FDA Rejections of Epinephrine Nasal Spray and Taylor Swift's Vault Search Glitches

Maui firefighters recount the devastating battle against the Lahaina blaze, the FDA rejects a needle-free alternative to EpiPens, and olive oil prices lead to thefts.

Maui firefighters recount their intense battle against a devastating blaze that engulfed the town of Lahaina. The FDA rejects a needle-free alternative to EpiPens, and rising olive oil prices lead to thefts. Here's what you need to know today.

On August 8th, Maui County declared a brush fire in Lahaina, Hawaii to be 100% contained just before 9 a.m. Firefighters remained on site for several hours to monitor for flare-ups and wait for utility crews to fix downed power lines. At 2:18 p.m., firefighters left the scene, according to a lawyer representing Maui County. Less than an hour later, they received a new report of a brush fire in the area they had just left.

That fire would go on to completely destroy Lahaina.

There is no official account of how firefighters handled the wildfires on August 8th, which resulted in at least 97 fatalities, the destruction of much of Lahaina, and the loss of over 2,000 homes and buildings. NBC News interviewed seven Maui firefighters who provided firsthand accounts of their heroic efforts to contain the inferno and save lives. They faced incredibly strong winds, thick smoke, scorching heat, and dry hydrants. They described their narrow escapes from death and the split-second decisions they had to make about where to fight and when to retreat, all while their own homes burned.

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Reporter Jon Schuppe has compiled the stories and experiences of those on the front lines during that devastating day and how they are coping over a month later. Read the full special report here.

ARS Pharmaceuticals, the drugmaker behind Neffy, announced plans to appeal the Food and Drug Administration's request for additional data after the drug was rejected. Neffy is an epinephrine nasal spray that would have been the first needle-free alternative to epinephrine autoinjectors like EpiPens. Epinephrine is highly effective in reversing anaphylaxis, the most severe type of allergic reaction.

The FDA's rejection is uncommon, as the agency typically approves drugs recommended by its committees. In May, Neffy received a recommendation for approval for use in both children and adults. However, one FDA advisory committee member who voted against Neffy expressed concerns about the ethical implications of testing the drug.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a somber and impassioned address to the U.N. General Assembly, calling on other countries to help defend against Moscow's aggression. He stated that the present war against Ukraine aims to turn the country and its resources into a weapon against the international rules-based order. Zelenskyy's in-person appearance in Midtown Manhattan demonstrated a direct diplomatic approach with allies, partners, and other world governments.

In his own speech, President Joe Biden urged world leaders not to abandon Ukraine.

Republican divisions within the House were evident when conservative hardliners prevented debate on a military funding bill, and GOP leaders abandoned a vote to avert a government shutdown at the end of the month. Some Republicans now believe a shutdown is becoming increasingly likely. Representative Ralph Norman stated that he does not see a way to prevent it. Conservatives are seeking assurances on spending levels before agreeing to pass any full-year funding bills. Other conservatives are calling for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to honor an agreement made earlier this year regarding non-defense discretionary spending. However, even if Republicans reach an agreement on spending, the bills they are fighting over have no chance of becoming law.

It may take months to determine why an F-35 stealth fighter jet went missing over the weekend in South Carolina. After the pilot ejected from the aircraft on Sunday, Joint Base Charleston appealed to the public for help in locating it. The following day, law enforcement discovered a debris field located a two-hour drive away.

The cause of the jet's loss of communications and the reason for the pilot's ejection remain uncertain. Several possibilities exist, and further investigation is required.

Taylor Swift fans experienced technical difficulties while attempting to find the titles of previously unreleased songs from her upcoming album, "1989 (Taylor's Version)," through a Google search. This glitch caused frustration among Swifties, adding to the list of times the singer's fans have overwhelmed online platforms.

Impeachment inquiry: The White House criticized the timing of the House Oversight Committee's first Biden impeachment hearing, accusing the GOP of using the probe as a stunt while a potential government shutdown looms.

Hunter Biden: The president's son plans to plead not guilty to felony gun charges, according to his lawyers. They also argue that he should not be required to appear in person for his arraignment.

Pennsylvania: Democrats regained a one-seat majority in the state House of Representatives with the victory of nonprofit worker Lindsay Powell in a special election in Allegheny County.

If you weren't in Montana, South Dakota, Wisconsin, or Minnesota on Monday night, you missed the stunning spectacle of the northern lights, or aurora borealis. Fortunately, there are videos and photos available to transport you to the scene. Enjoy the calming beauty before your day becomes too hectic. -- Elizabeth Robinson, newsletter editor

Whether you're relaxing in your backyard, embarking on a camping trip, or enjoying a day at the beach, chances are you're bringing your favorite tunes along with you. Check out these staff-favorite Bluetooth speakers for some lightweight, affordable options that deliver crisp sound.

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