Jayson Tatum, a player for the Boston Celtics, expressed frustration about limited playing time at the Olympics despite being part of the gold-medal-winning Team USA. He had a successful year, including leading his team to an NBA championship, but his playing time in the Olympics was less than expected. Tatum is currently recovering from an injury and may return to play in a few months.
Key Facts
Jayson Tatum led the Boston Celtics to an NBA championship in 2024.
He was named to the All-NBA First Team.
Tatum signed a record-breaking contract extension.
Team USA won a fifth consecutive gold medal in men's basketball, but Tatum played limited minutes.
He did not play in the semifinals against Serbia.
Tatum is recovering from an Achilles injury and might return in the upcoming months.
The Boston Celtics are currently third in the Eastern Conference with a 29-18 record.
Other NBA players with similar injuries are expected to miss more time.
LeBron James discussed the possibility of his retirement after the Los Angeles Lakers' recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he received a special tribute. He mentioned that every game could be his last and emphasized enjoying the present moment. His visit to Cleveland was notable because his son, Bronny, also shared the court.
Key Facts
LeBron James acknowledged that every game might be his last as retirement is on the horizon.
During his visit to Cleveland, James received a tribute from the Cavaliers.
LeBron scored 11 points with five assists and three rebounds in the 129-99 loss to the Cavaliers.
He is in his 23rd NBA season and is not contracted for the next year.
LeBron wants to stay present and hasn't made a retirement decision or considered a farewell tour.
The Cleveland game was special for LeBron and his family, as his son Bronny participated.
LeBron mentioned he would have been surprised years ago to still be playing at this point.
U.S. Senator Susan Collins from Maine announced that immigration officials have stopped their large-scale operations in the state. This decision follows discussions between Senator Collins and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.
Key Facts
Senator Susan Collins is from Maine and belongs to the Republican Party.
Immigration officials had conducted a surge operation in Maine, resulting in over 200 arrests.
Collins communicated directly with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem about this issue.
She successfully urged for a reconsideration of the immigration enforcement approach in Maine.
President Donald Trump indicated he might reduce tensions following a second fatal shooting by federal agents in Minneapolis.
The announcement stated no more large-scale Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations are currently planned in Maine.
First Lady Melania Trump shared that Russian President Vladimir Putin sent her a letter in response to her message about bringing Ukrainian families together amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. She originally wrote to Putin, asking him to protect Ukrainian children. She mentioned that they are still working on efforts to unite children with their families but did not disclose the letter's full content.
Key Facts
Melania Trump received a letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The letter was in response to her request to protect Ukrainian children.
She originally wrote to Putin in the previous year.
The focus of the communication is on reuniting Ukrainian families affected by the conflict.
Melania Trump stated that her representative is still in contact with Russian officials.
She expressed hope for further success in reuniting families.
The exact content of Putin's letter was not shared publicly.
Two U.S. federal agents were put on leave after they were involved in a shooting that killed Alex Pretti, a nurse, during an immigration raid in Minneapolis. The incident has caused widespread anger, and a vigil was held in memory of Pretti.
Key Facts
Two U.S. federal agents were part of a fatal shooting in Minneapolis.
The shooting happened during an immigration raid.
The person killed was Alex Pretti, who was an intensive care nurse.
The agents involved are now on administrative leave.
Videos show Alex Pretti involved in a struggle with federal immigration agents in Minneapolis 11 days before he died. The footage reveals that he kicked the tail light of a federal vehicle and had a scuffle with officers, but it doesn't show him using a visible handgun in his waistband.
Key Facts
Alex Pretti was involved in a conflict with U.S. federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
The incident happened 11 days before he was shot by Border Patrol officers.
Videos show Pretti kicking out a tail light on the agents' vehicle.
Pretti and the officers struggled, and during the scuffle, his coat came off.
Pretti managed to get away, either by escaping or because the officers allowed him to go.
A handgun was seen in Pretti's waistband, but he is not shown reaching for it in the videos.
It is unclear if the officers noticed the gun during the incident.
A woman's TikTok video showing her basement laundry routine has gained attention for its eerie setting, which resembles a scene from a horror movie. Viewers reacted to the video by expressing fear or joking about using other laundry options instead.
Key Facts
A TikTok user posted a video of her basement, describing it as a scary place to do laundry.
The video shows a dimly lit, unfinished basement with exposed wires and random furniture.
The woman carries a baseball bat as she checks corners on her way to do laundry.
Viewers on TikTok commented that they would avoid the basement, comparing it to a horror movie.
Some viewers suggested using a laundromat despite higher costs, rather than using the basement.
The average cost of using a laundromat can be $20 or more per month.
Newsweek mentioned reaching out to the TikTok user for comments on the video.
Two rescue pit bulls, Mabel and Piper, were frightened by an empty plastic bag that blew into their yard. Their owner, Kylie McCarthy, shared a video of their reaction on TikTok, which quickly went viral. The dogs stayed away from the bag until McCarthy showed them it was harmless.
Key Facts
Mabel and Piper are two 18-month-old rescue pit bulls living in Nashville, Tennessee.
They were frightened by an empty plastic bag that blew into their yard.
Their owner, Kylie McCarthy, recorded their reaction and posted it on TikTok.
The video went viral, gathering over 595,700 views and 83,100 likes.
The dogs were initially scared but later sniffed the bag once McCarthy showed it was safe.
Mabel is the lazier of the two, while Piper is shy with newcomers but affectionate.
They are both described as being protective but are easily scared by non-threatening objects.
Internet users found the video amusing, with over 2,500 comments posted.
President Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, declined to comment on the shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis, stating he wanted to wait for the investigation results. A new video shows Pretti involved in a clash with immigration officers shortly before the incident.
Key Facts
Tom Homan is the White House border czar managing ICE operations in Minnesota.
The incident involves the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents.
Homan was asked for comments on a video showing Pretti clashing with federal immigration officers.
In the video, Pretti is seen kicking the taillight off an SUV.
Homan stated he has a personal opinion but prefers to wait for the investigation outcome.
He expressed a general desire for no one to die during such operations.
President Donald Trump wants the United States to have complete access to Greenland. He has agreed on a basic plan to make this happen, building on past defense agreements with Denmark. The plan aims to increase security and strengthen ties with NATO allies.
Key Facts
President Trump expects the U.S. to gain full access to Greenland.
Jeff Landry, appointed to handle U.S. relations with Greenland, announced the news.
The plan builds on old defense agreements from 1941 and 1951 with Denmark.
Greenland is a large Arctic island, mostly covered in ice but holds strategic interest.
The U.S. has a military base in Greenland, called Pituffik Space Base.
European officials support a greater U.S. military presence if allies agree.
The U.S. aims to block Russian and Chinese influence in Greenland.
Climate change makes Greenland's resources more accessible, increasing global interest.
Kevin Owens is waiting to get medical clearance to compete in the WWE Royal Rumble 2026. He has not wrestled since March 2025 after having neck surgery. He might miss this year's Royal Rumble, which he has been a part of every year since 2019.
Key Facts
Kevin Owens needs medical clearance before he can wrestle at WWE Royal Rumble 2026.
Owens last wrestled in March 2025 and then had neck surgery.
He was supposed to fight Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41 but had to stop due to his surgery needs.
If Owens misses Royal Rumble 2026, it will be the first time since 2019 he has not participated in the event.
Owens has appeared three times in the men's Royal Rumble match.
Owens previously won the WWE Universal Championship and often competes in big matches like ladders matches for championships.
A woman shared an experience on Reddit about a dispute on a flight from Los Angeles to Newark. A man became upset when she refused to switch seats with his wife, leading to a heated exchange after the flight landed. Witnesses reported the man's behavior to airline staff, and it remains unclear if any action will be taken.
Key Facts
The incident occurred on a flight from Los Angeles to Newark during a snowstorm.
The woman, who goes by Smart_Choice_317 on Reddit, had booked an aisle seat and declined a request to switch seats.
The man, whose wife was seated separately, became angry after the flight and made threatening comments.
Other passengers reported the man to a gate agent after witnessing the exchange.
The incident was discussed with more than 170 comments on Reddit, mostly condemning the man's actions.
Past stories about disputes over seat swaps on flights have also been highlighted.
It is not confirmed if the airline will address the incident further.
Many pubs and restaurants in Northern Ireland are concerned about rising property tax rates. These businesses face increased costs due to updated property valuations and the removal of temporary COVID-19 tax allowances. Higher rates could lead to more expensive prices for customers.
Key Facts
Pubs and restaurants in Northern Ireland are facing higher rates bills from April 1, following a new valuation list.
The valuation exercise, called Reval 2026, led to an 85% increase for hotels and a 47% rise for pubs.
Rates are a type of annual property tax that helps fund public services.
Businesses like the Harbour View Hotel and Galgorm resort have expressed concerns about managing these costs.
The removal of temporary COVID-related tax allowances has increased the financial burden.
Some businesses expect to increase prices for customers to cover these additional expenses.
First Minister Michelle O'Neill acknowledged the challenging situation for many in the hospitality sector.
President Donald Trump's border advisor, Tom Homan, announced an agreement with Minnesota's Attorney General Keith Ellison. Minnesota county jails can now inform ICE about the release dates of certain immigrants considered public safety risks. The aim is to manage immigration enforcement more effectively in the state.
Key Facts
Tom Homan is the border advisor to President Donald Trump.
An agreement was made with Keith Ellison, Minnesota's Attorney General.
The agreement involves county jails notifying ICE about release dates of certain detainees.
ICE looks to prioritize immigrants seen as public safety or national security risks.
Homan is addressing issues in ICE operations in Minnesota after disorder led to incidents, including fatalities.
The agreement aims to reduce the number of ICE officers needed in Minnesota.
Homan acknowledged existing flaws in ICE operations during a press conference.
Senegal's football manager, Pape Thiaw, received a five-game ban due to incidents during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco. The Confederation of African Football fined Thiaw and several players for their actions during the match, which included a temporary walk-off in protest against a referee's decision. The bans apply only to matches under the African football body and do not affect upcoming World Cup preparations.
Key Facts
Pape Thiaw, manager of Senegal's football team, was banned for five games.
Thiaw was also fined $100,000 for "unsporting conduct."
The incident occurred during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, which Senegal won 1-0 against Morocco.
Senegal's players temporarily left the field after a controversial referee decision.
The game was delayed for 17 minutes before play resumed.
Senegal's forward Sadio Mane played a role in convincing players to return to the field.
Forward Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in extra time.
Other Senegal players and Moroccan players also received bans and fines.
The bans do not affect Senegal's preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Residents of a small apartment building discovered Vaseline smeared on their doorknobs, deadbolts, and peepholes, except for one unit. People online suggested it could be either a prank or a way for burglars to see if tenants are away. The police have been informed, and residents are considering adding security measures.
Key Facts
Residents found Vaseline on their doorknobs and peepholes, but one unit was not affected.
The building has no secured entry, meaning anyone can enter.
A police report was filed after the incident.
Some Reddit users think the Vaseline could be a burglary tactic.
The landlord and police have been notified about the situation.
Security cameras and other protection measures are being considered by residents.
The incident is causing concern among the building's tenants.
The Trump administration is spending $93 million each month to deploy the National Guard in various U.S. cities. This includes a large presence in Washington, D.C., and Memphis, with smaller deployments in Texas. The costs cover personnel pay, healthcare, lodging, meals, and transportation.
Key Facts
National Guard deployments in U.S. cities cost $93 million per month.
Washington, D.C., commitment costs $55 million monthly for about 2,950 personnel.
Memphis deployment costs $28 million monthly for 1,500 personnel.
Texas involves 200 Guard members costing $4 million monthly.
Daily cost per Guard member ranges from $522 to $607, depending on the city.
The CBO provided these figures at the request of Senator Jeff Merkley.
Deployments were halted in some cities by courts but still incurred costs due to ongoing activations.
Future deployment costs in low-cost cities could be about $18 million monthly, higher in places like Washington, D.C.
The IRS is facing challenges for the 2026 tax season due to a 27% reduction in workforce and complex new tax laws. National Taxpayer Advocate Erin M. Collins warned that these issues might make filing more difficult for taxpayers. The IRS processed over 165 million tax returns in 2025, with most being filed electronically.
Key Facts
The IRS is starting the 2026 tax season with about 74,000 employees, down from 102,000 at the beginning of the previous year.
The IRS processed more than 165 million individual returns in 2025, with roughly 94% filed electronically.
The average tax refund in 2025 was $3,167 for about 104 million people.
Delays were experienced by 3.6 million taxpayers last year, with e-filed returns taking about seven weeks and paper returns 14 weeks to process.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced complex new eligibility rules for deductions and benefits, potentially causing errors.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and IRS CEO Frank Bisignano say the IRS is prepared, but internal reports highlight concerns about unprocessed returns and staff shortages.
Collins emphasized the importance of quick and effective IRS assistance for taxpayers facing problems due to these issues.
Absolut Vodka and Tabasco have introduced a new beverage called "Absolut Tabasco," which combines Absolut Vodka with Tabasco hot sauce flavors. The product is set to launch in over 50 markets globally, including the U.S. and U.K., starting February 2026.
Key Facts
Absolut Vodka and Tabasco teamed up to create a new chili pepper–flavored vodka called "Absolut Tabasco."
The vodka is made by blending Absolut Vodka with the essence of aged red pepper mash from Tabasco Sauce.
The vodka is gluten-free, contains no added sugar, and has an alcohol content of 38%.
Absolut Tabasco will be available in over 50 markets worldwide from February 2026.
The vodka bottle combines elements of Absolut's and Tabasco's branding, including logos and color schemes.
The release aims to cater to a growing demand for spicy drinks, with expected sales growth of 27% by 2029.
Absolut suggests using the vodka in cocktails like Bloody Marys, Spicy Vodkaritas, and Spicy Lemonade.
Delta Air Lines focuses on training and technology to improve customer service and operational performance. The airline is recognized as a trusted brand in the U.S., winning awards in several categories for service and loyalty programs. Delta invests in upgraded seating, modern planes, and feedback systems to meet the growing demands of travelers.
Key Facts
Delta Air Lines is a 100-year-old commercial airline.
The company won four awards in Newsweek’s 2026 Most Trusted Brands in the U.S.
Delta was recognized as the best airline for customer service, domestic travel, and international travel.
Its SkyMiles program was ranked top for airline loyalty programs.
Delta uses facial recognition technology to speed up bag drops and security checks.
The airline invests in premium seating, free Wi-Fi, and improved entertainment systems.
Delta gathers customer feedback through post-flight surveys and other channels.
Delta’s Operations & Customer Center (OCC) uses advanced technology for 24/7 monitoring of operations.
