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October 1, 2025.

FILE - Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic dribbles during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Feb. 12, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billings, File)

Miami Heat, Nikola Jovic agree on 4-year extension, AP source says

The Miami Heat and forward Nikola Jovic have agreed on a four-year, $62.4 million extension. This commitment comes after Jovic’s steady improvement over three seasons. He averaged 10.7 points last season. The deal was confirmed by a source on Wednesday night, though the contract isn’t signed yet. Jovic was working with the Serbian national team this summer, and the Heat expect his role to grow this season. Coach Erik Spoelstra praised his maturity and professionalism. The Heat had until October 20 to finalize the extension, or Jovic would have become a restricted free agent next summer.

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FILE - People rally outside the Supreme Court in support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA), in Washington, Nov. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

Federal government could resume taking DACA applications for permits to live and work in U.S.

Expected changes to a six-year-old lawsuit in Texas against DACA could mean the federal government will resume taking new applications for the program that offers people without legal immigration status two-year, renewable permits to live and work in the U.S. legally. The proposal was filed in a Houston federal court by the federal government working to comply with a previous order from a higher appellate court. U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen could issue an order based on the proposal or make other changes. His decision is expected in several weeks; meanwhile, immigrant advocates encourage applicants to prepare cautiously.

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New York Yankees Jazz Chisholm Jr. dives into home plate to score on a hit by Austin Wells against the Boston Red Sox during the eighth inning of Game 2 of an American League wild-card baseball playoff series, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Yankees edge rival Red Sox 4-3 to send AL Wild Card Series to decisive Game 3

Jazz Chisholm Jr. zipped all the way home from first base on Austin Wells’ tiebreaking single in the eighth inning, and the New York Yankees extended their season with a 4-3 victory over the Boston Red Sox in Game 2 of their AL Wild Card Series. Unhappy he was left out of the starting lineup in the opener, Chisholm also made a couple of critical defensive plays at second base that helped the Yankees send the best-of-three playoff to a decisive Game 3 on Thursday night in the Bronx. In the latest chapter of baseball’s most storied rivalry, the winner advances to face AL East champion Toronto in a best-of-five Division Series beginning Saturday.

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Democratic state House Speaker Javier Martínez, center back, of Albuquerque, N.M., takes his seat at the opening of a special legislative session about proposals to shore up safety net spending in response to President Donald Trump's recent cuts, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Morgan Lee)

New Mexico legislators rush to shore up safety net programs after federal cuts

New Mexico legislators are pushing to shore up safety-net spending in response to President Donald Trump’s spending and tax cuts, in a state with one of the highest enrollment rates for Medicaid and federal food assistance. In a special legislative session Wednesday, legislators sought out new state spending on food assistance, while Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is calling for a quick response to federal Medicaid cuts. Leading Democratic legislators also want to backfill federal spending cuts to public broadcasting. New Mexico could also become the latest state to break with the federal government on vaccine policy and recommendations.

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San Diego Padres' Manny Machado is reacts after hitting a two-run home run during the fifth inning of Game 2 of a National League wild card baseball game Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

Machado and Miller star as the Padres beat the Cubs 3-0 in Game 2 of their NL Wild Card Series

Manny Machado hit a two-run homer, Mason Miller dominated again and the San Diego Padres beat the Chicago Cubs 3-0 to send their NL Wild Card Series to a decisive third game. Jackson Merrill hit an early sacrifice fly as San Diego avoided elimination after losing 3-1 on Tuesday. Dylan Cease struck out five in 3 2/3 innings before handing the ball to his team’s hard-throwing bullpen. The finale of the best-of-three series is back at Wrigley Field on Thursday. The playoff-tested Padres are looking for a repeat of 2020, when they dropped Game 1 in the wild-card round before advancing with two straight victories against St. Louis. Machado also homered in Game 2 of that series.

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FILE - A statement is made after the Bryan Kohberger sentencing July 23, 2025, outside of the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho. (AP Photo/Drew Nash, File)

Idaho judge bars the release of graphic photos from crime scene where Bryan Kohberger killed 4

A judge in Idaho is blocking the release of graphic photos taken by investigators after Bryan Kohberger killed four University of Idaho students in 2022. Second District Judge Megan Marshall made the decision on Wednesday. She said that allowing the images to spread across the internet would be an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy that would cause the victims’ families to experience extreme emotional distress. The city of Moscow has been ordered to redact any portions of the images that show the victims’ bodies or nearby blood. Other investigation records, including videos, can be released. Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life without parole in July for the murders. The case drew worldwide attention, leading to numerous requests for public records.

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San Diego Padres' Robert Suarez and Freddy Fermin celebrate after Game 2 of a National League wild card baseball game against the Chicago Cubs Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

Mason Miller reaches 104.5 mph as San Diego’s bullpen shuts down the Cubs in Game 2 victory

Mason Miller’s last two pitches to Seiya Suzuki in the seventh inning were clocked at 102.1 and 102.7 mph. Suzuki swung and missed at the last one for strike three. It turns out Miller was only warming up. The 6-foot-5 right-hander played a starring role in a dominant performance by San Diego’s bullpen in a 3-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs, sending their NL Wild Card Series to a decisive third game. Miller came in after Adrian Morejon pitched 2 1/3 perfect innings in relief of Dylan Cease. After fanning Suzuki, he reached 104.5 mph on a called third strike to Carson Kelly that was the fastest pitch in the postseason since Statcast started tracking in 2008.

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Cleveland Guardians center fielder Chase DeLauter misses a ball hit by Detroit Tigers' Gleyber Torres for a fielding error in the first inning of Game 2 of the American League Wild Card baseball playoff series in Cleveland, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/David Dermer)

Cleveland’s DeLauter drops fly ball in center on first ball in majors before making key play in 4th

Chase DeLauter had an eventful first four innings to his major league career. DeLauter dropped the first fly ball hit to him but later made a great throw to retire a Detroit baserunner during the fourth inning of Wednesday’s Game 2 of the AL Wild Card Series. The rookie center fielder is the first Cleveland player to make his big league debut in a postseason game. It wasn’t a great start though. DeLauter dropped a high fly hit to center by Detroit’s Gleyber Torres during the first inning

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This photo provided by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts on Feb. 26, 2025. (ICE via AP)

Iowa district hired superintendent despite false Morgan State doctorate claim on his resume

The superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district, who was detained last week by immigration agents, falsely claimed a doctoral degree when applying for the job two years ago but was hired even after the school board learned about the misrepresentation. Ian Roberts, who immigration authorities say was living and working in the U.S. illegally and who resigned this week as Des Moines’ superintendent of schools, claimed in his 2023 application that he received a doctorate in urban educational leadership from Morgan State University in 2007, according to documents The Associated Press obtained through a public records request. Although Roberts was enrolled in that doctorate program from 2002 to 2007, the school confirmed that he didn’t receive that degree.

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Bear walked into southern Arizona grocery store and ran around for a few minutes

A bear surprised shoppers at a southern Arizona grocery store when it walked through the front door and ran around inside for a few minutes before exiting the building. Right before entering the store on Monday, the animal bumped up against the automatic doors and managed to eventually walk in. A video showed a man looking for the bear inside the store. After peering down at his phone, the man looked up to find the bear within several feet of him. The bear ran away from the man. Authorities lost track of the bear after it left the store.

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Arizona Democratic candidate Adelita Grijalva listens to her children speak at the stage podium after being declared the winner against Republican Daniel Butierez, to fill the Congressional District 7 seat held by the late U.S. Rep. Raúl Grijalva in a special election Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Newly elected Arizona lawmaker has yet to be sworn into office, as House Democrats welcome her

A week after her decisive win in an Arizona special election for the U.S. House, Democrat Adelita Grijalva has yet to take office. With the House out of session, her swearing in has been delayed. That has left her without an office, a desk, staff — something of an unofficial new member of Congress. “It’s very frustrating,” she told The Associated Press. The delay plays out as Republicans work to carry out President Donald Trump’s agenda in Congress, where they hold narrow majorities in both the House and Senate. Grijalva is lending her support to a petition to release the Justice Department files on the late Jeffrey Epstein. Her support could force a vote.

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Cleveland Guardians Brayan Rocchio reacts as he rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run in the eighth inning of Game 2 of the American League Wild Card baseball playoff series against the Detroit Tigers in Cleveland, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025. Umpire Vic Carapazza looks on at right. (AP Photo/David Dermer)

Rocchio, Naylor power 5-run eighth inning as Guardians beat Tigers 6-1 to even AL Wild Card Series

Brayan Rocchio and Bo Naylor homered during a five-run eighth inning and the Cleveland Guardians evened their AL Wild Card Series against the Detroit Tigers with a 6-1 victory in Game 2. George Valera also went deep as the Guardians forced a deciding game in the best-of-three series. The winner Thursday faces the Seattle Mariners in a Division Series. Javier Báez had two hits and an RBI for the Tigers, who were 1 for 15 with runners in scoring position and left 15 on base.

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Vice President JD Vance, gestures as he stands with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, right, while speaking with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Both parties blame each other on 1st day of government shutdown as tourist sites close

The government shutdown has sparked intense political battles, with both parties blaming each other even as major job cuts — and major disruptions to iconic sites like the Liberty Bell and Pearl Harbor — have begun taking hold. The Trump administration falsely accused Democrats of blocking a stopgap measure to extend health coverage to people in the country illegally. Democrats countered by saying they want to renew health care subsidies to prevent insurance premium spikes. Neither side shows signs of backing down, even though the shutdown could impact many important public services. Pre-shutdown polling showed mixed opinions on who is to blame, though attitudes could shift the longer it goes.

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People stand near an entrance to Zion National Park, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in Springdale, Utah. (AP Photo/John Locher)

National parks will remain ‘generally’ open during the shutdown, but Liberty Bell doors are closed

Crowds of people loaded onto boats to tour the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with no immediate signs of the government shutdown that is triggering the furlough of about two-thirds of National Park Service employees. But in Philadelphia, tourists on Independence Mall on Wednesday were thwarted from touring the Liberty Bell. They could only steal glances of it inside a glass pavilion. A shutdown contingency plan released by the park service late Tuesday says parks will generally remain accessible to visitors. Parks without “accessible areas” will be closed, and sites currently open could close if damage is done to park resources.

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FILE - New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo attends a ceremony at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Aug. 3, 2020 at the World Trade Center in New York. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)

Former New York Gov. Cuomo apologizes to Jewish community for his COVID-19 response

Andrew Cuomo is apologizing to New York City’s Jewish community for his response to the COVID-19 pandemic when he was governor. In a video that circulated online Wednesday, the mayoral candidate says he was acting to “protect health and save lives” but did not “always fully consider the sensitivities and traditions that are so deeply important.” The apology is a rare retreat from Cuomo on his response to the coronavirus, which included closing schools and limiting attendance at houses of worship and other gatherings. He has otherwise heralded his pandemic leadership as a prime example of his managerial competence.

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A man hugs a police officer in front of the American Fish Company following a fatal shooting that occurred the night before, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, in Southport, N.C. (AP Photo/Chris Seward)

Authorities identify those killed in weekend North Carolina bar shooting

The three people killed in a mass shooting at a waterfront bar last weekend in Southport, North Carolina, have been identified. Police named Joy Rogers of Southport, Solomon Banjo of Virginia and Michael Durbin of Ohio. Five others were injured in the attack Saturday night. Authorities have arrested a former Marine and charged him with multiple counts of murder, attempted murder and assault. Police allege the suspect used a boat to approach the bar and opened fire on patrons. The investigation is ongoing, and the defendant has not entered a plea.

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House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, of N.Y., walks to a press conference on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Democrats voted for a shutdown. Now they have to find a way out

Senate Democrats kept their promise to reject any Republican spending bill that didn’t extend or restore health care benefits, choosing instead to force a government shutdown. Now they have to figure out how to get out of it. Just hours after the shutdown began, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said that if the Republicans work with them, “the shutdown could go away very quickly.” But that won’t be easy. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, House Speaker Mike Johnson and President Donald Trump have said that they won’t negotiate or be “held hostage” by Democrats demanding concessions to reopen the government.

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FILE - Vanessa Shields-Haas, a nurse practitioner, walks from the lobby toward the examination rooms at the Maine Family Planning healthcare facility, July 15, 2025, in Thomaston, Maine. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, file)

Maine clinics also hit by cuts that targeted Planned Parenthood plan to halt primary care

A network of medical clinics that serves low-income residents in Maine says it is shutting down its primary care operations because of Trump administration cuts to abortion providers. President Donald Trump’s policy and tax bill blocked Medicaid money from Planned Parenthood, the nation’s largest abortion provider. The parameters in the bill also stopped funding from reaching Maine Family Planning, a much smaller provider that also provides other services in the mostly rural state. Maine Family Planning said Wednesday it has informed its nearly 1,000 primary care patients that it will no longer be providing that service starting Oct. 31.

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This undated photo released by the Tennessee Department of Correction shows Christa Pike. (Tennessee Department of Correction via AP)

Tennessee court sets execution date for the state’s only woman on death row and 3 male inmates

The Tennessee Supreme Court has set execution dates for four people, including the only woman in the state on death row. Christa Pike received the death sentence at age 18 for the 1995 torture slaying of Colleen Slemmer, who was a fellow Job Corps student. Pike’s attorneys previously asked the state’s high court to commute her sentence based on her youth and “severe mental illness at the time of her crime.” The court also set execution dates for Tony Carruthers, Gary Sutton and Anthony Hines. Tennessee began a new round of executions in May after a three-year pause following the discovery that the state was not properly testing its lethal injection drugs.

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FILE - Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gives a policy speech at an event, April 9, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer casts doubt on a 2028 presidential bid

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has hinted that she may not be interested in running for president in 2028. Whitmer was asked during a moderated discussion Wednesday if she is thinking about the Democratic nomination for president in 2028. While she sees herself helping, “I don’t know if I’m going to be the person,” she said. Whitmer is in her final two years as governor and cannot run again because of term limits. She has long been seen as a potential presidential candidate. Whitmer has several challenges in front of her. Michigan lawmakers just passed a one-week continuing budget to keep the state government operational after months of bitter disagreement. Additionally, U.S. tariffs on Canada are hurting auto manufacturing.

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A pharmacist gives a patient a flu shot in Miami on Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Daniel Kozin)

It’s time get a flu vaccination. Here’s who needs one and why

It’s flu vaccine time again. After last winter, when the U.S. saw the highest number of flu-related child deaths in 15 years, pediatricians are urging the public to get them. October is the ideal month, as flu typically begins climbing in November. The U.S. recommends a yearly flu vaccination for just about everyone age 6 months and older. And a first this year, certain people can vaccinate themselves at home, if they qualify for a shipment of the nasal spray vaccine FluMist. Flu is particularly dangerous for older people, pregnant women and young children — plus anyone with a chronic health problem such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.

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FILE - Rapper Sheff G, also known as Michael Williams, right, joins then Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump during a campaign rally in the Bronx borough of New York on May. 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File)

New York rapper who joined Trump at campaign rally sentenced to 5 years for attempted murder

A New York City rapper who joined President Donald Trump during a campaign rally last year has been sentenced to five years behind bars after pleading guilty to attempted murder and conspiracy charges. Sheff G, whose legal name is Michael Williams, had agreed on the sentence with the judge when the rapper pleaded guilty earlier this year. He was sentenced Wednesday. Prosecutors say Sheff G used his music earnings to fuel gang violence in Brooklyn. They say Sheff G also acted as a getaway driver in one shooting and lavished money, jewelry and other rewards on gang members.

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After seeing his first college football game action, Lycoming College nose tackle Tom Cillo (40) and teammates celebrate a 23-16 win over King's College in an NCAA Division III junior varsity college football game in Williamsport, Pa., Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

At 58, Tom Cillo is tackling his dream of playing college football

Tom Cillo, a 58-year-old freshman at Lycoming College, has become a college football player. He recently made his debut as a nose tackle during a junior varsity game against King’s College. Cillo, who had never played football before, decided to pursue his dream last spring after saying he was tired of living with regret. Despite the physical and financial risks, Cillo is determined to succeed. He balances school, football, and caring for his mother. Cillo hopes his story inspires others to pursue their dreams, no matter their age.

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FILE - A collection of gold coins is displayed at a shop in the St. Vincent Jewelry Center in the Jewelry District of Los Angeles, April 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, file)

Gold prices soar to new records amid US government shutdown

As uncertainty deepens amid the U.S. government’s first shutdown in almost seven years, the gold frenzy continues to climb to new heights. The going price for New York spot gold hit a record $3,858.45 per troy ounce  — the standard for measuring precious metals — as of market close Tuesday, ahead of the shutdown beginning overnight. And futures continued to climb on Wednesday, dancing with the $3,900 mark as of midday trading. Gold sales can rise sharply when anxious investors seek “safe havens” for parking their money. Before Wednesday, the asset — and other metals, like silver — have seen wider gains over the last year, particularly with President Donald Trump’s barrage of tariffs plunging much of the world into economic uncertainty.

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The American flag over the Capitol is illuminated by the early morning light on the first day of a government shutdown, in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Federal shutdown cuts off economic data vital to policymakers and investors

The government shutdown will deprive policymakers and investors of economic data vital to their decision-making at a time of unusual uncertainty about the direction of the U.S. economy. The absence will be felt almost immediately, as the government’s monthly jobs report scheduled for release Friday will likely be delayed. If the shutdown is short-lived, it won’t be very disruptive. But if the release of economic data is delayed for several weeks or longer, it could pose challenges, particularly for the Federal Reserve. The Fed is grappling with where to set a key interest rate at a time of conflicting signals, and the Fed may have little new data to analyze before its next meeting later this month.

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A sign announces that the Library of Congress is closed, on the first day of a partial government shutdown, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Who might be blamed for the government shutdown? A poll shows voters’ complicated views

President Donald Trump got a significant amount of blame during the last partial government shutdown, which took place toward the end of his first term after he forced a shutdown over border wall funding — but with Democrats embracing the shutdown fight this time, the outcome could be different. A New York Times Poll conducted prior to the shutdown shows that most voters didn’t want Democrats to shut down the government if their demands were not met, although both parties could end up receiving some blame. About one-quarter of registered voters said they would blame Donald Trump and the Republicans in Congress if a shutdown happened, while about 2 in 10 said they would place blame on congressional Democrats. About one-third said they’d blame both sides equally.

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Stephen King is the most banned author in US schools, PEN report says

A new report on book bans in U.S. schools finds Stephen King as the author most likely to be censored. PEN America’s “Banned in the USA,” released Wednesday, tracks over 6,800 instances of books being pulled for the 2024-2025 school year. This number is down from over 10,000 in 2023-24. Around 80% of these bans originated in Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. Meanwhile, states like Maryland and New Jersey have laws limiting book removals. According to PEN, King’s books were censored 206 times, with “Carrie” and “The Stand” among the affected works. Reasons for bans often include LGBTQ+ themes and depictions of race.

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Jane Fonda revives Cold War-era activist group to defend free speech

Jane Fonda has revived an activist group from the Cold War era, originally backed by her father, Henry Fonda. On Wednesday, she announced the launch of a modern version of the Committee for the First Amendment. This group was initially formed in 1947 to support screenwriters and directors targeted for alleged Communist ties. The new mission statement is signed by Florence Pugh, Sean Penn, Billie Eilish, Pedro Pascal and hundreds of others. The Fondas have a long history of activism, with Jane opposing the Vietnam War and Henry supporting Democratic candidates.

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After seeing his first college football game action, Lycoming College nose tackle Tom Cillo (40) and teammates celebrate a 23-16 win over King's College in an NCAA Division III junior varsity college football game in Williamsport, Pa., Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

At 58, Tom Cillo is tackling his dream of playing college football

Tom Cillo, a 58-year-old freshman at Lycoming College, has become a college football player. He recently made his debut as a nose tackle during a junior varsity game against King’s College. Cillo, who had never played football before, decided to pursue his dream last spring after saying he was tired of living with regret. Despite the physical and financial risks, Cillo is determined to succeed. He balances school, football, and caring for his mother. Cillo hopes his story inspires others to pursue their dreams, no matter their age.

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Daniel Day-Lewis, pulled out of retirement by his son, finds his acting fire still burns

It’s been eight years since Daniel Day-Lewis announced his retirement from acting and said he wanted to “explore the world in a different way.” But the big-screen absence of the actor many would peg as the greatest one alive ends with “Anemone,” a new film directed by his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. The two of them wrote it together. What began as something small, with no real ambitions, grew until a feature film and Day-Lewis’ long-awaited return to movies. In an interview alongside Ronan, Day-Lewis discussed the misunderstood mythology surrounding him, how “Anemone” reawakened his hunger to act and why he liked starting from scratch so much.

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Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel passes for a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Rookie Dillon Gabriel selected as Browns starting QB after Joe Flacco is benched

Rookie Dillon Gabriel will get his first NFL start on Sunday when the Cleveland Browns face the Minnesota Vikings in London. The Browns are benching Joe Flacco after he struggled to lead the offense in the first four games. Cleveland is 1-3 and ranked next-to-last in scoring, averaging 14 points per game. The team has scored 17 points or fewer in nine straight games. Gabriel will be the fifth different starting QB in 10 games. Gabriel was selected in the third round of April’s draft. He has seen action in two games and has completed three of four passes for 19 yards and a touchdown.

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House Democrats prepare to speak on the steps of the Capitol to insist that Republicans include an extension of expiring health care benefits as part of a government funding compromise, in Washington, Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Looming health insurance spikes for millions are at the heart of the government shutdown

The federal government’s shut down centers around Democrats insisting that any deal addressing their health care demands and Republicans saying those negotiations can wait until the government is funded. At issue are tax credits that have made health insurance through the Affordable Care Act more attainable for millions of people but are set to expire at the end of the year. Democrats also want to reverse Medicaid cuts passed this summer that would result in millions losing the federal health insurance coverage. Democrats have insisted the ACA subsidies be extended immediately as health insurance enrollees begin to get notices of higher costs next year. Republicans have offered to negotiate on the matter, but only after the government is funded.

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The Rev. John Bettin, rector of the National Shrine of The Little Flower Basilica, looks at a relic of St. Thérèse of Lisieux inside the basilica Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, in Royal Oak, Mich. (AP Photo/Mike Householder)

St. Thérèse’s relics begin tour of US with stop at Michigan parish named for beloved French nun

The sacred bones of a much-loved French Carmelite nun began a tour of the U.S. at a suburban Detroit parish named in her honor. Many worshippers arrived hours in advance to catch a glimpse of the relics of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. They will be display at the National Shrine of The Little Flower Basilica in Royal Oak, Michigan, through Oct. 8, before moving on to California and other states. St. Thérèse’s relics also came from France to the U.S. in 1999. Tens of thousands visited Royal Oak that year during a one-day stay. Now, a quarter-century later, they are back on The Little Flower’s feast day.

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Connecting Acts of Kindness

Wildfire Labs grad launches platform to wipe out medical debt By Michelle Pawelski In December 2020, Tamara Morrow opened her mailbox to find a letter that would change her life. It wasn’t another bill, but the opposite — a letter stating that her medical debt had been paid off by a local church. “There was […]

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A customer reaches for a loaf of Marketside brand bread at a Walmart Neighborhood Market, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in Bentonville, Ark. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Walmart plans to remove artificial colors and other food additives from store brands by 2027

Walmart says it plans to remove synthetic dyes and 30 other food additives from its store brands sold in the United States by January 2027. The move announced by the the nation’s largest retailer on Wednesday amounts to an acknowledgment that American consumers and the U.S. government under President Donald Trump are paying attention to what goes into packaged foods. Walmart says its goal would affect about 1,000 products, including salty snacks, baked goods, power drinks, salad dressings and frosting. Several of the ingredients on Walmart’s removal list, however, already are banned, not widely used or have not been used in the U.S. food supply for decades.

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FILE - Colorado Rockies general manager Bill Schmidt watches batting practice prior to a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/Geneva Heffernan, File)

Rockies GM Bill Schmidt steps down after one of the worst seasons in MLB history

The Colorado Rockies say general manager Bill Schmidt has stepped down after one of the worst seasons in major league history. The team is now searching for his replacement. Schmidt, who joined the Rockies in 1999 and became GM in 2021, oversaw a third consecutive 100-loss season. The Rockies finished 43-119, narrowly avoiding the worst record since 1961. Executive vice president Walker Monfort says the team aims to find a leader with a fresh perspective. The new GM will decide on the next manager, with Warren Schaeffer currently serving as interim skipper. The Rockies face challenges, including a struggling starting rotation.

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A goat wearing a geofence collar walks on a ski slope at Jay Peak Resort, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025 in Jay, Vt. (AP Photo/Amanda Swinhart)

Livestock landscaping: Vermont ski areas employ goats and sheep to clear the slopes

Domestic goats are reaching new heights on Vermont’s ski slopes. Magic Mountain in southern Vermont used goats to clear its slopes of vegetation last year, and Jay Peak, near the Canadian border, is using goats and sheep this fall. Over five weeks, they’re expected to clear 25 acres, a small part of the 300 acres that need mowing. Officials say the experiment aims to reduce reliance on gas-powered mowers. The animals wear special collars that connect to an invisible fence, sending data to their owner. Using livestock for landscaping isn’t new, but it’s gaining traction as a sustainable practice.

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FILE - Launch Director Kat Brennan signals for a pilot to go ahead and take off Oct. 7, 2023, during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, N.M. (AP Photo/Roberto E. Rosales, File)

By the numbers: International hot air balloon fiesta to lift off in Albuquerque

Hundreds of thousands of spectators gather over nine days to watch as pilots from around the world take to the skies in colorful hot air balloons. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta kicks off Saturday with a mass ascension that features waves of hot air balloons soaring from a launch field. The annual event has become quite a production over the last five decades. Fiesta attendees can walk among the inflating balloons and talk to pilots, all while scarfing down breakfast burritos and sipping piñon coffee. The roaring propane burners are not enough to drown out the cheers and whistles as the balloons drift upward.

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FILE - CNN CEO Tom Johnson talks about the network's retracted story about U.S. military use of nerve gas against Vietnam War defectors in his office at CNN's headquarters in Atlanta on July 6, 1998. Johnson said, "I regret that I let Ted (Turner) down. This is Ted's creation and I know he is disappointed." (AP Photo/Ric Feld, File)

After accomplishments in politics, media, former CNN chief Tom Johnson makes mental health his cause

After a career as a presidential aide, publisher of two newspapers and CNN president, Tom Johnson has plenty of stories to swap. But Johnson says his primary purpose in writing the memoir “Driven” is to make sure that people know that depression is a treatable illness. It’s something Johnson has been through himself, sinking so low in his final years as publisher of the Los Angeles Times he considered suicide, and made sure there were no guns in his house. In his professional life, Johnson has worked for two of the most influential and complex individuals in public life — President Lyndon Johnson and CNN founder Ted Turner.

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Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane Baz delivers to the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning of a baseball game Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Dodgers lead with 26 pitch clock violations. Baz tops pitchers with 6, Butler heads batters with 3

The Los Angeles Dodgers topped the major leagues with 26 pitch clock violations this season. According to Major League Baseball, the Dodgers committed one more violation than the Mets. Cincinnati and Kansas City tied for the fewest infractions with three each. Overall, there were 465 violations this year, down from 602 last year and 1,048 in 2023 in the first year of the clock. Batters committed 369 violations, while pitchers had 91 and catchers five. There were 35 pitcher disengagement violations, a decrease of one, and five batter timeout violations, the same as in 2024.

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FILE - The Treasury Department building is seen, March 13, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Trump administration imposes sanctions on some Iranian people and firms after UN decision

The U.S. imposes new sanctions on firms and individuals linked to Iran’s missile and military aircraft production. This move supports the United Nations’ recently reimposed sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. On Wednesday, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control named 21 entities and 17 individuals involved in networks across Iran, Hong Kong, and China. The sanctions target those allegedly procuring technology for advanced missile systems and a U.S.-manufactured helicopter. The Trump administration collaborated with various agencies to gather intelligence for these actions. Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, despite international concerns.

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FILE - Journalist Hunter S. Thompson, left, and his wife, Anita Thompson, right, are shown at the Pitkin County Court House during their civil wedding ceremony April 23, 2003, in Aspen, Colo. (AP Photo/Louisa Davidson, File)

Investigators to review the 2005 shooting death of Hunter S. Thompson, which was ruled a suicide

Colorado investigators are reviewing the 2005 shooting death of journalist Hunter S. Thompson, which was ruled a suicide. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release Tuesday that there’s no new evidence suggesting “foul play” in the death of the “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” writer, but that the sheriff’s office sought to review the case at the request of Thompson’s widow, Anita Thompson. Officials said they’re committed to answering “lingering questions” surrounding his death. Anita Thompson told The Associated Press days after her husband’s death that he had been talking about suicide in the months leading up to it. Neither she nor the agencies immediately responded to requests for further information.

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SURF opens applications for 2026 Artist-in-Residence program

LEAD, S.D. (Oct. 1, 2025) — The Sanford Underground Research Facility is accepting applications for its 2026 Artist-in-Residence program, inviting one artist to create work inspired by the science conducted a mile underground in the Black Hills of South Dakota. SURF, the deepest underground laboratory in the United States, hosts experiments spanning physics, biology, geology […]

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Apple TV+ extends its deal to be the exclusive streaming home for ‘Peanuts’ until 2030

Apple TV+ has announced a five-year extension to remain the exclusive streaming home for “Peanuts.” This deal will last until 2030 and includes the classic “Peanuts” library, along with new original series and specials. Apple TV+ first obtained these rights in 2020, including the beloved “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” As part of a holiday tradition, Apple TV+ will offer non-subscribers free streaming of favorites like “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” The platform’s “Peanuts” library continues to grow, featuring shows like “Snoopy in Space” and “The Snoopy Show.”

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Paola Freites, who asked to be identified by her middle name and second last name to protect her family's safety, stands inside the two-bedroom mobile home where she lives with her husband and three children after fleeing persecution in their native Colombia, Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, in Apopka, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Florida was a top destination for immigrants who came to the US under Biden

Florida has seen a significant increase in immigration, with thousands of migrants arriving under former President Joe Biden. Government data obtained by The Associated Press shows that no state was more affected by the immigrant surge under Biden. Florida had 1,271 migrants who arrived from May 2023 to January 2025 for every 100,000 residents, followed by New York, California, Texas and Illinois. Many immigrants have settled in areas like Orlando, drawn by the Latino community and job opportunities. The influx has boosted Florida’s economy, with immigrants contributing to various sectors. However, with President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, many now fear detention. Community organizations have expanded to support the growing immigrant population.

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Hotels and highways are seen around Universal Volcano Bay water park, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Orlando, Fla., which saw an influx of migrants in recent years drawn by warm temperatures, a vibrant migrant community, and plentiful job opportunities. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Where immigrants went during an unprecedented influx at the US border, by the numbers

Salt Lake City, Denver and Fort Myers, Florida, were hot places to settle. California lost some of its appeal. The Associated Press obtained data by state and metropolitan area on self-reported destinations of nearly 2.5 million people who were released in the United States for humanitarian reasons or with notices to appear in immigration court to pursue asylum. They crossed illegally or they came legally through an online appointment app called CBP One. While many may have moved, the data opens a window into how an unprecedented surge in immigration played out across the U.S.

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FILE - Morgan Wallen, left, appears in court to plead guilty to reckless endangerment charges related to throwing a chair off a six-story balcony Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

Morgan Wallen denied throwing chair off bar roof to police in 2024, footage shows

Police video obtained by The Associated Press shows country music star Morgan Wallen denied throwing a chair off a Nashville bar roof before and after his 2024 arrest. Two weeks later, he accepted responsibility on social media, and later pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts of reckless endangerment. The Metro Nashville Police Department released footage of Wallen’s arrest, which shows officers reacting to a broken chair near their cruiser. Witnesses claimed Wallen threw the chair, and police cited video evidence. The video shows Wallen on the phone with bar proprietor and fellow country star Eric Church. He also sings along to a Thomas Rhett song in a police cruiser.

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Texas quarterback Arch Manning (16) celebrates with teammates after he scored a touchdown against Sam Houston State during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

Once Heisman front-runners, QBs Arch Manning and DJ Lagway have become SEC disappointments

Texas’ Arch Manning and Florida’s DJ Lagway opened the season as Heisman Trophy hopefuls. Some even considered them front-runners. The highly touted quarterbacks with TV commercials, endorsement deals and probably as much name, image and likeness money as anyone in college were supposed to be the next great ones at their schools. But a month into the season, Manning and Lagway are two of the most disappointing players in the Southeastern Conference. Manning and Lagway will share the spotlight Saturday when the ninth-ranked Longhorns open SEC play at reeling Florida in the Swamp.

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FILE - The entrance to the Wisconsin Supreme Court chambers is seen in the state Capitol in Madison, Wis., on March 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Todd Richmond, File)

Conservative Wisconsin appeals court judge Maria Lazar is running for state Supreme Court

A conservative Wisconsin appeals court judge is running for an open seat on the battleground state’s Supreme Court. It is currently controlled 4-3 by liberals. Appeals Court Judge Maria Lazar becomes the first conservative to enter the race. Liberal Appeals Court Judge Chris Taylor, a former Democratic state lawmaker, is also running. The race is open after incumbent Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Bradley announced in August that she would not seek another 10-year term. Conservative candidates for the court have lost each of the past two elections by double-digit margins. Both of those races broke national spending records. The liberal candidate won in April despite heavy spending by billionaire Elon Musk.

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President of the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Gianni Infantino speaks at the Global Citizen Awards ceremony, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)

FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets have gone on sale. Here’s how to try to get them

Tickets for next year’s FIFA World Cup officially go on sale Wednesday. Buyers were selected from 4.5 million applicants in a lottery last month. FIFA says winners will be informed by email. The U.S., Canada and Mexico automatically qualify as hosts, but the full schedule and locations won’t be finalized until December. Despite uncertainties, fans are eager to secure tickets. FIFA President Gianni Infantino calls it a strong statement of global passion for soccer. The U.S. State Department advises travelers needing visas to apply now. Additional ticket phases and promotions are planned in the coming months.

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Taylor Swift’s ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ is almost here. Here’s what to know

Lights, camera, action. Taylor Swift’s 12th studio album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” arrives Friday. Are you ready for it? Swift announced her latest era back in August, when she began teasing the release. It will be available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. There are also a number of variants, including vinyl, CD and cassette offerings. There is even an iTunes digital download featuring a new cover image and a nearly three-minute exclusive video from Taylor herself detailing inspirations behind the album.

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New York Yankees pitcher Luke Weaver reacts as he walks off the field after giving up two runs to the Boston Red Sox during the seventh inning of Game 1 of an American League wild-card baseball playoff series, Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Boone defends his moves after Yankees bullpen falters again in playoff-opening loss to the Red Sox

The New York Yankees’ bullpen has been one of their biggest weaknesses this season. It faltered again in their playoff opener and has them on the brink of being eliminated by the rival Boston Red Sox. Max Fried worked 6 1/3 scoreless innings in Game 1 of the AL Wild Card Series. But manager Aaron Boone removed Fried after he retired the first batter in the seventh. Reliever Luke Weaver walked the first batter he faced and allowed a double and a two-run single. David Bednar gave up back-to-back hits in the ninth to give Boston some breathing room.

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Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) and Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) celebrate after a play against the Indiana Fever during overtime in Game 5 of a WNBA basketball playoff semifinals series Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Aces beat Fever 107-98 in OT of Game 5 of semis, advance to WNBA Finals to face the Phoenix Mercury

A’ja Wilson scored 35 points and Jackie Young added 32 to lead the Las Vegas Aces back to the WNBA Finals. The Aces held off Indiana 107-98 in overtime in Game 5 of the semifinals. The second-seeded Aces, who won the league title in 2022 and 2023, will host the fourth-seeded Phoenix Mercury on Friday. Indiana, despite being decimated by injuries, made Las Vegas work for the win. Kelsey Mitchell, who scored 15 points, left the game with a leg injury. The Aces took the lead early in overtime and didn’t give it up.

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FILE - Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speaks during a news conference at the Conference Center, Jan. 27, 2015, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, file)

Former judge is likely the next leader of the Mormon church and its 17 million members

Dallin H. Oaks, a former Utah Supreme Court justice, is expected to become the next president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The transition follows the recent death of President Russell M. Nelson. Oaks is currently the longest-tenured member of a top body of leaders called the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, making him next in line. At 93, he will be among the oldest presidents. Experts doubt his presidency will bring major changes since he was Nelson’s close adviser. Oaks has been a prominent voice in the church, known for his traditionalist views on marriage and religious freedom, which have caused concern among LGBTQ+ members.

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