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San Francisco‑originated coffee chain Philz Coffee announced a policy shift that will see Pride flags removed from all California locations. CEO Mahesh Sadarangani framed the change as a step toward a "more consistent, inclusive experience" across its stores, emphasizing that the company’s support for the LGBTQIA+ community remains unchanged.The announcement has ignited a rapid consumer backlash. By Friday morning, a petition on Change.org had amassed more than 4,000 signatures, urging Philz to retain the flags that staff and patrons view as symbols of safe, welcoming spaces. Critics argue that the move threatens to alienate a core segment of employees and loyal customers who associate the brand with LGBTQ+ advocacy.Philz operates 17 stores in San Francisco alone, many of which have historically displayed Pride décor and hosted annual fundraisers for LGBTQ+ organizations. The company has not disclosed when the flag removal will take effect, and reports from the San Francisco Chronicle indicate that Pride decorations remain in place at downtown and Castro locations, the latter proudly displaying a sign that reads, "Welcome to the Queerest coffee shop in town. Period."While Philz pledges to continue its allyship through fundraising and other initiatives, the controversy arrives amid a broader national climate of increasing hostility toward LGBTQ+ symbols, exemplified by recent federal actions such as the removal of a Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument.Analysts suggest that the backlash could have tangible financial repercussions. Consumer sentiment surveys show that brand alignment with LGBTQ+ causes can drive patronage, especially in progressive markets like San Francisco. A sustained boycott or negative publicity could erode foot traffic and impact sales, prompting the chain to reassess the timing and communication of its decor policy.For now, Philz remains under pressure to balance its stated commitment to inclusivity with the operational decision to standardize store aesthetics, a dilemma that highlights the delicate interplay between corporate branding and sociopolitical expectations in today’s market.

Bath Rugby has secured a spot in the Champions Cup semi-finals for the first time in 20 years with a stunning comeback against Northampton Saints. The match was an 11-try epic, with Bath ultimately prevailing thanks to a 76th-minute try by replacement forward Ted Hill.The game was a thrilling contest from start to finish, with Northampton Saints dominating early on. They scored five tries in the first half-hour, including scores from Henry Pollock, Archie McParland, Fraser Dingwall, Tom Lockett, and Josh Kemeny. However, Bath refused to give up, and their renowned forward strength eventually tipped the scales in their favor.Alfie Barbeary and Thomas du Toit were among the key figures for Bath, who came roaring back to trail by only 38-33 with 20 minutes left. The visitors were temporarily down to 14 players during this period, which Bath capitalized on.The match was a grand advert for the English club game, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. Bath's coach, Johann van Graan, marveled at his side's dramatic fightback, saying, 'I have been in rugby for a long time and this ranks as one of the best I have been involved in.' Northampton Saints' director of rugby, Phil Dowson, was frustrated with the loss, stating, 'It was obviously a good game of rugby but it’s frustrating to be on the wrong side of it.' The win sets up a semi-final clash for Bath against the winners of the all-French tie between Bordeaux and Toulouse.

Jonathan Freedland contends that the record of Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent wartime conduct is one of stark failure, despite the spotlight it has received alongside former U.S. President Donald Trump.While Trump has dominated headlines with his rhetoric on Iran and a self‑announced cease‑fire, Netanyahu has quietly overseen a continuation of hostilities across the region. Israel’s air campaign on Lebanon—the most lethal single strike in recent memory—targeted roughly 100 sites in a ten‑minute window, leaving at least 303 dead and more than 1,150 injured, many of them civilians.Israel maintains that the U.S.‑brokered deal with Tehran does not extend to Lebanon, a claim disputed by Iran and Pakistani mediators. Netanyahu, meanwhile, has pledged to sustain “full‑force” attacks on what Israel labels Hezbollah launch positions, even as he publicly agrees to diplomatic talks with Beirut.Internationally, Netanyahu is already wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes in Gaza, and his reputation abroad is that of a war‑time villain. Domestically, his supporters still view him as a security hawk, a perception that matters most as Israel faces elections no later than 27 October.Freedland highlights that the October 7, 2023 Hamas onslaught—Israel’s deadliest terrorist attack—occurred under Netanyahu’s watch, a fact that would have toppled most leaders in comparable democracies. Yet the prime minister promised “total victory” over Hamas, a promise that remains unfulfilled after a two‑year bombardment that has claimed roughly 70,000 lives in Gaza while leaving Hamas in control of the enclave’s unoccupied areas.Claims of having neutralised Hezbollah have also proved hollow. Although Israel announced the death of the group’s leader, Hezbollah continues to rebuild its arsenal and resumed rocket fire, undermining the narrative of a decisive Israeli triumph.Similarly, the 12‑day 2025‑2026 confrontation with Iran—branded by Trump as an obliteration of Tehran’s nuclear programme and by Netanyahu as a historic victory—has not diminished Iran’s strategic capabilities. The nation still possesses enriched uranium, a robust missile stockpile, and the ability to threaten global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, effectively holding a lever over the world economy.Freedland argues that Netanyahu’s doctrine of perpetual military pressure yields only temporary relief, likening it to repeatedly cutting off a snake’s head only for it to regrow. Former Israeli general‑turned‑politician Yair Golan is quoted as saying that Netanyahu “does not know how to translate battlefield successes into lasting political security.”The human cost of this approach is evident not only in the casualties of Gaza, the Bekaa Valley and Israeli cities, but also in Israel’s deteriorating diplomatic standing. Recent legislation in the Knesset—pushed by far‑right minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir and supported by Netanyahu—introduces a death‑penalty provision for Palestinians convicted of terrorism, a move condemned internationally as discriminatory.As Israelis endure nightly bomb‑shelter drills and semi‑lockdown conditions, the electorate faces a stark choice. Polls suggest that even if Netanyahu is ousted, his successor may continue a similar hard‑line stance, albeit with different execution. Freedland concludes that Israel’s long‑term security cannot rely solely on force; a negotiated accommodation with neighbours, especially the Palestinians, may finally become politically viable after the exposure of Netanyahu’s repeated strategic failures.

The Grand National, a premier horse racing event, is on the horizon at Aintree, with Jagwar emerging as a top contender. Trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, Jagwar has demonstrated remarkable attributes that make him a strong candidate to claim victory.At just seven years old, Jagwar has youth on his side and has only had eight starts over fences, indicating room for further improvement. His recent performance at Cheltenham, where he finished half a length behind Johnnywho in the Ultima Handicap Chase, showcased his potential. Jagwar's ability to appreciate the additional mile on Saturday could give him an edge over his competitors.While Jagwar does tend to make occasional mistakes, the current fence design is more forgiving than in previous years, mitigating this concern. His stable companion, Iroko, had a similar profile before last year's National but ran a fine race in fourth; however, his recent form has been less convincing.Other contenders, such as Gorgeous Tom and Stellar Story, have shown promise but may not offer the same level of appeal as Jagwar. Mark Walsh, riding for JP McManus, will be in the saddle on Saturday and could be poised to sign off his time with the green-and-gold by securing a major victory.Aintree's racing schedule also features other promising horses: Hold The Serve at 1.20, Scorpio Rising at 1.55, and Leave Of Absence at 2.30, all of whom have potential for strong performances.

Brandon Holtz, a 39-year-old real estate broker from Illinois, has achieved an incredible feat by qualifying for the Masters tournament as an amateur golfer. Ranked 3,262 in the world amateur golf rankings, Holtz secured his spot by winning the US Mid-Am, a route into the Masters for amateur players aged 25 and over.Holtz's journey to the Masters is an unlikely one. He didn't play golf at college, instead being on a basketball scholarship at Illinois State. He only took up golf seriously after finishing college, spending his early 20s on the mini tour trying to make it as a pro. However, it cost him more than he won, and he eventually paid $200 to the US Golf Association to have his amateur status reinstated in 2024.His background in elite college basketball has proven to be more helpful than his short time on the Hooters Tour. As a shooter, Holtz was able to perform under pressure, a skill that suited him well in the Mid-Am, a matchplay event. He won it with his driver, which he says is the best club in his bag.Despite struggling in his first round with a score of 81, Holtz remains optimistic. 'This is a dream come true really,' he said. 'The experience as a whole is incredible. It was definitely not what I wanted to do on the golf course today, but I had a lot of fun.'Holtz's story is an inspiration to many, showing that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. As he said, 'I'm 39, chasing a dream and here we are.'

The latest offering from writer Theo Jamieson and director Adam Lenson is a boldly conceived musical that thrusts a turbulent romance into a sci‑fi framework. The story follows a young astronaut, Daniel, who vanishes from his shuttle with barely enough fuel, prompting a quest to uncover the motives behind his reckless flight.Stuart Thompson (as Daniel) and Poppy Gilbert (as Emily) anchor the piece with performances that are both visceral and nuanced. Their chemistry captures the push‑pull of a relationship scarred by childhood bullying, parental betrayal, and a shared history of trauma, delivering songs that soar and hit hard.Visually, the production leans heavily on interstellar projections that transform the stage into a shifting cosmos, while the score oscillates between Sondheim‑style wit and full‑blown symphonic passages. This combination creates an epic sense of strangeness that distinguishes Flyby from more conventional West End fare.However, the narrative’s fragmented structure hampers its emotional payoff. The non‑chronological storytelling leaves critical gaps, and the metaphor of being "stranded in space" feels over‑extended—especially with the protagonist’s surname, Defoe, a thin nod to Robinson Crusoe. The three narrators, played by Simbi Akande, Gina Beck, and Rupert Young, often drift into digressive asides that dilute the central arc.Despite these flaws, moments of brilliance emerge, particularly in the musical’s treatment of mental‑health themes. The show hints at the potential to join the ranks of modern theatre successes like Next to Normal and Dear Evan Hansen, should its structural rough edges be smoothed.The production is currently staged at Southwark Playhouse, Borough, London and will run through 16 May. Audiences seeking a daring blend of emotional intensity and cosmic spectacle will find Flyby a compelling, if imperfect, experience.

Stefano Gabbana left his post as chair of Dolce & Gabbana effective 1 January 2026, describing the move as part of a "natural evolution" of the company’s organisational structure and governance.The luxury house stressed that the resignation will not affect Gabbana’s creative responsibilities within the group.According to Bloomberg, Alfonso Dolce – Domenico’s brother and the group’s chief executive – assumed the chairmanship in January, taking over the role from the co‑founder.Sources indicate that Gabbana is exploring options for his 40 % equity stake as the brand continues negotiations with its bank lenders. In parallel, former Gucci chief Stefano Cantino has been appointed to a senior management position as part of the reshuffle.A D&G spokesperson added that the company “has no statement to make at this time” regarding its debt position, as talks with banks remain ongoing.The Italian label, founded in 1985, is grappling with a slowdown in the high‑end fashion market, a trend intensified by uncertainty surrounding the war in Iran – a region that represents a crucial market for luxury brands.In March, Dolce & Gabbana hired Rothschild & Co as its financial adviser to prepare for creditor discussions. At that point the group carried €450 million (£391 million) of bank debt, incurred after a 2025 refinancing aimed at supporting a new growth strategy while preserving independence. Lenders had temporarily waived certain borrowing terms.Ownership of the company remains split: each designer holds a 40 % stake through a holding vehicle, while the remaining shares are owned by Alfonso Dolce and their sister Dorotea.Founded by Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce, the brand quickly became synonymous with a “molto sexy” Italian aesthetic, gaining global visibility after Madonna commissioned costumes for her 1993 Girlie tour. By 2009, Dolce & Gabbana reported a turnover of €1 billion.Despite its commercial success, the house has faced a series of controversies over the past 15 years, ranging from accusations of racism and homophobia to backlash over culturally insensitive advertising, which have at times threatened its market position.

Connor King, a 29-year-old trainer from County Tipperary, is on the verge of achieving one of the most remarkable upsets in Grand National history with his horse, Oscars Brother. King's humble beginnings in the racing world, with just two horses in his stable and fewer than 30 runners in his entire training career, make his potential victory all the more extraordinary. King's journey to the Grand National is a fairytale-like story that began with his brother, Daniel, purchasing Oscars Brother for just €8,000. The horse has since become a compelling argument against the notion that the Grand National has lost its heart and soul due to changes in the course and race conditions over the years. Despite the odds being against him, King remains optimistic about his chances, stating that Oscars Brother has the potential to improve over the marathon four-and-a-quarter mile trip at Aintree on Saturday. The horse's performance in the Brown Advisory Novice Chase at Cheltenham last month, where he finished fourth out of 18-1 odds, has raised hopes for King's underdog story. The Grand National, known for its unpredictability, has seen a shift in recent years with younger chasers and novice runners standing a better chance of winning. This change has given hope to trainers like King, who are looking to make a name for themselves in the competitive world of horse racing. For King, having a runner in the Grand National is already a victory, as the exposure and attention have been invaluable for his young training career. As he prepares for the big event, King is focused on enjoying the experience and taking it all in, knowing that it doesn't happen every day.

Mom’s mantra – “don’t borrow trouble” – became the compass that steadied Feimster during the uncertain early years of her comedy career. She says the simple advice helped her shift focus from endless worry to actually performing. Growing up, Feimster was captivated by Carol Burnett’s slapstick brilliance, a love sparked by her grandmother’s nightly reruns. The legendary comedian’s on‑ and off‑screen silliness shaped Feimster’s own comedic sensibility. When she was cast as the beaver Nibbles in the upcoming Zootropolis 2, the process was anything but typical. “The script was top‑secret,” she recalls, noting that she entered the recording booth with only a brief scene description from director Jared Bush, never knowing how pivotal her character would become. Feimster also laughs about a nightmare charity gig in a Virginia biker bar, where the stage was literally a wooden crate, the lighting resembled a construction site, and a karaoke machine served as the sound system. “Nobody, including me, enjoyed the show,” she admits. Unlike many performers, she has no elaborate pre‑show rituals. She arrives minutes before the curtain rises, chats with the audience, and treats each performance like a regular day, much to the amusement of co‑host Tom Papa. The relentless travel schedule is a double‑edged sword. Feimster describes the constant touring as exhausting, with the added pressure of having to write fresh material after every special. “You finish one project and must start from scratch,” she says, highlighting the creative churn that fuels her growth. On set with Arnold Schwarzenegger for the film Fubar, Feimster found the experience inspiring. She notes that the legendary actor’s varied career – from bodybuilding champion to governor – made every day on set feel like a master class. Looking ahead, Feimster has wrapped two Netflix comedies: one starring Will Ferrell as a washed‑up pro golfer where she plays his caddie, and another ensemble with Kim Kardashian, Nikki Glaser and Brenda Song. She hints at a future shift toward a more serious, less self‑referential role. Meanwhile, her current stand‑up show “Takin’ Care of Biscuits” continues its North American and European leg, with a stop at London’s Hackney Empire on 3 June and the tour running through 9 August.