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nvdaily.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 1:56:41 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Foreign Policy & International Relations, Media Coverage & Press Relations, Presidential Campaigns
Top accessory this year at the Little League World Series? A bat that looks like sour gummy worms
SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (AP) -- It's not an ice-cream cone. It's not an Italian rainbow cookie. It's the baseball bat being used at the Little League World Series. Easton's 2026 Hype Fire USA Bat with the neon green grip and pink-and-neon yellow barrel is hard to miss at the plate. And the players love them. They get the bat when they first arrive at the Little League compound in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania manager Michael Shaw says he left it up to the players which bats they wanted to use. He says, in his words: "You know, a great color for 12-year-old kids - sour gummy worms."
Greg Iles, Mississippi author of 'Natchez Burning' trilogy, dies of cancer at 65
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) -- Mississippi author Greg Iles has died at 65. His literary agent Dan Conaway said Iles died Friday after a decades-long battle with the blood cancer multiple myeloma. Initially diagnosed with the incurable condition in 1996, he kept his illness private until completing his final novel, "Southern Man," which was published in 2024. Iles was born in Germany but moved to Natchez, Mississippi, with his family when he was just 3 years old and developed a deep connection with the region. Many of his stories are set in Mississippi, including the "Natchez Burning" trilogy, historical fiction suspense novels exploring race and class in the 1960s Jim Crow South.
Target and Ulta mutually agree not to renew partnership launched in 2021
NEW YORK (AP) -- Target and Ulta Beauty are parting ways, ending a partnership launched in 2021 that created in-store shops filled with beauty products at hundreds of the discounter's stores. According to a joint release issued Thursday, the companies said they have "mutually agreed" not to renew their pact, which concludes in August 2026. Until then, the Ulta Beauty experience at Target will continue in Target stores and on Target.com, the release said. Ulta is currently in 600 of Target's roughly 1,980 stores, according to a Target spokesperson.
Train collides with vehicle in Denmark, killing one person and injuring about 20 others
BERLIN (AP) -- A passenger train has collided with a vehicle at a crossing in southern Denmark. The accident on Friday left one person dead and injured about 20 others. The extent of the injuries remains unclear, but photos show derailed and overturned carriages. A large number of emergency services were on the scene. Local news outlet TV2 reported that drones and search dogs were deployed. Banedanmark, the company operating Denmark's rail network, confirmed the collision occurred at a level crossing.
Ethiopian fossil Lucy leaves for her first exhibition in Europe
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) -- The human ancestor fossil known as Lucy has left Ethiopia for display in a European museum. Lucy's skeleton, which is 40% complete, left Ethiopia on Thursday and will be displayed at the Czech National Museum in Prague for approximately two months. It is only the second time her remains have left Ethiopia since they were discovered in 1974. Some archaeologists have raised concerns about the safety of her bones during transportation, but experts say they have been carefully packed. Lucy was a member of Australopithecus afarensis, an early human species that lived in Africa between about 4 million and 3 million years ago.
Australian lawyer apologizes for AI-generated errors in murder case
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) -- A senior lawyer in Australia has apologized to a judge for using AI-generated fake quotes and nonexistent case judgments in a murder case. The blunder occurred in the Supreme Court of Victoria state and involved defense lawyer Rishi Nathwani. On Wednesday, Nathwani took full responsibility for the errors, according to court documents seen by The Associated Press on Friday. The blunder delayed the verdict by 24 hours. The judge ruled on Thursday that the defendant, a minor, was not guilty due to mental impairment. The fake submissions included fabricated quotes and case citations. The judge emphasized the importance of verifying AI-generated content. Similar incidents have occurred in the United States, highlighting ongoing challenges with AI in legal systems.
Puerto Rico cashes in on Bad Bunny as thousands flock to the island for his concerts
VEGA BAJA, Puerto Rico (AP) -- Thousands of tourists are descending on Puerto Rico this summer for one of Bad Bunny's concerts as part of the rapper's residency that has boosted the U.S. territory's fragile economy. Visitors are not only coming to see him, but to explore his island. The government and the private sector have launched tours and named food and drinks after his songs while small businesses have sold clothes and other goods sought by tourists. Short-term rentals are up 42% this August and 61% for September, compared with the same period last year. Nearly three dozen hotels are participating in packages that include the concert, generating nearly $200 million.
No end in sight to plastic pollution crisis as treaty negotiations in Geneva fail
GENEVA (AP) -- Talks on a treaty to address the global crisis of plastic pollution in Geneva ended without an agreement Friday. The session was adjourned and will be resumed at a later date. Nations were meeting for an 11th day at the United Nations office to try to complete a landmark treaty to end the plastic pollution crisis. They remain deadlocked over whether the treaty should reduce exponential growth of plastic production and put global, legally binding controls on toxic chemicals used to make plastics. The negotiations at the U.N. hub were supposed to be the last round and produce the first legally binding treaty on plastic pollution, including in the oceans.
California man rescued after being trapped for 2 days behind waterfall
California police rescued a man trapped for two days behind a waterfall. Ryan Wardwell, 46, was rappelling down the Seven Teacups waterfalls when the force of the water pushed him off his climbing lines. The Tulare County Sheriff's Office said Wardwell never returned to his car Sunday night, prompting a search using infrared technology and aircraft. Early Tuesday, a dive and rescue team used a drone to locate him. The California Highway Patrol used a helicopter to hoist him to safety. He was treated for minor injuries and dehydration and reunited with his family. Messages seeking comment were left Friday with Wardwell and the sheriff's office.
Melania Trump demands Hunter Biden retract 'extremely salacious' Epstein comments
WASHINGTON (AP) -- First lady Melania Trump is demanding that Hunter Biden retract comments linking her to sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. She threatens to sue if he does not. Biden made the comments in an interview this month, claiming Epstein introduced Melania to Donald Trump. Melania Trump's lawyer, Alejandro Brito, calls the statements false and defamatory. Brito says the comments have been widely shared on social media, causing harm to the first lady's reputation. Biden attributed the claim to author Michael Wolff, whom Trump has criticized. The Trumps have long said they were introduced by a modeling agent in 1998.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent news highlights a curious intersection of childhood joy and corporate branding at the Little League World Series, where players are swinging bats designed to resemble sour gummy worms. While this might seem like a light-hearted anecdote, it opens a broader conversation about the commercialization of youth sports, emphasizing the need for critical engagement with how corporate interests shape the experiences of young athletes. This scenario serves as a microcosm of a much larger issue in American society: the pervasive influence of consumer culture in spaces that should prioritize development, community, and play over profit.
Historically, youth sports in America were rooted in community engagement and the development of teamwork and personal skills. The Little League Baseball organization was founded in 1939, with the intent of providing children with a wholesome environment to learn baseball and foster camaraderie. However, as corporate sponsorships and advertisements have seeped into these spaces, the original mission has often been overshadowed by commercial interests. The appearance of brightly colored bats, designed with the express purpose of attracting attention (and, presumably, sales), illustrates the way marketing strategies are now intertwined with youth experiences. This shift raises questions about what values we are instilling in our children when commercial aesthetics take precedence over the integrity of the game.
This commercialization of youth sports is not isolated; it reflects broader societal trends of commodification that have infiltrated many aspects of life. In an era where corporate sponsorship is prevalent in schools and community programs, the focus often shifts from inclusivity and accessibility to profit margins and brand visibility. Children are increasingly taught to associate their worth with consumerism, as evidenced by the branding of their sporting equipment. This trend can perpetuate social disparities, as families with fewer resources may struggle to afford the latest branded gear, which could impact their children's participation in these formative activities. Such disparities are exacerbated by systemic inequities that have long plagued marginalized communities, reinforcing cycles of exclusion.
Moreover, the playful imagery of "sour gummy worm" bats can, in a more serious context, be seen as a reflection of how childhood innocence is often exploited for profit. Instead of fostering environments where children can thrive through authentic competition and teamwork, corporate entities frequently design their products to appeal to superficial tastes, encouraging a culture of consumerism rather than camaraderie. This shift not only distracts from the core values of sportsmanship but also contributes to a growing trend of prioritizing entertainment over education, where the spectacle becomes more important than skill development.
Ultimately, the conversation around the commercialization of youth sports—epitomized by the brightly colored bats at the Little League World Series—invites us to reflect on the fundamental purpose of such programs. Are we fostering environments that nurture young athletes and encourage personal growth, or are we merely feeding into a cycle of consumerist culture that undermines these goals? As we engage with this issue, it's imperative to advocate for policies that prioritize community investment in youth sports, ensuring that they remain spaces of growth, learning, and genuine joy, rather than arenas for corporate profits. In doing so, we can work towards reclaiming the integrity of youth sports, ensuring that they serve the children and communities they were originally designed to benefit, rather than the bottom lines of major corporations.
The recent news about the colorful bats used at the Little League World Series, particularly the Easton's 2026 Hype Fire USA Bat, has ignited discussions about childhood experiences in sports. While on the surface this may seem like a lighthearted topic about youth sports and their accessories, it reflects deeper issues concerning childhood, community values, and corporate influence in youth activities. The enthusiasm for vibrant, fun equipment like the “sour gummy worms” bat highlights how important it is to foster joy and creativity in youth sports, yet it also raises questions about the commercialization of childhood experiences.
Historically, youth sports have been a space for community engagement and character building. From the days of neighborhood pick-up games to organized leagues, sports have served as a means to instill teamwork, discipline, and social skills. However, the increasing commercialization of youth sports—exemplified by flashy gear and branded partnerships—can detract from these fundamental values. Instead of focusing solely on skill development and enjoyment, young athletes are often encumbered by pressures from parents, coaches, and sponsors to perform and compete at higher levels. This shift requires us to critically evaluate what youth sports should represent and how we can reclaim them from corporate interests.
As Americans, we have the power to advocate for a more community-oriented approach to youth sports. Encouraging local leagues to prioritize accessibility and inclusion over commercialization can help ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate regardless of their socioeconomic background. Initiatives could include community fundraising to provide equipment for low-income families, emphasizing that playing sports should not be a privilege reserved for those who can afford the latest gear. By rallying around this cause, we can help cultivate a more equitable environment where the joy of playing sports is available to all, not just those who can afford the latest corporate offerings.
Moreover, we can support legislation that aims to regulate the influence of corporations in youth sports. Advocating for policies that require transparency in sponsorship deals and the marketing practices directed at children can help mitigate the pressures that come with commercialized sports. This includes holding corporations accountable for how they market their products to young athletes and ensuring that their influence does not overshadow the primary purpose of youth sports—fun and personal growth. By being informed and vocal about these issues, we can challenge the status quo and create a sports culture that prioritizes children’s well-being over profit.
Educationally, it is essential to foster discussions about the implications of commercialization in youth sports. Parents, coaches, and community leaders should be equipped with the knowledge to recognize the signs of overly commercialized youth sports and understand the potential harm it can cause. Workshops and community forums can be organized to discuss these concerns, emphasizing the importance of nurturing an environment where children can enjoy sports without the burden of commercialization. Engaging in these conversations not only raises awareness but also empowers community members to take action, cultivating a grassroots movement that challenges the prevailing narratives around youth sports.
In conclusion, while the vibrant bats at the Little League World Series might seem like a fun topic, they open a gateway to critical discussions about childhood, community, and corporate influence in sports. By recognizing the historical context of youth sports and advocating for a return to community values, we can create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment for young athletes. Whether through local initiatives, legislative action, or educational efforts, we have the tools to reclaim youth sports as a space for growth, joy, and community bonding, rather than a battleground for consumerism.
Based on the news articles presented, there are several avenues for personal engagement and collective action that can be pursued. While the articles cover a variety of topics, we can derive broader themes related to community, culture, and historical awareness. Here's a detailed list of ideas concerning actions individuals can take:
### 1. Support Local Community Events **Action**: Participate in or volunteer for local sports events and youth programs. - **Example**: Volunteer as a coach or organizer for local youth baseball leagues to foster inclusivity and engagement in sports. - **What to Say**: "I want to help promote youth sports in our community. What opportunities are available for volunteering or coaching?"
### 2. Advocate for Arts and Literature **Action**: Support local authors and literary events. - **Example**: Attend book readings or signings by local authors, or organize a community book club focusing on authors like Greg Iles. - **What to Say**: "I believe in supporting local authors and would love to discuss their works in a community book club. How can we get started?"
### 3. Environmental Advocacy **Action**: Join or start petitions that advocate for sustainable practices in local businesses. - **Example**: Start a petition encouraging local stores to prioritize sustainable products, similar to Ulta’s beauty products in Target. - **Where to Find Petitions**: Websites like Change.org or local environmental organizations. - **What to Say in a Petition**: "We urge local businesses to adopt sustainable practices in their product selections to promote environmental responsibility."
### 4. Promote Safety and Infrastructure **Action**: Engage with local government regarding safety improvements at road crossings and public transport. - **Who to Write To**: Your local city council or transportation department. Find your representative's contact information on your city’s official website. - **Example Contact**: If you are in New York City, you can write to the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) at DOTInfo@dot.nyc.gov. - **What to Say**: "I am concerned about safety at local rail crossings and would like to see improvements to prevent accidents, similar to the recent incident in Denmark."
### 5. Cultural Heritage Support **Action**: Advocate for the preservation of local historical sites and promote their significance. - **Example**: Write to your local historical society or museum to express interest in programs that celebrate and educate about local history, akin to the significance of Lucy’s fossil in understanding human ancestry. - **Who to Write To**: Local museums or historical societies; for instance, the National Museum of African American History and Culture can be contacted at nmaahc_info@si.edu. - **What to Say**: "I would like to see more programs that highlight our local history and cultural heritage. What can I do to support this?"
### 6. Educational Engagement **Action**: Advocate for inclusive education that covers diverse historical narratives. - **Example**: Start or support initiatives in schools that focus on teaching comprehensive history, including significant literature from authors like Greg Iles. - **Who to Contact**: School boards or educational organizations. - **Example Contact**: Your local school board can usually be found on your district's official website. - **What to Say**: "I believe it is essential for our curriculum to include diverse perspectives in literature and history. How can we work together to implement this?"
### Conclusion These suggested actions encourage active participation in community engagement, cultural appreciation, and advocacy for safety and sustainability. By getting involved, attending local events, and voicing your concerns, you can contribute to fostering a more inclusive and aware society.