A legendary Los Angeles eatery that invented one of America's most iconic sandwiches is serving its last meal after more than a century in business.
According to the Daily Mail, Cole’s French Dip announced it will permanently close on August 3 after 117 years in business, citing rampant crime, rising costs, and economic challenges. The restaurant has been a staple in downtown LA, but owners say the current environment has made operations unsustainable.
The restaurant, which opened in 1908 and was declared a Historic-Cultural Landmark in 1974, claims to have invented the French dip sandwich when chef Jack Garlinghouse dipped bread in au jus for a customer with sore gums.
"After exhaustive deliberation and numerous attempts at last ditch efforts, our beloved Los Angeles institution has made the difficult decision to close its doors," a spokesperson told DailyMail.com.
The closure reflects a growing trend of historic businesses shuttering across Los Angeles as they grapple with post-pandemic challenges including labor shortages, inflation, and increased crime.
Cole's statement noted these issues "are not unique to Cole's alone; they are affecting most independent restaurants in Los Angeles," with many already closed and others "fighting to survive."
The restaurant's location in downtown LA has been particularly hard hit by rising crime rates and homelessness that have deterred customers and increased security costs.
Recent incidents include a homeless man allegedly attempting to start a fire with a blowtorch in Woodland Hills before being tackled by residents, and a brutal random attack on Donna DeChristopher in Los Feliz that left her with a broken nose.
While Councilmember Nithya Raman pointed to a 40% drop in street homelessness in her district last year, Skid Row saw a 9% increase, showing the uneven progress in addressing LA's most visible crisis.
Republican State Sen. Roger Niello has criticized current approaches, arguing that providing housing without stricter drug policies enables destructive behavior.
"The state needed to improve the lives of homeless people with stricter drug policies," Niello told the LA Daily News, opposing what he sees as policies that "enable homeless behavior."
Meanwhile, the restaurant industry continues to face mounting challenges including rising labor costs, supply chain issues, and what Cole's described as "mounting bureaucracy and legal exposure."
Cole's will continue serving its famous French dip sandwiches and cocktails until its August 3 closure date, giving loyal customers a final chance to experience the historic venue.
"We care deeply about our family of staff and are immensely grateful for our amazing guests who have supported Cole's over the years," the restaurant said in its farewell statement.
The closure marks not just the end of a business, but the loss of a piece of Los Angeles history, as the city struggles to preserve its cultural landmarks amid growing urban challenges.
Political tension filled the air as speculation mounted about a potential Taylor Swift endorsement for Vice President Kamala Harris's 2024 presidential campaign. The pop superstar's involvement, or lack thereof, became one of the most talked-about aspects of Harris's bid for the White House.
According to Daily Mail, despite massive anticipation that Swift would join forces with other A-list performers like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, the singer maintained her distance from the campaign trail after providing an initial debate night endorsement in September.
The story emerged from the upcoming book "2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America," which detailed the behind-the-scenes dynamics between Swift's team and the Harris campaign. The book reveals that Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff was designated as the sole point of contact with Swift's camp due to his prior entertainment law connections.
Doug Emhoff attempted to leverage his professional relationship with Swift's attorney Doug Baldridge, as both had previously worked as partners at the law firm Venable. The outreach effort sought to secure Swift's active participation in campaign events.
Campaign staffers were explicitly instructed not to contact Swift's team directly, leaving all communication to flow through Emhoff's channel. This strategic decision highlighted the delicate nature of celebrity endorsements in modern political campaigns.
The response from Swift's camp came through Baldridge in a terse seven-word statement: "Swift would do what Swift thought best." This cryptic message set the tone for Swift's limited engagement with the campaign.
The Harris campaign invested substantial resources into organizing celebrity-filled rallies across the country. Major artists including Meghan Thee Stallion, Maggie Rogers, and Mumford & Sons performed at various campaign events.
Campaign records later revealed that Harris paid Beyoncé's production company $165,000 for a single event in Houston. The steep price tag raised questions about the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements in driving voter turnout.
Some campaign staff privately expressed concerns about the multi-million dollar investment in these star-studded rallies, noting limited evidence of their impact on voter persuasion or turnout numbers.
As Election Day approached, speculation intensified about Swift potentially joining Harris in Reading, Pennsylvania, near the singer's birthplace. The campaign's lower-level staffers did little to discourage these rumors.
Instead of Swift, the final campaign push featured performances by 2 Chainz, Christina Aguilera, and Jon Bon Jovi in various cities. Lady Gaga headlined the final rally in Philadelphia, maintaining her tradition from previous election cycles.
The campaign concluded without Swift making any in-person appearances, leaving many to wonder about the impact of her absence on Harris's presidential bid.
The highly anticipated collaboration between Swift and Harris never materialized beyond the initial social media endorsement in September. This development highlighted the complex relationship between political campaigns and celebrity endorsements.
The campaign's massive investment in celebrity appearances, while generating excitement at individual events, faced scrutiny over its effectiveness in achieving broader campaign objectives. Internal concerns about resource allocation and voter impact remained unresolved.
The Swift situation exemplified the unpredictable nature of celebrity involvement in political campaigns, where even the most carefully planned outreach efforts can yield unexpected results.
A tense moment unfolded in Congress as Democratic Colorado Representative Brittany Pettersen struggled to maintain composure while discussing President Trump's latest legislative initiative. The emotional display came after an overnight flight back to Washington for an urgent vote.
According to The Daily Caller, Pettersen was visibly distraught as she addressed concerns about a bill she claims will have devastating effects on healthcare accessibility across the United States. The congresswoman had taken a red-eye flight to make it back for the crucial vote.
The controversial legislation has become a focal point of heated debate between Republicans and Democrats, with Pettersen arguing that the proposal would severely impact rural hospitals and healthcare services that millions of American families depend on. She expressed particular concern about the potential increase in costs for those with private insurance due to uncompensated care.
The Senate narrowly passed the $100 billion legislation on Tuesday with a razor-thin margin of 51-50. The bill aims to boost funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and border enforcement while implementing significant changes to Medicaid.
The House proceeded with a procedural vote on Thursday, marking a crucial step forward for the legislation. Pennsylvania Representative Brian Fitzpatrick stood as the lone Republican voice of opposition during this phase.
Republican Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie, who initially opposed the bill, made a surprising pivot by changing his vote to support the measure during the procedural phase. This shift highlighted the dynamic nature of the political maneuvering surrounding the legislation.
Pettersen's emotional response centered on the potential impact on healthcare delivery systems, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities often operate on thin margins. She emphasized that the proposed changes could lead to hospital closures and reduced access to care.
The legislation's provisions include substantial modifications to Medicaid funding structures, which critics argue could destabilize healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Democrats have raised concerns about the long-term implications for both patients and healthcare providers.
House Democrats, led by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, mounted significant opposition to the bill. Jeffries utilized a procedural tool known as a "magic minute" to deliver an extensive five-hour speech on the House floor, detailing his party's objections.
The bill represents a significant push by the Trump administration to reshape healthcare funding while simultaneously addressing border security concerns. The combination of these elements has intensified partisan divisions in Congress.
Democrats argue that the legislation's approach to healthcare reform could create dangerous gaps in coverage for millions of Americans. They particularly emphasize the potential impact on rural communities and working-class families.
The elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, while welcomed by some sectors, has raised questions about revenue replacement and long-term funding sustainability for essential healthcare services.
Representative Pettersen's emotional response has become emblematic of the deep divisions surrounding this legislative initiative. Her tearful address highlighted the personal stakes involved in policy decisions affecting healthcare accessibility.
The legislation's progression through Congress marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over healthcare reform and immigration policy. The narrow margins in both chambers underscore the contentious nature of these issues.
The implementation of these changes, if the bill becomes law, would represent one of the most substantial modifications to healthcare funding structures in recent years, with implications that could reshape access to medical care across the United States.
A former first son's plea for financial assistance to pay his mounting legal fees has been a subject of recent interest.
A new book reveals that Hunter Biden reached out to the Democratic National Committee (DNC), hoping for aid with his legal expenses stemming from federal tax and gun charges, but the committee declined his request, as the New York Post reports.
The controversy arises amidst revelations that the DNC was simultaneously providing legal fee support for President Joe Biden, related to a separate investigation concerning the handling of classified documents. Hunter, embroiled in legal battles including convictions on gun and tax charges, found himself in financial distress exacerbated by ongoing debts and familial responsibilities.
By mid-2024, Hunter's legal predicament was dire, leading to a significant fiscal burden. Kevin Morris, an ally often described as a close financial supporter of Hunter, had already contributed $2 million toward Hunter's tax obligations. Morris continued to aid in covering additional legal costs.
Adding to these pressures were personal financial commitments. Hunter was obligated to pay alimony to Kathleen Buhle and child support following a settlement with Lunden Roberts in June 2023. These expenses, along with ongoing legal battles, contributed to an estimated legal bill of $5 million as testified by Morris to House Republican investigators by January 2024.
However, the strains of dependence were not without internal criticism. Morris' daughter publicly expressed disapproval regarding Hunter's reliance on her father's financial backing, illustrating growing tensions around these commitments.
Hunter faced mounting legal challenges, resulting in a series of felony convictions. On June 11, 2024, he was convicted on three gun-related felony charges. Later, in September, he pleaded guilty to multiple felonies for failing to pay $1.4 million to the IRS.
In response to these developments, President Joe Biden navigated complex family and political waters. Reportedly, the president's main concern was preventing his son's conviction, a sentiment highlighted in a forthcoming book. Biden's contemplation of a legal defense fund to assist Hunter signals the gravity and depth of these family and legal issues.
The scope of presidential influence became apparent when President Biden ultimately pardoned his son of all charges, a decision encompassing any and all offenses dating back to January 2014 through December 2024.
The detailed account of these events is set to be published in a new book titled 2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America, scheduled for release by Penguin Press on July 8. This publication is anticipated to shed further light on the political and personal ramifications of Hunter's legal saga.
Within the context of the book, a revealing quote attributed to President Biden underscores his personal priority amid the legal maelstrom, emphasizing the familial over the political: "The only thing I care about is that my son is not convicted," he is reported to have said.
The insights from this book could influence public perceptions and conversations regarding the intersection of personal and political challenges faced by the Biden family during a pivotal time in American politics.
While the book and ongoing investigations invite scrutiny, official responses from the DNC and Hunter’s former legal representative, Abbe Lowell, have been noticeably absent. Attempts to glean insight or statements have yielded no comments, highlighting a potential sensitivity to the unfolding narrative.
As discussions surrounding Hunter's legal issues continue, this current exploration into his and his family's attempts to manage financial and legal burdens presents a complex picture of modern political life. The overlap of legal drama and political exposure suggests significant implications for those involved and the Democratic Party's broader landscape.
Ultimately, the evolving story of Hunter Biden's legal troubles serves as a reminder of the intertwined nature of personal tribulations and public service, reflecting broader themes of loyalty, responsibility, and the pressures faced by those in the limelight.
In a tragic turn of events, investigators discovered human remains at a fireworks warehouse in Northern California following a devastating explosion, as the New York Post reports. The blast at the site, operated by Devastating Pyrotechnics near Esparto, left seven individuals missing and led to a large-scale investigation.
The explosion, which sparked a substantial fire and additional spot fires, led to the immediate suspension of local Fourth of July celebrations. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene to manage the blaze.
The unforeseen incident affected not only the small community near Esparto but also significant parts of surrounding areas.
Yolo County's Coroner’s Office has been working closely with the families of the missing individuals. Officials have been given access to the site to begin the painstaking process of identification. Although the remains were found, no identifications have been confirmed yet, and recovery efforts are ongoing.
In addition to those reported missing, two people sustained injuries and required medical attention. Emergency medical teams were quick to respond, providing critical care to those affected by the explosion. The priority remains assisting the families of the missing and injured during this difficult time.
Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the explosion. Devastating Pyrotechnics, known for arranging fireworks shows throughout the Bay Area, expressed condolences and assured their full cooperation in all investigative procedures.
In an unrelated incident on Thursday night in Los Angeles, a fireworks-related fire claimed the life of one man and injured several others. Emergency responders were called to a site where fireworks were still igniting, causing concerns for both first responders and bystanders.
Animals were also victims in this separate catastrophe, suffering injuries that required attention. While firefighters managed to control the blaze later that night, the impact of the incident was palpable, affecting individuals and animals alike.
A woman caught in the Los Angeles fire remains in critical condition due to the severity of her injuries. This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with fireworks, especially during festive seasons when their use is prevalent.
As the investigations continue into both incidents, the representative for the Los Angeles Fire Department, Lyndsey Lantz, confirmed that authorities are looking into the cause of the fire. The exact circumstances surrounding the L.A. blaze remain unclear, but efforts are ongoing to determine what led to such a devastating event.
The tragic series of events in Northern California and Los Angeles has raised awareness about the potential hazards of fireworks. With Fourth of July celebrations often involving pyrotechnic displays, the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for caution.
These investigations are not only focused on uncovering the truth but also on ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future. As both communities seek to recover, the role of safety regulations and adherence to guidelines remains in the spotlight.
While communities mourn and authorities diligently work on their investigations, the discussions surrounding fireworks safety are taking a front seat. The impact of both incidents is likely to influence future regulatory measures.
As Devastating Pyrotechnics and officials collaborate to unravel the sequence of events, the focus remains on the prevention of similar tragedies. The tragic losses have prompted both public and private entities to reassess safety protocols.
The collective hope is that by understanding the causes and repercussions of these fires, steps can be taken to improve safety measures. In moving forward, the lessons learned from both will be integral in preventing future tragedies on such devastating scales.
Michelle Obama, former First Lady and co-founder of PLEZi Nutrition, has sparked intense debate after promoting her new health-focused beverage line ahead of Independence Day celebrations.
According to Daily Mail, Obama shared a promotional video encouraging her 57 million Instagram followers to stay hydrated with PLEZi drinks during Fourth of July festivities.
The former First Lady's message centered on holiday safety and hydration, featuring PLEZi Fizz and PLEZi Hydrate prominently displayed.
"I just love everything about the Fourth of July - friends, family, barbecue and fireworks," Obama stated in the video, urging followers to try her low-sugar beverage options during celebrations.
Social media reactions to Obama's promotional content were notably mixed, with some followers expressing disappointment at seeing the former First Lady engage in product marketing. Comments ranged from calling the advertisement "strange" to suggesting it was "beneath" her status as a former First Lady.
The criticism primarily focused on Obama's commercial involvement, with one follower commenting that she was "too good to be doing this." Others directly questioned the necessity of the products, labeling them as "useless" in pointed social media responses.
Many supporters defended Obama's business venture, noting her long-standing commitment to improving children's health and nutrition during her time as First Lady. The beverage line aligns with her previous initiatives promoting healthier food and drink options for American families.
PLEZi Nutrition represents Obama's latest effort to transform the food and beverage industry from within. As co-founder and strategic partner, she aims to create healthier alternatives to traditional sugary drinks while maintaining appealing taste profiles.
The company's mission statement emphasizes reducing sugar content in beverages while adding beneficial nutrients. Both PLEZi Fizz and PLEZi Hydration contain no artificial sweeteners or added sugars, with the hydration variant including 500mg of potassium.
Obama detailed her motivation in a letter about the brand's story, explaining: "As a mom and as First Lady, I've seen how critical good nutrition is at all stages of development. That's why I've spent so many years working to help families lead healthier lives."
The beverage line has garnered support from notable figures including NBA star Stephen Curry, his wife Alysha Curry, and actress Kristen Bell. This star-powered backing adds credibility to the brand's health-conscious message.
PLEZi products are currently available at major retailers, with an 18-can case of PLEZi Fizz priced at $13.79 at Costco. The drink comes in various flavors including Lemon Lime Squeeze, Cherry Limeade and Strawberry Lemonade.
Michelle Obama's latest venture reflects a growing trend of public figures leveraging their influence to promote healthier lifestyle choices. Despite mixed reactions to her marketing approach, her commitment to improving American nutrition habits remains consistent with her previous advocacy work.
The controversy surrounding Obama's promotional video highlights the complex relationship between public service and private enterprise. While some view her commercial activities as diminishing her status, others see it as a practical extension of her health advocacy mission.
The success of PLEZi Nutrition may ultimately depend on whether consumers embrace its promise of healthier beverage alternatives, regardless of the debate over its founder's marketing methods. As Independence Day approaches, Obama's message of celebration and mindful consumption continues to generate discussion about the role of former public figures in commercial ventures.
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a University of Massachusetts Amherst rising senior and intern for Rep. Ron Estes, has become the focus of a tragic security probe in the nation’s capital. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through Capitol Hill and his university community.
According to Fox News, the 21-year-old intern was shot around 10:28 p.m. Monday on the 1200 block of 7th Street NW and died the following day. An adult woman and a 16-year-old boy were also struck and taken to local hospitals with nonfatal injuries.
Multiple sources confirm that several individuals exited a car and opened fire on a small group gathered on the sidewalk. Police say Tarpinian-Jachym was not believed to be the intended target, suggesting a random act of violence. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements to piece together the events.
Authorities report that at least three suspects, described only as young males, fired numerous rounds into the crowd from close range. The suspects fled in a dark-colored sedan before officers arrived on the scene. Shell casings and bullet fragments were collected by Crime Scene Investigators.
Responding officers rendered first aid to the injured and secured the area for detectives. The Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch has taken the lead, with uniformed patrols increasing in nearby neighborhoods. Residents described hearing rapid gunfire and seeing panicked pedestrians scatter.
Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation earlier in the evening but have not confirmed a specific motive. No arrests have been made, and police stress there is no ongoing threat to the public. The case remains open as detectives follow up on multiple leads.
Tarpinian-Jachym was serving as a legislative intern for Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan., while completing his finance major and political science minor. He had participated in a spring fellowship with The Fund for American Studies, which lists his hometown as Aberdeen, Mississippi. His academic and professional trajectory marked him as a promising young policy aide.
“I will remember his kind heart and how he always greeted anyone who entered our office with a cheerful smile,” Estes said in a statement. “We are grateful to Eric for his service to Kansas’ 4th District and the country. Please join Susan and me in praying for his family and respecting their privacy during this heartbreaking time.”
Phillip Peterson, a friend who met Tarpinian-Jachym in January, described him as “a very easy-going person to be around.” Peterson said they had discussed becoming roommates, but logistical hurdles prevented it. “I legitimately do regret now not going back to D.C. just so I could have spent more time with my friend,” he added.
The Metropolitan Police Department has announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case. Authorities urge anyone with knowledge of the shooting or the suspects to come forward. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may contact the department’s homicide tip line.
Witnesses are encouraged to call (202) 727-9099 or submit information online via the MPD website. Police have also established a temporary command post near the crime scene to facilitate community engagement. Investigators are reviewing digital evidence, including cell phone videos and social media posts.
This shooting adds to a troubling trend of late-night violence in the district, where gunfire incidents have risen by nearly 10 percent compared to last year. Community leaders have called for enhanced street lighting and more patrol officers. Local advocacy groups plan to hold a vigil later this week to honor the victims.
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, along with an adult female and a 16-year-old boy, was struck by gunfire on the 1200 block of 7th Street NW in Washington, D.C. The apparent random attack left Tarpinian-Jachym dead and other victims injured.
The MPD’s Homicide Branch is coordinating with federal prosecutors to review evidence and determine charges once suspects are identified. Officers continue canvassing the neighborhood and analyzing surveillance footage for leads.
Next, police will present their findings to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in hopes of securing arrest warrants. Community meetings scheduled this week aim to address safety concerns and provide support to those affected by the shooting.
Sebastian Telfair, a former NBA point guard once hailed as a high school prodigy, is facing prison time after allegedly failing to meet the terms of his court-mandated supervised release.
According to the Daily Caller, Telfair was ordered by U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni to report to prison on Aug. 12. The judge found that he had not completed his court-ordered community service and had missed mandatory meetings with the U.S. Probation Office, thus violating the conditions of his release.
Telfair had previously been handed a suspended sentence in connection with a widespread scheme that defrauded the NBA Players Health and Welfare Benefit Plan. His failure to abide by the release conditions has now triggered a six-month prison term, bringing renewed scrutiny to both his legal case and his fall from grace.
The broader case, in which Telfair is one of multiple defendants, involves fraudulent insurance claims filed by former NBA players. Prosecutors allege that the defendants submitted fake invoices to extract funds from the league’s health benefit system. The charges represent a significant breach of trust for a program designed to support player health and well-being after retirement.
The scandal first drew national attention when it was revealed that dozens of former athletes participated in the scheme. Telfair’s name stood out due to his status as a once-prominent draft pick and the significant income he earned during his NBA career. Sportico has previously reported that the scheme ran for years and involved numerous fake documents submitted to health care providers.
Telfair’s legal issues began with his indictment in the fraud case, but it was his behavior during supervised release that ultimately triggered the prison sentence. Court documents detail repeated absences from probation meetings and a failure to complete community service hours—key conditions for avoiding jail time.
Judge Caproni didn’t mince words when handing down the sentence. She noted that Telfair’s violations were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of neglect. The six-month prison sentence reflects what the court viewed as a willful disregard for the leniency he had previously been granted.
“The court gave you an opportunity to avoid prison,” Caproni reportedly said during Thursday’s hearing. “You failed to take that opportunity seriously.”
Caproni added that Telfair’s status as a former professional athlete did not excuse his actions or entitle him to preferential treatment. She emphasized that all defendants must meet the terms of their release or face consequences. Telfair’s attorneys argued that logistical challenges and miscommunications contributed to the missed appointments.
At age 40, Telfair’s current situation stands in stark contrast to the promise he once showed. He entered the NBA straight from Brooklyn’s Abraham Lincoln High School and was picked 13th overall in the 2004 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers. He went on to play ten seasons across several teams and earned over $19 million in salary during that time.
Telfair was part of the last wave of high school players allowed to jump directly to the NBA before league rules changed. He was seen as a trailblazer, appearing on magazine covers and garnering media attention for his flashy play and deep New York roots.
But Telfair’s career never reached the heights many expected, and legal troubles in recent years have further overshadowed his legacy. The fraud case is not his first brush with the law—he’s faced previous charges unrelated to this case, including weapons possession.
Telfair is now scheduled to report to federal prison on Aug. 12, where he will serve six months for violating the terms of his release. He joins a growing list of former NBA players ensnared in federal investigations related to fraud and financial misconduct.
The case against Telfair is part of a larger federal probe into abuse of the NBA’s health plan, with more than a dozen former players already facing charges or sentencing. The investigation is ongoing, and additional names could surface as prosecutors continue to examine financial records and health claims.
Telfair’s future beyond his prison term remains uncertain. While some former athletes involved in similar scandals have made public apologies or attempted career pivots, Telfair has yet to speak publicly about the court’s decision. What comes next for the once-promising star remains to be seen.