A former Alaska Airlines pilot, Joseph David Emerson, pleaded guilty in federal court after trying to shut off the engines of a passenger jet mid-flight. He had taken psychedelic mushrooms and later said he was not in a clear state of mind. Emerson received sentences in federal and state courts, including jail time, probation, community service, and financial restitution.
Key Facts
Joseph David Emerson attempted to turn off a plane's engines during a flight from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, California.
He was not on duty but was in the cockpit of an Alaska Airlines flight when the incident happened.
Emerson admitted to taking psychedelic mushrooms and said he was struggling with depression.
In federal court, he pleaded guilty and prosecutors suggested a one-year prison sentence.
In Oregon state court, he received 50 days in jail (already served), five years of probation, and community service.
Emerson must compensate for damages with a payment of $60,659.
The event resulted in the flight being diverted to Portland, Oregon.
Emerson will undergo assessments for drug and alcohol use and has restrictions on proximity to aircraft.
The Reform UK political party held a large conference, showing its rapid growth and ambition. The event featured discussions on expanding its presence across the UK, and prominent figures like Nigel Farage emphasized discipline and preparation for future elections.
Key Facts
The Reform UK conference was significantly larger than previous years.
Nigel Farage highlighted the possibility of an early election and urged members to be ready.
The conference took place at Birmingham's NEC, a large venue.
Farage signed Reform UK football shirts, symbolizing the party's ambitions.
The conference included stands representing different UK regions, showing organizational growth.
Former members of major UK parties attended, indicating a broad appeal.
The conference slogan was "The Next Step," reflecting Reform UK's growth goals.
Nigel Farage emphasized discipline and focused strategy in his closing speech.
Some states in the U.S. are teaming up to evaluate vaccine information and provide their own recommendations. This move comes as there are ongoing disagreements over the federal government’s vaccine policies.
Key Facts
Some U.S. states are forming alliances to review scientific data on vaccines.
These states aim to make their own recommendations separate from federal guidelines.
The action follows disagreements over the federal vaccine policy managed by the CDC.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green, who is also a doctor, has provided insights on this effort.
The states are responding to what they see as challenges in federal vaccine guidance.
South Korea's government voiced concerns about an immigration raid by U.S. Homeland Security at a Hyundai factory in Georgia. Meanwhile, Israel continued military operations in Gaza City, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy rejected traveling to Moscow for talks, and a famous movie prop sold for millions.
Key Facts
South Korea is concerned about a U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia.
The raid involved the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Israel expanded its military activities in Gaza City.
Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, will not travel to Moscow to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
A lightsaber belonging to the "Darth Vader" character from "Star Wars" was sold for $3.6 million at an auction.
The U.S. Chemical Safety Hazard and Investigation Board (CSB), which looks into chemical accidents, may be closed down by the Trump administration. Officials argue that other agencies like the EPA and OSHA can handle its tasks.
Key Facts
The CSB investigates major chemical accidents.
It provides recommendations to prevent future chemical disasters.
The Trump administration wants to shut down the CSB.
Officials claim the CSB's work overlaps with agencies like EPA and OSHA.
David Michaels, a former OSHA director, discusses the situation.
The shutdown proposal is part of the government reorganization efforts.
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Kunar province in Afghanistan, causing significant destruction and loss of life. More than 2,200 people died, and thousands of homes were damaged or destroyed, leaving many survivors struggling for shelter and basic needs.
Key Facts
The earthquake hit the southeast region of Afghanistan, particularly affecting Kunar province.
More than 2,200 people died due to the earthquake.
Strong aftershocks continue to cause fear and injuries in the area.
Many survivors, like Gul Rahim, lost family members and are now living in temporary shelters, facing harsh winter conditions.
The World Health Organization reported that at least 6,700 homes have been destroyed.
Landslides and damaged roads are making rescue and relief efforts difficult.
The WHO is seeking $4 million in aid for health and basic necessities.
Afghanistan frequently experiences earthquakes due to its location on tectonic plates.
A Texas band named Khruangbin is gaining attention in the music world for their instrumental sound. They are part of a rising movement in pop music where instrumental music is becoming more popular.
Key Facts
Khruangbin is a band from Texas.
The band focuses on instrumental music rather than vocals.
They have been nominated for a Grammy award.
Instrumental music is becoming more popular in the pop music scene.
Vocals typically dominate the pop music charts, but this trend is shifting.
Robert Kraft's organization, the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (FCAS), is hosting "unity" dinners in 14 U.S. cities to connect Black and Jewish college students and address rising antisemitism and anti-Black hate. These dinners aim to rebuild historical bonds between these communities and discuss racism and antisemitism. The events involve various partners, including Hillel International and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
Key Facts
The FCAS is organizing dinners in 14 cities starting in mid-September.
Dinners will bring together students from schools, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The goal is to address rising antisemitism and anti-Black racism on college campuses.
Discussions at the dinners will focus on racism, antisemitism, and misunderstandings.
FCAS collaborates with organizations like Hillel International and UNCF.
Hate crimes in the U.S. recently hit the second-largest total since FBI data collection began.
FCAS was supported by a $100 million matching gift from Kraft in 2023.
Giorgio Armani's coffin is on display for the public in Milan, Italy. Mourners, including designer Donatella Versace, are paying their respects. A private funeral will happen on Monday.
Key Facts
Giorgio Armani's coffin is available for public viewing in Milan, Italy.
The viewing is taking place at the Armani/Teatro.
Mourners are gathering to say goodbye to the fashion designer.
Donatella Versace attended with a bouquet of white flowers.
Israel has destroyed a second high-rise building in Gaza City as part of its ongoing military operation. The Israeli military has urged civilians in Gaza City to move to a designated safe area in the south. Israel claims the destroyed towers were being used by Hamas, which Hamas denies.
Key Facts
The Israeli military destroyed the Sussi Tower in Gaza City.
Israel says it targeted the tower because Hamas was using it.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have asked Gaza City residents to move south.
IDF claims it is taking steps to protect civilians during attacks.
The UN says south Gaza camps are overcrowded and hospitals overwhelmed.
Five children died in al-Mawasi, allegedly from an Israeli drone strike.
Israel's military campaign is a response to an October 2023 Hamas attack.
The destruction highlights ongoing tension and violence in the region.
Donald Trump signed an executive order to penalize countries that wrongfully detain American citizens. The order allows for sanctions and other measures against these nations. The move is intended to protect US nationals from being unjustly held overseas.
Key Facts
Trump signed an order to punish countries that detain Americans unfairly.
The order lets the State Department impose sanctions or other actions.
It introduces a "state sponsor of wrongful detention" label for countries.
The order also applies to non-state actors who control areas but are not recognized as governments.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it an "unprecedented action."
The Foley Foundation says 54 Americans were wrongfully detained in 17 countries in 2024.
The White House reported the release of 72 American detainees under Trump's administration.
Detentions often follow legitimate law enforcement or judicial actions abroad.
Chicago is responding to President Trump's threats to send National Guard troops and increase immigration enforcement. Local officials and residents are reacting to these potential federal actions.
Key Facts
President Trump threatened to send National Guard troops to Chicago.
He also mentioned increasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities.
Chicago officials are responding to these threats.
There has been public reaction in Chicago to the possibility of troop deployment.
National Guard is a reserve military force that can be called upon by the government.
Increased ICE enforcement means more immigration checks and deportations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin spent a week in China, participating in a summit and strengthening ties with President Xi Jinping. This alignment between Russia and China is significant for international relations, including its impact on the United States and Ukraine.
Key Facts
Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, visited China for a week.
Putin attended a summit during his visit to China.
Putin and Xi Jinping, China's president, showed a close relationship.
The relationship between Russia and China affects global politics.
This relationship is important for the United States and Ukraine.
Alexander Gabuev, from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, provided insights on this topic.
A new musical about Luigi Mangione is selling out theaters. The show is a comedy that makes fun of the experiences of high-profile inmates in a particular Brooklyn jail.
Key Facts
The musical is about Luigi Mangione.
Luigi Mangione is portrayed in a satirical, comedic manner.
The show is popular and selling out in theaters.
The story includes experiences of well-known inmates from a Brooklyn jail.
Mentioned inmates include the UnitedHealthcare CEO's alleged killer, Diddy, and Sam Bankman-Fried.
The U.K. Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has reshuffled his government team, moving several ministers to new roles. Key changes include appointing new officials to the Home Office and Cabinet Office, partly to address immigration issues. This reshuffle follows the resignation of the Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner.
Key Facts
Sir Keir Starmer is the U.K. Prime Minister who conducted the reshuffle.
The reshuffle included moving Yvette Cooper to the Foreign Office.
New appointments at the Home Office include Sarah Jones and Alex Norris.
The focus of some changes is on addressing illegal immigration and small boat crossings.
Anna Turley is now minister without portfolio in the Cabinet Office and Labour Party chair.
Ellie Reeves becomes the Solicitor General, and Lucy Rigby moves to the Treasury.
Jason Stockwood becomes a business minister and joins the House of Lords.
Poppy Gustaffson and Jim McMahon have left their government positions.
Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager born in 1991, is set to become the first millennial saint in the Catholic Church. A ceremony led by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican will officially recognize his sainthood for his devotion and work in documenting religious miracles online. Carlo, who died at 15, is credited with two miracles since his passing and is an inspiration to young Catholics.
Key Facts
Carlo Acutis was born in London, England, in 1991 to Italian parents.
He grew up in Milan, Italy, where he learned basic computer skills on his own.
Carlo used his coding abilities to create a website documenting Catholic miracles.
He died of leukemia in 2006 at age 15.
Carlo is credited with two miracles after his death, involving healing a sick child and an injured student.
He is often referred to as "God’s Influencer" due to his online presence.
Carlo's beatification ceremony was postponed after the death of Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV will lead Carlo's canonization at St Peter’s Square, Vatican.
President Trump has threatened to use "the Department of WAR" in Chicago as immigration enforcement operations increase in the city. The move is in response to immigration issues and has led to protests, with local leaders urging for peaceful demonstrations. The developments coincide with Mexican independence celebrations in the area, which have been affected by the situation.
Key Facts
President Trump made a reference to using "the Department of WAR" in Chicago on his Truth Social account.
Trump has already deployed the National Guard in cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., for immigration operations.
Around 300 federal agents are conducting increased immigration enforcement in Chicago, using a naval station for logistical support.
About 200 protesters blocked an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) center in response to the operations.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson are encouraging peaceful protests and monitoring for any illegal actions by federal law enforcement.
Some Mexican independence events in Chicago have been reduced or canceled due to these enforcement activities.
Olivia Smith made a remarkable debut for Arsenal in the Women's Super League, scoring an impressive goal that helped Arsenal win after being initially behind. Smith, who recently joined Arsenal for a significant transfer fee, demonstrated her skill and justified her high price in her first game.
Key Facts
Olivia Smith scored a decisive goal in her first game for Arsenal.
She joined Arsenal after a transfer fee of £1 million, initially being the world's most expensive female footballer.
Arsenal was trailing 1-0 to London City Lionesses before Smith's goal led to a comeback.
Smith's goal was scored from a distance and was praised as a potential goal of the season.
She previously played for Liverpool, scoring seven goals in her debut WSL season.
Smith is a Canada international, having debuted for the national team at age 15.
Her performance included high engagement, with more shots and touches in the box than anyone else on the field.
Jim Jarmusch's film, "Father Mother Sister Brother," won the top prize at the Venice Film Festival in 2025. The film is about the dynamics between adult siblings and their parents. Other notable winners included "The Voice of Hind Rajab," which received the Silver Lion award.
Key Facts
Jim Jarmusch’s film won the top prize at the 2025 Venice Film Festival.
The film, starring Adam Driver, Vicky Krieps, and Cate Blanchett, explores relationships between siblings and their parents.
"The Voice of Hind Rajab," a film about rescuing a young girl in Gaza, won the Silver Lion award.
Xin Zhilei won best actress for her role in "The Sun Rises on Us All."
Toni Servillo took the best actor prize for "La Grazia."
Benny Safdie won best director for "The Smashing Machine."
A special jury prize was awarded to Gianfranco Rosi for "Below the Clouds."
The jury was led by Alexander Payne and included international members from various filmmaking backgrounds.
Fiji won against Wales in a close rugby match at the World Cup, finishing with a score of 28-25. Both teams were searching for their first win in the pool stage, but Fiji came out on top. Wales had a strong start and made several attempts to close the gap, but Fiji held on to secure the victory.
Key Facts
Fiji defeated Wales with a score of 28-25.
The game took place in Exeter, with 14,000 people in attendance.
Both teams were aiming for their first win in the pool stage.
Fiji scored four tries, with two from Josifini Neihamu.
Wales also scored four tries, but could not convert enough to win.
Wales missed all conversion attempts, which impacted their final score.
Fiji's coach celebrated the win against his former team, Wales.
Despite strong efforts in the second half, Wales could not catch up to Fiji.
