US News - The Actual News

Simon Jack: Will the water industry proposals make any difference?

July 21, 2025

A major review of the water industry in England and Wales suggests significant changes, including the removal of the current regulator, Ofwat. The review highlights the need for extensive investment to address issues like leaks and outdated systems, with water bills expected to increase by 30% over the next five years to fund these improvements.

Key Facts:

The review recommends 88 changes to the water industry in England and Wales.
The current regulator, Ofwat, might be replaced under the new proposals.
Issues in the industry include leaking pipes, sewage spills, and underinvestment.
Water companies plan to invest over £100 billion to improve systems in the next five years.
To support this investment, water bills could rise by 30%.
Key challenges highlighted include climate change and replacing old infrastructure.
The report suggests that past efforts focused more on keeping bills low rather than investing in infrastructure.

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BBC Business

Fire on Indonesia ferry kills three, over 500 passengers jump to safety

July 21, 2025

A ferry caught fire near the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, leading to the deaths of three people while more than 500 others were rescued. Passengers had to jump into the sea to escape the flames and smoke, and rescue teams continue to search for more survivors.

Key Facts:

A ferry caught fire near the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Three people died, and over 500 people were rescued.
Passengers jumped into the sea wearing life jackets as the ferry burned.
The fire started on the upper deck, according to officials.
Rescue teams used a coastguard ship, six rescue vessels, and inflatable boats.
The ferry's log showed 280 passengers and 15 crew members were onboard, below its 600-person capacity.
Indonesia regularly experiences marine accidents often due to poor safety measures or bad weather.
Recent similar incidents include a ferry sinking near Bali and another boat capsizing off Bali.

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Al Jazeera

Ecuador’s biggest drug lord ‘Fito’ extradited to US, to plead ‘not guilty’

July 21, 2025

Adolfo Macias Villamar, an Ecuadorean gang leader also known as "Fito," is set to appear in a US federal court to plead not guilty to charges of drug and weapons trafficking. He was extradited to the US by Ecuador after being recaptured following an escape from prison. Macias is accused of crimes related to drug trafficking and has ties to major international drug cartels.

Key Facts:

Adolfo Macias Villamar, also known as "Fito," is a leader of the Los Choneros gang in Ecuador.
He was serving a 34-year sentence for crimes like drug trafficking, organized crime, and murder.
Macias escaped from a maximum-security prison in 2024 but was later recaptured.
Ecuador extradited him to the US, where he faces charges of cocaine distribution and weapons smuggling.
Macias will plead not guilty in a federal court in Brooklyn, New York.
He is the first Ecuadorean extradited under a new law aimed at fighting criminal gangs.
Los Choneros gang has connections with international drug cartels, including Mexico's Sinaloa cartel and Colombia's Gulf Clan.
Ecuador has seen increased drug-related violence and is a significant transit point for cocaine.

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Al Jazeera

Morning news brief

July 21, 2025

The news brief covers three main topics: Israeli military actions in Gaza, legal proceedings involving Harvard and Donald Trump, and Texas Republicans' plans to change congressional district boundaries.

Key Facts:

Israeli military is attacking Palestinians in Gaza.
The attacks are impacting Palestinians who are trying to get help.
Lawyers representing Harvard and Donald Trump are in court for a legal dispute.
Texas Republicans are planning a special session to change congressional district boundaries.
The redistricting could affect how people vote in future elections.

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NPR World

'Missing meals to feed my children is the norm'

July 21, 2025

Families in Coventry, England, are facing difficulties due to rising food prices. A social supermarket called the Grub Hub provides discounted food parcels to help families. It serves as vital support for parents who struggle to feed their children, especially when school meals are unavailable.

Key Facts:

The Grub Hub in Coventry offers discounted food packages to families.
Rising food costs have made it hard for families to buy enough food.
Parents describe the lack of school meals during breaks as a serious problem.
Claire, a parent, often skips meals so her children can eat.
Precious, another parent, initially felt embarrassed using the service but now values the community there.
Users pay a small membership fee for discounted groceries to feel like they are contributing.
Diane Williams, from Moathouse Community Trust, said many families are finding it tough due to increased food prices.
The charity plans to provide food and activities for children during the summer.

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BBC Business

Firefighters battle a number of blazes in the U.S. Northwest

July 21, 2025

Firefighters are working to control multiple wildfires in the Northwest region of the United States. These fires are part of the ongoing wildfire season.

Key Facts:

Several wildfires are currently burning in the U.S. Northwest.
Firefighters are actively trying to contain these fires.
The wildfires are occurring during the typical wildfire season.
The affected area is located in the Northwest part of the United States.
The fires have been described as destructive, affecting land and possibly property.

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NPR National

Lawyers for Harvard and Trump square off in court in Boston

July 21, 2025

Harvard University is in a court battle with the Trump administration in Boston over a freeze on more than $2 billion in federal grants. The Trump administration claims Harvard failed to address antisemitism, while Harvard argues this freeze is illegal and harms research. Harvard seeks a quick judgment, but a final decision might still be far off, as either side could appeal.

Key Facts:

Harvard is challenging a federal funding freeze by the Trump administration.
The Trump administration alleges Harvard violated civil rights laws related to antisemitism.
Harvard argues the funding freeze violates the Administrative Procedure Act, which regulates how federal agencies make and enforce rules.
The lawsuit claims the funding cut will affect important research in medicine, science, and technology.
The court hearing will be held in Boston and is expected to last one day.
A ruling isn't expected to resolve the issue fully, as appeals are likely.
Many universities are watching the case because it could have widespread effects on federal funding for education.
Harvard claims the government is interfering with its academic freedom and decision-making on admissions and employment.

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NPR Home

Teens are trying to bulk up on protein supplements. What should parents watch for?

July 21, 2025

Many teenagers are using protein supplements, often influenced by social media and peer pressure. A study found that 40% of teens had used these supplements, with boys focusing on muscle gain and girls sometimes using them to replace meals. Experts warn that while most teens already get enough protein from their regular diets, excessive protein intake can be harmful.

Key Facts:

A study showed that 40% of teens used protein supplements last year.
Boys use these supplements mainly to build muscles; girls sometimes use them to replace meals.
Social media and influencers strongly influence teens' use of protein supplements.
Most teens already get enough protein from their regular food.
Too much protein can harm the kidneys and liver and cause stomach pain.
Safe protein intake depends on a person's body weight and activity level.
Protein supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Parents also play a role in encouraging protein supplement use.

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NPR Home

In the spotlight after floods, Texas lawmakers eye disaster plans amid FEMA uncertainty

July 21, 2025

Texas is holding a special legislative session after recent floods killed over 130 people. Lawmakers aim to fund recovery efforts and improve disaster preparedness. The session occurs while there is uncertainty about the future of FEMA, the federal agency responsible for disaster management.

Key Facts:

Recent floods in Texas Hill Country resulted in over 130 deaths.
Texas lawmakers are meeting to discuss recovery funding and future disaster protection.
President Trump and Governor Abbott toured flood-damaged areas.
There is uncertainty about FEMA's future, as there are proposals to reduce or eliminate it.
Governor Abbott called for the session to address flood-related issues and other political agendas.
One proposal includes installing sirens to warn of future dangers, like those used in Israel.
The session will include discussions on flood safety for youth camps and creating a disaster guide.
Texas might rely on federal disaster relief grants, but FEMA's role is uncertain.

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NPR Home

Trump has a welcome message for new citizens. It's different from past presidents

July 21, 2025

President Trump released a new video for naturalization ceremonies that welcomes new citizens. His message focused on becoming part of the "national family" and emphasized the importance of protecting American culture and values, which differs from past presidents who often highlighted the contributions of immigrants.

Key Facts:

Each president crafts a personalized message for new citizens during naturalization ceremonies.
President Trump's video message welcomed new citizens as part of the American "national family."
Trump emphasized the responsibility to protect American culture, including rights like freedom of speech and the right to bear arms.
Previous presidents often highlighted how immigrants enrich the U.S. and celebrated diversity.
Trump's message focused more on what the U.S. offers to new citizens, rather than celebrating their backgrounds.
Trump's video was released by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and will be used in future ceremonies.
Unlike previous presidents, Trump did not use the term "immigrant" in his message to new citizens.
Past presidents, like Biden, have acknowledged the immigrant journey and sacrifices in their speeches.

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NPR Home

U.S. coffee drinkers and businesses will pay the price for Trump's Brazil tariffs

July 21, 2025

President Trump plans to impose a 50% tariff on all goods from Brazil, impacting the U.S. coffee industry since Brazil supplies about 30% of U.S. coffee imports. The tariff could lead to higher coffee prices for consumers and create challenges for small coffee roasters.

Key Facts:

President Trump announced a 50% tariff on all goods from Brazil, starting August 1.
Brazil is the world's largest coffee producer, supplying about 30% of U.S. coffee imports.
The U.S. coffee industry is concerned the tariff will increase coffee prices.
Small coffee roasters fear their profit margins will shrink due to increased costs.
Additional tariffs are also planned for other coffee-producing countries like Vietnam, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Indonesia.
The Trump administration claims these tariffs are part of efforts to protect American jobs and renegotiate trade deals.
The tariffs are also said to be political measures related to Brazil’s past political issues.

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NPR Home

Ecuador extradites leader of violent Ecuadorian drug gang to the United States

July 21, 2025

Ecuador has sent José Adolfo Macías, also known as "Fito," to the United States. He is the leader of a violent gang involved in drug trafficking. U.S. authorities accuse him of smuggling large amounts of cocaine into the country.

Key Facts:

José Adolfo Macías, nicknamed "Fito," is the leader of the Los Choneros gang.
He was extradited from Ecuador to the United States.
U.S. authorities charged Macías with importing large quantities of cocaine.
Macías escaped from a prison in Ecuador but was recaptured later.
He led the gang since 2020, and the group collaborated with Mexican cartels.
The gang used hitmen, bribes, and military weapons.
Macías is the first person Ecuador extradited to the U.S.
Previously, two other Ecuadorian traffickers were extradited from Colombia.

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NPR Home

How Canada became the centre of a measles outbreak in North America

July 21, 2025

The article describes a measles outbreak in Canada, which has affected over 3,800 people in 2025. Most cases are in the provinces of Alberta and Ontario, with many infections occurring in communities with low vaccination rates.

Key Facts:

Canada has over 3,800 measles cases in 2025, primarily affecting children and infants.
This number is almost three times higher than measles cases in the United States.
Alberta is the province with the highest measles spread rate in North America.
Canada ranks eighth among the top 10 countries with measles outbreaks, according to CDC data.
The recent outbreak in Ontario began at a large Mennonite gathering where some communities have lower vaccination rates.
Measles cases in Canada have not been this high since the disease was declared eliminated in 1998.
The MMR vaccine is 97% effective and protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
The illness spread mainly in low-vaccination communities with cultural or religious beliefs against immunization.

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BBC World

WW2 veteran and TikTok star 'Papa' Jake Larson dies aged 102

July 20, 2025

Jake Larson, a respected WWII veteran known as 'Papa Jake' on TikTok, has passed away at the age of 102. He was part of the Allied forces during D-Day in 1944 and later became popular on social media, sharing war stories with over a million followers. Recently, he was awarded an Emmy for an interview about D-Day.

Key Facts:

Jake Larson was a WWII veteran who participated in D-Day in 1944.
He gained over 1.2 million followers on TikTok, sharing stories about the war.
Larson was 102 years old when he passed away on July 17.
He co-won an Emmy Award for a D-Day anniversary interview.
Before D-Day, he was stationed in Northern Ireland at age 19.
Larson visited Normandy several times in later years for commemorative events.
His granddaughter announced his death on TikTok and requested privacy for the family.

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BBC World

Trump threatens to derail Washington Commanders' new stadium deal over team name

July 20, 2025

Former President Trump has stated he might block a new stadium deal for the Washington Commanders unless the team changes back to its previous name, "Washington Redskins." Trump expressed his views on Truth Social, also suggesting that the Cleveland Guardians should revert to their former name, "Cleveland Indians."

Key Facts:

Former President Trump is threatening to interfere with a new stadium deal for the Washington Commanders unless the team changes its name back to "Washington Redskins."
The Washington Commanders changed their name in 2020 after criticism that the previous name was racist toward Indigenous people.
Trump shared his views on his social media platform, Truth Social, expressing support for the old team names.
Trump also suggested that the Cleveland Guardians change their name back to the "Cleveland Indians," a change made in 2021.
Activist Suzan Harjo has been advocating for name changes due to the racist connotations and historical violence associated with the old names.
The D.C. Council is considering a plan to redevelop the stadium site, with Congress granting the city control over the area.
There is no clear explanation of how Trump could affect the stadium project.
The Washington, D.C. mayor's office and the involved sports teams have not commented on Trump's statements.

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NPR Home

New water ombudsman will tackle leaks and overcharging

July 20, 2025

The UK government plans to introduce a new ombudsman to address issues like leaky pipes and overcharging by water companies. This move is part of larger efforts to reform the water industry following concerns over rising bills and pollution in waterways. The government aims to halve sewage discharges by 2030 and improve water quality regulations.

Key Facts:

The government will create a water ombudsman to help with complaints about water companies.
This is part of broader reforms to improve the water industry and address public concerns.
The Environment Secretary aims to cut sewage discharges by half by the year 2030.
A review by the Water Commission may suggest changes in how the water sector is regulated.
The Consumer Council for Water (CCW) will have more responsibilities under the new plan.
The government has not given a timeline for when the ombudsman will start but says it will have legal power in disputes.
Water companies have been criticized for high executive pay and under-investment.
A new investment of £104 billion over five years is planned to update the water infrastructure, with consumer bills expected to rise.

Source Information

BBC Business

Number of missing in deadly Texas floods drops to three

July 20, 2025

The floods in south central Texas reduced the number of missing people from 160 to three. The floods, caused by heavy rain, led to at least 135 deaths, including children at a summer camp. A coordinated search effort by thousands of officials helped account for many of the missing.

Key Facts:

The number of missing people after Texas floods dropped from 160 to three.
The floods on July 4 caused by heavy rain resulted in at least 135 deaths.
Children at a summer camp along the Guadalupe River were among those who died.
Kerrville was a central location in the search and rescue operations.
Thousands of officials worked tirelessly to find and account for missing people.
The Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in 45 minutes, contributing to the danger.
Factors like timing, cell service issues, and location increased the flood's impact.
President Donald Trump visited the affected area to show support.

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BBC US

Ellen DeGeneres: I moved to the UK because of Trump

July 20, 2025

Ellen DeGeneres moved from the U.S. to the UK, specifically to the Cotswolds, after Donald Trump was re-elected as U.S. president. She discussed her reasons for relocating, addressing possible reversals in gay marriage rights in the U.S. and her past show controversies during a public appearance in Cheltenham.

Key Facts:

Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi moved to the UK in November after Trump's re-election.
They initially planned to live part-time in the UK but decided to stay after the election results.
Ellen mentioned considering remarriage in England due to potential changes in U.S. gay marriage laws.
She addressed past toxic workplace allegations linked to the end of her show, calling them "clickbait."
Ellen was a prominent figure on U.S. television for 30 years with a popular talk show and other roles.
She described her new life in the Cotswolds, sharing its charm and beauty, and mentioned owning farm animals.
Ellen noted challenges in being openly gay in Hollywood and discussed ongoing societal issues with acceptance.
The Southern Baptist Convention in the U.S. has recently supported reversing the legalization of same-sex marriage.

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BBC World

Trump administration shuts down EPA's scientific research arm

July 20, 2025

The Trump administration announced plans to close the EPA's scientific research unit, known as the Office of Research and Development. This change is part of a larger reduction in staff at the EPA, aiming to cut costs and reorganize resources within the agency. A new office will be created to focus on applied science and environmental solutions.

Key Facts:

The EPA plans to close the Office of Research and Development.
This office handled research on environmental hazards such as pollution and climate change.
The closure is part of a 23% staff reduction to save $748.8 million.
The EPA will add more experts in air, water, and chemicals to other sections.
A new "Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions" will be established.
As of earlier this year, the EPA workforce reduced from 16,155 to 12,448 employees.

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NPR Home

Was the streetcar revival a success?

July 20, 2025

Several cities received federal money over ten years ago to bring back streetcars in their downtown areas. Some streetcar projects are doing well, while others are struggling or ending.

Key Facts:

Federal funding was provided more than ten years ago for streetcars in downtown areas.
The streetcar projects aimed to improve public transport in cities.
Some cities have seen success with their streetcar systems.
Other cities are facing challenges and issues with their streetcars.
At least one city has decided to phase out its streetcar project.

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NPR National