Virginia Democrats have put forward a new congressional map aimed at securing four additional seats in the upcoming midterm elections. This move directly challenges the redistricting efforts initiated by former President Trump to favor Republicans. The proposal, revealed on February 5, 2026, faces significant hurdles, including legislative approval, a voter referendum, and ongoing legal challenges. The state's current congressional delegation stands at six Democrats and five Republicans.

Senator Katie Britt, a Republican from Alabama, found herself deeply concerned by a viral image of a young boy detained by immigration authorities. This incident highlighted her unique position within the Republican party regarding the Trump administration's policies, particularly those impacting children and families at the border. Her reaction to the image and subsequent investigation into the matter underscore a potential shift in how certain Republican figures approach complex immigration issues.

Team USA athletes are getting comfortable in their respective Olympic villages across Italy for the upcoming Games. Curlers are enchanted by the mountainous views in Cortina d'Ampezzo, while figure skaters and hockey players enjoy the urban setting of Milan's village, complete with unique amenities. Snowboarders in Livigno are particularly fond of the local pizza, with some indulging in multiple slices, highlighting the culinary experiences alongside their athletic preparations.

The upcoming Winter Olympics will introduce eight new events, marking the first time in over three decades that an entirely new sport has been added to the Games. Ski mountaineering, also known as "skimo," will make its debut alongside five new competitions within existing disciplines. These additions aim to provide more medal opportunities, particularly for women, and enhance the dynamic nature of the events. This expansion promises a fresh and thrilling experience for athletes and spectators alike.

New dietary guidelines from the USDA and HHS could significantly alter school meal programs, focusing on protein, full-fat dairy, and reduced processed foods. These changes pose challenges for schools, particularly regarding kitchen infrastructure, funding for fresh ingredients, and the higher cost of protein-rich options. The transition to less processed and more protein-heavy meals will require substantial adjustments and investment.

Mobile crisis teams, designed to respond to mental health emergencies and reduce police involvement, are facing severe funding issues despite their proven effectiveness. Originating in the late 1980s, these teams have seen a national surge but now struggle with inconsistent financial support. Many programs, including some pioneering ones, have been forced to reduce operations or shut down entirely, leaving communities vulnerable and increasing the burden on traditional law enforcement and emergency services. The lack of reliable funding mechanisms, such as comprehensive insurance reimbursement and consistent state aid, poses a significant threat to the continued operation and expansion of these vital services.

Nike is currently under federal investigation by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) over allegations of discrimination against white employees. The probe focuses on whether Nike's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives disproportionately impact white workers, following a subpoena for internal company data and policies. This investigation aligns with a broader push by the current EEOC leadership to scrutinize corporate DEI programs, sparking a significant debate on the implementation and potential legal implications of such initiatives.

Moltbook, a new social media platform, has emerged as an exclusive online space for AI bots to interact autonomously. This Reddit-like platform allows AI agents to engage in diverse discussions, from forming new religions and inventing languages to debating their existence and sharing tech knowledge. While some perceive this as a novel experiment in AI behavior, experts like Roman Yampolskiy warn of potential unpredictable outcomes, advocating for stricter regulation and oversight to prevent unforeseen risks.

Hallmark is launching "Hope Valley: 1874," a prequel to "When Calls the Heart," premiering March 21. Starring Bethany Joy Lenz as Rebecca Clarke, the series follows her journey for a fresh start in the Pioneer Era. It delves into the founding of Hope Valley, showcasing themes of perseverance and community amidst challenges, with a focus on strong female characters.

Discover how Trader Joe's has become a surprising hub for high-end beauty product "dupes." This article highlights various skincare and beauty items available at Trader Joe's that offer similar benefits to popular, pricier brands like Drunk Elephant, Supergoop, and Sol de Janeiro, all at a fraction of the cost, making luxury beauty accessible to everyone.

Renowned entertainer Derek Hough, celebrated for his roles as an 'Extra' host, 'Dancing With the Stars' judge, and Emmy-winning choreographer, recently embraced his newest and most cherished role: fatherhood. Alongside his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, he welcomed their daughter, Everley Capri, in late December 2025. This article delves into Hough's emotional journey into parenting, the unique story behind his daughter's name, and his collaboration with Barilla pasta, which aims to inspire active family lifestyles.

New episodes of "Peppa Pig" in March 2026 will feature George, Peppa's younger brother, receiving a hearing aid due to moderate deafness. This initiative, developed with the National Deaf Children's Society, aims to normalize hearing loss and foster a more inclusive environment for children. The storyline will explore George's journey with his hearing aid, allowing children with similar experiences to feel represented and understood, while educating all young viewers about kindness and acceptance.

Many behaviors that alarm parents are actually typical stages of child development. It's crucial for caregivers to distinguish between actions that are part of normal growth and those that might indicate a need for professional guidance. Frequent or intense problematic behaviors can signal when expert intervention may be necessary for a child's well-being and development.

Acclaimed chef Kathy Fang, a two-time 'Chopped' winner and cookbook author, masterfully navigates the complexities of her career and motherhood. Co-owner of Fang Restaurant, she blends traditional Chinese culinary heritage with contemporary twists while consciously shaping her children's upbringing to foster individuality, a departure from her own strict upbringing. Fang emphasizes quality family time and consistent cultural immersion through food, ensuring her kids embrace their heritage with confidence.

Discover how a mom found the perfect solution for her teens' desire for independence and a private space to socialize: tiny homes from Amazon. These affordable structures, priced under $10,000, offer a unique blend of personal freedom for teenagers while keeping them close to home. The article highlights several models, each providing distinct features that cater to different preferences, from cozy cabins to spacious garden houses, all customizable to reflect youthful styles. These tiny homes offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional room remodels, fostering independence and creativity for teens.

As pets age, their needs change significantly. This article provides essential information for pet owners on identifying when a pet is considered 'senior,' common health issues to watch for, the importance of regular vet visits, and dietary considerations. Experts weigh in on how to ensure your aging companions live their golden years in comfort and health.

The digital age has transformed how parents share their birth experiences, with platforms like TikTok becoming a hub for raw, unfiltered narratives. While this fosters community and validation for those who've faced traumatic births, experts caution against the potential for increased anxiety among expectant parents due to algorithm-driven exposure to alarming content. Striking a balance between support and fear requires careful social media engagement and open communication with healthcare providers.

Discover quick and simple meal ideas for children, shared by parents seeking to minimize cooking effort and maximize family time. This article highlights Reddit-sourced recipes that require no cutting boards, minimal cleanup, and offer healthy, convenient options for even the busiest households.

Discover five simple, family-approved dinner recipes that minimize cooking and cleanup time. Perfect for busy weeknights, these meals range from a savory turkey taco bake to quick salmon rice bowls, ensuring a delicious and low-stress experience for parents while satisfying even the pickiest eaters.

McDonald's is reintroducing its iconic 'Changeables' Happy Meal toys, allowing parents to share a piece of their childhood with their kids. These transforming robot toys, which convert into McDonald's menu items, offer a hands-on, screen-free play experience. The return of these nostalgic collectibles aims to foster intergenerational connection and make mealtime more engaging for families.