Monsoon rains kill 11, injure 25 across Pakistan

Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash has reached a milestone that even one of rock music’s biggest stars could hardly have imagined. A newly discovered species of snake has been named after him, giving the legendary musician a surprising connection to the world of science. The new species has been officially named Lielaphis slashi. It was discovered in New Guinea and is a nonvenomous ground snake with dark brown scales and a lighter-colored underside. Scientists at Chicago’s Field Museum announced the discovery and explained that the species was named in honor of Slash’s lifelong passion for reptiles. (People.com⁠) For Slash, the honor has a deeply personal meaning. The guitarist has been fascinated by reptiles since childhood and has long supported zoos, museums and natural-history organizations. “I am extremely honored and humbled,” Slash said while reacting to the news. He also admitted that he never imagined such a moment would happen, making the recognition even more special. (People.com⁠) The connection between Slash and snakes is hardly new. His interest in reptiles has been part of his identity for decades. In fact, his passion helped inspire the name of his rock project Slash’s Snakepit, the group he formed in 1994. The scientist behind the naming also had a personal connection to the guitarist. Sara Ruane, associate curator of herpetology at the Field Museum and senior author of the research paper, said she had been a Guns N’ Roses fan since childhood. Ruane recalled seeing Slash featured with a pet python when she was young. She was fascinated by his love of reptiles and his support for museums and zoos. Those memories eventually helped inspire her to consider the guitarist as a fitting namesake for the new species. (People.com⁠) The discovery marks an unusual but fitting milestone for the rock star. Slash has spent decades building a reputation as one of the most recognizable guitarists in music, but his influence now extends into an entirely different field. Unlike a music award or chart achievement, having a species named after him celebrates something much more personal. It recognizes an interest that Slash has carried since childhood and maintained throughout his career. The discovery also highlights how science and popular culture can unexpectedly meet. For Slash, the moment is more than a quirky headline. It is a lifelong passion coming full circle. After years of playing some of rock’s biggest stages, Slash now has another remarkable legacy: a species in New Guinea carrying his name.

Veteran television director, writer, and producer Ralph W. Hemecker, best known for his work on acclaimed series including Blue Bloods, The X-Files, Once Upon a Time, and The Flash, has died at the age of 65. Hemecker passed away at his home in Glendale, California, on July 10, according to his family. A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.  The news has sparked an outpouring of tributes from actors, filmmakers, and fans who worked with the respected television director throughout his more than three-decade career. Among those paying tribute was actress Lana Parrilla, who starred in Once Upon a Time. She described Hemecker as “one of the kindest, most generous souls” she had ever known, praising both his talent behind the camera and his warmth as a friend.  Born on June 12, 1961, Hemecker studied English at Bucknell University, where he discovered a passion for filmmaking while creating short films. He later honed his craft by studying filmmaking at New York University before launching a career in production and post-production. His early experience behind the scenes eventually led him to directing television, where he quickly earned a reputation for his creative storytelling and strong visual style.  Hemecker’s breakthrough came in 2000 when he directed the television movie Witchblade, which later evolved into a successful TV series. He went on to serve as the show’s executive producer, writer, and showrunner for two seasons, cementing his status as one of television’s most versatile creative talents.  Over the years, Hemecker built an impressive résumé, directing episodes of numerous hit series, including Blue Bloods, The X-Files, Millennium, Ghost Whisperer, Numb3rs, Nikita, The Vampire Diaries, The Flash, and Once Upon a Time. His ability to move effortlessly between crime dramas, science fiction, fantasy, and action made him one of the industry’s most sought-after television directors.  In addition to directing, Hemecker founded Mythic Films in 2000, expanding his work into producing and developing original projects. His most recent directorial effort was the 2025 feature film Breed of Greed, demonstrating that his passion for storytelling remained as strong as ever.  Hemecker is survived by his father, sister, brother, two stepdaughters, nieces, nephews, and extended family. A celebration of his life is expected to be announced at a later date.  Ralph W. Hemecker leaves behind a remarkable television legacy defined by creativity, professionalism, and unforgettable storytelling. His work entertained millions across generations, and his influence will continue to be felt through the iconic series and memorable episodes he helped bring to life.