Arkansas sells winning $1.817 billion Powerball ticket
A ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers in the Powerball drawing on Wednesday, Dec. 24, winning a $1.817 billion jackpot, according to the Multi-State Lottery Association.
A ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers in the Powerball drawing on Wednesday, Dec. 24, winning a $1.817 billion jackpot, according to the Multi-State Lottery Association.
A Houston family marked its first Christmas after losing its CenterPoint-area home in the July 4 floods. The Cottonware family relocated, received community aid, and rebuilt daily life while local agencies and relief groups continued long-term recovery work in flood-affected neighborhoods.
Fort Bend County officials and community leaders in Kendleton, Texas, have unveiled a new monument honoring African American history and announced plans for a Black cowboy museum and additional memorials. The initiative aims to document the contributions of African Americans, including formerly enslaved people and Black cowboys, through exhibits, artifacts, oral histories and educational partnerships. County leaders plan to use public and private funding, collaborate with historians and schools, and develop heritage tourism sites that connect monuments, museums and historic parks across Fort Bend County.
Austin police officials in Austin, Texas, report that the city has recorded fewer homicides so far in 2025 after several years of rising violence, while detectives continue to investigate two homicide cases that remain unsolved. The Austin Police Department tracks homicide trends, analyzes data, and adjusts investigative strategies based on case reviews and developments. Investigators gather evidence, interview witnesses, and coordinate with other agencies as needed. The department maintains public tip lines, issues bulletins when appropriate, and works with victim services to support affected families, with plans to release more detailed 2025 homicide statistics in an upcoming public safety briefing.
Philippine authorities report that former DPWH undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral tested positive for an antidepressant drug as they investigate her death in Baguio City. Police detail CCTV footage, forensic findings consistent with a fall along Kennon Road, and the clearance of her driver from involvement. Investigators analyze her cellphone, hotel-room evidence, and DPWH office files turned over to the Ombudsman, including documents tied to infrastructure projects and budget requests over the past decade.
An Arkansas Powerball player won a record $1.817 billion jackpot in the Christmas Eve drawing, ending a three-month run without a top-prize winner. Officials confirmed the winning numbers 04, 25, 31, 52, 59 and Powerball 19, with strong ticket sales pushing the jackpot above earlier estimates. Arkansas lottery authorities activated standard security and validation procedures and noted that proceeds from the jackpot run will support state education programs. The winner must claim the prize within Arkansas’ required period and may choose between a lump-sum cash payment and a 30-year annuity, while the next Powerball drawing will reset the jackpot to the game’s starting level.
A federal judge in Texas has blocked enforcement of the state’s “App Store Accountability Act,” a law that would have required smartphone app stores to verify users’ ages before purchases. The court found the measure likely violates the First Amendment by burdening access to digital content and anonymous speech. The ruling grants a preliminary injunction, halting the law while a constitutional challenge moves forward. Texas may appeal, and the case could influence future state regulations on app stores, minors’ online access, and age verification requirements nationwide.
The Philippine Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday warned the public to avoid overeating, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption during the Christmas holidays after recording an increase in holiday-related ailments. The agency reported more cases of hypertension, high blood sugar, and stomach problems, and it urged people with chronic conditions to exercise caution. Government hospitals and local health units remain on heightened alert for lifestyle-related emergencies as the DOH issues reminders on healthier food choices, responsible drinking, and smoke-free celebrations.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines warns the public about a YouTube channel allegedly posting AI-generated deepfake videos impersonating AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. The military urges citizens to verify online content, report suspicious accounts and rely on official AFP platforms for authentic messages. Authorities monitor the situation and coordinate with relevant agencies to address the spread of deceptive digital content targeting military leadership.
Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday called for a global truce on Christmas Day, urging all warring parties to observe 24 hours of peace and expressing sadness over Russia’s apparent rejection of a truce proposal in its war with Ukraine. Speaking at his residence in Castel Gandolfo, the pope said peace efforts in Ukraine without European diplomatic involvement were “unrealistic” and warned that US President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan could bring a “huge change” to the transatlantic alliance.