Defense agency bans Black History Month and other ‘special observances’

U.S. energy interests are warning that a lawsuit in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, seeking billions in damages from Chevron could set a dangerous precedent for American energy exploration. The lawsuit alleges that Texaco, now a subsidiary of Chevron, released toxic pollution into bayou wetlands in the 1980s. The case has implications for other energy producers facing similar lawsuits in Louisiana. Critics question the close relationship between the state government and the attorney leading the lawsuits, as...

Joe Harris, a World War II veteran and member of the all-Black 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, known as the Triple Nickles, died at the age of 108 in Los Angeles. He parachuted into forest fires in the Pacific Northwest caused by Japanese balloon bombs, as part of Operation Firefly in 1945. Harris performed 72 jumps and was honored by Marine Corps veterans and wildland firefighters in his later years. Full Article

A French naval patrol plane surveils a Russian warship in the Baltic Sea as part of the Baltic Sentry program, aimed at countering suspected sabotage of undersea cables by Russia. The mission, involving NATO allies like the US, UK, and France, has deterred further incidents and demonstrated alliance unity. Tensions with Russia persist as crew members monitor Russian naval activity and encounter GPS jamming and radar lock-ons during the mission. Full Article

Boston College men’s hockey team faced Denver in an NCAA Tournament regional final rematch, with Denver emerging victorious 3-1 thanks to goals from Eric Pohlkamp, James Reeder, and an empty-netter by Zeev Buium. Despite Teddy Stiga scoring the lone goal for BC, Denver goalie Matt Davis's 35 saves propelled the Pioneers to the Frozen Four, where they will face Western Michigan. BC's season ended in disappointment, falling short of avenging last year's national championship loss....

Since its founding in 1979, the U.S. Department of Education has played a significant role in shaping federal student loan policies, impacting the rising cost of education and loans. As President Donald Trump aims to downsize and potentially close the DOE, experts suggest transitioning to a private loan system rather than shifting administration to other government agencies. The government's current exclusive lending approach may lead to "bad investments," prompting calls for a shift to private...

Tornado season in Chicago arrives with fewer National Weather Service employees due to layoffs by President Donald Trump, leading to a lack of crucial weather data from Midwest and Great Plains states. Meanwhile, Elon Musk faces legal challenges in Wisconsin over $1 million payments to voters, President Trump hints at serving a third term, and Andrew Boutros is appointed interim U.S. attorney in Chicago. In Rockford, residents reflect on a violent attack, while Cook County...