Fairy garden sparks a friendship between strangers
Two strangers discovered magic in a fairy garden. Steve Hartman reports for "On The Road."
Holidays 2020
Fairy garden sparks a lasting friendship between strangers
"I want people to believe that they don't have to be a fairy to give a little bit of magic to someone else."
Santas around U.S. work to make kids happy
In any other year, children would be lining up to see Santa Claus this time of year -- but this is a holiday season unlike any other, so Santa is getting creative. He's finding out what kids want for Christmas through virtual visits or socially distanced appearances. Barry Petersen speaks to Denver photographer Ron Cooper, whose new book "We Are Santa: Portraits and Profiles" showcases 50 American Santas, who each want to bring holiday cheer.
Former restaurateur helps his community
After his own restaurant closed, Heleo Leyva created the East Hollywood Community Cookout to help feed the hungry during the pandemic. Jamie Yuccas shares his story in our series "Season of Giving."
Seattle's Space Needle provides out of this world NYE experience
With the ongoing surge in coronavirus cases, the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington decided to host a virtual New Year's Eve celebration — and it was bigger, trippier and more dazzling than ever before.
Connecticut family has happy homecoming amid pandemic
George Aiello, 77, reunited with his family just in time for Christmas after months battling the coronavirus. Jim Axelrod has more on the happy homecoming.
Wisconsin nursing home residents get weekly doses of puppy love
A nursing home in Madison, Wisconsin, has been getting weekly visits from a five-month-old puppy named Sayde.
Queen Elizabeth delivers reassuring Christmas message
"Remarkably, a year that has necessarily kept people apart has, in many ways, brought us closer," the queen said.
Bishop T.D. Jakes on keeping Christmas traditions alive amid pandemic
"We have learned to not take our loved ones and our friends for granted... I think that we have gotten back to what really matters," says Pastor T.D. Jakes.
Pope shares Christmas message for this year of pandemic
This year his remarks were delivered via livestream from inside the Vatican instead of at the balcony to a crowd of thousands of followers.
Notre Dame choir back for first time since fire for Christmas Eve
Members wore hard hats and protective suits. The medieval Paris landmark suffered a devastating blaze in April 2019.
Grinch caught green-handed apparently stealing Christmas again
Colorado State Police trooper nabbed him in the act.
Some California churches set to hold indoor services
The Archdiocese of Los Angeles released guidelines noting that choirs aren't allowed and congregations are "strongly discouraged from singing."
Students in some NYC shelters lack reliable Wi-Fi for remote learning
Many students living in the city's family shelters still have weak or no Wi-Fi, putting virtual education out of reach.
Photographer keeps holiday tradition going, despite the pandemic
Alicia Johnson got creative to keep her tradition of Santa photography sessions alive during the coronavirus pandemic.
Pope Francis celebrates socially-distanced Christmas Eve Mass
Subdued scenes were repeated across the world as the festive family gatherings and packed prayers that typically mark the holiday were scaled back or canceled.
More than one million packages will not reach their destination this Christmas
Retailers like Amazon are still offering overnight deliveries on thousands of items for Christmas Day.
Tips to keep your animal companion safe this holiday
Make sure any treats left out for Santa are covered or in a place your pet cannot get to them.
Florida business owner pays families' overdue utility bills
Mike Esmond has paid off more than 100 delinquent accounts.
New Orleans holiday lights throwback
The pandemic has forced families all over the country to modify their holiday plans, but some traditions will go on. Contributing correspondent Jamie Wax reports on a holiday lights display in New Orleans that's taking a page from the past.
José Andrés is on a mission to feed the hungry
The celebrity chef's nonprofit pays restaurants to prepare hot meals for the hungry.
How to celebrate the holidays remotely
Yale University Professor Laurie Santos joins "CBS This Morning" with tips on battling Zoom fatigue and how to make the most of remote holiday celebrations.
Kindness becomes contagious among these strangers
Hundreds of people paid for ice cream orders of the people behind them at a Minnesota Dairy Queen. Jamie Yuccas has the story for our series "Season of Giving."
The Book Report: Gift ideas for book lovers
Washington Post book reviewer Ron Charles offers suggestions for the bibliophiles on your holiday list.
2 planets to meet in rare "great conjunction"
On Monday evening, the two largest planets in our solar system, Jupiter and Saturn, will appear to merge into a single source of light. It's the first visible conjunction of the giants in more than 800 years. Correspondent Mark Strassmann explains why we may not have another chance to see such an astronomical sight in your lifetime.
U.S.
U.S. designates "Chone Killers" gang a terrorist organization
The gang "has committed numerous attacks targeting civilians, law enforcement officers, and government officials," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
How dialects reveal America's history and hint at what's next
Across the United States, the way you speak is filled with cultural authenticity and central to identity.
Trump Accounts launch July 4. Here's how they work.
People can begin depositing money in the new tax-deferred investment accounts on Saturday, with eligible children receiving a $1,000 government contribution.
FBI investigating legitimacy of Nancy Guthrie ransom notes
The FBI said in a statement Wednesday that some ransom notes in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance have been "deemed to be extortion attempts without legitimacy," and other "demands may potentially be legitimate and are still being investigated as such."
U.S. takes down Bosnia 2-0 for second-ever World Cup knockout round win
Folarin Balogun got the scoring going with a goal in the 45th minute, but was sent off with a controversial red card in the 64th minute.
EMS was called to Mitch McConnell's home for "unconscious" patient last month
On the same morning Sen. Mitch McConnell was hospitalized last month, EMS personnel went to his home to respond to an unconscious person who appeared to experience "cardiac arrest," according to a dispatch call.
Couples are spending thousands more on weddings. Here's why.
Tariffs, inflation and changing consumer habits are reshaping how much Americans spend to tie the knot.
What is the "buy, borrow, die" tax strategy Gavin Newsom wants to ban?
As a proposed billionaire tax in California moves forward, Gov. Newsom says other approaches are needed, including closing a tax loophole used by the ultra-rich.
Former CIA Director John Brennan sues DOJ, Trump officials over criminal probes
Brennan is seeking a court order to force the preservation of records in the investigations targeting him. His attorneys say he's being "vindictively singled out for investigation."
U.S. says it won't extend key trade deal with Canada and Mexico
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement will remain in effect until it expires in 2036, unless the countries strike another deal to extend it.
U.S. helicopter goes down in Arabian Sea, crew member missing, Navy says
The helicopter, which was assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush, is not believed to have been taken down by hostile action, the Navy said.
2 Empire State Building climbers awaiting arraignment after apparently getting engaged at the top
Two people climbed to the top of New York City's Empire State Building, unfurled a banner, and then apparently got engaged Wednesday afternoon.
Justice Department sues Virginia, California over gun laws
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said "the Constitution is not a suggestion" and that "the Second Amendment is a sacred right belonging to all Americans."
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Trump takes first trip on Qatari-gifted Air Force One
President Trump is traveling Wednesday to North Dakota in what marks his first trip aboard the new Air Force One, which was gifted to the U.S. by the Qatari government last year.
Woman survives falling 1,500 feet down Mount Shasta
A woman suffered injuries but survived falling 1,500 feet down California's Mount Shasta, which she had attempted to climb, officials said.
Victor Willis, Village People lead singer, dies at 74
Victor Willis, lead singer of the disco group Village People, whose hit "Y.M.C.A." became a fixture at rallies for President Trump, has died at the age of 74, his wife and the band said.
This July 4th could be hottest ever in parts of U.S.
Extremely dangerous heat, coupled with humidity, could result in heat index readings of 100 to 115 degrees from the Midwest to the East Coast, forecasters said.
Aspen Acres Fire burns dozens of homes in southern Colorado
The Aspen Acres Fire has destroyed 55 homes in Custer County and more than 100 structures in Pueblo County.
House GOP agenda stalls over holdouts' insistence on SAVE America Act
The holdouts blocked Speaker Mike Johnson's plan to merge the SAVE America Act with the annual defense policy bill before sending it over to the Senate.
How the Supreme Court ruled on Trump's agenda this term
The court's decisions cemented Mr. Trump's authority over vast swathes of the government, while delivering significant setbacks to his agenda in other areas.
Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says
Sen. Mark Warner wants to create a federal registry of trusted AI agents and ensure autonomous bots operate like fiduciaries.
Details emerge of Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding events at MSG
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding plans include a rehearsal dinner and a late-night celebration at Madison Square Garden in New York City, according to sources familiar with the security planning.
Egg producers reach federal and state settlement after price-fixing probe
Three U.S. egg producers will be required to provide 53 million eggs to food banks and to pay a $3.3 million financial penalty.
Less than 40% of U.S. households can afford a starter home, study finds
The typical non-homeowner household earns about $7,000 less than what's needed to buy an entry-level home, according to LendingTree.
U.S.
More U.S.
U.S. designates "Chone Killers" gang a terrorist organization
The gang "has committed numerous attacks targeting civilians, law enforcement officers, and government officials," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
How dialects reveal America's history and hint at what's next
Across the United States, the way you speak is filled with cultural authenticity and central to identity.
Trump Accounts launch July 4. Here's how they work.
People can begin depositing money in the new tax-deferred investment accounts on Saturday, with eligible children receiving a $1,000 government contribution.
FBI investigating legitimacy of Nancy Guthrie ransom notes
The FBI said in a statement Wednesday that some ransom notes in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance have been "deemed to be extortion attempts without legitimacy," and other "demands may potentially be legitimate and are still being investigated as such."
U.S. takes down Bosnia 2-0 for second-ever World Cup knockout round win
Folarin Balogun got the scoring going with a goal in the 45th minute, but was sent off with a controversial red card in the 64th minute.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Trump Accounts launch July 4. Here's how they work.
People can begin depositing money in the new tax-deferred investment accounts on Saturday, with eligible children receiving a $1,000 government contribution.
Couples are spending thousands more on weddings. Here's why.
Tariffs, inflation and changing consumer habits are reshaping how much Americans spend to tie the knot.
What is the "buy, borrow, die" tax strategy Gavin Newsom wants to ban?
As a proposed billionaire tax in California moves forward, Gov. Newsom says other approaches are needed, including closing a tax loophole used by the ultra-rich.
U.S. says it won't extend key trade deal with Canada and Mexico
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement will remain in effect until it expires in 2036, unless the countries strike another deal to extend it.
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Politics
More Politics
U.S. designates "Chone Killers" gang a terrorist organization
The gang "has committed numerous attacks targeting civilians, law enforcement officers, and government officials," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
EMS was called to Mitch McConnell's home for "unconscious" patient last month
On the same morning Sen. Mitch McConnell was hospitalized last month, EMS personnel went to his home to respond to an unconscious person who appeared to experience "cardiac arrest," according to a dispatch call.
NCAA chief: No plan to change rules on transgender athletes after SCOTUS ruling
NCAA President Charlie Baker told CBS News he doesn't think the group will need to change its rules on transgender athletes in light of a Supreme Court ruling that allowed states to ban their participation.
About 2,000 U.S. troops supporting relief efforts after Venezuela earthquakes
Almost 60,000 buildings may have been damaged or destroyed in Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes last week, according to a NASA satellite assessment.
One NYC neighborhood has dozens of adult daycares. Now the feds have questions.
Investigations are underway into possible fraudulent activity at some of these kinds of facilities across New York, CBS News has learned.
HealthWatch
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Actor Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer's diagnosis
Actor Danny Glover spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis in an interview with NBC's "Today" show, revealing that he has been living with the disease for several years.
Medicare to help pay for some GLP-1 drugs
Starting Wednesday, Medicare will help pay for some GLP-1 medications for weight loss. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Celine Gounder explains what this means for patients.
New disease threats follow Trump administration's health program cuts
From screwworm to flesh-eating bacteria, mounting public health risks are emerging in the wake of deep cuts to federal health agencies and programs.
What is the viral trend looksmaxxing?
Looksmaxxing is a viral and controversial trend that encourages young men to maximize their appearance. Adam Yamaguchi shows why it's resonating with some people.
He dreamed of becoming a physician assistant. New loan rules may thwart him.
Starting July 1, the government will cap what graduate students may borrow in federal loans, forcing many toward private lenders with higher interest rates.
World
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Live
U.S.-Iran talks pause for ayatollah's funeral after claims of progress
Negotiations between Iran and the U.S. will pause for a week for the funeral of Iran's slain supreme leader, but Trump, and mediators, say there's been progress.
Boy driving truck crashes into group of monks, killing 8 and injuring 14
Police said the boy had taken his parents' pickup truck without permission before losing control of the vehicle and crashing into the monks.
Huge Russian strike on Ukraine's capital kills at least 17, officials say
Russia has launched its large-scale attack on Ukraine's capital to date, killing at least 17 people and wounding scores more, authorities say.
U.S. takes down Bosnia 2-0 for second-ever World Cup knockout round win
Folarin Balogun got the scoring going with a goal in the 45th minute, but was sent off with a controversial red card in the 64th minute.
About 2,000 U.S. troops supporting relief efforts after Venezuela earthquakes
Almost 60,000 buildings may have been damaged or destroyed in Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes last week, according to a NASA satellite assessment.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
CBS News journalists on Swift-Kelce wedding
Rumors are swirling about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce tying the knot at Madison Square Garden. CBS News' Olivia Rinaldi and Gabrielle Ake, self-described Swifties, join "The Takeout" with the latest.
What we know about rumored Swift-Kelce wedding
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding festivities are expected to begin Thursday, sources said. Crews have been spotted at Madison Square Garden in New York City unloading equipment ahead of the July Fourth weekend. Here's what we know so far.
Swift-Kelce wedding events taking shape
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding events are set to begin in New York City, sources say. CBS News' Jo Ling Kent has the latest.
Sophia Bush, Jerry O'Connell on new comedy
Sophia Bush and Jerry O'Connell join CBS News 24/7 Mornings to discuss their new comedy, "Summer's Last Resort," which premieres on Tubi July 3.
Stars talk "Summer's Last Resort" comedy
Sophia Bush and Jerry O'Connell talk to "CBS Mornings" about starring in the coming-of-age comedy "Summer's Last Resort." Bush discusses what drew her to the project and says there was "never a dull day on set," while O'Connell reveals what his daughters thought about the film.
Technology
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Technology
Why U.S. initially restricted Anthropic AI models
The Trump administration has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, Fable and Mythos, after weeks of negotiations over national security concerns. CNET Editor-in-Chief David Katzmaier joins to discuss.
White House lifted AI limits, Anthropic says
Tech giant Anthropic says that the federal government has now removed restrictions from its robust Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models. Axios reporter Madison Mills has more on artificial intelligence regulation.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says
Sen. Mark Warner wants to create a federal registry of trusted AI agents and ensure autonomous bots operate like fiduciaries.
Science
More Science
Science
NASA strives to save doomed telescope
NASA is in a race against time as the Swift Observatory telescope in orbit sinks closer to Earth. CBS News consultant William Harwood explains the $30 million salvage operation.
Fossil found in drawer turns out to be first dinosaur bone from Antarctica
Dinosaur fossils are rare to find in Antarctica because of the unforgiving ice caps. But millions of years ago, the region was populated by lush forests.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Ancient Egyptian burial site reveals centuries of changing traditions
Human and animal remains unearthed in Egypt's Nile Delta reveal changing funerary practices over some 600 years, and the evolution of a key site itself.
Crime
More Crime
FBI investigating legitimacy of Nancy Guthrie ransom notes
The FBI said in a statement Wednesday that some ransom notes in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance have been "deemed to be extortion attempts without legitimacy," and other "demands may potentially be legitimate and are still being investigated as such."
NYC building climbers engaged, under arrest
Two people in black masks scaled the Empire State Building, scrambling the New York City Police Department. They call themselves "roof-toppers," or stunt climbers, and they unfurled a banner about world peace before one of them got out a ring and proposed. By the time they got down, they were engaged and under arrest. Tom Hanson reports.
More than 1,000 cases under review after Broadview Six misconduct revelations
More than 1,000 grand jury presentations are under review after charges were dismissed in the "Broadview Six" case due to grand jury abuses and prosecutorial misconduct, Chicago's top federal prosecutor said.
Potential charges for Empire State Building climbers
Two people climbed to the top of the Empire State Building Wednesday and unfurled a banner before seemingly getting engaged. CBS News law enforcement contributor Rodney Harrison has more on what repercussions the couple could face.
Couple climbs Empire State Building: Details
Two people climbed to the top of the Empire State Building in New York City on Wednesday, unfurling a banner and appearing to get engaged. CBS News' Tom Hanson and Shanelle Kaul have more.
Space
More Space
NASA astronauts operate on space station's broken robot arm
The orbital surgery on the International Space Station returned the Canadian-built robot arm to full health after its "wrist" joint failed last month.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Telescope snaps most detailed photo yet of Milky Way's heart
Euclid is on a mission to chart one-third of the sky in the hopes of shedding light on the enduring mysteries of dark matter and dark energy.
Interstellar comet may be oldest object ever seen in solar system
Exactly where the comet 3I/ATLAS came from within the Milky Way remains a mystery.
Latest Galleries
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Celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
6/27: CBS Weekend News
High winds and heat are fueling Utah's out-of-control wildfires; Iranian drones target Bahrain after U.S. strikes Iran.
Extended Interview: Gen Z
In the last installment of our USA-Z series, Vladimir Duthiers speaks with seven Gen Zers about their generation being next to lead the nation, growing up during the pandemic, stereotypes they see about themselves, the role of AI in their world as they join the workforce and more.
Camp Mystic rescuer reflects on the tragedy
It's been almost a year since deadly floods killed more than 130 people in the Hill Country region of Central Texas. The flooding at Camp Mystic killed 25 campers, two counselors and the camp's executive director. Scott Ruskan, aviation survival technician 2nd class for the U.S. Coast Guard, joined CBS News to remember the tragedy, his first ever mission.
Child psychologist on nicotine pouch risks
The Food and Drug Administration now allows ZYN nicotine pouches to be marketed as less harmful than cigarettes. Child psychologist Bonnie Halpern-Felsher joins "The Daily Report" to discuss the risks.
SCOTUS lifts political party spending limits
The Supreme Court has lifted limits on how much money political parties can spend on congressional campaigns ahead of the midterms. In a 6-3 vote, the justices found the Federal Election Campaign Act violated the First Amendment. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson has more.