𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗕𝗼𝘆 𝗦𝗮𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗲𝗶𝗺𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘂𝘃𝗲𝗿

Raleigh, North Carolina—A nine-year-old boy is being celebrated as a hero after his quick thinking and bravery saved his classmate from choking during a recess basketball game. The incident, which occurred at Raleigh Oak Charter School, has captured the hearts of the local community and beyond.

Jayceon Branch, a fourth-grader, was playing basketball with his friend, seven-year-old Donye Moore, when the younger boy began choking on a granola bar. Surveillance footage from the school shows Donye gasping for air and bending over in distress. Without hesitation, Jayceon sprang into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the food and restore his friend's ability to breathe.

“I didn’t know he was actually choking at first,” Jayceon explained. “But when I realized, I just did my thing, which was the Heimlich.” Remarkably, Jayceon had learned the life-saving technique from watching YouTube videos, inspired by a teacher who had once used the maneuver to help another student. His swift response not only saved Donye’s life but also highlighted the importance of teaching basic first aid skills to children.

The school community has rallied around Jayceon, with teachers, parents, and students praising his heroic actions. Eric Johnson, the executive director of Raleigh Oak Charter School, expressed immense pride in Jayceon’s bravery. “We teach our kids to take care of each other, and this is a prime example of that,” Johnson said. “Jayceon just jumped into action so quickly. We’re really proud of him.”

The boys’ families were equally moved by the incident. Donye’s mother, Aja Moore, shared her gratitude, saying, “At first, I didn’t understand the severity of what happened. But seeing the video and knowing Jayceon saved my son—it’s overwhelming. I’m just so thankful.”

To honor Jayceon’s heroism, the school held a special celebration, where students and staff cheered for both boys as they walked through the halls. Jayceon, ever humble, insisted that Donye be included in the recognition, further endearing him to the community.

This heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the power of preparedness and the impact of small acts of courage. Local organizations have since announced plans to offer free first aid workshops for students and families, inspired by Jayceon’s life-saving actions.

French Politician Calls for Return of Statue of Liberty Amid U.S.-EU Tensions

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The White House dismissed the comments, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of democracy and freedom that belongs in the U.S. The statue was gifted by France in the 19th century and has since become an iconic American landmark.  

The incident highlights growing tensions between the U.S. and the European Union, fueled by trade disputes and differing approaches to global issues. Analysts warn that such rhetoric could further strain transatlantic relations.  

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The U.S. government has deported over 200 alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua to El Salvador, invoking wartime authorities under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The move has sparked controversy, with civil rights groups challenging the legality of the deportations.  

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele confirmed the arrival of the deportees, who were transferred to a maximum-security facility. The U.S. also deported several high-ranking members of the MS-13 gang as part of the operation.  

Critics argue that the Alien Enemies Act was not intended for use in peacetime and that the deportations violate due process rights. A federal judge has issued a temporary suspension of the order, but the Trump administration plans to appeal the ruling.