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Somali World Cup Referee Omar Artan Faces U.S. Entry Denial

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IN BRIEF

  • FIFA says visa decisions rest with host nations following a Somali referee being denied entry to the US.
  • Authorities have said the referee was ultimately found to be inadmissible following vetting checks.

An unfortunate turn of events left a Somali referee, selected to officiate at the FIFA World Cup, unable to enter the United States. Upon arrival at Miami International Airport from Istanbul, he faced denial of entry, casting a shadow over his anticipated role in the prestigious tournament.

FIFA later identified the individual as Omar Artan, the sole representative from Somalia chosen as a referee for this global event. The incident raises questions about the stringent entry procedures that can impact even those on official business.

In a statement to ENPS, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that Artan was turned away following their thorough screening protocols. As part of the standard entry process, he was subjected to further inspection to verify his details and assess his eligibility for entry.

“During the processing, the traveller underwent additional inspection, which is a routine part of CBP’s inspection process when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility,” a CBP spokesperson explained.

Despite these efforts, CBP officials ultimately deemed Artan inadmissible after conducting their vetting checks. However, they withheld specific reasons for this decision, leaving the situation somewhat enigmatic and highlighting the complexities of international travel regulations.

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They stressed that all travellers entering the US — including athletes, coaches and tournament personnel — remain subject to standard inspection procedures.

“Admissibility determinations are made on a case-by-case basis using law enforcement, national security, and immigration information available at the time of inspection,” the CBP spokesperson said.

The agency added that officers retain authority to question travellers and determine eligibility for entry under US law.

FIFA distances itself from immigration decisions

FIFA said it does not play a role in visa approvals or border decisions made by host countries.

In a statement, the governing body said it had been informed authorities would not change Artan’s status.

The organisation added that, as with previous tournaments, immigration and entry decisions ultimately sit with host governments.

Tournament preparations under scrutiny

The entry denial comes after several incidents that have put US immigration and border enforcement into the spotlight ahead of the World Cup.

Questions over access and travel have surfaced in recent days after Iran accused the US of refusing visas to members of its national football team’s support staff.

Iranian state-linked media reported 15 members of the delegation had been denied entry — including the head of the football federation, his deputy and a media director — after Iranian officials accused the US of restricting access for members of the team’s broader support group.

US officials said visas had been granted to players and what they described as necessary support personnel, while maintaining safeguards remained in place to prevent misuse of the system.

Iran’s embassy in Türkiye criticised the decision, describing it as politically motivated interference in sport.

World Cup organisers have also faced questions after a planned friendly between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chile in Spain was cancelled following health concerns linked to the Ebola outbreak.

Swiss striker Breel Embolo’s authorisation to travel to the US was also delayed, with reports indicating that he was undergoing additional checks related to previous court matters.

You can watch all 104 games of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ live, free and exclusive on SBS, SBS VICELAND and SBS On Demand.


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7 Compelling Signs Your Deceased Loved One May Be Reaching Out to You

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A particular melody, a distinctive aroma, or a flickering light—these are some of the mysterious phenomena that bereaved families report as signs of departed loved ones reaching out from beyond.

Bill and Judy Guggenheim, researchers focused on the phenomenon of ‘After-Death Communication’ (ADC), surveyed more than 2,000 individuals to uncover a series of unusual events that people associate with direct contact from familiar spirits.

Among the most reported signs are unexpected familiar scents, vivid dreams featuring the deceased, erratic behavior in electronic devices, and sudden shifts in animal behavior.

Throughout their research in the 1980s and 1990s, the Guggenheims discovered that these encounters often included finding coins in unusual spots, hearing familiar songs at meaningful times, and even feeling an ethereal touch.

Their findings suggest that around 60 to 120 million Americans, or approximately 20 to 40 percent of the U.S. population, have experienced one or more ADC events.

According to the research, these incidents often take place during moments of stress, on anniversaries or when the grieving person may have been seeking support.

Since scientists have not been able to prove the afterlife exists to this point, skeptics and fellow researchers have contended these events were grief-related hallucinations or coincidences rather than contact with a loved one.

In fact, a 2020 study published in Schizophrenia Bulletin reviewed many years of research and found that sensory experiences people claim was caused by a deceased loved one happen to 30 to 60 percent of grieving relatives.

Researchers who interviewed over 2,000 people on paranormal encounters revealed a list of signs that dead loved ones are trying to communicate (Stock Image)

Researchers who interviewed over 2,000 people on paranormal encounters revealed a list of signs that dead loved ones are trying to communicate (Stock Image)

The researchers describe these experiences as normal psychological reactions to loss rather than signs of mental illness or proof of afterlife contact, often calling them ‘bereavement hallucinations’ or ‘sensory experiences of the deceased.’

While many people find these moments comforting, the European team behind the research emphasized that the ‘signs’ were merely generated by the grieving mind as a natural part of mourning, not a spiritual connection.

However, near-death experiencers have also continued to recount their alleged journeys into the afterlife and have repeatedly noted meeting their deceased loved ones waiting for them in another realm.

Landon Dennis, a 37-year-old from Utah, recently shared his near-death experience in which he claimed to have met the spirits of his grandfather and niece in the afterlife while dying from a traumatic head injury in 2022.

He said he was able to telepathically recognize his grandfather’s presence emerging from bright lights that rose up in this realm. Meanwhile, he saw a purplish light that he immediately recognized as the spirit of his niece, whose favorite color was purple.

Dennis told The Mirror: ‘The one thing I can tell you I know for sure is that there is life after death. What we do matters. If you’re missing a family member, you will see them again.’

The brain surgery survivor’s story was similar to more than 3,300 firsthand accounts the Guggenheims collected from people who believe they were contacted by a loved one who died.

Prior to Bill Guggenheim’s death in 2023, the researchers revealed in a statement: ‘The purpose of these visits, contacts, and signs by those who have left their physical body is to offer comfort, reassurance, and hope to their parents, spouse, siblings, children, grandchildren, other family members, and friends.’

The research suggested that dead loved ones overwhelmingly returning from the spirit realm to provide comfort to grieving relatives (Stock Image)

The research suggested that dead loved ones overwhelmingly returning from the spirit realm to provide comfort to grieving relatives (Stock Image)

‘They want you to know they’re still alive, and that you’ll be reunited with them when it’s your turn to leave your lifetime on Earth. They want to assure you they’ll be there to meet you and greet you – and perhaps even to assist you – as you make your own transition,’ they added on their website detailing the research into ADC.

The messages people experiencing these encounters most often received from the spirit of a dead loved one included ‘I’m okay,’ ‘I love you,’ ‘Don’t worry about me’ and ‘Goodbye.’

One of the most common of the seven signs suggesting a loved one is communicating from the afterlife was the grieving relative encountering a scent connected to that person with no explanation, such as their perfume, aftershave or favorite food.

Witnesses have described this as a scent appearing out of nowhere with no source in the room, lasting just a few seconds and then disappearing – but leaving them comforted by the event.

When someone has a vivid dream of a deceased loved one, the Guggenheims revealed that the dreamer said their relative looked healthy and happy, often giving them a hug or delivering a message about their comfort in the afterlife.

People experience the loved one looking healthy and happy, delivering a comforting message or hug, and waking up feeling peaceful and rested, with the dream staying clear in their mind unlike normal dreams that quickly fade.

‘These are much more vivid, intense, colorful, and real than ordinary dreams. They are extremely common. These are also called “visitation dreams,”‘ the researchers explained.

Another common phenomenon after someone had died is electronics behaving strangely, including lights, TVs, radios or phones malfunctioning when a person starts to think about that particular loved one.

Common instances include lamps flickering, a radio suddenly playing ‘your song’ or the TV turning on by itself at a meaningful time, making the moment feel too perfect to be random.

The Guggenheims also concluded that ghosts of loved ones have a physical impact on the living, disturbing animals who appear to be more sensitive to the suspected wavelength of the spirit realm.

Some firsthand accounts involved a person’s dog staring at an empty spot, wagging its tail at nothing.

Another physical manifestation of a ghost’s presence was coins appearing in places they had no business being, especially dimes suddenly appearing without explanation, even in areas that had just been cleaned.

Two other eerie signs that a loved one is trying to contact the living are songs connected to the memory of a loved one that seem to play at the exact right moment, and feeling a touch or physical presence in the room even though no one is there.

Other people reported experiencing a gentle caress on the shoulder, a warm feeling or the distinct sensation that someone is sitting next to them or standing nearby – with the majority saying this brought a strong feeling of love and support.

‘Our research indicates that after-death communication experiences are so prevalent they should be regarded as a natural and normal part of life,’ the Guggenheims concluded.

Dorit Kemsley Fuels Drama: ‘Likes’ Post Calling Kyle Richards a ‘Hypocrite’ for Hiding Morgan Wade Romance from RHOBH

Dorit Kemsley ‘Likes’ Post Labeling Kyle Richards a “Hypocrite” for Keeping Morgan Wade Romance Off RHOBH Amid Feud

Credit: Bravo

Dorit Kemsley showed support for a critical post against Kyle Richards on Instagram amidst their ongoing dispute.

A Bravo fan account took aim at Kyle, 57, accusing her of pushing her fellow cast members to unveil personal details while keeping her own relationship with Morgan Wade, 31, under wraps on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. The post labeled Kyle as “hypocritical” and “manipulative,” and Dorit, 49, gave her approval by liking it.

The post declared, “Kyle is hypocritical. She’s often the one urging her co-stars to share their personal stories. She did this with [Denise Richards] concerning [Brandi Glanville]. It was particularly harsh because we later learned [Denise] was in an abusive situation. Morgan willingly appeared on RHOBH and featured Kyle in her music video as a romantic interest. Their public appearances together contradict claims of privacy. They brought attention to their relationship and then sought privacy when it suit them. Their actions attracted the scrutiny Kyle now complains about,” wrote Bravo Talk to Much on May 1 on Instagram.

The account further commented, “Kyle’s long-standing role doesn’t excuse her from being upfront. She has rarely shown leniency to others, yet she expects the same in return. If privacy is their desire, they should consider leaving the show. I wish Morgan and Kyle happiness together, but the situation they’re in is self-created.”

RHOBH Dorit Kemsley likes post calling out Kyle Richards.jpg

In a caption, the fan page continued to call out Kyle.

“Kyle Richards from the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills has always pressured her castmates to be authentic, genuine, and honest. The rules for her are different. She wants grace when she has never given anyone grace. She chooses to be on reality show where she is paid to be forthcoming about her life,” they declared, adding that cast members from other shows “bare everything.”

“If they can do it so can RHOBH. If you want privacy, don’t be on a reality show,” the page continued. “I post this because Kyle invited Brandi on the show, to her house, in her own bedroom to out Denise. Just to get revenge on Denise because Denise actually stood up to her. It was diabolical. Denise was in an abusive relationship, who knows how that would have made things worse for her.”

They concluded, “If you know anything about RHOBH, you know what I’m talking about. That convo just didn’t happen organically. It was right after Denise & Kyle had an [argument] at dinner with the ladies.”

New Jersey Resident in Distressed State Plummets 10 Stories Down Apartment Complex Trash Chute

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A woman experiencing extreme “paranoia” tragically fell ten stories through a trash chute at a New Jersey apartment building. Authorities suspect she may have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time.

The 25-year-old woman reportedly screamed as she plummeted down the three-foot-wide chute shortly after 1 p.m. on a Sunday in Hackensack, according to reports from WABC.

She was visiting a friend in the building but appeared paranoid when she left, a witness told the Daily Voice. The woman then entered the garbage room alone and climbed into the chute.


A trash chute and a large pile of garbage.
A woman fell 10 stories down a trash chute at a New Jersey apartment complex Sunday. City of Hackensack Fire Department

Massiel Gutierrez, who was disposing of boxes in a seventh-floor garbage room, shared with WCBS that the woman was “screaming in a different language.”

“All I could hear was screaming… It scared me so much that I ran away,” Gutierrez recounted.

“I was like wait, hold up, maybe somebody needs help.”

Gutierrez also claimed residents on the 14th floor heard “knocking” on their doors before the woman fell.


Exterior of 150 Main Street Hackensack, NJ, a tall building with dark and brick-colored facades, viewed from a low angle.
Crews were dispatched to the building in Hackensack. Google St View

Fire crews who had rushed to the scene were unable to find the woman – but she landed on the fourth floor.

She was stuck in the chute and trash was backed up, the Hackensack Fire Department revealed.

Investigators don’t know the reason why the woman ended up in the chute – but cops concluded she was high on drugs and intoxicated, according to WABC.

The woman was eventually rescued from the chute around 28 minutes after firefighters first arrived on the scene.

“The fire department determined that she was in an area inaccessible by the trash door, so we had to commence breaching to reach her,” Keith Rosazza, the Hackensack Fire Chief, told reporters.

Crews cut away panels on the chute discharge, while others geared up for a potential wall breach before the rescue took place.

“They used saws to breach it and they were luckily able to remove the trash out from the bottom that had accumulated in the chute, so that they were able to safely remove the victim that way,” Rosazza said.

She was hospitalized with significant injuries to her lower body – and one firefighter was injured after cutting their arm on the metal.

Officials at the building haven’t commented.

New Jersey Police Arrest Several Protesters in Heated Night Outside Detention Center

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A protracted confrontation between demonstrators and law enforcement reached another flashpoint on Sunday, resulting in additional arrests at Delaney Hall, a New Jersey immigration detention facility. This location has become a focal point for activists pushing an open-borders agenda, aiming to incite civil disobedience.

Protesters, who were obstructing vehicle access near the entrance, faced a forceful response from the Newark Police Department. Officers, after issuing multiple commands to “back up,” engaged with the crowd, which led to some individuals being tackled and detained, as captured in a video circulating online.

In one incident, an activist was seen clutching his head after getting too close to the officers during an arrest. Despite the fall, he resumed recording the events from a safer distance, indicating that he was not severely hurt.

Authorities, including Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, reported that six individuals were arrested between Saturday night and early Sunday morning. The charges included rioting and failure to disperse, with two of the detainees being repeat offenders.

These arrests were part of the ongoing demonstrations at Delaney Hall, spanning from Saturday, June 6th, to Sunday, June 7th, 2026, as noted by the Newark Police.

“These arrests were made after the suspects were observed committing property damage and blocking the entrance of Delaney Hall,” Miranda said. “At that point, an unlawful assembly was ordered, as blocking the entrance is a public safety hazard that puts everyone, including the detainees, in danger.”

“These individuals refused to comply,” Miranda added.

Allison Wuu, 19, of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Lucas Jimenez, 18, of Hoboken, New Jersey, were also arrested June 1, while four new rioters were charged Sunday: Drew Larsen, 28, of Brooklyn, New York; Solomon Dunston, 30, of Bordentown, New Jersey; Rayaan Baywa, 22, of Riverside, Connecticut; and Julianna Wurst, 19, of Old Bridge, New Jersey.

Each faces a charge of rioting/failure to disperse and is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Protests outside the gates have shown activists pummeling cars, impeding the exits and in some cases getting hurled out of the way after collisions with vehicles attempting to speed away from the violent activists.

“No one has the right to come into our city, destroy personal property, or incite violence,” Miranda wrote on social media. “Think twice before coming to Newark with any other agenda than to protest peacefully.”

News Media reached out to Miranda’s office for further comment on Sunday night’s activity.

“The ones who we are charging with crimes, the ones that, you know, they go from protesting to criminal activity, insulting our officers and damaging government property: Most of them from out of state,” Border czar Tom Homan told “FOX & Friends” on Monday.

“Look, these are paid protesters. We’ve got facial recognition of people from Portland, they’re at Portland riots, and many from Minnesota. This is a well-planned, established thing they’re doing,” Homan continued. “This isn’t homegrown. There’s a lot of there’s a lot of local people there to protest peacefully, and they certainly can do that. But the violence, majority of violence, not all of it, the majority is coming from an out of town people.”

A reported “hunger strike” has been ongoing since May 23 by illegal alien detainees over their accommodations, but Fox News has reported that detainee purchases of snacks at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center have spiked during the time of the alleged activist fasting.

“The fact is, we’re giving them the calories they want,” Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said last week. “This isn’t Holiday Inn.”

Since the activists’ standoff with law enforcement, there have been about 90 arrests.

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Trump Confirms US Pilots Safe Following Helicopter Crash Near Strategic Strait of Hormuz Amid Iran Tensions

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A U.S. Army Apache attack helicopter has crashed near the strategic Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump reassured the public that the two crew members involved in the incident are unharmed, highlighting the ongoing tensions in an area heavily influenced by Iranian control.

The cause of the crash remains unknown as of Tuesday morning, amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East following an exchange of fire between Iran and Israel. This confrontation marked a significant escalation in the fragile ceasefire in the ongoing Iran conflict. Iranian state media, relying on international reports, confirmed the crash but provided no further details.

Since the onset of U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran on February 28, the conflict has disrupted the global economy, pushing up energy costs and increasing the price of essential goods like food. Despite efforts, the April ceasefire has yet to evolve into a lasting peace agreement.

Speaking to reporters at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York after attending the NBA Finals on Monday night, President Trump addressed the situation.

“The pilots are fine. Yeah,” Trump stated. “Nobody injured. We are going to issue a report tomorrow. But the pilots are fine.”

The New York Times first reported that a U.S. Army Apache attack helicopter went down near the strait in unclear circumstances. The U.S. military’s Central Command and the Defense Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press.

Apache helicopters have been a key asset for the American military as it enforces a blockade on Iranian crude oil shipments and tankers, seeking to pressure Tehran into reaching a deal. The helicopters have also been used by the United Arab Emirates to shoot down Iranian drones during the Iran war.

Trump insists an Iran deal is coming

Trump also expressed renewed optimism over negotiations with Iran.

“We have a good chance” of signing a deal in “two or three days,” Trump said. He didn’t provide any details on why there was reason for new optimism.

“We’re very close to having a very, very good, strong, powerful deal,” the president said. “If we go and bomb — which we could do very easily if we want, and we spend another two or three weeks bombing — they’ll have nothing left whatsoever. But you won’t have the Strait open for months.”

He added: “If we do the bombing, you know, a lot of people are going to be killed. Who wants to do that? I don’t.”

Mediators, led predominantly by Pakistan, have been trying for weeks to get a deal across the line. However, both Iran and the U.S. have taken hard-line positions.

The U.S. wants to see Iran give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which is believed still to be entombed in the country after American airstrikes in the 12-day war in 2025. But Iran is refusing that and demanding relief from sanctions. It also wants the release of frozen assets even before a final agreement is in place, something rejected by Trump.

Copyright © 2026 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

Trump Refutes Claims of Boos from Knicks Fans at Madison Square Garden

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President Donald Trump recently claimed that he received ‘mostly cheers’ from the crowd while attending an NBA Finals game featuring the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

During a performance of the national anthem prior to the game, Trump’s appearance on the jumbotron triggered a strong reaction from the audience. The atmosphere was electric on Monday night as fans expressed their feelings vocally.

Despite a White House pool report indicating that the President was ‘thunderously booed,’ Trump offered a different perspective on the event.

When questioned about the boisterous reception at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Trump asked, “You mean when they had the camera on me?” and described the experience as “very good” and “certainly amazing.”

“I think it was mostly cheers,” he concluded, presenting his personal interpretation of the moment amidst the mixed reactions from the crowd.

The President added: ‘It was loud and it was very enthusiastic.’ 

The San Antonio Spurs beat the Knicks by four points – 115 to 111 – in a nail-biter of a conclusion to Game 3. 

The New York-born Trump called the game ‘fantastic’ – without taking sides in the heated rivalry.

‘Well played by both teams,’ Trump said. ‘We all had a lot of fun. It was great to watch. Very talented players.’ 

Monday night’s game was the Knicks’ first loss of the Finals, with New York winning both games on the road in San Antonio to start the series. 

President Donald Trump said he heard 'mostly cheers' when he was booed at MSG Monday

President Donald Trump said he heard ‘mostly cheers’ when he was booed at MSG Monday

Trump (C) displayed a wry smile alongside granddaughter Kai Trump (L) as he was booed

Trump (C) displayed a wry smile alongside granddaughter Kai Trump (L) as he was booed

The president was given a brutal welcome by Knicks fans ahead of Game 3 of the NBA Finals

The president was given a brutal welcome by Knicks fans ahead of Game 3 of the NBA Finals 

New York fans were hoping the Knicks could clinch the championship in four games, so that the winning game would be played at home on Wednesday night. 

‘I’m going Knicks in five,’ said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, a former congressman from New York, standing alongside Trump on the tarmac. 

Trump spent the game behind a bulletproof glass suite in the mid-level of the sports arena alongside Knicks owner James Dolan. 

When the Jumbotron panned to Trump, he put his right hand up in the form of a salute and displayed a wry smile. 

His granddaughter, Kai Trump, appeared to smirk as the President was booed. 

When the Jumbotron panned to Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson, the crowd began to cheer.  

Outside the arena, a watch party descended into violent chaos as fans brawled and police deployed pepper spray in a desperate attempt to disperse the crowds.

New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a short-notice big-screen viewing at Bryant Park. 

Fans climb scaffolding and stand on top of an ice cream van near Bryant Park on Monday night

Fans climb scaffolding and stand on top of an ice cream van near Bryant Park on Monday night

New York Knicks fans clash with officers outside the watch party in Midtown Manhattan

New York Knicks fans clash with officers outside the watch party in Midtown Manhattan

An officer uses pepper spray on fans as police try to calm the crowds outside Bryant Park

An officer uses pepper spray on fans as police try to calm the crowds outside Bryant Park

5,000 free tickets were dished out to Knicks fans to watch Game 3 of the NBA Finals, but scenes turned ugly midway through the night, leading to riot police being deployed.

It is understood the violent scenes unfolded on the streets outside the viewing party, and clips posted on social media saw huge crowds of Knicks fans brawling.

In one video, published by Freedom News TV, two men can be seen swinging punches at each other while being cheered on by a large group, before others jump in and join in with the violence.

Others are filming the fight, and at one point a man swings around a large tree branch, before a man dressed as a superhero tries to break up the violence.

All fans entering MSG went through extra security checks and metal detectors before entering, and the steel ring meant that fans were subjected to lengthy waits that threatened to see them miss tip-off.

Trump was joined by family members, aides and allies at Monday night’s game.

The official list from the White House included Vanessa Trump – Kai’s mother and Donald Trump Jr’s ex, who’s now dating golf star, Tiger Woods – Administrator Zeldin, Secretaries Sean Duffy and Doug Burgum, Tiffany Trump’s husband Michael Boulos, and Steve Witkoff, who is facilitating the Iran negotiations.

Trump gave a fist to the crowd after the 'thunderous' boos from the fervent Knicks fans

Trump gave a fist to the crowd after the ‘thunderous’ boos from the fervent Knicks fans 

Trump spoke to reporters just before boarding Air Force One at JFK Airport in New York

Trump spoke to reporters just before boarding Air Force One at JFK Airport in New York 

Outside the arena, Trump was greeted by expletive-laden signs and furious Knicks fans

Outside the arena, Trump was greeted by expletive-laden signs and furious Knicks fans

Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, was also captured in the suite. 

Other Trump aides on hand included Communications Director Steven Cheung, Dan Scavino, with his wife Erin, Boris Epshteyn, Walt Nauta, Margo Martin and Natalie Harp. 

Cameras captured the President eating pizza and fries while he watched the game.

Trump headed back to Washington a little after midnight, where he awaits another grand sports spectacle – the UFC fight on the White House’s South Lawn to mark his 80th birthday. 

Before wheels up at JFK, the president also fielded a question about sports commentator Stephen A. Smith, who has previously teased a run to succeed Trump in 2028.

This week, the ESPN host had claimed it would be Trump’s fault if the Knicks lost Game 3, after their impressive victories in Games 1 and 2.

Hitting back, Trump said of Smith: ‘I think he’s a nice guy. You need a certain aptitude to run for President. You need a high IQ. I’m not sure that Stephen has that. I don’t think he does actually.’

The New York-born Trump called the game 'fantastic' - without taking sides in the heated rivalry

The New York-born Trump called the game ‘fantastic’ – without taking sides in the heated rivalry

Trump was also asked if he had any plans to attend Game 4, which is set to take place at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.

Answering before the president, EPA administrator Zeldin noted: ‘We’re busy with a lot of important stuff right now,’ before Trump jumped in to state: ‘Like a war!’

Separately, Trump was also asked about the atmosphere of the NBA, to which he called it ‘a little left-wing’, adding ‘but it’s great entertainment.’ 

Join the discussion

Why do you think Trump’s appearance at the Knicks game sparked such a divided reaction from fans?

Strained Family Ties: Mother’s Heartfelt Plea as Son and Daughter-in-Law Ignore Messages

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DEAR ABBY: Recently, I organized a family get-together that included my adult cousin and his spouse, who reside nearby, as well as my son, his wife, and their child, who traveled all the way from Georgia to Pennsylvania for the occasion.

Since my son and his family seldom have the chance to connect with relatives, I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to bring everyone together. However, during the event, my son barely acknowledged our cousins. Both he and his wife seemed disengaged, frequently checking their phones and appearing restless, as if eager for the gathering to conclude.

My son works as a neurosurgeon, and his wife is a nurse practitioner. They’re both in their early 40s, which made their behavior all the more surprising and embarrassing for me.

The following day, I reached out to them, expressing my disappointment over their conduct. Unfortunately, my message went unanswered. I sent a follow-up to confirm they received my initial message, but once again, I was met with silence.

I’m left feeling embarrassed for my cousins and deeply disappointed by my son and daughter-in-law’s actions. This lack of communication has left me with no outlet for my emotions, making me feel physically ill and helpless to resolve the situation. What can I do? — BEST OF INTENTIONS

DEAR BEST: How socially aware are your son and daughter-in-law? Were they on their phones because of some medical problem that sprang up in their absence? Could they have been uncomfortable because you foisted these relatives on them with no warning? 

I keep looking for excuses that might explain their rudeness to the relatives. But I can find none for their ignoring your messages other than that they simply do not care. You should be furious. But please, don’t turn it inward, because THAT is what is making you ill. 

** ** **

DEAR ABBY: I am a mature female who hasn’t been in any kind of relationship for 25 years. When I realized I needed and wanted a relationship with someone compatible, I went on a dating site and found someone. But I messed up because I was insecure.

I wanted more communication, and he is involved in many activities, which I understood. I tried to call him twice, but he didn’t pick up. I thought he was still communicating with other women on the dating site. I went to his house and told him I had moved on because I hadn’t heard from him, and he didn’t answer my calls. He said he broke his phone and was dealing with a son in jail and a sick mother. 

I don’t know if he was telling the truth or not, but if it’s true, that’s a lot of things to deal with. I felt awful and knew I had ruined things because of my impatience. I texted him, and I’m waiting to hear back. I really like him. We had been intimate, but I’m afraid I’ve lost him. What do I do? — ANXIOUS IN INDIANA

DEAR ANXIOUS: Sometimes, mature people can react immaturely. Once your insecurities took over, you came on a little too strong. Apologize for it and tell him that you have not “moved on.” But realize that the ball will be in his court, and if you don’t hear from him in a reasonable amount of time, you will have to look elsewhere for companionship. 

** ** **

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Giada De Laurentiis’ Daughter Jade Blossoms into Stunning Young Woman




Renowned chef Giada De Laurentiis, celebrated for her culinary expertise, is also a devoted mother to her daughter, Jade Marie De Laurentiis Thompson. Jade entered the world in March 2008, during Giada’s marriage to Todd Thompson. While Giada tends to keep her private life under wraps, she has candidly discussed her experiences as a mother. In 2013, she opened up about how Jade revitalized her life following the tragic loss of her brother to melanoma. In an interview with Parade, Giada expressed, “She’s allowed me to love in a full way, which I think that had stopped when my brother died 10 years ago. She’s reopened my eyes to the world around me and my ability to truly love someone again.”

Famous chef Giada De Laurentiis is a mother of one to Jade Marie De Laurentiis Thompson. Jade was born in March 2008, during Giada’s marriage to her then-husband, Todd Thompson. Although Giada lives a private life, she has shared quite a bit of her motherhood journey. In 2013, for example, the Food Network star revealed that Jade had given her a new lease on life after her brother unexpectedly passed away from melanoma. “She’s allowed me to love in a full way, which I think that had stopped when my brother died 10 years ago,” Giada told Parade. “She’s reopened my eyes to the world around me and my ability to truly love someone again.”

Fast forward to 2026, and Jade Marie De Laurentiis Thompson is preparing to embark on her college journey. Naturally, Giada is savoring every moment they have together, equipping Jade with the skills she’ll need to thrive independently. True to her culinary pedigree, much of this preparation centers on cooking. As Giada shared with SheKnows, she is dedicated to teaching Jade a handful of simple Italian dishes that are both delicious and manageable. “Because I feel like no matter how wonderful that recipe is at the end of the day and tasty, if you have a sink full of dishes, chances are you’re not making it again,” Giada explained.

While Giada takes pride in Jade’s exciting new chapter, she admits to feeling a mix of emotions about the impending changes. In a January 2026 conversation with Good Housekeeping, Giada reflected, “As a mom, I’ve always planned my life around Jade’s schedule, and it’s been that way for the last 18 years. It’s going to be a tough transition, but I think it’ll be fun. Yes, there will be those sad moments where I realize that my time with her is now limited, but it’ll be different.” She added, “She’s not going to live at home anymore, and I think that’ll take some getting used to.” However, Giada eagerly looks forward to Jade’s first visit home for Thanksgiving as a college student, marking the beginning of this new phase in their relationship.

Giada De Laurentiis began prepping her daughter for college

In 2026, Giada De Laurentiis’ daughter, Jade Marie De Laurentiis Thompson, began preparing to head to college in the fall. Like any good mother, of course, Giada wanted to make the most of the time they had left together by preparing Jade to live on her own. Given her culinary roots, it’s unsurprising that much of that prep involved cooking. However, as Giada shared with SheKnows, she was focused on helping Jade master a few easy Italian recipes that she would actually have the energy to re-create. “Because I feel like no matter how wonderful that recipe is at the end of the day and tasty, if you have a sink full of dishes, chances are you’re not making it again,” she said.

And while Giada was, of course, proud of Jade starting her next chapter, she did have some bittersweet feelings about the changes. “As a mom, I’ve always planned my life around Jade’s schedule, and it’s been that way for the last 18 years,” she shared with Good Housekeeping in January 2026.”It’s going to be a tough transition, but I think it’ll be fun. Yes, there will be those sad moments where I realize that my time with her is now limited, but it’ll be different.” She continued, “She’s not going to live at home anymore, and I think that’ll take some getting used to.” On the bright side? She wouldn’t have to wait too long for Jade to return home for her first Thanksgiving as a college student. 



Siren’s Curse Roller Coaster Experiences Two Vertical Stalls in Single Weekend at Six Flags Cedar Point

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North America’s tallest, fastest, and longest tilt roller coaster encountered unexpected halts over the weekend, leaving riders momentarily suspended in a vertical position.

The Siren’s Curse, situated at Six Flags Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, faced technical issues on both Saturday and Sunday, as reported by Fox 8.

“Over the weekend, the roller coaster experienced technical pauses akin to a ‘check-engine light,’ which temporarily halted its operation,” a park spokesperson shared with WKYC-TV. “The safety system functioned as intended, ensuring the safety of all guests. After a thorough system inspection, the ride was resumed, allowing guests to continue their experience.”

AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY SPARKS TRAVEL RUSH AS EXPERTS ISSUE URGENT BOOKING WARNING

Siren's Curse roller coaster at Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio

The Siren’s Curse, Cedar Point’s latest attraction, was unveiled to media and roller coaster enthusiasts on June 26, 2025, in Ohio. This past weekend, the coaster faced two distinct technical setbacks, momentarily suspending riders in an upright position.

The park reiterated to Fox 8 that the automated safety system had simply detected a condition that required a pause for inspection.

Siren's Curse roller coaster at Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio

Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio opened its new Siren’s Curse roller coaster. (Akron Beacon Journal/IMAGN)

After crews completed a systems check following each delay, the attraction was reopened to guests shortly after. News Media has reached out to Cedar Point for further comment.

Described by the park as a record-breaking attraction, Siren’s Curse tilts riders at a 90-degree angle, holding them vertically as the track locks into place before the first drop.

Siren's Curse roller coaster at Cedar Point amusement park

Cedar Point opened its newest roller coaster, Siren’s Curse, to media and coaster fans on Thursday, June 26. (Craig Webb/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

The ride originally opened at Cedar Point in June 2025. On its very first day of operation, it experienced a similar glitch, leaving riders suspended vertically for about 10 minutes, according to local reports.

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