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October 30, 2025.

School crossing guard Anthony Taylor operates a traffic control box, Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Takeaways from AP, Cox Media Group investigation into injuries and deaths of school crossing guards

School crossing guards play an important role in making sure kids get to school safely. But those guards work under dangerous conditions that can threaten their lives. An investigation by The Associated Press and Cox Media Group finds that at least 230 school crossing guards were injured or killed over the past 10 years, based on accident reports requested from nearly 200 U.S. police departments. There are no national standards or reporting methods for keeping track of when guards are hurt on the job. Experts say that’s hampered efforts to develop better safety measures or even assess just how dangerous the job is.

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School crossing guard Anthony Taylor directs students on when to cross the street, Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Crossing guards face life-threatening dangers on the job

An investigation by The Associated Press and Cox Media Group Television Stations found that school crossing guards face dangerous conditions, with many injured or killed on the job. What’s more, data show that drivers who hit crossing guards often face minimal consequences, with a quarter charged criminally and nearly half getting traffic citations. Experts suggest solutions like smart crosswalk systems and better training. Despite the dangers, many crossing guards remain committed to their jobs.

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FILE - Education Secretary Linda McMahon speaks during a meeting in the East Room of the White House, Sept. 4, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Government shutdown offers schools a glimpse of life without an Education Department

The government shutdown has been a source of anxiety for educators, wondering how long grant money will last and who can help them interpret federal laws. For Education Secretary Linda McMahon, it offers a preview of what she hopes to make permanent. Much of the department’s work has gone completely cold. No new grants are being awarded, and civil rights investigations have been halted. In many respects, schools and states are on their own. That’s the vision President Donald Trump has promoted since his presidential campaign — a world where states fully have the reins of education policy with little influence from the federal government.

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President Donald Trump greets Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto during a summit to support ending the more than two-year Israel-Hamas war in Gaza after a breakthrough ceasefire deal, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, Pool)

With fragile Gaza ceasefire holding, Trump wants to make headway on Indonesia-Israel normalization

In the weeks since Israel and Hamas agreed to a fragile ceasefire and hostage deal, Indonesia has emerged as an intriguing partner to Trump. The president is keen on making peace between Israel and Palestinians a defining legacy of his presidency. Trump has said he wants to use this moment to build on his signature first-term foreign policy achievement, known as the Abraham Accords. Those agreements forged diplomatic and commercial ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco. The White House wants Indonesia to join, too. But Indonesia has maintained it can’t move forward on normalizing relations with Israel without a clear pathway for a Palestinian state.

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Donated emergency supplies for Jamaica sit in the lobby at the Miramar Police Department Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, in Miramar, Fla. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

‘It’s home’: Caribbean diaspora from Miami to New York fuels Hurricane Melissa relief efforts

South Florida was spared a direct blow from Hurricane Melissa, but the massive storm still hit home for the millions of residents there who have deep roots in the Caribbean. Now, the Caribbean diaspora from Miami to New York City is turning its heartbreak into action. Residents are helping fill warehouses with emergency supplies to send to communities across Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti and the Bahamas that were battered by Melissa. The storm which made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 is one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record.

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San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, right, drives against Miami Heat center Kel'el Ware, front left, during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate)

Wembanyama leads Spurs to their first 5-0 start with 27 points and 18 rebounds in win over the Heat

Victor Wembanyama had 27 points, 18 rebounds, six assists and five blocked shots, and the San Antonio Spurs improved to 5-0 for the first time in franchise history by beating the Miami Heat 107-101 on Thursday night. San Antonio won four straight to open a season on three previous occasions, most recently 2017. The Spurs, Heat and Sacramento Kings were the only franchises not to open a season 5-0. Miami was unable to prevent San Antonio from exiting that club despite a dogged effort. Bam Adebayo had 31 points, 10 rebounds and three assists for the Heat in a battle of All-Star centers.

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Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws against the Miami Dolphins during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Lamar Jackson torches Miami with 4 TD passes in return from injury and Ravens rout Dolphins 28-6

Lamar Jackson threw for 204 yards and four touchdowns, showing little rust in his return from a right hamstring strain, and the Baltimore Ravens routed the Miami Dolphins 28-6. Jackson completed 18 of 23 passes in his first start since Week 4 against Kansas City, and the Ravens won their second straight as they hope to make a run in the wide-open AFC North. Tight end Mark Andrews made two touchdown catches. Jackson’s other TD passes went to tight end Charlie Kolar and receiver Rashod Bateman. Derrick Henry rushed 119 yards on 19 carries. The Dolphins were undone by a slew of mistakes in the first half.

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FILE - The seal of the Federal Bureau of Investigation is displayed at its headquarters in Washington, Nov. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

2 Mississippi sheriffs and 12 officers charged in drug trafficking bribery scheme

Federal authorities have announced indictments against 20 people, including 14 current or former Mississippi Delta law enforcement officers, that allege officers took bribes to provide safe passage to people they believed were drug traffickers. The yearslong investigation swept across multiple law enforcement agencies in the state’s Northwestern Delta region. Two Mississippi sheriffs, Washington County Sheriff Milton Gaston and Humphreys County Sheriff Bruce Williams, were among those arrested. The FBI and other federal authorities announcement the indictments at a news conference Thursday afternoon. A federal defender’s office representing 16 of those charged, including the two sheriffs, said it does not comment on pending matters.

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FILE - WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert speaks during a news conference before the WNBA All-Star basketball game, Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)

WNBA and players union agree to 30-day extension for CBA negotiations, AP source says

A person with knowledge of the decision says the WNBA and players union have agreed to a 30-day extension to continue negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. The league offered on Tuesday to push back the deadline and on Thursday the union accepted, the person told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because no official announcement has been made. The current CBA was set to expire on Friday and tensions have been rising in recent weeks as the sides try to work toward a new deal.

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President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump participate in a Halloween at the White House event on the South Lawn, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump hosts White House Halloween bash with superheroes and presidential lookalikes amid shutdown

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania hosted a Halloween celebration at the White House. The couple handed out full-sized candy bars and Twizzlers in special, presidential-seal boxes on Thursday night to children dressed as superheroes, dinosaurs, and even the first couple itself. They emerged on the South Lawn to an orchestral version of “Thriller.” Trump wore a blue suit and red tie, while Melania was in a brown coat over an orange dress. The event went ahead despite Trump having just returned from a six-day Asia trip, and the government being shut down. Temporary walls obscured the view of construction of Trump’s new White House ballroom, which has led to the demolition of the East Wing.

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Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo tries to get past New York Knicks' OG Anunoby during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Antetokounmpo ruled out for Bucks’ Thursday night game against Warriors

Giannis Antetokounmpo is missing his first game of the season as the Milwaukee Bucks face the Golden State Warriors. The two-time MVP was listed as probable in the Bucks’ Thursday afternoon injury report because of left knee soreness. But the Bucks announced about an hour before the opening tip that he wouldn’t be available. Antetokounmpo has averaged 36.3 points, 14 rebounds and 7 assists through the Bucks’ first four games of the season. He entered Thursday night’s action ranked second in the league in scoring and rebounding.

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FILE - An Amazon logo is seen at an Amazon event in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Amazon reports higher sales and earnings for 3Q, helped by its fast-growing web services business

Amazon posted higher fiscal third quarter profit and sales compared with a year ago, fueled by accelerating growth in its cloud computing business and strong spending by its customers looking for low prices at a time when inflation is resurging. The results, announced Thursday, beat Wall Street expectations. The company’s prominent cloud computing arm also surpassed analysts’ expectations, rising 20%. But Amazon issued a cautious sales outlook for the fiscal fourth quarter. Shares, however, soared 13% in after-hours trading.

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FILE - Former FBI Director James Comey pauses as he speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill, June 8, 2017, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Lawyers for Comey seek grand jury transcript, bringing fresh challenge to a case pushed by Trump

Lawyers for former FBI Director James Comey want to review a transcript and audio recording of grand jury proceedings in his criminal case, citing what they say were “irregularities” in the process that should result in the dismissal of an indictment pushed by President Donald Trump. The request is one in a series of challenges that defense lawyers have waged against a criminal case charging Comey with lying to Congress five years ago.

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Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., departs a news conference on the 30th day of the government shutdown, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Spiraling effects of the shutdown leave lawmakers grasping for ways to end it

Certain senators know it’s time for the government shutdown to come to an end. So does House Speaker Mike Johnson. And with President Donald Trump arriving back in Washington from his overseas trip, perhaps the White House knows it, too. From coast to coast, fallout from the dysfunction of a shuttered federal government is hitting home. Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska says, “People are stressing,” as food options in her state grow scarce. But even with Saturday’s deadline for a potential shut off in SNAP food benefits, there is no end yet to the political stand off. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he hopes that after next week’s elections in New York and other states, more lawmakers will be ready to end the shutdown and reopen government.

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FILE - A sign for the Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building and Courthouse is displayed outside the courthouse on Jan. 22, 2024, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Jennifer Kelleher, File)

Federal judge in Hawaii rules FDA violated the law by restricting access to abortion medication

A federal judge in Hawaii has ruled that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration violated the law by imposing restrictions on a medication used for abortions and miscarriage management. The American Civil Liberties Union argues that the FDA continues to overly restrict access to mifepristone without scientific justification. The judge’s ruling states that the FDA failed to provide a reasoned explanation for its restrictive treatment of the drug. The decision instructs the FDA to consider relevant evidence it allegedly disregarded, but the restrictions remain in place for now. The case has been ongoing since 2017, spanning multiple administrations.

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U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth leaves after a bilateral meeting with Malaysia's Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin ahead of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defense Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara)

Hegseth orders the military to detail dozens of attorneys to the Justice Department, AP learns

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the military to provide dozens of lawyers to the Justice Department for temporary assignments in Memphis and near the U.S.-Mexico border that could run through next fall. That’s according to a memo released this week and reviewed by The Associated Press. The memo appears to be the latest effort to send military and civilian attorneys working for the Pentagon to the Justice Department, this time to staff offices based along the U.S. southern border or where federal immigration enforcement operations are taking place. The Pentagon separately last month approved sending up to 600 military lawyers to the Justice Department to serve as temporary immigration judges.

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FILE - The Supreme Court Building is seen in Washington on March 28, 2017. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

GOP lawmakers urge Trump administration to back Falun Gong lawsuit against Cisco

Two prominent Republicans are urging the Supreme Court to allow a lawsuit against Cisco. The lawsuit claims Cisco’s technology was used to persecute Falun Gong members in China. Representatives Christopher Smith and John Moolenaar have asked the Trump administration’s top Supreme Court litigator to support the case going to trial. The Supreme Court will decide whether U.S. law permits the suit. The case questions if American companies can be held liable for aiding human rights violations abroad. If successful, it could set a precedent for holding companies accountable for the misuse of their technologies overseas.

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San Francisco Giants President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey, left, welcomes Tony Vitello as the new manager of the San Francisco Giants baseball team on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Benjamin Fanjoy)

Tony Vitello takes daunting step from college ranks to MLB dugout as Giants manager

New San Francisco Giants manager Tony Vitello seems unfazed by the pressure of his jump from the college ranks at Tennessee to the big leagues. Vitello was hired as the Giants’ manager with no professional playing or coaching experience, and the team introduced him on Thursday. He plans to get into spring training drills alongside his players, throwing batting practice or hitting fungoes in an effort to help improve some fundamentals. And he intends to lean on the veterans who have been doing it for decades.

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FILE - A man carries a Black Lives Matter flag in Lafayette Square outside the White House on the fourth night of the Republican National Convention, Aug. 27, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)

Justice Department investigating fraud allegations in Black Lives Matter movement, AP sources say

The Justice Department is investigating whether leaders in the Black Lives Matter movement defrauded donors who contributed millions of dollars during racial justice protests in 2020. That’s according to multiple people familiar with the matter. In recent weeks, federal law enforcement officials have issued subpoenas and warrants as part of an investigation into the Black-led organizations that helped spark a national reckoning on systemic racism. The investigation invites fresh scrutiny to a foundation whose leaders in recent years have faced criticism about their public accounting of donations. But the recent burst of investigative activity is also unfolding at a time when civil rights groups have raised concerns about the Trump administration targeting left-leaning groups.

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Meet Bill DeBlasio, the man a British newspaper confused with ex-NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio

A Long Island wine importer named Bill DeBlasio inadvertently grabbed international headlines this week after he responded to an email meant for another man with a similar name: former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. The mix-up came after a Times of London reporter reached out to the wrong de Blasio seeking his thoughts on Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, whose campaign the ex-mayor has endorsed. Tired of receiving messages meant for the wrong person, DeBlasio, the wine importer, replied with a critique of Mamdani’s platform. The British newspaper published the comments Tuesday, believing they were the views of the ex-mayor. The Times of London has since removed the piece and apologized.

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FILE - Covenant School parents and their attorneys huddle in prayer outside a courtroom before a hearing to decide whether documents and journals of a Nashville school shooter can be released to the public April 17, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Travis Loller, File)

Parents of Nashville school shooting victims fight to keep records out of public view

The parents of children killed in a shooting at a private Christian school in Nashville are fighting to keep police investigative records a secret. The Covenant School parents say releasing the documents would be traumatic for the families and could inspire copycat attacks. In a Tennessee appeals court on Thursday, their attorneys defended a lower court ruling that determined the shooter’s writings and other documents are protected by federal copyright law and cannot be released under the Tennessee Public Records Act. Meanwhile, a coalition including a state senator, media outlets, and a gun rights group are seeking to have the ruling overturned.

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Chicago father of child fighting cancer released on bond by immigration judge

A Chicago man whose 16-year-old daughter is undergoing treatment for advanced cancer will be released on bond and return home, an immigration judge ruled Thursday. Attorneys for Ruben Torres Maldonado, a 40-year-old painter and home renovator who was detained Oct. 18 at a suburban Home Depot store, have petitioned for his release as his deportation case goes through the system. Judge Eva S. Saltzman on Thursday cited Torres Maldonado’s lack of criminal history while calling for his release on a $2,000 bond.

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FILE - The iPhone 17 Pro is displayed during an announcement of new products at Apple Park on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, in Cupertino, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez, File)

Apple delivers strong quarter despite iPhone sales slowdown and ongoing artificial technology issues

Apple’s iPhone sales growth decelerated during its summertime quarter, but the company still delivered financial results that exceeded analyst projections while the trendsetting company continued to catch up to its Big Tech peers in the artificial intelligence race. The performance announced Thursday were driven largely by strong initial demand for the premium models of the iPhone 17 lineup that went on sale last month. Although iPhone sales rose by 6% from the same July-September period last year, the growth was slightly below analyst estimates and less than the pace from the prior quarter. But Apple’s profit and revenue still topped analyst forecasts and its stock surged 4% in extended trading.

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Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, speaks about the Trump administration following reports that only Republican lawmakers received security briefings on the Trump-ordered military strikes against boats in the Caribbean, during a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Top Intel Democrat rips Trump administration over exclusion from boat strike briefing

A briefing held only for Republicans in Congress on U.S. military strikes is drawing a fierce rebuke from a key Democrat. Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia criticized the Trump administration Thursday for excluding Democrats from the briefing. He said it is “against every norm of how national security policy has worked.” Lawmakers in both parties have had questions about the administration’s strikes on boats in the waters off South America and the legal justification for them, since Congress has not weighed in. President Donald Trump has justified the attacks on the boats as necessary to stem the flow of drugs into the United States.

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Denny Hamlin celebrates in victory lane after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Steve Marcus)

Denny Hamlin races for his dying father’s last chance to see him win a NASCAR championship

Denny Hamlin is chasing his first NASCAR championship at Phoenix Raceway. Despite 60 career wins and three Daytona 500 victories, he’s known as the greatest driver never to win the Cup. His father, Dennis, who sacrificed much to support his son’s career, is too ill to attend. Hamlin sees this as his last chance for his dad to witness a championship win. He’s racing against Chase Briscoe, Kyle Larson, and William Byron. Hamlin has faced setbacks in previous championship attempts but remains hopeful. If he wins, he plans to celebrate with his father, fulfilling a long-held dream.

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FILE - Los Angeles Dodgers owner and chairman Mark Walter speaks during a ceremony to honor the Major League Baseball 2024 World Series Champion team in the East Room of the White House, Monday, April 7, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)

Mark Walter finalizes his purchase of a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers

Mark Walter is the majority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers after the NBA Board of Governors approved his purchase of a controlling stake from the Buss family. The Lakers and the league confirmed the next step Thursday in a transaction that is expected to close shortly. The sale of the NBA’s most valuable franchise was initially announced in June. Jeanie Buss will remain the Lakers’ governor under the deal for at least the next five years, and she will oversee day-to-day operations “for the foreseeable future,” the team said.

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FILE - Central Michigan head coach Jim McElwain reacts during an NCAA football game against Notre Dame on Sept. 16, 2023, in South Bend, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler, File)

Former Central Michigan staff members receive punishments for their roles in sign-stealing scandal

Former Central Michigan coach Jim McElwain and three of his former staff members face coaching restrictions and potential suspensions after agreeing to the punishments following an NCAA investigation into their role in an alleged sign-stealing scandal. The accused sign-steal, former Michigan staff member Connor Stalions, appeared in coaching gear on the Chippewas sideline for a 2023 game against Michigan State. The NCAA found one assistant coach, Jake Kostner, requested the coaching gear and a sideline pass without going through the normal processes. Kostner and Stalions had a pre-existing friendship, the NCAA found. The Chippewas also were fined $30,000 plus 1% of the football budget.

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Democratic National Committee chairman Ken Martin speaks at a Lancaster County Democratic Party event in support of the party's candidates for state Supreme Court, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Lancaster, Pa. (AP Photo/Marc Levy)

Democrats, allied groups pour millions into Pennsylvania Supreme Court race to counter GOP campaign

Democrats and their allied groups are pouring in more money and sending in the national party chairman in the final week of campaigning for a Pennsylvania Supreme Court election. The race could reshape the highest court in the largest presidential battleground as Democrats try to blunt a late-emerging Republican campaign to oust three Democratic justices. At issue in Tuesday’s election is whether the justices will each serve another term. The state’s politically divided government has left disputes over election laws and other major issues to the courts in recent years.

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FILE - In this image taken from body camera video released by Illinois State Police, Sonya Massey, left, talks with former Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy Sean Grayson outside her home in Springfield, Ill., July 6, 2024. (Illinois State Police via AP, File)

Cop’s testimony, judge’s instructions influenced outcome of Sonya Massey murder case

The killing of Sonya Massey in her home by an Illinois sheriff’s deputy was pursued by prosecutors as a first-degree murder case with a possible life prison sentence. Then a judge gave the jury another option when deliberations began this week. Sean Grayson was found guilty Wednesday of second-degree murder, a lesser charge with less severe consequences. Massey’s family was outraged. Experts say a verdict form with different options is common if a judge believes the evidence presented at trial could plausibly justify it. Grayson testified he felt threatened by Massey and her pot of hot water.

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Soybeans grow in a farm field, Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, in Willow Grove, Del. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)

4 Republicans back Senate resolution to undo Trump’s tariffs around the globe

The Senate has passed a resolution that would undo many of President Donald Trump’s tariffs around the globe. It’s the latest note of displeasure at Trump’s trade tactics in Washington. The resolution passed on a 51-47 vote, with four Republicans joining all Democrats in support. The vote came just as President Donald Trump was celebrating his latest round of trade negotiations with China as a success. But back in Washington, many are skeptical. While the resolution reversing Trump’s tariffs is unlikely to become law, the vote exposed dissent on the issue in Trump’s Republican Party.

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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topic, left, drives the ball upcourt against Charlotte Hornets forward Liam McNeeley, right, during the second half of an NBA basketball preseason game in North Charleston, S.C., Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Mic Smith)

Thunder guard Nikola Topic diagnosed with testicular cancer and undergoing chemotherapy

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topic has been diagnosed with testicular cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy. Sam Presti, the team’s general manager, announced this on Thursday. Topic, a first-round pick in 2024, had a testicular procedure earlier in the month and was expected to be out for at least four weeks. Presti said doctors are “extremely positive” about his long-term outlook. Topic has been working out throughout the process and didn’t want the diagnosis revealed until after he started treatment. He missed the entire 2024-2025 season due to a torn ACL but played in summer league this year.

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This combination of photos shows Cassandra Peterson at the Los Angeles premiere of "The First Omen" on March 26, 2024, left, and Peterson, dressed as Elvira, at the 2016 Knott's Scary Farm Black Carpet Event in Buena Park, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2016. (Photos by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

You can thank Elvis for Elvira, Cassandra Peterson says

Cassandra Peterson has entertained fans as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, for over four decades. She developed the character in the 1980s after leaving her showgirl career, partly due to advice from Elvis Presley. She eventually became a horror host with a risque signature look that became iconic. Elvira’s cult following grew through TV, films and, now, books. Her latest project, “Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell,” features spooky recipes and crafts. Peterson regrets not making Elvira’s costume more comfortable, as she rarely inhabits the character now.

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Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs seeks speedy appeals court hearing while he serves a 4-year sentence

Hip-hop producer Sean “Diddy” Combs wants a federal appeals court to quickly consider the legality of his conviction on prostitution-related charges and his more than four-year prison sentence. His lawyers filed papers with the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday, asking that oral arguments in his appeal occur in April. Combs was convicted in July of flying his girlfriends and male sex workers across state lines to engage in drug-fueled sexual encounters. However, he was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that could have put him behind bars for life.

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New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez talks about state efforts to temporarily backfill SNAP benefits during a news conference outside a grocery store in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Susan Montoya Bryan)

Judge considers demand to force the government to keep funding SNAP food aid despite the shutdown

A federal judge in Boston is considering a motion that would require the Trump administration to continue funding the SNAP food aid program despite the government shutdown. The hearing in front of U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani came two days before the day the U.S. Department of Agriculture planned to stop replenishing accounts in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Talwani says she expects to issue her ruling later Thursday. SNAP is used by 1 in 8 Americans to buy groceries and is a major piece of the nation’s social safety net. Democratic state officials challenged the Trump administration’s plan to freeze SNAP payments starting Nov. 1, saying the federal government has a legal obligation to keep providing the assistance.

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New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill listens to speakers during a campaign stop at a train station in Westfield, N.J., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Democrats test a new playbook in Tuesday’s election: Less talk of Trump, more focus on economy

Democrat Abigail Spanberger is focusing on economic concerns rather than bold promises and anti-Donald Trump rhetoric in her race for Virginia governor. Some believe the former congresswoman’s moderate approach could be key to the party’s revival, beginning with elections Tuesday. Spanberger emphasizes practical solutions over grand promises. This aligns with other Democratic candidates like Mikie Sherrill in the New Jersey governor’s contest. While progressive leaders back New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, Spanberger warns against making promises that can’t be kept. The Republicans in the two races for governor are trying to portray the Democratic candidates as out-of-touch liberals.

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Rapid City Native Alex Kalmbach Achieves Professional Engineering License

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Oct. 30, 2025 – TSP, Inc., a multidisciplinary design firm, announced today that Alex Kalmbach has officially earned his licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), qualifying him as a mechanical engineer. The PE credential represents the highest standard in engineering, underscoring expertise, competence, and public trust. Achieving this license requires a rigorous process, including completing a four-year degree from an accredited engineering program, successfully passing the Fundamentals of […]

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Soybeans are harvested on the Warpup Farm in Warren, Ind., Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

American farmers welcome China’s promise to buy their soybean but this deal doesn’t solve everything

American farmers welcomed China’s promise to buy some of their soybeans, but Iowa farmer Robb Ewoldt cautioned this won’t solve all the problems as farmers continue to deal with soaring prices for fertilizer, tractors, repair parts and seeds. The Chinese promise to buy 25 million metric tons of soybeans annually for next three years will bring their purchases back in line with where they were at before President Donald Trump launched his latest trade war. But the 12 million metric tons that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said China will buy between now and January is only about half their normal purchases. China is the world’s largest buyer of soybeans but it quit buying from America earlier this year after Trump imposed his tariffs.

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Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule talks with an official during the first half of a NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

Nebraska extends Matt Rhule’s contract through 2032, adds bonuses for CFP appearances

Nebraska has announced a two-year contract extension with coach Matt Rhule, adding bonuses for College Football Playoff appearances. The deal runs through the 2032 season. Rhule is in his third season at Nebraska, and there was speculation two weeks ago that he might fill the job at Penn State. Last season, Rhule led Nebraska to its first winning season in eight years. Nebraska is off to a 6-2 start this season. Rhule, who earns $7.5 million this year, says his focus remains on building Nebraska football into a championship contender.

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FILE - An officer with the Uniform Division of the United States Secret Service sits in his car at a checkpoint near the home of President Barack Obama, Oct. 24, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Justice Department strips Jan. 6 references from court paper and punishes prosecutors who filed it

The Justice Department has stripped references to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack from court papers and punished two federal prosecutors who filed the document seeking prison time at sentencing Thursday for an armed rioter arrested near former President Barack Obama’s home. The prosecutors were locked out of their government devices and told they were being put on leave Wednesday shortly after they filed a sentencing memorandum describing the crowd of President Donald Trump supporters who attacked the Capitol as a “mob of rioters.” That’s according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel matter.

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Texas quarterback Arch Manning, center right, runs out of bounds against Mississippi State safety Jahron Manning, center left, during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/James Pugh)

Arch Manning is ‘making good progress’ but uncertain to play for No. 20 Texas vs. No. 9 Vanderbilt

Texas quarterback Arch Manning is making good progress in practice, coach Steve Sarkisian says. However, his status to return from a concussion in time to play against No. 9 Vanderbilt remains uncertain. Manning has been in concussion protocol since being injured in No. 20 Texas’ win over Mississippi State last week. He returned to practice Wednesday but was listed as questionable. If Manning can’t play, backup Matthew Caldwell will start. Manning has passed for 1,795 yards and 15 touchdowns this season.

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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 network ends primary care after losing Medicaid due to Trump defunding Planned Parenthood

A network of medical clinics that serves low-income residents in Maine says it will shut down its primary care operations on Friday because of Trump administration cuts to abortion providers. Maine Family Planning operates 18 clinics in the state and says abortions are a relatively small percentage of its overall services, which also include cancer screenings and contraception. The network says it had to cut primary care because of the administration’s move to block Medicaid money from abortion providers including the much larger Planned Parenthood.

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Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson, left, talks with forward Joseph Tugler (11) at the bench during the second half of an NCAA college basketball exhibition game against Mississippi State, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, in Rosenberg, Texas. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)

As college basketball continues to change, how long will the game’s old guard of coaches press on?

The landscape of college basketball is changing rapidly with name, image and likeness deals and the transfer portal reshaping teams yearly. Despite this, a group of veteran coaches like Rick Pitino, Rick Barnes and Tom Izzo continue to provide stability. These coaches have been pillars of the game for decades, but their tenure may be nearing its end. Many are in their seventies and facing the pressures of modern college basketball. Some, like Jay Wright and Tony Bennett, have already retired. Yet, the old guard remains influential, with teams like Houston and Tennessee ranked highly in preseason polls.

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Young T. rex or a new dinosaur? New bones add to the debate

Scientists say there’s new evidence that settles the origins of a mysterious dinosaur excavated in the 1940s. Researchers have long debated whether a dinosaur skull found in Montana decades ago was a young T. rex or another type of dinosaur. A research team studied a new complete skeleton from Montana and claim it identifies the mystery reptile as an adult and a new species. Not all scientists are convinced, and some say the other mystery skeletons could belong to a younger T. rex. The research was published Thursday in the journal Nature.

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Jennifer Bittner holds her 6-year-old daughter Amelia at their home on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Pflugerville, Texas. (AP Photo/Jack Myer)

Last-minute scramble over pay takes a toll on military families during the shutdown

The government shutdown is taking a toll on military families as they live without the guarantee of a paycheck. Alicia Blevins is married to a Marine stationed in North Carolina. She’s going to see a therapist because of the grinding uncertainty. The Trump administration has found ways to pay the troops twice during the shutdown. But the process has been fraught with anxiety for many Americans in uniform. The White House said it found the money just days before paychecks were supposed to go out Friday. But Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said money may be unavailable for the troop’s next paycheck on Nov. 15.

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From left to right, UConn's Jana el Alfy, Azzi Fudd, Sarah Strong, and Serah Williams react in the second half of an exhibition NCAA college basketball game against Boston College, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, in Uncasville, Conn. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill)

Depth could be UConn’s calling card as the top-ranked Huskies eye 13th national championship

UConn’s women’s basketball team is adapting to life without star player Paige Bueckers, who has moved to the pros. Coach Geno Auriemma acknowledges the challenge of filling her void, comparing it to past transitions with players like Breanna Stewart and Diana Taurasi. Despite this, UConn remains strong, returning seven starters and adding top transfers and freshmen. The team is ranked first in The Associated Press Top 25 poll. Auriemma sees potential for new playing styles and depth. Players like Sarah Strong and Azzi Fudd are stepping up, bringing excitement and intensity to the team.

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This Spanish tenor’s already a star in Europe. Now he’s made a big splash at the Met

He’s a Spanish tenor who has captivated audiences with his extraordinary voice. Conductor Riccardo Frizza and the Metropolitan Opera’s Peter Gelb have praised Xabier Anduaga’s talent. At 30, Anduaga is a star in Europe. He recently made a splash in the U.S., headlining the Met’s production of Bellini’s “La Sonnambula.” Anduaga grew up in Spain, starting as a boy soprano. His wife, Elena Barbé, remains his coach and critic. As his voice evolves, he’s exploring new roles. Opera houses are eager to book him. Gelb says he was blown away by the sound when Anduaga made his house debut two season ago.

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President Donald Trump, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shake hands after their U.S.-China summit meeting at Gimhae International Airport Jinping in Busan, South Korea, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

China agrees to purchase 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans annually, treasury secretary says

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says China has agreed to purchase 25 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans annually as part of an agreement reached by its leaders. He said Thursday that China will start by purchasing 12 million metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. between now and January. On Fox Business Network, the secretary said the agreement lasts for three years.

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(AP Illustration / Peter Hamlin)

Mistake-filled legal briefs show the limits of relying on AI tools at work

Judges around the world are seeing error-riddled legal briefs that were generated with the help of artificial intelligence. A data scientist and lawyer has catalogued at least 490 filings in the past six months that contained false or misleading information from AI responses. His database is a cautionary tale for people learning to use AI tools at work. With many employers wanting workers to employ the technology, it’s not just the legal profession that needs to be aware of the possible foibles. Legal and workplace experts suggest treating AI as an assistant whose work needs to be checked. They say users also need to be aware of privacy concerns.

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A sign in a Kwik Trip store shows the store will no longer be using pennies to give change, on Oct. 23, 2025, in Yorkville, Wis. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Banks and retailers run short on pennies as the US Mint stops making them

The United States is experiencing a shortage of pennies after President Trump decided to stop their production earlier this year. Merchants across the country are struggling to provide exact change, and banks are rationing their remaining supply. Some retailers are even offering promotions to encourage customers to bring in pennies. The shortage began in late summer and is worsening as the holiday season approaches. While the government aims to save money by discontinuing the penny, the abrupt decision has left retailers and banks without guidance. A bill in Congress, the Common Cents Act, seeks to address some of the issues.

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FILE - In this undated photo provided by NASA on Tuesday, March 1, 2016, astronaut Scott Kelly looks out the cupola of the International Space Station. (NASA via AP, File)

The International Space Station marks 25 years of nonstop human presence in orbit

The International Space Station is marking 25 years of nonstop human presence in orbit. Nearly 300 people have lived aboard the scientific outpost. The visitors are mostly professional astronauts, but also the occasional space tourist and movie director. With only five years left at the complex, NASA is counting on private companies to launch their own orbiting stations with an even bigger and wider clientele. NASA is paying SpaceX nearly $1 billion to boot the space station from orbit in early 2031. The station’s first full-time residents — one American and two Russians — opened the hatch in 2000.

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FILE - The U.S. Department of Education building is seen in Washington, on Nov. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

New Trump administration rule bars student loan relief for public workers tied to ‘illegal’ activity

The Trump administration is forging ahead with plans to eject some nonprofits from a popular student loan forgiveness program if their work is deemed to have an “illegal purpose.” The move could cut off some teachers, doctors and other public workers from federal loan cancellation. New rules completed on Thursday give the Education Department expanded power to ban organizations from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. The Trump administration calls it a common sense move to strip taxpayer money from lawbreakers, while critics say it turns the program into a tool of political retribution for the White House.

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FILE - Custodian Ray Keen inspects a clock face before changing the time on the 100-year-old clock atop the Clay County Courthouse March 8, 2014, in Clay Center, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)

Here’s how Americans feel about changing the clocks, according to a new AP-NORC poll

A new AP-NORC poll finds that only 12% of U.S. adults support the current system of daylight saving time, which has people in most states changing the clocks twice a year, while 47% are opposed and 40% are neutral. Around the country, the clocks will go back one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday to mark the return to standard time and more daylight in the mornings. If forced to choose, most Americans would prefer to keep that extra hour of daylight in the evening. Permanent daylight saving time would be unpopular with a significant chunk of people, though, the survey found — particularly those who prefer mornings.

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FILE - Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer, left, and journalist Megyn Kelly attend a confirmation hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the Secretary of Health and Human Services post, at the Capitol in Washington, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis, File)

Casey Means, a physician-turned-wellness-influencer and Trump’s surgeon general pick, faces senators

Casey Means, a Stanford-educated physician and wellness influencer, is set to face the Senate health committee over her nomination to become the U.S. surgeon general. Means is expected at Thursday’s hearing to present her vision for tackling chronic disease by addressing root causes, aligning with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s agenda. Means, who says she left her surgical residency in 2018 after becoming disillusioned with traditional medicine, co-founded a health tracking app and has promoted wellness products. Concerns about her qualifications and potential conflicts have arisen. Means lacks government experience and has an inactive medical license. If confirmed, Means has pledged to resign from her company roles and divest stock options.

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The shore of Kuskokwim Bay on the Bering Sea is seen Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, near Kongiganak, Alaska. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Archaeological site in Alaska that casts light on early Yup’ik life ravaged by ex-Typhoon Halong

A Yup’ik community near the Bering Sea in southwest Alaska was spared the widespread devastation other communities experienced from the remnants of Typhoon Halong earlier this month. But it suffered a different kind of blow: the lashing winds and storm surge devoured dozens of feet of shoreline, disrupting a culturally significant archaeological site and washing away possibly thousands of unearthed artifacts. About 1,000 pieces, including wooden masks and tools, were recovered in Quinhagak after the storm hit. But archaeologist Rick Knecht says many more pieces — perhaps up to 100,000 — were left scattered. Freezing temperatures and ice have settled into the region, stalling immediate efforts to find and recover more artifacts.

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Bill Swick sits on the chair at his home in Minooka, Ill., Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Patients go without needed treatment after government shutdown disrupts a telehealth program

Bill Swick, who has a rare degenerative brain disease, has lost access to virtual speech therapy due to the federal government shutdown. The shutdown, now in its fifth week, halted funding for Medicare’s telehealth program, leaving many patients without vital services. Swick and his wife, Martha, have been forced to rely on old strategies to manage his condition. The lapse in funding affects millions of Medicare beneficiaries. Medical providers are now deciding whether to continue offering services without the guarantee of reimbursement when the government reopens. The congressional stalemate leaves many patients with fewer options for care.

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San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) runs up-court during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate)

Led by Wembanyama, youthful Spurs on verge of setting best start in franchise history

The San Antonio Spurs can open the season 5-0 for the first time in franchise history. That this storied franchise has never won its first five games is only slightly more surprising than the youthful roster that now has a chance to do so. San Antonio hosts Miami on Thursday after winning its first four games by an average of 16.5 points. Their best start to a season is 4-0, though, which happened four times.

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FILE - Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick throws in the first quarter during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Dec. 6, 2009 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, file)

Michael Vick sparked protests when he joined the Eagles in ’09. Some fans can’t forgive his cruelty

Michael Vick’s signing with the Eagles in 2009 sparked outrage among fans due to his dogfighting conviction. Some fans refused to support the team, while others protested outside the stadium. Vick served 18 months in prison and later worked to rehabilitate his image, partnering with animal welfare organizations. He played five seasons with the Eagles and is now head coach at Norfolk State. Some fans have moved on, but others remain upset about his return to Philadelphia for a game against Delaware State. Vick’s story continues to evoke mixed emotions.

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Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage celebrates the end on the seventh inning in Game 5 of baseball's World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Yesavage strikes out 12 as rookie pitches Blue Jays past Dodgers 6-1 for 3-2 lead in World Series

Trey Yesavage set a World Series rookie record with 12 strikeouts, and the Toronto Blue Jays opened Game 5 with back-to-back homers in a 6-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers that moved them within one win of their first championship since 1993. Davis Schneider and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. connected on Blake Snell’s first and third pitches, the first consecutive home runs to start a Series game. Yesavage, a precocious 22-year-old right-hander who began his season pitching before 327 fans in Class A, broke the prior rookie record of 11 strikeouts set by Don Newcombe for the Dodgers in 1949. Toronto leads 3-2 in the best-of-seven matchup and can dethrone the defending champions back home when the Series resumes Friday night at Rogers Centre.

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