Authorities revived a large-scale investigation at Fox Hollow Farm, the crime scene where Herb Baumeister, a notorious serial killer, concealed the remains of several victims decades ago.
According to the Daily Mail, An extensive renewal of the case using cutting-edge DNA technology aims to identify thousands of human bones found on Baumeister's property.
Baumeister’s young son stumbled upon a human skull in the woods surrounding their estate in Indianapolis during the winter of 1994, marking the beginning of this grim saga. Although this creepy discovery prompted little immediate investigation, broader suspicions emerged a couple of years later.
In the spring of 1993, a series of men began disappearing, many of whom were last seen at local gay bars. This fact led investigators to focus on Baumeister in 1996. By June of the same year, police gained access to investigate the sprawling 18-acre Fox Hollow Farm, where they uncovered shocking evidence.
The search at Fox Hollow Farm rapidly turned into one of the most gruesome crime scene investigations in the state. Hundreds of human bones, including skulls and leg bones, were unearthed, pointing to multiple unsolved disappearances and murders.
From the vast collection of skeletal remains, forensic experts only managed to identify eight victims initially utilizing conventional methods such as dental records and the DNA technology available at the time. Baumeister, who had led a seemingly respectable life as a businessman and family man, never confessed to any crimes; he killed himself in Canada as the investigation drew closer.
Over the next decades, the thousands of remains discovered went largely unidentified due to the limitations of forensic technology at the time, resulting in around 10,000 bones being stored at the University of Indianapolis.
In 2022, Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison launched a renewed effort to identify each unidentified victim. By using modern DNA technology and forensic genetic genealogy, Jellison’s team aimed to resolve these cold cases. Consequently, the team focused on bringing justice and closure to families affected by these unsolved tragedies.
Jellison described the investigation as one of the largest ever undertaken for unresolved cases, second only in size and scale to the post-9/11 efforts to identify World Trade Center victims. "It's an investigation unlike anything the county, state, and even the nation has seen," Jellison told DailyMail.com, underscoring the investigation’s unprecedented scope.
Given the magnitude of the endeavor, the effort required cooperation across multiple agencies, significant funds, and an abundance of manpower. All of these elements were driven by a shared commitment to bring closure to numerous grieving families.
So far, this painstaking labor has borne fruit as the team identified a ninth victim, Allen Livingston, and is nearing confirmation for two more promising leads. "We have one DNA profile right now that we know belongs to another individual, but we just don't know who that person is," Jellison says, illustrating the ongoing challenges.
Despite the complexities of genealogical forensics, which can extend over several months per case, Jellison remains optimistic. "I am confident we will identify that person quite soon. This investigation is the result of Allen Livingston’s family reaching out; what are the odds that out of 10,000 human remains, Allen Livingston’s were the first to be identified?" he shared.
Jellison has made a statewide appeal, urging anyone with missing family members or information relevant to cases from the mid-80s to mid-90s to come forward, stressing the importance of filing detailed missing person reports to aid the identification process.
Hamilton County Sheriff James Bradbury has echoed Jellison's call for community involvement. "If somebody has any information, we don’t care who it is, we’d be happy to look at it," Bradbury said, emphasizing the collaborative nature of this monumental investigative effort. In doing so, he reinforced the importance of public cooperation in solving these cold cases.
Jellison's promises further reflect the determination of each team member. "We're not going to stop. This is an expensive investigation, it's time-consuming, it takes a lot of manpower and a lot of agencies are involved, but we’re all committed to seeing this through," he affirmed, highlighting the team’s unwavering resolve.
As this significant investigation continues, many remain hopeful that the advanced techniques now available will finally bring answers to the many unanswered questions left in the wake of Herb Baumeister's horrific crimes. Ultimately, these efforts aim to offer long-awaited closure to the victims' families.
NBC Sports has come under heavy criticism for not broadcasting the national anthem before a keenly watched NFL playoff game.
According to the Daily Mail, NBC's recent decision to skip the national anthem broadcast before the Eagles-Rams NFL playoff game has sparked considerable backlash amid ongoing national debates.
NBC Sports made the controversial choice to skip airing the national anthem before the NFL playoff game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Los Angeles Rams.
The network announced the decision amid a series of contentious choices regarding anthem broadcasts and close to the date of Donald Trump's inauguration.
This incident is not isolated; earlier in January, ESPN faced similar criticism for choosing not to broadcast the national anthem during the rescheduled Sugar Bowl, following a terror attack in New Orleans that claimed 14 lives.
Traditionally, broadcasts of the NFL games did not feature the national anthem, except during significant events such as the Super Bowl.
The practice changed around 2009, leading to an increase in the anthem's visibility during broadcasts, which again came under scrutiny following player protests against racist police brutality starting in 2016.
While NFL rules now allow players to stay in the locker room during the anthem, those on the field must show respect toward the flag.
In a response to recent criticism about skipping anthems, ESPN's President of Content Burke Magnus described the omission at the Sugar Bowl as a result of human error.
Magnus admitted that the broadcasting team failed to show both the national anthem and a moment of silence planned after the terror attack, reflecting on the abnormal circumstances affecting their programming lineup that day.
His statement attempted to explain the slip as unintentional but still significant in the context of ongoing debates over such broadcasts.
Critics and fans expressed their dissatisfaction on social media platforms like X and Twitter, directing their ire towards NBC and the NFL.
Statements such as "Y'all and the @NFL are a disgrace and total losers for not showing the national anthem for the Rams v Eagles," and "Once again NBC doesn't show national anthem. Thank God our country is moving away from woke and woke networks!!!" illustrate the strong feelings among viewers.
Another point of contention was NBC's decision to skip the anthem broadcast during a time when Los Angeles was suffering from devastating wildfires, which killed 27 people and destroyed thousands of homes and buildings.
The criticism reached a pinnacle with some users assigning direct blame, "A big fat 'F' for NBC and Tirico for not playing the National Anthem before the Rams and Eagles NFL game," capturing the sentiment of several dismayed fans.
Another angry comment targeted multiple stakeholders: "F*** NBC, the NFL, and Roger Goodell."
Such strong reactions highlight the complex dynamics between national tragedies, sports broadcasting decisions, and public expectations.
The recent event sheds light on the challenges media outlets face when deciding whether to broadcast the national anthem, particularly during times of national distress.
The combination of political events, national disasters, and public ceremonies such as the national anthem invokes strong reactions from the public, showing deep national sentiments tied to these symbols.
As networks navigate these waters, the responses from the public and commentators alike emphasize the weight of the decisions made by broadcasters regarding what to include in their NFL game coverage.
Moving forward, how sports broadcasters handle the airing of the national anthem may continue to evoke strong opinions, illustrating the ongoing conflict between national pride and corporate decision-making in the realm of public sports events.
Whether changes will be made to how such decisions are approached remains to be seen, as the public, networks, and sports organizations continue to dialogue around these heartfelt issues.
The Department of Justice has taken legal action against the pharmacy giant Walgreens in a significant opioid-related lawsuit.
According to the Washington Examiner, This lawsuit alleges that Walgreens dispensed opioids and other prescriptions unlawfully, a serious breach of federal regulations.
The plaintiffs filed a lawsuit at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accusing Walgreens of improperly distributing millions of controlled substances and violating the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act. This suit marks a crucial step in ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis in America.
The allegations center on Walgreens' failure to address noticeable signs of prescription mismanagement. Specifically, pharmacists raised clear concerns about the company's prescription practices, but Walgreens ignored these internal alerts and failed to respond effectively, thereby allowing the malpractices to continue.
In addition, the lawsuit claims that Walgreens sought reimbursements from federal healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, under false pretenses. This misuse of government funds is particularly concerning, especially given the ongoing opioid epidemic, which has severely impacted public health and safety.
Walgreens has responded by defending the professional conduct of its pharmacists and criticizing the lawsuit’s basis. Specifically, the company argues that the federal government is enforcing standards that are not clearly defined or officially documented, thereby creating an impossible compliance scenario for its staff. This defense, therefore, highlights the pharmacy's stance on the ambiguous legal expectations facing the industry.
Furthermore, Walgreens stated, “We will not stand by and allow the government to put our pharmacists in a no-win situation, trying to comply with ‘rules’ that simply do not exist,” expressing its dispute with the government's claims.
The case against Walgreens is bolstered by statements from four former employees, who have come forward as whistleblowers. They reported dangerous lapses in prescription control measures in various branches across the country. Consequently, their allegations played a significant role in drawing governmental attention to Walgreens' practices.
Moreover, the whistleblowers' actions reveal a culture within some parts of Walgreens where financial incentives potentially overshadowed the necessary medical scrutiny required when dispensing potent medications like opioids. In addition, as part of their court filings, these individuals have emphasized widespread concern about the risks connected with improper opioid distribution.
Amidst the lawsuit, Walgreens, headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, has also announced its decision to close 1,200 stores over the next three years, including five in Chicago this week. Although the closures are not explicitly linked to the lawsuit, they signal a significant shift in the company's operations in response to ongoing legal and economic challenges.
Furthermore, Walgreens, with more than 8,000 locations across the United States, faces a critical period of restructuring and reevaluation. The outcomes of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for its business and the regulatory landscape overseeing the dispensation of controlled substances like opioids in the retail pharmacy sector.
Adding to the gravity of the lawsuit, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton expressed a stern perspective on the pharmacy’s duties. “This lawsuit seeks to hold Walgreens accountable for the many years it failed to meet its obligations when dispensing dangerous opioids and other drugs,” stated Boynton, underscoring the governmental resolve in pursuing the case.
Moreover, as legal proceedings continue, the court's findings will certainly garner substantial attention, potentially setting precedents for how similar cases are handled by large pharmacy chains in the future. This underscores an ongoing battle between federal agencies and pharmaceutical distributors over the best path forward in the handling of opioids—a crisis that remains a significant public health concern.
Lava fountains as high as 330 feet illuminated the night sky at Kilauea volcano in Hawaii as it entered another phase of eruption.
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano, recently erupting since December 23rd, has advanced to its fourth eruptive episode, showcasing spectacular volcanic activity, Interesting Engineering reported.
Since the latest eruption began, Kilauea has persistently exhibited volcanic activity at the Kaluapele summit caldera within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirms that the national park's boundaries contain all eruptive activities, ensuring safety for nearby residential areas.
Although the eruptions do not imminently threaten surrounding communities, they still present hazards. The eruption emits significant volcanic gases and produces Pele's hair, delicate strands of volcanic glass named after the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes.
The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory emphasized the reduced risks because the eruption remains confined to the park. "The eruption remains confined to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, posing no immediate threat to nearby communities or properties," the Observatory stated.
Observers at the site recorded dramatic scenes earlier in the week as lava fountains shot up to 330 feet. Although the fountains have decreased in height, they now surge consistently between 140 and 160 feet, feeding lava flows that remain confined to the southwest floor of the crater near the active vents.
The area frequently experiences eruptive activity, with Kilauea ranking as one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Since 1983, it has erupted continuously, with at least six summit eruptions occurring since 2020.
The eruption, while visually striking, has raised several environmental concerns. It emits significant levels of sulfur dioxide, which combine with other atmospheric gases to create volcanic smog, known locally as vog. This vog poses health risks, particularly for individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions.
The USGS detailed the ongoing hazards associated with the eruption. "Ongoing hazards...include sulfur dioxide gas, which reacts with the atmosphere to form vog (volcanic smog)...prolonged exposure to vog can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs, especially for those with preexisting respiratory conditions," they reported.
Pele's hair, another hazard of the eruption, can cause injuries upon contact with skin or eyes. These unique strands form from gas bubbles bursting through the surface of molten lava, cooling rapidly into glass fibers that are carried by the wind.
Visitors and locals are warned of additional dangers such as unstable terrain, concealed lava tubes, and potential rockfalls within and around the eruptive site, particularly in areas near active vents where ground conditions are most volatile.
The Halema'uma'u crater region, right at the epicenter of the current activity, has been closed to the public since late 2007 due to ongoing safety concerns. These restrictions ensure the safety of park visitors and residents alike from unforeseen eruptive developments.
The duration of Kilauea's explosive behavior remains uncertain. Previous eruptive episodes have demonstrated that these events can vary significantly, lasting from as brief as a week to extending over a year. Such unpredictability poses ongoing challenges for both scientists and those living near the volcano.
In 2018, a severe phase of eruptive activity from Kilauea led to the destruction of hundreds of buildings and the evacuation of thousands of residents, underlining the powerful impact of this volcano on Hawaii's landscape and its people. Today, while the volcano continues to reshape the island dramatically, those in affected areas remain vigilant, respecting the power and unpredictability of nature's creation and destruction cycle.
Amid a high-stakes NFL playoff match, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has faced harsh criticism from fans and analysts alike for what they are calling an apparent act to manipulate the outcome through unsportsmanlike conduct.
In a controversial encounter during Saturday's Divisional Round, the Kansas City Chiefs triumphed over the Houston Texans, with Mahomes' actions sparking debate and reflecting poorly on his on-field integrity, Daily Mail reported.
The game, characterized by its tense moments and critical plays, ended with a 23-14 victory for the Chiefs. Mahomes drew the most scrutiny in the fourth quarter during an incident when the Chiefs were narrowly ahead.
Mahomes stepped out of bounds and was pushed by Texans' linebacker Henry To'oTo'o, sparking claims that Mahomes exaggerated the contact by "flopping." Viewers and sports commentators intensified their reactions when officials chose not to penalize this controversial moment.
The uproar escalated as Mahomes threw a significant touchdown pass to teammate Travis Kelce shortly after, further extending the Chiefs' lead. Officials had previously flagged To'oTo'o for unnecessary roughness in an earlier encounter with Mahomes, which highlighted the tense interactions between the two throughout the game.
The drama continued when officials penalized another Texans player, Will Anderson Jr., for roughing the passer after a close call just as Mahomes released the ball in the first quarter. These events reinforced the narrative of the game's aggressive nature and the high stakes involved.
Dave Portnoy voiced his criticism on social media platforms, accusing Mahomes of undermining the spirit of the game with his actions. His comments reflected a broader sentiment that Mahomes, a widely respected player, risked tarnishing his reputation with such behavior.
Portnoy declared, "Mahomes is a great player. No need to disgrace the game and ruin his legacy with this flopping bull." He also criticized the officiating during the match and suggested bias in several of his posts.
Sports analysts like Troy Aikman strengthened the disapproval by accusing Mahomes of attempting to draw penalties by manipulating game situations. Taylor Twellman from Apple TV MLS added to the critique, lamenting that Mahomes' actions resembled the theatrical embellishments often seen in soccer, which Twellman disdains.
Online reactions from fans ranged from disappointment to outright irritation. One fan expressed on social media, "That flop makes Mahomes so f***ing unlikeable......", while another highlighted the negative impact of what they perceived as a pattern, saying, "Ridiculous attempt at a flop after getting SEVERAL questionable roughing calls already this game. This is the reason people outside of KC don't like Mahomes."
A contrasting view was offered by a supporter who felt let down by Mahomes' actions, stating, "As someone who loves him, that blatant flop from Mahomes is so disappointing. He's so much better than having to resort to that type of bull."
The sentiment across the board underscores a poignant moment in Mahomes' career, where his actions on the field could significantly affect public and fan perception. It raises questions about the balance between competitive edge and sportsmanship.
These events also put a spotlight on the NFL's officiating standards and the enforcement of rules on player conduct during crucial games. The debate over Mahomes' actions extends beyond the player himself and touches on broader issues of fairness and the integrity of the sport.
As playoff tensions run high, the NFL finds itself at a crossroads on how to address and manage these controversies, ensuring the spirit of the game is maintained while recognizing the intense competition that defines its playoffs.
The inauguration festivities of Donald Trump as US President once again captivated the nation with a mix of family appearances and celebratory events in Sterling, Virginia.
Bettina Anderson, the new girlfriend of Donald Trump Jr., drew attention with her presence amidst family and high-profile attendees, Daily Mail reported.
At the Trump National Golf Club, people saw Anderson, aged 38, participating in the pre-inauguration celebrations and displaying her affiliation with the Trump family during this prominent event.
DailyMail.com brought the relationship between Anderson and Donald Trump Jr., who is 46, to public attention last summer. While their relationship has generated interest, some insiders expressed reservations and reportedly tried to dissuade Anderson from attending because they perceived her as not aligning perfectly with 'MAGA' ideals and her Palm Beach socialite history.
Despite this, Anderson attended and mingled with key figures and family members who gathered to support Donald Trump’s re-election.
The celebration included various activities such as a fireworks display and a reception held on January 18, 2025, signaling the commencement of several days filled with inaugural events.
The main inauguration ceremony for Donald Trump was scheduled for the following Monday, with other notable events like a wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery and a “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” planned over the weekend.
These events collectively not only celebrated the political victory but also served as a public display of unity and support for Trump’s upcoming term.
Donald Trump’s granddaughter Kai and his daughter Ivanka were also prominent figures at the events. Kai posted about her journey to Washington, D.C., on social media, sharing her excitement and anticipation.
Ivanka Trump expressed her feelings with a simple but powerful photo caption "2025," marking the significant year of her father's return to the White House.
Adding to the family’s presence, Tiffany Trump, who is expecting, attended the celebrations alongside her husband Michael Boulos.
The proceedings of the formal swearing-in ceremony had to be relocated to the Capitol Rotunda because of cold weather forecasts, emphasizing the adaptive nature of this inauguration.
Notable guests such as tech moguls Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk were in attendance, highlights of what chief US reporter Germania Rodriguez Poleo described as the “tech oligarchy,” spotlighting the modern influence of technology leaders in American politics.
Christopher Macchio contributed to the patriotic spirit by performing several patriotic and religious songs at one of the functions, adding a cultural touch to the political proceedings.
Bettina Anderson’s attendance and the slight controversy around her perceived lack of typical 'MAGA' credentials became a topic of discussion among attendees and in media coverage.
A new podcast, "Welcome to MAGAland: Inside Trump's Second 100 Days," planned to delve into these insider perspectives and the dynamic interactions within the Trump family's circle.
An aspiring golfer shared her excitement about the inauguration on her YouTube channel, revealing her slight anxiety about not having prepared an outfit in advance for such a pivotal event.
The blend of family celebrations, political activities, and the involvement of high-profile figures from various sectors underscored the broad influence of the Trump administration.
As the inauguration day approached, spectators and participants alike speculated about the impact of new and familiar faces within the political landscape, pondering what the next four years under Trump’s leadership would entail.
This inaugural event not only served as a kickoff to Trump's second term but also as a stage for emerging relationships and alliances within the realm of U.S. politics, making it a significant moment in contemporary American history.
New York City is bracing for a severe polar vortex that promises to deliver heavy snowfall followed by frigid arctic cold.
According to the New York Post, The city anticipates up to six inches of snow by Sunday evening, into dangerously low temperatures and wind chills possibly reaching 15 degrees below zero.
A significant winter storm set to hit the northeast region by noon Sunday. As the system moves in, snow will likely accumulate rapidly in New York City, possibly reaching up to six inches by nightfall.
The last similar event occurred on December 16, 2020, when New York City experienced comparable snowfall. Forecasters predict that the impending storm could bring the most extreme cold the city has seen in a generation, worsened by strong wind gusts of 10 to 20 mph that will continue through mid-week.
After the snow accumulation, temperatures are expected to plummet to the low teens, with bitter wind chills making it feel much colder. By Monday night, New Yorkers will face wind chills as low as minus 15 degrees, posing significant health risks if they do not take proper precautions.
In response to the forecast, New York City officials have issued a "Code Blue" cold weather alert. This activates additional measures to ensure that vulnerable populations, such as the homeless, are provided with immediate access to shelter.
Emergency teams are set to canvass all boroughs, working to ensure that those most at risk are not left without refuge from the frigid conditions. Mayor Eric Adams has also urged residents to minimize outdoor activities, recommending the use of public transportation to reduce exposure to the cold and facilitate snow-clearing efforts.
The upcoming Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Monday will aid in these efforts, as public schools and several offices will close, reducing usual weekday traffic and activities.
Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol highlighted the seriousness of the conditions brought by the polar vortex. “We urge all New Yorkers to take this storm seriously and prepare for hazardous conditions," he stated.
Authorities advise residents to stay indoors if possible and ensure their heating systems function. The city has also prepared to handle a surge in calls regarding heating issues and reminds residents to report any heat or hot water problems through the 311 service. In addition to immediate cold threats, meteorologists worry about another potential winter storm that could hit the region the following week, further complicating the existing weather-related challenges.
The brutal cold will affect roughly 300 million Americans, extending a wave of Arctic air from Siberia across at least 20 states. In some areas like the Midwest and Ohio River Valley, temperatures may plunge even lower, reaching chilling marks as severe as minus 50 degrees.
The severe weather conditions have also impacted major events beyond New York’s boundaries. Due to the extreme cold, President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration scheduled for Monday will take place indoors, marking the first indoor inauguration in 40 years since Ronald Reagan’s swearing-in in 1985, which was also historically cold.
Furthermore, the NFL playoff game scheduled in Philadelphia on Sunday may see disruptions. Expectations of low visibility and snow accumulation on the field could severely impact the game day experience.
Meteorologists like Cody Braud and Alex DaSilva have commented on the conditions, noting both the unusual cold and the risk it poses. Braud emphasized, "The cold will be even more dangerous than the snow," and DaSilva pointed out that this could be "one of the coldest presidential inaugurations since Ronald Reagan was sworn into office in 1985."
As New York and the broader Northeast brace for the oncoming winter onslaught, officials continue to prioritize public safety and the continuous monitoring of this potentially historic winter weather event.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has instigated legal action against PepsiCo, pointing to unfair pricing practices that purportedly favor a major retailer.
According to Fox Business, The complaint asserts that such practices have disrupted market fairness, inflated costs for consumers, and violated federal anti-discrimination laws.
On Friday, the FTC filed a lawsuit accusing PepsiCo of illegal price discrimination, which allegedly provided undue advantages to an unnamed large "big-box" retailer. The FTC’s primary concern is the competitive edge given to this retailer through special pricing and promotions, which other retailers do not receive.
This lawsuit argues that the biased practices of PepsiCo have made it difficult for smaller and other competing retailers to operate on an even playing field. In effect, this leads to higher prices for the end consumers, disrupting the market's natural competitive balance.
The legal action points to violations of the Robinson-Patman Act. This act prohibits such discriminatory pricing when it affects competition adversely. According to the FTC, PepsiCo's pricing strategies have selectively benefited a considerably large retailer while others grapple with less favorable terms.
Further complicating the matter, details of the allegations against PepsiCo were redacted due to legal sensitivities, which the FTC is currently attempting to unveil. They aim to provide greater transparency and ensure a fair trial by bringing the full extent of PepsiCo's practices into public view.
Media speculation hints at Walmart possibly being the favored retailer, though there has been no confirmation from Walmart, and they have refrained from commenting on the ongoing lawsuit.
Lina M. Khan, FTC Chair, has publicly criticized PepsiCo's discriminatory policies. "When firms like Pepsi give massive retailers a leg up, it tilts the playing field against small firms and ultimately inflates prices for American consumers," Khan stated, highlighting the broader consequences of such unfair practices.
The FTC’s official statement goes on to emphasize the continuing impact of PepsiCo's actions if left unchecked. "Until Pepsi’s conduct is remedied, Pepsi’s anticompetitive actions will continue to create an uneven playing field by denying competing retailers, which include family-owned neighborhood grocery stores, the chance to fairly compete against Pepsi’s favored large, big box retailer customer," it noted. This encapsulates the agency's concern over the ongoing market distortion.
This legal battle with PepsiCo comes on the heels of another lawsuit filed by the FTC against Southern Glazer’s - the largest U.S. distributor of wine and spirits. Filed just last month, the Southern Glazer’s lawsuit similarly addresses violations under the Robinson-Patman Act for comparable anti-competitive behaviors.
The FTC's consistent litigation approach underscores its commitment to maintaining a balanced competitive environment across various sectors. This action against major players like PepsiCo is part of a broader regulatory effort to police and rectify market inequities.
As of now, PepsiCo has not stated the lawsuit. The industry awaits further details as the case progresses, with many looking to see how such a significant legal challenge will impact the beverage giant and market conditions overall.
Legal analysts emphasize that the outcomes of this lawsuit could set important precedents for pricing practices among major corporations and their dealings with retailers. If the FTC is successful, we might see a seismic shift in how supplier-retailer relationships are structured, potentially leading to more stringent regulations to curb price discrimination.
For now, the industry watches closely as the FTC strives to push forward transparency and seek redress for practices it deems unfair and harmful to competition and consumers alike. The unfolding legal battle will likely be a touchstone in discussions over corporate responsibility and regulatory oversight in the years to come.
As Donald Trump prepares for his White House return, former Congressional "Squad" members corral support at a contrasting event.
According to the New York Post, This Saturday, ousted House 'Squad' members Jamaal Bowman and Cori Bush will spearhead an event titled the "Peace Ball: Voice of Justice and Liberation" in Washington D.C.
Donald Trump's weekend inauguration, marking his return to the presidency, hosts galas and balls filled with celebration and support. Conversely, former representatives Jamaal Bowman and Cori Bush, who lost their Congressional seats to moderate Democrats, chose this turbulent time to make their voices heard in a different arena.
The Peace Ball, named to reflect its ideals, will occur at the Mead Center for American Theater and contrasts sharply with the celebratory events surrounding Trump’s inauguration. Offering a platform for left-wing activism, the event promises a night of live music, speeches, and performances directed towards advocacy and change.
Managed by CodePink, a nonprofit organization known for its far-left activism, the Peace Ball invites scrutiny due to its contentious associations. CodePink has previous engagements showing support for groups such as Hamas and antagonistic actions against public figures like Dana Bash from CNN, adding layers of controversy to their organizing of the ball.
The event carries a hefty entry fee of $375 per person, perhaps reflective of the caliber of the evening planned. Alongside a myriad of performances and speeches, attendees will be treated to an open bar and varied food options, framing an evening of cultural and political expression.
The lineup for the Peace Ball includes several key figures from the far-left spectrum. Among them are Angela Davis, known for her activism and scholarly work, Ibram X. Kendi, a DEI scholar, and journalist Mehdi Hasan, who has faced criticism for previous controversial statements regarding radical Islam. Their presence signals both the ideological leanings of the event and its appeal to a specific audience within the political landscape.
Representative Summer Lee, another Squad member from Pennsylvania, is also set to attend, further emphasizing the event as a gathering point for progressive figures and ideas amidst the broader political celebratory activities of the weekend.
Despite anticipation from supporters, the event does not escape criticism. Lizzy Savetsky, prominent for her advocacy against antisemitism, expresses grave concerns regarding the event’s associates and their past comments.
"As American Jews face an unprecedented surge in antisemitism, it is alarming and deplorable to see groups like CodePink celebrating those who justify terror against Israel. The so-called ‘2025 Peace Ball’ platform includes voices that justify Hamas’ atrocities, demonize the Jewish state, and embolden extremists," remarks Savetsky, highlighting the divisive nature of some narratives that will be shared during the event.
The Peace Ball serves not only as a social gathering but as an embodiment of a counter-cultural movement against the mainstream inaugural events. It represents an opportunity for those ousted from governmental power to reclaim a voice in the political discourse, contrasting the celebratory tone of Trump’s return with their vision of justice and liberation.
As the United States remains sharply divided, events like the Peace Ball underscore the ongoing ideological battles. These gatherings offer platforms for alternative perspectives in the national dialogue, emphasizing the complexities of democracy and political representation in today’s climate.
In conclusion, while Trump dances at balls celebrating his return, Bowman and Bush will be orchestrating an evening resonating with themes of justice and liberation. The Peace Ball aims to channel the energy of those feeling marginalized by the current political discourse, affording them a space to unite, reflect, and potentially influence the broader socio-political landscape as it continues to evolve.
This alternative inaugural event brings to the forefront the ongoing struggle between differing political ideologies and the efforts to amplify voices that argue for a more inclusive and equitable society, pushing against the tides of traditional power structures in American politics.
A striking new statue of former President Donald Trump debuts in Washington D.C. before embarking on a nationwide tour.
Ohio artist Alan Cottrill crafted the 15-foot, $1 million sculpture titled "The Patriot Statue of Donald J. Trump," to be showcased this Saturday at the Capital One Arena, the New York Post reported.
The creation of the statue began in the wake of an unsettling event, an assassination attempt on Trump during a rally in Butler, PA, on July 13, 2024. This significant moment inspired the pose of the statue, depicting Trump with his fist defiantly raised.
A group of affluent cryptocurrency investors commissioned the artwork shortly after the incident, seeking to honor Trump's resilience. They hoped to encourage his backing for the cryptocurrency sector, signaled through this grand gesture.
Renowned for his previous work, including a statue of Thomas Edison placed in the U.S. Capitol representing Ohio since 2016, Cottrill was a natural choice for such a prestigious and politically charged project.
The immense statue, weighing almost six tons, not only showcases artistic skill but also highlights careful logistical planning. A group of investors funded it, and Cottrill, who resides and works in Zanesville, OH, sculpted it.
Its expected itinerary includes a tour across several states, drawing public and media attention, before it finds a final place in the future Trump presidential library. The tour will likely serve as a rallying point for Trump supporters and a traveling exhibit of his perceived legacy.
Brock Pierce, one of the statue's financiers and a notable figure in the cryptocurrency community, expressed enthusiasm about the project's broader appeal. "People will make a pilgrimage to see this thing. Trump has a fan base that I don’t think we’ve seen in a politician in a very long time," he stated.
Creating such a large and detailed statue required Alan Cottrill's meticulous work and craftsmanship, aspects of artistry he is well-versed in. Furthermore, the piece represents a significant investment, with a total cost reaching $1 million, emphasizing the investors' level of commitment.
Additionally, the choice of bronze as the medium adds a timeless quality to the representation of Trump, a characteristic sculptors often seek in works meant to withstand the test of time and public scrutiny.
Moreover, plans for the statue's unveiling include several high-profile figures from both the political and investment spheres, highlighting the crossroads between politics, art, and investment interests.
Following the unveiling, the statue's journey through America is expected to be not only a spectacle but also a focal point for discussion on Trump's impact on politics and society. Dustin Stockton, who serves as an unofficial spokesperson for the investors, stated, "We do expect President Trump to be with the statue at some point during the inauguration."
Trump's involvement in the event would potentially heighten its significance, drawing even greater crowds and furthering the statue's cultural impact.
According to its supporters, the exhibition will serve as a visual and ideological encapsulation of Trump’s presidency, aimed at solidifying his place in history as depicted by his staunchest advocates.
The tour’s strategy is multifaceted; it not only celebrates Trump but also invites discussion and critique, engaging a broad spectrum of American public opinion.
As the statue travels from city to city, it will likely become a landmark event at each stop, stirring discussions that extend beyond politics to touch on art, history, and national identity.
The statue's eventual placement in a presidential library marks the final step in commemorating Trump's influence and preserving his complex legacy for future generations to study and reflect upon.