- Published on
06-22-2023
- Authors
- Name
- AI Writer
- @danwakeem
NTSB starts sworn testimony in probe of Ohio train derailment
The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting a two-day investigative hearing on the derailment of a Norfolk Southern Railway train carrying toxic chemicals in East Palestine, Ohio. Witnesses, who will testify under oath, include representatives of Norfolk Southern, the Federal Railroad Administration, the Ohio National Guard, and local fire and police departments. Topics of focus include communications and preparedness for the initial emergency response, the decision to vent and burn vinyl chloride tank cars, and freight car bearing failure modes and wayside detection systems, among others. No fatalities or injuries were reported in the incident, but Ohio residents filed a class-action lawsuit against Norfolk Southern.
Pope Francis Cancels Speech Due to Effects of Surgery Anesthesia
Pope Francis explained that due to still feeling the effects of anesthesia from his recent hernia surgery, he decided to hand out his prepared speech instead of delivering it. This is not the first time he has experienced prolonged effects of anesthesia after surgical procedures, and part of his rehabilitation involves respiratory exercises. Despite his surgeon's recommendation to take it easy, Francis has been holding his regular slate of audiences, including meetings with high-profile figures.
Caribbean islands brace for Tropical Storm Bret
Airports, businesses, schools and offices were closing in St. Lucia and Dominica as forecasters warned of torrential downpours, landslides and flooding. Tropical storm warning was in effect for Dominica, St. Lucia and Martinique, while a tropical storm watch was issued for Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Up to 10 inches (3 centimeters) of rain forecast for the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe south to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, including Barbados. Bret is expected to lose strength once it enters the eastern Caribbean Sea and is forecast to dissipate by Saturday.
Jan. 6 rioter who tased police officer sentenced to over 12 years in prison
Daniel Joseph Rodriguez was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts and admitting to tasing a police officer during the Jan. 6 Capitol attack. Video of the violent clash was played during congressional hearings where officer Michael Fanone testified about the violence he encountered. Rodriguez yelled 'Trump won!' as he was taken out of the courtroom.
Michigan residents charged with election fraud for submitting bogus signatures
Three Michigan residents face more than 20 charges each for submitting fraudulent petitions, resulting in key candidates being barred from the Republican primary ballot. The three individuals were affiliated with a signature-collection company that received payment from disqualified candidates. Former Detroit police Chief James Craig and millionaire businessman Perry Johnson were among those disqualified. No candidate was directly accused of involvement in the fraud. The Wilmoths and Reed have not yet appeared in court.
US jobless claims rise, possibly signaling Federal Reserve rate hikes are impacting labor market
The number of jobless claims in the US remains relatively high, according to Labor Department figures released on Thursday. The latest claims figures were the same as the previous week, with a four-week moving average rise of 8,500 to 255,750, the highest since November 2021. There are also indications that the recent rise in benefit applications could point to a notable cooling of the labor market, echoing warnings from Federal Reserve officials. Despite the elevated figures the US economy has created over 20 million jobs since the pandemic began. Further rate hikes are planned by the year-end, though their impact on inflation may be slower than expected.
House censures Rep. Schiff over past comments, directs Ethics Committee investigation
The House passed a censure resolution against Rep. Schiff, censuring him over comments he made years ago during investigations into former President Donald Trump and directing the House Ethics Committee to investigate his actions. Democrats were critical of the move, calling it a 'disgrace', while Republicans painted the measure as a 'clear vote between right and wrong.' Schiff was surrounded by fellow Democrats in the chamber, many of whom high-fived and embraced him as he walked towards the well. The House has only censured two other members in the 21st century.
Nine detained in restaurant explosion in northwest China
Nine people were detained by authorities after a gas explosion occurred in an outlet of Fuyang Barbecue in Yinchuan. The blast left people unconscious and caused elderly people and high school students to be victims. Authorities have frozen the assets of the restaurant, including the owner, shareholders and employees. President Xi Jinping has demanded urgent medical care for the injured and a safety overhaul after the explosion. Additionally, all regions and related departments are urged to address all types of risks and hidden dangers.
Massachusetts Air National Guard member accused of posting classified documents on social media
Jack Teixeira, a 21-year-old member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, has been accused of posting classified documents on social media. His family has expressed their support and hope for a fair trial. Teixeira has been in custody since April and could face 10 years for each charge if convicted.
Hunter Biden set to appear in court on July 26th
Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, is scheduled to appear in court on July 26th to acknowledge his failure to pay taxes and the gun-related charge he is facing. The court hearing was ordered by U.S. District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika, who was appointed by President Donald Trump but has supported candidates on both sides of the aisle.