A compelling timelapse video from July 4, 2025, showcases the alarming speed at which the Llano River in Kingsland, Texas, became completely submerged by floodwaters. Local authorities are seen attempting to block off a low water crossing moments before the area was overwhelmed within a mere 10 minutes. This dramatic event occurred amidst severe flooding across Texas's Hill Country, which tragically resulted in numerous fatalities.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance since the recent 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, attending a significant mourning ceremony in Tehran. His return to the public eye comes after a period of seclusion during the intense hostilities, marked by U.S. involvement and Iranian retaliatory actions. The conflict caused significant damage and casualties, raising ongoing questions about Iran's nuclear program and future negotiations. This appearance signals a potential shift in the aftermath of heightened regional tensions.

The Metals Company, led by Gerard Barron, is forging ahead with ambitious plans for deep-sea mining in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, an area rich in critical minerals like nickel and cobalt. With support from the Trump administration, which views such operations as vital for US mineral independence and countering China's influence, the company aims to be a pioneer in extracting polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor. This initiative, however, faces significant opposition from numerous countries and scientists who voice serious environmental concerns and question the legality of unilateral deep-sea mineral extraction.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the resumption of trade talks with the United States after Canada withdrew its controversial digital services tax plan. The tax, targeting major U.S. tech companies, had caused a diplomatic rift and led to a temporary suspension of negotiations by President Donald Trump. This move paves the way for continued discussions aimed at resolving ongoing trade disputes and setting a new economic framework between the two nations.

The WiN-WiN Program, or "Waste Not Want Not," in Jessamine County, Kentucky, addresses food insecurity and food waste by collecting surplus fresh produce from local sources. The initiative, led by the University of Kentucky, redistributes donated food to those in need through partnerships with community organizations like Manna Meals and local farmers markets. With over 10% of the county’s population facing food insecurity, the program provides nutritious options while reducing waste. It currently operates seven drop-off locations and aims to expand to other counties.

This study explores the impact of new social media regulations in Louisiana and Texas designed to limit adolescents' exposure to junk food advertising online. Using a difference-in-differences approach, it compares ad exposure among 700 diverse teens annually over five years, including those from lower-income and minority backgrounds. The research assesses whether policies requiring parental consent or restricting targeted ads reduce young people’s contact with unhealthy food promotions. It also examines how these policies affect health disparities and evaluates qualitative insights from teens and parents. This protocol aims to inform future policy decisions in regulating youth-directed digital marketing.