July 2025

U.S. Softwood Lumber Tariffs: Canadians Slam “Anti-Dumping” Duties, Housing Costs, and Trump

The U.S. Commerce Department has imposed anti-dumping duties of 20.56% on Canadian softwood lumber, sparking criticism from B.C. lumber organizations and government officials who view the move as unjustified and protectionist amidst a growing trade war. This decision is expected to significantly impact B.C.’s forestry industry, already struggling with challenges like mill closures and job losses. The B.C. government is urging the federal government to prioritize the softwood lumber industry in trade discussions with the U.S. The implications extend to U.S. consumers, potentially leading to increased home-building costs due to higher lumber prices. Furthermore, the U.S. has initiated a federal investigation into U.S. lumber and timber imports citing national security.

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Zelenskyy: Attacks Inside Russia Will Continue, Targeting Military Targets

Amidst escalating conflict, Russia claimed the capture of two additional villages in eastern Ukraine, as Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy vowed retaliation with attacks inside Russia. Zelenskyy acknowledged heavy fighting but also highlighted successful actions in the Sumy region, while reports from both sides remained unverified. The focus of Russian assaults remained near Pokrovsk, a critical logistics hub, with attacks ongoing. Following these events, the U.S. expressed growing frustration over the lack of a ceasefire, threatening further sanctions on Moscow, while Zelenskyy announced securing funding for more Patriot missile defense systems.

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Chuck E. Cheese Employee in Mouse Mask Arrested for Credit Card Theft

In Tallahassee, Florida, a Chuck E. Cheese employee, clad in the mascot’s attire, was arrested for credit card fraud. Authorities apprehended the suspect after a woman reported the unauthorized use of her child support debit card at several locations, including a smoke shop and Whataburger. The woman identified the suspect from surveillance footage at a grocery store, connecting him to the Chuck E. Cheese where she had previously lost her card. When police arrived at the restaurant, the suspect initially appeared nervous before eventually being identified as the costumed Chuck E. Cheese mascot, leading to his arrest.

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Venezuelan Little League Team Denied US Visas, Sparking Outrage

The Cacique Mara Little League team from Venezuela was denied visas to enter the United States, preventing their participation in the Senior League Baseball World Series. The team, which earned a spot after winning the Latin American championship, applied for visas at the U.S. embassy in Colombia but was unsuccessful due to travel restrictions. Little League International expressed disappointment, and the team’s president cited the current political climate and restrictions as the reason for the denial. The Mexican team, Santa Maria de Aguayo, which was the runner-up in the Latin American championship, will replace Venezuela in the tournament.

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Australian Army Officer Loses Security Clearance Over Israel Loyalty

An Australian army officer, whose security clearance was revoked due to concerns of loyalty to Israel, has left the Australian Defence Force. The officer, who had served 19 years, admitted to not viewing Israel as a foreign government and withholding information about training courses in Israel. Despite the officer’s involvement with a community security group, the security agency noted the importance of transparency surrounding such activities. While the department stated that security clearance holders are regularly reviewed, Senator David Shoebridge has criticized the department for not answering the questions about whether a review of CSG groups had been undertaken.

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Multiple Stabbings at Michigan Walmart: Suspect in Custody, Debate Over Violence and Gun Control

On Saturday, July 26, 2025, a 42-year-old man entered a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, and randomly stabbed eleven people with a folding knife. Authorities quickly apprehended the suspect with the help of store employees and customers. Six victims were listed in critical condition and five were in serious condition at the local hospital. Law enforcement confirmed the investigation was underway, with officials from multiple agencies responding to the scene.

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Fenway Park Concessions Strike Disrupts Dodgers-Red Sox Homestand

Fenway Park vendors, represented by Local 26, went on strike Friday, picketing outside the stadium before the Red Sox game against the Dodgers, demanding living wages, protections against technology, and respect. The strike, believed to be the first in the ballpark’s history, prompted the union to urge fans not to buy concessions during the homestand. Aramark, the concessionaire, expressed disappointment with the rejection of its latest offer and stated it had contingency plans in place. The Red Sox noted they were not involved in negotiations but remained in contact with Aramark.

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Ukraine Thwarts Russian Sumy Oblast Plan, Zelensky Says

President Zelensky reported that Ukrainian forces have successfully repelled Russian advances in Sumy Oblast, hindering Moscow’s efforts to expand its presence in the region. This follows Russia’s attempts to create a “security buffer zone” along Ukraine’s northeastern border, which led to the capture of several border villages in early June. Despite facing ongoing attacks, Ukrainian forces, with the help of their Commander-in-Chief, have managed to thwart Russian plans, forcing them to retreat. The president’s remarks were made after reports indicated that Ukrainian forces liberated the village of Kindrativka, indicating the consistent pushback against Russian troops.

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Missing Grenade Raises Questions After Explosion

Authorities are investigating a missing grenade from the scene of a fatal explosion at a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department training facility that killed three deputies from the arson and explosives unit. The blast occurred while the deputies were handling two “military-style” grenades; one detonated, and the other is unaccounted for. Despite extensive searches of the area, including vehicles and offices, the missing grenade has not been located. Sheriff Robert Luna has initiated an independent review of the unit’s practices and has implemented changes to the handling of explosive devices.

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