Costco’s recent announcement of a significant hourly wage increase for most of its US store workers to over $30 is generating considerable buzz. This move, which will see the top scale employees earning $30 an hour and the bottom scale employees earning at least $20, represents a substantial investment in its workforce.
The impact of this decision is multifaceted. For employees, it means a considerable improvement in their earning potential, offering a more livable wage that addresses the rising cost of living. Many commenters have expressed their excitement about the raise, emphasizing that it is a step in the right direction, particularly when compared to wages offered by other retailers, some of which may barely reach minimum wage levels.… Continue reading
The Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) has urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General and the Archivist of the United States to investigate the DOJ’s removal of its January 6th database, which detailed Capitol attack prosecutions. CREW alleges this action violates 44 U.S.C. § 3106, requiring notification to the Archivist of record destruction. The database’s removal, seemingly connected to President Trump’s pardons, has been celebrated by some January 6th defendants but criticized as an attempt to erase evidence. CREW argues the database is a federal record whose deletion requires reporting, which the DOJ seemingly failed to do.
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A Russian drone strike on a Sumy apartment building resulted in at least nine deaths and thirteen injuries, prompting President Zelenskyy to denounce the attack as a “terrible tragedy” and a war crime. The attack, part of a larger overnight barrage of 81 drones across Ukraine, also damaged infrastructure including a grain warehouse and hospital in Odesa. Simultaneously, Russia announced terrorism charges against a captured British fighter, while a U.S. foreign aid freeze impacts Ukrainian aid groups. Zelenskyy, while assuring continued military aid, expressed concern over the funding pause.
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A neo-Nazi child exploitation ring, involving four men from across the U.S. and France, has been dismantled following their arrests. The group, which promoted neo-Nazism and pedophilia, groomed and coerced at least 16 children globally, including two from Southern California, into producing child sexual abuse material. Victims were subjected to horrific acts of degradation and coercion, including self-harm and threats of exposure to family and friends. Each defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a potential life sentence if convicted.
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Recent polling data reveals that nearly half of Danes perceive the US as a significant threat, surpassing the perceived threat levels of North Korea and Iran. Overwhelming majorities of both Danes (78%) and Greenlanders (85%) oppose Greenland’s annexation by the United States, although Danish respondents largely believe the decision rests with Greenland. This follows heightened tensions stemming from President Trump’s repeated attempts to purchase Greenland, fueled by its strategic location and resources. The Danish Prime Minister has responded by seeking European unity in navigating altered US relations.
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North Korean troops’ deployment to the Ukrainian front lines has been a topic of considerable discussion, and recent reports suggest their withdrawal. This isn’t necessarily a sign of success for North Korea, but rather a consequence of the brutal realities of modern warfare and the limitations of outdated tactics. It appears their initial deployment was a strategic gamble by Russia, desperate for manpower and artillery support.
The initial hope was that North Korea, with its vast reserves of artillery shells—estimated to account for half of Russia’s daily munitions—could bolster the Russian war effort. This was a gamble based on the sheer volume of shells available, regardless of their quality or reliability.… Continue reading
Former President Trump issued a warning to BRICS nations against replacing the US dollar as the global reserve currency, threatening 100% tariffs on any country attempting to do so. This follows previous tariff threats levied against both BRICS and other nations, including Canada and Mexico. Trump’s statement comes despite ongoing global discussions regarding alternatives to the dollar, fueled by geopolitical events and economic shifts. Studies, however, continue to demonstrate the enduring global reliance on the US dollar as the primary reserve currency.
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A midair collision between an American Airlines jet and a Black Hawk helicopter over Washington, D.C., resulted in the deaths of all 67 people aboard. Preliminary investigations suggest potential issues with air traffic control staffing at Reagan National Airport, prompting concerns about broader problems within the Federal Aviation Administration’s management. Aviation experts urge patience, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation before assigning blame, while also highlighting the ongoing need for qualified personnel within air traffic control. Despite this tragedy, experts maintain that air travel remains remarkably safe.
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In response to Egypt and Jordan’s refusal, President Trump expressed confidence that both nations would ultimately comply. He asserted that the United States provides significant support to these countries, implying this would incentivize cooperation. Notably, Trump ruled out the use of tariffs as leverage at this time. His comments conveyed a belief in the efficacy of existing pressure, rather than the need for additional measures.
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Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport’s air traffic control system faces significant challenges due to understaffing, with only 19 certified controllers compared to the recommended 30. This shortage, exacerbated by high employee turnover and budget constraints, necessitates long working hours for controllers (up to 60 hours per week). The complexity of managing both helicopter and airplane traffic on potentially different radio frequencies further strains the system. These issues, potentially linked to past policy decisions, contribute to safety concerns at a major US airport.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker