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White House Correspondents’ Dinner Biden's Retort To Trump Amidst Pro-Palestinian Protests

At the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, President Joe Biden playfully teased his predecessor and quipped about his own age, all while a notable gathering of pro-Palestinian demonstrators outside emphasized the challenges his administration faces amidst Gaza war criticisms. Addressing a crowd of nearly 3,000 attendees, including journalists, celebrities, and politicians, Biden humorously remarked, "Age is the only thing we have in common. My vice president actually endorses me." Drawing a comparison between his reelection campaign's momentum and Trump's subdued presence due to ongoing legal battles, Biden highlighted the differing approaches since his recent State of the Union address. Colin Jost, the evening's other headline performer from “Saturday Night Live,” couldn't resist poking fun at Trump's legal entanglements, opening his act with a tongue-in-cheek observation about presidential appearances. While Biden's participation in such events is a tradition, the significance of what might be his final White House Correspondents’ Dinner was not lost, given his dwindling approval ratings and persistent doubts about his mental acuity. Against this backdrop, the dinner coincided with a backdrop of pro-Palestinian protests sweeping college campuses nationwide. These protests were evident outside the Washington Hilton, where demonstrators voiced discontent with the president's handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, urging attendees to condemn violence against journalists in Gaza. While Biden touched on pressing issues such as press freedom and the perceived threat of another Trump presidency, notably absent from his speech was any mention of the Gaza conflict. Read the full article

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Nadal Triumphs In Epic Three-Hour Clash, Advances To Madrid Fourth Round

Rafael Nadal showcased his ongoing return from injury at the Mutua Madrid Open on Monday, enduring a grueling battle against Pedro Cachin with a 6-1, 6-7(5), 6-3 victory, marking his first tour-level fourth-round appearance since 2022. The five-time Madrid champion demonstrated glimpses of his vintage brilliance against Cachin, captivating the crowd with his trademark inside-out forehand and agile court movement on Manolo Santana Stadium. Despite the spirited challenge from Cachin, who clinched his lone tour-level clay title in Gstaad last year, Nadal exhibited resilience in the decisive third set, unleashing added power and precision from his forehand wing, ultimately securing the hard-fought win after an epic three-hour battle. Participating in his third tournament this year, Nadal rebounded from a second-round exit in Barcelona last week, showcasing his dominance on clay against opponents outside the Top 50 in the ATP Rankings with an impressive record of 162-1 since 2005, the solitary loss being against Horacio Zeballos in Vina del Mar. Cachin, amidst a string of 15 consecutive tour-level losses, displayed commendable determination against the former World No. 1, testing Nadal's resolve throughout the match. With eyes set on extending his stellar record in Madrid, where he boasts a 59-14 win-loss tally, Nadal aims for his 10th consecutive quarter-final appearance in the Spanish capital as he prepares to face Jiri Lehecka. The match against Cachin witnessed Nadal's initial dominance, highlighted by a barrage of winners and assertive shot-making, followed by a remarkable comeback in the second set, where he saved set points to force a tiebreaker. As the contest entered the decisive phase, Nadal's trademark forehand prowess and relentless defensive play wore down Cachin, ultimately sealing the victory amidst a roar of triumph. Meanwhile, Czech talent Lehecka progressed to the fourth round with a hard-fought win over Brazilian Thiago Monteiro, setting the stage for a potential clash with Nadal, marking their first-ever encounter on the ATP circuit. Read the full article

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Jimmy Butler's Displeasure With TNT's Jayson Tatum Sneaker Coverage

NBA playoff series never lack intensity, with players growing weary of their opponents in best-of-seven matchups. Despite the high stakes, TV broadcasts sometimes inadvertently add fuel to the fire. Despite his absence due to a knee injury for the remainder of the Miami Heat's series against the Boston Celtics, Jimmy Butler remains engaged with the media, much like his on-court interactions with officials. Chris Haynes of TNT shared a revealing story about Butler on The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, detailing Butler's annoyance with TNT's focus on Jayson Tatum's sneakers during Game 2. Haynes recalled Butler's frustration during their Game 3 interview, stating, "Before going live, he called us out at TNT for highlighting Jayson Tatum's shoe during Game 2, insisting we stop promoting opposing players' footwear, especially when the Heat were winning. Yet, moments later, we were live on air." Butler's concern was valid; TNT indeed showcased Tatum's Jordan Tatum 2 'Legacy' sneakers during the broadcast. Nevertheless, his reaction, though amusing, underscores his attention to detail. Sneaker enthusiasts likely appreciated TNT's nod to Tatum's footwear, even if prompted by league partnerships. In the spirit of equitable coverage, perhaps TNT could spotlight Butler's Li-Ning signature sneakers upon his return to the court. Fans seeking Tatum's kicks can explore options at Foot Locker, while Butler's footwear is available at KICKS CREW. Read the full article

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Examining Misrepresentations Of The Green Party Candidate's Stance On A Jewish Homeland

ASSERTION: A video snippet alleges that Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein declared "the Jewish people have a homeland in Poland" during a discussion outside Columbia University. VERIFICATION: This claim is inaccurate. Stein's actual statement was "the Jewish people have homeland," devoid of any mention of Poland. A spokesperson for Stein confirmed that an autogenerated caption erroneously inserted "Poland" instead of the correct wording. Stein promptly rectified the error by sharing another version of the video with the accurate caption. She also provided additional clarification during a subsequent event in Columbia, Missouri. FACTUAL BACKGROUND: Against the backdrop of escalating tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, misconstrued interpretations of Stein's remarks at Columbia University have proliferated on social media platforms. The video clip captures Stein, herself Jewish, expressing her views outside a Columbia University entrance, criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza. In response to a man, also Jewish, affirming that "the Jewish people have no homeland but Israel," Stein's rejoinder, captioned as "Jewish people have Poland," is misconstrued. However, her actual response didn't attribute a specific location to the Jewish homeland. Historically, Poland harbored the largest Jewish population in Europe prior to World War II, with over 3 million Jews residing there. Their settlement in the region dates back over a millennium, as Jews sought refuge from persecution in Western and Central Europe. Tragically, approximately 85% of Poland's Jewish population perished during the Holocaust, with survivors encountering sustained antisemitism upon their return. While periods of tolerance toward Polish Jewry existed, they were also marked by significant persecution. Throughout history, Eastern Europe, including Poland, witnessed numerous pogroms resulting in the brutal massacre, rape, and looting of Jewish communities. The viral video snippet originates from a longer footage shared by Stein on her social media platforms, where an erroneous caption was initially included. Following its circulation, Stein promptly issued a corrected version of the clip. During a community gathering in Columbia, Missouri, Stein reiterated her stance, seeking to elucidate any lingering misinterpretations. Notably, she was arrested the day prior while participating in a protest alongside students at Washington University in St. Louis. Across various campuses, including Columbia University, the University of Southern California, Harvard University, and others, student-led protests have emerged, advocating for institutional disassociation from entities supporting Israel's military activities in Gaza. Read the full article

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Oklahoma Communities Begin Arduous Cleanup Post-Weekend Storms Claim Lives

When an ominous tornado swept into Sulphur, Oklahoma, Sheila Hilliard Goodman, a grandmother and casino worker, sought refuge inside Raina’s Sport Lounge along with approximately 30 other patrons in the bustling downtown area. Tragedy struck when the bar's roof collapsed on Saturday, leaving Sheila as the sole casualty among those present. Her family's heart-wrenching search on Sunday revealed her fate, a stark reminder of the storm's devastating toll. The severe weather onslaught, a part of a broader outbreak across the central U.S., resulted in over 100 injuries, authorities disclosed. Oklahoma's harrowing ordeal followed a prior wave of tornadoes in Iowa and Nebraska, which claimed one life. Meteorologist Rick Smith of the National Weather Service detailed the impact, noting at least 22 tornadoes in Oklahoma, some rated EF3 or higher. These formidable twisters wrought destruction, targeting communities like Holdenville, Marietta, and Sulphur, their late-night arrival heightening the peril. In Sulphur, home to around 5,000 residents, downtown bore the brunt, with numerous structures reduced to rubble, vehicles tossed, and homes stripped of their roofs over a vast expanse. Despite the chaos, resilience surged. A testament to this spirit, the local newspaper persisted uninterrupted for 82 years, embodying the town's unwavering resolve. Injuries mounted, including infants, and fatalities ensued, amplifying the tragedy. Elsewhere, Iowa grappled with its own tornado aftermath, registering 17 tornadoes and widespread property damage. Kansas and Missouri, too, witnessed their share of tornado activity, though the full extent remained under assessment. The scene in Sulphur on Monday painted a somber picture: a once-thriving park now lay ravaged, its towering trees uprooted, and debris strewn about. Amidst the wreckage, the hum of chainsaws pierced the air as residents commenced the arduous task of clearing pathways to their homes. Further north, Holdenville mourned two lives lost and significant property damage. Meanwhile, near Marietta, tragedy struck again, claiming yet another victim along Interstate 35. In the face of adversity, federal aid was forthcoming, with President Joe Biden pledging support to Governor Kevin Stitt and declaring a state of emergency in a dozen counties. For Vicki and Larry Combs, owners of a consignment store, the road to recovery began with salvaging what little remained of their business, a testament to their resolve amidst the wreckage. Read the full article

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Putin Showcases Seized British Armoured Vehicles And American Tanks In Ukraine Display

Vladimir Putin has publicly exhibited a collection of American and British tanks in Moscow, showcasing vehicles captured from the frontline in Ukraine with pride. Among the showcased vehicles was a British Saxon armoured personnel carrier, reportedly provided to Ukraine in 2015, prominently displayed in the Russian capital under bold red banners proclaiming "Our victory is inevitable." This exhibition coincides with Moscow's Red Square Victory Day Parade on May 9, commemorating Russia's triumph over Nazi Germany in World War Two. The display features an array of military hardware, including an American Bradley tank, a Swedish CV90, and a French-made AMX-10RC armoured fighting vehicle. Last year on May 9, Putin delivered a passionate 10-minute speech at the Kremlin, denouncing "Western global elites" and asserting that civilization stood at "a decisive turning point." The holiday honoring the Soviet victory in World War Two holds profound significance in Russia, with Putin framing his country's invasion of Ukraine as a continuation of the struggle against Nazi aggression. However, Ukraine, which endured greater losses than Russia during World War Two, condemns this narrative as an exploitation of shared history to justify acts of aggression. Meanwhile, Russia has suffered significant losses in the Ukraine conflict, with the number of tanks lost surpassing its total active service tanks before Putin initiated the invasion. In response to the depletion of its tank resources, Russia has replenished frontline forces from strategic reserves while ramping up defense spending and transitioning its economy to a wartime footing, according to analysis by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). In a separate development, militants targeted a police checkpoint in Russia's North Caucasus region, resulting in the deaths of two officers. Four other officers sustained injuries, while all five assailants were killed during the confrontation in the Karachay-Cherkessia region late Sunday. The Investigative Committee, Russia's primary state criminal investigation agency, indicated that the same group had previously attacked another police checkpoint in the region a week earlier, resulting in the deaths of two officers and injuries to another. The affiliation and motive of the attackers were not disclosed. Read the full article

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Boston Celtics Outplay Miami Heat 102-88, Securing 3-1 Lead In Eastern Playoff Series

Derrick White showcased his prowess with a career-best 38 points, complemented by Jayson Tatum's solid performance of 20 points and 10 rebounds, propelling the Boston Celtics to a commanding 102-88 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday night, securing a 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference first-round series. Jaylen Brown contributed 17 points, with Jrue Holiday adding 11 for the top-seeded Celtics, who faced adversity as Kristaps Porzingis exited in the first half due to a right calf injury. Despite this setback, Boston continued its dominance at Miami, securing their sixth consecutive win at the Heat's home court and boasting an impressive 14-3 record in their last 17 matchups. Miami, missing key starters Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier due to injury, relied heavily on Bam Adebayo's remarkable performance, registering 25 points, 17 rebounds, and five assists. However, the Heat struggled to find offensive rhythm, managing only 88 points in Game 4. Tyler Herro contributed 19 points, while Caleb Martin added 18 for the eighth-seeded Heat. With Game 5 slated for Wednesday in Boston, the Celtics have the opportunity to clinch the series and advance to the second round. The winner of the Boston-Miami showdown will face the victor of the Cleveland-Orlando series in the Eastern Conference semifinals, extending the suspense until at least Friday. Despite their commanding lead, the Celtics faced a setback as Porzingis suffered an injury in the first half, adding to their injury concerns. Furthermore, tensions escalated late in the game when Jayson Tatum sustained a left ankle injury following a foul called on Bam Adebayo. Referees intervened, penalizing Adebayo with a flagrant-1 and Al Horford with a technical foul. Boston's dominance in the series history remains evident, having secured a 3-1 lead for the 29th time in a best-of-seven series. Remarkably, the Celtics have emerged victorious in all 28 previous instances, underscoring their resilience and playoff prowess. In this matchup, the Celtics set the tone early, amassing 34 points in the first quarter, while the Heat struggled to keep pace, reaching the 34-point mark almost midway through the second quarter. Miami's offensive struggles persisted, with their point tally through three quarters matching a season low set in Game 1 of the series. Read the full article

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Location Unveiled Of Delta Flight's Misplaced Emergency Slide In NYC

Delta Air Lines has successfully retrieved the emergency slide that dislodged from an aircraft shortly after departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport last week. On Monday, the New York City Parks Department issued a statement confirming Delta's removal of a significant debris piece found near Beach 131st Street in Queens. According to Delta, the emergency exit slide became detached from the aircraft during the departure of Flight 520 to Los Angeles on Friday morning. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that the flight returned to JFK after the crew reported experiencing vibration. Before declaring an emergency, Delta reported that the flight crew observed an indicator light associated with the emergency exit above the right wing and heard unusual sounds emanating from the wing area. Following a safe landing at JFK, the Boeing 767 was taken out of service, with the 176 passengers and seven crew members accommodated on another flight to Los Angeles. This incident adds to a string of worrisome occurrences involving commercial flights in 2024. Earlier in January, an Alaska Airlines flight performed an emergency landing due to a blown-out window, while in April, a Boeing jet's engine covering detached and struck a Southwest Airlines plane during takeoff in Denver. Days prior to the emergency slide incident, multiple planes narrowly avoided collision on the JFK runway. Read the full article

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Ukraine Army Chief Updates Tactical Retreat East Russian Forces Attack Front Line

In the troubled east, Ukraine's military forces have been compelled to execute a strategic withdrawal from three villages, as disclosed by the nation's army chief on Sunday. He cautioned of escalating turmoil on the battlefield, underscoring the critical need for the imminent arrival of essential armaments from a substantial U.S. aid package to reinforce the combat zones. Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi provided an update via the Telegram messaging app, revealing that Russian forces persist in launching assaults "along the entire front line" spanning over 1,000 kilometers. Intense confrontations are unfolding west of Avdiivka, a city in the east that fell under Russian control in February following an arduous, protracted struggle. The most severe clashes are concentrated in the Pokrovsk and Kurakhove sectors, both situated in the war-ravaged Donetsk region, once an industrial stronghold. These frontline settlements are positioned within close proximity to Pokrovsk and Kurakhove, escalating concerns over the security of these pivotal areas. A recent assessment by a Washington-based think tank forewarned of substantial tactical gains by Russian forces in the coming weeks, fueled by acute ammunition shortages hampering Ukraine's defense capabilities. The Institute for the Study of War highlighted potential advancements around Avdiivka and the looming threat posed to nearby Chasiv Yar. Seizing control of the latter would provide Russia with a strategic vantage point for launching attacks on key Ukrainian cities constituting the backbone of eastern defenses. Despite these developments, the think tank opined that Kyiv's defensive lines are unlikely to crumble in the immediate future. Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed territorial gains north of Avdiivka, reinforcing its presence in the region. However, these gains were described as relatively modest, with limited territorial advancements observed over the preceding week. On the diplomatic front, U.S. President Joe Biden assured swift delivery of weapons to Ukraine following the passage of a $95 billion aid package, predominantly earmarked for Ukraine. This resolution marked the culmination of protracted negotiations with congressional Republicans, signaling a decisive step towards bolstering Ukrainian defenses. Elsewhere, Mykolaiv, a coastal city on the Black Sea, bore the brunt of Russian drone strikes, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure. Governor Vitaliy Kim reported extensive damage to a local hotel and essential utilities. However, there were no reported casualties from the attack, which allegedly targeted a shipyard and purportedly housed foreign mercenaries supportive of Kyiv. Additionally, Russian military operations in southwestern Ukraine led to the downing of 17 Ukrainian drones across four regions. Notably, attacks on Ukrainian airports inflicted damage to military assets, including assault drones, with the Russian Defense Ministry claiming responsibility for these strikes. Amid escalating hostilities, civilian casualties continue to mount, underscoring the humanitarian toll of the conflict. Despite these challenges, Ukraine remains steadfast in its resistance against Russian aggression, navigating a complex geopolitical landscape fraught with uncertainty and peril. Read the full article

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Disallowed Goals Dash Tampa Bay Lightning's Season Finale Dreams

In the aftermath of the Tampa Bay Lightning's Game 5 defeat to the Florida Panthers, which spelled the end of their Stanley Cup playoff journey, head coach Jon Cooper voiced vehement criticism over two contentious goalie interference calls that heavily favored the opposition. "This is clearly a turning point in the game. If anyone's going to talk about this game, they're going to talk about the goals that were taken away," Cooper said after the 6-1 loss to Florida, a score inflated by two empty-net goals by the Panthers. The first incident, triggered by a coach's challenge from Florida, occurred at the 13-minute mark of the first period. Upon review, it was determined that Tampa Bay's Anthony Duclair impeded Florida goalie Sergei Bobrovsky's positioning, nullifying Anthony Cirelli's goal. Cooper argued that Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling had interfered with Duclair. The second goalie interference controversy unfolded late in the second period, as Cirelli's goal was waved off due to alleged incidental contact with Bobrovsky amidst a skirmish with defenseman Niko Mikkola. Despite Tampa Bay's challenge, the call stood, prompting Cooper to accuse Bobrovsky of embellishment. In Cooper's eyes, neither incident violated the essence of the goalie interference rule, lamenting what he perceived as overzealous protection of goaltenders in net-front battles. While acknowledging that the disputed calls altered the game's momentum, Cooper stopped short of attributing the series loss solely to those decisions. The Panthers emerged victorious with a 4-1 series triumph, setting the stage for a potential showdown with the winner of the Boston Bruins-Toronto Maple Leafs clash—a rematch that could mirror last season's thrilling first-round upset by Florida. For the Lightning, the offseason looms large, marked by critical decisions, including the future of veteran captain Steven Stamkos. As an unrestricted free agent, Stamkos's tenure with the franchise hangs in the balance, notwithstanding his impressive performance during the regular season. Downplaying speculation about Stamkos's departure, Cooper remains focused on addressing the challenges ahead for the Lightning organization. Read the full article

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Bradley Beal Reflects On Game 4 Struggles, Suns' Sweep, And Frank Vogel Situation

Sporting a cheerful grin beneath his blue baseball cap, Bradley Beal found himself grappling with disappointment, reflecting on his inaugural season with the Phoenix Suns—a debut marred by an unexpected sweep, a first in his illustrious NBA career. "I'll be damned, huh," Beal quipped, attempting to downplay his earlier assertion that such a fate wouldn't befall him this year. However, the Minnesota Timberwolves, seeded third, wielded their brooms with precision, clinching a decisive Game 4 victory at Footprint Center on Sunday and propelling themselves into the playoffs for the first time since 2004. In a bitter finale to his first campaign in Phoenix, Beal endured a challenging outing in Game 4. Fouling out with less than two minutes remaining, he managed a mere nine points on 4-of-13 shooting, including a lackluster 1-of-5 from beyond the arc. Additionally, he grappled with six turnovers, five of which occurred during the pivotal fourth quarter, contributing to the Suns' narrow six-point defeat. Amidst the game's tumult, a brief but contentious moment involving Beal and coach Frank Vogel captured social media's attention. Departing the court during the third quarter, Beal appeared to rebuff Vogel's attempted high-five. However, Beal clarified that the interaction stemmed from a misunderstanding, insisting that he and Vogel remained on amicable terms despite a heated exchange during Game 2. As speculation swirls regarding Vogel's future in Phoenix amid reports of his potential dismissal, Beal remains a focal point of discussion. Despite Vogel's assertion of unwavering support from Suns owner Mat Ishbia, Phoenix's premature playoff exit marks a stark departure from their 2021 finals appearance under former coach Monty Williams. Recruited in June as Williams' successor, Vogel's tenure coincided with the acquisition of Beal, traded from the Washington Wizards after an 11-season stint. Though Beal's regular-season performance boasted notable achievements in shooting efficiency, his playoff contributions fell short of expectations, compounded by injuries that limited his availability throughout the season. Transitioning to a playmaking role in the latter half of the season, Beal's postseason performance saw a decline in scoring output and an increase in turnovers. Despite sporadic glimpses of brilliance alongside teammates Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, injuries and inconsistent lineup availability plagued the Suns' aspirations for postseason success. As Beal and the Suns grapple with the fallout from their postseason shortcomings, questions linger regarding their ability to rebound and reclaim their position among the league's elite contenders. Read the full article

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Stephen A Smith Drops Bombshell On Devin Booker's Knicks Ambitions

The 2024 NBA playoffs witnessed the Minnesota Timberwolves swiftly eliminating the Phoenix Suns, marking a potential turning point in the league's landscape. Devin Booker, a cornerstone of the Suns since 2015, stands pivotal in the team's current campaign. His multifaceted offensive prowess, leadership qualities, and adeptness in orchestrating plays highlight his indispensable role within the squad. Beyond his scoring proficiency, Booker's adept playmaking abilities underscore his significance, evidenced by his consistent high-level performances and notable contributions to the team's triumphs. https://youtu.be/QoOoQrKEhlE?si=WW0Zv-Purr8KxRtH Throughout his tenure with the Suns, Booker has experienced numerous roster changes, coaching transitions, and shifts in ownership. Despite speculation from Stephen A. Smith regarding Booker's potential departure, allegedly eyeing a move to the New York Knicks, it's essential to note that such claims are founded solely on hearsay, lacking direct confirmation from Booker himself. Smith's remarks sparked varied reactions among fans, with some engaging in light-hearted banter directed towards him. In the lead-up to Game 4, Devin Booker's scoring average stood at a modest 20.3 points per game, until an explosive outburst saw him notch an impressive 49 points. Despite his individual achievements, the Suns often fall short, prompting considerations for Booker's future, especially as he enters the later stages of his career. A transition to a team like the Knicks could be plausible given the circumstances. Read the full article

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Iconic Journalist Dan Rather Makes A Comeback On CBS For Exclusive Interview

Dan Rather made a notable return to CBS News after an 18-year hiatus, granting a reflective interview on "CBS Sunday Morning" ahead of the premiere of a Netflix documentary delving into his remarkable life as a seasoned newsman. Having spent 44 years at the network, including 24 years as the anchor of the esteemed "CBS Evening News," Rather's departure was shrouded in controversy following a contentious investigation into then-President George W. Bush's military service. His final sign-off as anchor on March 9, 2005, marked the end of an era, leading to his departure from the network 15 months later when his contract concluded. Despite his storied tenure, Rather's relationship with former CBS chief Leslie Moonves remained strained, effectively relegating him to the sidelines of the news division he once dominated. https://youtu.be/fmZA45I8nvs "Without apology or explanation, I miss CBS," Rather told correspondent Lee Cowan in the interview that aired Sunday. "I've missed it since the day I left." In the forthcoming Netflix documentary titled "Rather," scheduled for release on Wednesday, the veteran journalist reflects on the turbulent events that shaped his career trajectory, including candid insights from his wife, Jean, who offered a sobering perspective on the fallout from his clash with the president. Post-CBS, Rather ventured into investigative journalism and conducted high-profile interviews for HDNet, a digital cable and satellite television network. Embracing the digital age, he has garnered attention from a new generation through his candid presence on social media platforms. "You either get engaged and you get engaged in the new terms ... or you're out of the game," Rather said in the CBS interview, filmed at his home in Texas. "And I wanted to stay in the game." Throughout the documentary, Rather's illustrious career journey is meticulously chronicled, from his coverage of pivotal events like President John F. Kennedy's assassination and the Vietnam War to his tenure as a revered anchor and his post-network endeavors. Notably, the documentary sheds light on some of Rather's more peculiar encounters, including an assault in New York City and an unexpected appearance onstage with R.E.M. Despite his monumental contributions to journalism, Rather remains modest when discussing his legacy, a sentiment echoed both in the documentary and during his CBS interview. "In the end, whatever remains of one's life -- family, friends -- those are going to be the things for which you're remembered," he said. Read the full article

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Japan’s Yen Surges After Sinking To Lowest Level Against Dollar

The Japanese yen has experienced a wide surge in trading after sinking to a 34-year low against the United States dollar. The yen on Monday sank to 160.17 per dollar, the lowest since April 1990, as there were rumors that the Japanese government probably stepped in to intervene. Later in the day, the Japanese currency moves up to 155.01. Officials in Japan, which is marking a public holiday, did not confirm an intervention by authorities. Since early 2021, the yen has been on a continuous slide as the Bank of Japan (BOJ) has maintained ultra-low interest rates while the US Federal Reserve and other central banks have hiked borrowing costs. The downward movement has continued in recent weeks despite the BOJ raising interest rates last month for the first time in 17 years as expectations of interest rate cuts in the US fade amid above-target inflation. Althought the downward spiral has been profitable for Japanese exporters and tourist, it has commander a significant increase in the prices of imported goods. Japanese officials have repeatedly stated that they are prepared to step in to prevent sharp movements in the exchange rate, so maybe that was what happened. On Friday, the Japanese central bank kept its benchmark rate unchanged at 0 to 0.1 percent. Read the full article

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Cowboys, RB Ezekiel Elliott Agree To New Deal

Running back Ezekiel Elliott and the Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms, pending a physical that will bring the multi-time former Pro Bowler back. According to sources, Elliott was back in town to visit the Cowboys on Wednesday to talk about a potential deal, but an agreement was not reached. After a draft in which Dallas neglected to address the RB position, now it has. Elliott, 28, was released in the 2023 offseason by Dallas and made his way to New England, signing with the Patriots in August. He led the Pats with 642 rushing yards as Rhamondre Stevenson was slowed by injuries. However, he averages only 3.5 yards per carry. Elliott’s return to Dallas should bring a positive light. The former two-time rushing champion, who was taken fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Cowboys, still has a nose for the end zone and is a usually sterling pass protector. He'll join a backfield that still desires to have a true RB1, as Elliott will be part of a depth chart that features Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn and Royce Freeman. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones seemed indifferent about the whole RB issue. "I've seen teams win the Super Bowl with running backs that they traded for midseason. The point is that this thing is a long way from being over as to how you're going to line up (during the season)," Jones said to reporters. Read the full article

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Nicole Kidman And Keith Urban's Teenage Daughters Step Into The Spotlight With Their Red Carpet Premiere

Get ready to meet the Kidman-Urbans in the spotlight. During Saturday's American Film Institute Life Achievement Award Gala, honoring Nicole Kidman, the actress and her husband, Keith Urban, proudly presented their daughters, Sunday Rose, 15, and Faith Margaret, 13, marking the teens' inaugural red carpet appearance. The couple has diligently shielded their children from public view throughout their upbringing. Accompanying the family were Kidman's sister, Antonia Kidman, along with Antonia's husband, Craig Marran, and Kidman's nieces, Sybella Hawley and Lucia Hawley, as well as nephew, Alexander Kidman Marran. Kidman also shares two older children, Isabella “Bella” Kidman Cruise, 31, and Connor Cruise, 29, with her former husband, Tom Cruise. During the ceremony, Urban delivered a heartfelt tribute to Kidman, expressing his admiration for her role as a mother, which he described as one of life's most beautiful aspects. While the AFI gala marked Rose and Faith Margaret's first formal red carpet appearance, they previously attended the 78th Annual Golden Globe Awards virtually alongside their parents in February 2021, where Kidman was nominated for her role in "The Undoing." Throughout the years, Kidman has openly expressed her desire for a larger family. “I love, love children,” she told BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire in January 2017. “I love raising children. They make me feel good, and I love being around, and I love the ups and downs, and I love watching them grow and the things they say and teach.” Read the full article

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Timberwolves Head Coach Chris Finch Suffers Torn Patellar Tendon In Right Knee Following Player Collision

Following a dramatic collision with Timberwolves guard Mike Conley during Sunday night's playoff triumph over the Phoenix Suns, Minnesota coach Chris Finch suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee. Assisted off the court and later transported from the arena via cart, Finch's injury was subsequently confirmed by the Timberwolves organization. The incident unfolded in the fourth quarter when Conley, maneuvering down the sideline, collided with Suns' standout Devin Booker before inadvertently crashing into Finch. Despite Conley's attempt to cushion the fall, Finch's evident discomfort was palpable as he immediately clutched his right knee. After a tense few moments attended by Minnesota players, coaches, and staff, Finch eventually rose with assistance and exited the court for further evaluation. Minnesota's 122-116 victory secured a series sweep over the Suns, propelling the Timberwolves to the second round for the first time since 2004. Assistant coach Micah Nori assumed control for the final 1:41 of the game, providing updates that Finch was undergoing medical assessment. The team later congregated in the medical room to check on their sidelined coach. “He’s obviously in good spirits and so are the guys,” Nori said. Reflecting on the collision, Conley expressed regret at not spotting Finch sooner and shared a light-hearted moment by jesting about the mishap following the exhilarating Game 4 triumph. “I told him to sit his (butt) down — he shouldn’t be standing up like that late in the game,” Conley said. “He’s in the way. But prayers up for him, I’m sure he’ll be fine.” Read the full article