A man in Southwest Florida named Michael VanEtten found a large number of fossilized shark teeth while searching in the Peace River. This area is well-known for fossil hunting, and VanEtten has been collecting fossils there for many years. The find included teeth from several prehistoric shark species.
Key Facts
Michael VanEtten found fossilized shark teeth in the Peace River, Florida.
VanEtten has been collecting fossils in Florida rivers and streams for most of his life.
The Peace River is popular with both paleontologists and amateur fossil hunters.
Fossils found there can include teeth from different types of sharks and prehistoric mammals.
Florida has a rich fossil history with discoveries dating back over 50 million years.
Finding fossils like giant ground sloths and saber-toothed cats is not uncommon in the area.
Fossil hunting is popular in Florida due to its unique geology and large public lands.
VanEtten shared his discoveries on Reddit to connect with other fossil enthusiasts.
Robert Redford, a famous Oscar-winning actor and director, has died at 89. He passed away in his sleep at his home in Utah. Redford was known for his roles in films like "The Sting" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and won an Oscar for directing "Ordinary People."
Key Facts
Robert Redford died at the age of 89.
His death was announced by Cindi Berger, a representative from a publicity firm.
Redford passed away in his sleep at his home in Utah.
He was an Oscar-winning actor and director, known for movies like "The Sting" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid."
He won an Oscar for Best Director for the film "Ordinary People" in 1981.
Redford had announced plans to retire from acting soon to focus on directing.
He was also active in environmental advocacy, speaking on issues like the dangers of chemicals.
Redford was a well-known public figure in both the film industry and environmental activism.
The IRS and Treasury Department have set new rules for "catch-up" retirement contributions for older workers under the SECURE 2.0 Act. This law affects how higher-income workers aged 50 and older should allocate extra retirement savings, switching these contributions to Roth accounts. The changes aim to improve retirement savings and simplify plan use for employees and employers.
Key Facts
The IRS finalized rules on catch-up contributions for older workers.
Catch-up contributions are extra retirement savings for employees aged 50 and older.
Under SECURE 2.0, higher-income workers must make catch-up contributions as Roth contributions, meaning they pay taxes on the money now.
Roth contributions grow tax-free and can be withdrawn tax-free if certain conditions are met.
The SECURE 2.0 Act was signed into law in December 2022.
The new Roth requirements mainly start in 2027, affecting contributions for years beginning after December 31, 2026.
There are exceptions for certain government and collectively bargained plans with later start dates.
The IRS made adjustments to the final rules based on public feedback, allowing more flexibility in wage aggregation for the Roth option.
Three tropical waves are developing in the Atlantic Ocean. One wave may become Tropical Storm Gabrielle. Two more waves have the potential to form into storms.
Key Facts
Three tropical disturbances are happening in the Atlantic.
One of these has a high chance of becoming Tropical Storm Gabrielle.
The National Hurricane Center states this system has an 80% chance to turn into a tropical depression or storm in 48 hours.
It could become a tropical storm, when winds hit 39 mph, and a hurricane when winds reach 74 mph.
Two other waves might turn into tropical systems, but their chances are lower at this time.
The first wave is between the Windward Islands and West Africa.
The season is currently at its peak for storm activity.
It is not certain if these storms will affect the United States directly.
Category: sports
The Toronto Blue Jays are doing well this season but are currently without their key player, Bo Bichette, due to a knee injury. The team is considering letting him play as a designated hitter, a less physically demanding role, as he recovers. They aim to have him back before the playoffs.
Key Facts
The Blue Jays have the best record in the American League.
Shortstop Bo Bichette is a crucial player for the team.
Bichette is out with a knee sprain and is on the injured list.
He got a second opinion on his injury, which the team says is normal.
The team may use Bichette as a designated hitter upon his return.
The Blue Jays want him back in action before the playoffs start.
Aaron Judge from the Yankees faced a similar situation with an injury.
New research shows that hearing a baby's cry makes people's faces get warmer. This happens because the body automatically responds to the distress in the cry, which involves complex sounds called "nonlinear phenomena." The study involved adults with little baby-care experience, and it found that both men and women had the same reaction.
Key Facts
Hearing a baby's cry activates the body's automatic system that controls unconscious processes like breathing.
The cries of the babies included complex sounds known as "nonlinear phenomena" (NLP), which are hard to ignore.
Scientists tested this by playing 23 different baby cries to 41 participants who had experience with babies.
While listening, a special camera measured changes in the participants' facial temperatures.
Participants' faces got warmer, especially when the cry sounded more distressing due to high levels of NLP.
The study found that both men and women showed the same increase in facial temperature when hearing a cry.
The study only included adults with little baby-care experience, so results may differ for parents or caregivers.
The study used natural baby cry recordings, which means it wasn't possible to control the specific cry elements.
Luke Weaver, a pitcher for the New York Yankees, gave up five runs in a short period during a game against the Minnesota Twins, resulting in a 7-0 loss. This loss makes it more difficult for the Yankees to win the American League East division, as they trail the Toronto Blue Jays by five games with 12 games left in the season.
Key Facts
The Yankees played and lost to the Minnesota Twins 7-0.
Luke Weaver allowed five runs in one-third of an inning.
The Yankees are five games behind the Blue Jays with 12 games remaining in the season.
The Yankees' bullpen has been inconsistent during the season.
The Yankees do not play any more games against division contenders in the regular season.
Winning the division is harder for the Yankees because the Blue Jays hold the tiebreaker in head-to-head games.
The Blue Jays have an easier schedule but do face the Boston Red Sox.
Luke Weaver described his performance as "trash" after the game.
A woman shared a viral TikTok video about her experience rescuing a stray cat named Mochi over three weeks. Initially cautious and frightened, the cat eventually warmed up to her and was brought into a loving home. The video received a positive response online, with viewers praising the woman's perseverance and kindness.
Key Facts
A woman documented her efforts to rescue a stray cat on TikTok.
The video showed the cat, Mochi, initially scared and searching for food.
Over three weeks, the woman built trust with the cat by consistently feeding her.
The video has received over 153,000 views.
Mochi was left behind by her previous owners but found a new home with the woman.
The story resonated with internet users, who shared similar experiences.
Many praised the woman's dedication and kindness in rescuing the cat.
The body of Demartravion "Trey" Reed, a student at Delta State University in Mississippi, was found hanging from a tree on campus. Police currently see no signs that a crime was involved. An investigation is ongoing.
Key Facts
Demartravion "Trey" Reed was a 21-year-old student at Delta State University.
His body was discovered on campus hanging from a tree.
The incident happened on a Monday morning.
Police at Delta State University are investigating his death.
Currently, there is no evidence that anyone else was involved in his death.
The event has gained considerable attention, especially online.
This situation is still unfolding, meaning new information may come out later.
Trey Yesavage made his debut for the Toronto Blue Jays against the Tampa Bay Rays and set a new team record for strikeouts in a major league debut. In five innings, he struck out nine batters, showcasing his talent and potential contribution to the team's postseason goals.
Key Facts
Trey Yesavage debuted for the Toronto Blue Jays in mid-September.
He is a 22-year-old pitcher from Pennsylvania.
Yesavage played against the Tampa Bay Rays in his first game.
He pitched five innings, allowing one run, three hits, and two walks.
Yesavage set a new franchise record with nine strikeouts in a debut.
He was drafted last summer and played in the minor leagues earlier this year.
The Blue Jays see Yesavage as someone who can help in their postseason efforts.
The United States, under President Donald Trump, added Colombia to a list of countries it says have not cooperated in the fight against drugs. Colombian President Gustavo Petro disagreed with this decision, saying that Colombia has made significant efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Key Facts
The U.S. labeled Colombia as failing in its drug control efforts.
The list includes other countries like Afghanistan, Bolivia, Myanmar, and Venezuela.
President Gustavo Petro expressed frustration with this U.S. decision.
Petro highlighted Colombia's efforts in seizing cocaine and dismantling drug labs.
He argued that coca crop growth occurred under a previous government, not his.
Petro blamed a failure in U.S. drug policy rather than Colombia's efforts.
Decertification could lead to cuts in U.S. aid but can be waived.
The U.S. recently conducted a military strike on a Venezuelan drug vessel.
Attorney General Pam Bondi faced backlash from supporters of the MAGA movement after discussing the difference between free speech and hate speech on a podcast. The debate occurred amid reactions to the recent death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed at a college event, highlighting concerns over rising political violence in the United States.
Key Facts
Pam Bondi discussed free speech on The Katie Miller Podcast, questioning the boundaries between free speech and hate speech.
Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University.
Kirk's death has caused widespread reactions, including grief from supporters and criticism from others.
The Trump administration responded to those celebrating Kirk's death, including revoking visas and urging the public to report such behavior.
Bondi referred to increasing antisemitism and pro-Palestinian protests at college campuses in her comments.
The backlash against Bondi came from MAGA supporters who disagreed with her stance on hate speech.
Bondi's comments were made in the context of growing concerns over political violence in the U.S.
A dog named Caiman, living at the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in Florida, is trying to get adopted by watching people through his kennel. Despite his friendly nature and recovery from a skin infection, Caiman has been in the shelter since June 6. Large breed restrictions in housing are one reason why dogs like Caiman are often overlooked by adopters.
Key Facts
Caiman is a 2-year-old American Bulldog mix living in a Florida shelter.
A video of Caiman looking at people from his kennel went viral online.
He was found as a stray and treated for demodectic mange, a skin condition.
Caiman has been trained by the shelter's team and is eager to please.
In 2024, about 5 million animals entered shelters in the U.S., a rise from 2023.
Stray animals make up 60% of community intakes in shelters.
Housing rules in South Florida often restrict large dogs, affecting adoptions.
Caiman enjoys interacting with people and other dogs and hopes to find a family soon.
India and the United States are holding a day of trade discussions to explore ways to resume stalled negotiations on a trade agreement. The talks come after US President Donald Trump imposed high tariffs on Indian goods, affecting exports and straining relations between the two countries. The meeting is being watched closely as both sides aim to address key disagreements, especially in agriculture and dairy sectors.
Key Facts
India and the US are meeting for a day to discuss trade talks that had stalled.
US trade negotiator Brendan Lynch is leading the US team in Delhi.
President Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, affecting trade relations.
India continues to buy Russian oil, which has contributed to tensions.
India is a major exporter of garments, shrimp, gems, and jewelry to the US.
Agriculture and dairy access to India are major points of contention in negotiations.
Recent discussions signal a possible softening of positions by both countries.
The US Commerce Secretary criticized India for restricting access to its agricultural market.
A tribute video was shared online by friends of Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee who was fatally stabbed on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina, in August. Decarlos Brown Jr., the suspect, has been charged with first-degree murder. Zarutska's death has prompted discussions about mental health policies and urban crime.
Key Facts
Iryna Zarutska was a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee living in Charlotte, North Carolina.
She was killed on a Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Blue Line train on August 22.
Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, is charged with first-degree murder for the crime.
Friends shared a video montage on Instagram celebrating Zarutska's life in the U.S.
Zarutska moved to the U.S. following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The suspect, Brown, has a history of arrests and schizophrenia.
Zarutska's death has raised discussions about crime and mental health policies in cities.
The Department of Justice plans to federally prosecute Brown, with potential life imprisonment or execution if convicted.
Attorney General Pam Bondi is taking steps to address what she describes as "hate speech" related to threats of violence, following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Bondi says certain threats violate U.S. law and are not protected by free speech, leading to criticism from some conservative voices online who see it as a restriction on First Amendment rights.
Key Facts
Pam Bondi is the Attorney General defending actions against "hate speech" after Charlie Kirk's death.
Bondi states that threats of violence are crimes under U.S. law, citing specific legal codes.
There is a strong reaction from MAGA supporters who see Bondi's actions as an attack on free speech.
Bondi emphasizes that violent threats are not protected by the First Amendment.
Some conservatives are calling for employers to take action against individuals celebrating Kirk's death.
Conservative influencer Savanah Hernandez calls Bondi's stance on hate speech destructive.
Mike Cernovich, another conservative figure, expresses skepticism about Bondi's approach.
Tyler Robinson, accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, is set to appear remotely in a Utah court for his first hearing, where prosecutors are expected to charge him with murder. Separately, FBI Director Kash Patel will testify before Congress regarding his handling of the investigation into Kirk's death.
Key Facts
Tyler Robinson is the suspect in the shooting of Charlie Kirk.
Robinson is expected to appear in court remotely via video.
He was arrested on suspicion of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm.
Aggravated murder in Utah can lead to a death sentence or life in prison.
Robinson has no prior convictions and is currently held without bail.
FBI Director Kash Patel will testify before Congress concerning his handling of the investigation.
Patel's testimony will cover both the Kirk case and his overall leadership of the FBI.
A kitten went viral after it was returned to its original owner just three hours after being adopted because it wasn't immediately cuddly. The viral post highlighted a common suggestion, known as the "3-3-3 rule," which helps rescue animals adjust to new homes by giving them time to settle. Many people online supported the decision to keep the kitten, criticizing the adopters for not giving it enough time.
Key Facts
A kitten was returned three hours after being adopted for not being cuddly enough.
The originally intended adopter wanted a cat that would sit on their lap all the time.
The "3-3-3 rule" suggests rescuers give new pets three days to settle, three weeks to adjust, and three months for ongoing training.
The original owner decided to keep the kitten after its immediate return.
The story gained viral attention on Reddit, gathering 20,000 upvotes in less than a day.
Many Reddit users supported the original owner and criticized the adopters for their impatience.
Keon Coleman is showing strong performance as a wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills. He is becoming a key player for quarterback Josh Allen, especially after his standout games in the early 2025 NFL season against the Ravens and the Jets.
Key Facts
The Buffalo Bills have been looking for a leading receiver since drafting Josh Allen in 2018.
Keon Coleman, in his second NFL season, is emerging as a possible No. 1 receiver for the team.
As a rookie, Coleman recorded 556 yards and four touchdowns.
In the 2025 season, he caught eight passes for 112 yards and a touchdown in Week 1 against the Ravens.
He showed a smaller performance in Week 2 against the Jets, with three catches for 26 yards.
Coleman's target share was 23.9% in Week 1 and 12% in Week 2.
He is on track to gain 1,104 yards this season, which is double his total from his rookie year.
Fewer Canadians are searching for homes to buy in the U.S., with a noticeable decline of nearly 20% over the past year. This is impacting places like Florida, where many Canadians used to buy homes. Several reasons for this change include tariffs, political views, and rising costs in the U.S. housing market.
Key Facts
Canadian interest in buying U.S. homes fell by about 20% from the previous year.
Florida, a popular location for Canadian buyers, has seen a significant drop in interest.
Canadian searches for U.S. homes hit their lowest point in April, down 34.2% compared to the previous year.
Tariffs announced by President Trump are one factor contributing to the decline in interest.
A Pew Research Center survey found more Canadians view the U.S. as a top threat, compared to their views on China in 2019.
In 2024, Canadians made up 13% of foreign buyers in the U.S., purchasing $5.9 billion in real estate.
The decrease in Canadian interest is also due to higher home insurance, association fees, and property taxes in places like Florida.
Florida's housing market has slowed, with home sales dropping 7.3% and available homes increasing by 9.3% in July.
