Journalist Don Lemon has been charged with federal civil rights violations related to his coverage of a protest at a St. Paul, Minnesota church. The protest disrupted a church service led by a pastor who also works for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Lemon faces potential imprisonment under laws designed to protect access to clinics and prevent rights violations.
Key Facts
Don Lemon is charged under the FACE Act and the Conspiracy Against Rights law.
The protest occurred at Cities Church in St. Paul on January 18 and involved disruption of a service.
Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles and released from custody the following day.
The FACE Act, passed in 1994, also protects worship service access and carries penalties for violations.
The other charge dates back to the post-Civil War era and aims to prevent rights violations.
If convicted, Lemon could face up to 10 years in prison depending on the specifics of the case.
The charges have sparked debate over press freedom and the role of journalists in covering protests.
Israel is quietly observing the U.S.'s increased military presence in the Middle East and seems to support a significant change in Iran's leadership. Israeli leaders believe the U.S. has more power and legitimacy to lead actions against Iran, and discussions are ongoing between Israel and the U.S. about possible targets in Iran.
Key Facts
Israel is focused on a potential regime change in Iran.
President Trump is considering various actions against Iran, from small strikes to full regime change.
Israeli leaders choose to remain silent publicly but are privately discussing strategies with the U.S.
Israel sees Iran as a major threat, due to its missiles and potential nuclear capabilities.
Israeli military intelligence officials have met with U.S. agencies to talk about Iran.
Some Israelis believe that strong action is necessary to deal with Iran, which they label as a major threat.
While Israel seeks regime change, some fear that military actions without results could lead to retaliation from Iran.
Aaron Rodgers is considering whether to continue his professional football career. The Miami Dolphins might be a potential team for him due to their need for a steady quarterback and his leadership abilities. Rodgers offers experience that could help the Dolphins during their transition.
Key Facts
Aaron Rodgers is 42 years old and has already achieved significant success in his football career.
He could retire or choose to play for a new team.
His former coach, Mike McCarthy, would like him in Pittsburgh.
The Miami Dolphins need a new quarterback after coaching changes and questions about their current QB, Tua Tagovailoa.
The Dolphins could offer Rodgers a less stressful role compared to his time with the Jets.
While not a top Super Bowl contender, the Dolphins have strong offensive players.
The AFC East has tough competition with teams like the Patriots and Bills.
The article explains a promotion by sports betting platform Bet365, which offers a $200 bonus for new users who place a $5 bet using a specific code. The bonus can be used across various sports events, including NBA games, college basketball, and UFC 325.
Key Facts
Bet365 offers a $200 bonus for new users placing a $5 bet using the code WEEK365.
You do not need to win your initial $5 bet to receive the bonus.
The bonus applies to NBA games, college basketball, and UFC 325.
Users can immediately use the bonus after placing the $5 bet.
Bonuses remain valid in the user's account for seven days.
The promotion is aimed to help new users get familiar with the Bet365 app.
Newsweek may earn a commission if users sign up through promotional links.
Steph Curry, a key player for the Golden State Warriors, injured his knee during a game against the Detroit Pistons. Coach Steve Kerr believes the injury is not serious, but an update will follow soon. Curry has had ongoing knee issues since late January and has missed several games this season.
Key Facts
Steph Curry injured his knee in a game against the Detroit Pistons.
The injury happened in the third quarter when Curry stumbled during a layup.
Coach Steve Kerr believes the injury is not major but awaits a formal update.
Curry has been dealing with a knee problem since January 24.
Curry has missed 11 games this season due to various injuries.
Curry has been named an All-Star this season and is averaging 27.2 points per game.
The Warriors are already missing Jimmy Butler for the rest of the season due to a torn ACL.
Sam Darnold has made it to the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks after previously playing for three different NFL teams. Justin Jefferson, a receiver from one of Darnold's former teams, the Minnesota Vikings, shared his feelings about the situation, expressing happiness for Darnold. The Vikings' season was challenging with their new quarterback, JJ McCarthy, and Jefferson had lower statistics than in previous years.
Key Facts
Sam Darnold now plays for the Seattle Seahawks and has reached the Super Bowl.
Darnold previously played for the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and Minnesota Vikings.
Justin Jefferson, a Vikings player, said he feels "bittersweet" seeing Darnold succeed, but he supports him.
In the 2024 season, Darnold performed well with the Vikings, throwing over 4,500 yards.
Jefferson had a successful 2024 season with 1,533 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Vikings struggled in the 2025 season with new QB JJ McCarthy, missing the playoffs.
Jefferson's 2025 season was statistically his lowest, with 1,048 receiving yards.
Jefferson hopes the Vikings can improve next season.
New government files about Jeffrey Epstein reveal his interactions with well-known individuals after serving time for sex crimes in Florida. The documents show details of past investigations and his communication with famous people like Bill Gates and Elon Musk. The files also discuss investigations that didn't lead to federal charges years ago.
Key Facts
Files on Jeffrey Epstein show his interactions with famous people after his Florida conviction for sex crimes.
President Trump's Justice Department released over 3 million pages and thousands of videos and images regarding Epstein.
Epstein's communications include exchanges with billionaire Elon Musk, former White House advisers, and NFL team co-owner Steve Tisch.
Epstein's friendship with Britain's Prince Andrew was documented in the files.
Early investigations found abuse evidence but didn't result in federal charges against Epstein at that time.
A proposed indictment from 2007 included potential charges not only against Epstein but also his staff.
Epstein's plea deal allowed him to avoid federal charges by pleading guilty to state prostitution charges.
Former U.S. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta approved the deal that let Epstein avoid federal prosecution.
Reports confirmed that Lou Holtz, a former college football coach for Notre Dame and Arkansas, has entered hospice care at the age of 89. Holtz is known for leading Notre Dame to a championship in 1988 and is receiving widespread support from the football community.
Key Facts
Lou Holtz is a former football coach for Notre Dame and Arkansas.
He is now in hospice care at 89 years old.
Holtz coached Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996, achieving a perfect season and a national championship in 1988.
He also coached at Arkansas from 1977 to 1983, winning three bowl games.
Holtz was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
Many in the sports world are expressing support and admiration for him during this time.
Holtz continued coaching after Notre Dame and retired in 2004 from South Carolina.
The Trump administration will increase the number of H-2B guest worker visas by up to 64,716 for the U.S. to help businesses that need seasonal workers. This move is aimed at supporting industries like landscaping and hospitality that face worker shortages.
Key Facts
The Trump administration is adding up to 64,716 more H-2B visas for the fiscal year 2026.
H-2B visas are for non-agricultural seasonal jobs.
The increase doubles the current H-2B visa cap of 66,000.
Only businesses facing serious harm without these workers can apply for the additional visas.
46,226 of the extra visas are for workers who have had H-2B status in recent years.
The remaining 18,490 visas are for new seasonal workers needed from May 1 to September 30.
Some groups argue that more H-2B visas could lower wages for U.S. workers.
Industries like landscaping argue these visas are essential due to labor shortages.
U.S. alpine skier Lindsey Vonn suffered a knee injury after crashing during a race in Switzerland. Olympic gymnast Simone Biles sent her support via Instagram. Vonn still hopes to compete in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy despite the injury.
Key Facts
Lindsey Vonn is a U.S. alpine skier and Olympian.
She crashed during a downhill race in Switzerland and injured her left knee.
Vonn was airlifted from the course after the crash.
She stated that she is discussing her situation with doctors and undergoing exams.
Despite the injury, Vonn believes her Olympic dream is still possible.
Simone Biles, an Olympic gymnast, expressed support for Vonn on Instagram.
Vonn withdrew from the World Cup super-G race following her injury.
The Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy, are set to begin on February 6.
The Pokémon Company canceled a card game event planned at the Yasukuni Shrine in Japan after facing criticism from China. The shrine is controversial because it honors war dead, including convicted war criminals, which upsets countries affected by Japan's wartime actions. The company apologized and stated they will improve their approval procedures.
Key Facts
The event was scheduled to take place at the Yasukuni Shrine in Japan.
The shrine honors those who died in wars, including over 1,000 convicted war criminals.
The announcement of the event led to backlash from China.
The Pokémon Company admitted the event was posted by mistake and canceled it quickly.
Tensions between China and Japan are currently high due to political issues, including Japan's stance on Taiwan.
The Pokémon Company promised to review and enhance its event approval process to prevent future issues.
A mother in the U.S. shared that her 4-month-old baby, Eli, has started using the potty after trying it as a solution to constipation. The method has surprised many parents, leading to a viral video where others asked for advice on how they might do the same with their babies.
Key Facts
A mother named Caitlin reported her 4-month-old son, Eli, began using the potty due to constipation issues.
Eli went 10 days without a bowel movement, leading Caitlin to try various remedies.
Caitlin's mother suggested putting Eli on the potty, which quickly resolved the issue.
Now, Eli uses the potty several times a day, especially after feeding.
Caitlin shared Eli’s progress in a TikTok video, which gained over 1.2 million views.
Many parents are curious about this early potty training method and have asked Caitlin for advice.
Users on TikTok made light-hearted comments about Eli's early potty training success.
The Michigan Wolverines will face the Penn State Nittany Lions in an NCAA college hockey game on Saturday. Both teams are strong competitors in the Big Ten conference, and the outcome could affect their standings.
Key Facts
The game is on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
You can watch the game live on Peacock.
Michigan Wolverines have a record of 20 wins and 4 losses.
Penn State has won 18 games and lost 6.
Both teams are tied at the top of the Big Ten standings.
Michigan is led by T.J. Hughes and Michael Hage in scoring.
Penn State has a strong defense with a .926 team save percentage.
The game could impact NCAA tournament rankings for both teams.
The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers player Paul George for 25 games without pay for violating the league's Anti-Drug Program. George admitted to taking an improper medication while seeking mental health treatment and apologized for his actions. He will return in late March, just before the playoffs.
Key Facts
Paul George, a 76ers player, is suspended for 25 games without pay.
The suspension is due to a violation of the NBA’s Anti-Drug Program.
George stated he took the wrong medication while seeking mental health treatment.
He is in his second season with the 76ers, having played 27 games this season.
His average stats this season include 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
The 76ers currently hold a 26-21 record, placing them sixth in the Eastern Conference.
George will be eligible to return in late March, shortly before the playoffs begin.
A U.S. District Judge denied Minnesota's request to temporarily stop U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the Twin Cities. The judge wants more details before deciding on whether the federal operation violates constitutional rights. The decision allows the ICE operation to continue while the court reviews related legal issues.
Key Facts
A U.S. District Judge turned down Minnesota's emergency request to pause ICE activities.
The request was to halt "Operation Metro Surge," a federal immigration enforcement push.
The judge said she needs more evidence before ruling on broader legal claims.
Minnesota, along with Minneapolis and St. Paul, sought a two-week halt on the operation.
The operation reportedly caused fear and alleged civil rights issues in the area.
The judge's decision lets the ICE operation continue as the court examines state and federal jurisdiction issues.
Separate legal action restricts ICE from using force on peaceful protesters, but this is under appeal.
In Ukraine, large power outages have occurred due to technical problems with the power grid amidst cold winter conditions. The outages follow repeated strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Ukrainian officials are working to restore power, while water supplies are also affected in Kyiv.
Key Facts
Ukraine is experiencing widespread power outages due to technical issues in its power grid.
The outages come amid extremely cold winter weather, with temperatures expected to drop significantly.
Ukraine's grid, already damaged from a nearly four-year-long conflict with Russia, faces additional challenges.
Ukrainian President Zelensky and other officials are coordinating efforts to restore power.
The outages have affected water supplies in Kyiv and caused disruptions in transportation.
Moldova experienced connected power issues due to lines shared with Ukraine.
President Donald Trump requested that Russia stop firing on Kyiv during this cold period to aid negotiation efforts.
Organizations like World Central Kitchen are delivering food to those affected by the crisis.
A winter storm named Gianna is becoming a bomb cyclone, which is a type of intense storm, and is causing major travel problems in the eastern United States. The storm has led to many flight cancellations and delays, especially in states like North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. Weather experts warn that travel conditions could be very dangerous due to heavy snow and strong winds.
Key Facts
Storm Gianna is turning into a bomb cyclone with rapid pressure changes.
At least 16 U.S. states have winter storm warnings or advisories.
The storm has caused 1,870 flight cancellations in the U.S. so far.
Major airports in Georgia and North Carolina are heavily affected.
Delta and American Airlines have the highest number of cancelled flights.
The storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions to parts of the Carolinas and Virginia.
Some areas could receive up to 12 inches of snow.
Travel on several major interstates is likely to be severely impacted.
A bomb cyclone is a type of storm that strengthens quickly due to a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure. These storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and snow, leading to dangerous conditions like power outages and fallen trees. Bomb cyclones mainly occur in fall and winter.
Key Facts
A bomb cyclone forms when a storm's central pressure drops by at least 24 millibars in 24 hours.
Central pressure measures storm strength; lower pressure means a stronger storm.
Bomb cyclones can cause heavy rain, snow, and strong winds, leading to power outages and fallen trees.
These storms can happen any time of year, but are more common in fall and winter.
They often occur in North America, especially in regions like Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and the Great Lakes.
Cold air from the Arctic clashing with warmer air masses helps create these storms.
The term "bomb cyclone" is used in weather reports to indicate active, severe weather conditions.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has asked the state's education commissioner to investigate the Austin Independent School District after students took part in a nationwide protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Students in several Texas cities walked out to protest ICE following two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis.
Key Facts
Governor Greg Abbott requested an investigation into Austin Independent School District after student protests.
The protest was part of a nationwide "National Shutdown" movement against ICE.
Students from Austin, Waco, San Antonio, and other Texas cities participated.
Abbott stated that schools should not support protests and shared images of students protesting.
Austin ISD clarified that the protest was not school-sponsored, and safety was the main concern.
Students missing classes for the protest were marked absent.
At least two people were detained by officers during the protest at the state Capitol.
The protest followed fatal shootings in Minneapolis that led to nationwide demonstrations.
The U.S. has warned Iran about not engaging in unsafe military actions during its planned naval exercises near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran is planning drills in this important trade area, which is being closely watched due to global oil trade and tensions with the U.S. The U.S. Central Command emphasized that it will protect American forces and ships in the region.
Key Facts
The U.S. warned Iran’s Revolutionary Guard against dangerous actions near its forces.
Iran plans a two-day military exercise in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil trade.
The U.S. has increased its military presence in the region.
Iran says it is ready to negotiate with President Trump’s administration.
Iran's military is on high alert, saying they are ready to defend.
Discussions about possible U.S. military action are ongoing, focusing on Iran's nuclear and missile sites.
