A Qatari-backed investment fund named Irth Capital has made a $47-per-share bid to buy the pizza company Papa John’s, valuing it at $1.5 billion. This offer follows a previous joint bid with Apollo Global Management, but now Irth is acting alone. The proposal is under review, and it is not certain if Papa John’s will accept it.
Key Facts
Irth Capital, backed by Qatar, offered $47 per share for Papa John’s.
The bid values Papa John’s at $1.5 billion.
Irth Capital already owns about 10% of Papa John’s, partly in derivatives.
There is no guarantee Papa John’s will accept the offer, as talks are private.
Papa John’s stock rose nearly 20% after the bid was reported.
Apollo Global Management previously made a higher offer of $64 per share but withdrew.
Irth Capital's proposal now includes support from Brookfield Asset Management.
Irth is led by Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulla Al Thani and Matthew Bradshaw, and was established in 2024.
A woman on a flight filmed a passenger's unusual behavior of putting bare feet on the cabin wall. The video gained 2.1 million views on TikTok, sparking discussions on airplane etiquette. Many people online shared their thoughts on maintaining respectful behavior in shared spaces during air travel.
Key Facts
A TikTok user, _janitalove, posted a video showing a passenger placing bare feet on the airplane wall.
The video quickly gained 2.1 million views, leading to debates about appropriate conduct on flights.
Air travel etiquette, especially in cramped planes, is a common topic among travelers.
In 2024, there were 2,000 reported incidents of disruptive passenger behavior.
The video received 6,100 comments on TikTok, with viewers expressing shock and disbelief.
Many people emphasized the importance of respecting shared spaces like airplane cabins.
A man named Daniel Dembede shared a story on social media about texting his late best friend's phone every year and unexpectedly receiving a reply from the friend's son. This story has become popular online, showing how people use texting as a way to cope with grief. People shared similar experiences of staying connected with deceased loved ones through texting.
Key Facts
Daniel Dembede texts his deceased best friend's number annually and recently got a reply from the friend's son.
The son's message said Dembede could continue texting, calling him "family".
The viral social media post has around 700,000 views since March 10.
Texting deceased loved ones can serve as a grief coping method.
A 2019 study found mourning a friend's death can result in significant emotional and physical effects.
The study observed that social activity helps people cope with loss.
Other social media users shared similar experiences of maintaining connections with deceased loved ones.
The article discusses how Russia and China provide Iran with intelligence and military technology. Russia shares satellite and surveillance information, while China helps improve Iran's electronic warfare capabilities. This cooperation enhances Iran's ability to locate and target U.S. and Israeli military assets in the Middle East.
Key Facts
U.S. officials reported that Russia gives Iran intelligence about U.S. military locations in the Middle East.
Russia's surveillance technology helps Iran track U.S. and Israeli military assets more precisely than Iran could on its own.
Intelligence sharing is crucial for modern warfare because knowing enemy locations is key to success.
Iran uses Russian satellite capabilities, labeled “Khayyam,” for continuous surveillance and targeting.
A recent attack on a U.S. military facility in Kuwait was linked to precise intelligence, reportedly from Russia.
China aids Iran with advanced radar systems and navigation technology, moving Iran away from U.S. systems to China's BeiDou-3.
China's YLC-8B radar makes U.S. stealth aircraft more detectable, impacting military strategies.
Iran is close to acquiring Chinese supersonic missiles, posing a threat to U.S. naval ships in the region.
The National Weather Service has issued a warning for heavy snow and strong winds in five U.S. states. Snowfall could reach up to 5 feet, and winds may hit 100 mph. Residents in affected areas are advised to avoid traveling due to dangerous conditions.
Key Facts
The affected states are Michigan, Washington, Montana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Idaho.
Michigan could see up to 17 inches of snow and winds reaching 50 mph in some areas.
Washington is expected to receive up to 3 feet of snow and winds between 40 and 65 mph.
In Montana, the wind could reach up to 100 mph, with snow accumulation between 1 and 3 feet in certain areas.
Residents are advised to delay travel due to whiteout conditions and potential power outages.
The weather conditions are expected to last from Thursday through Sunday, varying by location.
Hawaii is facing severe weather due to a Kona low storm. Officials warn of heavy rain, flash flooding, and strong winds across the islands. Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency.
Key Facts
A Kona low storm system is affecting Hawaii, bringing heavy rain and the risk of flash floods.
Governor Josh Green has issued an emergency proclamation to prepare for the storm.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of significant rainfall and potential flooding, especially on smaller islands and in urban areas.
Flood watches are in place for all major Hawaiian islands, indicating possible flash flooding.
The storm is expected to affect Kauaʻi and Oʻahu first, then spread to other islands.
High winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rain are expected from Thursday evening through Saturday.
A winter weather advisory and storm watch are in effect for the Big Island’s highest peaks, with possible snow and blizzard conditions.
Kona lows are seasonal systems that bring unusual weather patterns, such as cooler, moisture-rich winds, to Hawaii.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen studied how certain personality traits, called "dark" traits, affect career interests. They found that people with high "dark" trait scores tend to avoid jobs that involve helping others, like teaching or nursing. The study looked at over 8,000 people from Denmark, Germany, and the United States.
Key Facts
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Copenhagen.
It involved over 8,000 participants from Denmark, Germany, and the United States.
The focus was on "dark" personality traits, which involve self-interest and behaviors like aggression or manipulation.
People with high "dark" trait scores are less likely to choose jobs in social professions such as teaching or nursing.
Artistic jobs were also less appealing to those with "dark" traits, though the effect was smaller.
Enterprising jobs like management showed different patterns depending on the country, with more interest in Germany.
A small positive link was found between "dark" traits and realistic jobs in Denmark, but not in other countries.
The findings suggest that personality can impact career guidance and recruitment efforts.
A video of a toddler in Norway has gone viral on TikTok after her mother, Linea Walldén, shared footage of her daughter gathering an unusual collection of bedtime items, including a houseplant. This routine behavior has amused many viewers, drawing widespread attention and humorous comments online.
Key Facts
The video was shared by Linea Walldén from Norway, showing her 2-year-old daughter on TikTok.
The toddler collects several "emotional support items" at 1 a.m., including a toy car, a water bottle, a yogurt, a stuffed unicorn, and a houseplant.
This activity is part of the child's nightly routine, not caused by a bad dream.
Linea notes that her daughter sometimes includes unexpected items like a lamp.
The video gained over 1.1 million views on TikTok.
Viewers found the video humorous and shared similar stories of their own children with essential objects at night.
Linea mentioned that her daily routine involves returning the items to her daughter's room.
A woman took her antique ring to a jeweler for repair but was upset when she received it back because the original, aged look had been polished away. She shared her experience on Reddit, seeking advice on whether the ring’s original appearance could return over time. Users explained that the jeweler's actions were likely necessary due to the nature of the repairs.
Key Facts
The woman took a 100-year-old, 18-carat gold ring to a jeweler for resizing and adding stones.
She was upset that the ring lost its aged, original appearance after polishing.
The woman acknowledged she did not specifically ask the jeweler to keep the original finish.
Reddit users explained that polishing may have been necessary due to the repair process.
Experts noted that a patina, or aged finish, can develop again naturally over time.
Some commenters reassured her that the ring's aged look could return with regular wear.
The woman expressed her emotional attachment to the ring and called it a passion.
Bam Adebayo, a basketball player for the Miami Heat, scored 83 points in a game against the Washington Wizards, surpassing Kobe Bryant's famous 81-point record. The event highlighted memories of Bryant and sparked discussions about basketball history and records.
Key Facts
Bam Adebayo plays for the Miami Heat.
He scored 83 points in one game, surpassing Kobe Bryant's 81-point game.
The game was against the Washington Wizards, and the Heat won 150-129.
Adebayo played for 42 minutes during the game.
After the game, Adebayo celebrated with his mother and partner A'ja Wilson.
Kobe Bryant's 81 points were the second-highest in NBA history at that time.
Bryant remains a significant figure in basketball, with his past performances deeply remembered.
The Players Championship, one of the top golf tournaments on the PGA Tour, is taking place at TPC Sawgrass from March 12-15, 2026. It features a strong lineup of players and will air on ESPN+, Golf Channel, and NBC. The event is known for its challenging course and exciting finishes.
Key Facts
The Players Championship runs from March 12-15, 2026.
The tournament is held at TPC Sawgrass, a notable golf course.
The event is part of the PGA Tour and is considered prestigious.
Top golfers like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele are participating.
Key TV channels for the event are ESPN+, Golf Channel, and NBC.
Streaming is available through ESPN Unlimited with multiple feeds.
The course is known for its difficult 17th hole, which has an island green.
The event delivers unpredictable results and often thrilling endings.
The New York Giants have made moves in the NFL's offseason, by signing tight end Isaiah Likely and losing wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson to the Tennessee Titans. Dez Bryant, a former Dallas Cowboys player, predicts that both the Giants and Cowboys will compete for the top position in the NFC East this football season.
Key Facts
The Giants signed tight end Isaiah Likely and lost wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson.
Robinson previously achieved a 1,000-yard season and joined the Tennessee Titans.
Dez Bryant predicts the Giants and Cowboys will compete in the NFC East.
The Giants have Jaxson Dart as a potential future franchise quarterback.
Running back Cam Skattebo and wide receiver Malik Nabers are recovering from injuries.
Concerns remain about the Giants' defensive line and secondary strength.
The Cowboys traded defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and have not added major new players this offseason.
John Harbaugh, a Super Bowl-winning coach, is leading the Giants as head coach.
President Donald Trump aimed to refill the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) after significant releases during Joe Biden's presidency, but the ongoing Iran war has complicated this task. Rising oil prices and disruptions in global oil markets have led Trump to tap the SPR again, which was previously criticized by Republicans when used by Biden. The global oil market faces increased risks due to these geopolitical tensions.
Key Facts
President Trump promised to refill the SPR after Joe Biden released oil reserves during a price spike in 2022.
The Iran war has created problems for oil markets, causing oil prices to rise.
The U.S. plans to release 172 million barrels of oil as part of a global effort to stabilize prices.
Republicans criticized Biden's releasing of oil reserves, claiming it was election-year manipulation.
Biden's administration gradually refilled some of the reserves, increasing them by 9.6% in his last year.
The Iran war has affected oil supply channels like the Strait of Hormuz, which usually carries significant global oil flows.
Trump's administration announced further oil releases to counteract rising prices stemming from the conflict.
Senegal's parliament has approved a new law that increases the maximum prison term for same-sex acts to 10 years and criminalizes the promotion of homosexuality. This decision came after recent arrests related to alleged same-sex relationships, and it reflects the views of many in Senegal against homosexuality. Rights groups are concerned that the law could lead to more discrimination and violence against sexual minorities.
Key Facts
Senegal's new law doubles the maximum prison term to 10 years for same-sex acts.
The law also criminalizes the "promotion" of homosexuality.
135 members of parliament voted for the law, with none opposing it.
The president must sign the law for it to take effect.
The law was part of campaign promises by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.
Critics warn that the law could increase discrimination and fear among sexual minorities.
Senegal has a low HIV prevalence, but there are concerns the law could affect people seeking HIV treatment.
Rights groups say the law violates internationally protected rights, including equality and non-discrimination.
Laura Loomer, a well-known far-right activist, suggested on social media that Muslims should not work for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), calling it a security risk. Her comments have sparked controversy amid ongoing discussions about freedom of speech and offensive remarks in the U.S.
Key Facts
Laura Loomer made posts on social media against Muslims working at the TSA.
She specifically criticized the presence of Muslims at an Atlanta airport.
Loomer referred to wearing a hijab as a sign of adherence to sharia law.
She has been linked to the White House since President Trump returned to office.
Her remarks have added to the political polarization in the U.S.
Tennessee Representative Andy Ogles also made controversial comments about Muslims.
Chile's new president, Jose Antonio Kast, took office, signaling a significant move to the right in the country's political landscape. He plans to implement stricter measures on crime and migration and aims to strengthen relationships with Israel and the United States.
Key Facts
Jose Antonio Kast is the new president of Chile.
His presidency represents a major political shift to the right.
Kast intends to enforce stricter policies on crime.
He also plans tighter controls on migration.
Kast wants to build stronger foreign relations with Israel and the U.S.
He has officially been sworn into office as president.
A man found a Graflex camera accessory at an estate sale, which is the same item used to create the lightsaber prop in the Star Wars movies. He bought it for $10, although it is worth much more. This discovery excited many Star Wars fans online.
Key Facts
A man bought a Graflex camera attachment for $10 at an estate sale.
The Graflex flash handle was used to make Luke Skywalker's lightsaber in Star Wars.
These flash handles were originally used with press cameras in the 1940s.
Star Wars set decorator Roger Christian chose the Graflex handle for its used look.
Online, Graflex handles can sell for several hundred dollars.
The man who found it plans to modify it into a lightsaber replica.
SNAP recipients have sued the U.S. government, arguing that new restrictions on what they can buy with these benefits are not legal and harm people who depend on the program. The lawsuit claims the changes make it difficult for low-income families to buy necessary food. The complaint focuses on restrictions being implemented in 22 states.
Key Facts
Five individuals have filed a lawsuit against the USDA in Washington, D.C.
They want to stop changes that prevent SNAP benefits from buying certain foods like candy and sugary drinks.
The USDA approved new rules in 22 states, with some already enforcing them.
The government argues the policy promotes healthier diets, while the plaintiffs argue it limits food access.
The lawsuit claims the USDA overstepped by not following proper procedures.
Plaintiffs include a single mother with diabetes and a caretaker who argue the rules limit necessary purchases.
SNAP is a federally funded program managed by individual states, requiring USDA approval for changes.
President Donald Trump is seeing low approval ratings from independents, a group known to influence close elections. These low ratings could impact the midterm elections, where control of Congress might shift.
Key Facts
President Trump has a low approval rating with independent voters.
Independent voters often decide close elections.
Trump is 38 points lower with independents compared to his overall rating.
This rating is worse than those of former Presidents Obama and Bush at similar times.
60% of voters believe the Trump administration focuses on the wrong priorities.
Among independents, 78% feel the administration is focused on the wrong issues.
Independents are more results-focused and less forgiving than party loyalists.
Iran's military stated it targeted Israeli bases and security headquarters in retaliation for ongoing conflict, while Israel has reported missile launches from Iran. The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, with Iran accusing the US and Israel of striking hospitals. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, but the conflict persists.
Key Facts
Iran claims to have targeted Israeli military bases and the Shin Bet security headquarters.
Israel has identified missiles launched from Iran.
The conflict began on February 28 and has caused casualties and injuries in Israel.
Iranian President Pezeshkian insists the war can only end if Iran's rights are recognized.
Over 1,395 people in Iran reportedly killed due to US-Israeli strikes, according to Iranian officials.
Iranian Deputy Health Minister stated hospitals and civilian infrastructure have been damaged.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with countries like Russia involved in talks to halt hostilities.
Iran accuses US and Israel of striking civilian areas, leading to infrastructure and electricity issues.