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RFK Jr. pledged more transparency. Here's what the public doesn't know anymore

RFK Jr. pledged more transparency. Here's what the public doesn't know anymore

Health experts say the federal government now shares less public health data, even after Robert F_ Kennedy Jr_ promised “radical transparency.”

Cyclone Gezani leaves 36 dead and thousands of homes destroyed in Madagascar

Cyclone Gezani leaves 36 dead and thousands of homes destroyed in Madagascar

Authorities say Cyclone Gezani killed at least 36 people, injured more than 370 and destroyed almost 18,000 homes in a 24-hour spell of destruction across Madagascar

RFK Jr. promised to restore trust in US health agencies. One year later, it’s eroding

RFK Jr. promised to restore trust in US health agencies. One year later, it’s eroding

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is reshaping U.S. health policy as HHS secretary, and doctors say his changes are eroding trust

US homes sales fell sharply in January, even as mortgage rates continued to ease

US homes sales fell sharply in January, even as mortgage rates continued to ease

Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell sharply in January as higher home prices and possibly harsh winter weather kept many prospective homebuyers on the sidelines despite easing mortgage rates

Investigators ask for surveillance video from specific dates in Nancy Guthrie disappearance

Investigators ask for surveillance video from specific dates in Nancy Guthrie disappearance

Investigators are pleading with people to share home surveillance camera footage from specific dates leading up to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie as they deal with thousands of tips in their hope to crack the case

Highlights: De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama reign supreme in win over the Warriors

Highlights: De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama reign supreme in win over the Warriors

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United Launch Alliance Prepares for Vulcan Rocket Launch with U.S. Space Force Satellite

United Launch Alliance Prepares for Vulcan Rocket Launch with U.S. Space Force Satellite

United Launch Alliance (ULA) is set to launch its Vulcan rocket on a mission for the United States Space Force (USSF). Scheduled for a predawn liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, the mission, designated USSF-87, involves deploying multiple satellites, although the exact number has not been disclosed. This mission marks ULA's second national security mission using the Vulcan rocket and is expected to be the company's longest mission to date, lasting approximately 10 hours. The primary payload is the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) system, which is designed to enhance the U.S. Space Command's monitoring capabilities in geostationary Earth orbit. The launch will utilize a VC4S configuration, featuring four solid rocket boosters and a standard payload fairing.

Research Reveals Neanderthals and Hunter-Gatherers Shaped Europe's Ancient Ecosystems

Research Reveals Neanderthals and Hunter-Gatherers Shaped Europe's Ancient Ecosystems

Recent research led by Aarhus University has uncovered that Neanderthals and Mesolithic hunter-gatherers significantly influenced the vegetation patterns across Europe long before the advent of agriculture. Using advanced computer simulations, the study examined the impact of climate, large animals, natural fires, and human activities on European vegetation during two warm periods: the Last Interglacial period and the Early Holocene. The findings, published in PLOS One, indicate that human-induced fires and hunting practices played a crucial role in altering plant cover. The study challenges the traditional view of Europe as an untouched wilderness before farming, suggesting that early humans were active co-creators of the continent's ecosystems.

Russia Dismisses President Trump's Tariff Threats Amid Cuba Oil Crisis

Russia Dismisses President Trump's Tariff Threats Amid Cuba Oil Crisis

The Kremlin has announced its intention to assist Cuba amidst an escalating energy crisis, despite U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to impose tariffs on countries supplying oil to the island nation. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia is exploring ways to support Cuba, which is currently facing severe fuel shortages. This comes as the U.S. administration has intensified its pressure on Cuba, labeling its government as an 'unusual and extraordinary threat.' The U.S. has pledged to sanction any country that provides oil to Cuba, either directly or indirectly. This development follows a U.S. military operation aimed at deposing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a key ally of Cuba. Russia, however, has expressed a desire to engage in constructive dialogue with the U.S. regarding the situation, although Peskov noted that public discussions on the matter are currently not feasible.

FAO Celebrates Chinese Lunar New Year, Emphasizing Inspiration for Accelerated Progress

FAO Celebrates Chinese Lunar New Year, Emphasizing Inspiration for Accelerated Progress

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations celebrated the Chinese Lunar New Year at its headquarters in Rome, led by Director-General QU Dongyu. The celebration focused on drawing inspiration from the Year of the Horse to accelerate progress in achieving FAO's objectives. In his address, QU emphasized the symbolic strength, resilience, and stamina of the horse, encouraging the organization to overcome challenges and maintain momentum. The event included a video message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who praised China's commitment to multilateralism. The Chinese Lunar New Year is recognized globally and was designated as a UN floating holiday in December 2023.

Russia Commits to New START Treaty Limits Amid Expiration Concerns

Russia Commits to New START Treaty Limits Amid Expiration Concerns

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that Russia will continue to adhere to the numerical limits of the expired New START nuclear weapons treaty, provided the United States does the same. This statement was made before the State Duma, following the treaty's expiration on February 5, 2026. The New START treaty, originally signed in 2010 and extended in 2021, capped deployed strategic warheads at 1,550 for both the U.S. and Russia. Despite the expiration, Lavrov emphasized that the moratorium declared by President Putin remains active, contingent on U.S. compliance. The treaty's expiration marks the first time in over fifty years that the world's largest nuclear arsenals are without binding restrictions. President Trump previously rejected a proposal for a one-year extension of the treaty limits, seeking a modernized agreement that includes China, which Beijing has consistently opposed.

Mexican Navy Ships Deliver Humanitarian Aid to Cuba Amid U.S. Energy Blockade

Mexican Navy Ships Deliver Humanitarian Aid to Cuba Amid U.S. Energy Blockade

Two Mexican Navy ships have arrived in Cuba carrying humanitarian aid as the island faces an energy crisis exacerbated by a U.S. blockade. The ships, which docked on Thursday, are laden with essential supplies including food and personal hygiene items. This aid comes in response to U.S. President Trump's recent threats to impose tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, leading to energy rationing on the island. The Mexican government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, has taken this step while diplomatic efforts to resume oil supplies continue. Previously, Mexico's state-owned oil company, Pemex, had halted crude oil shipments to Cuba. The energy crisis has been further intensified by the cessation of oil shipments from Venezuela, following U.S. actions against the South American nation.

Australian Travelers Drive Dubai's Record Tourism Growth in 2025

Australian Travelers Drive Dubai's Record Tourism Growth in 2025

Australian travelers have significantly contributed to Dubai's tourism boom, with 333,000 Australians visiting the city in 2025. This marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking growth for Dubai, which welcomed 19.59 million international overnight visitors in 2025, a 5% increase from the previous year. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) reported that Dubai surpassed two million visitors in a single month for the first time, with 2.04 million international guests in December alone. Australians accounted for 83% of the 401,000 visitors from Australasia, highlighting Dubai's appeal to Australian leisure and business travelers. The city's diverse offerings, including world-class attractions, major retail festivals, and a burgeoning culinary scene, continue to attract visitors. Dubai's hotel occupancy remained strong at 80.7%, with new luxury openings further enhancing its appeal.

Study Reveals Average American Worker Has Only $995 Saved for Retirement, Highlighting Financial Insecurity

Study Reveals Average American Worker Has Only $995 Saved for Retirement, Highlighting Financial Insecurity

A recent analysis by the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) has revealed that the average American worker is significantly underprepared for retirement, with a median savings of just $995. This figure includes all workers, even those without any savings. For those with defined contribution retirement savings, the median balance was $40,000 as of December 2022. The study highlights a lack of access to employer-sponsored retirement plans as a major barrier, with nearly 56 million private-sector workers lacking such access. This situation forces many to rely solely on personal savings and Social Security. The report also notes that many workers struggle to cover basic expenses, making it difficult to save for retirement, even when they intend to do so.

Pasa Conference Explores Agroforestry's Role in Sustainable Agriculture

Pasa Conference Explores Agroforestry's Role in Sustainable Agriculture

The Pasa Sustainable Agriculture Conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, highlighted the role of trees in agriculture, focusing on agroforestry practices. Tracey Coulter, the agroforestry coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, emphasized the benefits of incorporating trees into farming, such as providing shade for livestock and improving milk production. The conference featured discussions on tree hay, an ancient practice of using tree branches as livestock feed, which is being revived by farmers like Eli Mack. Mack has integrated trees into his cattle operation, using them for fodder and tree hay, which offers nutritional benefits, especially during winter months.

San Francisco Unified School District Superintendent Addresses Ongoing Teachers' Strike

San Francisco Unified School District Superintendent Addresses Ongoing Teachers' Strike

Maria Su, the superintendent of the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD), held a briefing on Wednesday morning as the teachers' strike entered its third day. The strike has seen educators demanding better working conditions and pay, leading to disruptions in the school district's operations. Both the district administration and the teachers' union are set to return to the bargaining table in hopes of reaching an agreement. The strike has garnered significant attention, with parents and students expressing concerns over the impact on education and daily routines.

U.S. DOT Implements Rule to Prevent Unqualified Foreign Drivers from Obtaining CDLs

U.S. DOT Implements Rule to Prevent Unqualified Foreign Drivers from Obtaining CDLs

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule aimed at preventing unqualified foreign drivers from obtaining commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) to operate trucks and buses in the U.S. This rule addresses a significant safety concern, as foreign drivers have not been subjected to the same rigorous checks as U.S. drivers. The DOT highlighted that foreign drivers could previously obtain CDLs using Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), which do not screen for highway safety, leading to tens of thousands of licenses being issued to ineligible drivers across more than 30 states. The new rule, effective 30 days after its publication, mandates that only holders of specific nonimmigrant statuses, such as H-2A, H-2B, and E-2, who undergo enhanced vetting, are eligible for CDLs. Additionally, EADs will no longer be accepted as proof of eligibility, and states must verify applicants' lawful immigration status through the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system.

CorePower Yoga Faces Protests Over ICE Policies Amid Viral Video Controversy

CorePower Yoga Faces Protests Over ICE Policies Amid Viral Video Controversy

CorePower Yoga, the largest yoga studio brand in the U.S., is at the center of a national controversy following a viral video that sparked protests over its handling of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. The video, which has garnered nearly 500,000 views, shows studio members confronting staff about the company's stance on ICE. This comes in the wake of heightened tensions in Minneapolis, where an ICE-related incident led to the death of a U.S. citizen. CorePower Yoga has since implemented signage stating that law enforcement and ICE may only enter with a valid judicial warrant. The company also hosted over 1,800 free classes nationwide, allowing attendees to donate to the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota. Despite these measures, the incident has led to resignations among instructors and raised questions about the role of activism in wellness spaces.

Coal Industry Honors President Trump with Award Amid Regulatory Changes

Coal Industry Honors President Trump with Award Amid Regulatory Changes

The coal industry has awarded President Trump the 'Undisputed Champion of Beautiful Clean Coal' award, presented by the Washington Coal Club. This event took place at the White House, where President Trump announced funding for coal-fired power plants in five states and signed an order for the Pentagon to purchase electricity from these plants. The award, a statue of a miner resembling Trump, was given as the administration prepared to rescind an Obama-era scientific finding that supported federal regulations on greenhouse gases. Peabody Energy President and CEO Jim Grech, who also chairs the National Coal Council, praised Trump for revitalizing mining towns and boosting local economies. The event was attended by several Republican officials, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.

Massachusetts Students Deliver Valentine's Day Cards to Seniors, Fostering Community Connection

Massachusetts Students Deliver Valentine's Day Cards to Seniors, Fostering Community Connection

Elementary school students in Concord, Massachusetts, have taken part in a heartwarming initiative by creating and delivering Valentine's Day cards to senior citizens. This gesture aims to bridge the generational gap and bring joy to the elderly community. The students, guided by their teachers, crafted personalized cards and visited local senior centers to distribute them. This activity not only provided the seniors with a sense of connection and appreciation but also taught the young students the value of kindness and community service.