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Daily Mirror
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Daily Mirror
Keir Starmer says UK is ready to recognise Palestine unless Israel takes action
Keir Starmer summoned the Cabinet on Tuesday to discuss Gaza Britain is prepared to recognise the state of Palestine in September unless Israel agrees a ceasefire in Gaza, Keir Starmer has said. The Prime Minister said the Palestinian people have "endured terrible suffering" with "catastrophic failure of aid" in a statement from Downing Street. He added: "We see starving babies, children too weak to stand, images that will stay with us for a lifetime. The suffering must end." It came as the Prime Minister held an emergency Cabinet meeting to discuss a peace plan for the region. He had summoned ministers back from the summer recess to discuss the proposals, which have been shared with France, Germany and US President Donald Trump. Downing Street said the PM "opened by saying that he had called the meeting to address the situation in Gaza which was getting more desperate by the day". On recognition of the state of Palestine, No10 added: "He said that because of the increasingly intolerable situation in Gaza and the diminishing prospect of a peace process towards a Two State Solution, now was the right time to move this position forward. "He said that the UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September, before UNGA, unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, reaches a ceasefire, makes clear there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and commits to a long-term peace process that delivers a Two State Solution. " Over 250 MPs from across the Commons have signed a letter last week calling on the government to recognise a Palestinian state immediately. Last week the French President Emmanuel Macron said his government would do so at a meeting of the UN General Assembly in New York in September. But Mr Trump shot back, telling reporters at the White House last week: "What he says doesn't matter.... he's a very good guy. I like him, but that statement doesn't carry weight." * This is a breaking news story. Follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News , Twitter , Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage. We'll be bringing you the latest updates on this Breaking Politics News story. Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story HERE. Get email updates on the day's biggest stories straight to your inbox by signing up for our newsletters . Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you by following The Mirror every time you see our name. Join The Mirror's WhatsApp Community - CLICK HERE Follow The Mirror on Google News - CLICK HERE and click the star Follow The Mirror on Apple News - CLICK HERE available on Apple devices Follow The Mirror on Flipboard - CLICK HERE and click follow You can sign up for Twitter alerts for breaking news here @MirrorBreaking_ and follow us for all the latest updates. Keep up-to-date with your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day by following us on Facebook at . See all our social accounts you can follow here:
Style Blueprint
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Style Blueprint
The South's Biggest State Fairs
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit There's something undeniably charming about a state fair — the smell of funnel cakes in the air, the echo of live music, and the thrill of a Ferris wheel ride under the stars. And perhaps unsurprisingly, the best state fairs in the U.S. are in the South. These fairs go far beyond corn dogs and carnival games (though we love those, too). They showcase the spirit of the region through local food, homegrown talent, and traditions that bring communities together year after year. Whether you're road-tripping for a weekend of blue-ribbon pies and prize-winning livestock or just craving a taste of small-town nostalgia, these fairs are well worth the drive. State Fair of Texas Dates: September 26-October 19, 2025 More Info: Everything's bigger in Texas, including the state fair. As one of the best state fairs in America, the State Fair of Texas is a must-visit celebration of Lone Star pride and over-the-top experiences, drawing more than 2.5 million people each year for 24 days of nonstop food, fun, and festivities. Held at historic Fair Park in Dallas, the fair is the largest and longest-running in the country, and it delivers on every front: deep-fried everything, award-winning livestock shows, nightly concerts, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. And, of course, no visit to the State Fair of Texas is complete without an Instagram-worthy photo of the Big Tex statue, a true Texas icon. Pin North Carolina State Fair Dates: October 16-26, 2025 More Info: Rooted in tradition, the North Carolina State Fair is the kind of event that keeps families returning year after year. Held each October at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, it's the largest annual event in the state … and has been for more than 150 years. For 11 straight days, more than one million visitors flock to the fairgrounds for high-flying rides, live music, nightly fireworks, and every kind of deep-fried delicacy imaginable. But it's the intense focus on North Carolina's agricultural heritage — through exhibits, competitions, and showcases — that gives this fair its enduring heart. Pin Tulsa State Fair Dates: September 25-October 5, 2025 More Info: Though Oklahoma's status as a Southern state is debated, we're including it here because it boasts more than a century of tradition and over one million visitors each year, making it an experience worth planning a trip around. Held each fall, the Tulsa State Fair 11-day event brings together the best of Oklahoma — heart-pounding rodeos, live concerts, livestock competitions, deep-fried classics, and even Disney On Ice. Rooted in heritage and community, the fair offers something for everyone, from educational exhibits to high-energy rides and family-friendly entertainment. If you're looking for a festive fall getaway with big personality and even bigger fun, Tulsa delivers. Pin Georgia National Fair Dates: October 2-12, 2025 More Info: Set against the backdrop of the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry, the Georgia National Fair is a true Southern celebration of agriculture, community, and family fun. Now in its 36th year, the fair draws more than half a million visitors over 11 lively days each October. From livestock shows and blue-ribbon competitions to concerts, carnival rides, and an impressive midway, the fair offers something for all ages. Pin Kentucky State Fair Dates: August 14-24, 2025 More Info: The Kentucky State Fair has been a beloved tradition for over 120 years. Held at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville for over 11 days each August, more than 600,000 visitors experience the best of the Commonwealth thanks to a mix of livestock shows, blue ribbon culinary competitions, live concerts, shopping, and classic fair fun. It's a celebration all about agriculture and community, but there's so much more to discover around every corner, from treats to toe-tapping tunes. Whether you're there for the animals, the eats, or the entertainment, the Kentucky State Fair offers an authentic taste of the Bluegrass State. Pin Florida State Fair Dates: February 5-16, 2026 More Info: Trade in the winter blues each February for sunshine and something quite spectacular at the Florida State Fair. Held in Tampa, this 12-day celebration delivers a whirlwind of culture, color, and creativity from the country's largest midway (yes, more than 90 rides!) to quirky culinary creations you didn't even know you needed. From crafts to cooking, living history museums to pig races, the annual event makes a compelling reason to plan a winter getaway to Tampa. In fact, it already draws more than 500,000 visitors each year. Pin South Carolina State Fair Dates: October 8-19, 2025 More Info: The largest event in the state and a tradition since 1869, the South Carolina State Fair means so much more than funnel cakes and Ferris wheels (though visitors can enjoy plenty of both). Held each fall in Columbia, this long-running event is a fair with a mission. Besides the lively midway, deep-fried favorites, and creative competitions, the fair highlights the state's rich heritage with agricultural showcases, 4-H presentations, and homegrown talents — from quilting to gardening. It even supports the 'Ride of Your Life' scholarship program, annually awarding $500,000 to high school seniors planning to pursue in-state collegiate studies. Pin Mississippi State Fair Dates: October 2-13, 2025 More Info: Each October, the Mississippi State Fair transforms 105 acres in the heart of Jackson into a vibrant southern celebration. With more than 700,000 visitors making their way through the gates, it's a can't-miss fall event packed with all the classics — twinkling rides, classic fair food, and plenty of music. But beyond that, it's the agricultural showcases and hometown charm that give this fair its staying power. From handmade crafts to prize-winning livestock — including racing pigs — the fair honors Mississippi's roots while offering fun for every age. Pin Tennessee State Fair Dates: August 14-23, 2025 More Info: The Tennessee State Fair is held annually in Lebanon, and it has evolved into a celebration that draws more than 100,000 visitors each August to partake in a diverse range of attractions for all ages, from rides and fair food to music performances. A highlight of the fair is the impressive livestock competitions, where farmers and 4-H members showcase their prized animals. Additionally, the fair's commitment to education is evident through its support for youth programs and scholarships, ensuring that the next generation continues to benefit from this cherished annual tradition. Pin The State Fair of Louisiana Dates: October 30-November 16, 2025 More Info: Louisiana knows how to throw a party, and the State Fair of Louisiana in Shreveport proves it year after year. Now in its 119th season, this fall tradition is packed with flavor, fun, and a whole lot of Cajun flair. From the largest carnival midway in the state to the LRCA Finals Rodeo and hands-on ag experiences like AgMagic, the fair is a lively mix of entertainment and education. Expect the kind of food Louisiana is famous for — bold, savory, and uniquely regional — alongside classic fair treats and a festive lineup of live music and cultural showcases. With livestock shows, an interactive zoo, contests, and exhibits around every corner, it's an easy excuse to hit the road for a one-of-a-kind fair experience. Pin With so many standout state fairs across the South, consider this your sign to plan the road trip and soak up the fun, one corn dog and funnel cake at a time! ********** Find more fantastic Southern destinations in our Travel archives. About the Author Paige Townley Paige Townley is a Birmingham native with a soft spot for good stories, interesting people, and beautifully made things. When she's not writing about places that inspire or people who shine, she's likely spending time with her family, planning her next adventure, or cheering on the Crimson Tide.
Style Blueprint
22-07-2025
- Style Blueprint
Places to Go Swimming Near Birmingham
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Birmingham is hotter than hot. Thankfully, there are several swimming holes around the city offering up sweet relief. Perfect for kids, pups, and nature lovers, these spots offer the perfect way to get outside, even when temps are through the roof. Safety First! When it comes to swimming in lakes and rivers, it's imperative to keep an eye on water levels and quality reports. For example, Wil Rainer, Field Programs Director at Cahaba River Society, says, 'In the first 24 to 48 hours after a rain, pollutant levels are high in the river. If you see 'chocolate milk,' it's generally unsafe to swim!' He suggests checking the Cahaba Riverkeeper's Swim Guide before heading to the water. You can also reference this site for statewide, up-to-date water levels. As a general rule of thumb, Wil advises, 'Stick to the established paths wherever you go.' Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge Location: Bibb County Commute from Birmingham: 50 minutes More info: In Bibb County, this stretch of the Cahaba welcomes swimmers and splashers every summer, along with the rare and prized Cahaba lily. There is a single-lane gravel road that leads right to the river. The lilies peak between mid-May and mid-June, so be sure to pause and take them in while you're there. Wil suggests heading to the Piper Mine Reclamation Site across the Highway 24 bridge to enjoy a bird's eye view of the lilies. 'The waters of the Cahaba River provide a place to escape the monotony of life and to find peace in nature's solitude,' Wil says. But it's also an essential water source and ecosystem that necessitates our respect and care. 'While critical for the drinking water of over 400,000 people in the Birmingham Metro area, the Cahaba provides life to so many more throughout Central Alabama,' Wil explains, 'More species of fish, snails, crayfish, and mussels call the Cahaba home than many other rivers across the nation and around the world.' Pin Oak Mountain State Park Beach Location: Pelham Commute from Birmingham: 20 minutes More info: Birmingham may be several hours from the Gulf, but the sandy beaches of Oak Mountain State Park are only 20 minutes away. The larger beach at Double Oak Lake is a popular spot to spend a scorching summer day, and you'll find a designated swimming area and plenty of room to sprawl out on the sand. There are permanent restroom facilities and a seasonal concession stand, so you're set up for an all-day stay if the mood strikes. The beach also offers a sand volleyball court, and if you want to get out on the water, you can rent various paddlecrafts just a little ways down the lake. Park entrance fees are $5 per person and $2 for kids four through 11. Pin FlipSide at Oak Mountain State Park Location: Pelham Commute from Birmingham: 20 minutes More info: Oak Mountain State Park also offers a natural swimming hole for adrenaline junkies. FlipZone is home to Alabama's first cable wakeboard park, where you'll be pulled along on a heart-pumping ride across a ramp course. You can also head to the park's smaller lake to experience the inflatable aqua park, a floating obstacle course. No matter which adventure you choose, one thing is certain — you will get wet. After park entrance fees, FlipSide prices start at $25 per hour. Beaver Lake has a small beach with a designated swimming area for those who want a more relaxing dip. FlipSide also offers concessions and paddle craft rentals. Pin Cahaba River Trail at Grants Mill Location: Irondale Commute from Birmingham: 20 minutes More info: 'Of all the [Cahaba River] accesses in the Birmingham area, Grants Mill is used the most,' Wil says. 'People line the river throughout the summer to enjoy the Cahaba's cool waters, abundant fish, and peaceful calm.' This area is about a mile down Grants Mill Road from I-459 and is well known for its canoe launch at the start of the trail. There are also several wade-in spots further along. Oh, and keep an eye out for a rope swing! A word of caution: Towing is common for cars parked illegally along Grants Mill Road. Pin Turkey Creek Location: Pinson Commute from Birmingham: 30 minutes More info: Turkey Creek isn't just a swimming hole; it's a natural water park. Each summer, the tumbling waterfall becomes a giant water slide that's fun for the whole family. Bring an inner tube and enjoy a smooth slide down the falls into the shallow swimming hole at the bottom. (Rumor has it the local Five Below keeps inner tubes in stock for Turkey Creek visitors and will inflate them for you!) If that's too much excitement, you can still splash around the cascading-but-slippery rocks (wear water shoes with a good grip), wade in the pool at the base, or take your tube and enjoy a gentle float further down the creek. The falls make for a refreshing end to a day out on the trails in the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. Pin Mardis Mills Falls Location: Blountsville Commute from Birmingham: 55 minutes Take a dip in this idyllic swimming hole along Graves Creek in Blount County. You can climb the rocks of the 16-foot waterfall, float around the base, or splash along the shallow top of the falls. The more adventurous can take advantage of the rope swing. To get to Mardis Mill Falls, head to Mardis Mill Road in Blountsville and look for the dirt road turnoff near the narrow bridge crossing Graves Creek. The Freshwater Land Trust recently acquired this area, and plans are underway to improve trails and increase signage and maintenance to ensure it remains a special swimming hole for generations to come. Take note that there are no restrooms, snack bars, or other facilities — just serene, natural beauty encasing this tranquil spot. Pin Lakeside Park Location: Pell City Commute from Birmingham: 40 minutes More info: If you're looking for another awesome freshwater beach less than an hour from Birmingham, head to Lakeside Park in Pell City. It's right on Logan Martin Lake, so while you can definitely swim at the beach, just a heads-up that you'll be sharing the water with motorboats. Beyond the beach, you can explore walking trails and let the kids splash around at the splash pad. It's a fantastic way to experience lake life without a long drive from Birmingham! Pin Stay cool out there, Birmingham! ********** To stay in the know on the best of Birmingham, subscribe to our daily emails! About the Author Katie Leigh Matthews A Birmingham native, Katie is a lifelong waterfall chaser and is passionate about the outdoors. She also loves connecting with remarkable women in the Birmingham community and bringing their stories to life. Katie has been writing professionally for over six years; you can find more of her work at and
Style Blueprint
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Style Blueprint
18 Luxurious Southern FINDS for Summer 2025
Share with your friends! 119 SHARES 45 Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit In this month's 'Luxe Loves' edition of FINDS, we're focusing on some seriously indulgent items that have caught our eye at retailers around the South. Whether you're ready to splurge or just looking for a little eye candy, feast your eyes on these swoon-worthy pieces from Southern brands and boutiques. HOME Basket artwork Multi-talented Kentucky artist Emily Ridings blurs the line between function and fine art. This funky oblong basket has cool slices of open thatching to show what's inside or make a stand on its own. Made from woven reed on a hickory wood base, the basket is two feet tall and $640 at Emily Ridings. Pin Hand-blown wine glasses Hand-blown in North Carolina, these stemless Flemish wine glasses are little sculptures you can sip from while any varietal remains the perfect temperature. The rounded tulip silhouette feels modern and weighty in hand, while the elevated foot adds a splash of drama. They're the ideal gift for any oenophile or host extraordinaire. A pair is on sale for $115 (reg. $130) at Haand. Pin Tortoise and mother-of-pearl tea caddy This tea caddy is the kind of treasure you don't stumble upon twice. Circa 1960s, it features a stunning mother-of-pearl exterior and an incredibly rare tortoiseshell and blue velvet interior. It's a true collector's piece — equal parts objet d'art and conversation starter. Find it at Dallas home curio emporium, Blue Print, for $6,800. Pin JEWELRY Slide-on diamond initial The oversized diamond-encrusted initial by Helena Rose takes the classic (and trendy) letter charm to the next level. Set with more than 40 baguette-cut diamonds, it's made to stand out and will easily slide onto a chain you already love. It's luxe, yes, but with this level of sparkle and craftsmanship, it's one you'll wear forever and pass down with pride. All letters are available at Tulipano for $5,200. Pin Diamond studs Delicate but dazzling, these are everyday diamonds with the right amount of sparkle. Crafted in solid 14-karat yellow gold, each earring features three bezel-set round diamonds in graduated sizes for subtle dimension. Wear them vertically or as mini climbers in a second piercing. With a total of .13 carats of full-cut diamonds, these petite studs are effortlessly elegant and made to last. The pair is $650 at Brooke Worthington Jewelry. Pin Pearl necklace This necklace is pure coastal glamour with its luminous Japanese Biwa pearls on a custom-dyed pale green thread. It brings texture, elegance, and a touch of the unexpected to any necklace stack or on its own, whether you're in a cover-up or dressed to the nines. Shop this for $500 at Coral Strands. Pin Emerald bracelet Flanked by a thick 14-karat gold link chain, this stunning bezel-set emerald adds the perfect amount of wow to your wrist. It's the kind of piece you'll reach for every day, but it still feels special. This luxe love comes from Theodosia for $6,000. Pin WARDROBE Hand-knit fish vest Fish seem to be on everything right now, but we are smitten with this slow-fashion, hand-knit piece from Nashville designer Kelsey. She knits each piece in her Music City studio and then hand embroiders the dots on the fish, giving it additional texture and ensuring no two pieces are the same. The fit is cropped and boxy for effortless layering. This delightful fish vest is $850 at Studio Kelsey. Pin Oyster clutch Cast from metal in an intricate oyster shell design, this structural clutch is hard to miss. The interior is lined, and the chain shoulder strap is removable. At nearly nine inches wide, it's perfect for evening essentials and turning heads. It's available in gold or silver for $495 at Thirty One Jane. Pin Kaftan dress A Sue Sartor kaftan is that versatile piece you'll reach for all seasons. The airy flutter sleeve paired with a dramatic A-line skirt makes it work with sneakers and stilettos. The fully buttoned front and lightweight, hand-loomed silk taffeta in a hand-dyed navy make it the perfect, event-ready dress for all occasions. It's $595 at Sue Sartor. Pin Suede loafers Classic, seasonless, and with some subtle sparkle on the structural metal heel, these Italian-made suede loafers will walk with you from the boardroom to the bar and anywhere in between. Shop these for $645 at Capitol. Pin ENTERTAINING Rumi game set It's time to retire your beat-up Rummikub set and replace it with this funky, ultra-chic upgrade. With sleek acrylic racks and bold blue details, it adds a splash of fun to game night and is proud to be displayed in between. This set has four racks, 106 weighty tiles, and two jokers. It is $350 (and comes in multiple colors) at Odd McLean. Pin Champagne bucket This showstopping hammered silver champagne cooler by renowned silversmith Emilia Castillo is reason enough to throw a party. Adorned with cabochons and paired with a matching silver underplate, it holds up to four bottles and radiates celebration. Designed exclusively for Houses & Parties, it's more than a cooler — it's a centerpiece at $3,398. Pin Scalloped napkins These scalloped napkins have Southern charm and a tailored twist. A Matouk table linens collection staple, the textured diamond cotton pique is finished with crisp, white piping. They're ready to make Tuesday taco night feel like a garden party. The set of four napkins comes in white or spring green for $174 at Charlotte's. Pin Custom stationery This Mississippi paper designer turns your everyday stationery set into keepsake-worthy notes you're excited to write. This motif features hand-illustrated floral borders and your name (or names) in whimsical script on thick, creamy paper. Sets of 25 cards start at $192 at Lucky Luxe. Pin FOR MEN Lightweight blazer Meet the Ghost Blazer: Sid Mashburn's go-to jacket and one of his all-time favorite pieces. Made from airy, high-twist English wool, it's unlined and ultra-lightweight to give that polished look without the weightiness of most sports coats. Next-level details include subtle pick stitching, sculptural brass buttons, and cleverly designed flap pockets that tuck in cleanly. It's as sharp over a tee as it is with a tie. A true wardrobe chameleon, this is $995 at Sid Mashburn. Pin Two-day briefcase Part briefcase, part carry-on, part weekender, this handsome, utilitarian bag will last for years. Made in Italy from buttery leather and meticulous tailoring, it's got a place for everything — tech, papers, travel essentials — and even a hidden compartment that transforms into a trolley to go over your wheeled bag handle. It's $4,050 at ByGeorge. Pin Retro Fieldbar cooler The South African-made Fieldbar cooler marries vintage style and modern cooling tech. Designed to look like a chic travel case, it keeps your bevs frosty for up to 50 hours. With leather handles, brass hardware, and serious insulation, it's ready for tailgates, road trips, and picnics galore. This comes in four fabulous colors for $250 each at Epergne. Pin For daydreaming — and maybe a splurge or two — we certainly hope this list was fun! This article contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. ********** Want to see more of our Southern FINDS? Follow us on Instagram! About the Author Zoe Yarborough Zoe is a StyleBlueprint staff writer, Charlotte native, Washington & Lee graduate, and Nashville transplant of eleven years. She teaches Pilates, helps manage recording artists, and likes to "research" Germantown's food scene.
Daily Mirror
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Wimbledon fans make fury clear as Jannik Sinner vs Carlos Alcaraz final halted
Jannik Sinner was needed to remove a champagne cork that was popped and flew onto Centre Court during the second set of the Wimbledon final as boos rang out among the crowd. The Italian, serving to take a 3-1 lead in the second set after Carlos Alcaraz claimed the opening set, was preparing to serve but had his routine halted by the sound of a bottle of champagne popping - only to see the cork fly onto the court. He turned to hand it to a ball girl as boos reverberated around Centre Court with the umpire issuing instructions to the crowd to respect the players as they readied to serve. She said:"Ladies and Gentlemen, out of respect to our players, please do not pop the Champagne cork just as a player is about to serve." It isn't the first time an umpire has had to calm the crowd due to champagne this tournament. Earlier in the fortnight on one of the outside courts a player was about to serve before they heard some fizz being popped. It also happened during a one of Emma Raducanu's outings. Luckily for the former US Open champion she was sitting on her chair during a changeover. Any individual drinking champagne will have spent a pretty penny with it costing just over £100 to purchase one this year. and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible. check back regularly for updates on this developing story. on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.
