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Unveiling Lonnie Lincoln: The Familiar Face Behind Spider-Noir’s Cast




This year brings a double feature for Tombstone fans. Following the exploration of Lonnie Lincoln’s backstory in the debut season of the animated series “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man,” he’s set to return as a central antagonist in the upcoming “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” slated for release this summer. This installment follows closely after “Spider-Noir.” Set against a 1930s backdrop, the series presents a unique portrayal of the classic villain. Showrunner Oren Uziel reveals that the writing team focused on unveiling the “humanity” within Tombstone, viewing him as a “tortured soul” rather than a mere villain.

For this innovative twist on Tombstone, British actor Abraham Popoola steps into the role. Popoola, who made a notable impact with his award-winning performance in a West End production of Shakespeare’s “Othello,” brings depth to the character of Lonnie Lincoln. His grounded portrayal aligns with the series’ historical setting, echoing the societal upheaval following World War I and the Great Depression.

This role marks a significant milestone in Popoola’s career, poised to elevate his profile further. Yet, some might recognize Popoola from his previous work in major franchises and acclaimed television series, indicating this isn’t his first brush with the spotlight.

“Spider-Noir” marks the third Marvel venture for Popoola, who initially appeared in “Morbius” as Ryan, a counterfeiting ringleader swiftly confronted by Jared Leto’s character. He returned to the Marvel universe a year later, portraying the 306-year-old S.A.B.E.R. agent Dag in “The Marvels,” working alongside Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury in the cosmic defense realm.

Beyond Marvel, Popoola’s versatility shines through in other projects. He made a brief appearance in two episodes of the first season of “Andor,” playing North-1, a member of the Empire-aligned Preox-Morlana Corporate Tactical Forces. His character was involved in the attempted capture of Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), although Andor ultimately escaped. In the Disney realm, Popoola also had a cameo as a kebab shop assistant in the 2021 film “Cruella.”

Not his first clash with superheroes …

“Spider-Noir” is actually the third Marvel project Popoola has been a part of, first appearing in “Morbius” as Ryan, the leader of a counterfeiting operation whose arm is broken by Jared Leto’s antihero faster than you can say “it’s Morbin’ time.” A year later, he appeared more prominently as the 306-year-old S.A.B.E.R agent Dag in “The Marvels,” sharing scenes with Samuel L. Jackson as he works hard managing Nick Fury’s intergalactic defense system.

Staying in outer space, Popoola popped up very briefly in two episodes of “Andor” season 1. He played North-1, a member of the Empire-aligned Preox-Morlana Corporate Tactical Forces who helped lead the coordinated Ambush on Ferrix to capture Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), which wound up unsuccessful as Andor escaped with Luthen Rael (Stellan Skarsgard) in tow. Elsewhere in the Disney universe, Popoola also cropped up as a kebab shop assistant in 2021’s “Cruella.”

His most recent franchise role to date was as arms dealer Frank in “Ballerina,” the 2025 spin-off from the “John Wick” universe. After Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas) dispatched the assassins who tracked her down to his shop, Frank helps her locate the cult base she was searching for after getting wounded in gunfire. Similarly, he shared a scene with Jennifer Lopez in the 2024 Netflix movie “Atlas,” playing a disembodied AI head she tricked into revealing the villain’s location.

Rise to small-screen leading man

British readers have likely seen Popoola in Channel 4’s “The Curse,” where he got a rare chance to flex his comic muscles as Joey Boy. This has coincided with appearances in several other Brit hits which have a far bigger audience internationally.

The first of these is Amazon Prime Video’s “The Rig,” a supernatural drama about a mysterious fog that envelops a North Sea oil rig off the Scottish coast which has deadly consequences; Popoola played Easter Ayodeji, a kind-hearted crane worker. In the most recent season of “Slow Horses,” the actor portrayed Tyson Bowman, the Chief of Staff to the long-suffering Mayor of London (Nick Mohammed), whose bid for re-election was facing several major blows.

Before becoming a complex villain, Popoola got to play a superhero in the cancelled two-season Hulu sitcom “Extraordinary.” Set in a world where everybody gains superpowers after their 18th birthday, Popoola had a supporting role as Ade, who had the ability to walk through walls –- better than other recurring characters, who possessed powers such as having a butt that could 3D print, or a shapeshifter who got stuck as a cat lovingly named “j**z-lord.”

That series was cancelled in early 2025, after the 1st season of “Spider-Noir” had almost completed filming. With showrunner Uziel already teasing possibilities for a “Spider-Noir” Season 2, the door is open for the actor to return if the show gets renewed.



Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 2026: New Artists Lineup Revealed with Official Poster Unveiling

BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) — Excitement is building for the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion as the Birthplace of Country Music has unveiled more artists for its 2026 festival lineup.

The festival, already featuring Sierra Ferrell as the headliner, will also welcome The War and Treaty, The Del McCoury Band, Marty Stuart, and Braxton Keith to its stage.

  • Kris Truelsen & Country Casserole
  • Adam Bolt
  • Adrian Bundy & His Honky Tonk Hearts
  • Alpine Motel
  • Anthony Childress
  • Ashton Davison
  • Bailey George & The Hit Paraders
  • Boys From Bristol
  • Chancellor Lawson
  • The Corklickers – Have performed every year since 2001.
  • Duty Free
  • Hoot & Holler Storytellers
  • Jamtown JAM Camp
  • Junction 4961
  • Lightin’ Charlie
  • Logan & McKenna
  • Momma Molasses
  • My New Favorites
  • NESCC Jazz Ensemble
  • Noah Denton
  • Phil Faconti & Dave Eggar
  • Possum Creek Playboys
  • Post Bop Revival
  • Recvoery Bristol Band
  • Roger Ramsey
  • Soul Sandwich
  • The Soulamanders
  • Troublesome Hollow
  • Virginia West

Festival Director Richard Oakley commented on the festival’s legacy, saying, “For 25 years, the vibrant music scene of Bristol and the surrounding Appalachian area has been the heartbeat of the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. We pride ourselves on highlighting both beloved local legends and promising regional artists poised for success, offering a rich tapestry of talent from our mountains.”

Apart from the artist announcements, the festival also revealed its 25th Anniversary poster, crafted by artist Charles Vess, who was present at the unveiling.

Photo: WJHL

Mark your calendars as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion is set to take place from September 11-13.

Crucial 11-Word Letter from Missing Wife Maya Millete to Husband Uncovered

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An unsettling message comprising just 11 words, allegedly penned by missing California mother Maya Millete to her husband, was revealed in court on Tuesday. This revelation is part of the prosecution’s disturbing case against Larry Millete, who stands accused in her murder trial.

Maya’s poignant words were: “Let me find my peace . . . I cannot find it with you.”

This significant message emerged from a letter Maya reportedly addressed to Larry in August 2020, several months before she disappeared at the age of 39 from their Chula Vista residence in San Diego on January 7, 2021.

Larry Millete faces charges of murdering his wife, although her body has never been recovered.

The letter, described as damning, was read aloud during the trial’s fifth day of testimony, casting a stark light on the deteriorating state of the Milletes’ marriage, according to reports from FOX5.

“You are right, I am not myself anymore. I’ve turned into this bitter, angry person who is careless with her words,” Maya wrote.

“But that’s what our marriage has turned me into. And I hate it.”

She described the relationship as “unhealthy” and “toxic,” adding: “With the kids in mind, I want to be happy and happy is not with you.”

“I’ve been gone mentally and emotionally, for a very long time,” the letter continued.

Jurors also heard testimony about troubling internet searches allegedly discovered on devices inside the Millete home.

Former Chula Vista Police Department forensic specialist David Garber testified that investigators found searches including “how to mentally torture someone with words,” “psychological torture,” and “how to mentally torture someone.”

Garber further testified that investigators discovered what could be evidence of a small bloodstain in the trunk of Larry’s Lexus, along with streaks suggesting the area had been wiped clean.

Still, Garber noted the vehicle was not officially considered a crime scene.

Detective Ryan Culver testified officers found no signs of a struggle or foul play when they first entered the Millete family home on Paseo Los Gatos the night Maya was reported missing.

Larry allowed officers into the house and cooperated with investigators at the time, Culver testified.

The court also heard from digital forensic experts who extracted evidence from the couple’s electronics and vehicles.

NCIS digital forensic examiner Amy Voight testified she decrypted Maya’s Navy-issued work laptop in February 2021 because the device was encrypted due to her job with the Navy.

Former CVPD Digital Evidence Unit employee Glenn Stark testified he processed evidence from a MacBook seized from the home, Larry’s Lexus, and Maya’s Jeep.

Stark told jurors he removed an SD card from the Lexus and extracted the infotainment system from Maya’s Jeep before turning the data over to detectives.

Later Tuesday, CVPD Detective Lorenzo Ruiz testified that investigators found no evidence Maya used her credit cards after Jan. 7, 2021, other than automatic payments.

Authorities also found no cellphone activity tied to Maya after her disappearance, Ruiz testified. Investigators checked with Uber, border officials, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement but found no evidence she left the country or used rideshare services.

Ruiz also reviewed neighborhood security footage and testified he saw no indication Maya left the home after Jan. 7.

Additional searches allegedly found on Maya’s laptop included “physical abuse manifesting years after marriage,” searches related to divorce and child support calculators and “Is manhandling a wife physical abuse?”

Many of those searches dated back to August 2020, according to testimony.

The trial is expected to last roughly three months, with 152 people listed as potential witnesses.

Outside the presence of the jury Tuesday, defense attorney Liann Sabatini objected to possible evidence tied to alleged activity on Tinder and Ashley Madison accounts. The evidence has not been shown in court.

60 Minutes Icon Leaves Show Amidst Allegations of Rebellious Conduct

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The prominent journalist from 60 Minutes who found herself at odds with CBS executives over a contentious report about the Trump administration’s policies is no longer part of the show.

Sharyn Alfonsi’s contract, which concluded on Saturday, has not been renewed by the network, according to information first revealed by The New York Times.

This decision follows an incident six months prior when a segment she worked on, highlighting ‘brutal and torturous conditions’ at a prison in El Salvador where the Trump administration was sending suspected illegal immigrants, was unexpectedly postponed.

When approached for her thoughts on her departure, Alfonsi expressed to the Times, “It sends a chilling message to the entire newsroom.”

As reported by the Los Angeles Times in December, Alfonsi communicated through internal emails that Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss’s judgment to delay the segment was driven by ‘political’ motives.

CBS executives considered the drafting of the internal memo as ‘insubordinate,’ several sources told the Times.

Alfonsi, in turn, told the paper she did not regret making the comments that were quickly leaked to the press.

Asked about CBS’s decision not to renew her contract, she said: ‘I think it was a deliberate choice to penalize a journalist for refusing to sanitize accurate reporting.’

Alfonsi added that she was ‘not resigning’ from CBS, before effectively daring her higher-ups to pull the trigger.

Sharyn Alfonsi, a longtime presence at 60 Minutes, slammed CBS's decision to pull a story about a Salvadoran prison as 'political' in December. She is no longer with the program, she revealed on Wednesday

Sharyn Alfonsi, a longtime presence at 60 Minutes, slammed CBS’s decision to pull a story about a Salvadoran prison as ‘political’ in December. She is no longer with the program, she revealed on Wednesday

Longtime 60 Minutes star Anderson Cooper also recently left the program. Media reports cited frustrations with senior leadership

Longtime 60 Minutes star Anderson Cooper also recently left the program. Media reports cited frustrations with senior leadership

‘If they want me gone because I did my job, they’ll have to fire me,’ she said. 

‘The concern is we’re going to end up with a broadcast that looks like 60 Minutes but doesn’t have the courage or the character to produce 60 Minutes journalism that actually matters.’

Fellow 60 Minutes long-timer Anderson Cooper already left last week, in part because of Editor-in-Chief Weiss, Status reported. Cooper, who remains at CNN, had been on the show for almost 20 years.

Alfonsi joined the program in 2015 and CBS in 2011.

Her story about Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT) sparked what White House deputy policy chief Stephen Miller later called a ‘revolt’, when Weiss spiked it the day before it was set to air.

The following Monday, Weiss told staffers during the day’s editorial call that the episode had not done enough to take the story forward after reporting elsewhere: ‘While the story presented powerful testimony of torture at CECOT, it did not advance the ball.

Alfonsi’s team also did not get enough administration officials on the record for the ‘important piece,’ she maintained.

Alfonsi, 53, immediately argued the move was a form of censorship. 

The story then accidentally aired on the TV app for one of Canada’s largest networks that week and copies of the show began to circulate widely online.

Alfonsi, a 60 Minutes correspondent since 2015, maintains that the last-minute move was a form of censorship

Alfonsi, a 60 Minutes correspondent since 2015, maintains that the last-minute move was a form of censorship

 

When the segment did officially air in January, viewers were able to compare the two versions, with few differences between the two.

The end of the segment was updated to include the administration’s comment. The administration also provided pictures of tattoos that had been on two of the migrants Alfonsi had interviewed.

The final episode of 60 Minutes’ latest season aired on May 17. Alfonsi was a regular presence even after the CECOT saga.

A February segment from her praised a German bid to arrest internet users accused of ‘hate-filled or toxic’ rhetoric.

The segment aired shortly after Vice President JD Vance slammed Germany and other European countries for adopting what he saw as a ‘Soviet’-style approach to censorship.

Weiss was hired by Paramount CEO David Ellison, son of billionaire GOP donor Larry Ellison, in October. Weiss is also the founder of the right-leaning Free Press, which was purchased by Ellison when she was hired in October.

There have since been wide-ranging changes at the network. 

CBS News's editor-in-chief, Free Press founder Bari Weiss, made the call to spike the story

 CBS News’s editor-in-chief, Free Press founder Bari Weiss, made the call to spike the story

Weiss was personally appointed by Paramount CEO David Ellison, the son of billionaire Larry Ellison

Weiss was personally appointed by Paramount CEO David Ellison, the son of billionaire Larry Ellison

Ex-60 Minutes boss Bill Owens and former CBS News chief Wendy McMahon already left the network ahead of Ellison’s ascent, citing corporate overreach after Paramount’s merger with Ellison’s Skydance was approved by the FCC in July.

Ellison, at the time, articulated a vision of the prime Paramount asset reaching people who are more centrist.

Longtime 60 Minutes journalist Lesley Stahl, meanwhile, is also reassessing her future at CBS News, after being passed over for the show’s recent sit-down with Benjamin Netanyahu, which was arranged by Weiss personally, according to Status.

She, Cooper, and Alfonsi were all part of a group of 60 Minutes correspondents demanding that CBS name the show’s next executive producer after longtime lead Owens’s exit in April of last year. 

Veteran producer Tanya Simon received the job in July, after heavy backing from the journalists.

The Daily Mail approached CBS and Paramount for comment.

Shocking Carnival Cruise Tragedy: Teen in Stepsister’s Death Still at Large After Court Hearing


A dramatic legal saga unfolded in Miami on Wednesday, as a federal judge deliberated over the fate of a teenager accused of a horrific crime aboard a cruise ship. The young man, Timothy Hudson, faces charges of sexually assaulting and murdering his 18-year-old stepsister while on a Carnival Cruise, a case that has captured significant public attention.

Initially, Hudson, who is just 16 years old, was taken into custody and charged as a juvenile. However, U.S. Magistrate Judge Edwin Torres had previously ruled in February that Hudson could be released to live with an uncle under electronic monitoring. The case took a significant turn as it transitioned to adult court, prompting prosecutors to push for Hudson’s detention.

This case is particularly unique as it is being prosecuted in federal court, a rare occurrence for minors. The decision to try Hudson federally stems from the fact that the alleged crime took place in international waters, beyond the jurisdiction of any single state.

During the proceedings on Wednesday, Judge Torres concluded the morning hearing without making a definitive decision. He expressed a need to consult with the U.S. Marshals Service to explore the possibility of detaining Hudson closer to his family in central Florida, rather than in South Florida where the trial is scheduled.

As of now, it remains uncertain when Judge Torres will reach a conclusion. In the interim, Hudson was allowed to leave the courthouse and was not immediately placed in custody, leaving a community on edge as they await the next steps in this troubling case.

Hudson has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. His federal public defenders have declined to comment on the charges.

Hudson’s stepsister, Anna Kepner, had been traveling on the Carnival Horizon ship in November with her family, including Hudson. Before the ship was scheduled to return to Florida, her body was found concealed under a bed in a room she was sharing with Hudson and another teen, a criminal complaint said.

The cause of Kepner’s Nov. 6 death was determined to be mechanical asphyxia, which is when an object or physical force stops someone from breathing.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alejandra Lopez argued Wednesday that the crimes Hudson is accused of are so serious that the court shouldn’t risk another violet attack. An autopsy determined that Kepner had been pinned down and violently raped, the prosecutors said. She also noted that it likely took 3-5 minutes for Hudson to strangle Kepner until she was dead.

“I believe there is clear and convincing evidence that this defendant is a danger to the community,” Lopez said.

The prosecutor also argued that Hudson was a much greater flight risk because he now faces a possible life sentence if convicted of the adult charges. As a juvenile, he would have been released at age 21, regardless of what counts he was found delinquent on.

Evan Kuhl, with the Federal Public Defender’s office, told the judge that Hudson has abided by the conditions of his release for months without issue.

The judge acknowledged that an adult facing these charges would almost certainly be detained until trial, but he still needed to consider the reality of Hudson’s age, despite the adult charges. While the judge said he agreed with the defense that Hudson was a low flight risk, he still hadn’t decided whether the teen posed a threat to the community if certain pre-trial restrictions remained in place.

Kepner’s father, Christopher Kepner, previously released a statement, saying the family was placing “trust in the justice system to pursue the truth with care and integrity.”

“The situation is deeply painful and complex for the entire family,” Kepner said.

Anna Kepner was a high school cheerleader at Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) east of Orlando. At her memorial service in November, family members encouraged people to wear bright colors instead of the traditional black “in honor of Anna’s bright and beautiful soul.”

Effingham Stabbing: 20-Year-Old Man Arrested in Shocking Attack – Full Details Inside


EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WCIA) — A young man from Effingham has been taken into custody following a stabbing incident that left the victim in need of urgent medical attention across multiple hospitals.

The Effingham Police Department reported that the incident occurred late Monday night, May 25. At around 11:30 p.m., they received calls about a stabbing in the 500 block of North Henrietta Street. Upon reaching the scene, officers discovered a victim suffering from a stab wound to the torso. The victim was swiftly transported by ambulance to HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital.

Trump Dismisses Iran’s Peace Proposal with a Quip About Pete Hegseth: ‘We Are Not Satisfied

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During a tense Cabinet meeting today, President Donald Trump delivered a stark warning to Iran, dismissing Tehran’s recent diplomatic gestures and declaring that the Islamic Republic’s military capabilities have been entirely dismantled.

Addressing reporters and officials, Trump underscored that while Iran is eager to negotiate, the U.S. remains in a position of strength and will not settle for an inadequate agreement.

“Iran is very keen on securing a deal,” Trump remarked to those in attendance. “They haven’t reached the point we’re satisfied with yet, but they will. If not, we’ll have to finish what we started.”

The President offered a broad assessment of the global political dynamics, asserting that Iran’s military forces have been thoroughly subdued by U.S. power.

“Their Navy is gone, as I’ve said countless times,” Trump declared. “Their Air Force is gone, everything’s gone, and they’re negotiating on fumes. We’ll see what happens—maybe we need to finish it, maybe we won’t need to for now.”

Trump noted that his top envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are actively working on the situation, but insisted Tehran simply has no leverage left.

The tense atmosphere in the room briefly shifted to awkward amusement when the President turned his attention to his newly appointed Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth.

Pointing to Hegseth, Trump quipped: ‘Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Central casting. He loves war.’

President Donald Trump issued a chilling warning to Iran during a high-stakes Cabinet meeting today, rejecting Tehran's latest diplomatic overtures while boldly asserting that the Islamic Republic's military has already been utterly dismantled

President Donald Trump issued a chilling warning to Iran during a high-stakes Cabinet meeting today, rejecting Tehran’s latest diplomatic overtures while boldly asserting that the Islamic Republic’s military has already been utterly dismantled

Speaking to reporters and officials at a cabinet meeting, Trump made it clear that while Iran is desperate to come to the table, the United States is holding all the cards and will not accept a subpar deal

Speaking to reporters and officials at a cabinet meeting, Trump made it clear that while Iran is desperate to come to the table, the United States is holding all the cards and will not accept a subpar deal

In a characteristically sweeping assessment of the geopolitical landscape, the President claimed that Iran's armed forces have been completely neutralized by American military might

In a characteristically sweeping assessment of the geopolitical landscape, the President claimed that Iran’s armed forces have been completely neutralized by American military might

Hegseth responded to the ominous joke by shrugging his shoulders with a nervous smile, as laughter rippled through the Cabinet room.

Turning back to the economic devastation facing America’s adversary, Trump claimed that Tehran’s leadership completely miscalculated his political staying power, thinking they could outlast him through the upcoming midterm elections – a strategy he scoffed at.

He painted a bleak picture of an Iranian economy in total meltdown, plagued by a staggering 250 percent inflation rate and a completely worthless currency.

According to the President, the regime’s economic framework has entirely collapsed, leaving them with no choice but to rely on the internet to manage public perception.

The President then called upon Secretary of State Marco Rubio to brief the Cabinet on the fast-moving diplomatic situation. Trump praised Rubio for being ‘all over the place’ and doing a ‘fantastic job.’

Rubio doubled down on the administration’s position.

‘Well, first of all, the bottom line is, Iran’s never going to have a nuclear weapon,’ Rubio said, reinforcing the President’s message. ‘And if recent events have done anything, it’s just remind us once again that they are the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism, and they can never have a nuclear weapon.’  

While Rubio maintained that the administration’s strong preference is to find a peaceful resolution, he made it clear that the clock is ticking and America’s patience is not limitless.

Rubio revealed that there has been 'some progress and some interest' from Iran, promising that the administration would see 'over the next few hours and days whether progress could be made'

Rubio revealed that there has been ‘some progress and some interest’ from Iran, promising that the administration would see ‘over the next few hours and days whether progress could be made’

Trump noted that his top envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner , are actively working on the situation, but insisted Tehran simply has no leverage left

Trump noted that his top envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner , are actively working on the situation, but insisted Tehran simply has no leverage left

Iran has seized on oil tankers moving through the Strait of Hormuz by deploying speed boats

Iran has seized on oil tankers moving through the Strait of Hormuz by deploying speed boats 

An oil tanker burns after being hit by an Iranian strike in the ship-to-ship transfer zone at Khor al-Zubair port near Basra, Iraq, on Wednesday, March 11

An oil tanker burns after being hit by an Iranian strike in the ship-to-ship transfer zone at Khor al-Zubair port near Basra, Iraq, on Wednesday, March 11

‘Now, the President’s preference, Mr. President, your preference as you have told us repeatedly… is to negotiate these things and to figure out if you can have agreements. Diplomacy is always the first option,’ Rubio explained.

Rubio revealed that there has been ‘some progress and some interest’ from Iran, promising that the administration would see ‘over the next few hours and days whether progress could be made.’

However, the Secretary of State concluded with a fierce warning, reminding Tehran that military action remains firmly on the table.

‘I just want to remind everybody, Mr. President, you know this well, you have other options available to you if that doesn’t work,’ Rubio said. ‘They will never have a nuclear weapon, and they most certainly will not have one, as long as you’re President of the United States. On that point, it’s very clear.’

Jewish UCLA Students File Lawsuit After Brutal Anti-Israel Campus Attack Sparks Outrage

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The Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched a lawsuit against the University of California system, alleging severe mistreatment of Jewish and Israeli students on campus. The complaint outlines disturbing incidents, including the establishment of exclusion zones and instances where anti-Israel protesters reportedly engaged in physical assaults.

The lawsuit details that Jewish and Israeli students were subjected to targeted violence. These incidents allegedly involved students being beaten with sticks and blunt objects, physically driven to the ground resulting in injuries needing hospitalization, as well as being kicked, slapped, and pepper sprayed.

Filed on a recent Tuesday with the United States District Court for the Central District of California, the lawsuit accuses the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) of ignoring these alarming allegations during 2024.

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Protesters stand in front of Israeli and Palestinian flags at UCLA

In a related event, pro-Palestinian demonstrators attempted to obstruct a counter-protester who was holding an Israeli flag at UCLA on March 11, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. This incident was captured by Juliana Yamada for the Los Angeles Times via Getty Images.

“On April 25, 2024, following months of antisemitic and anti-Israeli demonstrations, masked and armed agitators, many of whom were openly hostile to Jews and Israelis, occupied the heart of the University of California, Los Angeles … campus,” the lawsuit begins.

“They built an illegal encampment, surrounded it with barriers, and formed ‘human phalanxes’ to block Jews and Israelis from entering academic buildings,” it continues. “They kicked and slapped Jews, beat Jews with sticks, and assaulted Jews with pepper spray. One Jewish student was knocked unconscious and was taken to the hospital with an open head wound.”

The suit says UCLA “inexplicably took no serious action whatsoever” until May 2025, and claims that the school’s alleged decision to ignore the “harassment of, and discrimination against, Jewish and Israeli students also violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits race and national-origin discrimination in higher education.”

UCLA Jewish student pepper sprayed

A Jewish student at UCLA has his eyes washed out with milk after being pepper sprayed during 2024 anti-Israel demonstrations on campus. (Department of Justice)

On April 25, 2024, UC Divest, a group of anti-Israel student groups including the infamous Students for Justice Palestine (SJP), built an encampment in Royce Quad, described as a heavily trafficked and very important area of the UCLA campus. Some UCLA faculty members are also accused of joining in the demonstration, and “aiding and abetting” illegal activities.

The DOJ describes how antisemitic and anti-Israel demonstrators “built a barrier around it, fashioned with sheets of plywood, some of which were affixed to metal bicycle racks,” and “barricaded the doors of Royce Hall and Powell Library with garbage cans, tents, ropes, and bicycle racks.”

ANTI-ISRAEL AGITATORS TERRORIZE AMERICANS: SEE 2024’S MOST EXTREME MOMENTS

They graffitied buildings and made signs vile messaging, including “F-— ISRAEL,” F-— ALL Jews” and ‘israelis Are Native 2 HELL,” according to the lawsuit.

UCLA anti-Jewish riot

A sign allegedly made by anti-Israel occupiers at UCLA in 2024. (Department of Justice)

The lawsuit claims that the anti-Israel demonstrators created human chains to block Jewish and Israeli students — or those perceived to be Jewish or Israeli — from freely entering the quad which contains key campus buildings, including a library. The demonstrators even passed out wristbands to those who were allowed free passage through the zone, but excluded Jewish and Israeli students.

Worse, physical violence against “Zionists” and Jewish and Israeli students became commonplace, according to the lawsuit, and demonstrators began arming themselves with weapons like pepper spray and lumber and “established militia-style checkpoints on UCLA’s campus and refused to allow Jews to traverse public property unless those Jews denounced a core tenet of their religion.”

HOW A KEFFIYEH-WEARING KEYNOTE SPEAKER SPARKED BOOS FOR JEWS AT MY UCLA GRADUATION

The lawsuit describes a Native American Jewish woman counter-demonstrating with a sign that read, “Hamas supporters are not welcome on Native land,” who was then “quickly surrounded by a mob” and “violently assaulted.”

Meanwhile, UCLA police were standing “directly behind [her] and [did] absolutely nothing,” according to the lawsuit.

Occupiers pepper sprayed a woman wearing a Star of David and holding an Israeli flag, knocked a pro-Israel woman to the ground, beating her unconscious and causing an open head wound that required hospitalization, and physically assaulted a Jewish man and told him, “Hitler missed one,” the suit says.

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On April 30, 2024 UCLA administrators “declared the encampment illegal and directed all those involved to leave or face discipline” and UCLA Chancellor Gene Bock acknowledged that, “Jewish students [were] in a state of anxiety and fear” and that “students on their way to class have been physically blocked from accessing parts of the campus.”

UCLA 2024 anti-semitic signs

Vile antisemitic graffiti on UCLA’s campus in 2024 reads ‘F— ALL Jews.” (Department of Justice)

That same day, counter-protesters clashed with the occupiers in what is described in the lawsuit as a hectic scene that included violent skirmishes, including “occupiers and counter-protestors attack[ing] each other with pepper spray, blunt objects, and even fireworks.”

The following day, a van marked with a Star of David inside a swastika parked on campus in support of the anti-Israel encampment. The van had messaging “antisemitic writing referring to Jews as ‘puppet masters,’ was parked on UCLA’s campus in support of the encampment,” and was welcomed by passersby, according to the suit.

UCLA anti-Jewish occupation

A van with antisemitic messaging parked on the UCLA campus during an occupation by anti-Israel demonstrators in 2024. (Department of Justice)

ANTISEMITIC ‘VENOM’ INFECTING CAMPUSES GETS WORSE AS UNIVERSITIES PLAY ‘ROPE-A-DOPE’ WITH TRUMP ADMIN: EXPERT

Clashes between occupiers and police and Jewish students continued through May and June 2024, the lawsuit says.

Later, 428 Jewish and Israeli students, faculty members and staff from the college were surveyed about their experiences during the unrest. About 50% of them said they “witnessed physical threats or attacks directed at Jews and Israelis.”

“I was assaulted, threatened, and harassed during the encampment. I had an Israeli flag and a man ran towards me in order to push me,” one student said in the survey. “I was blocked for being Jewish. They were calling for an intifada collectively which is to kill the Jews.”

Anti-Israel protesters being pushed back by police on UCLA campus

Police push back anti-Israel protesters on the campus of UCLA in Los Angeles on Thursday, May 23, 2024. (Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News)

LAWMAKERS DEMAND ANSWERS AFTER DEM MAYOR ALLEGEDLY DECLINED POLICE SUPPORT TO UNIVERSITY AMID ISRAEL PROTESTS

All told, physical damage to the taxpayer-funded school totaled $12.3 million.

In a Tuesday press release announcing the lawsuit, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon said the DOJ will hold UCLA “to account for its toleration of the equally appalling hostile educational environment against its Jewish and Israeli students.”

“Universities have an obligation to maintain safe and inclusive campuses for all students,” First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California said in the release. “Universities that violate our nation’s civil rights laws by repeatedly failing to shield Jewish students from antisemitism will be held accountable.”

University of California President James Milliken issued a statement Tuesday after the lawsuit was filed.

“The Board of Regents and administrative leadership have been unequivocal: antisemitism has no place at the University of California. We have instituted numerous systemwide reforms and programs to promote safety and combat antisemitism on our campuses,” he said. “

“UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk, whose family was profoundly affected by Nazi antisemitism and the Holocaust, has made the protection of Jewish students, faculty, and staff on campus the highest priority since the day he took office. It is so disappointing that this most recent lawsuit shows no recognition of or respect for that essential work. This litigation — and other actions taken by the federal government targeting the University of California — does nothing to aid our ongoing efforts to address antisemitism and create safe and welcoming campus environments for all members of our community.”

Fox News Digital reached out to UCLA.

Sharyn Alfonsi’s Exit from ’60 Minutes’: Inside Her Clash with CBS News and Bari Weiss

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CBS News has opted not to renew the contract of “60 Minutes” correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi, following a period of tension where she accused the network’s leadership of meddling in political reporting.

Alfonsi informed The Post on Wednesday that her contract lapsed over the weekend, and her agent’s follow-up calls regarding the situation have been ignored by the network.

While Alfonsi remains employed by CBS News on an at-will basis, sources with knowledge of the situation indicated to The Post that she does not anticipate returning to “60 Minutes.”

“The message is unmistakable: my tenure at ’60 Minutes’ seems to have concluded,” Alfonsi declared in a statement.

She claimed that CBS management is penalizing her “for refusing to dilute factually accurate reporting.” Alfonsi cautioned that the network is straying from the program’s legacy of “fearless, independent reporting,” opting instead for “access journalism over accountability.”

“The wall between editorial independence and corporate interest at CBS is being methodically torn down,” Alfonsi said, adding that journalists willing to challenge authority were being “pushed aside in favor of those who will not.

“If this continues,” she added, “the result will be a broadcast that looks like ’60 Minutes’ but lacks the courage and character to produce journalism that matters.”

Alfonsi’s loss of her deal was first reported by the New York Times. The Post has sought comment from CBS News.

The network’s long-running television newsmagazine is on hiatus after wrapping up its most recent season. 

Alfonsi’s outgoing remarks were the latest fusillade in tumult that goes back to December. That month, editor-in-chief Bari Weiss abruptly shelved the journo’s investigation about deportees to El Salvador’s notorious CECOT prison.

At the time, Alfonsi blasted the decision internally as “political,” while Weiss insisted the reporting “was not ready” and requested last-minute editorial changes, including interviews with Trump officials.

The segment aired the following month with additional White House comments included.

Alfonsi later blew up at Weiss deputy Adam Rubenstein, accusing him of being a “mouthpiece” for the Trump administration, according to Puck News.

She decried “corporate meddling and editorial fear” earlier this month.

Her similarly outspoken “60 Minutes” colleague Scott Pelley’s job is on the line, sources previously told The Post. He reportedly said last year that Weiss “needs to take her job a little bit more seriously” if she’s going to weigh in on editorial decisions.

Weiss, who took the helm of CBS News last fall after Skydance acquired the network’s paramount company Paramount, is planning a broader shake-up at “60 Minutes.” She’s eyeing layoffs this summer that could engulf some of the show’s top talent and producers, The Post previously reported.

Revitalize Muscle Tone After 60: Top 6 At-Home Exercises Outperforming Gym Classes

While gym classes offer numerous benefits, they often involve logistical challenges such as scheduling conflicts, travel time, and the pressure to keep up with others. Home workouts eliminate these obstacles, allowing you to exercise at your own pace, select the appropriate resistance levels, and develop a consistent routine without the hassle of turning every session into a major production.

For those over 60, maintaining muscle tone involves a dual approach: preserving or building lean muscle mass while managing overall body fat levels. Although focusing on a single area won’t drastically change your entire physique, concentrating on strength training can make your muscles feel more solid and lively. By incorporating regular activity, adequate protein intake, and a consistent regimen, your body will begin to show positive changes.

The aim is to make home workouts both effective and accessible. Using tools like resistance bands, dumbbells, a wall, and your body weight, you can target muscles that contribute to a more toned appearance and improved movement. Certain exercises will enhance posture and upper-body strength, while others will focus on engaging your legs, glutes, and core. Despite the simplicity of the setup, slowing down and emphasizing each repetition ensures the exercises remain challenging and beneficial.

Muscle tone after 60 comes from two main pieces working together: building or maintaining lean muscle and keeping overall body fat in check. Spot training one area won’t reshape your whole body on its own, but targeted strength work helps muscles feel firmer and more active. Add regular movement, enough protein, and a steady routine, and your body starts to respond.

The goal here is to make home training feel practical, not watered down. You’ll use bands, dumbbells, a wall, and your own bodyweight to train the muscles that help your body look firmer and move better. Some moves focus on posture and upper-body strength; others engage your legs, glutes, and core. It’s a simple setup, but the work still has teeth when you slow down and make each rep count.

Standing Band Rows

Standing band rows train your upper back, lats, rear shoulders, and biceps while your core keeps your posture steady. The band provides constant tension to your back, which helps build muscle tone in the areas that support posture and shoulder position. Gym classes often move quickly from one exercise to the next, but rows reward control and a strong squeeze at the end of each rep. Stronger pulling muscles help you carry groceries, lift objects, open doors, and keep your upper body from rounding forward.

Muscles Trained: Upper back, lats, rear delts, biceps, core

How to Do It:

  1. Anchor a resistance band at chest height.
  2. Stand tall and hold one end of the band in each hand.
  3. Step back until the band has light tension.
  4. Brace your core and keep your chest lifted.
  5. Pull your elbows back toward your ribs.
  6. Squeeze your shoulder blades, then return with control.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps. Rest for 45 seconds between each set.

Best Variations: Single arm band rows, paused band rows, seated band rows

Form Tip: Pull through your elbows and keep your shoulders away from your ears.

Band Pull Aparts

Band pull-aparts train your rear shoulders and upper back, two areas that make a big difference in how toned and upright your upper body looks. Pulling the band apart forces the muscles behind your shoulders to work, which helps balance out all the reaching, sitting, and forward posture that builds up during the day. The movement looks simple, but clean reps make it light up fast. Better upper back strength also helps your shoulders feel more stable during presses, rows, and daily lifting.

Muscles Trained: Rear delts, upper back, rhomboids, core

How to Do It:

  1. Stand tall and hold a resistance band at chest height.
  2. Place your hands slightly wider than shoulder width.
  3. Brace your core and keep a soft bend in your elbows.
  4. Pull the band apart until your hands move toward your sides.
  5. Squeeze your shoulder blades together.
  6. Return to the starting position with control.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 12 to 15 reps. Rest for 30 to 45 seconds between each set.

Best Variations: Underhand pull-aparts, diagonal pull-aparts, and paused pull-aparts

Form Tip: Keep your ribs down and avoid shrugging as the band stretches.

Goblet Hold Lunges

Goblet-hold lunges train your quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core, while the weight at your chest keeps your torso honest. Your legs handle the main strength work, and your midsection has to brace to keep you from tipping forward or wobbling through the rep. This gives you more muscle-building value than a fast-paced group-class lunge because you can slow down and own the position. Stronger lunges carry over to stairs, walking, standing from low seats, and maintaining lower-body confidence after 60.

Muscles Trained: Quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings, core

How to Do It:

  1. Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
  2. Hold a dumbbell or kettlebell at your chest.
  3. Brace your core and step one foot forward.
  4. Lower your back knee toward the floor with control.
  5. Press through your front foot to return to standing.
  6. Complete all reps, then switch sides.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 8 to 10 reps per leg. Rest for 60 seconds between each set.

Best Variations: Reverse goblet lunges, assisted lunges, split squats

Form Tip: Keep the weight close to your chest and drive through your front foot.

Flutter Kicks

Flutter kicks train your lower abs and hip flexors while your core works to keep your lower back supported. The legs keep moving, so your midsection has to stay engaged for the full set. That steady tension helps restore tone through the lower belly area when paired with overall fat loss and full-body strength work. Keep the kicks small and controlled because bigger, faster reps usually shift the work away from your abs.

Muscles Trained: Lower abs, hip flexors, deep core

How to Do It:

  1. Lie on your back with your legs extended.
  2. Place your hands under your hips if you need support.
  3. Press your lower back gently into the floor.
  4. Lift your legs a few inches off the ground.
  5. Alternate small kicks up and down.
  6. Keep your core engaged until the set ends.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 20 to 30 seconds. Rest for 30 seconds between each set.

Best Variations: Higher leg flutter kicks, bent knee flutter kicks, slower flutter kicks

Form Tip: Keep your lower back down and stop before your form slips.

Wall Push Ups

Wall push-ups train your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core with a setup that feels approachable at home. The wall angle provides support, but your arms still have to press, and your midsection still has to keep your body aligned. This helps restore tone through the upper arms and chest without needing a bench, machine, or floor setup. As you get stronger, stepping your feet farther back makes the movement more demanding.

Muscles Trained: Chest, shoulders, triceps, core

How to Do It:

  1. Stand facing a wall with your feet a step or two back.
  2. Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height.
  3. Brace your core and keep your body in a straight line.
  4. Bend your elbows and lower your chest toward the wall.
  5. Press through your hands to return to the starting position.
  6. Repeat with steady control.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps. Rest for 45 seconds between each set.

Best Variations: Counter push-ups, incline push-ups, and slower wall push-ups

Form Tip: Keep your elbows angled slightly back and avoid letting your hips sag.

Banded Glute Bridge

Banded glute bridges train your glutes, hamstrings, and hip stabilizers while your core keeps your pelvis steady. The band adds extra work for the outer glutes, which helps your hips feel stronger and more supported. Better glute strength can change how your whole lower body feels because the hips help power walking, stairs, and standing up. Pause at the top and keep tension in the band so the glutes stay engaged, rather than letting the lower back take over.

Muscles Trained: Glutes, hamstrings, hip stabilizers, core

How to Do It:

  1. Place a mini band around your thighs just above your knees.
  2. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
  3. Press your knees slightly outward to create tension in the band.
  4. Drive through your heels and lift your hips.
  5. Squeeze your glutes at the top.
  6. Lower your hips with control.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 3 sets of 12 to 15 reps. Rest for 45 seconds between each set.

Best Variations: Paused glute bridges, single-leg glute bridges, elevated glute bridges

Form Tip: Keep pressure on the band and finish each rep with your glutes.

How to Make Home Training Build More Tone

Smile woman exercising with latex resistance band in living room. Workout at home with fitnessband
Shutterstock

Home workouts work best when they feel simple enough to repeat and focused enough to challenge your muscles. You don’t need a crowded class or a perfect setup to train well. You need steady resistance, controlled reps, and enough effort to make your muscles respond. These six moves cover pulling, pressing, lunging, core work, and glute work, giving your body a strong foundation for better tone after 60.

  • Use enough resistance to feel challenged: Bands and dumbbells should make the last few reps feel like work. If every set feels easy, increase tension, slow the tempo, or add reps.
  • Slow down the rep instead of rushing: Controlled reps keep tension on the muscles longer. That extra time under tension helps restore firmness without needing complicated workouts.
  • Train your posture muscles often: Rows and pull-aparts strengthen the upper back, helping your shoulders sit better and giving your upper body a stronger look.
  • Keep lower-body work in the plan: Lunges and glute bridges train large muscle groups that support daily movement and body composition. Bigger muscles deserve regular attention.
  • Use short sessions when needed: Ten minutes at home still counts when the effort is focused. Small workouts repeated across the week often beat sporadic classes you can’t stick with.

The best home routine is the one you’ll actually repeat. Keep your bands nearby, move with purpose, and let consistent strength work bring muscle tone back without making fitness feel like another appointment on the calendar.

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