Jennifer Bos speaks about meeting Donald Trump after her daughter’s death in Illinois
NewsUnited States

Mother of Illinois Victim Shares Trump’s Three-Word Promise After Tragic Death

Emotional Meeting at the White House Jennifer Bos, the mother of a young woman found dead in a dumpster behind an illegal immigrant’s home in Lake County, Illinois, is speaking…

Why Asian firms are not cheering Trump tariff ruling
Business

Asian firms struggle amid Trump tariff uncertainty

Supreme Court Ruling Adds Confusion Asian companies did not rejoice when the US Supreme Court last week struck down an important part of Donald Trump's Tariff Program. The US market was…

Family-Owned Soda Company Keeps Returnable Glass Bottle Tradition Alive In the US, about 127 billion plastic bottles are bought every year. Yet one Midwestern soft drink company is holding on to the old-school way of selling soda in returnable glass bottles. A Tradition Almost Lost Until the 1960s, most soda bottles in the US were designed to be returned. Customers paid a deposit for sturdy glass bottles, which they returned to stores for a refund. The bottles were then washed and refilled repeatedly. The rise of plastic bottles phased out this system, but Twig's Beverage, a family-owned company in Shawano County, Wisconsin, has kept it alive. Customers pay a $20 deposit for a case of 24 bottles. They can even visit Twig's factory in Shawano to refill bottles, some of which are over 60 years old. Nostalgia and Community Ben Hartwig, Twig's vice-president, says families have been bringing back the same bottles for generations. "Cases get passed down, and the next family member brings them in," he says. "Long-time customers love the nostalgic feel and treat these cases like gold." Some 16oz bottles still date back to the 1960s and 70s, and they continue to go through Twig's washing process today. Sun Drop and Real Sugar Established in 1951 by Floyd Hartwig, Twig's signature soda is Sun Drop, a citrus-flavored drink first developed in Missouri in the 1940s. Although US drinks giant Keurig Dr Pepper owns the brand, Twig's makes Sun Drop under license for sale in its Wisconsin territory. It is the last Sun Drop producer to use returnable glass bottles instead of plastic and one of the few still using real sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup. Twig's also produces its own line of fruit sodas, including root beer, black cherry, orange, and lime. While Sun Drop can only be sold in Wisconsin, Twig's is expanding its own soda brand across the Midwest. These new bottles will not be returnable due to distance, so customers outside the state are encouraged to recycle them. Family Business and Local Culture Twig's story began when Floyd Hartwig, recovering from wounds in the Korean War, conceived the soda business idea. Post-World War Two economic growth and a rise in take-home drinks helped the business flourish. In 1986, Floyd’s son Dan took over to keep the company in the family. Today, Ben Hartwig runs Twig's with his wife Annelies and brothers Jake and Luke. The company employs 20 people and earns around $6.5 million annually. Sun Drop Dayz, a local fundraiser with live music and activities, has been celebrated every June since 2017. Visitors can also tour Twig's museum to see the soda-making process firsthand. Looking Ahead Twig's continues to honor its tradition of returnable glass bottles while expanding its own soda brand in the Midwest. With a focus on nostalgia, real sugar, and community, the company blends heritage with growth.
Sports

Family-Owned Soda Company Keeps Returnable Glass Bottle Tradition Alive

In the US, about 127 billion plastic bottles are bought every year. Yet one Midwestern soft drink company is holding on to the old-school way of selling soda in returnable…

Canada's finance minister says US is unlikely to lift tariffs
BusinessUnited States

Canada Faces Ongoing US Tariffs

Francois-Philippe champagne, Canada's Finance Minister, said that Canada may have to pay a "baseline tariff" to export goods to the United States. He made these remarks after US President Donald Trump…

South Africa is still unbeaten at the T20 World Cup after a convincing win against West Indies in 2026 Aiden Markram leads Proteas To Victory South Africa maintained its unbeaten record at the T20 World Cup in 2026 with a nine-wicket win over West Indies. Aiden Markram was the star of the show with 82 runs unbeaten from just 46 deliveries. Markram hit seven fours, and sixes. South Africa comfortably won by 23 balls. Markram's fifty-seven came in just 27 deliveries and he formed a 95 run partnership with Quinton de Kock. Quinton scored 47 runs from 24 balls before being dismissed by Roston Chase in the eighth over. Ryan Rickelton at number three contributed 45 runs to Quinton's partnership. South Africa has now moved two points in front of Super 8s Group 1 leader and is one step closer towards the semi-finals. Should India beat Zimbabwe on Thursday the Proteas will be assured a spot in the semis. West Indies Struggle Back, but Fail South Africa reduced West Indies to 83-7 from 83-7 following a strong start. Kagiso Naidi, Rovman and Matthew Forde were unable to stabilize the innings. Holder, Romario Shepherd and the West Indies resurrected their innings with an 89-run partnership. Holder scored 49 runs from only 31 deliveries. Shepherd scored 52 off 37 balls, finishing unbeaten. They added 58 runs in the final five overs but it wasn't enough to meet their target. South Africa's bowling dominates South Africa's bowlers made the match impossible to win by taking 4 wickets in the first 4 balls. Keshav Maharaj and Marco Jansen from India both delivered tight bowling that limited the West Indies’ late rally. Proteas nearing semi-finals South Africa is now one step closer towards the semifinals. West Indies' consistency in the Super 8 phase shows its strength. West Indies needs to win to stay competitive.
Sports

South Africa is still unbeaten at the T20 World Cup after a convincing win against West Indies in 2026

Aiden Markram leads Proteas To Victory South Africa maintained its unbeaten record at the T20 World Cup in 2026 with a nine-wicket win over West Indies. Aiden Markram was the…

Cristiano Ronaldo takes a 25% stake in Spanish club UD Almeria, expanding his football and business ventures while supporting the club’s growth.
Sports

Cristiano Cristiano, co-owner of Almeria in Spain

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become a co-owner of Spanish football club UD Almeria, acquiring a 25% stake through his company, CR7 Sports Investments. This move adds a new chapter to…

Ilhan Omar speaking after claiming her State of the Union guest was arrested during Trump’s address
NewsUnited States

Ilhan Omar Says Her State of the Union Guest Was Arrested After Removal from Chamber

Rep. Ilhan Omar said her invited guest was removed and arrested during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday night. According to Omar, her guest, software engineer…

The US Women's Olympic Ice Hockey Victory is Overshadowed by a Trump Joke Donald Trump's comment has caused controversy after it diverted attention from Team USA’s historical success in the Winter Olympics. The United States took home gold medals in men's hockey and women's hockey at the Winter Games of Milan-Cortina. This was the first time that the United States won both gold medals at the same Games. The public instead of celebrating the rare win turned their attention to an impromptu comment made by the team's coach during a call congratulating them. Donald Trump's Comments Trump invited the team to Washington for his State of the Union Address. He congratulated the hockey players and wished them well. He said that the men's team would need to be invited, or else he could "probably" face impeachment. The comment was laughed at by several players. Online, critics quickly responded to the joke by claiming that it reduced women's achievements to an amusing punchline. Social media exploded with the joke, which became a hot political and sporting topic. Women's team declines invitation The women's team declined the invitation to the speech. Hilary Knight, the USA captain, addressed this controversy later in an ESPN interview. Knight called the comments "disgusting" and claimed that they distracted attention from the hard work of the athletes. She said that women should have been the focus of attention, as they were responsible for Team USA's Olympic success. She defended both the women's and men's teams. Knight said that the players were in a difficult position when the decision was made. Knight believes that there's genuine respect between the two teams. She believes that the online reaction exaggerated and diverted attention from the unity and support among US hockey. Hilary Knight’s Historic Record Knight ended her Olympic career by scoring 15 goals. This makes Knight the most prolific goal-scorer in US Olympic Hockey history. She leaves the Games at 36 as one of sport's leading voices and a five-time Olympic medalist. She wants this moment to serve as an example of how institutions and leaders speak about women in all industries, including sports. Knight stated that women are not less than men. Knight said that women's achievements must stand alone.
Sports

Trump Olympic joke sparks debate after women’s ice hockey gold

The Trump Olympic joke has sparked controversy after Team USA achieved historic gold medals in both men’s and women’s ice hockey at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Critics say the remark…

US and Iran hold talks seen as crucial to prevent conflict
PoliticsUnited States

US and Iran hold high stakes nuclear talks in Geneva

US and Iranian officials held a third indirect round of talks in Geneva to ease tensions and avoid military conflict. These negotiations are taking place at a crucial time, since Donald Trump warned that he…

Sen. Ruben Gallego speaking about tariff refunds after Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA
NewsUnited States

Sen. Ruben Gallego Demands Tariff Refunds After Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s IEEPA Duties

A Democratic senator is pressing President Donald Trump to return billions of dollars collected under tariffs that the Supreme Court recently ruled unlawful. Gallego Calls for Immediate Refund Plan Ruben…

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Crime and Justice
The Storm in Greece Causes Widespread and Deaths Storm Erminio has hit Greece with heavy rains, high winds and floods. Early Thursday morning, a man found dead in Nea Makri near Athens. According to reports, he was found trapped underneath a vehicle after severe weather struck the area. The emergency teams were quick to respond, but the conditions continued to be difficult because of storms. Authorities confirm that conditions worsened over night as rain intensified in several areas of the country. Heavy rain and flooding disrupt daily life Storms have caused major disruptions, particularly in Attica, including Athens. The streets flooded rapidly, with water entering buildings including the local police station at Nea Makri. In just a few hours, officials reported receiving hundreds of calls from people in need. The majority of requests related to damaged or fallen property, as well as flooded streets and trees. Some areas were affected by powerful water currents that swept vehicles away. On the island Poros, a bridge collapsed as well. This added to the damages caused by the hurricane. As a precaution, the authorities closed several schools. Transport services were also affected. Ferries and travel are halted by strong winds Many passengers' travel plans were disrupted by the gale-force wind that forced ferrys to stay in port. Weather conditions may improve and some ferry services could resume, however officials continue to monitor the situation. National Weather Service has issued a warning that the weather is expected to continue being unstable, with rain, thunderstorms and possibly hail in various regions. Saharan Dust Colors the Sky Orange in Crete Crete was also affected by a different weather phenomenon. The winds carried large quantities of Saharan Dust into the region, which turned the skies a dark orange-red. The unusual conditions caused problems in air travel. As the dust filled up the air, several flights were disrupted or delayed. This type of dust is common, according to experts, but the storms that have been occurring recently has made it more difficult. Continued Weather Warnings across the Country The authorities continue to warn residents that the weather is still unstable. Emergency services stand ready to respond to any further incidents. Officials warn of the high risk of flooding in areas vulnerable to further rain. Local authorities have issued safety warnings to citizens, advising them to stay away from unnecessary travel.
The Storm in Greece Causes Widespread and Deaths
Weather
Trump Delays Strike Against Iran's Energy Sector: Strategy or Signal? Donald Trump once again delayed a potential attack on Iran’s energy infrastructure, this time for 10 days. The timing of this move is critical in an ongoing conflict which has lasted for almost a month. This delay begs the question, is it a move toward diplomacy or a preparation for an escalation of violence? The Multiple Motivations of a Tactical Pause Delaying a decision does not indicate that peace is imminent. Trump uses deadlines to his advantage. He uses them to control narratives and influence markets. They also give him room to maneuver. The announcement of this latest pause came shortly after the US market closed. This timing indicates an attempt to calm down financial uncertainty. The administration could be trying to avoid sudden shocks on global markets by avoiding an immediate escalation. Washington has more time now to consider diplomatic options. Pakistan is acting as an intermediary in the indirect communication that takes place between Iran and the US. Even early talks are underway about the possibility of a neutral meeting. Expectations remain low. Both sides have made tough demands that make a rapid agreement difficult. The Military build-up continues Military preparations intensify as well, while diplomacy continues. Around 2,000 US Marines will be moving from Japan into the Middle East. California is also sending thousands of parachutists. According to reports, up to 10,000 more troops may follow. The buildup suggests that this pause is not purely diplomatic. It gives time for forces to be positioned in preparation of a possible strike. The message is also clear to Iran - accept the terms or suffer serious consequences. Strait of Hormuz Remains central Conflict has increasingly been focused on the Strait of Hormuz - a vital passageway for oil shipping around the world. Iran has limited access to the Strait of Hormuz, which affects international trade and markets for energy. The US has effectively allowed Iran to continue its current position for several more days by extending the date. Both sides are continuing limited attacks to keep tensions up without starting a full-scale conflict. Diplomacy or escalate? Trump's action keeps both options open. It creates a space for negotiation. It also strengthens the military's readiness. Short-term, nothing has changed. The military exchanges are continuing, but the threat of an escalation remains. It will be crucial to see if this temporary pause results in talks, or worsens the conflict.
Trump repeats claims without offering clarity
Politics United States
Iran Focuses on Survival as War Fails to Break Its System The war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel has entered a critical phase. Despite heavy strikes and leadership losses, Iran’s system remains stable and active. Leadership Changes but System Stays Intact Early reports claimed that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed during the conflict. Even so, the structure of power in Tehran has not collapsed. Key leaders are still in place. Masoud Pezeshkian continues to lead the government. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf remains head of parliament. Abbas Araghchi still handles foreign affairs. New commanders have stepped in quickly. Most come from the same political and ideological background. Many appear more determined under wartime pressure. This shows stability rather than change. Conflicting Signals from Washington Donald Trump recently claimed that Iran’s military power has been heavily damaged. He pointed to losses in its navy, air force, missile systems, and nuclear facilities. At the same time, he warned that more attacks could follow soon. This creates a mixed message. The war is presented as nearly over, yet further escalation is still on the table. His strong statement about destroying Iran triggered anger across Iranian society. Even critics of the government reacted negatively. Instead of weakening internal support, it increased a sense of unity. No Real Sign of Regime Change Claims of regime change do not match reality. Iran’s political system continues to function without major disruption. Power still flows through the same institutions. There is no clear shift in ideology or leadership direction. The government has adapted to losses by replacing officials with similar figures. This points to resilience, not collapse. Survival Remains Iran’s Core Strategy Iran is not aiming for a traditional military victory. Its main goal is to survive. For years, Tehran has followed this approach. If it withstands pressure from stronger powers, it considers that a success. Even after weeks of conflict, its state system is still working. Its military command remains active, though weakened. From this view, Iran is achieving what it set out to do. Strategic Control Still Gives Iran Leverage Iran holds influence over key global oil routes, especially the Strait of Hormuz. Nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moves through this route. This gives Iran strong leverage. It can disrupt global markets if tensions rise further. That keeps it relevant despite ongoing attacks. A Difficult Path for the United States The United States now faces a tough choice. If it pulls back, Iran may see that its survival strategy works. If it continues, the conflict could become longer and more costly without a clear win. Trump’s statements reflect this pressure. He is trying to show strength while avoiding a prolonged war. Meanwhile, Pezeshkian has said Iran has the will to end the conflict. This appears to be a calculated message rather than a sign of weakness.
Iran Focuses on Survival as War Fails to Break Its System
War
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