. “I’m not against children,” Williams shares with Insight, “but I am certain that having kids is not for me.” For her, the responsibilities of parenthood did not align with the lifestyle she envisioned.
Williams finds fulfillment in her career, personal passion projects, and her love for travel. “Motherhood seemed like a trap,” she explains, “a role that would hinder me from pursuing the exciting opportunities I desire.”
The 54-year-old says she is more focused on having a successful career, passion projects and travelling the world.
“I just saw motherhood as a trap — as something that would stop me doing all the great things that I wanted to do in life.”
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With nieces and nephews, Tanya and her husband of 30 years knew that they didn’t need to have their own children to have children in their lives.
And when the Brisbane-based business owner researches a holiday, there’s a key phrase she looks out for.
“If I see ‘family friendly’ … I’m not booking there, that’s for sure,” she said.
“If it’s adults-only, even better.”
Tanya understands that children are children but prefers travel accommodation that isn’t posted as “family-friendly”. Source: Supplied
Tanya says many parents aren’t doing enough to reprimand their children in shared spaces such as resorts.
“When you’ve got … kids jumping in the pool or just causing havoc, and parents who … let them do whatever they want, it’s very annoying and inconsiderate …” she said.
She also cited multiple flights where a child screamed “its head off”.
“If I did the same thing, I’d be kicked out of somewhere.
“But I understand that they’re children.”
‘The default route’
Melbourne-based content creator Julia Datt is also child-free and agrees.
Julia, who is in her 30s, also travels often and says that as someone with neurodivergence, screaming children on planes easily trigger panic attacks for her.
She thinks airlines should offer alternatives for uncomfortable passengers, such as adults-only zones.
Julia believes we need to “not default to family-friendly being the ‘automatic right of way’”. Source: Supplied / Helen Tansey
“I think it’s very important for people to have a sense of comfort and a sense of safety while travelling,” Julia said.
“And now we need to not default to family-friendly being the ‘automatic right of way’ …”
Julia believes child-free women are “subject to an intense amount of scrutiny” about their lifestyle choices compared to people who are parents.
She says that “motherhood is always the default route for many people”, but that children are not for everybody.
‘Not everyone wants to be around everyone else’s kids’
Kylie and Wayne Scholz have been married for 27 years and never tried to have children.
“Life just got busy. We just did our thing — and if we had kids, ‘yay’,” Kylie said.
“But it didn’t happen, so we just continued with what we were passionate about.”
Wayne and Kylie’s caravan park turned adult-only at the end of last year. Source: Supplied
The couple have run a caravan park in South Australia since 2013. Last year, they made the park adults only, and say a rising demand for child-free spaces moved them in that direction.
“Having travelled overseas and staying at adults-only resorts, we realised that we had an opportunity — it’s a niche,” Wayne said.
“Adults-only means no kids. It doesn’t mean no clothes, obviously.”
The couple say the overall response has been positive, and they’re bridging a gap in the market, as caravan parks are typically promoted as family-friendly.
“A lot of travellers and tourists get displaced during school holidays, and they feel like they haven’t got a place to go where they can be comfortable,” Wayne said.
“Not everyone wants to be around everyone else’s kids,” Kyle said.
Wayne recognises that for some adults trying to relax on holidays, “the last thing you want is kids splashing and jumping in the pool all around you …”
“There is a place for that, but [ours] is not one of those.”
Declining fertility rates and intentions in Australia
More Australians are choosing not to have children.
In 2025-2026, the total fertility rate is expected to fall to a record low of 1.42 children per woman, which is well below the replacement level of 2.1, according to the 2025 Centre of Population statement on population.
Fertility intentions (an individual’s or couple’s conscious plan about whether they will have children) in Australia have also been falling since 2001 but remain above the total fertility rate.
Source: SBS
Sociologist Ella Reed believes several factors could be at play in the shift in attitude towards having children — including the women’s liberation movement, natural issues and economic concerns.
“People are really considering the future that is available for their children. and whether or not they can actually afford it too …” she told Insight.
“And that does show that as we’ve got more access to contraception, reproductive health care, options for women to own property, divorce, get married … to anyone that they like … we’re seeing a decline in fertility rate because there are other options.”
Ella doesn’t want children but has donated her eggs to help others become parents. Source: Supplied
Ella, 35, is child-free but has donated eggs to help others become parents.
“I had eggs and I didn’t want to use them … I just knew that there were people that … really wanted to have children and would be really, really good parents,” Ella said.
“I knew for myself that I wouldn’t be.”
She says, “being child-free is a choice, opposed to childless”, and the distinction between the two is about choice and agency.
Child-free spaces and gender exclusion
Deanna Grant-Smith, a professor at the University of the Sunshine Coast, has studied how children and their carers are considered in city and public transport planning.
“When we’re looking at places that are child-free in that children are excluded from those places, there’s a concern that that also results in a form of gender exclusion,” Grant-Smith said.
“So, these no-kid zones are, in effect, a mother-free space as well.”
The professor says a push for transport options such as adults-only flights would have knock-on effects.
“What we would probably find is the kinds of flights … or bus trips or train trips that would be child-free, would probably end up being those ones that are at peak commuter times, which again would disadvantage people who have to travel with children,” she said.
“I also think that it removes the opportunities for us to socialise children and young people into how they can behave with other people.”
‘You are entitled to a child-free life, but not a child-free world’
Ashley Brooks-Garrett, 36, is the mother of a young toddler and says child-free spaces are appealing to parents too.
“The scenario of getting a massage while you’re on holiday listening to other people’s screaming children also sounds awful to me, as a mother,” she said.
“But I really feel like my philosophy is that you are entitled to a child-free life, but not a child-free world.”
Ashley says parents would also be open to child-free spaces. Source: Supplied
The Sydney-based writer says she spent the first year of her son’s life avoiding leaving the house and still minimises the time she spends in public spaces with him.
“I didn’t realise that so much of my anxiety as a new mum was based around the judgement from other people when my child was crying, and he cried a lot,” she said.
At not even two years old, Ashley says her son’s tantrums are unavoidable and a normal part of a child’s development.
“If there was any way that I could change it or remove him from the situation, of course I would do that.
“But I also need to check myself sometimes and say … ‘he’s fine; he’s not hurting anybody; he might be an inconvenience, but he’s not doing anything wrong’.”
Seen and not heard?
Sociologist Ella is on the fence about whether we should have more child-free spaces.
Now in her 30s, Ella previously believed parents should keep their children quiet or not bring them out.
“I’m a little bit embarrassed that I used to be that way,” she said.
“I have realised as I’ve gotten older that women still are shouldered with that burden of child rearing.
“When we have these conversations about how children should be seen and not heard … realistically, what that’s saying is that women also can’t be in those spaces too.”
Zendaya and Tom Holland have graced the red carpet together, marking their first joint appearance in four years.
Fans’ intuition about the couple’s relationship status has proven correct.
Following Law Roach‘s earlier suggestion that Zendaya and Tom Holland had quietly tied the knot, Holland has now confirmed that their wedding did indeed take place.
In a conversation with Esquire, Holland addressed the AI-generated images of a fictional wedding ceremony in Lake Como that had circulated online, revealing that his grandmother was worried she hadn’t been invited.
When asked if other family members or friends were fooled by the AI images, Holland, after a thoughtful pause, remarked, “No, because they were all there.”
But while fans will likely forever clamor for more information, the 30-year-old was firm in keeping the details private.
As he told the outlet, “That’s all you’ll get on that.”
Rumors that Zendaya and Holland had quietly married began when her longtime stylist Roach dropped the bomb on a red carpet.
“The wedding has already happened,” he told Access Hollywood at the Actor Awards in March. “You missed it.”
And in response to the stunned disbelief, the 47-year-old affirmed with a laugh, “It’s very true.”
In a heartfelt yet cryptic Instagram post, Jeff Brazier reached out to his followers seeking advice on navigating the complexities of parenting during the ‘unconventional early adult years.’ This comes in light of the news that his son, Freddy, is expecting his first child at the age of 20.
Freddy, who is set to welcome the child with an ex-girlfriend, holds a significant place in the family as this baby will be the first grandchild of the late Jade Goody, Freddy’s mother.
On Sunday, Jeff, 46, shared a candid moment on social media, featuring a photo of himself with his youngest son, Freddy, relaxing on a blue sofa. The father-son duo appeared cozy and connected in the snapshot.
Accompanying the image, Jeff humorously appealed to his audience, writing, “If someone could send me that parenting guidebook, particularly ‘early adult years: the unconventional path,’ that would be really helpful, thanks” followed by a kiss and laughing emoji.
He wrote: ‘If someone could send me that parenting guidebook, particularly “early adult years the unconventional path” that would be really helpful, thanks [kiss emoji and laughing emoji].’
Freddy has spent months at war with his television host father Jeff but this surprise news has ensured their reconciliation.
Jeff Brazier begged fans for a ‘parenting guidebook’ on ‘unconventional early adult years’ as he shared a cryptic Instagram post addressing son Freddy’s baby news
Freddy, 20, is preparing to welcome the baby with an ex-girlfriend, which would have been the late star Jade Goody’s first grandchild
Following Freddy’s baby news, Jeff seemed in good spirits as he took to his Instagram Stories to share a beaming snap with a pal who had come to watch him in his current theatre show, 101 Dalmatians.
The TV star used the song Life Will Be by Cleo Sol alongside the picture, which includes optimistic lyrics such as ‘Life will be / just you, believe in you’.
The song continues: ‘If you’re alive, there’s no excuse / Get out of your mind, you cannot lose this one time / It could be right’.
Sources close to the Braziers say Freddy has discussed his forthcoming fatherhood with his father – This Morning’s parenting expert.
Jeff is said to be ‘extremely supportive’ alongside other close family and friends who have vowed to help him in any way they can.
It would have made Big Brother star Jade, who died of cervical cancer in 2009, a grandmother for the first time.
The news will also delight the millions who fell in love with Freddy when he and his father appeared on Celebrity Race Across the World last year.
The pair were seen arguing about his and brother Bobby’s upbringing during the 30-day trek.
Freddy has spent months at war with his television host father Jeff but this surprise news has ensured their reconciliation
Jeff’s ex and Freddy’s mother Jade Goody died in 2009 after a battle with cervical cancer (Jeff and Jade pictured in 2003)
In one scene Jeff stormed off after Freddy claimed they were ‘not open as a family’, prompting his father to reply: ‘What have I done for the last seven or eight years? You need to take responsibility, that is part of this.’
A friend told The Mail on Sunday: ‘It has blindsided him and has been one of the things that has really brought him and his dad back together but it’s so devastating that Jade isn’t here to see it.
‘Jeff was one of the first people he decided to confide in to ask for advice, and he stepped up straight away and wanted to help in any way he could.’
Freddy’s brief relationship is understood to have ended acrimoniously following a string of rows – which even saw him and his now-ex make allegations to the police.
But they have since discussed reconciling their differences if possible, if they are to become parents together.
Freddy has endured a turbulent few weeks following a high profile battle with his father over the last six months – who had launched legal action in a bid to prevent the aspiring model from seeing his grandmother, Jade’s mum Jackiey Budden.
This week in a bombshell U-turn, Freddy accused his grandmother of getting him hooked on strong cannabis when he was just 12 – having previously insisted she had never been responsible for his drug use.
But on his new podcast, he said: ‘My nan is definitely the person who introduced me to reefer and got me hooked. It’s one of those things, I was 12.
‘I’ve been smoking since I was 12, I’ve been to rehab, I’ve been sectioned, I’ve had manic episodes, I’ve been sectioned. There’s been a real journey and it’s been a tough one.’
His comments prompted Jackiey to blast back, insisting she is not responsible for his cannabis use.
She said: ‘I’ve read all these things he’s said about me and I just can’t believe he’d say them. It just isn’t true at all – I can’t believe it.’
In an exciting announcement, Prince George is set to begin his educational journey at Eton College this autumn, following in the footsteps of his father, Prince William.
A representative from Kensington Palace confirmed the news to People on Tuesday, stating, “Prince George will join Eton College starting this September.”
Prince William attended this renowned institution between 1995 and 2000, and his brother, Prince Harry, was a student there from 1998 until his graduation in 2003.
Eton College, located in Berkshire, England, is a prestigious all-boys boarding school established in 1440. It holds the distinction of being the largest boarding school in England.
The school’s alumni network includes an impressive roster of 20 British Prime Ministers, underscoring its historical significance.
George — who will turn 13 next month — had been attending Lambrook School in Ascot with his two younger siblings, Princess Charlotte, 12, and Prince Louis, 8.
Before that, George and Charlotte were both educated alongside each other at Thomas’s Battersea in London.
William, 44, is next in the line of succession to the throne after his father, King Charles III, was coronated on May 6, 2023.
William’s time at Eton College prepared him to take on the line of succession through a balance of regal duties as well as social activities.
While attending the school, the Prince of Wales joined the exclusive student society known as Pop. He was also the captain of his football team, which fostered early leadership skills.
Similarly to his father, George is in direct line to succeed to the British throne.
However, William and his wife, Kate Middleton, allegedly “delayed” telling their eldest son that he would one day be the King of England to protect his childhood.
“[George] really has had a period of a normal childhood,” Royal biographer Robert Lacey told People last year.
“It shows special care and thoughtfulness,” Lacey said, adding, “It also tells us something about how William felt about the weight of the crown.”
Sources have claimed that William may push off bestowing George with the Prince of Wales title if the child doesn’t complete finishing school before he becomes the next heir.
“They would want him to focus on having freedom before giving him any royal titles,” a palace source told the magazine.
“William takes his role as father of the future King as seriously as he takes his role as future King. That’s key,” another royal expert told the outlet.
“His overarching priority is making sure they enjoy it rather than fear it.”
Although William and Middleton are united in the idea of raising their kids in a more modern way than previous royals before them, sending George to Eton is the more traditional route.
The parents strayed from the royal tradition by previously sending George to a co-ed day school, but are now sending him to the single-gender Eton College.
A Wisconsin facility known for breeding and research involving beagles, which has recently been at the center of violent protests, is set to close its doors. The remaining dogs from the facility will find new homes through a rescue group based in Florida.
On Monday, Big Dog Ranch Rescue revealed that it has finalized an agreement to permanently shut down Ridglan Farms and begin relocating the 475 beagles still housed there, starting this week.
“Not a single dog will be left behind,” stated Lauree Simmons, the founder of the rescue organization, during a press briefing held at the Wisconsin farm. “No more breeding, no more testing—this ends now.”
Years of controversy surrounding the site escalated in April when a large crowd of animal rights activists attempted to free the beagles, leading to a confrontation where police employed tear gas and pepper spray, resulting in numerous arrests.
Back in March, several demonstrators faced arrest after breaking into the Blue Mounds facility, approximately 25 miles southwest of Madison, and liberating 30 dogs.
Big Dog Ranch Rescue said some of the beagles will go to rescue groups while others will be sent to its Florida and Alabama campuses where they will be spayed, neutered, and prepared for adoption.
Beagles roam the grass on Monday, June 15, 2026, in Marshall, Wis.Big Dog Ranch Rescue via AP
The group bought roughly 1,500 of the facility’s more than 2,000 beagles in April for an undisclosed price.
About 200 dogs were being transferred Monday, according to Simmons. Another 125 will be moved Tuesday. The transfer of the remaining beagles will happen in August, as they are still puppies.
Simmons called on protesters to refrain from further demonstrations as it says Ridglan Farms has committed to permanently closing its dog breeding, sales, research and testing operations.
“Our focus now should be on supporting these dogs as they transition into their new lives,” Simmons said. “These dogs will get to experience safety and a normal life for the first time.”
Simmons said her group is also “working closely” with the Trump administration to stop funding studies that subject dogs to “invasive and painful experimentation.”
Trump’s Health and Human Services secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., called Monday’s deal a “major win for animal welfare” in a post on X.
Ridglan Farms, in a statement, said all the dogs being transferred are “happy, healthy animals” with “extensive” state and federal inspection documentation.
“We hope these dogs will continue to flourish in their new homes,” the company said, adding that it hopes that the “years-long harassment campaign targeting the research facility’s owners, staff and neighbors comes to an end.”
Animal activists for years had sought to have dogs at the facility adopted, not sold to other research facilities.
Beagles are the most common breed of dog used for animal testing, primarily because of their smaller size and gentle temperament, according to Big Dog Ranch Rescue.
Ridglan Farms agreed in October to give up its state breeding license as of July 1 as part of a deal to avoid prosecution on felony animal mistreatment charges.
The firm has denied mistreating animals, but a special prosecutor determined that Ridglan Farms was performing eye procedures that violated state veterinary standards.
Jessie James Decker recently opened up about the challenges she faced in accepting her postpartum body.
“This video is as raw and real as it gets,” the 38-year-old shared alongside a video on Instagram depicting her physical transformation. “I’ve been nervous about sharing this, but here it goes,” she added on Sunday, June 14.
Decker, who is a mother of four with husband Eric Decker, reflected on her past physique, saying, “I was always naturally petite and fit, the type who could eat whatever I wanted and remain in shape.” However, she revealed that with each of her pregnancies, she gained over 55 pounds and found that the weight didn’t just disappear after childbirth. “I quickly realized I had to put in real effort and work hard to return to the shape I wanted,” she explained.
She further expressed that she often didn’t “recognize” herself and felt “uncomfortable” in her clothes. “I understand what it’s like to work tirelessly day after day, questioning if the results will ever come and feeling utterly defeated,” she said. “I’ve gone through this transformation four times over a decade, but giving in has never been in my nature.”
Jessie James Decker, who has frequently faced body-shaming, acknowledges that building her confidence has been a journey. In a recent interview with Us Weekly, the 35-year-old candidly discussed her evolving relationship with her body, noting the significant changes motherhood brought. She and Eric share three children: Vivianne, 9, Eric Jr., 7, and Forrest, 5.
In the video, Jessie was seen working out with weights, pushing a stroller up a steep hill, walking, biking, jumping rope, doing burpees and more.
“I believe if you want something badly enough, you have to be willing to work for it. And feeling strong, energized, and confident is so important to me,” she continued. “Fitness has always been a part of my life, but it took me a long time to find what I truly enjoyed and what kept me wanting to show up consistently.”
The singer added that while she’s not a bodybuilder or a fitness expert, she “loves feeling strong.”
“Years ago, my mom, my sister, my best friend Jessica, and I had a little ‘Get Fit’ group text,” Jessie wrote. “We checked in with each other, celebrated wins together, and picked each other up on the hard days.”
Now, she’s sharing the “effective” workouts she kept “coming back to” in a 21 Day Summer Challenge, which she started on Monday, June 15.
“Everything inside JJD FIT Club is simply what I’ve learned along the way. The workouts, habits, and routines I keep coming back to because they’ve been effective for me time and time again,” she wrote.
“My hope is that this becomes that same kind of place for all of us,” Jessi continued. “A place to get stronger. A place to stay motivated. A place to support one another. A place to show up for ourselves.”
Jessie and Eric, 39, tied the knot in 2013 and are the parents of Vivianne, 12, Eric Jr., 10, Dorrest, 8, and Denver, 2, whom they welcomed in February 2024.
A beloved TikTok influencer, who touched the hearts of thousands by sharing her journey through cervical cancer, has sadly passed away at the age of 23.
Jenna Anne Johnson, renowned for her open and heartfelt posts about her diagnosis and cancer treatment, amassed a large following online. Her candid insights offered a window into the challenges and resilience of living with cancer.
Hailing from Stockholm, South Dakota, Jenna succumbed to her illness on May 29 after spending her final days in hospice care.
Her sister, Paige, broke the heartbreaking news in a poignant video uploaded to Jenna’s TikTok account on June 2.
Fighting back tears, Paige shared with viewers, “This is not a video that anyone should ever have to make, but it was her one request that if anything did happen, I would update you guys.”
She revealed Jenna had died after spending five days in hospice care.
Paige added: ‘We fully believe that we are gonna meet her someday.
‘On hospice, some of her last words to my parents were saying, ‘It’s beautiful’.’
TikTok star Jenna Anne Johnson has died age 23 as family pay tribute to ‘remarkable courage’
Jenna’s death came almost two years after she was diagnosed with cervical cancer on June 26, 2024, as reported by NeedToKnow.
Her obituary said she passed away surrounded by family after facing the disease with ‘remarkable strength and courage’.
The 23-year-old amassed more than 50,000 followers on TikTok, where she openly discussed her diagnosis and worked to raise awareness of cervical cancer symptoms among younger women.
One of her most-viewed videos, titled ‘How I found out I had Stage 4 cancer’, was watched more than 3.4 million times.
In the clip, Jenna explained how she attended what she believed would be a routine appointment and smear test before receiving abnormal results.
Further tests later revealed she had adenoid carcinoma, a rare cancer affecting glandular tissue.
Doctors initially believed the disease was stage three and potentially curable.
But after chemotherapy and radiotherapy, scans showed the cancer had spread aggressively throughout her body.
Jenna told followers the disease had first been found in her cervix, uterus and lymph nodes before spreading further.
The influencer, from Stockholm, South Dakota , died on 29 May after spending five days in hospice care
Jenna’s death came almost two years after she was diagnosed with cervical cancer on June 26, 2024
Jenna had initially believed she would be attending a routine appointment and smear test before receiving abnormal results
She also revealed her cancer was not linked to HPV, which causes the vast majority of cervical cancer cases.
Because of her age and the unusual nature of the diagnosis, she said doctors were left ‘absolutely baffled’.
Despite the devastating prognosis, Jenna continued using her platform to encourage others to prioritize their health.
Reflecting on her diagnosis in one video, she said: ‘Honestly, cancer was my biggest scare, too, and now that I have it, it just really is teaching me to live life to your fullest.
‘You don’t know what’s gonna happen. You just need to live your life.’
Born on February 24, 2003, Jenna graduated from Milbank High School in 2021, where she took part in tennis, band, choir and color guard.
Her obituary described her as having a ‘beautiful voice’ and a love of singing around family and friends.
She later attended South Dakota State University before moving to Wilmington, North Carolina, where she worked as a nanny.
Her family said the role perfectly suited her caring personality.
Jenna said due to her age and the unusual nature of the diagnosis, she said doctors were left ‘absolutely baffled’
Despite the devastating prognosis, Jenna continued using her platform to encourage others to prioritize their health
The 23-year-old amassed more than 50,000 followers on TikTok, where she discussed her diagnosis and worked to raise awareness of cervical cancer symptoms among younger women
The obituary said she had ‘a natural gift with children’ and found genuine joy in looking after them.
Following her diagnosis, Jenna returned home and began sharing her journey online.
Her family said she built a huge community of supporters who followed her story and found strength in her words.
The obituary stated: ‘Jenna courageously shared her story on social media.
‘Through her honesty and openness, she built a large community of followers who kept up with her journey and found strength in her words.
‘Jenna used her platform not only to document her experience, but also to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer.’
Following news of her death, thousands of followers paid tribute online, thanking Jenna for raising awareness and for the honesty with which she documented her illness.
‘The most courageous beautiful soul that will live on forever through everyone who knew her especially her family. I’m so sorry for your loss, I’m so glad she knows it’s beautiful In heaven. I miss you, Jenna, ” one fan wrote.
A third said: ‘We thank you and you are so strong.She would be so proud of you.’
‘I’m sorry for your loss, she was such a magnetic, beautiful, and bright soul. I have no doubt that her spirit will live on,’ shared someone else.
Funeral services were held in Milbank, South Dakota, on June 3.
She is survived by her parents, Darwin and Audra Johnson, sisters Rachel and Paige, and her nephew, niece and extended family.
