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Trump's Tariffs Fail to Boost U.S. Wine Businesses After One Year
Business

Trump's Tariffs Fail to Boost U.S. Wine Businesses After One Year

Many U.S. wine businesses, including prominent producers like Kutch Wines and Scar of the Sea, have faced significant setbacks due to the tariffs imposed by President Trump that failed to yield the intended benefits. Despite Trump's aim to support American products, the tariffs have caused confusion and hostility globally, leading to reduced exports and rejected sales. The uncertainty over future tariff policies is adding difficulty to planning and operations for wineries, impacting both small and large producers alike.

Feb 19, 2026, 9:57 PM

President Trump Transforming Washington Golf Course with East Wing Rubble
World

President Trump Transforming Washington Golf Course with East Wing Rubble

President Trump's decision to revamp the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington by depositing debris from the East Wing has triggered concerns among the public. The transformation aims to turn the affordable municipal course into a luxury golf resort, raising questions about accessibility and preservation of the original public park. Critics warn of the potential environmental impact and loss of community-oriented space.

Feb 19, 2026, 8:43 PM

Trump Launches Board of Peace Amid Iran Tensions
World

Trump Launches Board of Peace Amid Iran Tensions

President Trump hosted the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, announcing unprecedented opportunities for countries willing to pay $1 billion for a permanent seat. Amidst the proceedings, Trump disclosed a $10 billion aid package for Gaza, raising questions about its funding source and congressional approval. Simultaneously, tensions escalated with Iran as Trump issued threats of dire consequences if no nuclear deal is reached. The unorthodox nature of the meeting, held at the Trump-led Institute of Peace, underscores a distinctive Trump-centric international framework.

Feb 19, 2026, 8:32 PM

NYU Langone Health Ends Transgender Adolescent Care, Leaving Parents Stunned
Health

NYU Langone Health Ends Transgender Adolescent Care, Leaving Parents Stunned

NYU Langone Health decided to discontinue its Transgender Youth Health Program, cutting off gender-related care for transgender adolescents, including prescriptions for hormones and puberty blockers. The move came in response to federal pressure, with the hospital facing potential loss of funding for providing such treatments. Many parents were stunned by the abrupt halt in their children's care, with concerns now focused on finding new doctors and the continuity of gender-related treatment.

Feb 19, 2026, 7:57 PM

U.S. Threatens to Withdraw from International Energy Agency Over Climate Change Focus
World

U.S. Threatens to Withdraw from International Energy Agency Over Climate Change Focus

The Trump administration is pressuring the International Energy Agency to shift its focus away from climate change mitigation and its net zero scenario, advocating instead for a stronger emphasis on energy security. Energy Secretary Chris Wright criticized the agency's annual road map for cutting emissions by 2050, calling it 'ridiculous' and asserting that the U.S. does not need such a scenario. This move underscores the administration's stance on prioritizing energy security concerns over climate change initiatives.

Feb 19, 2026, 7:29 PM

Press Freedom Case Threatened by Lawyer's Petition to Supreme Court
World

Press Freedom Case Threatened by Lawyer's Petition to Supreme Court

Alan Dershowitz, a key figure in New York Times v. Sullivan, is now challenging the Supreme Court to reconsider or invalidate the landmark decision safeguarding press freedom. Dershowitz argues that the principles upheld in Sullivan no longer reflect the current media landscape. His petition stems from a libel suit against CNN, where he claims the Sullivan ruling unfairly disadvantaged him in proving defamation. Despite complex legal nuances, Dershowitz's stance underscores the ongoing debate over the balance between press freedom and individual reputation protection.

Feb 19, 2026, 7:01 PM

Debate Ensues Over Reporting School Absences to Protective Services
General

Debate Ensues Over Reporting School Absences to Protective Services

The rise in student absenteeism has led to debates on whether educational institutes should involve child protective services for excessive absences. While some argue for the importance of detecting potential issues at home through school attendance monitoring, others caution against overwhelming the child welfare system with cases primarily related to social challenges. Striking a balance between ensuring student safety and avoiding undue burden on families remains a key challenge in the ongoing discussions.

Feb 19, 2026, 6:11 PM

Bard College President's Connection to Epstein Unveiled
World

Bard College President's Connection to Epstein Unveiled

Leon Botstein, president of Bard College, has faced scrutiny due to his interactions with Jeffrey Epstein in the context of fundraising discussions. Despite acknowledging Epstein's criminal past, Botstein maintained a cordial relationship with him, including discussions about supporting young female musicians connected to Epstein. Amidst calls for his resignation, Bard College trustees have expressed their support for Botstein, emphasizing his critical role in the institution's success.

Feb 19, 2026, 5:57 PM

Rare Sighting of Sleeper Shark in Antarctic Leads to New Discoveries
Science

Rare Sighting of Sleeper Shark in Antarctic Leads to New Discoveries

Researchers captured rare footage of a 10-to-13-foot sleeper shark in Antarctic waters, potentially marking the first sighting of the species in that southern region. The discovery, made during an expedition aiming to document biodiversity in the South Shetland Trough, surprised experts like Alan Jamieson from the University of Western Australia. This observation hints at a broader geographical range for these enigmatic creatures, raising questions about shark populations in Antarctica.

Feb 19, 2026, 4:57 PM