Iniaes

Grand Jury Rejects Indictments of Six Democratic Lawmakers

Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina praised a Washington, D.C., federal grand jury’s decision to reject prosecutors’ attempt to indict six Democratic lawmakers over a video urging service members to refuse illegal orders. Nothing says “respect the troops” like trying to criminalize a civics lesson, then celebrating when the jury refuses to play along.

London School Stabbing, Suspect Is Former Pupil

Police say the suspect in the stabbing of two children at a north-west London school is a former pupil. A 13-year-old was arrested later at a mosque some distance from the school and is identified as a British national born in the UK. The Metropolitan Police said it will not release further details on ethnicity or religion to avoid identifying a child.

Mitch McConnell Released From Hospital, Will Work From Home

Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) was released from the hospital after flu-like symptoms and will stay away from the Capitol for the rest of the week, working from home after missing votes. The Senate’s most consistent product remains absence, now available in both in-person and remote formats.

Spotify Shares Rise on Record Results

Spotify’s shares climbed after the company reported record results, nearly doubling year-on-year profits in the final quarter of 2025 and logging its second consecutive profitable year to date. Apparently the subscription economy is alive and well, and your “free trial” is once again paying for someone’s yacht fuel.

Europe Marks 112 Day, Spotlighting the EU Emergency Number

European 112 Day highlights the EU-wide emergency number, urging people to remember what to dial in a crisis and recognizing call operators who respond quickly to help save lives. A rare public service message that isn’t asking you to buy something—just to not panic incorrectly.

Penn State Men’s Basketball Heads to Seattle to Face Washington

Penn State travels to Seattle to play Washington, looking to rebound after a close loss to USC that ended on a game-winning layup by Alijah Arenas.

Pennsylvania Man Charged Over Threats to Gov. Shapiro’s Family

A Carlisle, Pennsylvania man, George Brown Jr., faces charges after authorities say he sent a webmail message to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office threatening to “stalk” and “hurt” the governor’s family. Court documents say Capitol Police were notified on February 5, 2026.

EU Approves Initial €38 Billion in SAFE Defence Investments

The EU approved €38 billion in initial defence investments under its €150 billion SAFE scheme, though three member states seeking funding are still waiting for the European Commission to approve their national plans—the first of two required steps. Nothing says “urgent security” like a two-step process and some enthusiastic waiting.

PennDOT Puts $13 Million From Speed Camera Fines Into Philly Safety Projects

PennDOT announced a $13 million investment through its Automated Speed Enforcement program for six traffic safety projects in Philadelphia, including expanded speed camera coverage, intersection upgrades, corridor improvements, and traffic calming near about 100 schools. Funding comes from speed enforcement fines, with allocations including $500,000 for additional cameras, $1.5 million for planning permanent improvements, $5 million for upgrades on Frankford Avenue, 52nd Street, Hunting Park Avenue, and Germantown Avenue, plus $2 million each for intersection improvements, corridor upgrades, and school-area traffic calming. PennDOT has not provided timelines or a full list of the schools involved.

Penn Engineers Use AI and Radio Waves to Help Robots See Around Corners

Penn Engineers developed a system using radio waves interpreted by AI to help robots detect what’s hidden around corners, potentially improving autonomous vehicle safety and making indoor robots more effective in cluttered spaces like warehouses and factories. Finally, a tech breakthrough aimed at preventing crashes, not just keeping you scrolling until your soul files a noise complaint.

Rio Rico man detained, then released, in Nancy Guthrie disappearance probe

Carlos Palazuelos says authorities detained him for questioning after searching the Rio Rico property where he lives as part of the investigation into missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie. He told Telemundo the search was done under a warrant and that agents said he resembled someone seen in newly released FBI doorbell-camera images showing a masked, armed person at Guthrie’s home the morning she vanished. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department said the search is over and the investigation continues, but declined to comment on reports that Palazuelos was released.

Apple pushes Creator Studio subscription tier, users grumble about paywalls

Apple’s Creator Studio is adding a new subscription tier for productivity and creator-focused apps, moving features some users expected at no extra cost into a paid plan. Some Mac users are unhappy, seeing it as another turn of the monetization crank in Apple’s software ecosystem.

Philadelphia to honor Boyz II Men with a new mural

Philadelphia plans to celebrate the legendary R&B group Boyz II Men with a new mural in South Philadelphia this summer.

FAA temporarily grounds flights at El Paso International Airport

The FAA temporarily grounded all flights to and from El Paso International Airport early Wednesday, issuing a NOTAM stating pilots may not operate aircraft in the affected areas. The order took effect at 1:30.

UK drivers face higher costs as Vehicle Excise Duty rises in April

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is moving ahead with Vehicle Excise Duty increases from April, raising the standard annual rate for light passenger vehicles from £195 to £200 and the Expensive Car Supplement for cars over £40,000 from £620 to £640. Analysis using Office for National Statistics data suggests drivers now pay about £2,190 more per year on car tax and insurance than a decade ago, with combined costs up more than 210% since 2016. First-year VED for the most polluting vehicles is set to reach £5,690, while electric vehicles will face a £10 charge. The government is also launching a Fuel Finder tool to help drivers locate cheaper petrol.

British Pullman unveils new Baz Luhrmann-designed onboard events space

The British Pullman has introduced a new onboard events space designed by Baz Luhrmann with costume and production designer Catherine Martin. The interiors are inspired by the British countryside and Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

Idaho teacher sues over “Everyone Is Welcome Here” poster ban

Former West Ada School District sixth-grade social studies teacher Sarah Inama filed a federal lawsuit arguing the district’s ban on her “Everyone Is Welcome Here” classroom poster violates the Constitution. Administrators allegedly said the message and multiracial hands were a political opinion and ran afoul of Idaho’s 2025 law, HB 41, restricting school displays deemed ideological. Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador reportedly advised such posters qualify as prohibited banners, calling them part of post-2016 anti-Trump political resistance. Inama, who resigned in May 2025, seeks orders declaring the law vague and overbroad and blocking enforcement, naming state education agencies, the district, and officials as defendants.

Netflix to release recorded version of “Stranger Things: The First Shadow”

Netflix confirmed it will release a recorded version of “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” a stage prequel focused on Henry Creel (Vecna) and the origins of his powers. The production is expected to be filmed with its original cast, but no release date is set. The play, launched in London in 2023 and developed with input from the Duffer Brothers and franchise writers, also features younger versions of characters such as Jim Hopper and Joyce Byers as Netflix continues expanding the “Stranger Things” universe.

Police release man held in Nancy Guthrie disappearance probe

Police released a man detained during a traffic stop connected to the investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. Officers also searched his home as part of the case.

London school stabbing, 13-year-old questioned as counter-terror police lead

A 13-year-old boy is being questioned after two students were stabbed at a London school. Counter-terrorism officers are leading the investigation, because apparently we now need specialist units to deal with children turning schools into crime scenes.

Europe’s Ariane 64 rocket set for key launch milestone

Ariane 64, described as Europe’s most powerful rocket yet, is scheduled to lift off from French Guiana this week. The launch is a major test of Europe’s ability to reach space independently, which is the polite way of saying, “We would like our own ride, thanks.”

North Korea slams Japan-Canada defense equipment deal

North Korea condemned Japan’s new defense equipment agreement with Canada, accusing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government of accelerating militarization and issuing warnings aimed at Japan. The usual routine, more outrage, fewer actionable details.

UK power bills could be higher in 2030 than the energy shock peak, Centrica CEO warns

Centrica chief executive Chris O’Shea said projections indicate UK electricity prices could be higher by 2030 than during the peak of the Russia-Ukraine energy shock, driven mainly by rising “system costs” rather than wholesale power prices. He blamed years of underinvestment and said tens of billions are needed for grid upgrades, while opposition politicians and Reform UK figures blamed net zero policies and pushed to scrap measures like carbon taxes and some wind subsidies. Other energy leaders warned data-centre demand could add further strain, because nothing says “future” like paying extra so servers can keep recommending you videos you did not ask for.

Clashes erupt in Tirana at anti-government protest

Violence broke out in Tirana during an anti-government protest as opposition supporters clashed with police while demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Trump-approved NATO command reshuffle shifts more leadership to Europe

Donald Trump approved a reshuffle of senior NATO command responsibilities, giving European allies leading roles at three commands, with the UK leading Allied Command Atlantic, Italy overseeing the southern flank, and Germany and Poland rotating leadership of Joint Force Command Brunssum. NATO officials said the changes are meant to push European members to carry more responsibility while the US keeps top posts including Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and takes charge of NATO’s maritime forces based at Northwood in the UK. Separately, the UK plans to boost its Arctic posture by doubling troops in Norway and joining NATO’s Arctic Sentry mission amid concerns about Russian activity in the High North.

Germany probes exam stand-in ring for language and citizenship tests

German authorities say they uncovered a nationwide scheme where paid stand-ins allegedly took German language and naturalization exams for migrants using forged IDs combining the substitute’s photo with the applicant’s personal data. Prosecutors say applicants paid about €2,500 to €6,000 per exam, producing legitimate certificates later used for residence permits or citizenship, because nothing screams “integration” like outsourcing your ability to say “Guten Tag.” Two suspects are in custody, including a 39-year-old Iraqi man described as the main intermediary and a 22-year-old German man arrested in January while allegedly attempting to sit an exam for someone else.

UK to double troops at Norway’s Camp Viking and join NATO Arctic Sentry

The UK plans to boost its presence at Norway’s Camp Viking from roughly 1,000 to 2,000 personnel over the next three years, commit forces to NATO’s Arctic Sentry mission, and expand joint drills like Cold Response and the UK-led JEF exercise Lion Protector. Translation: Britain is reinforcing the High North because Russia keeps auditioning for the role of “neighbor who never respects property lines.”

“Smiles of a survivor as Starmer attempts his latest reset,” Chris Mason

Chris Mason argues some pressure has eased for Sir Keir Starmer, giving him room for yet another relaunch, while the core problems remain basically the same. Politics remains the only industry where “reset” means “say the same things again, but with fresher fonts.”

China edges the US in humanoid robot startups as investment surges

China now has 23 specialized humanoid robot startups versus 22 in the US, with $2.65 billion invested in 2025 alone—more than the combined total from 2018 to 2024. Chinese firms like Unitree and Agibot are producing thousands of units in 2025, while US players like Boston Dynamics and Tesla target scale in 2026. The arms race is now: who can mass-produce the most expensive way to drop your groceries.

Flooding concerns persist as colder weather is expected later this week

Flooding worries remain, but forecasters expect a pattern shift with colder conditions later in the week. Not exactly “problem solved,” more “problem changes outfit and comes back with different accessories.”

UK unveils 10-year plan to fix “ageing and fragile” schools after Raac crisis

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says a new 10-year strategy will mark a turning point for repairing and improving school buildings following the Raac concrete crisis. Bold plan, and by “turning point” we can all hope they mean fewer classrooms held together by hope, warning signs, and a caretaker with superhuman patience.

Rep. Jamie Raskin urges Maryland Democrats to pass new redistricting map

Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin sent a late-night letter pressing state Democrats to approve a new redistricting map. It passed the House but faces Senate resistance, with Senate President Bill Ferguson not bringing it forward. Nothing says “healthy democracy” like politicians fighting over who gets to choose their voters with the most artistic precision.

Open Compute Project targets specs for distributed data centers, the “computing continuum,” and AI beyond hyperscale

The Open Compute Project wants to develop standards for distributed data centers and a broader computing continuum to support AI workloads outside hyperscale campuses. It’s also looking at the all-optical IOWN stack to enable fast, low-latency connectivity. In other words, the cloud is getting stretched across the map because AI is hungry and the electricity bill is calling from inside the house.

Iceland labels possible AMOC collapse a national security risk

Iceland has classified a potential collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, the AMOC, as a national security risk, citing research suggesting greater vulnerability than previously thought. Some scenarios include extreme winters approaching minus 50 degrees Celsius and sea ice returning around Iceland, with a national strategy due by 2028. The country also flagged worries about possible staffing and budget cuts at NASA Goddard, a key AMOC modeling source—because nothing screams “responsible governance” like cutting the people whose job is to tell you whether the ocean is about to flip the climate table.

First Dancing with the Stars Fan Convention to Be Held in Palm Springs This Summer

Dancing with the Stars Con will debut in Palm Springs this summer with a three-day fan event featuring professional dancers, judges, and celebrity participants including Robert Irwin and JoJo Siwa. Tickets go on sale Feb. 14.

Rally Urges Restoration of Signs on Enslaved People’s History at the President’s House

A rally called for the return of interpretive signs highlighting the history of enslaved people at the President’s House, as a court battle continues over the Trump administration’s removal of the signs.

ICE chief defends officers before Congress after two protesters die

The head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement told Congress he stands by his officers’ actions following the deaths of two protesters, insisting agents will not be intimidated as they continue implementing President Donald Trump’s deportation agenda.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa and the Red Sox finalize a one-year, $6 million contract

Infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa finalized a one-year, $6 million deal with the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday and addressed an offseason play that has been repeatedly discussed in recent months.

Super Bowl averages 124.9 million U.S. viewers; Bad Bunny halftime draws 128.2 million, both below records

Sunday night’s Super Bowl averaged 124.9 million viewers in the United States, while Bad Bunny’s halftime performance drew 128.2 million. Both audience figures fell short of the all-time records for the most-watched U.S. broadcast and halftime show.

Super Bowl LX peaks at 137 million viewers during Bad Bunny halftime show

NBC, citing Nielsen data, reported that Super Bowl LX averaged more than 124 million viewers—one of the largest audiences in TV history—and reached a record peak of 137 million during Bad Bunny’s halftime performance. The network also said viewership climbed to its high point during the second quarter of the game.

Google Chrome 145 Adds JPEG XL Image Support

Google has released Chrome 145 on the stable channel with JPEG XL image decoding enabled again. The format was deprecated and removed from Chrome and Chromium in 2022, but decoding support was recently merged back and is now rolling out with this release.

Researchers find Google Calendar-based zero-click RCE risk in Claude Desktop Extensions

Security firm LayerX reports a zero-click remote code execution vulnerability in Claude Desktop Extensions that can be triggered when the software processes a Google Calendar entry. The company says the extension container falls short of typical sandbox expectations, potentially allowing an AI calendar connector to be abused as a malware delivery path.

DHS officials defend immigration enforcement practices at oversight hearing

During a congressional oversight hearing on Tuesday, Trump administration officials testified that federal immigration officers are enforcing U.S. immigration laws appropriately and in accordance with established procedures.

An illegal biolab was found in a Las Vegas garage, raising concerns for Australia

An illegal laboratory in a Las Vegas suburban garage was shut down after two people were hospitalized, described as “deathly ill,” following exposure to possible biological material, including vials of unknown liquids. The FBI is investigating and says the site may be linked to a California lab closed in 2023 that reportedly held hazardous pathogens and genetically modified animals, and received funding traced to Chinese banks. The incident is presented as a warning for Australia, where cheaper tools, AI assistance, and publicly available genetic data can lower barriers to creating or acquiring dangerous organisms, while regulation is fragmented and list-based, potentially missing novel pathogens, and lacking transparency. The piece argues Australia should tighten oversight of synthetic DNA and dual-use AI tools, improve coordination and reporting through the new Australian CDC, and encourage public reporting of suspected illegal labs.

Snowboarding lessons offered at Jack Frost Mountain in the Poconos

Deanna Fontanez heads to Jack Frost Mountain, one of six Pocono ski resorts, for a snowboarding lesson, because sometimes personal growth involves strapping planks to your feet and politely negotiating with gravity.

“18 must-have essentials” for healthy eating resolutions

This is marketing dressed up as self-improvement, the content equivalent of a salad that somehow costs $39.

Mark Carney says Trump call was “positive” after bridge threat, then talks Olympics

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said a call with President Trump went well after Trump threatened to block a new US-Canada bridge from opening. The conversation then apparently pivoted to the US-Canada Olympic matchup, where Carney confidently predicted a Canadian win—diplomacy with a side of scoreboard energy.

Trump administration proposes restricting EV charger funds to 100% US-made components

The Transportation Department is proposing tighter rules so federal EV charging money would only go to chargers whose components are entirely made in the United States, because nothing says “accelerate adoption” like adding an extra obstacle course.

Plane overruns runway in Somalia, ends in shallow water, no deaths

A plane made an emergency landing at Somalia’s main airport, overran the runway, and came to rest in shallow water near a beach. No one was killed, which is the only detail that matters when aviation decides to get creative.

EU announces action plan to combat cyberbullying, including an online safety app

The European Commission unveiled an EU-wide cyberbullying plan, including support for rolling out an online safety app so children and young people can quickly report abuse and get practical help—a rare case of policymakers noticing the internet has kids on it.

Noel Clarke reportedly arrested on suspicion of attempted rape and other offenses

Noel Clarke, known for Doctor Who, was reportedly arrested on suspicion of attempted rape and also detained on suspicion of exposure and sexual assault by touching, according to The Sun.

US drops to 29th in Corruption Perceptions Index, its worst ranking yet

The United States fell to 29th place in the global Corruption Perceptions Index, a survey based on expert and business views of public-sector corruption. America is still number one, just not in the category it screams about at fireworks shows.

NHS-linked database warns against blanket discouragement of cousin marriage

The government-funded National Child Mortality Database advised NHS hospital staff that blanket discouragement of close-relative marriage is “unacceptable,” arguing the genetic-disorder risk is only slightly higher and most children in consanguineous families are unaffected. The advice is not official NHS guidance, but it has intensified scrutiny of other NHS materials and fueled political debate, including a Conservative MP pushing to ban cousin marriage and government plans to expand genetic-risk support pilots.

Kid Rock denies lip-syncing at Turning Point USA halftime show

Kid Rock rejected claims he lip-synced during “Bawitdaba” at Turning Point USA’s All-American halftime show, saying the set was “pre-recorded but performed live,” which is a wonderfully Zen way of saying it was live, except for the parts that were not.

Unsealed FBI affidavit details Fulton County 2020 election probe built on discredited claims

An unsealed FBI search-warrant affidavit says a criminal investigation into 2020 election results in Fulton County, Georgia, began after a senior Trump administration official who disputed the outcome raised concerns, and that the inquiry relied heavily on ballot claims that have since been widely discredited.

U.S. curler and attorney criticizes ICE immigration crackdown in Minnesota

During Olympic press briefings in Italy, several U.S. athletes were asked to address political issues at home. On Tuesday, a member of the United States Men’s Curling Team, who is also an attorney, offered unusually direct criticism of ICE immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota, where the sport’s U.S. national office is based.

Valentine’s Day Costs Are Expected to Rise for Shoppers

Valentine’s Day shopping is expected to cost more this year, with consumers planning surprises for loved ones likely to feel a bigger financial pinch than usual.

GOP Senator Says Reviewing Unredacted Epstein Files Clarified Their Significance

Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) said Monday that after reviewing unredacted files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, she now understands why the documents have drawn intense attention.

Erika Christensen Teases Angie’s Future on ‘Will Trent’ and Whether She and Will Have a Chance

ABC’s crime drama “Will Trent” returns Tuesday with a new episode as Detective Angie Polaski faces a major turning point, raising fresh questions about what comes next for her and whether she and Will can still find a way forward together.

McDonald’s Free McNugget “Caviar” Kits Sell Out in Minutes, Leaving Some Fans Frustrated

McDonald’s released free McNugget “caviar” kits on Tuesday, and they sold out within minutes. The rapid sellout sparked complaints from fans who said they were disappointed they couldn’t get one.

What are you using for TACACS+ in 2026?

In response to a discussion about TACACS+ plans for 2026, Tarko Tikan recommends Radiator, noting they’ve happily run the Perl version for many years to handle both TACACS and RADIUS.

Chappell Roan Leaves Wasserman After CEO Is Named in Recently Released Epstein-Related DOJ Files

Singer Chappell Roan said Monday that she has left her agency, Wasserman, after learning the company’s CEO, Casey Wasserman, is named in the Department of Justice’s most recent release of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

DOJ Appeals Dismissal of Comey and Letitia James Cases, Calling Appointment Issue a Curable Technical Error

The Justice Department is asking the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to revive prosecutions of former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James after a federal judge dismissed both indictments over concerns that Lindsey Halligan lacked lawful authority when she pursued them. DOJ argues the dismissals were an excessive remedy for what it calls a technical, or “paperwork,” error—citing the wrong statute—and says Attorney General Pam Bondi later ratified Halligan’s actions, curing any defect. DOJ also contends Halligan was at least an authorized “attorney for the government,” which it says is sufficient to present cases to grand juries and sign indictments, and that the defendants cannot show prejudice from the alleged appointment flaw.

49ers defensive end Keion White shot in the ankle at San Francisco event after reported argument involving rapper Lil Baby

A report says San Francisco 49ers defensive end Keion White was shot in the ankle early Monday morning after an argument involving rapper Lil Baby at a post–Super Bowl event held at a bar and nightclub on Mission Street in San Francisco.

The New “Super” Eurofighter Typhoon, in Two Words

The new “Super” Eurofighter Typhoon is presented as a modernized version built around a “solid airframe” strategy that treats the jet as an upgradeable platform for ongoing technology refreshes. With a structure made from about 70% carbon-fiber composites and powered by the Eurojet 2000 engine, it is described as matching the F-22 in speed and maneuverability. Recent improvements include integration of the Meteor air-to-air missile.

Apple and Google Agree to Modify App Store Practices After UK Regulator Raises Duopoly Concerns

Apple and Google have agreed to make changes to their app store practices after claims that they operate an effective duopoly. The UK’s markets regulator said the proposed commitments will boost the UK’s app economy.

Butcher Convicted of Killing, Dismembering, and Burying Partner

Anna Podedworna has been convicted of murdering her partner, Izabela Zablocka. Zablocka’s remains were found last year.

GitHub is struggling to maintain 99.9% availability

GitHub has been hit by recurring slowdowns and outages, along with problems affecting Copilot, raising questions about whether it can reliably meet even 99.9% uptime as cloud service disruptions become increasingly common.

Texas Republicans Shift Campaign Attacks Toward the State’s Muslim Population

Texas Republican officials and candidates are moving their campaign messaging away from border-focused fears and toward Texas’s growing Muslim population, using rhetoric reminiscent of the post-Sept. 11 era. The uptick in anti-Muslim language has unsettled many Muslims in Texas and may serve as a model for Republicans elsewhere looking for new political targets as border tensions recede.

Apple and Google agree to ease control over UK app stores

Apple and Google have committed to changing how their app stores operate in the UK after scrutiny from the Competition and Markets Authority. The pledges cover app approvals, search rankings, and access to platform features, aiming to reduce the companies’ control over app distribution on UK smartphones.

Marcy Kaptur Faces Her Most Competitive Re-Election Race

Marcy Kaptur, a 22-term Ohio congresswoman and the longest-serving woman in House history, is heading into what could be her hardest campaign yet. After Republican-led redistricting redrew Ohio’s 9th District to be significantly more conservative, Republicans see a prime chance to flip the seat.

Cold snap brings iceboats back to the Jersey Shore in a rare winter return

A deep freeze along the Jersey Shore is reviving a rare winter tradition, with iceboats returning to the area as conditions turn cold enough for the sport.

Trump Moves Forward With Plans to Build a Massive Independence Arch

President Donald Trump is advancing plans for a 250-foot “Independence Arch” to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary, potentially via executive order. The proposal, modeled on Paris’ Arc de Triomphe but taller—roughly the height of a 16- to 20-story building—is already drawing pushback and is expected to face legal challenges before it can move ahead.

Prince William Meets Women Football Players During Visit to Saudi Arabia

William, the Prince of Wales, met female footballers during his visit to Saudi Arabia and heard about efforts to expand women’s participation in sport in the Gulf state.

Critics Urge Congress to Repeal Offshore Wind Subsidies Citing Ocean Impacts and Costs

Critics argue that “green” projects are harming oceans and should be defunded to save money, as Congress prepares to take up a second reconciliation bill shaping federal taxes and spending. They say the bill is a chance to roll back what they view as environmentally harmful and expensive Green New Deal-era subsidies for offshore wind, citing testimony from Tax Foundation chief economist William McBride in support of a full repeal.

Trump Says His Federal Reserve Nominee Could Deliver 15% U.S. Economic Growth

President Donald Trump said Kevin Warsh, his choice to lead the Federal Reserve, could drive U.S. economic growth to 15% and possibly higher, according to Bloomberg.

Former Metropolitan Police inspector charged with rape and other offences

A former Metropolitan Police inspector is due in court facing charges including coercive or controlling behaviour, multiple counts of rape, and misconduct in public office.

Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics Day 4, medals and marquee matchups

Day 4 brings medal events across luge, alpine skiing, curling, and more. Mikaela Shiffrin and Breezy Johnson line up for the women’s team combined, Alex Hall goes hunting another freeski slopestyle gold, and the U.S. mixed doubles curling duo Dropkin and Corey Thiesse take on Sweden for gold. Ilia Malinin skates the men’s short program in his individual Olympic debut after winning team gold, and the U.S. women’s hockey team meets Canada in the latest installment of “please clear your schedule, this is going to be spicy.”

Rio Ferdinand on career injuries, and the bill that arrives after the final whistle

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand, 47, says back issues from his playing days can flare up suddenly, sometimes landing him in hospital or needing a wheelchair for a few days. He described years of relying on tablets and injections to stay on the pitch, and says he now manages the condition with a more holistic approach including physiotherapy and coordinated training, a.k.a. treating the body like a human instead of a rental car.

Germany’s industrial orders pop, driven by defense contracts and borrowing

Germany saw a reported 7.6% month-on-month surge in industrial orders in December, but the bump appears heavily tied to large defense-related bookings that look far less impressive once major contracts are excluded. Industrial production fell 1.9%, automotive orders dropped 6.3%, and construction stayed weak with the HCOB Construction PMI at 44.7 in January. Translation, the headline is doing a victory lap while the underlying economy is still tying its shoes.

Co-op recall, chips packs may contain Dauphinoise with undeclared milk

Co-op has recalled Irresistible Triple Cook Thick Cut Chunky Chips (360g) after some packs were mistakenly filled with Dauphinoise potatoes containing undeclared milk. The Food Standards Agency issued an Allergy Alert, advising people with milk allergy or lactose intolerance not to eat affected packs with a use-by date of 14 February 2026. Customers can return the product to any Co-op store for a full refund, with separate phone options for online purchases and customer service enquiries.

Danish fashion pushes digital product passports, because clothing now needs paperwork

A Copenhagen fashion firm is developing Digital Product Passports, with Copenhagen Fashion Week partnering with Renoon over the past year and building on the company’s four years of work in the area. The pitch is better transparency and traceability for garments, which is great, and also a little hilarious that your T-shirt may soon have more documentation than your last apartment lease.

Will Crane balances mortgage advising with part-time rugby prop life

Will Crane, a full-time mortgage advisor and part-time prop for Hartpury, says his time with Gloucester left him with “memories for life.” Proof that some people manage to survive both interest rates and scrums, two forces of nature that do not care about your feelings.

EU defense spending debate, EPP’s Riho Terras says fund it without common EU debt

On Euronews’ Europe Today, EPP MEP Riho Terras argued EU member states should increase defense spending but find ways to finance it without issuing common EU debt. In other words, everyone agrees the bill is coming, they just want someone else to find the wallet.

Richard Keys and Andy Gray to leave beIN Sports, not retiring

Richard Keys says he will leave beIN Sports when his contract ends this season, insisting he is not retiring and that there is no fallout with the network. Long-time presenting partner Andy Gray will also depart, and both are expected to return to the UK after more than a decade based in Doha, presumably to reacclimate to weather that feels like a personal insult.

Shapiro’s fence feud hits the courts

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and some Montgomery County neighbors are trading lawsuits over a security fence, because nothing says “public service” like a property line grudge with legal billing attached.

Water main break floods SEPTA’s Jefferson Station

A water main break flooded part of Jefferson Station near 12th and Filbert, forcing rider reroutes. The Philadelphia Water Department is investigating whether the leak came from a city water main or a SEPTA-owned pipe, so we can all enjoy the suspense of “whose infrastructure failed today.”

Bristol Township stalking death treated as domestic violence

Police say a woman was stalked and killed in an alleged domestic violence incident in Bristol Township. A Philadelphia man has been arrested and charged with murder, and the Bucks County District Attorney is treating the case as domestic violence.

Proposal would move Joe Frazier statue to the Art Museum steps

A proposal could relocate the 12-foot statue of boxing legend Joe “Smokin’ Joe” Frazier to the base of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. The statue has been outside Stateside Live in South Philadelphia since 2015.

British Museum raises £3.5 million to keep “Tudor Heart” on public display

The British Museum raised £3.5 million to acquire the “Tudor Heart,” a heart-shaped 24-carat gold pendant linked to Katherine of Aragon and Henry VIII. Found by metal detectorist Charlie Clarke in a Warwickshire field in 2019 and reported under the Treasure Act, the money covers required rewards for the finder and landowner, with donations from about 45,000 people and major backing from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Julia Rausing Trust. The museum is also considering a future UK tour.

Study links more plug-in vehicles in California to lower NO2 pollution

A study in The Lancet Planetary Health reports that as electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids increased in California from 2019 to 2023, nitrogen dioxide levels fell. Using satellite data, researchers found NO2 dropped about 1.1% for every 200 additional plug-in vehicles, a pollutant associated with asthma attacks, bronchitis, and cardiovascular risks.

Judge halts California mask ban for federal agents

A federal judge halted California’s No Secret Police Act, ruling that its ban on federal agents wearing masks in the state unlawfully discriminates against them.

Lindsey Vonn says she has no regrets after crash, father urges retirement

Lindsey Vonn posted after a frightening Winter Olympics downhill crash that caused a complex tibia fracture, saying she has no regrets. Her father said he wants her to retire.

NHS advert for nurse supporting related couples reignites UK cousin marriage debate

A now-closed Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust advert sought an Urdu-speaking specialist nurse to counsel couples who are close relatives, such as first cousins, on reproduction and genetic risk. The posting reignited debate, with critics citing higher rates of genetic conditions, while NHS guidance says risks can be overstated and should be weighed against claimed social and economic benefits.

Lunchbox ideas for families who hate sandwiches

A piece suggests non-sandwich lunch options including wraps, rolls, pita pockets, “sandwich sushi,” and make-ahead choices like frittatas and savoury muffins. It also recommends using leftovers, packing balanced sides like fruit or vegetables, and using insulated or compartmented containers.