With a title that demands attention and music that refuses to apologize, queer punk provocateur Dagger Polyester has officially entered the arena. Their debut album, Perversion for Profit, released August 1, is a genre-fluid firestorm of rebellion, performance, and raw political commentary, all tracked at L.A.s legendary Sunset Sound and produced by none other than Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes.If punk is protest and glam is theater, Dagger Polyester stands at the intersection, wrapped in sequins, soaked in sweat, and ready to incite. Their music is a confrontation: against commercialized queerness, rising fascism, gender norms, and the sanitized spectacle of mainstream identity.In conversation with Gayety, Polyester unpacked the making of Perversion for Profit, their inspirations, and why every show is a sweaty, chaotic sermon on queerness and self-expression.Q: Perversion for Profit is such a bold and loaded title. What does that phrase mean to you?Dagger Polyester: Chris [Robinson] actually came across it while watching a documentary it was scrawled on a protest sign at some anti-pornography rally. Then we found out it was the name of a 1963 propaganda film, funded by a group called Citizens for Decent Literature. I mean, you cant make this stuff up. Its hilarious and horrifying.The phrase captures this contradiction: Were still battling small-minded censorship and moral panic, but at the same time, weve surrendered completely to aestheticism and indulgence. That tension between suppression and decadence is the emotional glue of the album. It doesnt tie everything together literally, but it sets the mood. Scandal, shame, excess. Thats the vibe.Q: Your single She Kissed the Gun references the tragic death of Lana Clarkson. Why did that moment resonate with you?Polyester: Phil Spector used the phrase she kissed the gun during his trial as part of his defense. I couldnt get it out of my head. It haunted me for years until the song finally came out.I grew up in Los Angeles. Fame is a religion here, and this story felt strangely personal, like it happened in my own family. I approached it like a fable not to sensationalize Lanas death, but to show how dangerous this industry can be for people, especially women, who aspire to fame. Its a cautionary tale, drenched in glam and tragedy.Q: What was it like recording at Sunset Sound?Polyester: It scared the hell out of me in the best way. Prince, The Doors, Janis Joplin their ghosts are in the walls. I wanted to rise to the occasion. Id pick my outfit the night before, iron everything, polish my shoes. It felt like sacred ground. That kind of reverence fuels a better performance. You walk in knowing youve got to give blood.Q: Sonically, the record blends so many influences from punk and disco to Bowie-esque glam and art rock. How did you manage that balance?Polyester: I didnt! Laughs. Left to my own devices, it wouldve been chaos. Thats why Chris was essential. He knows how to take something messy and make it feel intentional. Hed gently say, This is a great idea, but no ones going to listen to that art school nonsense. We met in the middle between madness and structure.Q: The live shows have taken on a life of their own. What can someone expect at a Dagger Polyester performance?Polyester: Expect to leave sweaty and changed. The show is everything to me part concert, part performance art, part exorcism. I was influenced by drag, Dadaism, Fluxus. I like to blow things up emotionally and start over every night. One show I brought a roasted duck on stage and screamed, WHAT HAPPENED TO MY BABY?! Its absurd. Its honest. Its punk.Q: The album doesnt shy away from political themes especially on tracks like Conversion Therapy and We Stand on the Shoulders of Giants. How do you navigate being both artist and activist?Polyester: I dont separate them. Being queer is political. Being this queer loud, femme, unfiltered is already a statement. Im not trying to preach, but I am trying to scream a little. Conversion Therapy came from watching the rise in transphobic rhetoric. Giants is for every queer elder who took real risks just to be. If we dont speak up now, theyll erase us again.Q: Favorite lyric on the album?Polyester: She kissed the gun / and it kissed her back. That one guts me. But also, We stand on the shoulders of giants / and still we cant see. Thats the thesis of the whole thing, really. Weve inherited so much beauty, freedom, mess and were still fumbling in the dark.Perversion for Profit is available now on all streaming platforms, with vinyl and CDs available for purchase. Polyester will announce fall tour dates soon.Album Tracklist:We Stand On The Shoulders Of GiantsConversion TherapyFather PanikSpinAffectionShe Kissed The GunCheapThe TowerWillSource

Saints defensive end Chase Young and offensive guard Trevor Penning will not play against the Cardinals, Saints coach Kellen Moore said Friday.

The Buccaneers and cornerback Zyon McCollum have reached agreement on a three-year, $48 million contract extension, his agents told ESPN.

Inter Miami striker Luis Surez has been given a six-game suspension for spitting at a Seattle Sounders staff member following Sunday's Leagues Cup final.

Cameron Heyward said Friday he's "preparing" when asked if he was going to play on Sunday, but he didn't commit to being on the field for the team's season opener against the Jets.

Yankees star Aaron Judge is returning to the outfield for the first time since coming off the injured list Aug. 5 from a flexor strain in his right arm.

Protesters held demonstrations and city leaders spoke against the prospect of a surge of federal agents.

A federal judge left the door open for Newsmax to refile its complaint that Fox had created a monopoly in right-leaning television news.

The settlement is the largest payout in the history of U.S. copyright cases and could lead more A.I. companies to pay rights holders for use of their works.

After a bad employment report in August, President Trump fired the official in charge of the numbers. This months data was just as disappointing.

Two Democrats on the House China committee noted the use of A.I. by Chinese companies as a weapon in information warfare.

Everyone else is planting daffodils, but Ive leveled up.READ MORE...

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks to reporters before touring "Camp 57," a facility to house immigration detainees at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, La., Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)2025-09-05T19:57:47Z SAN FRANCISCO (AP) A federal judge on Friday blocked the Trump administration from ending temporary legal protections that have granted more than 1 million people from Haiti and Venezuela the right to live and work in the United States. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Edward Chen of San Francisco for the plaintiffs means 600,000 Venezuelans whose temporary protections expired in April or whose protections were about to expire Sept. 10 have status to stay and work in the United States. It also keeps protections for about 500,000 Haitians.Chen said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noems actions in terminating and vacating three extensions granted by the previous administration exceeded her statutory authority and were arbitrary and capricious.The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. Temporary Protected Status is a designation that can be granted by the Homeland Security secretary to people in the United States, if conditions in their homelands are deemed unsafe for return due to a natural disaster, political instability or other dangerous conditions. Designations are granted for terms of six, twelve or 18 months, and extensions can be granted so long as conditions remain dire. The status prevents holders from being deported and allows them to work.Soon after taking office, Noem reversed three extensions granted by the previous administration to immigrants from Venezuela and Haiti, prompting the lawsuit. Noem said that conditions in both Haiti and Venezuela had improved and that it was not in the national interest to allow migrants from the countries to stay on for what is a temporary program. Millions of Venezuelans have fled political unrest, mass unemployment and hunger. The country is mired in a prolonged crisis brought on by years of hyperinflation, political corruption, economic mismanagement and an ineffectual government. Haiti was first designated for TPS in 2010 after a catastrophic magnitude 7.0 earthquake killed and wounded hundreds of thousands of people, and left more than 1 million homeless. Haitians face widespread hunger and gang violence. In the ruling, Chen said presidential administrations have executed the law for 35 years based on the best available information and in consultation with other agencies, calling it a process that involves careful study and analysis. Until now.He scolded the secretary for revoking the legal status of Venezuelan and Haitian TPS holders, sending them back to conditions that are so dangerous that even the State Department advises against travel to their home countries.The secretarys action in revoking TPS was not only unprecedented in the manner and speed in which it was taken but also violates the law, Chen wrote. JANIE HAR Har covers general news out of San Francisco. That includes homelessness and housing, courts, urban affairs and San Francisco politics. twitter mailto

Celeste Yim, the first out nonbinary and trans writer forSaturday Night Live, announced theyre departing the showafter five years in the writing room.Yim, 29, was hired in 2020 as a staff writer and promoted in 2023 to writing supervisor. They announced their decision in an Instagram post last week, following SNLs 50th anniversary season. Related Dave Chappelle accuses SNL of banning him from telling anti-trans jokes in his monologue Lorne hired me over the phone when I was 23 and the job literally made all of my dreams come true, Yim said of Lorne Michaels, the shows creator. BUT it was also grueling and I slept in my office every week BUT my friends helped me with everything BUT I got yelled at by random famous men BUT some famous girls too BUT I loved it and I laughed every day and its where I grew up.The Korean Canadian comic and writer, who started their career in stand-up in Toronto, was ambivalent about their status as a first on the show. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today I hate when other people say this but its true that I was the first ever out trans person to be a writer for SNL, the 29-year-old wrote. I always felt honored to be working within the long tradition of queer writing at the show. View this post on Instagram A post shared by celeste yim (@celesteyim)While Yims time on the NBC late night staplesaw the addition of queer and nonbinary cast members, including Molly Kearney and Punkie Johnson, the writer also had fun with political sendups like a parody of It Gets Better (showcasing Kate McKinnon with an iguana), and a Weekend Update monologue addressing anti-Asian hate crimes featuring close friend and out SNL colleague Bowen Yang.Thank you Bowen for changing my life and for making me feel normal, Yim wrote.During Yims tenure, SNL also earned backlash over hosting gigs granted to Shane Gillis and Dave Chappelle, both on record with homophobic and transphobic routines. When Chappelle hosted in 2022, an unnamed writer took the week off in protest. Unconfirmed reports revealed it was Yim.During a taped dress rehearsal, Chappelle referred to the writer as a they.The sit-out and the slight didnt seem to affect Yims sense of humor; they were promoted the following season.Many dont know this, but Chevy is non-binary! Yim wrote of founding cast member Chevy Chase in their farewell post.The replies were chock-full of well-wishes from fans and colleagues alike.Cast member Cecily Strong dubbed Yims time on the show The Celeste era, while SNL vet and fan favorite Aidy Bryant said simply, My baby.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

William Shakespeare may be famous for penning heterosexual love stories like Romeo and Juliet, but a newly discovered miniature portrait with a hidden secret has historians believing the man behind the prose may have had a secret gay lover.A previously unknown portrait of Shakespeares first patron, Henry Wriothesley, the third Earl of Southampton, has historians and Shakespeare scholars thinking it may be proof that the British playwright had a secret gay affair. In the miniature, Wriothesleys long blonde ringlets, fair skin, and pearl earring make him look more androgynous than he does in other portraits. Ive seen other images of Southampton, but none as gorgeous or as androgynous as this, Shakespeare scholar Sir Jonathan Bate told The Times. Wriothesley also sports a floral night jacket, which, when combined with the intimate pose he is clutching his hair to his chest paints an erotic picture by Elizabethan standards that has historians interpreting that the two men had a closer relationship than previously thought.I think it must have been for a very, very close friend or lover, art historian Elizabeth Goldring said. (@) But its a detail on the back of the portrait that leads historians to believe that not only were they lovers, but Shakespeare had a broken heart.Like many miniature portraits of the period, it was mounted on the back of a playing card. But instead of finding an intact piece of a playing card, the historians found a card in the suit of hearts, where the heart was covered up with a spade (or maybe a spear).By todays standard, that seems like an innocuous fact, but according to art historian Emma Rutherford, this is further proof that this portrait was for Shakespeares eyes only and confirms he was heartbroken.I just couldnt quite believe what I was seeing, Rutherford said. Ive seen hundreds of 16th-century miniatures; they are intensely private images. This just felt like something even more private than the face seen on the other side. We had never seen a playing card reverse vandalised like this with the obliteration of a heart.And to get to the back of a miniature in Elizabethan England, you would have to have prised it out of a very, very expensive locket. This feels like a really passionate act.Goldring agrees and added that you cant escape the conclusion that this was done by someone who thought theyd had their heart broken.The miniature dates from the 1590s, at the same time when Shakespeare dedicated his erotic narrative poems Venus and Adonis (1593) and The Rape of Lucrece (1594) to Wriothesley. Scholars also believe that Wriothesley is the central character, Fair Youth, from the sonnets.

Your sapphic gamer dreams are about to come true! Lesbian video games rarely get the recognition they deserve, but one of the best sapphic games ever made is being turned into a TV series, and a queer creator is helming it.A live-action version of the critically acclaimed video game franchise Life Is Strange is being made by Amazon Prime Video with Charlie Covell, who is queer and nonbinary, serving as the writer, executive producer, and showrunner."It's a huge honor to be adapting Life Is Strange for Amazon MGM Studios," Covell said in Amazon's press release. "I am a massive fan of the game, and I'm thrilled to be working with the incredible teams at Square Enix, Story Kitchen and LuckyChap. I can't wait to share Max and Chloe's story with fellow players and new audiences alike."The television series, helmed by Covell, who is best known for the comic book adaptation The End of the F***ing World for Netflix, will follow Max, a photography student, who discovers she can rewind time while saving the life of her childhood best friend, Chloe. As she struggles to understand this new skill, the pair investigate the mysterious disappearance of a fellow student, uncovering a dark side to their town that will ultimately force them to make an impossible life or death choice that will impact them forever.Chloe was confirmed to be a lesbian in the prequel game Life Is Strange: Before the Storm, and the relationship between Max and Chloe is central to the plot of the video game franchise. And theyre not the only queer characters in the games; there are other LGBTQ+ characters and romantic interests throughout. Between sapphic characters and a queer creator at the helm, it looks like well be getting a very lesbian-centric series!

Twinless star and filmmaker James Sweeney has a message for all the people who watched leaks of his new film's sex scenes.Twinless, written and directed by Sweeney (Straight Up), also stars Sweeney alongside Dylan O'Brien as two young men who meet in a twin bereavement group. They form an unconventional bond and soon grow closer and closer, all while secrets, lies, and desire threaten to destroy it all.When the film debuted at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, a gay sex scene between Sweeney and costar Dylan O'Brien was recorded and leaked to the public. Sundance then pulled the film from its streaming site due to piracy.Now that the film is coming out in theaters, Sweeney has spoken up about the leaks and all the people who watched them."You want the film to have traction and to register in the zeitgeist," he tells Deadline. "Obviously, thats not the way I want to be introduced as somebody who is not going to be familiar to most people.""Over the festival circuit, I would run into some people who'd be like, 'Oh my God, Twinless, I saw your trailer.' I'm like, The trailer is not done. I know what you saw, that wasnt the trailer,'" he continues. "So, you know, I'm trying to keep a good sense of humor about it. All I can say is those pervs better show up and pay money to see it in theaters."Sweeney first addressed the leaks when he accepted the Audience Award for U.S. Dramatic Films for his film at the festival."I woke up this morning with an email thread about people posting spoilers with photos. If anyones seen the film, you know what Im talking about. So I guess the audience really does like the film," he said.Twinless got rave reviews out of Sundance and currently sits at 98 percent Fresh from 83 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. It's now out in theaters. Watch the trailer below.

For generations, Fire Island Pines has been more than a summer getaway. Its been a sanctuary, a stage, and a home for LGBTQ+ culture, one that continues to evolve while honoring its legendary past.From the historic Invasion of the Pines in 1976 to todays star-studded pool parties, Fire Island remains one of the worlds most cherished queer destinations. And thanks to Tristan Schukraft and Tryst Hospitality, the Pines is not just holding on to tradition, its building toward a brighter, more inclusive future.A Legacy of CelebrationThe Pines has long been synonymous with legendary parties and queer resilience. The annual Invasion of the Pines, born from defiance after a drag queen was denied service at a bar, just celebrated its 50th anniversary. What started as an act of protest is now one of the crown jewels of queer summer, drawing thousands each Fourth of July.Equally beloved is High Tea, the late-afternoon social ritual that returned this past season to Pavilion with DJs, drag performers, and Fire Island favorites. Alongside events like Sniffies Friday functions, drag brunches at The Blue Whale, and Doll Invasions unapologetic trans-led spectacle, the Pines continues to deliver something for everyone.The Power of Doll InvasionAmong Fire Islands many traditions, the Doll Invasion stands out as one of the most vibrant and meaningful celebrations. Every August, the Pines transforms into a stage for trans and nonbinary performers, artists, and community leaders, who bring their own flair to the islands legendary social calendar.This years theme, Wet Hot Transexual Summer, turned heads with a full day of unapologetic queer performance, from poolside parties at The Tryst Pool Club to a show-stopping edition of High Tea. Beyond the glamour, the Doll Invasion carries a mission: accessibility. The event ensured the largest number of trans people in history were able to experience Fire Island for free, while raising funds for organizations like Queer|Art and A4TE.What makes the Doll Invasion evergreen is its dual purpose: its a dazzling showcase of artistry and nightlife, but also a reminder that Fire Island isnt only a playground, its a platform for queer visibility and community building. As the tradition grows, it cements Fire Islands reputation as a place where celebration and activism exist side by side.Reinventing the ClassicsPart of Fire Islands enduring magic lies in its ability to evolve. This past summer, The Canteen rolled out an upgraded menu trading frozen food for fresh, elevated fare while keeping fan favorites like the famed chicken tenders.Meanwhile, the transformation of a once-abandoned storage space into The Tryst Pool Club proved that reinvention is key to longevity. The venue quickly became the islands hottest afternoon destination, attracting names like Rita Ora, Violet Chachki, and Sonja Morgan, alongside local legends who keep the community heartbeat alive.Building the FutureFire Island Pines isnt just about parties. Tryst Hospitality has made clear its long-term investment in the community. Plans are already underway to renovate The Blue Whale, open The Tryst Fire Island hotel in 2026, and expand hours across all venues.Equally important, the group is prioritizing staff housing, ensuring that the workers who bring the Pines to life have safe and dignified places to live. Its a commitment to sustainability, not just for the businesses, but for the people who make Fire Island possible.A Queer Haven That EnduresWhether you come for Showtunes, a drag brunch, or simply the magic of sunset on the beach, Fire Island Pines remains one of the most important queer spaces in the world. Its history is rooted in resistance, its present thrives on celebration, and its future promises inclusivity and reinvention.For anyone looking to understand the enduring power of LGBTQ+ community spaces, a trip to Fire Island Pines is a reminder: some legacies never fade, they only get stronger.Source

Australian singer-songwriter and genre-defying drummer G-Flip is back, and louder, bolder, and queerer than ever. With the release of their third studio album, DR3AM, G-Flip is stepping confidently into a new era of sound, identity, and raw vulnerability. In a recent sit-down exclusive interview with Gayety, they opened up about what this project means, what it was like growing up queer in a Catholic environment, and why embracing their true self has transformed their music, and their life.A Soundtrack of Self-DiscoveryThe new album, which G-Flip playfully describes as very Butch Springsteen, fuses 80s rock energy with pop punk grit and queer anthemic power. One standout track, Disco Cowgirl, is a high-energy homage to their love of drums, nostalgic production styles, and the flamboyant sounds of the 1980s.I love drums its my first instrument, my thing, G-Flip said. I wanted vocal drum moments, lots of reverb, that gated snare Phil Collins style. True to form, Disco Cowgirl even includes a key change and acapella harmonies with real backing vocalists not layered studio tricks because G wanted the track to feel authentic to the decade it pays tribute to.The record, produced with longtime collaborator Aidan, is the result of an intense two-and-a-half-month creative sprint that saw the pair write over 100 songs. We were writing three to four songs a day. Some of them were horrible like, laughably bad, G-Flip joked. But then some, like Big Old Hammer or Exactly What I Like, came from us just being silly and messing around. And they made the record.Music as MedicineWhile DR3AM is sonically playful, its also emotionally layered. Songs like In Another Life dig into themes of loss, grief, and hope with heartbreaking honesty. I wrote it with my friend Kay just three chords and a lot of emotion, G-Flip shared. Loss has been a huge part of my life, and I wanted this song to acknowledge that pain but still feel hopeful. Maybe in another life, well be together again.That emotional range is one of the most striking aspects of G-Flips artistry. They balance rowdy queer anthems with stripped-back soul-searching tracks, reflecting the real-life duality of being a public figure who is both joyful and, at times, deeply vulnerable.Its a powerful song to sing live, they said. Even before it was released, Id sing it and the people in the front row would be crying. Its about more than just romantic loss its friendship, pets, even the end of a chapter in your life.Coming Out in a Catholic WorldOne of the most moving moments in the conversation was G-Flips candid reflection on growing up queer in a Catholic school environment. Despite having an accepting family, their surroundings made coming out difficult.I remember this girl at my all-girls Catholic high school came out when I was in Year 7. She was in Year 12, and everyone would whisper, Shes the gay girl. I didnt want that to be me. I remember looking in the mirror and saying, Dont be a lesbian. Dont be a lesbian.They laugh about it now saying If youre staring at yourself in the mirror saying, Dont be a lesbian, youre probably a big lesbian, but the memory still resonates. G-Flip didnt come out until they were around 20, but when they did, everything changed.It was euphoric. It was awesome. And the sex was just so much better, they said with a grin.Creative Control and Queer JoyG-Flips hands-on approach to their music is part of what makes it so distinct. They play nearly every instrument on their records, including drums, guitar, piano, and now, saxophone, which theyre learning between interviews.Ive always been that kid who picks up instruments. Never had a singing lesson, started singing at 19. I love being in the studio. If I have 10 minutes in the day, Im either writing, playing, or learning something.Even outside of their solo work, G-Flip loves jumping on stage with other artists, including a recent surprise performance with The Beaches at Coachella. Before I went solo, I thought Id just be a session drummer forever. I love collaborating and being on stage. That energy is unmatched.The Evolution of G-FlipAs DR3AM launches into the world, its clear G-Flip has found their voice not just musically, but personally. The combination of relentless creativity, deep emotional honesty, and a proudly queer identity makes this record not just an album, but a statement.Ive always wanted to create music that people can dance to, cry to, and scream to, they said. Whether youre going through a loss or just trying to figure yourself out, I hope this album helps you feel seen.With this new chapter, G-Flip is proving that being unapologetically yourself isnt just powerful: its punk rock.Source

Micah Parsons made it through all four practices -- on a limited basis -- in his first week with the Packers and was officially listed as questionable for Sunday's regular-season opener against the Lions.

49ers running back Christian McCaffrey did not practice on Friday with a calf issue that popped up during Thursday's workout, but he once again made it clear he believes he will be on the field Sunday against the Seahawks.

Carlos Alcaraz has defeated Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-6 (4), 6-2 at the US Open to reach his third consecutive Grand Slam final.

Thunder rookie big man Thomas Sorber tore the ACL in his right knee and will miss the 2025-26 season, the team announced.

Angel Reese has been suspended by the Chicago Sky for the first half of Sunday's matchup against the Las Vegas Aces for comments she made that were "detrimental to the team."

The United States has deployed eight warships, several surveillance planes and one attack submarine to the region as tensions with Venezuela grow.

A court had ruled that Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia could not be sent back to his homeland, but now the administration sees a loophole. On Friday, Mr. Abrego Garcias lawyers were told that he would be sent to the small African nation of Eswatini.

Also, Israel strikes a Gaza City landmark. Heres the latest at the end of Friday.

President Trump and his defense secretary say they want to return to the era when America won wars. They largely ignore the greatest accomplishment of the past 80 years: avoiding superpower conflict.

Economic data suggests labor supply and immigration changes are affecting job growth. The Federal Reserve cant fix that, but Trump can.

Smart organizing solutions transform it into a calm, functional oasis.READ MORE...

Almost two years ago, my husband and I bought our dream home on the Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia: a 1980s brick house with three bedrooms, two baths, and 2,900-square-foot space. It has all the hallmarks of the era it came from single-glazed windows, gaps that leaked air, gas appliances, and no insulation in the ceiling or internal walls but we fell in love with it at first viewing.READ MORE...

Organize in style.READ MORE...

You can use them for almost anything!READ MORE...

President Donald Trump listens as Miami Mayor Francis Suarez speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Washington, as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent listens. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)2025-09-05T21:31:23Z WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump said Friday that the U.S. will host next years Group of 20 summit at his golf club in Doral, Florida, arguing it was the best location for the high-stakes international gathering but insisting his familys business will not make any money on it. In his first term, Trump tried to host a separate global summit at the club, but backed down after criticism from his own party about the propriety of doing so. Now, though, Trump rarely travels domestically without golfing at or staying in properties bearing his name and has faced very little political blowback. Trumps sons have taken over running the Trump Organization while their father is in the White House. But the president has nonetheless prided himself in blurring the line between domestic and global policy and generating profits for the Trump brand. Hes actively promoted his $TRUMP meme coin and even hosted the top 220 investors in it for a swanky dinner in May at his golf property in Virginia. The president made his first foreign trip to Saudi Arabia, after his sons crisscrossed the region drumming up business for the familys other cryptocurrency ventures. Trump also went to Scotland to inaugurate his new golf course there. The G20 is made up of some of the worlds major economies, the European Union and the African Union. Hosting the G20 at Doral would be an especially striking example of using the presidency to enrich his family, but Trump wasted little time defending it. I think everybody wants it there, he said when asked if the global summit would be at his golf club and spa. Trump noted that the conference would be occurring in December 2026, a time of year when hotels in South Florida are often more full, and said that Doral had the space and was ideally suited because of its close proximity to the citys airport. The United States hasnt hosted a G20 since it was held in Pittsburgh in 2009. The president suggested that organizers had requested the summit be at his property, but didnt elaborate. He said each delegation from different countries will have its own building. Its the best location, its beautiful, beautiful everything, Trump said, while adding, We will not make any money on it.Were doing a deal where its not going to be money, theres no money in it. I just want it to go well, Trump said. I think itll be really a beautiful thing.He also called Doral very, very successful, one of the most successful properties in the country.Miami Mayor Frances Suarez, who attended Fridays G20 site announcement in the Oval Office, said it puts us on the global map but also acknowledged that, for the area, Its a tremendous boom for your economy. As the president knows, Suarez added. He has multiple hospitality assets. Trump also said Friday that he would not be attending this years G20 in South Africa, but planned to send Vice President JD Vance in his place. SEUNG MIN KIM Kim covers the White House for The Associated Press. She joined the AP in 2022 and is based in Washington. Kim is also a political analyst for CNN. twitter mailto WILL WEISSERT Weissert covers the White House for The Associated Press. He is based in Washington. twitter mailto

Austin Ruffer, a New York Citybased photographer, didnt pick up a camera until he was 28. What began as casual phone photography at Club Cumming quickly became a defining career.28 certainly isnt old, but its also the three-quarter point of my life so far, so it feels like a late discovery, Ruffer says. I never intended it to become not only my career but a defining aspect of my life, but it quickly became just that. A whole new map opened up to me, paths I never even knew existed appeared before me.Ruffers early shoots began at Mondays at Club Cumming, a pre-pandemic hotspot where Broadway performers, magicians, and drag artists mingled. Alan Cumming is responsible for my career. Not really, but its fun to say and its not totally untrue, he jokes. Using a lens attachment on his phone, then a single portrait lens on his first real camera, Ruffer began documenting performances, creating both an archive and a marketing tool for the venue.The photos became another part of the Mondays experience even as I was learning photography on the fly, he explains. Everybody could look beautiful in a photo, it didnt matter if they forgot lyrics or messed something up. The photos became deeply valued by the Mondays crowd and led to people asking for shoots.From Impulsive Leap to Full-Time FreelanceRuffer transitioned to full-time freelance photography in 2023 after a sudden layoff. The decision was far from calculated.Panic. Anxiety. My decision to go full-time freelance was not a measured, carefully planned one, he says. Life suddenly just seemed too short and unstable, so I figured that if I didnt know how much time I had and stability was an illusion, why not be unstable doing something meaningful to me?Despite anxiety attacks and no financial safety net, Ruffer built his freelance career like Wallace and Gromit, building the train tracks underneath the train as it plowed forward. Over two years later, hes still thriving while continuing to push his creative limits.Capturing Intimacy and AuthenticityKnown for work that feels immediate and intimate, Ruffer credits both instinct and discretion for his style. I try to be as inconspicuous as possible, which is hard with two cameras and a flash, and shoot very quickly, he says. I try to avoid being invasivethese spaces should be safe for folks to have fun without worry that a compromising photo will end up somewhere.Ruffer often skews his photography toward stylized or editorial approaches. Things can be authentic and true without being purely journalism. For me, truth is the fact that everything and everyone in the shot was actually there, that the thing happened without my involvement. The photo is my perspective on it.A Queer Perspective Behind the LensQueerness shapes Ruffers vision and fuels his connection to subjects. I love my queerness. I love my queer community. I watch everything carefully and record the beautiful details I see because its how I can show my love, he explains.His images document the continuity of queer life across time. Photos like that are inarguable; they say, these people were here, they were real, and these things happened. Weve been here and youre part of this continuity.One image he highlights captures queer joy perfectly: Theres a photo I took at Motherdisco last Novembermost in focus is a shirt that has Liza Minnellis face on it. Theres Liza, amidst this whirling mass of spectral queer bodies dancing and embracing. Its campy but joyous, it reaches across decades.Career Milestones and AdviceRuffers work has appeared in The New York Times, Playbill, and Instinct Magazine, with clients ranging from Classic Stage Company to GetYourGuide.com. A surreal moment for him was seeing his behind-the-scenes photos of The Last 5 Years featuring Nick Jonas displayed on theater doors.For queer creatives seeking a path from hobby to career, he emphasizes certainty and persistence. Be sure. Be really sure. Reach out to people who are doing what you want to do, they are often very responsive. But dont put too much pressure on yourself; give yourself grace if it doesnt immediately come together.Looking AheadRuffers future projects reflect both curiosity and technical growth. He recently upgraded to a Nikon full-frame system and hopes to document a full Broadway production from first readings to opening night, photograph Fire Island workers, and shoot queer icons like Jinkx Monsoon and Orville Peck. Hes also considering a gallery show next year.Ive always been very reluctant and afraid to do it, he admits. But Im feeling more ready now. It could happen next year.With a lens attuned to joy, resilience, and the pulse of queer life, Austin Ruffer continues to capture the moments that make New York and its communities unforgettable.For more of Austin Ruffers photography, visit www.austinyourface.com or follow him on Instagram @austinyourface.Source

Astros outfielder Taylor Trammell is facing no discipline from Major League Baseball after umpires confiscated his two-color bat when New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone asked for it to be checked following a double.

NEXON will be running another real-world Icons match featuring players like Eden Hazard, Wayne Rooney and Ronaldinho, with connected in-game events in EA FC 26.

No. 1 Sabalenka will take on No. 8 Anisimova in the US Open final Saturday. Who will prevail? It's not as straightforward as it seems on paper.

James Madison will look to make a statement on the road against Louisville wearing a slick all-white look.

While the Supreme Court weighs the fate of the former president on charges of plotting a coup, Brazils government is preparing for more penalties.

The Powerball jackpot hit $1.8 billion ahead of Saturdays drawing, making it the second-largest and inspiring many to play.

The families of Heavens 27, the children and counselors lost at Camp Mystic, pressed the Legislature to toughen flood rules over the objections of some Hill Country camp operators.

The upcoming U.S. Dietary Guidelines will instead be influenced by a competing study, favored by industry, which found that moderate alcohol consumption was healthy.

Armani amassed a cavalcade of celebrity spokespeople. Many came through a former journalist named Wanda McDaniel.

No more pillows lost in the crack. READ MORE...

Don't ask, don't tell, just watch.The first teaser for Netflix's upcoming closeted Marine recruit show Boots is now out."My life needs a change, sir. I want to be somebody else," closeted teen Cameron Cope, played by Miles Heizer, softly says at the start of the first trailer for the upcoming Netflix series."Son, boot camp is the machine that turns boys into men," the recruiter sternly says back as Cameron eagerly smiles. "In 13 weeks, you won't even recognize yourself. Are you sure you're ready for that?"The teaser then introduces viewers to some of the other recruits Cameron is training with as their bus pulls up to the Marine base. However, introductions are cut short when a drill sergeant runs onto the bus, shouting at the teens and getting them in line. "Oh, dear," Cameron lets out.The teaser is an intense introduction to the upcoming one-hour comedic drama from Netflix. Based on the memoir The Pink Marine by Greg Cope White, Boots follows a closeted teen named Cameron Cope who, along with his best friend, joins the Marines. The series is set in the 1990s, when being openly gay in the military was illegal.In addition to Heizer, Boots stars Liam Oh as Cameron's best friend Ray, Vera Farmiga as Cameron's narcissistic mother Barbara, and Max Parker as Sgt. Sullivan, as well as Cedrick Cooper, Ana Ayora, Angus O'Brien, Dominic Goodman, Kieron Moore, Nicholas Logan, Rico Pairs, and more. It comes from showrunners Andy Parker and Jennifer Cecil. Boots debuts on Netflix on October 9. Watch the teaser below.

After a year away, AIDS Walk Los Angeles is returning to West Hollywood on Sunday, October 12, 2025. Organized by APLA Health, the citys leading nonprofit for HIV care, prevention, and sexual health services, this years theme, Community Is the Cure, highlights the power of unity in advancing progress against HIV/AIDS. Registration for participants is open now at AIDSWALK.LA.The day kicks off at West Hollywood Park with live entertainment, including a performance from RuPauls Drag Race star Heidi N Closet, DJ sets, and community booths. After the morning festivities, walkers will take to the streets of West Hollywood, joining thousands of Angelenos in a show of solidarity and support for those affected by HIV.This event was born out of urgency, and its just as relevant today, said Craig E. Thompson, CEO of APLA Health. Weve made incredible progress in the fight against HIV, but that progress is under direct threat from funding cuts and political attacks. Now is the time to show that we wont be silenced or set back.From Grassroots to Global ImpactAIDS Walk Los Angeles began forty years ago as a grassroots effort to raise awareness during the early HIV/AIDS epidemic. Since then, it has grown into one of the worlds largest HIV/AIDS fundraising events, uniting advocates, community members, and allies. Over the years, the walk has raised nearly $100 million, funding essential services like HIV specialty care, sexual health programs, housing assistance, and nutrition support.Today, APLA Health serves more than 22,000 clients annually across eight locations in Los Angeles County. Last year alone, AIDS Walk Los Angeles raised $1.16 million to support these vital programs.Progress and Challenges in HIV CareWhile advances such as PrEP, PEP, and long-acting injectable prevention have transformed HIV into a manageable condition, challenges remain. Modern treatments can reduce viral loads to undetectable levels, effectively eliminating the risk of transmission. Yet, many communities still face barriers to accessing care.APLA Healths mission is to ensure that progress reaches everyone, not just a few, Thompson said. We provide inclusive, high-quality healthcare in medically underserved communities, and events like AIDS Walk Los Angeles are crucial to continuing that work.AIDS Walk Los Angeles 2025 promises a day of celebration, education, and community action. For more information and to register, visit https://AIDSWALK.LA.Source

Follow along for real-time highlights, analysis and key moments of this international AFC West showdown.

Dylan Harper, the No. 2 pick in this year's draft, might recover in time for the Spurs' Oct. 22 opener after having surgery to repair a partially torn collateral ligament in his left thumb.

The Trump administration failed to tell lawmakers about a 2019 SEAL Team 6 incursion into North Korean territory that went awry.