By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a><br><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/"><i>Missouri Independent</i></a>

German chemical giant Bayer has agreed to pay $7.25 billion to settle thousands of lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.

The proposed settlement — which must be approved by a St. Louis court — would compensate people nationwide who were exposed to Roundup products and diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as those who are diagnosed in the future.

“When an innocent person is harmed through no fault of their own, accountability is not optional — it is necessary,” said Eric Holland, a St. Louis attorney for plaintiffs. “While no financial recovery can reverse a diagnosis or turn back time, this settlement will provide substantial support and offer stability to the families who need it most.”

Bayer has faced an avalanche of litigation contending that glyphosate — an ingredient patented by Missouri-based Monsanto in 1971 — can cause non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and that Roundup labels failed to warn users about the risk.

Bayer acquired Monsanto in 2018 and operates its U.S. agricultural business as Bayer Crop Science.

The company has paid about $11 billion to settle nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, with roughly 61,000 still pending, according to a website that tracks the litigation. Bayer has already stopped making glyphosate-based Roundup for home use and, in September, said it was seeking regulatory approval for a new herbicide to replace glyphosate-based Roundup for agricultural and commercial use in the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia and Brazil.

The new settlement follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to hear Bayer’s appeal arguing that federal law preempts state failure-to-warn claims involving the Roundup label. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not require Roundup labels to warn about non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

In Missouri, Bayer has spent the last two years pushing lawmakers to pass legislation that would shield the company from certain lawsuits. The bill narrowly passed the Missouri House last year, but lobbying missteps — including a campaign targeting some of the most conservative members of the state Senate — ultimately derailed the effort.

In October, the Missouri Supreme Court declined to hear Bayer’s appeal of a $600 million judgment in a Roundup lawsuit brought by four people who said they developed cancer after regularly using the product to control weeds.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593022262288.png" alt="Monsanto Roundup-Post photo" />
                        <figcaption>Monsanto Roundup-Post photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a><br><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/"><i>Missouri Independent</i></a></p><p>German chemical giant Bayer has agreed to pay $7.25 billion to settle thousands of lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer.</p><p>The proposed settlement — which must be approved by a St. Louis court — would compensate people nationwide who were exposed to Roundup products and diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as those who are diagnosed in the future.</p><p>“When an innocent person is harmed through no fault of their own, accountability is not optional — it is necessary,” said Eric Holland, a St. Louis attorney for plaintiffs. “While no financial recovery can reverse a diagnosis or turn back time, this settlement will provide substantial support and offer stability to the families who need it most.”</p><p>Bayer has faced an avalanche of litigation contending that glyphosate — an ingredient patented by Missouri-based Monsanto in 1971 — can cause non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and that Roundup labels failed to warn users about the risk.</p><p>Bayer acquired Monsanto in 2018 and operates its U.S. agricultural business as Bayer Crop Science.</p><p>The company has paid about $11 billion to settle nearly 100,000 Roundup lawsuits, with roughly 61,000 still pending, according to a website that tracks the litigation. Bayer has already stopped making glyphosate-based Roundup for home use and, in September, said it was seeking regulatory approval for a new herbicide to replace glyphosate-based Roundup for agricultural and commercial use in the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia and Brazil.</p><p>The new settlement follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to hear Bayer’s appeal arguing that federal law preempts state failure-to-warn claims involving the Roundup label. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not require Roundup labels to warn about non-Hodgkin lymphoma.</p><p>In Missouri, Bayer has spent the last two years pushing lawmakers to pass legislation that would shield the company from certain lawsuits. The bill narrowly passed the Missouri House last year, but lobbying missteps — including a campaign targeting some of the most conservative members of the state Senate — ultimately derailed the effort.</p><p>In October, the Missouri Supreme Court declined to hear Bayer’s appeal of a $600 million judgment in a Roundup lawsuit brought by four people who said they developed cancer after regularly using the product to control weeds.</p>

Bayer agrees to $7.25 billion settlement in Roundup cancer lawsuits

Late Monday at the direction of U.S. Southern Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted three deadly kinetic strikes on three vessels operated by 'Designated Terrorist Organizations', according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Eleven male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions, 4 on the first vessel in the Eastern Pacific, 4 on the second vessel in the Eastern Pacific, and 3 on the third vessel in the Caribbean. No U.S. military forces were harmed.&nbsp;

<p>Late Monday at the direction of U.S. Southern Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted three deadly kinetic strikes on three vessels operated by 'Designated Terrorist Organizations', according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Late on Feb. 16, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOUTHCOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOUTHCOM</a> commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted three lethal kinetic strikes on three vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known… <a href="https://t.co/mib9XtptSB">pic.twitter.com/mib9XtptSB</a></p>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2023791027383890240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p> Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Eleven male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions, 4 on the first vessel in the Eastern Pacific, 4 on the second vessel in the Eastern Pacific, and 3 on the third vessel in the Caribbean. No U.S. military forces were harmed.&nbsp;</p>

🎥 11 killed after three new U.S. strikes on drug boats

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The DNA that was submitted to CODIS was from the set of gloves found 2 miles away. It did not trigger a match in CODIS &amp; did not match DNA found at the property. The DNA found at the property is being analyzed &amp; further testing needs to be done as part of the investigation.</p>&mdash; Pima County Sheriff&#39;s Department (@PimaSheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/PimaSheriff/status/2023843455706034483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">DNA evidence from gloves found approximately 2 miles from Nancy Guthrie&#39;s residence was submitted to CODIS &amp; produced no matches. There is additional DNA evidence that was found at the residence that is also being analyzed.</p>&mdash; Pima County Sheriff&#39;s Department (@PimaSheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/PimaSheriff/status/2023831510651204069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">REMINDER: FBI reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance.<br><br>The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5’9” - 5’10” tall of average build.<br><br>Report tips to… <a href="https://t.co/PrFkHPj9Ac">pic.twitter.com/PrFkHPj9Ac</a></p>&mdash; FBI Phoenix (@FBIPhoenix) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIPhoenix/status/2023817455756283921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

DNA results from glove found near Nancy Guthrie’s home revealed

Western Nebraska’s towns continue to stand out not just for their friendly residents and strong local culture, but also for their affordability and quality of life — making them attractive options for families, young professionals and retirees alike. <a href="https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/9-of-the-best-affordable-towns-to-retire-in-nebraska.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawQBhDFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETJPQnlIUzZzSHlQSzF6Tjlwc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlusyez_7tXMpqfcwUpNDikMomWse_5R_F1-KUTxCDIyPdI2QAHYYT4h8D7m_aem_xmUa0F5AUiugq_FLewovxA">World Atlas</a> listed Ogallala, North Platte, Lexington and Scottsbluff on their list posted February 13, 2026.

North Platte has long been celebrated for its affordable cost of living and wide range of amenities. With a population of about 23,000, North Platte offers the larger-town conveniences of cultural activities, historic attractions and outdoor recreation alongside small-town friendliness. Major local highlights include the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center, and riverfront trails along the North and South Platte Rivers. With a median home value well below the national average and more affordable housing compared with many other Nebraska cities, North Platte is frequently recognized on lists of Nebraska’s most affordable places to live and retire. 

Ogallala sits along the shores of Lake McConaughy — Nebraska’s largest recreational lake — and is a gateway to outdoor adventure. Known for boating, fishing, sandy beaches and water sports, Ogallala combines natural beauty with a rich Western heritage. Beyond the lake, the town also offers golf courses, historic museums and community events that appeal to those seeking an active, scenic lifestyle. Ogallala’s median home prices and overall cost of living are attractive for retirees or anyone looking for a relaxed pace without sacrificing access to local amenities. 

Lexington brings affordable living and central Nebraska charm together. Recognized on statewide lists of desirable retirement locations and affordable places to live, Lexington offers affordable housing, good access to healthcare and easy access to both outdoor recreation and local cultural attractions. Visitors and residents enjoy museums like the Dawson County Historical Museum and family-friendly destinations nearby, all within a community that values both history and growth. 

Scottsbluff rounds out the group with a scenic location near the Wyoming border and stunning views of the North Platte River valley. Scottsbluff combines affordability with accessibility to outdoor attractions such as Scotts Bluff National Monument, hiking and biking trails, and golf courses. The city’s median home value is attractive to newcomers, and the community offers a mix of cultural events, local shopping and recreational opportunities that make it a strong choice for retirees or families seeking a comfortable, budget-friendly place to call home. 

<p><i>By Allison Peck</i></p><p>Western Nebraska’s towns continue to stand out not just for their friendly residents and strong local culture, but also for their affordability and quality of life — making them attractive options for families, young professionals and retirees alike. <a href="https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/9-of-the-best-affordable-towns-to-retire-in-nebraska.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawQBhDFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETJPQnlIUzZzSHlQSzF6Tjlwc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlusyez_7tXMpqfcwUpNDikMomWse_5R_F1-KUTxCDIyPdI2QAHYYT4h8D7m_aem_xmUa0F5AUiugq_FLewovxA">World Atlas</a> listed Ogallala, North Platte, Lexington and Scottsbluff on their list posted February 13, 2026.</p><h2>North Platte</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761143974447.jpeg" alt="Aerial view of North Platte Water Tower" />
                        <figcaption>Aerial view of North Platte Water Tower</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>North Platte has long been celebrated for its affordable cost of living and wide range of amenities. With a population of about 23,000, North Platte offers the larger-town conveniences of cultural activities, historic attractions and outdoor recreation alongside small-town friendliness. Major local highlights include the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center, and riverfront trails along the North and South Platte Rivers. With a median home value well below the national average and more affordable housing compared with many other Nebraska cities, North Platte is frequently recognized on lists of Nebraska’s most affordable places to live and retire. </p><h2>Ogallala</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747998965309.jpeg" alt="Mansion on The Hill Museum in Ogallala, Nebraska" />
                        <figcaption>Mansion on The Hill Museum in Ogallala, Nebraska</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Ogallala sits along the shores of Lake McConaughy — Nebraska’s largest recreational lake — and is a gateway to outdoor adventure. Known for boating, fishing, sandy beaches and water sports, Ogallala combines natural beauty with a rich Western heritage. Beyond the lake, the town also offers golf courses, historic museums and community events that appeal to those seeking an active, scenic lifestyle. Ogallala’s median home prices and overall cost of living are attractive for retirees or anyone looking for a relaxed pace without sacrificing access to local amenities. </p><h2>Lexington</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768821125747.png" alt=" A Lexington water tower on Dec. 9, 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)" />
                        <figcaption> A Lexington water tower on Dec. 9, 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Lexington brings affordable living and central Nebraska charm together. Recognized on statewide lists of desirable retirement locations and affordable places to live, Lexington offers affordable housing, good access to healthcare and easy access to both outdoor recreation and local cultural attractions. Visitors and residents enjoy museums like the Dawson County Historical Museum and family-friendly destinations nearby, all within a community that values both history and growth. </p><h2>Scottsbluff</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691861647252.jpeg" alt="Scottsbluff Monument (National Park Service)" />
                        <figcaption>Scottsbluff Monument (National Park Service)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Scottsbluff rounds out the group with a scenic location near the Wyoming border and stunning views of the North Platte River valley. Scottsbluff combines affordability with accessibility to outdoor attractions such as Scotts Bluff National Monument, hiking and biking trails, and golf courses. The city’s median home value is attractive to newcomers, and the community offers a mix of cultural events, local shopping and recreational opportunities that make it a strong choice for retirees or families seeking a comfortable, budget-friendly place to call home. </p>

Western Nebraska Communities: 2026 World Atlas Best Affordable, Active and Welcoming Towns for Retirement

&nbsp;WASHINGTON —Officers arrested a person with a gun near the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Tuesday afternoon, according to an online statement from the U.S. Capitol Police.

Maryland Avenue was temporarily closed between First and Third Streets, SW, while officers investigated

At this time, there does not appear to be any other suspects or ongoing threat. Out of an abundance of caution, Capitol police asked the public to stay away from the area while they investigate and collect evidence.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771359947371.png" alt="Police on the scene near the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday -photo courtesy WJLA" />
                        <figcaption>Police on the scene near the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday -photo courtesy WJLA</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;WASHINGTON —Officers arrested a person with a gun near the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building on Tuesday afternoon, according to an online statement from the U.S. Capitol Police.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">U.S. <a href="https://twitter.com/CapitolPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CapitolPolice</a> on incident today: &quot;A gentleman parked...he exited the vehicle with a shotgun and began running up towards the Capitol...Capitol police officers observed this individual, challenged him and ordered him to drop the weapon and get on ground which he did comply… <a href="https://t.co/7EhRK1hTmL">pic.twitter.com/7EhRK1hTmL</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2023848973208113535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Maryland Avenue was temporarily closed between First and Third Streets, SW, while officers investigated</p><p>At this time, there does not appear to be any other suspects or ongoing threat. Out of an abundance of caution, Capitol police asked the public to stay away from the area while they investigate and collect evidence.&nbsp;</p>

🎥Man with loaded shotgun arrested after running toward the US Capitol

North Platte, Neb. –– Nebraska farmers and ranchers are invited to explore new ways to diversify their operations at Opening the Gate: Agri-Tourism Opportunities for Nebraska Farms and Ranches on March 12 from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Rowe Sanctuary.

Hosted by Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Women in Agriculture in partnership with the Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, this hands-on workshop will highlight how Nebraska’s working lands can create additional revenue streams through agri-tourism while preserving agricultural heritage and natural resources.

Participants will hear from local experts about business planning, marketing, liability considerations, and practical steps for developing successful agri-tourism ventures. The program will also feature a conservation-focused tour and guided crane viewing experience along the Platte River at sunset, offering attendees firsthand insight into how conservation and tourism can work hand-in-hand.

“Nebraska farms and ranches have unique stories and landscapes that attract visitors from across the country,” organizers said. “This workshop is designed to provide practical tools and inspiration to help producers open their gates and welcome guests in a way that strengthens both their operations and rural communities.”

The cost to attend is $100 per person, and space is limited. Participants are encouraged to register early.

For more information and to register, visit https://go.unl.edu/mrw2 or scan the QR code on the event flyer.

<p><i>For Immediate Release</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771271690171.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>North Platte, Neb. –– Nebraska farmers and ranchers are invited to explore new ways to diversify their operations at Opening the Gate: Agri-Tourism Opportunities for Nebraska Farms and Ranches on March 12 from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Rowe Sanctuary.</p><p>Hosted by Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Women in Agriculture in partnership with the Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, this hands-on workshop will highlight how Nebraska’s working lands can create additional revenue streams through agri-tourism while preserving agricultural heritage and natural resources.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771271649998.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Participants will hear from local experts about business planning, marketing, liability considerations, and practical steps for developing successful agri-tourism ventures. The program will also feature a conservation-focused tour and guided crane viewing experience along the Platte River at sunset, offering attendees firsthand insight into how conservation and tourism can work hand-in-hand.</p><p>“Nebraska farms and ranches have unique stories and landscapes that attract visitors from across the country,” organizers said. “This workshop is designed to provide practical tools and inspiration to help producers open their gates and welcome guests in a way that strengthens both their operations and rural communities.”</p><p>The cost to attend is $100 per person, and space is limited. Participants are encouraged to register early.</p><p>For more information and to register, visit https://go.unl.edu/mrw2 or scan the QR code on the event flyer.</p>

Agri-Tourism Workshop to show Farmers and Ranchers Available Opportunities

Omaha, Neb.&nbsp; — A multi-agency effort led to an arrest after a lengthy pursuit in eastern Nebraska Saturday.

At approximately 6:55 p.m. Saturday, a trooper attempted a traffic stop on a Ford Fusion for failing to stop at a stop sign near Gretna. As the trooper attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused to yield and accelerated. The driver fled northbound on Highway 6 through Gretna. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The Omaha Police Department’s Able-1 was in the area and took over the pursuit from the air, while units on the ground discontinued. Able-1 pilots continued following the vehicle as it continued speeding northbound on Highway 6. The vehicle eventually turned westbound on West Q Road and then continued westbound on Highway 92 into Saunders County.

The pursuit continued for over an hour, traveling through Saunders County and eventually Lancaster County. The NSP AirWing took over for OPD’s Able-1 tracking the vehicle as it traveled southbound on Highway 79 towards Lincoln. Lancaster County deputies successfully deployed stop sticks to bring the vehicle to a stop on Highway 79 just north of Highway 34. The driver was taken into custody without further incident.

The driver, Juan Avant, 42, of Memphis, Tennessee, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, tampering with physical evidence, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was lodged in Sarpy County Jail.

Troopers were assisted by the Omaha Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, and Saunders County Sheriff’s Office during this investigation.

<p><i>Press Release</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562084161517.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Omaha, Neb.&nbsp; — A multi-agency effort led to an arrest after a lengthy pursuit in eastern Nebraska Saturday.</p><p>At approximately 6:55 p.m. Saturday, a trooper attempted a traffic stop on a Ford Fusion for failing to stop at a stop sign near Gretna. As the trooper attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused to yield and accelerated. The driver fled northbound on Highway 6 through Gretna. The trooper initiated a pursuit.</p><p>The Omaha Police Department’s Able-1 was in the area and took over the pursuit from the air, while units on the ground discontinued. Able-1 pilots continued following the vehicle as it continued speeding northbound on Highway 6. The vehicle eventually turned westbound on West Q Road and then continued westbound on Highway 92 into Saunders County.</p><p>The pursuit continued for over an hour, traveling through Saunders County and eventually Lancaster County. The NSP AirWing took over for OPD’s Able-1 tracking the vehicle as it traveled southbound on Highway 79 towards Lincoln. Lancaster County deputies successfully deployed stop sticks to bring the vehicle to a stop on Highway 79 just north of Highway 34. The driver was taken into custody without further incident.</p><p>The driver, Juan Avant, 42, of Memphis, Tennessee, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, tampering with physical evidence, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was lodged in Sarpy County Jail.</p><p>Troopers were assisted by the Omaha Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, and Saunders County Sheriff’s Office during this investigation.</p>

One Arrested After Multi-County Aerial Pursuit in Eastern Nebraska

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'Today' show host posts new video 2 weeks after mother's abduction

The Department of War reported U.S. military forces boarded another sanctioned tanker in the Indian Ocean. According to the social media post, "We defend the Homeland forward. Distance does not protect you."

"Overnight, U.S. forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding of the Veronica III without incident in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility."

"The vessel tried to defy President Trump’s quarantine —hoping to slip away. We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down. No other nation has the reach, endurance, or will to do this."

"International waters are not sanctuary. By land, air, or sea, we will find you and deliver justice. The Department of War will deny illicit actors and their proxies freedom of movement in the maritime domain."

<p>The Department of War reported U.S. military forces boarded another sanctioned tanker in the Indian Ocean. According to the social media post, "We defend the Homeland forward. Distance does not protect you."</p><p>"Overnight, U.S. forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding of the Veronica III without incident in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility."</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We defend the Homeland forward. Distance does not protect you.<br><br>Overnight, U.S. forces conducted a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding of the Veronica III without incident in the INDOPACOM area of responsibility.<br><br>The vessel tried to defy President Trump’s… <a href="https://t.co/Tran3cLR9g">pic.twitter.com/Tran3cLR9g</a></p>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2022997870061011067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>"The vessel tried to defy President Trump’s quarantine —hoping to slip away. We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down. No other nation has the reach, endurance, or will to do this."</p><p>"International waters are not sanctuary. By land, air, or sea, we will find you and deliver justice. The Department of War will deny illicit actors and their proxies freedom of movement in the maritime domain."</p>

🎥US military boards another oil tanker in Indian Ocean

Positive receipts come two weeks ahead of final economic forecast before Legislature finalizes state budget changes

<i>By Erin Bamer<br></i><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — As lawmakers work to close a projected $471 million budget deficit, they got a bit of relief Friday in Nebraska’s latest tax revenues, which came in above expectations.

The state’s January tax receipts show a net growth of 6.5% over what Nebraska’s Economic Forecasting Advisory Board predicted in October, according to the state Department of Revenue.

That equates to just under $37 million in extra revenue flowing into the state’s coffers. Overall, fiscal year-to-date net receipts are nearly on track with expectations, just 0.2% below projections — a $9.6 million difference.

The biggest contributor to January’s positive receipts came from sales and use tax revenues, which came in 26.6% above projections for a $69.7 million gain.

This was welcome news to State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood, chair of the Nebraska Legislature’s Appropriations Committee, who said sales taxes are a good indicator of how the state’s economy is doing.

Legislative Fiscal Analyst Keisha Patent said January is historically a good month for sales and use taxes because it reflects holiday spending. Even so, she said sales and use tax revenues exceeded expectations for the month.

Individual income taxes came in 8% below forecasts, for a $17.7 million loss. Clements said he believes that was due to the continued impact of the state’s phased-in decreases to individual income tax rates, which are set to wrap up in 2027, when the rate will hit 3.99%.

Corporate income taxes also came in below projections by 30.5%, but because it typically is a smaller tax category, the drop equated to a $16.8 million loss. Patent said this was likely due to quarterly estimated payments for businesses coming in below projections for January.

The latest tax receipts are one of the final economic indicators feeding the forecasting board before its members update projections at their next meeting Feb. 27. The meeting will be critical in determining the size of the projected budget deficit lawmakers have to fill before the end of March.

Patent has said the Legislative Fiscal Office incorporates other economic factors into its reports to the forecasting board, including significant changes to Nebraska’s Gross Domestic Product. This could also be beneficial to the budget, as both the second and third quarters of 2025 saw&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/01/23/feds-say-nebraska-gdp-grew-5-in-q3-of-2025-as-state-revenues-dont-track/">Nebraska’s GDP grow by roughly 5%</a>.

January’s tax receipts put Clements “a bit more at ease” as the Appropriations Committee is in the middle of considering a list of proposed budget cuts to fill the deficit. He said he’d been concerned that additional cuts might be needed if the forecasting board’s projections increased the deficit further, but given the latest receipts he expects the next forecast to remain relatively flat.

“I don’t know where it will be, but it is encouraging,” Clements said.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708703335793.png" alt=" State Sen. Robert Clements of Elmwood (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
                        <figcaption> State Sen. Robert Clements of Elmwood (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Positive receipts come two weeks ahead of final economic forecast before Legislature finalizes state budget changes</h2><p><i>By Erin Bamer<br></i><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a></p><p>LINCOLN — As lawmakers work to close a projected $471 million budget deficit, they got a bit of relief Friday in Nebraska’s latest tax revenues, which came in above expectations.</p><p>The state’s January tax receipts show a net growth of 6.5% over what Nebraska’s Economic Forecasting Advisory Board predicted in October, according to the state Department of Revenue.</p><p>That equates to just under $37 million in extra revenue flowing into the state’s coffers. Overall, fiscal year-to-date net receipts are nearly on track with expectations, just 0.2% below projections — a $9.6 million difference.</p><p>The biggest contributor to January’s positive receipts came from sales and use tax revenues, which came in 26.6% above projections for a $69.7 million gain.</p><p>This was welcome news to State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood, chair of the Nebraska Legislature’s Appropriations Committee, who said sales taxes are a good indicator of how the state’s economy is doing.</p><p>Legislative Fiscal Analyst Keisha Patent said January is historically a good month for sales and use taxes because it reflects holiday spending. Even so, she said sales and use tax revenues exceeded expectations for the month.</p><p>Individual income taxes came in 8% below forecasts, for a $17.7 million loss. Clements said he believes that was due to the continued impact of the state’s phased-in decreases to individual income tax rates, which are set to wrap up in 2027, when the rate will hit 3.99%.</p><p>Corporate income taxes also came in below projections by 30.5%, but because it typically is a smaller tax category, the drop equated to a $16.8 million loss. Patent said this was likely due to quarterly estimated payments for businesses coming in below projections for January.</p><p>The latest tax receipts are one of the final economic indicators feeding the forecasting board before its members update projections at their next meeting Feb. 27. The meeting will be critical in determining the size of the projected budget deficit lawmakers have to fill before the end of March.</p><p>Patent has said the Legislative Fiscal Office incorporates other economic factors into its reports to the forecasting board, including significant changes to Nebraska’s Gross Domestic Product. This could also be beneficial to the budget, as both the second and third quarters of 2025 saw&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2026/01/23/feds-say-nebraska-gdp-grew-5-in-q3-of-2025-as-state-revenues-dont-track/">Nebraska’s GDP grow by roughly 5%</a>.</p><p>January’s tax receipts put Clements “a bit more at ease” as the Appropriations Committee is in the middle of considering a list of proposed budget cuts to fill the deficit. He said he’d been concerned that additional cuts might be needed if the forecasting board’s projections increased the deficit further, but given the latest receipts he expects the next forecast to remain relatively flat.</p><p>“I don’t know where it will be, but it is encouraging,” Clements said.</p>

Nebraska’s January tax revenues $37 million above projections as lawmakers work on budget deficit

&nbsp;DAMASCUS —U.S. forces conducted 10 strikes against more than 30 ISIS targets in Syria, Feb. 3 – 12, to sustain relentless military pressure on remnants from the terrorist network, according to a statement from the U.S&gt; Central Command.

U.S. forces struck ISIS infrastructure and weapons storage targets with precision munitions delivered by fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft.

U.S. forces previously conducted five strikes against an ISIS communication site, critical logistics node, and weapons storage facilities, Jan. 27 – Feb. 2.

Operation Hawkeye Strike was launched in response to a Dec. 13 attack on U.S. and Syrian forces in Palmyra. The ISIS ambush resulted in the death of two U.S. service members and an American interpreter.

More than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured and over 100 ISIS infrastructure targets have been struck with hundreds of precision munitions during two months of targeted operations.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771123773381.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;DAMASCUS —U.S. forces conducted 10 strikes against more than 30 ISIS targets in Syria, Feb. 3 – 12, to sustain relentless military pressure on remnants from the terrorist network, according to a statement from the U.S&gt; Central Command.</p><p>U.S. forces struck ISIS infrastructure and weapons storage targets with precision munitions delivered by fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft.</p><p>U.S. forces previously conducted five strikes against an ISIS communication site, critical logistics node, and weapons storage facilities, Jan. 27 – Feb. 2.</p><p>Operation Hawkeye Strike was launched in response to a Dec. 13 attack on U.S. and Syrian forces in Palmyra. The ISIS ambush resulted in the death of two U.S. service members and an American interpreter.</p><p>More than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured and over 100 ISIS infrastructure targets have been struck with hundreds of precision munitions during two months of targeted operations.</p>

U.S. forces continue strikes on ISIS targets in Syria

THEDFORD, Neb. — In a village of 195 people tucked into the Nebraska Sandhills, five United States Postal Service crates were carried into a kindergarten classroom.

Cards. Packages. Stickers. Candy. Postcards. School supplies. Souvenirs.

One student looked at the growing stack of mail and shouted, “Holy cheeseballs!!”

Kindergarten teacher Dawn McFadden laughed. She had hoped for 20 cards.

Instead, her first year in the classroom has turned into something she said she could have never predicted.

“I had been thinking about doing the project for several months,” McFadden said. A teacher in another Nebraska district tried something similar last year and described it as “wildly successful.” McFadden thought it would be something fun to attempt during her first year teaching.

She created a flyer, sent it home with students and posted it on her own social media page. The goal was simple: collect Valentine’s Day cards from all 50 states and show her kindergarteners that the world extends far beyond rural Nebraska.

“There weren’t any certain conversations,” she said. “I feel as an educator it’s important to broaden my student’s horizons of different culture, people, places and things. Our world is a very interesting place.”

If 20 cards arrived, she would have considered it a success.

Within two weeks, more than 300 had come in. Students colored in a United States map as each state was represented. Soon, the entire country was filled in — multiple times.

“There were 5 USPS crates full of cards and packages, all being carried into our classroom,” McFadden said. “It was crazy!”

Inside were handwritten notes from strangers encouraging students to study hard, listen to their teacher and remember they matter.

“People have been so caring,” she said. “I’m very touched by people taking time out of their lives to send a card to us.”

The class has now received cards from all 50 states — multiple times — and from 20 countries.

The reach, however, did not happen by accident.

Elle Worley, a digital creator with more than 20,000 followers on her account, Tails From the Prairie, at the time of posting, partnered with McFadden to amplify the classroom’s request online. Originally from Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., Worley now lives in rural Nebraska and says she feels strongly about using her platform to highlight small communities.

“I’ve always said that if I ever had an audience online, I would use it to amplify topics and stories that matter to me,” Worley said. “Small towns are full of great people and their powerful stories but they don’t always have the reach. If I can be a bridge between places and help connect people, I will. It’s important to me to remind people that there are meaningful stories in rural America, too.”

She began sharing videos about the kindergarten class on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. On Instagram alone, videos related to the project have received more than 650,000 views. Across platforms, the total has climbed even higher.

For comparison, that is more than 3,300 times the population of Thedford.

Worley said she believed the class could reach all 50 states. She did not expect the international response or the wave of generosity that followed.

“I did not expect people to start sending packages from around the world or to buy out Dawn’s Amazon teacher wishlist…multiple times,” she said. “That part exceeded my expectations.”

One video featuring her rescue dog, Juni, helped push the project even further. Juni previously went viral after Worley shared her rescue story online, creating a loyal audience.

“I had so many comments saying they were sending cards ‘because of the dog,’” Worley said. “I think she might have been the real influencer in this situation.”

Comments flooded in asking where to send cards. Other teachers said their classrooms wanted to participate. People from across the country — and around the world — mailed cards and packages to a kindergarten classroom in the Sandhills.

“We’ve heard from people across the country and around the world who said they loved being part of something positive,” Worley said. “I think people felt like this was something real and safe that they could get involved with and make a difference.”

For students in Thedford, the experience quickly became a living geography lesson. They located countries on a globe as international mail arrived. They talked about distance, animals and different cultures. Other grades stopped to admire the growing display.

“Last week I overheard a couple 5th grade boys break out in the ‘state song’ in the hallway when they went by our map,” McFadden said.

The class shared treats and goodies with the entire school, which serves just 65 students preschool through sixth grade.

The district hosted a card reception, inviting parents and community members to view the display of cards and packages. In a town of 195, it became a point of pride.

“The parents, community and everyone are really excited,” McFadden said.

Worley believes the project resonated because it offered something tangible during a time when much of the world feels overwhelming.

“The world feels really heavy right now,” she said. “There’s so much difficult news, and it can feel like the problems are so vast that there’s nothing you can actually do. This project gave people something tangible. They could write a card, send a letter, mail a package, and know they were making a difference for children.”

Perhaps most surprising, she said, is how many adults reached out saying the project encouraged them too.

“I went into this hoping it would help the children,” Worley said. “I didn’t expect it to have a double impact.”

For McFadden, the experience has been unforgettable.

“It’s been unbelievable to see the response of so many people willing to send a small, rural class a Valentine,” she said. “It has turned into something I could’ve never predicted.”

Despite the overwhelming success, she does not plan to continue the project beyond Valentine’s Day.

“Although it has been a remarkable project, I need to focus on getting our classroom back to normal,” she said. “I think this was a luck of the draw with social media. I’m not certain the pattern is repeatable.”

When asked what she hopes her students remember years from now, her answer was simple.

From a village of 195 to more than 650,000 Instagram views and 20 countries around the globe, a partnership between a first-year teacher and a digital creator proved that even the smallest classroom can reach the world.

<p><i>By Allison Peck</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771038238302.png" alt="The first week after the request for cards from across the United States resulted in tons of cards, which the Thedford, Ne kindergarten class displayed in the classroom with map of pins showing where the cards came from. The video continues to show where they planned to add the cards and gifts from around the world and what countries they were from. (Elle Worley | Tails From The Prairie)" />
                        <figcaption>The first week after the request for cards from across the United States resulted in tons of cards, which the Thedford, Ne kindergarten class displayed in the classroom with map of pins showing where the cards came from. The video continues to show where they planned to add the cards and gifts from around the world and what countries they were from. (Elle Worley | Tails From The Prairie)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>THEDFORD, Neb. — In a village of 195 people tucked into the Nebraska Sandhills, five United States Postal Service crates were carried into a kindergarten classroom.</p><p>They were filled to the top.</p><p>Cards. Packages. Stickers. Candy. Postcards. School supplies. Souvenirs.</p><p>One student looked at the growing stack of mail and shouted, “Holy cheeseballs!!”</p><p>Kindergarten teacher Dawn McFadden laughed. She had hoped for 20 cards.</p><p>Instead, her first year in the classroom has turned into something she said she could have never predicted.</p><p>“I had been thinking about doing the project for several months,” McFadden said. A teacher in another Nebraska district tried something similar last year and described it as “wildly successful.” McFadden thought it would be something fun to attempt during her first year teaching.</p><p>She created a flyer, sent it home with students and posted it on her own social media page. The goal was simple: collect Valentine’s Day cards from all 50 states and show her kindergarteners that the world extends far beyond rural Nebraska.</p><p>“There weren’t any certain conversations,” she said. “I feel as an educator it’s important to broaden my student’s horizons of different culture, people, places and things. Our world is a very interesting place.”</p><p>If 20 cards arrived, she would have considered it a success.</p><p>Within two weeks, more than 300 had come in. Students colored in a United States map as each state was represented. Soon, the entire country was filled in — multiple times.</p><p>Then the packages started arriving.</p><p>“There were 5 USPS crates full of cards and packages, all being carried into our classroom,” McFadden said. “It was crazy!”</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1411729647279958%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>Inside were handwritten notes from strangers encouraging students to study hard, listen to their teacher and remember they matter.</p><p>“People have been so caring,” she said. “I’m very touched by people taking time out of their lives to send a card to us.”</p><p>The class has now received cards from all 50 states — multiple times — and from 20 countries.</p><p>The reach, however, did not happen by accident.</p><p>Elle Worley, a digital creator with more than 20,000 followers on her account, Tails From the Prairie, at the time of posting, partnered with McFadden to amplify the classroom’s request online. Originally from Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., Worley now lives in rural Nebraska and says she feels strongly about using her platform to highlight small communities.</p><p>“I’ve always said that if I ever had an audience online, I would use it to amplify topics and stories that matter to me,” Worley said. “Small towns are full of great people and their powerful stories but they don’t always have the reach. If I can be a bridge between places and help connect people, I will. It’s important to me to remind people that there are meaningful stories in rural America, too.”</p><p>She began sharing videos about the kindergarten class on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. On Instagram alone, videos related to the project have received more than 650,000 views. Across platforms, the total has climbed even higher.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2330387077467474%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>For comparison, that is more than 3,300 times the population of Thedford.</p><p>Worley said she believed the class could reach all 50 states. She did not expect the international response or the wave of generosity that followed.</p><p>“I did not expect people to start sending packages from around the world or to buy out Dawn’s Amazon teacher wishlist…multiple times,” she said. “That part exceeded my expectations.”</p><p>One video featuring her rescue dog, Juni, helped push the project even further. Juni previously went viral after Worley shared her rescue story online, creating a loyal audience.</p><p>“I had so many comments saying they were sending cards ‘because of the dog,’” Worley said. “I think she might have been the real influencer in this situation.”</p><p>Comments flooded in asking where to send cards. Other teachers said their classrooms wanted to participate. People from across the country — and around the world — mailed cards and packages to a kindergarten classroom in the Sandhills.</p><p>“We’ve heard from people across the country and around the world who said they loved being part of something positive,” Worley said. “I think people felt like this was something real and safe that they could get involved with and make a difference.”</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F925253320017558%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>For students in Thedford, the experience quickly became a living geography lesson. They located countries on a globe as international mail arrived. They talked about distance, animals and different cultures. Other grades stopped to admire the growing display.</p><p>“Last week I overheard a couple 5th grade boys break out in the ‘state song’ in the hallway when they went by our map,” McFadden said.</p><p>The class shared treats and goodies with the entire school, which serves just 65 students preschool through sixth grade.</p><p>The district hosted a card reception, inviting parents and community members to view the display of cards and packages. In a town of 195, it became a point of pride.</p><p>“The parents, community and everyone are really excited,” McFadden said.</p><p>Worley believes the project resonated because it offered something tangible during a time when much of the world feels overwhelming.</p><p>“The world feels really heavy right now,” she said. “There’s so much difficult news, and it can feel like the problems are so vast that there’s nothing you can actually do. This project gave people something tangible. They could write a card, send a letter, mail a package, and know they were making a difference for children.”</p><p>Perhaps most surprising, she said, is how many adults reached out saying the project encouraged them too.</p><p>“I went into this hoping it would help the children,” Worley said. “I didn’t expect it to have a double impact.”</p><p>For McFadden, the experience has been unforgettable.</p><p>“It’s been unbelievable to see the response of so many people willing to send a small, rural class a Valentine,” she said. “It has turned into something I could’ve never predicted.”</p><p>Despite the overwhelming success, she does not plan to continue the project beyond Valentine’s Day.</p><p>“Although it has been a remarkable project, I need to focus on getting our classroom back to normal,” she said. “I think this was a luck of the draw with social media. I’m not certain the pattern is repeatable.”</p><p>Still, the lesson will remain.</p><p>When asked what she hopes her students remember years from now, her answer was simple.</p><p>“Kindness matters.”</p><p>From a village of 195 to more than 650,000 Instagram views and 20 countries around the globe, a partnership between a first-year teacher and a digital creator proved that even the smallest classroom can reach the world.</p>

From a Village of 195 to 20 Countries: How a Thedford Kindergarten Class Sent Kindness Around the World

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a><br><a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — The second partial government shutdown in 2026 began at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, after lawmakers left the nation’s capital without reaching a deal on changes to immigration enforcement tactics at the Department of Homeland Security.&nbsp;

The department’s shutdown is also likely to go on for some time. With Congress out next week for the Presidents Day recess, lawmakers are not expected back on Capitol Hill for votes until Feb. 23.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/judge-weighs-trump-administration-limits-congressional-visits-immigration-facilities" target="_blank">A procedural vote</a>&nbsp;to approve funding for the Homeland Security bill for fiscal year 2026 failed Thursday to gain support from Senate Democrats because constraints to immigration enforcement were not included, such as an end to agents wearing face coverings.&nbsp;

Even with the president’s border czar Tom Homan&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/02/12/border-czar-tom-homan-announces-end-to-operation-metro-surge-claiming-success/" target="_blank">announcing Thursday</a>&nbsp; the withdrawal of the thousands of federal immigration officers from Minneapolis, Democrats argued it’s not enough.&nbsp;

“Without legislation, what Tom Homan says today could be reversed tomorrow on a whim from (President) Donald Trump,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate floor Thursday.

Asked by the press pool Friday about cutting a deal on the shutdown, &nbsp;Trump said,&nbsp;“We’ll see what happens. We always have to protect our law enforcement.”

After the Senate vote failed 52-47, members of Congress emptied out of Washington for the recess. Some were off to Munich, Germany for a major security conference.&nbsp;

While the agency Trump tasked with carrying out his mass deportation campaign of immigrants will shut down, enforcement will continue because Congress allocated a separate stream of money, about $75 billion for U.S. Immigration and Enforcement Services.&nbsp;

During last fall’s government shutdown, which lasted a record-breaking 43 days, immigration enforcement continued.

The other agencies within DHS that will be shut down but continue to operate because they include essential workers include the&nbsp;Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Secret Service, the Coast Guard and the Transportation Security Administration, and&nbsp;Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency,&nbsp;among others.

<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-looms-fema-coast-guard-tsa-stalemate-over-homeland-security-funds" target="_blank">In general</a>, any employees who focus on national security issues or the protection of life and property would continue to work through a shutdown, while federal workers who don’t are supposed to be furloughed.&nbsp;

Neither category of employees will receive their paychecks during the funding lapse, though federal law requires they receive back pay once Congress approves some sort of spending bill.&nbsp;

Democratic mayors call for GOP to accept proposals

Democrats have pushed for policy changes after federal immigration officers killed two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis, where a deportation drive is set to wind down after the city faced more than two months of aggressive immigration enforcment.&nbsp;

Renee Good was shot and killed by an immigration officer on Jan. 7, which prompted a bipartisan agreement to enact some guardrails, such as $20 million in funding for immigration agents to wear body cameras.&nbsp;

But a second killing by federal immigration officers, that of Alex Pretti on Jan. 24, prompted the Senate to decouple the Homeland Security measure from a package of spending bills, as Democrats floated proposals meant to rein in enforcement tactics, and prompted a four-day partial shutdown. A two-week funding patch was set for negotiations and it expires at midnight Friday.

Democratic mayors hailing from the major cities of Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New Orleans and Portland, Oregon, Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portland.gov/mayor/keith-wilson/news/2026/2/13/mayors-issue-joint-statement-regarding-department-homeland" target="_blank">issued a letter</a>&nbsp;that called on the top Republicans in Congress, Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, to accept the proposals before DHS entered a shutdown.&nbsp;

“When federal agents operate in our streets without identification, without warrants, and without accountability, that trust is shattered,” they wrote. “All of us agree that for so long as the agency exists, new funding for the Department of Homeland Security must be conditioned on the comprehensive 10-point framework released last week.”

Those policy suggestions include requiring immigration officers to not wear masks and identify themselves, which has drawn strong opposition from Republicans and the leaders of ICE and Customs and Border Protection who argue the face coverings prevent their agents from being doxxed.&nbsp;

Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., sent the proposals over to the White House, but said the Trump administration’s response was “incomplete and insufficient in terms of addressing the concerns Americans have about ICE’s lawless conduct.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2025-09/2025_0930_dhs_procedures_related_to_a_lapse_in_appropriations.pdf" target="_blank">According to the contingency plan</a>&nbsp;for DHS, the agency expects about 20,000 employees out of 271,000 to be furloughed in the event of a government shutdown.

<p>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a><br><a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a></p><p>WASHINGTON — The second partial government shutdown in 2026 began at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, after lawmakers left the nation’s capital without reaching a deal on changes to immigration enforcement tactics at the Department of Homeland Security.&nbsp;</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">DHS Secretary Kristi Noem (<a href="https://twitter.com/Sec_Noem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sec_Noem</a>): &quot;We&#39;re concerned about the Department of Homeland Security not being funded...That&#39;s telling the rest of the world the Democrat party doesn&#39;t think that protecting America is safe.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/4WR1iDPRgl">pic.twitter.com/4WR1iDPRgl</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2022079508413603948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>The department’s shutdown is also likely to go on for some time. With Congress out next week for the Presidents Day recess, lawmakers are not expected back on Capitol Hill for votes until Feb. 23.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/judge-weighs-trump-administration-limits-congressional-visits-immigration-facilities" target="_blank">A procedural vote</a>&nbsp;to approve funding for the Homeland Security bill for fiscal year 2026 failed Thursday to gain support from Senate Democrats because constraints to immigration enforcement were not included, such as an end to agents wearing face coverings.&nbsp;</p><p>Even with the president’s border czar Tom Homan&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/02/12/border-czar-tom-homan-announces-end-to-operation-metro-surge-claiming-success/" target="_blank">announcing Thursday</a>&nbsp; the withdrawal of the thousands of federal immigration officers from Minneapolis, Democrats argued it’s not enough.&nbsp;</p><p>“Without legislation, what Tom Homan says today could be reversed tomorrow on a whim from (President) Donald Trump,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate floor Thursday.</p><p>Asked by the press pool Friday about cutting a deal on the shutdown, &nbsp;Trump said,&nbsp;“We’ll see what happens. We always have to protect our law enforcement.”</p><p>After the Senate vote failed 52-47, members of Congress emptied out of Washington for the recess. Some were off to Munich, Germany for a major security conference.&nbsp;</p><h2>ICE still has cash at hand</h2><p>While the agency Trump tasked with carrying out his mass deportation campaign of immigrants will shut down, enforcement will continue because Congress allocated a separate stream of money, about $75 billion for U.S. Immigration and Enforcement Services.&nbsp;</p><p>During last fall’s government shutdown, which lasted a record-breaking 43 days, immigration enforcement continued.</p><p>The other agencies within DHS that will be shut down but continue to operate because they include essential workers include the&nbsp;Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Secret Service, the Coast Guard and the Transportation Security Administration, and&nbsp;Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency,&nbsp;among others.</p><p><a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-looms-fema-coast-guard-tsa-stalemate-over-homeland-security-funds" target="_blank">In general</a>, any employees who focus on national security issues or the protection of life and property would continue to work through a shutdown, while federal workers who don’t are supposed to be furloughed.&nbsp;</p><p>Neither category of employees will receive their paychecks during the funding lapse, though federal law requires they receive back pay once Congress approves some sort of spending bill.&nbsp;</p><h2>Democratic mayors call for GOP to accept proposals</h2><p>Democrats have pushed for policy changes after federal immigration officers killed two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis, where a deportation drive is set to wind down after the city faced more than two months of aggressive immigration enforcment.&nbsp;</p><p>Renee Good was shot and killed by an immigration officer on Jan. 7, which prompted a bipartisan agreement to enact some guardrails, such as $20 million in funding for immigration agents to wear body cameras.&nbsp;</p><p>But a second killing by federal immigration officers, that of Alex Pretti on Jan. 24, prompted the Senate to decouple the Homeland Security measure from a package of spending bills, as Democrats floated proposals meant to rein in enforcement tactics, and prompted a four-day partial shutdown. A two-week funding patch was set for negotiations and it expires at midnight Friday.</p><p>Democratic mayors hailing from the major cities of Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New Orleans and Portland, Oregon, Friday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.portland.gov/mayor/keith-wilson/news/2026/2/13/mayors-issue-joint-statement-regarding-department-homeland" target="_blank">issued a letter</a>&nbsp;that called on the top Republicans in Congress, Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, to accept the proposals before DHS entered a shutdown.&nbsp;</p><p>“When federal agents operate in our streets without identification, without warrants, and without accountability, that trust is shattered,” they wrote. “All of us agree that for so long as the agency exists, new funding for the Department of Homeland Security must be conditioned on the comprehensive 10-point framework released last week.”</p><p>Those policy suggestions include requiring immigration officers to not wear masks and identify themselves, which has drawn strong opposition from Republicans and the leaders of ICE and Customs and Border Protection who argue the face coverings prevent their agents from being doxxed.&nbsp;</p><p>Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., sent the proposals over to the White House, but said the Trump administration’s response was “incomplete and insufficient in terms of addressing the concerns Americans have about ICE’s lawless conduct.”&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2025-09/2025_0930_dhs_procedures_related_to_a_lapse_in_appropriations.pdf" target="_blank">According to the contingency plan</a>&nbsp;for DHS, the agency expects about 20,000 employees out of 271,000 to be furloughed in the event of a government shutdown.</p>

Department of Homeland Security enters shutdown, amid dispute over funding

On Friday at the direction of U.S. Southern commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Caribbean and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Three narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed

The attack raises the death toll from the U.S. strikes on drug boats to 133 people in at least 38 attacks carried out since early September in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.

<p>On Friday at the direction of U.S. Southern commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On Feb. 13, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOUTHCOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOUTHCOM</a> commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known… <a href="https://t.co/y50Pbtexfi">pic.twitter.com/y50Pbtexfi</a></p>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2022469576332574908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p> Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Caribbean and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Three narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed</p><p>The attack raises the death toll from the U.S. strikes on drug boats to 133 people in at least 38 attacks carried out since early September in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.</p>

🎥3 killed in another U.S. strike on a drug boat in the Caribbean

CARIBBEAN SEA --The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) announced on Thursday, the death of a Marine who was lost at sea, while conducting operations in the Caribbean, according to a media release.

Lance Cpl. Chukwuemeka E. Oforah, 21, of Florida, was declared deceased on Feb. 10, 2026. He was reported falling overboard the USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) on the evening of Feb. 7 and was the subject of an extensive, around‑the‑clock 72‑hour search and rescue operation.

"We are all grieving alongside the Oforah family," said Col. Tom Trimble, commanding officer, 22nd MEU (SOC). "The loss of Lance Cpl. Oforah is deeply felt across the entire Navy-Marine Corps team. He will be profoundly missed, and his dedicated service will not be forgotten."

The declaration followed the conclusion of the 72‑hour search and rescue operation on Feb. 10. The multi‑branch effort covered a wide search area and involved a range of assets, including five U.S. Navy ships, a rigid‑hull inflatable boat, and ten aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force—all supported by National Technical Means.

The nonstop search and rescue operation included hundreds of flight hours, extensive aviation support, and search efforts from USS Iwo Jima’s 7‑meter small‑boat and surface rescue swimmer teams. Aircraft involved in the search included six helicopters (two U.S. Navy MH‑60 Sierras, two MH‑60 Romeos, one U.S. Marine Corps AH‑1Z Viper, and one UH‑1Y Venom); one U.S. Navy P‑8 Poseidon; two U.S. Air Force HC‑130J Combat King IIs; and one U.S. Air Force MQ‑9 Reaper.Lance Cpl. Oforah was an infantry rifleman. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in Oct. 2023 and graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, in Feb. 2024. He completed the School of Infantry at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment. At the time of his death, he was deployed with Battalion Landing Team 3/6, 22nd MEU (SOC), aboard the USS Iwo Jima.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation.&nbsp;

<p>CARIBBEAN SEA --The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) announced on Thursday, the death of a Marine who was lost at sea, while conducting operations in the Caribbean, according to a media release.</p><p>Lance Cpl. Chukwuemeka E. Oforah, 21, of Florida, was declared deceased on Feb. 10, 2026. He was reported falling overboard the USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) on the evening of Feb. 7 and was the subject of an extensive, around‑the‑clock 72‑hour search and rescue operation.</p><p>"We are all grieving alongside the Oforah family," said Col. Tom Trimble, commanding officer, 22nd MEU (SOC). "The loss of Lance Cpl. Oforah is deeply felt across the entire Navy-Marine Corps team. He will be profoundly missed, and his dedicated service will not be forgotten."</p><p>The declaration followed the conclusion of the 72‑hour search and rescue operation on Feb. 10. The multi‑branch effort covered a wide search area and involved a range of assets, including five U.S. Navy ships, a rigid‑hull inflatable boat, and ten aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force—all supported by National Technical Means.</p><p>The nonstop search and rescue operation included hundreds of flight hours, extensive aviation support, and search efforts from USS Iwo Jima’s 7‑meter small‑boat and surface rescue swimmer teams. Aircraft involved in the search included six helicopters (two U.S. Navy MH‑60 Sierras, two MH‑60 Romeos, one U.S. Marine Corps AH‑1Z Viper, and one UH‑1Y Venom); one U.S. Navy P‑8 Poseidon; two U.S. Air Force HC‑130J Combat King IIs; and one U.S. Air Force MQ‑9 Reaper.Lance Cpl. Oforah was an infantry rifleman. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in Oct. 2023 and graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, in Feb. 2024. He completed the School of Infantry at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment. At the time of his death, he was deployed with Battalion Landing Team 3/6, 22nd MEU (SOC), aboard the USS Iwo Jima.</p><p>The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation.&nbsp;</p>

Marine becomes first American to die in drug boat targeting operation

Four crew members of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mission launched at 5:15 a.m. EST Friday from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida for a science expedition aboard the International Space Station.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket propelled a Dragon spacecraft into orbit carrying NASA astronauts&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/people/jessica-u-meir/">Jessica Meir</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/people/nasa-astronaut-jack-hathaway/">Jack Hathaway</a>, ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module at approximately 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14.

“With Crew-12 safely on orbit, America and our international partners once again demonstrated the professionalism, preparation, and teamwork required for human spaceflight,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “The research this crew will conduct aboard the space station advances critical technologies for deep space exploration while delivering real benefits here on Earth. I’m grateful to the NASA and SpaceX teams whose discipline, rigor, and resilience made today’s launch possible. We undertake these missions with a clear understanding of risk, managing it responsibly so we can continue expanding human presence in low Earth orbit while preparing for our next great leap to the Moon and onward to Mars.”

During Dragon’s flight, SpaceX will monitor a series of automatic spacecraft maneuvers from its mission control center in Hawthorne, California. NASA will monitor space station operations throughout the flight from the Mission Control Center at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

NASA’s live coverage resumes at 1:15 p.m. Saturday on&nbsp;<a href="https://plus.nasa.gov/scheduled-video/nasas-spacex-crew-12-arrival-welcome-remarks/">NASA+</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/livetv/ref=atv_hm_liv_LRad2e3b_slct?serviceToken=v0_Cl0KJGUwMTYwNTQwLWU2NjMtNGE1OC05MDczLTZiMmRmYjI5NWMyNRDwyY266jIaLExpNitvL2dzaDBoR0NjVGdhVGdLTHptYkF6dHpuZ29zb2VJMDZ6YWhmZEk9IAESBmZpbHRlchgBIgRob21lKgRsaXZlWj8KDGxpbmVhckZpbHRlchIvCi1hbXpuMS1wdi1saW5lYXItbGl2ZV90YWItZmlsdGVyLWxlYXJuX2V4cGxvcmV6AIIBBjAAUABwAA%3D%3D">Amazon Prime</a>, and the agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/nasa">YouTube</a>&nbsp;channel with rendezvous, docking, and hatch opening. After docking, the crew will change out of their spacesuits and prepare cargo for offload before opening the hatch between Dragon and the space station’s Harmony module around 5 p.m. NASA also will provide coverage of the welcome ceremony aboard the space station shortly following hatch opening.

Learn how to watch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/general/watch-nasa-programming/">NASA content</a>&nbsp;through a variety of platforms, including social media.

Meir, Hathaway, Adenot, and Fedyaev will join the Expedition 74 crew, including NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev already aboard the orbiting laboratory, returning the space station to its standard seven crew members complement following the Jan. 14&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasas-spacex-crew-11-mission-returns-splashes-down-off-california/">departure</a>&nbsp;of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission.

During its mission, Crew-12 will conduct scientific research to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/nasas-spacex-crew-12-to-study-adaptation-to-altered-gravity/">prepare for human exploration</a>&nbsp;beyond low Earth orbit and to benefit humanity on Earth. Participating crew members will study&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=9160">pneumonia-causing bacteria</a>&nbsp;to improve cardiovascular treatments, on-demand&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=8593">intravenous fluid generation</a>&nbsp;for future space missions, and research on how physical characteristics may&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=9473">affect blood flow</a>&nbsp;during spaceflight. Other experiments include automated&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=9518">plant health monitoring</a>&nbsp;and investigations of plant and nitrogen-fixing microbe&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=8301">interactions</a>&nbsp;to enhance food production in space.

Crew-12 is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which provides reliable access to space, maximizing the use of the station for research and development, and supporting future missions beyond low Earth orbit by partnering with private companies to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station.

<p><i>NASA</i></p><p>Four crew members of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mission launched at 5:15 a.m. EST Friday from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida for a science expedition aboard the International Space Station.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Liftoff of Crew-12! <a href="https://t.co/jQ804lyjkm">pic.twitter.com/jQ804lyjkm</a></p>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/2022253660168953979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket propelled a Dragon spacecraft into orbit carrying NASA astronauts&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/people/jessica-u-meir/">Jessica Meir</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/people/nasa-astronaut-jack-hathaway/">Jack Hathaway</a>, ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module at approximately 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14.</p><p>“With Crew-12 safely on orbit, America and our international partners once again demonstrated the professionalism, preparation, and teamwork required for human spaceflight,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “The research this crew will conduct aboard the space station advances critical technologies for deep space exploration while delivering real benefits here on Earth. I’m grateful to the NASA and SpaceX teams whose discipline, rigor, and resilience made today’s launch possible. We undertake these missions with a clear understanding of risk, managing it responsibly so we can continue expanding human presence in low Earth orbit while preparing for our next great leap to the Moon and onward to Mars.”</p><p>During Dragon’s flight, SpaceX will monitor a series of automatic spacecraft maneuvers from its mission control center in Hawthorne, California. NASA will monitor space station operations throughout the flight from the Mission Control Center at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.</p><p>NASA’s live coverage resumes at 1:15 p.m. Saturday on&nbsp;<a href="https://plus.nasa.gov/scheduled-video/nasas-spacex-crew-12-arrival-welcome-remarks/">NASA+</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/livetv/ref=atv_hm_liv_LRad2e3b_slct?serviceToken=v0_Cl0KJGUwMTYwNTQwLWU2NjMtNGE1OC05MDczLTZiMmRmYjI5NWMyNRDwyY266jIaLExpNitvL2dzaDBoR0NjVGdhVGdLTHptYkF6dHpuZ29zb2VJMDZ6YWhmZEk9IAESBmZpbHRlchgBIgRob21lKgRsaXZlWj8KDGxpbmVhckZpbHRlchIvCi1hbXpuMS1wdi1saW5lYXItbGl2ZV90YWItZmlsdGVyLWxlYXJuX2V4cGxvcmV6AIIBBjAAUABwAA%3D%3D">Amazon Prime</a>, and the agency’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/nasa">YouTube</a>&nbsp;channel with rendezvous, docking, and hatch opening. After docking, the crew will change out of their spacesuits and prepare cargo for offload before opening the hatch between Dragon and the space station’s Harmony module around 5 p.m. NASA also will provide coverage of the welcome ceremony aboard the space station shortly following hatch opening.</p><p>Learn how to watch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/general/watch-nasa-programming/">NASA content</a>&nbsp;through a variety of platforms, including social media.</p><p>Meir, Hathaway, Adenot, and Fedyaev will join the Expedition 74 crew, including NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev already aboard the orbiting laboratory, returning the space station to its standard seven crew members complement following the Jan. 14&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasas-spacex-crew-11-mission-returns-splashes-down-off-california/">departure</a>&nbsp;of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission.</p><p>During its mission, Crew-12 will conduct scientific research to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/nasas-spacex-crew-12-to-study-adaptation-to-altered-gravity/">prepare for human exploration</a>&nbsp;beyond low Earth orbit and to benefit humanity on Earth. Participating crew members will study&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=9160">pneumonia-causing bacteria</a>&nbsp;to improve cardiovascular treatments, on-demand&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=8593">intravenous fluid generation</a>&nbsp;for future space missions, and research on how physical characteristics may&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=9473">affect blood flow</a>&nbsp;during spaceflight. Other experiments include automated&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=9518">plant health monitoring</a>&nbsp;and investigations of plant and nitrogen-fixing microbe&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/station/research-explorer/investigation/?#id=8301">interactions</a>&nbsp;to enhance food production in space.</p><p>Crew-12 is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which provides reliable access to space, maximizing the use of the station for research and development, and supporting future missions beyond low Earth orbit by partnering with private companies to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station.</p>

🎥New astronauts launch to Space Station after medical evacuation

The FBI is increasing its reward up to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance, according to media release from the agency's office in Phoenix.

New identifying details about the suspect in the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie have been confirmed after a forensic analysis of the doorbell camera footage by the FBI’s Operational Technology Division.

The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5’9” - 5’10” tall, with an average build. In the video, he is wearing a black, 25-liter ‘Ozark Trail Hiker Pack’ backpack.

We hope this updated description will help concentrate the public tips we are receiving. Since February 1, 2026, the FBI has collected over 13,000 tips from the public related to this case.

Every tip is reviewed for credibility, relevance, and information that can be acted upon by law enforcement. Threat Intake Examiners at the National Threat Operations Center (NTOC) and FBI personnel are supporting a 24-hour command post in which dozens of agents and investigators are assigned leads and tips to action each shift.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770749564250.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The FBI is increasing its reward up to $100,000 for information leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance, according to media release from the agency's office in Phoenix.</p><p>New identifying details about the suspect in the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie have been confirmed after a forensic analysis of the doorbell camera footage by the FBI’s Operational Technology Division.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770945701735.png" alt="Image FBI" />
                        <figcaption>Image FBI</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5’9” - 5’10” tall, with an average build. In the video, he is wearing a black, 25-liter ‘Ozark Trail Hiker Pack’ backpack.</p><p>We hope this updated description will help concentrate the public tips we are receiving. Since February 1, 2026, the FBI has collected over 13,000 tips from the public related to this case.</p><p>Every tip is reviewed for credibility, relevance, and information that can be acted upon by law enforcement. Threat Intake Examiners at the National Threat Operations Center (NTOC) and FBI personnel are supporting a 24-hour command post in which dozens of agents and investigators are assigned leads and tips to action each shift.</p>

FBI releases description of Guthrie kidnapping suspect; reward increased

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Under the process just completed by the <a href="https://twitter.com/EPA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EPA</a>, we are officially terminating the so-called Endangerment Finding — a disastrous Obama-era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry and massively drove up prices for American consumers.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/PqVUS1GtQN">pic.twitter.com/PqVUS1GtQN</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2022018893825692007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Slashing regulatory red tape and freeing the American taxpayer from crushing regulations. 💰 <a href="https://t.co/JpIMgbEfPX">pic.twitter.com/JpIMgbEfPX</a></p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2022022474972770490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> to Americans who may think revoking the fake Obama/Biden climate schemes would &quot;come at a cost to public health and the environment&quot;:<br><br>&quot;It has nothing to do with public health. This was all a SCAM — a GIANT SCAM. This was a ripoff of the country by Obama and Biden.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/9DRli0wsuk">pic.twitter.com/9DRli0wsuk</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2022024287880982723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;Under President Trump’s leadership today, the Trump EPA has finalized the single largest act of deregulation in the history of the United States of America,&quot; says <a href="https://twitter.com/epaleezeldin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@epaleezeldin</a>.<br><br>&quot;With today’s announcement, American families will save over $2,400 for a new vehicle.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/beXDcODIix">https://t.co/beXDcODIix</a> <a href="https://t.co/b6WvkGvTDX">pic.twitter.com/b6WvkGvTDX</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2022023049357537358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Under the process just completed by the <a href="https://twitter.com/EPA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EPA</a>, we are officially terminating the so-called Endangerment Finding — a disastrous Obama-era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry and massively drove up prices for American consumers.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/PqVUS1GtQN">pic.twitter.com/PqVUS1GtQN</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2022018893825692007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, the Trump administration repealed the endangerment finding: the ruling that served as the basis for limits on tailpipe emissions and power plant rules. Without it, we’ll be less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change — all so the fossil fuel industry can…</p>&mdash; Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/2022034471336521953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump's EPA rolls back Obama-era climate change rules

The House of Representatives passed the election integrity overhaul bill on Wednesday aimed at keeping non-citizens from voting in U.S. federal elections.

The bill passed with a mostly party-line vote, 218-213. All three GOP Members of the Nebraska House delegation voted with the majority. Only one Democrat, Rep. Henry Cuellar, of Texas voted for the bill.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770863394074.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The House of Representatives passed the election integrity overhaul bill on Wednesday aimed at keeping non-citizens from voting in U.S. federal elections.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The House just passed the SAVE America Act — commonsense legislation that requires voter ID and implements other critical measures to protect federal elections from fraud.<br><br>Next up: Senate <a href="https://t.co/ciBQL7fnoJ">pic.twitter.com/ciBQL7fnoJ</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2021732716534739290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>The bill passed with a mostly party-line vote, 218-213. All three GOP Members of the Nebraska House delegation voted with the majority. Only one Democrat, Rep. Henry Cuellar, of Texas voted for the bill.</p><p>The bill now moves to the Senate.&nbsp;</p>

Nebraska Lawmakers help House pass proof-of-citizenship requirement for voters

WASHINGTON— Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Oversight Committee Wednesday to answer questions about the release of the Epstein files and other controversies.

<p>WASHINGTON— Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared before the House Oversight Committee Wednesday to answer questions about the release of the Epstein files and other controversies.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> makes opening statement before House Judiciary Cmte.: &quot;President Trump has given us the resources…to protect the American people…I cannot think of a policy outcome more important than protecting the lives of American citizens. Can you?&#39; <a href="https://t.co/xrVcqqHIgV">pic.twitter.com/xrVcqqHIgV</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021613156749947014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a>: &quot;I want to take a moment to acknowledge the Epstein survivors who are here today... I have spent my entire career fighting for victims and I will continue to do so. I am deeply sorry for what any victim — any victim — has been through... The DOJ is committed to… <a href="https://t.co/t0pnQ7qlor">pic.twitter.com/t0pnQ7qlor</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2021610509489831995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepJayapal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepJayapal</a> spars with <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> on DOJ treatment of Epstein survivors: &quot;Attorney General Bondi…Will you turn to them now and apologize for what your Department of Justice has put them through?&quot;<br> <br>Bondi: &quot;I&#39;m not going to get in the gutter for her theatrics.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/yDjUSkuAjB">pic.twitter.com/yDjUSkuAjB</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021627149849948491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepJerryNadler?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepJerryNadler</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> spar:<br> <br>Nadler: &quot;How many of Epstein&#39;s co-conspirators have you indicted?&quot;<br> <br>Bondi: &quot;…You showed—I find it funny—&quot;<br> <br>Nadler: &quot;…How many have you indicted?&quot;<br><br>Bondi: &quot;…Chairman Jordan, I&#39;m not gonna get in the gutter with these people.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/BchqLbEGgb">pic.twitter.com/BchqLbEGgb</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021627087787110649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> slams Democratic lawmakers over their treatment of President Trump: &quot;You all should be apologizing. You sit here and you attack the President and I am not going to have it…None of them asked Merrick Garland over the last four years one word about Jeffrey Epstein.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/uUXIJhXvzr">pic.twitter.com/uUXIJhXvzr</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021626945830830324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepTedLieu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepTedLieu</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> on Epstein probe: &quot;Merrick Garland dropped the ball, as did Attorney General Bill Barr, as did Alex Acosta…But you are in charge. You have the power to change things, to hold these men accountable…You&#39;re doing the opposite, you&#39;re protecting them.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/0BIRc9SM87">pic.twitter.com/0BIRc9SM87</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021632788315660596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepTedLieu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepTedLieu</a> spars with <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> over potential Trump involvement in Epstein crimes: &quot;I believe you just lied under oath. There is ample evidence in the Epstein files—&quot;<br> <br>Bondi: &quot;Don&#39;t you ever accuse me of a crime.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/etPN6M38yC">pic.twitter.com/etPN6M38yC</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021633523761754609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepThomasMassie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepThomasMassie</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> on Epstein files redactions: &quot;Are you able to track who it was that obscured Les Wexner&#39;s name?&quot;<br> <br>Bondi: &quot;Within 40 minutes, Wexner&#39;s name was added back—&quot;<br> <br>Massie: &quot;Within 40 minutes of me catching you red-handed!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/OmmGbE66fi">pic.twitter.com/OmmGbE66fi</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2021639321896222742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Epstein files: Bondi's Oversight hearing erupts into shouting match

Lincoln, Neb.&nbsp; —&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol encourages parents to get engaged in their kids’ online activity today on Safer Internet Day.

Safer Internet Day is a worldwide initiative to deliver tips and programs to build safe online practices. The effort began in 2004 and includes information for teachers, schools, and families on how to teach safe internet usage for kids.

“It’s incredibly important for parents to stay involved in their kids’ online presence,” said Sgt. Peter Rutherford, Commander of the Nebraska Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. “Keeping the lines of communication open between parents and kids about how to stay safe online can be the determining factor in preventing victimization. Be aware that there are online predators, but there are also tactics you can use to keep your kids safe.”

This year’s Safer Internet Day features several topics, primarily focused on discussions and training related to AI. NSP encourages all internet users to keep safety in mind as they conduct their online activity. Resources are available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://safer.connectsafely.org/" target="_blank">Safer Internet Day</a>&nbsp;website.

<p><i>Press Release</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562084161517.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Lincoln, Neb.&nbsp; —&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol encourages parents to get engaged in their kids’ online activity today on Safer Internet Day.</p><p>Safer Internet Day is a worldwide initiative to deliver tips and programs to build safe online practices. The effort began in 2004 and includes information for teachers, schools, and families on how to teach safe internet usage for kids.</p><p>“It’s incredibly important for parents to stay involved in their kids’ online presence,” said Sgt. Peter Rutherford, Commander of the Nebraska Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. “Keeping the lines of communication open between parents and kids about how to stay safe online can be the determining factor in preventing victimization. Be aware that there are online predators, but there are also tactics you can use to keep your kids safe.”</p><p>This year’s Safer Internet Day features several topics, primarily focused on discussions and training related to AI. NSP encourages all internet users to keep safety in mind as they conduct their online activity. Resources are available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://safer.connectsafely.org/" target="_blank">Safer Internet Day</a>&nbsp;website.</p>

NSP Encourages Important Conversations on Safer Internet Day

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a><br><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/"><i>Kansas Reflector</i></a>

TOPEKA — CoreCivic argued Tuesday for the right to begin holding prisoners in its closed Leavenworth facility, even as the company is working through a local permit process that could make the court case irrelevant.

CoreCivic challenged an injunction in the Kansas Court of Appeals that was made last year by the Leavenworth County District Court. The injunction kept the private prison from taking detainees from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement while CoreCivic and the City of Leavenworth fought in court about reopening the company’s prison facility.

Complicating the issue, the two are now working through the city’s planning process as CoreCivic has applied for a special use permit that would allow it to reopen.&nbsp;

“This is a difficult case because it feels like there are all of these slippery parts that are not part of the matter before us,” said Chief Judge Sarah Warner. “There’s a separate lawsuit. There are ongoing administrative proceedings.”&nbsp;

CoreCivic operated a private prison in Leavenworth until 2021 when it lost a contract with the U.S. Department of Justice. In 2025, the company announced it planned to reopen the prison as the Midwest Regional Detention Center and house ICE detainees.&nbsp;

The city required CoreCivic to obtain a special use permit through its planning and zoning process before reopening, which is where the court cases originated last year. The two entities have been fighting it out in court, with CoreCivic insisting it did not need a permit.&nbsp;

After losses in Kansas district court, CoreCivic bowed to the city’s demands and began the process of obtaining the permit. Last week, the city’s planning commission&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/03/corecivic-receives-leavenworth-planning-commission-approval-in-contentious-meeting/" target="_blank">approved the permit</a>&nbsp;and sent it to the city commission for a final determination.&nbsp;

Although one court case between the two ended and one remains open but inactive, the Nashville-based private prison company continued its appeal Tuesday to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/06/04/leavenworth-wins-restraining-order-barring-corecivic-from-taking-ice-detainees/" target="_blank">argue the injunction prohibiting</a>&nbsp;it from taking prisoners immediately should be reversed.

Sara Fevurly, an attorney for CoreCivic, said the district court didn’t properly grant the injunction, and even if the decision were rendered moot after the permit was approved, the company may be entitled to fees and damages associated with an improper temporary injunction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the short hearing focused on legal technicalities of the case, both sides argued about the definition of “irreparable harm” and whether CoreCivic abandoned use of its property because it did not house prisoners there for about three years.&nbsp;

Joseph Hatley, an attorney for Leavenworth, told the court it was difficult to determine what “irreparable harm” would mean for the city, listing challenges the city had with CoreCivic during its operations before 2021. Those included not alerting local police to crimes at the facility and public works issues created by sewage.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770836020066.png" alt=" From left, Kansas Court of Appeals Judges Thomas Malone, Sarah Warner and Stephen Hill hear arguments on Feb. 10, 2026, about reversing an injunction against CoreCivic (Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)" />
                        <figcaption> From left, Kansas Court of Appeals Judges Thomas Malone, Sarah Warner and Stephen Hill hear arguments on Feb. 10, 2026, about reversing an injunction against CoreCivic (Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a><br><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/"><i>Kansas Reflector</i></a></p><p>TOPEKA — CoreCivic argued Tuesday for the right to begin holding prisoners in its closed Leavenworth facility, even as the company is working through a local permit process that could make the court case irrelevant.</p><p>CoreCivic challenged an injunction in the Kansas Court of Appeals that was made last year by the Leavenworth County District Court. The injunction kept the private prison from taking detainees from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement while CoreCivic and the City of Leavenworth fought in court about reopening the company’s prison facility.</p><p>Complicating the issue, the two are now working through the city’s planning process as CoreCivic has applied for a special use permit that would allow it to reopen.&nbsp;</p><p>“This is a difficult case because it feels like there are all of these slippery parts that are not part of the matter before us,” said Chief Judge Sarah Warner. “There’s a separate lawsuit. There are ongoing administrative proceedings.”&nbsp;</p><p>CoreCivic operated a private prison in Leavenworth until 2021 when it lost a contract with the U.S. Department of Justice. In 2025, the company announced it planned to reopen the prison as the Midwest Regional Detention Center and house ICE detainees.&nbsp;</p><p>The city required CoreCivic to obtain a special use permit through its planning and zoning process before reopening, which is where the court cases originated last year. The two entities have been fighting it out in court, with CoreCivic insisting it did not need a permit.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770835927566.png" alt="Sara Fevurly, attorney for CoreCivic, considers opponent’s arguments during a Feb. 10, 2026, Kansas Court of Appeals hearing about reversing an injunction against the private prison company. (Photo by Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)" />
                        <figcaption>Sara Fevurly, attorney for CoreCivic, considers opponent’s arguments during a Feb. 10, 2026, Kansas Court of Appeals hearing about reversing an injunction against the private prison company. (Photo by Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>After losses in Kansas district court, CoreCivic bowed to the city’s demands and began the process of obtaining the permit. Last week, the city’s planning commission&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/03/corecivic-receives-leavenworth-planning-commission-approval-in-contentious-meeting/" target="_blank">approved the permit</a>&nbsp;and sent it to the city commission for a final determination.&nbsp;</p><p>Although one court case between the two ended and one remains open but inactive, the Nashville-based private prison company continued its appeal Tuesday to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/06/04/leavenworth-wins-restraining-order-barring-corecivic-from-taking-ice-detainees/" target="_blank">argue the injunction prohibiting</a>&nbsp;it from taking prisoners immediately should be reversed.</p><p>Sara Fevurly, an attorney for CoreCivic, said the district court didn’t properly grant the injunction, and even if the decision were rendered moot after the permit was approved, the company may be entitled to fees and damages associated with an improper temporary injunction.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In the short hearing focused on legal technicalities of the case, both sides argued about the definition of “irreparable harm” and whether CoreCivic abandoned use of its property because it did not house prisoners there for about three years.&nbsp;</p><p>Joseph Hatley, an attorney for Leavenworth, told the court it was difficult to determine what “irreparable harm” would mean for the city, listing challenges the city had with CoreCivic during its operations before 2021. Those included not alerting local police to crimes at the facility and public works issues created by sewage.&nbsp;</p><p>Fevurly argued that past behavior cannot be used to determine harm.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770835965549.png" alt="Sara Fevurly, attorney for CoreCivic, considers opponent’s arguments during a Feb. 10, 2026, Kansas Court of Appeals hearing about reversing an injunction against the private prison company. (Photo by Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)" />
                        <figcaption>Sara Fevurly, attorney for CoreCivic, considers opponent’s arguments during a Feb. 10, 2026, Kansas Court of Appeals hearing about reversing an injunction against the private prison company. (Photo by Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>“I don’t know how you calculate damages based on the police inability to investigate crimes,” Hatley said. “There are people who get hurt by that, there are victims in the facility who are hurt by that. Irreparable harm is the inability to calculate damages, and that’s what we have here.”</p><p>Warner said the judges would render a written opinion as soon as they could.&nbsp;</p><p>CoreCivic will know by March 10 whether the city will approve its special use permit to reopen the prison, Hatley said after the hearing. That will be the city commission’s second consideration of the permit, with the first consideration occurring Feb. 24. A public hearing is held as part of the process.&nbsp;</p><p>David Waters, the Leavenworth city attorney, said after the hearing that the public’s input is “certainly” part of determining whether the permit goes through.&nbsp;</p><p>“That is why we hold a public hearing,” he said. “The planning commission holds that public hearing to get the citizen input on that. It’s one of the most important parts of the zoning and planning process is to get that input from the residents as to what is best for the public health and safety and welfare of the community.”</p><p>Waters said CoreCivic has the option to appeal to the district court if the city commission refuses to grant the permit.</p>