Powerball Jackpot Soars to $1.1 Billion for Labor Day After No Winner in Saturday’s Drawing.
Since no ticket matched all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing, the Powerball jackpot has increased to an estimated $1.1 billion for the Labor Day drawing, making it the fifth-largest jackpot in Powerball history.
Why the Jackpot’s Increase
Since the last winner was drawn on May 31, 2025, the jackpot has increased each time no ticket matches all six numbers.
As more tickets are sold and interest builds up, each rollover adds a significant amount of value, culminating in this incredible prize.
Saturday’s Drawing Details
With a Power Play multiplier of three, the winning numbers were 3, 18, 22, 27, 33, and the red Powerball 17.
Nine tickets each won $1 million when they matched all five white balls, but the jackpot itself remained unclaimed. Power Play increased some winnings, and other tier prizes were given for matching fewer numbers.
What’s at Risk on Labor Day
The Labor Day drawing will be televised live from Florida on Monday at 11 p.m. ET.
The winner can choose between a lump sum cash payment of roughly $498.4 million before taxes or a $1.1 billion annuity that will be paid out over 30 years and increase by 5% annually.
Depending on the winner’s location, the lump sum prize could fall below $315 million after mandatory federal withholding (24–37%) and potential state taxes.
Probabilities and Ticket Details
It is extremely difficult to match all six numbers—the odds are 1 in 292.2 million.
Tickets for the Powerball lottery are $2 and can be purchased in 45 states, Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Three times a week, on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evenings, there are Powerball draws.
Historical Background
The Powerball jackpot has now surpassed the $1 billion mark five times.
In November 2022, a player in California won the biggest Powerball jackpot ever, $2.04 billion.
The current 39-draw Powerball winnerless streak is getting close to the 42-draw record set in April 2024.
The Labor Day drawing is now one of the most anticipated lottery events of the year due to the historic increase in the jackpot.
Tariff Ruling Under Fire: Trump Predicts ‘Destruction of the United States’
The majority of President Donald Trump’s significant international tariffs, particularly those imposed under emergency powers, have been declared illegal by a U.S. federal appeals court. This ruling has the potential to change trade negotiations and the president’s authority.
Background of the Tariffs
Under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Trump imposed controversial tariffs that targeted imports from China, Mexico, Canada, and India, among other major trading partners. These tariffs, which were imposed on the pretext of safeguarding American industries and changing international trade relations, were a pillar of his economic strategy.
Notably, Trump declared “reciprocal” tariffs of up to 50% for nations with which the United States had trade deficits, in addition to a flat 10% baseline tariff on a broad range of imports.
The use of emergency powers was justified by pointing to national emergencies like migration and drug trafficking.
Appeals Court Ruling
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled 7-4 against Trump on August 29, 2025, stating that his use of emergency powers to impose such broad tariffs went beyond what Congress permits under the IEEPA. The court declared:
According to the Constitution, Congress alone has the power to impose tariffs, not the President.
The law Trump cited, IEEPA, does not give him the authority to impose taxes or duties as he claimed.
The tariffs are in place until at least October while the administration files an appeal with the Supreme Court, despite earlier court rulings being upheld.
Trump’s Reactions
In response, Trump issued dire warnings, saying that lifting the tariffs would be a “complete catastrophe for the nation” and might “literally destroy the United States.” He called the ruling partisan and demanded that the tariffs stay in place while he files an appeal with the Supreme Court.
The Trump administration contends that the tariffs are essential for both the nation’s economic interests and national security.
Removing the tariffs could harm U.S. diplomacy and cause economic instability, Treasury and Commerce officials warned.
Diplomatic and Economic Consequences
Experts caution that the decision has important diplomatic and financial ramifications.
Refunds of billions of dollars could be demanded from importers if tariffs are reversed, as they increased to $159 billion by July 2025.
In talks with the European Union, the United Kingdom, Japan, and other parties, the tariffs have been a significant bargaining chip.
In response, foreign countries like India have modified their economic strategies and looked for new trading partners in an effort to lessen the impact.
What’s Next?
The Supreme Court may further define or restrict presidential authority in trade policy if the Trump administration files an appeal. The tariffs are mostly in effect until the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Trump would lose his more expansive authority to impose tariffs unilaterally if the Supreme Court upholds the decision, but he could use more limited legal tools (such as the Trade Act of 1974).
The balance of power between Congress and the president, as well as U.S. trade policy, will be impacted by this significant legal battle, which is expected to have an impact on the world economy in the coming months.
“Trump Is Dead”: After JD Vance’s “Terrible Tragedy”
Following Vice President JD Vance’s comments about being prepared for a “terrible tragedy,” the hashtag “Trump Is Dead” went viral on social media, causing health rumors, a flurry of memes, and wild speculation—despite the fact that Donald Trump is still very much alive and in office.
In an interview with USA Today on August 27, 2025, JD Vance was asked if he would be ready to assume the presidency in the event of a “terrible tragedy.” In response, Vance insisted that Trump is active and in “incredibly good health,” but he also admitted that unexpected things can happen, which is why he has been training on the job for 200 days.
Meme Storm and Social Media Reaction
In the hours after Vance’s comments, the hashtag “Trump Is Dead” was used in over 100,000 posts on social media, particularly on X, the former Twitter.
Memes included parodies that referenced The Simpsons’ long history of remarkably accurate social predictions as well as jokes about JD Vance walking into the Oval Office.
Notably, a doctored Simpsons video that went viral about Trump’s fictitious death spread, adding to the chorus of memes, even though media outlets later clarified that it was a hoax.
Speculation and Health Rumors
The meme craze accompanied increased anxiety about Trump’s health following his July 2025 diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which left his hand and ankles visibly swollen and bruised.
Although official reports confirmed Trump’s continued good health and high energy, some users speculated wildly about his absence from public events and a brief outage of the White House livestream.
Amplification of Pop Culture
Given that The Simpsons is known for “predicting” Trump’s presidency and other significant societal events, creator Matt Groening made a joke at Comic-Con about “dancing in the streets” if “you-know-who” dies.
In addition to recent memes and rumors, this pop culture allusion heightened public conjecture.
Official Rebuttals
Trump’s health has been repeatedly confirmed by White House officials and his own doctor, who have also denied any involvement in the viral trend.
The rumors and memes are not based on any real-life occurrence, but rather on pop culture, social media hype, and viral false information.
Walker Buehler Released by Red Sox After Struggle-Filled Season
After a dismal and tumultuous 2025 season, Walker Buehler was cut by the Boston Red Sox, capping his brief stay with a team that had high expectations for the former Dodgers star.
Agreement and Anticipations
Boston and Buehler agreed to a one-year, $21.05 million deal that included a $3 million buyout and a mutual option for 2026. After his second World Series victory with the Dodgers, the Red Sox signed him in an attempt to bolster their rotation with postseason experience and star quality in preparation for a postseason run. But the signing ended up being a costly gamble that didn’t work out.
Performance in 2025 Season
Buehler pitched 112 1/3 innings over 22 starts, recording a 7-7 record and a 5.45 ERA—both significantly below his career averages.
While his walk and hit rates skyrocketed, his strikeout rate plummeted to 6.7 per nine innings, a significant drop from his Dodgers career average of 9.5.
Buehler had trouble staying consistent, giving up four or more runs in eight starts and failing to pitch five innings in nine.
His performance and rhythm were further impacted by early injuries, such as a period of time spent on the injured list due to shoulder bursitis.
After escalating struggles, Buehler was moved to the bullpen but performed poorly in relief, surrendering two earned runs in 2.1 innings in his lone appearance before release.
Reason for Release
For the September stretch run, the Red Sox needed their pitching staff to be more dependable as they pursue a postseason berth.
Buehler’s departure was accelerated by the promotion of top prospect Payton Tolle (age 22), whose dominance in the minor leagues made him an immediate option. This required clearing a roster and 40-man spot.
Release was the most sensible option because team management had no intention of exercising Buehler’s mutual option for 2026.
Boston gave Buehler the opportunity to sign elsewhere and stay eligible for the playoffs for another team if there is interest by letting him go before September.
Red Sox’s Rotation Outlook
Boston revolves around Lucas Giolito, Brayan Bello, and Garrett Crochet, three Cy Young candidates who have significantly outperformed Buehler.
With a record of 75-60 and a strong lead in the AL wild card race, the Red Sox head into the final month of the season with high hopes of making the playoffs.
Historical Background and the Legacy of Buehler
The 31-year-old Buehler, a two-time All-Star and two-time Dodgers World Series champion, is well-known for his heroics in the postseason. With a postseason ERA below 0.50, he recorded significant victories and saves in World Series games from 2018 to 2024.
His tumultuous 2025 Boston season contrasts sharply with his prior supremacy. His biggest career slump was caused by injuries, a lack of rhythm, command problems, and a decline in velocity.
What Comes Next?
Buehler is now hoping for a new opportunity as he enters free agency. The Dodgers, who might be open to a reunion considering his past with the team, were the first target of speculation.
Boston, meanwhile, hopes to break their postseason drought and maximize their competitive roster by relying on youth and internal flexibility.
With Walker Buehler’s release, one of the season’s biggest bets and letdowns comes to an end, and both the player and the team have radically different futures.
Former Yankees Star Mark Teixeira Announces Texas Congressional Run
Former New York Yankees World Series champion and Major League Baseball All-Star Mark Teixeira has declared his intention to run for the U.S. Congress as a Republican. He will serve as the representative for Texas’ 21st Congressional District, which encompasses areas west of Austin and north of San Antonio. Following the announcement by incumbent Republican Representative Chip Roy that he would be leaving the House to run for Texas Attorney General in 2026, Teixeira made his decision.
Announcement and Motivation
On August 28, 2025, Teixeira, 45, announced his intention to run for office, claiming to be a “lifelong conservative who loves this country” and to “advocate for the values that make Texas and America exceptional.” In his launch statement, he emphasized “teamwork to win” and made it clear that he supported individual liberty, Texas families, and former President Donald Trump’s “America First agenda.” Although he has never held elected office before, since retiring from baseball, he has volunteered with the Texas Public Policy Foundation and supported Governor Abbott’s initiatives.
Congressional Race Details
With the GOP primary set for March 3, 2026, a possible runoff on May 26, and the general election on November 3, 2026, Teixeira is vying for the Republican nomination.
Documentation must be submitted by December 8, 2025.
The district, which is regarded as a Republican stronghold, is anticipated to attract a lot of interest from several candidates due to Chip Roy’s vacating the seat.
Teixeira is currently the most well-known Republican to declare, but at least one Independent and a number of Democrats have also done so.
Teixeira’s Background
Played for the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Angels, Atlanta Braves, and Texas Rangers during 14 seasons in Major League Baseball.
Three-time Silver Slugger, five-time Gold Glove winner, and three-time All-Star; retired in 2016 after winning the 2009 World Series with the Yankees.
In 2021, after retiring, he moved back to Texas and got involved with local conservative groups and charitable endeavors.
Key Campaign Points
Dedication to “upholding conservative values and defending Texas families.”
Prioritize preserving individual and governmental liberties.
In keeping with his post-baseball philanthropic endeavors, he supports Christian ministries, education, and charitable giving.
In what could turn out to be a closely watched race, Mark Teixeira’s entry signifies a high-profile move from professional sports to politics. His name recognition and athletic legacy are anticipated to increase his profile and fundraising.
At Least 2 Children Dead, 17 Injured in Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting
A tragic shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during a morning Mass during the first week of classes, leaving at least two children dead and seventeen injured.
Incident Details
Families and students were inside the church for the yearly all-school Mass, which is a custom to begin the year, when the shooting occurred on Wednesday morning. Children were sitting in prayer in the pews when the gunman, who was described as being in his early twenties, entered the building and fired a rifle through stained glass windows. According to police, the majority of the gunfire—dozens of rounds—came from outside the church, and he was also carrying a shotgun and a pistol.
Response and Victims
Two kids, ages eight and ten, were shot dead in their pews. Two of the 17 injured—14 of whom were children—remain in critical condition, and several more need surgery at nearby hospitals. Families were redirected to a designated reunification zone as part of emergency protocols. Authorities confirmed that there was no continuing threat to the community after the shooter committed suicide behind the church.
Updates on Law Enforcement
Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed horror at the targeting of a church full of children worshiping and denounced the shooting as a willful act of violence against children. Although a smoke bomb was found at the scene, no explosives were discovered. Investigators are looking for a motive, but the shooter is thought to have acted alone. They are currently noting that he had no significant criminal history or ties to the school.
Community Response
The attack’s brutality infuriated the mayor and other local authorities, who emphasized the need for community support and mourning for the young victims. To help students, employees, and families affected by the violence, churches, trauma hospitals, and mental health professionals mobilized.
Announcement of the School Background
The tragedy happened during the first week of classes at the Catholic School, which educates children from pre-K through eighth grade. The incident rocked the neighborhood, leading to memorial services and a resurgence of calls for action against school gun violence.
Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce are engaged after 2 years together
After a brief, well-publicized romance that lasted two years and enthralled music and sports fans everywhere, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are now officially engaged.
The Start: July 2023 Their romance began when Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stopped in July 2023 at Arrowhead Stadium, home of Kelce’s NFL team, the Kansas City Chiefs. Swift’s rigorous pre-show routine prevented Kelce from giving her a friendship bracelet with his phone number on it. Swift contacted him after sharing this story on his podcast, “New Heights,” and they started spending time together in private.
Getting Public
When Taylor was seen supporting Kelce at a Chiefs game in September 2023, the couple went public. In October 2023, they appeared in public for the first time while holding hands at a Saturday Night Live afterparty. Swift swiftly established herself as a frequent fixture at Kelce’s NFL games, cheering him on in the stands during the 2023–24 campaign, which included trips to the Super Bowl.
Growing Together
Their romance blossomed over the next two years. Swift continued to attend Chiefs games and engage in public interactions with Kelce’s family, while Kelce joined her on portions of her international Eras Tour and made unexpected public appearances at various international venues. Fans who called them “Traylor” or “Kelsift” were enthused by the couple’s frequent sharing of amusing and encouraging moments on social media.
The Proposal
Swift and Kelce revealed their engagement on Instagram on August 26, 2025, with a five-picture carousel that included Swift flaunting her gorgeous diamond ring and Kelce getting down on one knee in a garden full of roses. Fans all across the world were enchanted by the caption, “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married.” According to reports, Kelce contributed to the design of the ring, which was a personalized diamond set in gold that was either radiant or emerald cut.
Highlights & Milestones
Support at games: Throughout the 2023 season, Swift went to 13 Chiefs games and made frequent appearances at Arrowhead Stadium’s home games.
Moments from the Eras Tour: Kelce attended several international performances in Argentina, Singapore, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Couple vibes: According to sources, Swift and Kelce had quiet, meaningful moments together off-camera, strengthening their bond, and both families reportedly got along well.
What Comes Next? Although the wedding date has not yet been announced, sources say Swift and Kelce are excited to start the next phase of their lives together, which may include marriage and a family.
This engagement is the result of a two-year journey that united the worlds of professional sports and pop music through special public appearances, intimate milestones, and love.
Feelings of a couple: According to sources, Swift and Kelce had quiet, meaningful moments together off-camera, strengthening their bond, and both families reportedly got along well.
Next Steps?
Although the wedding date is still unknown, sources say Swift and Kelce are excited to start the next phase of their lives together, which may include marriage and a family.
This engagement is the end of a two-year journey that united the worlds of professional sports and pop music through special public appearances, intimate milestones, and love.
Active Shooter Alert at University of Arkansas Triggers Massive Campus Scare
On August 25, 2025, a reported active shooter incident happened on the University of Arkansas Fayetteville campus close to Mullins Library. To protect public safety, there was an immediate emergency response and campus-wide alerts.
Timing and Location
Around 12:30 p.m. local time, the emergency alerts were sent out, specifically alerting staff, faculty, and students to stay away from the area near Mullins Library, which is conveniently located on campus near the Student Union. “Avoid. Deny. Defend” was the message that was broadcast on the public address system and the RazALERT emergency notification system.
Response to Emergencies
A perimeter was quickly set up around Mullins Library by law enforcement, including state troopers, the Fayetteville Police Department, and campus police. According to eyewitness accounts, all of the library’s rooms were evacuated, and officers were seen with their weapons drawn. According to the most recent information, there had been no reports of injuries, but the situation was described as continuing, with a significant police presence present to conduct an investigation and maintain order in the area.
Active shooter reported on campus at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville
Alerts and Safety Information
As events unfolded, authorities sent out several alerts. A follow-up message said that police were responding to several reports around campus and that everyone should continue to “Avoid. Deny. Defend.” The initial alert told people to avoid the library area.
Official and Community Response
On social media, U.S. Representative Steve Womack said he was keeping a close eye on the situation and asked everyone in the area to heed any safety instructions from the university and law enforcement. Official statements stressed how crucial it is to stay updated through university communication channels and to precisely follow instructions in such situations.
Terry McLaurin, the Washington Commanders’ star wide receiver, has signed a new three-year deal that could be worth up to $96 million. If he meets certain performance goals, the total value could go up to $100 million.
Contract Breakdown
The deal includes a $30 million signing bonus and a lot of guaranteed money for the first two years.
McLaurin’s new contract will pay him an average of $32 million a year, making him the sixth-highest-paid WR in the NFL, along with A.J. Brown.
The deal is for ages 30 to 33, which means McLaurin will be the Commanders’ best offensive weapon until the 2028 season.
Negotiation Drama
McLaurin’s extension came after a stressful offseason. He missed mandatory minicamp, showed up late to training camp, and finally asked for a trade when contract talks broke down.
He was put on the physically unable to perform list, but he still wanted to be on the team and was upset that his pay didn’t match his high level of performance.
The deadlock ended in August 2025, just before the start of the regular season.
The Value & Performance of McLaurin
Despite the Commanders’ frequent quarterback changes, McLaurin has emerged as their top target, amassing over 1,000 receiving yards in five consecutive seasons.
He led the team into the playoffs in 2024 with 82 receptions, 1,096 yards, and 13 touchdowns.
He provided crucial scores during the postseason run and was responsible for almost 45% of Washington’s receiving touchdowns in 2024.
Why This Deal Matters
Washington’s passing attack is strengthened for the upcoming seasons by McLaurin’s extension, which also guarantees lineup stability in light of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels’ impressive potential.
The contract indicates the Commanders’ intention to compete for a Super Bowl at this time and acknowledges McLaurin’s standing as one of the NFL’s best receivers.
Quick Facts Table
Item
Details
Years
3
Total Value
Up to $96 million
Signing Bonus
$30 million
Average Salary
$32 million/year
Guarantees
Details Pending, heavy up front
Age Covered
30-33
Franchise Impact
Sixth-highest paid WR
As the Commanders get ready for the 2025 NFL season, McLaurin’s new contract lays the groundwork for both individual accomplishments and elevated team expectations.
Eberechi Eze, an England international, has officially joined Arsenal, a move that has generated a lot of excitement among supporters and analysts. Eze, who is renowned for his brilliant creativity, explosive dribbling, and flair in the final third, is the kind of addition that fits Arsenal’s current trajectory under Mikel Arteta: he is young, dynamic, and prepared to contribute at the highest level.
This acquisition may be crucial to Arsenal’s efforts to win the Premier League and improve their prospects of competing in Europe. We’ll go into great detail in this post about why Eze is a great fit for Arsenal, what he contributes to the team, and how his arrival could change the way the Gunners attack.
Who is Eberechi Eze?
A football player of Nigerian descent who was born in London, Eberechi Oluchi Eze, also known as just Eze, has ascended steadily through the English football hierarchy. After playing for Queens Park Rangers in the Championship, he made his Premier League debut with Crystal Palace, instantly grabbing attention with his inventiveness, poise, and ability to get past opponents.
Eze became one of the most technically proficient midfielders outside of the conventional “Big Six” at Palace. He was one of the Premier League’s most admired attacking midfielders because of his fearless dribbling, close control, and ball intelligence.
Eze is now taking his career to the next level by joining Arsenal, going from a gifted star at a mid-table team to a player who is expected to perform at the highest level on a regular basis.
Why Arsenal Wanted Eze?
Arsenal has placed a high priority on young, technically proficient, and adaptable players who can carry out Mikel Arteta’s possession-heavy, quick-transition style since he took over at the club. This approach is highlighted by the arrival of key figures such as Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Ødegaard.
Eze is a perfect fit for that profile. The reason Arsenal is interested in him is:
Ingenuity in confined spaces: His ability to penetrate defenses with accurate passes or deft dribbles will give Arsenal’s attack a fresh perspective.
Versatility: He can play as a left-wing, central attacking midfielder, or even a deeper midfield role.
Ball progression: Arsenal occasionally has trouble with low defensive blocks. Eze can disrupt defenses and break lines with his direct running.
Premier League-proven quality: Eze’s familiarity with the league cuts down on adjustment time.
This acquisition demonstrates that Arsenal is hiring players who can compete at the highest level right now in addition to building for the future.
Tactical Fit: Arteta’s Potential Use of Him
How Arteta will incorporate Eze into Arsenal’s current lineup is among the most intriguing parts of this move.
Option 1: Midfield Attack Ødegaard’s partner In advanced roles, Eze and Ødegaard could be used together to give Arsenal two creative outlets behind a striker. This pair might be invincible against deep blocks.
Option 2: Forward on the left side Eze can cut inside onto his right foot from the left wing, much like Gabriel Martinelli, but with a stronger emphasis on creativity. Arsenal now has tactical flexibility as a result.
Option 3: A 4-3-3 central midfielder Arteta favors midfielders with versatility. Eze can play as a left-sided “#8,” moving the ball forward, connecting plays, and causing midfield overloads.
Eze’s Contributions to Arsenal
Eze brings to the Emirates the following notable attributes:
Dribbling and Flair: Few players in the league are as adept at running at defenders. Eze’s skill at gliding past opponents creates room for teammates.
Creativity: He can spot through balls and line-breaking passes that lead to scoring opportunities thanks to his keen vision.
Midfield Goals: Eze has shown a talent for scoring, particularly when playing one-on-one and from a distance.
Set-Piece Danger: His ability to score from corners and free kicks is an underappreciated aspect of his game. That additional variation helps Arsenal.
Growth & Work Ethic: Eze has gotten better every season. That growth might quicken even more under Arteta’s guidance.
Fan Response and Enthusiasm
It should come as no surprise that Arsenal supporters have greeted the signing with fervor. Videos of Eze’s abilities and highlights have been all over social media, and many fans have referred to him as the “ideal Arteta player.”
The ambition of Arsenal has also been lauded by neutrals, who point out that while other elite teams search overseas for big-name players, Arsenal is making significant investments in established Premier League players.
For Eze, signing with Arsenal is more than just a career move; it’s an opportunity to establish himself as a genuine elite player and possibly even play a significant role for England on the international scene.
The Implications for Arsenal’s Title Challenge
Despite barely missing out on winning the Premier League, Arsenal has been improving over the last two seasons. Eze’s arrival gives the team depth as well as a new, potentially game-changing element.
Breaking Low Blocks: Eze’s candor could mean the difference between a frustrating draw and a close victory when teams are sitting deep against Arsenal.
Injury Cover: Because of his versatility, Arsenal has excellent cover for players like Rice, Martinelli, and Ødegaard.
European Ambitions: A deep squad is necessary to compete in the Champions League. Eze increases Arsenal’s chances of maintaining their competitiveness on all fronts.
Essentially, Arsenal has acquired a player who can help them in crucial situations—the kind of acquisition that winners need.
The More Comprehensive View
This move also reveals a lot about Arsenal’s identity and vision. Arsenal is now able to draw top Premier League players, unlike previous times when the team would lose its best players to rivals.
Eze’s signing demonstrates:
Arsenal has a strategic and long-term approach to hiring.
Arsenal is now seen by players as a destination club rather than a stopover.
Arteta and Edu are assembling a team that can compete with teams like Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Sachin Shankar Yadav 
