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Eileen Gu responds to criticism from US JD Vance and others

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Eileen Gu responds to criticism from US JD Vance and others

After qualifying for the third Olympic Games this time, Irene Gu said that the US criticism was due to the fact that she was representing China. And because she won.

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LIVIGNO, Italy – Despite her fears, Irene Gu continued her quest for her third straight Olympic medal in freestyle skiing. She fell on the first run of the women’s halfpipe heats in the snow on February 19th, but recovered to advance to the finals on February 21st.

But as usual for her, that was just part of the story of the evening.

Afterwards, the American-born player Gu, who represents China as one of the most famous athletes at the Olympics, answered a question about the criticism he has received in the United States.

That recently included Vice President J.D. Vance. In an interview with Fox News, Vance mentioned Gu and said he hopes people who grew up in the United States “want to compete with America.”

Goo said she wasn’t offended by Vance’s words, and when asked about Vance wanting her to represent the United States, she playfully replied, “I’m honored. Thank you, JD! That’s great.”

Continuing the theme, Mr. Goo answered in the affirmative when asked if he felt “a bit of a punching bag in certain parts of American politics right now.”

“Yes,” said Mr. Gu. “So many athletes compete on behalf of different countries. … The only reason people have a problem with me doing that is because they lump China together as this monolithic entity and they just hate China. So the problem isn’t what they think.

“And because I won, I think they probably wouldn’t care that much if I didn’t do well. And that’s fine with me. People are entitled to their opinion.”

When asked about his well-being, 22-year-old Gu said he was assaulted on the Stanford University campus last year.

“It wasn’t by a Stanford student,” she said. “It’s like someone came in broad daylight and physically attacked me. And our dormitory got robbed. … It was pretty serious, yeah.”

Mr. Gu was right about other players competing on behalf of other countries, even though they only competed on February 19th. Zoe Atkin of Great Britain, who won the halfpipe heats with a score of 91.50, was born in Massachusetts.

Two of the four Team USA skiers who participated in the event made it to the finals, with Svea Irving finishing eighth with an 80.75 and Kate Gray just barely finishing 12th (74.75) after waiting with her family for the last of the competitors to participate.

Although he was on the verge of being eliminated in the qualifying round and finished fifth with a clutch second run of 86.50 points, Gu is considered one of the favorites to win a medal, taking his total to six medals and repeating his historic 2022 Beijing Olympics where he won medals in the big air, slopestyle and halfpipe events.

“It’s a big deal to be the only one in this field to compete in another competition, let alone two in this field,” Gu said. “I mean, everyone else is feeling fresh because I’m high on adrenaline and pretty much coming off the best two weeks of my life. … I decided to compete in three events. It’s a bet on myself, so I’m not complaining. Rather, I’m just painting a picture of a real struggle that I’m going through that other people might not be going through.”

“Yes, it seemed nondescript on my first run. I also haven’t skated halfpipe in two months because I was training on the slopes.”

Preferred tax relief review including service, cost and competitor comparisons

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Preferred tax relief review including service, cost and competitor comparisons

A tax relief company can help you find options to resolve your IRS debt, negotiate with tax authorities on your behalf, and apply for payment plans and penalty relief. Services, pricing, and support models vary widely between providers, so comparing companies is an important step before seeking professional help.

Priority Tax Relief is one of many companies that offers IRS tax debt resolution assistance. We researched providers, looking at their service, transparency, customer experience, and more to help you decide if they’re trustworthy companies you can contact for support and guidance.

Overview of priority tax relief

Priority Tax Relief was founded in 1991 and is headquartered in San Francisco. With offices in California, Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Washington, the company provides tax resolution services to individuals and businesses facing IRS and state tax debts.

Priority’s team supports multiple forms of IRS relief. This may be helpful for taxpayers whose financial situation does not fit a single solution.

Contents of priority tax reduction

Priority Tax Relief provides support with all standard tax relief options including:

  • Compromised offer: In some cases, Priority can help you negotiate a compromise that delays or reduces your tax payments.
  • Reduced penalties: Although it’s rare to avoid interest, Priority can help reduce penalties for late filing and late payments.
  • Innocent Spouse Relief: If your spouse made an error on your combined tax return that you weren’t aware of, Priority can help you file for relief.
  • Currently Not Collectable (CNC) Designation: If paying your debt becomes financially difficult, Priority may be able to delay payments until the situation is resolved.
  • Installment agreement: Paying over time is one of the most common forms of tax relief, and Priority can help you enter into an installment agreement.
  • Help you navigate bank taxation: Priority may be able to negotiate with the IRS to waive bank levies.
  • If your submission is late: The company can defund the business owner’s taxes and wages.

Priority Tax Relief offers assistance for these programs, but approval is ultimately determined by the IRS. Working with a tax relief company may help you understand your options and prepare your application, but it does not guarantee a reduction in your tax liability or any particular outcome.

Mechanism of preferential tax reduction price

Priority Tax Relief does not publish prices on its website, which is typical for tax relief providers. Because tax resolution services are based on each taxpayer’s financial situation, the scope of work and total costs vary widely from case to case.

If you instead choose priority tax relief, follow the process below.

  • consultation: A Priority tax expert will review your case for free. During your free consultation, we will gather information about your tax obligations and related issues. Professionals will disclose fees during the investigation stage.
  • Investigation stage: If you agree to work with Priority, our experts will perform additional research to find the best solution for you. This may include reviewing your previous tax returns and scrutinizing your finances and assets.
  • Resolution phase: Priority offers resolution options where available and pricing based on your needs. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how you move forward, and the experts at Priority can help guide you through your next steps.

Upfront pricing is rarely available in this industry, so it’s important to carefully consider the proposed services and find out what’s included before signing a contract.

Advantages and potential disadvantages of preferential tax relief

Working with a tax relief company like Priority Tax Relief may be helpful for taxpayers who need professional guidance when navigating IRS programs, but their services are not necessary in every situation.

Strong Points

  • A rating from the BBB and high customer ratings on both BBB and Trustpilot
  • We offer a 3-day money back guarantee
  • Over 30 years of business experience
  • We assist with the full range of standard IRS tax relief programs.
  • Services provided by qualified professionals such as tax accountants, registered agents, and certified public accountants (CPAs)

Cons

  • It has a “tax saving estimator” that can create unrealistic expectations about potential outcomes. All program approvals are determined by the IRS, so estimates of relief amounts are not guaranteed.
  • Money back guarantee period is limited to 3 days

Reviews and reputation of priority tax reduction

Priority Tax Relief generally receives high ratings from customers across major review platforms, but like most tax relief companies, there is also mixed feedback.

The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) ​​and has an A rating reflecting its responsiveness to customer complaints. Priority Tax Relief also has an average customer rating of 4.53 out of 5 stars based on over 50 reviews on the BBB website. In BBB complaint records, Priority Tax Relief typically responds to customer concerns and provides additional context regarding the issues raised.

On Trustpilot, the company maintains a 4.8 out of 5 star rating with nearly 200 customer reviews, with many reviewers finding the service responsive and informative.

Some negative feedback centers around dissatisfaction with case outcomes. Approval of tax relief is determined by the IRS, so results may vary regardless of the provider you work with.

Preferential tax reduction with competitors

Most tax relief companies offer similar services and tax resolution options, but their pricing, processes, and wording vary. It’s a good idea to get free consultations with two or three companies and choose the one that seems best suited to your needs.

You can use the table below to get started, but be sure to consult each provider you’re considering before hiring and be on the lookout for signs of tax relief fraud.

Looking for help with tax relief? Best tax saving companies of 2026

When it makes sense to work with a tax relief company

Although tax relief companies cannot take advantage of special IRS programs or options that taxpayers cannot consider themselves, there may be times when it makes sense to work with a professional. If any of the following apply to you, it may be wise to hire a tax expert.

  • You owe a lot of tax: A tax relief specialist can help you exercise all available options to reduce your debt or divide it into manageable periods.
  • You are subject to IRS taxation. In some cases, a professional can help you unfreeze your financial accounts by helping you explore alternative collateral.
  • If you have multiple years of unfiled returns: A professional may be able to help you with your tax refund and find deductions that may reduce your tax liability.
  • You are facing financial hardship: We help businesses apply for CNC status to defer payments.

Tax credits are complex and solutions vary from person to person. By having an expert on your side, you can spend less time researching what’s possible and consider more options.

conclusion

If you are dealing with an unresolved tax debt, working with a tax relief company may help you understand your options and navigate the IRS process. Although professional assistance may be helpful in some situations, approval of relief programs and resulting reduction in tax liability is determined solely by the IRS.

Priority Tax Relief reports strong customer ratings across major review platforms, but no major concerns regarding transparency or eligibility were identified during our investigation. As with any provider in this industry, it is important to carefully consider the proposed services and fees before deciding whether representation is appropriate for your situation.

Frequently asked questions about priority tax relief

Is priority tax relief legal?

Yes, Priority Tax Relief is a legitimate company that provides tax resolution services. In business since 1991, we maintain accreditation with the Better Business Bureau and have high customer ratings on both the BBB website and Trustpilot. Our investigation did not identify any significant concerns regarding transparency or qualifications that would clearly suggest that this company has a poor reputation.

Can priority tax relief reduce my tax liability?

Priority Tax Relief has certified tax professionals and tax accountants on staff who can help you handle your tax debts. While there is no guarantee that Priority or any other tax relief company will be able to reduce your tax liability, choosing a reliable company like Priority gives you the best chance of finding a profitable solution.

Do I need a tax relief company to work with the IRS?

No, you do not need a tax relief company to work with the IRS. In fact, all the options that a tax relief company can explore for you are also available to you, the taxpayer. However, it is beneficial to work with a professional. A professional can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf and help you consider all your options without spending the time you would need if you were doing it yourself.

Live Olympic figure skating results, latest information on women’s free skating

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Live Olympic figure skating results, latest information on women’s free skating

MILAN — Alisa Liu stepped onto the top step of the Olympic podium and threw her hands in the air.

The American figure skater won her first national title at age 13, took a break from competitive sport at age 16, returned at age 18, and became world champion at age 19. She became an Olympic gold medalist at age 20, becoming the first American woman to win an individual gold medal since Sarah Hughes in 2002.

“I literally can’t handle this,” she said immediately after winning.

He didn’t seem to feel bad either, as he took a victory lap around the Milan ice skating stadium with his gold medal around his neck and an American flag draped over his shoulder.

She posed for photos, biting on her gold medal and showing off her frenulum piercing with a smile. She just wowed the crowd with her electric free skate, which had the crowd jumping to its feet and propelled her from third to first place following a beautiful short program two days earlier.

She skated with pure joy and had a big smile on her face throughout the program. When she came off the ice, she said to the broadcast camera, “That’s what I (expletive) talk about!”

After a tough short program that put her in 13th place, Liu’s teammate Amber Glenn showed herself and everyone what she’s made of by putting on a great free skate of her own and finishing in 5th place. “She killed it,” Liu said of Glenn.

USA TODAY Sports will bring you all the latest news, reactions and highlights from the Milan Ice Skating Arena.

Alisa Liu absolutely won with her long program performance, scoring a season-best 150.20 points and a total of 226.79 points.

Two days after a painful short program, Amber Glenn took to the ice again here at the Milan Ice Skating Arena.

Glenn, a 26-year-old American competing in his first Olympics, said as he entered the night that it was a lifelong dream of his to regain the joy of skating and to truly enjoy and soak up the experience.

Glenn, who finished 13th after the short program, told NBC before his performance, “No matter what the weather is like today, I never expected to get here. That in itself is an accomplishment. I came here to be who I am and stand up for what I believe in.”

She did it in the free skate. She opened with a stunning triple axel performance that reached incredible heights, truly showing off her strength in the industry. This performance earned her a score of 10.40, 0.34 points higher than her short program triple axel. When she crossed the finish line, she gave her signature fist pump and the crowd cheered her on by showering stuffed animals on the ice. She scored 147.52 points and finished with a total of 214.91 points.

During the kiss-and-cry section, while waiting to score, she could be heard saying, “I’m in the Olympics. I didn’t fall. I didn’t fall in the Olympics.”

USA TODAY Sports’ Jordan Mendoza spoke to Amber Glenn and Alisa Liu about the strong friendship they’ve built. Here’s what they said:

Liu says of Glenn: “She’s a really big sister to me. The idea of ​​us competing against each other is so weird to me. I really look at her as one of my friends and really one of my teammates. I don’t know, but it’s really fun to do things with her.”

Glenn said of Ryu: “It’s great to have people around me who are so positive about skating and about their career. On the flip side, I have a spare pair of tights in case she tears them up and I don’t have a spare. Or she doesn’t have tights and I prepare a schedule for her.”

Here are the standings for the women’s figure skating competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

  1. Alisa Liu (USA): Total score: 226.79, free skate score: 150.20, short program score: 76.59.
  2. Kaori Sakamoto (Japan): Total score: 224.90, free skate score: 147.67, short program score: 77.23.
  3. Ami Nakai (Japan): Total score: 219.16, free skate score: 140.45, short program score: 78.71.
  4. Chiba Momone (Japan): Total score: 217.88, free skate score: 143.88, short program score: 74.00.
  5. Amber Glenn (USA): Total score: 214.91, free skate score: 147.52, short program score: 67.39.
  6. Adelia Petrosyan (neutral athlete): Total score: 214.53, free skate score: 141.64, short program score: 72.89.
  7. Nina Petrokina (Estonia): Total score: 210.82, free skate score: 141.19, short program score: 69.63.
  8. Hain Lee (Korea): Total score: 210.56, free skate score: 140.49, short program score: 70.07.
  9. Anastasia Gubanova (Georgia): Total score: 209.99, free skate score: 138.22, short program score: 71.77.
  10. Sofia Samodelkina (Kazakhstan): Total score: 207.46, free skate score: 138.99, short program score: 68.47.
  11. Jia Shin (Korea): Total score: 206.68, free skate score: 141.02, short program score: 65.66.
  12. Ysabeau Levit (USA): Total score: 202.80, free skate score: 131.96, short program score: 70.84.
  13. Lara Naki Guttmann (Italy): Total score: 195.75, free skate score: 134.19, short program score: 61.56.
  14. Roena Hendricks (Belgium): Total score: 199.65, free skate score: 128.72, short program score: 70.93.
  15. Nina Pinzarone (Belgium): Total score: 200.30, free skate score: 131.33, short program score: 68.97.
  16. Iida Karunen (Finland): Total score: 192.79, free skate score: 127.73, short program score: 65.06.
  17. Julia Sauter (Romania): Total score: 190.93, free skate score: 127.80, short program score: 63.13.
  18. Olga Mikutina (Austria): Total score: 185.59, free skate score: 123.87, short program score: 61.72.
  19. Zhang Ruiyang (China): Total score 178.03, free skate score 118.65, short program score 59.38.
  20. Ekaterina Krakowa (Poland): Total score: 173.37, free skate score: 113.23, short program score: 60.14.
  21. Livia Kaiser (Switzerland): Total score: 171.52, free skate score: 115.83, short program score: 55.69.
  22. Lorine Schild (France): Total score: 167.08, free skate score: 111.45, short program score: 55.63.
  23. Kimmy Ripond (Switzerland): Total score 159.54, free skate score 100.34, short program score 59.20.
  24. Maria Senyuk (Israel): Total score 152.61, free skate score 94.00, short program score 58.61.

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Katarina Witt believes ‘ranking doesn’t matter’ in the women’s long program

Katarina Witt talks about Alisa Liu and the other female skaters participating in Milan Magic for the final figure skating event of the competition, the women’s long program.

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Who has won a medal in women’s figure skating in the past 40 years?

  • 2026: Alysa Liu (USA), Kaori Sakamoto (Japan), Ami Nakai (Japan)
  • 2022: Anna Shcherbakova of the Republic of China (gold), Alexandra Trusova of the Republic of China (silver), Kaori Sakamoto of Japan (bronze)
  • 2018: Alina Zagitova of the Republic of China (gold), Evgeniya Medvedeva of the Republic of China (silver), Ketlin Osmond of Canada (bronze)
  • 2014: Russia’s Adelina Sotnikova (gold), South Korea’s Kim Yuna (silver), Italy’s Carolina Kostner (bronze)
  • 2010: Kim Yuna of South Korea (gold), Mao Asada of Japan (silver), Joanie Rochette of Canada (bronze)
  • 2006: Japan’s Shizuka Arakawa (gold), USA’s Sasha Cohen (silver), Russia’s Irina Slutskaya (bronze)
  • 2002: America’s Sarah Hughes (gold), Russia’s Irina Slutskaya (silver), America’s Michelle Kwan (bronze)
  • 1998: Tara Lipinski of the United States (gold), Michelle Kwan of the United States (silver), Chen Lu of China (bronze)
  • 1994: Ukraine’s Oksana Baiul (gold), America’s Nancy Kerrigan (silver), China’s Chen Lu (bronze)
  • 1992: Christy Yamaguchi of the United States (gold), Midori Ito of Japan (silver), Nancy Kerrigan of the United States (bronze)
  • 1988: Katarina Witt of East Germany (gold), Elizabeth Manley of Canada (silver) and Debi Thomas of the United States (bronze).
  • 1984: Katarina Witt of East Germany (gold), Rosalyn Sumners of the United States (silver), Kira Ivanova of the Soviet Union (bronze)

A figure skating routine consists of two scores: a technical component score and a program component score. As the name suggests, the Technical Element score concerns the jumps, spins, and step sequences in your performance. Program component scores consist of composition, presentation, and skating skills.

  • Toe jump: The skater drives the toe pick of his free foot into the ice, launching himself into the air and creating momentum for the jump.
    • Then run: The skater takes off backwards and lands on the same back end of the blade.
    • Lutz: The skater moving backwards jumps off the back outside edge of the skate, uses the toe pick of the other skate to launch into the air in the opposite direction, and lands on the back outside edge of the picking leg.
    • Flip: The skater launches from the inside back edge of one skate and lands on the outside back edge of the other skate.
  • Edge jump: The skater steps off from the edge of the skate, not the toe pick.
    • Salchow: The skater launches from the inside back edge of one skate and lands on the outside back edge of the other skate.
    • accelerator: In the only forward-facing jump, the skater lands on the outside back of the non-takeoff foot while moving backwards. The Axel is the most difficult jump because of the extra half-turn involved in taking off forward and landing backwards.
    • loop: The skater jumps off the back outer edge of the skate and lands on the same edge.

The US trade deficit widened. Goods trade gap in 2025 will be the largest ever

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The US trade deficit widened. Goods trade gap in 2025 will be the largest ever

Lucia Mutikani
|Reuters

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The U.S. trade deficit widened sharply in December on the back of a surge in imports, and 2025 goods shortages will be the largest on record despite President Donald Trump’s tariffs on foreign goods.

The trade gap rose 32.6% to $70.3 billion, the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis and Census Bureau said Thursday. A Reuters poll of economists predicted the trade deficit would narrow to $55.5 billion. The trade deficit in 2025 narrowed by 0.2% to $901.5 billion. The goods trade gap widened by 2.1% to a record $1.24 trillion.

Last year, President Trump imposed intensive tariffs on trading partners aimed at, among other things, addressing trade imbalances and protecting U.S. industry. However, punitive tariffs did not result in a manufacturing renaissance, with factory employment dropping by 83,000 from January 2025 to January 2026.

more: President Trump’s tariffs appear to be aimed at eliminating the trade deficit. Experts are skeptical that it will work

The report was delayed because of last year’s government shutdown. Imports in December increased by 3.6% to $357.6 billion. Merchandise imports rose 3.8% to $280.2 billion, driven by a $7 billion increase in industrial supplies and materials, primarily non-monetary gold, copper and crude oil.

Capital goods imports increased by $5.6 billion, driven by computer accessories and communications equipment. This increase is likely related to the construction of data centers that support artificial intelligence.

However, imports of consumer goods declined, pushed down by pharmaceuticals. There have been major fluctuations in pharmaceutical imports.

Merchandise imports increased by 4.3% to $3.44 trillion in 2025.

Exports in December decreased by 1.7% to $287.3 billion. Exports of goods fell 2.9% to $180.8 billion, weighed down by an $8.7 billion decline in industrial supplies and materials, mainly non-monetary gold. Exports of other goods also declined.

However, thanks to semiconductors, exports of capital goods increased. Exports of consumer goods, including pharmaceuticals, increased. Merchandise exports increased by 5.7% to $2.2 trillion in 2025.

The trade deficit in goods expanded by 18.8% to $99.3 billion. Services imports increased by $2 billion to $77.4 billion in December, driven by growth in transportation and travel services. Exports of services increased by $500 million to $106.5 billion.

The larger-than-expected trade deficit could prompt economists to cut their forecasts for fourth-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth. The BEA is scheduled to release its delayed fourth-quarter GDP forecast on Friday. The economy likely grew at an annual rate of 3.0% last quarter, after expanding at a 4.4% pace in the July-September period, according to a Reuters poll of economists.

President Donald Trump accuses President Barack Obama of leaking classified information

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President Donald Trump accuses President Barack Obama of leaking classified information

On February 19, President Trump told reporters about President Obama’s comments about aliens: “He gave classified information. He would never do something like that.”

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President Donald Trump accused former President Barack Obama of releasing classified information during recent comments the former president made about aliens.

“He gave classified information. He would never do that,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on February 19, adding that it was a “big mistake.”

Podcast host Brian Tyler Cohen asked President Obama if aliens are real in an interview published on February 14, to which the former president replied, “They are real, but I’ve never seen one.”

more: Do aliens exist? President Obama says it’s “highly possible” – but it hasn’t reached Area 51

“They’re not being kept in … Area 51. Unless there’s this huge conspiracy and they’re hiding it from the President of the United States, there’s no underground facility,” Obama added.

The brief comment during rapid-fire questions quickly gained attention, and President Obama later sought to clarify his remarks in a statement on social media.

“I was trying to live up to the spirit of the speed round, but since it’s getting attention, let me be clear,” Obama wrote. “Statistically speaking, the universe is so vast that there is a good chance that there is life in it. But the distances between solar systems are so great that it is unlikely that aliens ever visited us, and during my presidency, we saw no evidence that extraterrestrial life has come into contact with us. Really!”

Asked whether Obama’s comments that he said disclosed classified information confirmed the existence of aliens, Trump continued to criticize the former president.

“I don’t know if they’re real or not, but I can tell you that he provided classified information,” Trump said. “He shouldn’t have done that. He made a big mistake. He took it out of classified information.”

President Trump added, “No, I don’t have an opinion on that.” “I never talk about it. A lot of people talk about it. A lot of people believe it.”

President Obama’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

Congress has heard testimony about unidentified flying objects (also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena) three times since 2023. In September, four witnesses said they had seen what they believed to be an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAP), and the hearing also included a video purportedly showing a U.S. military drone engaging the mysterious object.

The Department of Defense’s UFO Office recently reported that it had found no “verifiable evidence” of extraterrestrial life, activity, or technology, and NASA released a report in September 2023 saying the agency had found no evidence that UAPs were extraterrestrial in nature.

Contributors: Eric Lagatta, Anthony Robledo

Chick-fil-A’s final Classic Cup release date set. Find out how.

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Chick-fil-A’s final Classic Cup release date set. Find out how.

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Chick-fil-A unveils its final collector cup design – a retro cup featuring the iconic cow – as the Gold Fun Cup contest continues.

Early last month, the fast food chain began offering $3.99 Classic Cups for a limited time, featuring one of four retro designs. The last cup, the Cow Billboard Cup, featuring the Chick-fil-A cow, first appeared on the “Eat Mor Chikin” sign in 1995, will be held on Monday, February 23rd.

Every time you purchase a Classic Cup, you have a chance to win a special Gold Fun Cup. It comes with 52 free entrée prizes, one for each week of the year. The contest will run until July 1st. Each cup is sold wrapped, so customers won’t know which cup they bought or if they won until they remove the packaging.

Taco Bell: Chicken Bacon Ranch Street Chalupas is now on the menu. The acquisition times are as follows

Cups are available while supplies last. Some restaurants may have all four designs in stock (check with your local restaurant for availability).

The Classic Cup and Golden Fun Cup promotions are in celebration of Chick-fil-A’s 80th anniversary. The College Park, Ga.-based fast food chicken chain is also commemorating the milestone with a new drink and a special stuffed cow.

Here’s how the Gold Fun Cup sweepstakes works:

How to get a free year of Chick-fil-A

To get a year’s worth of free Chick-fil-A food, you must purchase a Classic Cup. Each classic cup comes wrapped to hide the design.

3,000 Golden Fun Cups will be randomly distributed to collectible cups across the country. If you are a lucky Gold Fun Cup winner, you can claim your prize by scanning the QR code on the cup.

What will the winner of Chick-fil-A’s Gold Cup contest get?

Winners will receive up to 52 entrees, one for each week of the year. Entrees available at participating restaurants include the Original Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Grilled Chicken Sandwich and Chick-fil-A Nuggets.

Mike Snyder is a national trends news reporter for USA TODAY. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, and X, and email him at: mike snyder & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com.

Buffalo Wild Wings celebrates boneless wing lawsuit victory with BOGO deal

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Buffalo Wild Wings celebrates boneless wing lawsuit victory with BOGO deal

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Buffalo Wild Wings is celebrating its recent legal victory and inviting customers back.

“These are called boneless wings and will forever be called boneless wings,” the restaurant said in a social media post on Thursday, Feb. 19. “Let’s celebrate today’s court decision with BOGO FREE boneless wings.”

Earlier this week, a federal judge filed a lawsuit against Buffalo Wild Wings, a sports bar chain, accusing it of deceiving customers by selling boneless wings without chicken wings. The suit argued that the chicken wings were “essentially chicken nuggets,” but Judge John Tharp Jr. rejected the suit, saying there was “no meat on the bones.”

What about the prey? Now, Boneless Wings at BOGO is technically a weekly Thursday deal, and it’s not just a post-trial victory celebration. But this entire saga, combined with Buffalo Wild Wings’ boast of victory, reignited a long-standing debate online. “Are wings without bones really wings?”

Are boneless wings really wings? Netizens discuss the court ruling

It appears that not all brand posters agree with the court’s decision. In fact, many users were furious that the judge defended the term “wings” in “boneless wings.”

One commenter said: “There’s no such thing as a boneless chicken wing. It’s chicken nuggets tossed in sauce.” “They’re insane chicken nuggets, grow up,” agreed another.

The two users had a discussion in the thread that resonated with many. Boneless chicken wings cannot be classified as chicken wings unless they are made with chicken wing meat.

“If it’s not chicken wing meat, why on earth is it called chicken wings? It’s a piece of breast meat. It’s never been a chicken wing, and it never will be,” said one avid chicken fan.

“It’s ‘boneless chicken wings’ like almond milk. It’s a piece of chicken, if not ground chicken. If I were honest, I’d get further, but I’m scared to be honest because if I tell the truth, they won’t eat at the restaurant,” said another. Several netizens denounced what they called “legalization of false advertising.”

Even when the Boneless Brigade seemed outnumbered, they stuck to their love for cheeky snacks.

“It’s a bit of a rant, but boneless chicken wings are so much better. They taste just like regular chicken wings, but without the effort,” said one person.

“Boneless wings are the only wings you should eat,” another agreed.

“I’m so glad the courts finally came to their senses. Boneless chicken wings are always better, they have more meat and you don’t have to work around the bones like 15th century farmers,” said one person.

And of course, some people point out that every Thursday is BOGO Boneless Day. Still, Buffalo Wild Wings used the opportunity to make a statement that boneless wings are here to stay.

Applebee’s launches new cocktail with Snoop Dogg’s gin brand, Dr. Dre

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Applebee’s launches new cocktail with Snoop Dogg’s gin brand, Dr. Dre

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DO-Double G and DRE are back together, but this time the hip-hop duo is working on another “Gin and Juice.”

Applebee’s has teamed up with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s gin brand for a new cocktail.

Applebee’s has teamed up with Still GIN By Dre and Snoop to launch two new cocktails, Still Together Sips, available in restaurants for a limited time starting February 17, according to a news release.

Applebee’s said the drinks, named “Young Wild & Free Fruit Punch” and “Rollin’ on the Beach,” also feature temporary tattoos.

“Our new Still Together Sips are the perfect way to toast to friends who value authenticity,” Michelle Chin, Applebee’s chief marketing officer, said in a release.

Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg first launched a line of gin cocktails in February 2024 called “Gin and Juice,” named after Snoop’s 1993 song of the same name. In October of that year, he released Still Gin, named after Dr. Dre’s 1999 song “Still DRE,” which featured Snoop.

more: Applebee’s Date Night Passes are back! Here’s how to get them.

Applebee’s collaborates with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s gin brand. see drinks

Applebee’s Still Together Sips both contain Still GIN, whose ingredients include:

  • Young, Wild, Free Fruit Punch: Gin, grenadine, lemon sour, pineapple
  • rollin on the beach: Pour gin, peach schnapps, prickly pear, orange, and cranberry juice tableside and serve in a shaker.

Fruit punch cocktails cost $7, while beach-inspired drinks cost $10. Each drink comes with a temporary tattoo, and Applebee’s says there are three tattoo designs available.

Applebee’s says the cocktail will be available for a limited time.

Melina Khan is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Contact her at melina.khan@usatoday.com.

Trump administration expands ICE powers to detain refugees

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Trump administration expands ICE powers to detain refugees

The new policy is a change from an earlier memo that said failure to obtain lawful permanent residence is not “grounds” for deportation or detention.

Ted Hesson and Devika Madhusudanan Nair
|Reuters

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WASHINGTON – The Trump administration is giving immigration officials broader powers to detain legal refugees awaiting green cards to ensure their “review,” according to a government memo, an apparent expansion of the president’s broad crackdown on legal and illegal immigration.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in a Feb. 18 memo filed in federal court that refugees must be returned to government custody for “screening and testing” one year after entering the United States.

“This detention and testing requirement ensures that refugees are retested after one year, aligns post-admission testing with testing applied to other admissions applicants, and promotes public safety,” the department said in a memo.

Under U.S. law, refugees must apply for legal permanent residence one year after entering the country. The new memorandum gives immigration authorities the power to detain individuals during the re-examination process.

The new policy is a change from a 2010 memorandum that said failure to obtain lawful permanent residence is not “grounds” for deportation, nor is it “an appropriate basis” for detention.

DHS did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters outside of normal business hours.

Supporters criticize new approach

The decision drew criticism from refugee advocacy groups.

Afghan Evac President Sean Vandiver called the directive a “reckless reversal of long-standing policy” and said it “shatters trust in the people the United States legally recognizes and is sworn to protect.”

HIAS, formerly known as the Hebrew Immigrant Assistance Association, said in a statement that “this action will cause significant harm to the thousands of people who are welcomed into the United States fleeing violence and persecution.”

Under President Donald Trump, the number of ICE detainees reached about 68,000 in February, an increase of about 75% from when he took office last year.

Trump’s hard-line immigration policies were a powerful campaign war point that helped him win the 2024 election.

In January, a U.S. judge temporarily blocked a recently announced Trump administration policy targeting about 5,600 legal refugees waiting for green cards in Minnesota.

U.S. District Judge John Tanheim in Minneapolis said in a written ruling that federal agents likely violated multiple federal laws by arresting some of these refugees for additional testing.

Ted Hesson reports in Washington, Devika Nair and Shubham Kalia in Bengaluru, and Christina Cook in San Francisco. Edited by Lincoln Feast.

USA vs. Canada women’s hockey live scores, gold medal game updates

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USA vs. Canada women’s hockey live scores, gold medal game updates

Live scores for Olympic women’s hockey, where the U.S. team faces Canada in the gold medal game in Italy, are updated.

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milan — The 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal game between USA women’s hockey and Canada is the moment we’ve all been waiting for.

Since women’s hockey was first included in the Olympics in 1998, the United States and Canada have faced off in six of the seven games for Olympic gold. Canada has won gold medals five times compared to Team USA only twice, but the women’s red, white and blue team is favored heading into the final on Thursday, February 19th.

The U.S. women have won seven straight against Canada, most recently with a 5-0 shutout victory in the qualifying round, marking the first time in Olympic history that Canada was held scoreless.

Both teams will feature five-time Olympians. Canadian captain Marie-Philippe Poulin surpassed fellow Canadian Hayley Wickenheiser’s all-time Olympic scoring record of 18 goals. Meanwhile, U.S. captain Hilary Knight set U.S. Olympic records for most goals (15) and most points (33) with the game-tying goal to force overtime.

Best American women’s hockey team of all time? Monique Lamoureux says ‘absolutely’

USA TODAY Sports will be in Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics to provide live coverage of the gold medal match. Here’s what you need to know:

Stream the 2026 Winter Olympics on Peacock

If the teams are tied at the end of 60 minutes of the gold medal match, the teams will play a 20-minute 3-on-3 overtime game with a 15-minute break until someone scores. Teams do not change sides in the first overtime, but they do in subsequent overtimes.

It will be the second overtime game of the day, following Switzerland’s overtime victory over Sweden in the bronze medal match, in which the Americans tied the score late.

Five-time Olympian Hilary Knight kept America’s gold medal dream alive with a goal at 57 minutes, 56 seconds to tie the score at 1-1. With this goal, Knight became the U.S. all-time Olympic goals leader (15) and points leader (33). Lyla Edwards and Megan Keller had assists.

Team USA’s Britta Carl Salem was asked to board after Canada’s Erin Ambrose took a hard fall. Ambrose quickly returned to the locker room after being helped off the ice. As a result of the review, this judgment was downgraded to a minor penalty.

Team USA is in uncharted territory. Christine O’Neill scored a shorthanded goal to give Canada a 1-0 lead. It will be the first time the United States will follow suit at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The last time an opponent scored against the United States was 8 minutes, 37 seconds into the second period of the Olympic opener against the Czech Republic on February 5. Canada had a slight advantage in shots on goal with 21 compared to 20 for the USA.

On Thursday, February 19, 16,000 fans packed into Milan’s Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena to watch the women’s hockey gold medal game between longtime rivals the United States and Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Also in the crowd was American hockey player Hilary Knight’s new fiance, American speed skater Brittany Bowe.

Bowe was seen wearing a Team USA jersey on Thursday’s television broadcast, a day after Knight got down on one knee and proposed after morning coffee. The two announced their engagement on Instagram on February 18th. This was a full-circle moment for Knight and Bowe, who first met at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Bowe will compete in the women’s 1,500-meter speed skating race on Friday, February 20th.

Other stars in attendance include Billie Jean King, Mark Messier, and Tom Brady. Read the full story here.

Christine O’Neill scores her third goal of the 2026 Olympics, giving Team Canada a 1-0 lead over Team USA. The short-handed goal came at 20:54 with assists from Laura Stacy and Renata Fast. This is the first time that the United States has been at a disadvantage in the entire tournament.

After the first period, it was a tie for everyone. Team USA entered Thursday’s gold medal game with 13 total penalties through six games, the second-fewest of 10 teams. The Americans have already been hit with up to two penalties in the first period, including having too many players on the ice, which could indicate nervousness and early game tension for the 12 first-time Olympians. As a result, the U.S. women’s team was on defense for most of the first period, losing 8-6 to Canada, but Team USA entered the second period on the power play.

Aerin Frankel was solid in front of the net. She made Olympic history as the first goaltender to record three shutouts in a 5–0 win over Sweden in the semifinals.

Americans now have the advantage. Canada’s Ella Shelton was called for hooking, setting up America’s first power play of the night.

The U.S. women’s team took another penalty, this time tripping Joy Dunn. Despite the odds against her, American Hayley Skamura made her way towards the Canadian goal and almost had a shot on goal. The Americans broke down the power play again.

The American team was given the first penalty of the night for having too many players on the ice, giving the Canadians a power play. Abbey Murphy served the penalty. After the American woman defeated the power play, a chant of “USA!” went up. rang out. The game ended scoreless in the first period.

Online match between America’s Aerin Frankel and Canada’s Anne-Reny Desbiens.

Five-time Olympian Hilary Knight said she was looking forward to competing against fellow veteran Marie-Philippe Poulain again at the Olympics, after previously announcing her retirement from Olympic competition.

“You have two great athletes competing on the world stage, one from Canada and one from America,” said Knight, who recently proposed to his girlfriend, American speed skater Brittany Bowe. Poulin added, “I’ve played against (Knight) throughout my career. It’s always a battle. We both have a hungry spirit. I’d love to play against him again.”

Entering Thursday, the U.S. women have won seven straight games against Canada, the first since the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship, when they won 4-3 in overtime. At the 2025 Rivals Series, Team USA defeated Canada for the first time in the history of the competition, shutting out Canada 5-0 in the qualifying round, marking the first time in Olympic history that Canada’s women’s team was not on the scoresheet.

What time is the USA Women’s Hockey vs. Canada game today?

  • date: Thursday, February 19th
  • time: 1:10 PM ET (7:10 PM local time)
  • position: Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena (Milan)

Puck drop between the U.S. women’s hockey team and Canada is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 19 at 1:10 p.m. ET at the Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan.

Where to watch the gold medal game between USA women’s hockey and Canada

USA Network will broadcast the 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal match between the U.S. women and Canada on Thursday.

Is there a live stream of the Olympic women’s gold medal match?

Streaming options for the game include NBCOlympics.com and the NBC Olympics app (with cable TV or satellite login). You can also stream the game on Peacock, NBC’s subscription streaming service.

The USA Hockey captain and five-time Olympian is on the verge of breaking two records. Most points by an American at the Olympics and Most goals by an American at the Olympics. She is tied with Jenny Potter for most points (32 points) and tied with Natalie Darwitz and Katie King for most points (14 points).

On Thursday, February 19, Switzerland defeated Sweden in overtime to win the bronze medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics. It was the first medal in women’s hockey for the Swiss since the 2014 Sochi Games. ▶ Click here for match summaries and highlights.

The full roster of U.S. women’s hockey players for the Milan-Cortina Olympics is below.

  • goaltender: Eva McNaughton; Aelin Frankel. Gwyneth Phillips.
  • defender:Lee Stecklein. Kayla Burns. caroline harvey. Megan Keller. Rory Gilday. Haley Wynn. Lyla Edwards.
  • forward: Kirsten Sims. Kelly Panek. Grace Zumwinkle. Haley Skamura. Britta Carl Salem. Hilary Knight. Tessa Janecke. Hannah Birka. Joy Dunn. Alex Carpenter. Kendall Coyne Schofield. Taylor Heise. Abby Murphy.

Contact USA TODAY national women’s sports reporter Cydney Henderson at chenderson@gannett.com and follow @CydHenderson at X.

The USA TODAY app puts you right at the heart of the news. Download award-winning articles, crosswords, audio storytelling, e-newspapers, and more.

Hershey responds after claiming Reese’s ingredients have been changed

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Hershey responds after claiming Reese’s ingredients have been changed

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Mr. Reese’s peanut butter cup inventor’s grandson, H.B. Reese, accused Mr. Hershey of replacing the candy’s original ingredients with cheaper alternatives. But brands are fighting back.

In an open letter to Todd Scott, The Hershey Company’s corporate brand and editorial manager, posted on LinkedIn on February 14, Brad Reese accused the company of replacing milk chocolate with a composite coating and peanut butter with a peanut butter-like cream in several Reese’s products.

“Reese’s story is divorced from the substance of Reese’s products,” Reese wrote. “And that discrepancy puts the lease and the heritage behind it at risk.”

According to LinkedIn, Reese, who is based in West Palm Beach, Florida, questioned how Hershey’s continues to “position Reese’s as a flagship brand” and “symbolize trust, quality and leadership” while quietly replacing the very ingredients that built Reese’s credibility in the first place (milk chocolate and peanut butter).

Hershey replies to grandson’s post

Meanwhile, the Hershey Company responded: “Our iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are still made the same way they’ve always been made.”

The company said in a Feb. 19 statement to USA TODAY that the candy manufacturing process “begins by roasting fresh peanuts to create our unique, unique peanut butter, which is then combined with milk chocolate.” The mixture is then dropped into a mold and pressed, giving the cup its “iconic shape”.

“As we grow and expand the Reese’s product line, we continue to stay true to the essence of what makes Reese’s unique and special: the perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter, while adjusting our product recipes to create new shapes, sizes and innovations that Reese’s fans love and desire,” the statement said.

According to the chocolate website, Hershey’s factories produce about 25 million Reese’s Cups each day.

Need breaking news? Check out the all-new PLAY hub with puzzles, games, and more!

Who invented Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups?

According to Hershey’s, Harry Barnett (HB) Reese, a former employee of the Hershey Chocolate Company, created Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Candy in 1928 in the basement of his home in Hershey, Pennsylvania. H.B. Reese’s six sons took over the family business in 1956 before selling it to the Hershey Company in 1963.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at sshafiq@usatodayco.com and follow X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.

The Vatican refuses to allow President Trump to participate in the Peace Council. Which countries participated?

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The Vatican refuses to allow President Trump to participate in the Peace Council. Which countries participated?

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  • President Trump established a “peace commission” in response to the Gaza conflict.
  • The Vatican declined the invitation to participate, saying such international crises should be managed by the United Nations.
  • The board’s founding members include many countries, but very few are Democratic.

President Donald Trump’s peace committee met for the first time in Washington, D.C., on February 19 to discuss Gaza reconstruction.

President Trump established a peace commission to cement a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel into lasting peace after two years of devastating war. However, the Council is likely to be involved in other foreign affairs matters as well.

Invitations were sent to around 50 countries, including democratically elected government officials and controversial figures such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Hungary’s Viktor Orbán. It is unclear how many people have pledged to join or paid $1 billion to become permanent members. However, one of the invitees, the Vatican, announced on February 17 that it was declining the invitation.

“One of the things we have been insisting is that above all, the United Nations should manage these crisis situations at the international level,” Vatican diplomatic official Cardinal Pietro Parolin said, according to Reuters. New Pope Leo has also criticized some of President Trump’s policies.

“I think it’s very unfortunate,” Caroline Leavitt said at a February 18 press conference. “I don’t think peace should be partisan, political, or controversial. And of course, the administration wants everyone invited to join the Peace Commission…This is a legitimate organization with membership from dozens of countries from around the world.”

So who’s in on it? Here’s what you need to know:

more: President Trump says peace committee members have pledged more than $5 billion for Gaza

Which countries are participating in the Peace Commission?

The Peace Committee’s X account lists the following countries as founding members:

  • Albania
  • Argentina
  • armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • belarus
  • Bulgaria
  • Cambodia
  • el salvador
  • Hungary
  • Indonesia
  • Kazakhstan
  • kosovo
  • mongolia
  • Pakistan
  • paraguay
  • uzbekistan
  • Vietnam
  • Israel
  • Saudi Arabia
  • egypt
  • qatar
  • bahrain
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Morocco
  • turkey
  • united arab emirates

A list provided by the State Department shows additional representatives attended the board meeting as observers. They come from the European Union, India, Italy, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and more.

(This article was updated after publication with information about board attendees provided by the State Department.)

Contributors: Josh Meyer, Kim Hjelmgaard, USA TODAY

Kinsey Crowley is a Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact KCrowley@usatodayco.com. follow her X (Twitter), blue sky and TikTok.

How Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor fell from grace

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How Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor fell from grace

LONDON – Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has suffered a sharp decline in his reputation over the past decade, culminating so far with his arrest by British police on suspicion of misconduct in public life over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.

The BBC first reported the development, which was later confirmed by police and King Charles.

The former prince, the king’s younger brother, faces multiple allegations related to his relationship with Epstein, a convicted sex offender and sex trafficker. Britain’s Thames Valley Police did not release details of the Mountbatten-Windsor investigation on February 19. However, police previously said they were investigating allegations that he shared confidential government information with a late sex offender.

Could former Prince Andrew go to prison? Royal experts answer hard-hitting questions

Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing over his friendship or ties to Epstein.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein: How it all started

In a 2019 interview with the BBC, then-Prince Andrew said he first met Ghislaine Maxwell, the British socialite and daughter of media mogul Robert Maxwell, when she was studying at Oxford University in the 1980s. Maxwell then introduced him to Epstein in 1999. Epstein and Maxwell were in a relationship at the time.

Files released by the U.S. Department of Justice show that Mountbatten-Windsor, Maxwell and Epstein had developed a strong bond that continued even after Epstein was convicted of child sex crimes in 2008.

Ex-Prince and Epstein: How it escalated

In 2019, Virginia Roberts Giuffre filed a lawsuit in a U.S. court alleging that Epstein trafficked her into having sex with Mountbatten-Windsor three times when she was 17, a minor under U.S. law.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied the allegations. However, he also decided to reach a settlement with Giuffre over this matter. But when Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025, and her memoir Nobody’s Girl was published six months later, sexual abuse accusations flared again.

Epstein pulled the strings: He paid school fees all over the world for children of power.

In her memoir, Giuffre said the then-crown prince was “friendly enough, but entitled to have sex with me, as if he believed it was his birthright.” His mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, stripped her son of his military title and royal patronage in 2022. The son was also asked to stop using the title “His Royal Highness” in any official capacity. He renounced his last remaining titles, including that of prince, in 2025 as questions about his private life intensified.

Six years after Jeffrey Epstein’s death: Hundreds of women seek justice

He also agreed to be known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor rather than Prince Andrew. Late last year, he agreed to move out of Royal Lodge, the mansion he had lived in on the grounds of Windsor Great Park outside London for more than 20 years, and move to the royal family’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk, England.

What the Epstein files say about former Prince Andrew

The U.S. Department of Justice has released an additional 3 million documents related to Epstein as part of its investigation into him. Their emails include correspondence, thousands of videos, and tens of thousands of photos.

Several images released in the Epstein dossier show Mountbatten-Windsor in compromising positions, including one crouching on all fours over a woman whose identity has been withheld.

Mountbatten-Windsor denies committing any sexual offences.

Britain’s Thames Valley Police have not released specific details about the former prince’s alleged misconduct in his personal life, which led to his arrest on February 19th. It is not related to the sex crime charges.

Previous reports, including by the BBC, have claimed that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor may have shared confidential government reports relating to investments in Afghanistan and Her Majesty’s Treasury. It was not immediately clear whether that information was shared directly with Epstein or other business associates.

And British police have not confirmed the report.

Separately, Thames Valley Police said they were still looking into another charge against the former prince, that Epstein sent an adult non-British woman to the UK for the purpose of sexual encounters in 2010.

Former Prince Andrew appears in photos and emails from Epstein file

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Former Prince Andrew appears in photos and emails from Epstein file

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There are many references in Epstein’s files to the former Prince Andrew, now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, some of which soar to the top of the mountain. They include photos of young women and King Charles III’s brother whose faces have been edited by federal prosecutors, emails showing a longtime friendship with the disgraced investor, and law enforcement concerns that he is not cooperating with ongoing investigations.

Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, 66, who has been known since being stripped of his title and most of his royal duties last fall, is facing intense scrutiny over his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who died awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. He has denied any wrongdoing and said he regrets their friendship.

More than 3 million pages of documents released by the Justice Department in response to a near-unanimous transparency mandate by Congress show that the former prince was in regular contact with his money manager more than two years after Epstein pleaded guilty to sex crimes in Florida. The Justice Department acknowledged there are an additional 3 million pages of documents it does not plan to release.

According to multiple British media outlets, British police arrested the former prince on February 19 on suspicion of misconduct in public life. British police announced earlier this month that they were investigating allegations that the king’s brother passed confidential government documents to Epstein.

What images of former Prince Andrew are included in Epstein’s files?

Photos released by the Department of Justice on January 30 show Mountbatten-Windsor bending down to touch the clothed woman’s waist and stomach as she lies face up on the floor. In the second photo, he is on his hands and knees, crouched over the woman, his face edited out.

more: prince. Epstein. Arrested. How Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor fell from grace

The set of historical files created by the Justice Department on Dec. 19 also includes a former royal file with Ghislaine Maxwell, an Epstein aide who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking. The image shows Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, wearing a suit, lying on his side on the laps of five women, his face obscured by Justice Department officials. Maxwell stands behind them, smiling.

As with other items in the document release, the Justice Department did not provide context for the photos, such as when or where they were taken.

“Invisible Man” seeks “new inappropriate friend”

Thousands of pages of documents released on December 23, 2025, include a 2001 email exchange from a person using the alias “The Invisible Man” who wrote to Maxwell, an associate of Epstein’s, “I am at the Balmoral summer camp for the royal family” and signed it with an “A.”

Balmoral was the beloved summer residence of Queen Elizabeth II of Scotland and a gathering place for royal retreats.

“How is LA?” the email reads. “Have you found a new inappropriate friend? I’m free from August 25th to September 2nd and I’d like to go somewhere hot and sunny with some fun people before I get serious about fall. Please let me know when you’ll be coming. Ideas appreciated!”

“See ya A xxx,” the email concludes. The files do not confirm whether the “invisible man” is Mr Mountbatten-Windsor. Other emails forwarded to “The Invisible Man” refer to him as “Andrew.”

more: Live updates – Former Prince Andrew arrested. King Charles speaks out

Another email from 2002, marked “Gx,” shows Maxwell frequently signing emails in the file, writing to another person, “I just gave Andrew your phone number,” and asking that person to set up a trip to Peru. Gx expects to receive a call from a “very British gentleman” who wants them to “show them a great time” and “be friendly, discreet and fun, and only introduce them to trusted friends.” This email was forwarded by “Gx” to “The Invisible Man”, who replied, “Okay, I’ll call you today if I can.”

Communication with law enforcement agencies

Documents dated April 2020 and released on December 23, 2025, show that the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York and the FBI sought to interview Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor because the ongoing Epstein investigation “revealed that Prince Andrew may have been a witness and/or participant in certain events related to the ongoing investigation.”

However, the document states that he is “not the subject of any investigation at this time, and U.S. authorities have so far not collected evidence that he has committed any crimes under U.S. law.”

Another series of emails shows that U.S. diplomatic and law enforcement officials were baffled by Mountbatten-Windsor’s continued refusal to cooperate with the criminal investigation against Maxwell in August 2021. British authorities wanted to know if he had become a suspect rather than a witness.

In a series of emails dated Aug. 24, 2021, which were also published on Jan. 30, U.S. embassy officials in London discussed how to respond to British government inquiries with embassy officials in Washington. Mountbatten-Windsor had been publicly accused. in a civil lawsuit alleging he dated at least one girl. He was trafficked by Epstein.

At the time of the 2021 embassy email, Maxwell had been charged with sex trafficking, and Epstein accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre had just filed a civil lawsuit against Mountbatten-Windsor. Her civil suit was settled for an undisclosed amount in February 2022, and the then-prince made a significant donation to her charity.

more: Epstein pulled the strings and paid tuition for the children of powerful people around the world

“We are aware that a civil lawsuit has been filed in New York against a key witness in connection with the Epstein investigation,” a British government official said in an inquiry to the U.S. embassy, ​​which was also shared by embassy staff. “Please let me know how this impacts the current status of material witnesses as witnesses in relation to criminal investigations and MLA requests.”

“I think they are asking whether, in light of the recent allegations, Andrew has ‘become a suspect rather than a witness (in British parlance),” said an anonymous US embassy official, apparently the Justice Department attaché in London. “I was going to give a one-word answer of ‘none,’ but I thought I should check first. … The ambassador is keen to resolve this issue, so the sooner the better.”

“The Amb” refers to the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom at the time. An MLA is a request under the U.S.-UK Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty for the collection of evidence, exchange of information, and service of documents related to a criminal investigation or prosecution.

Contributors: Brendan Morrow, Josh Meyer, Taijuan Moorman, Anthony Robledo

Oreo, Marvel’s debut Doctor Doom cookie with a green tongue

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Oreo, Marvel’s debut Doctor Doom cookie with a green tongue

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A new Oreo has entered the arena. It’s made with a black cream that turns Doctor Doom’s tongue green.

In January, Oreo launched Marvel Oreo Stuff of Legends Cookies, a collection of classic flavored Oreos embossed with 32 different Marvel heroes and villains. In the Marvel Oreo canon, three packs of Legend Cookies hit stores, but Marvel villains stood in the way of the fourth pack. Now, the fourth pack has arrived.

The Marvel Oreo Stuff of Doom Cookie Pack rounds out the series with a new Masked Decadence flavor made with chocolate graham and toasted marshmallow-flavored black cream to turn fans’ tongues green. This cookie is inspired by Doctor Doom, the Marvel villain and archenemy of the Fantastic Four.

To celebrate the launch, Oreo and Marvel will host an in-person event on Saturday, February 21st at 10am ET at Dumbo Archway in Brooklyn, New York. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample the new cookies, and the first 50 will receive a cookie pack autographed by Marvel Comics artist Todd Knack, who also designed the cookie embossing.

food: Spider-Man, The Avengers and more appear in new Marvel Oreo cookies

What do Oreo’s new Stuf of Doom cookies taste like?

Marvel Oreo Stuff of Doom Cookies feature Masked Decadence flavor, chocolate graham and toasted marshmallow-flavored cream. The cookies are embossed with Doctor Doom’s mask.

Where to buy Oreo’s Stuf of Doom cookies

The Marvel Oreo Stuf of Doom Cookie is available for pre-order on the Oreo website. The cookies will be available in retail stores for a limited time starting March 2nd.

When will Oreo Stuff of Doom Cookies be available?

Marvel Oreo Stuf of Doom Cookies will be available for pre-sale on February 23rd on the Oreo website. The cookies will be available for a limited time in retail stores starting March 2nd.

Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

Olympic skier Mikaela Shiffrin bombs on the Today Show

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Olympic skier Mikaela Shiffrin bombs on the Today Show

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Olympic skier Mikaela Shiffrin tried her best not to curse during competitions. today’s show Despite appearances, it happened.

On Wednesday, Shiffrin won gold in the slalom. It was his first medal since winning the silver medal at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics. With this victory, he ended his disastrous loss of 0 out of 8 races at the Winter Games four years ago, when he suffered a DNF in three events.

Thursday, Shrifin today’s show A look back at her path to winning the gold medal. An unintentionally hilarious moment occurred as she was in deep conversation with Carson Daly, Hoda Kotb, and Craig Melvin. The Olympian accidentally swore in front of the camera and dropped a bombshell. (Warning: Link contains NSFW words)

“There’s definitely been a spiritual journey over the last few years, but it’s – I don’t know. I just seized the moment and said (expletive),” Shiffrin said.

Realizing her mistake, Shiffrin immediately widened her eyes in horror, but before she knew it, an even worse curse escaped.

“(Expletive),” the skier said before covering his mouth, embarrassed by both failures.

Today Show staffers offered Shiffrin words of comfort as the Olympic skier took a deep breath and did her best to laugh out of the moment.

“It’s okay! It’s okay! It’s okay!” Melvin said.

Shiffrin bowed her head and smiled before admitting that things didn’t go as planned.

“It turned out really bad,” she said with a laugh.

These five states have the highest gas prices. How to avoid them.

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These five states have the highest gas prices. How to avoid them.

Do you live in a state with historically high gas prices?

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  • Gasoline prices in the United States have increased significantly, with some states experiencing much higher costs than others.
  • Large SUVs and trucks generally have the worst gas mileage.

If there’s one expense that American drivers can’t spare, it’s that gas prices are higher than they were last year.

The average annual retail price of gasoline has skyrocketed since 2002, rising from $1.36 to as much as $4.09 in 2022, according to U.S. Department of Energy data.

Unfortunately for millions of Americans, gas prices are much higher in some states than in others. According to recent AAA data, gas prices in 2026 will range from $2.26 per gallon to a whopping $4.58 per gallon. These prices are likely to rise later this year.

Which state will have the highest gas prices ever in 2026?

5 states with the highest gas prices in 2026

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the state with the highest gas prices this year is California.

State taxes and fees, environmental regulations, and limits on in-state production all contribute to California’s status as the nation’s most expensive state for gasoline. To save on fuel costs across the state, many drivers are switching to owning hybrid or electric vehicles.

States with highest gas prices in 2026, according to AAA

  • California: $4.58 per gallon
  • Hawaii: $4.40 per gallon
  • Washington: $4.15 per gallon
  • Oregon: $3.69 per gallon
  • Nevada: $3.63 per gallon

The U.S. Energy Information Administration also cites “supply disruptions,” “retail competition,” and “distance from supply” as reasons for soaring gasoline prices in some regions. As a consumer, you may not be able to influence gas prices, but with the right information you can make decisions to save money and choose the most fuel-efficient car possible.

In case you missed it: As President Trump rolls back U.S. fuel regulations, which cars are the most efficient?

The most efficient car to buy in states with high gas prices

If you live in a state where gas prices are particularly high compared to the national average ($2.92 according to AAA), fuel economy is a big factor to consider when buying a used or new car. Some cars, trucks, and SUVs have exceptional gas mileage and can save drivers a lot of money at the pump.

Most fuel efficient cars in 2026

  • 2026 Toyota Prius: Up to 57 miles per gallon combined
  • 2026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Up to 54 miles per gallon combined
  • 2026 Kia Niro: Up to 53 miles per gallon combined
  • 2026 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Up to 51 miles per gallon combined

Small and medium-sized cars with hybrid powertrains typically offer the best fuel economy. The higher the gas mileage, the more the vehicle can travel on each gallon of gas.

Some cars, like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, are highly fuel efficient and have large gas tanks that give them impressive range. The Sonata Hybrid can travel more than 620 miles on a single tank of gas, making it ideal for drivers looking for great fuel economy.

The most expensive car to own in states with high gas prices

Some of the most expensive vehicles to own in states with high gas prices include trucks and SUVs with larger engines. Due to their large bodies, full-size SUVs and full-size pickup trucks tend to be the least efficient new vehicles on the market.

Worst fuel-efficient cars in 2026

  • 2026 Cadillac Escalade V: 13 miles per gallon combined
  • 2026 Chevrolet Suburban: 17 miles per gallon combined
  • 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe: 17 miles per gallon combined
  • 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: 19 miles per gallon combined (estimated)

If you’re looking for a full-size truck or SUV with a large gasoline engine (six or eight cylinders), its gas mileage may not be great. There are many options on the market for mild hybrid and diesel SUVs and trucks that offer better fuel economy than typical heavy-duty gasoline vehicles. There’s a lot to like about the SUVs and trucks listed above, but don’t expect low fuel costs.

Should you switch to a hybrid or electric car to save money on gas?

High fuel costs can make vehicles with electric powertrains like hybrids and EVs more attractive, but depending on the vehicle you choose, there may be hidden costs of ownership. Hybrids typically cost more to purchase than comparable gasoline vehicles. EVs can be even more expensive, and depending on your state, it may be very difficult to charge them in public.

Don’t consider switching to a hybrid or electric vehicle until you weigh the cost of ownership of each powertrain against each other. Hybrid ownership is a great middle ground between gas and EV ownership. This is because drivers will still rely on gasoline and can increase the vehicle’s range by using an electric motor to supplement the gas engine.

If you live in a state where gas prices are very high, it’s worth considering hybrids further when considering your next new vehicle.

Danica Mason apologizes for drinking before filming Olympic telecast

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Danica Mason apologizes for drinking before filming Olympic telecast

play

An Australian journalist covering the 2026 Winter Olympics in Livigno has publicly apologized for slurring his speech and appearing drunk on camera during a live broadcast.

Before appearing on Channel Nine’s Today show on Wednesday, February 18, Danica Mason said she had “completely misjudged” the effects of her drinking, explaining the following day: “It was cold, the altitude and not having dinner probably didn’t help either.”

Mr. Mason went off-topic while discussing the location of the Olympic Games on air. “Literally, the coffee prices here are actually okay,” she said. “What we need to get used to is the price of coffee in the United States.

“I don’t know much about iguanas, but where are they going?”

Her studio host tried to deflect the comments, telling viewers that “cold weather can affect the way people speak.”

On Thursday’s broadcast, Mason took “full responsibility” for his actions and apologized live. “This is not the standard I set for myself, so I am truly sorry to say this and I also thank everyone for the messages I have received.”

Potomac Sewage Spill, Wes Moore, Trump, Nancy Guthrie, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Mikaela Shiffrin, Olympics: Daily Briefing

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Potomac Sewage Spill, Wes Moore, Trump, Nancy Guthrie, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Mikaela Shiffrin, Olympics: Daily Briefing

Thursday Olympics Live | Medal Count | Skating or Hockey?

Hi! Welcome to the daily briefing. Here’s what you need to know:

nicole farato Here’s the news you need to know Thursday, from exclusive interviews with Maryland’s governor to arrests of former royals. MORE: Olympian overcomes grief to win gold medal.

Maryland governor hits back at Potomac

Maryland Governor Wes Moore sent a message to President Donald Trump: “Get to work” after a sewer pipe collapse spilled sewage into the Potomac River.

President Trump blamed Moore and other Democrats for the spill that contaminated a river that runs through Washington, D.C., and near the White House. In a series of inflammatory social media posts, President Trump removed Moore from a bipartisan event gathering the nation’s governors.

In an exclusive interview with USA TODAY, Maryland’s governor fired back by claiming the damage was in a DC line on federal land.

“I have no idea how Maryland could get into this. It’s just a very creative fact announced by the president of the United States,” Moore told USA TODAY.

More news you need to know right now

2026 Winter Olympics

sadness and gold

As much as she feared it, Mikaela Shiffrin wanted to win gold in the Olympic women’s slalom on Wednesday. She has fought this feeling every day since her father passed away in 2020. After crossing the finish line with a 1.50-second lead over the next closest skier, she lowered her chest to her knees and rested her head on them, a move that will last forever in this sport.

health and wellness

She won her endometriosis discrimination lawsuit.

In 2025, Christian “CeeCe” Worley became the first North Carolina judge to win a lawsuit that recognized endometriosis, an inflammatory disease in which tissue similar to the endometrium grows outside the uterus, as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Worley, 27, defended himself in court. The verdict surprised everyone.

before going

Have feedback about the daily briefing? Email Nicole at NFallert@usatoday.com.

See President Trump’s schedule in Rome, Georgia, where candidates will run for MTG seats

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See President Trump’s schedule in Rome, Georgia, where candidates will run for MTG seats

President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Georgia on February 19th to talk about tackling affordability.

His latest trip to the country comes as Republicans face an uphill battle in the midterm elections, following visits to states such as Michigan, North Carolina and Pennsylvania.

“Georgia is obviously a very important state for the president and the Republican Party,” press secretary Caroline Leavitt said at a Feb. 18 briefing, noting that he is making good on his promise to travel more across the country. He said his plans during the trip include visiting steel facilities and speaking about affordability efforts.

President Trump has at times accused Democrats of making up the affordability issue after several Democratic upsets in special elections and polls that showed voters wanted him to focus on affordability. Here’s what you need to know about his trip, which focuses primarily on this issue.

“I’m not in a cult.” Marjorie Taylor Greene criticizes Trump administration

What is President Trump’s schedule in Georgia?

President Trump will start the day at a peace committee event in Washington, D.C., and then depart for Georgia. His schedule provided by the White House is below.

  • Trump visits local businesses (1:50 p.m.)
  • President participates in podcast interview (2:30 p.m.)
  • President Trump tours local factory (3:30 p.m.)
  • President speaks on the economy (4 p.m.)

Rome, Georgia is the hometown of Marjorie Taylor Greene

President Trump’s visit to Georgia comes just after early voting began to fill the seat vacated by former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Rome, Georgia is located approximately 110 miles northwest of Atlanta, in the heart of the former district.

Greene gained notoriety as an ardent Trump supporter in Congress, often coming under fire for her polarizing comments and conspiracy-theorist beliefs. However, she fell out with President Trump in late 2025 and has since become an outspoken critic of the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein controversy, foreign affairs, and health care spending.

“If you had put America first from the beginning, not your wealthy donor class or foreign policy, you wouldn’t have to strategize how to gaslight Americans,” Greene said in a lengthy social media post on Tuesday, February 17th. “If you didn’t call the Epstein files a hoax, treat Epstein survivors (rape and human trafficking victims) like they didn’t exist, and release all the files and put his rich and powerful friends in prison,” Americans might actually listen to your “message.” ”

The special election date for this district is March 10th.

Contributed by Eileen Wright, Kathryn Palmer, USA TODAY Co.

Kinsey Crowley is a Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact KCrowley@usatodayco.com. follow her X (Twitter), blue sky and TikTok.

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