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Patrick Bertoletti of Chicago Wins First Men’s Title at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

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Patrick Bertoletti, hailing from Chicago, claimed victory at the annual Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest by devouring 58 hot dogs in a thrilling competition on Thursday. The 39-year-old secured his first men’s title in a fiercely contested 10-minute race against 13 competitors from around the globe at Coney Island, New York.

The absence of Joey “Jaws” Chestnut, the reigning champion who opted out due to a sponsorship dispute, opened the door for Bertoletti’s triumph. Reflecting on his win, Bertoletti expressed determination, stating, “I wasn’t going to stop eating until the job was done.” His performance surpassed his previous record of 55 hot dogs, showcasing his preparation and dedication for this year’s event.

Bertoletti, who shed weight and rigorously trained for three months, seized the opportunity with Chestnut absent. “With Joey not here, I knew I had a shot,” he remarked, crediting his unexpected achievement to newfound resolve.

Earlier in the day, Miki Sudo of Florida secured her 10th title in the women’s division by consuming a record-breaking 51 hot dogs. Sudo, a 38-year-old dental hygiene student, celebrated her victory and remarked on her satisfaction in retaining the prestigious pink belt for another year.

The event drew thousands of enthusiastic fans, donning foam hot dog hats, to witness the spectacle at Coney Island. Despite Chestnut’s absence, CEO of Major League Eating, Rich Shea, noted the enduring appeal of the contest, emphasizing the significant turnout and festive atmosphere.

Competitors from diverse backgrounds and continents gathered for the event, underscoring its global allure and competitive spirit. Participants hailed from states across the U.S. and countries spanning Brazil, Japan, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Australia, and the Czech Republic, all vying for the coveted title and a $10,000 prize.

Joey Chestnut, known for his record-breaking feats, including consuming 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes in 2021, chose to spend the day at Fort Bliss army base in El Paso, competing against soldiers in an exhibition match. This decision followed a dispute with event organizers over sponsorship, highlighting the broader impact and attention surrounding the annual contest.

Despite the controversy, Nathan’s Famous hot dog eating contest remains a celebrated tradition, drawing both participants and spectators alike in a display of competitive eating prowess and summer revelry.

AP

12-Year-Old Girl’s Remains Found After Suspected Crocodile Attack in Australia’s Northern Territory

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The remains of a 12-year-old girl have been discovered in Australia’s Northern Territory, following what authorities believe to be a crocodile attack. The tragic incident occurred in the Indigenous community of Palumpa, where the girl had gone missing two days earlier. Northern Territory Police confirmed on Thursday that the injuries found on the girl’s body were consistent with a crocodile attack.

Senior Sergeant Erica Gibson described the recovery as “particularly gruesome” and “a sad, devastating outcome.” The discovery came after an extensive 36-hour search effort in the local river system. Gibson expressed deep sympathy for the family, noting their state of “extreme shock and disbelief” at the tragic turn of events.

In response to the incident, authorities are now searching for the responsible crocodile with the intention of trapping the animal. This effort is based on the territorial nature of crocodiles, which often remain in or near the same area. The Northern Territory Police are providing support to both the family and the local community during this difficult time.

Northern Territory Police Minister Brent Potter used this tragic event to remind residents and visitors of the ever-present danger in the region’s waterways. “We live in a place where crocodiles occupy our water places,” Potter stated, emphasizing the importance of avoiding these areas whenever possible.

The incident underscores the unique wildlife challenges faced in the Northern Territory, which boasts the world’s largest wild crocodile population. With over 100,000 freshwater and saltwater predators, the region is home to crocodiles that can grow up to 20 feet in length. The tourism website for the Northern Territory specifically highlights the saltwater crocodile as the more common and dangerous species, known for its diverse diet that includes fish, cattle, wild boar, turtles, birds, and crabs.

This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers lurking in Australia’s waterways and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines in crocodile-inhabited areas. It also highlights the need for continued education and awareness about wildlife risks in the region, especially for communities living in close proximity to these natural habitats.

As the community mourns this loss, authorities are likely to review and potentially strengthen safety measures and public awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents in the future. This event may also spark renewed discussions about wildlife management and human-wildlife conflict in Australia’s northern regions.

NBC

Federal Appeals Court Allows Lawsuit Against ICE’s Fake University Sting Operation to Proceed

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In a significant legal development, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has overturned a lower court’s decision, allowing a lawsuit against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to proceed. The case, centered around the fictitious University of Farmington, was filed by Teja Ravi, an Indian citizen who unknowingly enrolled in the fake institution set up by ICE as part of an undercover operation targeting student visa fraud.

The University of Farmington, established by ICE in 2015, came to public attention in 2019 when eight individuals were indicted in Michigan on charges of visa fraud and “harboring aliens for profit.” This sting operation, aimed at uncovering immigration fraud, offered no classes, curriculum, or educators, yet successfully attracted unsuspecting international students.

Ravi, who was living in Houston at the time, applied to the fake school in 2018 and paid $12,500 in tuition fees, believing it to be a legitimate higher education institution. Upon discovering the truth, Ravi filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of himself and other affected students, alleging breach of contract. The lawsuit claims that the government neither provided the promised education nor refunded the tuition fees.

The appeals court’s opinion highlighted the government’s failure to rectify the situation, stating, “The government’s operation eventually came to light, but the government neither provided the paid-for education nor gave Mr. Ravi his money back.” This ruling reverses the lower court’s dismissal of the case and sends it back for further proceedings, potentially opening the door for other affected students to seek restitution.

ICE has acknowledged the school as a sting operation, describing it as an “illegal pay-to-stay scam.” The agency ceased operating the fake university in 2019. Eight defendants involved in the scheme were charged and later sentenced to prison terms ranging from 6 months to two years.

Ravi, who was not charged in the investigation, had enrolled hoping to earn a master’s degree in information technology. After the exposure of the fake school, he returned to India. The appeals court’s decision delved into complex legal territory, examining whether the government, while conducting a sovereign function like a criminal investigation, was engaging in an agreement similar to those formed by private parties.

REUTERS/Hyungwon Kang

This ruling has significant implications for international students and raises important questions about the methods used in immigration enforcement. It highlights the tension between national security concerns and the rights of individuals, particularly in the context of higher education and immigration.

The case also underscores the vulnerabilities faced by international students in the U.S. education system and the potential for abuse in immigration enforcement tactics. As the legal proceedings continue, this case may set important precedents for government accountability in undercover operations and the protection of innocent individuals caught in the crossfire of immigration enforcement efforts.

NBC

Six Injured as Carnival Ride Tips Over at Fourth of July Celebration in Oak Harbor, Washington

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Six people suffered minor injuries on Wednesday night when a carnival ride tipped over during an Independence Day celebration in Oak Harbor, Washington, located about 90 miles north of Seattle. The incident prompted the immediate closure of the carnival and initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident.

The City of Oak Harbor released a statement on their Facebook page confirming that the six injured individuals were treated on-site for minor injuries. While city officials did not immediately identify the specific ride involved, a carnival attendee informed CBS affiliate KIRO 7 that the ride in question was called “The Cyclone.” Social media images appear to show a collapsed spinning swing ride lying on its side.

In response to the accident, Oak Harbor officials acted quickly, securing and shutting down the affected ride and closing the entire carnival for the remainder of the evening. The city announced plans to collaborate closely with the vendor to conduct thorough inspections on Thursday, aiming to determine the cause of the incident and prevent future occurrences.

Oak Harbor Police Chief Tony Slowik emphasized the city’s commitment to public safety, stating, “We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors. Our priority is to thoroughly investigate this incident and take all necessary measures to maintain the highest safety standards.”

This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and regular inspections for carnival rides, particularly during high-traffic holiday events. As the investigation unfolds, it may spark broader discussions about carnival ride safety regulations and enforcement in Washington state and beyond.

The swift response of local authorities and their dedication to a comprehensive investigation demonstrate the gravity with which such incidents are treated. As the community recovers from this alarming event, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of future celebrations and rebuilding public confidence in carnival attractions.

The accident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with amusement rides and the need for constant vigilance in maintaining and operating them. It also highlights the importance of emergency preparedness at public events, as demonstrated by the prompt on-site treatment of the injured individuals.

As the investigation progresses, the incident may lead to a review of safety protocols and potentially stricter regulations for carnival operators in the region. The outcome of this inquiry could have implications for how similar events are managed and monitored in the future, not just in Oak Harbor but in communities across the country.

NBCnews.com

Top 7 Players from Copa America 2024 Group Stage – Ranked

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As Copa America 2024 moves into its knockout phase, it’s time to reflect on the outstanding performances that defined the group stage. With Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia, and Venezuela topping their respective groups, several players have distinguished themselves with exceptional displays. Here’s a ranking of the seven best players from the Copa America 2024 group stage:

7. Jose Rondon – Venezuela

Rondon put Venezuela on his back / Sam Hodde/GettyImages

Not many expected Venezuela to come out firing at Copa America 2024, and Pachuca striker Jose Rondon played his part in the team’s early success.

The 34-year-old managed two goal and one assist during the group stage, and Venezuela will hope that their talisman can replicate those performances as they eye a deep run in the competition.

6. Maximiliano Araujo -Uruguay

Maxi Araujo’s stepped up for Uruguay / Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/GettyImages

As expected, Uruguay topped Group C with nine points as Marcelo Bielsa’s side now await a mouthwatering quarter-final clash vs Brazil.

What many maybe didn’t expect was Maximiliano ‘Maxi’ Araujo’s performance. The Toluca winger recorded two goals and one assist for Uruguay before suffering a serious head injury in the first half vs USA, and it seems highly unlikely that he’ll return before the tournament is over.

5. Manuel Ugarte – Uruguay

Ugarte controlled the midfield for Uruguay / Megan Briggs/GettyImages

Uruguay wouldn’t have been able to win all three group stage matches without the excellent midfield play of Manuel Ugarte.

The 23-year-old featured in all three of Uruguay’s group stage games and ran the show in the middle of the park alongside Federico Valverde.

4. Marquinhos – Brazil

Marquinhos leads the Brazil defense / Kevork Djansezian/GettyImages

Brazil haven’t looked their best thus far at Copa America, especially in the attacking department. But their defense, however, has been on lock since the first whistle against Costa Rica.

Leading the backline is PSG defender Marquinhos, who played the full 270 minutes for Brazil in the group stage and helped keep a clean sheet vs Costa Rica.

3. James Rodriguez – Colombia

James Rodriguez has stole the show for Colombia

James Rodriguez has rolled back the clock this summer with Colombia at Copa America, as the 32-year-old playmaker registered three assists in the group stage to help his nation top Group D.

2. Lionel Messi -Argentina:

Messi hopes to return to action soon for Argentina / Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/GettyImages

While we all hope Lionel Messi will return to action before Copa America concludes, at least we were able to see him shine in two of Argentina’s group stage matches as he’s created six big chances.

Messi will be eager to return to the mix to add to his one assist thus far as Argentina hope to repeat as champions.

1. Lautaro Martinez – Argentina:

Martinez leads all scorers at Copa America / Hector Vivas/GettyImages

The Inter Milan striker has been in scintillating form, netting four goals in the group stage. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement have been crucial to Argentina’s perfect start.

Has Lautaro Martinez finally shaken off whatever was holding him back in an Argentina shirt?

That certainly seems to be the case, as the Inter Milan forward has bagged a tournament-leading four goals in three games up front and center for Argentina.

Source: 90min.com

Argentina Face Ecuador in Copa America 2024 Quarter-Final with Messi’s Fitness in Question

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Argentina is set to face Ecuador in the first quarter-final match of Copa America 2024 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Thursday, July 4, at 9 p.m. ET. The reigning world champions topped Group A with a perfect record, winning all three matches without conceding a goal. However, their star player Lionel Messi’s participation remains uncertain due to a minor groin injury sustained during the match against Chile.

La Albiceleste enters the knockout stage as strong favorites, having not lost to Ecuador since 2015. Their recent form has been impressive, with victories against Peru, Chile, and Canada in the group stage. Argentina’s solid defense and potent attack have made them one of the tournament’s standout teams.

Ecuador, who finished second in Group B, faces a formidable challenge against the defending champions. La Tri’s journey to the quarter-finals has been mixed, with a draw against Mexico, a win over Jamaica, and a loss to Venezuela in the group stage. Their best-ever finish in the Copa America was fourth place in 1993, a feat they hope to match or surpass in this tournament.

The head-to-head record heavily favors Argentina, with four wins and one draw in their last five encounters. Their most recent meeting, an international friendly on June 9, 2024, saw Argentina secure a 1-0 victory.

Key factors that could influence the match include:

1. Messi’s fitness: The Argentina captain’s availability could be crucial to their attacking prowess.

2. Argentina’s defensive solidity: They have yet to concede a goal in the tournament.

3. Ecuador’s underdog status: La Tri might use this as motivation to cause an upset.

4. Historical precedent: Ecuador hasn’t beaten Argentina in nearly a decade.

As the Copa America 2024 enters its knockout phase, this quarter-final clash promises to be an intriguing battle between the tournament favorites and a team looking to make history. The outcome of this match will set the tone for the rest of the competition and potentially shape Argentina’s path to defending their title.

Shaquille O’Neal Mentors ‘Hawk Tuah’ Girl Hailey Welch on Navigating Sudden Fame

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NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has taken viral sensation Hailey Welch, known as the “Hawk Tuah” girl, under his wing, offering her valuable advice on navigating her newfound fame. The two met in Nashville last weekend, where Shaq imparted wisdom on dealing with sudden celebrity status.

According to sources close to the situation, Shaq advised Welch to surround herself with a smart team, warning her about people who might try to take advantage of her sudden popularity. When Welch showed O’Neal some of the hateful comments she’s been receiving online, he counseled her to ignore the negativity, emphasizing that her critics don’t know her personally.

The meeting between O’Neal and Welch occurred after she was pulled onstage at a Zach Bryan concert in Nashville. Impressed by her appearance, Shaq arranged for Welch to make an appearance at his DJ gig at Jon Bon Jovi’s new venue in Music City. The two reportedly spent about an hour in conversation, with Welch now considering Shaq a friend and mentor.

During his DJ set, O’Neal brought Welch to the DJ booth, where she received an enthusiastic response from the crowd. In a lighthearted moment, Shaq accidentally stepped on Welch’s foot, though she fortunately avoided any injury.

In a separate development, Welch appeared on Brianna LaPaglia’s ‘Plan Bri’ podcast to address rumors circulating about her personal life. She clarified that she’s 21 years old, was never a school teacher, and that her parents find her viral moment amusing. Welch also discussed her initial reluctance to embrace her newfound fame and her decision to come forward after fake social media accounts were created in her name.

Despite receiving offers capitalizing on her viral status, including a $600 offer to spit in a jar, Welch expressed a desire not to be defined solely by the “Hawk Tuah” moment. She has, however, secured a manager and a merchandise deal following her unexpected rise to internet fame.

This interaction between O’Neal and Welch highlights the challenges of sudden viral fame and the value of mentorship from experienced celebrities in navigating the complexities of public attention.

TMZ

Karen Read’s Attorney Alan Jackson Seen with Wife Following Client Canoodling Controversy

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Alan Jackson, the high-profile attorney representing Karen Read in her recent murder trial, was seen with his wife, Lisa Kassabian, in Los Angeles on Wednesday. This public appearance comes just hours after The New York Post published images that appeared to show Jackson in an intimate embrace with his client, Karen Read, outside a Boston steakhouse last week.

Karen Read’s attorney Alan Jackson and his wife Lisa Kassabian seen together in a car at their Los Angeles home.Toby Canham for NY Post

Jackson and Kassabian, an LA County Deputy District Attorney, were photographed arriving at their home in one of their BMW SUVs after apparently visiting the gym and picking up lunch. Kassabian, dressed in workout attire, was noticeably not wearing a wedding ring as she carried bags from the car. Jackson, holding his phone and what appeared to be takeout food, kept his eyes down and maintained a neutral expression.

Read’s case ended in a mistrial on Monday after Jackson argued that she’d been framed by her boyfriend’s cop buddiesAP

The couple’s appearance marks their first public sighting since The Post revealed a 1.5-second iPhone Live image that seemed to show Jackson embracing Read from behind outside Smith and Wollensky in downtown Boston on June 27. This occurred while jurors were deliberating in Read’s murder trial.

A photo from late June appeared to show Jackson embracing Karen Read.Obtained by New York Post

The image, which The Post verified through metadata analysis, showed Jackson with one arm around Read’s midsection and another across her chest, pulling her close as she appeared to giggle. A source close to Read told TMZ that the image was “taken out of context” and was merely “goofing around” after a dinner with the legal team.

ackson’s wife Lisa Kassabian appeared to have no ring on.Toby Canham for NY Post

Read was on trial for allegedly running down her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, in 2022 and leaving him to die in a snowbank. Jackson’s defense strategy argued that Read was framed by local police. The trial ended in a mistrial on Monday when the jury became hopelessly deadlocked.

Attorney Alan Jackson was seen at his LA home on Thursday.Toby Canham for NY Post

The photographer who captured the controversial image told The Post, “It looked wrong and inappropriate so I just grabbed the closest phone and took a picture,” adding that it seemed “inappropriate for an attorney-client type situation.”

Neither Jackson nor Read have responded to requests for comment from The Post. This incident adds another layer of complexity to the high-profile case and raises questions about professional boundaries in attorney-client relationships.

It was the couple’s first appearance together since The Post published photos of Jackson appearing to canoodle with his client Read in Boston.Toby Canham for NY Post

Jackson, a former prosecutor turned defense attorney, has previously represented other high-profile clients including Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein. The Karen Read case and its aftermath continue to draw public attention, highlighting issues of legal ethics and the intense scrutiny faced by those involved in high-profile criminal cases.

Source:nypost.com

Flight to New Hampshire Diverted After Passenger Exposes Himself and Urinates in Aisle

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A flight bound for Manchester, New Hampshire, was unexpectedly diverted to Buffalo, New York, on Wednesday following a disturbing incident involving a passenger who allegedly exposed himself and urinated in the airplane’s aisle. The incident led to the arrest of a 25-year-old Oregon man, who now faces federal charges for indecent exposure.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, the man was taken into custody after the American Eagle flight made an emergency landing at Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Buffalo, the accused was released.

The passenger reportedly told officers that he was traveling from Portland, Oregon, to Manchester, with a layover in Chicago. He admitted to consuming several whiskey and cola drinks before boarding the flight in Portland, during his layover in Chicago, and after boarding the connecting flight. The man claimed he got up to use the restroom but has a medical urination problem, as stated in the criminal complaint.

American Airlines, the parent company of American Eagle, confirmed the incident in an emailed statement. The airline expressed gratitude to their team members for their professionalism and to the other passengers for their understanding during the unexpected situation. The flight resumed its journey to Manchester shortly after the disruptive passenger was removed.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges airlines face with passenger behavior, particularly when alcohol is involved. It also underscores the serious legal consequences that can result from disruptive or indecent conduct on flights.

The case is now in the hands of federal authorities, with the accused likely to face further legal proceedings. NBC News reported that they have sought comment from the man’s federal public defender, but no response had been received at the time of reporting.

As air travel continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible passenger behavior and the potential consequences of misconduct during flights.

Hezbollah Launches Massive Attack on Israel, Escalating Border Conflict

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Hezbollah fighters rise their group's flag and shout slogans, as they attend the funeral procession of Hezbollah fighter, Bilal Nemr Rmeiti, who was killed by Israeli shelling, during his funeral procession in Majadel village, south Lebanon, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, launched a significant attack against Israel on Thursday, firing over 200 rockets and a swarm of drones at 10 Israeli military sites. This escalation comes in retaliation for Israel’s killing of Hezbollah commander Mohammed Nasser in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, marking a dangerous new phase in the ongoing border conflict.

Hezbollah fighters

The Israeli military confirmed that approximately 200 projectiles and over 20 suspicious aerial targets were identified crossing from Lebanon into Israeli territory. While some were intercepted by air defenses and fighter jets, the attack set off fires due to drones and interceptor shrapnel. Remarkably, Israel’s ambulance service reported no casualties.

In response, the Israeli air force struck Hezbollah military structures in the Lebanese villages of Ramyeh and Houla. The conflict, which has been steadily intensifying for months, has raised fears of a full-scale war, despite both sides indicating they want to avoid such an outcome.

The violence has extended beyond the immediate border area, with sonic booms from Israeli jets rattling nerves in Beirut and other parts of Lebanon for the second consecutive day. This psychological warfare adds to the growing tension in the region.

Hashem Safieddine, a senior Hezbollah official, warned of further escalation, stating that the group would target new sites “that the enemy did not imagine would be hit.” This threat of widening the conflict has heightened concerns among international observers and diplomats working to prevent a larger confrontation.

The United States is leading diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the fighting, with Amos Hochstein, a senior U.S. official, discussing French and American efforts to restore calm with French officials. However, Hezbollah has stated it will not cease fire as long as Israel continues its offensive in the Gaza Strip.

The ongoing hostilities have taken a heavy toll on both sides of the border, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes. Since October 7, when Hezbollah began firing at Israeli targets in support of Hamas, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed more than 300 Hezbollah fighters and about 90 civilians. Conversely, fire from Lebanon has killed 18 Israeli soldiers and 10 civilians.

As diplomatic efforts continue, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has stated that while Israel prefers a negotiated arrangement, its forces are hitting Hezbollah “very hard every day” and are prepared to take any necessary action against the group.

This latest escalation underscores the volatile nature of the Lebanon-Israel border and the potential for the conflict to expand beyond its current boundaries, posing a significant challenge to regional stability and international peace efforts.

Source: Reuters

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