A shelter dog named Annie has been living at the Patty Baker Humane Society in Naples, Florida for almost two years. Despite smiling at everyone who visits and being loved by shelter staff, the 8-year-old mixed breed dog has not been adopted. Annie's age and preference to be the only dog in a home might be reasons she's overlooked.
Key Facts
Annie is an 8-year-old mixed breed dog at a Florida shelter.
She smiles at visitors, hoping to be adopted, but has been there nearly two years.
The shelter describes Annie as full of energy, and she loves belly rubs and playing.
Older dogs like Annie are less likely to be adopted, with only 25% adoption rates compared to 60% for puppies.
The shelter suggests Annie would do best as the only dog in a home.
Annie's story was shared on TikTok, gaining over 27,000 likes.
Many TikTok users expressed interest in adopting Annie, inspired by her story.
The Office of Management and Budget has told federal agencies to prepare for layoffs if the government shuts down, as there are disagreements between Republicans and Democrats over funding. The memo gives agencies the option to use a method for permanent job cuts, not just temporary ones. The government will run out of money if Congress and the president cannot agree on a short-term funding plan by September 30.
Key Facts
The Office of Management and Budget sent a memo to federal agencies about possible mass layoffs.
Agencies can use a method called "reduction-in-force" to permanently cut jobs.
The memo states that programs without extra funding will be most affected by a shutdown.
The government needs a funding agreement by September 30 to avoid a shutdown.
Disagreements exist between Republicans and Democrats over funding for health programs and other spending.
President Trump canceled a meeting with Democratic leaders, calling their demands unreasonable.
The memo blames Democrats for potentially causing a shutdown by demanding $1 trillion in new spending.
A man missing for several years was found alive in a South Carolina basement. The man, along with others, was allegedly held by Donnie Ray Birchfield Jr., who is facing charges related to false imprisonment and exploitation. Birchfield’s attorney stated that his client claims he is not guilty.
Key Facts
A missing man was found in a basement in South Carolina.
Donnie Ray Birchfield Jr. is accused of holding four people in his basement.
Birchfield faces 16 charges, including false imprisonment and exploitation.
The man’s wife was also trapped in the basement and was found dead.
Birchfield reportedly used the victims’ bank accounts for personal expenses.
The found man weighed about 70 pounds when discovered and has a developmental disability.
Birchfield's attorney claims he is innocent, and the investigation is ongoing.
Birchfield is held on a $150,000 bond, and further charges might be added.
New polling data shows that most Americans think Republicans have better plans to address key issues in the U.S., even though President Trump's approval ratings are low. The survey results show Republicans lead Democrats on topics like crime, immigration, and the economy.
Key Facts
A Reuters/Ipsos poll surveyed 1,019 U.S. adults from September 19 to 21.
Republicans were preferred over Democrats on handling crime, 40% to 20%.
On immigration, Republicans led Democrats 40% to 22%.
Republicans also had an advantage on gun control, corruption, national security, and the economy.
54% of people believed the economy was on the wrong track.
Only 35% approved of President Trump's economic leadership.
Despite low ratings for Trump, Republicans were seen as better for economic policies, 34% to 24%.
Democrats led on issues of women's rights, the environment, and healthcare.
A survey by Thrust Flight shows that most parents in the U.S. would encourage their children to choose a stable and well-paying career path over college. Rising tuition and student debt have led parents to consider trades and blue-collar jobs as valuable alternatives to a traditional four-year degree. Many parents believe that non-college options can offer similar long-term success.
Key Facts
67% of parents would suggest their children skip college if they find a reliable and well-paid job path.
78% believe non-college alternatives can lead to long-term success like a four-year degree.
52% of Americans would prefer a high-paying job with lower status over a prestigious job with less pay.
63% think becoming an airline pilot offers excellent return on investment, while only 50% feel the same about becoming a doctor.
Rising college costs and debt are major concerns, leading families to reconsider the value of a traditional degree.
26% of people see upfront costs as a barrier to pursuing trades, and 23% say lack of awareness is an issue.
Parents and experts are pointing to the changing job market, which now often values skills and specific training over formal degrees.
A new poll from Emerson College shows a tight race in New Jersey between Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli, both receiving 43 percent support. The results are significant because they could predict voter trends for upcoming U.S. elections.
Key Facts
The poll shows both candidates getting 43 percent support from likely New Jersey voters.
Three percent of voters said they would vote for someone else, and 11 percent are undecided.
Sherrill leads among younger voters and women, while Ciattarelli is more popular with older voters and men.
The poll surveyed 935 likely voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.
Sherrill has generally led in other polls, but this race is still seen as competitive.
New Jersey's political landscape has narrowed in recent years, shifting closer margins in major elections.
Ciattarelli was the GOP nominee in the 2021 gubernatorial race, losing by a small margin.
FBI Director Kash Patel provided new information about the shooting at a Dallas ICE office committed by Joshua Jahn. Jahn planned the attack in detail, leaving notes suggesting he wanted to cause fear among immigration agents.
Key Facts
Joshua Jahn attacked an ICE field office in Dallas on September 24.
Jahn killed one person and wounded two before taking his own life.
Jahn left a note indicating he aimed to frighten immigration agents.
FBI Director Kash Patel said Jahn researched DHS facilities and ballistics.
Jahn downloaded a document listing DHS facilities before the attack.
The FBI is actively investigating and analyzing data from Jahn's devices.
More updates will be provided as the FBI continues its investigation.
A mother became emotional after seeing her 3-year-old daughter help her blind 6-year-old sister in a jungle gym. The younger sister regularly assists her older sibling with tasks like identifying colors and navigating their home, showing a remarkable level of care and support. A video of this interaction was shared on TikTok and received strong reactions from viewers.
Key Facts
A mother in Belfast, Northern Ireland, noticed her 3-year-old daughter helping her blind 6-year-old sister.
The older sister, Rionach, began losing her sight at age 3 and is now completely blind.
Doctors do not know the cause of Rionach's blindness.
Ellie, the younger sister, helps Rionach with daily tasks, including guiding her and identifying colors.
A video of Ellie assisting Rionach in a jungle gym was shared on TikTok and went viral.
Ellie is described as a significant support to her sister, always ready to help.
The Pokémon Company stated that it did not authorize the use of its theme song and footage in a video posted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about deportation raids. The video shows arrests made by ICE agents using Pokémon slogans and imagery without permission. Comedian Theo Von also objected to his content being used in similar government videos without approval.
Key Facts
Pokémon Company said it did not allow the use of its theme song and footage in a deportation raid video.
The video, shared by Homeland Security, used Pokémon's slogan and anime footage.
It showed ICE agents making arrests and ended with fake Pokémon cards displaying mugshots.
Comedian Theo Von's podcast clip was also used in another video without his permission.
The Department of Homeland Security posted the video on social media, then removed it.
The video claimed two million deportations occurred in President Trump's second term.
In a related incident, a video used a British singer's song without approval to promote deportations.
A woman in Metro Detroit surprised her husband with a large delivery of pumpkins for their porch. She ordered over 100 pumpkins from a local farmer, costing $700, and captured her husband's reaction to the unexpected delivery. The event gained significant attention online, with many viewers sharing in the fun.
Key Facts
A woman in Metro Detroit ordered a large pumpkin delivery for her home.
The delivery included over 100 heirloom pumpkins and cost $700 total.
The delivery consisted of $600 for pumpkins and $100 for delivery charges.
The woman's husband, an engineer, was unaware of the delivery and was surprised.
The woman usually brings home the pumpkins herself but opted for bulk delivery this year.
The U.S. has a significant pumpkin market, with most grown in Pennsylvania, Washington, Indiana, and California.
In 2024, 145 million Americans bought pumpkins for fall decorations at an average cost of $5.26 each.
The video of the pumpkin delivery went viral on Instagram, receiving over 100,000 views.
President Donald Trump made claims suggesting that Tylenol use during pregnancy causes autism, which has led to widespread reactions from medical professionals. Medical experts and organizations, including Tylenol, have clarified that there is no proven link between the medication and autism. They emphasize that acetaminophen is safe for pregnant women when used as directed.
Key Facts
President Trump claimed Tylenol use during pregnancy causes autism, but medical experts disagree.
Multiple health organizations, such as the American College of Emergency Physicians, stated there is no proven link between acetaminophen and autism.
Tylenol is considered safe for use during pregnancy to relieve pain and reduce fever.
Medical professionals are concerned these claims could spread misinformation and distrust.
An August evaluation, found associations but no causation between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and disorders like ADHD or autism.
Tylenol released a statement on social media affirming the safety of its product for pregnant women.
Health experts emphasize the importance of using Trusted medical guidance and research.
New data from WalletHub ranks 182 U.S. cities based on how well they support people with disabilities. Minneapolis, Minnesota, was identified as the best city due to its excellent healthcare and accessibility features. Juneau, Alaska, ranked as the least favorable city for those with disabilities.
Key Facts
WalletHub analyzed 182 cities for disability accessibility and quality of life.
Minneapolis ranked first, with high scores in healthcare and accessible facilities.
St. Louis, Missouri, placed second, noted for its many doctors and accessible parks.
Scottsdale, Arizona, was third, with strong state Medicaid support and high incomes.
Juneau, Alaska, ranked last because of poor quality of life and healthcare for people with disabilities.
Rankings were based on three main criteria: economy, quality of life, and healthcare.
33 specific metrics, such as housing affordability and healthcare costs, were used in the analysis.
The data was collected from sources like the CDC and U.S. Census Bureau as of August 27, 2025.
Americans are getting mixed health advice from some top officials and scientists. President Trump and other officials have shared medical information that goes against established science, such as linking Tylenol to autism.
Key Facts
Some health guidance from President Trump and officials contrasts with mainstream medical advice.
President Trump mentioned a possible link between Tylenol and autism.
There is little scientific evidence supporting the link between Tylenol and autism.
This conflicting information creates confusion for Americans seeking reliable health advice.
NPR's Allison Aubrey and Juana Summers discussed the issue on an NPR program.
PBS News senior correspondent Judy Woodruff is leading a discussion on the powers of the U.S. presidency in emergencies. This event takes place on September 25, 2025, at the University of Virginia, featuring experts from different fields.
Key Facts
Judy Woodruff, a PBS News senior correspondent, is moderating the event.
The discussion is about U.S. presidential emergency powers.
The event is at the Miller Center, University of Virginia.
It takes place on September 25, 2025, starting at 10:15 a.m. Eastern Time.
Panelists include experts with experience in law, national security, and politics.
Notable panelists are members from past presidential administrations and legal experts.
The event is part of a series called "America at a Crossroads."
The Justice Department is planning to ask a grand jury to indict former FBI Director James Comey for allegedly lying to Congress. This action is related to his 2020 testimony about the investigation into Russia's ties with Trump's 2016 presidential campaign. The move comes as the department approaches a deadline to file charges and amid concerns of political influence.
Key Facts
The Justice Department wants to indict James Comey for allegedly lying to Congress.
They plan to do this before the deadline for bringing charges expires next week.
The grand jury will consider the indictment in the Eastern District of Virginia.
The case relates to Comey's 2020 testimony about the Russia-Trump investigation.
President Trump and his supporters have criticized the investigation as a "hoax."
Trump recently replaced the district’s top prosecutor with one of his former lawyers.
An indictment would make Comey the first senior official charged over the Russia probe.
There are concerns about political influence under Attorney General Pam Bondi, a Trump ally.
A Gen X mom, Carole Jones, shared her emotional experience on Instagram about becoming an "empty nester" after her fifth child left for college. She describes the quiet of her now mostly empty home as a surprising and painful shift from her once busy household. Despite the sadness, Jones is finding ways to adapt and even enjoy some new freedoms.
Key Facts
Carole Jones is a mother of six and posted a video about her feelings of emptiness after her children left home.
She has children aged 30, 28, 25, 21, 18, and the youngest, 15, who is the only one still at home.
An empty nester is a term for parents whose children have moved out, creating a quieter home environment.
In 2022, there were approximately 20.9 million empty-nest households in the U.S.
Jones likens the transition to a process of grief, saying the quiet is a permanent change.
To cope, she spends time with her youngest child, her husband, her elderly parents, and her two grandchildren.
Positive psychology coach Rhian Lindley notes that this life change can cause feelings of grief but also offers a chance for growth.
Jones's Instagram video has been viewed over a million times, resonating with many parents.
The Trump administration has introduced policies to limit visas for foreign workers, aiming to protect American jobs. However, this could lead companies to move jobs overseas due to a lack of skilled workers in the U.S. The situation poses challenges for the U.S. economy and employers.
Key Facts
The policy limits H-1B visas, which are often used for hiring skilled foreign workers.
Companies face difficulties finding enough skilled workers within the U.S.
The White House claims these measures protect American jobs.
The U.S. government is funding training programs, but it is unclear what industries they will serve.
Some companies consider moving jobs abroad due to the skilled worker shortage.
There's a possibility of increased spending on training domestic workers.
The policy may impact U.S. science, technology, and innovation sectors.
Businesses are exploring automation and AI to address labor shortages.
A cat named MJ was left at a Florida shelter after her owners moved and could not take her with them. The Humane Society of Broward County, where MJ is staying, hopes to find her a new home soon. This situation highlights the issue of pet surrenders in the United States.
Key Facts
MJ is a two-year-old black and white cat left at the Humane Society of Broward County, Florida.
Her family moved and could not take her, leading to her being surrendered.
MJ was initially shy but has started to open up at the shelter.
Every year, millions of pets enter shelters in the U.S., with many being surrendered by their owners.
In 2024, about 5.7 million pets were taken in by shelters, with approximately 29% being owner surrenders.
Specifically, 2.9 million cats entered shelters, with nearly a third coming from owner surrenders.
The Humane Society hopes to find MJ a home with older children and possibly other cats.
The White House instructed federal agencies to prepare for possible layoffs if Congress does not prevent a government shutdown by the end of September. The layoffs would target programs without alternative funding and those not aligned with President Trump's priorities. A disagreement on the federal budget exists between the White House and Democrats, who are seeking to include healthcare funding.
Key Facts
The White House told federal agencies to prepare for layoffs if a government shutdown occurs.
A government shutdown happens if Congress does not agree on a budget by September 30.
The memo from the Office of Budget and Management highlighted potential permanent layoffs for programs lacking alternative funding and not aligning with Trump's priorities.
President Trump canceled a meeting with Democratic leaders over budget disagreements.
Senate Democrats blocked a short-term funding measure from the House last week.
Democrats want to restore healthcare funding after previous cuts to Medicaid.
The White House and Democrats have conflicting views on budget allocations and priorities.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Class II recall for certain lots of Domino Foods Inc.'s pure cane granulated sugar due to possible contamination with foreign objects. The recall involves 50-pound bags of sugar distributed in California and Utah. As of now, no health issues have been reported from consuming the affected sugar.
Key Facts
Domino Foods Inc. issued a voluntary recall on August 12 for certain sugar lots due to possible contamination.
The FDA gave this recall a Class II risk classification on September 24.
A Class II classification means the product might cause temporary health issues, but serious problems are unlikely.
The recall affects 4,500 bags of 50-pound pure cane granulated sugar, identified by specific lot numbers.
The potentially contaminated sugar was distributed in California and Utah.
There have been no reported illnesses connected to the sugar as of September 25.
Foreign objects in food can cause issues like choking or internal injury.
Consumers who have bought the affected sugar should not use it and follow return instructions.
