SUMMARY: Tropical Depression 3 is monitored offshore with minimal immediate impacts on northeast Florida and southeast Georgia, mainly high rip current risks and 2-4 ft waves with gusty coastal winds. The system shows increased organization with convection and peak winds near tropical storm strength (30 kt). Its path is uncertain, but forecast models predict a north-northwestward track toward South Carolina, with some eastward adjustments. Modest intensification to 40 kt is expected before landfall Sunday morning, followed by weakening and post-tropical transition within 48 hours. Tropical Storm Watches extended to Cape Fear, NC. Heavy rain may cause flash flooding in coastal Carolinas through Monday, alongside rough surf and rip currents.

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SUMMARY: A recent tax and policy bill repeals the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, a multibillion-dollar green bank established by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act to finance climate projects. The Trump administration, opposing climate-focused policies, argues the bill authorizes freezing funds and canceling grants, seeking to reverse a federal judge’s ruling favoring nonprofits who sued the EPA over withheld funds. Climate United Fund counters that most money has already been disbursed, disputing EPA’s attempts to rescind funds. The EPA frames the dispute as a contract issue, not a constitutional one. Congressional intent emphasizes deficit reduction and criticizes EPA’s oversight under the Biden administration.

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The post EPA says Trump’s big bill should help in its fight to take back billions in green bank funds appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: The Fourth of July commemorates the Declaration of Independence adopted on July 4, 1776, marking America’s separation from Britain. Early celebrations began a year later and expanded after the War of 1812. Fireworks have been central from the start, inspired by John Adams’ vision of “Pomp and Parade” and tracing back to ancient Chinese invention. Presidents have mostly celebrated the holiday, except Adams, who favored July 2, when independence was voted. Fireworks sales surged from $407 million in 2000 to $2.2 billion in 2024, driven by pandemic restrictions on public displays. Despite safety warnings, injuries and deaths from fireworks rose significantly in 2024, urging careful handling to prevent accidents.

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