As US and China throw up tit-for-tat sanctions, is Trump’s Xi meeting at risk?

US-China Sanctions Escalation Tests Viability of Upcoming Summit

Sandego.net – Beijing’s anticipated diplomatic overture to Washington faces mounting pressure as both superpowers intensify their economic confrontation. The bilateral relationship has entered a critical phase, with reciprocal punitive measures threatening to derail Chinese President Xi Jinping’s scheduled state visit to the United States in September.

What began as isolated trade disputes has evolved into a comprehensive standoff. Washington has deployed multiple economic instruments against Chinese entities, while Beijing has responded with equally aggressive countermeasures. The timing could not be more consequential for both nations, as their rivalry extends beyond traditional commerce into emerging technologies that will define the twenty-first century.

Reciprocal Punitive Measures

The United States has implemented a multi-pronged approach targeting Chinese industries. Federal authorities prohibited the importation of humanoid robots manufactured predominantly in China. Shipping companies accused of transporting Iranian petroleum products faced new restrictions. More than forty Chinese enterprises appeared on an entity list citing human rights concerns. Two prominent civilian universities joined a Pentagon blacklist. Additionally, American officials signaled intentions to penalize Chinese artificial intelligence companies.

Beijing’s Commerce Ministry declared that these American actions left Chinese authorities with no alternative but to respond. The ministry announced sanctions against seven American corporations. Export controls on drones and related technologies targeting the US market were strengthened. An investigation commenced into office equipment utilizing foreign software platforms. A separate initiative suspended expedited certification procedures for American manufacturers seeking to sell electrical appliances in China.

China values the hard-won stability of China-US economic and trade relations and hopes the United States will work with China in the same direction.

Chinese officials characterized their response as measured, emphasizing that the measures specifically targeted recent American entity listings and technology restrictions issued by the Federal Communications Commission. The ministry warned that additional countermeasures remain possible if Washington continues its current trajectory.

AI Competition Takes Center Stage

Artificial intelligence has emerged as the most contentious arena in US-China relations. Within eighteen months, China transformed from a distant competitor into a formidable challenger in AI development. Multiple Chinese artificial intelligence models now compete directly with Silicon Valley offerings, attracting significant global user adoption.

American officials and technology corporations have accused Chinese enterprises of extracting knowledge from cutting-edge American AI systems. Washington has threatened sanctions under intellectual property theft provisions. Beijing has rejected these accusations and urged American policymakers to abandon what it describes as hegemonic thinking.

If the US is going to ban Chinese models on the grounds of national security, it will not affect just American companies (using the tech). You’re basically talking about the US trying to ban Chinese AI models for business practice in the whole world, and you’re talking about a trillion-dollar market. China is not going to take this lightly.

George Chen, who chairs the digital practice at The Asia Group consultancy in Hong Kong, emphasized the global implications of potential American restrictions. Such measures could fundamentally reshape international technology markets and affect billions of consumers worldwide.

Diplomatic Calculus Ahead of Summit

Despite escalating tensions, Chinese leadership appears determined to preserve diplomatic channels with the Trump administration. Policy insiders note that Beijing values the relationship with President Trump, whom they view as comparatively favorable toward Chinese interests relative to more hawkish cabinet members.

China has incentives to preserve diplomatic space and avoid an uncontrolled action–reaction cycle before the (expected) summit. But restraint should therefore not be mistaken for acceptance.

Sun Chenghao, a senior fellow at Tsinghua University’s Center for International Security and Strategy in Beijing, articulated this nuanced position. Chinese officials recognize that maintaining open communication serves their strategic interests, even as they prepare for potential confrontation.

Beijing possesses considerable economic leverage in this dispute. The nation controls approximately sixty percent of global processed rare earth production, critical components for electronics, defense systems, and renewable energy technologies. While Chinese authorities have yet to directly sanction major American technology corporations, this resource advantage remains their most potent strategic asset.

The outcome of this diplomatic chess match will influence not only bilateral relations but also the broader global order. Both nations recognize that uncontrolled escalation could damage their respective economies and undermine international stability. Whether Xi’s September visit proceeds as planned or faces postponement depends largely on subsequent American decisions regarding Chinese AI development and technology access.

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A ‘clown show’ of carpetbaggers and characters has upended a Republican primary in Trump’s backyard

Florida’s 19th District Primary Becomes a Political Circus of Transplants and Comeback Seekers

Sandego.net – Southwest Florida has become an unlikely stage for political redemption stories, as a motley collection of candidates from across the nation descend upon the region’s sugar-white beaches in pursuit of an open congressional seat. What was once a predictable Republican stronghold has transformed into a sprawling free-for-all, drawing attention from party operatives nationwide who view the contest with a mixture of fascination and bewilderment.

The August 18 primary in Florida’s 19th House District features an extraordinary lineup of contenders. Six candidates have previously served in or campaigned for Congress in states other than Florida. Among them are two scandal-touched former congressmen who hail from different states, a pair of rivals who once faced off in Illinois politics, an adviser to an Indiana legislator, and an ex-underwear model who found himself incarcerated for his involvement in the January 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol.

The Carpetbagger Phenomenon Takes Root

Southwest Florida’s reputation as a haven for outsiders seeking a second act stretches back to the late 19th century. The city of Naples, considered the crown jewel of the region, was established in 1886 by a Kentucky senator who arrived on Florida’s Gulf Coast shortly after his unsuccessful reelection campaign. This tradition of political transplants continues today, with many of the district’s voters themselves being relatively recent arrivals who have regularly elected representatives who moved to the area.

The current congressman, Byron Donalds, exemplifies this pattern. Born in New York, Donalds settled in Naples after completing his college education in Florida. He is now pursuing the governor’s mansion and has not yet thrown his support behind any potential successor, leaving the field wide open.

Evan Power, chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, captured the mood of the contest. “Everyone who comes here is in search of a new life, including apparently people who want to serve in Congress,” Power observed. “We’re watching the race with as much curiosity as everyone else.”

Trump’s Kingmaker Role Remains Uncertain

The primary unfolds at a pivotal moment for President Donald Trump, who continues to exercise considerable influence over Republican nominations across the nation. Yet in this corner of his adopted home state, the former president has not yet signaled his preference, creating space for a diverse array of carpetbaggers, characters, and conservatives to battle for the MAGA mantle.

A senior presidential adviser indicated that Trump has not dismissed the possibility of endorsing any of the candidates, though the crowded field has complicated his decision-making. Muddled polling results have left the president’s team evaluating multiple options as early voting begins ahead of the primary date.

Several candidates maintain they have been in touch with Trump’s inner circle and harbor optimism about securing his backing. Republicans in both Florida and Washington have observed the developing situation with amusement that occasionally shifts toward exasperation. “It’s a who’s who of the clown show,” one House GOP operative told CNN.

Local Roots vs. Political Refugees

The influx of newcomers has created an unexpected opportunity for Jim Schwartzel, a lifelong Southwest Florida resident and broadcasting mogul. Schwartzel has distinguished himself by emphasizing his deep connections to the region, with one advertisement mocking his competitors as “failed politicians from Chicago and New York (who) couldn’t get elected in their own state.”

“To represent a community, you need to be able to have lived there for a certain period of time to understand what people go through,” Schwartzel explained. “The only thing they have done for this community is run for a political office.”

Meanwhile, his opponents have worked diligently to demonstrate their commitment to their new homes. Hawatmeh, who has launched several philanthropic initiatives, told CNN she has “done more on local issues in a year in the district than the ones living there.” Oberweis, a wealthy investor, noted he has owned property and businesses in the Florida district for nearly half a century. “Longer than any of my opponents,” said Oberweis, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday. “And because of my life experiences, I have a much better grasp of the issues and at a greater depth than my opponents.”

Competing Visions for the Future

Lauf, co-founder of a health startup appointed by Trump in 2018 as an adviser to the U.S. Department of Commerce, identifies herself among the many Republican refugees from blue states who relocated to Florida following the pandemic. After witnessing Collins and Cawthorn launch their own comeback efforts, Lauf felt compelled to enter the race to ensure the Republican stronghold is represented by “a strong conservative and Trump ally.”

“You have individuals in this race who are clearly doing this for their own personal ego,” Lauf said. “These guys represent the past of the party. I represent the future.”

Cawthorn told a recent forum that he moved to the region shortly after losing his reelection bid in 2022 and quickly became a regular presence at local party gatherings. His arrival added another layer to a contest that has already become one of the most unusual primaries in recent Florida political history.

As voters head to the polls, the outcome will determine not only who represents Southwest Florida in Washington but also whether the district’s tradition of electing transplants continues or if a local candidate can finally break through. The race has become a microcosm of broader questions about representation, loyalty, and what it means to truly belong to a community in an era of increasing mobility and political reinvention.

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Jeanine Pirro faces the choice many Trump officials confront at one point or another

Pirro’s Choice: Truth vs. Loyalty in Trump’s Orbit

Sandego.net – Jeanine Pirro faces the choice that defines many Trump officials. Serving within President Donald Trump’s administration means navigating a persistent dilemma: must one accept the reality the president constructs, or can one stand firm in observable truth? This question extends beyond mere policy—it is existential. As United States attorney for the District of Columbia, Pirro recently found herself at this very crossroads.

The controversy centered on the Reflecting Pool at the National Mall. While Trump blamed vandalism for damage to the historic water feature, Pirro examined the evidence more carefully. She determined that deterioration actually stemmed from a renovation project overseen by the president himself—one containing significant flaws. This was not simply a technical disagreement. By aligning herself with documented facts rather than the president’s preferred narrative, Pirro challenged the unspoken contract governing loyalty within his inner circle.

Her position carries particular weight. As a law enforcement official, Pirro operates under stricter scrutiny than many colleagues. She cannot simply echo Trump’s assertions without consequence; her words must withstand the rigorous demands of judicial proceedings. Yet this tension extends far beyond her courtroom. Throughout his political career, Trump has wielded the ability to reshape reality as a formidable instrument of power.

“This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration — period — both in person and around the globe,” Spicer said.

That same salesman’s instinct transformed the Trump name from a modest real estate operation into a sprawling commercial empire. It elevated his television persona on “The Apprentice” to mythic proportions, even as his actual business ventures experienced considerable turbulence. Now, as president, when confronted by obstacles, Trump simply manufactures a different version of events. He can present difficult economic indicators or diplomatic setbacks as though they represent minor setbacks in a property development—something to be spun, not solved.

This strategy sustains a presidency that faces considerable headwinds. According to the most recent CNN/SSRS poll, Trump’s approval rating sits at 34 percent. Yet the alternative reality he cultivates provides cover for a leadership that many Americans find increasingly disconnected from their daily struggles. Roughly two-thirds of poll respondents believe his policies have deteriorated economic conditions. For families navigating rising grocery prices and housing costs, Trump’s proclaimed “golden age” feels more like an illusion than a reality.

The consequences extend beyond domestic concerns. The conflict with Iran, which Trump declared conclusively won within days, has now persisted for six months. Such discrepancies between proclaimed victories and actual outcomes reveal a pattern that has defined his presidency from its earliest hours.

A Legacy of Alternative Realities

Every effective president has been, at minimum, a competent storyteller. John F. Kennedy projected vitality and modernity despite genuine health vulnerabilities, appealing to voters fatigued by aging leadership. Ronald Reagan’s screen persona often blurred with his actual character, making it difficult to separate the actor from the man. Barack Obama generated genuine enthusiasm through his “hope and change” messaging in 2008, even though his administration’s accomplishments would later face scrutiny.

What distinguishes Trump is not his capacity for mythmaking, but his willingness to demand that others accept his version of events as definitive. This tendency surfaced almost immediately. When comparisons emerged between his inaugural attendance and that of his predecessor, Trump responded with characteristic intensity. His then-press secretary, Sean Spicer, delivered what many considered an extraordinary claim to the press corps.

Kellyanne Conway later crystallized this approach with a phrase that would endure: “alternative facts.” The formula has proven remarkably durable. Inconvenient reporting becomes “fake.” Challenging polling data receives the same dismissal. Hyperbole serves as a reliable companion—Trump once characterized his first-term tax reductions as the most substantial in American history. They were not.

In 2019, he presented a manipulated map suggesting a hurricane would strike Alabama, directly contradicting official meteorological forecasts. During his second term, these alternative narratives continue to accumulate. His persistent assertion that foreign countries pay American trade tariffs defies basic economic principle; the duties are collected by U.S. importers and ultimately passed to domestic consumers.

“If we stop testing, we’re going to have a problem,” Trump said regarding pandemic protocols, before reversing course entirely.

For officials like Pirro, the challenge remains constant. They must decide whether to serve the institution or the man. This choice has consequences that extend beyond personal reputation—it affects public trust in governance itself. When truth becomes negotiable, the foundation of democratic accountability weakens.

What This Means for American Governance

The question of whether Pirro will maintain her position or step aside reflects a broader tension in American politics. Citizens increasingly demand transparency from their leaders, yet they also respond to compelling narratives. The challenge for future administrations will be balancing loyalty with integrity—ensuring that officials can serve without sacrificing their commitment to factual accuracy.

As Trump’s presidency continues, more officials will confront this same dilemma. Some will choose to align with the president’s vision, while others will follow Pirro’s example and prioritize truth over convenience. The outcome will shape not only the current administration but also the expectations placed on future public servants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jeanine Pirro? Jeanine Pirro serves as the United States attorney for the District of Columbia, a position that places her at the center of federal legal operations in the nation’s capital.

What is the Reflecting Pool controversy about? The controversy involves damage to the historic water feature at the National Mall. Trump attributed the damage to vandalism, while Pirro determined it resulted from a flawed renovation project overseen by the president.

Why is Pirro’s decision significant? Her choice reflects a broader challenge facing Trump officials: whether to accept the president’s version of events or to stand firm in documented facts. This decision affects public trust in government institutions.

How does this relate to Trump’s leadership style? Trump has consistently demonstrated a willingness to reshape reality to suit his narrative. From claiming record inauguration attendance to asserting that foreign countries pay American tariffs, his approach has become a defining characteristic of his presidency.

What are the implications for other officials? Pirro’s situation serves as a case study for other Trump appointees who must balance loyalty to the president with their professional obligations to accuracy and truth.

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An agreement on the Strait of Hormuz is taking shape – but not one Trump wants

An Agreement on the Strait of Hormuz Takes Shape

Sandego.net – An agreement on the Strait of Hormuz is emerging as a central diplomatic achievement, though not in the form President Donald Trump envisions. The maritime chokepoint has become a focal point for negotiations between Iran and Oman, with both sides working toward a temporary framework that could reshape regional security dynamics. While the prospect of resolution has generated optimism, significant hurdles remain before any comprehensive deal can be finalized.

Conflicting Signals Complicate Progress

President Trump has expressed considerable confidence that a breakthrough could materialize within days, reflecting the urgency that has characterized recent diplomatic efforts. His comments emphasized that substantial groundwork has already been laid, with Iranian counterparts reaching out directly to propose further dialogue. Despite this positive momentum, Trump maintained his position that military action remains an option if negotiations fail to produce results.

Complicating matters is the question of which parties are actually engaged in meaningful discussions. Tehran has consistently maintained that its negotiations are conducted exclusively with Oman, focusing on establishing a temporary framework for managing the critical waterway. This bilateral approach contrasts with broader regional expectations that multiple Gulf states might play more active roles in the process.

Insiders familiar with the ongoing talks estimate roughly equal probabilities that an agreement will be reached by the end of the week. However, one significant structural challenge involves the absence of representatives from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. This powerful military institution must ultimately approve any final arrangement, and its exclusion from current discussions creates uncertainty about implementation.

The main reason for the delay in reaching an agreement with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz is US interference and Trump’s threats.

This assessment came from an informed source cited by Tasnim, Iran’s semi-official news agency. Similar sentiments were echoed by Fars, another state-aligned publication, which noted that American officials have occasionally sent contradictory messages through various channels. These mixed signals have reportedly disrupted the momentum of negotiations, raising concerns that external obstruction could extend the timeline significantly.

The Middle Corridor Proposal

At the heart of the current proposal is the concept of a middle corridor. This arrangement would merge existing routes through both Iranian and Omani territorial waters into a unified passage. Such a configuration would allow Iran to maintain substantial influence over maritime traffic while addressing Oman’s security and economic interests. The terminology surrounding this arrangement reveals deeper tensions, particularly regarding what constitutes Iranian rights in the region.

The negotiations have focused on transforming the southern route, which passes through Omani waters, and the northern route, which passes through Iran’s territorial waters, into an intermediate route that serves the considerations and interests of both coastal states.

Esmaeil Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, explained that the proposed corridor would feature a two-way route rather than maintaining separate passages. This structural change represents a significant departure from the pre-war arrangement, when no single nation exercised meaningful control over shipping through the strait. Iranian officials emphasize that security operations, de-mining activities, and maritime services should remain under Iranian management.

Saeed Ajorlu, a member of Iran’s negotiating team, outlined Tehran’s vision for a temporary arrangement lasting between one and three months. During this period, Iran would exercise dominant control over the waterway. This level of authority presents potential challenges for acceptance in Washington and various Gulf capitals, where American influence remains substantial.

The economic dimensions of the conflict add another layer of complexity. Oil companies have benefited considerably from the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. This financial reality creates political pressure for Trump to secure a favorable outcome that maintains American leverage while preventing excessive Iranian control.

If we create a precedent in the Middle East where a nation state can decide that they are going to control an international waterway, charge a toll and if you don’t pay them blow up your ships, we have created a very dangerous precedent, which will repeat itself in other parts of the world.

What Comes Next

The path forward requires balancing competing interests while maintaining momentum. Both sides have demonstrated willingness to compromise, but the final agreement must satisfy domestic political requirements in Tehran and Washington. The coming days will be critical in determining whether an agreement on the Strait can move from possibility to reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the main parties negotiating the Strait of Hormuz agreement?

The primary negotiations are between Iran and Oman, though other Gulf states may eventually play larger roles. Iran has consistently maintained that its talks are conducted exclusively with Oman.

What is the proposed middle corridor?

The middle corridor would merge existing routes through both Iranian and Omani territorial waters into a unified passage, allowing Iran to maintain influence while addressing Oman’s security and economic interests.

How long would the temporary arrangement last?

According to Saeed Ajorlu, a member of Iran’s negotiating team, the temporary arrangement would last between one and three months, during which Iran would exercise dominant control over the waterway.

Why is the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps important to the negotiations?

The IRGC must ultimately approve any final arrangement, and its current exclusion from discussions creates uncertainty about implementation of any agreement on the Strait.

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House GOP anxiety spikes as scandals pile up in critical battleground seats

Republican Lawmakers Face Mounting Pressure as Midterm Scandals Converge

Sandego.net – Republican members of Congress are navigating a turbulent period as multiple high-profile controversies threaten to undermine their chances of maintaining control of the House. With midterm elections approaching, party leaders are grappling with the possibility that several seats once viewed as secure could slip away due to ethical missteps and public relations challenges. The situation has created an atmosphere of concern among GOP strategists and officials who must now balance damage control with strategic positioning.

Edwards Steps Down Following Ethics Findings

Rep. Chuck Edwards of western North Carolina became the latest Republican to announce he would not seek another term, following recommendations from the House Ethics Committee. The committee determined that Edwards engaged in inappropriate behavior toward two female employees in his Washington office and suggested formal censure as a response. His decision came on Wednesday morning, leaving Democrats optimistic about retaining the seat despite the compressed timeline for a replacement candidate to organize and compete.

The North Carolina district presents an interesting challenge for Democrats. While the seat is competitive, the shortened period for a new Republican nominee to establish themselves provides an opportunity for Democratic organizers to mobilize voters effectively. Party insiders recognize that timing could work in their favor as the new candidate attempts to build name recognition and secure funding.

Miller’s Defiant Stand Amid Growing Concerns

Meanwhile, Rep. Max Miller has refused to withdraw from his reelection campaign despite mounting pressure from party officials and the White House. Miller faces allegations related to his relationship with his ex-wife, Emily Moreno, who is the daughter of Senator Bernie Moreno. The congressman chose to address these concerns directly by broadcasting a live session on social media platform X over the weekend, hoping to present his side of the story to constituents.

What makes Miller’s situation particularly delicate is the electoral landscape. President Trump previously won this Ohio district by more than ten percentage points, suggesting strong Republican support. However, the allegations have introduced uncertainty into what many considered a safe Republican seat. Top party officials have privately expressed doubts about Miller’s ability to secure victory, though Speaker Mike Johnson has publicly refrained from calling for his resignation.

During a recent interview, Johnson emphasized that the ethics investigation should proceed without external interference. Yet behind closed doors, Republican operatives have been working tirelessly to minimize potential fallout. One strategist described Miller’s public defense as an “epic disaster,” while another noted that the situation had deteriorated beyond initial expectations.

Mills Faces Primary Challenge in Florida

Adding to Republican anxieties, Rep. Cory Mills of central Florida continues to navigate a comprehensive ethics committee investigation. Party leaders are monitoring developments closely, with some insiders hoping Mills will lose in a primary contest later this month. Such an outcome would allow Republicans to replace him with a fresh candidate before the general election.

The combined challenges facing Miller, Edwards, and Mills have prompted Republican campaign organizations to reconsider their resource allocation. According to advertising tracking data, the party’s primary campaign groups have not yet committed significant airtime to supporting these incumbents through November. This cautious approach may shift as Democratic spending increases in these districts.

Democratic Strategy and Broader Implications

Democratic leaders are carefully calibrating their response to these developments. While some members advocate for immediate action to remove Miller from the House, the party’s leadership prefers to wait until November. This strategy allows Democrats to capitalize on Republican internal conflicts rather than helping the party resolve its own problems.

These are members who don’t care about representing their communities, they have poor temperament, bad judgment and it really calls into questions if they are fit to serve at all.

Rep. Suzan DelBene, who oversees the House Democrats’ campaign operations, made these comments following Edwards’ announcement. Her assessment reflects broader Democratic sentiment about the conduct of several Republican lawmakers facing scrutiny.

Both the Ohio and Florida districts present genuine opportunities for Democratic gains. President Trump won each by double-digit margins, yet party strategists believe favorable conditions could enable a flip if Miller remains in the race and Mills loses his primary. The outcome of these contests could significantly influence the balance of power in Congress.

Trump’s Position and Party Dynamics

President Trump’s private assessment of Miller’s prospects has become a subject of interest within Republican circles. While he does not believe his former ally can secure victory given the allegations, he has not explicitly instructed Miller to withdraw. This nuanced position allows Trump to maintain flexibility while signaling his concerns to party members.

Senator Bernie Moreno has emerged as one of the more vocal Republicans calling for Miller to step aside. Her public statements add weight to the argument that Miller’s continued candidacy may damage the party’s broader message heading into the midterms.

As the election approaches, Republican leaders face difficult decisions about whether to deploy additional resources to protect vulnerable incumbents. Such investments could strengthen their chances of maintaining a majority but might also draw attention to the very issues threatening their candidates. The coming weeks will reveal how effectively the party can navigate these competing priorities while preserving its legislative agenda.

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Extinct toad from the ice age discovered at Los Angeles’ La Brea Tar Pits

Hidden in Plain Sight: Ice Age Toad Resurfaces at La Brea Tar Pits After Nearly a Century

Sandego.net – Deep beneath the bustling streets of Los Angeles, nature has kept a remarkable secret for tens of thousands of years. The La Brea Tar Pits, those dark, bubbling pools of natural asphalt, have long been celebrated for their extraordinary collection of ice age remains. While most visitors imagine towering mammoths and fearsome saber-toothed predators when they picture these famous fossil beds, the asphalt has preserved something far more delicate and equally significant. Scientists have now identified the first extinct amphibian from Los Angeles’ ice age era, a tiny spadefoot toad that earned the scientific name Spea labreae in honor of its discovery location.

A Century-Old Discovery Reimagined

The story of this remarkable amphibian begins in 1929, when excavators pulled countless specimens from the tar pits. Among the haul were two small bone fragments belonging to the sacro-urostyle, a crucial anatomical structure that connects an amphibian’s lower spine to its hip bones. These fragments sat quietly in museum collections for nearly a century, overlooked because researchers typically focused their attention on the larger, more dramatic bones of megafauna. Smaller creatures simply did not command the same scientific interest during early excavation campaigns.

Everything changed in 2023 when Dr. J. Alberto Cruz began carefully examining the understudied collection. Cruz, who identifies primarily as a paleoecologist and paleogeographer rather than a taxonomist, approached the specimens with fresh eyes. His discovery would prove to be groundbreaking. Speaking about the unexpected find, Cruz shared his enthusiasm: “I’m more like a paleoecologist and paleogeographer, not a taxonomist. So, it is my first new species. For me, it’s very exciting.”

Cruz holds positions as a research associate at the La Brea Tar Pits and serves as a researcher for Mexico’s Quinametzin Paleontological Research Center, which operates under the National Institute of Anthropology and History. His expertise in understanding ancient ecosystems proved invaluable in recognizing the significance of these tiny fossils.

Why the Tar Pits Preserve History So Well

The unique geological conditions of the La Brea Tar Pits create an almost perfect preservation environment. The sticky asphalt functions much like flypaper, capturing organisms that wander too close and sealing them away from the elements. This natural sealant protects bones from weathering, decay, and scavengers while simultaneously shielding them from water, oxygen, sunlight, and microbial activity that would otherwise break down organic material over millennia.

Amphibian bones present particular challenges for paleontologists because they are both small and fragile, making them rare finds in the fossil record. The tar pits’ ability to preserve these delicate structures has provided scientists with unprecedented insights into prehistoric Los Angeles. Since amphibians tend to remain close to water sources and rarely venture far from their habitats, their fossilized remains offer valuable clues about ancient climate conditions in the region.

Confirming a New Species

Cruz meticulously compared the tiny fossils, each measuring approximately one centimeter or 0.4 inches in length, against reference specimens. He examined both the collection’s own holdings and 80 additional specimens housed at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology at the University of California, Berkeley. The comparison revealed distinctive features, particularly an axe-shaped portion of the sacro-urostyle that was considerably smaller than those found in related species. These anatomical differences confirmed that the toad represented a previously unknown species.

While researchers cannot precisely date the fossil without damaging the specimen, they know the toad existed sometime within the last 60,000 years. This timeframe corresponds to how long the tar pits have been actively trapping animals. Dr. Emily Lindsey, curator and excavation site director at the Samuel Oschin Center for Global Ice Age Research at La Brea Tar Pits, emphasized the significance of the discovery: “We’ve now doubled the number of known extinct ice age amphibians from North America, and so that’s a pretty big finding.”

Lindsey noted that small fossils largely went unnoticed during early excavation periods worldwide. “People didn’t even bother really collecting small fossils until maybe the latter part of the 20th century. So, they were ignored largely in early excavations around the world.”

Unexpected Visitors from the Tropics

While examining the same collection, Cruz uncovered another surprising amphibian fossil. The Mexican burrowing toad, the sole surviving member of the Rhinophrynidae family, had also made its way into the tar pits thousands of years ago. Today, this species inhabits the lowlands of Central America, Mexico, and extreme southern Texas. Its nearest known populations sit approximately 1,550 miles or nearly 2,500 kilometers away in southern Mexico, making the Los Angeles discovery quite extraordinary.

The presence of the Mexican burrowing toad in ancient Los Angeles suggests that the region once supported rainforest conditions characterized by abundant trees and heavy precipitation. This environmental picture aligns with what scientists have reconstructed about the area’s prehistoric climate. The fossil record of frogs and toads extends back 200 million years, providing a deep timeline for understanding how these amphibians have adapted to changing environments across geological epochs.

Understanding these ancient amphibian populations carries practical implications for modern conservation efforts. As climate patterns shift and habitats change, the fossil record offers valuable reference points for predicting how species might respond to environmental stress. The discovery of Spea labreae and the Mexican burrowing toad at La Brea demonstrates that Los Angeles once supported a richer diversity of amphibian life than previously recognized, offering hope that careful study of historical data can inform contemporary preservation strategies for endangered species facing similar challenges today.

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Kids, cover your ears: The ‘Recess Therapy’ star is talking to grown-ups now

Sandego.net – Julian Shapiro-Barnum is using a lot of new words to describe himself. He’s a “passionate lover” and a “bisexual twink.” He jokes about “cruising” and goes deep on the social etiquette of posting nudes to Instagram stories. He is doing this weekly before an extremely online audience on YouTube, who tune in to see Shapiro-Barnum do everything from asking the elderly for sex advice to getting lessons in the art of thirst traps.

None of this would be very surprising if it weren’t for what Shapiro-Barnum is already known for. The 27-year-old comedian and performer has become an internet darling with a series called “Recess Therapy” where he conducts sincere, sometimes absurd interviews with kids about life’s big questions: What is the future going to be like? Where does money come from?

What is the meaning of life? Now, Shapiro-Barnum doesn’t want to just be the “Recess Therapy guy” anymore. With a new series called “Outside Tonight,” which launched on YouTube in June, he is revealing a distinctly less family-friendly image.

By his own description, he feels a little like an adolescent Disney star — letting his proverbial hair down and showing the world he can hang with the grown-ups, too. “I just haven’t said anything about my personal life in the five-ish years of being on the internet,” Shapiro-Barnum said, perched on a director’s chair in Long Island City in Queens just before shooting the show’s finale. “With the first couple episodes of the show, I wanted to stake my claim and be like, I can be vulgar without sacrificing who I am and my identity.” He’s not quite vulgar, but he’s more adult than we’ve ever seen him before.

The show’s premiere saw him (somewhat clumsily) doing his first-ever keg stand and interviewing a panel of elderly New Yorkers about their sex lives. The second episode, centered on insecurities, featured Shapiro-Barnum questioning if he has had enough gay sex to truly consider himself bisexual. It’s a sea change for a creator who is, as he says, mostly famous among “moms with strollers.” “Recess Therapy” launched in 2021, when Shapiro-Barnum was on the cusp of graduating from college with a degree in theater.

The videos quickly took off, anchored by Shapiro-Barnum’s own boyish enthusiasm and his young interviewees’ uninhibited, unexpected responses. He’s since launched a second show, “Celebrity Substitute,” that sees him bringing stars like Tom Holland and Quinta Brunson into the classroom to teach a room full of youngsters a lesson of their choosing. It’s a formula that works – and has garnered Shapiro-Barnum millions of views and what he characterizes as a niche fame.

So, why switch up on a good thing? “I don’t want to do one thing forever,” he said. “Just because something works doesn’t mean it’s like the whole story or the whole picture.

It’s been really freeing to like, do a not-kid-forward project, but not abandon that, because I love that and that is me.” It’s a pattern of reinvention he hopes to follow throughout his career: “I hope to shake it up again and again and again and I think the next thing will be surprising in a completely different way.” The quest to reinvent oneself has plagued plenty of other public figures attempting to pivot from cute and palatable to edgy and adult. You could say Shapiro-Barnum is in his Addison Rae era. But don’t worry, he’s still making “Recess Therapy” and “Celebrity Substitute” — which makes the balancing act of being both the internet’s favorite playground confidant and a boundary-pushing late night host even more delicate.

“Part of the show is being more honest and authentic about who I actually am,” he said. “‘Recess Therapy’ is totally an element of myself. I am that person, that is the real me.

It is not entirely a character, but the way that I’m going to talk to a six-year-old is actually often not how I am when I’m like with my friends around the world.” The new show was born from his own deep love for late night TV. It’s been years in the making — earlier iterations involved him filming with his parents and interviewing strangers on the street during the depths of COVID-19 lockdowns. “Outside Tonight” keeps many of the aesthetic trappings of classic late night.

The host wears a suit (albeit rakishly sans tie), sits at a desk complete with mugs emblazoned with the show’s logo and is accompanied by a trumpet-forward house band, “The Noise Complaint.” Keeping the “husk” of late night allowed Shapiro-Barnum to experiment in every other way – like by shooting outdoors, in locations that include a roller rink, the Whitney Museum and the park underneath the Kosciuszko Bridge connecting Brooklyn and Queens. His main inspirations are “The Chris Gethard Show” and the early days of Conan O’Brien. “We like shows that feel like they’re throwing something at a wall,” he said.

Even in his experimentation with pushing boundaries, there are still some limits. A joke about bomb threats didn’t make the cut, for example. But a roundtable panel of his exes and a competition to find the gayest dog did.

Story producer Marley Gotterer, herself a hyper-online comedian of semi-absurdist Instagram reels fame, thinks you have to go big these days. “I think people who are trying to uplift and take risks and be honest is vital in this era of the world, the country, and media, where so many things are being censored and not greenlit,” she said. “You gotta make it yourself.” Part of Shapiro-Barnum’s thesis is that the independence of the internet — which has fostered a new generation of celebrities born outside of Hollywood or the traditional comedy ecosystem — can revitalize the dying late night genre.

It’s an independence that feels politically urgent, too. Speaking of the show, he said: “At the end of the day, I own it — no one can fire me.” Here he references the cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s long-running talk show, which fans have widely attributed to the comedian’s frequent criticism of President Donald Trump though network Paramount cited financial pressures, as well as the brief suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” last year. “These networks own these shows, but the lifeblood of the shows should have ownership over their own work.” Working outside of the traditional studio system, gives Shapiro-Barnum’s team more agency and the ability to move faster than traditional late night can.

But it’s still a much larger production than “Recess Therapy,” with a makeup artist dashing to blot Shapiro-Barnum’s face between segments and a five-camera setup, as well as a few dozen crew. Just because there’s no studio doesn’t mean there aren’t corporations involved. The production is funded by, as he says in the premiere, “brand money”: specifically, advertisements for Amazon and Chase that star Shapiro-Barnum and are embedded in each episode.

If that means he “might not be able to speak freely about” certain brands whose names were bleeped out in the first episode, “that’s the price I’m willing to pay to make this show,” he joked. Shapiro-Barnum is just the latest creator to try to leverage online fame into something that looks suspiciously like the talk shows of yore. Any performer advertising a new project is now subject to a new junket of YouTube talk shows, podcasts, and vertical video series that might ask them to taste a really spicy chicken wing or offer their hottest take while sitting on the New York City subway.

What makes “Outside Tonight” unique among the internet talk show crowd, according to Shapiro-Barnum, is that it’s a “true variety show.” : Each episode features a monologue, an interview with a guest (including comedians Hasan Minaj, Caleb Hearon, and Gianmarco Soresi) and a guest musical act, along with panels and games, all performed in front of a live audience. Basically, it’s an old-fashioned late night show, just updated for the internet. Like any show in the internet age, the series is tasked with creating coherent episodes that will also play well as discrete clips scattered across social media.

“I think we’re playing into short attention spans, for better or for worse,” Shapiro-Barnum said. “This whole show to me just feels like this big, beautiful experiment.” For fans of “Recess Therapy,” there’s some of Shapiro-Barnum’s open-hearted curiosity and depth sprinkled throughout “Outside Tonight.” In the finale, Shapiro-Barnum interviews his mother and astrologist Chani Nicholas about why endings, including death, are so difficult to process. It’s tender and funny at once.

“This is a comedy show through and through,” he said. “But I think without depth, the comedy doesn’t mean anything.” The parallel he sees between “Recess Therapy” and “Outside Tonight” is an invitation to be less serious. “I’m like, how can I get adults to come on this show and play and be silly and goofy in the same way as kids are?” So far, the show’s success is modest.

On YouTube, the channel has reached just over 6,000 subscribers, though the most popular clips on Instagram have received millions of views — a testament to where the audience lives. The show’s most viral clip so far features Laurie Cooper, Instagram’s iconic New York City realtor of indeterminate age, pledging that she still goes out seven nights a week and saying you’re never too old for love. The clip is funny, heartwarming, and surprising all at once, just like the best moments of “Recess Therapy.” For now, Shapiro-Barnum isn’t sweating the metrics.

“I just make something that I believe in, and I hope that other people resonate with it,” he said. “And like, if it doesn’t work, at least you can tell we had fun trying it,” he said of the new venture. “It’s daring – and daring can be bad, but at least it was daring.”

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FIFA scraps controversial $20 billion World Cup investment plan

Sandego.net – FIFA’s proposed plan to sell private stakes in upcoming World Cup tournaments that sparked backlash from fans and soccer associations around the world has been scrapped, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement Friday. “Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place,” Infantino said. “Our purpose has always been – and will always be – to unite and improve.

“As a result, this proposal will not proceed.” FIFA and Infantino had announced plans Tuesday to set up a separate subsidiary – involving private equity investment – that would control the commercial and operational rights to one of the globe’s biggest sporting events. The proposal had since come under intense scrutiny and criticism from many around the world, with UEFA saying the “soul and governance” of the game are under threat. FIFA, though, said that the money generated will be reinvested back into the sport.

Infantino said it is now his goal to reunite the world of football following this debacle. “Moving forward, my intent is to bring all interested parties back together in the coming days and weeks in the spirit of shared interest in our game, and with the objective to continue growing football everywhere, particularly in those countries that mostly need our support,” the 56-year-old concluded. Infantino had found himself increasingly isolated as pressure and opposition built up against world soccer’s governing body’s plan to inject private money into its competitions.

European soccer’s governing body UEFA threatened Thursday to boycott future men’s and women’s World Cups in reaction to the proposal. North and Central America and Caribbean governing body CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) later came out with statements rejecting FIFA’s proposal, but stopping short of a boycott. A spokesperson for the Oceania Football Confederation said the FIFA proposal would be addressed by the entity’s executive committee in August.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino further isolated following senior advisor resignation and confederation revolts More pressure built up earlier Friday as Infantino’s senior advisor, Carlos Cordeiro, resigned from his position in protest at the proposal, saying: “I cannot stand by while FIFA considers selling a stake in the World Cup. Let me be clear: I had no involvement in this proposal, and I oppose it unequivocally. … It is a bad deal for FIFA’s Member Associations, a bad deal for football, and a bad deal for the long-term future of the game.” Kevin Lamour, FIFA’s chief operating officer, also spoke out against Infantino.

“It is the project of one person,” Lamour said in a statement to The Associated Press on Friday. He added: “Not only must this project not go ahead … but the time has now come for football political leaders to ask themselves the right questions and make the right decisions.” Lamour also included this: “And if that means I lose my job, then so be it. I will understand and respect that decision.

At least I’ll sleep well tonight.” Friday’s developments came after FIFA had issued a response Thursday night to the backlash by not backing down, seeking to “reaffirm” its plan on moving forward with the consultation process. Defending its FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), the sport’s global governing body said it “acknowledges and respects feedback and concern aired in public,” and placed blame for the furor on “erroneous” reporting in the media. Earlier on Thursday, the unanimous vote in support of a boycott by UEFA’s 55 member associations delivered an authoritative statement, pitting the sport’s richest and most important national associations against Infantino.

In a scathing Saturday morning statement, UEFA welcomed FIFA’s retreat from the deal while launching a direct attack on Gianni Infantino’s leadership. “We cannot keep going on like this with secret schemes on fast track timescales, cooked up by faceless individuals and of dubious benefit to the game. We must identify those responsible and hold them to account.” UEFA said in a statement.

“The current FIFA leadership has not only lost UEFA’s confidence but also that of many other members of the football family.” The AFC and Concacaf also “welcomed” FIFA’s decision to scrap the proposed plan. “The future of global football must always be shaped through proper consultation, collective dialogue and respect for the established governance structures of our game,” AFC president Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said in a statement Friday. “The AFC stands ready to support any initiative that strengthens the unity of the football family, contributes to the continued growth of the game globally and delivers meaningful benefits to all stakeholders.” Concacaf criticized the governance that allowed the proposal to reach an advanced stage without proper oversight.

“A proposal of this magnitude does not reach that stage by accident. It is a symptom of leadership that has stopped putting football first,” Concacaf said in its Saturday statement. “This recent unilateral and egregious act of poor governance and leadership follows a pattern of missteps and similar behaviour.

A comprehensive reckoning with this presidency is imperative. Aside from the lack of transparency around the process, much of the criticism of FIFA’s FFE proposal was centered around the involvement of private investors purchasing roughly 20% of the FFE subsidiary, in particular the main proposed investor group, Thrive Eternal, headed up by Joshua Kushner – brother of Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. There was a fear that investors, seeking a return on their investments, would push to influence matters beyond their remit to maximize profits.

With FIFA’s proposed plan now thrown to the wayside, all attention turns to the next major FIFA international event, the Under-20 Women’s World Cup, set to kick off on September 5 in Poland and the upcoming 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. CNN’s Christina Macfarlane, Aleks Klosok, and Thomas Schlachter have contributed to this report. This report has been updated with additional information.

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Backed by success, Indiana’s Curt Cignetti boldly touts Big Ten as best conference in college football

Backed by Success: Indiana’s Curt Cignetti Champions Big Ten

A Bold Voice for the Midwest

Sandego.net – Backed by success Indiana s Curt Cignetti has emerged as one of college football’s most compelling voices. The Indiana head coach recently made headlines by declaring the Big Ten the premier conference in the sport. His confidence stems from tangible results on the field, not just words. When Cignetti first arrived at Indiana, he famously told skeptics to search online for his track record. His “I win” mantra became his signature response to questions about his capabilities.

As the final coach to speak at media days, Cignetti’s timing was perfect. With limited game footage to discuss, the SEC versus Big Ten rivalry dominated headlines. These conferences have traded boasts for decades, but recent achievements have shifted the balance. Three national championships in consecutive years now belong to Big Ten programs. Ohio State, Michigan, and Indiana each claimed titles, challenging the SEC’s long-held dominance narrative.

Championship Pedigree and Conference Pride

Chicago became the stage for Big Ten celebration as three championship trophies rested on the dais. Despite this evidence of superiority, the SEC remains hesitant to concede. The conference’s move to a nine-game schedule has only intensified the debate. Southern teams argue their league’s physical nature makes such demanding schedules difficult to maintain. ESPN’s Laura Rutledge voiced similar concerns on “The Pat McAfee Show,” suggesting SEC teams might exhaust themselves.

“We don’t run a hype machine up here in the Midwest,” Cignetti declared with one of his characteristic smirks. “We believe everything is earned, not given. When we fall short, we say we fell short. We don’t cry a river, whine and complain. That’s why we’re the best.”

After delivering these words, Cignetti literally walked off the stage. What once seemed unusual about his approach has become remarkable. His immediate success at Indiana has made him the perfect ambassador for a conference comfortable showcasing its accomplishments. He manages to boast without appearing arrogant, wrapping confidence in genuine Midwestern sincerity.

Building a Championship Culture

“If I have a guy that consistently cannot do his best, cannot be on time, cannot rub off positively on others, is uncoachable, he’s not going to be in my program. Right?” he explained. “He’s not going to be in my program. The guys that are really productive, they get paid.”

This philosophy resonates throughout a conference where Indiana now finds itself at the center of attention. Two teams within the Big Ten consider their rivalry so important they simply call it “The Game,” while another program takes pride in its unassuming uniforms. Everyone seems to be riding in Indiana’s sidecar these days.

During a brief breakout session, Cignetti drew a crowd that extended nearly to the Big Ten Network set, forcing reporters to climb onto small platforms just to see him. Meanwhile, the SEC—long convinced it invented football—must now figure out how to catch up with a program built around players from James Madison and a quarterback originally sought by Yale.

The Cignetti Effect Spreads

The Cignetti effect has spread beyond Indiana’s borders. UCLA, a program with its own rich history, hired Bob Chesney, whose career path closely mirrors Cignetti’s, including his final stop at JMU. Even Barry Odom, Purdue’s head coach who is contractually inclined to remain critical of Indiana, couldn’t resist acknowledging the Hoosiers’ remarkable journey.

“It should give every program hope, vision and belief that it can happen,” Odom observed.

Success brings its own challenges, however. Cignetti acknowledged that handling sudden prominence will prove just as fascinating as Indiana’s improbable ascent from obscurity. He promised to “stalk complacency” and maintain the instincts that brought him to the top. The extended season following his national title victory meant a delayed start to preparations, but the coach embraced the opportunity to reflect and recharge.

FAQ: Cignetti and the Big Ten

Q: What makes Cignetti’s Big Ten declaration significant? A: His statement carries weight because Indiana won a national championship under his leadership, providing concrete evidence to support his claims about conference quality.

Q: How does the Big Ten compare to the SEC in recent years? A: The Big Ten has won three consecutive national championships, while the SEC has struggled to maintain its previous dominance, prompting ongoing debates about conference strength.

Q: What is Cignetti’s coaching philosophy? A: He emphasizes accountability, punctuality, and rewarding productive players, creating a culture where effort and results are directly connected.

Q: Has the Cignetti model influenced other programs? A: Yes, UCLA’s hiring of Bob Chesney demonstrates how his approach has attracted attention from major programs seeking similar success patterns.

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Howard University president says more than 200 students readmitted after mass unenrollment

Howard University President Details Readmission of Over 200 Students Following Mass Unenrollment

Clarifying the Situation

Sandego.net – Wayne A. I. Frederick, the interim president at Howard University, announced that more than 200 students have successfully regained their places at the institution. This development comes after over 500 first-year students were initially removed from enrollment for the upcoming fall semester. The Washington, D.C.-based university has worked diligently to resolve the situation and welcome back those who were unexpectedly displaced.

In a recent conversation with The Associated Press on Wednesday, Frederick addressed concerns about how the historically Black university managed the initial wave of unenrollments. He explained that numerous students and their families appeared to have misinterpreted the financial requirements that needed to be fulfilled before classes began in August. According to Frederick, the university had communicated its expectations clearly since March regarding outstanding tuition balances that were scheduled to be paid by mid-July.

Understanding the Reasons Behind Unenrollment

The president outlined several factors that contributed to students losing their spots. Many individuals were unenrolled because they carried unpaid tuition balances even after their financial aid packages and scholarship funds were applied. Additionally, some students faced removal due to missing or unreported immunization records. Frederick emphasized that the situation was not simply a matter of right versus wrong, noting that Howard followed its established policies and procedures throughout the process.

When news spread that students would no longer have enrollment at Howard—one of approximately 100 historically Black colleges and universities across the nation—dozens of students turned to social media platforms expressing anxiety about their futures. Many questioned where they could continue their education given that the fall semester was approaching for most institutions. Some students and parents reported difficulty contacting university officials through phone calls or email messages, leaving them uncertain about how to address problems related to tuition payments and housing assignments.

The Path to Readmission

Frederick recognized that the overwhelming volume of calls was understandable during such a chaotic period, though he noted that email responses were being provided. The university began holding meetings and conversations with families and students during the previous week, which ultimately led to the decision to reinstate many of those who had been removed. Frederick explained that the readmission process involved reviewing multiple elements, including documentation for incoming financial aid.

The school received approximately 37,000 applications for enrollment this fall. After the initial removal of 502 students, about 2,200 incoming students remained enrolled, Frederick stated.

A Student’s Journey

Keana Johnson, a 17-year-old who was among those initially unenrolled, shared her experience. She resides in a shelter designed for teenagers and young adults in New York City. On Wednesday morning, a staff member from the shelter accompanied her on a train ride to Howard University to inquire about the possibility of being reenrolled. After meeting face-to-face with a university official, Johnson learned that her enrollment had been restored.

“I feel great,” Johnson told the Associated Press. “I do feel there was a lesson to learn from this. I shed tears over this and I was really disheartened, at first, but I felt like I couldn’t give up. Until I really got the final say-so that I really couldn’t come, I couldn’t give up trying.”

Her story reflects the determination of many students who refused to surrender hope during what could have been a devastating setback. Through persistence and advocacy, both students and families worked together to secure second chances at their educational journey at Howard University.

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