Goodable

Chris Farley, a comedic legend, shone in roles like Matt Foley on "Saturday Night Live" and Tommy Callahan, Jr. in "Tommy Boy." His untimely death at 33 in 1997 marked the end of a bright career. In 1995, as Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich rose to prominence within the Republican Party, Farley famously impersonated him during a House Republican Conference Meeting, celebrating the GOP's first 100 days in control of Congress, creating an unforgettable moment of comedy.

<p>Chris Farley, a comedic legend, shone in roles like Matt Foley on "Saturday Night Live" and Tommy Callahan, Jr. in "Tommy Boy." His untimely death at 33 in 1997 marked the end of a bright career. In 1995, as Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich rose to prominence within the Republican Party, Farley famously impersonated him during a House Republican Conference Meeting, celebrating the GOP's first 100 days in control of Congress, creating an unforgettable moment of comedy.<br></p>

Watch: SNL's Chris Farley's Hilarious Newt Gingrich Impersonation

ABC News

Tyrone Green felt isolated when his youngest son was diagnosed with autism. While his wife quickly sought support for their 3-year-old, Green grappled with questions and a sense of loneliness. "My wife couldn’t understand what I was going through as a Black father," he said.

In 2021, Green joined a support group for Black fathers and found others eager to share their experiences. This led to the creation of AutisHIM, a podcast launched in 2023 where Black dads discuss the challenges and triumphs of raising autistic children.

Green is part of a growing movement among Black fathers seeking visibility in the national autism conversation through podcasts, nonprofits, and summits tailored to their experiences. These fathers aim not only to be seen as more than just sidekicks but also to encourage other Black dads to embrace autism diagnoses without delay.

Autism affects communication and interaction with the world. Since 2020, federal data shows higher prevalence rates among Black children compared to white children, attributed largely to increased awareness in underserved communities.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent comments on autism have sparked concern among experts like Michael Hannon from Montclair State University. Hannon warns that such narratives can diminish hope for families affected by autism.

Affinity groups are proving effective in helping Black fathers engage emotionally. Evan Polk, who founded AuSome Kicks near Philadelphia, learned patience over time with his autistic daughter.

Dr. Berry Pierre initially took a backseat in supporting his autistic daughter but later co-founded Autism in Black with his wife. He discovered many involved fathers were overlooked and now works to amplify their voices.

Nicholas Love from North Carolina once hesitated to share his journey publicly but now advocates for normalizing discussions about autism within families.

Green hopes platforms like AutisHIM will inspire more conversations about Black fatherhood and autism: "I see

Black Dads Unite: Shattering Stigmas and Supporting Kids with Autism

Artnet

The 1940s were a transformative decade, marked by world-shaping events like World War II and the advent of penicillin. Yet, the art world also experienced a significant shift, as Abstract Expressionism emerged in New York. However, a new exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art offers a broader perspective on this dynamic era.

"Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s" showcases over 250 pieces from painting to fashion, challenging the dominant narrative that centers solely on Abstract Expressionism. "By focusing on a decade, you pivot away from the idea that there’s one story," said Jessica Smith, PMA’s chief curator. The exhibition includes works never before displayed publicly, highlighting lesser-known gems from the museum's collection.

Visitors can expect to see early works by American artists like Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner alongside designers such as Charles and Ray Eames. These pieces illustrate how ideas developed during this period matured into midcentury movements.

The exhibit also features figurative works by queer artists like Paul Cadmus and Beauford Delaney. Delaney's portrait of writer James Baldwin is among these highlights. Meanwhile, Horace Pippin's paintings offer unflinching depictions of racial segregation post-World War I.

Wartime propaganda posters remind viewers of past international alliances against fascism. Other designs reflect wartime resourcefulness with practical yet stylish fashion pieces.

Smith emphasized that creativity thrived despite wartime restrictions: "People persisted and wanted to find a way forward." This message resonates today as we face our own challenges.

"Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s" runs through September 1, 2025, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

How 1940s Art and Design Still Shapes Our World Today

BBC News

For Neil Meynell, Download Festival in Leicestershire is more than just an annual event—it's a cherished tradition. Since 1984, when it was known as Monsters of Rock, the 58-year-old from Tewkesbury has made the pilgrimage every year.

Meynell credits the festival's unique sense of community for his unwavering loyalty. "This is basically my home," he said. "Everyone says it's [the] spiritual home of rock and roll... you just walk around here and you feel at home."

With decades of festival experience under his belt, Meynell offers sage advice to newcomers: travel light and embrace spontaneity. "I'd say to people don't overplan things," he advised. "Don't pack a million bits of kit, just let the festival take you as it goes."

Despite unpredictable weather—from pouring rain to blazing sunshine—Meynell remains unfazed by any challenges that come his way. For him, it's all about enjoying the vibe between bands and fans alike.

As he looks forward to another year at Download Festival, Meynell encourages others to savor each moment without stress or rigid plans. "Just let it flow," he said confidently, knowing that by Monday morning attendees will be eagerly anticipating next year's event.

Download Festival: Why This Rock 'N' Roll Pilgrimage Keeps Fans Coming Back Since 1984

In the high-speed world of IndyCar racing, it's not just the drivers who capture attention. David Letterman, a familiar face from late-night television, has been co-owning an IndyCar team since 1996. His team, Rahal-Letterman-Lanigan Racing, boasts two Indianapolis 500 victories.

Letterman's love for racing traces back to childhood memories in Indianapolis. "When I was a kid... it was part of the culture," he recalled. Now, as a co-owner, his race day role is simple: "Listen to the race, sitting in a tree."

The sport features 17 races annually across various tracks and showcases talents like Team Penske's Josef Newgarden. Newgarden clinched consecutive Indy 500 wins in 2023 and 2024 and embraces positivity as his guiding principle.

Meanwhile, Team McLaren's Pato O'Ward remains determined to secure his first Indy 500 victory after narrowly missing out in 2024. "I know I'm going to get my Indy 500 win," O'Ward confidently stated.

IndyCar racing has evolved significantly since its inception in 1911. The sport faced challenges but is experiencing a resurgence with sold-out events like this year's Indy 500.

Racing legend Mario Andretti praised today's drivers for their unprecedented talent while acknowledging advancements in safety measures on the track.

Despite inherent risks, drivers focus on winning rather than danger. O'Ward emphasized that mindset: "You think of winning when you're in that car."

This year's Indy 500 saw Spanish driver Alex Palou take victory, but with nine races remaining this season, anything can happen on the track.

For Letterman and fans alike, the allure lies in the experience itself. "It's unimaginable," he said about attending an IndyCar race—a sentiment echoed by many who witness these thrilling events firsthand.

Why Indycar Racing Is Winning Hearts: The Unexpected Allure Behind the Wheel

The Cool Down

A helicopter successfully herded a group of critically endangered banteng cattle to a wildlife sanctuary in Cambodia, according to AFP. The operation aimed to protect the species, which faces threats from deforestation and habitat loss.

Banteng, native to Southeast Asia, resemble domestic cattle but are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Their natural habitats—forests and grasslands—are rapidly disappearing. In Cambodia alone, 33% of forest cover has been lost since 2000 due to government-approved development projects.

The recent relocation involved 16 banteng found in an unsuitable area. Conservation groups Rising Phoenix and Siem Pang orchestrated the move using a "mass-capture funnel trap" over three days. A helicopter guided the animals into the trap and onto a truck for transport.

"This method turned out to be a successful 'significant achievement,'" said the conservation groups, as reported by AFP. "It opens the way for further such operations to relocate banteng trapped in isolated forest patches elsewhere in the country."

The banteng were relocated to Siem Pang Wildlife Sanctuary, where they will be monitored. This sanctuary provides them with safety in numbers and better reproductive opportunities, contributing to population stability. It also offers protection from hunting and deforestation impacts.

Efforts like these are crucial for preserving endangered species and combating habitat destruction.

Surprising Strategy to Save Endangered Animals Proves a Game-Changer

Euro News

Pippa Lovell, a chef on the Isle of Man, is turning the culinary world on its head by using invasive species in her dishes to support local biodiversity. After moving from Copenhagen in 2018, Lovell opened her restaurant Versa, where she forages half of the ingredients used in her kitchen.

Lovell's journey into foraging began during her time working at Michelin-starred restaurants in Scandinavia. However, she was disillusioned by their approach. "It was just so normal to use foraging ingredients but they do it for the sake of it being free and being cool," she said from her home in Port Erin.

Her innovative approach earned her the S.Pellegrino Award for Social Responsibility in 2019. At Versa, Lovell focuses on using abundant invasive species like Alexanders—a plant introduced by Romans that now clogs hedgerows—as substitutes for traditional ingredients like parsley and celery.

"Using the seeds stops it from spreading," Lovell explained. "It stops the footprint of other ingredients and there’s more flavor so you need less."

The Isle of Man is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, making it an ideal location for Lovell's eco-friendly mission. "As a forager and a chef who considers herself an activist…it just seemed apparent that it was a really good place to use to talk about my values and ethos," she said.

Despite having no formal culinary training, Lovell has mastered cooking through experience and self-study. Her commitment extends beyond food; Versa doesn't serve alcohol due to its imported components.

"It's a lifestyle working at Versa," Lovell noted. With nature as both inspiration and pantry, she's proving that sustainability can be deliciously rewarding.

Meet The Chef Turning Invasive Species Into Gourmet Dishes To Save Biodiversity

ESPN

Aaliyah Chavez, a standout basketball talent from Lubbock, Texas, has captured the nation's attention as the top prospect in her class. The 5-foot-11 guard recently signed with Oklahoma and attributes much of her success to countless hours spent training at a half-court gym in a strip mall—an endeavor spearheaded by her father, Sonny Chavez.

Despite lacking formal basketball experience, Sonny became Aaliyah's dedicated coach and mentor. "I was blessed to be able to have something that I can do with my dad every single day and not get tired of it," Aaliyah told ESPN. Their bond deepened through rigorous training sessions that transformed Aaliyah into a champion both on and off the court.

Reflecting on their journey ahead of Father's Day, Sonny shared how basketball strengthened their relationship. "Whenever she found something that we could do and be consistent in it, I think she latched on," he said.

Aaliyah's high school career culminated in March when she led Monterey High School to victory in Texas' Class 5A Division II girls state championship. Her impressive stats include 4,796 points, 1,279 rebounds, and 771 assists. Alongside these achievements came accolades such as McDonald's All-American and Naismith Prep Player of the Year honors.

Sonny's dedication extended beyond coaching; he shifted his priorities from running a body shop to nurturing his daughter's potential. Despite skepticism about their unconventional training methods, Sonny proudly notes their success: "And she's No. 1 in the country."

As Aaliyah prepares for college basketball at Oklahoma, with approximately $1 million in NIL deals already secured, their journey continues to inspire others. "I would give up all my awards just to have that relationship with my dad," Aaliyah said.

Father-Daughter Team: How Aaliyah Chavez Found Her Passion on the Court

ABC - Australia

The weekend at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., was anything but ordinary as Bruce, a 21-month-old golden retriever, made his Major League Baseball debut. As part of the Pups in the Park promotion, Bruce fetched a bat during a pre-game ceremony before the Washington Nationals faced off against the Miami Marlins.

Bruce is no stranger to this task; he has been retrieving bats for two seasons with the Rochester Red Wings, Washington's minor league affiliate. Sporting a bandana with an "MLB debut" patch, Bruce was presented with a commemorative bat and charmed fans as he took an enthusiastic route from the dugout to first base.

"Look at this dog and try not to smile," said Josh Snyder, Bruce's owner. "He's great. He's goofy. I think he's the perfect candidate for Rochester, the Red Wings and now the Nationals."

Snyder shared that he drove through the night with Bruce to arrive in Washington by 3 a.m. on game day. Despite their early arrival, Bruce seemed unfazed as he soaked up attention while strolling through the stadium tunnel.

Before his big moment on field, Bruce spent about 50 minutes mingling with well-wishers and practicing bat retrievals with Snyder’s help. Although he didn’t work during the actual game, his presence left an impression.

Bruce follows in the paw prints of Milo, Snyder’s previous dog who also worked with the Red Wings and participated in charitable campaigns for veterans' organizations.

This week brought exciting news: The Nationals announced Bruce's promotion had generated significant buzz online. "Social media... seems like it's seriously blown up," Snyder said. "Really good publicity with our goal and our mission of bringing people together."

Bruce will return to his duties in Rochester but left behind smiles and wagging tails at Nationals Park.

Meet Bruce: The Adorable Bat Dog Stealing the Show at MLB Games

The Amazon World Zoo Park on the Isle of Wight is celebrating a delightful addition to its family: the birth of rare pygmy slow loris twins. Born to parents Lapek and Ramina, these tiny primates are part of a crucial breeding program under the European Endangered Species Programme.

Pygmy slow lorises hail from the lush rainforests and bamboo thickets of Vietnam, Laos, eastern Cambodia, and southern China. The zoo's spokesperson expressed excitement and pride in contributing to the conservation efforts for this endangered species. "Breeding endangered species like these Loris are what zoos like ours are all about," they said.

These newborns mark the fourth pair of lorises born at the zoo since Lapek and Ramina arrived in December 2020. According to the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), they are currently the only ones born in the UK over the past year, with just seven other zoos in Europe reporting similar births.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies pygmy slow lorises as endangered due to a population decline exceeding 50 percent over 24 years. This drop is largely attributed to hunting for pet trade, food, medicinal purposes, and habitat loss from human activities such as agriculture.

As these precious twins settle into their new home, they symbolize hope for their species' future.

Meet The Adorable Rare Twins: Zoo Celebrates Birth Of Pygmy Lorises

Science Daily

A cosmic mystery is unfolding in the icy expanse of Antarctica, where a particle detector has picked up signals that challenge our understanding of physics. The Antarctic Impulsive Transient Antenna (ANITA) experiment, which involves instruments flown on balloons high above the continent, detected unusual radio pulses that seem to originate from below the horizon. This defies current particle physics models and suggests the possibility of unknown particles or interactions.

Stephanie Wissel, an associate professor at Penn State and part of the ANITA team, explained the anomaly: "The radio waves that we detected were at really steep angles, like 30 degrees below the surface of the ice." According to their calculations, these signals should have been absorbed by thousands of kilometers of rock before reaching ANITA's detectors.

Neutrinos—particles with no charge and minimal mass—are typically hard to detect but can reveal insights about cosmic events when traced back to their sources. "You have a billion neutrinos passing through your thumbnail at any moment," Wissel said. Despite this abundance, they rarely interact with other matter.

The research team published their findings in Physical Review Letters after extensive analysis and cross-referencing with other detectors like IceCube and the Pierre Auger Observatory. These efforts confirmed that ANITA's signals are indeed anomalous.

Penn State researchers are now developing a new detector called PUEO to further investigate these mysterious signals. "I'm excited that when we fly PUEO, we'll have better sensitivity," Wissel said. "In principle, we should pick up more anomalies."

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