Russian claim: Russia says that Ukrainian troops crossed the border into Russia and staged a massive attack. Russian President Vladimir Putin called it a large-scale provocation. He accused the Ukrainians of indiscriminately attacking civilian targets and using a variety of weapons including missiles. Russia did not immediately say whether there were casualties and the Ukrainians did not immediately confirm that their troops actually did stage an attack within Russia. Â
Philadelphia rally: The Harris and Walz campaign says that 14,000 people attended the rally in Philadelphia yesterday during which Gov. Tim Walz was introduced as Vice President Harris’ running mate on the Democratic ticket for November. The arena at Temple University in Philadelphia had 10,000 seats but an overflow area also was filled. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who was in contention to run with Harris, received an enthusiastic reception when he spoke and threw his support behind Walz.
Debby: Tropical Storm Debby was centered off the coast of the Carolinas today as it slowly moves to the north. Weather forecast maps show that it will be dumping intensive rain on the Carolinas, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and New York over the next few days. A separate storm system caused flooding in parts of the New York Metro area last night with more heavy rain expected today.
Alzheimer’s: Scientists in Japan report that dopamine, a chemical produced by the brain, produces an enzyme that breaks down brain plaques that lead to Alzheimer’s disease. They reported that testing on mice resulted in improved memory and physical functioning of the mice. The results of their experiments were reported in a scientific journal. There was no indication of when there may be tests of the process on humans.
Israel-Hamas: Hamas has named a replacement for its political leader Ismail Haniyev who was assassinated in Iran by the Israelis. Yahya Sinwar, who planned the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, was named to succeed Haniyev. Hamas said that he would take part in negotiations for a cease-fire. An Israeli military spokesman said that the Israelis are planning to try to also kill Sinwar.
Disney financials: The Walt Disney Company today reported third quarter results for its fiscal year that included revenues of $23.2 billion for the quarter, up by $900 million from the same period in the last fiscal year. Net income was $3.1 billion, compared with a $100 million loss in the third quarter during the last fiscal year. The company said that its video streaming unit became profitable during the third quarter and that it had strong results at the movie box office.
