Officials in Massachusetts reported a statewide outage of its 911 system on Tuesday. “The 911 system is down STATEWIDE in Massachusetts, and there is no ETA on it returning. Boston police are literally recommending people go FIND a police officer or ‘fire box’ to pull if there’s an emergency. This comes just weeks after 15 other states suffered similar outages,” journalist Nick Sortor said. #BREAKING: The 911 system is down STATEWIDE in Massachusetts, and there is no ETA on it returning. Boston police are literally recommending people go FIND a police officer or “fire box” to pull if there’s an emergency. This comes just weeks after 15 other states suffered… pic.twitter.com/pkhqekP6dZ — Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 18, 2024 * Image from Nick Sortor X Post * “Currently the statewide 911 system is down. Calls are not going through,” Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said, according to Boston 25 News. “We’ve been in touch with the state and the relevant officials to work on getting this resolved,” she added. WATCH: BREAKING: Massachusetts dealing with statewide 911 system outage. pic.twitter.com/DZ2nRAn4aK — MSNBC (@MSNBC) June 18, 2024 Boston 25 News reports: The State 911 Department sent out an alert to mobile phones with a message that read,” 911 services are currently down statewide. Delays in public safety response may occur. Call the local public safety business line directly if you or others are having an emergency. More information will be provided when available.” In a post on X, the Boston Police Department shared some guidance for residents who find themselves in an emergency. “911 is currently down statewide. If you experience an emergency please pull a firebox,” the department wrote. “If you need assistance, please reach out to your local Boston Police District Station.” The Boston Fire Department shared a similar message, notifying residents that they can also get emergency assistance at their nearest firehouse. 911 is down in the entire state of Massachusetts right now. pic.twitter.com/R4lqThLCwM — Kassy Akiva (@KassyDillon) June 18, 2024 WATCH: BREAKING NEWS: Massachusetts is currently grappling with a severe statewide 911 outage, disrupting emergency services across the state. In response to this critical situation, state officials have issued an emergency alert to cellphones, urging residents to contact their… pic.twitter.com/N3jV51Gqxt — Dr. Jeffrey Horelick (@DrJeffHorelick) June 18, 2024 From the Associated Press: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said residents shouldn’t worry about calling the correct number or facility for their emergency, but to just reach out to their nearest authorities. “If you are experiencing an emergency, if you find your way to police, fire or EMS, we will make sure that you get to the right place,” she said. She said authorities were working to resolve the issue. Cox said the disruption “could be very temporary.” “But we thought it was important, particularly with the heat that we’re about to experience, to make sure that we give people the opportunity to know what’s going on,” he said. The Massachusetts disruption caused confusion in other northeastern states, where some residents also got notifications on their phones. But authorities in Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and New York all said their systems were operational.

You’ve heard of “Stay Classy”, but have you heard of “Stay Trashy”? You have now. Enter the City of New Orleans and it’s Mayor, LaToya Cantrell. In what can only be described as a peak ghetto moment, Mayor Cantrell just declared June 11 as “Back That Azz Up Day”. How nice! And before anyone comes after me for using the word ghetto as if it’s some racist term, it’s not. Google Search, citing to Columbian University, defines ghetto as “behaving in a low-class manner”: Quite frankly, I think it’s very rude and racist for Racist Liberals to suggest that “behaving in a low-class manner” is some how associated with any certain race, so we don’t do that here. We use the word in it’s proper meaning, and I stand behind the claim that using your power as Mayor to declare a “Back That Azz Up Day” is both trashy and behaving in a low-class manner. Even if it’s spelled “Azz”. Sorry, that doesn’t make it better. Here is the actual proclamation that was issued: That’s a little hard to read, so I have a full transcript for you. Read here: City of New Orleans Be it known that Mayor LaToya Cantrell City of New Orleans Recognizes Back That Azz Up Day On the occasion of 25th Anniversary of the Music Video Whereas, the City of New Orleans proudly recognizes the 25th anniversary of the iconic music video “Back That Azz Up” by its very own Juvenile, which was released in 1999 and has since become a defining anthem worldwide and our city’s vibrant musical heritage; and Whereas, “Back That Azz Up,” produced by the legendary Mannie Fresh and featuring the esteemed Lil Wayne, has transcended its roots to become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated by millions from diverse backgrounds across generations; and Whereas, this legendary song has remarkably honored the most pivotal genres within American music, uniting people and communities in joy and celebration, and exemplifying the unifying power of music. Over two million people have been “backing it up” since the 90s and the 2000s; and Whereas, as we commemorate this milestone and the enduring legacy of “Back That Azz Up,” Juvenile is launching a substantive tour, to celebrate 25 years of this groundbreaking video, to be held in cities across the country; and Whereas, the City of New Orleans wishes to honor this historic occasion and the contributions of Juvenile, Mannie Fresh, and Lil Wayne to the music industry and our community; Now, Therefore, I, LaToya Cantrell, Mayor of New Orleans, do hereby proclaim June 11, 2024, as “Back That Azz Up Day” in the City of New Orleans, and call upon all residents of New Orleans, and all who love our culture, to join in the celebration of this monumental achievement and the artists who have made a lasting impact on our musical heritage. Attested to this 11th Day of June in the Year 2024 LaToya Cantrell Mayor LaToya Cantrell This is a proclamation recognizing June 11, 2024, as “Back That Azz Up Day” in honor of the 25th anniversary of the music video “Back That Azz Up” by Juvenile, featuring Mannie Fresh and Lil Wayne. In case you don’t know or aren’t familiar, the phrase is not dedicated to a “Juvenile” in general but to the musical “artist” Juvenile who wrote the indelible “Back That Azz Up”. Where would we be without that song? Probably much farther ahead as a society, but I digress…. Here are more details from NOLA.com: New Orleans hip-hop icon Juvenile has made countless people worldwide back that ass up for more than 25 years. In recognition, the City of New Orleans is celebrating Juvenile and the 25th anniversary of the “Back That Azz Up” music video by declaring June 11 as “Back That Azz Up Day.” Mayor LaToya Cantrell on Tuesday issued a proclamation to recognize “the 25th anniversary of the music video, and urge all citizens to join the celebration of this monumental achievement and the artists who have made a lasting impact on our city’s musical legacy.” Juvenile released the music video for “Back That Azz Up” on June 11, 1999, as the second single from his album “400 Degreez,” which dropped in late 1998. Produced by Mannie Fresh and featuring Lil Wayne, the music video and single helped Cash Money Records “take over for the ’99 and 2000” as the label grew into an industry powerhouse. “400 Degreez” has since gone quadruple-platinum, and it’s virtually impossible to go to a party or wedding without hearing “Back That Azz Up.” Juvenile and Mannie Fresh have spent the last year celebrating the 25th anniversary of “400 Degreez” — including with one of the greatest NPR Tiny Desk concerts in the series — and Juvenile continues the celebration with an extensive, nationwide “Back That Azz Up” tour this summer and fall with his live band. “Back That Azz Up” “has been a huge part of my musical journey, and it’s amazing to see it still resonate with people today and I can’t wait for the moment each night of the tour when the song drops,” Juvenile said in a statement. And if you want to see the song in all it’s glory, you can watch here: But why am I even covering this? And why am I so worked up about it? Does it even matter? To my daily life?  No it does not. But if I lived in New Orleans I would care. I would definitely care that my Mayor was wasting her time with garbage like this while our city constantly ranks among the worst major cities in the USA for crime. Take a look at the following stats I got from ChatGPT (with all citations included): New Orleans is among the cities with the highest crime rates in the United States. When compared to the top 50 cities in the U.S., New Orleans ranks poorly, particularly in terms of violent crime. Crime Statistics for New Orleans: Overall Crime Rate: New Orleans has a total crime rate of 61 per 1,000 residents. This includes both violent and property crimes, making it one of the highest in the nation. Your chance of becoming a victim of any crime in New Orleans is about 1 in 16​ (NeighborhoodScout)​. Violent Crime: The violent crime rate in New Orleans is 14.46 per 1,000 residents, significantly higher than the national median of 4 per 1,000 residents. This includes crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Specifically, New Orleans has a high murder rate of 72 per 100,000 residents, making it the city with the highest murder rate among medium-sized cities​ (NeighborhoodScout)​​ (SafeHome.org)​. In 2024, New Orleans was listed among the cities with the highest violent crime rates in the country, with 1,121 incidents per 100,000 residents, placing it 18th among U.S. cities​ (World Population Review)​. Property Crime: The property crime rate is 47 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes tracked include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. New Orleans has one of the highest rates of motor vehicle theft in the nation, with a chance of 1 in 88 residents experiencing this crime​ (NeighborhoodScout)​. Comparison with Other Cities: In a broader context, cities like St. Louis, Detroit, and Baltimore have higher violent crime rates. For example, St. Louis has the highest violent crime rate with 2,082 incidents per 100,000 people, while Detroit and Baltimore also have very high rates. New Orleans, although slightly lower, remains within the top tier of violent crime rates​ (World Population Review)​​ (SafeHome.org)​. Economic Impact: The economic cost of crime in New Orleans is substantial, with an estimated cost per capita of $11,094. This figure includes medical expenses, property loss, and the broader societal costs of maintaining law enforcement and correctional facilities​ (MoneyGeek.com)​. These statistics highlight the significant crime challenges New Orleans faces compared to other major U.S. cities. For further information, you may refer to the detailed crime reports from sources like NeighborhoodScout, World Population Review, and SafeHome.org. So here’s an idea…. How about the Mayor spends her time cleaning up her seedy city? Maybe less official Proclamations about Azz(es) and more work on cleaning up crime? But what do I know, I’m just your humble correspondent. Somehow, this woman became Mayor. [SHUDDER] My apologies (and prayers) for all of you reading this who live in “NOLA”.

The Boston Celtics won their 18th NBA championship, putting themselves in a category that no other franchise has achieved.  

The White House press briefing on Tuesday was interrupted when a person in the room unexpectedly passed out during the middle of the event. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was speaking to reporters when all of the sudden, a woman in the room declared: “We have an emergency.” The woman told Jean-Pierre that a person had passed out. Jean-Pierre made her way to the back of the room where the incident happened as several others were tending to the individual, who has not been identified. The incident caused the event to be briefly paused until the proper officials arrived on scene. Jean-Pierre, who later returned to the podium, said that it was hot in the room. CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP WATCH: BREAKING: A person has just passed out at the White House press briefing: pic.twitter.com/NUnx2jYlYU — Conservative War Machine (@WarMachineRR) June 18, 2024

Lawyers for Hunter Biden appeared to use his relationship with then-Vice President Joe Biden to help him evade fraud charges as the Securities and Exchange Commission investigated a business linked to the first son, according to House Republicans.  Lawmakers on the House Oversight Committee and House Judiciary Committee sent a letter to the SEC on Tuesday requesting documents related to its 2016 investigation into several of Hunter’s business associates over fraud associated with business entity Rosemont Seneca Bohai. In his response to the SEC for documents needed for the investigation, Hunter asked for confidentiality because of his father’s position, House Republicans said Tuesday.  “As a threshold matter, we request that you treat this matter with the highest degree of confidentiality, consistent with Commission policy and applicable law,” Hunter’s legal team wrote on April 20, 2016, according to House Republicans. “The confidential nature of this investigation is very important to our client and it would be unfair, not just to our client, but also to his father, the Vice President of the United States, if his involvement in an SEC investigation and parallel criminal probe were to become the subject of any media attention.” Just weeks later, the SEC charged multiple individuals associated with Rosemont Seneca, but not Hunter Biden, with fraud charges.  According to the lawmakers, Rosemont Seneca had a bank account used “to funnel other foreign payments and benefits to Hunter Biden, including money from Ukraine and a new sports car from an oligarch in Kazakhstan.” Devon Archer, a former partner of Hunter who was convicted over the scheme, previously testified that Hunter was the corporate secretary for Rosemont Seneca. Hunter has told the lawmakers that he did not have a position at the entity. CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP Reps. Jim Jordan (R-OH) and James Comer (R-KY) wrote that Hunter appeared to use his father’s position to escape prosecution over the fraud scheme.  Their Tuesday letter asks SEC Chair Gary Gensler to provide documents about the agency’s investigation into the fraud, specifically in relation to Hunter Biden’s involvement with Rosemont Seneca.  They also asked for a transcribed interview with Tejal D. Shah, the attorney who led the investigation into the Rosemont Seneca fraud case. “Mr. Biden’s response gratuitously invoked his father’s position as the Vice President in what could be interpreted as an effort to discourage further SEC scrutiny,” House Oversight Chair James Comer (R-KY) and House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-OH) wrote. “And on May 11, 2016, the SEC published a press release — announcing the charging of seven individuals—with no mention or charging of Hunter Biden.”

Dr. Anthony Fauci hesitated to assess whether former President Donald Trump is fit to lead, but jumped at the opportunity when pressed about President Joe Biden as he shared assessments on how they performed as leaders from a public health perspective. The issue came up as Fauci, a longtime director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) who advised both Trump and Biden before retiring at the end of 2022, during a CBS interview that aired on Tuesday. CBS’s Nate Burleson, moments later: “[W]hat about Biden. Do you believe he is fit to lead us for the next four years?” Tony Fauci: “Oh, absolutely. You know, absolutely, because the first thing he did when I became his chief medical adviser, we had a conversation, literally the… pic.twitter.com/KkKiH1YQap — Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) June 18, 2024 “You’ve spoken about your relationship and write about your complicated relationship with former President Donald Trump. He could possibly be our president again. Given that you know him, personally, from a public health perspective, do you believe he is fit to lead us if he is elected president?” asked “CBS Mornings” co-host Nate Burleson. “I don’t want to get into what’s fit or not … from a health standpoint, he missed opportunities to use the bully pulpit of the presidency to tell people to do things that would keep them safe. That’s what bothers me as a public health person, as a physician, who my only care and goal is the safety and the protection of the American public and their health,” Fauci said. CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP “And, for example,” Fauci continued with an anecdote related to the COVID-19 pandemic, “he could have said when the masks came out, and the CDC said wear a mask, instead of saying, ‘I don’t want to wear a mask,’ he could have said, ‘Masks save lives. I’ll wear a mask.’ And then, all the people who follow him religiously would have been wearing masks.” Later in the interview, as noted by NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck, Burleson prompted Fauci to comment on Biden, who is also running for a second term. “Do you believe he is fit to lead us for the next four years?” he asked. “Oh, absolutely,” Fauci replied. “You know, absolutely, because the first thing he did when I became his chief medical adviser, we had a conversation, literally the first day, saying we want to go with the evidence and the truth, and if we make a mistake, we correct it, but we’ve got to be honest with what’s going on. That was his first words to me.”

Embattled Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) reportedly once asked a local Jewish leader for a photo of the two of them together so that he could “show the world I’m friends with Jewish people” ahead of a tough primary election in 2022. Jewish Insider’s Matthew Kassel reported the story on Tuesday, teasing it with the following post on X: “New: In late spring 2022, Rep. Jamaal Bowman reached out a local Jewish leader with an unusual request as he faced mounting scrutiny over his record on Israel. ‘Do you have pics of us?’ he texted. ‘So I can show the world I’m friends with Jewish People.'” New: In late spring 2022, Rep. Jamaal Bowman reached out a local Jewish leader with an unusual request as he faced mounting scrutiny over his record on Israel. “Do you have pics of us?” he texted. “So I can show the world I’m friends with Jewish People.” https://t.co/M1YVmrtF0s — Matthew Kassel (@matthewkassel) June 18, 2024 Under a headline that reads, “No more bridges to burn in Jewish Westchester,” Kassel reports that the Jewish leader — who chose to remain anonymous — said that he did have such a photo, but opted not to send it for several reasons. First, he explained that while the alleged photo was taken at an event where Bowman had promised support for then-President Donald Trump’s Abraham Accords, by the time he requested the photo, he had already walked back that support. And second, the alleged request had simply made him uncomfortable about the nature of their relationship. “I was uncomfortable. I kind of joked around with him about it. I said, ‘Oh, I’m sure you guys have it. Don’t worry about it,'” he told Jewish Insider, later explaining, “I was like, ‘I don’t want to be his court Jew.’ That wasn’t what I signed up for.”

Doctors at Texas Children’s Hospital may have engaged in medical fraud as they provided puberty blockers and hormone therapy to children, new testimony from a whistleblower indicates. Two doctors at the Houston-based hospital allegedly billed Medicaid in violation of Texas state law as they provided medical interventions that sought to change the sex of their patients, the report from conservative journalist and activist Chris Rufo reveals. Vanessa Sivadge, a nurse at the hospital, alleged that Texas Children’s Hospital “is illegally billing Medicaid for transgender procedures” with the help of two doctors: pediatric endocrinologist Richard Ogden Roberts III and Dr. David Paul. This is Dr. Richard Ogden Roberts. According to Sivadge, Roberts has managed a large number of pediatric sex-change patients. For example, he prescribed sex-change hormones to a biological female who identified as “non-binary” and whose records claimed that she was a “male.” The… pic.twitter.com/iiFsqZqe10 — Christopher F. Rufo ⚔️ (@realchrisrufo) June 18, 2024 Sivadge points to specific instances in which she believes the doctors violated the law, explaining that Roberts approved a testosterone prescription for one 16-year-old patient suffering from gender dysphoria. The patient was enrolled in Texas Children’s Health Plan STAR, which is described as a “no-cost Medicaid managed care plan.” Roberts, who Sivadge says encouraged young children to attempt to transition into the opposite sex, was previously at the forefront of a lawsuit that attempted to prevent Texas from being able to ban child sex-change operations. Roberts even admitted in his affidavit that he had several patients at the transgender clinic “who receive their health coverage through Medicaid.” Another patient, who Sivadge says was enrolled in the same health care plan, visited Paul and prescribed cross-sex hormones. Paul also discussed the possibility of breast implants with the patient, the report notes. CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP “It is evident that the hospital continues to believe it is above the law not just by concealing the existence of their transgender medicine program from the public, but by stealing from the federal government,” Sivadge contended. One legal expert agreed that the hospital had acted in violation of the law. “The only reasonable conclusion is that Texas Children’s Hospital was using Texas Medicaid funds to pay for ‘gender-affirming care,’ contrary to Texas law.” The allegations of medical fraud come amid an ongoing scandal at the Texas Children’s Hospital over its child transgender clinic. One doctor named Ethan Haim previously blew the whistle and exposed that the hospital had continued to perform child sex-change interventions despite telling the public that it had halted the procedures. Haim was then visited by the FBI and has just been indicted on four felony charges for his role in exposing the clinic.