In a significant turn of events, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has decided to postpone his upcoming book tour, which was set to take him to major cities including Baltimore, Washington, DC, New York City, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. This decision comes in response to mounting anger from within the Democratic Party regarding his recent handling of the government funding negotiations in Congress.

Schumer was scheduled to promote his new book, “Antisemitism in America: A Warning,” but representatives announced that the events would be rescheduled due to “security concerns.” The backlash against Schumer intensified following his decision to vote in favor of a Republican-led funding bill last week, aimed at preventing a government shutdown. Many within his party viewed this move as a betrayal of Democratic values and a capitulation to Republican demands.

The film industry mourns the loss of Émilie Dequenne, the Belgian actress renowned for her remarkable talent and captivating performances. Dequenne passed away on March 17, 2025, at the age of 43, after a courageous battle with adrenocortical carcinoma, a rare form of cancer affecting the adrenal glands. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news to the French news agency AFP.

Born on August 29, 1981, in Belœil, Belgium, Dequenne’s rise to fame began at the tender age of 18. She captivated audiences with her powerful portrayal of a struggling teenager in the Dardenne Brothers’ acclaimed film “Rosetta,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 1999. Her performance earned her the prestigious Best Actress award, and “Rosetta” won the coveted Palme d’Or, solidifying her place in cinematic history.

In a recent leak from renowned leaker Sonny Dickson, a new set of nonfunctional iPhone 17 dummies has surfaced, providing an exciting preview of Apple’s next-generation smartphone lineup. Known for his reliable leaks, Dickson’s revelations are particularly valuable for case and accessory makers who are gearing up for the upcoming release. The images released showcase an intriguing design that aligns closely with the renders circulating in the tech community, especially highlighting the expansive camera bump expected to be featured on all models except the standard iPhone 17.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, making it crucial for individuals to be aware of both the risk factors and the early warning signs of a heart attack. While many are familiar with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking as contributors to heart disease, fewer are aware of the subtle symptoms that may indicate an impending cardiac event.

As the political landscape shifts with President Donald Trump’s tariff rhetoric against Canada gaining momentum, Vermont’s small businesses are already feeling the repercussions. The state, known for its close ties with its northern neighbor, is witnessing the effects of trade tensions firsthand, particularly in the spirits and tourism industries.

One notable example is Caledonia Spirits, based in Montpelier, where Ryan Christiansen serves as president and head distiller. A recent shipment intended for the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ), which oversees the trade of alcoholic beverages in Quebec, has been stalled at the Barr Hill distillery for nearly a month. Following Trump’s announcement of tariffs against Canada in February, the SAQ canceled the order, leaving Christiansen and his team in a difficult position. “Customers are ready to buy, and we are in the peak of slow season,” he explained. “Now, it’s sitting on the dock. We missed our financial plan in February because of this.”

In a thrilling turn of events for both Cooper Kupp and Seattle Seahawks fans, the star wide receiver has officially signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the team. The announcement, made on March 14, 2025, has sent ripples of excitement through the NFL community, particularly in Washington, where Kupp’s journey began.

Kupp, who hails from Yakima, Washington, expressed his enthusiasm on social media shortly after the signing. With a heartfelt post on X, he declared, “Washington back across my chest. Let’s go!!!!!” This sentiment captures not only his excitement for joining the Seahawks but also his pride in representing his home state.

In a troubling development for prostate cancer patients in England and Northern Ireland, the life-extending drug abiraterone has not been approved for use through the NHS. This decision has sparked frustration and anger among health advocates and cancer charities, particularly Prostate Cancer UK, which has been vocal about the urgent need for this treatment.

Abiraterone, a medication that helps prevent prostate cancer from spreading, has been available to high-risk patients in Scotland and Wales for the past two years. However, in England and Northern Ireland, it is only offered to men with advanced prostate cancer that has already metastasized. This discrepancy leaves many patients in a precarious situation, as they are denied access to a drug that could significantly improve their chances of survival.

As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues into its fourth year, the possibility of a ceasefire remains shrouded in complexity. Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently indicated a willingness to consider a 30-day ceasefire, a proposal put forth by the United States and tentatively accepted by Ukraine. However, Putin’s support is laced with conditions and concerns that highlight the ongoing tensions and differing objectives between the two nations.

Putin’s announcement on March 13 raises significant questions about the feasibility of such a ceasefire. While he acknowledges the potential for a pause in hostilities, he warns that the implementation of this ceasefire would require careful verification across a lengthy front line. This cautious approach suggests that Russia may be looking to prolong negotiations without outright rejecting the offer, a tactic that could serve its strategic interests.

In a significant moment for the fashion industry, Donatella Versace has announced her decision to step down as the creative director of Versace, a position she has held since the tragic death of her brother, Gianni Versace, in 1997. Her tenure has been marked by groundbreaking designs and a lasting impact on luxury fashion, making her departure a poignant milestone in the brand’s history.

Reflecting on her time at the helm, Donatella expressed her deep appreciation for the opportunity to carry on Gianni’s legacy through her Instagram post. “It has been the greatest honor of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity,” she wrote. As she transitions to the role of chief brand ambassador, Dario Vitale, formerly of Miu Miu, will take over as the brand’s new top creative officer. Donatella shared her enthusiasm for this change, stating, “I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and excited to see Versace through new eyes.”

As an atmospheric river-fueled storm makes its way across the West Coast, Southern California is bracing for heavy rain that poses significant risks of mudslides and debris flows. This storm, which began impacting the region early Wednesday, has already led to evacuation orders in Los Angeles and surrounding areas, and its effects are expected to escalate as the week progresses.

The storm is forecasted to develop into a formidable March powerhouse, putting millions at risk of a variety of weather hazards, including wildfires, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, powerful winds, and blizzard conditions.