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Today is Thursday, Feb. 12, the 43rd day of 2026. There are 322 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Feb. 12, 2016, Pope Francis embraced Patriarch Kirill in the first meeting between a pontiff and the head of the Russian Orthodox Church. The meeting in Havana was a landmark development in the 1,000-year schism that has divided Christianity.

Also on this date:

In 1554, Lady Jane Grey, who had claimed the throne of England for nine days, and her husband, Guildford Dudley, were beheaded after being condemned for high treason.

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In 1809, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, was born in a log cabin at Sinking Spring Farm near Hodgenville, Kentucky.

In 1909, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded in New York City.

In 1912, Pu Yi, the last emperor of China, abdicated, marking the end of the Qing Dynasty.

In 1914, groundbreaking took place for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

In 1999, the Senate voted to acquit President Bill Clinton in his impeachment trial on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.

In 2002, former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milošević went on trial in The Hague, charged with genocide and war crimes. (Milošević died in 2006 before the trial could conclude).

In 2019, Mexico’s most notorious drug lord, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, was convicted in New York of running an industrial-scale drug smuggling operation, murder and money laundering. (Guzman is currently serving a life sentence at the federal supermax prison facility in Florence, Colorado.)

Today’s birthdays:

• Film director Costa-Gavras is 93.
• Author Judy Blume is 88.
• Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak is 84.
• Country singer Moe Bandy is 82.
• Musician Michael McDonald is 74.
• Actor-talk show host Arsenio Hall is 70.
• Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh is 61.
• Actor Josh Brolin is 58.
• Filmmaker Darren Aronofsky is 57.
• Actor Christina Ricci is 46.
• Rapper Gucci Mane is 46.
• Actor Jennifer Stone is 33.
• Pro wrestler Jaida Parker is 27.

NEW ORLEANS — Observations and other notes of interest from Wednesday night’s 123-111 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans:

– No one was expecting their Bayou best.

– Not with this rotation.

– Not with Norman Powell, Tyler Herro, Andrew Wiggins and Pelle Larsson out.

– And that’s the problem as the Heat head into their All-Star break.

– Who are the Heat?

– Basically, we have yet to see.

– With Herro as much rumor as reality.

– Meaning no insight into the possibilities of Herro-Powell.

– With both eligible for extensions.

– So, yes, a victory over the Pelicans.

– And now time to consider what it all has meant to this point.

– Which isn’t much.

– Because Heat as a whole remain an abstract.

– The day began with Erik Spoelstra stressing the need to get back to consistency.

– But how can that happen without lineup consistency, rotation consistency?

– So maybe, finally, Herro after this impending eight-day break?

– “He will be back. Yes, for sure,” Spoelstra said. “I don’t have a timeline exactly of when that will be. We’ll see. We’ll see how he progresses.”

– As for the consistency element, Spoelstra said there must be strides.

– “We understand what it is. It’s just trying to put together complete basketball games. Our process the other night wasn’t as bad as it felt. In rewatching it, there were a lot of things that we did that typically would lead to a win, including having a five-point lead with three minutes to go,” he said of Monday night’s home loss to the lottery-lusting Jazz.

– For his part, center and team captain Adebayo said it is time to stop allowing a make-or-miss league to impact the Heat’s defense.

– “Like I said, getting stops while we’re not making shots,” Adebayo said of the core of the defensive issues. “That’s been our biggest hurdle. When we’re making shots, we’re going to defend anybody. When we’re missing shots, that’s when we give up back cuts, that’s when we give up easy plays, because we lose focus because we’re thinking about the past play.”

– Point guard Mitchell seconded that notion.

– “I would just say sticking to our rules, keep playing the right way,” he said. “I think that offensively we can get anything we want when we play the right way and share the ball, and then kind of just hang our hat on the defensive side. I think we kind of had a little bit of slippage with that, kind of letting guys shoot threes. I’ve done that a couple times, closing out recklessly and getting guys open threes. So kind of just controlling those things.”

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– With Wiggins unavailable along with Powell, Larsson and Herro, the Heat opened with a lineup of Adebayo, Kel’el Ware, Mitchell, Myron Gardner and Simone Fontecchio.

– It was the Heat’s 20th lineup of the season.

– And the eighth consecutive game they opened with a different lineup.

– Jaime Jaquez Jr. was first off the bench.

– Dru Smith and Kasparas Jakucionis then followed together.

– With Nikola Jovic fourth off the Heat bench.

– And that was it, a tight nine.

– There was more praise going in from Spoelstra about Jakucionis, who this time was uneven.

– “He stayed ready,” Spoelstra said. “Working on his game, he’s improved a lot since summer league, not just the 3-point shooting, but his defense, understanding our principles. Offensively, knowing where he can use his creativity and his vision to help us. He’s a competitor, so that always helps.”

– Lane Kiffin was among those in the building.

NEW ORLEANS — A 29-27 record hardly is optimal at the All-Star break for a team seeking to avoid the play-in round for a fourth consecutive season.

But at least it beats the .500 alternative.

So it is with that record that the Miami Heat into their extended break, after a 123-111 victory Wednesday night over the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center.

Playing in the injury absences of Norman Powell, Andrew Wiggins and Pelle Larsson, Erik Spoelstra’s team bounced back from Monday night’s home loss to the Utah Jazz with an effort boosted off the offensive glass.

Controlling the possession game most of the way, the Heat consistently fought off pushback from the 16-41 Pelicans a game after falling to the 17-37 Jazz.

Both of the Heat’s big men closed with double-doubles, Bam Adebayo with 27 points and 14 rebounds, Kel’el Ware with 16 and 12. Heat also got 23 points from Jaime Jaquez Jr.

But for a night, it was all about Adebayo, who closed 6 of 19 from the field, 13 of 17 form the foul line.

“He was so rugged tonight,” Spoelstra said. “I think he could have drawn probably three, four, five more fouls if they called them. I think there was that kind of force that he was driving with that I think he could have gotten more calls than he did.

“But that’s what we talked about today. This was by any means necessary. We knew guys were feeling a little bit fatigued. A lot of our firepower was on the sidelines or not even here in the building. So quite naturally we were going to lean on Bam even more than we normally do.”

Despite standing as the double-team team focus of the Heat, Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 25 points.

“We needed to get this win, being completely honest, just for momentum,” Jaquez said. “Coming after the break, we know it’s going to be a big push for us and it started with this game. We take that into the break, build on it. And when we come back, just be ready for a big push ahead.”

Five Degrees of Heat from Wednesday night’s game:

1. Game flow: The Heat led 31-25 after the first period and 58-55 at halftime, after briefly giving up the lead in the second period.

Boosted by their offensive rebounding, the Heat pushed their lead to 16 in the third period, before going into the fourth up 96-85.

From there, the Heat moved up 17 with 6:19 to play, only to see the Pelicans move within 112-105 with 4:29 left.

It got shakier from there, with the Pelicans trimming the deficit to 115-109 with 1:41 to play on a pair of Saddiq Bey free throws.

After an Adebayo foul, Williamson took Jaquez to the basket that drew the Pelicans within 115-111, only to see Heat forward Simone Fontecchio respond with a 3-pointer with 53.8 seconds to play for a 118-111 Heat lead.

Adebayo closed the scoring with a pair of free throws.

“I was getting fouled. It’s one of those things where if it isn’t broke, don’t break it,” he said of his relentless path to the foul line. “If I’m getting to the line, keep getting to the line.

“Now everybody can kind of decompress, get away for a little bit and come back ready to work.”

2. And another: Injuries had the Heat opening with a different lineup for the eighth consecutive game, their 20th starting lineup of the season.

This time, it was a late decision with Wiggins, who missed the game due to toe inflammation. Wiggins had the toe wrapped and attempted to warm up, before he was ruled out.

That had the Heat for the second consecutive game opening with their bigger lineup featuring Adebayo and Ware, one rounded out by Davion Mitchell, Fontecchio and Myron Gardner.

Gardner closed with eight points and 10 rebounds.

“It’s a great thing to watch,” Spoelstra said of Gardner. “This guy is just fighting and scrapping for everything and earning everything that he’s getting right now.”

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3. The big thing: With little option but to go big, Spoelstra got ample payoff for the approach.

Ware and Adebayo wound up playing extended minutes together, with Nikola Jovic limited to the minimal role that Ware had held as a reserve.

Ware was up to a double-double by the latter stages of the third quarter, with Adebayo joining him in the fourth.

“That gives us a different look and the versatility of being able to play the two of them together and pound the glass on both ends is a weapon for us,” Spoelstra said.

Included in Ware’s rebounding total were seven offensive rebounds, part of the Heat’s 18-9 edge on the offensive glass.

“When me and Bam are both in the game, if not both of us crashing, at least one of us is crashing can make an impact,” Ware said, “like I was doing today, hitting the ball back out so we get more chances.”

In the end, though, Spoelstra opted to close with Fontecchio at power forward, and Ware and Jovic on the bench. Fontecchio ended with 15 points.

4. Doing it alone: With much of the bench rotation reshuffled in order to accommodate the changes with the first unit, a constant off the bench remains Jaquez.

This time he was up to 14 points by halftime, with aggressive early play that included drawing a flagrant foul on Herb Jones in the second period.

Still a work in progress is the 3-point shot, with Jaquez 6 of 8 on two-point shots in the first half and 0 for 4 on 3-pointers.

“He hasn’t had the same juice and pep to his step that he had a month ago,” Spoelstra said. “But he’s the consistent engine for us in that second unit. His ability just to get downhill and create something, and everybody is very comfortable playing or spacing off of his drives.”

5. Now off: The Heat now are idle for their All-Star break until returning for practice on Feb. 18 at Kaseya Center and then returning to action Feb. 20 on the road against the Atlanta Hawks.

“Everybody is looking forward to it because our guys have been really pushing through,” Spoelstra said of the break. “While we’ve had guys out, and we’re not making any excuses about it, but we’ve been pushing for, it feels like weeks.”

In the interim, headed to Los Angeles for All-Star Weekend are Powell (All-Star Game, 3-point contest), Ware (Rising Stars competition), Keshad Johnson (dunk contest) and two-way player Jahmir Young (G League All-Star Game and G League 3-point contest).

By PETER SMITH, Associated Press

A member of the federal Religious Liberty Commission has been ousted after a hearing this week that featured tense exchanges on the definition of antisemitism. The ousted member, Carrie Prejean Boller, had defended prominent commentator Candace Owens, who routinely shares antisemitic conspiracy theories.

Prejean Boller, a model turned conservative activist, denied that Owens had ever said anything antisemitic, quoted a Bible verse that attributed the death of Jesus to Jews and pushed back on the idea that some people mask antisemitism in their criticism of Israel.

“No member of the commission has the right to hijack a hearing for their own personal and political agenda on any issue,” said Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, chair of the commission. “This is clearly, without question, what happened Monday in our hearing on antisemitism in America. This was my decision.”

The hearing took place as the commission, created by President Donald Trump last year, is the subject of a new federal lawsuit this week from progressive religious groups. The suit says the panel fails to represent diverse views and religions and consists almost entirely of conservative Christian members.

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Prejean Boller’s removal came amid a wider, increasingly contentious debate over whether the right should give a platform to commentators espousing antisemitic views.

It followed a hearing Monday in Washington that was focused on antisemitism. It featured multiple witnesses, including first-hand accounts of students and others who said universities failed to protect Jewish students amid pro-Palestinian protests during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Prejean Boller had sharp exchanges with witnesses during the hearing. Seth Dillon, CEO of the conservative satirical site The Babylon Bee, which routinely lampoons progressives, was there to testify that conservatives need to push back against a growing antisemitic movement on the right.

Prejean Boller challenged him, questioning whether critics of Israel should be considered antisemitic. Dillon said no, but that context matters. There are “people who try to conceal their antisemitism under the guise of merely criticizing Israel,” he said.

Prejean Boller also questioned whether social media sites should be pressured to ban quotations of a Bible verse that attributes the death of Jesus to Jews. And she disputed Dillon’s criticisms of Owens, saying she had never heard her say anything antisemitic.

“You should look up more of her statements,” Dillon said, citing such things as Owens saying her critics were “of the synagogue of Satan.”

Prejean Boller, the 2009 Miss California, drew criticism during the Miss USA contest that same year when she said she believed marriage should only be between a man and a woman. She became politically active in subsequent years, supporting Trump’s presidential runs and criticizing such things as COVID-19 restrictions.

The hearing was the latest of several by the commission, which has featured testimony accusing the administration of former President Joe Biden of allegedly repressing religious freedom in different ways. The commission is preparing to deliver a report to Trump this spring.

Also this week, various faith groups filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in New York, challenging the makeup of the commission.

The lawsuit was filed by the progressive Interfaith Alliance as well as Muslim, Hindu and Sikh organizations.

It argued that the 1972 Federal Advisory Committee Act requires that any advisory committees be fairly balanced among competing viewpoints.

The lawsuit says the commissioners, “consisting of almost exclusively Christians with one Orthodox Jewish Rabbi, represent the narrow perspective that America was founded as a ‘Judeo-Christian’ nation and must be guided by Biblical principles.”

It said this excludes people of other faiths and no religions, as well as those in the Judeo-Christian tradition who “are committed to religious freedom and pluralism, and reject Christian nationalism.”

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

Elon Musk’s tunneling firm The Boring Company was tapped Wednesday to plow connections among Universal’s Orlando theme parks.

The board of the Shingle Creek Transit and Utility Community Development District, a special purpose district encompassing Universal properties, voted to begin contract negotiations with Musk’s firm to design and build the infrastructure improvements, following a monthslong competition.

The Boring Company was one of three bidders, alongside V2R and Sunshine Connection Partners. It is best known for its expertise in underground tunnels, having dug the “Vegas Loop” transportation network in Las Vegas, Nevada.

A system of tunnels linking Universal’s popular properties could be as iconic in the 21st century as Disney World’s monorails were in the 20th century. But little is known about how The Boring Company intends to proceed, including how it might approach constructing tunnels given Florida’s shallow water table.

The district sought bids from companies to design and build an innovative transportation system to provide connectivity between Universal’s parks and other assets.

The idea was to link the parks, including the popular new tourist draw, Epic Universe, to City Walk and Universal-owned hotels, according to Brian Gettinger, an executive for transit company Glydways, which helped Sunshine Connection Partners make its bid.

The district did not specifically define a mode of transportation. But The Boring Company, founded and owned by tech billionaire Musk, who also owns SpaceX, digs tunnels, and Gettinger said he assumes that will be their approach. The district board said it found the company to have made the most qualified proposal of the bidders.

“Board members determined that The Boring Company’s proposal best addressed the District’s request for an innovative, future-ready, point-to-point solution,” the district said in a statement announcing the decision. “The District will now continue collaborating with local stakeholders while exploring the operational and financial feasibility of the preferred proposal.”

The announcement posted on the district’s website made no mention of tunnels.

The district did not immediately respond to a request Wednesday evening for copies of the proposals made by The Boring Company and its competitors. Nor has it responded to a public records request submitted by the Orlando Sentinel in December.

Sunshine Connection Partners proposed an above ground, dedicated light rail system for “high capacity people movement” between Universal properties, said Gettinger.

He said he was disappointed not to be the first choice, but offered praise nonetheless for Universal’s plan.

“I think Universal/Shingle Creek deserves a lot of credit for considering alternative transportation technologies that are more cost effective,” he said. “All three teams that responded offered innovative, 21st Century solutions. They’re all different but they’re all in that transformative bucket.”

The Boring Company’s website says its mission is to build transportation, utility, and freight tunnels to solve traffic and allow rapid point-to-point transportation. The Vegas Loop has already transported more than 3 million passengers through 8 stations, according to the site. However, it is not a true mass transit system, using Tesla Model Y cars to transport passengers through its below- and above-ground network.

General Daily Insight for February 12, 2026

Progress might require a roundabout path at present. As the emotional Moon enters practical Capricorn, we may be eager to take responsibility for our priorities and protect our time and energy. When warrior Mars runs into tension with expansive Jupiter at 8:15 pm EST, our efforts and expectations could hit roadblocks, asking us to adjust plans rather than push harder. Trimming scope and agreeing on clearer roles in our connections may provide more realistic paths forward. Answers that work are worth waiting for!

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Balancing competing obligations could be a challenge today. As fiery Mars in your 11th House of Friendship distracts you from expansive Jupiter in your domestic 4th house, your bold instinct may say yes to group plans. However, your home life might ask for a quieter pace. Perhaps you can shorten a social commitment rather than dropping it entirely. Your energy stretches further when your personal rhythms feel respected, so be real with your friends about what you’re able to deliver.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Keeping your choices simple may be important today. As the impulsive Moon enters your 9th House of Travel and Learning, the prospect of a grand adventure might grab your attention. The more you talk to the people around you about it, the bigger the idea could grow! Wait until your energy feels steady before you book anything, though. There’s no shame in selecting a shorter distance or smaller itinerary, so try to stay realistic regarding what you’ll truly find comfortable and achievable.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Making contact with reality could bring the clarity you currently need. As action-oriented Mars in your adventurous 9th house goads expansive Jupiter in your 2nd House of Money and Values, your curious mind is probably drawn to anything new and exciting, and your budget may be tempted to stretch to match. If a potential travel partner seems to rain on your parade, however, take a careful look at the numbers they’re bringing up. They might have a valid point about curbing expenses!

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Having gentler expectations for others might bring better results today. As passionate Mars in your sharing sector engages with bold Jupiter in your 1st House of Identity, you may be eager to tell significant people in your life something you’ve recently come to understand about yourself. However, you’re probably still feeling a bit vulnerable regarding this development. If your audience doesn’t react to your announcement in just the right way, can you handle it? Think that through before you divulge.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Your care for your nearest and dearest could currently compete with the quiet your spirit craves. As ambitious Mars in your relationship sector contests abundant Jupiter in your 12th House of Rest and Reflection this evening, you may feel internal pressure to live up to your own high standards in supporting a partner or friend. Your needs matter too, though. Don’t risk unloading your resentment on your loved one — call it a night when you realize you’re running out of energy.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Letting your longing to optimize everything rest might be a wise move at the moment. When the nurturing Moon enters your playful 5th house, embracing simple joy is a perfectly valid use of your time! Your precise eye might overwork a fun project, so set a small scope and leave room for laughs during a single, easy activity. Taking a relaxed approach keeps creativity bright rather than brittle. You can always come back and refine later, so just let the inspiration flow for now.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Putting up a poker face could be necessary now. As fiery Mars in your 5th House of Creativity and Romance tangles with conspicuous Jupiter in your 10th House of Career and Reputation, you may yearn to show affection to a sweetheart or let your goofy side fly. However, these impulses might not mesh well with your established public persona. Stability and self-expression are both valid needs. That said, be realistic about what’s best kept in the safety of your private life.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Progress is likely to return after you strengthen private boundaries. Your 4th House of Home and Family hosts warrior Mars, where it quincunxes joyous Jupiter in your 9th House of Travel and Learning. Deep focus belongs at home today, even though distant plans may tug at you. Making a smaller promise you can keep right now will give you the win you need. Allow yourself plenty of time to take care of your domestic priorities — a secure home base will ultimately support your adventures!

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Thoughtful edits and moderation could improve your message today. As action-oriented Mars in your 3rd House of Communication riles up overbearing Jupiter in your 8th House of Shared Resources, your upbeat voice might oversell an idea, potentially setting off the money sensitivities of your audience in the process. Slow the pitch and check details before you promise anything. Putting the basic facts in writing can protect trust and prevent avoidable stress. Taking extra time now beats experiencing confusion and regret later!

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Listening to your instincts could currently help you rein in a plan that’s gotten out of control. Your 1st House of Identity welcomes the emotional Moon, nudging you to honor your pace and present a clear, steady image. Perhaps someone you’re working with is all over the place, adding more and more priorities to your plate. Although you’re willing to carry heavy responsibility when needed, you can also say no to extras that blur your focus. Prioritize real progress over looking busy.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

A creative pivot could keep you on your course today. As ambitious Mars in your 1st House of Identity runs into resistance from bloated Jupiter in your 6th House of Daily Routines, your desire to move forward could be hampered by all the tasks you think are necessary for maintenance. You’ll have to look closely at the habits you take for granted and see whether they still serve you. A leaner schedule is probably possible, and it would give you more room to pursue fresh ideas!

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Keeping a cherished passion private might be the best option at the moment. While active Mars in your secretive 12th house experiences tension with buoyant Jupiter in your 5th House of Pleasure, there’s probably a part of you that wants to be vocal about something you really enjoy. However, the norms of your peer group are potentially on your mind as well. Introducing the possibility of their judgment could spoil your fun, so just keep it limited to the people who definitely understand for now!

The Florida House Civil Justice & Claims Committee approved a bill Wednesday that would let people sue vaccine manufacturers if the drugs advertised in the state harm them.

Rep. Monique Miller, R-Palm Bay, sponsored the proposal (HB 339), which would give someone who was harmed after receiving a vaccine up to three years to sue the manufacturer in civil court if that manufacturer advertised the drug in Florida.

The bill defines advertising as the traditional methods of radio, TV and print ads, but also direct-to-consumer methods, such as product placement, social media ads and paid influencers.

Courts could award prevailing claimants actual damages, costs and attorney fees, according to the measure.

“Decades ago, the federal government largely shielded vaccine manufacturers from liability,” Miller said. “In exchange, it established two no-fault courts where the vaccine-injured could seek remedy.”

Those are the Court of Federal Claims and the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

But those courts are “wholly inadequate,” Miller added, because vaccine-injured people often go uncompensated or inadequately compensated, forcing them to go on Medicare or Medicaid. The bill would give them an easier recourse, Miller said.

Retired anesthesiologist Nancy Staats took issue with the bill, saying federal laws prevent the state from addressing such issues.

“I implore you to stop this effort to malign vaccines which save lives,” said Staats.

The bill comes amid widespread debate about vaccines, including Florida health officials looking to do away with certain vaccination mandates for school children.

The House bill has two more committee hearings scheduled. The Senate version (SB 408) has two more committee hearings in that chamber, too.

By SOPHIA TAREEN, Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) — Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino praised a federal agent who shot a Chicago woman during an immigration crackdown last year, according to evidence released Wednesday by attorneys who accused the Trump administration of mishandling the investigation and spreading lies about the shooting.

Marimar Martinez, a teaching assistant and U.S. citizen, was shot five times by a Border Patrol agent in October while in her vehicle. She was charged with a felony after Homeland Security officials accused her of trying to ram agents with her vehicle. But the case was dismissed after videos emerged showing an agent steering his vehicle into Martinez’s vehicle.

Her attorneys pushed to make evidence in the now-dissolved criminal case public, saying they were especially motivated after a federal agent fatally shot Minneapolis woman Renee Good under similar circumstances.

Martinez’s attorneys are pursuing a complaint under a law that permits individuals to sue federal agencies. They outlined instances of DHS lying about Martinez after the shooting, including labeling her a “domestic terrorist” and accusing her of having a history of “doxxing federal agents.” The Montessori school assistant has no criminal record and prosecutors haven’t brought evidence in either claim.

“This is a time where we just cannot trust the words of our federal officials,” attorney Christopher Parente said at a news conference where his office released evidence.

Marimar Martinez, left, a woman who was shot by a Border Patrol agent last year, sits with her attorneys during a press conference Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

That included an agent’s hand-drawn diagram of the scene to allege how Martinez “boxed in” federal agents. It included vehicles Parente said “don’t exist.”

Many of the emails, texts and videos were released the night before by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

In a statement Wednesday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said use-of-force incidents “are thoroughly investigated” and the agent involved, Charles Exum, was placed on administrative leave.

The shooting came during the height of the Chicago-area crackdown. Arrests, protests and tense standoffs with immigration agents were common across the city of 2.7 million and its suburbs. Weeks before the Martinez shooting, agents fatally shot a suburban Chicago dad in a traffic stop.

The government unsuccessfully fought the document release, including an email from Bovino, who led enforcement operations nationwide before he returned to his previous post in California last month.

“In light of your excellent service in Chicago, you have much yet left to do!!” Bovino wrote Exum on Oct. 4.

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In an agent group text, others congratulated Exum, calling him a “legend” and offering to buy him beer. In previously released documents, Exum’s text messages appeared to show him bragging to colleagues about his shooting skills.

“I fired 5 rounds and she had 7 holes. Put that in your book boys,” the text read.

The latest documents are public now because U.S. District Judge Georgia Alexakis lifted a protective order last week. Federal prosecutors argued the documents could damage Exum’s reputation. But Alexakis said the government has shown “zero concern” about ruining Martinez’s reputation.

On the day Martinez was shot, she had followed agents’ vehicle and honked her horn to warn others of the presence of immigration agents. Body camera footage showed agents with weapons drawn and rushing out of the vehicle.

“It’s time to get aggressive and get the (expletive) out,” one agent said.

Martinez, who sat near her attorneys, was largely silent during the news conference.

She declined an Associated Press interview request. In recent weeks she has spoken to local media and before lawmakers.

Earlier this month, Martinez testified before congressional Democrats to highlight use-of-force incidents by DHS officers. Members of Good’s family also spoke. Martinez is scheduled to attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address this month as the guest of U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia.

She was hospitalized before being taken into the custody of the FBI, which still has her car. Martinez said the incident has left her with mistrust of law enforcement, which accused her of being armed.

Martinez has a valid concealed-carry license and had a handgun in her purse. Attorneys showed a picture of it in a pink holster at the bottom of her purse, saying it remained there during the encounter.

“They are not targeting the worst of the worst, they are targeting individuals who fit a certain profile, who simply have a certain accent, or a non-white skin color just like mine. This raises serious concerns about fairness, discrimination, and abuse of authority,” she said during her congressional testimony. “The lack of accountability for these actions is deeply troubling.”

Martinez’s attorneys said they’d pursue a complaint under the Federal Tort Claims Act. If the agency denies the claim or doesn’t act on it within six months, they can file a federal lawsuit.

By FATIMA HUSSEIN, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The IRS erroneously shared the taxpayer information of thousands of people with the Department of Homeland Security, as part of the agencies’ controversial agreement to share information on immigrants for the purpose of identifying and deporting people illegally in the U.S, according to a new court filing.

The revelation stems from a data-sharing agreement signed last April by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, which allows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to submit names and addresses of immigrants inside the U.S. illegally to the IRS for cross-verification against tax records.

A declaration filed Wednesday by IRS Chief Risk and Control Officer Dottie Romo stated that the IRS was only able to verify roughly 47,000 of the 1.28 million names ICE requested.

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For less than 5% of those individuals, the IRS gave ICE additional address information, potentially violating privacy rules created to protect taxpayer data.

Romo added that Treasury notified DHS in January of the error and requested DHS’ assistance in “promptly taking steps to remediate the matter consistent with federal law,” which includes “appropriate disposal of any data provided to ICE by IRS based on incomplete or insufficient address information.”

The IRS-DHS agreement set off litigation between advocacy groups and the federal government last year.

Public Citizen filed a lawsuit against the Treasury secretary, the Homeland Security secretary and their respective agencies on behalf of several immigrant rights groups shortly after the agreement was signed.

Most recently, a Massachusetts federal court ordered the IRS to stop sharing residential addresses with ICE. And last November, a federal court blocked the IRS from sharing information with DHS, saying the IRS illegally disseminated the tax data of some migrants last summer.

The news of the erroneous disclosure was initially reported by The Washington Post. A spokesperson from the IRS did not respond to an Associated Press request for comment.

Advocates fear that the potential unlawful release of taxpayer records could be used to maliciously target Americans, violate their privacy and create other ramifications.

Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen said that “this breach of confidential information was part of the reason we filed our lawsuit in the first place. Sharing this private taxpayer data creates chaos and, as we’ve seen this past year, if federal agents use this private information to track down individuals, it can endanger lives.”

Tom Bowman, policy counsel for the Center for Democracy & Technology said that “the improper sharing of taxpayer data is unsafe, unlawful, and subject to serious criminal penalties.”

“Once taxpayer data is opened to immigration enforcement, mistakes are inevitable and the consequences fall on innocent people,” Bowman said. “The disclosure of thousands of confidential records unfortunately shows precisely why strict legal firewalls exist and have — until now — been treated as an important guardrail.”

By DARLENE SUPERVILLE, Associated Press

BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — Melania Trump on Wednesday celebrated an early Valentine’s Day with children and young adults being treated for rare and serious diseases, joining them in holiday-themed craft-making and chatting about their lives, health and other interests.

After they finished making flower bouquets and lanterns out of construction paper and other materials, they stepped over to a festively decorated dessert bar laid out with mini cupcakes and jars of mini chocolates and other candies.

The first lady then made a somewhat sour confession days before a holiday famous for heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolates.

“I don’t eat much sweets,” she said. “Sugar is not that healthy for us.”

• First lady Melania Trump works on Valentine’s Day arts and crafts with patients at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md., Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard)
• First lady Melania Trump waves while arriving to a visit at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md., Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard)
• First lady Melania Trump signs a Valentine’s Day card while working on arts and crafts with patients at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md., Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard)
• First lady Melania Trump works on Valentine’s Day arts and crafts with patients at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md., Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard)

Show Caption1 of 4First lady Melania Trump works on Valentine’s Day arts and crafts with patients at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Md., Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard) Expand

It was her first visit of the second Trump administration to The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health, and her fourth as first lady. She visited three times in the first term.

One of the young men told the first lady he did not know how to address her and wondered whether “your highness” was an option.

Her answer?

“Melania,” she said with a smile.

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The Children’s Inn is a nonprofit that provides support to children and young adults receiving treatment through clinical trials for rare and serious diseases.

Under President Donald Trump, the NIH has cut billions of dollars in research projects, bypassing the usual scientific funding process. The cuts included clinical trials testing treatments for cancer, brain diseases and other health problems that a recent report said impacted over 74,000 people enrolled in the experiments.

Congress recently approved a $47 billion budget for NIH this year, giving it a small raise and rejecting the Trump administration’s call for a nearly 40% cut to the agency’s funding.

AP Medical Writer Lauran Neergaard contributed to this report.

Here are the top stories for Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. Get the weather forecast for today here.

SUBSCRIBE NOW: Get our free Morning Update email. Sign up here.

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Miss Manners: My condo community is too cliquey

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl show captured the heart of Hispanic culture and language.

Our culturally egocentric view hinders our realization that “American” applies to all who live in North, Central and South America. This celebration of America was the most authentic in the Super Bowl’s 60-year history.

The blending of ages, vibrations, rich colors and the rhythmic beat captured the spirit of America.

Becoming part of a vibrant community and celebrating love is the good life. Remembering love, old and new, is restorative. Having the famous and the little-known share the same space is democratic.

We recently sat shiva for a dear friend who had asked to be memorialized by the sound of a steel band. The combination of Jewish tradition and Latin music was heavenly.

Few areas in the U.S. have been more enriched by Hispanic culture than South Florida. To witness love and not fear, beauty and not hatred, and dance in harmony to familiar sounds, captured the distinctive character of the place we call home.

Philip Beasley, Plantation

What makes America great

Explain to me how we have a “leader” who sends a racist, disgusting social rant about a former president and first lady.

The silence from him is deafening. But oh my, a Super Bowl halftime show with great energy and people dancing in their seats, tapping their toes and clapping — and there’s a huge uproar, all because it was in Spanish.

I don’t speak Spanish, but I appreciated Bad Bunny’s singing and his enthusiasm.

Un-American? No! We were celebrating the Spanish culture in our country. We are one nation of many, and that is what’s so great about America!

Pat Eland, Delray Beach

Stupidity, or worse

America is the only country that seems to revere the use of one language and one language only: English.

More and more cities are taking away signs in other languages, which shows their pure ignorance about our used-to-be-label, “the melting pot,” or in plainer words, a unifying or bonding of people, instead of the recent buildup of hate.

I’ve heard people comment negatively when they hear people speak Spanish among themselves, as though they were here illegally or it was offensive to them not to know what people were saying. I’m not sure why people feel that way, but as far as I’m concerned, a good definition is pure stupidity, or worse — bigotry!

Linda Gefen, Boca Raton 

Why midterms matter A card with images of Renée Good and Alex Pretti lies among flowers and other mementos at a memorial in Minneapolis on Jan. 27, 2026.

Renaming the Kennedy Center and then shutting it down. Wanting major airports renamed for him. Putting untrained ICE thugs in blue cities and states, resulting in the deaths of two innocent people.

Saying he wanted ICE agents at the Super Bowl  — because it was being held in California.

Making big promises about prescription drugs and health care that he can’t fulfill, while the economy falters.

Condoning racism and insurrection, and calling Bad Bunny “an affront” to America who should not perform at the Super Bowl. Saying he wants to nationalize the 2026 election — which should scare the hell out of all good Americans.

The fact that a follower, in a letter to the editor, used the term “libtards” (Sun Sentinel, Jan. 13) and another accuses the Sun Sentinel of stooping to McCarthyism because letters like mine are published gives proof as to just what Trump’s followers are all about. Wake up, America, before it’s too late, and oust the president and the whole of his party in the midterms.

Seth Wexler, Plantation 

Please submit a letter to the editor by email to letterstotheeditor@sunsentinel.com or fill out the online form below. Letters may be up to 200 words and must be signed with your email address, city of residence and daytime phone number for verification. Letters will be edited for clarity and length.

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DEAR MISS MANNERS: I had lunch with a person I consider to be a Very Good Friend. This is someone I see a few times each month and with whom I have traveled.

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My friend was excited about a new gourmet group they were forming — a rotating dinner party. I told my friend that the idea seemed fun and that I was interested.

The next time we met up, my friend raised the subject of the group once again. I was shocked and upset when I was told, in a roundabout way, that I would not be included.

My friend said, “I am going to be very selective about who I include because there are some people who seem to think ‘the more, the merrier,’ and we just can’t have that. The time you asked me to include your mother at Easter, my table was at its max capacity.”

I was shocked. That request was made 10 years ago and was cheerfully accommodated. I would have stayed home with Mother had I been rebuffed. To have this held as a trespass on my part is very upsetting.

I no longer wish to be considered for this “elite” group. Do I have a choice, other than complaining or abandoning the friendship?

GENTLE READER: You do have a choice, but it’s not a tasty one.

Your Very Rude Friend is expecting that you will promise not to transgress again, after which you will be issued an invitation to the new group. If you understandably do not wish to eat crow as a precursor to more gourmet delicacies, you should abandon hope of entry into the new group, abandon the friendship, or both.

Although she generally agrees that guests are not supposed to ask to bring additional guests, Miss Manners notes that an advance discussion about a mother at an Easter dinner might have been raised in an inoffensive way — and that 10 years is a long time to hold a grudge.

[That question was answered previously in the Asking Eric column. Here’s what he said.]

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I work at a small, family-owned business where a few employees have dietary restrictions, some by choice and some by medical necessity.

I love to cook and bake at home, and since it is just myself and my partner, I often have extra portions. Is it rude to bring food to share at the workplace that doesn’t meet the restrictions of all employees?

For example, I recently made a delicious apple crisp and had a large amount left over the next day. But it was neither gluten-free nor vegan, so I hesitated to bring the extra to work to share — even though the majority of employees would have enjoyed it.

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GENTLE READER: It would be rude to provide a meal that did not have some options that all your guests could eat. But that is not the situation you describe.

No one is relying on — or even expecting — apple crisp in the break room. What you propose would not, therefore, be rude. As long as your offerings are clearly labeled, your colleagues can make their own decisions about whether to indulge.

Still, Miss Manners cannot reassure you that such technical adherence to the law will shield you from the righteous fury of the unfed.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, gentlereader@missmanners.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

By TY O’NEIL, JOHN SEEWER and HALLIE GOLDEN

RIO RICO, Ariz. (AP) — A person was detained for questioning Tuesday in the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, hours after the FBI released surveillance videos of a masked person wearing a handgun holster outside Guthrie’s front door the night she vanished from her Arizona home.

Deputies detained the person during a traffic stop south of Tucson, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. It did not immediately provide details about the person or the location. The FBI referred questions to the sheriff’s office.

A Phoenix, Arizona, television station, KNVX-TV, interviewed a delivery man who said he had been detained by police on suspicions of kidnapping Guthrie. He said he was innocent and that police released him after several hours. Local and federal authorities have not confirmed that the person who they had detained was released.

The department and the FBI were conducting a court-authorized search Tuesday night at a location in Rio Rico, about an hour’s drive south of Tucson, the department said in a statement. It was expected to take several hours.

Guthrie disappeared on Feb. 1 and since then the case has gripped the nation. Until Tuesday, it seemed authorities were making little headway in determining what happened to the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie or finding who was responsible.

Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings have released a series of video statements pleading for the return of their mother and indicating a willingness to pay a ransom. Authorities have described Nancy Guthrie as mentally sound but with limited mobility. She takes several medications and there was concern from the start that she could die without them, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has said repeatedly.

The community of Rio Rico — population 20,000 — is roughly an hour’s drive from Guthrie’s home and about 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of the U.S.-Mexico border.

The videos released earlier Tuesday show a person wearing a ski mask and a backpack. At one point, they tilt their head down and away from a doorbell camera while approaching Guthrie’s front door. The footage also shows the person holding a flashlight in their mouth and trying to cover the camera with a gloved hand and part of a plant ripped from the yard.

The videos — less than a combined minute in length — gave investigators and the public their first glimpse of who was outside Guthrie’s home in the foothills outside Tucson. But the images did not show what happened to her or help determine whether she is still alive.

FBI Director Kash Patel said the “armed individual” appeared to “have tampered with the camera.” It was not entirely clear whether there was a gun in the holster.

The videos were pulled from data on “back-end systems” after investigators spent days trying to find lost, corrupted or inaccessible images, Patel said.

“This will get the phone ringing for lots of potential leads,” said former FBI agent Katherine Schweit. “Even when you have a person who appears to be completely covered, they’re really not. You can see their girth, the shape of their face, potentially their eyes or mouth.”

Tuesday afternoon, authorities were back near Guthrie’s neighborhood, using vehicles to block her driveway. A few miles away, law enforcement was going door-to-door in the area where daughter Annie Guthrie lives, talking with neighbors as well as walking through a drainage area and examining the inside of a culvert with a flashlight.

Investigators have said for more than a week that they believe Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will. She was last seen at home Jan. 31 and reported missing the next day. DNA tests showed blood on her porch was hers, authorities said.

Authorities initially could not pull images from camera

Until now, authorities have released few details, leaving it unclear if ransom notes demanding money with deadlines already passed were authentic, and whether the Guthrie family has had any contact with whoever took Guthrie.

Savannah Guthrie posted the new surveillance images on social media Tuesday, saying the family believes their mother is still alive and offering phone numbers for the FBI and county sheriff. Within minutes, the post had thousands of comments.

Investigators had hoped cameras would turn up evidence right away about how Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her home in an secluded neighborhood.

But the doorbell camera was disconnected early on Feb. 1. While software recorded movement at the home minutes later, Guthrie did not have an active subscription, so Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos had initially said none of the footage could be recovered. Officials continued working to get the footage.

Savannah Guthrie expressed desperation a day ago

Heartbreaking messages by Savannah Guthrie and her family shifted from hopeful to bleak as they made pleas for whoever took Nancy Guthrie. In a video just ahead of a purported ransom deadline Monday, Savannah Guthrie appeared alone and spoke directly to the public.

“We are at an hour of desperation,” she said. “We need your help.”

Much of the nation is closely following the case involving the longtime anchor of NBC’s morning show.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump watched the new surveillance footage and was in “pure disgust,” encouraging anyone with information to call the FBI.

The FBI this week began posting digital billboards about the case in major cities from Texas to California.

Connor Hagan, a spokesperson for the FBI, said Monday that the agency was not aware of ongoing communication between Guthrie’s family and any suspected kidnappers. Authorities also had not identified any suspects, he said.

Videos from Guthrie siblings appealed directly to whoever took their mom

Three days after the search began, Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings sent their first public appeal to whoever took their mother, saying, “We want to hear from you, and we are ready to listen.”

In the recorded video, Guthrie said her family was aware of media reports about a ransom letter, but they first wanted proof their mother was alive.

“Please reach out to us,” they said.

The next day, Savannah Guthrie’s brother again made a plea, saying, “Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven’t heard anything directly.”

Then over the past weekend, the family posted another video — one that was more cryptic and generated even more speculation about Nancy Guthrie’s fate.

“We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her,” said Savannah Guthrie, flanked by her siblings. “This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”

___

Golden reported from Seattle and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press reporters Darlene Superville in Washington, Ed White in Detroit, and Mike Balsamo, Eric Tucker and Alanna Durkin Richer in Washington contributed to this report.

Today is Wednesday, Feb. 11, the 42nd day of 2026. There are 323 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Feb. 11, 1975, Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of Britain’s opposition Conservative Party, a prelude to her eventual rise to prime minister in 1979.

Also on this date:

In 1847, American inventor Thomas Alva Edison was born in Milan, Ohio.

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In 1937, a six-week-old sit-down strike against General Motors ended, with the company agreeing to recognize and negotiate with the United Auto Workers union.

In 1945, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Soviet leader Josef Stalin signed the Yalta Agreement, in which Stalin agreed to declare war against Imperial Japan following Nazi Germany’s capitulation.

In 1990, South African anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela was freed after 27 years in prison. (Mandela would be elected president of South Africa four years later.)

Also in 1990, in one of the biggest upsets in boxing history, underdog Buster Douglas knocked out the previously undefeated heavyweight champion Mike Tyson at Japan’s Tokyo Dome.

In 2011, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak resigned after days of pro-democracy protests, ending three decades of authoritarian rule.

In 2012, on the eve of the Grammy Awards, superstar singer Whitney Houston was found dead after she drowned in a hotel room bathtub in Beverly Hills, California; she was 48. The official coroner’s report listed heart disease and cocaine as contributing factors in her death.

In 2013, during a routine morning meeting of Vatican cardinals, Pope Benedict XVI announced he would resign as pope effective Feb. 28; it was the first papal resignation in nearly 600 years.

In 2020, the World Health Organization gave the official name of COVID-19 to the disease caused by the coronavirus that had emerged in China and was unleashing a worldwide pandemic.

Today’s birthdays:

• Actor Tina Louise is 92.
• Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is 73.
• Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin is 64.
• Musician Sheryl Crow is 64.
• Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is 62.
• Actor Jennifer Aniston is 57.
• Actor Damian Lewis is 55.
• Surfer Kelly Slater is 54.
• Singer-actor Brandy is 47.
• Singer Kelly Rowland is 45.
• Actor Natalie Dormer is 44.
• Actor Taylor Lautner is 34.
• Singer-songwriter Khalid is 28.

By ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and ERIC TUCKER

WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Pam Bondi will face questions from lawmakers Wednesday over the Justice Department’s handling of files related to Jeffrey Epstein that have exposed sensitive private information about victims despite redaction efforts.

Bondi is confronting a new wave of criticism stemming from the political saga that has dogged her term after the release of millions of additional Epstein disclosures that victims have slammed as sloppy and incomplete.

It will be the first time the attorney general appears before Congress since a tumultuous hearing in October in which she repeatedly deflected questions and countered Democrats’ criticism of her actions with her own political attacks.

Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee are expected to grill Bondi on how the Justice Department decided what should and should not be made public under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was passed by Congress after the department abruptly announced in July that no more files would be released even though it had raised the hopes of conservative influencers and conspiracy theorists.

Bondi has continuously struggled to move past the backlash over her handling of the Epstein files since distributing binders to a group of social media influencers at the White House last February. The binders included no new revelations about Epstein, leading to even more calls from President Donald Trump’s base for the files to be released.

The hearing comes days after some lawmakers visited a Justice Department office to look through unredacted versions of the files. As part of an arrangement with the Justice Department, lawmakers were given access to the over 3 million released files in a reading room with four computers and were allowed to take handwritten notes.

Democrats have accused the Justice Department of redacting information that should have been made public, including information that could lead to scrutiny of Epstein’s associates. Meanwhile, victims have slammed the department for inconsistent or nonexistent redactions that allowed for the inadvertent release of nude photos and other private information about victims.

The department has defended the latest rollout of more than 3 million pages of documents along with more than 2,000 videos and 180,000 images. The Associated Press and other media organizations are still reviewing millions of pages of documents, many of them previously confidential.

An AP review of records shows that while investigators collected ample proof that Epstein sexually abused underage girls, they found scant evidence the well-connected financier led a sex trafficking ring serving powerful men. Videos and photos seized from Epstein’s homes in New York, Florida and the Virgin Islands didn’t depict victims being abused or implicate anyone else in his crimes, a prosecutor wrote in one 2025 memo.

Which Nature’s Bounty probiotics are best?

It’s hard to believe that the way to health just might be through the stomach, but increasing evidence shows that a healthy gut microbiome is crucial to overall wellness. With over 100 trillion bacteria in your stomach, making sure the good bacteria outweigh the bad is critical. A probiotic can help restore your belly’s good bacteria.

Nature’s Bounty has been a trusted name in supplements since 1971. The best Nature’s Bounty probiotics are effective and easy to incorporate into your day. Nature’s Bounty Ultra Strength Probiotic 10 is a great option for maintaining (or restoring) a healthy gut microbiome.

What to know before you buy a Nature’s Bounty probiotic

Probiotics are one of the best ways to support healthy digestion and total wellness. Nature’s Bounty offers a variety of probiotics, and it’s important to consider which one is best for you.

Number of CFUs

The number of colony-forming units is the first great measure of how a probiotic will work. A minimum of 1 billion CFUs per dose of probiotic is necessary to help maintain good gut bacteria. Some doses can reach as high as 10 billion CFUs. Most people don’t need that many CFUs in each dose, but there are times when a higher dose is necessary. For example, doctors recommend higher CFUs to accompany an antibiotic prescription to restore good bacteria.

Nature’s Bounty probiotics offer a range of CFUs to help you achieve your wellness goals.

Safety

Consumers place their trust in supplements, and Nature’s Bounty takes that trust very seriously. They have safety protocols, so you know your probiotic is safe and effective. These include:

• Following strict quality-assurance guidelines
• Testing raw materials and final products by scientists and quality experts
• Adhering to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s GMP supplement quality standards

These high standards ensure that you can trust that it’s safe to purchase a Nature’s Bounty probiotic.

Dose

The best dose of a probiotic is one with which you will be consistent. If you struggle to remember to take pills, a once-a-day probiotic will be best for you. Prefer to break up your probiotic over several smaller doses? That’s possible, too. Nature’s Bounty probiotics have dosing options for everyone.

What to look for in a quality Nature’s Bounty probiotic Beneficial bacteria

The results you get will depend on the specific beneficial bacteria that are present in your probiotic. Nature’s Bounty utilizes a variety of live cultures in each probiotic for their specific benefits. These include:

• Bifidobacterium bifidum for immune support
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus as a preventive measure when traveling
• Lactobacillus acidophilus for aid in digestion and to boost immunity
• Bifidobacterium longum to suppress bad bacteria growth

Allergen-free

The last thing you need in your probiotic is allergens that can actually intensify the rumblings and inflammation in your belly. Nature’s Bounty probiotics are free from all major allergens, including:

• Gluten
• Dairy
• Wheat
• Corn
• Soy

Many of their products are also kosher, halal and vegan. Check the label if you follow a strict diet to see which probiotic is best for you.

Live cultures

Beneficial bacteria are living beings that can only aid in health and wellness if they are “live” in your probiotic. Look to the expiration date on every Nature’s Bounty probiotic to guarantee beneficial live cultures.

Enteric coating

Stomach acid can dissolve probiotics and lessen their efficacy. Nature’s Bounty uses an enteric coating to protect the probiotics until they reach the digestive tract. This controlled delivery method means you’ll get more of the probiotic exactly where it can do the most good.

How much you can expect to spend on Nature’s Bounty probiotics

In terms of supplements, Nature’s Bounty probiotics are an affordable way to optimize your health. Expect to spend between $6-$20 on a probiotic.

Nature’s Bounty probiotic FAQ What can probiotics help?

A. Evidence of the effectiveness of probiotics is growing. Taken regularly, probiotics may help with:

• Diarrhea and constipation
• Yeast overgrowth
• Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease
• Symptoms of lactose intolerance
• Allergies
• Systemic inflammation

Who needs a probiotic?

A. At a minimum, people treated with antibiotics should take a probiotic during their entire course of treatment. Antibiotics are indiscriminate in the bacteria they kill off, and it’s important to reestablish a healthy gut microbiome.

But probiotics are also a great way to maintain overall health and wellness. If you struggle with constipation or diarrhea or simply feel sluggish and unwell, you might benefit from a daily probiotic.

As always, talk to your doctor about your specific health concerns before starting any kind of supplementation.

What’s the best Nature’s Bounty probiotic to buy? Top Nature’s Bounty probiotic

Nature’s Bounty Ultra Strength Probiotic 10

What you need to know: This probiotic has everything you need for a healthy gut in just one capsule a day.

What you’ll love: This probiotic is great for people who want to take just one supplement per day. It has over 20 billion CFUs, with probiotic strains that have been shown to improve digestion and respiratory health.

What you should consider: This is an all-around excellent probiotic.

Top Nature’s Bounty probiotic for the money

Acidophilus Probiotic by Nature’s Bounty

What you need to know: The most common probiotic is included in this single-strain capsule.

What you’ll love: This affordable probiotic has one of the most common types of beneficial bacteria strains to help balance the gut. It’s vegetarian and free from added colors or flavors.

What you should consider: Make sure to check the expiration date, as the probiotic is only guaranteed until then.

Worth checking out

Nature’s Bounty Controlled Delivery Women’s Probiotic

What you need to know: This targeted probiotic is aimed at helping women with digestive and reproductive help.

What you’ll love: Enteric-coated capsules release over two billion active cultures exactly where they are needed: in the digestive tract. This probiotic includes six different strains.

What you should consider: The level of CFUs and the number of strains caused stomach upset for some.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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By ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and ERIC TUCKER

WASHINGTON (AP) — A grand jury in Washington refused Tuesday to indict Democratic lawmakers in connection with a video in which they urged U.S. military members to resist “illegal orders,” according to a person familiar with the matter.

The Justice Department opened an investigation into the video featuring Democratic Sens. Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin and four other Democratic lawmakers urging U.S. service members to follow established military protocols and reject orders they believe to be unlawful. All the lawmakers previously served in the military or at intelligence agencies.

Grand jurors in Washington declined to sign off on charges in the latest of a series of rebukes of prosecutors by citizens in the nation’s capital, according to the person, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the matter. It wasn’t immediately clear whether prosecutors had sought indictments against all six lawmakers or what charge or charges prosecutors attempted to bring.

Grand jury rejections are extraordinarily unusual, but have happened repeatedly in recent months in Washington as citizens who have heard the government’s evidence have come away underwhelmed in a number of cases. Prosecutors could try again to secure an indictment.

The FBI in November began contacting the lawmakers to schedule interviews, outreach that came against the backdrop of broader Justice Department efforts to punish political opponents of the president.

Besides Slotkin and Kelly, the other Democrats who appeared in the video include Reps. Jason Crow of Colorado, Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania, Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire and Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania.

Slotkin, a former CIA analyst who represents Michigan, said late Tuesday that she hopes this ends the Justice Department’s probe.

“Tonight we can score one for the Constitution, our freedom of speech, and the rule of law,” Slotkin said in a statement. “But today wasn’t just an embarrassing day for the Administration. It was another sad day for our country,” she said.

Kelly, a former Navy pilot who represents Arizona, called the attempt to bring charges an “outrageous abuse of power by Donald Trump and his lackies.”

“Donald Trump wants every American to be too scared to speak out against him,” Kelly said in a post on X. “The most patriotic thing any of us can do is not back down.”

Spokespeople for the U.S. attorney’s office and the Justice Department didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday.

By JIM MORRIS and ROB GILLIES

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — A shooting at a school in British Columbia left seven people dead, while two more were found dead at a nearby home, Canadian authorities said Tuesday. A woman who police believe to be the shooter also was killed.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said more than 25 people are injured, including two who were airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries, after the shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School.

School shootings are rare in Canada.

The town of Tumbler Ridge in the Canadian Rockies is more than 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) north of Vancouver, near the border with Alberta. The provincial government website lists Tumbler Ridge Secondary School as having 175 students from Grades 7 to 12.

British Columbia Premier David Eby told reporters that police officers reached the school within two minutes.

A video showed students walking out of the school with their hands raised as police vehicles surrounded the building and a helicopter circled overhead.

Police found six people dead, a statement said. A suspect appeared to have died of a “self-inflicted injury.” An eighth person died while being transported to a hospital, and two more were found dead at a home the authorities believe was connected to the attack.

RCMP Superintendent Ken Floyd told reporters that investigators had identified a female suspect but would not release a name, and that the shooter’s motive remained unclear. He added that police are still investigating how the victims are connected to the shooter.

Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka said the whole community is grieving.

“I broke down,” he said, saying it was “devastating” to learn how many had died in the community of 2,700, which he called a “big family.”

“I have lived here for 18 years,” Krakowka said “I probably know every one of the victims.”

The Rev. George Rowe of the Tumbler Ridge Fellowship Baptist Church went to the recreation center where the victims’ families were awaiting more information.

“It was not a pretty sight. Families are still waiting to hear if it’s their child that’s deceased and because of protocol and procedure the investigating team is very careful in releasing names,” Rowe said. “The big thing tonight was my having to walk away and the families still waiting to find out. It is so difficult. Other pastors and counselors are there so they are not alone.”

Rowe once taught at the high school and his three children graduated from there.

“To walk through the corridors of that school will never be the same again,” he said.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a social media post that he was devastated by the shooting in Tumbler Ridge.

“I join Canadians in grieving with those whose lives have been changed irreversibly today, and in gratitude for the courage and selflessness of the first responders who risked their lives to protect their fellow citizens,” he wrote.

Carney’s office said he is suspending a planned trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia and Munich, Germany. He was set to announce a long-awaited defense industrial strategy in Halifax on Wednesday before heading to Europe for the Munich Security Conference.

Eby, the province’s premier, told reporters he had spoken to Carney after what he called the “unimaginable tragedy.”

“I know it’s causing us all to hug our kids a little bit tighter tonight,” he said. “I’m asking the people of British Columbia to look after the people of Tumbler Ridge tonight.”

Canada’s government has responded to previous mass shootings with gun control measures, including a recently broadened ban on all guns it considers assault weapons.

Tuesday’s shootings were Canada’s deadliest rampage since 2020, when a gunman in Nova Scotia killed 13 people and set fires that left another nine dead.

___

Gillies reported from Toronto.

TUMBLER RIDGE, British Columbia (AP) — A school shooting in British Columbia left eight people dead, including a shooter, and dozens injured, Canadian police said Tuesday.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said a suspect has been found dead with what is believed to be a self-inflicted injury.

Police earlier said officers are working to determine whether a second suspect is involved.

They are asking residents of the town of Tumbler Ridge, which has a population of about 2,400 people, to stay inside as additional police resources are being deployed to the area from neighboring areas.

The Peace River South School District said Tuesday that there was a the “lockdown and secure and hold” at both the secondary school and the Tumbler Ridge Elementary school.

Larry Neufeld, the member of the legislature for Peace River South, told reporters at the legislature that an “excess” of resources, including RCMP and ambulance support, have been sent to the community.

He said he didn’t want to release any more information over concerns that it might jeopardize the safety of the ongoing operation.

He urged those in the community to stay where they are.

“We do understand that a few folks are out looking for loved ones, and again, please, please go back to your homes and shelter in place and allow the amazing people of the RCMP to make this community, this beautiful community, safe again,” he said.

Tumbler Ridge is more than 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) north of Vancouver, near the border with Alberta. The provincial government website lists Tumbler Ridge Secondary School as having 175 students from Grades 7 to 12.

School shootings are rare in Canada.