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Deadly Grand Canyon Flooding Disables Critical Water Pipeline as Search Intensifies for Missing Hikers

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Powerful flash flooding swept through the Grand Canyon over the weekend, crippling a key water line and prompting the National Park Service to impose emergency water restrictions as crews continued searching for missing hikers.

The NPS said stage four water restrictions will take effect at 12:00 p.m. Monday after Saturday’s flooding caused “extensive damage to infrastructure,” including the Transcanyon Waterline, the main system that supplies water to the park. Officials said one person was killed and as many as 15 others may be missing, though they emphasized that the number remains an estimate.

Park officials said the body of a 46-year-old man was recovered from the Colorado River on Sunday night. His name has not been released publicly.

Flooding in the Grand Canyon

Bright Angel Creek near the Phantom Ranger Station in the Grand Canyon, Arizona, after flash flooding triggered by storms on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026. (Parth Desai via AP)

The National Park Service has asked the public to share any information that could help locate the 15 people believed to be missing.

“The National Park Service is asking anyone who knows of hikers or backpackers who were in the inner canyon along the Bright Angel Creek corridor on August 29, as well as anyone who had a campground reservation in the affected corridor, to provide information to the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch,” NPS said in a statement.

Flooding in the Grand Canyon

This photo provided by the National Park Service shows remnants of stone bridge pylons along Bright Angel Creek in the Grand Canyon following a flash flood that destroyed the footbridge, Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026. (James Thompson/National Park Service via AP)

Park officials say they have so far evacuated at least 62 people since the Saturday flooding.

The stage 4 water restrictions affecting the rest of the park include forced dry camping with no access to water spigots, the temporary closure of overnight lodgings, and a strict no-fire rule for the South Rim and inner canyon areas.

The flooding struck Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area on Aug. 29, according to NPS, which added that nearly all footbridges spanning Bright Angel Creek were destroyed.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs said state emergency officials are coordinating with federal and local authorities as the search continues.

“My heart is with the families and loved ones of every person unaccounted for after the flash flooding at the Grand Canyon,” Hobbs wrote on X. “DEMA is coordinating with NPS and Coconino County Emergency Management to support search and recovery efforts.”

Katie Hobbs

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs released a statement following flash flooding in the Grand Canyon this weekend. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes called the flash flooding “devastating” and thanked first responders for searching for those still unaccounted for and evacuating others from the affected area.

“The physical damage includes a historic lodge near the bottom of the site and untold environmental upheaval,” Fontes said in a statement. “I send my prayers to the community as the search for those unaccounted for continues.”

Howard Stern’s HBO Max Deal Confirmed: New Details Revealed

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Howard Stern is bringing his SiriusXM show back for a new season on September 14 — and, in a first for the longtime radio titan, episodes will also be available to stream on HBO Max.

SiriusXM announced Stern’s new HBO Max deal in a press release shared with Page Six on Monday.

“For the first time, the ‘King of All Media’ will bring his signature, long-running SiriusXM show to HBO Max by adapting his live SiriusXM show into a streamable episode for HBO Max, along with periodic extras,” the release stated.

The Howard Stern Show, which first launched on Sirius in 2006, will make its HBO Max debut on September 17. New episodes are set to arrive on the streaming platform every Thursday.

“Howard’s new series on HBO Max takes him to the pinnacle of prestige television and gives his fans a long-desired ‘seat in the studio’ to see what they just heard,” the announcement added.

“As fans hear his live show on SiriusXM, 40 cameras will capture the conversation for a version of the show then adapted into a streamable episode for HBO Max with periodic extras.”

Scott Greenstein, SiriusXM’s President and Chief Content Officer, said in a statement, “There’s simply no one like Howard, and the start of his new season is another exciting chapter in an extraordinary run. For more than two decades at SiriusXM, he’s continued to evolve, surprise audiences and deliver the kind of conversations and moments that only Howard can.”

Greenstein added, “We are proud that Howard chose to continue with SiriusXM through 2028 for his exclusive live show and deep library of classic Howard, and that Howard, HBO Max and SiriusXM have now teamed up to create a compelling new video version of his show.” 

Sirius also confirmed that Stern’s Howard 100 channel will have “a new lineup” including “Wrap Up Wednesday,” an expanded version of his “Wrap Up Show” hosted by Gary Dell’Abate and Jon Hein.

There will also be “new ways to hear [Stern’s] multi-decade library of past shows,” according to the press release.

The new deal comes on the heels of the news that Stern’s Howard 101 SiriusXM channel has been dropped after a dozen staffers were laid off earlier this summer.

This story is developing…

Zara McDermott’s Strictly Come Dancing Earnings Revealed

Strictly Come Dancing has long been more than a glitterball contest — for many celebrities, it is one of TV’s most profitable launchpads.

The 2023 Strictly Come Dancing line-up is expected to attract serious commercial interest, with contestants poised to cash in through brand partnerships, sponsored content and social media campaigns — and Zara McDermott appears to be leading the pack.

The former Love Island star has the biggest online following among this year’s cast and already has a strong track record as an influencer. Industry experts suggest her earning power could climb even higher during the BBC dance competition, with estimates putting her Instagram value at around £2,000 per post.

While Zara looks set to make the biggest financial gains from her Strictly exposure, veteran broadcaster Angela Rippon — the show’s oldest-ever contestant — and Paralympic champion Jody Cundy are expected to sit at the other end of the earnings table.

According to experts speaking to The Sun, Angela and Jody could command about £25 for an Instagram post. Here is a closer look at how much this year’s Strictly stars may be able to earn.

All-star: Strictly Come Dancing is a wildly lucrative opportunity for contestants annually (Angela Rippon, Layton Williams, Nigel Harman, Ellie Leach, Amanda Abbington, Les Dennis, Adam Thomas, Eddie Kadi, Angela Scanlon, Nikita Kanda, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, Annabel Croft, Jody Cundy, Zara McDermot & Bobby Brazier)

All-star: Strictly Come Dancing is a wildly lucrative opportunity for contestants annually (Angela Rippon, Layton Williams, Nigel Harman, Ellie Leach, Amanda Abbington, Les Dennis, Adam Thomas, Eddie Kadi, Angela Scanlon, Nikita Kanda, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, Annabel Croft, Jody Cundy, Zara McDermot & Bobby Brazier)

Earning her keep: This year's contestants look to have high earning potential with brand collaborations, deals and social media posts - led by Zara McDermott

Earning her keep: This year’s contestants look to have high earning potential with brand collaborations, deals and social media posts – led by Zara McDermott

Dancing away: While Zara is in line to score the most money from the show, the oldest ever contestant Angela Rippon and Paralympian Jody Cundy are set to get the least

Dancing away: While Zara is in line to score the most money from the show, the oldest ever contestant Angela Rippon and Paralympian Jody Cundy are set to get the least

Nice! The stunner has a reported net worth of £230,500 and £270,000 and can fetch nearly £2k per Instagram post

Nice! The stunner has a reported net worth of £230,500 and £270,000 and can fetch nearly £2k per Instagram post

ZARA MCDERMOTT – 1.7M FOLLOWERS

The stunner has a reported net worth of £230,500 and £270,000 and can fetch nearly £2k per Instagram post.

She previously told Grazia magazine that Love Island stars can charge anywhere between £400 and £1.2K per Instagram post. 

Following her stint on Love Island, Zara reinvented herself from a reality star to a documentarian with her various investigative shows. 

She has hosted hard-hitting exposes on revenge porn, rape culture and eating disorders winning her a new army of fans – and a nomination for Authored Documentary at the National Television Awards. 

Here he is: Experts revealed to The Sun that Adam could get £1,109 per sponsored post in the wake of his appearance on Strictly

Here he is: Experts revealed to The Sun that Adam could get £1,109 per sponsored post in the wake of his appearance on Strictly

ADAM THOMAS – 1M FOLLOWERS

Experts revealed to The Sun that Adam could get £1,109 per sponsored post in the wake of his appearance on Strictly. 

Adam played Adam Barton on Emmerdale for almost ten years between 2009 and 2018, during which he reportedly threatened to leave as he was being blocked from taking a role in pantomime for a whopping £100k. 

Sources told The Sun at the time: ‘It’s a great payday for him and he’s a popular character on ‘Emmerdale’, so the bosses had to let him make his decision in the hope he may come back in the future.’

He went on to star in Waterloo Road and came third on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here in 2016.

Golden girl: TV host Angela works on both The One Show and Your Home Made Perfect

Golden girl: TV host Angela works on both The One Show and Your Home Made Perfect

ANGELA SCANLON – 297K FOLLOWERS

TV host Angela works on both The One Show and Your Home Made Perfect.

It has been predicted that she will get £350 per sponsored post off the back of her appearance on the show.  

Bobby Dazzler: Having just won the NTA for Rising Star, Bobby - one of the youngest in this year's line-up - is set for a big pay day

Bobby Dazzler: Having just won the NTA for Rising Star, Bobby – one of the youngest in this year’s line-up – is set for a big pay day

BOBBY BRAZIER – 218K FOLLOWERS

Having just won the NTA for Rising Star, Bobby – one of the youngest in this year’s line-up – is set for a big pay day. 

The son of late Big Brother star Jade Goody could net around £330 for his Instagram posts as his success on the show will sit alongside his EastEnders fame. 

Yay! Ellie, who is famous for playing troubled Faye Windass in Coronation Street, boasts a whopping 211k followers already

Yay! Ellie, who is famous for playing troubled Faye Windass in Coronation Street, boasts a whopping 211k followers already

Nice: Experts predict she could be in line to receive £290 per post

Nice: Experts predict she could be in line to receive £290 per post

ELLIE LEACH – 211K FOLLOWERS

Ellie, who is famous for playing troubled Faye Windass in Coronation Street, boasts a whopping 211k followers already. 

Experts predict she could be in line to receive £290 per post.  

Nice! Despite his number of followers, experts still tipped the hunk to receive up to £215 per post after his turn around the dancefloor

Nice! Despite his number of followers, experts still tipped the hunk to receive up to £215 per post after his turn around the dancefloor

NIGEL HARMAN – 36.6K FOLLOWERS

Nigel’s soap career began in 2003 when he scooped a role in EastEnders as heartthrob Dennis Rickman. 

Dennis married his adopted sister Sharon – played by Letitia Dean – before he was stabbed on New Year’s Day in 2006.

He went on to star in Downton Abbey and later Casualty. 

Despite his number of followers, experts still tipped the hunk to receive up to £215 per post after his turn around the dancefloor.  

Dancing away: Nikita is a host on BBC Asian Network's Breakfast Show and has won legions of fans through her interviews with a host of stars

Dancing away: Nikita is a host on BBC Asian Network’s Breakfast Show and has won legions of fans through her interviews with a host of stars

NIKITA KANDA – 27.7K FOLLOWERS

Nikita is a host on BBC Asian Network’s Breakfast Show and has won legions of fans through her interviews with a host of stars. 

It has been predicted that she will nab around £200 per post.  

Yay! It's claimed that the star could gain £200 per post after his Strictly stint

Yay! It’s claimed that the star could gain £200 per post after his Strictly stint

LAYTON WILLIAMS – 140K FOLLOWERS

Following a wildly successful stint opposite Jack Whitehall in Bad Education, Layton went on to enjoy huge fame in the West End. 

He starred as Michael Jackson in Thriller – Live before debuting in Billy Elliot the Musical in 2007 having trained at the Billy Elliot Academy in Leeds. 

It’s claimed that the star could gain £200 per post after his Strictly stint. 

Amanda has starred in Sherlock, Mr Selfridge and BBC kids show Dinopaws

Amanda has starred in Sherlock, Mr Selfridge and BBC kids show Dinopaws

AMANDA ABBINGTON – 96.4K FOLLOWERS

Amanda has starred in Sherlock, Mr Selfridge and BBC kids show Dinopaws. 

Prior to her Strictly stint, the actress, who split from her famous partner Martin Freeman in 2016, has run into money troubles in the past. 

In 2013, Amanda was declared insolvent at London’s High Court over unpaid tax bill: ‘It was just me not managing my finances properly…

‘I was putting some money away (to pay tax), but not all of it. I was working one year and not working another year. So I used the money I saved.’

She is looking to gain £190 per post on Instagram after the show.  

Star: Krishnan is the lead presenter of Channel 4 News and also presents Unreported World, a foreign-affairs documentary series

Star: Krishnan is the lead presenter of Channel 4 News and also presents Unreported World, a foreign-affairs documentary series

KRISHNAN GURU-MURTHY – 15.5K FOLLOWERS

Krishnan is the lead presenter of Channel 4 News and also presents Unreported World, a foreign-affairs documentary series.

Experts claim Krishnan could earn around £190 per post in the wake of Strictly. 

Discussing the possibility of winning the glittered ball, the TV presenter said: ‘I think if you are doing Strictly, of course you dream of winning the trophy…

‘I will do absolutely everything I can to do as well as I possibly can, but I also live in the real world.’ 

Golden girl: Annabel is a British former professional tennis player and current radio and television presenter

Golden girl: Annabel is a British former professional tennis player and current radio and television presenter

ANNABEL CROFT – 10.8K FOLLOWERS

Annabel is a British former professional tennis player and current radio and television presenter.

As a tennis player she won the WTA Tour event Virginia Slims of San Diego and represented Great Britain in the Fed Cup and the Wightman Cup 

She is pegged to earn around £190 per post. 

Here he is: Eddie is pegged to earn £150 per post after the show

Here he is: Eddie is pegged to earn £150 per post after the show

EDDIE KADI – 111K FOLLOWERS

Eddie, 40, is a multi-award winning stand-up comedian and radio presenter and he says he is ready to give the dance floor ‘everything he’s got’. 

Eddie said in the announcement: ‘WOW. Anyone who knows me, understands that music and dance is so important and central to who I am. 

‘I’m so unbelievably proud and honoured that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 Team. I promise you, I’m going to give it everything I’ve got. This is going to be a VIBE.’ 

Recognised as one of the most globally celebrated stand up personality, British-Congolese Eddie continues to dominate the world of comedy. 

Eddie is pegged to earn £150 per post after the show. 

Family Fortune: Despite his vast back catalogue of work in the showbiz world, Les is set to earn the least from his social media posts - with £40 in his estimation

Family Fortune: Despite his vast back catalogue of work in the showbiz world, Les is set to earn the least from his social media posts – with £40 in his estimation

LES DENNIS – 6,814 FOLLOWERS

Les has been in showbiz for over 50 years, including famously hosting Family Fortunes for 16 years and starring as Michael Rodwell in Coronation Street from 2014 – 2016.

Les started his career as a comedian on the Working Men’s Club circuit in and around his native Liverpool.

He got his big break on TV Talent show New Faces, and went on to star in sketch and variety show The Laughter Show, forming a double-act with the late Dustin Gee.

His TV career includes roles in Extras, Brookside, Death in Paradise and Midsomer Murders.

On stage he’s starred with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the English National Opera, and in hit plays and musicals such as Hairspray, Legally Blonde The Musical and 42nd Street.

Despite his vast back catalogue of work in the showbiz world, Les is set to earn the least from his social media posts – with £40 in his estimation. 

Nice! Experts predict she will earn around £24 per post once the show is on air

Nice! Experts predict she will earn around £24 per post once the show is on air

ANGELA RIPPON – 4,644 FOLLOWERS

Angela not only hosted the original Strictly for three years until 1991 and again in 1998 but she stunned audiences with her own performance on the Morecambe and Wise 1976 Christmas special, where she danced a high-kicking routine.

She is the oldest ever star of the show and judge Shirley Ballas insists she has promise for the role ahead. 

Experts predict she will earn around £24 per post once the show is on air. 

Woo! Jody Cundy, CBE is an English cyclist and former swimmer

Woo! Jody Cundy, CBE is an English cyclist and former swimmer

JODY CUNDY – 3,572 FOLLOWERS 

Jody Cundy, CBE is an English cyclist and former swimmer. 

He has represented Great Britain at seven Summer Paralympics winning eight Gold, one Silver and three Bronze medals across swimming and cycling events. 

Social media insiders predict he will have a similar earning potential to Angela, with a predicted £25 per post. 

Nice: Social media insiders predict he will have a similar earning potential to Angela, with a predicted £25 per post

Nice: Social media insiders predict he will have a similar earning potential to Angela, with a predicted £25 per post

Double Tropical Threat: Dolly Eyes Florida, Gulf Storm Brews

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Hurricane forecasters are keeping a close watch on two developing weather disturbances in the Atlantic basin, with both systems tracking in the general direction of the US.

The nearer concern is Invest AL97, which could briefly strengthen into a tropical depression or tropical storm before it moves ashore.

As of Monday morning, the system was located more than 98 miles south of Louisiana and was drifting slowly toward the west-northwest.

Satellite observations indicated that AL97’s circulation was still poorly defined, though the disturbance was generating winds of about 29 to 35mph and environmental conditions remained supportive of additional development.

Forecasters said Invest AL97 is expected to approach the Upper Texas coast or southwestern Louisiana late tonight or by Tuesday morning.

Tropical storm watches or warnings could be issued later Monday, while heavy rain is expected along parts of both coastlines regardless of whether the system develops.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is also tracking the remnants of Tropical Storm Dolly as they race westward across the Caribbean toward Florida.

Dolly is unlikely to redevelop over the next day or two, but its moisture is expected to increase Florida’s rain chances later this week.

Hurricane trackers are monitoring two disturbances in the Atlantic basin as both move toward the US

Hurricane trackers are monitoring two disturbances in the Atlantic basin as both move toward the US

An Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system in the Gulf later this morning. 

Forecasters said it has a high chance of becoming a tropical cyclone within the next seven days. 

The NHC gives it a 70 percent chance of development over both the next two and seven days. The next named storm would be Edouard.

Chicago & Midwest Storm Chasers said on X: ’97L continues to look increasingly organized this morning, with deep convection exploding around the circulation and persistent lightning near the center. 

‘The current satellite presentation appears more organized than some hurricane-model guidance has been depicting.’

Farther east, the remnants of Tropical Storm Dolly are producing heavy showers and thunderstorms from Puerto Rico across the Virgin Islands and northern Leeward Islands.

The system remains a strong tropical wave but does not have a fully formed center of circulation. 

That makes redevelopment unlikely over the next day or two as it races west to west-northwest at about 25mph.

The more immediate threat, Invest AL97 (red), is likely to become a short-lived tropical depression or tropical storm before reaching the coast

The more immediate threat, Invest AL97 (red), is likely to become a short-lived tropical depression or tropical storm before reaching the coast

A model showing potential paths for Invest A97, which could become a named storm on Monday or Tuesday

A model showing potential paths for Invest A97, which could become a named storm on Monday or Tuesday

Conditions could become slightly more favorable by midweek as Dolly approaches the Gulf.

However, its chances of reforming remain near zero over the next 48 hours and just 20 percent across the next seven days.

Even if Dolly never redevelops, Florida could still feel its effects.

The wave could drag more tropical moisture across the state and combine with favorable conditions higher in the atmosphere, bringing more widespread rain and stronger afternoon storms later this week. 

It could also keep the rip-current risk elevated at area beaches, depending on changes in air pressure and whether long-period swells reach the coast.

East Central Florida is facing a hot, muggy and stormy week, with forecasters warning of heavy rain, damaging wind gusts and possible localized flooding.

Scattered to widespread thunderstorms are expected to develop from late Monday morning through the evening, according to Indian River County Weather. 

Rain chances will range from 50 to 60 percent across the region, including a 50 percent chance around Vero Beach.

The strongest storms could unleash wind gusts of 40 to 50mph, frequent lightning and torrential rain. Slow-moving storms could dump large amounts of water over isolated areas, triggering flash flooding.

Temperatures will reach 89 to 92 degrees, but high humidity could make it feel like 100 to more than 105 degrees.

Conditions could deteriorate further Wednesday and Thursday as the remnants of Tropical Storm Dolly pass near Florida and pull more moisture into the state. 

Parts of the region face a marginal, Level 1 out of 4, risk of excessive rainfall Thursday.

Conditions offshore should remain relatively manageable, with east-to-southeast winds of five to ten knots, about six to 12mph, and waves of two to three feet. However, thunderstorms will remain a daily threat for boaters.

Rain chances could ease slightly over the weekend but are expected to remain above normal as temperatures climb into the low- to mid-90s.

Mayor Sparks Outrage by Rejecting Flag Tribute to Dolly Parton

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The mayor of a Mississippi community has drawn sharp backlash after publicly objecting to calls for flags to be lowered in honor of country music icon Dolly Parton following her death.

Olive Branch Mayor Ken Adams shared his position on social media after news of Parton’s passing, saying he did not support flying the city’s flags at half-staff as a tribute to the beloved singer and entertainer.

‘I believe lowering the American flag to half-staff should mean something very significant,’ Adams wrote.

He added that, in his view, the honor should be limited to “our military heroes, fallen first responders, presidents and other major national leaders,” as well as moments or tragedies that have profoundly affected the nation.

Adams argued that ordering flags lowered whenever a widely admired public figure dies could, over time, diminish the weight and symbolism of the gesture.

Adams’ opposition came after President Donald Trump and Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves ordered US and state flags to be flown at half-staff for one week following Parton’s death. 

In his statement, Adams said he would use local rules to oppose the governor and president’s orders.

‘I also believe there is a role for local government in these decisions. Mississippi cities operate under Home Rule,’ the mayor wrote. 

Ken Adams, the mayor of Olive Branch, Mississippi, sparked fury after arguing against lowering flags to commemorate the late country music legend Dolly Parton

Ken Adams, the mayor of Olive Branch, Mississippi, sparked fury after arguing against lowering flags to commemorate the late country music legend Dolly Parton

Country music legend Dolly Parton passed away on August 25 aged 80

Country music legend Dolly Parton passed away on August 25 aged 80 

Adams said he would use local rules in Olive Branch (pictured) to oppose orders from the president and governor to fly flasg at half-staff 

‘We have locally elected officials who are responsible for making decisions for the people we represent. I don’t believe that means we should disregard what the President or Governor decides. 

‘It means we have the ability to use our own judgment when appropriate.’

Adams said while the president and governor can make decisions for the nation and the state, ‘I believe a mayor should have the ability to make a decision for his or her city.

‘I also don’t believe residents elected me to be a “salute and execute” Mayor but to lead with conviction,’ he continued.

‘This isn’t about disrespecting Dolly Parton. It isn’t about politics. And it certainly isn’t about saying she wasn’t a great American.

‘It’s simply my belief that the American flag at half-staff is one of the highest honors we can give, and I believe that honor should be reserved for truly extraordinary circumstances.

‘Sometimes preserving the meaning of an honor means being selective about when we use it.’

Flags were ordered to be flown at half-staff on all federal buildings by President Donald Trump, seen outside the White House on August 25

Flags were ordered to be flown at half-staff on all federal buildings by President Donald Trump, seen outside the White House on August 25

Adams' post was met with fury from the mayor's constituents

Adams’ post was met with fury from the mayor’s constituents

Adams’ post was met with fury from the mayor’s constituents, with one saying his opposition to honoring Parton ‘made my choice in the next election.’

‘I’d lower it for Dolly before any politician,’ one person responded. 

Another who said he is a veteran and first responder said he disagreed with Adams’ assertion that flag-lowering should be reserved only for people like him, because ‘she gave her time and money to the military and multiple organizations… She earned this.’

‘You have turned something simple, sweet and respectful that nobody would have been taking about, into something ALL about YOU. And then say it’s not political?’ another person responded.

The Daily Mail has contacted Mayor Adams for comment.  

The backlash comes as tributes to Parton were displayed across the nation following the singer’s death from cancer last week at the age of 80. 

However, in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to introduce traffic signs paying homage to Parton led to reports that the Democrat accidentally violated federal road safety guidelines.

Hochul honored Parton with road signs referencing the late star’s hits, including ‘Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, don’t speed’ and ‘I will always love safe driving’.

The backlash comes as tributes to Parton were displayed across the nation following the singer's death aged 80

The backlash comes as tributes to Parton were displayed across the nation following the singer’s death aged 80

In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to introduce traffic signs paying homage to Parton led to reports that the Democrat accidentally violated federal road safety guidelines

In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to introduce traffic signs paying homage to Parton led to reports that the Democrat accidentally violated federal road safety guidelines

Hochul's traffic signs tribute to country music legend Dolly Parton may have backfired after they were allegedly found to violate federal road safety rules

Hochul’s traffic signs tribute to country music legend Dolly Parton may have backfired after they were allegedly found to violate federal road safety rules

The signs were lit up on highway signs across New York state on Thursday and Friday, but reports say Hochul’s tribute may flout federal rules introduced by the Biden administration.

The messages appear to violate guidelines that discourage distracting drivers, according to the New York Post.

The guidelines for the Federal Highway Administration, introduced by the Biden administration in December 2023, state that road signs must be ‘simple, direct, legible and clear.’

The rules also state that signs must only include important information, and avoid pop-culture references that may be ‘obscure’ or ‘take greater time to process.’

Officials told the Post that while Hochul’s traffic signs may violate the rules, they are not necessarily illegal.

Newark Airport Shuttle Bus Hits Concrete Barrier, Injuring 13

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Thirteen people were injured early Monday when an employee shuttle bus slammed into a concrete barrier at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, according to local media reports.

The crash occurred shortly after 3 a.m. on the Terminal B Departures Level 3 roadway, News 12 New Jersey reported.

Authorities said three people were seriously hurt and 10 others suffered minor injuries, according to the report. None of the injuries was believed to be life-threatening.

shuttle bus rests against a concrete barrier after the crash

Local reports said three people sustained serious injuries and 10 others were treated for minor injuries. None of the injuries was considered life-threatening. (FreedomNewsTV (FNTV))

Video obtained by News Media showed the employee shuttle bus heavily damaged and still lodged against the concrete barrier after the Newark Airport crash. The front of the vehicle appeared crushed, with shattered glass visible around the bus door and windshield.

Police tape surrounded the crash site as first responders worked nearby.

It was unclear what caused the crash. Authorities are continuing to investigate. (FreedomNewsTV (FNTV))

The injured were transported to area hospitals for evaluation and treatment, according to WABC-TV.

The crash prompted authorities to close the Terminal B Departures Level 3 roadway as crews worked to clear debris from the area.

crumbled front end of bus with shattered glass and debris on the ground

The crash happened shortly after 3 a.m. on the Terminal B Departures Level 3 roadway, prompting authorities to close the roadway as debris was cleared. (FreedomNewsTV (FNTV))

The Port Authority Police Department advised passengers departing from Terminal B to be dropped off on Level 2 because of the police activity.

Authorities have not released the cause of the crash.

The investigation is ongoing.

Priscilla Ojo Overwhelmed as She Shows Off Lavish Gifts Son Rakeem Got at Birthday Party

Popular influencer and entrepreneur Priscilla Ojo has delighted her followers with a peek at the thoughtful gifts her son received for his recent birthday.

Following the colourful birthday celebration, Priscilla posted a video on social media, giving fans a closer look at some of the presents sent in by family, friends and well-wishers who joined in marking the memorable day.

Interestingly, some of the gifts were still unopened as she displayed them in the video.

Expressing her appreciation, Priscilla revealed that she was overwhelmed by the love and generosity shown to her son. She also thanked everyone who attended the celebration and joined them in making the occasion memorable.

Her words…

“Still overwhelmed.

Thank you to all our family and friends who showed up, showed love, brought gifts and partied with us yesterday.

You made his day so magical”.

See post below:

In other news… Rakeem Mkambala, the son of Nollywood actress Priscilla Ojo and Tanzanian singer Juma Jux, has celebrated his first birthday with a major milestone as he secured his first endorsement deal.Movies

“Made by mama, now making mama proud”.

The endorsement announcement sparked excitement among family members, celebrities and fans, who took to the comment section to celebrate the young brand ambassador.

South Africa Circumcision Ceremony Death Toll Reaches 43

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More than 43 boys have died and dozens of others have been left mutilated following mass circumcision ceremonies in South Africa.

The rites, known locally as ‘Ulwaluko’, take place twice a year at initiation schools and are intended to mark a young man’s passage into adulthood.

On arrival, the boys are separated from their families and covered in white clay as part of the traditional process.

They typically remain at the schools for three weeks, undergoing the transition from boyhood to manhood before returning home.

A central part of the ceremony involves circumcision, which is supposed to be performed by traditional surgeons with years of experience.

But many circumcisions are instead carried out by unskilled people working at illegal initiation schools who use old spears, scissors or razor blades to perform horrific surgery.

Ulwaluko can be deadly. In 2024, the combined deaths of both winter and summer rituals was 93 boys with 11 total penis amputations – with some rogue ‘surgeons’ found to perform the operation without anaesthetic.

A report commissioned by the South African government recorded 322 deaths of young boys between 2021 and 2024, as well as thousands of hospitalisations and amputations.

It laid the blame at the door of criminal gangs who have set up unscrupulous illegal initiation schools who use untrained ‘surgeons’ and ‘nurses’ who botch the circumcisions.

Twice a year, the ceremonies ¿ known in the country as 'Ulwaluko' ¿ are carried out with the intention of preparing young men across the nation for manhood

Twice a year, the ceremonies – known in the country as ‘Ulwaluko’ – are carried out with the intention of preparing young men across the nation for manhood

Many circumcisions are carried out by unskilled people working at illegal initiation schools who use old spears, scissors or razor blades

Many circumcisions are carried out by unskilled people working at illegal initiation schools who use old spears, scissors or razor blades

The main causes of death are gangrene, sepsis and severe dehydration – though some unwilling boys have been stabbed, drowned or beaten to death. 

There are hundreds of reports a year of illegal schools kidnapping boys as young as 12 to circumcise them, before forcing parents to pay to have their sons returned home. 

South Africa has now outlawed the establishment of unregistered initiation schools and requires all traditional surgeons to be fully trained and qualified.

Police now also have powers to shut down the illegal camps and arrest the leaders. 

Some 42 schools have been shut down by officers, with 40 arrests made and 180 boys rescued. 

But the ceremonies are still hugely important to many across the country. Unless the youths undergo the rite they are not allowed to sit in on tribal meetings or take part in many social activities or consider getting married.

The rituals have been held for centuries in secret in specially built huts away from the villages where nobody except tribal elders, a ‘surgeon’, and the initiates can enter.

Every year tens of thousands of boys undergo the transition to manhood through a sacred ceremony dating back hundreds of years despite the shocking annual death rate.

Velenkosini Hlabisa, South Africa’s minister of traditional affairs, said after the 43 teenage deaths: ‘These figures are deeply concerning to us and we send our condolences to all the families.

‘They serve as a stark reminder that much more must be done collectively to eliminate preventable deaths, injuries and criminal activities associated with customary initiation.

‘I condemn the continued operation of illegal initiation schools which are responsible for many of the deaths, injuries, kidnappings and abuses that are reported each year.

‘Individuals who establish, facilitate or participate in the illegal initiation schools must also understand they are committing criminal offences and must face the full might of the law.

‘Respect for tradition must go hand in hand with respect for the law and every initiate’s constitutional right to life, dignity and safety as we pledge to work towards zero deaths.

‘Every initiate deserves to return home safely and with their dignity intact and this requires all of us, parents, traditional leaders and communities to all play our full part,’ he said.

Although the boys have a choice as to whether they undertake the initiation there is huge peer pressure and those who refuse are called Inkwenkwe or ‘boy’ – a harsh insult.

Boys under 16 are not allowed by law to enter the initiation schools but boys as young as ten are often operated on in the illegal initiation schools.

Traditional surgeons charge parents to take the boys away for up to three weeks to teach them survival skills and tribal history and how to behave as a man then perform the dreaded ‘snip’.

Teenager Scotty Dawka, 19, went to an initiation school despite having seen a TV programme on penile amputations and told a local reporter: ‘I was of course very scared of going.

‘In my community many boys went through the initiation before me and I wanted to be the same as them. I wanted to be looked up to as a man in my village by the elders,’ he said.

‘It was very painful to go through and I fell ill but I was treated and survived.’

Anne Kumalo’s 16-year-old son was kidnapped when he went to a local store along with 22 other boys and taken to an illegal initiation school 20 miles away in Soweto.

She said: ‘I was charged 1000 Rand (£45) to get him back or warned he would be killed and when police found the school the boys had been badly treated, whipped and beaten.’

Last year Siyamthanda Siymthanda, 13, from Witbank, Mpumalanga Province, died while at initiation school and his family claim he was abducted against his and their will.

Former South African President Nelson Mandela wrote about the spiritual meaning of his own circumcision as a teenager before becoming accepted as a freedom fighter.

Those who have undergone the sacred ritual are sworn to secrecy and considered tribal outcasts and severely beaten or killed if they tell anyone what the process entails.

The worst of the injuries occur from botched circumcisions carried out by tribal ‘nurses’ who may use the same rusty spear for many boys which causes mass infection.

The wounds are tightly wrapped with bandages that cuts off the blood supply to the area and within ten hours the genitals can become gangrenous and need amputating.

Many die of severe dehydration as after surgery they are denied water to stop them urinating on the grounds it will cause further injury to their grievous wounds.

Many superstitious initiates do not seek medical treatment when clearly needed having been told if it ‘falls off’ that it will ‘grow back’ – but then die from sepsis.

The winter initiation season runs from mid-May to mid-July with the official figure of 43 deaths now having been collated and the summer season from November to January.