Iniaes

Mexico travel alert after cartel violence in Puerto Vallarta

Travellers heading to Mexico are being urged to monitor safety updates after cartel violence flared up in Puerto Vallarta. Visitors in the resort city have been advised to stay indoors, and multiple flights to and from the local airport have been cancelled. Because nothing says “relaxing beach getaway” like refreshing your government’s travel advisory every 12 minutes.

Trump floats sending a “hospital boat” to Greenland, Greenland says “no thanks”

President Donald Trump said he would send a “great hospital boat” to Greenland to treat neglected patients, prompting confusion in the U.S. and Europe. Greenlandic officials say they did not request any ship, and the island’s prime minister said it would not be welcomed, noting residents already receive guaranteed free health care. It is the geopolitical equivalent of barging into a well-run kitchen with a spatula and announcing you are here to “save dinner.”

Louis Walsh unloads on Simon Cowell, claims he’s “lost his edge”

Louis Walsh criticised former X Factor colleague Simon Cowell, saying Cowell has “lost his edge” and no longer has the instincts he once did. Walsh said they have not spoken in years, claimed Cowell is surrounded by yes-people, and suggested Cowell’s fiancée, Lauren Silverman, controls access to him. Walsh also dismissed Britain’s Got Talent as diminished from its peak and mocked Cowell’s new boyband project, while saying he hopes it works for the performers’ sake. Show sources counter that BGT’s recent reach and digital viewing figures remain strong. Two music industry titans arguing about who still has “it” is like watching two roosters fight over a parking spot at a nostalgia convention.

South Carolina Democrats ask Biden to help keep their “first primary” status

South Carolina Democrats are asking former President Joe Biden to help preserve the state’s position as the first contest in the Democratic Party’s next presidential primary. The political calendar, that sacred relic where every state swears it is uniquely qualified to go first because of vibes.

Arsenal thump Spurs 4-1, Gabriel trolls Richarlison online

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes celebrated a 4-1 North London derby win over Tottenham by posting an Instagram photo on the team coach holding a playing card with the number four and tagging Richarlison, keeping their online rivalry alive. Arsenal’s win featured two goals each from Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres after Randal Kolo Muani had levelled before half-time, and it came in Igor Tudor’s first match as Spurs interim manager. Arsenal stayed five points clear at the top of the Premier League, though having played one more game than Manchester City. Football heritage, tactical analysis, and a little light social media pettiness: the modern holy trinity.

Sweden warns EU delays on Russia sanctions and Ukraine support help Moscow

Sweden’s foreign minister told Euronews that delays in EU sanctions on Russia or in support for Ukraine reduce pressure on Moscow at a crucial point in the war, just ahead of its four-year anniversary. Translation: hesitation is not a strategy, it is just procrastination with better suits.

Protests in Verona over costs and “green” claims tied to Milan Cortina 2026

Protesters in Verona marched ahead of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics closing ceremony, arguing that billions in public funds are being spent on venues with limited long-term value. They also challenged claims that the event will run on renewable energy and deliver lasting benefits. The Olympics remain the only event where “legacy” means “expensive concrete that will host exactly three concerts and a pigeon.”

Philadelphia: Snow tapers by dawn, ends this afternoon

AccuWeather says heavy snow fell overnight, then eases by daybreak. Only light additional accumulation is expected this morning, with snow ending later in the afternoon.

Philadelphia declares Snow Emergency

A Snow Emergency for the City of Philadelphia took effect at 4 p.m. Sunday, because nothing says “civic harmony” like towing rules meeting parked cars in a blizzard.

Another winter storm blankets Philadelphia as crews clear streets

Snow piled up across Center City while crews worked to clear roads and shovel sidewalks and bike lanes, a reminder that winter’s favorite hobby is making every commute a group project.

TfL apologises after debt collectors pursue 85-year-old over congestion fines tied to old number plate

Transport for London apologised after debt collectors chased an 85-year-old man for congestion charge fines run up by the new owner of his former personalised plate, still linked to his dormant Auto Pay account. Despite evidence he no longer owned the vehicle and repeated attempts by his daughter to act under power of attorney, TfL initially insisted the charges stood under its terms and conditions. After external intervention, TfL refunded the money and closed the account, while reiterating that account holders must remove vehicles they are no longer responsible for—an absolutely thrilling bureaucratic bedtime story.

Nandan Nilekani says AI undercuts the case for clinging to legacy systems

Infosys chairman Nandan Nilekani argued that AI removes the justification for keeping legacy systems, saying organizations can use it to modernize and simplify older technology. He also warned that AI-driven development could eventually create a fresh batch of “new legacy” systems, because humans can turn any tool into a museum exhibit.

Oman confirms new U.S., Iran nuclear talks in Geneva as Trump warns of possible strikes

Oman said the United States and Iran will hold another round of talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme Thursday in Geneva. President Donald Trump warned limited strikes are possible, while both sides signalled they are prepared for war if negotiations fail—a charming way to say everyone is bringing matches to a gasoline meeting.

Muslim-majority nations condemn Huckabee comments about Israel claiming the Middle East

Multiple foreign ministries, including Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bahrain, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Kuwait, and Lebanon, issued a joint statement criticising U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee after he suggested Israel could claim the entire Middle East in an interview with Tucker Carlson.

Secret Service shoots, kills man attempting to access Mar-a-Lago

The U.S. Secret Service early Sunday shot and killed a man who tried to access President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort while appearing to carry a shotgun and a gas can.

Endometriosis diagnosis and surgery: newer guidance says laparoscopy not always required

Updated guidelines say endometriosis does not always require surgery to diagnose, since symptoms plus specialised ultrasound or MRI can often detect deep or ovarian disease. Surgery is mainly considered as treatment for severe persistent pain not responding to medical therapy, organ-threatening deep endometriosis, or fertility issues, while acknowledging risks like complications, adhesions, and pain recurrence. Patients are advised to weigh alternatives, review imaging, seek experienced surgeons for complex cases, and get a second opinion if they feel pressured into procedures.

South Korea industry grows cautious as tariff uncertainty rises

South Korea’s industrial sector says tariff rates have not changed, but companies are becoming more cautious amid rising uncertainty after President Trump’s remarks about possible global tariffs.

President Lee Jae-myung and opposition clash over housing policy ahead of local elections

President Lee Jae-myung and the conservative opposition escalated their dispute over housing policy as political tensions rise ahead of upcoming local elections.

Milo Ventimiglia says Tim Timmons from "I Can Only Imagine 2" is genuinely kind

Milo Ventimiglia, who plays Christian music star Tim Timmons in "I Can Only Imagine 2," said he and Timmons became close friends and described him as “pure goodness.”

Epstein investigation disrupted as UK detectives warn flight records may have been destroyed

The Jeffrey Epstein probe has been rocked after detectives warned that UK flight evidence may have been destroyed, as the Metropolitan Police examines whether Epstein’s private jet was used to move victims through British commercial airports and RAF bases, including RAF Northolt. Investigators say key records may no longer exist because RAF passenger manifests can be destroyed after three months, commercial airline manifests are typically kept for six to seven years, and air traffic control movement sheets for two years, leaving only incomplete logs in recently released files. The renewed scrutiny follows calls from former Prime Minister Gordon Brown to revisit past decisions not to pursue a full inquiry, alongside reports that multiple police forces have been urged to investigate flights linked to UK airports.

Blizzard warnings issued for 35 million people as winter storm hits the Northeast

A major winter storm is moving through the mid-Atlantic and Northeast on Sunday and is expected to continue into Monday. The National Weather Service forecasts heavy snow from the northern mid-Atlantic into the Northeast, with snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour from Sunday evening into Monday.

AccuWeather says a rare blizzard warning is in effect for most of the region

AccuWeather reports that a rare blizzard warning is now in effect for most of the region. Morning rain is expected to turn to snow later today, with worsening visibility and potential whiteout conditions.

UK Foreign Office issues urgent travel warning for British tourists in Mexico after cartel violence

The UK Foreign Office has warned British nationals in Mexico to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel in parts of Jalisco after retaliatory cartel violence followed a federal operation in Tapalpa that reportedly killed Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.” Authorities reported highway blockades and arson incidents in areas including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, with possible airport access disruptions. Puerto Vallarta airport saw major cancellations and diversions, stranding passengers, while resorts such as Cancun on the Caribbean coast were reported unaffected.

Why Trump Is Likely to Prevail in the Tariff Fight

A Supreme Court ruling blocked Trump’s use of the 1977 emergency-powers law, IEEPA, to justify broad tariffs, but left most existing tariffs intact and did not meaningfully curtail presidential authority. Trump then shifted to Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act to impose a temporary tariff of up to 15% for 150 days, buying time to pursue longer-lasting tariffs through established routes such as Section 232, for national security, and Section 301, for unfair trade practices. Those paths require more procedure and time, but they still give the president wide latitude—meaning the ruling changes the legal packaging more than the policy outcome.

Stoke-on-Trent expands adult learning for asylum seekers

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is putting £60,000 of central government funding into expanding ESOL and other adult learning courses for asylum seekers after demand created long waiting lists. The added provision aims to improve communication, literacy, and digital skills, including help with job applications online. Home Office figures list 1,044 asylum seekers in dispersed accommodation in the city plus 267 in contingency hotel accommodation, and the council received £1.4 million last year via the Home Office Full Dispersal Grant.

EU presses US on trade commitments after tariff ruling

The European Commission urged the United States to follow through on its trade commitments after the Supreme Court struck down some tariffs imposed under Donald Trump. A senior EU lawmaker responded by moving to pause ratification of last year’s EU–US trade deal, because nothing says “strong partnership” like threatening to put the paperwork back in the drawer.

Open-source package registries warn security work is underfunded

Open-source package registries are struggling to fund essential security work, despite efforts like the Linux Foundation’s Alpha-Omega initiative, launched in 2022 with $5 million from Google and Microsoft. Co-founder Michael Winser says many registries rely on irregular grants and donations, leaving them unable to pay for core integrity and anti-malware features as malware packages surge, especially on npm. He estimates a large registry like Rust’s Crates.io could cost $5 to $8 million annually to run, excluding major in-kind bandwidth support, while PyPI’s bandwidth alone would cost about $1.8 million per month without Fastly’s backing. Winser argues companies should treat registry funding as a routine operating expense rather than optional donations.

Anthropic launches Claude Code Security, markets get jumpy

Anthropic launched Claude Code Security, an AI code-scanning tool that says it uncovered more than 500 previously undetected bugs in production software. The announcement coincided with a sharp drop in cybersecurity stocks as investors debated whether AI-driven code review is a genuine threat to the roughly $200 billion security industry or just a market-wide panic attack in a suit.

NFL receiver Rondale Moore dies at 25

NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore was found dead on Saturday in his hometown in Indiana, according to authorities. He was 25.

Budapest rally marks four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine

Civil organisations held a rally in Budapest to mark four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, drawing an estimated 200 attendees.

Rugby analysts debate Scotland’s match-winning try against Wales

Rugby Special pundits John Barclay and Sam Warburton reviewed Scotland’s match-winning try against Wales and assessed whether awarding it was the correct decision.

Mexico says cartel leader “El Mencho” killed in military operation

Mexico said its military killed “El Mencho,” identified as the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, during an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The state has been linked to fentanyl and other drug trafficking into the United States.

US trade chief says Republicans have shifted toward supporting tariffs

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said some Republican lawmakers who previously opposed tariffs have recently shifted to support the Trump administration’s tariff policy on foreign trading partners, proving that in politics, principles are often just draft versions.

Bristol Bears Women rally to beat Loughborough in record match

David scored two tries as Bristol Bears came from 16 points down to secure a 24-21 bonus-point win over Loughborough Lightning in a history-making Premiership Women’s Rugby match.

Team USA Honors Johnny Gaudreau After Overtime Win for Olympic Gold

Team USA paid tribute to Johnny Gaudreau after a historic overtime victory over Canada on Sunday that secured the United States an Olympic gold medal.

Man in His Early 20s Shot and Killed by Secret Service and Local Deputy Outside Mar-a-Lago, Agency Says

A man described by authorities as a white male in his early 20s was shot and killed by a U.S. Secret Service agent and a local sheriff’s deputy outside Mar-a-Lago, the agency said.

Barry Manilow Cancels Additional Concerts After Doctor Visit

Barry Manilow has canceled the remainder of his February concerts and most of his March dates as he continues to deal with ongoing health issues following a doctor visit he described as depressing.

Father and son’s fishing trip triggers a Second World War bomb scare

A father and his 15-year-old son found a live Second World War mortar bomb while magnet fishing in the River Stour near Canford Magna, Dorset. After pulling it from the water and warning others to keep back, they called police, who set up a 200-metre cordon as Army bomb disposal specialists carried out a controlled explosion, leaving a crater. The father had only started magnet fishing days earlier after receiving the magnet as a birthday gift.

United States defeats Canada 2–1 in overtime to win first Olympic men’s hockey gold since 1980

The United States beat Canada 2–1 in overtime, securing its first Olympic men’s hockey championship since 1980.

TSA says PreCheck remains operational despite earlier suspension notice during funding dispute

The TSA said PreCheck is still operating after an earlier notice suggested it could be suspended during a funding dispute. The agency added that if staffing constraints occur, it will review conditions case by case and adjust operations as needed.

Sam Altman says companies are blaming AI for layoffs, even though AI accounts for under 1% of job losses

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said some companies are “AI-washing” layoffs by attributing planned cost-cutting to artificial intelligence. Data cited alongside his comments suggest AI-linked layoffs totaled about 55,000 in 2025—less than 1% of overall US job losses—and surveys found most executives reported no AI-driven workforce impact, though employment has fallen for some entry-level software and customer service roles since 2022.

U.S. trade representative says Trump administration rebuilt its tariff strategy after Supreme Court ruling

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the Trump administration has reworked its tariff policies after the Supreme Court struck down the use of an emergency statute to justify the current levies. Greer said President Trump addressed the issue at a Friday press conference and indicated the administration had identified alternative ways to pursue its tariff agenda.

Wales to appoint former Scotland international as defence coach

Wales are expected to hire a former Scotland international as their new defence coach this summer, with Steve Tandy set to bring in a familiar figure to take on the role.

Large Tax Refunds Expected This Tax Season

Tax season may bring unusually large refunds, with JPMorgan estimating that more than 100 million Americans will receive one and the average refund reaching $3,743.

Salsa musician Willie Colón dies at 75

Salsa legend Willie Colón has died at the age of 75.

Secret Service shoots and kills armed man attempting to enter Mar-a-Lago

Early Sunday morning, the U.S. Secret Service shot and killed a man who was trying to access President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort while appearing to carry a shotgun and a gas can.

Disputed Wales vs Scotland incident sparks anger as TV presenter comments

A disputed moment in Wales’ Six Nations match against Scotland left many fans angry, with a TV presenter adding their perspective. Wales nearly ended their winless run but were edged out by Scotland in Cardiff.

Eileen Gu wins Winter Olympics halfpipe gold for China after controversy over switching from the U.S.

Chinese athlete Eileen Gu won gold in the women’s halfpipe in Livigno, defending the title she first claimed in Beijing four years ago. The 22-year-old scored 94.75 on her final run after a poor opening attempt, with her 94-point second run also enough to secure victory. Li Fanghui took silver for China with 93, and Britain’s Zoe Atkin won bronze with 92.5. The win gave Gu her fifth Olympic medal and came amid renewed criticism in the U.S. over her decision to compete for China after being born in America.

Over 100,000 Plastic Lids Form the World’s Tallest Recycled Mural in El Salvador

Venezuelan artist Óscar Olivares created the world’s tallest mural made from plastic lids in the Zacamil neighbourhood of San Salvador. Standing more than 13 metres high, the artwork was assembled from over 100,000 lids collected and recycled by the local community.

AccuWeather Issues Rare Blizzard Warning for Most of the Region

AccuWeather has issued a rare blizzard warning for most of the region as morning rain is expected to switch to snow, with whiteout conditions developing later today.

Police officer upholds Christian preacher’s right to speak after crowd objects in Whitechapel

A police constable in Whitechapel, London intervened when a group of men surrounded a Christian preacher speaking in a public area near the East London Mosque and claimed it was a “Muslim area.” The officer told the group that freedom of speech applies to everyone and that they could preach their religion as well, advising those offended to walk away. Tensions escalated after the preacher was reportedly pushed from behind, and the officer noted there was a risk of assault while rejecting claims that he was inciting hatred.

Kent man who declared himself president of a self-created micronation opens an embassy on his local high street

A man from Kent, Daniel Jackson, says he and his friends created a micronation in the Balkans when they were teenagers. After declaring himself its president, he has now opened an “embassy” for the project on his local high street.

A Look Inside a Compact Intel 3,000 W Water-Cooled Power Supply

A teardown of a compact Intel-branded 3,000 W water-cooled power supply, built as a server reference design, shows a large water block between two dense PCBs to manage heat while targeting an 80 Plus Platinum efficiency rating. The unit expects 240 VAC input and converts it to 12 VDC at up to 250 A, underscoring why 48 V systems are gaining favor in servers due to lower current for the same power. Reverse engineering indicates an interleaved totem-pole PFC using 600 V GaN FETs, followed by a phase-shifted full-bridge stage with SiC JFETs, along with a few puzzling design choices that couldn’t be explained without pre-teardown performance measurements.

How to Watch France vs Italy: TV, Free Live Stream, and Radio Coverage for the Six Nations

France host Italy at the Stade de France this afternoon in round 3 of the 2026 Six Nations, with TV coverage, a free live stream option, and radio commentary available.

Burgum renews Trump-era push for U.S. control of Greenland, citing opportunities

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum revived the Trump-era push to bring Greenland under U.S. control, describing it as strategically important for both economic interests and national security. He pointed to Greenland’s location near Alaska and discussed ongoing negotiations tied to mineral rights, arguing the territory could help strengthen North American defense and access to critical resources.

After 16 Years, Interim CTO Moves to Remove Fujitsu and the Horizon System from the UK Post Office

The UK Post Office’s interim CTO, Paul Anastassi, says he is pushing to replace Fujitsu’s long-running Horizon platform—software described as error-prone and linked by a public inquiry to severe harm, including 13 deaths—by before 2030. He says the Horizon estate spans more than 80 components across Fujitsu, internal systems, and other third parties, with plans for a modern, device-agnostic front end. Previous replacement efforts, including an IBM-led attempt and the later NBIT programme, collapsed amid complexity and governance problems. The Post Office now expects to sign two supplier contracts by this summer to begin the final transition away from Fujitsu, which Anastassi says should also cut costs.

Iranian Students Resume Anti-Government Protests in Tehran as U.S. Military Presence Increases

Iranian students renewed anti-government protests at universities in Tehran as the U.S. increased its military presence in the region. Geolocated videos show students chanting “bi sharaf” (“disgraceful” in Farsi), with clashes breaking out with government supporters.

AI Agent Boom Drives a Rush to Identify Winners

An influx of AI agents that can handle tasks ranging from writing software to giving tax guidance is pushing the tech industry and financial markets to quickly sort likely winners from potential losers.

Homeland Security suspends TSA PreCheck and Global Entry programs

Homeland Security is suspending the TSA PreCheck and Global Entry airport security programs as the partial government shutdown continues.

Pakistan Carries Out Strikes in Afghanistan; Taliban Reports Dozens Killed

Pakistan launched strikes in Afghanistan, saying the operation was retaliation for recent suicide bombings inside Pakistan. The Taliban said the strikes killed dozens of people.

Feb. 22: Christchurch, New Zealand earthquake kills 185

On Feb. 22, 2011, a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, causing severe damage, killing 185 people, and injuring up to 2,000.

Notable birthdays for February 22 include Connor Storrie and Kyle MacLachlan

Notable birthdays for Feb. 22 include actor Connor Storrie turning 26 and actor Kyle MacLachlan turning 67.

Calls from Children Living with Alcohol-Dependent Parents Rise by 60%, New Figures Show

New figures show calls from children living with alcohol-dependent parents have risen by 60% since 2019, with the National Association for Children of Alcoholics reporting a sharp increase in young people seeking help. In 2025, the charity recorded 37,000 contacts, often linked to family breakdown and parental death, as campaigners estimate 2.6 million UK children live with a parent who drinks excessively. Separate NSPCC data reported 9,192 helpline contacts in the year to March 2025 about parental alcohol or drug misuse, and 73,250 children in England were identified in Child in Need assessments as having a parent misusing alcohol. Advocates are calling for stronger, coordinated government action and an updated alcohol strategy to better protect and support affected families.

Government plans to halve the attainment gap for disadvantaged students

The government plans to cut the attainment gap for disadvantaged students by half as part of a new Schools White Paper, due to be published in full on Monday.

Unexpected Stories from the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

The Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics produced a mix of memorable and unusual moments, highlighting several unexpected stories from across the Games.

Preparedness Notes for Sunday, February 22, 2026

Highlights notable February 22 anniversaries: President Grover Cleveland’s 1889 signing of the bill admitting the Dakotas, Montana, and Washington as U.S. states; the 1857 birth of German physicist Heinrich Hertz, whose work proved radio waves; and the 1943 execution of Sophie Scholl for her role in the White Rose resistance against Nazi Germany.

France mourns slain student as politics tries to eat the tragedy

Thousands marched in Lyon and elsewhere to honor 23-year-old Quentin Deranque, who died after brain injuries from an attack by masked assailants following right and left activist clashes near a student event. Demonstrators carried white tulips and demanded justice, Deranque’s parents urged calm, and police reported no major incidents. Several suspects face murder charges, including people reportedly linked to the far-left France Unbowed party, and the case is now ricocheting into a Macron versus Meloni slap fight because of course it is.

Ticketmaster and the “price cap” crusade (starring Ted Nugent, because why not)

Ted Nugent blasted Live Nation/Ticketmaster over claims it is lobbying for a 20% cap on resale prices, a cap critics argue the mega-platform could absorb while smaller competitors get squeezed. The piece also notes ongoing scrutiny from Congress and the FTC, plus accusations Ticketmaster has tolerated or benefited from bot-fueled ticket buying and inflated resale markets. Kid Rock also aired concerns at a congressional hearing, and the article urges lawmakers to skip “price control” theater and actually hold the behemoth accountable.

Nor’easter targets New Jersey and Delaware with blizzard warnings

AccuWeather says a nor’easter is expected to deliver heavy snow and strong winds, prompting blizzard warnings for parts of New Jersey and Delaware.

Senate GOP considers reviving the talking filibuster to push a voter ID bill

Senate Republicans are under pressure from President Trump and conservative allies to bring back a traditional talking filibuster to advance a voter identification bill they consider key to their midterm prospects. Majority Leader John Thune is reportedly reluctant, since it could grind the Senate to a halt for a long time with no guarantee it works.

DHS shutdown triggers temporary suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

The Washington Post reports DHS will temporarily suspend two programs that speed airport screening, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, starting Sunday as the shutdown moves into its second week.

Trump urges Netflix to dump Susan Rice from its board

The Wall Street Journal reports President Trump called on Netflix to remove former national security adviser Susan Rice from its board, adding political pressure as Netflix pursues key Warner Bros. entertainment assets.

Portable charger explosion hospitalizes Los Angeles sports reporter

Los Angeles sports reporter Ashley Nevel said she was hospitalized after a portable charger reportedly exploded in her bed around 5 a.m., causing chemical burns and burning a hole in her mattress. She said a fire blanket helped contain it, her phone overheated while plugged in so she could not call 911, and she had to seek help from neighbors. Nevel warned others to be cautious with portable chargers, especially in confined settings.

Sen. Adam Schiff to Skip Trump’s State of the Union and Speak at an Alternative Event

Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) plans to boycott President Trump’s State of the Union address next Tuesday and instead speak at an alternative event, according to MeidasTouch. Schiff is expected to appear at a counter-rally on the National Mall as part of a growing group of Democrats choosing not to attend the address.

New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan Says He Was Upset with Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Criticized a Comment by Vice President JD Vance

Retired New York Archbishop Cardinal Timothy Dolan said he was upset that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani did not invite him to the Jan. 1 inauguration, included few Catholics on the mayoral transition team, and skipped the installation of Dolan’s successor, Archbishop Ronald Hicks—breaking a tradition dating to 1939. Dolan also said he generally likes Vice President JD Vance but objected to Vance’s suggestion that U.S. bishops support immigration for financial reasons, calling it false and “scurrilous,” and said Vance later apologized. Dolan criticized Mamdani’s self-described socialism while also describing him as approachable and principled despite policy disagreements.

Reports Say Ukraine Struck a Russian Missile Factory

Reports indicate Ukrainian Defense Forces hit a Russian missile production facility that manufactures some of Russia’s fastest and most lethal missile systems.

Snooki says she has been diagnosed with cervical cancer

Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, known for “Jersey Shore,” said Friday that she has cervical cancer.

Online age verification can be secure and privacy-preserving

Online platforms are expanding efforts to confirm users’ ages while aiming to protect personal data. Discord says it will begin testing age verification for some users, joining a growing number of services trying to verify who is behind the screen.

Philadelphia declares a snow emergency as a major nor’easter could bring up to 18 inches of snow

Philadelphia has declared a snow emergency ahead of a strong nor’easter expected Sunday into Monday, with a Winter Storm Warning in the city and a Blizzard Warning along the coast. Light precipitation is forecast to start Sunday morning, with the heaviest snowfall expected Sunday night into early Monday, and totals could reach 18 inches in parts of the region.

Ireland Revive Title Challenge with Record Away Win Against England

Ireland boosted their title hopes by beating England away from home in a record-setting victory.

New York City Seeks Emergency Snow Shovelers Ahead of Blizzard, Requires Multiple IDs

New York City is recruiting temporary emergency shovelers as a powerful nor’easter is forecast to bring 10 to 18 inches of snow and wind gusts up to 55 mph, prompting a state of emergency and city outreach mobilization. The sanitation department says workers will clear snow and ice from public areas like bus stops, crosswalks, and fire hydrants, with pay starting at $19.14 an hour and rising after 40 hours. Applicants must be at least 18, eligible to work in the U.S., and provide two photos, two forms of ID, and a Social Security card—requirements contrasted with the city’s voting rules, which generally do not require voters to show ID at the polls.

Bektemir Melikuziev vs. Sena Agbeko: Live Round-by-Round Scorecard

World Boxing News is providing a live, round-by-round scorecard for the 10-round super middleweight fight between Bektemir Melikuziev and Sena Agbeko. Melikuziev is looking to build momentum at 168 pounds, while Agbeko is aiming to halt his rise and reassert himself in the division.

AccuWeather Issues Blizzard Warning for Parts of New Jersey and Delaware

AccuWeather reports that a nor’easter is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds, prompting a blizzard warning for parts of New Jersey and Delaware.

Smethwick stabbing outside Jamia Masjid leaves 18-year-old dead

An 18-year-old, Zeeshan Afzal, was fatally stabbed outside Jamia Masjid mosque in Smethwick, Sandwell, on Friday evening during Ramadan prayers. Two other men were taken to hospital with injuries described as not life-threatening. West Midlands Police launched a murder investigation and said the incident is not currently being treated as religiously or racially motivated. They are appealing for witnesses and for CCTV, phone, and dashcam footage.

Pennsylvania winter storm triggers highway vehicle restrictions

Vehicle restrictions are set to begin on Pennsylvania highways as PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission prepare for a winter storm that could drop up to a foot of snow in parts of the state.

Brazil and India move to expand trade, sign rare earths agreement

Brazil and India agreed to boost bilateral trade beyond $20 billion and signed an agreement on rare earth elements, vital for producing certain electronics.

England’s record Six Nations home loss to Ireland sparks accountability calls

England suffered a record Six Nations home loss to Ireland, prompting demands for accountability across the squad and staff. The defeat raised questions about performance and decision-making, with players and coaches urged to reflect on their roles in the collapse.

Finn Russell credits composure for Scotland try in win over Wales

Finn Russell said his try against Wales came from Scotland’s focus on staying calm in the opposition 22, as Gregor Townsend’s team beat Wales 26–23 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff to move to the top of the Six Nations table.

Italy coach says Six Nations title push is premature

Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada said his side are not yet prepared to challenge for the overall Six Nations title.

Elon Musk’s X appeals EU fine in major platform regulation case

Elon Musk’s social platform X filed an appeal with the EU’s General Court challenging a $140 million fine imposed by the European Commission, a case that could shape how online platforms are regulated across Europe. Nothing says “free speech absolutism” like hiring a battalion of lawyers to argue about the price of ignoring rules.

D-Day veteran Roy Burr dies at 99

A D-Day veteran who parachuted into Normandy in the first hours of June 6, 1944, has died at age 99. Roy Burr jumped just after midnight with the 22nd Independent Parachute Company, tasked with marking drop zones ahead of larger airborne landings. Bristol Normandy Veterans said he died peacefully, and noted he remained an active member until the Covid-19 pandemic. Burr served with Britain’s airborne forces through late-war operations including actions linked to the Merville Gun Battery assault, deployments in France and the Ardennes, and Operation Varsity in March 1945.

Trump says he will raise global tariffs to 15% after court ruling

Donald Trump said he will raise his newly announced global tariffs from 10% to 15% after most of his previous tariffs were ruled unlawful on Friday. Because when the referee throws a flag, the correct response is obviously to announce you are adding more flags, bigger flags, and charging admission to look at them.

Conan O’Brien comments on reports involving Rob Reiner and Michele Reiner

Conan O’Brien commented publicly on reports claiming filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, were fatally stabbed at their home in California.

Iran students stage anti-government protests after crackdown

Students in Iran held anti-government protests for the first time since security forces crushed nationwide demonstrations last month, gathering to honor thousands reported killed in the crackdown.