First of its kind queer museum in San Francisco Chinatown amplifies Chinese LGBTQ+ artists
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A recently opened, first of its kind Chinese queer museum in San Francisco is already having an impact on the surrounding community. The OUT Museum opened just before Pride Month and has prompted Chinese and Chinese American visitors to share moving stories with its founder, Xiangqi Chen, whose LGBTQ+ activism faced censorship in her native China. Situated in the country's oldest Chinatown, the museum is giving recognition to a demographic that has long felt invisible. Its exhibits are currently housed in one room, with fewer than a dozen artworks including photography and interactive installations. The museum is only open on Saturdays, but there is hope to expand its footprint and to operate beyond weekends.
Trump turns America 250 kickoff into a campaign-style rally on the National Mall
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump sees America’s 250th anniversary as a chance to get the country excited again — about Donald Trump. The president is hosting a rally on Wednesday on the National Mall in Washington. There's a military flyover by stealth bombers, military bands, singer Lee Greenwood of “God Bless the U.S.A” fame and a speech by Trump. The rally is designed to kick off weeks of celebrations about the founding of America. Critics say he's turning it into a partisan event to try to boost his ratings — and those of his party — ahead of November congressional elections.
What is the 2026 song of the summer? AP offers some predictions
NEW YORK (AP) — The song of the summer is a hot topic with no clear winner yet emerging for 2026. Last year, debates raged over whether Alex Warren's “Ordinary” fit the bill. The lack of a standout track like “Despacito” or “Old Town Road” could be due to diverse listening habits from music algorithms. This year, The Associated Press' list of songs of the summer includes undeniable hits like Drake's “Janice STFU” and Ella Langley's “Choosin’ Texas.” Other contenders include Slayyyter, Bruno Mars, BTS, Olivia Rodrigo, Shakira and Burna Boy. Each song offers something unique for a wide range of tastes and summer moods.
Vatican begins 5-year restoration of Raphael Loggia, used by popes and presidents
VATICAN CITY (AP) — One of the most intricately decorated parts of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, a passageway walked by popes and presidents and attributed to Renaissance master Raphael, is getting its first face-lift in 500 years. The Vatican Museums on Wednesday announced the start of a five-year, $5.5 million project to clean and restore the Raphael Loggia. The corridor is considered one of the highest expressions of Renaissance figurative art. The windowed second floor corridor is not open to the public. But lucky visitors to the pope walk along it and are treated to biblical scenes as well as botanical motifs in painting and stucco.
The homilies and addresses of Pope Leo XIV are now coming to English readers
NEW YORK (AP) — A collection of early public writings by the future Pope Leo XIV will be published in English this fall. “Freedom Under Grace: Reflections on the Spiritual Tradition That Formed Me” is set for Sept. 15, according to Image Books. The collection was originally released in Italian by the Vatican earlier this year. It features homilies, addresses and other works by Robert Prevost, who served as prior general of the Order of Saint Augustine from 2001 to 2013. Campbell Wharton of Penguin Random House Christian describes it as a guide for Catholics, Christians and spiritual seekers seeking hope and transformation.
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Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis set 'Warriors' musical for Broadway in 2027
NEW YORK (AP) — Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis are transforming their concept album “Warriors” into a Broadway musical. The story was originally a 1965 novel and later a 1979 film. It follows the Warriors gang as they journey from the Bronx to Coney Island, pursued by rival gangs and police. This will be Miranda’s first full musical since “Hamilton.” Previews are set to begin next March, with an opening in April at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. Directed by Jenny Koons, the musical will feature strategic changes, including an all-female Warriors gang. The album featured diverse musical styles and artists like Ms. Lauryn Hill and Nas.
Pharrell sends Vuitton surfing as Jeremy Allen White, Missy Elliott and Victor Wembanyama look on
PARIS (AP) — Pharrell Williams has sent Louis Vuitton’s dandy surfer over a giant wave at Paris Fashion Week. The show on Tuesday featured a moonlit set, a glass-walled camper, and a collection that put clothes ahead of spectacle. The front row was packed with stars like Jeremy Allen White, Missy Elliott, and Quavo. For Louis Vuitton’s spring-summer 2027 men’s collection, surfing inspired the wardrobe with wetsuit textures, weathered denim, and beaded bombers. Williams’ designs balanced elegance and ease, with surf references handled lightly. The event included a cinematic prelude and live performances, but the clothes remained the focus.
10 songs to memorialize Clive Davis, the larger-than-life music executive
NEW YORK (AP) — No music executive has ever been so powerful as to become synonymous with the whole of the music industry itself. But if anyone came close, it was Clive Davis. One of the music industry’s most powerful figures, who helped launch or relaunch the careers of countless artists, including Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston, Carlos Santana and Alicia Keys, has died. His death was announced on Monday. He was 94. The greatest way to celebrate the “man with the golden ears” is to listen to The Associated Press' playlist of the songs he helped bring into the world. They include offerings from the aforementioned artists as well as Bruce Springsteen, Barry Manilow and others.
Trump is the frontman for his own party as rival groups vie to shape America’s 250th anniversary
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History highlights the complexities of the American story. An exhibit called “In Pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness” marks the 250th anniversary of American independence. It juxtaposes items like Nancy Pelosi's gavel with a “Make America Great Again” cap. The exhibit underscores that partisan divides are not new. As celebrations intensify, President Donald Trump plans to speak at “The Great American State Fair” on Wednesday. Meanwhile, America 250 will host a July 4th concert in Los Angeles. A June poll shows Americans are less optimistic, with fewer seeing the U.S. as exceptional. Despite divisions, organizers aim for inclusive celebrations.
Armani's heirs carry the vision forward as the house faces its next chapter
MILAN (AP) — Giorgio Armani’s legacy continues to shine at his historic Milan headquarters. A recent runway show, followed by a garden dinner, highlighted his enduring creative vision. The Giorgio Armani Foundation is searching for a buyer for a 15% stake in the fashion group, as outlined in Armani’s will. The menswear collection for next summer, mixed with womenswear cruise looks, showcased Armani’s relaxed style. Jackets were longer, and trousers slimmer, adding a fresh touch. A Mediterranean palette and lightweight fabrics enhanced the summer vibe. Silvana Armani and Leo Dell’Orco, his longtime collaborators, are carrying on his legacy.
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