In an interview with CNN, 1st Lt. Jimmy McCain, son of late Sen. John McCain, said he was angered by former President Donald Trump's visit to Arlington Cemetery and plans to vote for Vice President Kamala Harris.

In the interview, McCain said he had been moving away from the Republican Party and recently changed his registration to Democrat.

Trump's campaign staff reportedly got into an altercation with an official at Arlington National Cemetery during the former president's visit last week. McCain said last week's incident "blew me away."

I just think that for anyone whos done a lot of time in their uniform, they just understand that inherently that its not about you there. Its about these people who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the name of their country," he told CNN.

RELATED STORY | Female election workers face growing threats as disinformation flourishes

The McCain family's disapproval of Trump came to full light in 2018 after Sen. McCain passed away. At his funeral, former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush provided eulogies, but Trump was not invited. Joe Biden, who was nearly two years removed from the vice presidency, also spoke at McCain's funeral. Obama and Biden were on the 2008 Democratic ticket that defeated McCain in the general election.

Bush won the 2000 GOP presidential primary over McCain.

What the Trump campaign is accused of doing

There are strict federal laws about what can and can't be done at Arlington National Cemetery. One of those laws is that political activities are barred in Section 60 of the cemetery.

Army officials said the Trump campaign was reminded of this law, but proceeded to continue filming Trump's visit. The Trump campaign has noted that the former president was invited by several families of those killed in a 2021 attack on Kabul's airport amid a chaotic U.S. exit from Afghanistan.

"Participants in the August 26th ceremony and the subsequent Section 60 visit were made aware of federal laws, Army regulations and DoD policies, which clearly prohibit political activities on cemetery grounds," the Army said in a statement to Scripps News. "An ANC employee who attempted to ensure adherence to these rules was abruptly pushed aside. Consistent with the decorum expected at ANC, this employee acted with professionalism and avoided further disruption."

Trump's campaign later posted a TikTok video of Trump's visit to the cemetery. The campaign has also said it would release a video of the incident that would prove its version of events, but so far it has not.

RELATED STORY | Army says Arlington cemetery employee was 'pushed aside' during Trump's visit

McCain was not pleased to see Trump posing for cameras in front of the gravestones.

It was a violation, McCain said. That mother, that sister, those families, see that and its a painful experience.

Trump's response to the altercation

Trump told Fox News host Sean Hannity on Tuesday that he did not witness any altercation.

If you look at just the records, there was no conflict, there was no fight, there was no anything, Trump said.

Trump added that he posed for photos at the request of the families that invited him.

Sen. McCain's daughter not expressing support for either candidate

Meghan McCain, Sen. McCain's daughter and Jimmy McCain's sister, has repeatedly expressed her dismay for Trump. She also has not said she would vote for Harris, either.

In response to a post on X calling for her to endorse Harris, Meghan McCain responded, "Please stop trying to turn me into a progressive. Its a fever dream. Im a life long, generational conservative."

Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign for president announced this week that it will transfer $24.5 million to bolster down-ballot Democrats.

Most of the funds will go toward supporting Democrats seeking House and Senate seats. Her campaign is sending $10 million to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, with an additional $10 million going to the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee.

RELATED STORY | Trump says he'll vote to uphold Florida abortion ban after seeming to signal he'd support repeal

The campaign is also earmarking $2.5 million for the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, $1 million for the Democratic Attorneys General Association and $1 million for the Democratic Governors Association.

The balance of Congress once again is expected to be close. The Cook Political Report says there are 22 toss-up House seats heading into November. Republicans would need to win eight of them to retain control, while Democrats would need to win 15 to take the House.

The Cook Political Report also says Democrats have little margin for error to hold the Senate. With West Virginia expected to flip to Republicans this November, Democrats will need to retain seats in Ohio, Michigan and Montana in addition to winning the presidency to maintain the Senate.

RELATED STORY | Harris campaign says it has raised $540M, sees surge of donations during DNC

"The Vice President believes that this race is about mobilizing the entire country, in races at every level, to fight for our freedoms and our economic opportunity," said Harris campaign chair Hen O'Malley Dillon. "Thats why the vice president has made the decision to invest a historic sum into electing Democrats up and down the ballot: because Democrats win when we fight together."

The Harris campaign said it garnered an influx of donations in the weeks following President Joe Biden's announcement to drop out of the presidential race.

For the first time since 2006, the United States will be represented in the finals of the U.S. Open men's singles tournament.

On Tuesday, a pair of Americans earned entries into the semifinal round. Frances Tiafoe, who made the U.S. Open semifinals in 2022, defeated Grigor Dimitrov in a walkover after Tiafoe won two of the first three sets and was up 4-1 in the fourth.

In Tuesday's other quarterfinal, Taylor Fritz toppled Alexander Zverev 7-6, 3-6, 6-4, 7-6, clinching his first semifinal appearance in a grand slam.

RELATED STORY | Tennis player says she was subjected to violent threats after US Open loss

Fritz will face Tiafoe on Friday with the winner advancing to the finals. Whoever wins Friday's match will become the first American in a U.S. Open men's final since Andy Roddick in 2006. No American man has won the U.S. Open since Roddick in 2003.

Roddick's appearance in 2006 marked the end of a run of 14 out of 17 U.S. Open men's singles finals that included at least one American. In those years, an American won eight times. Pete Sampras accounted for five of the titles, while Andre Agassi won twice. Roddick's only grand slam title came at the 2003 U.S. Open.

Tiafoe and Fritz's ascension to the semifinals comes as the tournament has been full of upsets. Two of the favorites in this year's tournament, Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, were knocked out in the first week of competition.

Tiafoe and Fritz are only separated in age by three months, meaning they started competing against each other early in their careers. The two first met in an ATP Tour event in 2016 when Tiafoe defeated Fritz in three sets at the ATP Masters 1000 Indian Wells. Fritz has won all six battles since.

RELATED STORY | Defending champion Coco Gauff loses in U.S. Open fourth round to Emma Navarro

Tiafoe noted that since the retirement of Roger Federer and with Rafael Nadal no longer the player he used to be, there are more opportunities for young Americans like himself.

"We openly speak about it," Tiafoe said about Americans making the men's final. "Taylor, I mean has been in and out of the top 10, myself was top 10 this time last year, Tommy (Paul) is knocking on the door and playing great, Ben (Shelton), so like it's only a matter of time you put yourself in positions. The game is open. It's not like it once was where you make a quarterfinal, you play Rafa and it's like you're looking for flights. Now it is totally different."

If you're looking for a Spirit Halloween store this fall, chances are you won't have to go far. The company announced that it plans to open a record 1,525 locations across the U.S. and Canada this year.

As of last week, over 1,100 of its seasonal locations had opened with the rest opening by the end of September. In the meantime, the company said it plans to hire 50,000 seasonal workers during the fall.

The chain of stores has been known to move into abandoned storefronts once held by major retailers. Inside, stores are full of Halloween-themed decorations, costumes and candy.

RELATED STORY | Which Halloween candies pair best with your favorite wine

Last year, the company celebrated its 40th anniversary after temporarily opening 1,500 locations.

Spirit Halloween plans to have locations in all 50 states this fall.

"The Halloween fandom continues to grow, and our incredible team works year-round to create an unparalleled and unique in-store experience that will engage customers all season long," said Steven Silverstein, CEO of Spirit Halloween. "Visiting a Spirit Halloween store is more than just a shopping trip - it's entertainment, it's tradition, it's creating moments and memories with family and friends that bring the magic of Halloween to life, and we are thrilled to welcome fans back to the show."

RELATED STORY | Unmasking the centuries-old evolution of Halloween

Halloween Spirit's expansion comes as Americans continue to spend more on the holiday. In 2023, the National Retail Federation estimates that the U.S. spent $12.2 billion on the holiday, which is up from $8.8 billion in 2019. Costumes alone constituted $4.1 billion of total spending in 2023.

President Joe Biden announced that federal civilian employees will get an average of a 2% pay raise in 2025.

According to the Biden administration, there will be an across-the-board pay increase of 1.7% for all federal employees. In addition to national pay increases, locality-based pay increases will average 0.3%.

Although it's unknown how much inflation will come down between now and the end of the year, it's possible the pay increase won't be enough to keep up with the cost of living. As of July 2024, year-over-year inflation in the U.S. was 2.9%, according to the updated consumer price index.

RELATED STORY | Government watchdog proposes crackdown on paycheck advance products

Inflation has come down steadily in recent years. The July consumer price index was the first time in three years annual inflation dropped below 3%.

The pay raise is also a bit below what workers in the private sector have gotten.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average weekly wage for workers has gone up 3.3% year-over-year, as of July.

President Biden says the updated pay rates balance making federal work attractive while being fiscally responsible.

"We must attract, recruit, and retain a skilled workforce with fair compensation in order to keep our Government running, deliver services, and meet our Nation's challenges today and tomorrow," Biden said. "This alternative pay plan decision will continue to allow the Federal Government to employ a wellqualified Federal workforce on behalf of the American people, acknowledging wage growth in the labor market and fiscal constraints."

RELATED STORY | Lawmakers pushing to limit remote work for federal employees

The pay hikes are scheduled to take effect January 1, 2025.

2025 pay hikes far smaller than prior years

With inflation easing, the pay hikes won't be nearly as much as in years past. Federal employees got a 4.6% pay raise at the end of 2022 and a 5.2% raise at the end of 2023.

The raise at the end of 2022 was not nearly enough to account for inflation, but the most recent pay increase helped workers catch up.

Year-over-year inflation increased 6.4% in 2022, but declined to 3.3% in 2023.

The Food and Drug Administration has announced new rules that will require retailers to verify the age of those under 30 who are trying to purchase tobacco products.

The current rule requires retailers to verify the ages of those under age 27 who purchase tobacco. The new rule essentially raises the threshold for verification by three years.

The FDA said that these new rules, which will go into effect September 30, followed the change in the minimum age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21 in 2019.

"Its important for retailers to request and examine photo IDs to verify age from anyone under 30, regardless of appearance, as research has shown that it is difficult for retailers to accurately determine the age of a customer from appearance alone," the FDA said.

RELATED STORY | Stop & Shop latest chain to stop selling tobacco products

The FDA added the rules are expected to help decrease underage tobacco sales.

Todays rule is another key step toward protecting our nations youth from the health risks of tobacco products, said Brian King, director of the FDAs Center for Tobacco Products. Decades of science have shown that keeping tobacco products away from youth is critical to reducing the number of people who ultimately become addicted to these products and suffer from tobacco-related disease and death.

The FDA said it has conducted 1.5 million compliance checks to ensure retailers are following federal age restrictions. The checks have resulted in 134,000 warning letters, 33,000 fines and 230 no-tobacco-sale orders.

RELATED STORY | FDA allows menthol-flavored e-cigarettes in hopes of getting smokers to quit

Tobacco usage in the U.S. has declined significantly over the years. In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 11.5% of adults used cigarette products. In 2005, 20.9% were estimated to smoke cigarettes.

Despite reduced smoking rates, tobacco is still a significant cause of premature death in the U.S., the CDC says. The agency estimates that cigarette smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States, which equals one out of every five deaths.

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have died, the team confirmed in a statement on Friday a day before they were reportedly due to be part of their sister's wedding.

"Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend," the Blue Jackets said in a statement. "We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew."

The New Jersey State Police confirmed that the Gaudreau brothers were involved in a cycling accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, Thursday evening. Police said that the Gaudreaus were struck by a sedan being driven by Sean M. Higgins after he attempted to move around slower-moving vehicles. Police said Higgins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and was charged with two counts of death by auto.

"Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers-in-law, two uncles, two nephews, two cousins, two family members two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans," the Gaudreaus' father, Jim, said in a statement to Scripps News. "We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief. From all our families and the bottom of our hearts (the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello and Joyce Families)."

According to an online registry, Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline, is pregnant with their first child and due to have their baby on Dec. 31. A GoFundMe has been set up to support Madeline and their baby, whose name will be Tripp, with the "financial burdens they now face." As of Friday afternoon, it had raised nearly $80,000, surpassing its $30,000 goal.

RELATED STORY | Fitness guru Richard Simmons' cause of death revealed

Johnny Gaudreau was arguably one of the top Americans playing in the NHL, having appeared in seven NHL All-Star Games, most recently in 2023. In 2017, he was given the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the "player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability."

Prior to joining the NHL, Gaudreau was college hockey's top player and was awarded a Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as a member of Boston College.

He started his pro career in Calgary before signing a free-agent contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022. He was ready to begin his third season in Columbus in about six weeks.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement after learning about the brothers' deaths:

The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew," said Bettman. "While Johnnys infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname Johnny Hockey, he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path."

According to a post on the wedding website The Knot, the two brothers were set to be groomsmen at their sister Katie's wedding in Philadelphia on Friday.

Johnny Gaudreau was 31 years old. Matthew Gaudreau, who was Johnny's college teammate before playing several years in the minor leagues, was 29.

Gaudreau's death marks the second time an active Blue Jackets player has been killed in an accident in recent years. In 2021, goalie Matiss Kivlenieks was killed in a fireworks incident in Michigan.

RELATED STORY | Legendary talk show host Phil Donahue dead at 88 after long illness

People across the country can now get COVID-19 and flu shots at their local pharmacy.

Walgreens and CVS are two of the major retailers now offering the vaccines. The companies are accepting appointments on their websites for those wishing to get vaccinated.

Preventive vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself and your family from seasonal illnesses, said Dr. Sree Chaguturu, executive vice president and chief medical officer of CVS Health. Access to preventive vaccinations is critical to keeping our communities healthy. With thousands of CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations across the country, its easy to find and get a vaccination.

Kroger, the nation's largest chain of grocery stores, also has COVID-19 and flu shots available, in addition to RSV vaccinations. As well as appointments, Kroger said it will accept walk-ins.

"These illnesses can result in poor health, missed work, extra medical bills or even prevent an adult from being able to care for their family," said Dr. Marc Watkins, chief medical officer of Kroger Health. "We understand that people lead busy lives. That's why we've made it as easy as possible to get vaccinated at our stores. Customers can get their groceries and their vaccine(s) in one trip, saving them time and helping them be protected."

Rite Aid also began offering new COVID-19 shots this week after starting to offer updated flu and RSV shots at the start of the month.

The vaccines were made available after the Food and Drug Administration authorized their release last week amid a summer spike in cases. Instead of COVID-19 cases bottoming out in the summer, they have been on the rise this year.

Who should get vaccinated?

Here is the general guidance from the Centers for Disesae Control and Prvention on who should get which shot:

COVID-19: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a 20242025 COVID-19 vaccine.

Influenza: Everyone 6 months of age and older is recommended to get an annual influenza vaccine.

RSV: Everyone ages 75 and older and adults ages 60-74 at increased risk of severe RSV, such as those with chronic heart or lung disease, certain other chronic medical conditions, and those who are residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities. Also infants and toddlers up to 24 months old. 

Those who are 32-36 pregnant between the months of September and January can also get vaccinated to pass antibodies onto their newborn.

What is different about this COVID-19 vaccine?

The FDA said that fall 2024 COVID-19 vaccines will target the KP.2 variant of the virus, which is a descendant of the JN.1 variant that widely circulated throughout the U.S. during the winter.

"This change is intended to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccines (2024-2025 Formula) more closely match circulating SARS-CoV-2 strains." the FDA said.

Over the summer KP.3 and its descendants became the most prevalent strain of the virus. KP.3 and a descendant variant now account for over half of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. Like KP.2, KP.3 also mutated from the JN.1 variant.

RELATED STORY | New study shows how common long COVID symptoms are for children

KP.2 and KP.3 are known as FLiRT variants, because of their specific positions in the spike protein. Experts say these variants aren't more or less severe than previous variants, but more people have antibodies through vaccines and prior infection to better fight off an infection.

But as COVID-19 mutates, the body loses its ability to fight off the virus without vaccination or prior infection, experts say.

Is now the right time to get a COVID-19 shot?

Andy Pekosz, a professor in molecular microbiology and immunology at Johns Hopkins, said there are several options for those considering getting an updated COVID-19 shot.

"People who have not had COVID in the past few months have a couple options," he said, "get the updated COVID vaccine as soon as its available to protect yourself as the wave of summer infections continues [or] get the updated COVID vaccine around mid-October to build protection in time for the rise of cases that typically occur around November through January."

There are several factors that someone should weigh before deciding on the timing of a COVID-19 shot.

"People at higher risk of severe illness should consider getting an updated COVID vaccine as soon as possible," he said. "Everyone who is eligible should get an updated COVID vaccine by mid-October in order to build immunity ahead of holiday travel and gatherings. Remember, it takes about two weeks to build up immunity following a vaccine, so schedule your vaccination accordingly."

RELATED STORY | Free COVID tests to be made available as experts anticipate winter surge

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled 5,740 portable power stations after the units reportedly sparked several fires, including one that resulted in the death of a 79-year-old Florida man.

The CPSC said that the Halo 1000 Portable Power Stations were sold from October 2021 through March 2022 for between $1,000 and $1,300. They were sold on QVC as well as by ZAGG and ACG. The CPSC said the lithium-ion batteries in the units can overheat, posing fire and burn hazards that can lead to serious injury or death.

RELATED STORY | Samsung recalls over 1 million electric stoves involved in hundreds of fires

The Florida man who died reportedly suffered from a case of smoke inhalation after one of the units sparked a fire. The CPSC said the units also caused four additional fires, two of which caused injuries.

The products are high-capacity lithium-ion battery power banks with three USB-A charge ports, a USB-C fast charge port, three AC outputs, two DC outputs, a DC socket, an LCD display, a built-in flood light, and a collapsible handle, the CPSC said.

The units have the model number PS-1000.

Owners are encouraged to register the units online in order to get a replacement. In the meantime, owners are encouraged to immediately stop using the products and cut the power cord. The CPSC also said the units should not be thrown away in the trash as they contain hazardous lithium-ion batteries.

RELATED STORY | BMW recalls more than 720,000 vehicles due to an electrical fire risk

The CPSC posts updated recall notices on its website every Thursday. You can search through past CPSC recalls on its website. You can also be among the first to learn of product recalls by signing up for emails directly through the CPSC.

Stop & Shop, a popular chain of groceries in the northeastern U.S., has announced it intends to stop selling tobacco products at the end of the month.

The company said it made the decision to better the "health and wellness of its communities." In addition to stopping the sale of tobacco products, it has held cigarette buyback events, where customers could return unopened packs in exchange for gift cards and smoking cessation products.

RELATED STORY | FDA allows menthol-flavored e-cigarettes in hopes of getting smokers to quit

Our responsibility as a grocer goes far beyond our aisles, and we are committed to taking bold steps to help our associates, customers, and communities work towards better health outcomes, said Gordon Reid, Stop & Shop president. From our team of registered dietitians that serve our customers at no cost to our trained and trusted pharmacy associates, Stop & Shop aims to support the health and well-being of the neighborhoods we serve and this exit from tobacco is one more way were accomplishing that goal.

There have been other chains over the years that have made similar decisions.

In 2014, the pharmacy chain CVS eliminated tobacco products from its stores. In 2022, Walmart said it would stop selling tobacco products. The New York Times reported that Target stopped selling tobacco products back in 1996.

Tobacco usage in the U.S. has declined significantly over the years. In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 11.5% of adults used cigarette products. In 2005, 20.9% were estimated to smoke cigarettes.

RELATED STORY | More than 480,000 Americans die each year from tobacco use

Despite reduced smoking rates, tobacco is still a significant cause of premature death in the U.S., the CDC says. The agency estimates that cigarette smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States, which equals one out of every five deaths.

Following the lead of many of its rivals, Dunkin' announced a new $6 meal deal that will be available nationally for a limited time.

The meal deal comes as other fast food chains, such as McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King and Taco Bell, have offered similar specials.

Dunkin's $6 meal deal includes a bacon, egg and cheese sandwich, hash browns and a medium hot or iced coffee. Dunkin' did not say how long the new meal deal would last.

The announcement came as the chain also unveiled its fall menu, which includes a pumpkin spice signature latte, almond spice coffee, pumpkin cake donut, pumpkin muffin, and apple cider donut.

RELATED STORY | Taco Bell joins fast food's value meal trend with $7 box. Here's what's in it

Over the summer, Wendy's, Burger King and McDonald's launched $5 meal deals that include a drink, sandwich, fries and chicken nuggets. Taco Bell followed suit by selling a $7 meal box that has a chalupa supreme, beefy five-layer burrito, double stacked Taco, chips and nacho cheese sauce, and a medium drink. 

Last week, Subway also said it would offer all footlong sandwiches on its menu for $6.99. 

Fast food chains have made affordability a priority in recent months after inflation caused them to raise prices. Leaders of chains such as McDonald's have said that price hikes caused some customers to cut back on their fast food purchases. 

RELATED STORY | Subway to temporarily offer footlong sandwiches for $6.99 throughout US

McDonald's USA CEO Joe Erlinger recently said his company's $5 meal deal has helped the chain win back customers. 

"We've seen a lot of enthusiasm and the number of $5 meal deals sold are above expectations," he said "Trial rates of the deal are highest amongst lower income consumers and sentiment towards the brand around value and affordability has begun to shift positively."

Red Lobster plans to shutter 23 additional locations, the company announced in a court filing.

The company said it would terminate leases at the following locations:

Arizona: Yuma Arkansas: Little Rock California: La Mesa Colorado: Colorado Springs Florida: Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola and Port Richey Georgia: Jonesboro Illinois: Bourbonnais, Geneva, and Peoria Indiana: Michigan City Minnesota: Golden Valley and Maple Grove Missouri: Maplewood New York: Bronx and Queensbury North Carolina: Jacksonville Ohio: Strongsville South Carolina: Cayce Virginia: Alexandria, Richmond and Virginia Beach

In May, the company announced it would go through the Chapter 11 process after facilitating a flash sale of its assets. The company also closed dozens of locations across 20 states.

RELATED STORY | 'Happened out of nowhere': Red Lobster closures leave employees in the dark

To help get the company back on its feet, Red Lobster garnered $100 million in financing as it attempted to pay off its debt. In its filing, Red Lobsters said it went from having over $100 million cash on hand to less than $30 million from 2023 through early 2024.

Between 2019 and 2024, Red Lobster said it lost about 30% of its customer count.

At the time it filed Chapter 11, Red Lobster had 551 U.S. restaurants.

RELATED STORY | Hooters closing 'underperforming' locations across multiple states

Over 75 million Americans are being urged to take proper precautions as temperatures could top 100 degrees in parts of the Midwest on Tuesday.

The extreme heat comes as a new report published in JAMA shows that heat-related deaths have risen significantly in the U.S. in recent years. The report, which was compiled using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, showed there were 21,518 fatalities from 1999-2023 citing heat as the underlying or contributing cause of death.

During that time, after using age-adjusted mortality rates, the CDC's data indicated a 63% increase in heat-related fatalities during the 24-year span. Without adjusting for age, there has been a 117% increase in heat-related deaths, the data said.

"As temperatures continue to rise because of climate change, the recent increasing trend is likely to continue. Local authorities in high-risk areas should consider investing in the expansion of access to hydration centers and public cooling centers or other buildings with air conditioning," wrote Jeffrey T. Howard, a University of Texas, San Antonio researcher and author of the study.

RELATED STORY | Heat-related emergency room visits surged in 2023, CDC says

Researchers said the rate of heat-related deaths showed year-to-year variability, with spikes in 2006 and 2011, before exhibiting steady increases after 2016. The highest rate of heat-related deaths came in 2023, the study said.

The Mayo Clinic says heat strokes can occur when being in a hot environment leads to a rise in core body temperature. When the body temperature reaches 104 degrees, the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles can be quickly damaged.

Extreme heat affecting millions this week

Officials have said that heat waves like the one ongoing in the Midwest are becoming more prevalent and intense because of global climate change. Several U.S. cities are expected to reach or exceed their record highs on Tuesday.

Chicago's forecast high of 98 degrees is expected to exceed the city's 69-year record for the day. The temperature is also expected to hit 98 degrees in Indianapolis on Tuesday, which would top a 76-year record.

RELATED STORY | NASA's newest satellite provides crucial data on climate change trends

The Midwest sizzle has forced some school districts in the Midwest to either dismiss early, or close altogether. Students in Detroit's school system will be released three hours early on Tuesday due to the excessive warmth. Several districts in the Dayton, Ohio, region said they would close altogether on Tuesday.

The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings for parts of the Central Midwest, which includes Chicago and Milwaukee. Surrounding areas, including Indianapolis, Detroit, Cleveland and Cincinnati, are under heat advisories.

An excessive heat warning will also go into effect Wednesday in Philadelphia. The forecast high of 98 on Wednesday will come close to setting a daily record.

In recent days, an updated COVID-19 vaccine has been released with a new formula intended to protect against currently circulating strains of the virus.

While generally viruses such as the flu and COVID tend to spread more in the cold winter months, the U.S. has experienced an uptick over the summer in COVID-19 cases. In response, the Food and Drug Administration allowed vaccine-makers to release their updated shots weeks earlier than in previous years.

But should you get an updated COVID-19 shot now, or wait?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with health problems should get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The CDC also said those who have had COVID-19 but not in the last three months should get the vaccine. Those who have not been vaccinated with a COVID-19 shot in the last two months can also get the vaccine.

"COVID-19 vaccines help keep you from getting very sick," the CDC said on its website. "COVID-19 vaccines help keep you from going to the hospital. Get your COVID-19 vaccines. Ask your doctor what COVID-19 vaccines you need."

RELATED STORY | FDA authorizes release of updated COVID-19 vaccines

Andy Pekosz, a professor in molecular microbiology and immunology at Johns Hopkins, said there are several options for those considering getting an updated COVID-19 shot.

"People who have not had COVID in the past few months have a couple options," he said, "get the updated COVID vaccine as soon as its available to protect yourself as the wave of summer infections continues [or] get the updated COVID vaccine around mid-October to build protection in time for the rise of cases that typically occur around November through January."

There are several factors that someone should weigh before deciding on the timing of a COVID-19 shot.

"People at higher risk of severe illness should consider getting an updated COVID vaccine as soon as possible," he said. "Everyone who is eligible should get an updated COVID vaccine by mid-October in order to build immunity ahead of holiday travel and gatherings. Remember, it takes about two weeks to build up immunity following a vaccine, so schedule your vaccination accordingly."

RELATED STORY | Free COVID tests to be made available as experts anticipate winter surge

The FDA said that fall 2024 COVID-19 vaccines will target the KP.2 variant of the virus, which is a descendant of the JN.1 variant that widely circulated throughout the U.S. during the winter.

Some major pharmacy chains said new shots are available now.

The National Park Service confirmed on Sunday that authorities retrieved the body of missing Grand Canyon hiker Chenoa Nickerson following flash flooding in the region late last week.

The NPS said her body was discovered by people on a river commercial river trip near mile 176 of the Colorado River. Her remains were transported to the rim of the Grand Canyon by helicopter and transferred to the Coconino County Medical Examiner.

Nickerson was found three days after she was reported missing, nearly 19 miles from where she was last seen. The National Park Service said she was last seen approximately 100 yards above the confluence of Havasu Creek and the Colorado River.

RELATED STORY | More national parks are using reservations to control crowd size

Heavy rain was reported in the Colorado River valley last Wednesday, causing water levels to rise. The flash flood left Nickerson and several other hikers stranded last Thursday. The National Park Service deployed rescue teams to assist those caught in the flash flood.

The National Park Service then launched a search and rescue operation after Nickerson was reportedly swept into the water.

Flash flooding has caused fatalities in the Grand Canyon in the past. On July 14, 2021, one person died, and two were injured during a flash flood at the Tatahatso Camp near River Mile 38 on the Colorado River.

RELATED STORY | Here's when you can visit any national park for free this year

"Flash floods are common in the desert southwest, including Northern Arizona. This is because the arid, sparsely vegetated environments found in these areas have little capacity to absorb rainfall," the National Park Service said. "The resulting runoff moves rapidly through the narrow canyons and steep terrain found throughout the region. In many areas, even small storms can turn normally dry streambeds into raging torrents of water in a matter of minutes."

Joining in the value meal wars among fast food restaurants, Subway said it will offer all footlong subs on its menu for $6.99 starting August 26 through September 8.

The deal will be available for those using Subway's website or app by adding the promo code "699FL" before checking out.

Traditionally, fast food chains have often excluded restaurants in Alaska and Hawaii from such promotions. This time around, California will also be excluded from the deal.

RELATED STORY | Taco Bell joins fast food's value meal trend with $7 box. Here's what's in it

Many fast food chains have said they have had to raise prices since California implemented a $20 minimum wage for fast food workers earlier this year.

"Today's diner is stretched more than ever, and too often that means a tradeoff on quality, variety or flavor to find an affordable meal," said Doug Fry, president of Subway North America. "At Subway, our definition of value is a mix of delicious options at the right price without compromising quality. Our menu is full of footlongs for every budget, and this new deal means our guests can get the sandwiches they crave at a great value."

Over the summer, numerous fast food chains have started offering discounted value meals in hopes of regaining customers lost due to rising prices. Leaders of several fast food chains have said that inflation has scared off some customers, and brands such as McDonald's have made affordability more of a focus in 2024.

RELATED STORY | Even with drop in sales, McDonald's maintains spot as top US fast food chain

Danny Jansen is set to make history by becoming the first player in MLB history to play for both teams in the same game.

On June 26, Jansen was up to bat for the Toronto Blue Jays, fouling off a pitch from Boston Red Sox pitcher Kutter Crawford. After Jansen's foul ball, umpires suspended the game as rain began pouring at Fenway Park.

On Tuesday, play will resume, but this time, Jansen will be behind the plate donning a Red Sox uniform. That means he will be just feet away from the player completing his at-bat from two months ago.

RELATED STORY | National Women's Soccer League reaches new deal that eliminates draft, adds more money for players

On July 27, Jansen was part of a trade between the Red Sox and Blue Jays. The possibility of him appearing for both teams in the same game intrigued Red Sox manager Alex Cora. On Friday, the Red Sox skipper confirmed Jansen will come in and catch the rest of the game, as the Red Sox's original catcher for the game, Reese McGuire, has since been demoted to the minor leagues.

Monday, [Jansen] will play Game 1 by the way, for all the people that have been looking at history, said Cora. Ive been getting texts from Jayson Stark and Buster Olney, Is he catching? Yeah, hes catching. Lets make history."

According to MLB.com, there is one known instance in pro baseball of a player appearing for both teams in the same game. Dale Holman played for both the Syracuse Chiefs and Richmond Braves in an International League game in 1986.

RELATED STORY | Rewriting the record books: MLB officially incorporates Negro Leagues statistics

Holman was released by the Chiefs' parent club Toronto weeks after a game between the two clubs was suspended. He was then picked up by Richmond's parent club Atlanta before the two teams resumed play. He finished the game after recording a hit for both clubs.

The Transportation Security Administration says the most robust summer on record for the nation's airports will end with the busiest Labor Day weekend ever.

TSA expects to screen 17 million passengers between Thursday, Aug. 29 through Wednesday, Sept. 4, which is nearly an 8.5% increase from a year ago. The agency expects Aug. 30 to be the busiest day of the weekend as 2.87 million travelers will be processed.

The Labor Day holiday wraps up what has been a busy summer for the agency. The top 10 travel days on record have occurred since Memorial Day weekend.

People are traveling more than ever this summer and TSA along with our airline and airport partners stand ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend, said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. I commend our vigilant workforce, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes, working hard to keep the transportation system secureespecially as we continue to roll out new checkpoint technology that improves security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience.

RELATED STORY | Massachusetts is the best state to live in, Louisiana ranks last, report says

AAA is also expecting it to be busy on the roads. The organization expects travel to be up 9% this year compared to last year.

Cheryl Nelson, a travel preparedness expert, offered some tips for those driving to their destination. She says it's important to check your car before heading on a trip, including checking the wipers, fluids, oil, filter and lights.

"If you have a rental car, do the same stuff," Nelson said. "Walk around the car, take pictures, make sure everything is good before you leave that rental car center."

RELATED STORY | These are the most popular Labor Day destinations

She also says it's crucial to have an emergency kit while on the roads during holiday travel.

"I always tell people as a disaster prep expert, have one in your car, also at home. So in your vehicle, things like your first aid kit, water, protein bars," she said. "If you get stranded in traffic, which you probably will if you're traveling in a heavily populated area, pack your patience, have those things with you."

She recommends also having a paper map in your car in case your GPS stops working.

In remarks from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said that the board plans to lower interest rates soon, the first drop since early in the pandemic. The Federal Reserve meets in September and could drop rates then.

Powell said on Friday that "the time has come for the policy to adjust."

The federal interest rate has climbed to a 23-year high and has remained there since last August.

The Federal Reserve surprised some at its late July meeting by not dropping rates. Interest rates have remained at their highest levels since early 2001 for the last 12 months between 5.25% and 5.5%.

RELATED STORY | Potential homebuyers could face steep mortgages due to interest rates staying put

The Federal Reserve implemented a series of interest rate hikes in 2022 and 2023 to combat high inflation. Powell has stated the Federal Reserve's goal is to reduce inflation to an annualized rate of 2%.

Inflation has declined significantly, the labor market is no longer overheated and conditions are less tight than those that prevailed before the pandemic," Powell said. "Our objective has been to restore price stability while maintaining a strong labor market, avoiding the sharp increases in unemployment that characterized earlier disinflationary episodes."

RELATED STORY | Federal interest rates will not drop until at least September, officials announce

The unemployment rate ticked up to 4.3% in July, the highest it has been since October 2021. In historical terms, a 4.3% unemployment rate is low, but it comes after a period of near-record-low unemployment. The unemployment rate bottomed at 3.4% in 2023.

Annual inflation, once topping 9% in 2022, was at 2.9% in July, according to the consumer price index.

"We do not seek or welcome additional cooling in labor market conditions," Powell said. "Overall, the economy continues to grow at a solid pace, but the inflation and labor market data show an involving situation. The upside risks of inflation have diminished, while the downside risks to employment have increased."