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Unveiling the Hidden Sugars: 5 Coffee Creamers That Pack a Sweet Surprise

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Coffee creamer can be a delightful addition to your morning routine, but is it secretly sabotaging your healthy eating goals? According to Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the “Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies,” coffee creamer isn’t inherently unhealthy. However, she warns that it can quickly become a significant source of added sugar and saturated fat if you’re not mindful of portion sizes. Moreover, many creamers contain various additives, including emulsifiers like mono- and diglycerides, stabilizers such as carrageenan, preservatives like potassium sorbate, and both artificial and natural flavors and sweeteners. To keep your coffee healthy, Collingwood advises using creamer sparingly or considering eliminating it altogether. Curious to learn which coffee creamers might be adding more sugar to your cup than you realize? Below are five popular options that pack a surprising sugar punch.

First up is Coffee Mate French Vanilla. This popular creamer adds a delightful sweetness to your coffee, but it achieves its flavor through added sugars and oils, which increase calorie intake without providing much nutritional benefit, Collingwood explains.

Similarly, International Delight Caramel, while undeniably tasty, owes much of its appeal to sugar and artificial flavors. These ingredients contribute to its calorie count without offering nutritional value. Collingwood emphasizes that while these creamers are not inherently dangerous, they should be consumed in moderation to avoid derailing your dietary efforts.

Coffee Mate French Vanilla

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Coffee Mate French Vanilla sweetens your coffee to perfection. “These are flavored creamers that contain added sugar and oils, which contribute calories but minimal nutritional value,” says Collingwood.

International Delight Caramel

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The same goes for /International Delight Caramel: It’s delicious, but mostly because of sugar, artificial flavors, and empty calories. “That doesn’t make them dangerous, but it just means they are best used in moderation,” Collingwood points out.

Sugar-Free Coffee Mate

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While Sugar-Free Coffee Mate doesn’t have real sugar, there are artificial sweeteners. Should you stay away from it? “The concern around artificial sweeteners is often overstated. These sweeteners are FDA-approved and considered safe within acceptable daily intake levels. Some people prefer to limit them due to taste preference or GI sensitivity, but they are not inherently harmful for the general population,” says Collingwood.

Starbucks Caramel Macchiato

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Starbucks Caramel Macchiato is calorie-dense with processed additives. The line of Starbucks creamers, designed to taste like the expensive drinks at the coffee shop, “tends to be higher in sugar and calories per serving, so they can add up quickly if you’re using multiple servings per day,” she says.

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The same goes for Dunkin’ Extra Extra Creamer: higher in sugar and calories. But you can still enjoy a splash in your coffe, according to Collingwood. “Again, the issue is quantity, not that these products need to be avoided completely,” she says.

Unpacking the Supreme Court’s Birthright Citizenship Debate: What You Need to Know

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The U.S. Supreme Court is currently grappling with a pivotal question: Does the Constitution guarantee citizenship to every child born on American soil, or are there exceptions for those born to undocumented immigrants and temporary visa holders?

The court’s three liberal justices are expected to support the stance that citizenship should be granted without restriction. As a result, the final decision is likely to rest with the court’s swing justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts.

The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) has emphasized the significance of this case, stating it could have far-reaching implications for immigration policy and citizenship rights.

 

The Federation for American Immigration Reform reported:

Does being born on U.S. soil automatically grant citizenship — even if a child’s parents are in the country illegally or only here temporarily?

This is the consequential question that stands before us.

Today the Supreme Court will hear Trump v. Barbara, a case that could redefine the meaning of American citizenship for generations to come. For many Americans, this isn’t just a legal debate.

It’s about fairness.

It’s about the rule of law.

It’s about preserving the meaning and value of citizenship.

The 14th Amendment was ratified in 1868. It was meant to ensure that previously enslaved people would finally be recognized as citizens.

The framers of the 14th Amendment could not have envisioned large-scale illegal immigration or modern transportation that has enabled the growth of a thriving “birth tourism” industry.

Right now, an estimated 250,000 children are born each year to parents who are either in the country unlawfully or here on temporary visas. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a reflection of a system under strain.

“This is why this historic case matters so deeply,” FAIR reported.

New Zealand Criticizes Australia’s ‘Ego’ in Bold Statement

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Australia’s closest ally has raised the alarm over the Coalition’s leadership turnover, even joking it may not be worth building a relationship with the new shadow foreign minister.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters says he is ‘aghast’ at the ‘inexcusable’ turmoil in Australian political ranks, which he attributes to ‘ego’.

Peters is now in his third stint as New Zealand’s top diplomat, having served in the governments of Helen Clark, Jacinda Ardern and, currently, Christopher Luxon.

Asked about his ties to newly-elected Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, the 80-year-old instead offered a critique of recent leadership battles that have consumed Australian politics.

‘Can I just say, as an outsider, I’m aghast,’ he told AAP in Wellington.

‘The years of stability, first of Hawke and then Howard, those years of civility have been very critical for Australia’s success.

‘The churn now really is inexcusable, and the churn both in the Labor and the Liberal Party, has been massive.

‘In the end, you’ve got to stand back and say to those parties … what is going on with you when you think that personal ego is the most important thing to elevation?’

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters (pictured) has taken aim at the turnover of political leadership in Australia, saying the changes make his job harder

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters (pictured) has taken aim at the turnover of political leadership in Australia, saying the changes make his job harder

Last week, Angus Taylor (Pictured with Senators Jane Hume and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price) became the third leader of the Liberals within a year when he won a ballot against Sussan Ley

Last week, Angus Taylor (Pictured with Senators Jane Hume and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price) became the third leader of the Liberals within a year when he won a ballot against Sussan Ley

Taylor became the third leader of the Liberals in the last year when he won a ballot against Sussan Ley last week.

While Peters included Labor in his broadside, the centre-left party has had just two leaders in 13 years: Bill Shorten and Anthony Albanese.

The Coalition’s turnover in its foreign affairs spokesperson is even more pronounced, with five serving in the role since 2022: Marise Payne, Simon Birmingham, David Coleman, Michaelia Cash, and now, Ted O’Brien.

In contrast, Penny Wong has served as Labor’s foreign affairs spokesperson in opposition and then government for almost a decade.

Peters said the task of ensuring strong relations wasn’t helped by political turnover.

‘It makes your job harder because you keep on getting new leaders,’ he said, before joking he may not need to begin fresh relationship-building with O’Brien.

‘The way the polls are going, maybe not,’ he said.

Peters is a mainstay of Kiwi politics, first elected to parliament in 1979 and founding the populist New Zealand First party in 1993.

He practises the leadership consistency he wishes to see across the Tasman, having led his party for the past 33 years. 

Jacinda ArdernNew Zealand

Hasbro Faces Cyberattack, Anticipates Weeks-Long Recovery Process

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Parts of Hasbro’s online presence, including its main website, hasbro.com, were reported to be inaccessible on Wednesday. The disruption follows revelations that hackers may still have access to the company’s digital infrastructure.

WASHINGTON — The renowned American toy manufacturer, Hasbro, is grappling with a persistent cyberattack. On Wednesday, the company acknowledged that it might take “several weeks” to fully address and resolve the security breach.

Hasbro stands as a titan in the realm of children’s entertainment, boasting an impressive portfolio that includes iconic brands like Transformers, Barbie, and “Dungeons & Dragons.”

In a mandatory filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday, Hasbro disclosed that it first detected a security breach on March 28. In response, the company proactively shut down certain systems to prevent further unauthorized access.

Hasbro has informed its investors that the cyberattack could potentially disrupt its business operations for several weeks, highlighting the seriousness of the incident.

“The need to run these interim measures may continue for several weeks before the situation is fully resolved and may result in some delays,” the filing noted. 

Hasbro said in the government filing it has begun implementing what it called business continuity plans to allow it to “take orders, ship product and conduct other key operations while it resolves this situation.” 

Parts of Hasbro’s online portfolio, including hasbro.com, did not appear to be operational Wednesday. Other sites, including hasbropulse.com, remained online. An error message on the company’s main site said it was “currently undergoing maintenance.” 

The company said in the SEC filing it has contacted cybersecurity professionals to help but suggested the hackers may still be in the company’s systems.  

It’s not known what specific kind of cyberattack was detected or how widespread the infiltration into the company’s system was before being detected.

Hasbro spokesperson Andrea Snyder reiterated much of the SEC filing in a statement to technology news site TechCrunch, adding that the company had “taken swift action to protect our systems and data.” 

TechCrunch reported Snyder declined to answer questions about the nature of the cyberattack, or if the company has had any ransom demands from the hackers. It’s also unclear if any data was stolen in the breach. 

Unveiling Chaos: Greek Island Engulfed by Saharan Dust Storms and Tornado Fury

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The Greek island of Crete found itself enveloped in a suffocating blanket of Saharan dust, while fierce winds and a tornado wreaked havoc, causing Easter holiday flights from the UK to be redirected. The sky took on an unsettling red-orange hue as a result.

The travel situation descended into chaos as the thick layer of African dust severely impaired visibility, halting aircraft operations and disrupting scheduled arrivals at Heraklion’s primary airport.

Visibility diminished to approximately 1,000 meters, a dangerously low level for safe landings, forcing at least two flights to change their course.

A British Airways flight originating from London was diverted to Corfu, and a SKY Express flight from Brussels had to make its way to Athens instead.

Air travel across Crete continues to face challenges with the persistent dust cloud lingering, leading to ongoing delays and disruptions in operations.

Dramatic scenes were also reported on the ground, where a powerful tornado flipped a truck in the coastal area of Pachia Ammos as it prepared to load agricultural exports.

The violent weather also uprooted trees, damaged greenhouses and caused part of a wall at a ceramics factory to collapse.

In Ierapetra, huge waves surged into the first houses along the old town, as strong southerly winds whipped up dangerous coastal conditions.

The Greek island of Crete has been cloaked in a choking Saharan dust storm as violent winds and a tornado battered the region, forcing Easter holiday flights from the UK to divert and turning the sky an eerie red-orange

The Greek island of Crete has been cloaked in a choking Saharan dust storm as violent winds and a tornado battered the region, forcing Easter holiday flights from the UK to divert and turning the sky an eerie red-orange

A woman walks her dog amid the haze on the Greek Island, a popular tourist destination

A woman walks her dog amid the haze on the Greek Island, a popular tourist destination

The violent weather has uprooted trees, damaged greenhouses and caused part of a wall at a ceramics factory to collapse (Two residents are pictured strolling through the centre of Heraklion on Wednesday)

The violent weather has uprooted trees, damaged greenhouses and caused part of a wall at a ceramics factory to collapse (Two residents are pictured strolling through the centre of Heraklion on Wednesday)

A deep haze has left the sky coloured in a dark orange causing severe visibility issues

A deep haze has left the sky coloured in a dark orange causing severe visibility issues

Locals have resorted to wearing COIVD-style face masks to shield themselves from the haze

Locals have resorted to wearing COIVD-style face masks to shield themselves from the haze

A woman takes pictures of the horizon turned yellow, caused by sand dust from the Sahara, due to strong southern winds, in Heraklion, Crete island, Greece April 1

A woman takes pictures of the horizon turned yellow, caused by sand dust from the Sahara, due to strong southern winds, in Heraklion, Crete island, Greece April 1

A man protects himself with a face mask, while walking in a haze caused by sand dust from the Sahara, due to strong southern winds, in Heraklion, Crete island, Greece April 1

A man protects himself with a face mask, while walking in a haze caused by sand dust from the Sahara, due to strong southern winds, in Heraklion, Crete island, Greece April 1

Travel chaos unfolded on Crete as thick African dust smothered visibility, grounding aircraft and disrupting arrivals at Heraklion's main airport

Travel chaos unfolded on Crete as thick African dust smothered visibility, grounding aircraft and disrupting arrivals at Heraklion’s main airport

This photograph shows the city of Ierapetra during a dust storm on the Greek island of Crete on April 1

This photograph shows the city of Ierapetra during a dust storm on the Greek island of Crete on April 1

At least two flights were forced to divert after visibility dropped to around 1,000 metres, a level considered unsafe for landing

At least two flights were forced to divert after visibility dropped to around 1,000 metres, a level considered unsafe for landing

A British Airways service from London was rerouted to Corfu, while a SKY Express flight from Brussels was sent to Athens

A British Airways service from London was rerouted to Corfu, while a SKY Express flight from Brussels was sent to Athens

This photograph shows the port of Ierapetra during a dust storm on the Greek island of Crete

This photograph shows the port of Ierapetra during a dust storm on the Greek island of Crete

Across Heraklion, the landscape has been transformed into something resembling the Sahara, with a thick veil of dust almost completely obscuring the port.

The air has turned suffocating, with extremely high concentrations of dust particles making conditions hazardous, particularly for vulnerable residents.

In Chania, light rain has mixed with the dust to create a layer of mud coating homes, cars and streets, as visibility dropped sharply across the city.

Air quality readings have plunged into the ‘very poor’ category, with particle pollution far exceeding safe limits, according to regional monitoring stations.

Meteorologists say dust levels have surged to more than 1,000 micrograms per cubic metre, an exceptionally high concentration, with conditions expected to ease slightly later in the day.

However, forecasters have warned that another wave of Saharan dust could hit the island as early as Thursday.

Authorities have urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel, remain indoors where possible and take care on the roads as the extreme weather continues to grip the island.

Judge Denies Delay in Luigi Mangione’s Federal Trial, Proceedings Remain on Schedule

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The presiding judge in the federal trial of Luigi Mangione, accused of being an Ivy League assassin, dismissed his defense team’s request to postpone the trial. She expressed her unwillingness to be “held hostage” by the scheduling conflicts arising from a concurrent state court case against him.

At 11:24 a.m., U.S. Marshals brought Mangione into the courtroom. He appeared in a tan prison jumpsuit with rolled-up sleeves and was restrained with leg shackles, though not handcuffed.

Moments later, the judge made her entrance.

Karen Friedman Agnifilo, a key defense attorney for Mangione, requested additional months to adequately prepare for the federal case, emphasizing the need to focus on his state trial first.

Luigi Mangione in a dark blazer and white shirt with the top two buttons open, leaning to the side in court as an officer stands behind him

Luigi Mangione is seen attending an evidentiary hearing for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson at the Manhattan Supreme Court in New York on December 18, 2025.  (Photo by Shannon Stapleton/Pool via Reuters)

“I don’t think what we’re asking for is unreasonable,” she said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Dominic Gentile argued that the defense’s logistical concerns could be addressed by changing the jury questionnaire schedule, which was set for a capital case. Mangione no longer faces the potential death penalty.

He added that both cases are expected to rely on the same facts and witnesses.

Brian Thompson in a blue button down shirt and blue zip-up smiles for the camera

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson pictured in an undated portrait provided by UnitedHealth. The executive was shot from behind and killed on his way to an investor conference in New York City in what prosecutors have described as a politically motivated assassination. (AP Photo/UnitedHealth Group via AP)

Judge Margaret Garnett said she was more concerned about the jury selection process rather than trial prep — telling the parties she doesn’t envision a particularly complex proceeding.

She said her role is to ensure Mangione gets a fair trial in her courtroom, and she said whatever happens in the state case is not her concern.

Mangione faces numerous charges at the state and federal level in connection with the December 2024 assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a 50-year-old father of two from Minnesota who was in New York City for a work conference when a gunman snuck up behind him and opened fire.

Bullets at scene outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan where Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot.

Members of the New York police crime scene unit investigate bullets lying on the sidewalk at the scene outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan where Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot, Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, in New York. (Stefan Jeremiah/AP)

The state trial, scheduled to take place before his federal trial, is expected to garner massive public attention and make jury selection more difficult, she explained.

“I’m a little troubled,” she said.

After a roughly 30-minute hearing, she proposed keeping close to the schedule put forth in February, with jury selection in the fall and opening statements on Oct. 26 or Nov. 2.

mangione eating a mcdonalds hashbrown with mask hanging from one ear

UnitedHealthcare CEO slaying suspect Luigi Mangione pictured at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024. (Pennsylvania State Police)

The federal hearing came just under a month after a New York judge told Mangione’s defense to be ready for the state trial on June 8. Judge Gregory Carro had floated the idea of delaying it only if the federal trial was delayed first.

Bailiffs escorted Mangione out of that hearing after an unexpected outburst in which he claimed to be the victim of double jeopardy.

“It’s the same trial twice,” he said. “One plus one is two. Double jeopardy by any common sense.”

Both courts have dismissed the most severe counts, but Mangione still faces life in prison if convicted. He also faces lesser charges in Pennsylvania, where police arrested him in a McDonald’s restaurant, in connection with the case.

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Katie Couric Opens Up About Her Deepest Regret While Caring for Her Late Husband Jay Monahan

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Katie Couric recently opened up about a significant omission during her late husband’s battle with colon cancer—avoiding conversations about the possibility of death. In heartfelt interviews, she highlighted this common dilemma faced by caregivers of terminally ill patients. Now a passionate advocate for colon cancer awareness, Couric stresses the importance of early screenings. She also shared a personal note about becoming a grandmother in 2024, revealing that her grandson is affectionately called Jay, in tribute to her late husband. Her narrative is a powerful blend of personal grief and practical health advice, underscoring the value of having difficult discussions.

Katie Couric's Biggest Regret Caring for Dying Husband Jay Monahan

Why Katie Couric Calls This Her ‘Biggest Regret’ in Jay Monahan’s Cancer Battle

Back in 1997, Jay Monahan, a resolute lawyer and father of two, was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer at just 42 years old. Couric, who was an emerging television anchor at the time, balanced her professional commitments with supporting her husband. In her memoir, she candidly admitted that they never discussed the possibility of death, believing it to be a form of protection. “We never really confronted the end,” she revealed during interviews on shows like The Drew Barrymore Show. In hindsight, she sees this as a missed opportunity for closure, reflecting a common pitfall among caregivers who avoid harsh truths to shield their loved ones, thereby delaying emotional readiness.

This decision lingered with Couric long after Jay’s passing in 1998, driving her to transform her sorrow into advocacy and action.

The Silent Struggle: How Caregivers Dodge Death Talks During Cancer

Couric’s experience resonates with many families. According to a 2022 study published in Palliative Medicine, 60% of cancer caregivers shy away from end-of-life discussions out of fear or denial. For patients like Jay, symptoms of colon cancer often appear late, leaving little time for these crucial conversations. Couric’s journey highlights this challenge; she focused on medical treatments like chemotherapy and clinical trials, leaving underlying fears unaddressed. Experts advise beginning such discussions early, utilizing resources like the “Serious Illness Conversation Guide” from Ariadne Labs.

Katie Couric’s Cancer Activism: Turning Tragedy into Colon Cancer Screening Wins

This personal oversight became a catalyst for Couric’s advocacy. In 2002, she co-founded the Jay Monahan Center for Gastrointestinal Health, which has since provided screenings to thousands. Her initiatives bring attention to the serious impact of colon cancer, with the American Cancer Society citing 153,000 new cases annually in the U.S., resulting in 52,000 deaths. However, early detection through colonoscopy significantly increases the five-year survival rate from 14% at a distant stage to 90% when localized.

Couric’s TV specials, like her 2000 Today show colonoscopy, normalized screenings. “Get checked at 45,” she urges, aligning with updated guidelines.

Katie Couric's Biggest Regret Caring for Dying Husband Jay Monahan
Katie Couric’s Biggest Regret Caring for Dying Husband Jay Monahan

Shocking Stats: Colon Cancer’s Rise and How Early Checks Save Lives

  • Colon cancer rates in under-50s surged 1-2% annually since 1995 (CDC data).

  • Black Americans face 20% higher incidence; screenings cut this gap.

  • One example: Couric’s friend, diagnosed early post her advocacy, beat stage 1 cancer.

These numbers back her message. Simple actions, like stool tests, detect 92% of cancers pre-symptoms.

Honoring Jay: Katie Couric’s 2024 Joy as a Grandmother

Fast-forward to 2024. Couric welcomed grandson Elliott, nicknamed “Jay” by daughter Ellie. “It’s a beautiful nod to his grandfather,” she told People magazine. This milestone softens old wounds. Ellie, who endured her own breast cancer scare in 2022, credits her mom’s openness for family resilience.

Couric’s journey shows grief evolves. Her blended family now thrives, proving legacy outlives loss.

What Colon Cancer Taught Katie Couric: Key Lessons for Families

Her story offers timeless takeaways:

  • Prioritize screenings: Start at 45, or sooner with family history.

  • Talk openly: Use phrases like “What if the worst happens?” to build bonds.

  • Seek support: Groups like CancerCare provide free counseling.

FAQ

What was Katie Couric’s biggest regret with Jay Monahan?
She regrets not discussing death openly during his colon cancer fight, a silence she now sees as missed intimacy.

How has Katie Couric fought colon cancer awareness?
Through the Jay Monahan Center and public colonoscopy demos, pushing early detection that saves lives.

Why name her grandson Jay?
It’s a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, announced in 2024 amid her new grandmother role.

Couric’s candor inspires. Act on her wisdom: schedule that screening today.

Donald Trump’s ‘Pucker Chin’ Transformation Captures Attention




For those acquainted with the Mar-a-Lago crowd, it’s no secret that years of maintaining a signature facial expression can leave its mark. In Donald Trump’s case, his well-known puckered chin has deepened over time.

Back in 2017, The Guardian explored Trump’s most frequent facial expressions and delved into the psychology behind them. Among these was his puckered chin. Psychologist Peter Collett explained, “People often pull their chins in when they feel threatened — it’s a way of tensing the chin in anticipation of being symbolically punched in the face.” Collett suggested that Trump’s frequent use of this expression betrays a vulnerability beneath his bold exterior, indicating he may not be as tough as he wants to appear. Interestingly, Trump’s chin puckering seems even more pronounced these days. This isn’t to say it wasn’t present before, but its noticeable presence during his second term could be attributed to the lasting effects of habitual expressions, resulting in those notorious static lines.

Reflecting on Trump’s expression in 2018, during discussions with reporters about the Senate vote on Brett Kavanaugh, we see the same pucker. At the time, he had not yet experienced his significant weight loss, which might explain why the puckering wasn’t as prominent then as it is now. Nevertheless, it was still evident, and with Collett’s insights in mind, the tension in his body language becomes apparent. Indeed, during these interactions, Trump seemed to wear a grimace.

Not every instance of Trump’s chin pucker equates to a grimace, but it often serves as a shield, possibly masking strong emotions. This was evident during his appearance at a 2021 rally in Des Moines to endorse Chuck Grassley.

Trump’s 2021 pucker was noticeable, but still more understated than now

Fast forward to 2023, and Trump’s expressions still seem to carry a hint of melancholy in some images. His chin pucker appeared somewhat subdued at a UFC event, even while he was photographed alongside MAGA enthusiast Kid Rock and likely mingling with his friend Dana White. The lighting might have played a part in this appearance, but as we’ve observed, Trump’s chin pucker has generally become more pronounced with time, rather than diminishing.

Perhaps that was because Grassley alluded to his political future in glowing terms at the rally, noting that Trump had “91 percent of the Republican voters in Iowa” (via The Hill). Happy tears, WYA?

2022: Trump’s sad pucker era

Even Kid Rock couldn’t coax Trump’s full pucker out in 2023

Come 2023, Donald Trump still looked a little sad in some pics, and we dare say his chin pucker seemed a tad deflated even at a UFC tournament. This, despite being photographed next to MAGA rocker Kid Rock, and the likelihood that he was hanging out with his close friend Dana White as well. Granted, there is a possibility the lighting had something to do with that, because as we’ve assessed, in more recent years, the president’s chin pucker has become more prominent, not less. 

Perhaps Trump’s chin needs a presidential title to really shine. 

Donald Trump puckered up for AmericaFest in 2024

Fast-forward to 2024, and a re-elected Donald Trump was puckering his chin for Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest. That came after months of Ozempic rumors, so perhaps his chin standing out more than it had before had something to do with the then-president-elect’s weight loss. After all, we doubt he felt a need to tense up at a Turning Point USA event. 

It’s possible the businessman was just super proud of his turnaround and impending return to the presidency, and the emotions he was trying to stave off were happy tears. A missed opportunity for “aws,” honestly.

Donald Trump’s pucker became even more noticeable in his second presidency

By the time Donald Trump had moved back into the White House, his pucker was back and seemed to be all but etched into his chin. In fact, it was so established it almost looked as though he didn’t need to tense up for it to be seen. That’s just as well, because it was around that time that his overall exhausted appearance started making him look like the real sleepy Joe, and no pucker, iconic or not, is worth over-exertion. 

Trump’s chin is super noticeable in 2026

After years of noticeable chin puckering, it seems 2026 was Donald Trump’s year to shine — and never have Peter Collett’s musings on it being a defense mechanism rung more true. 

While speaking to the White House press corps in March 2026, Trump noticeably puckered his chin as he acknowledged that military deaths were an unfortunate part of war. It was pretty obvious he was trying to look sympathetic, but with him immediately following that up by asking which publication the question had come from, it also seems likely he was bracing for a confrontation with the reporter. Pucker chin defense, activate.

Trump’s chin was caught in a spectacular pucker at a GOP event

No, that’s not a pic of Donald Trump making a stank face at a rave, though we will concede he looked like he may be mid-robot dance. Luckily for Melania Trump, though (who we all know hates his cringey dance moves), the president was just addressing the GOP.

We’re not sure exactly what he was speaking about at the moment he fashioned his chin into what might well have been the deepest pucker we’ve seen on him, but the photo evidence might well become our go-to party meme. 

Donald Trump saves his biggest smiles (and chin puckers) for Kentucky

Just two days after breaking it down on stage (JK), Donald Trump gave us another chin pucker, this time while addressing a crowd in Kentucky. Far from looking like he was grimacing, though, it looked as though he was genuinely thrilled to be there. 

We’d say we could glean that from his chin (call us the pucker whisperers), but he did also tell the crowd, “I love Kentucky. We won in a landslide” (via Fox 10 Phoenix). Happy pucker it is, then. 

Donald Trump’s chin was seriously puckered on St. Patrick’s Day

Donald Trump puckered his chin a lot during the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day festivities with Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin, and TBF, a lot of it looked like he was genuinely smiling along with the audience. However, as was reported by CNN, Martin did throw a few low-key jabs at the president, particularly when it came to things like tariffs, so it’s also possible that laughter was on the guarded side. After all, there were also times during the speech his chin was giving sad pucker (see above). 

Either way, the president’s chin pucker is alive and well, and something tells us it’ll only become more of a fixture with time. 



Tragic Incident: Father Fatally Shoots Son Before Taking Own Life, Family Reveals

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In a tragic incident in Minnesota, authorities have confirmed that a father and his young son were the victims of a murder-suicide.

Police confirm dad shot son before killing himself

Background: News footage of the home in Holmesville Township, Minn., where Gene Bartnes and his son Koltyn were found dead on March 30 (KVLY). Inset: Gene Bartnes holding his son Koltyn (Facebook).

Gene Bartnes, aged 45, and his 3-year-old son, Koltyn, were discovered with fatal gunshot wounds on Monday afternoon. The discovery was made by Bartnes’ brother, who had gone to check on them after Bartnes failed to show up for work that morning. The Becker County Sheriff’s Office reported that upon entering the residence, the brother found Bartnes deceased, and deputies later located Koltyn’s body.

Police announced on Tuesday that Bartnes had taken his son’s life before committing suicide. Koltyn’s mother and his surviving siblings have shared further insights into the tragic event, including the existence of three suicide notes left by Bartnes.

In a heartfelt interview with NBC affiliate KVLY, Kristi Frazier, Koltyn’s mother, recounted what law enforcement conveyed to her about the heartbreaking incident. Frazier revealed that Koltyn was shot in the back while he was asleep and that afterward, Bartnes lay beside him and ended his own life with a shot to the chest.

In an interview with local NBC affiliate KVLY, Kristi Frazier, Koltyn’s mother, said that police told her about how her former partner and toddler son died. Frazier told KVLY that Koltyn was shot in the back while he was asleep, “then his dad crawled into bed next to him and shot himself in the chest.”

Frazier said Bartnes had possibly suffered from mental health issues. Her landlord told her that when he saw Bartnes prior to his death, he “seemed off.”

The mother told KVLY that Bartnes reportedly left three suicide notes — one for her, one for law enforcement, and one offering an apology for his actions. Frazier said she had not been able to read any of the notes after police confiscated them as part of their investigation into the deaths.

On a GoFundMe page started to support Frazier, a friend noted that Frazier was a day care provider for her community. The family told KVLY that the funeral was currently on hold.

Inside Ryan Gosling’s Decision to Embrace a Quiet Family Life with Eva Mendes: The Untold Story

Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes, renowned for their discretion in the realm of celebrity relationships, have chosen to lead a serene family life away from Hollywood’s glare. The couple, who kindled their romance during the filming of “The Place Beyond the Pines” in 2011, now reside primarily in Santa Barbara with their daughters, Esmeralda Amada, 11, and Amada Lee, 9.

While Mendes has stepped away from the acting scene, Gosling continues to pursue his career selectively, with his most recent project being “Project Hail Mary.” Despite his ongoing work, their family remains at the heart of their lives.

Why Ryan Gosling Chose Quiet Family Life: Eva Mendes Truth

The Couple’s Calculated Move Away From Hollywood

Gosling and Mendes intentionally relocated from Los Angeles to the tranquil surroundings of Santa Barbara, seeking a peaceful existence free from the relentless media attention. According to a source cited by People magazine, the couple wanted to avoid raising their daughters in an environment dominated by other celebrity children. In 2014, they secured a charming four-bedroom farmhouse, characterized by reclaimed barn wood cabinets and a spacious great room, designed with family in mind rather than Hollywood glamour.

Gosling has previously expressed his unease with life in Los Angeles, telling The Independent in 2013 that “it’s easy to lose touch with everything. You just sit in your car the whole time.” Their move to Santa Barbara underscores their commitment to providing a grounded upbringing for their daughters.

How Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes First Met on a Movie Set

The couple’s love story began on the set of Derek Cianfrance’s crime drama, where they played roles as love interests Romina and Luke. However, as Gosling has noted, their connection sparked “way before” filming commenced. By October 2011, the pair was seen enjoying romantic moments while running errands in Hollywood, and they ushered in the new year of 2012 together at Manhattan’s Bowery Hotel.

Their red carpet debut followed in September 2012 at the Toronto International Film Festival, where they promoted their film together. The on-screen chemistry proved genuine and lasting.

The Exact Moment Ryan Realized He Wanted Kids Only With Eva

Before meeting Mendes, Gosling openly admits he “wasn’t thinking about kids.” That changed fundamentally after they became a couple. In a 2023 GQ interview, Gosling reflected: “After I met Eva, I realized that I just didn’t want to have kids without her.”

He recalled moments on “The Place Beyond the Pines” set “where we were pretending to be a family, and I didn’t really want it to be pretend anymore. I realized that this would be a life I would be really lucky to have.” Mendes has echoed this sentiment, telling Australian radio in 2020 that her romance with Gosling fundamentally shifted her perspective on motherhood.

Esmeralda Amada and Amada Lee: The Meaning Behind Their Names

The couple chose deeply meaningful names for both daughters. Mendes revealed in a 2014 interview with Violet Grey that Esmeralda Amada draws from two inspirations: “Ryan and I both love the Esmeralda character from the Victor Hugo novel ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame,’ and we just think it’s a beautiful name.”

Amada, she explained, “was my grandmother’s name. It means ‘beloved’ in Spanish.” The family’s second daughter, Amada Lee, born in 2016, shares her sister’s middle name as her first a tribute that connects both children to Mendes’ Cuban heritage and family legacy.

Eva Mendes’ Strict No-Photo Rule for the Daughters – Full Story

Mendes has been unwavering about protecting her children’s privacy. In a 2020 Instagram post (since deleted), she explained her boundary: “I have always had a clear boundary when it comes to my man and my kids. I’ll talk about them of course, with limits, but I won’t post pictures of our daily life.”

Her reasoning centers on consent: “Since my children are still so little and don’t understand what posting their image really means, I don’t have their consent. And I won’t post their image until they’re old enough to give me consent.” This rule extends to Gosling, whom she noted prefers the same level of privacy.

Ryan Gosling’s 5-Word Description of Life With Eva Mendes

When asked what drew him to Mendes, Gosling offered a characteristically concise and complete answer:

“That she’s Eva Mendes. There’s nothing else I’m looking for.” The simplicity of the statement reflects a broader philosophy: Gosling has repeatedly described their partnership as settled and complete. In 2015, he told Hello! magazine, “I know that I’m with the person I’m supposed to be with.”

Why the Couple Moved Away From Hollywood for a Quieter Life

The decision to leave Los Angeles was strategic and family-driven. A source explained to People that “for them, the most important job is their girls. Everything else comes second. And their girls are thriving.” The Santa Barbara property offered space four bedrooms, five bathrooms, and outdoor areas including fruit trees and a chicken coop that LA’s tighter quarters couldn’t match.

Mendes confirmed in 2022 that she considers “home” wherever her husband and children are: “Wherever they are, that’s just what it is.”

Rare 2025 Family Outing in Montecito – What Happened

In December 2025, the family was spotted on a rare public outing in Montecito, California. Gosling, 45, wore a baseball cap, jeans, and boots while Mendes, 51, opted for an olive-toned leisure suit and brown riding boots. Their daughters carried a shopping bag from the LA-based fashion brand Clare V. as the family walked together through the upscale neighborhood.

The outing came amid Gosling splitting time between the US and UK, where he has been filming “Star Wars: Starfighter” in London. Insiders told Radar Online that the family “love the laid-back lifestyle in London” and find it “easy for them to move around unrecognized there.”

How Esmeralda and Amada Give Ryan Brutally Honest Movie Feedback

Gosling takes his daughters’ opinions seriously perhaps more seriously than critics. He has shared that his children provide unfiltered feedback on his work. For “Project Hail Mary,” he signed on partly because “being a dad, you know, having two young kids and I feel like everything is just designed to scare them.”

He wanted to create “a story for my kids, maybe not to be too lofty but for their generation, that kind of reminds you of what we’re capable of as human beings. It doesn’t pretend that there’s not going to be problems, but that we can solve them.”

Eva Mendes’ Tearful Admission About Parenting Challenges With Ryan

Mendes has been candid about the emotional realities of motherhood. Appearing on “The Drew Barrymore Show” in September 2024, she admitted she “felt lost” once her daughters reached middle childhood. She has described parenting as transformative, telling Who magazine that motherhood “just changes everything.”

Despite the challenges, Mendes emphasizes that she and Gosling parent as a team. She told Entertainment Tonight in 2024 that their arrangement was “almost just like a non-verbal agreement” that she would focus on home while he worked, adding, “He went and he did his job. He just happens to be really good at his job. And he did it and he came home.”

Eva Mendes Steps Back From Acting to Raise the Daughters

Mendes has not appeared in a live-action film since Gosling’s 2014 directorial debut “Lost River.” She told The Times in October 2024 that she was “never in love” with acting, adding, “I don’t mean this in a self-deprecating way, but I wasn’t a great actress. I had my moments when I worked with really great people.”

Her ambition, she clarified, remains strong it simply shifted. “I still have the same level of ambition as I had before. It just has shifted” toward her family and business ventures, including a fashion line with New York & Company and the cleaning line Skura Style. She told ET in 2024: “It was like a no-brainer. I’m so lucky if I could have this time with my children.”

Ryan Gosling Calls Eva Mendes His “Bulldozing” Co-Parent

While Gosling has not used the word “bulldozing” publicly, he has consistently praised Mendes’ parenting instincts. During a 2023 GQ interview, he revealed: “I just lean on Eva. She knows what’s important, always. She just somehow knows. So if ever I’m in my head about it, I just ask her.”

The couple reportedly does not employ nannies or babysitters, instead raising their daughters entirely on their own a choice that reflects their commitment to hands-on parenting.

What the Future Holds for Ryan Gosling, Eva Mendes and Their Girls

Gosling’s career remains active he continues filming “Star Wars: Starfighter” and has “Project Hail Mary” currently in theaters but Mendes shows no signs of returning to acting. In March 2026, she supported Gosling by appearing with him on “The Tonight Show” for her 52nd birthday, a rare joint public appearance that marked their first together since 2015.

Rumors of a vow renewal have circulated, though insiders suggest any celebration would be “firmly under wraps” because “that’s not their style.” For a couple who has built their life on privacy, the future likely holds more of the same: Gosling working selectively, Mendes managing business ventures, and both prioritizing their daughters above all else.