Congressional agriculture leaders introduced a comprehensive farm bill proposal on Friday that would eliminate California’s strict animal welfare regulations while making significant changes to overseas food assistance initiatives. The House Agriculture Committee’s draft legislation includes enhanced insurance coverage for fruit and vegetable producers and increased federal lending caps for farmers.
The proposed measure targets California’s Proposition 12, which sets specific housing standards for farm animals, seeking to override those requirements at the federal level. Additionally, the bill calls for substantial modifications to the Food for Peace program, which provides humanitarian aid internationally.
Other provisions in the draft legislation address agricultural chemical labeling requirements and would expand the Department of Agriculture’s loan program limits to provide farmers with greater access to federal financing.
The Food and Drug Administration has granted approval for a new livestock deworming treatment called Defendazole, manufactured by Norbrook. The medication is designed to combat and manage various internal parasites that can harm livestock health and reduce farmers’ profitability.
According to Dr. Megan Bollin, who serves as Norbrook’s technical services veterinarian, Defendazole represents a significant milestone as the first white drench dewormer for cattle and goats to receive FDA approval. She noted to Brownfield that the livestock industry has waited more than three decades for a new fenbendazole treatment option to become available.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Virginia cattle rancher Gene Copenhaver has assumed the presidency of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association following his election and installation during CattleCon 2026 in early February.
The organization announced that this year’s CattleCon set a new attendance record, drawing unprecedented numbers of cattle producers and industry representatives. The annual gathering serves as the industry’s premier event for conducting business, educational sessions, and networking opportunities.
Copenhaver brings extensive experience from leadership positions throughout Virginia’s cattle industry and on the national level. He views his new role as an extension of his family’s longstanding commitment to agricultural service, outlining key objectives that include maintaining successful existing programs, staying connected to grassroots concerns, keeping an open perspective, and emphasizing financial viability.
“Profitability is sustainability,” he stated.
The new president aims to ensure operations of all types and sizes remain economically feasible. His agenda includes challenging regulatory obstacles, advocating for policies that enable reinvestment, and building upon recent progress with tax-related legislation.
“We can’t build the future if every good year gets taxed away before we can shore up our infrastructure,” he explained.
The former banking professional sees his NCBA leadership as a continuation of the Copenhaver family’s agricultural heritage, which began when his ancestors established themselves in Washington County, Virginia, around 1850.
Approximately 75 years ago, Gene’s father and uncle established Copenhaver Brothers Farms, creating a varied agricultural enterprise that included tobacco, hogs, sheep, cow-calf operations, and stocker cattle.
“It was a model built on spreading risk and making use of every acre,” he noted.
The tobacco buyout program became a turning point for the Copenhaver operation and Southwest Virginia’s agricultural landscape overall.
“A lot of buyout money went into cattle genetics,” Copenhaver remembered. “It really changed the type and quality of cattle we have in Southwest Virginia.”
This transition also prompted his family to refocus their efforts. The operation eventually specialized entirely in stocker cattle, capitalizing on the region’s natural advantage in grass production.
(Editor’s note: John Hall works as a professional commodities analyst.)
Over the last five weeks, I’ve been providing information designed to help farmers with their 2026 crop planning choices. Today, I’m focusing on corn market dynamics – both supply and consumption patterns. The information presented comes from WASDE reports, with production figures shown in million metric tonnes.
My first analysis examines global corn production locations. I’ve also added U.S. acreage planted and production measured in million bushels.
Key observations include:
• China ranked as the world’s second-largest corn producer. The country relies on corn primarily to support its massive pig farming operations.
• While Argentina’s output remains steady, Brazil shows signs of growth. Brazilian reports indicate their expanding ethanol sector might absorb most of their increased production.
• Russia and Ukraine present a notable situation. The conflict that started in 2014 and intensified in February 2022 has disrupted their export capabilities, particularly after bombing campaigns targeted ports and affected grain market stability.
Moving to domestic consumption patterns, USDA maintains reliable statistics for Feed and Seed, Ethanol, and Exports, though feed and residual data proves more challenging to track. The 2017-18 and 2025-26 feed usage numbers appear questionable, so they shouldn’t be overanalyzed. These represent the most accurate estimates currently available.
Food, seed, and ethanol sectors remain relatively stable, while exports show modest growth for 2025-26. Media reports suggest expanded E15 usage could boost ethanol consumption.
The U.S. Treasury Department has issued updates indicating that usage revisions may result from the One Big Beautiful Bill expected later this year.
Examining America’s corn export rivals reveals that overall global exports have stayed fairly constant. With world population growth slowing, increased sales must come at competitors’ expense. The United States shows notable growth in 2024-25.
I credit this improvement to recent trade agreements. While some major trading partners had shifted to competitors, these trade deals have brought them back. The data clearly shows how the Russian-Ukraine war impacted their export volumes. Our main challenge in serving their former customers involves distance and shipping costs to those markets.
Looking at worldwide corn buyers, most of these purchasing nations maintain friendly relationships with the United States. I believe we previously lost some business due to higher prices, but we’ve recovered most of those sales through strategic trade agreements.
Our analysis concludes with ending stock levels. The data shows U.S. ending stocks in both metric tonnes and millions of bushels. I’ve included USDA’s average price information as reference to demonstrate the typical pattern: when ending stocks drop, prices generally rise, and when stocks increase, prices typically fall.
China controls nearly two-thirds of global ending stocks. The country takes food security very seriously since it requires depending on other nations. Their food security approach has transformed from strict, government-controlled self-reliance (1949–1970s) to a market-based strategy emphasizing “absolute security of staple foods.”
Under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, the strategy emphasizes 95-percent grain self-sufficiency, rigorous farmland conservation, and agricultural innovation, shifting from quantity-focused to quality and diversification priorities. In 2004, a new strategy emerged prioritizing “guaranteed supply” through international commerce while maintaining tight control over domestic wheat and rice production. Consequently, the government maintains a year’s worth of grain reserves and distributes it to farmers gradually. This approach also enables them to regulate farmer pricing.
I realize this represents substantial information. I intend to reference this material in upcoming discussions to assist with your planting choices.
(Note: I compile research from Allendale, DTN, USDA, University Land Grants and other reliable sources for this article. This represents not just my personal view, but a consensus among trade experts. Seeking a marketing advisor or strategy discussions? Reach me at [email protected], or call 410-708-8781.)
A new weapon in the fight against a destructive cattle parasite has gained regulatory approval, offering hope to livestock producers across the United States. Merck Animal Health announced in December that it secured conditional approval for Exzolt Cattle-CA1, a topical treatment designed to combat New World screwworm infestations.
The fluralaner-based solution is applied directly to cattle as a pour-on treatment and serves a dual purpose – it can both ward off potential infestations and eliminate existing screwworm larvae problems. This parasite remains a persistent worry for American cattle ranchers and poses broader risks to the nation’s agricultural sector.
New World screwworm larvae create serious health issues for livestock by feeding on living tissue, making effective prevention and treatment methods crucial for maintaining healthy cattle herds and protecting agricultural investments.
Delaware cattle ranchers are grappling with increased financial uncertainty despite experiencing historically high livestock prices, prompting agricultural experts to emphasize the importance of comprehensive risk management strategies.
As market fluctuations continue to challenge the industry, Landon Nelson from Farm Credit Services of America’s Commercial Insurance Services division is advising producers on methods to safeguard their investments and maintain profitability during turbulent times.
Nelson outlined several approaches that cattle operations can implement to shield their financial interests, control profit margins, and stay viable amid ongoing market instability. These protective measures are becoming increasingly vital as producers work to balance the benefits of elevated prices with the inherent risks of volatile market conditions.
The guidance comes at a time when Delaware’s agricultural community is seeking ways to capitalize on favorable pricing while establishing long-term financial security for their operations.
Federal authorities have brought charges against five individuals in what prosecutors describe as a massive nationwide cattle fraud operation totaling $220 million.
Among those facing charges are Joshua Link from Stafford, Missouri, and Tia Link from Smithton, Missouri, who have been hit with wire fraud and money laundering accusations, announced Ryan Raybould, who serves as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas.
According to federal prosecutors, the Missouri duo allegedly transferred funds as part of the fraudulent purchasing scheme, though additional details about the specific nature of the cattle contract fraud have not yet been released.
The case represents one of the larger agricultural fraud investigations in recent years, with authorities continuing their investigation into the full scope of the alleged criminal enterprise.
Drivers in Milton should prepare for traffic changes beginning Monday, February 23rd, as the Delaware Department of Transportation starts a major reconstruction project at the Route 1 and Hudson Road intersection.
DelDOT officials announced they will temporarily shut down the crossover at Route 1 and Hudson Road/Steamboat Landing Road, along with implementing lane restrictions on both northbound and southbound Route 1. The construction project involves rebuilding the crossover and adding a new median island between the north and south lanes of Route 1, plus installing an acceleration lane for southbound traffic.
Construction crews will be active Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the approximately three-week timeline, assuming favorable weather conditions allow work to proceed as planned.
Transportation officials are urging drivers to reduce their speed when traveling through the construction zone and to allow extra time for their commutes due to anticipated minor delays in the area.
NEW YORK — A Cleveland Browns defensive back is recovering at home after being attacked by a group of four men in a Manhattan hotel lobby during the early morning hours on Monday.
Ronnie Hickman, a 24-year-old safety for the Browns, sustained minor injuries in the assault and received medical treatment before being discharged, according to team officials. The player is now resting with his family as he recovers from the incident.
New York City police responded to an emergency call at 4:35 a.m. Monday regarding an assault taking place in a hotel lobby, according to law enforcement officials.
“Upon arrival, officers were informed that four unidentified individuals punched a 24-year-old male about the body following a verbal dispute,” police said. “The suspects fled the location in an unknown direction.”
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not made any arrests in connection with the attack, the New York Police Department confirmed in their official statement.
Hickman joined the Browns as an undrafted free agent after completing his college career at Ohio State University. During his three-year NFL tenure, he has appeared in 41 games and compiled impressive defensive statistics, including 173 total tackles, three interceptions, and one fumble recovery.
HAVANA, Cuba – Motorists across Cuba are discovering they may need to wait months before they can fill up their vehicles, as the island nation grapples with severe fuel shortages attributed to U.S. economic sanctions targeting oil imports.
Cuban authorities implemented a mandatory smartphone application called Ticket last week, requiring all drivers to schedule refueling appointments through the digital platform to prevent disorder at service stations.
However, Havana residents who spoke with reporters on Monday revealed the app is scheduling appointments weeks or even months in advance due to overwhelming demand.
Jorge Reyes, a 65-year-old resident who registered for the app Monday, expressed frustration with his assigned queue position. “I have (appointment) number seven thousand and something,” Reyes explained.
The gas station where Reyes registered only processes 50 appointments daily, leaving him wondering, “When will I be able to buy gas again?”
The application restricts users to booking appointments at a single station at once, prompting drivers to share intelligence through WhatsApp messaging groups about which locations might have shorter waits or higher daily capacity, with some stations handling up to 90 appointments per day.
These efforts provide minimal relief for drivers discovering thousands of appointments ahead of theirs in the digital queue.
Cuba’s government has simultaneously eliminated subsidized gasoline sales in local currency at approximately 25 cents per liter, now exclusively offering higher-priced fuel denominated in U.S. dollars.
Current gasoline prices reach $1.30 per liter at official stations, while black market rates can climb to $6 per liter. Cuban government employees typically earn under $20 monthly when their peso salaries are converted to dollars at current exchange rates.
When drivers finally secure refueling opportunities, they face a 20-liter purchase limit, equivalent to roughly 5.2 gallons.
Businessman Ariel Alonso, who managed to refuel Monday at El Riviera station, highlighted the inadequacy of this restriction. “This will not last me long,” Alonso stated.
“I have to leave a reserve of five liters in case anyone gets sick at home,” he added, referring to potential emergency hospital trips.
The Ticket platform operates under XETID, a government-controlled software company. Commercial director Saumel Tejada informed Cuba Debate news outlet last week that over 90,000 drivers had requested refueling appointments through the application.
While Ticket has existed for three years, previously helping Cubans schedule notary visits and access subsidized fuel, it has now become virtually the sole legitimate method for vehicle refueling outside black market channels.
Tourism industry vehicles represent the primary exception to these restrictions. Cars bearing special tourism license plates can access 44 designated service stations island-wide, though lengthy queues have formed at these locations. Tourism vehicles face the same 20-liter purchase limits as regular cars.
Energy shortages and electrical blackouts have escalated across Cuba this month as the nation struggles to secure oil imports for power generation facilities and refineries.
President Donald Trump issued threats in late January targeting any countries selling oil to Cuba with potential tariffs, as Washington intensifies pressure on the island’s communist leadership to implement economic and political changes.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has indicated willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States “as equals” while maintaining national sovereignty. Díaz-Canel has characterized U.S. actions as an “energy blockade.”
Venezuela, historically a major Cuban oil supplier, ceased crude shipments to the island in January following U.S. forces’ capture of former president Nicolás Maduro during a pre-dawn operation and his subsequent transport to New York to face drug trafficking charges.
Mexico similarly terminated oil deliveries to Cuba in January after Trump announced the tariff threats.
Financial institutions throughout Cuba have shortened operating hours to conserve electricity, while the government announced earlier this month it would discontinue aircraft refueling services for planes landing on the island. This decision prompted three Canadian airlines to suspend Cuban routes, though other carriers continue service by making fuel stops in the Dominican Republic.
Officials have postponed both an annual book fair and the traditional cigar industry trade show as part of broader efforts to reduce fuel and electricity consumption.
A coalition of United Nations human rights specialists criticized the U.S. oil embargo last week, declaring it “has no basis on collective security and constitutes a unilateral act that is incompatible with international law.”
NEW YORK — Frederick Wiseman, the distinguished documentary filmmaker renowned for “Titicut Follies” and more than three dozen other films that provided an unprecedented examination of American institutional life, passed away Monday at the age of 96.
His family and production company Zipporah Films confirmed the filmmaker’s death in a joint announcement, though specific details surrounding his passing were not disclosed.
“He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless filmmakers and audiences around the world whose lives and perspectives were shaped by his unique vision,” according to the released statement.
Wiseman stood among cinema’s most respected and impactful documentary makers, receiving an honorary Oscar in 2016 after creating more than 35 films, many running several hours in length. His projects examined everything from suburban educational facilities to horse racing venues, finding homes on public broadcasting, film festivals, and retrospective screenings while earning widespread critical acclaim. Though he didn’t begin feature filmmaking until his mid-thirties, Wiseman quickly earned recognition alongside—and sometimes surpassing—notable contemporaries like D.A. Pennebaker and Robert Drew in establishing documentary cinema as a compelling artistic medium.
Beginning with “High School” and the controversial “Titicut Follies,” Wiseman developed a distinctive, powerful approach using minimal crews, often handling sound recording duties himself. His work generated praise, controversy, debate, criticism, and in the case of “Titicut Follies,” extensive court battles.
“I don’t set out to be confrontational, but I think sometimes the content of the movie runs against people’s expectations and fantasies about the subject matter,” Wiseman explained to Gawker in 2013.
The filmmaker’s goal involved creating “as many films as possible about different aspects of American life,” frequently choosing straightforward titles like “Hospital,” “Public Housing,” “Basic Training,” and “Boxing Gym.” Beyond institutional examination, he captured individual human experiences: elderly citizens seeking welfare assistance, military recruits facing mistreatment, medical professionals treating drug-affected patients, and retail employees practicing customer service techniques.
“The institution is also just an excuse to observe human behavior in somewhat defined conditions,” Wiseman explained to The Associated Press in 2020. “The films are as much about that as they are about institutions.”
“Titicut Follies,” which debuted in 1967, documented conditions at Massachusetts’ Bridgewater State Hospital for the criminally insane. Wiseman captured disturbing scenes of naked patients being tormented by cruel staff members and one individual being force-fed through nasal tubing while restrained. The shocking content proved so damaging that Massachusetts authorities successfully limited the film’s distribution, creating legendary status among those seeking to view it.
His 1968 release “High School” chronicled everyday experiences at a Philadelphia-area suburban school. The film showed students being interrogated about phone call permissions, English instructors analyzing Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Dangling Conversation,” and uncomfortable health education sessions where boys were told that increased activity indicated greater insecurity.
“What we see in Fred Wiseman’s documentary … is so familiar and so extraordinarily evocative that a feeling of empathy with the students floods over us,” wrote The New Yorker’s Pauline Kael. “Wiseman extends our understanding of our common life the way novelists used to.”
Wiseman created films without voice-over narration, pre-recorded music, or explanatory text. However, he strongly rejected association with the “cinema verite” movement of the 1960s and ’70s, dismissing it as a “pompous French term that has absolutely no meaning.”
Academy Award winner Errol Morris called him “the undisputed king of misanthropic cinema,” though Wiseman rejected characterization as an activist filmmaker seeking to expose wrongdoing. He viewed himself as a subjective yet fair-minded observer who developed opinions through the filmmaking process itself, reviewing hundreds of hours of material to construct narratives that could be either discouraging or uplifting. “High School II” examined an East Harlem educational facility in the 1990s, where he found inspiration in educators’ dedication.
“I think it’s as important to document kindness, civility and generosity of spirit as it is to show cruelty, banality and indifference,” Wiseman stated during his honorary Oscar acceptance.
Even in his eighties and nineties, Wiseman maintained his adventurous filmmaking spirit, producing “Crazy Horse” about Parisian erotic entertainment, the four-hour “At Berkeley” examining the California university system, and the two-and-a-half-hour “Monrovia, Indiana” exploring rural community life. He also maintained extensive theater involvement, directing works by Samuel Beckett and William Luce while adapting his “Welfare” film into operatic form. In 2025, he appeared in acting roles in “Jane Austen Wrecked My Life” as a poet and provided voice work as a radio announcer in “Eephus.”
Much of his filmography was produced through Zipporah, the company named after his wife, who died in 2021. The couple had two children together.
Born in Boston to a prominent lawyer father and a mother who worked in children’s psychiatric care while harboring acting ambitions, Wiseman received elite education at Williams College and Yale Law School despite attending institutions with Jewish enrollment restrictions. His diverse professional background proved invaluable for his future filmmaking career.
During the 1950s and early 1960s, he served in various roles including the Massachusetts attorney general’s office, court reporting in Fort Benning, Georgia, and Philadelphia, research work at Brandeis University, and teaching at Boston Law School. Military service in Paris in 1955 provided early film experience through street photography with a Super 8 camera.
“I reached the witching age of 30 and figured I better do something I liked,” Wiseman told the AP in 2016. “It was just a few years after the technological developments that it made it possible to shoot synchronous sound … so that opened up the world for filmmaking. And there were so many good subjects that hadn’t been filmed, as there still are.”
His film career began with narrative drama after reading William Miller’s “The Cool World,” a novel about young Black individuals in Harlem. Wiseman contacted the author, secured rights, and produced the low-budget 1964 adaptation directed by Shirley Clarke, gaining confidence in his ability to manage film projects independently.
While teaching at Boston Law School, Wiseman arranged student visits to the nearby Bridgewater facility. In 1965, he contacted officials proposing a film that would eventually become “Titicut Follies,” promising to provide “audience factual material about a state prison but will also give an imaginative and poetic quality that will set it apart from the cliche documentary about crime and illness.”
Following the film’s New York Film Festival screening, Massachusetts pursued legal action claiming Wiseman violated prisoner privacy rights. For over twenty years, “Titicut Follies” could only be shown in restricted venues like libraries and colleges. The prohibition was gradually lifted when Superior Court Judge Andrew Meyer first required face blurring for public screenings, then completely removed all restrictions in 1991.
“I have viewed the film and agree that it is a substantial and significant intrusion into the privacy of the inmates shown in the film,” Meyer wrote in his 1989 decision. “However, I also regarded ‘Titicut Follies’ as an outstanding film, artistically and thoughtfully edited with great social and historical value.
Smithfield Foods has announced plans to construct a massive $1.3 billion meat processing facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, according to company leadership.
Shane Smith, who serves as president and CEO of the food processing giant, revealed that the new operation will handle fresh pork and packaged meat production. Smith described the upcoming facility as groundbreaking in its technological capabilities.
“Featuring advanced automation technology and IT systems, it will be the most modern plant of its kind in the United States,” Smith stated.
The announcement represents a significant investment in the company’s processing capabilities and could have implications for the broader meat processing industry.
Veteran journalist Anderson Cooper is ending his nearly two-decade tenure with CBS’s acclaimed news magazine ’60 Minutes,’ according to an insider with knowledge of the situation who spoke Monday. The move marks another significant personnel shift for the long-running program as the network undergoes broader newsroom reorganization.
Cooper has served as a correspondent for ’60 Minutes’ since the 2006-2007 television season through a collaborative arrangement between CBS News and CNN, as noted on his CBS News profile.
Among his notable recent contributions to the program were investigative pieces examining individuals suffering from long-term COVID-19 effects and coverage of a shipwreck discovered off Mobile, Alabama, thought to be the final slave vessel to reach American shores.
The journalist became part of CNN’s team in 2001 under Warner Bros Discovery and has covered major stories including the conflict in Iraq, the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and the environmental disaster caused by the Gulf of Mexico oil leak.
The news of Cooper’s upcoming exit from ’60 Minutes’ was initially disclosed by Lachlan Cartwright in his Breaker newsletter.
Team captain Marie-Philip Poulin etched her name in Olympic history Monday, netting two goals to propel Canada into the women’s ice hockey championship game with a 2-1 victory over Switzerland in Milan.
The triumph marks Canada’s eighth straight appearance in an Olympic women’s hockey final, maintaining their perfect record of reaching the title game since the sport debuted at the Winter Games. Poulin’s performance was particularly notable as she shattered the all-time Olympic women’s scoring record, tallying her 19th and 20th career goals.
Thursday’s gold medal contest will pit the defending Olympic champions against their longtime rivals from the United States, as Canada seeks their sixth Olympic title against a youthful American squad.
Switzerland managed to find the net once through forward Rahel Enzler in the opening minutes of the final period, but couldn’t overcome Canada’s offensive dominance. The Canadians peppered the Swiss goal with 46 shots compared to just eight for their opponents.
The bronze medal will be decided Thursday when Switzerland takes on Sweden.
Despite missing the final two preliminary round contests due to a knee problem, Poulin showed no signs of rust at Santagiulia arena. The player known as “Captain Clutch” broke through after a goalless opening frame to make Olympic history.
Her record-setting 19th Olympic goal came via a skillful slap shot that bounced off the ice surface and sailed over Swiss goaltender Andrea Braendli’s equipment, surpassing fellow Canadian Hayley Wickenheiser’s previous milestone and igniting celebrations among the maple leaf supporters in attendance.
Poulin wasn’t finished there, adding her second tally less than seven minutes afterward by jamming home a rebound while diving toward the net during a scramble in front of the goal.
The Canadian star found herself in penalty trouble four minutes later after delivering a hard check on Swiss player Laura Zimmermann along the boards, but escaped a major infraction that could have significantly impacted the outcome, serving only a two-minute minor penalty.
While Switzerland had stunned hockey powerhouse Finland in the quarterfinal round, they couldn’t sustain that upset magic against Canada. Enzler’s goal, set up by teammate Alina Muller in the third period’s early stages, provided only a brief moment of optimism for the Swiss cause.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un celebrated a major housing achievement in the capital city as his country prepares for an important political event, according to state media reports released Tuesday.
The completion of 10,000 new residential units in Pyongyang’s Hwasong District represents the fulfillment of an ambitious construction target established half a decade ago. State news agency KCNA reported that this milestone completes the goal of constructing 50,000 new homes throughout the metropolitan region, a target that was established during the Eighth Congress five years prior.
Kim attended Monday’s completion ceremony as North Korea prepares to convene the Ninth Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party this February. This major political event serves as the nation’s most significant governmental gathering, where officials evaluate past performance, establish future policy objectives, and potentially implement leadership changes.
The North Korean leader has spent recent months visiting various construction locations and highlighting developmental achievements as the country approaches this crucial party meeting.
“Based on the transformational achievements… during the Eighth period, the Ninth Congress of the party will set a grander goal of restoration and creation,” Kim stated, as reported by KCNA.
State media also confirmed that delegates and attendees scheduled to take part in the forthcoming party congress reached Pyongyang on Monday.
According to Hong Min, a researcher with the Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul, historical patterns suggest the Congress typically commences three to four days following the arrival of representatives in Pyongyang, based on the previous two gatherings held in 2016 and 2021.
Legendary documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman has died at age 96, according to an announcement from Zipporah Films, the distribution company he established.
The filmmaker passed away peacefully on Monday, though no specific cause of death was released.
Throughout his remarkable six-decade career, Wiseman created approximately 50 documentaries that took viewers inside the everyday institutions that shape American life – from neighborhood stores and public schools to city halls, zoos, courthouses, and hospitals.
His approach was uniquely immersive and unbiased, allowing audiences to witness how these organizations function and affect the people within them.
“The audience is placed in the middle of these events and asked to think through their own relationship to what they are seeing and hearing,” Wiseman explained to Documentary Magazine in 1991. “They are asked to ask themselves why I have selected and arranged the material in this particular form.”
A DISTINCTIVE FILMMAKING APPROACH
Wiseman pioneered what became known as “direct cinema,” a documentary style similar to the French “cinéma vérité” movement. His films featured no narrator explaining events, no formal interviews with subjects, and no added soundtrack – only the natural sounds occurring within each scene.
The filmmaker would typically shoot around 200 hours of raw footage, then personally edit the material down to feature length. He described his documentaries as “reality dreams” and “expressions of my curiosity.”
Born on January 1, 1930, in Boston, Wiseman was the sole child of Jacob Leo Wiseman, a Russian immigrant who worked as an attorney, and Gertrude Kotzen, who held an administrative position at a children’s hospital psychiatry department.
Initially pursuing law, Wiseman studied and taught in the field before discovering his passion lay elsewhere.
“I didn’t like law school because the stuff I had to read was so badly written,” he told the Metrograph journal in 2016. “I detested teaching as much as I detested law school.”
After completing military service following the Korean War, Wiseman transitioned into filmmaking at age 37.
GROUNDBREAKING EARLY WORK
His debut documentary, “Titicut Follies,” provided an unprecedented look inside a Massachusetts facility for the criminally insane. Despite legal restrictions that limited its screening to academic venues for decades, the film established Wiseman’s observational methodology.
“It seemed to me an appropriate style to use when I was trying to make films about real situations, where I wasn’t asking people to do anything especially for me,” Wiseman explained in 2016. “The idea always has been to capture as many different aspects of what’s going on in the world as I can on film.”
His 1968 production “High School” documented teenagers and educators in Philadelphia during a period of significant social change. Both “Titicut Follies” and “High School” earned places in the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress.
PBS aired several of his works, including “Law and Order,” which followed Kansas City police officers, and “Domestic Violence,” examining a women’s shelter in 2001.
RECOGNITION AND LEGACY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences honored Wiseman with an honorary Oscar in 2016, praising his “masterful and distinctive documentaries examine the familiar and reveal the unexpected.”
“Constantly working keeps me off the streets,” he quipped during his acceptance speech. “This compulsion has always been understood by my wife, Zipporah, and my sons, David and Eric.”
He named his production company after his wife Zipporah, a law professor who died in 2021.
Among his numerous accolades were four Emmy Awards and recognition from major international film festivals including Cannes, Berlin, and Venice. He also received prestigious MacArthur and Guggenheim fellowships.
Journalist Sean Cooper noted in Tablet magazine that “even the most critical acknowledge that Frederick Wiseman is a genius of some kind.”
INTERNATIONAL SUBJECTS AND FINAL WORKS
While primarily focused on American institutions, Wiseman also explored international subjects. He documented the historic Comédie-Française theater in Paris and created “The Last Letter,” a fictional work set in a Ukrainian Jewish community during World War II.
His four-hour film “Menus-Plaisirs — Les Troisgros” profiled French restaurateurs with characteristic depth and patience.
When questioned about creating lengthy films that challenged some viewers’ attention spans, Wiseman responded: “I make them at whatever length I think is appropriate … I don’t know how to take into account an audience.”
His diverse subject matter included London’s National Gallery, the Panama Canal, and end-of-life care.
“Each movie is a different experience with different people and situations that I have never experienced before,” Wiseman reflected. “I hope in each case I’ve learned something.”
Despite never achieving mainstream commercial success, Wiseman’s documentaries found devoted audiences through film festivals, university screenings, and independent theaters, cementing his reputation as one of America’s most important documentary filmmakers.
Leadership at the Missouri Pork Association is expressing satisfaction with provisions targeting California’s Proposition 12 that have been incorporated into the House Agriculture Committee’s most recent farm bill proposal. Scott Hays, who serves as the organization’s executive director, shared his optimism with Brownfield regarding the potential legislative remedy.
“It looks like we might finally get our day in Congress to try and get a fix in for this problem,” Hays stated when discussing the farm bill language.
The inclusion of this provision represents what industry advocates view as a significant step toward addressing regulatory challenges they face from California’s animal welfare requirements.
Delaware State Police are actively pursuing leads in a violent attack that left an Ocean View man hospitalized early Saturday morning.
Officers were dispatched to a home in the 37000 block of Mahogany Street around 12:30 a.m. on February 14, 2026, following reports of an assault. Upon arrival, they discovered a 64-year-old resident who had suffered injuries from a crowbar attack. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he is being treated for injuries that are not considered life-threatening.
According to the initial police investigation, two unidentified white males approached the victim’s residence, creating a disturbance by shouting and pounding on his door. When the homeowner answered, he did not recognize either individual and attempted to shut the door. At that point, one of the men physically grabbed the victim, knocked him down, and struck him with a crowbar before both attackers escaped in a red vehicle of unknown make and model.
The case remains under active investigation by the Delaware State Police Troop 4 Criminal Investigations Unit. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to reach out to Detective W. Saylor at 302-752-3832. Tips can also be submitted through private messages to the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Crime victims and witnesses seeking support can access services around the clock through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center. Their toll-free helpline is available at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461), and they can also be contacted via email at [email protected].
Delaware State Police have taken a Wilmington senior care facility worker into custody on felony charges following accusations that he burglarized an elderly resident’s apartment and stole jewelry this past Sunday morning.
Kem Mays, 62, of Wilmington, now faces serious criminal charges after the incident at Forwood Estates on Marsh Road. According to police reports, the crime occurred on February 15, 2026, when law enforcement received a theft complaint at the facility located at 1912 Marsh Road around 10:30 in the morning.
Investigators determined that approximately two hours earlier, at 8:30 a.m., an elderly resident had stepped out of their living quarters. Police say Mays, who worked at the facility, took advantage of the resident’s absence by illegally entering their apartment and taking valuable jewelry items.
During their investigation, law enforcement officials made contact with Mays and successfully retrieved the stolen jewelry pieces, which have since been given back to the victim.
Authorities apprehended Mays without any complications and brought him to Troop 1 for processing. Following his arrest, he appeared before Justice of the Peace Court 11 for arraignment and was subsequently freed after posting a $12,000 unsecured bond.
The suspect now faces two felony charges: Burglary Second Degree and Theft Under $1,500 Where Victim is 62 Years of Age or Older.
Delaware State Police have taken a 19-year-old Henderson, Maryland resident into custody on multiple felony charges following two separate incidents at a Marydel business.
**Ryan Harding** now faces several charges including attempted burglary after investigators connected him to break-in attempts at Smoke Needs on Halltown Road.
The investigation started on February 8, 2026, when police began looking into a failed break-in at the shop located at 825 Halltown Road. Investigators determined that someone dressed in dark clothes, gloves, and a face covering had tried to break into the establishment using a hammer during nighttime hours.
A week later, on February 15, 2026, at around 2:15 a.m., investigators spotted a Toyota Camry parked on Halltown Road close to the same business. When they approached the vehicle, they found Harding behind the wheel, dressed in dark clothing and wearing latex gloves. Officers detained him without any resistance.
Police investigation revealed that Harding was preparing to break into the business again and confirmed he was responsible for the earlier break-in attempt. When officers searched the Camry with Harding’s permission, they discovered tools commonly used for burglary.
Following his arrest, Harding was transported to Troop 3 where he faced formal charges. Justice of the Peace Court 3 processed his arraignment, and he was released after posting a $3,100 unsecured bond.
The charges against Harding include:
Two counts of Attempted Burglary in the 3rd Degree (Felony)
Two counts of Possession of Burglar Tools (Felony)
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
At the 62nd Munich Security Conference held on February 14th in Munich, Germany, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a keynote address aimed at calming European anxieties about America’s dedication to transatlantic partnerships.
Despite Rubio’s diplomatic efforts to mend relations and demonstrate American commitment to European allies, leaders from across Europe expressed continued doubt about the sincerity of these assurances.
The conference highlighted a growing divide between American intentions to repair diplomatic relationships and European reluctance to fully trust these overtures, suggesting ongoing challenges in transatlantic cooperation.
Drivers in New Castle County should prepare for significant construction activity as the Delaware Department of Transportation prepares to launch a major infrastructure project in Stanton.
DelDOT officials have announced that extensive construction will commence Monday, February 23rd on the Limestone Road bridge that spans railroad tracks, located between Kirkwood Highway and Route 4.
The comprehensive two-year undertaking will involve restoring the existing bridge structure, removing and repaving roadway surfaces, and updating curbing and accessibility features to meet ADA compliance standards.
Throughout the duration of the construction period, drivers can expect a contraflow traffic pattern to be implemented along Limestone Road, which will affect normal traffic flow in the area.
Motorists are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes when traveling through this section of Stanton during the construction timeline.
Agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH has rolled out two new models in their popular Farmall tractor line. The company’s product manager, Morgen Dietrich, explains that the newly released Farmall 35A and 40A compact tractors incorporate enhanced open-style engineering that streamlines operations and boosts productivity.
According to Dietrich, who spoke with Brownfield, the flexible engineering of these machines allows users to reduce both operational time and expenses. The versatile construction of these compact tractors is designed to accommodate various farming tasks while maximizing efficiency for agricultural operators.
The newly appointed leader of Missouri Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers organization believes that building solid connections across generations and fostering collaborative teamwork are essential elements for maintaining thriving family agricultural operations.
“I think it’s important different generations work together to come up with new ideas and make things more profitable on the farm,” said Spencer Bachmann, who operates a livestock operation alongside his wife, Rachel.
Bachmann’s approach highlights the value of combining seasoned farming wisdom with innovative approaches to enhance farm profitability and sustainability for future generations.
Agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH has unveiled its redesigned Puma series tractor, bringing advanced precision technology and improved efficiency to farming operations across the region.
The newly introduced tractor line focuses on boosting farm productivity while maximizing field time through innovative design features. According to Shawn Duren, who serves as a livestock product specialist with Case IH, the equipment is ideally suited for those in the livestock industry.
Duren highlights that the tractor’s streamlined yet robust construction delivers significantly improved maneuverability, with the turning radius reduced by 20 percent compared to previous models. This enhancement allows operators to navigate more efficiently in confined spaces and around farm structures.
The updated Puma series represents Case IH’s commitment to integrating the most current technological advances into farm equipment, helping agricultural producers optimize their operations and improve overall productivity in today’s competitive farming environment.
The United States women’s hockey team has secured their spot in Thursday’s Olympic gold medal game after maintaining a flawless record through six contests at the Games.
Team USA’s offensive prowess has been on full display throughout the tournament, as they’ve managed to outscore their competition by an impressive margin of 31 goals to just one allowed. This dominant performance has positioned them as the team to beat heading into the championship round.
Leading this exceptional group is veteran captain Hilary Knight, who has been instrumental in guiding a roster filled with exciting young players making their mark on the Olympic stage. The combination of experienced leadership and fresh talent has proven to be a winning formula for the American squad.
The team’s most recent victory came in Monday’s semifinal matchup against Sweden, where forward Taylor Heise celebrated after netting the team’s second goal in what became a commanding 5-0 shutout victory.
With their perfect tournament record intact, Team USA will now prepare for their ultimate test as they compete for Olympic gold in what promises to be an exciting championship game.
Nearly ten years after a deadly shooting in New Castle, investigators continue searching for answers in the death of a local man.
Jamar Kilgoe, age 31, was killed on February 16, 2015, in what remains an unsolved homicide case. The fatal shooting occurred at 19 Lambson Lane in New Castle, at the Rose Hill Community Center.
Police responded to reports of gunfire at the community facility around 3:00 p.m. that Monday afternoon. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Kilgoe had been shot.
The case has been classified as a cold case homicide, with the New Castle County Police Department continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kilgoe’s death.
Anyone with information about this unsolved shooting is encouraged to contact local authorities as investigators work to bring closure to this case that has remained open for nearly a decade.
Mining giant BHP Group announced Tuesday it has struck a major long-term silver streaming deal with a subsidiary of Wheaton Precious Metals, securing $4.3 billion in upfront cash when the transaction closes.
Under the agreement, BHP will supply silver extracted from its ownership stake in Peru’s Antamina mining operation, where the company holds a 33.75% interest in the facility’s operating company, Compañía Minera Antamina S.A.
“Supported by strong silver market conditions, the agreement maximises shareholder value by unlocking capital from a non-core commodity that can be reallocated to BHP’s high-return growth projects and shareholder returns, consistent with our capital allocation framework,” BHP said.
Once the deal finalizes, Wheaton will obtain rights to a total of 67.5% of Antamina’s entire silver output, representing a significant increase from the current 33.75% portion it receives through an existing streaming arrangement with Glencore.
“Quality silver production is becoming increasingly difficult to source while demand continues to rise for both critical industrial uses and for silver’s safe haven qualities in today’s economic environment,” said Randy Smallwood, chief executive officer of Wheaton Precious Metals.
Minnesota Twins pitcher Pablo Lopez ended his live batting practice session early on Monday after experiencing elbow discomfort, team manager Derek Shelton confirmed to reporters.
Lopez was working out at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Florida, the team’s spring training facility, as he prepares to represent Venezuela in the upcoming World Baseball Classic next month. The right-handed pitcher completed more than two innings facing live batters before the session was cut short.
During his third simulated inning, Lopez felt discomfort after delivering his second pitch and immediately stopped throwing. The 30-year-old pitcher, who celebrates his birthday on March 7, is set to undergo medical imaging to assess the extent of the problem as he enters his ninth major league season and fourth year with Minnesota.
“I mean, obviously, it’s February 16, and I think he and (pitching coach Pete Maki) had a little bit of a conversation on the second pitch he threw during the third up and felt some soreness,” Shelton told reporters. “And after he and Pete talked, we decided, out of an abundance of caution, let’s get him off, let’s get him off the field and make sure he’s OK. So, you know, we will have more information. We’ll get some imaging on it, just because of how important it is and he is to us.”
Lopez has been a reliable starter for Minnesota, making 32 starts in each season from 2022 through 2024. However, he faced multiple injury challenges in 2025, landing on the injured list three separate times due to a hamstring problem, a muscle issue in his throwing shoulder, and a forearm strain. Despite these setbacks, he posted a 5-4 record with a 2.74 ERA across 14 starts, pitching 75 2/3 innings.
“I don’t know if anybody in that room takes care of himself as well as Pablo does, not only during the season, but in the offseason,” Shelton said of Lopez, who has been Minnesota’s opening day starter for the past three seasons. “And the fact that he has awareness of his body, and he and Pete have a strong relationship, and we’re able to have a conversation. It was like, OK, let’s hold off and take a look here and kind of move on from that.”
Throughout his eight-year career split between the Miami Marlins and Minnesota Twins, Lopez has compiled a 59-53 record with a 3.81 ERA across 172 starts. He has recorded 994 strikeouts while allowing 251 walks over 965 innings pitched. The veteran pitcher is currently in the third year of a four-year contract worth $73.5 million that he signed in 2023.
Five Delaware residents were honored last week with the state’s most prestigious civilian recognition during a ceremony in Dover.
Governor Matt Meyer bestowed the Order of the First State award upon Brooks Banta, Ellen Bartholomaus, Anand Panwalker, Mike Vincent, and Robert “Bob” for their exceptional contributions that have benefited communities throughout Delaware.
The recipients were acknowledged for their outstanding achievements and leadership across multiple fields including public service, healthcare, the arts, and sports.
Delaware’s Order of the First State represents the highest honor the state can give to civilians who have demonstrated extraordinary service and created a lasting positive impact on their communities.
The ceremony recognized these five individuals for their dedication to strengthening Delaware through their various professional and volunteer efforts over the years.
Mining giant BHP Group announced Tuesday that its half-year earnings exceeded analyst projections, posting strong results thanks to unprecedented iron ore output and surging commodity values.
The Melbourne-based company, which holds the title as the world’s biggest publicly-traded mining operation, extracted a record-breaking 146.6 million metric tons of iron ore from its Australian Western region facilities during the reporting period.
The mining corporation benefited from increased average selling prices across its primary products, with copper values climbing 32% during the first six months when compared to the corresponding timeframe in the previous year.
These favorable market conditions enabled BHP to post underlying attributable earnings of $6.20 billion for the half-year period concluding in December 2025, surpassing the Visible Alpha analyst forecast of $6.03 billion and representing a substantial increase from the previous period’s $5.08 billion.
The company’s board approved an interim shareholder payment of 73 cents per share, which equals a 60% payout ratio of earnings.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared Tuesday that his administration will not assist in bringing home Australian nationals currently held at a Syrian detention facility housing relatives of alleged Islamic State fighters.
Speaking to ABC News, Albanese stated his position clearly: “We have a very firm view that we won’t be providing assistance or repatriation.”
The announcement follows an incident Monday where 34 Australian citizens were temporarily freed from a detention camp in northern Syria, only to be sent back to the facility due to what sources described as “technical reasons,” according to two individuals who spoke with Reuters.
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – The Swedish women’s curling team maintained their flawless Olympic performance Monday, securing a challenging 6-4 victory over Switzerland to extend their winning streak to six consecutive matches and solidify their lead in the round-robin tournament.
Led by skip Anna Hasselborg, Sweden faced their most difficult challenge yet against Switzerland’s team, captained by Silvana Tirinzoni. The Swiss squad enters the Olympics as four-time world champions, making this matchup particularly significant.
“We know they were the team to beat,” Hasselborg commented after the victory. The Swedish skip previously captured gold at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics and earned bronze in Beijing four years later.
“They’ve had an amazing season and we haven’t played them this year, but they have played so well. So we just wanted to go out there and play the other rock colour and just make our shots,” Hasselborg explained. “We were playing well and we were like, and we went pretty hard, like offensive and made a lot of good draws today.”
Switzerland quickly recovered from their loss, defeating Britain’s team led by Sophie Jackson with a commanding 10-6 victory during the evening session. The Swiss team now holds joint-second place in the standings alongside the United States, skippered by Tabitha Peterson, and South Korea, led by Gim Eun-ji. All three teams have recorded four victories against two defeats.
Canada demonstrated significant improvement throughout Monday’s competition, first overwhelming China 10-5 for their second tournament victory, then following up with a 9-6 triumph over Japan to strengthen their playoff positioning.
“I think every game we’ve seen us play better and better as the event’s gone on and we just have to keep going the way we are,” stated Canadian skip Rachel Homan.
Despite Canada’s status as two-time world champions and pre-tournament gold medal favorites, Homan carries a disappointing Olympic history. She has competed in the previous two Games but failed to qualify for the semifinals on both occasions.
The Canadian team currently sits in joint-fifth position with Denmark, having won three of their six matches.
Host nation Italy finally broke through for their inaugural tournament victory after suffering five consecutive defeats, defeating the United States 7-2 to the enthusiasm of supporters at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.
“We really had a good performance this evening,” said Italian skip Stefania Constantini, who captured bronze in mixed doubles competition last week with partner Amos Mosaner. “We were in control of the ice. We really worked good with the teamwork to put every stone in the right position. It’s good to finally have a win.”
The family of Nancy Guthrie has been eliminated as potential suspects in her disappearance, according to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, who made the announcement Monday as the investigation into the abduction of the Today show co-host’s mother continues into its third week.
Sheriff Nanos praised the cooperation of Nancy Guthrie’s relatives, including “all siblings and spouses,” throughout the investigation process.
“To suggest otherwise is not only wrong, it is cruel,” Nanos stated. “The Guthrie family are victims plain and simple.”
Law enforcement officials revealed Sunday that they had secured DNA evidence from a glove discovered near the 84-year-old woman’s Tucson-area residence. The glove appears to correspond with those worn by a masked individual captured on doorbell camera video prior to the abduction that occurred two weeks ago.
The elderly woman was last observed on January 31 when family members brought her home following dinner together. Her disappearance was reported to authorities the next day by concerned relatives.
According to Sheriff Nanos, Nancy Guthrie had severe mobility restrictions and would have been unable to leave her residence without assistance, prompting investigators to quickly determine she had been forcibly taken.
Since her disappearance, at least two alleged ransom demands have emerged, both initially sent to media organizations. However, authorities report no direct communication has occurred between the suspected kidnappers and either the family or law enforcement officials.
DNA analysis confirmed that blood traces discovered on the victim’s front porch belonged to Nancy Guthrie, officials revealed last week. Both investigators and family members have indicated she was in poor health and required daily medications for survival. She also relied on a pacemaker.
Savannah Guthrie, the 54-year-old co-host of NBC’s popular morning program Today, has released multiple video appeals alongside her siblings Camron Guthrie and Annie Guthrie, urging their mother’s safe return and requesting public assistance in the case.
While Sheriff Nanos acknowledged to Reuters that no evidence confirming Nancy Guthrie is alive has emerged since the kidnapping, he noted that “there’s not been any proof of death either.” He indicated his investigation continues under the assumption that she remains alive.
Canada’s women’s hockey team captain Marie-Philip Poulin made Olympic history Monday, establishing a new all-time scoring record for women’s hockey at the Games during her country’s semifinal matchup with Switzerland in Milan.
Known by her nickname “Captain Clutch,” the veteran athlete netted her record-breaking 19th Olympic goal in the second period at Santagiulia arena. Her slap shot ricocheted off the ice surface before sailing over Swiss goaltender Andrea Braendli’s leg pad, giving Canada a 1-0 advantage and surpassing the previous mark held by fellow Canadian Hayley Wickenheiser.
The milestone moment was just the beginning for Poulin, who secured her 20th Olympic goal fewer than seven minutes afterward. She managed to flip the puck into the net while diving toward the goal, further cementing her historic performance.
The five-time Olympic competitor had been sidelined during Canada’s final two preliminary round contests due to a knee injury sustained in Milan. She made her return to action during Canada’s dominant 5-1 quarterfinal victory over Germany on Saturday, where she equaled Wickenheiser’s longstanding record with her first goal of the Milano Cortina Games.
The reigning Olympic champions are pursuing their sixth gold medal in women’s hockey.
Advanced technology continues to transform agricultural machinery, making farming operations more environmentally responsible and productive. Marc Heater, who oversees sales and marketing at Amazone, explains that technological breakthroughs have revolutionized how farmers cultivate their fields, creating more sustainable and efficient soil management practices.
This year marks a significant milestone for the company’s Catros Compact Disc Harrow, which is commemorating its 25th year in production. The equipment represents how continuous innovation has shaped modern farming tools over the past quarter-century.
The evolution of soil cultivation equipment demonstrates the agricultural industry’s commitment to developing machinery that helps farmers achieve better results while reducing environmental impact. These technological improvements allow farmers to prepare their fields more effectively while using resources more efficiently.
Agricultural equipment manufacturer Kubota is rolling out cutting-edge baling technology designed to combat persistent workforce shortages affecting farmers across the region. The company’s latest innovation features a dual-chamber baler equipped with single-row output capabilities.
According to Cort Morris, who serves as Kubota’s product manager, this groundbreaking equipment represents a significant advancement in farm efficiency. Morris explained to Brownfield that the revolutionary design allows “one operator, one tractor, and one machine that does the work of two.”
The new high-capacity small square balers are part of Kubota’s SSB Series, which includes the SSB2014 model. This innovative machinery aims to streamline operations for agricultural producers who continue facing staffing challenges in their daily operations.
The technology addresses a critical need in today’s farming landscape, where labor shortages have become increasingly problematic for producers trying to maintain productivity levels during crucial harvest periods.
TAMPA, Fla. — New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge shared the same concerns as many of the team’s supporters during the offseason, watching anxiously as prominent free agents continued joining other organizations.
“It was brutal,” Judge remarked on Monday following the team’s initial complete roster practice session. “Early on it was pretty tough to watch. I’m like: Man, we’re the New York Yankees. Let’s go out there and get the right people.”
The team leader discussed various topics at length, including the absence of a championship trophy despite earning his third American League MVP honor, his performance against 22-year-old pitcher Carlos Lagrange during practice, his role leading Team USA in the forthcoming World Baseball Classic, and the elbow ailment that affected him last season.
Judge was sidelined for 10 contests from July 25 through August 5 due to a flexor strain in his right elbow, which occurred while making a defensive throw from right field during a game in Toronto on July 22. He remained away from outfield duties until September 5 and threw cautiously at just 67.9 mph. While Judge regained some arm power throughout the remainder of the campaign, he never reached complete recovery.
“I’ve never dealt with any elbow stuff, so I was definitely concerned,” he stated.
Judge remained uncertain about avoiding surgical intervention until after the playoff run concluded.
“They ran all the checks again and did all the tests and they said: ‘You’re good to go,’” he recalled. “And I said: All right, when can we start throwing? So it was good. It was great. It was great to hear those words so that now I can go into the offseason and just prepare the way I need to be in the best shape to start the year.”
His elbow has returned to complete strength.
“Throwing to bases a couple of times already, so no worries,” he explained. “Just excited to get back out there and just have the confidence, especially — that was the toughest thing for me last year, was the pitcher’s working his butt off and the guys around me were working their butt off and then the ball was hit to me and I had no shot.”
Judge, who will celebrate his 34th birthday in April, captured his third AL MVP award in four seasons, joining an exclusive group as only the fourth major league player to reach 50 home runs four separate times, alongside Babe Ruth, Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa. He claimed his first AL batting championship with a league-leading .331 average, along with 53 home runs, 114 RBIs, an AL-best 124 walks, and a major league-topping 1.144 OPS. During postseason play, he performed well with 13 hits in 36 at-bats, including one homer, seven RBIs, and a 1.273 OPS.
During Monday’s workout, Judge seemed to send a ball over the left field wall against a 99.3 mph pitch from Lagrange (pronounced La-GRAN-he), but later struck out against a 102.6 mph fastball from the 6-foot-7 right-handed pitcher, who finished last season at the Double-A level.
The Yankees, pursuing their first championship since 2009, secured center fielder Trent Grisham early in the offseason but delayed making significant additions until recently.
“Let’s sign these guys right now and start adding more pieces because I’m seeing other teams around the league get better,” Judge commented. “They’re making trades. They’re signing big prospects or big players. And we’re sitting there for a while kind of making smaller moves.”
When asked if he communicated his concerns to Yankees management, Judge displayed a wide smile and responded: “Yeah, oh, yeah.”
“It was frustrating, but I think we’re right where we need to be,” he concluded.
The president of FIFA officially picked up his Lebanese passport during a ceremony at Beirut’s Interior Ministry on Monday, several months after Lebanon’s president approved his citizenship application.
Gianni Infantino, whose wife Lina al-Ashkar is a Lebanese national, expressed gratitude to President Joseph Aoun during their meeting at the ministry. The FIFA leader completed standard procedures including submitting paperwork, posing for photos, and providing fingerprints before officials presented him with his new blue Lebanese travel document.
The soccer executive now holds triple citizenship, as he also maintains passports from Italy and Switzerland.
Speaking in footage broadcast by Lebanese television networks, Infantino expressed his joy about the milestone. “I’m very proud and very happy to be here in Beirut at the Ministry of Interior to finally get my Lebanese passport,” he stated. “I love Lebanon.”
The citizenship approval represents an unusual departure from standard Lebanese regulations. Typically, Lebanese women cannot transfer their nationality to foreign spouses or their children under the country’s legal framework. However, President Aoun created a special exemption for Infantino and extended citizenship privileges to his family members as well.
In contrast, Lebanese men who marry foreign women can automatically grant their nationality to any children, while their wives may qualify for citizenship following a specified marriage duration.
FIFA serves as the worldwide governing organization for professional soccer.
The French Ice Hockey Federation announced Monday that defender Pierre Crinon has been removed from the men’s Olympic ice hockey tournament following an altercation during France’s match against Canada.
The incident occurred with seven minutes remaining in France’s crushing 10-2 defeat on Sunday, when Crinon got into a physical confrontation with Canada’s Tom Wilson. Both athletes received two-minute roughing penalties plus 25-minute fighting penalties, as fighting is banned in Olympic competition.
Following the on-ice incident, Crinon was questioned by Pierre-Yves Gerbeau, who serves as the French Ice Hockey Federation president and deputy chef de mission for France’s Olympic delegation.
Although the International Ice Hockey Federation chose not to impose additional penalties on either player, French officials were particularly upset with Crinon’s conduct as he exited the rink after his ejection.
According to the French federation’s official statement: “The provocative behaviour of Pierre Crinon when he left the ice, even though he had just been excluded from the match for a fight, constitutes a clear violation of the Olympic spirit and also undermines the values of our sport.”
The statement continued: “The decision was therefore taken, in full alignment with the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, not to allow his participation in the next match/matches of the Olympic tournament.”
France concluded Group A play without earning any points and now faces Germany in Tuesday’s playoff round. The victor of that matchup will move on to face Slovakia in the quarterfinals.
A major financial institution predicts that crude oil costs may experience short-term strength as President Donald Trump intensifies diplomatic efforts for peace agreements with Russia and Iran, though successful negotiations could eventually drive energy prices downward, according to a Citi analysis released Monday.
The price of Brent crude has jumped from approximately $60 per barrel to nearly $70 over the last month, driven in part by stricter implementation of American sanctions targeting Russian and Iranian petroleum exports, combined with additional supply interruptions, the financial firm reported.
In recent developments, the European Union put forward a proposal last week to expand its Russian sanctions framework to encompass ports in Georgia and Indonesia that process Russian crude, marking the first instance where the trading bloc would impose restrictions on third-country port facilities, based on proposal documentation examined by Reuters.
According to Citi’s assessment, the United States may influence energy affordability through diplomatic channels, specifically by facilitating peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine and reducing tensions with Iran, which could help decrease both crude oil and refined product costs.
“It is our base case that both Iran and Russia-Ukraine deals happen by or during the summer of this year, contributing to a decline in prices to $60-62/bbl Brent and lowering diesel and gasoline cracks by $5-10 dollars,” the bank stated.
Should Russian supply disruptions maintain Brent crude within a $65-$70 per barrel price band over the coming months, Citi anticipates that OPEC+ will counter by boosting production from available capacity.
Sources within OPEC+ indicate the organization is considering resuming oil production increases starting in April, as the group prepares for peak summer consumption while price strength receives support from escalating U.S.-Iran tensions.
The banking institution also noted that China continues purchasing Russian and Iranian petroleum at reduced rates compared to international price benchmarks, both for immediate consumption and strategic reserves, with this pattern expected to persist through 2026 while sanctions on Russia, Ukraine, and Iran remain active.
Brent crude futures closed Monday’s trading session at $68.65 per barrel, representing a gain of 90 cents or 1.33%.
Nearly 40 American healthcare executives recently completed a groundbreaking tour of Israeli medical research facilities, exploring how breakthrough discoveries are transforming from laboratory concepts into worldwide healthcare solutions.
The delegation arrived at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot during February, where they witnessed firsthand the resilience of Israeli innovation. Despite visible damage from an Iranian missile attack that destroyed numerous laboratories months earlier, researchers continued their vital work developing next-generation medical technologies.
The week-long visit was coordinated by Israel Tech Mission working alongside 8400 The Health Network, bringing together investors, company founders, advisors and healthcare operators from across the United States and international markets.
“I feel so proud and happy about what is occurring here and what’s coming out,” Al Kinel shared with The Media Line. “I’m excited to be able to help take those innovations and get them out to the world and help let people learn about them.”
Kinel, who operates a health technology consulting company called Strategic Interests and heads the New York Israel Chamber of Commerce, focuses his efforts on bridging Israeli medical breakthroughs with American healthcare systems. His work involves promoting commercial and research partnerships between the two nations.
“There are people that are going to be supportive and helpful and we will figure out how to work with them to help us be successful, and then there’s the undecided,” Kinel explained. “I want them to understand the value of the innovation of Israel and how it’s changing the world in Tikkun Olam.”
Acknowledging current global tensions, Kinel remained focused on productive collaboration. “Unfortunately, we’re in a spot in a world where there’s people that are going to hate us and will never want to listen,” he noted. “That’s not our audience.” His strategy centers on engaging those willing to consider evidence-based partnerships. “If we can align, we will probably be even way more impactful than we each could in our own individual way,” he added.
Sam Moed, serving on the global board of 8400 The Health Network, outlined the organization’s dual mission approach.
“We are very focused on supporting and strengthening the healthcare system in Israel,” Moed explained to The Media Line, “but at the same time, we are building bridges globally.”
These international connections serve practical purposes, according to Moed. While Israel produces substantial early-stage medical innovations, successful scaling demands access to worldwide capital and markets. “The United States is the largest source of life sciences capital in the world,” he emphasized. Without connecting to that financial ecosystem, promising technologies risk stalling before reaching patients who need them.
Moed expressed optimism about current developments. “I am very optimistic about the magnitude of disruptive innovation that is coming out of Israel,” he stated. His vision involves establishing healthcare as a cornerstone industry alongside Israel’s established cyber and defense sectors. “We want healthcare to be one of those pillars.”
Local challenges often generate globally applicable solutions, Moed observed. Referencing trauma care and mental health innovations, he noted how direct experience has shaped technologies now gaining international attention. “Some of the innovation agenda is driven by the problems we face here,” he said. This approach has transformed national constraints into exportable expertise.
Throughout the week, participants visited research institutions, nonprofit innovation centers and private companies. Discussions emphasized practical implementation: transforming discoveries into products, navigating regulatory requirements, and scaling companies effectively.
At the Weizmann Institute, conversations focused on translational pathways. Researchers described designing studies starting from proof of concept and regulatory milestones rather than beginning with curiosity alone. These discussions prioritized practical execution and commercialization strategies.
Lee Shapiro, co-founder of Chicago-based 7wire Ventures, has observed Israeli health technology evolution for over twenty years. He recalled early advantages that positioned Israeli companies ahead of global competitors.
“Israel had a very organized longitudinal record for every citizen in Israel, kind of cradle to grave health information that existed,” Shapiro remembered. This infrastructure enabled data-driven innovation long before it became standard elsewhere.
Today, Shapiro sees Israeli companies maintaining their competitive edge. “There really is very little comparison,” he stated. “Israeli companies and their technology base are far advanced from where European companies have been and what we see coming out of Asia.” However, he believes public awareness hasn’t kept pace with reality. “We need more stories told about the life-saving technologies,” he said. “I don’t think people realize that some of the great medications that they’re using every day have come from Israel.”
These medications, devices and digital platforms now operate within health systems throughout North America, Europe and Asia. Their effectiveness shows in improved survival rates, earlier diagnoses and more efficient care delivery. Shapiro connected this impact to cultural values. “The spirit of Tikkun Olam in terms of healing the world is something that is part of the ecosystem here and is something that’s used in a way that can not only create great markets but also do good for the rest of the world,” he explained.
Discussions at Startup Nation Central expanded the scope to infrastructure development: mapping innovations, connecting investors with startups, and supporting regulatory approval and market entry internationally.
Dr. Daniel Kraft, founder of Exponential Medicine and a physician-scientist working where technology meets healthcare, emphasized the accelerating pace of change.
“The future of health and medicine is coming faster than you think,” Kraft told The Media Line. “It’s not the technology, it’s often the convergence of a new operating system for the future of health and medicine.”
Kraft argued that ecosystems like Israel’s benefit from density – the close proximity of artificial intelligence, digital health, diagnostics and clinical systems within a concentrated area. This closeness speeds up development cycles. “Health and medicine is a universal need and collecting point,” he suggested, noting that healthcare collaboration often advances even during strained political relationships.
Rob Cronin, founder of a New York-based communications firm specializing in health technology, sees innovation carrying diplomatic implications.
“What I see as the opportunity and the ultimate form of diplomacy and the mechanism by which we can fight anti-Semitism is an economic, innovation-based form of tikkun olam,” Cronin told The Media Line. “It’s about improving people’s lives.”
Michelle Garland, founder and CEO of Soul Search Partners, has spent over twenty years placing executive teams in venture-backed health technology companies. Beyond products and capital, she was impressed by human resources.
“The talent here is exceptional and the ideas are brilliant,” Garland told The Media Line. She emphasized that lasting collaboration depends equally on relationships and financing. “We have to build more bridges.”
By week’s end, her reflection became personal. “I have a bigger tribe than I knew of,” she said, clearly moved. Her comment highlighted an underlying theme throughout the formal meetings: the connection between professional goals, personal identity and global health mission.
Participants consistently described an ecosystem that remains compact yet internationally focused, technically rigorous yet commercially practical. Israeli medical innovation develops with global implementation as the target. Treatments enter international clinical trials. Digital platforms integrate into foreign health systems. Medical devices move through supply chains extending far beyond national boundaries.
For Moed, this international orientation remains essential. “We want Israel to be seen as a global healthcare innovation powerhouse,” he stated. Success measures not by visibility alone, but by integration into worldwide health systems.
The week’s overall impression centered less on individual companies and more on systematic architecture. A nation with fewer than ten million residents has built a concentrated network of research institutions, capital access and translational expertise that consistently supplies global markets. In practice, this structure gives concrete form to Tikkun Olam – not as abstract concept, but through deployed therapies, adopted systems and treated patients extending well beyond Israel’s borders.
LIVIGNO, ITALY – Canadian skier Megan Oldham claimed the top spot on the podium in Monday’s women’s freestyle skiing big air competition at the Winter Olympics.
The victory came as Eileen Gu of China, who previously held the title as defending champion, secured second place with a silver medal finish. Rounding out the medal winners was Italy’s Flora Tabanelli, who earned the bronze medal in third place.
The competition took place in Livigno, Italy, marking another exciting moment in Winter Olympic freestyle skiing events.
Baghdad hosted high-level diplomatic discussions Sunday as Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani welcomed Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen for talks aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in security and development sectors, with counterterrorism coordination taking center stage amid Iraq’s ongoing efforts to relocate Islamic State prisoners from Syrian facilities.
According to a statement from al-Sudani’s media office, the leaders explored expanding collaborative efforts across multiple sectors including development, economics, and technology, with particular emphasis on sharing expertise related to sustainable development initiatives. Iraqi representatives highlighted their desire for enhanced security partnerships, specifically focusing on practical cooperation in law enforcement training, intelligence coordination, and implementation of advanced security systems.
The diplomatic engagement occurs as Iraq seeks to establish itself as a key player in regional anti-terrorism initiatives following the military defeat of the Islamic State organization across Iraq and Syria. Despite the group’s territorial losses, it continues to present security threats through guerrilla operations, while tens of thousands of suspected members and their relatives remain housed in detention facilities and camps throughout northeastern Syria.
Addressing the prisoner relocation issue, al-Sudani declared that “transferring Islamic State (IS) prisoners from Syria to Iraq is a sovereign decision aimed at protecting regional and global security,” while calling on other nations to accept responsibility for their citizens. He encouraged the global community “to receive foreign IS detainees and bring them to justice.”
The Finnish minister, as reported in the Iraqi statement, confirmed Finland’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relationships and expressed Helsinki’s willingness to investigate new collaborative opportunities based on mutual interests.
Iraq’s National Center for International Judicial Cooperation announced Friday that 5,704 Islamic State prisoners have been relocated from Syrian detention centers to Iraqi control, a move expected to spark increased debate regarding legal prosecution procedures, prison infrastructure capacity, and responsibility-sharing among nations whose citizens are among the detained individuals.
Israeli container shipping company ZIM is reportedly on the verge of being acquired by a German-Israeli consortium for approximately $4.2 billion, according to Israeli business publications on Sunday. The proposed transaction has already sparked significant resistance from political leaders and workers concerned about national security and employment impacts.
The deal structure would involve Hapag-Lloyd, a major global shipping operator, managing ZIM’s worldwide operations, while FIMI Opportunity Funds would oversee the company’s domestic Israeli business. This division aims to navigate around Israel’s special “golden share” provision, which grants the government influence over key strategic decisions and could otherwise block a complete foreign acquisition.
Fleet management would be restructured under the proposed agreement. Hapag-Lloyd would control operations of ZIM’s 99 leased ships, while FIMI would gain ownership of the 16 vessels currently flying the Israeli flag and operated by ZIM, media reports indicate.
The acquisition price has reportedly increased from initial expectations. Earlier projections suggested a sale price around $3 billion, roughly matching ZIM’s current market capitalization, before the $4.2 billion figure emerged. Business publication Calcalist reported that ZIM’s board of directors has given approval to the higher purchase price.
Strong resistance has emerged from Haifa, where ZIM maintains its headquarters and employs a significant local workforce. Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav expressed concerns that the sale would undermine Israel’s strategic position and put jobs at risk, stating, “ZIM Shipping Company, headquartered in Haifa, is no longer part of the Israeli economy.”
Yahav emphasized ZIM’s strategic importance, declaring, “The transfer of its ownership to foreign hands, even if an Israeli investment fund is involved, is problematic to say the least and harms national security, and could also lead to the dismissal of thousands of workers.” He further demanded, “I demand that the Israeli government stop the move and prevent the sale—it is impossible for the State of Israel not to have a shipping company in Israeli hands, it is part of its economic and security existence.”
Law enforcement officials in Pawtucket, Rhode Island responded Monday afternoon to reports of a shooting incident that left several people injured at a local ice hockey facility.
The incident took place at Dennis M. Lynch Arena, located in Pawtucket just outside of Providence, during what was supposed to be a youth hockey game. Authorities have confirmed that multiple individuals sustained injuries, though specific information about the circumstances remains scarce.
Officials have not yet provided detailed information about the Monday afternoon incident. Attempts to reach Pawtucket law enforcement officials, representatives from the mayor’s office, and hospital spokespeople for additional details have not been successful.
YAOUNDE, Cameroon — Immigration attorneys confirmed to The Associated Press that US authorities have sent another group of foreign nationals to Cameroon this week, despite the migrants having no connection to the Central African country.
According to Alma David, an attorney with the US-based Novo Legal Group, eight individuals who are not citizens of Cameroon touched down in the capital city of Yaounde on Monday aboard a deportation aircraft.
Both David and Joseph Awah Fru, a Cameroon-based attorney, confirmed they believe eight third-country migrants were aboard the flight, though they have not yet had contact with the new arrivals. The legal team is currently representing nine other migrants — four men and five women — from various African nations who were sent to Cameroon by US authorities last month.
The attorneys indicated they plan to provide legal assistance to this latest group of deportees as well.
“For now, my focus is handling their shock,” Fru stated.
An unnamed White House representative, speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization to discuss the matter publicly, confirmed the second deportation flight occurred but provided no additional information.
The initial group of nine migrants was first exposed in a Saturday report by The New York Times. David noted that two individuals from that original group have already been returned to their native countries.
Among the nine previously deported migrants, eight had received protective orders from US immigration courts that should have prevented their removal to their home nations due to fears of persecution or torture, David explained. Some faced danger due to their sexual orientation, while others were at risk because of political activities.
By sending them to a third nation like Cameroon, where they could potentially be transferred to their home countries later, authorities were exploiting a legal “loophole,” David argued.
“That is why the United States did not send them directly to their countries,” Fru explained. “Because there is cause for concern that they might be harmed, that their lives are threatened.”
David confirmed that none of the nine individuals sent to Cameroon in the previous month — including migrants from Zimbabwe, Morocco and Ghana — had criminal backgrounds beyond traffic violations. She has not yet obtained information about the eight who arrived Monday.
Cameroon joins at least six other African nations that have agreed to accept deported third-country nationals through arrangements with the US. The agreements also include South Sudan, Rwanda, Uganda, Eswatini, Ghana and Equatorial Guinea. Cameroon has been led by 93-year-old President Paul Biya since 1982.
State Department documents reveal that several of these nations have received millions in payments for accepting deported migrants. However, the Trump administration has not disclosed details of other agreements, including the arrangement with Cameroon.
A recent report from Democratic Senate Foreign Relations Committee staff found that the Trump administration has invested at least $40 million to remove approximately 300 migrants to countries other than their own across Africa, Central America and other regions.
Internal administration records examined by the AP show 47 third-country agreements in various negotiation phases, with 15 completed and 10 nearing completion.
When contacted Monday about the Cameroon deportations, the State Department declined to discuss specifics, stating it had “no comment on the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments.”
“Implementing the Trump Administration’s immigration policies is a top priority for the Department of State,” the statement read, adding “we remain unwavering in our commitment to end illegal and mass immigration and bolster America’s border security.”
Cameroon’s Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for comment.
The Department of Homeland Security acknowledged January deportations to Cameroon but provided no specific details about third-country migrants and declined to comment on the second flight.
“We are applying the law as written. If a judge finds an illegal alien has no right to be in this country, we are going to remove them. Period,” the department stated. “These third-country agreements, which ensure due process under the U.S. Constitution, are essential to the safety of our homeland and the American people.”
The Trump administration has promoted third-country deportation agreements as a deterrent strategy, warning migrants in the US illegally that they could be sent “in any number of third countries” if deported. Officials also justify the practice as part of efforts to remove individuals they classify as dangerous criminals and gang members.
Legal advocates and activists argue the US should recognize that sending migrants to third countries with poor human rights records puts them at risk of being denied proper legal proceedings and subjected to mistreatment.
In a previous case last year, the US sent five individuals from Vietnam, Jamaica, Cuba, Yemen and Laos to Eswatini in southern Africa. All had been convicted of serious crimes including murder, attempted murder and rape, and had completed their sentences in the US.
Four of those deportees have remained in a maximum-security Eswatini prison for over six months without formal charges and have been denied in-person access to legal counsel. Their detention has prompted two legal challenges in Eswatini courts.
According to State Department documents, Eswatini — Africa’s final absolute monarchy under King Mswati III — will receive $5.1 million for accepting up to 160 third-country deportees. The king has faced longstanding criticism for suppressing pro-democracy demonstrations in a nation where political parties are prohibited, while allegedly using public funds for personal luxury.
A federal court in Pennsylvania has directed the National Park Service to restore a slavery exhibition at a Philadelphia historical location while legal proceedings continue, following the city’s lawsuit against the federal government regarding the display’s removal.
Last month, the National Park Service took apart and removed the exhibition after President Donald Trump made allegations of “anti-American ideology” at historical and cultural facilities – claims that civil rights organizations have dismissed.
Philadelphia filed a lawsuit over the issue, claiming the Department of the Interior, which manages the National Park Service, and senior officials violated the law, and requested judicial intervention to bring back the display.
On Monday, Eastern District of Pennsylvania Judge Cynthia Rufe approved Philadelphia’s motion to temporarily halt the federal government’s actions and commanded the National Park Service to put the exhibition back in place while the legal case proceeds.
“Court is now asked to determine whether the federal government has the power it claims—to dissemble and disassemble historical truths when it has some domain over historical facts,” Judge Rufe wrote in her decision. “It does not.”
Both the National Park Service and Philadelphia officials did not immediately provide responses to requests for comment regarding the judge’s ruling.
The display was located at the President’s House Site within Independence National Historical Park, the residence of America’s first president, George Washington, during Philadelphia’s time as the nation’s capital. The President’s House exhibition detailed the history of slavery and Washington’s ownership of enslaved individuals.
Civil rights organizations have criticized the Trump administration for reversing social advancement.
Arizona law enforcement officials are partnering with Walmart corporate headquarters to trace a distinctive backpack connected to the alleged kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie, according to Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos.
The elderly woman vanished from her Tucson residence on January 31st, with family members filing a missing person report the next day. Crime scene investigators discovered blood evidence on her front porch, and alleged ransom demands were delivered to media organizations, though two payment deadlines have already expired.
Federal investigators have released security camera footage showing a masked individual carrying a firearm holster near Guthrie’s residence on the evening she disappeared. The surveillance recordings captured images of someone wearing winter clothing including a face mask, full-length pants, coat, and hand coverings, along with a backpack.
Sheriff Nanos told The Associated Press via text message Monday that authorities have positively identified the suspect’s “Ozark Trail Hiker Pack” 25-liter backpack as the sole piece of equipment they can confirm with certainty.
“This backpack is exclusive to Walmart and we are working with Walmart management to develop further leads,” Nanos said.
However, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department clarified in Monday’s statement that while the suspect’s other garments “may have been purchased from Walmart but is not exclusively available at Walmart.” Officials emphasized “This remains a possibility only.”
On Sunday, investigators revealed that a glove found in the vicinity of the Guthrie residence has been submitted for genetic analysis. Federal agents reported receiving initial test results Saturday while waiting for official verification. This development occurs as law enforcement continues collecting potential evidence while the search for Guthrie enters its third week. Officials have not yet named any suspects in the case.
Based on surveillance footage analysis, FBI agents describe the suspect as a male approximately 5 feet, 9 inches in height with an average body type.
Law enforcement has voiced serious concerns regarding Nancy Guthrie’s medical condition, as she requires essential daily medications. According to sheriff’s dispatch recordings available on broadcastify.com, she has a cardiac pacemaker and has been managing elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular complications.
DALLAS (AP) — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton will find himself in an unusual position Monday evening: leading his inaugural campaign rally since declaring his U.S. Senate candidacy nearly a year ago.
The event marks an escalation in Paxton’s effort to oust veteran Republican Senator John Cornyn, who has served four terms, as the attorney general seeks to bring a strong Trump supporter to the Senate in what has become one of 2024’s most heated GOP primary contests.
Previously, Paxton ran a more subdued campaign operation, spending limited funds while drawing attention mainly through his conservative legal initiatives as Texas’s top prosecutor. However, with early voting set to begin Tuesday for the March 3 primary, Paxton has planned multiple campaign stops throughout Texas this week. He has also launched television advertisements connecting himself to President Donald Trump while challenging both Cornyn and Representative Wesley Hunt.
Even though he faces sustained attacks from millions of dollars in negative advertising funded by Cornyn and his supporters, plus opposition from Senate GOP leadership who argue Cornyn would be more electable in November, Paxton appears to be entering the Republican primary as the leading candidate.
“I wish they’d stop sending money from Washington, D.C.,” Paxton stated during an appearance on “Fox News Sunday.” “They are sending the money from D.C., and they’re helping John Cornyn. And it’s going to be … a lot of money spent, and he’s going to end up losing.”
Paxton’s continued political viability seems to challenge traditional expectations, similar to Trump’s own trajectory. The attorney general survived impeachment proceedings on fraud allegations in 2023, and currently faces accusations of extramarital conduct from his spouse, state Senator Angela Paxton.
The three-term attorney general is wagering that his willingness to oppose his own party’s establishment and his aggressive pursuit of conservative legal battles will help him weather ethical and personal allegations that Republican voters in the traditionally red state have largely overlooked so far.
Monday begins a four-day rally tour organized by Lone Star Liberty PAC, a super PAC backing Paxton, designed to alert voters that Texas early voting commences Tuesday.
His earlier campaign appearances were more modest affairs, including local Republican party meetings alongside other candidates. During the fall, he visited five Texas universities to address Turning Point USA chapters following the assassination of the conservative Christian organization’s national leader, Charlie Kirk.
However, those activities have essentially comprised Paxton’s entire public campaign presence until this week, apart from appearances on several podcasts with sympathetic hosts.
Through Friday, television advertising supporting Paxton in Texas totaled just one commercial costing $674,000 to broadcast, based on data from AdImpact, an advertising tracking firm.
That advertisement targeted Hunt, a second-term House representative from the Houston region, rather than Cornyn. Hunt, like Paxton, is attempting to attract primary voters seeking an alternative to Cornyn. By attacking Hunt, Paxton’s supporters hope to capture some of his support to reach 50% of the primary vote — the amount required to secure the GOP nomination without a runoff. Should no candidate achieve 50%, the top two vote-getters would compete in a May 26 runoff election.
Friday saw Paxton’s campaign launch a new advertisement showcasing video footage of Trump commending Paxton alongside photographs of the two together. As of Monday, Trump had not endorsed any of the three Republican candidates.
Paxton has used his Austin-based office to maintain his position at the forefront of conservative causes.
During the previous year, he filed lawsuits against Texas doctors, claiming they violated the state’s prohibition on gender-affirming medical treatment for children, supporting a central issue for social conservatives in their fight against what they term gender ideology.
In October, shortly after Trump repeatedly warned pregnant women, “Don’t take Tylenol,” Paxton sued manufacturers of the pain medication, claiming they misleadingly marketed it to expectant mothers while making unsubstantiated assertions that early exposure to its main component heightened autism risks.
Most significantly, Paxton spearheaded numerous court challenges against the former Joe Biden administration regarding immigration and border enforcement, frequently prevailing and strengthening his reputation as a conservative advocate. Since winning his first attorney general race in 2014, Paxton also regularly sued Barack Obama’s administration during the final two years of the Democratic president’s tenure.
“I think Ken Paxton is a fighter,” stated U.S. Representative Troy Nehls of Texas. Nehls noted that Paxton filed more lawsuits against then-President Joe Biden than any other state attorney general.
This continuous legal activity has maintained Paxton’s media presence throughout Texas, even as Cornyn and his supporters have invested heavily in attempts to damage his standing among Republican primary voters.
By Friday, Cornyn’s campaign and supporting super PACs had invested over $54 million in television advertising since the previous year, according to AdImpact data. Much of this spending highlighted Paxton’s impeachment trial and his wife’s divorce filing citing “biblical grounds,” which alleged extramarital relationships. These organizations have spent additional millions on online advertisements, text campaigns, and direct mail pieces also criticizing Paxton.
One commercial, funded by Texans for a Conservative Majority, begins with a narrator declaring, “Ken Paxton isn’t just corrupt. He’s weird.”
Republican political consultants not connected to any campaign say the extensive spending and months of criticism have not substantially damaged Paxton, who appears confident. No Texas senator in the state’s notable political history has served beyond four terms. Paxton believes his name recognition exceeds that of nearly every other statewide Republican official in Texas, including Cornyn.
During a December podcast appearance with Tony Buzbee, an attorney who represented the attorney general during his impeachment proceedings, Paxton stated that the “only other people with name ID” in the state are Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who are running for reelection, along with Senator Ted Cruz.
Washington-based Republican Senate leadership has expressed concerns about Paxton for months. They argue that a Paxton nomination would require hundreds of millions of additional dollars to defend in the general election due to anticipated attacks, compared to what defending Cornyn would cost. They contend this represents money the party should not need to spend in Texas, a state Trump won by more than 13 percentage points.
Democrats need to gain four total seats to capture the Senate majority in November. The minority party has expressed increased optimism about competing for Republican-held seats in Alaska, Maine, North Carolina, and Ohio.
In Texas, U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett and state Representative James Talarico are pursuing the Democratic nomination. Paxton would fare worse than Cornyn in the November contest against either Democratic candidate, according to strategists from the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the campaign organization led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, in an early February memo obtained by The Associated Press.
“Cornyn wins the general election,” the memo concludes. “Paxton puts the seat at risk.”
MIDDLEBURG, Va. — Acclaimed Hollywood actor Robert Duvall, who captured audiences with his memorable performances in “The Godfather” saga and earned an Academy Award for “Tender Mercies,” passed away peacefully at his Virginia residence on Sunday. He was 95 years old.
His publicist confirmed the actor’s death, with his wife Luciana Duvall sharing the news through a heartfelt message on his social media page.
“To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything,” Luciana Duvall wrote. “His passion for his craft was matched only by his deep love for characters, a great meal, and holding court. For each of his many roles, Bob gave everything to his characters and to the truth of the human spirit they represented.”
Despite lacking traditional leading man features, the slender, bald performer built an extraordinary career spanning decades, transforming from character actor to Hollywood icon. His journey began in 1962 with his film debut as the mysterious Boo Radley in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” launching a career filled with remarkable character portrayals.
Throughout his career, Duvall received seven Oscar nominations, taking home the Best Actor award in 1984 for his portrayal of troubled musician Mac Sledge in “Tender Mercies.” His trophy case also includes four Golden Globe awards, including recognition for his beloved performance as a cattle-drive leader in the acclaimed 1989 miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” which he frequently mentioned as his most cherished role.
The U.S. government honored his contributions to the arts in 2005 with a National Medal of Arts.
Duvall’s breakthrough came after two decades in the business when Francis Coppola cast him as Tom Hagen in 1972’s “The Godfather.” Having previously worked with Coppola on “The Rain People,” Duvall brought subtle brilliance to the role of the Irish lawyer serving the Italian Corleone family, creating an unforgettable character who operated in the shadows while providing crucial counsel.
Film critic David Thomson praised this casting choice, writing: “Stars and Italians alike depend on his efficiency, his tidying up around their grand gestures, his being the perfect shortstop on a team of personality sluggers. Was there ever a role better designed for its actor than that of Tom Hagen in both parts of ‘The Godfather?’”
In stark contrast to his understated Godfather performance, Duvall delivered explosive energy as the unhinged Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in Coppola’s “Apocalypse Now.” His portrayal of the surf-loving, war-obsessed officer produced one of cinema’s most quoted lines, delivered with characteristic intensity on the battlefield: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning. You know, one time we had a hill bombed, for 12 hours. When it was all over, I walked up. We didn’t find one of ’em, not one stinkin’ dink body. The smell, you know that gasoline smell, the whole hill. Smelled like — victory.”
Director Coppola once observed Duvall’s remarkable preparation skills, noting: “Actors click into character at different times — the first week, third week. Bobby’s hot after one or two takes.”
While earning Oscar nominations for both “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now” in supporting categories, Duvall made headlines when he declined to appear in the third Godfather installment due to salary disagreements, publicly expressing frustration over receiving lower compensation than his fellow stars.
Colleagues consistently praised Duvall’s meticulous approach to his craft and intense focus. Michael Caine, who worked alongside him in 2003’s “Secondhand Lions,” shared with The Associated Press: “Before a big scene, Bobby just sits there, absolutely quiet; you know when not to talk to him.” Those who interrupted his preparation often encountered his well-documented temper, notably displayed during filming of “True Grit” when he clashed with director Henry Hathaway.
Duvall’s Oscar victory came for his leading performance as the struggling country singer Mac Sledge in “Tender Mercies,” accepting the award while wearing a distinctive cowboy tuxedo. In 1998, he earned another Best Actor nomination for “The Apostle,” a passion project about a troubled Southern preacher that he wrote, directed, produced, starred in, and largely funded himself. His dedication to authenticity led him to visit numerous rural churches and spend twelve years developing the screenplay.
His impressive filmography includes diverse characters: the outlaw leader targeted by John Wayne in “True Grit,” the notorious Jesse James in “The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid,” the sanctimonious Frank Burns in “M-A-S-H,” the ruthless television executive in “Network,” Dr. Watson in “The Seven-Per-Cent Solution,” and the harsh military father in “The Great Santini.”
“When I was doing ‘Colors’ in 1988 with Sean Penn, someone asked me how I do it all these years, keep it fresh. Well, if you don’t overwork, have some hobbies, you can do it and stay hungry even if you’re not really hungry,” Duvall explained to The Associated Press in 1990.
Even in his eighties, Duvall continued working, earning another supporting Oscar nomination for 2014’s “The Judge,” playing a character facing hit-and-run accusations. His later works included “Widows” and “12 Mighty Orphans.”
Born Robert Selden Duvall in 1931 in the San Diego region, he spent his childhood moving between Navy installations in Annapolis and California as his father advanced through the ranks to admiral. This military upbringing exposed him to various regional dialects and military culture, experiences that would later inform his acting choices.
His father’s stern military demeanor reportedly inspired his portrayal of the domineering patriarch in “The Great Santini,” adapted from Pat Conroy’s novel. Reflecting on his father in 2003, Duvall said: “My dad was a gentleman but a seether, a stern, blustery guy, and away a lot of the time.” While inheriting his father’s wrestling abilities and competitive spirit, young Bobby showed more interest in his mother’s theatrical pursuits, learning guitar and performing.
Academic struggles nearly derailed his college career at Principia College in Elsah, Illinois. Concerned parents, hoping to keep him enrolled and avoid the Korean War draft, suggested acting classes as a solution. “They recommended acting as an expedient thing to get through,” he remembered. “I’m glad they did.” Drama courses proved to be his calling.
“Way back when I was in college,” Duvall recalled to the AP in 1990, “there was a wonderful man named Frank Parker, who had been a dancer in World War I. We did a full-length mime play and I played a Harlequin clown. I really liked that. Then, I played an older guy in ‘All My Sons,’ and at one point I had this emotional moment, where this emotion was pouring out. Parker said at that moment he didn’t think acting can be carried any further than that. And this guy was a very critical guy. So I thought, at that moment at least, this is what I wanted to do.”
Following military service, Duvall used veterans’ benefits to attend New York’s Neighborhood Playhouse, studying alongside future stars Robert Morse, Gene Hackman, and Dustin Hoffman. His professional breakthrough came after a single performance in “A View From the Bridge,” leading to television opportunities on shows like “The Naked City” and “The Defenders.”
Between major Hollywood productions, Duvall pursued personal directing projects, creating documentaries and independent films including “We’re Not the Jet Set” about prairie life, “Angelo, My Love” focusing on gypsy culture, and “Assassination Tango,” which combined his acting with his passion for Argentine dance.
His love affair with tango began after seeing “Tango Argentina” in the 1980s, leading to numerous trips to Argentina to master the dance and understand its cultural significance. This dedication resulted in the 2003 film about a hitman who shares his passion for tango.
During the production of “Assassination Tango,” Duvall met Luciana Pedraza, an Argentine actress 42 years his junior, whom he married in 2005. His previous marriages to Barbara Benjamin, Gail Youngs, and Sharon Brophy all ended in divorce.
Hollywood has lost one of its most respected performers with the death of Robert Duvall at age 95, his wife announced on social media.
The Academy Award-winning actor, who had deep ties to our region having been raised in Annapolis, Maryland, passed away after a career spanning nearly 100 films and countless memorable characters.
“For each of his many roles, Bob gave everything to his characters and to the truth of the human spirit they represented,” his wife Luciana Duvall wrote in her Facebook announcement.
Born to a Navy admiral father and amateur actress mother, Duvall’s journey to stardom began in Annapolis before taking him to Principia College in Illinois and military service. He eventually landed in New York City, where he shared living quarters with future star Dustin Hoffman and formed friendships with Gene Hackman during their days as aspiring performers.
Duvall’s breakthrough came with his haunting portrayal of the enigmatic Boo Radley in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” a role that showcased his ability to make powerful impressions even without extensive screen time. This collaboration with screenwriter Horton Foote would prove pivotal, as Foote later crafted “Tender Mercies” specifically for Duvall, earning him the 1983 Academy Award for Best Actor as a down-and-out country music performer.
Among his most iconic performances was Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in Francis Ford Coppola’s Vietnam War masterpiece “Apocalypse Now.” Despite appearing for only minutes, Duvall dominated the screen as the surf-obsessed military officer who famously declared, “I love the smell of napalm in the morning,” adding that it smelled “like victory.”
His collaboration with Coppola extended to “The Godfather” series, where he portrayed Tom Hagen, the trusted advisor to the Corleone crime family. While he returned for the sequel, Duvall declined to participate in the third installment due to disagreements over compensation.
Throughout his career, Duvall demonstrated remarkable range, excelling in both commanding roles like Lieutenant Colonel Bull Meechum in “The Great Santini” and the Soviet dictator in “Stalin,” as well as more vulnerable characters in films like “The Apostle.”
Western roles became a particular specialty for the versatile performer. He captured an Emmy Award for the television production “Broken Trail,” shared the screen with John Wayne in “True Grit,” and earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of the affable former lawman Gus McRae in the miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” which he often cited as his most satisfying performance.
“I think I nailed a very specific individual guy who represents something important in our history of the Western movement,” Duvall shared with the New York Times. “After that, I felt I could retire, that I’d done something.”
When Hollywood’s demands became tiresome, Duvall took creative control of his projects. He served as writer, director, and star of “The Apostle,” exploring the story of a troubled minister, which earned him another Oscar nomination. He repeated this triple role in “Assassination Tango,” a project that allowed him to showcase his love for Argentine tango dancing.
His passion for tango led him to Argentina, where he met his fourth wife, Luciana Pedraza. In a remarkable coincidence, both shared the same birthday of January 5, though separated by 41 years.
Duvall divided his later years between Los Angeles, Argentina, and a sprawling 360-acre Virginia farm, where he transformed a barn into a dedicated tango studio.
Over his distinguished career, Duvall received seven Academy Award nominations, including recognition for “The Great Santini,” “The Apostle,” “A Civil Action,” and “The Judge” in 2014, cementing his legacy as one of cinema’s most dependable and compelling performers.
With America’s 250th birthday celebration approaching in 2026, Delaware has wrapped up its commemorative grant program by distributing one last round of funding worth $20,000 for Semiquincentennial activities throughout the First State.
The Delaware 250 initiative has now concluded its grant distribution process, having provided financial support totaling $334,000 to organizations across New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties. A total of 47 groups received assistance through this statewide funding program.
This final allocation marks the end of the grant cycle designed to help Delaware communities prepare meaningful projects and events to honor the nation’s upcoming quarter-millennium milestone. The funding has been spread across all three counties to ensure statewide participation in the historic anniversary observance.
The Semiquincentennial represents a significant milestone for the United States, and Delaware’s comprehensive grant program aimed to enable local organizations to contribute to this once-in-a-lifetime celebration through various community-based initiatives and projects.
Authorities have released the identity of the motorist who lost his life in a deadly single-vehicle accident that followed a police chase in Milford this past Sunday evening. Linwood Owens, Jr., age 37 and a resident of Georgetown, Delaware, was the individual who perished in the crash.
Investigators with the Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit remain actively working on this case. Officials are requesting that any individuals who may have observed the accident or possess information that could assist in the investigation reach out to Master Corporal K. Argo by calling (302) 703-3264. Citizens can also share details by sending a direct message through Facebook to the Delaware State Police page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Those who have been affected by crime as victims or witnesses, or families who have experienced the unexpected loss of a family member and require support, can access help through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and the Delaware Victim Center. These services are accessible around the clock via a toll-free helpline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Additionally, the Victim Services Unit can be contacted through email at [email protected].
Delaware State Police are turning to the public for assistance in locating several sex offenders who have either failed to comply with registration requirements or are currently without permanent housing.
The Sex Offender Apprehension and Registration Unit, known as SOAR, has published notifications regarding these individuals as part of their ongoing efforts to monitor registered offenders in our state.
Offenders Who Failed to Register
Law enforcement officials are actively searching for ten sex offenders who have not fulfilled their obligation to register or update their address information as required by law. These individuals include Dwayne Archibald, Luis Burgos, Charles Fulton, Deangelo Hoskins, Clarence Jeter Jr., John Martz, Mollie Anne Schonwit, Demond Shockley, Joshua Smith, and Michael Viscount.
Anyone with knowledge of where these individuals might be located is urged to contact the SOAR unit at (302) 672-5306. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 847-3333.
Police emphasize that the individuals featured in this notification represent just a fraction of the sex offenders currently being sought. A comprehensive list of all wanted sex offenders can be found on the Delaware Sex Offender Registry website.
Homeless Offender Notifications
Additionally, authorities have issued notifications about sex offenders who are currently homeless. Unlike the wanted individuals, these offenders – Sean Hafer, Clarence Inge, and Lewis Nicholson – are not being sought for registration violations but are being monitored due to their lack of stable housing.
If residents have information indicating that any of these homeless offenders have taken up residence somewhere, they should contact the same phone numbers provided for the wanted offenders.
State police note that these three individuals represent only those recently reported as homeless, and a complete listing of all homeless sex offenders is available through the official registry website.
The public can access detailed profiles and additional information about all these individuals by visiting the Delaware Sex Offender Registry online, where clicking on individual photos will provide complete background information.
President Donald Trump harshly criticized a newly signed clean energy partnership between California and the United Kingdom just hours after the agreement was finalized Monday, according to a Politico report.
Speaking with the publication, Trump characterized the arrangement as “inappropriate” for Britain to negotiate with Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. The Republican president also launched personal attacks against Newsom, calling him “a loser” and stating “his state has gone to hell, and his environmental work is a disaster.”
Newsom, who frequently criticizes Trump publicly, has reportedly considered pursuing the Democratic presidential nomination for the 2028 election.
The clean energy partnership that Newsom signed with British Energy Secretary Ed Miliband on Monday commits both parties to collaborate on renewable energy technologies including offshore wind projects. The deal also seeks to provide British companies with greater access to California’s energy market.
A spokesperson for Newsom fired back at Trump’s comments via email, stating: “Donald Trump is on his knees for coal and Big Oil, selling out America’s future to China. Governor Newsom will continue to lead in his absence. Foreign leaders are rejecting Trump and choosing California’s vision for the future.”
The clash comes as Trump has recently encouraged oil and gas companies to identify potential drilling sites off the coasts of Southern and Central California for possible lease sales that could begin next year. Both Newsom and environmental organizations have strongly opposed this initiative, warning it poses serious risks to the state’s marine ecosystems.
Adding to the tensions, Newsom was prevented from speaking at the official U.S. location during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last month, which he attributed to interference from the White House.
California residents are making final preparations as a dangerous multi-phase winter storm approaches, threatening to deliver severe thunderstorms, powerful winds, and massive snowfall accumulations in mountainous regions.
Sacramento-based National Weather Service meteorologist Jacob Spender is encouraging residents to take the threat seriously over the next several days, recommending that anyone planning to travel should prepare emergency winter supply kits.
Pacific Gas & Electric announced it is deploying advanced artificial intelligence and enhanced machine-learning weather prediction systems to strategically position repair crews and critical infrastructure equipment including electrical poles and transformers throughout the affected areas. The power company emphasized that this weather event differs from typical winter storms because it will “progress in several phases,” featuring successive storm systems that are expected to amplify dangers from wind, precipitation, and snow accumulation.
California’s Office of Emergency Services has strategically positioned firefighting and rescue teams along with emergency resources in regions facing the highest risk for flooding and dangerous mud and debris flows.
Precipitation started falling Sunday across the San Francisco Bay Area, prompting local authorities to issue flood risk alerts for residents.
Weather experts predict the Sierra Nevada’s western slopes, northern Shasta County including sections of Interstate 5, and portions of the state’s Coast Range may accumulate as much as 8 feet (2.4 meters) of snow by the time the storm system passes late Wednesday.
Meteorologists warn that the combination of heavy snowfall, strong winds, and severely reduced visibility will create extremely hazardous or potentially impossible travel conditions.
“It has seemed ‘spring-like’ for a large part of 2026, but winter is set to show it’s not quite done yet,” the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post urging residents to stay aware of the storm.
In southern California, Los Angeles area communities still recovering from last year’s catastrophic wildfire damage have been placed under evacuation warnings through Tuesday due to the threat of dangerous mud and debris flows. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced she has directed emergency response teams and city agencies to prepare for immediate deployment should problems arise.
Airport security screeners across the nation are showing up to work without receiving paychecks after a Department of Homeland Security shutdown began early Saturday morning. The situation has travelers concerned about potential delays, particularly those who experienced the chaos from last year’s 43-day government closure that resulted in massive flight cancellations and extensive airport delays.
Security checkpoint personnel from the Transportation Security Administration must continue their duties unpaid as Congress fails to reach consensus on the department’s yearly budget. These same workers also remained on the job during the previous record-breaking shutdown that concluded on November 12, though aviation industry specialists believe this situation could unfold quite differently.
Organizations representing the nation’s travel sector and major airline companies have issued warnings that extended delays in DHS funding could result in increasingly lengthy security checkpoint waits at commercial airports throughout the country.
Key Differences in This Shutdown
The Homeland Security Department lost its funding when the clock struck midnight, though the remainder of federal operations have financing secured until September 30. This arrangement ensures that Federal Aviation Administration air traffic controllers will continue receiving their regular salaries, which should minimize the likelihood of extensive flight cancellations.
The department’s emergency operations plan designates approximately 95% of TSA personnel as critical workers who must remain at their posts. Congressional Democrats have stated that DHS will not receive new funding unless additional limitations are imposed on federal immigration enforcement activities.
Historical patterns show that air travel disruptions from government shutdowns typically escalate gradually rather than immediately. During last year’s extended closure, TSA was forced to temporarily shut down two security checkpoints at Philadelphia International Airport after about four weeks. On that same day, federal officials took the unusual step of directing all commercial carriers to cut back their domestic flight operations.
John Clark, who was returning to Detroit Metropolitan Airport from a Mississippi business trip, experienced problems during the earlier shutdown and expressed concern about the current situation.
“You might not be able to get home if you’re already out, or it might delay if you worked all week and you’re trying to get home,” said Clark, whose work involves traveling frequently to balance machines. “It’s really bad.”
John Rose, who serves as chief risk officer for international travel management firm Altour, believes airport problems could emerge more rapidly this time since TSA employees still remember the previous shutdown’s impact.
“It’s still fresh in their minds and potentially their pocketbooks,” Rose said.
Effects on Air Travelers
Predicting exactly where, when, or whether security screening problems will arise remains challenging. Even a small number of unexpected TSA employee absences could rapidly create extended wait times at smaller airports, particularly those operating just one security checkpoint.
Travel experts recommend passengers plan to reach airports earlier than usual and budget additional time for security processing.
“I tell people to do this even in good times,” Rose said.
Industry professionals warn that flight delays remain possible despite air traffic controllers being unaffected by the DHS shutdown.
Airlines may choose to postpone departures in certain situations to accommodate passengers still clearing security checkpoints, explained Rich Davis, who works as a senior security consultant for risk management firm International SOS. Insufficient TSA staffing could also create delays in processing checked baggage behind the scenes.
Burnest R. Green, who traveled from Phoenix to Detroit for his sister’s 70th birthday celebration, hopes the shutdown resolves before his return flight in more than a week.
“I just hope that things start to get better before they get any worse,” he said.
Preparation Tips for Travelers
While most airports post current security line waiting times on their websites, Rose suggests checking well before travel day rather than waiting until departure time.
“You may look online and it says two-and-a-half hours,” he said. “Now it’s two-and-a-half hours before your flight and you haven’t left for the airport yet.”
Passengers should exercise extra care when packing since forbidden items will likely extend the screening process. Carry-on luggage should not contain full-sized shampoo or other liquids, large gel containers, aerosols, or items such as pocket knives.
The TSA maintains a comprehensive list on its website detailing permitted and prohibited items for both carry-on and checked baggage.
Rose emphasized the importance of maintaining composure at airports, advising travelers to “practice patience and empathy.”
“Not only are they not getting paid,” he said regarding TSA agents, “they’re probably working with reduced staff and dealing with angry travelers.”
Shutdown Duration Remains Uncertain
White House officials have been in discussions with Democratic legislators, but negotiations failed to produce an agreement by week’s end before senators and House members prepared to begin a 10-day recess.
However, lawmakers from both chambers have been instructed to return to Washington if a shutdown resolution is reached.
Democratic representatives have maintained they will not support additional DHS funding without new constraints on federal immigration enforcement following the tragic deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis last month.
A combined statement from U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association cautioned that the shutdown poses risks to air travel as the busy spring break season approaches.
“Travelers and the U.S. economy cannot afford to have essential TSA personnel working without pay, which increases the risk of unscheduled absences and call outs, and ultimately can lead to higher wait times and missed or delayed flights,” the statement said.
While most workers dream of a two-week vacation or long weekend escape, a growing number of Americans are thinking much bigger – taking extended time away from their careers to refresh and reset.
These lengthy career pauses come in various forms and go by different names: mini-sabbaticals, adult gap years, micro-retirement, or simply extended career breaks. People use transition periods between jobs for exploration, negotiate employer-approved leaves of absence, embrace digital nomad lifestyles, or save money for multi-month adventures. The unifying goal is creating space for renewal – whether mental, physical, or spiritual.
However, financial constraints, personal obligations, and concerns about judgment from colleagues, friends, and family often stop people from pressing pause on their professional lives to seek fresh perspectives, according to sabbatical researchers and those who’ve taken the plunge.
Kira Schrabram, an assistant professor of management at the University of Washington’s business school who studies meaningful and sustainable work, notes that American perspectives on time off differ significantly from European attitudes, where leisure and rest receive higher priority. European Union law guarantees workers a minimum of 20 paid vacation days annually.
Nevertheless, increasing numbers of companies now offer weeks or months of paid or unpaid leave as an employee retention strategy, Schrabram explains. Seven years ago, she contributed her burnout research expertise to the Sabbatical Project, an initiative launched by Harvard Business School Senior Lecturer DJ DiDonna that champions sabbaticals as “a sacred human ritual” that should be accessible to more people.
Schrabram, DiDonna, and University of Notre Dame Professor Emeritus Matt Bloom conducted interviews with 50 U.S. professionals who took extended breaks from non-academic careers. Their research revealed three sabbatical categories: working holidays focused on passion projects; “free dives” combining adventure with rest periods; and quests by burned-out individuals who pursued life-changing exploration after sufficient recovery.
More than half of those interviewed funded their own time away. Writing for Harvard Business Review, the research team argued that sabbaticals could serve as recruitment, retention, and development tools for employers. However, since extended paid leaves remain uncommon, “we’re really pushing back on the idea that a sabbatical needs to be sponsored by an employer,” Schrabram said, referring to the Sabbatical Project’s network of coaches and mentors supporting those curious about taking breaks.
Roshida Dowe was working as a corporate attorney in California at age 39 when she lost her job in 2018. Rather than immediately job hunting, she chose to spend a year traveling. The frequent questions about how she managed this lifestyle shift inspired Dowe to become an online career-break coach.
Together with Stephanie Perry, a former pharmacy technician who also took a travel gap year and discovered coaching, Dowe co-founded ExodUS Summit, a virtual conference where Black women discuss sabbaticals and international moves. Conference speakers address practical matters like finances, safety, and healthcare, alongside philosophical topics including rest’s value and breaking cycles of intergenerational trauma.
Highlighting women who venture out to explore the world carries special impact because “a lot of us aren’t open to possibilities we haven’t been shown before,” said Dowe, who relocated to Mexico City during her own transformation.
“When I coach women who are looking to take a sabbatical, the main thing they’re looking for is permission,” she explained.
Perry’s turning point came during a 2014 Brazil vacation when she encountered hostel guests traveling for months rather than days. She investigated budget travel and discovered people managing on $40 daily.
Before that experience, “I thought for sure people who traveled long term were all trust fund babies,” she recalled.
Financial concerns commonly deter people from considering breaks. Creative solutions exist, said Perry, who holds legal residency in Mexico and maintains an apartment in Bogota, Colombia.
“Housesitting is the reason I can work very little and travel a lot,” she noted.
Perry operates a YouTube channel featuring videos about travel and expatriate life as a Black American, and raises subscriber funds to sponsor Black women’s sabbaticals.
Ashley Graham strategically planned her break from nonprofit work in Washington, D.C., by mapping a road trip that included staying with friends at no cost.
“It was a great way to connect with my past life,” said Graham, who eventually moved to New Orleans after falling in love with the city during her sabbatical journey.
Taylor Anderson, a certified financial planner based in Vancouver, Washington, specializes in helping clients prepare financially for sabbaticals. She explains that similar principles apply to saving for extended breaks and retirement planning. Both require financial discipline and recognizing when spending is appropriate.
“We talk about money breathing. Sometimes it’s inhaling, sometimes it’s exhaling,” said Anderson, who has personally experienced sabbatical benefits. “Often we find that people do have money saved, but they’re afraid to spend it.”
“The question of ‘What is enough?’ is really difficult,” she added.
While not everyone can afford weeks or months without income, those who have accumulated savings will find “the cost is actually less than you might assume,” she said.
Artists Eric Rewitzer and Annie Galvin entrusted two employees with running their San Francisco gallery in 2018 while they spent summer months in France and Ireland.
“It was terrifying,” said Rewitzer, describing himself as formerly being a workaholic and control freak. “It was a huge exercise in trust.”
Upon returning to San Francisco, Rewitzer viewed the city through new eyes. He realized his life lacked balance – too much work, insufficient time in nature.
This perspective shift prompted the couple to purchase what they initially planned as a Sierra Nevada weekend retreat. It became their permanent residence when they closed their gallery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It all comes back to that same place of being willing to take chances,” Rewitzer reflected.
Gregory Du Bois’s college break to work as a ski bum in Vail, Colorado, established a pattern of incorporating mini-sabbaticals throughout his corporate IT career. With each new position, he negotiated extended time off, explaining to managers that peak performance required recharging breaks.
“It’s such a way of life that I almost don’t think of it as sabbaticals,” said Du Bois, who left technology to become a life coach in Sedona, Arizona. “For me, it’s a spiritual regeneration.”
Delaware taxpayers now have the opportunity to file their 2025 tax returns, with the April 15 deadline giving residents just over three months to complete the process. Financial experts are encouraging early preparation to minimize last-minute stress.
Tom O’Saben, who serves as director of tax content and government relations at the National Association of Tax Professionals, advises a balanced approach to filing. “Don’t wait until the last minute but also don’t rush,” O’Saben said.
This filing season brings significant changes due to recent tax legislation that President Donald Trump signed during the summer months. The Republican-backed tax and spending measure introduces several new deductions that could benefit Delaware families and workers.
Miguel Burgos, a certified public accountant and TurboTax expert, highlights the key new benefits: exemptions on tip income, overtime pay exclusions, car loan interest write-offs, and special deductions for individuals who reached age 65 by December 31st.
Financial analysts predict Delaware taxpayers could see substantially larger refunds this year. While 2024’s average refund reached $3,167, projections suggest this year’s average could climb by $1,000 due to the tax law modifications. The IRS handled more than 165 million individual returns last year, with electronic filing accounting for 94% of submissions.
For Delaware residents feeling overwhelmed by the filing process, numerous free assistance programs are available throughout the state.
Essential documents vary by individual circumstances, but most Delaware taxpayers will need their Social Security number, W-2 forms from employers, 1099-G forms for unemployment benefits, 1099 forms for self-employment income, savings and investment records, qualifying deductions including educational costs and medical expenses, and applicable tax credits such as child tax credits.
The IRS website provides comprehensive document checklists for specific situations. O’Saben suggests organizing all paperwork in one location before beginning the filing process and keeping previous year’s returns accessible. Delaware taxpayers can also establish an identity protection PIN through the IRS to prevent fraudulent filings.
Several major changes affect this year’s filings. The standard deduction has increased to $15,750 for single filers, $31,500 for married couples filing jointly, and $23,625 for heads of household.
A significant change involves the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, which has risen from $10,000 to $40,000 under the Working Families Tax Cut enacted in July 2025. Keith Hall, president and CEO of the National Association for the Self-Employed and certified CPA, notes this particularly benefits residents of high-tax states.
“This is a big benefit, especially for states like California, New York, and New Jersey, that have a higher state income tax,” Hall said.
The SALT deduction allows federal tax deductions for certain state and local taxes paid during the year. Since 2018, this deduction had been limited to $10,000 annually.
Delaware residents who previously didn’t itemize their SALT deductions might want to reconsider this year. O’Saben recommends evaluating whether you paid state taxes, property taxes, mortgage interest, or made charitable contributions to determine if itemizing makes sense.
The new tip deduction has specific limitations despite being called “no tax on tips.” This benefit applies only to qualified tips and includes income restrictions.
“It can be cash, it can be electronic as well. But the main thing is, hey, it has to be voluntary (tips),” Burgos said.
The annual deduction caps at $2,500 and phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income exceeding $150,000 individually or $300,000 for joint filers. Only certain tipping industries qualify, including bartenders, food servers, musicians, and housekeeping cleaners. Claiming this deduction requires completing the new Schedule 1-A form.
Schedule 1-A serves as the IRS form for calculating four deductions from the recent tax legislation: modified state and local tax deductions, qualified tip deductions, car loan deductions, and senior deductions.
Delaware taxpayers have multiple filing options this year. While IRS Direct File won’t be available, those earning $89,000 or less can access IRS Free File, which offers guided preparation through eight partner companies including TaxAct and FreeTaxUSA.
Beyond commercial services like TurboTax and H&R Block, Delaware residents can hire licensed professionals such as certified public accountants. The IRS maintains a national directory of qualified tax preparers.
Two IRS-funded programs provide free assistance to eligible Delaware residents. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program serves people earning $69,000 or less annually, those with disabilities, or limited English speakers. Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) assists individuals aged 60 and older. The IRS website helps locate VITA and TCE locations throughout Delaware.
Common filing mistakes can be avoided with careful attention to detail. O’Saben emphasizes verifying your Social Security card information, particularly your legal name, which may change after marriage.
“If you got married last year and you now want to use your married name, that married name doesn’t exist if you haven’t filed it with Social Security,” O’Saben said.
Many Delaware taxpayers who choose paperless communications may miss important tax documents that are only available online. O’Saben warns that opting out of physical mail can include tax paperwork.
“These documents may actually be available online because you may have chosen to have paperless contact. And because of that, you may need to go get those documents yourself,” O’Saben said.
Reporting all income sources is crucial. Delaware residents with multiple jobs need W-2 or 1099 forms from each employer. Missing information or errors typically trigger IRS audits, which require additional documentation.
The current child tax credit provides $2,200 per qualifying child, with $1,700 being refundable as the Additional Child Tax Credit. Parents must have at least $2,500 in annual income to claim the Additional Child Tax Credit.
Full credit eligibility requires meeting all criteria and having annual income below $200,000 for individual filers or $400,000 for joint filers. Higher-income Delaware families may qualify for partial credits.
Since September, the IRS has been eliminating paper refund checks. Delaware taxpayers expecting refunds should sign up for direct deposit to receive their money faster and more securely.
Tax season brings increased scam activity, O’Saben warns. Fraudulent communications arrive through phone calls, texts, emails, and social media. The IRS never initiates contact through these methods.
Even tax preparers can operate scams, making it important to ask detailed questions. If a preparer promises unusually large refunds compared to previous years, this may indicate fraudulent activity, O’Saben said.
Always request copies of completed tax returns and ask about each entry if you can’t observe the preparation process.
Delaware taxpayers should maintain tax return copies for five to seven years, as the IRS can audit items from previous filing years, O’Saben recommends.
Military officials announced Sunday that American forces successfully intercepted a ship that had attempted to violate quarantine restrictions ordered by President Donald Trump.
The Defense Department reported that personnel boarded the vessel known as Veronica III during an overnight operation in the Indo-Pacific Command region.
“Overnight, U.S. forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding of the Veronica III without incident in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility,” military officials stated in a social media announcement.
According to the Defense Department, the operation involved an extensive pursuit across international waters before the vessel was successfully stopped.
“We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down,” officials explained in their statement.
The military emphasized that the boarding operation was completed safely with no reported incidents during the enforcement action.
ATLANTA — Political newcomers often brand themselves as outsiders, but Derek Dooley takes that concept to an extreme. The former college football coach admits he stayed away from voting booths for nearly twenty years while now seeking the Republican Senate nomination in Georgia.
Dooley sat out both the 2016 election that brought Donald Trump to the White House and the 2020 contest where Trump was defeated by Joe Biden. Despite this voting absence, he remains confident as he pursues the GOP nomination to challenge Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff.
The candidate argues that Washington requires fresh perspective from someone not driven by personal political ambitions or career advancement. He believes his non-voting history connects him to many Americans who also skip elections.
“If you’re not vigilant in exercising that right, things can go pretty sideways in our country,” Dooley explained to The Associated Press, emphasizing his goal to motivate more citizens to participate in elections.
Two incumbent House members, Mike Collins and Buddy Carter, stand as Dooley’s main competition in the May 19 primary. While Dooley backs Trump, both Collins and Carter maintain stronger connections to the former president’s MAGA movement. With endorsement from Governor Brian Kemp, Dooley faces the challenge of proving his outsider message resonates in Trump’s antiestablishment political landscape.
The primary victor will play a crucial role in November’s midterm elections, potentially helping Republicans maintain their narrow Senate control by defeating Ossoff.
As the son of revered Georgia football coach Vince Dooley, Derek followed his father into coaching after working as an attorney. His tenure leading Tennessee’s program ended in dismissal due to poor performance, followed by assistant coaching roles at various colleges and professional organizations.
After leaving coaching following the 2023 season, Dooley credits his experience mentoring athletes from various backgrounds as preparation for representing Georgia’s diverse electorate.
“In my 30-plus years professional career, it’s never been about me in anything I was doing,” he stated. “It’s about people.”
Political engagement came during Biden’s administration, sparked by concerns over border security, economic decisions, and transgender athlete policies. Dooley cast his first vote for Trump in 2024 and has attacked Ossoff on similar issues.
GOP strategist Brian Robinson observed that “you can tell this wasn’t a guy who spent his life in politics or around politics or consumed by politics.”
Kemp’s longstanding friendship with the Dooley family led to his Senate endorsement, lending establishment credibility to the political novice.
“I was looking for a political outsider, and it just happened to be a guy that I’ve known for, you know, 50-plus years,” Kemp declared during a Thursday Atlanta Young Republicans gathering alongside Dooley.
The event drew positive responses from attendees, with several undecided primary voters expressing appreciation for Dooley’s outsider approach.
However, the Kemp connection draws criticism from some quarters.
“Completely siloing yourself with the old, establishment governor is not a way to say you’re an outsider,” stated Courtlyn Cook, who chairs Glynn County Republicans in southeast Georgia. She noted voter concerns about past tensions between Kemp and Trump, significant given the former president’s strong base support.
Political rivals target Dooley’s gubernatorial ties as weakness. Democratic Party of Georgia senior communications adviser Devon Cruz characterized Dooley as having “access to the Governor’s political machine,” while Carter campaign spokesperson Harley Adsit labeled him the “ultimate insider.”
Canton resident Venessa Artigas, 53, supports both Kemp and Dooley’s candidacy, understanding voter apathy from personal experience.
“I think we need to get career politicians out and get the voice of the people in,” Artigas said at a Turning Point Action event.
University of West Georgia student Timothy Jackson, 19, plans supporting Collins due to Trump connections but remains open to Carter.
“Both of them have been in Congress and so they know what it takes,” Jackson explained. “Dooley is going to be hard because he’s never been in that position before.”
A Kemp-affiliated organization ran fall advertisements supporting Dooley while criticizing Collins and Carter over government shutdown votes, grouping them with Ossoff.
Carter brings nearly three decades of coastal Georgia political experience as a pharmacist-turned-politician. Collins co-owns a trucking business and follows his father’s congressional footsteps.
Veteran Republican consultant Jason Shepherd sees advantages in Dooley’s clean slate.
“Republicans are going to face an uphill battle, but Dooley doesn’t bring the baggage that other candidates could possibly bring and can speak not only to voters on the right and Republicans, but the voters in the center who will make the decision,” Shepherd analyzed. “Jon Ossoff has a voting record that Dooley can run on and pick apart. Dooley does not.”
Dooley’s platform includes expanding workforce development programs and lowering housing costs through reduced government regulations. He applauded the Trump administration’s removal of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January and blamed immigration for limiting housing availability for American citizens. He promises legislation preventing lawmakers from using taxpayer funds for campaign-related mailings, accusing Collins of improper practices.
Collins’ spokesperson defended the congressman’s actions as approved by House Communications Standards Commission while dismissing Dooley as “a washed-up lawyer and failed coach.”
Strategist Robinson emphasized that Dooley must convince Georgians that outsider status justifies their support.
“It’s a well-worn path. The saliency of that message probably depends on the mood of the country and the cycle that we’re in,” Robinson assessed. “I don’t think we know just yet if that outsider message is what people are looking for.”
The Pentagon announced Sunday that American military personnel have intercepted a second sanctioned oil tanker in the Indian Ocean, following the vessel’s journey from Caribbean waters as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal Venezuelan oil operations.
For years, Venezuela has operated under U.S. oil sanctions, using deceptively flagged ships to secretly transport crude oil into international markets. In December, President Trump implemented a quarantine targeting these sanctioned vessels to apply pressure on former President Nicolás Maduro, who was later captured in January during a U.S. military mission.
According to a Defense Department statement posted on social media, American forces conducted an overnight operation to board the Veronica III, performing what officials described as “a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding.”
“The vessel tried to defy President Trump’s quarantine — hoping to slip away,” the Pentagon stated. “We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down.”
Treasury Department records show the Veronica III operates under a Panamanian flag and faces U.S. sanctions due to its connections with Iran.
The Pentagon released footage showing American service members conducting the boarding operation on the tanker.
This action represents part of the Trump administration’s expanded campaign to gain control over Venezuelan oil resources through vessel seizures. Pentagon officials did not specify whether the Veronica III has been officially confiscated and placed under American authority, and declined to provide additional details when contacted by reporters.
This marks the second such operation in recent days, following last week’s boarding of another tanker, the Aquila II, also in the Indian Ocean. Military officials indicated that vessel remains in custody while American authorities determine its final disposition.
TUCSON, Ariz. — The search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of NBC’s ‘Today’ show co-host Savannah Guthrie, enters its third week as federal and local investigators continue collecting evidence in the 84-year-old woman’s disappearance.
Nancy Guthrie vanished from her Tucson residence on January 31st, with family members filing a missing person report the next day. Blood evidence was discovered on her front porch, and alleged ransom demands have been sent to media organizations, though two payment deadlines have already elapsed without resolution.
Medical concerns add urgency to the case, as Nancy Guthrie requires essential daily medications for serious health conditions including heart problems, high blood pressure, and a pacemaker, according to sheriff’s dispatcher recordings obtained through broadcastify.com.
Federal investigators have made public surveillance footage showing a masked individual wearing a gun holster near Guthrie’s front entrance on the evening she disappeared. The porch security camera captured images of someone in a ski mask, jacket, long pants, and gloves while carrying a backpack.
The FBI identified this person as a male suspect on Thursday, describing him as approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall with a medium frame. Officials noted he was carrying a specific 25-liter ‘Ozark Trail Hiker Pack’ style backpack.
Initially, investigators believed no surveillance footage existed because Guthrie’s doorbell camera service had lapsed. However, digital forensics specialists continued examining backend systems and successfully recovered previously inaccessible or damaged video files.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department reports that DNA evidence collected from Guthrie’s property does not match her or known associates. Laboratory specialists are working to determine the identity of this genetic material.
All forensic evidence continues being processed at the same specialized out-of-state facility that has handled testing throughout the investigation, according to department officials.
Multiple gloves discovered by search teams, with the closest found approximately 2 miles from Guthrie’s residence, have been submitted for laboratory examination. Authorities have not specified the type of gloves recovered.
Sheriff’s officials emphasize their close collaboration with federal agents throughout the investigation.
Both the Pima County Sheriff’s Office and FBI have established dedicated tip lines and online reporting systems. Hundreds of detectives and federal agents have been assigned to work the case.
Since February 1st, when the missing person report was filed, the FBI has received over 13,000 public tips. The sheriff’s department separately reports handling at least 18,000 phone calls related to the case.
Officials have not disclosed whether any submitted tips have provided significant investigative breakthroughs.
Late Friday evening, law enforcement established a security perimeter on a roadway roughly 2 miles from Guthrie’s home as part of their ongoing investigation. Multiple sheriff’s vehicles and FBI units, including forensic specialists, moved through the restricted area.
During the same timeframe, investigators tagged and removed a Range Rover SUV from a nearby Culver’s restaurant parking area.
Saturday’s statement from the sheriff’s department confirmed the Friday night activities were connected to the Guthrie investigation, though no arrests occurred.
Earlier this week, deputies stopped and questioned an individual during a traffic stop south of Tucson. While authorities have not explained what prompted the stop, they confirmed the person was subsequently released.
That same Tuesday, deputies and federal agents executed a court-approved search operation in Rio Rico, located about one hour south of Tucson.
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have posted numerous video appeals on social media directed toward their mother’s suspected abductor.
The family’s Instagram messages have evolved from emotional appeals to the potential captor, expressing willingness to negotiate and pay ransom, to increasingly desperate public pleas for assistance.
Their most recent Thursday video featured home footage of Nancy Guthrie along with a commitment to ‘never give up on her.’
Nancy Guthrie resided alone in Tucson’s affluent Catalina Foothills area, characterized by widely spaced homes with extended driveways, security gates, and thick desert landscaping providing natural privacy.
Savannah Guthrie spent her childhood in Tucson, earned her degree from the University of Arizona, and began her broadcasting career at a local television station before her family relocated to the area in the 1970s. She became a ‘Today’ show co-host in 2011.
In one family video message, Savannah Guthrie characterized her mother as a ‘loving woman of goodness and light.’
White House border chief Tom Homan rejected Democratic calls to overhaul Immigration and Customs Enforcement during Sunday television appearances, as lawmakers remain at an impasse over Department of Homeland Security funding.
The standoff has intensified as Democratic representatives continue pushing for significant changes to ICE operations, while Republicans claim their opponents are playing politics by blocking homeland security funding legislation.
During an appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” Homan characterized Democratic lawmakers’ ICE proposals as “unreasonable” and noted he was not participating in negotiations over a potential homeland security funding deal tied to ICE reforms.
Earlier this month, Democrats presented congressional Republican leaders with a 10-point list of requirements, including ending racial profiling practices by ICE, banning the use of face coverings by agents, and requiring judicial warrants before officers can enter private residences.
Homan pushed back against allegations of racial profiling, stating that ICE agents conduct stops based on “reasonable suspicion.” A recent Supreme Court decision permitted officers to consider factors like brown skin color or Spanish-speaking as justification for stops.
Regarding mask usage, Homan argued that ICE agents require face coverings to protect their identities, though critics point out that most American law enforcement personnel operate without masks.
The Department of Homeland Security began a partial shutdown Saturday, though operations largely continue since most agency functions are classified as essential services.
Delaware Senator Chris Coons appeared on “Fox News Sunday,” attributing the White House’s willingness to discuss ICE changes to “outcry from Americans,” despite DHS having remaining funding for the near term.
Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin countered on CNN’s “State of the Union” that Democrats are conducting “political theater” and failing to negotiate honestly.
Progress on resolving the dispute may stall further as both congressional chambers enter recess this week.
A dangerous weather system moved through southeastern states over the weekend, prompting tornado alerts in Mississippi and Louisiana before advancing toward Georgia and Florida, while residents across the Northeast finally experienced relief from an extended period of harsh winter cold.
Louisiana’s Lake Charles region experienced some of the most severe weather impacts, where powerful thunderstorm winds flipped over a horse trailer and a Mardi Gras parade float, caused damage to an airport jet bridge, and sent a metal house awning crashing into electrical lines. National Weather Service personnel confirmed these damages during their field assessment of the affected areas.
The weather service documented additional destruction across Louisiana, including snapped and fallen power poles in the communities of Jena, Cheneyville, and Donaldsonville.
Fortunately, authorities reported no fatalities or major injuries from the severe weather, though the storm system pressed onward into southern Georgia and Florida’s Panhandle region, where tornado watches remained active on Sunday.
In contrast, northeastern states began experiencing milder conditions following an unusually prolonged cold snap.
By the middle of last week, Boston’s temperatures were running approximately 7 degrees below February’s typical averages, putting the city on track for its harshest winter in over ten years. While Sunday remained chilly in Boston, meteorologists predicted temperatures would rise into the upper 30s and lower 40s throughout the week, bringing readings closer to seasonal norms.
California residents were preparing for their own weather challenges, with rain, thunderstorms, and mountain snow expected. Jacob Spender, a National Weather Service meteorologist based in Sacramento, explained that a storm system would impact California throughout Sunday and continue into the following week.
Mountain and elevated regions should expect significant snowfall accumulations, according to Spender’s forecast.
“As we get up into the mountains and the foothills, we’re going to be looking at some snowfall,” Spender said. “So there will be snowfall all the way down into the foothills as well.”
Spender urged travelers to pay attention to weather advisories in the upcoming days.
“So if they are traveling, packing winter safety kits. Anything to be prepared. This is a bigger system, and a major system,” Spender said.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that his recently established Board of Peace has secured $5 billion in commitments for reconstructing Gaza following years of devastating warfare, along with promises of thousands of international personnel for peacekeeping operations in the region.
Trump revealed that these financial commitments will be officially disclosed during the board’s inaugural gathering scheduled for Thursday in Washington.
“The Board of Peace will prove to be the most consequential International Body in History, and it is my honor to serve as its Chairman,” Trump declared through a social media post while revealing the pledges.
The president did not specify which countries were providing the reconstruction funding or contributing personnel to peacekeeping efforts. However, Indonesia’s military announced Sunday that as many as 8,000 of their forces could be prepared by late June for possible Gaza deployment as part of humanitarian and peacekeeping operations. This represents the first concrete commitment Trump’s administration has secured.
Reconstructing the Palestinian region presents enormous challenges. International organizations including the United Nations, World Bank, and European Union project that fully rebuilding Gaza will require $70 billion. The territory suffered extensive damage during more than two years of Israeli military operations, with virtually no area remaining untouched.
The current ceasefire agreement requires establishing an international armed peacekeeping presence to maintain security and ensure Hamas militants are disarmed, which Israel considers essential. However, limited numbers of nations have shown willingness to participate in such a force.
The October 10 ceasefire agreement, facilitated by the United States, sought to end the conflict between Israel and Hamas that lasted over two years. Although major combat operations have decreased, Israeli military forces continue conducting air attacks and regularly engage Palestinians approaching military-controlled areas.
Attendance numbers for Thursday’s initial meeting remain uncertain, with the Board of Peace comprising more than 20 member nations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who met with Trump at the White House recently, is not anticipated to attend.
Originally conceived as a mechanism to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, Trump’s board has expanded with broader goals of addressing international crises worldwide. The initiative appears to represent another attempt by the Trump administration to bypass United Nations processes while reshaping global diplomatic structures established after World War II.
Several key American allies in Europe and other regions have chosen not to participate, viewing the board as a potential challenge to the UN Security Council’s authority.
Trump also verified that Thursday’s session will occur at the U.S. Institute of Peace, which the State Department renamed the Donald J. Trump U.S. Institute of Peace in December.
The facility remains embroiled in legal disputes filed by former staff members and leadership of the nonprofit organization after the Republican administration took control of the building last year and terminated nearly all institute employees.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that his recently established Board of Peace has secured $5 billion in commitments for reconstructing Gaza following years of devastating warfare, along with promises of thousands of international personnel for peacekeeping operations in the region.
Trump revealed that these financial commitments will be officially disclosed during the board’s inaugural gathering scheduled for Thursday in Washington.
“The Board of Peace will prove to be the most consequential International Body in History, and it is my honor to serve as its Chairman,” Trump declared through a social media post while revealing the pledges.
The president did not specify which countries were providing the reconstruction funding or contributing personnel to peacekeeping efforts. However, Indonesia’s military announced Sunday that as many as 8,000 of their forces could be prepared by late June for possible Gaza deployment as part of humanitarian and peacekeeping operations. This represents the first concrete commitment Trump’s administration has secured.
Reconstructing the Palestinian region presents enormous challenges. International organizations including the United Nations, World Bank, and European Union project that fully rebuilding Gaza will require $70 billion. The territory suffered extensive damage during more than two years of Israeli military operations, with virtually no area remaining untouched.
The current ceasefire agreement requires establishing an international armed peacekeeping presence to maintain security and ensure Hamas militants are disarmed, which Israel considers essential. However, limited numbers of nations have shown willingness to participate in such a force.
The October 10 ceasefire agreement, facilitated by the United States, sought to end the conflict between Israel and Hamas that lasted over two years. Although major combat operations have decreased, Israeli military forces continue conducting air attacks and regularly engage Palestinians approaching military-controlled areas.
Attendance numbers for Thursday’s initial meeting remain uncertain, with the Board of Peace comprising more than 20 member nations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who met with Trump at the White House recently, is not anticipated to attend.
Originally conceived as a mechanism to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, Trump’s board has expanded with broader goals of addressing international crises worldwide. The initiative appears to represent another attempt by the Trump administration to bypass United Nations processes while reshaping global diplomatic structures established after World War II.
Several key American allies in Europe and other regions have chosen not to participate, viewing the board as a potential challenge to the UN Security Council’s authority.
Trump also verified that Thursday’s session will occur at the U.S. Institute of Peace, which the State Department renamed the Donald J. Trump U.S. Institute of Peace in December.
The facility remains embroiled in legal disputes filed by former staff members and leadership of the nonprofit organization after the Republican administration took control of the building last year and terminated nearly all institute employees.
The White House’s top immigration official announced Sunday that more than 1,000 federal enforcement agents have already withdrawn from Minnesota’s Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, with several hundred additional departures planned in the coming days as the Trump administration scales back its massive immigration crackdown.
Border czar Tom Homan revealed during an appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation that a limited security team will remain temporarily to safeguard continuing immigration personnel and will intervene “when our agents are out and they get surrounded by agitators and things got out of control.” Homan did not specify the exact size of this remaining force, describing it only as “small.”
According to Homan, agents will continue pursuing investigations into alleged fraud cases and examining the anti-enforcement demonstration that interrupted a religious service at a local church.
“We already removed well over 1,000 people, and as of Monday, Tuesday, we’ll remove several hundred more,” Homan stated. “We’ll get back to the original footprint.”
The Minneapolis-St. Paul region became the focus of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s “Operation Metro Surge,” which involved deploying thousands of federal officers. The Department of Homeland Security characterized this as the most extensive immigration enforcement action in the agency’s history, claiming it achieved its objectives.
However, the intensive operation faced mounting opposition as tensions escalated and resulted in the deaths of two American citizens. Community resistance became widespread, with local residents organizing networks to assist immigrants, alert communities about approaching federal agents, and document officers’ activities. The fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal personnel sparked public outcry and scrutiny of officer behavior, ultimately leading to operational modifications.
Last week, Homan initially announced the immediate departure of 700 federal officers from Minnesota, though this still left over 2,000 personnel in the state. By Thursday, he indicated that a “significant drawdown” was already in progress and would extend through the current week.
Homan emphasized that enforcement activities would persist in the Twin Cities area and that nationwide mass deportation efforts would continue uninterrupted. The agents departing Minnesota will either return to their original duty stations or receive new assignments elsewhere.
Regarding the possibility of future operations matching the Twin Cities deployment’s magnitude, Homan responded that “it depends on the situation.”
The White House’s top immigration official announced Sunday that more than 1,000 federal enforcement agents have already withdrawn from Minnesota’s Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, with several hundred additional departures planned in the coming days as the Trump administration scales back its massive immigration crackdown.
Border czar Tom Homan revealed during an appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation that a limited security team will remain temporarily to safeguard continuing immigration personnel and will intervene “when our agents are out and they get surrounded by agitators and things got out of control.” Homan did not specify the exact size of this remaining force, describing it only as “small.”
According to Homan, agents will continue pursuing investigations into alleged fraud cases and examining the anti-enforcement demonstration that interrupted a religious service at a local church.
“We already removed well over 1,000 people, and as of Monday, Tuesday, we’ll remove several hundred more,” Homan stated. “We’ll get back to the original footprint.”
The Minneapolis-St. Paul region became the focus of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s “Operation Metro Surge,” which involved deploying thousands of federal officers. The Department of Homeland Security characterized this as the most extensive immigration enforcement action in the agency’s history, claiming it achieved its objectives.
However, the intensive operation faced mounting opposition as tensions escalated and resulted in the deaths of two American citizens. Community resistance became widespread, with local residents organizing networks to assist immigrants, alert communities about approaching federal agents, and document officers’ activities. The fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal personnel sparked public outcry and scrutiny of officer behavior, ultimately leading to operational modifications.
Last week, Homan initially announced the immediate departure of 700 federal officers from Minnesota, though this still left over 2,000 personnel in the state. By Thursday, he indicated that a “significant drawdown” was already in progress and would extend through the current week.
Homan emphasized that enforcement activities would persist in the Twin Cities area and that nationwide mass deportation efforts would continue uninterrupted. The agents departing Minnesota will either return to their original duty stations or receive new assignments elsewhere.
Regarding the possibility of future operations matching the Twin Cities deployment’s magnitude, Homan responded that “it depends on the situation.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister departed from Tehran on Sunday, heading to Geneva for a second phase of nuclear discussions with the United States, according to reports from Iranian state media.
Abbas Araghchi and his diplomatic team made the journey to Switzerland following initial indirect negotiations that occurred in Oman the previous week. The state-run IRNA news agency confirmed through its Telegram channel that Oman would continue serving as mediator for the Geneva discussions.
Previous diplomatic efforts collapsed last year when Israel initiated a 12-day military campaign against Iran, during which the United States conducted bombing operations targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.
President Donald Trump has consistently issued warnings about potential military action to force Iran into limiting its nuclear activities. Iranian officials have indicated they would retaliate with their own attacks in response to such threats. Trump has also issued warnings to Iran regarding its violent suppression of recent nationwide demonstrations.
Regional Gulf Arab nations have expressed concerns that any military confrontation could escalate into a broader Middle Eastern conflict.
The current Trump administration maintains its position that Iran must completely halt all uranium enrichment activities, a demand that Tehran has stated it will not accept.
While Iran maintains its nuclear activities serve peaceful purposes, government officials have made increasing threats about developing nuclear weapons capabilities. Prior to the June conflict, Iran had been processing uranium to 60% purity levels, bringing it close to weapons-grade enrichment.
During his Geneva visit, Araghchi plans to hold meetings with Swiss and Omani foreign ministers, along with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN’s nuclear monitoring organization.
On Sunday morning, Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed Washington’s continued commitment to finding a diplomatic resolution to the dispute with Tehran, noting that Trump’s representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were en route to participate in the upcoming negotiations.
Trump announced Friday that the USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest aircraft carrier in the world, would be relocated from the Caribbean to the Middle East to supplement existing U.S. military presence in the region. He also stated that a leadership change in Iran “would be the best thing that could happen.”
Rubio characterized recent military deployments in the Middle East as defensive measures designed to strengthen protection for U.S. facilities and interests. Iran has issued threats to target American military installations in the region should Washington launch strikes. In June, Tehran attacked Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, though the assault resulted in no casualties among American or Qatari personnel.
“No one’s been able to do a successful deal with Iran, but we’re gonna try,” Rubio stated during a press conference following his meeting with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava. “We are focused on negotiations.” Trump has recently indicated his main objective involves reducing Iran’s nuclear capabilities, while Iranian officials want discussions limited exclusively to nuclear matters. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who met with Trump in Washington this week, has been advocating for an agreement that would eliminate Iran’s missile program and halt its financial support for allied groups including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Iran’s Foreign Minister departed from Tehran on Sunday, heading to Geneva for a second phase of nuclear discussions with the United States, according to reports from Iranian state media.
Abbas Araghchi and his diplomatic team made the journey to Switzerland following initial indirect negotiations that occurred in Oman the previous week. The state-run IRNA news agency confirmed through its Telegram channel that Oman would continue serving as mediator for the Geneva discussions.
Previous diplomatic efforts collapsed last year when Israel initiated a 12-day military campaign against Iran, during which the United States conducted bombing operations targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.
President Donald Trump has consistently issued warnings about potential military action to force Iran into limiting its nuclear activities. Iranian officials have indicated they would retaliate with their own attacks in response to such threats. Trump has also issued warnings to Iran regarding its violent suppression of recent nationwide demonstrations.
Regional Gulf Arab nations have expressed concerns that any military confrontation could escalate into a broader Middle Eastern conflict.
The current Trump administration maintains its position that Iran must completely halt all uranium enrichment activities, a demand that Tehran has stated it will not accept.
While Iran maintains its nuclear activities serve peaceful purposes, government officials have made increasing threats about developing nuclear weapons capabilities. Prior to the June conflict, Iran had been processing uranium to 60% purity levels, bringing it close to weapons-grade enrichment.
During his Geneva visit, Araghchi plans to hold meetings with Swiss and Omani foreign ministers, along with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN’s nuclear monitoring organization.
On Sunday morning, Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed Washington’s continued commitment to finding a diplomatic resolution to the dispute with Tehran, noting that Trump’s representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were en route to participate in the upcoming negotiations.
Trump announced Friday that the USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest aircraft carrier in the world, would be relocated from the Caribbean to the Middle East to supplement existing U.S. military presence in the region. He also stated that a leadership change in Iran “would be the best thing that could happen.”
Rubio characterized recent military deployments in the Middle East as defensive measures designed to strengthen protection for U.S. facilities and interests. Iran has issued threats to target American military installations in the region should Washington launch strikes. In June, Tehran attacked Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, though the assault resulted in no casualties among American or Qatari personnel.
“No one’s been able to do a successful deal with Iran, but we’re gonna try,” Rubio stated during a press conference following his meeting with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava. “We are focused on negotiations.” Trump has recently indicated his main objective involves reducing Iran’s nuclear capabilities, while Iranian officials want discussions limited exclusively to nuclear matters. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who met with Trump in Washington this week, has been advocating for an agreement that would eliminate Iran’s missile program and halt its financial support for allied groups including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
A high-ranking Treasury Department official responsible for overseeing the nation’s sanctions programs is expected to resign following reported conflicts with his supervisor, according to a Bloomberg News report released Sunday.
John Hurley, who serves as Treasury under-secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, plans to step down from his role amid tensions with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the report indicates.
In his current position, Hurley leads the department’s efforts to combat financial crimes and manages the implementation of economic sanctions against foreign entities and individuals.
Reuters has not been able to independently confirm the Bloomberg report at this time.
A high-ranking Treasury Department official responsible for overseeing the nation’s sanctions programs is expected to resign following reported conflicts with his supervisor, according to a Bloomberg News report released Sunday.
John Hurley, who serves as Treasury under-secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, plans to step down from his role amid tensions with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the report indicates.
In his current position, Hurley leads the department’s efforts to combat financial crimes and manages the implementation of economic sanctions against foreign entities and individuals.
Reuters has not been able to independently confirm the Bloomberg report at this time.
While death and taxes remain life’s certainties, leaving your family with expensive legal bills doesn’t have to be inevitable.
Wealthy Americans have perfected methods for transferring assets to future generations while minimizing government interference, but financial advisors say these same techniques can benefit families with more moderate savings accounts.
“It’s a strategic game of chess played over decades,” explains Mark Bosler, an estate planning attorney in Troy, Michigan, and legal adviser to Real Estate Bees. “While the average person relies on a simple will, the well-to-do utilize a different playbook.”
The reality is that most American families won’t face federal estate taxes, which typically apply only to estates exceeding $15 million. However, 16 states plus Washington D.C. do impose their own estate or inheritance taxes, according to the Tax Foundation, though these usually target millionaire-level wealth.
Even families who won’t owe taxes can face lengthy legal processes that tie up assets for years while generating substantial attorney fees and court costs.
Estate planning professionals frequently recommend trusts as a cornerstone solution.
While trusts might seem like complicated instruments reserved for the extremely wealthy, they’re actually straightforward mechanisms that make sense for many households. Setting up a trust typically costs several thousand dollars in legal fees, but for retirees who own their homes outright and have retirement accounts plus investment portfolios, trusts can streamline asset transfers to beneficiaries.
One key advantage: estates can become entangled in probate court proceedings, which typically charge fees based on the total estate value, even when no taxes are owed.
“You are leaving what might have gone to your children or other loved ones to attorneys and the courts,” notes Renee Fry, CEO of Gentreo, an online estate planner based in Quincy, Massachusetts. “Anywhere from 3 to 8% of an estate might be lost.”
Trusts enable estates to bypass court systems entirely while maintaining privacy by keeping financial details out of public records. Some individuals also establish trusts to safeguard their savings if they eventually require nursing home care and want to qualify for Medicaid coverage rather than paying privately.
Consider owning stock in a company like Nvidia that has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. Now imagine collecting profits from selling those shares without paying any taxes.
This scenario is achievable with one condition: the original owner must pass away first.
This arrangement, called “step-up” in estate planning terminology, enables affluent families to build wealth while ensuring their descendants won’t face the tax consequences.
Here’s how it functions: Suppose a relative purchased 100 Nvidia shares when the company went public in 1999 at $12 per share. After stock splits and dramatic price increases, that original $1,200 investment would now be valued at over $9 million. If you inherited those shares, you could sell them with minimal or no tax liability because capital gains are calculated from the death date, not the original purchase date.
Benjamin Trujillo, a partner with the wealth advisory firm Moneta, based in St. Louis, Missouri, describes the process as seeming “like a magic trick.” The strategy is entirely legal.
“Wealth transfer looks like smoke and mirrors,” Trujillo states. “Assets like stocks can quietly grow for decades and, when they’re inherited, the tax bill often disappears.”
Congress has occasionally considered restricting the “step-up” provision, but it currently remains in place, serving as one of the most powerful tools available for creating multi-generational wealth. The rule applies beyond stocks to other investments including artwork, real estate, and collectibles.
Financial institutions frequently prompt account holders to designate beneficiaries, and estate planners emphasize this represents one of the most straightforward methods for transferring assets to family members after death.
Rules differ by location, but most banks and investment firms permit customers to name beneficiaries who will receive funds automatically upon the account holder’s death.
“One of the easiest ways to transfer assets hassle-free,” observes Allison Harrison, an attorney in Columbus, Ohio, who focuses on estate planning.
Beneficiary designations typically take precedence over wills, making it crucial to keep these records current to prevent situations where former spouses might inherit assets unintentionally.
These strategies require advance planning, but experts emphasize that dedicating time to estate organization distinguishes financially successful families from others.
After a prolonged stretch of cold and limited rainfall, a much more unsettled weather pattern is taking shape across the Delmarva Peninsula this week. Several low pressure systems are expected to move through the Mid-Atlantic, bringing multiple opportunities for measurable rain through the weekend.
First Round: Wednesday into Wednesday Night
The first system arrives Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night as a warm front lifts northward ahead of low pressure tracking through the Midwest.
For Delmarva, this system is expected to bring mainly light rain, with recent model trends pointing toward an all-rain event. Rainfall amounts look modest overall, with:
Low probability of totals exceeding 1 inch
Most locations likely seeing light to moderate rainfall
Rain chances highest Wednesday afternoon and evening
While rainfall amounts do not appear heavy, this system could deliver the first measurable rainfall in several weeks for parts of the region, as recent precipitation events have largely fallen as snow due to persistent cold temperatures.
Thursday: Spotty Showers Possible
Delmarva remains in the warmer sector of the system Thursday into Thursday night. That means temperatures stay milder, and while widespread rain is not expected, isolated showers may pass through at times.
Second System: Friday into Saturday
Another low pressure system moves toward the region late Friday into Saturday. Much like the midweek system, this one also appears to favor primarily rain across Delmarva.
Current projections suggest:
Rain likely late Friday into early Saturday
Lower probabilities of heavy rainfall
No significant winter weather concerns for the Peninsula
At this time, forecast guidance does not indicate any moderate or major impacts from this system.
Watching the Weekend
Looking ahead to late weekend, there are signals of yet another potential system. However, forecast models vary significantly on its strength and track. It is too early to determine specific impacts or precipitation types, but it is something forecasters will continue monitoring.
Overall Impact for Delmarva
For the Delmarva Peninsula, this upcoming pattern looks to bring beneficial rainfall rather than disruptive weather. After weeks of colder conditions and limited liquid precipitation, this stretch of rain could help recharge soils and provide needed moisture without significant flooding concerns.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re dealing with a steady soaking rain across the peninsula today, so definitely keep those umbrellas handy if you’re heading out.
Today’s story is all about the rain. We’re looking at cloudy skies with temperatures reaching around 50 degrees, which isn’t too bad for mid-January. However, this northeast wind at 5 to 10 mph is bringing in a persistent rain system with 100% chance of precipitation. We could see between 1 and 2 inches of new rainfall, so watch for some ponding on roadways and give yourself extra time if you’re traveling.
Tonight, the rain continues with temperatures dropping to around 40 degrees. Sunday brings a slight improvement with just a chance of light rain and cooler highs near 45. The good news? Sunday night looks much better as we clear out with temps dipping to 29 degrees.
Stay dry out there, Delmarva, and remember – this rain will help our lawns come springtime! I’m tracking your forecast and will have updates throughout the weekend.
A Bridgeville property owner found himself in hot water with Sussex County officials after constructing a large storage building without proper permits, based on incorrect advice from his contractor.
Recordo Nock appeared before the Sussex County Board of Adjustment earlier this month requesting two zoning variances for a 30-by-60-foot pole barn already built on his Chaplains Chapel Road property. The structure violates the required 20-foot rear yard setback regulations.
During the January 5th hearing, Nock explained his predicament to board members.
“If I knew this in the beginning, I would have gotten the permit, and we wouldn’t even be here. But I was told I don’t need a permit,” Nock stated. “I never built a pole barn before.”
According to Nock, a representative from Weller’s Utility Trailers, Sheds and Carports in Bridgeville informed him that no permit was necessary since the building would rest on a concrete foundation rather than having poles driven into the earth.
The property owner uses the structure to house tools and construction equipment for personal purposes. When asked about neighbor complaints, Nock indicated he had received none directly.
However, the county received written opposition from residents living south of Nock’s property. Two neighbors attended the hearing to voice their concerns.
Elmer Perry, who authored the opposition letter, expressed worries about water drainage issues caused by the building’s proximity to property lines.
“We do know we do have water standing, from time to time, on the front side of this property when it does rain,” Perry told the board. “I believe the whole water table in that area is up high.”
Perry indicated he would withdraw his opposition if the building were relocated or repositioned to comply with county regulations.
Jason Perry, another neighboring resident, questioned what would prevent future homeowners from constructing similar large structures in rear yard corners once the surrounding farmland undergoes development.
Assistant County Attorney James Sharp noted that the county has occasionally granted variances in cases involving “severe contractor error,” citing an example where a home’s foundation accidentally extended onto an adjacent property.
Nock acknowledged the difficulty of his situation, telling board members, “If I could move the building 8 feet, I would. I can’t move it.”
The Board of Adjustment postponed their decision and will revisit Nock’s variance application during their January 26th meeting, allowing additional time to review the case details.
Dover law enforcement officials are actively investigating a violent incident that unfolded in the early hours of Monday morning, leaving one person wounded by gunfire.
The incident began at approximately 3:55 a.m. on Monday, January 12th, 2026, when Dover Police received reports of gunshots in the unit block of South Governors Avenue. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered clear evidence that a shooting had taken place.
During the investigation, a 24-year-old Dover resident arrived at Bayhealth Kent Campus seeking treatment for a gunshot wound to his lower body. Medical personnel are treating his injuries.
Police also made contact with two additional victims at the scene who reported being targeted by gunfire from two unidentified suspects. Fortunately, these individuals were not struck by bullets and avoided physical harm.
Authorities have not yet developed any suspect leads to share with the public as the investigation continues.
Dover Police are urging anyone with information about this incident to come forward. The department can be reached at (302) 736-7130, and callers have the option to remain anonymous. Community members can also provide tips through Delaware Crime Stoppers by calling 800-TIP-3333 or visiting www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com online. Crime Stoppers offers potential cash rewards for information that leads to arrests.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to identify the suspects and determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Delaware State Police are actively searching for an armed suspect who held up a Wilmington 7-Eleven during the early morning hours of Wednesday, January 13, 2026.
Law enforcement officers were called to the convenience store on Foulk Road at 2100 around 2:40 a.m. following reports of an armed holdup. According to initial police findings, a male perpetrator walked into the establishment and confronted a worker while brandishing a firearm, ordering the employee to hand over cash. When the worker refused to cooperate, the gunman helped himself to money from the cash drawer along with tobacco products before fleeing on foot. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the crime. Officers conducted a search of the surrounding area but came up empty-handed in their pursuit of the robber.
Authorities have released a description of the perpetrator as a male individual dressed in dark clothing including a black hoodie and black trousers, along with gloves and a light-colored backpack. He was also wearing a face covering during the incident. Officials note that security footage and photographs from the scene are not currently ready for public release.
The case remains under active investigation by the Delaware State Police Criminal Investigations Unit. Investigators are urging anyone who may have witnessed the robbery or possesses relevant details to reach out to Detective B. Timmons at (302) 365-8434. Tips can also be submitted through private messages to the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
For individuals who have been affected by crime or experienced sudden loss and require support services, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center provide round-the-clock assistance through their toll-free helpline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Support can also be accessed by emailing [email protected].
New Castle County police are actively searching for a missing teenager after issuing a Gold Alert Monday evening.
Sixteen-year-old Jacob “Jay” Nieves vanished from his home at the Paladin Club Apartments on Park Court in Wilmington around 9:15 p.m. on January 12, 2026. The apartment complex is located in the 8000 block of Park Court in the 19702 area.
According to the New Castle County Division of Police, the teen departed from his residence and failed to return home. Law enforcement officials say they have conducted thorough search operations but have been unable to locate Nieves.
Anyone with information about Jacob Nieves’ whereabouts is urged to contact local authorities immediately. The Gold Alert system is designed to help locate missing individuals who may be in danger.
Newark law enforcement officials have taken two individuals into custody following a robbery investigation that began earlier this month.
The incident unfolded on January 4, 2026, when a victim contacted Newark Police at around 10:03 p.m. to report being robbed that same evening. According to police reports, the robbery took place in the 200 block of East Delaware Avenue at approximately 7:11 p.m.
Police investigators worked to identify and locate the suspects involved in the street crime. The department has not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the robbery or the identities of those arrested.
This case represents another example of Newark Police’s ongoing efforts to address street crimes and respond to victims in the community. The investigation led to the successful apprehension of both suspects.
The Newark Police Department continues to encourage residents to report crimes promptly to assist with investigations and community safety efforts.
A Georgetown woman is behind bars facing serious charges after authorities discovered an active explosive device and illegal drugs during a probation compliance check at her residence.
Amanda Seward, 34, was taken into custody following the Tuesday afternoon incident on the 17000 block of McColley’s Chapel Road. The arrest occurred around 2:20 p.m. on January 7, 2025, when probation officers conducting a routine administrative search of Seward’s home uncovered suspicious materials that prompted them to call for backup.
The Sussex County Governor’s Task Force responded to assist probation and parole officials after the discovery of narcotics, drug-related equipment, and what appeared to be an explosive device. Authorities detained Seward along with two other men at the scene without any resistance.
Given the potentially dangerous nature of the device, Delaware State Police called in their specialized Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit. The bomb squad confirmed the device was indeed active and successfully neutralized the threat.
Investigators recovered multiple illegal items from the property, including:
• An active explosive device • Roughly .07 grams of methamphetamine • Approximately .06 grams of heroin • 12 mg of buprenorphine sublingual film • 3 mg of naloxone sublingual film • A digital scale
Following her arrest, Seward was transported to Troop 4 headquarters where she faced multiple charges. Justice of the Peace Court 3 arraigned her on several serious offenses, including possession of a destructive weapon (bomb), which carries felony penalties. She also faces three counts of possessing controlled substances without a prescription and two counts of drug paraphernalia possession.
While the court set Seward’s bond at $1,500 unsecured, she remains incarcerated at Sussex Correctional Institution due to violations of her existing probation terms. The two men found at the residence received misdemeanor charges and were subsequently released.
Law enforcement officials are actively investigating a shooting incident that occurred at the Paladin Club Apartments located in the 8000 block of Park Court in Wilmington.
New Castle County Division of Police officers have secured the scene and are conducting their investigation into the shooting. The apartment complex is located in the 19802 zip code area.
Authorities are warning area residents to anticipate significant disruptions in the vicinity, including blocked roadways and a heavy law enforcement presence. Additional emergency response vehicles may also be dispatched to the location as the investigation progresses.
Police are strongly urging community members to steer clear of the Park Court area while investigators work to gather evidence and piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting incident.
A Newark resident is facing multiple charges, including his third driving under the influence offense, after police responded to a trespassing call in the early morning hours last week.
Newark Police Department officers were dispatched to the first block of Waterworks Lane around 12:31 a.m. on January 8, 2026, following reports of suspicious activity. A concerned resident contacted authorities about an unknown male individual who was wandering around the property and attempting to look through the windows of their home.
The incident escalated when officers arrived on scene and attempted to make contact with the suspect. According to police reports, the individual failed to comply with officers’ commands and subsequently resisted arrest.
During the course of the investigation, officers determined that the suspect had been operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This marks the third time the Newark man has been charged with DUI, which carries enhanced penalties under Delaware law.
The suspect now faces charges of driving under the influence (third offense), failure to comply with lawful police orders, resisting arrest, and trespassing. Third-offense DUI charges in Delaware are classified as felonies and can result in significant jail time and substantial fines.
The Newark Police Department continues to investigate the incident. The suspect’s name has not been released pending formal arraignment proceedings.
Delaware State Police are conducting an investigation into a deadly vehicle accident that took place Sunday evening in Milford after a driver attempted to escape from law enforcement during a traffic stop.
The incident began around 9:00 p.m. on January 11, 2026, when a state trooper noticed a Nissan Altima violating traffic laws on Johnson Road close to North Old State Road in Lincoln. A vehicle registration check revealed additional violations with the car’s documentation. When the officer attempted to stop the Altima on North Old State Road, the driver suddenly accelerated and fled the scene without explanation before the trooper could approach the vehicle. The Altima traveled dangerously through multiple local streets at excessive speeds during the chase, prompting authorities to call off the pursuit to protect public safety. Moments after officers ended the chase, the vehicle crashed on Lakeview Avenue inside Milford city boundaries.
According to initial findings from crash investigators, the Altima was moving at dangerous speeds when it veered off the southern edge of Lakeview Avenue onto the sidewalk area. The car then traveled across West Clarke Avenue, hitting a smaller tree and landscaping in a residential property before rotating and finally striking a larger tree.
Emergency responders transported the Altima’s operator, a 37-year-old Georgetown resident, to a local medical facility where he was pronounced dead. Authorities are withholding his identity pending notification of relatives.
Traffic on Lakeview Avenue was temporarily blocked for roughly two hours as investigators examined and cleared the accident site.
The case continues under active investigation. Police are requesting that anyone who saw the accident or possesses relevant details contact Master Corporal K. Argo at (302) 703-3264. Tips can also be submitted through private messages to the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Crime victims, witnesses, or families affected by sudden loss can access support through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center, available around the clock via their toll-free helpline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Email assistance is also available at [email protected].
TV Delmarva’s technical team is currently conducting routine verification procedures to confirm that social media images are displaying accurately across our digital platforms.
The testing process involves checking various aspects of our automated image generation system to ensure Delaware residents continue receiving properly formatted visual content alongside our news stories on social media channels.
This technical maintenance represents part of our ongoing commitment to delivering reliable news content to the Delmarva community through all available digital channels.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re looking at a mild but cloudy Wednesday across the peninsula, with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 54 degrees under mostly cloudy skies. Light southwest winds around 5 mph will keep things comfortable for any outdoor activities you have planned.
However, get ready for a dramatic temperature swing! Tonight brings our first notable weather change as we’ll see the chance for some light rain moving through, with temperatures dropping significantly to around 29 degrees. This sets up an interesting Thursday as that moisture could transition to a slight chance of light snow early in the day before skies begin to clear and we see partly sunny conditions. Thursday’s high will only reach about 34 degrees.
Thursday night turns quite chilly with partly cloudy skies and temperatures plummeting to around 20 degrees – so you’ll definitely want to bundle up and protect any sensitive plants or pipes.
Stay warm out there, Delmarva, and keep those winter coats handy! I’m your meteorologist reminding you to stay weather-aware as we navigate this temperature roller coaster.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is now accepting applications from local organizations seeking financial assistance for water-related planning initiatives.
Local county governments, municipalities, conservation districts, and estuary programs throughout Delaware are eligible to apply for these matching grant funds, which are specifically designated for surface water project planning efforts.
Organizations interested in applying for these planning grants must submit their complete proposals no later than 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The grant program represents an opportunity for Delaware communities to advance their water management and conservation planning with state support through the matching funds structure.
A significant winter storm is barreling toward southern Delmarva, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Winter Storm Warning effective from 7 PM tonight through 7 AM Monday morning.
The warning covers inland Sussex County, Delaware beaches, and portions of southern New Jersey including Cape May and Atlantic counties. Forecasters predict 4 to 8 inches of snow and sleet accumulation, with up to one-tenth of an inch of ice coating surfaces. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph, creating dangerous whiteout conditions.
Travel is expected to become very difficult, with the hazardous conditions likely impacting Monday morning’s commute. Officials strongly advise against unnecessary travel during the storm.
If you must venture out, the National Weather Service recommends keeping emergency supplies in your vehicle including extra flashlights, food, and water. For the latest road conditions, dial 5-1-1 before traveling.
The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until Monday at 7 AM. TV Delmarva will continue monitoring this developing storm and provide updates throughout the weekend. Stay with us for the latest forecast information and travel advisories as conditions change.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 1:00 PM Monday for much of northern Delmarva, with dangerous icy conditions expected to create hazardous travel during the Monday morning commute.
The National Weather Service warns that portions of New Castle and Kent counties in Delaware, along with Queen Anne’s, Talbot, and Caroline counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, will see additional snow and sleet accumulations up to one inch. Perhaps most concerning is the potential for ice accumulations up to one-tenth of an inch, which could make roads extremely slippery.
The mixed precipitation is expected to continue through Monday afternoon, making morning travel particularly treacherous for commuters heading to work or school.
Officials strongly advise avoiding unnecessary travel. If you must drive, the National Weather Service recommends keeping emergency supplies in your vehicle, including an extra flashlight, food, and water. For the latest road conditions, drivers can dial 5-1-1 before heading out.
The Winter Storm Warning, issued Saturday afternoon by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, will remain in effect until 1:00 PM Monday. Residents should monitor conditions closely and plan for potential delays or cancellations Monday morning.
Delaware residents will see widespread closures this Monday as the state observes Presidents Day, with government buildings, educational institutions, and financial markets shutting down while major retail chains continue normal operations.
For those planning errands or activities, it’s recommended to verify hours by calling businesses directly or checking their websites for location-specific schedules.
Here’s your complete guide to Monday’s closures and openings for Presidents Day 2026:
All federal and state government facilities will be shuttered Monday. Additionally, court systems and the majority of educational institutions will remain closed.
The federal holiday officially honors Washington’s Birthday, named for America’s first president George Washington, though it’s commonly referred to as Presidents Day. Many also use this time to remember President Abraham Lincoln, whose February 12th birthday falls close to the observance.
Financial institutions and U.S. stock exchanges will suspend operations Monday, resuming normal business hours Tuesday.
Major retail chains and most commercial businesses will maintain regular operating hours.
Delaware residents can enjoy free admission to national parks on Presidents Day. The National Park Service recently modified its free admission schedule, removing Martin Luther King Day and Juneteenth from the list while adding Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s birthday on June 14. The complimentary access continues for Presidents Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day weekend.
After igniting a social media firestorm with comments about extraterrestrial life, former President Barack Obama has moved to set the record straight about what he actually meant.
The controversy began during a rapid-fire question session with podcast host Brian Tylor Cohen, when Obama was directly asked about the existence of aliens.
“They’re real,” Obama responded. “But I haven’t seen them. And, they’re not being kept in Area 51.”
The brief exchange quickly went viral across social platforms, prompting Obama to post an explanation on Instagram Sunday evening to address the widespread speculation his words had generated.
“I was trying to stick with the spirit of the speed round, but since it’s gotten attention let me clarify. Statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there. But the distances between solar systems are so great that the chances we’ve been visited by aliens is low, and I saw no evidence during my presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us. Really!” Obama wrote in his clarification.
The mention of Area 51 has long been a focal point for UFO conspiracy theorists, who have speculated about the secretive Nevada desert facility for decades.
The CIA finally confirmed Area 51’s existence in 2013, though officials made clear this acknowledgment had nothing to do with UFO crashes, alien beings, or faked moon missions.
Previously classified government records officially named the 8,000-square-mile facility after years of federal authorities declining to confirm its existence.
The installation has served as a proving ground for classified military aircraft projects, including the U-2 spy plane during the 1950s and the B-2 stealth bomber in later years.
BOSTON — Long before George Washington took the oath as America’s inaugural president, he was orchestrating a pivotal military operation that would shape the course of the Revolutionary War. Two and a half centuries ago, Washington was concluding the Siege of Boston, his inaugural campaign leading the Continental Army.
After colonial militias trapped British forces in Boston following the clashes at Lexington and Concord in April 1775, the Continental Congress appointed Washington to command their newly established army. The goal was clear: drive the occupying British troops from the strategic port city.
By this date 250 years ago, Washington was wrapping up nearly a full year of military pressure that had confined roughly 11,000 British soldiers and numerous loyalist supporters within Boston’s boundaries. His masterstroke came through dispatching Henry Knox, a young bookseller turned artillery expert, on a grueling winter journey to Fort Ticonderoga in New York to haul back dozens of cannons.
These artillery pieces, dragged across hundreds of miles through harsh winter conditions, proved decisive when aimed at British strongholds. Facing severe supply shortages and constant bombardment, British commanders chose to evacuate the city by sea on March 17, 1776.
According to historians, this British withdrawal — still commemorated in Boston as Evacuation Day — eliminated loyalist influence at a crucial moment, cut off British access to a vital harbor, and delivered a tremendous psychological victory to colonial forces.
“The success of the Siege of Boston gave new life and momentum to the Revolution,” explained Chris Beagan, site manager at Cambridge’s Longfellow House, a National Historic Site that functioned as Washington’s command center during the war. “Had it failed, royal control of New England would have continued, and the Continental Army likely would have dissolved.”
This campaign represented a crucial proving ground for Washington himself. Having left military service nearly two decades earlier after fighting for Britain in the French and Indian War, the Virginia surveyor and planter faced serious questions about his leadership abilities. His Boston triumph secured his position as commander-in-chief throughout the remaining war years.
Doug Bradburn, president of George Washington’s Mount Vernon, noted that Washington began building America’s first truly national military force, drawing militia members from Massachusetts down to Virginia. By war’s end, the Continental Army included substantial numbers of Black and Native American soldiers, creating the most racially integrated fighting force until President Harry Truman desegregated the military in 1948.
Initially, Washington — himself a lifelong enslaver who relied on hundreds of enslaved people at Mount Vernon — resisted allowing formerly enslaved and free Black men to serve. However, facing manpower shortages, Washington recognized that “there are free Blacks who want to enlist and he needs them to keep the British from breaking out” during the siege, Bradburn noted.
Expelling British forces from Boston also transformed Washington into one of America’s most beloved public figures.
“He comes to embody the cause in a time before you have a nation, before you have a Declaration of Independence, before you’re really sure what is the goal of this struggle,” Bradburn observed. “He becomes the face of the revolutionary movement.”
Pulitzer Prize-winning military historian Rick Atkinson emphasized that Washington’s eight-plus years commanding troops prepared him for executive leadership. “Perhaps most important, it gave him a sense that Americans could and should be a single people, rather than denizens of thirteen different entities.”
Washington’s legendary status also spawned numerous false stories that endure today. The famous cherry tree tale — where young George supposedly confessed to chopping down his father’s tree, declaring “I cannot tell a lie … I did cut it with my hatchet” — was completely fabricated by an early biographer after Washington’s death, according to Mount Vernon historians.
Similarly, the persistent belief that Washington wore wooden dentures is entirely false. While he did use artificial teeth made from ivory, gold, and even human teeth, he never had wooden dental work, despite this myth being repeated by scholars well into the 1900s.
Beyond military and political achievements, Washington pursued diverse interests throughout his life. Mount Vernon records show he pioneered innovative farming techniques and championed westward expansion, purchasing up to 50,000 acres across several Mid-Atlantic states. After returning home, he constructed a whiskey distillery that became among the nation’s largest.
Washington’s relationship with slavery remained complex. While advocating for slavery’s eventual end and directing in his will that all enslaved people he owned be freed after Martha Washington’s death, he couldn’t legally emancipate all Mount Vernon’s enslaved population since he didn’t own them all.
For Washington enthusiasts, Presidents Day represents their biggest celebration. Originally created to honor Washington’s February 22 birthday, the holiday has evolved into a shopping event for many Americans. However, numerous locations still commemorate Washington’s legacy with special events.
This year’s tributes include a wreath ceremony at Washington’s Mount Vernon tomb, Continental Army demonstrations, a parade in Alexandria, Virginia, and even a month-long festival in Laredo, Texas, featuring carnival rides, pageants, air shows, and a jalapeño celebration.
WINDER, Ga. — A groundbreaking criminal trial begins Monday as prosecutors prepare to argue that a father should face murder charges for his role in his teenage son’s deadly school shooting rampage.
Colin Gray stands accused of 29 criminal counts, including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter charges, stemming from the September 2024 attack at Apalachee High School that claimed four lives. His 14-year-old son Colt allegedly gunned down two students and two teachers in what investigators describe as a meticulously planned assault.
This prosecution represents part of a nationwide movement where legal authorities are pursuing criminal charges against parents following their children’s involvement in fatal school violence. According to the criminal indictment, Gray provided his son with both a firearm and bullets despite having adequate warning that the teenager posed a danger to others.
Under Georgia’s legal framework, prosecutors contend this constitutes child cruelty, and the state’s second-degree murder statute applies when a child dies as a result of such cruelty.
The proceedings will take place in Winder, located in Barrow County where the tragedy occurred. While defense attorneys requested moving the trial due to extensive media coverage, and prosecutors supported the request, the presiding judge opted to keep the case local while importing jurors from neighboring Hall County. Jury selection concluded last week.
Law enforcement officials say the younger Gray methodically orchestrated the September 4, 2024 attack at the school serving 1,900 students in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
According to investigators’ accounts, the teenager concealed a semi-automatic rifle in his backpack, with the weapon’s barrel protruding and camouflaged with poster board, before boarding his regular school transportation. During the school day, he departed his second-period classroom, retrieved the weapon from a restroom, and began firing at victims in both classrooms and corridors.
Court testimony from a pretrial proceeding revealed that Colin Gray had presented the firearm to his son as a Christmas present months before the shooting occurred. Additionally, the father purchased an enhanced magazine to increase the weapon’s ammunition capacity.
Prosecutors have disclosed that the elder Gray was aware of his son’s disturbing fixation on perpetrators of school violence, including maintaining what authorities described as a shrine dedicated to Nikolas Cruz, who carried out the 2018 Parkland, Florida massacre. A Georgia Bureau of Investigation officer testified that both parents had discussed their child’s preoccupation with school shooters but dismissed it as harmless joking rather than a serious concern.
Evidence also shows Colin Gray recognized his son’s declining mental health condition and had contacted counseling services in the weeks leading up to the violence. In written communications about his son, Gray stated: “We have had a very difficult past couple of years and he needs help. Anger, anxiety, quick to be volatile. I don’t know what to do.”
Nearly 4,000 Yemeni nationals living in the United States will lose their protected immigration status following a federal decision announced Friday by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The Department of Homeland Security has canceled Yemen’s Temporary Protected Status designation, which had shielded Yemenis from deportation since 2015. Secretary Noem stated that her department conducted an assessment of Yemen’s current situation before making the determination.
“After reviewing country conditions and consulting with the appropriate U.S. government agencies, I determined that Yemen no longer meets the statutory requirements for its TPS designation,” Noem explained in her announcement.
The Temporary Protected Status program provides safety for foreign nationals whose home countries face dangerous conditions such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or other exceptional situations that make return hazardous. Yemen qualified for this protection in 2015 as civil war escalated, involving Houthi rebels, the recognized government, and international military involvement. The ongoing conflict has created massive population displacement and a humanitarian emergency, with United Nations officials consistently highlighting critical needs throughout Yemen.
Secretary Noem defended the termination decision, arguing that maintaining protection for Yemeni nationals no longer serves American interests. She emphasized the temporary nature of the program in her statement.
“Allowing TPS beneficiaries from Yemen to remain temporarily in the United States is contrary to our national interest,” Noem declared, noting that the program was designed with built-in time limitations.
Yemeni nationals who benefited from the protection and lack alternative legal immigration status now face a 60-day deadline to depart the country voluntarily. Following the program’s expiration, federal authorities warned they may arrest and deport Yemeni individuals who remain without proper documentation.
Yemen’s government anticipated this policy change, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Mustafa Ahmad Noman, who connected the decision to broader immigration enforcement efforts.
“The decision was not surprising in light of the U.S. administration’s policy of deporting immigrants living in the United States, whether legal or illegal,” Noman commented. He encouraged affected Yemenis to explore legal challenges, noting that “they can pursue legal avenues, as other Arab and non-Arab communities have done and succeeded in delaying it.” Noman added that Yemen’s Washington embassy is coordinating with officials to provide assistance.
This immigration policy change represents another contentious issue in ongoing national discussions about border security and humanitarian protections as the Trump administration implements stricter enforcement measures and reduces protective programs.
A federal healthcare agency serving Native Americans and Alaska Natives will eliminate mercury-based dental fillings within the next few years, officials announced from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
For many years, the Indian Health Service has utilized dental amalgams containing elemental mercury to repair cavities and damaged teeth. Advocacy groups representing Native American communities and environmental organizations have long pushed for this change, contending that these materials expose vulnerable populations to dangerous neurotoxins, particularly those without access to private dental care.
These mercury-based amalgams, commonly called “silver fillings” because of their metallic appearance, have seen dramatic reductions in usage since the FDA upgraded their risk classification from low to moderate in 2009. Most dental practices have transitioned to plastic resin compounds, which offer both safety benefits and better cosmetic results.
By 2027, the Indian Health Service plans to completely transition to mercury-free dental materials. Statistics from the agency reveal a significant decrease in mercury filling usage among their approximately 2.8 million patients – dropping from 12% in 2005 to just 2% in 2023.
The Department of Health and Human Services, which supervises the Indian Health Service, cited increasing environmental and health worries about mercury exposure, along with international initiatives to eliminate hazardous heavy metals, as driving factors behind this month’s announcement.
“This is a commonsense step that protects patients and prevents harm before it starts,” Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated.
Kennedy emphasized that transitioning away from mercury-containing materials also fulfills the federal government’s legal obligations to the 575 officially recognized tribal nations.
The FDA notes that amalgam fillings may emit trace amounts of mercury vapor when installed, removed, or during activities like teeth grinding and chewing gum. The agency advises high-risk individuals – including expectant mothers, children younger than six, and people with neurological disorders – to avoid these fillings. However, both the FDA and American Dental Association maintain that current research doesn’t establish connections between mercury fillings and lasting health problems.
The World Health Organization has developed an initiative encouraging nations worldwide to discontinue dental amalgam use due to mercury exposure risks. In 2013, the United States joined other countries in signing the Minamata Convention, an international treaty addressing mercury’s harmful effects on health and the environment. Last November, treaty participants committed to eliminating mercury dental amalgams by 2034.
Although Kennedy’s 2027 timeline for the Indian Health Service exceeds the global target date, the United States still trails numerous developed countries that have already prohibited these materials.
“The rest of the world is light years ahead of us,” stated Rochelle Diver, who serves as the U.N. environmental treaties coordinator for the International Indian Treaty Council. She argued that Indian Health Service patients shouldn’t receive dental care that many practitioners now consider outdated.
The American Dental Association released a statement recognizing the decreased use of mercury fillings while maintaining they represent a “safe, durable and affordable material.”
Mercury usage in other medical equipment, including thermometers and blood pressure monitors, has also substantially declined over recent decades. While private dental practices have largely moved away from mercury amalgams, patients dependent on government healthcare programs often lack alternatives, according to Charles G. Brown, who leads the World Alliance for Mercury-Free Dentistry.
Brown noted that numerous state Medicaid programs still provide coverage for mercury-containing fillings as decay treatment.
“If you’re on Medicaid, if you are stuck in the Indian Health Service, if you were stuck in a prison or other institution, you just don’t have any choice,” Brown explained.
Federal investigators have discovered what could be a crucial piece of evidence in the search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie who disappeared from her Arizona residence three weeks ago.
The FBI announced Sunday that DNA testing on a glove discovered in a field roughly two miles away from Nancy Guthrie’s Tucson residence appears to connect it to a masked individual captured on surveillance footage outside her home on the evening she vanished.
Nancy Guthrie was last observed at her residence on January 31st and reported missing one day later. Law enforcement officials discovered her blood on the front porch of her home. While alleged ransom demands were delivered to media organizations, two payment deadlines have already expired without resolution.
Medical concerns add urgency to the search, as authorities report Nancy Guthrie requires essential daily medications. According to sheriff’s dispatcher recordings, she has a pacemaker and has been managing high blood pressure and cardiac conditions.
Security cameras recorded footage of the suspected individual on Tuesday, showing someone wearing a firearm holster positioned near Guthrie’s entrance on the night she disappeared. The masked person carried a backpack and wore winter clothing including gloves, long pants, and a jacket.
By Thursday, federal agents had classified this individual as a suspect, describing him as a male approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall with a medium frame. Investigators noted he was carrying a 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack.
The FBI stated Sunday that the glove found alongside a roadway had been submitted for DNA analysis. The agency received initial test results on Saturday and is now waiting for official verification of the findings.
Law enforcement activity intensified Friday evening when agents blocked off a road approximately two miles from the victim’s residence. Multiple sheriff’s department and FBI vehicles, including forensic units, moved through the secured area as part of their investigation.
Officers also impounded a Range Rover SUV from a nearby restaurant parking area. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirmed this action was connected to the Guthrie case.
Forensic teams have recovered DNA samples from the property that do not belong to Nancy Guthrie or individuals known to have regular contact with her. Investigators are working to determine the identity of this genetic material.
All evidence requiring laboratory analysis is being processed at the same out-of-state facility that has handled testing since the investigation began, according to the sheriff’s department.
Federal agents reported finding approximately 16 gloves in various locations around the residence, though most belonged to search team members who had discarded them during operations.
Both the Pima County Sheriff’s Office and FBI have established tip lines and websites for public assistance. Several hundred detectives and agents have been deployed to work this case.
Since February 1st, the FBI has processed more than 13,000 tips from the public. The sheriff’s department reports handling at least 18,000 phone calls related to the investigation.
Officials have not disclosed whether any submitted tips have provided significant leads in advancing the case.
On Tuesday, sheriff’s deputies stopped and questioned an individual during a traffic stop south of Tucson. While authorities have not explained what prompted the stop, they confirmed the person was subsequently released.
That same day, deputies and federal agents executed a court-approved search in Rio Rico, located approximately one hour south of the city.
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have utilized social media platforms to share multiple video appeals directed at their mother’s suspected abductor.
The family’s Instagram messages have evolved from emotional appeals to the potential captor, expressing willingness to negotiate and even pay ransom demands, to more desperate public pleas for assistance.
Thursday’s most recent video featured simple home footage of their mother along with a commitment to “never give up on her.”
Nancy Guthrie resided alone in the affluent Catalina Foothills area, characterized by widely spaced homes set back from streets behind lengthy driveways, security gates, and thick desert landscaping.
Savannah Guthrie spent her childhood in Tucson, earned her degree from the University of Arizona, and previously worked at a local television station in the city where her parents established themselves during the 1970s. She became part of the Today show team in 2011.
In one video message, she characterized her mother as a “loving woman of goodness and light.”
Savannah has spoken about how her mother kept their family united following her father’s fatal heart attack in 1988 when he was 49 years old, at a time when Savannah was only 16 and the youngest of three children.
A 16-year-old girl from Chicago has passed away after courageously advocating for her father while fighting a devastating cancer diagnosis. Ofelia Giselle Torres Hidalgo lost her battle with stage 4 alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma on Friday, according to a family statement.
The teenager received her diagnosis of the aggressive soft tissue cancer in December 2024 and had been receiving chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Just three days prior to Ofelia’s passing, a Chicago immigration judge made a significant ruling regarding her father, Ruben Torres Maldonado. The court determined he was conditionally eligible for “cancellation of removal” based on the severe hardships his deportation would inflict on his U.S.-born children who hold American citizenship, according to a statement from Torres Maldonado’s legal representative.
This court decision opens a pathway for Torres Maldonado to obtain lawful permanent residency status and potentially pursue U.S. citizenship in the future. Ofelia participated in the recent court proceeding through a Zoom video connection.
“Ofelia was heroic and brave in the face of ICE’s detention and threatened deportation of her father,” stated Kalman Resnick, the attorney representing Torres Maldonado. “We mourn Ofelia’s passing, and we hope that she will serve as a model for us all for how to be courageous and to fight for what’s right to our last breaths.”
Torres Maldonado, who works as a painter and home renovation contractor, was taken into custody on October 18 at a Home Depot location in suburban Chicago. His arrest occurred during a significant immigration enforcement operation called “Operation Midway Blitz,” which launched in early September.
While receiving medical treatment, Ofelia recorded a message that appeared in October on a GoFundMe fundraising page created for her family’s expenses.
“My dad, like many other fathers, is a hard-working person who wakes up early in the morning and goes to work without complaining, thinking about his family,” she said in the video. “I find it so unfair that hardworking immigrant families are being targeted just because they were not born here.”
Despite her condition, Ofelia attended her father’s October court hearing in a wheelchair. Her family’s legal team informed the judge that she had been discharged from the hospital just one day before her father’s arrest so she could spend time with loved ones. The attorneys also explained that Ofelia had been forced to pause her cancer treatment “because of the stress and disruption.”
Torres Maldonado’s legal team filed petitions seeking his release while his deportation proceedings continued. An October ruling by a judge determined his detention was unlawful and violated his constitutional due process rights, leading to a bond hearing being scheduled.
A judge subsequently approved Torres Maldonado’s release on $2,000 bond, noting his clean criminal record as a factor in the decision.
According to his attorneys, Torres Maldonado arrived in the United States in 2003. He and his partner, Sandibell Hidalgo, are also parents to a younger son.
The Department of Homeland Security had contended that he had been residing in the country without legal status for many years and possessed a record of traffic violations, including operating a vehicle without proper licensing, lacking insurance coverage, and speeding infractions. The family has requested privacy regarding funeral arrangements.
