Mike Ditka once said he was going to live to be 150 years old. The legendary former Chicago Bears coach and Hall of Fame tight end had a very specific (and very Ditka appropriate) reason whenever asked why he wanted that to be the case.

"There’s a lot of people I haven’t (ticked) off yet," Ditka declared in an interview published by the Los Angeles Times in 1996, "so I want to get them all."

Ditka died on Friday, Oct. 9, his family announced. He was 86 years old.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike Ditka," his family said in a statement. "While the world knew Mike as a Hall of Fame football player, legendary coach, and leader of the Chicago Bears' Super Bowl XX championship team, we knew him as the heart of our family. Mike will be missed beyond measure and remembered forever."

Exclusive: Mike Ditka commemorative book

Ditka's legacy in football, and especially the role he played as a player and coach with the Bears, will endure long after his life. He will be remembered as one of the seminal figures in league history, both due to his exploits as a revolutionary pass-catching tight end for the Bears in the 1960s and his 11-year run as coach with the franchise.

Here is a look back at some of the defining coaching moments from Ditka's remarkable career:

Mike Ditka's best coaching moments

Mike Ditka’s coaching roots: Tom Landry and the Dallas Cowboys

Mike Ditka got his coaching start in 1972 working as a special teams and tight ends coach for the Dallas Cowboys under legendary coach Tom Landry, who had helped rejuvenate the end of Ditka’s playing career. Ditka, who won the Super Bowl as a player with the Cowboys in the 1971-1972 season, eventually won a Super Bowl with the Cowboys as an assistant coach in 1977. 

Chicago Bears hire Mike Ditka

During the 1981 season, Ditka famously wrote a letter to his former coach and Bears owner George Halas expressing a desire to one day be considered for the team's head coaching position despite Ditka's acrimonious exit from Chicago as a player. Halas then hired Ditka ahead of the 1982 season to replace former coach Neill Armstrong after back-to-back losing seasons.

FROM THE ARCHIVES: Mike Ditka looks back on greatness of Bears' 1985 Super Bowl team

Mike Ditka leads Chicago Bears back to NFL playoffs

Ditka went 3-6 during the 1982 season that was shortened by a players’ strike and improved to 8-8 in his first full season as Bears’ coach in 1983. But Ditka’s breakthrough arrived in 1984, when he led the Bears to their first postseason win in more than 20 years. Chicago lost in the NFC championship game to the San Francisco 49ers, the eventual Super Bowl champions.

Mike Ditka wins Super Bowl with 1985 Bears

The 1985 NFL season is the seminal moment of Mike Ditka’s coaching career, as he led the Bears to a 15-1 regular season and then a win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX. Ditka became the first person in NFL history to win a Super Bowl as a player, assistant coach and head coach, and also the first head coach to win a Super Bowl for a team in which he played for. He is the only person to take part in the Bears' last two titles – the 1963 NFL championship as a player and 1986 as coach. 

Helped by future Pro Football Hall of Famers such as running back Walter Payton, linebacker Mike Singletary and the famed ‘46’ defense created by coordinator and antagonist Buddy Ryan, Ditka’s quotable personality and trademark intensity, combined with his success with the Bears, turned "Da Coach" into one of the NFL’s most unforgettable characters. The 1985 Bears are widely considered one of the greatest teams in league history. 

Mike Ditka’s last playoff run

The same year Mike Ditka was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for what he did as a player also coincided with him winning NFL coach of the year for the second time in 1988. Ditka, despite suffering a heart attack during the season, took the Bears to the NFC championship game for the third time in five seasons. The playoff run included a win over Ryan, who was coaching the Philadelphia Eagles and had a rivalry with Ditka dating back to their time working together in Chicago.

Mike Ditka coaching record

• 121-95 overall record in 14 seasons (11 in Chicago, 3 in New Orleans)
• Second-most wins in Bears history (106) behind only George Halas
• 1 Super Bowl win
• 3 NFC championship game appearances
• 7 NFL playoff appearances
• 6 NFC Central division titles

Jon Rahm declared in court that his time in LIV Golf is over, and the focus has now shifted to Bryson DeChambeau and the other top golfers who could determine if LIV 2.0 survives.

DeChambeau has publicly supported a revamped version of the league, but his future remains uncertain. He's not alone. None of the most prominent players who left the PGA Tour for LIV have committed to remaining with LIV 2.0 for its 2027 season, with some indicating in bankruptcy court filings they want the freedom to pursue other opportunities in case LIV Golf's restructuring effort fails.

A return to the PGA Tour would not be immediate for any of them, based on PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp's most recent comments. Players would need to serve a one-year suspension and compete on the DP World Tour in 2027 while attempting to earn their way back to the PGA Tour through available pathways.

What happens next will nonetheless reshape professional golf once again. After years of division between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, the sport is moving closer to realignment and having all of the game's biggest names competing in the same events more often.

Here are the best LIV Golf players other than Jon Rahm who still face major decisions about their future entering the 2027 golf season:

PGA TOUR: Backs Donald Trump's push for permanent Daylight Saving Time

1. Bryson DeChambeau

DeChambeau is the biggest domino left in this situation, and perhaps the only player capable of altering LIV Golf's future at this point. The two-time major winner still has a frosty relationship with the PGA Tour that will need to be thawed, with earnings from his lucrative YouTube channel looming as a potential sticking point. DeChambeau plans to play a DP World Tour event in South Africa in December, fueling speculation about his next move. He has otherwise remained coy about his long-term plans despite publicly backing LIV Golf's restructuring efforts.

Though his play hasn't been as strong of late, the 33-year-old in still in his prime and remains one of the sport's biggest attractions. His major championship pedigree and massive social media following resonate beyond golf fans. If DeChambeau doesn't commit to LIV Golf 2.0, it is difficult to envision the league existing beyond its bankruptcy process. His endorsement could help convince other undecided players to remain on board, making him the most important golfer to watch entering 2027.

2. Tyrrell Hatton

Other than Rahm, Hatton ended the 2026 LIV Golf season as the highest-ranked player in the world golf rankings. The European Ryder Cup mainstay is rumored to be headed to the DP World Tour next season, though he has not officially announced his intentions. Hatton finished tied for third at the Masters and tied for seventh at the U.S. Open in 2026, and remains a consistent presence near the top of leaderboards at age 34.

3. Joaquin Niemann

No golfer has won more LIV Golf events than Niemann, whose decision to leave the PGA Tour in 2022 was one of the league's earliest recruiting victories. Once viewed as one of golf's brightest young stars, the Chilean remains just 27 years old and has recently signaled he could be among the players exploring opportunities outside LIV Golf next season.

Niemann is arguably entering his prime and continues to be one of the sport's most gifted ball-strikers. Niemann could still be a cornerstone player for whichever tour secures his long-term commitment over the next decade.

4. Cameron Smith

Smith has not played at the same level since leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf, but he is also only a few years removed from winning the Open Championship and climbing as high as No. 2 in the world rankings. Like several other LIV players, Smith has committed to play DP World Tour events this fall, fueling speculation that he could be exploring options beyond LIV Golf.

The 33-year-old remains one of the biggest names in Australian golf and one of the most recognizable players associated with LIV. A return to a schedule featuring more PGA Tour and DP World Tour events could help him reestablish himself among the game's elite players.

5. Sergio Garcia

Garcia has intimated in bankruptcy court filings that he wants the flexibility to explore other options besides LIV Golf 2.0. Though the 46-year-old Spaniard has a prickly reputation and didn't leave the PGA Tour on great terms, Garcia is also one of the most accomplished golfers attached to LIV.

The former Masters champion was still among LIV's top performers in 2026 and has made no secret of his desire to return to Europe's Ryder Cup team in 2027. That gives Garcia plenty of incentive to play a full DP World Tour schedule and reestablish himself in traditional golf circles.

6. David Puig

Puig left Arizona State early to join LIV Golf in 2022 and has emerged as one of the circuit's most promising young players. The Spaniard captured his first DP World Tour victory at the BMW Australian PGA Championship and appears poised to become one of the world's top international golfers over the next decade. At just 24 years old, Puig's value is as much about his future as his current results.

7. Dustin Johnson

Johnson may have an argument for lifetime PGA Tour membership based on the 20 tournaments he won before leaving for LIV Golf. But the two-time major champion has not played at the same level in recent years and has rarely contended in golf's biggest events since making the jump.

Even so, the 42-year-old remains one of the most recognizable names associated with LIV Golf. His accomplishments and star power would add credibility to any field he enters, regardless of whether he returns to the PGA Tour, DP World Tour or another circuit.

8. Lucas Herbert

Herbert is an under-the-radar name in golf, but he finished fourth in the LIV Golf individual standings in 2026. The 30-year-old Australian is in the prime of his career and could benefit from a bigger spotlight outside of LIV moving forward.

Unlike some of LIV Golf's aging stars, Herbert still has plenty of productive years ahead. His strong recent form, international appeal and age could make him one of the most overlooked potential free agents.

9. Michael La Sasso

The 2025 NCAA champion gave up an invitation to The Masters to turn pro and join LIV Golf last year. La Sasso remains one of the top American talents in the sport and became the youngest winner in LIV Golf history when he captured the league's Indianapolis event to close the 2026 season. At just 23 years old, he is a valuable long-term investment with early results suggesting he's on the verge of much more.

10. Caleb Surratt

Surratt was one of the most highly regarded amateur golfers in the world when he left the University of Tennessee to join LIV Golf in 2024. He'll be appealing for any tour because of his upside and potential, despite just two top-10 finishes this past year.

The National League Division Series has wrapped up, and the stage is set for an NL Championship Series rematch between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Milwaukee Brewers.

After the Braves won Game 1, the Dodgers responded with two straight wins in Atlanta. In the decisive Game 4, Andy Pages emerged as the hero, delivering a clutch bases-loaded single in the seventh inning that drove in two runs and ultimately propelled LA to a 4-1 victory, winning the series and securing a place in the NLCS.

With the win, the Dodgers continue their quest for a third consecutive World Series title.

For the second consecutive year, the Dodgers will face the Brewers in the NLCS. Milwaukee rebounded from a narrow 4-3 defeat in Game 3 and ultimately clinched the series with a 3-1 victory over the San Diego Padres in Game 4.

Here is a look at the NLCS schedule, as the Dodgers and Brewers prepare to battle for a spot in the World Series.

More: Dodgers survive Atlanta. Their greatness - and flaws - will be for all to see in NLCS

NL Championship Series schedule

*-if necessary

• Game 1: Los Angeles Dodgers at Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, Oct. 11, TBD on FOX/FS1
• Game 2: Los Angeles Dodgers at Milwaukee Brewers on Monday, Oct. 12, TBD on FOX/FS1
• Game 3: Milwaukee Brewers at Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday, Oct. 14, TBD on FOX/FS1
• Game 4: Milwaukee Brewers at Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday, Oct. 15, TBD on FOX/FS1
• Game 5*: Milwaukee Brewers at Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday, Oct. 16, TBD on FOX/FS1
• Game 6*: Los Angeles Dodgers at Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, Oct. 18, TBD on FOX/FS1
• Game 7*: Los Angeles Dodgers at Milwaukee Brewers on Monday, Oct. 19, TBD on FOX/FS1

The results of a recent weight loss study won't fall flat with diet soda lovers.

A study from researchers at the University of Liverpool published in August found that diet drinks – like diet colas and diet carbonated soft drinks – are equivalent to water in supporting weight loss and long‑term weight maintenance.

The researchers followed nearly 500 overweight or obese adults over almost two years in England.

Participants were randomly selected to consume either water or non-nutritive sweetened soft drinks daily. The results showed no significant differences in weight loss or weight maintenance between those who drank water daily or those who drank soft drinks daily.

Non-nutritive sweeteners are low- or no-calorie alternatives to sugar – like aspartame, acesulfame potassium and sucralose – used to sweeten foods and drinks.

Despite the findings that the diet sodas may not impact the scale, there are still some drawbacks to consuming artificial sweeteners.

Here's a look at the study.

Study disputes idea that diet sodas cause weight gain

Those in the study selected to drink non-nutritive sweetened (NNS) soft drinks could drink diet colas, diet carbonated soft drinks, diet fruit drinks and diet fruit-flavored sweetened waters.

They could also consume water, but they had to consume at least two 33 milliliter servings of the eligible drinks per day.

Those in the study selected to drink water were asked to abstain from drinking any of the NNS drinks.

Overall, the results found a nonsignificant difference in weight loss between the people in the two groups. Both groups also had sustained weight reduction and decreases in waist and hip circumference.

"These latest findings show that concerns about sweeteners disrupting appetite or causing weight gain are not supported when tested in a rigorous, long-term randomized trial," one of the researchers, professor Joanne Harrold, said in a statement.

The research was funded by the American Beverage Association, but the research team was independent of the funder and had full control over the analysis and reporting of their findings.

Diet drinks still have health risks

Still, diet drinks like diet sodas still carry health risks, research shows.

For example, research published in "Neurology," the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, in July found an association between consuming higher amounts of certain low- and no-calorie sweeteners and accelerated cognitive decline. Researchers noted that the findings did not prove the sweeteners directly caused the decline.

Another study from 2025 found that even moderate amounts of artificially sweetened and sugary drinks are associated with an increased risk of liver disease.

Additional research on diet soda shows it can be associated with weight gain, increased insulin and blood glucose levels, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Diet sodas can also wear away tooth enamel and worsen heartburn, per Hartford HealthCare.

Pilates has been around since Joseph and Clara Pilates began teaching the method in New York in 1926, but it wasn't popularized until stars like Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow started doing it in the early 2000s. And then it was everywhere. But almost as quickly as the movement gained traction, it faded again and was declared dead in 2015. 

Eight years later, it's back and more popular than ever with nearly 6 million Americans regularly practicing Pilates today. And once again, A-listers like Jennifer Aniston, Kendall Jenner and even Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, are getting in on the action. 

What is Pilates? 

Pilates is a nearly 100-year-old workout initially developed by Joseph and Clara as a method of rehabilitating injured dancers and soldiers. Today, the workout balances light cardio, flexibility and strength training, and specialized breathing techniques. "From a technical perspective, Pilates is purely resistance training," says Alycea Ungaro a Pilates instructor and founder of Real Pilates in New York City. Such resistance is created by one's own body weight and specialized equipment that helps the practitioner experience a "full-body corrective exercise," Ungaro says. "From a trainer's perspective it is an exercise system that offers students a holistic system of strength, stretch and alignment," she adds.  

What kind of workout is Pilates? 

During an in-person Pilates session, one can expect to work on a primary piece of Pilates equipment called the reformer, along with several other resistance tools. "Proper Pilates is performed with over a dozen pieces of spring-driven equipment," says Ungaro. A personal session will usually also cover various mat exercises and other workouts catered to each individual's needs. "In a group class, you may use only a mat or only the reformer," explains Ungaro, "and some studios offer lessons on the Pilates Tower, which is another major piece of equipment."

Brett Larkin, a certified instructor and founder of Uplifted Yoga, says the practice of Pilates "primarily focuses on core strength and stability by engaging the deep muscles of the abdomen and back." One such workout is called "The Hundred," an exercise in which the practitioner lies on their back with their legs raised, while they pump their arms and keep their core engaged. 

Most Pilates sessions last 30 to 60 minutes and are done in bare feet or socks. "You can expect to sweat, although not as you would in a full cardio workout," says Ungaro. 

How is Pilates different from yoga? 

To outsiders, the breathing and mats make yoga and Pilates appear similar, though there are significant differences between the activities. For one, yoga is an ancient practice rooted in Hinduism, "while Pilates, though uplifting, is not based in any spirituality," explains Ungaro. Larkin agrees: "Compared to yoga, Pilates is incredibly modern." 

Yoga also has a lot more concentrated breathwork than Pilates. "Yoga synchronizes your movement to your breath and might include meditation or chanting and is deeply relaxing," says Larkin.

What are the health benefits of Pilates? 

Pilates has a host of proven health benefits that include improved posture, decreased back pain, increased energy, reduced stress, and has even been shown to improve one's sex life. "Pilates is both restorative and regenerative," says Ungaro. "It improves muscular conditioning, strength, range of motion and increases body awareness and alignment."

Larkin praises the workout as also being "great for balance and stability," and, similar to yoga, "Pilates is low impact, so people of all ages can benefit," she says.  

Ungaro similarly suggests that the exercise is helpful to all. "Whether you have an injury or are a super athlete, there is a type of Pilates that will improve your function and your form," she says.

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said the United States will begin importing significant amounts of diesel fuel from Russia after an agreement reached with President Vladimir Putin, an extraordinary reversal of U.S. policy that lifts sanctions on Moscow in a bid to lower fuel prices before the midterms.

The move, announced less than one month before the Nov. 3 midterm election, comes as high fuel prices caused by the war in Iran pose major liabilities for Trump and Republicans as they try to hold onto power in Congress. The agreement upends years of U.S. efforts to cut off Russian energy from the global markets after Putin's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

More: What is red-dyed diesel, and will Trump's plans to lower prices work?

Trump, in an Oct. 9 post on Truth Social, said the deal came together during a "highly successful discussion" with Putin. He said Russia will supply U.S. and global marketplaces with 300,000 tons of diesel fuel "immediately" and an additional 1 million tons in November. Trump said Russia will then deliver 3 million tons of diesel fuel "within a short period of time," though he suggested it will be based on the condition of Russian diesel refineries.

“That is a big deal," Trump later told reporters at the White House on Oct. 9, thanking Putin by name. "We have massive amounts of oil coming into our country, and it’s diesel, which is what we want.”

The Treasury Department said it is temporarily lifting Russian oil sanctions through April 7, 2027, according to a notice posted by the administration.

The Kremlin confirmed the deal with Trump, saying in a statement that the "Russian side reaffirmed its readiness to supply oil and petroleum products to U.S. and global markets." Yet the full terms of the deal were not immediately clear.

During their conversation, Putin told Trump that he was “confident that this will have a positive impact on the global economy as a whole,” according to the Kremlin’s readout of the call.

Democrats quickly denounced the agreement, accusing Trump of striking a mutually beneficial deal with Putin in an effort to boost Republicans at the ballot box.

"Trump is doing a deal with the devil to try to help his flailing political fortunes from the shockingly high diesel prices caused by his own reckless, illegal war in the Middle East," said Chuck Schumer, the Senate Democratic leader.

More: Senate overwhelmingly votes for Russia sanctions bill inspired by Graham

Will Russian deal result in lower diesel prices?

The stunning announcement comes just weeks after Trump signed a major Russia sanctions package ‒ legislation named after the late Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina ‒ that was meant to suffocate the Russian economy that is financing the country's war against Ukraine.

The average price for a gallon of diesel fuel has shot up to $6.23 nationally amid the U.S. war with Iran, presenting major challenges to farmers in the Midwest and states such as Alaska, which rely heavily on diesel for electricity and heating in remote areas. Deep red Alaska, as well as Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska, have become surprising battlegrounds in the midterms.

But energy experts expressed doubts that Trump's policy will significantly lower diesel costs before the November election.

Rebecca Babin, a senior energy trader at CIBC Private Wealth, said the deal would mean 400,000 barrels of Russian diesel fuel if delivered over three months, but it would depend on refinery availability.

"For the midterms, it could still be too little, too late: The smallest volumes arrive upfront, when relief is needed most," Babin said.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for Gas Buddy, predicted that the agreement could result in a short-term reduction of 10 to 20 cents for a gallon of diesel. However, he said it will be "difficult to achieve" Trump's import goals.

"The psychological impact may reduce prices temporarily but it’ll take more time to determine if Russia has such ability," De Haan said in a post on X.

More: Trump takes extraordinary steps to target midterms, alarming critics

'Plays into Russia's hands,' Zelenskyy tells Trump

The deal gives Putin an economic lifeline as Russia's economy remains under significant strain amid the war in Ukraine.

Since returning to the White House for a second term, Trump has pinned equal blame on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Putin for the Russian-Ukraine war. He's met in person with both leaders and communicates with them regularly, but has failed to reach a deal to end the nearly five-year war. In recent weeks, Trump has complained to Zelenskyy about Ukrainian strikes against Russian energy infrastructure.

Zelenskyy, in a statement after Trump announced his deal with Putin, slammed Trump's decision to lift sanctions.

"Any easing of sanctions against Russia without a clear and lasting de-escalation agreement with Russia is an obvious weakness," Zelenskyy said. "It plays into Russia’s hands – allowing it to kill more, wage war for longer, have even less respect for America, and inflict even greater losses and damage on the world."

Asked by a reporter about Zelenskyy's criticism, Trump said, "We need oil for the world, and this is diesel, which is what we need, so we're very happy to get it."

The Biden administration banned Russian oil imports after Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Trump administration temporarily eased those sanctions earlier this year after energy prices skyrocketed after the start of the U.S. war against Iran.

The agreement on Russian diesel could face strong opposition from allies in Europe, where countries have maintained sanctions on Russian oil imports despite enduring significantly higher fuel prices. The average price of a gallon of diesel in the European Union was $9.12, according to data from the commission.

"We will continue working closely with international partners to ensure Ukraine has the military and financial support it needs to defend itself," a spokesperson for the British government said. "We will also maintain pressure on Russia through the toughest sanctions regime ever imposed by the UK."

The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump's diesel deal with Putin adds to a series of unprecedented and extraordinary actions he has taken to try to boost Republicans' chances in the midterm election, which is increasingly showing signs of a sizable blue wave for Democrats.

Trump this year led a rare mid-decade redistricting push to create more Republican House seats. He's spent more than $12 million in government funds to air pro-Trump television ads, issued $500 Affordable Care Act refund checks to nearly 1 million Americans, and sent $90 apiece to 1 million seniors by diverting funds from a Medicare fund reserved for improvements to the program.

Trump has also not ruled out declaring a national emergency or invoking the Insurrection Act around the midterms. And in recent remarks, the president teased that he has "big surprises" in the coming weeks involving Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, and one of his closest top aides.

Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison.

SAN DIEGO — They survived almost a year of hostile seas, cramped quarters, weeks without touching dry land, and supply-chain problems that left their food less than ideal. But when the sailors of the USS Abraham Lincoln walked into the loving crowd at Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, California, they were greeted like rock stars. 

Hundreds of family members, friends, fellow sailors, and Marines gathered at the base on Oct. 8 to welcome home the USS Abraham Lincoln and its crew after a deployment of more than 10 months that included a record 265 uninterrupted days at sea.

"It feels incredible. It’s been too long, too long," said Joel Davis, moments before being embraced by his wife Melanie. Kneeling to greet his son, Joel immediately placed his peaked hat on the boy’s head before swooping him up for a big hug.

"You’re looking pretty good!" said Davis. "More mature, more grown up."

The Lincoln drew scrutiny earlier this year after its deployment dragged on months past its scheduled return to Southern California. Reports of low morale and deteriorating mental health among sailors accompanied leaked messages from sailors complaining of food shortages. Eight sailors attempted suicide during the historic deployment, though none died.

'I just want to see him': USS Abraham Lincoln back home after historic deployment

Hardships at sea give way to emotional family reunions

In the crowd, waiting family members acknowledged the issues faced aboard the ship.

"Hunger, like the food, access to food," Mel Hardman from Atlanta, who was waiting to greet her son, 20-year-old Jacob, said when asked about her son’s experience. "The morale has been down."

But the lowlights seemed to fade away as hundreds of white-clad men and women descended into the bright glare of a perfect San Diego day.

Terrence Stokes grinned from ear to ear as he was reunited with his daughter, Myra, his partner, Jacqueline Haverson, and his father, Terrence Stokes Sr. 

"Wonderful," Stokes said when asked how he was feeling seeing his daughter again. "That’s the new one right there," he added, pointing to his baby son, Shea, whom he was meeting for the first time in person.

Stokes was one of 122 fathers from the air wing and the ship who will be meeting their children for the first time, according to Capt. Dan Keeler of the Lincoln.

'We’re proud of all the sailors on board'

In true American spirit, the reunions unfolded amid live rock music, sporadic fireworks, a bounce house for children, and a liberal smattering of commerce. Chick-fil-A provided free food for the returning sailors and erected a massive inflatable cow displaying one of the chain's slogans.

Nearby, a military-focused car dealership displayed a shiny new Jeep. Other stalls sold home security systems, and the San Diego Padres baseball team showed up with thousands of T-shirts for the returning sailors.

Family members, friends, and fellow service members expressed pride and admiration for the Lincoln's crew and its mission.

"We’re extremely proud — we’re very proud of him," said Nora Romero, holding back tears as she held a banner welcoming home her son, Noah Romero. "We’re proud of all the sailors on board."

Genesis Romero, Noah’s wife, added: "It just shows the commitment they have, and the strength and it’s a very proud and wholesome feeling."  

Consumers and employers are struggling to keep pace with the rising cost of prescription medications, and large pharmacy benefit managers are coming under increased scrutiny as a source of the high prices

A new analysis shows the independent pharmacy Cost Plus Drugs charges buyers on average 67% less for medications than what typical corporate-owned pharmacy managers charge.

The analysis by 3 Axis Advisors, a paid consultant for Cost Plus, examined prescription drug costs paid by employers, which provide insurance health benefits for most working-age Americans. It suggests that Cost Plus saves employers about $47.50 for every prescription filled compared to pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs.

While the report doesn’t directly measure how much consumers pay at the pharmacy counter, employer costs are shared by consumers who typically pay a portion of the bill through copayments and deductibles required by their insurance plan.

The analysis comes as Congress and employers increasingly are scrutinizing pharmacy benefit managers and overall spending on prescription medications. PBMs negotiate drug prices on behalf of employers and consumers. Most employers use one of three large PBM companies – CVS Caremark, Express Scripts and Optum RX.

A recent survey found the share of employers contracting with the three largest PBMs dropped from 63% in 2025 to 54% in 2026. And among employers remaining with those three large PBMs, more than half are considering changing or dropping their benefit manager over the next one to three years, according to the survey by the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions.

Employers are considering changes because they are fed up paying runaway costs for hospitals, doctors and pharmacies, experts say.

Employers are “leaving the three big PBMs because they don’t know what they’re paying for,” said Jenny Goins, interim president and CEO of the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions. “The contracts are written in such a way that you need three or four lawyers to tell you what it says.”

A recent Government Accountability Office report found that health conglomerates that own PBMs and pharmacies usually give their own pharmacies better prices on prescription medications. The study shows that patients and taxpayers might not be getting a fair deal, according to U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a Texas Democrat.

“There is a real danger that consumers and taxpayers are being ripped off by giant health conglomerates,” Doggett said.

Employers want transparent drug pricing

Goins said more employers are gravitating toward smaller PBMs that offer more transparent pricing models.

Other experts agree that employers are becoming more choosy when shopping for prescription drugs on behalf of their workers. Some employers choose a combination of multiple vendors, including Cost Plus Drugs, to manage prescription drug benefits.

"We are definitely seeing employers be more aggressive in how they try to structure their pharmacy benefits," said James Gelfand, President & CEO of The ERISA Industry Committee, which represents companies that provide employee benefits. "All of this is to try and control costs and keep drugs affordable for workers and families."

Cost Plus Drugs, which was launched by entrepreneur Mark Cuban, touts that it sells prescription drugs at the same price it pays a drug manufacturer, plus a 15% markup to cover operational costs. There are no common PBM tactics such as rebates or spread pricing − charging an employer or other insurer more for a drug than what it pays a corporate-owned pharmacy as a reimbursement for dispensing the medication.

The 3 Axis report sampled employers that paid 2024 prescription drug insurance claims totaling more than $433 million on behalf of workers and their families. The report said Cost Plus Drugs, which mainly sells lower-cost generic drugs and biosimilar medications, would have been able to fill more than 70% of those prescriptions.

Still, the report notes, Cost Plus doesn't typically carry many of the pricier specialty drugs that can drive costs higher for employers. Of the medications it carries, Cost Plus prices would deliver an average savings of 67% compared to PBMs, the report said.

But the report points out potential savings that some employers might pursue by choosing multiple vendors. An employer might get generic drugs from Cost Plus, for instance, while relying on a PBM for specialty drugs, according to Gelfand.

3 Axis Advisors noted that its report doesn't account for rebates that PBMs might share with employers on brand-name drugs. PBMs often demand rebates from drug manufacturers for brand-name medications, and some or all of those savings could be shared with employers, the report said.

Cuban said most of the drugs in the 3 Axis report are generics, which offer no rebates.

"We charge the same price to everyone," Cuban told USA TODAY. "Few others, if any, do this.  Because the big PBMs try to maximize profits, they will price as high as a contract will let them." 

A spokesman for the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, which represents PBMs, said the 3 Axis analysis falls short.

"Mark Cuban's company offers only a fraction of the drugs that patients need from a real drug benefit, and this report, like most of Mark Cuban's claims, relies on cherry-picked drugs that categorically misrepresent the value PBMs provide 289 million Americans," said Brendan Buck, PCMA's chief communications officer.

However, Goins said many employers have grown frustrated with the lack of price transparency with the large PBMs, which is one reason they are switching to smaller entities with more transparent pricing.

Many employers don't get full access to claims data, so they don't know details on the medical and prescription drug bills they're paying, said Antonio Ciaccia, president of 3 Axis Advisors and the report's co-author.

"You're asking them (employers) to navigate a marketplace with a blindfold on," Ciaccia said.

A law passed by Congress earlier this year would require PBMs to disclose more details to employers that fund their own insurance plans. The Department of Labor drafted a rule that would require PBMs to disclose more information about payments, rebates and pricing.

Another study suggest consumers with employer insurance might find savings on their own if they shop directly from Cost Plus.

The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, said consumers who had to spend $15 or more on copays could save money nearly 80% of the time when they shop from Cost Plus or other direct-to-consumer pharmacies. The savings could be greater when consumers have to spend $100 or more for higher-priced generics used to treat cancer, digestive issues, psychiatric and heart conditions, the study said.

The study only examined people with employer-sponsored health insurance, not those on a government health insurance program such as Medicare of Medicaid. The study also didn't compare potential drug savings of other consumer websites such GoodRx.

Cuban told USA TODAY he expects more companies to scrutinize prescription and health care spending because costs are rising too quickly.

"Companies can't afford the cost of health care any longer," Cuban said. "Every penny they save goes right to the bottom line."

We can finally talk about Bruno.

After months of closely guarding details, Disney Cruise Line has revealed what's coming to its next cruise ship, the Disney Believe.

An eager audience gathered for the live reveal aboard the Disney Wish erupted in cheers upon learning that the Believe will be getting the first-ever stage adaptation of Disney's Oscar-winning film "Encanto."

"What I'm personally most excited about is the 'Encanto' show because it is such a beloved movie. The music is infectious, fantastic," Tracy Wilson, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Cruise Line Operations, told USA TODAY. "A couple of weeks ago, I got to see some early rehearsals, and it's going to be an amazing show."

Here’s what else we learned about the Disney Believe.

When will the Disney Believe launch?

The Believe will set sail on its maiden voyage on Dec. 18, 2027.

Bookings for the general public open this Oct. 19. Repeat guests in the cruise line's free Castaway Club can book as early as Oct. 12, depending on their status.

The Believe will be the fourth ship in Disney's Wish class. Disney's next class of cruise ships will debut in 2029.

"We've launched four ships in the last four years. We have another five coming in four years, and I want people to know that means there are going to be sailing dates and sailing lengths that fit when your family wants to go on vacation," Wilson said. "There's going to be more options."

What's next? Disney is expanding its cruise lineup in a big way for 2027

Where will the Disney Believe home port?

The Believe will sail out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where its sister ship the Disney Destiny is currently sailing.

The Destiny, which debuted late last year, is set to move to Port Canaveral next fall. Other ships will also shuffle locations next year, including the Disney Wish, which will sail Europe for the first time and New York, marking the cruise line's first return to the city since 2023.

Where will the Disney Believe sail?

The Believe will sail 4- and 5-night voyages to the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Disney has two private islands in the Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Disney Believe theming

"The theme is promise and possibility, which I love," Wilson said. "It celebrates heroes that overcame challenges and believed in themselves."

At D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in August, Disney announced that Tinkerbell will adorn the bow of the Disney Believe while Woody and Buzz Lightyear from "Toy Story" will be featured on the stern.

At the time, Disney also revealed that a statue of Moana will anchor the ship's Grand Hall. Disney Cruise Line has now shared that the Grand Hall will be inspired by the Pacific Islands with rich tones reminiscent of the Disney Treasure and a massive chandelier that will echo the ocean's movement and hold the Heart of Te Fiti. Fiber optic lights in the ceiling will also bring the atrium to life.

Entertainment on the Disney Believe

Disney Cruise Line is known for its Broadway-caliber shows.

In a recorded video message, Disney Legend and Grammy-winning “Encanto” songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda announced that "Disney Encanto" will debut on the Disney Believe. The cruise line is working directly with him on the stage adaptation.

The Believe will also feature an updated version of "Tangled: The Musical" with new effects and sets. The popular show is also performed on the Disney Magic.

Guests will also be able to watch "Disney Seas the Adventure," an original show across Wish class ships.

There will also be a mixed-use entertainment venue called Gazelle, inspired by "Zootopia," where guests can meet Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps. It'll be a similar space to Luna on the Wish, Sarabi on the Treasure, and Saga on the Destiny.

"There's also just a lot of other entertainment under development, so you're going to see new activities all over the ship," Wilson said.

That includes an interactive experience with the Magic Mirror from "Snow White," with details still under wraps.

"What's so special about these ships is we've created spaces that allow for families to connect," Wilson said, noting that she means all kinds of families, including those with young kids, adult kids or no kids.

Dining aboard the Disney Believe

The Disney Believe will feature a new dinner show experience called Oaken’s Table: A Frozen Family Feast, which will differ from the popular Arendelle dining experience on the Wish. Disney says, "Oaken and his family will invite guests to dine together while enjoying the musical stylings of his cousins, who will play their own reimagined renditions of famous tunes from the popular 'Frozen' soundtracks."

Like its sister Wish class ships, the Believe will also feature:

• 1923, a refined restaurant named after the year the Walt Disney Company was founded and decorated with animation pieces from the Walt Disney Archives
• Worlds of Marvel, an interactive Marvel-inspired dining experience with a Groot Remix on the Believe
• Adults-only Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, which are not included in Disney's rotational dining but can be added for an extra fee
• Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods, a collection of quick-service food stalls with a new Pluto’s Pita Platter exclusive to the Believe
• Marceline Market buffet

An Inside Out-inspired sweet shop will be available, like on the Disney Wish, but with expanded emotions from the franchise’s second film.

Two new café themes were also revealed: "Moana"-inspired Café Kakamora and "Big Hero Six"-inspired Big Hero Sips.

Lounges on the Disney Believe

There will be a "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs"-inspired lounge called Wishing Well, which Disney described as stepping "into a vintage storybook." It'll be located where the Bayou is on the Wish, Skipper Society is on the Treasure and the Sanctum is on the Destiny. Its central location is intentional, nodding to Walt Disney's belief in producing "Snow White," which the Walt Disney Museum notes was revolutionary for its time.

Sea Notes will be a piano bar inspired by "The Little Mermaid," specifically Ariel's grotto.

Skygazers will be an observatory-themed pub celebrating Disney stories whose characters believed in wishing on stars.

There will also be a Haunted Mansion Parlor, like on the Treasure and Destiny, as well as a "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired Rose lounge, like on other Wish class ships.

Other returning experiences

Other offerings that guests will find familiar if they've sailed on Wish class ships include:

• The AquaMouse water slide
• Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party
• The Hero Zone multi-purpose sports area
• Wonderland and Neverland cinemas, which show first-run and classic Disney films
• Untangled Salon and Hooks Barbery
• Senses Spa and the Senses Fitness gym
• The adults-only Quiet Cove area
• Various kids spaces including it’s a small world nursery, Disney’s Oceaneer Club, Edge, Vibe and Hideaway; the Believe's Oceaneer Club will have a new "Monsters, Inc."-inspired exterior
• A luxurious two-story Tower Suite, this time inspired by Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

This story was updated to add new information, links and updated headlines.

The reporter on this story received access from Disney Cruise Line. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.

An election comes into focus one story at a time: a tightening race, a polarizing issue, voters who challenge the conventional wisdom. With Election Day less than a month away, USA TODAY journalists are fanning out across the country to capture what could be one of the most consequential midterm elections in modern history.

Democrats have a strong shot at taking the House, while the Senate remains up for grabs. If both chambers flip, the result would be a massive rebuke of Republicans and a fundamental shift in who holds power.

👋 USA TODAY Vice President of News Jamie Stockwell here. Welcome to the Backstory, our subscriber-exclusive newsletter that takes you behind the scenes of our journalism. I'll do that this week with a look at our midterms coverage and where our reporting takes us next.

But first, here are a few stories I think are worth your time this weekend:

• ICE has a secret database that is tracking protestors.
• You don't have to drive diesel to feel its disruptions.
• What happens when your county becomes a data center capital?
• Andrew Garfield's next act is deeply frightening.

The races, the voters, the stakes

The final weeks of a campaign bring a flood of polls, ads, debates and predictions. Our job is to help you understand what’s driving the contests: what candidates would do with power, which issues are moving voters and where the political map might be changing.

The political stories we publish are part of a broader reporting effort to connect the battle for Congress to the people whose lives and communities will be affected by the outcome. Over the last few months, we've reported from Colorado, where we talked with voters about the increasingly divisive issue of data centers, Montana, where we spent time with cattle ranchers angry about increased imports of foreign beef, and Louisiana, where a new voting rights fight is taking shape.

And this week, USA TODAY reporter and Rio Grande Valley native Rebecca Morin will be in South Texas to explore battleground congressional seats and the Hispanic voters who could help decide them. She'll examine what's shaping their choices and whether the region's rightward shift in 2020 and 2024 will hold or change course.

As a seventh-generation Texan also from the South Texas border region, I’m especially interested in what Rebecca will hear. It’s a place she and I know well, and one that rewards reporting that gets beyond assumptions. I look forward to sharing what she learns.

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Jamie Stockwell