Secret Chinese police outpost revealed in NY; 2 men arrested
NEW YORK (AP) — Justice Department officials say two men have been arrested on charges that they helped establish a secret police outpost in New York City on behalf of the Chinese government. Officials separately announced charges against more than three dozen members of China’s national police, accusing them of creating and using fake social media accounts to locate and harass dissidents in the United States. The cases are part of a series of Justice Department prosecutions aimed at disrupting Chinese government efforts to target Chinese dissidents, including those promoting pro-democracy views.
Shooting of Black teen who went to wrong house investigated
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A sixteen-year-old boy was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers last week when he rang the doorbell of the wrong Kansas City, Missouri, house. A man came to the door and shot Ralph Yarl in the head — then shot him again after he fell to the ground. Yarl stumbled to one house, then another, and then a third before anyone helped the Black teen, who was released from the hospital Sunday and is recovering at home. Now community leaders, Democratic lawmakers and an attorney for Yarl’s family are demanding justice and questioning the role of race in the shooting. Police say the racial aspect remains under investigation.
Alabama town mourns after 4 killed at teen birthday party
DADEVILLE, Ala. (AP) — Alabama law enforcement officials are still searching for clues in a shooting that killed four and injured 28 in a small town in the central-eastern part of the state. Authorities say the dead include two seniors from Dadeville High School in Tallapoosa County. The Saturday night shooting took place at a birthday party for the sister of one of the victims. The family was celebrating at the Mahogany Masterpiece dance studio in Dadeville when gunfire erupted. It’s not clear how many of the 28 injured were shot.
Why are teen girls in crisis? It’s not just social media
Many studies say American youth are in crisis, facing unprecedented mental health challenges that are burdening teen girls in particular. Adults have theories about what is going on but what do girls themselves have to say? The Associated Press asked teen girls in four states about it. They say social media is only part of the problem. School pressures are big. So are unwanted sexual attention, worries about social issues, and pressure from a society that puts a premium on women’s looks. One girl says they’re just trying to survive “in a society that is out to get us.”
While some students skip college, trade programs are booming
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — While almost every sector of higher education has fewer students registering for classes, many trade programs are booming. Trade students may seek certificates and other short-term credentials, not associate degrees. Trade programs are often more affordable than a traditional four-year degree, students note, and, for many, skilled trades offer a more obvious path to a job. In Tennessee, community college has been free since 2015, but overall enrollment is declining. But at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, a network of 24 colleges that offers training for 70 occupations, many trade programs have continued to grow.
See the EVs eligible for tax credits – and why most aren’t
DETROIT (AP) — Ten electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles will be eligible for a $7,500 U.S. tax credit, while another seven could get $3,750 under new federal rules that go into effect on Tuesday. But under the Treasury Department rules and other provisions of last year’s Inflation Reduction Act, most of the more than 60 electric or plug-in hybrids on sale in the U.S. won’t get any tax credits. The new rules govern how much battery minerals and parts can come from countries that don’t have free trade agreements with the U.S. They bumped nine vehicles off the eligibility list that was effective Jan. 1.
Muslims around the world consider climate during Ramadan
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — “Green Ramadan” initiatives in Indonesia and around the world promote an array of changes during the Muslim holy month, which has fasting and, in many cases, feasting elements as people gather around food to break their fasts. In a month where restraint and charity are emphasized, recommendations can include using less water while performing the ritual washing of parts of the body before prayers, replacing plastic bottles and cutlery during community iftars with reusable ones, and reducing food waste. Other suggestions include carpooling to mosques, using local produce, emphasizing recycling and in some cases using donations to fund clean projects.
Sudan’s generals battle for 3rd day; death toll soars to 185
KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP) — Sudanese are huddling in their homes for a third straight day as the army and a powerful rival force fight in the streets of the capital and other cities for control of the country. The U.N. envoy to Sudan says at least 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded. Airstrikes and shelling intensified on Monday in parts of Khartoum and the adjoining city of Omdurman. Rapid, sustained firing was heard near the military headquarters, with white smoke rising from the area. At least six hospitals in the capital have been forced to shut down. The clashes are part of a power struggle between the armed forces chief and the leader of a paramilitary force.
DeSantis seeks to control Disney with state oversight powers
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida lawmakers are ratcheting up pressure on Walt Disney World. They announced on Monday plans to introduce legislation that would end an exemption for Disney parks, allowing the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to inspect Disney rides. The announcement is the latest in a tit-for-tat between Disney and the governor that started last year when the entertainment giant publicly opposed the state’s so-called “Don’t Say Gay” legislation. In retaliation, Florida lawmakers passed, and DeSantis signed, legislation reorganizing Disney World’s company-controlled government, allowing the governor to appoint the five members of the Board of Supervisors instead of Disney.
‘The Phantom of the Opera’ closes on Broadway after 35 years
NEW YORK (AP) — The final curtain came down Sunday on New York’s production of “The Phantom of the Opera,” ending Broadway’s longest-running show with thunderous standing ovations, champagne toasts and gold and silver confetti. It was show No. 13,981 at the Majestic Theatre, and it ended with a reprise of “The Music of the Night” performed by the current cast, previous actors in the show — including original star Sarah Brightman — and crew members. Andrew Lloyd Webber took to the stage in a black suit and black tie and dedicated the final show to his son, Nick, who died last month after a protracted battle with gastric cancer and pneumonia.