Vikings part ways with Adam Thielen as veteran chases more field time in last NFL year
The Minnesota Vikings waived veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen at his request to allow him the opportunity to finish his NFL career elsewhere before retiring. Thielen, 35, who was reacquired by the Vikings from the Carolina Panthers in August 2025 primarily for depth, was not a key target this season as he competed for playing time with younger receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Having made it clear that 2025 would be his final NFL season, Thielen and his agent asked the Vikings to release him so he could seek a bigger role on another team in the remaining weeks of his career. The Vikings agreed out of respect for Thielen’s wishes, allowing him to pursue more playing opportunities elsewhere. Thielen is one of the all-time greats in Vikings history, ranking third in franchise catches behind Cris Carter and Randy Moss, after he initially signed with Minnesota as an undrafted free agent in 2014 and spent the first nine seasons there. This waiver enables him to potentially finish his career on his own terms before retirement.
Appeals court upholds ruling that disqualified Alina Habba from serving as New Jersey’s top prosecutor
Alina Habba was appointed as the U.S. attorney for New Jersey by former President Donald Trump, but an appeals court determined that she had been acting illegally in that capacity. The court upheld a lower court’s decision that Habba’s appointment was illegal under federal law due to improper legal procedures. Specifically, after her 120-day interim term expired, the Trump administration used a series of unusual legal maneuvers to keep her in the position without Senate confirmation or a valid appointment as first assistant U.S. attorney, both of which are typically required by law.
The judges stressed that the government’s attempts to prolong Habba’s term went around the established appointment procedure designed to give the public and the U.S. attorney’s office clarity and stability. This included designating Habba under various titles without legal authority and dismissing a permanent U.S. attorney appointed by federal judges. As a result, Habba is disqualified from participating in cases in New Jersey going forward, which could impact ongoing prosecutions and possibly lead to further legal challenges up to the Supreme Court.
Prior to her appointment, Habba, Trump’s personal attorney, had no prior criminal law experience. The case brings to light a larger problem in which a number of similar Trump administration appointments have been challenged for not adhering to the requirements of the law. The decision, which raises serious concerns about the validity of other acting U.S. attorneys appointed under comparable circumstances, is anticipated to be appealed by the Justice Department.
Rapid Reactions: Panthers win shootout, on Rico Dowdle’s second straight big day
Running back Rico Dowdle put on his second consecutive outstanding performance as the Carolina Panthers defeated the Dallas Cowboys in a high-scoring shootout. Dowdle, who just joined the Panthers after playing for the Cowboys for five years, amassed over 200 scrimmage yards for the second consecutive game with an outstanding 183 yards on 30 carries, 56 receiving yards, and a touchdown. This triumph, which was earned by a field goal in the final seconds, demonstrates Dowdle’s development as a vital offensive weapon and his drive to defeat his old team.
Game Overview
Both teams had strong offensive performances and lead changes during the game. Panthers quarterback Bryce Young led a final drive that set up the game-winning kick after the Cowboys tied the game late. During this drive as well, Dowdle was essential in keeping things under control and advancing the chains. The Panthers were able to stay up with their opponents and eventually defeat them thanks to his ability to both power through defenders and contribute as a receiver.
Rico Dowdle’s Performance
Despite starting running back Chuba Hubbard’s injuries, Dowdle has stepped up. He set a franchise record for production over two games last week when he rushed for 206 yards in a comeback victory against the Miami Dolphins. He then had another day with more than 200 scrimmage yards against the Cowboys. Coaches and teammates praised Dowdle for his physical, “violent” running style and unrelenting finishing ability. He also took advantage of gaps left by the offensive line. With his performance and postgame remarks, Dowdle made a strong statement against his former team, bringing extra motivation with him.
Rapid Reactions
Given Hubbard’s injury, Dowdle’s consecutive strong performances were crucial in providing the Panthers’ offense with much-needed explosiveness and balance.
Dowdle’s presence energizes the running game and makes room for Bryce Young and rookie receivers to shine, helping the Panthers win and improve their record to 3-3.
When Dowdle plays to his strengths, the Panthers offense is more dangerous and flexible, and his revenge game against Dallas stands out as a crucial point in the season, according to fans and analysts.
In addition to playing a key part in the Panthers’ back-to-back victories, Dowdle’s second consecutive big day has thrust him into the public eye and cemented his status as a key component of Carolina’s offense.
Graham Greene, Oscar-Nominated ‘Dances with Wolves’ Actor
At the age of 73, Oscar-nominated actor Graham Greene, who is most remembered for his iconic performance as Kicking Bird in Kevin Costner’s “Dances With Wolves,” passed away. He left behind a rich legacy in television, movies, and Indigenous representation.
On June 22, 1952, Graham Greene was born on the Six Nations Reserve in Ohsweken, Ontario, Canada. He was a draftsman, steelworker, welder, and audio technician before his acting career took off. In the 1970s, Greene started acting in theatres in Toronto and England. He debuted on television in “The Great Detective” (1979) and in a movie called “Running Brave” (1983).
Breakthrough and Prominent Positions
In the 1990 movie “Dances With Wolves,” Greene portrayed a contemplative Lakota religious leader named Kicking Bird, which marked his big Hollywood breakthrough. With 12 Academy Award nominations and seven wins, including Best Picture, the movie was a critical and financial success. Greene became one of the first Indigenous actors to be nominated for Best Supporting Actor.
After his success, Greene had a busy career that included roles in more than 200 motion pictures and television shows. Among his most well-known roles are:
Thunderheart as Walter Crow Horse (1992)
Joseph in Maverick (1994)
Detective Joe Lambert in the 1995 film Die Hard with a Vengeance
Arlen Bitterbuck in The Green Mile (1999)
Ben in Wind River (2017)
TV appearances in shows like Longmire, Wolf Lake, Northern Exposure, and Reservation Dogs.
Accomplishments and Recognitions
Greene received various accolades and awards for his efforts:
Nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Academy Awards
Grammy Award winner
Canadian Screen Award winner
Gemini Award winner
Dora Mavor Moore Award winner
Order of Canada recipient (2015)
For lifetime artistic achievement, the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award (2025) is given.
Individual Life and Legacy
In December 1990, Graham Greene wed Hilary Blackmore, whom he had met while working on “Dances With Wolves.” Francis Hugh Greene and Lucy Greene were the couple’s two children. Greene’s honesty, morality, and support for improved Indigenous representation in movies earned him respect. He was a mentor and role model for upcoming Indigenous artists, so his influence extended well beyond his acting career.
After a protracted illness, Greene died in Stratford, Ontario, on September 1, 2025. He was praised as a trailblazer who expanded the opportunities for Indigenous performers and motivated countless viewers with his impactful portrayals in tributes from the film and television industries.
Although Graham Greene’s remarkable career has come to an end, his impact on Indigenous communities and North American film will last for many generations.
In a much-anticipated WNBA Finals rematch at Barclays Center, the Minnesota Lynx defeated the New York Liberty 83-71, led by outstanding performances from DiJonai Carrington and Kayla McBride.
Important Players:
With 18 points, Kayla McBride led the Lynx and made four three-pointers in pivotal situations.
Recently acquired by Minnesota, DiJonai Carrington scored 15 points off the bench, including eight during a decisive run in the third quarter. Carrington also contributed a block, two steals, three assists, and six rebounds.
Off the bench, Natisha Hiedeman scored 13 points and provided vitality during crucial Game periods.
Game Flow:
After a fiercely contested first half, New York led 38–36 at the half.
Before Minnesota’s game-changing 24-point run over six minutes, which included five Lynx three-pointers and a three-point play, New York had a 47-40 lead early in the third quarter. Minnesota led 66-57 going into the fourth after this change put them ahead 64-54.
Minnesota’s momentum was largely driven by Carrington’s defense and transition scoring, which helped them reach a maximum lead of 16 points in the last period.
Absent Stars:
Napheesa Collier, the MVP candidate, was sidelined for Minnesota’s game due to an ankle sprain.
Breanna Stewart, the two-time MVP, was absent from New York due to a bruised right knee bone.
Stat Highlights:
With eight points, nine rebounds, seven assists, four steals, and three blocks, Alanna Smith had a solid all-around performance.
The Lynx dominated a stretch of the second half in which they outscored New York 25–6, forcing 18 Liberty turnovers and turning them into 22 points.
With 14 points, Natasha Cloud led New York.
Context:
The victory was significant for the Lynx because it was their first meeting at Barclays Center since New York’s decisive Game 5 victory in the 2024 championship.
Due to odd scheduling, the teams are playing four games in three weeks, and the Lynx have so far dominated their head-to-head matches.
With New York behind by a number of games, the victory cemented Minnesota’s hold on the top spot in the WNBA standings.
Extra Events:
Before the game, a video tribute was given to Jaylyn Sherrod, a former guard for Liberty who is currently with Minnesota.
At halftime, New York honored other alumni and inducted former star Tari Phillips into its ring of honor.
In a game influenced by injuries and recent playoff history, Minnesota defeated the shorthanded Liberty thanks to a strong defense, clutch bench play, and astute second-half shooting.
Trump to Nominate Stephen Miran to Temporary Fed Board Seat as Economic Adviser via Getty Images
Stephen Miran, the current chair of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, has been nominated by President Donald Trump to temporarily fill a vacancy on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors until January 31, 2026.
Key Details Include:
Governor Adriana Kugler’s early resignation created the Fed Board vacancy, even though her 14-year term was scheduled to expire in January 2026. The remaining six months or so of Miran’s term will be spent in office.
Stephen Miran, a former Treasury Department employee during Trump’s first term as president, is well-known for endorsing Trump’s economic policies, such as tariffs and tax cuts.
Trump has stated that he wants the Fed to reduce interest rates and has criticized Fed Chair Jerome Powell for keeping them constant. Miran is anticipated to closely adhere to Trump’s economic philosophy.
Although the Senate must confirm Miran’s appointment, this nomination represents Trump’s first chance to influence the leadership of the Federal Reserve during his current term.
Beginning early next year, Trump and the White House are still looking for a permanent Fed board candidate, possibly for the next full 14-year term.
Jerome Powell will stay on the board until 2028, but his term as Fed Chair is anticipated to expire in May of next year. It’s unclear if Miran or another candidate will take Powell’s place as Chair.
Conclusion
Stephen Miran will serve as a temporary Fed Board member until the end of January 2026, providing Trump with a temporary platform to influence Fed policy in the midst of ongoing monetary and economic discussions. Senate approval of the nomination is still pending.
Recently, Justin Timberlake revealed that he had been diagnosed with Lyme disease, raising awareness of this dangerous but frequently misdiagnosed condition. The following contains all of the information regarding his announcement and the condition:
What Justin Timberlake Shared:
According to Justin Timberlake, he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that is mainly spread by the bite of an infected black-legged tick, commonly referred to as a deer tick. He talked about the difficulties he has had managing his symptoms and how the illness has affected his day-to-day activities and professional life.
About Lyme Disease:
Borrelia burgdorferi is the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. Flu-like symptoms and a distinctive “bull’s-eye” rash close to the tick bite site are frequently the first signs. The infection can spread to the heart, nervous system, joints, and other areas of the body if treatment is not received, which could result in more severe health issues.
Common Symptoms:
Headache, chills, fever, and fatigue
Joint aches and muscle
Swollen lymph nodes
Bull’s-eye rash, also known as erythema migrans rash, occurs in roughly 70–80% of cases.
Arthritis, neurological disorders, heart palpitations, and cognitive problems are examples of later-stage symptoms.
Treatment and Recovery:
Antibiotics are the standard treatment for Lyme disease, and they can successfully eradicate the infection, particularly if detected early. Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) is a persistent condition that can necessitate further care for certain patients with advanced symptoms or delayed diagnosis.
Justin Timberlake’s Message:
By urging people to take tick precautions seriously, including applying repellent, dressing in protective gear in grassy or wooded areas, and checking for ticks after being outside, Timberlake used his platform to increase awareness of Lyme disease. Additionally, he underlined how critical early diagnosis and treatment are.
Why This Matters:
Because its symptoms can be mistaken for those of other illnesses, Lyme disease, which affects hundreds of thousands of people in the United States each year, is frequently ignored or misdiagnosed. The public’s understanding of Lyme disease is enhanced and the stigma associated with it is lessened when celebrities like Justin Timberlake share their personal stories.
A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake off the eastern coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on July 29, 2025 (July 30 local time) triggered a wave of tsunami warnings and advisories throughout the Pacific, with the most significant effects occurring in Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, and Russia’s own Far East.
Earthquake Details:
Magnitude: 8.8 (updated from initial reports of 8.0–8.7)
Epicenter: About 136 kilometers (85 miles) east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia
Depth: Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) below the ocean floor
Type: Megathrust earthquake on the subduction zone interface, which has historically been a hot spot for strong earthquakes, where the Pacific Plate plunges beneath the Okhotsk Sea Plate.
Immediate Impacts in Russia
Cities close to the epicenter, such as Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, experienced violent shaking.
There were brief power outages, swinging cars in the streets, broken glass, and toppled furniture for the residents.
In preparation for the tsunami, some coastal regions in the Far East of Russia experienced emergency evacuations.
Although there were no initial reports of casualties, some buildings had structural damage.
Areas at Risk and Tsunami Warning
Hawaii: Sirens sounded throughout the islands as part of an official tsunami warning. Orders to evacuate along the coast were promptly carried out. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center warned that tsunami waves could hit all Hawaiian Island shores, possibly encircling and flooding coastal areas, necessitating immediate action to save lives and property.
Alaska: A tsunami warning was issued for portions of the Aleutian Islands, and advisories were issued for a sizable portion of the state’s southern coast. The waves might come in a few hours.
Japan: As the magnitude of the earthquake became clearer, the Japanese meteorological agency upgraded its initial forecast and issued a tsunami advisory. Vulnerable coastal residents were ordered to evacuate as waves as high as 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) were predicted in some areas.
Other Pacific Locations: Guam and portions of Micronesia, as well as the U.S. West Coast (California, Oregon, and Washington), were all under warning and advisory, and they were all kept an eye out for any indications of impending tsunami activity.
Effects of Tsunami and Emergency Communications
By 7:17 p.m. local time, the first potential tsunami waves could arrive on the islands, according to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. It was underlined that dangerous surges might persist for several hours following the initial impact and that not all waves would be the biggest.
Because tsunami waves propagate in a circle and wrap around islands, all shores, regardless of orientation, were deemed vulnerable.
Even after the first wave, people were cautioned not to go near the coast or river mouths because later waves are frequently stronger or higher.
Historical and Tectonic Context
Since the 2011 Tōhoku (Japan) tragedy, the 2025 Kamchatka earthquake has been the strongest in the world.
The area’s seismic vulnerability is highlighted by the region’s notable history of massive earthquakes and tsunamis, including the 1952 Kamchatka event.
Emergency Response and Persistent Circumstances
Pacific-wide civil defense officials advised locals to evacuate to higher ground and stay away from all low-lying coastal areas.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, USGS, and local agencies continue to monitor, provide regular updates, and assess incoming wave heights; emergency services in affected countries are still on high alert.
Summary Table: Key Facts
Aspect
Details
Date & Time
July 29, 2025 (July 30 local time, 23:24 UTC)
Location
Off Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia (136km ESE of Petropavlovsk)
Magnitude
8.8
Tsunami Warnings
Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, Russia, Guam, U.S. Pacific Coast
Tsunami Arrival
Hawaii: ~7:17p.m. HST
Notable Effects
Severe shaking, coastal evacuations, strong/unusual ocean currents
This incident emphasizes how crucial it is for the Pacific basin to have emergency preparedness, public alert systems, and quick earthquake and tsunami detection.
On July 25, 2025, the Colorado Rockies officially traded third baseman Ryan McMahon to the New York Yankees. The Yankees traded two pitching prospects to the Rockies: Josh Grosz, a right-handed pitcher, and Griffin Herring, a left-handed pitcher.
Player profiles and trade details:
Ryan McMahon:
Age: 30 years
Position: Third baseman
Batting: Left-handed hitter
Contract: McMahon has a $32 million contract that expires in 2027 ($16 million per season for two additional years).
Performance: Going into 2025, McMahon had a string of four straight seasons with 20 or more home runs, demonstrating his consistency as a power hitter. Despite having 16 home runs and a lower batting average of.217 this season, he is renowned for his strong power, plate discipline, and first base defense. He is regarded as one of MLB’s better defensive third basemen and was named an All-Star in 2024.
Justification for the Trade:
Oswald Peraza’s lackluster offensive output (.147 batting average in 2025) left the Yankees in dire need at third base.
At a crucial infield position, McMahon gives the Yankees a veteran defensive upgrade and a left-handed bat.
Eugenio Suarez, another third base target who was a rental option and not under a long-term contract, was also traded, suggesting the Yankees had given up on him.
Sending Prospects to Rockies:
Griffin Herring: One of the Yankees’ top 10 prospects, he is a highly regarded left-handed pitcher. His 1.71 ERA and high strikeout rates have made him an impressive minor league pitcher.
Right-handed pitching prospect Josh Grosz is less well-known than Herring despite having respectable numbers and playing in a lower minor league level.
Strategic ramifications:
By signing a manageable veteran contract, McMahon helps the Yankees fill a noticeable void at third base and improves their postseason roster in a fierce AL wild card race.
The Rockies, who have the worst record in Major League Baseball this season, are continuing to rebuild by acquiring young, talented pitchers who will help them in the future.
Additional Context:
McMahon leads the league in strikeouts but makes up for it with power and is headed for his fifth season with 20 or more home runs.
The Yankees, who now have a wild card spot, wanted to improve their defense and lineup in the final stretch of the season.
Summary
This trade addresses New York’s immediate need for a strong, left-handed third baseman with solid defense while sending two pitching prospects to the rebuilding Rockies, who value youth and potential over veteran presence.
The Most Recent Development in a Prolonged Argument
In a social media post, President Donald Trump threatened to revoke Rosie O’Donnell’s U.S. citizenship, rekindling their decades-long feud. O’Donnell recently moved to Ireland with her child, and Trump called her a “threat to humanity” and advised her to stay there.
“Because of the fact that Rosie O’Donnell is not in the best interests of our Great Country, I am giving serious consideration to taking away her Citizenship. She is a Threat to Humanity, and should remain in the wonderful Country of Ireland, if they want her. “GOD BLESS AMERICA!” — President Trump on Truth Social
What Caused the Most Recent Attack?
The president’s comments followed O’Donnell’s criticism of his administration’s handling of the devastating floods in Texas that killed more than 100 people. O’Donnell claimed in a TikTok video that the government’s poor disaster forecasting and response was caused by Trump’s budget cuts to scientific and environmental organizations.
“What a horror story in Texas. And you know, when the president guts all the early warning systems and the weather forecast abilities of the government, these are the results that we’re gonna start to see on a daily basis.” — Rosie O’Donnell
O’Donnell, who relocated to Ireland earlier this year, has expressed openly her disenchantment with American politics and her worries for her family’s welfare.
Can a President Deprive Someone of Their Citizenship?
Despite Trump’s threats, legal experts point out that a president cannot take away a person’s U.S. citizenship. The Supreme Court’s rulings and the U.S. Constitution make it abundantly evident that the executive branch cannot unilaterally deny citizenship.
Since Rosie O’Donnell was born in New York, her citizenship cannot be revoked by a presidential decree in the United States.
A U.S. citizen can only lose their citizenship voluntarily or if they obtained it fraudulently, neither of which is the case in this case.
Democrats Grab the Opportunity
Democrats now have another opportunity to attack Trump’s administration’s stance on civil liberties and dissent because of his threat. Many believe that the incident exemplifies Trump’s readiness to target political rivals and suppress criticism by abusing his official authority.
Important Things for Democrats to Know:
Attack on Free Speech: The threat is perceived as an assault on the freedom of expression and the right to dissent.
Using citizenship as a weapon: Democrats contend that threatening to take away citizenship in response to criticism creates a risky precedent.
Distraction from Policy Failures: According to some, the action is meant to divert attention away from current issues, such as the administration’s handling of recent natural disasters and other political scandals.
Rosie O’Donnell’s Response
On social media, O’Donnell reaffirmed her opposition to Trump’s administration and referred to him as a “criminal con man” and a “disgrace.” She stressed that she moved because she wanted to protect her family and get away from what she said was a more hostile political environment.
The Broader Context
This incident is the most recent in nearly two decades of public conflicts between Trump and O’Donnell. Their conflict has frequently been portrayed in the media, with Trump launching personal attacks in response to O’Donnell’s critiques of his policies and character.
Conclusion
Although legally baseless, Trump’s threat to revoke Rosie O’Donnell’s citizenship has political significance. It highlights the stark differences in American politics and gives Democrats new grounds to attack the president’s adherence to civil liberties and constitutional principles.
Sachin Shankar Yadav 
