"People might think I'm going to be as good as him" - Eddie Bird wanted the world to know he wasn't his brother Larry

If there is one thing we've learned from observing the history of the NBA, it's that greatness doesn't always trickle down the family tree. Just because mum or dad were great players, doesn't necessarily mean their sons will be. Just because someone has a cousin in the NBA doesn't automatically grant the wider family an easier path to the pros.

Of course, there are a vast number of exceptions to this notion, with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, LeBron James, Domantas Sabonis, the Holiday family, and the Gasol brothers as just a few of many examples where elite basketball had family ties, but the inverse always has to exist too.

You'd be surprised at how many Hall of Famers had family members who attempted to carve out a professional career of their own, only to be unable to live up to the family name. Larry Bird's brother, Eddie, is a great example. He showed promise in high school but was never able to make his mark at the NBA level.

Eddie Bird's career

Eddie first made national headlines in 1987, at a time when Larry had already established himself as an NBA superstar. When you're as talented as Larry Bird, naturally the comparisons followed, but it wasn't purely because of his last name.

Eddie was already making an impact in high school, and his performance on the court led people to wonder if his potential resembled that of his older brother. Notably, Eddie broke Larry's high-school scoring record, surpassing Larry's 1,125 points with his own total of 1,172 points. This achievement generated excitement about his future potential and earned him the opportunity to play college basketball at Indiana State University—the same college attended by his brother.

Eddie breaking the scoring record didn't guarantee that he would become a pro. Still, there were signs he could potentially follow in his brother's footsteps. However, college was going to present a far sterner test for him as a prospect. To his credit, while he didn't set the world on fire, he did manage to have a reasonably fruitful college career.

He led Indiana State in scoring in all four of his college seasons, averaging 14 points per game, and built a reputation as a solid shooter after connecting on over 44% of his three-point attempts during his junior year.

It ultimately wasn't enough for him to get drafted in the NBA. Still, the Suncoast Sunblasters selected him in the second round of the United States Basketball League (USBL) in 1991. At that time, the USBL became known for its development in helping players move up to the NBA or forge professional careers in Europe.

He averaged 6.6 points per game for the Sunblasters in eight appearances before attending an 11-day free agent camp with the Sacramento Kings in July of that same year. Eddie used that opportunity to make the Kings' Summer League roster, where he underwhelmed in five appearances, averaging just 4.4 points per contest.

The end of his summer league campaign with the Kings would be the last time Eddie was notably involved in a professional setup, and he eventually walked away from the game without pursuing other opportunities.

He knew his limits

Throughout his sporting life, Eddie was understandably under enormous pressure by carrying the same last name as arguably the greatest basketball player ever at that time.

He could have easily let that weight crush him, or even worse, allowed his ego to swell to the point where he felt entitled to make it to the NBA based on his brother's success. He did neither and remained humble throughout everything.

He was so humble that even after breaking Larry's scoring record in high school, he wanted to let the world know that he was nowhere near as good as his brother.

People might think I'm going to be as good as him or something, and I hope they won't do that. If they look at it that way, I just hope they don't look at it as they see myself and not Larry. Right now, I don't think I will be a pro basketball player. he said .

Being that down-to-earth at such a young age with the national media knocking at your door is no easy feat, and it speaks to the humble foundations that the Bird brothers were raised with.

Lessons in replication

Larry and Eddie's basketball paths were connected, all the way from high school to college and nearly to the NBA level. Ultimately, however, their journeys ended up in completely different places, and it's a great example of how close, but far, careers can be, even for brothers.

Perhaps there was a Michael Jordan before Michael Jordan, perhaps there was a player as talented as LeBron James who never got the right opportunity or found themselves in the right circumstances.

Even Larry and Eddie, who grew up in the same household, under the same conditions, and empowered with the same support, couldn't reach the same destination.

There are humble lessons in knowing and understanding that sporting careers are so fragile, so delicate, so reliant on a perfect combination of talent, timing, opportunity, and the determination to keep searching for answers that may never come.

Larry ended up in the Hall of Fame, while Eddie sat in the crowd and watched his speech. The intricate details of one's journey to stardom remains one of the more underappreciated realities of sport, and who knows, maybe in an alternate universe their roles would have been reversed and history would have told a different story.

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Next Gen NYC: Meet The Famous Parents Behind Ava Dash

In June, Bravo premiered its brand-new series Next Gen NYC , which follows a group of young people as they chase careers, build friendships, and navigate romantic relationships in the Big Apple. While this tight-knit group of friends is driven by their big dreams, a few must work harder to step out from the shadows of their famous families.

Fans quickly recognized some of the cast as children of Real Housewives stars, like Gia Giudice, daughter of RHONJ's Teresa Giudice , Brooks Marks, the son of RHOSLC's Meredith and Seth Marks, and Ariana Biermann, daughter of RHOA's Kim Zolciak-Biermann.

But fans were also introduced to their inner circle of friends, which includes model Ava Dash — the daughter of two highly influential New Yorkers.

Who Are Next Gen NYC's Ava Dash's Famous Parents?

Ava Dash's Parents Are Music Executive Damon Dash And Fashion Designer Rachel Roy

Next Gen NYC features some very familiar Reality TV faces, including iconic Real Housewives of New Jersey Gia Giudice, the eldest daughter of star Teresa Giudice, and Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Kim Zolciak-Biermann's daughter, Ariana Biermann. As they step out from under the spotlight of their famous families, they are determined to carve out their own careers in a very competitive New York City scene.

However, the series also introduces fresh new faces to reality TV, like Ava Dash — who, like her co-stars — comes from a high-profile lineage, arguably even more famous than her entire cast.

Born in December 1999, Ava is the daughter of music mogul Damon Dash and acclaimed fashion designer Rachel Roy.

Damon Dash is best known for launching Roc-A-Fella Records along with Jay-Z and Kareem "Biggs" Burke in 1994. Some of the best known artists to be affiliated with their record company include Kanye West, Beanie Sigel, Cam'ron, and The Diplomats. It was one of hip-hop's most recognized labels and successfully launched the careers of the artists mentioned, including Jay-Z. In 1999, both Damon and Jay-Z found themselves in the fashion business when they launched Rocawear Clothing Company.

Ava Dash currently has over 114,000 Instagram followers.

On Next Gen NYC Ava shared that she once modeled for the clothing label when she was just a baby. "When I was like four years old, I was in the Rocawear campaigns," she shared.

Ava's mother, Rachel Roy, is also just as famous. Rachel launched her fashion brand in 2004 and is still in business today.

Rachel has built her ready-to-wear and accessories business into a globally recognized brand with product categories including contemporary, curvy, outerwear, jewelry, and swim, her website states.

Damon and Rachel first met when the latter was working as an intern for Rocawear. They married in 2005 and welcomed two daughters: Ava, who was born in 1999, and her sister, Tallulah Dash, who was born in 2008. The couple divorced the following year, but a bitter custody battle ensued. Rachel was given sole custody of their two daughters and a three-year restraining order against Damon, per E! News.

Ava has a very close relationship with her dad.

Ava Has No Issue Discussing Her Romantic Life With Her Father

Despite Damon and Rachel's rocky breakup, Ava has remained especially close to her father—who even makes appearances on Next Gen NYC .

In the first season trailer, Ava is seen driving around NYC with her father. When Ava says, "I spy with my little eye something black," Damon jokingly responds, "Definitely not one of Ava's boyfriends."

During Episode 4, Ava discussed her close bond with her famous father. "My dad definitely wants to know exactly what's going on in my life," she shared, adding that she doesn't have an issue talking about her love life with him. "Honestly, it's so fun. Giving tea to someone who is sat," she said.

Ava, a model, also dreams of making her mark in the fashion world, just like her famous parents. Her father has been one of her biggest supporters as she navigates her career. "She has a black belt in fashion," Damon said in an episode. "I want her to know the superhero that she is, the power that she has, and how to use it."

On Instagram, Damon shared a video of himself seeing his daughter's face on the cover of the New York Post. The article was in reference to Bravo's new show.

Look at my baby!" Damon said in the video. "I'm in the supermarket, and look, I see my baby right in the middle of the newspaper, and she's on the cover! Look at my baby!

Next Gen NYC Also Features Kids Of Famous Reality TV Parents

Fans Also See Gia Giudice, Riley Burruss, And Ariana Biermann Navigate Life In The Big Apple

Ava isn't the only one working to forge her own path and step out of her famous parents' shadow. Next Gen NYC also follows the lives of Real Housewives children who have left their parents' home to chase their dreams in New York City , the place where they now call home, and the city where anything feels possible.

Gia has been in the reality TV spotlight since childhood, thanks to her mother, Teresa's, iconic run on The Real Housewives of New Jersey Much like her mom, Gia has a fierce loyalty to her friends and is not afraid to speak her mind. Viewers saw this when she stepped in to defend Ariana after Ava questioned her career in fashion.

Ariana is also stepping away from her chaotic family as she moves to New York to pursue a career in fashion, specifically creating her own streetwear line. We also see her navigate a romantic relationship with her high-school sweetheart, Hudson McLeroy, whose father is the founder of the fast-food chicken restaurant, Zaxby's.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta's Kandi Burruss's daughter, Riley Burruss, also appears on the show. Like Gia, she has made plenty of appearances on her mother's show when she was a kid. Now, Riley, who is a graduate of NYU, is seeking a career in law. "I want to be an entertainment lawyer, so. When I manifest things, they happen, you know," she said.

Last but not least, fans are also introduced to The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City's Meredith and Seth Marks' son, Brooks Marks. However, unlike Gia and Ariana, Brooks is much more reserved and still under his mother's wing—which he doesn't seem to mind. Brooks also moved out to the city for his career as a fashion entrepreneur.

Episodes of Next Gen NYC airs every Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo.

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"The ones suffering." Federal cuts hit NC program that helps seniors get jobs

For Gaston County resident Diane Monico, a federal funding cut took away her grocery money.

My budget's going to be tight," she said. "If I have food, I have food. If I don't, I don't.

Monico is one of 1,054 people in North Carolina employed by the Senior Community Services Employment Program—a federal initiative placing disadvantaged adults aged 55 and older into part-time community service assignments.

Nearly 50,000 workers employed through the SCSEP program across the country were furloughed Tuesday. Funding is delayed until the U.S. Department of Labor releases grant documents for the program year, which was set to begin July 1. And it's not just North Carolina. The Indiana Department of Workforce Development sent a similar message to its seniors, stating that SCSEP participants cannot receive unemployment benefits and that job seekers cannot report to their training site to even volunteer. Ball State Daily News reported.

"NCDHHS is in regular communication with our federal partners and hopeful we will receive the funds for this critical program that serves one of North Carolina's most vulnerable populations," the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said in an emailed statement to The Charlotte Observer.

NC seniors unemployment

Seniors generally have a lower unemployment rate than younger people—1.6% in North Carolina compared to 3.5% nationally—because many are retired or have more experience with their employer and thus are less likely to be laid off.

But these "headline numbers" don't account for the small population of seniors who are currently having trouble finding a job, said Andrew Berger-Gross, an economist for the North Carolina Department of Labor.

"There are a lot of older people that are in very happy and successful careers. There are a lot of older people who are very happily retired," he said. "But there's also a group that are out there looking for work, and we can't forget about those folks."

To participate in SCSEP, a senior must be unemployed and have a family income not exceeding 125% of the federal poverty level.

Gaston Hope in Christ Ministries

Through the program, Monico worked for Gaston Hope in Christ Ministries, which just finished its 25th year providing free after-school tutoring for elementary school students. The nonprofit is currently in the swing of its summer program, offering leadership and service project opportunities for 2nd to 11th graders.

The ministry first registered with the program in 2016 and currently employs three SCSEP seniors. Monico's husband works as a janitor, while she and her coworker both work as assistants to the after-school and summer programs.

Through SCSEP, employees also received workshops and training as " a bridge to unsubsidized employment opportunities. Last year, Monico and her coworker took computer classes.

"We're having to scramble to figure out how we're going to cover them, and what we're going to do to our schedule and the things we will and will not be able to do without these wonderful folks," ministry director Joe Bell said.

He said it will cost $3,000 out-of-pocket to fund the three SCSEP positions through the rest of the summer, which would be a "huge hit" for the ministry.

"It's really hitting home for us," Bell said. "We had our meeting this morning, and I don't know if we'll have another meeting."

The email from an SCSEP provider emphasized that the SCSEP furlough is "a temporary pause in program services."

But the program is part of The Older Americans Act, a federal law enacted in 1965 to assist senior Americans in living independently. The Trump administration's proposed 2026 budget for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services would also significantly cut other senior assistance programs. according to the National Council on Aging .

"Congress is trying to just, I don't know, do away with the seniors. They're cutting everything up with seniors," Monico said. "My thing is - the seniors are the ones suffering."

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Marvel's Ironheart Post-Credits Scene, Explained

This article contains spoilers for the "Ironheart" season 1 finale.

"Ironheart" may have taken off as quickly as it arrived, but not before including a post-credits scene in its final episode. Hopefully continuing the trend that "Thunderbolts*" managed to recapture by delivering a post-credits scene that actually means something Riri Williams' (Dominique Thorne) adventure ends with a struggling villain trying to regain his former glory and visiting a mutual associate of Ironheart who could play a bigger role in the future of the MCU, specifically for one A-list hero.

After being cut loose from the long-awaited villain Mephisto (Sacha Baron Cohen), Parker Robbins, aka The Hood (Anthony Ramos), is now a lone agent, since the team he gathered is scattered to the winds. On a mission to reclaim his former title and take hold of the power he once had, Robbins tracks down the Stantons' store, fully aware of the secret the establishment hides and how it can help Robbins' mission of getting his ill-fitting Hood back. (Boy, did that thing look terrible.) While it might seem a little questionable as to why this new and mysterious customer gets special treatment from Zelma Stanton (Regan Aliyah) within minutes, the young spell-wielder-in-the-making has proven she's willing to get mystical at the drop of a magic hat. The concern here is just how deep into the sacred arts she'll find herself for the criminal formerly known as The Hood, and what it will cost her when Robbins gets his threads back.

Read more: Every Live-Action Superman Costume Ranked (Including David Corenswet)

Is Zelma About to Have the Hood Pulled Over Her Eyes?

It's already been well established that Robbins can talk anyone into getting into cahoots with him with the right pitch, regardless of the dangers he might be sending them to face in the process. Keeping this in mind, it wouldn't be a total shocker if the impressionable Zelma was the first on his list of new team members, which could find him one step closer to becoming an even greater threat to the MCU.

In the comics, Robbins became a significant presence and a formidable threat to both heroes and villains alike. Facing off against The Kingpin and The Avengers on occasion, he even pushed Doctor Strange to such a limit that he lost his title of Sorcerer Supreme battling him. To be this impactful, it would make sense that The Hood would lead Zelma down the wrong path and regain (and perhaps even surpass) his previous state that was offered to him by Mephisto. The problem with doing that is it could draw the attention of the wrong crowd for The Hood. After narrowly living to scheme another day and taking on Riri, this return to old tricks could find him on the radar of other magic-wielders in the MCU and characters that Zelma's mother has already lightly referred to. After all, when spells are cast and ancient evils are revived, sometimes the best option is to call for a Doctor.

Could Doctor Strange Or Wong Spoil The Hood's Future Plans?

Besides The Hood having a few run-ins with Doctor Strange over the years in the comics, Zelma also has a longstanding history with the most magical member of The Avengers. Debuting in "Doctor Strange" #1 in 2015, Zelma called on Strange for aid when she came down with a nasty Mind Maggots infection. Stephen eventually addressed the issue, but in doing so, led to Zelma being more sensitive to magic and employing her as a librarian at Strange Academy. which is one of the best "Doctor Strange" comics you need to read (Think Hogwarts for the MCU with Strange as its Dumbledore). Currently, though, Strange Academy has since come under new management, with none other than Doctor Doom becoming the new Sorcerer Supreme and relocating the school to the villain's homeland of Latveria, renaming it Doom Academy.

With all these major story developments taking place in the comics involving The Hood and his new potential ally, it would make sense for other major players in the MCU, such as Benedict Cumberbatch's Doctor Strange or even the MCU's Sorcerer Supreme, Wong (Benedict Wong) , to turn up to help Riri with whatever Robbins throws at her next. That crossover would be in the same vein as when Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani) met Carol Danvers (Brie Larson), just with a more magical spin. For now, all we can hope for is that whenever The Hood returns suited and booted, Riri is ready to deal with the issue and uses even more powerful magic and mechanics to take him down.

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Read the original article on SlashFilm .

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South Carolina Lottery Mega Millions, Pick 3 results for July 1, 2025

The South Carolina Education Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Here’s a look at July 1, 2025, results for each game:

Winning Mega Millions numbers from the July 1 drawing

19-28-31-39-54, Mega Ball: 05

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Check Mega Millions payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Pick 3 Plus FIREBALL numbers from the July 1 drawing

Midday: 6-3-9, FB: 0

Evening: 5-4-8, FB: 0

Check Pick 3 Plus FIREBALL payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Pick 4 Plus FIREBALL numbers from the July 1 drawing

Midday: 0-4-6-1, FB: 0

Evening: 6-8-6-6, FB: 0

Check Pick 4 Plus FIREBALL payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Cash Pop numbers from July 1 drawing

Midday: 02

Evening: 03

Check Cash Pop payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Palmetto Cash 5 numbers from July 1 drawing

05-14-27-29-33

Check Palmetto Cash 5 payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

Are you a winner? Here's how to claim your lottery prize

The South Carolina Education Lottery offers various methods to claim prizes, depending on the amount won:

For prizes up to $500 You can redeem your winnings directly at any authorized South Carolina Education Lottery retailer. Simply present your signed winning ticket at the retailer for an immediate payout.

Winnings $501 to $100,000 , may be redeemed by mailing your signed winning ticket along with a completed claim form and a copy of a government-issued photo ID to the South Carolina Education Lottery Claims Center. For security, keep copies of your documents and use registered mail to ensure the safe arrival of your ticket.

SC Education Lottery

P.O. Box 11039

Columbia, SC 29211-1039

For large winnings above $100,000 , claims must be made in person at the South Carolina Education Lottery Headquarters in Columbia. To claim, bring your signed winning ticket, a completed claim form, a government-issued photo ID, and your Social Security card for identity verification. Winners of large prizes may also set up an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for convenient direct deposit of winnings.

Columbia Claims Center

1303 Assembly Street

Columbia, SC 29201

Claim Deadline: All prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the draw date for draw games.

For more details and to access the claim form, visit the South Carolina Lottery claim page .

When are the South Carolina Lottery drawings held?

• Powerball: 10:59 p.m. ET on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
• Mega Millions: 11 p.m. ET on Tuesday and Friday.
• Pick 3: Daily at 12:59 p.m. (Midday) and 6:59 p.m. (Evening).
• Pick 4: Daily at 12:59 p.m. (Midday) and 6:59 p.m. (Evening).
• Cash Pop: Daily at 12:59 p.m. (Midday) and 6:59 p.m. (Evening).
• Palmetto Cash 5: 6:59 p.m. ET daily.

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a South Carolina editor. You can send feedback using this form .

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: South Carolina Lottery Mega Millions, Pick 3 results for July 1, 2025

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Gov. Newsom signs housing legislation overhauling California's landmark environmental law

California lawmakers have approved two new bills that are expected to lead to a significant overhaul of the state's landmark environmental protection law and jump-start the stagnated housing market that has long stymied residents and would-be employers.

The major changes to the California Environmental Quality Act , known as CEQA, were attached to two bills in a larger $321 billion state budget bill that eventually passed with ease. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the legislation on June 30, which received rare bipartisan support.

"This is the most consequential housing reform in modern history in the state of California. Long overdue? Absolutely," Newsom said at a news conference as he signed the legislation.

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Supporters said the reforms to CEQA's strenuous review process will help improve the state's ongoing housing shortage and chronic homelessness crisis. Some environmental advocates call the move back-door dealmaking.

Assembly Bill 130 , authored by California Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, D-Oakland, exempts most urban housing projects from environmental review. Another bill, Senate Bill 131, by California state Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, waives the environmental restrictions for other buildings, including health clinics, child care, and food banks.

Newsom on legislation: 'Too urgent, too important'

California has long been considered a national pioneer for environmental action, as changes to its signature impact review law come at a time that may change the landscape within the nation's most populous state.

California is estimated to need 3.5 million more housing units than it has. The shortage is one reason people and businesses have fled, as housing in popular cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles is unaffordable to the vast majority who want to live and work there.

The changes are intended to jump-start housing construction, which has frequently been hindered by the use of the state's landmark 1970 environmental law. Critics argue that the law is exploited by groups whose primary aim is to block development rather than protect the environment.

The bills became law after Newsom threatened to reject the state budget passed last week unless there was an CEQA의 전면 개정 , which requires strict reviews of any new development built and its impact on the environment. That process could take months to years, adding expense and uncertainty to projects.

For years, these environmental impact studies have often been known to delay and even halt new development due to CEQA, regarded as among the strictest laws of its kind in the United States. During a news conference After signing the laws, Newsom said the matter was "too urgent, too important, to allow the process to unfold as it has for the last generation, invariably falling prey to all kinds of pratfall."

Behind the bills

Under the two new laws, nine types of projects are exempt from environmental impact reviews. They include child care centers, health clinics, food banks, as well as farmworker housing, broadband, wildfire prevention, water infrastructure, public parks or trails, and advanced manufacturing.

"It's aligned with what I know about the history and the reform measures," Mark Baldassare , survey director for the Public Policy Institute of California , a nonpartisan research organization, told USA TODAY. "We'll see what takes place. Stay tuned."

Possible changes have been under intense debate for at least a decade, Baldassare said. Newsom and other state legislators are now aware that voters nationwide during last year's elections blamed politicians, especially Democrats, for not curbing rising cost-of-living prices, Baldassare added.

Baldassare said PPIC statewide polling of California voters in both 2023 and June 2025 revealed that the cost of living and affordable housing are their top two concerns, calling last year's election "a wake-up call."

"The idea of reforming CEQA has been around for a long time," Baldassare said. "Our polling indicated that despite the state's strong environmental attributes, they were supportive of reforming CEQA across party lines, and that doesn’t happen too often, especially given today's polarization."

California budget breakdown: How it affects your life, from Medi-Cal and education to wildfires

California's environmental law

The 54-year-old California statute, signed by then-Governor Ronald Reagan, was intended to protect wildlife and natural resources of forests, mountains, and coastal areas.

The law requires state and local governments to study and publicize the likely environmental impact of any decisions they make, including the permitting of new housing, as California home values and rents are among the most expensive in the nation , according to the Public Policy Institute of California.

The requirement is called an Environmental Impact Report, which can take up to a year to complete.

Con miras a simplificar y reducir los costos de construcción en California, las nuevas leyes también restringen los desafíos legales bajo la CEQA al limitar los documentos que los tribunales pueden considerar. Además, permite realizar evaluaciones ambientales limitadas para proyectos que no se consideren que tengan una serie de impactos.

California state Senator Scott Wiener, who wrote one of the two bills, told reporters on June 30 that the changes won't happen in the next year or three years, but in decades to come. He called the changes a bold step forward toward tackling the root causes of California's affordability crisis.

"The high costs devastating our communities stem directly from our extreme shortage of housing, childcare, affordable healthcare, and so many of the other things families need to thrive," Wiener, a Democrat, said in a statement. "These bills get red tape and major process hurdles out of the way, allowing us to finally start addressing these shortages and securing an affordable California and a brighter future."

Weiner added that when the economic conditions are right, the state will be prepared "to build a ton of housing," and the structure is in place to facilitate it.

'Connect people to shelter, housing': California Gov. Gavin Newsom unveils homelessness plan to clear street camps

'Bills were passed in the most undemocratic way possible'

Asha Sharma , a state policy manager with the Leadership Council for Justice and Accountability, described the changes as a "back-room, last-minute deal" that left the state budget hanging in the balance and gave the opposition little time for public scrutiny.

"The bills were passed in the most undemocratic way possible. It made the entire state budget contingent on it," Sharma told USA TODAY. "We really couldn't make our voices heard. There was very little public process with this."

She wasn't alone. Raquel Mason , a senior legislative manager with the California Environmental Justice Alliance, said her group opposes Weiner's bill. Sharma and Mason noted that there have been 23 Superfund sites in Santa Clara County, where tech-rich Silicon Valley is located. They say many of those sites are tied to semiconductor manufacturing .

By advancing this bill, the legislature sent a clear message: our health, our safety, and our right to participate in decisions that impact our lives are disposable," Mason said in a statement to USA TODAY. "This bill will usher in industrial development without any opportunity for our communities to advocate for needed mitigations to protect ourselves.

Newsom forced California legislators' hands

While Weiner wrote a bill to exempt several types of projects from environmental review, Newsom forced the changes to overhaul the state's environmental law.

The governor told lawmakers that he wouldn't approve California's $321 billion budget without them. Last week, a provision in the approved budget act said the spending plan would be repealed if changes to the state's environmental review process were not finalized by June 30.

On June 30, Newsom said on social media that he enacted "the most game-changing housing reforms" in recent California history.

"We're urgently embracing an abundance agenda by tearing down the barriers that have delayed new affordable housing and infrastructure for decades," Newsom wrote.

The governor later mentioned to reporters during a June 30 news conference that his administration's goal is to build 2.5 million homes by 2030. Newsom said it's up to leaders across the state to use this new tool to help make the goal a reality.

"If we can’t address this issue, we’re going to lose trust, and that’s just the truth," Newsom said. "And so this is so much bigger in many ways than the issue itself. It is about the reputation of not just Sacramento and the legislative leadership and executive leadership, but the reputation of the state of California."

Contributing: Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Gov. Newsom signs housing legislation overhauling California's landmark environmental law

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Facing SNAP & Medicaid concerns, why Murkowski & Sullivan say they voted for the 'Big Beautiful Bill'

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) — For the past week, American eyes have fixated on Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, who has been vocal about the uncertainty of her vote on the controversial “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”

The Senate went long into the night, but when it finally came time to vote at 8 a.m. AKDT, Murkowski backed the bill's passage.

Although she voted for the bill, her support for it was still unclear.

Do I like this bill? No, because I tried to take care of Alaska's interests," she said in a CBS interview inside the halls of the Capitol Tuesday morning. "I know that in many parts of the country, there are Americans who won't benefit from this bill. I don't like that.

“But when I saw the direction that this is going, you can either say, ‘I don’t like it, I’m not trying to help my state,’ or you can roll up your sleeves and do so. I am super tired,” the senator added.

In a later statement, Murkowski defined "Alaska's interests" as advanced opportunities for resource development in the NPR-A, the Coastal Plain and Cook Inlet, with aims to create jobs and increase Alaskan revenue.

Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, told Alaska’s News Source, “the one state that really, really did well in this bill was the great state of Alaska.”

“This is a jobs bill for Alaska,” he said. “This is all about creating really good strong private sector-led jobs on the resource development side.”

Although Murkowski voted for its passage, she also expressed concern that the bill fell short in protecting Medicaid coverage and SNAP benefits, an issue that opponents of the bill have long warned about.

"It is the people of Alaska that I worry about the most, especially when it comes to the potential loss of social safety net programs ... that our most vulnerable populations rely on," she said in a statement.

But the narratives coming from Sullivan and Murkowski don't line up when it comes to the cuts. Sullivan said Alaska was a state removed from the brunt of the cuts, saying the only reductions are from provider taxes and state-directed payments, neither of which, he insisted, Alaska uses.

“I was able to get a rural hospital fund negotiated, a big expansion of it last night, $50 billion for rural hospitals,” he said. “I anticipate Alaska in the next 5 years, we’ll be getting at least $200 million additional federal dollars for hospitals, for Medicaid, for helping patients. So it’s a big win for our rural hospitals and healthcare as well.”

When asked if he was worried about the people who relied on Medicaid and SNAP benefits, Sullivan said the state is "in good shape," reiterating that Alaska is in a different position because, he said, Alaska does not use provider taxes or state-directed payments.

With the Senate's passage The bill now returns to the House due to the several amendments added to it in the Senate. It will be up for debate in its amended state at 5:00 a.m. AKDT. If no new amendments are presented and added by the House, the bill will be sent to President Trump's desk, where it will be signed into law. President Trump initially said he wanted to receive the bill by the Fourth of July, but his confidence in the bill arriving on time has wavered.

It's the "artificial deadline," Murkowski said Trump set, that she found problematic, saying that it hindered the legislature from "producing the best bill for the country," she said in the CBS interview.

This has been an awful process—a frantic rush to meet an artificial deadline that has tested every limit of this institution," Murkowski's statement reads. "While we have worked to improve the present bill for Alaska, it is not good enough for the rest of our nation—and we all know it.

Rep. Nick Begich, R-Alaska, voted for the bill’s original passage and is unlikely to deviate in his support. While his office told Alaska’s News Source Tuesday morning that they were still mulling over the new bill, Begich took to social media two hours short of its passage to express his support of the bill.

Murkowski declined an interview with Alaska's News Source on Tuesday.

The governor & state lawmakers

While Murkowski has expressed uncertainty during the process, some state lawmakers have also echoed that sentiment.

Rep. Bryce Edgmon, I-Dillingham, who is also Speaker of the House, and Sen. Cathy Giessel, R-Anchorage, who is also the Senate Majority Leader, published an opinion piece in the New York Times last week, saying one out of every three Alaskans rely on Medicaid (including more than a third of Alaskan children) and 70,000 residents would lose Medicaid access.

The benefits of Medicaid and the SNAP program permeate the entire fabric of the Alaska economy," they wrote. "In remote Arctic communities, Medicaid dollars make medical travel possible for residents from the hundreds of roadless villages to the communities where they are able to receive proper medical treatments.

Alaska’s News Source contacted all of the state legislature’s leaders and received a response only from Giessel.

“Senator Lisa Murkowski has valiantly tried to correct the errors in this bill. Obviously she wasn’t 100% successful (but) I am grateful for the attempts that she made,” she told Alaska’s News Source Tuesday. “I’m not sure why she voted yes, but at the same time, I trust her judgment. She is someone who loves our state, understands urban and rural Alaska. There has to have been some really compelling positive aspects that that brought her yes vote today.”

Sullivan said Edgmon and Giessel wrote the op-ed "without any facts."

I respect Cathy Giessel and Bryce Edgman a lot, but now that the facts are out there, I think it's a very different op-ed.

Shirley Sakaye, Director of Communications for the Alaska Department of Health, said Tuesday afternoon that they were "actively analyzing all of the amendment changes to the Senate bill and their impacts to Alaskans."

Gov. Mike Dunleavy, R-Alaska, has voiced his support for the bill, saying on social media It was reported last week that it would be beneficial for oil and gas development and leases, one of the major sources of state revenue. Last month, when the governor line-item vetoed $122 million from the state budget , he cited decreasing oil revenue as the reason for those vetoes.

House Minority Leader Mia Costello, R-Anchorage, called the bill a major win for Alaska.

"The current version of the bill that passed the Senate today also contains critical exemptions secured by our federal delegation to protect Alaska's most vulnerable: rural hospitals will receive enhanced Medicaid support, and the state is shielded with a two-year waiver from new SNAP cost burdens that would have disproportionately hurt remote communities," she said in a statement.

Alaska’s News Source contacted the governor's office for a reaction to the bill's Senate passage but did not receive a response.

In a news release sent last week, the Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education voiced opposition to the bill, citing similar figures as those in Edgmon and Giessel's op-ed.

Other topics in OBBBA impact our rural hospitals, SNAP benefits, and so much more," their press release reads. "Without these services and programs, thousands of Alaskans could lose the help they need to stay healthy—and in some cases, stay alive.

A spokesperson for the governor did not answer whether they knew about the press release before it was sent, nor did they provide details about the council's role in the government. The council also did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

When it comes to what's next, Giessel said she's trying to remain optimistic.

I think it's probably a signed deal, but I have to remain optimistic and hope against hope that there'll be some rational people, particularly rational Republicans, who are in short supply, to do the right thing and vote down this bill.

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2025 NBA Free Agency Updates: Latest News, Rumors, Signings, and Offseason Moves

The NBA free agency The period began on Monday evening, June 30, with several notable names expected to be available on the market. The moves continued into Tuesday.

Free agency will provide teams with the opportunity to reshape and retool their rosters to take one step closer to their respective NBA championship aspirations.

몇몇 대형 선수들 중 잠재적으로 FA 자격을 얻을 수 있었던 이들은 이제 더 이상 영입 가능한 상태가 아닐 것으로 보인다. 이 명단에는 다음과 같은 선수들이 포함된다. Lakers star LeBron James , Clippers standout James Harden and Timberwolves forward Julius Randle .

From NFL plays to college sports scores, all the top sports news you need to know every day.

Centers Myles Turner and Al Horford are among the top unrestricted players on the market as of Sunday evening. Chris Paul, Tyus Jones, and Josh Giddey are expected to be among the top unrestricted guards available.

Malik Beasley could also be among the list of notable guards, but instead will be the subject of another storyline after it was reported he is being investigated for gambling on NBA games .

USA TODAY Sports will have live updates and analysis on all NBA free agency news and rumors as they happen:

NBA FREE AGENCY: Who are the biggest names on the market?

Duncan Robinson to Detroit

The Pistons have agreed to a three-year, $48 million deal with the former Michigan standout. ESPN's Shams Charania reports It's a sign-and-trade deal, with Simone Fontecchio going to Miami, per Charania.

Robinson had spent his entire seven-year NBA career with the Miami Heat. In 2024-25 he averaged 11 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 74 games (37 starts).

Robinson will likely come off the bench in Detroit, which seemingly turned to the longtime Heat player as a replacement for Malik Beasley. — Jace Evans

Tre Mann returns to Charlotte

The Hornets are re-signing Mann on a three-year, $24 million deal. ESPN's Shams Charania reports Mann, the 18th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, arrived in Charlotte on trade deadline day 2024 in the deal that sent Gordon Hayward to Oklahoma City. He played in just 13 games during the 2024-25 season, none after November 21, due to a back injury. He averaged 14.1 points, 3 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 24.5 minutes. — Jace Evans

Larry Nance Jr. returns to the Cavaliers.

After four years away from Cleveland, Larry Nance Jr. is returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers , for each Marc Stein .

Drew Eubanks to the Kings

Per Shams Charania , the Los Angeles Clippers may be waiving Drew Eubanks, but he's already found another California squad in the Sacramento Kings . Charania reports that Eubanks plans to sign a one-year deal with Sacramento after he clears waivers. Eubanks averaged 4.6 points per game with the Jazz and Clippers last season.

Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Nuggets

Tim Hardaway Jr. is joining his third team in three seasons, per Shams Charania , joining a Denver Nuggets squad that has already added Jonas Valanciunas, Cam Johnson, and Bruce Brown this offseason. Hardaway agreed to a one-year deal with the team. He averaged 11 points on 37% three-point shooting for the Pistons last year.

Bucks' Rollins becomes free agent

After originally offering Rollins a qualifying offer following his best season as a pro, the Bucks have reportedly rescinded said offer, making Rollins an unrestricted free agent, per Chris Haynes .

Rollins provided solid shooting off the bench in Milwaukee, hitting over 40% of his three-point attempts for the Bucks in 2025. Rollins will now be looking to join his fourth team in five years.

Jakob Poeltl remains in Toronto

Poeltl always seems to find his way north of the border. After spending the last three years in Toronto, it appears he'll be staying through the end of the decade after signing a four-year, $104 million extension through the 2029-30 season, per Shams Charania .

Charania also reports that there were many considerations for the deal, including an opt-out of the final year of his contract, followed by an extension. However, it seems Poeltl and the Raptors eventually settled on Poeltl accepting his player option for 2026-27 at $19.5 million followed by another three-year extension.

Bucks make two more moves after waiving Lillard

It seems the addition of Gary Harris was not enough. Within a span of about eight minutes, the Bucks traded away wing Pat Connaughton for point guard Vasilije Micic, per Shams Charania , then followed that up by adding center Jericho Sims on a two-year deal.

Nuggets trade for Jonas Valanciunas

In an effort to give Nikola Jokic a bit more help in the frontcourt next year, the Denver Nuggets have traded Dario Saric to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for veteran big man Jonas Valanciunas, per Shams Charania .

Dennis Schröder's contract details revealed

Yesterday, it was revealed that the Kings were looking for veteran guard help and were interested in both Dennis Schroder and Russell Westbrook. Today, the contract details for Schroder have been revealed. Per Shams Charania , Schroder, 31, is signing a three-year, $45 million deal with the team.

Bucks waive Damian Lillard to add Myles Turner

Bucks fans were ecstatic to learn that despite their salary issues, they were still able to secure veteran frontcourt help by signing Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal.

That excitement quickly transitioned to stunned silence when it was revealed that in order to pull off this move, the Bucks waived star guard Damian Lillard, per Shams Charania Lillard is nursing a torn Achilles he suffered in the first round of the playoffs, but will not return to Milwaukee.

To replace Lillard, the Bucks quickly signed Gary Harris to a two-year contract. However, this move did nothing to calm the anger of star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to Chris Haynes , the Greek Freak is "not pleased" with the Bucks' decision.

Gary Trent Jr. is returning to the Bucks.

Milwaukee retains another member of the 2024-25 team with the re-signing of Gary Trent Jr. He will sign a two-year, $7.5 million deal that includes a player option to return to Milwaukee. Shams Charania reports .

Trent is coming off one of his best seasons as a pro. He played in a career-high 74 games and averaged 11.1 points per game off the bench, including a 41.6% mark from 3-point range. He also tied a franchise playoff record when he made nine 3-pointers in Game 3 of the first-round series against the Indiana Pacers .

76ers add Trendon Watford

Philadelphia is adding an emerging forward in Trendon Watford. He will sign a two-year, $5.3 million deal with the 76ers. Shams Charania reports A reserve for most of his career, Watford had a breakout season in 2024-25 despite missing most of the first half of the season. He averaged a career-high 10.2 points per game.

Taurean Prince staying in Milwaukee

The Bucks will keep Taurean Prince on a two-year, $7.1 million deal, according to Shams Charania He played 80 games for Milwaukee last season, the most he has played since 2017-18. He averaged 8.2 points and 3.6 rebounds and gets to stay with assistant Darvin Ham, who he was with when Ham was coach of the Los Angeles Lakers .

Prince also reportedly has a player option for the second season.

Charlotte Hornets re-sign Mason Plumlee

Mason Plumlee is headed back to the Queen City, signing a one-year, $3.6 million deal with the Charlotte Hornets. Shams Charania reports. Plumlee played for the Hornets from 2021-23 before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers.

Luke Kennard joining Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta continues to make moves with the addition of Luke Kennard. The Hawks will sign the wing to a one-year, $11 million deal. according to Shams Charania .

Kennard spent the past two and a half seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies and solidified himself as one of the best sharpshooters in the league. He shot 43.3% from 3-point range during the 2024-25 season, the ninth-best mark in the NBA. He has shot at least 40% from beyond the arc over the past five seasons, including a league-high 44.9% from 3 in 2021-22.

Tyus Jones heads to Orlando

After starting 58 games for the Phoenix Suns last season, Jones is headed to an Eastern Conference contender in the Orlando Magic on a one-year, $7 million deal, per Shams Charania Jones has averaged more than 10 points per game in each of the last three seasons.

Atlanta gives $60 million to Nickeil Alexander-Walker

A solid scoring option off the bench for Minnesota, the Atlanta Hawks have acquired Nickeil Alexander-Walker via a sign-and-trade on a four-year, $62 million deal, per Shams Charania In just his seventh year in the league, Alexander-Walker is already joining his fifth team, but his first in the Eastern Conference.

In return, the Timberwolves are acquiring a 2027 second-round pick (via Cleveland) and cash.

Reports also indicate that Hawks star Trae Young was heavily involved in the acquisition of Alexander-Walker.

Ty Jerome leaves Cavs for Grizzlies

Three years, $28 million. That's the deal for sought-after guard Ty Jerome, who will be moving to Tennessee to play with the Memphis Grizzlies, per Shams Charania .

Jerome was an elite shooter last season, nearly joining the 50-40-90 club (52% FG, 44% 3PT, 87% FT) during the regular season while playing crucial minutes for the Cavaliers. He played a significant role in helping the Cavaliers secure the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference and is a major addition for a Grizzlies team that recently signed Jaren Jackson Jr. to a long-term deal.

Brook Lopez returns to Los Angeles

Former NBA champion Brook Lopez, 37, is headed back to the City of Angels, this time as a member of the Clippers after signing a two-year, $18 million deal, per Shams Charania Lopez spent the 2017-18 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, then spent the next seven seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, playing a significant role on the 2021 championship team.

Lopez will likely serve as a bench option for the Clippers behind Ivica Zubac.

Pistons lock up Caris LeVert

Shams Charania reports that the Detroit Pistons and free agent guard Caris LeVert have agreed to a two-year, $29 million deal. LeVert is familiar with the Detroit area, having spent his collegiate career at the University of Michigan.

Clint Capela returns to Houston

After five seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, free agent big man Clint Capela is returning to the Houston Rockets on a fully guaranteed, three-year, $21.5 million deal, per Shams Charania .

Capela played in just 55 games last season, his fewest since the COVID-shortened 2020 season. He spent most of last year battling a series of injuries.

Dennis Schroder to Sacramento

Early reports indicated that the Sacramento Kings were looking to add veteran guards this offseason. Well, they've begun with the addition of Dennis Schroder, per The Athletic's Fred Katz Although details of the agreement are still unknown, there have been reports that Sacramento's guard hunt will not end there. The Kings are also interested in adding Russell Westbrook to the fold for the 2025-26 season.

$41 million for Luke Kornet

The San Antonio Spurs have added depth behind Victor Wembanyama, signing center Luke Kornet, a member of the Boston Celtics' 2024 championship team, to a four-year, $41 million contract, according to Shams Charania .

Given the uncertainty regarding Wembanyama's blood clot in his shoulder, adding Kornet provides a bit of an immediate safety net, even though Wembanyama is considered likely to recover before the start of next year.

Kevon Looney's era in Golden State has come to an end

Longtime Golden State Warrior and three-time NBA champion Kevon Looney is leaving the West Coast for a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, per Shams Charania Looney had been a starter for much of his last five years with Golden State before being relegated to a bench role in 2025, starting in only six games all of last season. Looney did still put up solid minutes though, averaging 15 minutes per game.

Jake LaRavia moves to Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers will reportedly sign Jake LaRavia to a two-year, $12 million deal, per Shams Charania LaRavia has always been a strong three-point shooter, which could come in handy as part of a team that finished outside the top-ten in three-point percentage a year ago.

D'Angelo Russell reunites with Anthony Davis in Dallas

With Kyrie Irving recovering from an ACL tear, the Dallas Mavericks have added some guard depth by signing D'Angelo Russell to a two-year, $13 million deal. Russell has experience playing with Davis, having each spent parts of the last three seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Win-now Rockets continue to stack pieces

Days after they agreed to trade for Kevin Durant , the Rockets are bolstering their perimeter play — on both sides of the ball — by reportedly locking up forward Dorian Finney-Smith. ESPN reports the deal is worth four years and $53 million.

The Lakers had acquired Finney-Smith in a December 2024 trade. that sent D'Angelo Russell to the Nets. Now, L.A. loses Finney-Smith, a reliable 3-and-D forward, to a conference rival preparing for a deep playoff run.

Pistons re-sign Paul Reed

After he stepped up in the playoffs with backup forward-center Isaiah Stewart sidelined due to a right knee injury, Paul Reed became a valuable fill-in for the Pistons. Detroit is rewarding Reed with a two-year, $11 million contract to return to the team. per ESPN .

Grizzlies secure key young players

The Grizzlies are continuing their roster overhaul. All-Star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. is expected to sign a renegotiated, five-year, max contract extension worth $248 million. according to ESPN Jackson was on a favorable contract that he had outperformed.

Memphis' trade of Desmond Bane helped clear the cap space needed to make this deal happen. The Grizzlies traded him to the Magic. , but then — following a separate trade with the Trail Blazers — drafted Cedric Coward at No. 11 overall. Coward essentially becomes a low-cost replacement for Bane. Another corresponding salary cap maneuver being made to accommodate the Jackson deal is a reported buyout to guard Cole Anthony , whom Memphis had just acquired in the Bane trade.

ESPN also reports that The Grizzlies also locked up backup forward Santi Aldama. to a three-year, $52.5 million deal.

A scorer set to unexpectedly hit the market

It's not often that consistent, double-digit scorers hit the open market. But as the Utah Jazz continue to remake their roster, Jordan Clarkson has finalized a buyout. according to the Athletic , making him an unrestricted free agent.

Clarkson, 33, averaged 16.2 points, 3.7 assists and 3.2 rebounds in 37 games last season. Clarkson had carved out a role as Utah's sixth man and became known for providing a scoring spark off the bench. Given his ability to score off the bench, Clarkson could draw interest from contenders looking to bolster their depth.

Veteran Nicolas Batum returns for his 18th season

Forward Nicolas Batum, a steady presence off the bench for the Los Angeles Clippers, will sign a two-year deal worth $11.5 million, per ESPN.

Nets to re-sign Day'Ron Sharpe

After locking up one of their reserve forwards earlier Monday in Ziaire Williams, the Nets moved to do the same for backup center Day'Ron Sharpe. ESPN reports that Sharpe is set to sign a two-year deal to keep him in Brooklyn, worth $12 million.

Joe Ingles to return to Timberwolves

Veteran forward Joe Ingles will be playing his 12th season in the NBA, returning to the Minnesota Timberwolves on a one-year contract worth $3.6 million. according to ESPN .

Knicks forward Josh Hart had a humorous reaction to the news. , writing: "Man someone tell him to go ahead and retire already" in a social media post.

Ziaire Williams heading back to Brooklyn

Free agent forward Ziaire Williams is on the verge of signing a two-year, $12 million deal to return to the Brooklyn Nets. ESPN reports Williams, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2021 draft, averaged 10 points and 4.3 rebounds in 63 games with the Nets last season.

DeAndre Ayton set to test market

Center DeAndre Ayton is finalizing a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers, according to ESPN , which will make him a free agent -- and one of the more interesting players available.

Ayton was acquired by the Blazers in 2023 as part of a three-team trade with Phoenix and Milwaukee. He's played in only 95 games in two seasons with Portland, averaging 15.7 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. As part of the contract he signed with the Suns, Ayton was scheduled to make $35.6 million next season.

When is NBA free agency? Dates, times and offseason schedule

NBA free agency officially began on Monday, June 30, at 6 p.m. ET. Teams and players can now start agreeing to the terms of a contract. Teams and players, however, will have to wait until July 6 for contracts to be officially signed.

The biggest stories, every morning. Stay up-to-date on all the key sports developments by subscribing to USA TODAY Sports' newsletter .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2025 NBA Free Agency Updates: Latest News, Rumors, Signings, and Offseason Moves

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Former FBI agent charged in Capitol riot now works on Justice Department's "weaponization" task force

WASHINGTON (AP) — A former FBI agent who was charged with joining a mob's attack on the U.S. Capitol and cheering on rioters is now working as an adviser to the Justice Department official overseeing its "weaponization working group," which is examining President Donald Trump's claims of anti-conservative bias inside the department.

The former FBI supervisory agent, Jared Lane Wise, is serving as a counselor to Justice Department pardon attorney Ed Martin Jr., who also serves as director of the working group, according to a person familiar with the matter. The person was not authorized to publicly discuss a personnel matter and spoke on condition of anonymity.

A department spokesperson declined to comment. The New York Times was first to report on Wise's appointment.

When Trump returned to the White House in January, he selected Martin to serve as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. However, the president withdrew his nomination to retain the position on a more permanent basis two days after a key Republican senator said he could not support Martin for the job due to his defense of Capitol rioters.

Martin was a leading figure in Trump's "Stop the Steal" movement. He spoke at a rally in Washington on the eve of the January 6, 2021 riot at the Capitol. He represented three January 6 defendants and served on the board of the nonprofit Patriot Freedom Project, which reports raising over $2.5 million to support riot defendants.

Attorney General Pam Bondi called for creating the "weaponization" group in February to investigate claims by Trump and Republican allies that the Justice Department unfairly targeted conservatives during President Joe Biden's administration. The group's review includes the work of former special counsel Jack Smith, who led two federal prosecutions of Trump that were ultimately abandoned after Trump was elected to a second term.

Fox News host Jeanine Pirro replaced Martin as the top federal prosecutor in Washington, but Martin immediately moved over to his current Justice Department position.

Wise, who worked as a special agent or supervisory special agent for the FBI from 2004 through 2017, was arrested in Oregon on Capitol riot-related charges. misdemeanor charges in May 2023.

Wise repeatedly shouted, "Kill 'em!" as he watched rioters assaulting officers outside the Capitol, according to an FBI agent's affidavit. Wise clapped his hands and raised his arms "in triumph" after he entered the building through the Senate wing door, the affidavit says. He left the building about nine minutes after entering.

Police body camera footage showed Wise berating police officers outside the Capitol and repeatedly shouting, "Shame on you!"

I'm former law enforcement," he told them. "You're disgusting. You are the Nazi. You are the Gestapo. You can't see it.

Wise was on trial in Washington when Trump returned to the White House in January and immediately pardoned, commuted prison sentences or ordered the dismissal of cases for all of the nearly 1,600 people charged in the attack. The case against Wise was dismissed before the jury reached a verdict.

___

Alanna Durkin Richer, a writer for The Associated Press, contributed to this report.

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MAGA law group fights to expose how Biden's DEI agenda may have tainted life-saving organ transplants

A conservative legal group is attempting to determine whether the former Biden administration's focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives seeped into the nation's organ transplant system and led to prioritizing patients based on race.

America First Legal, a MAGA law group, is suing a number of federal health agencies to obtain documents related to the nation's organ transplant system.

Specifically, they're targeting the Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the Health Resources and Services Administration, in an attempt to compel them to turn over documents related to the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN).

In April 2023, AFL filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request seeking documents relevant to the Biden administration's efforts to infuse DEI into the organ transplant However, to date, AFL says it has not received any of the requested information and, as a result, decided to sue in an effort to compel its release.

The Biden Administration infected the federal government with 'equity,' replacing traditional principles of fairness and need with race-conscious criteria," said America First Legal Counsel Will Scolinos. "AFL is determined to uncover the complete scope of Biden-era DEI policies and will continue to take decisive action to restore colorblind healthcare.

NOEM EXPOSES AND TERMINATES MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR, BIDEN-ERA DEI, LGBTQ PROGRAM

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Just days after taking office in 2021, former President Joe Biden signed Executive Order 13985, directing all federal agencies to conduct "Equity Assessments" to determine whether "underserved communities and their members" faced systemic barriers to accessing federal programs. The order also required each agency to develop an action plan to address those barriers.

As part of this effort, in December 2021, CMS issued a request to the public for comments on how the agency could "Advance Equity and Reduce Disparities in Organ Transplantation."

"CMS is focused on identifying potential system-wide improvements that would increase organ donations, improve transplants, enhance the quality of care in dialysis facilities, increase access to dialysis services, and advance equity in organ donation and transplantation," the agency said at the time.

Communities of color have much higher rates of high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, all of which increase the risk for kidney disease. Black Americans are almost four times more likely, and Latinos are 1.3 times more likely, to have kidney failure compared to White Americans. Despite the higher risk, data shows that Black and Latino patients on dialysis are less likely to be placed on the transplant waitlist and have a lower likelihood of transplantation. Because of these stark inequities, CMS' [Request For Information] asks the public for specific ideas on advancing equity within the organ transplantation system.

SCORING REPORT CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION INTO 5 'WOKE' HOSPITALS PROMOTING 'RADICAL' AGENDA WITH TAXPAYER MONEY

Meanwhile, several weeks later, the HRSA announced that the "labeling of race and ethnicity information for organ donors" would "change on a number of data reports available on the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) website." According to the HRSA, the move made the data "clearer, more consistent and easier for users to interpret," and did not impact the manner in which data is collected. OPTN collects and manages data pertaining to the patient waiting list, organ donation, matching and transplantation in the U.S.

HRSA also announced a "modernization initiative" for OPTN around the same time, which included plans to strengthen "equity and performance in the organ donation and transplantation system."

In its lawsuit, AFL chronicled a series of delays, non-responses, and incomplete communications following its April 2023 FOIA request. AFL is hoping to obtain a judge's order requiring the release of the records it is seeking, as well as an index of any withheld material and explanations for why it could not be provided.

"The last administration’s pervasive directives requiring consideration of immutable characteristics like race, color, and ethnicity — to make healthcare more ‘equitable’ — should concern all Americans," Scolinos said Tuesday. "AFL is determined to uncover the complete scope of Biden-era DEI policies and will continue to take decisive action to restore colorblind. healthcare."

HHS declined to comment on AFL's lawsuit.

Original article source: MAGA law group fights to expose how Biden's DEI agenda may have tainted life-saving organ transplants

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13 'recession-proof' jobs that can pay over $50,000—and don't require a bachelor's degree

In an uncertain job market clouded by recession fears Many workers are concerned about finding stable jobs.

A new study From the resume builder LiveCareer, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, has identified 13 'recession-proof' careers with strong salaries, opportunities for growth, and job security — no bachelor's degree required.

Each role provides an annual median salary of at least $50,000. All are projected to grow by at least 4% through 2032, and applicants only need an associate degree or postsecondary certificate to qualify.

"These are the types of jobs that we see growing, not stalling," says Jasmine Escalera, career expert at LiveCareer. Escalera also describes many of the jobs on the list as "AI-proof," because the work requires "human-based skills" such as communication and problem solving.

"There's a lot of anxiety and fear around AI taking over jobs, but there are still a lot of industries and a lot of positions where that is likely never going to be the case," she says.

Here are 13 careers that offer job security and growth, even during uncertain economic times.

1. Occupational therapy assistants

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Associate degree

2. Firefighters

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award

3. Diagnostic medical sonographers

Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999

Required education: Associate degree

4. Medical records specialists

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award

5. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award

6. Radiologic technologists and technicians

Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999

Required education: Associate degree

7. Respiratory therapists

Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999

Required education: Associate degree

8. Dental hygienists

Median salary: $75,000 to $99,999

Required education: Associate degree

9. Massage therapists

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award

10. Physical therapist assistants

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Associate degree

11. Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award

12. Computer network support specialists

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Associate degree

13. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers

Median salary: $50,000 to $74,999

Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award

None of these jobs require a "traditional educational background," Escalera says.

Hiring managers are looking for employees who are able to master "new skill sets and expand beyond the role." These careers also allow employees the chance "to spread out and learn," she says, and to network. .

"It gives the opportunity for people who aren't really interested in that traditional path to really have an eye-opening experience," she says. "There are interesting, exciting positions out there."

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Hundreds of National Guard forces in L.A. could be returned to wildfire duty

A military commander has discussed shifting some California National Guard troops away from the Trump administration's weekslong deployment to deal with protests in Los Angeles so they can help fight wildfires, two U.S. officials told CBS News.

Gen. Gregory Guillot, the leader of U.S. Northern Command, made the request to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, proposing that 200 out of roughly 4,000 California National Guard members be returned to wildfire duty in California.

The request to shift some troops to wildfire duty was first reported by The Associated Press .

The purpose of the possible move is to help prepare for wildfire season, one U.S. official said. The other official said the 200 Guard members could be returned to the California National Guard and placed on standby to respond to wildfires.

Wildfires can occur at any time of year in California, but they typically peak during the summer and fall. The state expects an "early and active season" this year, with above-average activity in July and August, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire.

The Los Angeles deployment has been controversial and subject to legal challenges. President Trump called up around 4,000 Guard members — and deployed around 700 Marines — over California Gov. Gavin Newsom's objections, moves Mr. Trump argued were necessary to protect federal buildings and immigration agents from chaotic protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Newsom argued the deployment was illegal and unnecessary.

When Mr. Trump initially called up the California National Guard to deal with protests, the state had warned the move could interfere with its wildfire response. Guard forces often work alongside Cal Fire crews — and as wildfires become more frequent and severe, state officials has said more resources are needed. Newsom's office said last week the Guard's firefighting force was only at 40% capacity due to the Los Angeles deployment.

"This deployment comes when California is in the midst of peak wildfire season for both Northern and Southern California and may need to rely on their crucial support," the state of California wrote in a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the deployment.

A federal district court judge initially sided with the state in its lawsuit, but a panel of appellate court judges paused that ruling, allowing Mr. Trump to maintain control of the Guard.

The troops were shifted to federal service earlier this month under a law known as Title 10 , which allows the president to mobilize National Guard forces during a "rebellion" or if "the president is unable with the regular forces to enforce the laws of the United States." The Trump administration argued that these conditions were satisfied due to threats of violence against immigration agents who conducted arrests in the Los Angeles area.

Newsom objected to the move, and the state quickly filed a lawsuit calling it a "power grab." The state argued that under the law cited by the administration, Mr. Trump does not have the legal authority to call up the Guard without permission from the governor.

A three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ultimately sided with the Trump administration, allowing troops to remain in Los Angeles while the state's lawsuit is heard. The court wrote that Mr. Trump most likely "lawfully exercised his statutory authority" to federalize the Guard, and that the law "does not give governors any veto power."

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NY Lottery Win 4, Take 5, Numbers winning numbers for Monday, June 30

The New York Lottery offers multiple draw games for people looking to strike it rich. The games include New York Lotto, Cash4Life, Numbers, Win 4, Take 5, and Pick 10.

Cash4Life is a multi-state lottery game available in 10 states. The top prize is $1,000 a day for life or a one-time lump sum of $7,000,000. The winning numbers are drawn at 9 p.m. EST daily and we have the results below.

New York Win 4, Take 5, and Numbers are drawn twice a day at 2:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. New York Lotto is drawn on Wednesday and Saturday.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need delivered to your inbox each morning.

New York Win 4

Midday: 4-5-4-8

Evening: 1-7-6-1

Check New York Win 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

New York Take 5

Midday: 06-17-26-34-37

Evening: 03-07-18-31-35

Check New York Take 5 payouts and previous drawings here.

New York Numbers

Midday: 4-2-3

Evening: 7-8-4

Check New York Numbers payouts and previous drawings here.

Cash4Life

06-13-15-31-55, Cash Ball: 04

Check Cash4Life payouts and previous drawings here.

Pick 10

01-04-05-11-13-18-19-24-30-34-36-40-44-48-53-54-56-57-72-73

Check Pick 10 payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

When is the next Cash4Life drawing?

Cash4Life is drawn daily.

How late can you purchase a Cash4Life ticket in New York?

In New York, in-store and online ticket sales are available until 8:45 p.m. daily. Cash4Life costs $2 to play.

Cash4Life is available in these 10 U.S. states:

• New York
• New Jersey
• Florida
• Georgia
• Indiana
• Maryland
• Missouri
• Pennsylvania
• Tennessee
• Virginia

What are the Cash4Life prizes?

Match	Win	Odds
5 numbers + Cash Ball	$1,000/day for life	1 in 21,846,048
5 numbers	$1,000/week for life	1 in 7,282,016
4 numbers + Cash Ball	$2,500	1 in 79,440
4 numbers	$500	1 in 26,480
3 numbers + Cash Ball	$100	1 in 1,471
3 numbers	$25	1 in 490
2 numbers + Cash Ball	$10	1 in 83
2 numbers	$4	1 in 28
1 number + Cash Ball	$2	1 in 13

What are the odds of winning Cash4Life?

The odds of winning a prize in Cash4Life are 1 in 7.76.

Winning lottery numbers are sponsored by Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network .

Where can you buy lottery tickets?

Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.

You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network , in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 18+ (19+ in NE, 21+ in AZ). Must be physically present where Jackpocket operates. Jackpocket is not affiliated with any State Lottery. Eligibility restrictions apply. Void where prohibited. Terms: jackpocket.com/terms-of-service .

This results page was automatically generated using information from TinBu and a template created and reviewed by a NY Audience Editor. You can submit feedback by using this form .

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: NY Lottery Win 4, Take 5, Numbers winning numbers for Monday, June 30

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