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California

California Avalanche: 9 Skiers Found Dead After Rescue Operation

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor February 22, 2026

written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

SODA SPRINGS, Calif. — The bodies of all nine skiers caught in a devastating avalanche near Lake Tahoe, California, have been recovered, authorities confirmed Saturday. The recovery effort concluded after weather conditions improved, allowing search teams to access the remote and dangerous terrain. The avalanche, which occurred Tuesday, is now considered the deadliest in California’s recorded history, according to officials.

The group of 15 skiers, including four experienced guides, was traversing the backcountry near Castle Peak when a massive wall of snow – estimated to be the size of a football field – broke loose. Six skiers were rescued with injuries on Tuesday, but the search for the remaining nine proved treacherous due to continued severe weather and the risk of further avalanches. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office led the recovery operation, working through challenging conditions to bring closure to the families of the victims.

Among the deceased are six women, described as close friends and experienced skiers, and three professional guides. The victims ranged in age from 30 to 52 years old, according to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the skiing community and prompted investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The conditions leading up to the avalanche were particularly dangerous. A week-long “snow drought” in the Sierra Nevada created a weak base layer, which was then covered by several feet of new snow, creating an unstable snowpack. The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued an avalanche warning on Sunday, indicating “potentially very dangerous avalanche conditions” in the backcountry, including the area near Lake Tahoe, CNN reported.

Blackbird Mountain Guides, the company that led the expedition, confirmed that six of the deceased were clients and three were members of their guide team. “We are doing what we can to support the families who lost so much, and the members of our team who lost treasured friends and colleagues,” the company said in a statement. Five clients and one guide survived the avalanche.

The Sugar Bowl Academy, a private school and US Ski and Snowboard club, also confirmed that multiple individuals associated with the school were among those killed. The school expressed its deep sorrow and offered support to the families affected by the tragedy.

Investigation Launched into Avalanche Circumstances

Authorities are now investigating the decisions that led the group to continue their backcountry trip despite the avalanche warning and severe weather forecast. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office is examining why the skiers proceeded with their return journey when a winter storm was predicted to bring up to 2 meters of snow and winds of 96 kilometers per hour, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is also conducting a separate investigation to determine if Blackbird Mountain Guides adhered to safety regulations. This investigation will focus on the company’s risk assessment procedures and whether appropriate precautions were taken given the known avalanche risks.

Deadliest Avalanche in California History

This avalanche is the deadliest in California since 1981, the Associated Press reported. The scale of the tragedy underscores the inherent dangers of backcountry skiing and the importance of rigorous safety protocols, including careful assessment of avalanche conditions and adherence to weather warnings.

The recovery of the final skier on Saturday brings a somber end to the search operation. The focus now shifts to supporting the families of the victims and understanding the factors that contributed to this devastating event. The investigations by the Sheriff’s Office and the Division of Occupational Safety and Health are expected to provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding the avalanche and potentially lead to recommendations for improved safety measures in the future.

As the Sierra Nevada region continues to grapple with challenging winter conditions, authorities urge backcountry enthusiasts to prioritize safety, check avalanche forecasts, and carry appropriate rescue equipment. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of respecting the risks associated with backcountry recreation.

Please share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.

February 22, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Alysa Liu Wins Gold in Women’s Figure Skating at 2026 Winter Olympics

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 20, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

In a stunning display of athleticism and artistry, Alysa Liu clinched the United States’ first gold medal in women’s figure skating in 24 years during the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, Italy. The 20-year-old from the San Francisco Bay Area delivered a dazzling free skate performance that earned her a score of 226.79 points, overshadowing her Japanese competitors, Kaori Sakamoto and Ami Nakai, who took home silver and bronze medals, respectively.

As Liu exited the ice, she exuberantly declared to a nearby camera, “That’s what I’m f—————— talking about!” a testament to the intensity of her emotions and the excitement of the crowd. This victory marks a significant milestone for U.S. Women’s figure skating, as it is the first individual gold medal won by an American woman since Sarah Hughes triumphed in Salt Lake City in 2002.

Liu’s journey to this moment has been anything but conventional. After stepping away from the sport to focus on her mental health, she spent two years exploring life beyond skating. Her experiences included climbing to the base camp of Mount Everest and enrolling at UCLA to study psychology. This time away from the ice ultimately led her to rediscover her passion for figure skating, and she returned with a newfound sense of freedom and confidence.

Impact on the Competition

During the competition, Liu’s performance was marked by technical precision and emotional depth, capturing the hearts of fans and judges alike. Her free skate routine was executed flawlessly, showcasing a series of complex jumps and spins that solidified her position at the top of the podium.

The moment Nakai’s score was announced, Liu’s teammate Amber Glenn leapt into the kiss-and-cry area, raising Liu’s hand in celebration. Liu’s humility shone through as she applauded Nakai, who embraced her after the event, highlighting the camaraderie among the competitors.

Reflections from Liu and Her Teammates

“I think my story is more important than anything to me,” Liu reflected after her victory. “This journey has been incredible, and my life has just been — I have no complaints.” Her sentiment resonated with Glenn, who remarked on Liu’s journey of prioritizing mental health. “Her story of taking a step back really attests to you never know what the journey to success is going to be,” Glenn, who finished fifth, shared. “I really hope that can reach the skating community, that it’s okay to seize time.”

Sakamoto, a three-time world champion, expressed her disappointment after finishing with a score of 224.90 points, noting, “I feel like I’m so disappointed, to be honest.” The emotional weight of the competition was palpable, especially as Sakamoto plans to retire after this season, having won a bronze medal in Beijing four years prior.

Alysa Liu’s Growth and Future

Liu’s latest gold medal complements her previous achievements, including a world title she won in 2022, marking the first by an American woman since 2006. Her golden sequined dress, adorned with a blue ribbon, symbolized her remarkable journey from a young prodigy to a confident athlete performing on her own terms.

Even during warmups, Liu exuded positivity and confidence, greeting friends and family in the stands. “What I was feeling,” she said, “was happy and confident.” This mindset translated into her performance, allowing her to showcase her talent without the weight of pressure.

The Road Ahead

As the Olympics continue, Liu’s victory serves not only as a personal triumph but too as an inspiration to athletes facing similar challenges. With the U.S. Figure skating community rallying around her success, there is hope for a resurgence in the sport following her historic win.

Looking ahead, Liu’s focus will likely remain on balancing her academic pursuits with her skating career as she prepares for future competitions. The message she embodies — that it’s okay to step back and prioritize mental health — will undoubtedly resonate with many in the competitive landscape.

As fans celebrate Liu’s remarkable achievement, the figure skating world is eager to spot what she will do next. Her performance in Milan has set a high bar, and the narrative of her comeback will continue to inspire both young skaters and seasoned professionals alike. Share your thoughts on Liu’s journey and her impact on the sport!

February 20, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

US High-Speed Rail: Why Doesn’t America Have Bullet Trains?

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 19, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

High-speed rail systems have transformed travel and commerce in many parts of the world, offering quicker journeys and economic growth. Despite the proven benefits, the United States remains largely without a high-speed rail network, relying primarily on congested highways and an often unreliable airline system. As urban populations grow and environmental concerns mount, the U.S. Faces increasing pressure to modernize its infrastructure and embrace high-speed rail.

Countries like China, Japan, and France have set the standard, with China alone constructing approximately 26,000 miles (42,000 kilometers) of dedicated high-speed rail since 2008, and planning to exceed 43,000 miles (70,000 kilometers) by 2035. In contrast, the United States has only 375 route miles authorized for speeds over 100 mph.

Experts suggest that many Americans are unaware of high-speed rail’s advantages, remaining entrenched in a car-centric mindset. William C. Vantuono, editor-in-chief of Railway Age, notes, “Many Americans have no concept of high-speed rail and fail to notice its value. They are hopelessly stuck with a highway and airline mindset.”

The Decline of Rail Travel in America

Since the 1950s, cars and airplanes have dominated long-distance travel in the U.S., leading to the decline of once-popular passenger trains. Famous railroads like the Modern York Central went bankrupt, resulting in the transfer of operations to Amtrak, which was founded in 1971. Over the decades, freight railroads have thrived, although passenger rail has languished due to a lack of priority from lawmakers and powerful lobbying from the airline and automotive industries.

However, the landscape is beginning to change. President Joe Biden’s $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill allocates a historic $170 billion for railway improvements. This includes significant investments in Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC), which connects major cities like Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. There are also plans to reinstate passenger trains in regions that have not seen rail service for decades.

Emerging Projects and Future Prospects

One promising development is the Brightline project in Florida, which is set to build a $10 billion high-speed rail link between Los Angeles and Las Vegas by 2027. This line aims to cover 218 miles (351 kilometers) at speeds up to 200 mph, significantly reducing travel time compared to driving or taking a bus.

Brightline West’s CEO, Mike Reininger, emphasized the project’s potential, stating, “As the most shovel-ready high-speed rail project in the United States, we are one step closer to leveling the playing field against transit and infrastructure projects around the world.”

In California, the California High-Speed Rail (CHSR) project is also progressing, with plans to connect Merced to Bakersfield at speeds of up to 220 mph by around 2030. This project has faced controversies and delays but aims to ultimately link major urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, potentially transforming intercity travel.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the optimism surrounding these projects, challenges remain. There are significant political and financial hurdles to overcome, as highlighted by Vantuono, who expresses skepticism about the feasibility of a nationwide high-speed rail network in the U.S. He notes, “A lack of political support and federal financial support combined with the kind of fierce landowner opposition that CHSR has faced in California means that the challenges for new high-speed projects are enormous.”

the U.S. Trails behind other nations in terms of rail electrification, with less than 5% of rail routes electrified compared to over 60% in countries like South Korea and Japan. This presents a barrier to integrating modern, sustainable technologies into America’s rail systems.

Looking Forward

As the U.S. Grapples with growing environmental concerns and infrastructure needs, high-speed rail presents an alternative to traditional travel methods. The potential for economic stimulation, job creation, and reduced congestion highlights the importance of investing in rail systems. With the growing population and urbanization, especially in California, high-speed rail may yet emerge as a vital component of the nation’s transportation strategy.

As projects like Brightline and CHSR advance, the conversation around high-speed rail is likely to evolve, shaping the future of travel in the United States. With substantial investments and a renewed focus on rail, the possibility of a high-speed rail revolution in America could finally be on the horizon.

What are your thoughts on the future of high-speed rail in the U.S.? Share your views in the comments below!

February 19, 2026 0 comments

News

Barragán Leads Panel on Trump-Era Immigration Raids in Los Angeles | Univision

by James Carter Senior News Editor February 19, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Los Angeles – Congresswoman Nanette Barragán recently led a panel discussion in the Los Angeles area focused on the impact of immigration enforcement operations ordered by the Trump administration. The event served as a platform for community members to share their experiences and concerns regarding the increased immigration enforcement activity, with participants reporting instances of forceful arrests and the detention of individuals without prior criminal records.

The panel addressed growing anxieties within Los Angeles communities about the potential for widespread deportations and the disruption of families. Barragán’s initiative comes amid heightened scrutiny of federal immigration policies and their effects on local communities. The discussion highlighted the fear and uncertainty experienced by many residents, particularly those with mixed immigration statuses. The focus of the panel was to provide a space for dialogue and to explore potential responses to the evolving situation.

Concerns Over Tactics and Due Process

Participants at the panel voiced strong concerns about the tactics employed during recent immigration enforcement operations. Reports included allegations of aggressive arrests and detentions, raising questions about due process and the rights of those affected. Several attendees described situations where individuals were apprehended without clear explanations or access to legal counsel. These accounts underscore the need for greater transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement practices, according to advocates present at the event.

The discussion also centered on the detention of individuals without any criminal history. This practice has drawn criticism from civil rights groups, who argue that it undermines community trust and disproportionately impacts families. Barragán emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring that immigration enforcement is carried out in a humane and respectful manner. She stated the need for a comprehensive review of current policies to address these concerns.

National Guard Deployment Sparks Debate

The timing of the panel discussion coincides with the deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles, a move authorized by former President Donald Trump. This deployment, intended to quell protests, has been met with mixed reactions. Representative Barragán has publicly criticized the deployment, characterizing it as a concerning sign, according to NPR.

The deployment has also drawn criticism from other Democratic lawmakers, while Republicans have placed blame on California Governor Gavin Newsom, as reported by Politico. The debate highlights the deep political divisions surrounding immigration policy and the use of federal resources in local communities.

FCC Delays Impact Emergency Preparedness

In a separate but related development, concerns have been raised regarding the Trump administration’s delay in implementing multilingual emergency alerts. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) delayed the rollout of alerts in multiple languages, potentially hindering the ability to reach vulnerable populations during natural disasters. This delay has sparked particular concern in Los Angeles, a city with a large and diverse linguistic community.

This decision has been criticized as a setback for emergency preparedness, particularly for non-English speakers who may be at greater risk during emergencies. Advocates argue that providing information in multiple languages is essential for ensuring that all residents have access to life-saving information.

National Guard Arrives in Los Angeles

Following orders from former President Trump, National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles to address ongoing protests, as detailed by PBS. The deployment was met with objections from some Democratic lawmakers, who expressed concerns about the militarization of local communities. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing debate about the appropriate role of the National Guard in addressing civil unrest.

The arrival of the National Guard and the ongoing discussions surrounding immigration enforcement underscore the complex challenges facing Los Angeles and other communities across the country. As federal policies continue to evolve, local leaders and community organizations are working to address the needs of residents and ensure that their rights are protected.

Looking ahead, the impact of these policies and deployments will continue to be closely monitored. Further dialogue and collaboration between federal, state, and local officials will be crucial in navigating these challenges and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.