“World Square” Festival Bringing Global Food To Pittsburgh

June 29, 2025 7:43 am

(WPXI) PITTSBURGH — A three-day festival celebrating cultures from all across the world is happening in Pittsburgh called the “World Square.” A diverse collection of vendors gathered in a lot in the city’s Cultural District, near the intersection of Seventh Street and Penn Avenue, to share creations that represent their international community. Foods from baklava and buñuelos to empanadas and wraps are up for grabs, along with various drinks and handcrafted goods. DJ Juan Diego is emceeing the event and is joined by a wide range of performers who will dance and play music. “Every year, World Square serves to showcase local businesses and performances from an array of cultural backgrounds,” said Michelle King, policy coordinator for the City’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA). “Creating this space is so important. It provides opportunities for the Pittsburgh community to come together, to connect, and to experience a small taste of the sights, sounds, and flavors that enrich our city.” World Square is free to attend and ends Sunday at 6 p.m.

AHN And Cigna Resolve Contract Dispute

June 29, 2025 7:42 am

(WPXI) Allegheny Health Network and Cigna Healthcare have reached a new agreement, following a contract dispute that threatened beneficiaries. AHN announced Friday that the two organizations had agreed to a three-year contract, securing full, in-network access to AHN services for people insured by Cigna. AHN patients insured by Cigna were notified in early June of an impasse in contract negotiations between the two organizations, the Pittsburgh Business Times reports. Most care would be out of network if a new agreement wasn’t reached by June 30, a letter obtained by the PBT states. AHN says the new contract will run through June 30, 2028. Cigna members with AHN clinical visits or procedures scheduled for next week can keep those appointments. Cigna members with questions about the new contract can contact a Cigna representative using the number on the back of their insurance card or by calling Cigna’s customer service line at 1-800-997-1654.

Sudanese Civil War Overwhelms Chad Border Towns

June 29, 2025 7:37 am

ADRE, Chad (AP) — Sudan’s civil war has overwhelmed a border town in neighboring Chad. Nearly a quarter-million refugees have arrived in Adre and the humanitarian frontline on the edge of one of the world’s most devastating wars is in danger. The U.S.-backed aid system that once kept the refugees alive is fraying. Under the Trump administration, key foreign aid has been slashed. Funding has been withdrawn from U.N. programs that feed, treat and shelter refugees. As thousands of people continue to arrive, aid workers fear more camps will emerge in eastern Chad with less to offer.

Pope Leo XIV Marks Feast Day As Part Of Funding Campaign

June 29, 2025 7:36 am

ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV is marking a feast day as the Vatican launches a new campaign to boost donations from the faithful. Leo celebrated Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, marking the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul. It is typically used for a special collection for Peter’s Pence, a key fundraising initiative. Leo thanked donors who have contributed, saying their financial support was a sign of union with his young pontificate. The Vatican’s promotional efforts this year include videos, posters, and online donation options. Peter’s Pence funds both the Vatican’s operations and papal charity work, but it has faced scandals over mismanagement.

Trump Calls For Ceasefire Deal On Gaza War

June 29, 2025 7:35 am

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump is calling for a deal on the war in Gaza. In between posts about a Senate vote on his tax cuts and spending bill, Trump pleaded early Sunday on his social media platform Truth Social for a deal and the release of hostages. Trump has suggested a ceasefire agreement could happen within a week. An Israeli official says plans are underway for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to travel to Washington in the coming weeks, with a top adviser already heading there for discussions. In Gaza, Israel has ordered evacuations in northern areas during intensifying military operations.

Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Party Disbands Under Pressure

June 29, 2025 7:33 am

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong’s pro-democracy League of Social Democrats has disbanded under intense political pressure. Announced on Sunday, the decision marks another blow to the city’s dwindling opposition amid Beijing’s crackdown following 2019 protests. The group, known for its bold activism, was the last pro-democracy party staging small protests and street advocacy. Chairperson Chan Po-ying said the move was unavoidable but emphasized their contributions to the movement. Since the 2020 national security law, many activists have been jailed and civil society groups dissolved. Critics argue this reflects shrinking freedoms, while Beijing claims the law ensures stability.

Israeli Strikes 62 people In Gaza As Ceasefire Looms

June 28, 2025 10:16 am

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Health workers in Gaza say Israeli strikes killed at least 62 people across Gaza overnight and into Saturday. Relatives say the dead include a family with three children hit while sleeping in a tent city for the territory’s many displaced people. Meanwhile, ceasefire prospects are said to be improving. U.S. President Donald Trump says there could be an agreement within the next week. An official with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press that Israel’s minister for strategic affairs will arrive in Washington next week for talks on a ceasefire and other subjects.

Philly Priest Celebrates 75th Anniversary & 100th Birthday

June 28, 2025 9:24 am

BLUE BELL, Pa. (AP) — The Rev. James Kelly baptized and married thousands of people, ministered to the ill at hospitals, and traveled the world. He became friends with an opera superstar and with a saint. Kelly is the longest-serving priest in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of his ordination and his 100th birthday. He’s grateful and tries to make each day count. He listens to opera. He bakes pies. And he still wakes up at dawn every day to say Catholic Mass at the retired living community that he calls home.

Burgettstown Man Identified In Fatal Hanover Accident

June 28, 2025 5:52 am

The Washington County Coroner has identified 28-year-old Michael Brent Miller of Burgettstown as the victim of a fatal one-car crash in Hanover Township. Miller was the operator and sole occupant of the car that was traveling westbound on State Route 22 when it left the roadway and collided with a tree between mile markers 3 and 4. A passing motorist called Washington County 911 to report the accident around 9:24 last night. First responders, including Fort Cherry EMS, Weirton Fire Department, Hanover Volunteer Fire Department, Hancock Fire Company and Hanover Beaver County Fire Department responded to the scene. The Washington County Coroner’s office reports that Miller was not wearing a seat belt. The cause and manner of death are pending investigation.

 

Protesters In Bangkok Prime Minister’s Resignation

June 28, 2025 5:36 am

Thousands of protesters have gathered in Thailand’s capital demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The demonstration Saturday in Bangkok is part of brewing political turmoil set off by a leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. Paetongtarn is facing growing dissatisfaction over her handling of a recent border dispute with Cambodia, which killed a Cambodian solider and prompted the call with Hun Sen. The call has set off a string of investigations that could lead to Paetongtarn’s removal. Many protesters were part of a royalist, conservative group that has been a longtime foe of Paetongtarn’s father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.