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USPS Unveils 'Lowriders' Forever Stamps Celebrating Cultural Heritage

USPS Unveils 'Lowriders' Forever Stamps Celebrating Cultural Heritage

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has announced a new collection of commemorative Forever stamps titled 'Lowriders,' as part of its 2026 stamp program. This collection celebrates the cultural significance of lowrider cars, which originated in the 1940s within Mexican American communities in the American Southwest. These vehicles are known for their distinctive style, often equipped with hydraulic systems that allow them to hop and bounce. The 'Lowriders' stamp series features five classic lowrider cars, each with unique designs and vibrant colors. The stamps are designed to reflect the art and community spirit associated with lowriders, serving as 'rolling canvases' for public art. The first-day-of-issue event for the collection is scheduled for March 13, 2026, at the Logan Heights Library in San Diego.

Iraqi Traders Protest New Customs Tariffs Amid Shrinking Oil Revenues

Iraqi Traders Protest New Customs Tariffs Amid Shrinking Oil Revenues

In Baghdad, hundreds of traders and customs clearance company owners protested against newly imposed customs tariffs, which they claim have significantly increased their costs and disrupted trade. These tariffs, effective from January 1, were introduced as part of Iraq's efforts to reduce its debt and reliance on oil revenues, which have been affected by falling oil prices. Iraq's debt stands at over 90 trillion Iraqi dinars ($69 billion), with the state budget heavily dependent on oil for about 90% of its revenues. The new tariffs, reportedly as high as 30% in some cases, have led to a backlog of goods at the Umm Qasr port and increased costs for essential items like infant milk. Protesters have accused influential groups of corruption, facilitating the release of goods for unofficial payments, and are considering rerouting imports through the Kurdistan region where fees are lower.

Israeli Defense Officials Warn of Potential Unilateral Strike on Iran Amid Concerns Over U.S. Strategy

Israeli Defense Officials Warn of Potential Unilateral Strike on Iran Amid Concerns Over U.S. Strategy

Israeli defense officials have expressed concerns to their U.S. counterparts regarding Iran's ballistic missile program, which they view as an existential threat. Israel has conveyed its intentions to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities through high-level exchanges, outlining operational concepts to degrade the program, including strikes on key manufacturing sites. Concerns have been raised that President Trump may adopt a limited strike model against Iran, similar to recent U.S. operations against the Houthis in Yemen, which could leave Iran's critical capabilities intact. Israeli officials fear that partial measures won't eliminate the core threat and have indicated that Israel is prepared to act unilaterally if necessary. Brig.-Gen. Omer Tishler, the incoming air force commander, is expected to accompany Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his upcoming trip to the United States.

Japan's Sanae Takaichi Wins Landslide in Snap Election, Exit Polls Project

Japan's Sanae Takaichi Wins Landslide in Snap Election, Exit Polls Project

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reportedly won a landslide victory in a snap election, according to exit polls by NHK. The polls suggest that Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is set to win between 274 and 326 seats out of 465, well above the 233 needed for a majority. This election, held amid freezing temperatures, was a strategic gamble by Takaichi to secure public backing for her agenda, which includes bolstering Japan's defense capabilities. Her leadership style and policies have resonated with voters, particularly young people, despite her party's recent scandals.

Wolf Visits Los Angeles County for First Time in a Century, Wildlife Officials Report

Wolf Visits Los Angeles County for First Time in a Century, Wildlife Officials Report

A wolf has been spotted in Los Angeles County for the first time in over 100 years, according to officials from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. This rare sighting marks a significant event as wolves have been absent from the region for a century. The presence of the wolf was confirmed through tracking and monitoring efforts by wildlife officials, who are keen to understand the implications of this development. The wolf's appearance in the area is seen as a potential sign of the species' gradual return to its historical range, which has been impacted by human activities and habitat loss over the years.

Palestinians Face Delays at Rafah Border Crossing Amidst Reopening Efforts

Palestinians Face Delays at Rafah Border Crossing Amidst Reopening Efforts

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened, allowing limited movement for Palestinians after a prolonged closure. The reopening follows diplomatic efforts, including visits by American officials to Israel. Despite the reopening, only a small number of Palestinians have been able to cross, with 36 medical patients and 62 companions leaving for Egypt in the first four days. The crossing is part of a U.S.-backed ceasefire agreement, but delays and reports of mistreatment by Israeli forces and an Israeli-backed Palestinian armed group have marred the process. Nearly 20,000 Palestinians are seeking to leave Gaza for medical care, highlighting the urgent humanitarian needs in the region.

Russian General's Shooting in Moscow Leads to Arrest in Dubai

Russian General's Shooting in Moscow Leads to Arrest in Dubai

A Russian national has been detained in the United Arab Emirates in connection with the shooting of Vladimir Alekseyev, a senior Russian military intelligence officer, in Moscow. The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia announced the arrest of Lyubomir Korba, who was extradited to Russia. The incident occurred in an apartment block in Moscow, where Alekseyev was shot multiple times and is currently in serious condition. The Kremlin has accused Ukraine of orchestrating the assassination attempt, although Ukraine has denied involvement. Alekseyev, who has been recognized by President Vladimir Putin with a Hero of Russia award, played significant roles in intelligence operations in Ukraine and Syria. The shooting took place shortly after peace talks in Abu Dhabi aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Northwestern Medicine Study Reveals Cellular Coordination in Egg Development

Northwestern Medicine Study Reveals Cellular Coordination in Egg Development

A study by Northwestern Medicine has uncovered the intricate process by which cells coordinate internal scaffolding to form healthy egg cells. Published in the Journal of Cell Biology, the research highlights the collaboration between actin filaments and microtubules during the development of egg cells in Drosophila melanogaster, commonly known as fruit flies. Actin filaments provide flexibility and support, while microtubules act as rigid tracks for transport and shape. The study reveals that these structures work together to transport cellular supplies to developing egg cells. The research, led by Wen Lu, Ph.D., and Vladimir Gelfand, Ph.D., utilized advanced microscopy techniques to observe the formation of a stable microtubule network and actin cables in nurse cells, which supply nutrients to the egg. The findings demonstrate the essential role of microtubules as a scaffold during oogenesis, the process of egg cell development.

Researchers Identify Protein Target to Enhance Alzheimer's Treatment

Researchers Identify Protein Target to Enhance Alzheimer's Treatment

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a protein, PTP1B, that could play a significant role in enhancing treatments for Alzheimer's disease. The study, led by Professor Nicholas Tonks, found that inhibiting PTP1B in a mouse model improved learning and memory. This enzyme interacts with spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), a key regulator of microglia, which are the brain's immune cells responsible for clearing amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques. These plaques are strongly linked to the progression of Alzheimer's. The research suggests that PTP1B inhibition can improve microglial function, potentially offering a new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's. The study also highlights the connection between Alzheimer's risk and conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes, which are linked to PTP1B, further supporting its potential role in treatment.

China's 'Divine Dragon' Spacecraft Launches Fourth Secretive Mission, Expanding Space Capabilities

China's 'Divine Dragon' Spacecraft Launches Fourth Secretive Mission, Expanding Space Capabilities

China has launched its experimental reusable spacecraft for the fourth time since 2020, continuing its secretive orbital program. The mission, using a Long March-2F carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre, aims to verify technologies for reusable spacecraft, potentially mirroring capabilities seen in the U.S. Space Force’s X-37B. Previous missions have involved the release of small satellites or objects, with evidence suggesting rendezvous and proximity operations between the main spacecraft and these payloads. The spacecraft's size and function are comparable to the U.S. X-37B, indicating China's growing capabilities in space technology.

ICE Agents Allegedly Use Disguises in Minnesota, Raising Public Distrust

ICE Agents Allegedly Use Disguises in Minnesota, Raising Public Distrust

In Minnesota, reports have emerged of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents allegedly using disguises to conduct operations, heightening public fear and distrust. According to a report, individuals dressed as utility workers were seen outside a Mexican restaurant in suburban Minneapolis, raising suspicions among locals. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed concern over these tactics, which they argue are reminiscent of methods used during President Trump's administration. These operations reportedly involve agents posing as construction workers or delivery drivers, and in some cases, using fake license plates. The ACLU has previously filed lawsuits against such practices, citing constitutional violations. The situation has led to increased anxiety among residents, with some fearing that any worker outside their home could be an ICE agent.

Republic of Korea Assumes Leadership of Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables

Republic of Korea Assumes Leadership of Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables

The Republic of Korea has been appointed as the host country for the Codex Committee on Processed Fruits and Vegetables (CCPFV). This appointment was marked by a commemorative event held on February 5, 2026, in Seoul, organized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). The event was attended by approximately 200 participants, including representatives from government, international organizations, academia, and the food industry. Key figures from the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) were present. Sarah Cahill, Secretary of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, praised Korea's scientific expertise and its commitment to international food standards. Allan Azegele, Chairperson of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, also commended Korea's role in Codex standard setting. The event included the launch of a national governance framework to support Korea's role, emphasizing coordination and stakeholder engagement.

Savannah Guthrie Pleads for Missing Mother's Return Amid Kidnapping Investigation

Savannah Guthrie Pleads for Missing Mother's Return Amid Kidnapping Investigation

Savannah Guthrie, host of the 'Today' show, has released a third video pleading for the return of her mother, Nancy Guthrie, who went missing from her Tucson, Arizona home. The 84-year-old was last seen on January 31, and authorities believe she was taken against her will. Savannah and her siblings have been actively communicating with the alleged kidnapper through social media, expressing their willingness to negotiate for their mother's safe return. The family has received a ransom note, which is currently being assessed by local police and the FBI. A $50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to Nancy's recovery or the arrest of those involved.

Browns NFL Draft: Could Georgia’s Monroe Freeling solve the LT problem?

Browns NFL Draft: Could Georgia’s Monroe Freeling solve the LT problem?

UGA LT Monroe Freeling has the potential to fix Cleveland’s “blindside” problem in 2026.

Sunday Dawg Chow (2/8): They used to win championships here.

Sunday Dawg Chow (2/8): They used to win championships here.

The latest Cleveland Browns news and notes from around the NFL in the Sunday Dawg Chow.

Gaza's Rafah crossing reopens, allowing limited travel as Palestinians claim delays and mistreatment

Gaza's Rafah crossing reopens, allowing limited travel as Palestinians claim delays and mistreatment

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened Sunday, allowing limited Palestinian travel after a two-day closure, according to Egyptian state media

Olympics-Alpine skiing-Vonn's dream gone in 13 seconds after horror crash

Olympics-Alpine skiing-Vonn's dream gone in 13 seconds after horror crash

By Alan Baldwin CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy, Feb 8 (Reuters) - U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn's bid to win Olympic downhill gold with a ruptured ACL lasted 13 seconds on Sunday as the American great suffered a horrific crash early in her run.

Olympics-Alpine skiing-Johnson wins downhill after big crash for teammate Vonn

Olympics-Alpine skiing-Johnson wins downhill after big crash for teammate Vonn

By Alan Baldwin CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy, Feb 8 (Reuters) - World champion Breezy Johnson won the women's Alpine skiing downhill at the Milano Cortina Olympics on Sunday in a race interrupted and overshadowed by U.S. teammate Lindsey Vonn crashing and being taken to hospital.

Pressure grows on British Prime Minister Starmer over Mandelson fallout

Pressure grows on British Prime Minister Starmer over Mandelson fallout

LONDON, Feb 8 (Reuters) - A senior minister faced questions about British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's future on Sunday and the deputy prime minister appeared to break ranks with his boss over his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States.

Namibia's energy ministry blasts TotalEnergies, Petrobras for not following procedure

Namibia's energy ministry blasts TotalEnergies, Petrobras for not following procedure

WINDHOEK, Feb 8 (Reuters) - Namibia is concerned that TotalEnergies and Petrobras had acquired new offshore positions in the Luderitz Basin without informing the energy ministry or getting the necessary approval, it said in a statement on Sunday.