Celebrating

• A 10-year-old resident expressed their personal enthusiasm for celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in a letter to the editor. • Separately, Coconino County election officials are urging voters to use official drop boxes for any remaining early ballots to ensure they are counted. • Local government activity continues with council candidates discussing infrastructure and development during a recent forum on Fourth Street.

• To mark the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States this July 4 weekend, NPR is exploring media that portrays the "American dream." • Aisha Harris and Linda Holmes from NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour are discussing specific films, TV series, and musical works that capture the national experience. • The conversation highlights Stevie Wonder's song "Higher Ground" as a key example of the collective resilience and the struggle for a better life in America.

• A drone strike in the Sudanese city of El Obeid hit an empty fuel tanker parked near a school on Tuesday, resulting in injuries to students. • The United Nations reported on Wednesday that ongoing fighting in the city continues to endanger civilians and cause significant damage to local infrastructure. • This incident highlights the escalating risks to non-combatants and educational facilities amidst the broader Sudanese conflict.