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How to avoid fees when spending abroad

How to avoid fees when spending abroad

Summary

The article gives advice on how to avoid extra charges when using money abroad. It offers tips to help people save money during their holidays by reducing hidden fees.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on avoiding fees related to spending money in other countries.
  • It provides guidance on cutting hidden costs during holidays.
  • The content is aimed at helping travelers manage their money better.
  • The advice includes practical tips to prevent unexpected charges on transactions.
  • The article is recent and relevant for travelers looking to save money.
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Puppy love as dog walker turns his pack of 13 into Argentina jersey-clad World Cup followers

Puppy love as dog walker turns his pack of 13 into Argentina jersey-clad World Cup followers

Summary

In Buenos Aires, Argentina, a dog walker named Nahuel Meneghini dresses the 13 dogs he walks in Argentina national soccer team jerseys to show support for their World Cup team. The dogs, along with their leashes and collars, sport the team's colors and have become popular with locals and on social media.

Key Facts

  • Nahuel Meneghini is a 33-year-old dog walker in Buenos Aires.
  • He dresses the 13 dogs he walks in Argentina’s World Cup soccer team jerseys.
  • The dogs’ leashes and collars are also in Argentina’s light blue and white colors.
  • Jerseys feature star player Lionel Messi’s number 10 on some dogs.
  • Meneghini created the idea after Argentina moved past the group stage in the World Cup.
  • The collars include three rivets representing Argentina’s World Cup wins in 1978, 1986, and 2022.
  • Their group is called “La Perroneta,” a play on the national team's nickname “La Scaloneta.”
  • The pack has become well known in their neighborhood and is popular on social media.
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The Minions and their ‘big boss’ Chris Meledandri keep a blockbuster machine humming

The Minions and their ‘big boss’ Chris Meledandri keep a blockbuster machine humming

Summary

Chris Meledandri, founder and CEO of Illumination, recently received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Illumination has made many popular family movies, earning more than $11 billion worldwide since 2010, and continues to lead the market with hits like “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” and the upcoming “Minions & Monsters.”

Key Facts

  • Chris Meledandri is the founder and CEO of Illumination, a film animation studio.
  • Illumination received a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in early 2026.
  • The studio’s first major movie, "Despicable Me," came out in 2010.
  • Illumination’s films have grossed over $11 billion at the global box office.
  • “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” is the only movie to earn $1 billion in 2026 so far.
  • “Minions & Monsters” premieres at the Annecy Film Festival and opens in theaters on July 1, 2026.
  • “Minions & Monsters” is the seventh film in the “Despicable Me” series and the third standalone “Minions” movie.
  • The movie is set in 1920s Hollywood and features the Minions making a monster film, with Jeff Bridges voicing a studio head.
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Movie Review: Supergirl is a blast, but the movie doesn’t match her punk-rock spirit

Movie Review: Supergirl is a blast, but the movie doesn’t match her punk-rock spirit

Summary

The movie "Supergirl," directed by Craig Gillespie and starring Milly Alcock, shows a punk-style Supergirl who travels through space and avoids traditional superhero norms. While Alcock’s performance and the film’s creative space setting receive praise, the story and supporting cast do not match her energy.

Key Facts

  • "Supergirl" features Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, a more casual and rebellious version of the superhero.
  • The movie's setting is mostly in outer space rather than on Earth.
  • Kara avoids wearing the typical superhero costume, opting for a Blondie T-shirt instead.
  • Kara journeys through space in a damaged spaceship and visits various sci-fi locations.
  • The story is inspired by the comic series “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow.”
  • Kara is drawn into a conflict when space pirates kill a young girl’s family and poison her dog Krypto.
  • The film was directed by Craig Gillespie and is part of the DC Universe under James Gunn.
  • Critics say the supporting characters and story do not fully match the lead character’s punk style and energy.
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Wildfire southwest of Denver forces thousands to evacuate and destroys more than 160 structures

Wildfire southwest of Denver forces thousands to evacuate and destroys more than 160 structures

Summary

A large wildfire southwest of Denver has forced thousands of people to leave their homes and destroyed over 160 buildings. The fire, called Aspen Acres, has grown quickly due to dry weather and strong winds, covering nearly 105 square miles with no containment yet.

Key Facts

  • The Aspen Acres fire is burning in two Colorado counties near Denver.
  • Over 160 structures have been destroyed by the fire.
  • Thousands of residents from Colorado City, Beulah, Rye, and San Isabel have been evacuated.
  • The fire has expanded by 17 square miles overnight and now covers about 105 square miles.
  • Firefighters are using water from Pueblo Reservoir to fight the fire.
  • About 50 National Guard soldiers are helping with road checkpoints and safety operations.
  • Dry weather and low snow last winter have made wildfires worse in the western U.S.
  • Other wildfires in the region, like the Snyder Fire and Cottonwood fire, are also burning large areas.
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Preliminary report didn’t flag an engine failure before a skydiving plane crash that killed 12

Preliminary report didn’t flag an engine failure before a skydiving plane crash that killed 12

Summary

A preliminary report by federal investigators found no evidence of engine failure or major mechanical problems before a skydiving plane crash in Missouri that killed all 12 people on board. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are still examining other factors that may have caused the crash.

Key Facts

  • The plane crashed on June 14, 2026, near Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri, killing 12 people including experienced skydivers.
  • The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found no engine failure or serious mechanical problems before the crash.
  • Fuel tested after the crash was clean, with no debris or sediment detected.
  • The plane met required weight and balance limits for the flight.
  • The aircraft was not equipped with a black box (voice or data recorder) because it was not required.
  • Investigators recovered damaged GoPro cameras from the wreckage, which may help with the investigation.
  • The plane went into a left turn shortly after takeoff and then crashed nose-first into a field, catching fire.
  • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing skydiving safety regulations but has not yet adopted recommended safety improvements.
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Take the Independence Day quiz

Take the Independence Day quiz

Summary

The article presents a quiz about the history of Independence Day in the United States. It tests readers' knowledge about important facts related to the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution.

Key Facts

  • Independence Day became a federal holiday in 1941.
  • The Declaration of Independence was not signed on July 4, 1776, but on a different date.
  • King George III was the monarch during the American Revolution.
  • Patrick Henry is known for saying, “Give me liberty or give me death!”
  • John Hancock has the largest signature on the Declaration of Independence.
  • France helped the American colonists financially and militarily during the Revolutionary War.
  • Some presidents, including John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, died on July 4.
  • Thomas Jefferson was on the committee that wrote the Declaration of Independence, but not all committee members signed it.
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US Host Cities Bucking Trend of Underwhelming World Cup Boost

US Host Cities Bucking Trend of Underwhelming World Cup Boost

Summary

Cities in the U.S. hosting games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are seeing more spending by visitors, especially from people traveling in for the matches. This rise in consumer spending contrasts with past concerns that the World Cup might not bring much economic benefit to host cities.

Key Facts

  • Consumer spending rose 5.4% in the 16 cities hosting World Cup matches from June 10 to 28, compared to last year.
  • Nonlocal visitors (people from outside the cities) increased their spending by 17.4%.
  • FIFA predicted the World Cup would add $80.1 billion globally, with $30.5 billion for the U.S. and around 185,000 new jobs.
  • Before the event, some hotels in host cities reported fewer bookings and unsold tickets due to high prices and travel problems.
  • Past research showed 12 of the last 14 World Cup host cities had economic losses, including a $9.3 billion total loss for host cities in the 1994 U.S. tournament.
  • Early data shows cities like Seattle and Los Angeles, where the U.S. team played, had higher spending increases of 5.0% and 6.8%.
  • Short-term rental demand rose during match days in cities like Dallas and Kansas City, but the increase in available rentals prevented big occupancy gains.
  • Analysts will fully evaluate the economic impact after the tournament ends.
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Man charged with manslaughter over Tesla crash originally blamed on car’s self-driving mode

Man charged with manslaughter over Tesla crash originally blamed on car’s self-driving mode

Summary

A man named Michael Butler has been charged with manslaughter after crashing his Tesla Model 3 into a home near Houston, killing a 76-year-old woman inside. Butler and Tesla's self-driving technology are both under investigation, and the woman’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against them.

Key Facts

  • The crash happened on June 19 in Katy, a Houston suburb, and the victim was Martha Avila, aged 76.
  • Michael Butler, 44, was driving the Tesla, which he said was in self-driving mode at the time.
  • Butler was arrested and is held on $150,000 bail, with a court hearing set for July 6.
  • Investigators found Butler was not intoxicated and he cooperated with them.
  • Tesla officials said Butler pressed the accelerator fully, overriding the self-driving system.
  • The victim’s family filed a lawsuit accusing Tesla of negligence and failure to warn about defects in autopilot and full self-driving features.
  • Federal agencies NTSB and NHTSA are investigating the crash; NHTSA has many ongoing investigations into Tesla’s driver-assistance systems.
  • Tesla recalls and safety concerns have increased as autopilot systems require drivers to stay attentive at all times.
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EU ‘tech sovereignty’: Uncoupling from the US and China?

EU ‘tech sovereignty’: Uncoupling from the US and China?

Summary

The European Union (EU) wants to become more independent in technology by reducing its reliance on companies from the US and China. The EU presented a plan called the "Tech Sovereignty Package" to increase the use of digital products and services made within Europe.

Key Facts

  • The EU depends on non-European companies for over 80% of its digital products and services.
  • The "Tech Sovereignty Package" was introduced in early June 2026 to boost Europe’s tech independence.
  • The EU aims to be more self-reliant not only in tech but also in defense and energy supplies.
  • Members of the EU Parliament have called the global situation unstable and described it as dominated by bullies.
  • The initiative is part of a broader effort to achieve true technological sovereignty for the EU.
  • The discussion about tech sovereignty considers the current geopolitical tensions involving the US and China.
  • The European Commission leads efforts to strengthen Europe’s position in technology on the world stage.
  • The debate is linked to other topics like artificial intelligence and digital innovation in Europe.
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Authorities will have radiation-detecting aircraft to guard July Fourth celebrations

Authorities will have radiation-detecting aircraft to guard July Fourth celebrations

Summary

Authorities will use advanced technology and high security to protect the United States' 250th birthday celebrations on July Fourth. In Washington, D.C., the National Mall events will have the highest security level ever, including radiation-detecting aircraft and the ability to take control of drones.

Key Facts

  • The FBI and other agencies are dedicating many resources to protect July Fourth events and the FIFA World Cup.
  • The National Mall celebrations are designated as a "National Special Security Event," with security similar to presidential inaugurations.
  • Attendees must go through security checkpoints before entering the National Mall, unlike previous years when people could enter freely.
  • Nearly 19 miles of anti-scale fencing and 3.5 miles of road closures are set up around the Mall.
  • The Potomac River near the event is closed for 3 miles to ensure safety.
  • Radiation-detecting aircraft and teams with radiation detectors will monitor the area for any nuclear threats.
  • The government can take control of drones to protect the events and identify drone operators.
  • Thousands of federal agents and police officers will work despite hot weather to maintain security.
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I used to revere the great experiment that is the United States. After Trump, I’m not so sure | Jonathan Freedland

I used to revere the great experiment that is the United States. After Trump, I’m not so sure | Jonathan Freedland

Summary

The United States is celebrating 250 years since its founding, but the nation remains divided and faces serious challenges. The article discusses concerns about President Donald Trump's approach to power, the country's historical contradictions, and the ongoing struggle to maintain its democratic ideals.

Key Facts

  • The US marks 250 years since its independence from Britain.
  • The nation is divided and some people worry about the strength of its democracy.
  • The founding documents claim all men are equal but originally excluded women and accepted slavery.
  • Historical leaders like Franklin Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln also expanded presidential power during crises.
  • President Trump has been accused of seeking excessive power, profiting personally from his position, and making decisions that weaken the US internationally.
  • Trump and his vice president aim to change the idea of American identity to focus more on ethnic heritage than shared ideals.
  • The US military and economy remain powerful, especially with an advantage in artificial intelligence (AI).
  • The article questions whether the US can continue to overcome its flaws as it has in the past.
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Germany’s Merz defends NATO spending after Trump calls it ‘ridiculous’

Germany’s Merz defends NATO spending after Trump calls it ‘ridiculous’

Summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Germany’s NATO defence spending after President Donald Trump criticized it as too low and unfair. Merz said Germany plans to double its defence budget in four years and meet NATO’s spending goals ahead of schedule.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump called NATO members’ defence spending "ridiculous" and "one-sided" in recent social media posts.
  • Trump said Germany’s defence spending is much lower than that of the US and other NATO allies, especially between 2014 and 2025.
  • Chancellor Merz stated Germany will double its defence budget within four years to strengthen its military.
  • Germany aims to reach NATO’s defence spending target of 3.5% of GDP by 2029, earlier than the 2035 deadline.
  • NATO leaders agreed to increase defence spending goals from 2% to 3.5% of GDP by 2035.
  • Relations between the US and Europe have been tense during President Trump’s terms, with disagreements over military actions and alliances.
  • Trump criticized European allies for not joining the US-led war effort against Iran.
  • Trump announced a plan to withdraw 5,000 US troops from Germany amid tensions.
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UK Finding Copy of US Declaration of Independence ‘Astonishing’—Historian

UK Finding Copy of US Declaration of Independence ‘Astonishing’—Historian

Summary

A volunteer at the British National Archives found a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence printed in Exeter, New Hampshire, just after the U.S. declared independence in 1776. This copy is one of the few surviving early prints and connects British and American history ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Key Facts

  • The document was found by Michael Scurr, a volunteer cataloging letters at the British National Archives.
  • It is an Exeter broadside of the Declaration of Independence printed between July 16-19, 1776.
  • Only 10 other copies of this Exeter printing were known before this discovery.
  • The copy was taken from the papers of the American ship Dalton, which was captured by the British in December 1776.
  • The Exeter broadsides were printed on rag-made paper, made from cloth fibers, not high-quality paper.
  • These broadsides were intended for local people in New Hampshire and not made to last a long time.
  • Most early copies that ended up in British archives were captured by British officers during the American Revolutionary War.
  • The only signed original Declaration is kept in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
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Iowa Tells Stores It Can Sell Soda, Candy to SNAP Recipients Again

Iowa Tells Stores It Can Sell Soda, Candy to SNAP Recipients Again

Summary

Iowa has been told to allow SNAP recipients to use their benefits to buy soda, candy, and other foods again after a federal court ruled against the state's "Healthy SNAP" waiver. The court said the USDA did not have the power to approve rules that limit what SNAP benefits can buy, so Iowa must follow the original federal rules.

Key Facts

  • Iowa's "Healthy SNAP" waiver restricted buying soda, candy, and other sugary foods with SNAP benefits starting January 1, 2026.
  • A federal judge ruled on June 22 that the USDA cannot approve such waivers that limit eligible SNAP food purchases.
  • The ruling overturned similar waivers in Iowa, Colorado, Nebraska, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
  • SNAP benefits can now again be used to buy all foods allowed before the Iowa waiver, except alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods ready to eat.
  • Iowa retailers have been told to update their systems quickly to allow SNAP for all eligible foods again.
  • The waiver was part of the Trump Administration’s "Make America Healthy Again" agenda, led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
  • Iowa’s governor, Kim Reynolds, supports the restrictions to promote healthy eating and reduce obesity.
  • Despite the ruling, Iowa plans to continue seeking federal approval for restrictions through legislation.
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London has lost ‘catastrophic’ 89% of car club vehicles since Zipcar exit

London has lost ‘catastrophic’ 89% of car club vehicles since Zipcar exit

Summary

The number of car club vehicles in London dropped by 89% after Zipcar stopped its service at the end of 2025. Many former users are now thinking about buying or leasing their own cars, as other car club companies have not yet expanded enough to fill the gap.

Key Facts

  • London had 2,800 car club vehicles before Zipcar left, but only 330 remained six months later.
  • Zipcar is a US company that was the main provider of car clubs in London and ended its service in December 2025.
  • A survey showed 9% of former Zipcar users have bought or leased a car, and 55% are thinking about it.
  • Other car club firms like Free2move, Enterprise, and Co Wheels are considering expanding but have not made big moves yet.
  • Peer-to-peer car sharing platforms like Hiyacar and Turo have more interest but depend on private car owners listing cars.
  • Car clubs help reduce the need for private cars and lower carbon emissions, but some struggle to be profitable.
  • London's lack of consistent rules across boroughs makes it hard to set up car clubs.
  • Transport for London manages other shared transport options centrally, like dockless e-bikes, but not car clubs.
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What New Medicare Rule Changes Could Mean for Patient Costs

What New Medicare Rule Changes Could Mean for Patient Costs

Summary

The Trump administration has proposed changes to Medicare payments for outpatient care that aim to lower costs for patients. The plan includes cutting payments for drugs bought through a special discount program and paying the same for certain services regardless of where they are done, but hospitals warn these cuts could hurt care for low-income patients.

Key Facts

  • The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released a rule to change Medicare payments for outpatient care.
  • The rule would reduce Medicare payments for drugs bought under the 340B program, which helps hospitals serving low-income patients.
  • The proposal aims to make health care more affordable and reduce payment differences based on location.
  • Hospitals say the cuts could reduce funding for providers who care for vulnerable populations.
  • The rule would increase outpatient care payments by 2.4% starting in 2027, slightly less than last year’s 2.6% increase.
  • Medicare would pay less for some outpatient drugs, potentially lowering out-of-pocket costs for patients in the short term.
  • CMS plans to expand "site-neutral" payments, meaning some hospital outpatient services would be paid at the same rate as doctor’s offices.
  • The changes seek to align drug payments closer to actual hospital acquisition costs.
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List of Stores, Restaurants Giving Discounts and Freebies for July 4th

List of Stores, Restaurants Giving Discounts and Freebies for July 4th

Summary

Many restaurants and stores are offering special discounts and promotions for the Fourth of July holiday. These deals range from free desserts to discounted meals and sweepstakes, celebrating the United States' 250th anniversary.

Key Facts

  • TGI Fridays offers a free dessert with an entrée purchase on July 4 for dine-in customers.
  • Grimaldi's sells an 18-inch cheese pizza for $17.76 from July 1 to July 5 with an online promo code.
  • 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes have several deals like buy-one-get-one-free burritos and discounted frozen margaritas.
  • Captain D’s and PepsiCo are running a sweepstakes for a seven-night Alaska cruise holiday package.
  • Burger King app users can buy a Whopper Jr. for $2.50 on July 4.
  • KFC offers a 12-piece chicken bucket for $15 through July 11.
  • Sonic Drive-In has a $2.50 menu featuring items like cheeseburgers and hot dogs until July 12.
  • Some discounts need app purchases or loyalty memberships and may vary by location.
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Democrats seize on Trump earnings to go after GOP on affordability

Democrats seize on Trump earnings to go after GOP on affordability

Summary

President Donald Trump earned over $2 billion in 2025 while in office, with $1.2 billion coming from cryptocurrency. Democrats are using this information to highlight the contrast between the president’s wealth and the economic challenges many Americans face ahead of the midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • President Trump made more than $2 billion in 2025.
  • $1.2 billion of that income came from cryptocurrency.
  • These earnings were made while he was serving as president.
  • The financial disclosures were released on Tuesday.
  • Democrats are using the information to criticize Trump and the GOP.
  • The focus is on affordability and economic issues affecting Americans.
  • The upcoming midterm elections are the political context for this debate.
  • Many Americans are facing rising prices and a weak job market.
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How to keep the American republic another 250 years and beyond

How to keep the American republic another 250 years and beyond

Summary

The article discusses the challenge of maintaining the American democratic republic over time. It highlights that founding the republic was difficult, but preserving it for future generations is even more complex.

Key Facts

  • Benjamin Franklin recognized that creating the American republic was challenging.
  • He believed that keeping the republic strong is a harder task.
  • The focus is on sustaining democracy in the United States for many years.
  • The article looks at ways to protect American democratic values.
  • It emphasizes the need for ongoing effort to preserve the republic.
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