Stories from United States

Lawmakers are seeking information regarding contacts between Howard Lutnick and Jeffrey Epstein. Some funding for the National Institutes of Health has been restored, though researchers report ongoing suffering from previous cuts. Treasury Secretary Howard Lutnick participated in a closed-door session with the House Oversight Committee regarding his past connections to Jeffrey Epstein. Lutnick testified that he cut ties with Epstein in 2005. However, Department of Justice documents indicate Lutnick traveled to Epstein's private island with his family in 2012. House Oversight Committee chair James Comer stated that Lutnick attended the hearing voluntarily. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick appeared before a House committee today to testify regarding investigations into Jeffrey Epstein. The hearing focused on questions concerning Lutnick's contacts with Epstein.

A discussion touched on water conservation, with one person noting a return to using cash for transport and ATMs, finding it a refreshing change from digital methods.

Harley-Davidson is implementing a new strategic plan to increase sales volumes by offering lower price points. The company will introduce a new lightweight entry-level motorcycle named The Sprint. The new model is expected to be priced at under $10,000.

Major food companies including Conagra Brands, General Mills, Kraft Heinz, and Nestle are developing products to cater to consumers using GLP-1 obesity drugs.

The National Basketball Association has issued a fine of $50,000 to player Jalen Brown. The league cited specific violations of conduct rules. This penalty underscores the NBA's commitment to maintaining sportsmanship.

New AI software can predict breast cancer risk over one to four year intervals. The tool estimates a 1% risk of developing cancer over a five-year period. Barriers to widespread adoption include high costs and lack of routine coverage by health insurers.

The NBA fined Boston Celtics star Jalen Brown $50,000 for criticizing officials. The fine follows Brown's public comments questioning referees' motives during a Twitch live stream over the weekend. The league issued the fine after the team's playoff elimination.

The Indiana High School Athletic Association has voted to allow athletes under its jurisdiction to earn money from their names. The decision follows a vote by the association. This decision permits student-athletes to monetize their personal brands.

Five people are receiving medical treatment for injuries following a fire in a three-story condo building in Aspen, Illinois. The fire occurred just before 1:00 a.m. on the 1200 block of Harding. Fire crews utilized ladders to rescue residents from upper-floor balconies.

Seneca Valley officials have introduced a nearly $187 million budget proposal that includes a 3.5% tax increase at the state limit. District leaders are working to maintain programs while managing growing expenses. Final votes on the budget are expected to take place in June.