US consumer sentiment hits a near-record low before midterm elections

Rhode Island volunteers reused 600+ Christmas trees to restore riverbanks and protect young trout

In an inspiring environmental effort, volunteers in Rhode Island gathered over 600 old Christmas trees for the 'Trees for Trout' initiative, aimed at restoring riverbanks. By bringing their discarded trees to designated collection sites at Arcadia Management Area, residents have made a significant contribution toward creating sustainable trout habitats and mitigating soil erosion. This project not only enhances local waterways but also promotes community involvement in ecological preservation.

1890 Sherlock Holmes first edition found in charity shop sells for £11,520

A first-edition edition of The Sign of Four surfaced among the book donations at an Oxfam shop, piquing the interest of staff who recognized its rare value. After seeking expert appraisal, the book fetched an impressive £11,520 at Bonhams auction house. The funds raised will greatly benefit Oxfam's humanitarian efforts globally, highlighting how valuable donations can be when assessed properly.

Portia gifted Ellen a Rwanda gorilla project in 2018; its campus welcomed 40,000+ visitors by 2023

Portia de Rossi gifted Ellen DeGeneres a conservation project which led to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus opening in Rwanda. The campus supports wildlife protection and offers educational opportunities for local students and communities. Since its opening, it has welcomed numerous visitors and hosted thousands of Rwandan schoolchildren for science lessons. The project emphasizes sustainable practices and aims to monitor and protect endangered mountain gorillas.

US midterms 2026: Mark Carney rejects US claim of election interference, says 'no merit'

Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz bought a $20.8M California cliffside home in 2019

Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz made a significant purchase in 2019, acquiring the Razor House in La Jolla for $20.8 million. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Wallace E. Cunningham, boasts panoramic Pacific Ocean views. The duo transformed this modern creation into a warm family abode, enriched with artworks from the Dean Collection, reflecting Swizz Beatz's dream of a creative hideaway and highlighting the prestige of California's architectural landscape.

White House says Melania Trump brokers truce for Ukraine city 'on brink of disaster'

Ukraine and Russia confirm the truce in Russian-occupied Oleshky, where residents have had to eat garden weeds to survive.

US midterms 2026: Trump admin files lawsuit over Alaska Senate race, seeks to block results if GOP loses

Seven shot dead by gunmen at church funeral in Jordan, officials say

Thirty-four people are also injured in the attack in southern Karak governorate, and a manhunt is now under way.

Butterflies Rebound After Restoration: Ex-wheat farm records 5,290 in 2026; rare species appear

Halnaker Hill Farm in West Sussex has experienced a remarkable surge in butterfly populations thanks to dedicated habitat restoration initiatives. In the spring of 2026, surveys noted 5,290 butterflies representing 28 different species, including some that are quite rare. This ecological project has fostered a rich variety of habitats that not only attract butterflies but also support bird life and other insects.

Ukraine says Starlink still restricted after Trump says limits lifted

The network is used by the Ukrainian military, sources say, and Trump says "if there is a problem, I'll get it straightened out".

Deadly shooting near Paris investigated as 'crime of terrorism', minister says

One person is killed and five wounded in a series of attacks and the suspected gunman has been apprehended.

'He Will Never Do Anything Wrong': Trump Defends Elon Musk Amid Starlink Row

Donald Trump has defended Elon Musk amid the Ukraine Starlink controversy, calling him a 'very good' and 'fair' person.