The FDA has recently approved a new type of eyeglass lens designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children aged 6 to 12. These specialized lenses, known as Essilor Stellest, have been shown in studies to reduce myopia progression by 70% after two years. The lenses utilize 11 concentric rings with tiny dots to refocus light on the retina, potentially slowing the eye’s elongation. Although the retail price is $450, most major U.S. vision insurance providers are expected to cover the lenses.
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This week, several major news outlets have been denied access to Pentagon briefings, which are instead being held for media organizations approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The move comes as investigations are underway regarding U.S. military strikes. These new briefings are part of a special orientation event for a new Pentagon press corps primarily comprised of conservative outlets that agreed to new operational rules. Many mainstream outlets left the Pentagon in the fall after refusing to agree to the new rules.
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Two gymnasts have filed lawsuits against USA Gymnastics, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and others, alleging the organizations failed to protect them from sexual abuse by coach Sean Gardner despite repeated complaints about his behavior. The lawsuits claim the organizations were notified of Gardner’s “inappropriate and abusive behaviors,” including hugging and kissing girls, but failed to properly investigate, revoke his coaching credentials, or report him to law enforcement. Gardner was later able to secure a coaching position at Chow’s Gymnastics and Dance Institute in Iowa, where the gymnasts say they and other young girls were abused, despite additional complaints. The lawsuits seek damages for the abuse and negligence in responding to reports of Gardner’s misconduct, including detailed accounts of his alleged “grooming behavior.”
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In Khost, Afghanistan, the Taliban executed a man in a public stadium on Tuesday for the murder of 13 family members, including several children, as affirmed by the Supreme Court. The execution, attended by tens of thousands, including the victims’ relatives, was the eleventh carried out since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover. This action has drawn criticism, with the U.N. Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan condemning public executions as inhumane and against international law. The Taliban’s enforcement of a strict interpretation of Sharia law includes such public executions, alongside restrictions on women and girls’ education and employment.
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The investigation into the deadly Hong Kong highrise fire revealed that some of the scaffolding netting used in renovations failed to meet fire-safety standards. Initial tests were misleading, but subsequent analysis of collected samples showed seven failed standards, likely due to contractors prioritizing profit over safety. The fire, which claimed at least 151 lives, started on the lower netting and spread rapidly, engulfing multiple buildings. In the wake of the tragedy, authorities have arrested at least 13 people, while suppressing public criticism and dissent.
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Far-right activist Laura Loomer has been granted a credential and a desk at the Pentagon, causing a stir of mixed reactions. Loomer celebrated her access to the Department of Defense headquarters, previously occupied by Washington Post reporters. Reactions ranged from sarcastic well-wishes to criticisms, with some journalists expressing concern over the implications of this change. The event triggered commentary across social media regarding the state of journalism and national security.
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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sparked controversy with a social media post depicting the children’s character Franklin the Turtle in a military context, which was met with sharp criticism. The post, a mock book cover titled “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists,” drew condemnation from various sources, including Franklin’s publisher, Kids Can Press, who stated that they condemn the use of Franklin’s image. This occurred amid a reported congressional review of U.S. military strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels. The strikes in the Caribbean have raised legal concerns, with some lawmakers suggesting they could constitute war crimes if reports of intentionally killing survivors are accurate. Despite earlier denials, the White House has acknowledged a second strike, claiming it was conducted in self-defense, with the Defense Secretary’s authorization.
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Canadians have faced increased scrutiny at the U.S. border, with several individuals denied entry for various reasons, including past charges. In a recent incident, a Canadian man with no criminal record was detained for four hours due to a dropped charge from six years prior, highlighting the importance of documentation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection emphasizes that all travelers must prove their eligibility for entry and advises having documentation related to past legal issues. Global Affairs Canada confirms that it cannot intervene when entry requirements are not met, advising Canadians to be prepared for thorough inspections and potential denial of entry.
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Joaquin Guzman Lopez, son of the notorious drug kingpin “El Chapo,” pleaded guilty to U.S. drug trafficking charges, following his brother’s plea deal. As part of his guilty plea, Guzman Lopez acknowledged overseeing the transport of vast quantities of drugs, including fentanyl, into the U.S. He faces at least a 10-year prison sentence. His plea deal included details of a surprising arrest with another Sinaloa leader on U.S. soil.
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According to the Transportation Department, nearly 44% of U.S. truck driving schools face closure due to non-compliance with government training requirements. The department plans to revoke the accreditation of approximately 3,000 schools within 30 days and has issued warnings to an additional 4,500. This action is part of a larger effort to ensure qualified drivers, prompted by safety concerns following a fatal accident involving an unauthorized driver. While industry groups support stricter standards, some immigrant driver groups claim they are being unfairly targeted, with California also revoking thousands of licenses due to improper issuance.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Hegseth’s Franklin Tweet Sparks Outrage, Mockery Amid Boat Strike Fallout
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sparked controversy with a social media post depicting the children’s character Franklin the Turtle in a military context, which was met with sharp criticism. The post, a mock book cover titled “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists,” drew condemnation from various sources, including Franklin’s publisher, Kids Can Press, who stated that they condemn the use of Franklin’s image. This occurred amid a reported congressional review of U.S. military strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels. The strikes in the Caribbean have raised legal concerns, with some lawmakers suggesting they could constitute war crimes if reports of intentionally killing survivors are accurate. Despite earlier denials, the White House has acknowledged a second strike, claiming it was conducted in self-defense, with the Defense Secretary’s authorization.
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