Kermit the Frog, created by University of Maryland alumnus Jim Henson, will deliver the university’s 2025 commencement address. This isn’t Kermit’s first commencement speech; he previously addressed graduates at Southampton College in 1996 and has a history of appearances at the University of Maryland. The internationally beloved Muppet, an environmental advocate and Peabody Award winner, will offer words of encouragement to the graduating class. University President Darryll J. Pines expressed excitement for the unique commencement speaker.
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A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, causing at least 144 deaths and 732 injuries. The quake’s epicenter, located approximately 11 miles from Mandalay, also resulted in nine deaths and numerous injuries in neighboring Thailand, including the collapse of a Bangkok high-rise under construction. Myanmar’s junta requested international aid to address the widespread damage and overwhelming casualty numbers, while concerns remain about access to affected areas amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis. The earthquake’s impact is expected to be severe and long-lasting, potentially displacing thousands and causing further strain on the already fragile nation.
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Tasha Purnell, former principal of A.I. du Pont Middle School, faces over a dozen charges, including rape and continuous sexual abuse of a child. The indictment alleges Purnell sexually assaulted a girl under 16 between 2010 and 2014, exploiting her position of authority. These incidents occurred in New Castle County, Delaware. The Red Clay School District has yet to comment on the charges.
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Federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) attempted to detain a healthcare worker at H.D. Cooke Elementary School in Washington, D.C., prompting concern among parents and school staff. While the agents left without making an arrest and DHS claims the presence was unrelated to enforcement, DCPS followed protocol by requesting identification and a warrant. The incident heightened anxieties within the school community, particularly regarding the impact on immigrant families, leading to community support efforts and calls for increased clarity and guidance from school officials. Advocates are providing resources to help immigrant families navigate potential future encounters with federal agents.
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Utah has enacted a ban on community water fluoridation, becoming the first state to do so, despite opposition from dental organizations and public health authorities. The ban, effective May 7th, overturns decades of public health policy promoting fluoride’s cavity-prevention benefits and raises concerns about disproportionate impacts on low-income communities. Supporters of the ban cite personal health choice and cost as justifications, while critics argue the decision is based on misinformation and will negatively affect public health. Other states are considering similar legislation.
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Selena Maria Chandler-Scott, a 24-year-old Georgia woman, faces charges of concealing a death and abandoning a body after experiencing a 19-week miscarriage. Police allege she disposed of fetal remains, prompting concerns about the state’s restrictive abortion law, which grants personhood to fetuses. The autopsy revealed no trauma, confirming a natural miscarriage. However, the case highlights anxieties surrounding the potential criminalization of women experiencing pregnancy complications under Georgia’s “heartbeat law.”
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US stocks plummeted Friday, with the Dow falling 750 points, due to negative consumer sentiment, rising inflation (core PCE index reaching 2.8%), and the looming impact of President Trump’s new tariffs on imported cars. These tariffs, along with existing trade tensions, are expected to increase consumer prices and curb economic growth, fueling investor anxiety. Consequently, the S&P 500 is down 5% year-to-date and several firms have lowered their year-end stock market projections. The increased uncertainty is reflected in rising gold prices and a surge in the VIX volatility index.
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During his veto period, Governor Beshear vetoed 29 bills, most of which were overridden by the Republican supermajority in the Kentucky General Assembly. Key overridden bills include those mandating Medicaid work requirements, banning gender-affirming care for Medicaid recipients, weakening worker safety regulations, and limiting state water pollution oversight. Further, a near-total abortion ban was clarified, and legislation against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in higher education was enacted. Despite some partial vetoes surviving, the legislature’s actions largely reflect the Republican agenda.
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Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian doctoral student at the University of Alabama, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at his home. The Department of Homeland Security claims the arrest followed the State Department’s revocation of Doroudi’s student visa due to alleged national security concerns. The University of Alabama, while unable to comment fully due to privacy laws, expressed support for its international students. This incident follows similar arrests of other non-citizen students across the country, highlighting a broader trend of increased scrutiny of international students in U.S. higher education.
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Approximately 600 Cleveland-Cliffs Dearborn Works employees, including hourly and salaried workers, will face layoffs beginning July 15th due to weak U.S. automotive production. The UAW Local 600, caught off guard by the announcement, describes the situation as chaotic and is scrambling to find alternative employment for its members. While supplemental pay will be provided, its limited nature necessitates a swift job search in a currently unfavorable hiring climate. The union plans to assist members in navigating the upcoming layoffs.
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John Q. Hosedrinker