## Governor Beshear Declines White House Meeting Amidst Controversy


**Gov. Andy Beshear**, D-Ky., announced he will forgo a scheduled meeting of governors at the White House, citing concerns over the event’s handling and what he perceives as unnecessary political maneuvering. The decision, revealed in a Sunday interview, comes amidst a growing dispute surrounding the guest list and the overall tone of the gathering. Beshear’s absence underscores the escalating tensions between the administration and some state leaders.

During his appearance on CNN, Beshear sharply criticized **President Donald Trump**, accusing him of injecting “drama” into a long-standing bipartisan tradition. He expressed skepticism about the meeting’s potential for productive dialogue, suggesting the president’s actions have undermined its purpose. “There’s a time when you have to stand up against the drama of a president that’s turned an annual bipartisan tradition and is treating it like he’s a 12-year-old, and it’s his birthday party, inviting and disinviting people, lashing out at others,” Beshear stated.


## Dispute Over Meeting Invitations and Presidential Response


The controversy began when **Gov. Kevin Stitt**, R-Okla., chair of the **National Governors Association (NGA)**, informed his fellow governors in a letter that the NGA had received information indicating the White House intended to limit attendance to Republican governors for the business meeting. This sparked immediate backlash and questions about the inclusivity of the event. The NGA subsequently released a statement on February 11, asserting that “the president will welcome governors from all 55 states and territories to the White House,” seemingly contradicting the initial reports.

President Trump responded to Stitt’s concerns with a social media post on Wednesday, dismissing his claims as “false.” He subsequently acknowledged that he had not extended invitations to two Democratic governors: **Colorado Gov. Jared Polis** and **Maryland Gov. Wes Moore**, for a separate governors’ dinner also taking place at the White House. Stitt later clarified in an email to governors that he had spoken with the president and that a “misunderstanding in scheduling” had occurred, confirming all governors were invited to a business breakfast.


## NGA Statement and Upcoming Meeting Details


The **National Governors Association** emphasized the value of the bipartisan White House governors meeting in their February 11 news release. The statement highlighted the tradition as “an important opportunity to build bridges and hold constructive conversations.” Despite the recent developments, the meeting remains scheduled for Friday, February 20. It remains unclear which governors will ultimately attend, given the ongoing controversy and **Governor Beshear’s** decision to decline participation. Spectrum News reached out to the White House for comment, but was directed back to the president’s social media posts.

Beshear Bypasses Trump Meeting: Cites White House 'Drama

Struggling with the latest **Connections: Sports Edition** challenge? This dedicated guide offers crucial insights, hints, and the complete solutions for the **February 17, 2026** puzzle. Join the **Connections: Sports Edition Coach** community to exchange strategies and share your scores. A quick note: the full answers are provided below. If you prefer to tackle the board without any aid, we advise completing the game prior to proceeding further down this page.


## Navigating Today's Connections: Sports Edition Puzzle


For those seeking assistance with **Game No. 512**, released on **February 17, 2026**, its difficulty rating stands at **2.5 out of 5**. Before revealing the full solutions, we provide a structured approach to help players solve the daily **Connections** puzzle independently.

Below, players will discover a single word clue from each of the four distinct categories, designed to nudge you in the right direction without giving everything away. These selective hints offer a strategic advantage, guiding your thought process toward the correct groupings.


## Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Full Answers for February 17, 2026


For the **February 17, 2026**, **Connections: Sports Edition** puzzle, here are the individual category hints:
*   The Yellow category points to **RUGBY**.
*   The Green category suggests **HOWARD**.
*   The Blue category indicates **GEORGE**.
*   And the Purple category directs towards **LITTLE**.

For players ready to unveil the complete solutions, the detailed answers for all four categories of today’s **Connections: Sports Edition** challenge are provided below. These revelations will confirm your guesses or illuminate the connections you may have missed.

Here are the complete solutions:
*   **Yellow Category (Summer Olympic sports):** **FENCING**, **GOLF**, **JUDO**, **RUGBY**.
*   **Green Category (DC schools):** **AMERICAN**, **GEORGETOWN**, **GEORGE WASHINGTON**, **HOWARD**.
*   **Blue Category (Pauls):** **COFFEY**, **GEORGE**, **MOLITOR**, **SKENES**.
*   **Purple Category (\_\_\_\_\_ League):** **CACTUS**, **G**, **GRAPEFRUIT**, **LITTLE**.


## Understanding Connections: Sports Edition Gameplay and Creator


**Connections: Sports Edition** marks **The Athletic’s** pioneering venture into daily interactive puzzles. This engaging word game challenges participants to identify underlying relationships among **16 words** presented on a game board. The core objective is to accurately sort these words into **four distinct groups of four**, each unified by a common theme or characteristic, without accumulating more than **four mistakes**. Every puzzle guarantees a singular, correct solution, urging players to meticulously consider each word's potential affiliations.

Each successfully identified category is assigned a specific color, reflecting its difficulty level: **Yellow** denotes straightforward connections, **Green** signifies a medium challenge, **Blue** represents a more demanding grouping, and **Purple** indicates the trickiest category. Past categories have included groupings such as 'U.S. Summer Olympians,' featuring names like **Biles**, **Phelps**, **Ledecky**, and **Lyles**, showcasing the game's diverse themes.

The ingenious mind behind the daily **Connections: Sports Edition** puzzles is **Mark Cooper**. As a managing editor for college sports at **The Athletic**, **Cooper** leverages his extensive sports knowledge to craft these brain-teasing challenges, having previously served as **The Athletic’s** managing editor for breaking news. New puzzles become available precisely at midnight in your local time zone, ensuring a fresh challenge awaits players daily.

Solve Connections Sports Edition Feb 17, 2026: Hints & Answers!

## Southern Section Boys Soccer: Quarterfinal Matchups Set for Tuesday


The **Southern Section** boys soccer playoffs continue Tuesday with a full slate of quarterfinal contests across multiple divisions. Games are scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. unless otherwise noted, promising an exciting evening of high school athletic competition. Several top-ranked teams are vying for a spot in the semifinals, setting the stage for intense matchups and potential upsets.


## Open Division and Division 1 Highlights


In the **Open Division**, pool play action sees **Placentia Valencia** traveling to face **Orange Lutheran**, while **Mater Dei** hosts **JSerra**. The top teams in the division are battling for positioning as they advance through the tournament. Division 1 features a compelling series of games, including **Anaheim Canyon** at **Torrance** and **Santa Monica** facing **Servite**.  A later start time of 3:30 p.m. is scheduled for the Servite contest.  Additionally, **Sunny Hills** will play at **Sultana**, and **El Segundo** is set to compete against **Fontana**, with that game postponed to Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.


## Division 2 and 3 Showdowns


**Division 2** action includes a matchup between **Downey** and **El Dorado**, scheduled for 6 p.m.  **Newport Harbor** will face **Crossroads** at Belmar Park, also at 6 p.m.  **Bishop Amat** travels to **Culver City**, while **Patriot** will face **Citrus Hill** at 5:30 p.m.  The competition in Division 2 promises to be fierce as teams vie for a spot in the next round.

**Division 3** features a series of intriguing contests. **West Torrance** will take on **Los Alamitos**, while **Godinez** travels to **Palmdale**, both games starting at 3 p.m.  **Channel Islands** will face **Littlerock**, and **Knight** will play at **Calabasas**, also at 3 p.m. These matches highlight the depth of talent within Division 3.


## Lower Divisions and Beyond


The playoff action extends to **Division 4**, where **Cypress** will play at **Granite Hills**, and **Indian Springs** will face **Sierra Vista**.  **Santa Paula** is scheduled to play **Irvine University**, and **Oxnard Pacifica** will travel to **Lakewood**.  **Division 5** sees **Crespi** at **Santa Ana Valley**, **San Marcos** at **Mountain View**, and **Tustin** at **Esperanza**, with the latter game scheduled for 6 p.m.  **Westlake** will face **Camarillo** to round out the Division 5 quarterfinal matchups.

**Division 6** features a diverse set of pairings, including **Viewpoint** versus **Bishop Montgomery** at South Torrance, and **Coachella Valley** against **Animo Leadership** at 4 p.m.  Further down the bracket, **Division 7**, **Division 8**, and other divisions will also see their respective quarterfinal games played, continuing the playoff excitement. Semifinal games are scheduled for Saturday, with finals slated for February 27 or 28.


## City Section Boys Soccer: Second Round Set for Tuesday


The **City Section** boys soccer tournament also progresses with second-round games scheduled for Tuesday. Most matches are set to kick off at 3 p.m., with a few exceptions. The competition is heating up as teams battle for a spot in the quarterfinals and a chance to advance further in the playoffs.


## Division I and II Battles


In **Division I**, the #17 seeded **King/Drew** will face the top-seeded **Chavez**.  Several other matchups are also scheduled, including **Angelou** at **LA University**, **Sun Valley Poly** at **Chatsworth**, **Van Nuys** at **Granada Hills**, **LA Marshall** at **Diego Rivera**, **San Pedro** at **Cleveland**, and **Carson** at **Legacy**. A later start time of 2:30 p.m. is scheduled for **Granada Hills Kennedy** versus **Roybal** at Contreras.

**Division II** features a compelling bracket, with **Canoga Park** facing the top-seeded **New West Charter** at 2 p.m. at Dignity Health Park.  Other games include **Santee** at **South Gate**, **Arleta** at **Annenberg**, **Neuwirth Leadership Academy** at **Orthopaedic**, **Taft** at **Fremont**, **Elizabeth** at **Garfield**, **Huntington Park** at **Alliance Health**, and **RFK Community** at **Locke**.

SoCal Soccer Playoffs: Quarterfinals Set for Tuesday!

## Vanderbilt's Depth Shines Amidst Injuries Ahead of Missouri Showdown


**Vanderbilt** has demonstrated remarkable resilience, securing victories in five of their last six **Southeastern Conference** matchups despite significant roster challenges. The No. 19 Commodores (21-4, 8-4 SEC) are set to further evaluate their team's depth as they journey to Columbia, Missouri, to face the **Missouri** Tigers (17-8, 7-5) on Wednesday evening. This crucial **SEC** contest will test both teams' resolve as they navigate the latter stages of the conference season.

The Commodores are currently navigating a period of adversity with two key guards sidelined due to knee injuries. **Duke Miles** has been out of action since January 24th, while **Frankie Collins** has been unavailable since December 17th. In response to these absences, **Tyler Tanner** has elevated his performance, averaging an impressive 25.8 points over a recent five-game stretch. His ability to step up has been instrumental in maintaining the team's competitive edge.


## Commodores Rally as Tanner Faces Foul Trouble


Saturday’s 82-69 victory over Texas A&M showcased the team’s collective strength. While **Tanner** encountered foul trouble, limiting him to just four points, other players seized the opportunity to contribute significantly. **Tyler Nickel** led the scoring effort with 25 points, while **AK Okereke** assumed increased ball-handling responsibilities and added 23 points to the tally. **Chandler Bing** provided valuable support off the bench, scoring 11 points. "Other guys are capable," stated **Commodores** coach **Mark Byington**, highlighting the team's depth and selflessness. "This team celebrates each other. No one's happier in the locker room than **Tyler Tanner** or anybody else. And that's why I like this group. They care about winning."

**Miles**, who contributes an average of 16.6 points per game, is progressing in his rehabilitation and remains a possibility for Wednesday’s game, though his status is still uncertain. "Duke’s attacking his rehab," **Byington** explained. "He’s doing workouts and things like that. He’s competitive. He wants to get back to being a great teammate. I think we'll have him back soon. It's hard to give a timetable, but I think within a week or two for sure."


## Missouri Seeks to Recover After Home Loss


Meanwhile, **Missouri** experienced a setback over the weekend, dropping to No. 66 in the **NET** rankings following an 85-68 defeat at home against Texas. This loss snapped a three-game winning streak for the Tigers and represented only their second loss at Mizzou Arena this season. "It's not always as good as you think it is, and it's not always as bad as you think it is," remarked **Tigers** coach **Dennis Gates**. "Ultimately, we've gotta bounce back and be able to flush the game."

A recurring challenge for **Missouri** has been **Shawn Phillips Jr.**’s foul trouble. Against Texas, he was limited to just 18 minutes, scoring five points and grabbing two rebounds. **Gates** acknowledged Phillips’ importance, stating, "Shawn is a defensive presence for us. He gives us, definitely, athleticism around the basket." He also addressed the issue of flagrant fouls, noting that Phillips leads the nation in this category and needs to adjust his reactions to avoid unnecessary penalties.

Vanderbilt's Depth Tested at Missouri in Key SEC Matchup

## **Encouraging Youth in South Korean Politics**


**Lee Jung-hyun**, the current head of the People Power Party's nomination management committee, issued a compelling appeal on Sunday, February 16th, for young individuals to actively engage in **regional politics**. Speaking from a press conference held at the National Assembly in Seoul, Lee pledged to cultivate a more equitable and accessible system for candidate selection within the party. His message, disseminated via a Facebook post, urged the nation's youth to embrace their role as the "driving force for political change."

Lee articulated his vision for a revitalized South Korean political landscape, one built in collaboration with the younger demographic. He drew upon historical parallels, stating, "Throughout Korea's history, when young people moved forward, the nation changed and the times advanced." He characterized today's youth as inheritors of an era marked by democratization and post-Cold War stability, asserting that the political sphere must fundamentally adapt to integrate their perspectives and energy.


## **A Call for Active Participation and Fair Nomination**


In his discourse, **Lee Jung-hyun** emphasized that genuine political evolution and generational shifts are not externally imposed. "Generational and political change do not come from someone else," he stated. Instead, he posited that such transformations are initiated and propelled by the active involvement and leadership of young people themselves.

Lee's administration aims to foster an environment where nominations are not preordained but are the result of diligent effort and a willingness to compete. He firmly declared, "Nominations are not given to predetermined individuals but earned by those who challenge." This philosophy underscores his commitment to dismantling traditional barriers that have historically favored established interests, financial clout, and name recognition, thereby opening avenues for new talent to emerge.


## **Empowering Youth in Local Governance**


The People Power Party leader encouraged aspiring young politicians to consider pursuing various local offices. This includes roles on city, county, and district councils, as well as mayoral and gubernatorial positions. Lee's objective is to ensure that youth participation transcends mere symbolic representation, aiming instead for their involvement in positions of genuine authority and influence.

The committee under **Lee Jung-hyun** is dedicated to upholding principles of fair competition and reducing the hurdles that have often favored established figures. He stressed that the political arena is transformed by active participants rather than passive observers, reinforcing the idea that change is driven by those who step forward and engage directly. The photo accompanying this report was taken by Asia Today.

PPP Chief: Young Koreans, Step Up to Regional Politics!

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Ludogorets have secured 14 consecutive Bulgarian league titles, yet according to Transfermarkt, their average attendance last season ranked only seventh within their domestic competition.

By Alex Bysouth, BBC Sport Senior Journalist

**Ludogorets' Unprecedented Dominance and the Champions League Disparity**

As **Ludogorets** celebrated another Bulgarian league championship last summer, a striking historical comparison emerged: only **Tafea**, a club hailing from the remote South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu, boasts a longer streak of consecutive titles – a record **Ludogorets** is poised to equal. Despite this remarkable domestic dominance, the club has been conspicuously absent from the **Champions League** group stages for a decade, highlighting a growing imbalance within European football. The club’s strength within its own league contrasts sharply with its inability to challenge the continent’s elite, exposing a delicate and increasingly strained ecosystem.


## The Champions League: A Concentrated Power Base


The **Champions League**, a competition initiated for league champions in 1992, currently features a significant concentration of power. This season’s edition showcases six teams from **England**, five from **Spain**, and four each from **Italy** and **Germany**. These four nations collectively account for over half of the 36 teams participating in the league phase, demonstrating a clear trend towards a limited pool of contenders.

The competition’s value and viewership have surged dramatically in recent years. **Uefa’s** television rights revenue escalated from just under £500 million in 2003-04 to £2.8 billion in 2023-24, with projections exceeding £4 billion for the 2027 cycle. However, this financial growth has coincided with a narrowing of the trophy’s reach. Only **Bayern Munich** and **Paris St-Germain** have managed to disrupt the longstanding dominance of **English** and **Spanish** clubs over the past 15 years, with an **Italian** team last claiming victory in 2010. The successes of former champions like **Marseille**, **Ajax**, and **Porto** now seem increasingly distant, as do the triumphs of clubs from leagues like Serbia (**Red Star Belgrade**), the Netherlands (**PSV**), or the Czech Republic (**FCSB**, formerly **Steaua Bucharest**).


## Recent Revamps and Emerging Upsets


Recent changes to the **Champions League** format have aimed to increase participation and introduce more unpredictable outcomes. Debutants **Bodo/Glimt** famously achieved stunning victories over **Manchester City** and **Atletico Madrid** this season, showcasing the potential for upsets. While **Ajax** reached the semi-finals in 2019, they remain the sole club outside of Europe’s top five leagues to achieve such a feat in the past two decades.

“If you had envisioned the **Champions League** in 1992, I believe you’d be astonished by its current state,” remarked **Alex Muzio**, president of the Union of European Clubs (UEC). He cited **France** as a cautionary tale, where **PSG** is on track to secure its 12th title in 14 years, illustrating the risk of domestic competitions becoming overly predictable.


## Addressing the Imbalance: A Call for Parity


**Muzio**, also the majority owner of Belgian champions **Union Saint-Gilloise**, emphasizes the need for greater parity in European football, drawing comparisons to the competitive landscapes of the **Premier League**, cricket’s **IPL**, and American football’s **NFL**. He suggests that only four truly elite leagues currently exist in Europe, acknowledging the challenges facing competitions like **Ligue 1**, which has adopted a direct-to-consumer streaming model.

**Uefa** acknowledges the importance of competitive balance and recognizes it as a "complex challenge" that requires a multifaceted approach. They attribute structural disparities to factors beyond European competition revenues, including domestic market strength, commercial potential, club and league history, and national distribution methods. Across Europe, a tier of dominant champions has emerged, including **Red Star Belgrade** (eight consecutive titles in Serbia), **Ferencvaros** (Hungary, seven titles), and **Slovan Bratislava** (Slovakia, seven titles), none of whom qualified for the **Champions League** proper this season.


## The Path to European Competition: A Slovak Perspective


**Slovan Bratislava’s** recent journey exemplifies the hurdles faced by clubs from smaller leagues. Their appearance in last season’s **Champions League** marked their first since winning the Czechoslovak First League title in 1993. Sporting director **Robert Vittek** stated the club’s ambition is to emulate **Bayern Munich’s** consistent domestic success. “The key to financial sustainability is participation in European competitions,” he explained, highlighting the significant revenue generated from hosting matches against teams like **Manchester City** and **AC Milan**.

**Vittek** also acknowledged the difficulty of breaking into the elite, stating, “There is a ‘champions path’ for clubs like us, offering a route to the main phase, though it remains challenging.” He emphasized the importance of earning approximately £18 million in TV revenue, alongside increased crowds and commercial opportunities.


## Potential Solutions and Future Directions


**Uefa** has increased solidarity payments to clubs not participating in European competitions by 80% – nearly £270 million – demonstrating a commitment to redistribution. The **UEC** is exploring further measures, including a domestic media rights protection policy and a player development reward system to support clubs outside the top leagues. **Latvia** has even proposed a combined **Baltic League** to boost revenue and competitiveness.

**Muzio** cautions that addressing the imbalance requires a long-term, collaborative effort. “There’s no magic wand,” he concluded, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue and a shared understanding within the football community.

Ludogorets' Reign: Football Dominance & Champions League Gap

## Escalating Tensions: Russia Launches Attacks on Ukraine Amidst Peace Talks and Nuclear Negotiations


Overnight into Tuesday, **Russia** initiated a series of attacks on **Ukraine**, resulting in casualties and damage to critical infrastructure, just hours before planned trilateral peace negotiations were set to commence in **Geneva, Switzerland**. Ukrainian authorities reported at least two fatalities and sixteen injuries stemming from the strikes, which targeted energy and civilian infrastructure, according to **Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha**. Images circulating on Telegram, released by the State Emergency Service, depict the devastation, showcasing damaged buildings, burned vehicles, and emergency responders working amidst the chaos.

The upcoming talks, scheduled for Tuesday, represent the third round of negotiations aimed at securing a peace agreement to end **Russia’s** ongoing war in **Ukraine**. Previous discussions took place in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. These indirect discussions will be mediated by **Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi** within the country’s embassy in Geneva, as reported by Iran’s state-affiliated Tasnim News. The timing of the attacks underscores the fragility of the peace process and the continued volatility of the situation.


## US-Iran Nuclear Talks Resume in Geneva


Simultaneously, a new round of **US-Iran** nuclear negotiations is underway in **Geneva**, with **US envoy Steve Witkoff** and **Jared Kushner** expected to participate. These discussions, focused exclusively on **Iran’s** nuclear program, follow indirect talks held earlier this month in Oman. The Oman’s Foreign Minister, **Badr Albusaidi**, mediated those initial discussions. Despite **President Donald Trump’s** expressed skepticism regarding a potential agreement, the administration remains engaged in diplomatic efforts.

During the previous engagement in Oman on February 6th, both sides characterized the talks as a “good start,” although significant disagreements quickly emerged. **Iran** reiterated its demand to enrich uranium, a process the **US** and its allies oppose, while offering safeguards to prevent weaponization in exchange for sanctions relief. **Washington**, conversely, sought to broaden the scope of any agreement to include **Iran’s** ballistic missile program and its regional proxy network, a proposal **Iran** rejected outright.


## Domestic Challenges: US Department of Homeland Security Shuts Down


Adding to the complex geopolitical landscape, the **Department of Homeland Security** in the **United States** experienced a partial shutdown this weekend due to a contentious policy dispute over immigration reforms. While **Tom Homan**, the border czar, assured that the funding lapse would not disrupt nationwide **ICE** enforcement operations, the situation highlights ongoing political challenges within the **Trump** administration.


## Trilateral Talks Aim to Resolve Ukraine Conflict


The diplomatic efforts in **Geneva** extend beyond **US-Iran** relations. **Witkoff** and **Kushner** are also slated to participate in trilateral talks focused on resolving the conflict in **Ukraine**. The **Ukrainian** delegation, led by chief negotiator **Rustem Umerov**, arrived in **Geneva** on Monday, expressing hope for “constructive engagement and substantive meetings.” The **Russian** delegation, headed by presidential aide **Vladimir Medinsky**, also arrived early Tuesday morning. The talks represent a crucial opportunity to de-escalate tensions and explore potential pathways toward a lasting peace.

Russia Attacks Ukraine as Geneva Peace Talks Loom

## Enhanced Messaging Security: Apple Tests End-to-End Encrypted RCS on iPhone


**Apple** has significantly expanded its messaging capabilities with the introduction of RCS (Rich Communication Services) support in iOS 18.1, fostering improved interoperability between iPhones and Android devices. This update brings features previously unavailable in SMS, such as typing indicators, read receipts, and the ability to share high-resolution photos and videos seamlessly across platforms. Building upon this foundation, the company announced last March its intention to incorporate end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, further bolstering user privacy and security.


## Early Access to Encrypted RCS Messaging via iOS 26.4 Beta 1


The latest iteration, iOS 26.4 beta 1, now available for testing, provides an initial opportunity for developers to evaluate end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging on iPhone. It’s crucial to understand that this implementation represents a limited, preliminary test and will not be included in the full iOS 26.4 release. **Apple** anticipates the full rollout of end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging in a subsequent iOS 26 software update.


## Testing RCS Encryption: A Gradual Rollout


A new setting within the iPhone’s Settings app has been introduced, allowing users to enable support for testing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging. This toggle is enabled by default, however, availability will be phased in gradually among beta testers. The presence of the toggle doesn't guarantee immediate access to the testing feature, reflecting **Apple’s** measured approach to beta program feedback. Currently, RCS encryption testing is restricted to communication between iPhone devices where iMessage is disabled, essentially facilitating encrypted messaging between users who have opted out of the iMessage ecosystem. Cross-platform testing, involving iPhones and Android devices, is slated for a later stage.


## Interface Updates and Encryption Indicators


To accommodate these changes, **Apple** has refined the Messages app interface. When engaging in RCS-encrypted conversations, a distinct lock icon will appear within the chat thread, visually indicating the presence of end-to-end encryption. Notably, this lock icon will also be displayed on all iMessage threads, a testament to **Apple’s** long-standing commitment to end-to-end encryption, which has been a standard feature of iMessage since 2011.

As stated in **Apple’s** developer release notes for iOS 26.4, "RCS end-to-end encryption is now available for testing in this beta. This feature is not shipping in this release and will be available to customers in a future software update for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS. End-to-end encryption is in beta and is not available for all devices or carriers. Conversations labeled as encrypted are encrypted end-to-end, so messages can’t be read while they’re sent between devices. In this beta, RCS encryption is available for testing between Apple devices and is not yet testable with other platforms."

iOS 26.4 is currently being distributed to developer beta testers, with a public beta expected to follow at a later date. This initial test phase marks a significant step toward **Apple’s** broader adoption of end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging for all iPhone users.

iOS 18.1 Beta: Apple Tests Secure RCS Messaging with Android

## Ferrari 296 GTS Auction Fails Despite Substantial Bid


A recent auction event in California has highlighted ongoing challenges for the **Ferrari 296** model, as a 2025 **Ferrari 296 GTS** failed to secure a sale despite a reported bid of $348,000. This incident adds to a growing trend of 296 units struggling to find buyers at auction, creating a curious situation within the high-performance car market. The vehicle’s refusal to sell, even with a significant offer, has sparked considerable discussion and underscores the complexities of current supercar valuations.


## Vehicle Details and Initial Delivery


The particular vehicle in question is a striking 2025 **Ferrari 296 GTS**, finished in the iconic Rosso Corsa exterior and complemented by a Nero leather interior. It boasts an impressive array of factory options, adding approximately $80,000 to its original value. Initially delivered from **Ferrari**’s Maranello factory to **Ferrari of Los Angeles** last year, the vehicle carried a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $452,476. Following its initial delivery, the car was subsequently transferred to another California dealership.


## Auction Outcome and Reserve Price


The vehicle was presented at auction, where bidding reached a peak of $348,000. However, this figure reportedly fell short of the seller’s established reserve price, preventing the sale from being finalized. The GTS variant, the convertible version of the 296, maintains near-identical performance to the hard-top model despite an additional 150 pounds in weight. Factory specifications include a front suspension lift system, red-painted **Brembo** calipers, and carbon-ceramic rotors.


## Performance and Specifications of the 296 GTS


The **Ferrari 296 GTS** is powered by a celebrated 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, working in conjunction with an MGU-K electric motor. This powerful combination delivers a total output of 818 horsepower, channeled to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The interior features extensive carbon fiber trim, contributing to the vehicle’s luxurious and high-performance aesthetic. With a current odometer reading of just under 700 miles, the vehicle remains practically brand new.

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$348K Bid Misses: California Ferrari 296 GTS Auction Fails

## High School Basketball Playoffs: Tuesday and Wednesday Schedules Unveiled


The **Southern Section** and **City Section** high school basketball playoffs are underway, with a packed schedule of games taking place this week. Tuesday’s action featured a compelling slate of contests across multiple divisions, setting the stage for quarterfinal matchups later this week. Friday will see the quarterfinals, followed by semifinals on February 24th, culminating in championship games on February 27th or 28th at Toyota Arena (for Southern Section) or a location to be announced (for City Section).


## Southern Section Boys Tournament: First Round Showdowns


The **Southern Section** boys' open division kicked off with pool play, showcasing top teams vying for advancement. Pool A saw #8 **Corona del Mar** face off against the formidable #1 **Sierra Canyon**. Pool B featured a clash between #7 **Harvard-Westlake** and #2 **Santa Margarita**.  Pool C pitted #6 **Corona Centennial** against #3 **Redondo Union**, while Pool D saw #5 **St. John Bosco** challenge #4 **Sherman Oaks Notre Dame**. These initial pool games determine seeding for the upcoming Friday quarterfinals.

Beyond the open division, several other divisions saw first-round action. Division 1 pairings included **Village Christian** at **Crean Lutheran**, **Millikan** at **Rancho Christian**, **Fairmont Prep** at **Inglewood**, and **JSerra** versus **Rolling Hills Prep** at **North Torrance**.  Division 2 matchups involved **Bishop Amat** at **Anaheim Canyon**, **Eastvale Roosevelt** at **Edison**, **Mater Dei** at **El Dorado**, and **Hesperia** at **Rancho Verde**.  Numerous other divisions, spanning from Division 3 to Division 9, also commenced their playoff journeys with exciting first-round contests. Games in Division 9, for example, included **Colton** at **Sherman Indian** and **Samueli Academy** at **Santa Barbara Providence**.


## City Section Boys Playoffs: Quarterfinal Action


The **City Section** boys' tournament progressed to the quarterfinal round on Wednesday. Division IV saw #8 **Hawkins** battling #1 **East Valley**, while #5 **San Fernando** faced #4 **Gardena**.  #6 **Angelou** challenged #3 **Bell**, and #7 **Conteras** took on #2 **Franklin**.  In Division V, #8 **Legacy** aimed to upset #1 **Van Nuys**, with other notable matchups including **Camino Nuevo** at **Magnolia Science Academy** (at 2 p.m.), #19 **Santee** at #11 **Torres**, and #7 **Monroe** against #2 **Canoga Park**.


## Key Game Times and Locations


Several games featured adjusted start times.  In Division 9 of the Southern Section, **Coastal Christian** and **Edgewood** played at 5 p.m., with **Edgewood** and **Dunn** scheduled for a 6:30 p.m. tip-off.  Similarly, **Santa Maria Valley Christian** and **Loma Linda Academy** began their contest at 5 p.m.  These unique schedules highlight the diverse range of schools and communities participating in the playoffs.  Fans are encouraged to verify game times and locations before attending.

SoCal High School Basketball Playoffs: Tuesday & Wednesday Games!

## Transforming Healthcare with Artificial Intelligence: The Mayo Clinic Platform


In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful force, poised to revolutionize biomedicine. However, translating AI algorithms from simulated environments to practical, real-world clinical applications presents significant challenges. Effective AI implementation in healthcare necessitates a comprehensive integration of the entire ecosystem, extending far beyond the algorithms themselves. A notable trend within the medical field is the development of multimodal AI models, which integrate diverse data types across various modalities. This advancement, while promising, introduces complexities, such as safeguarding patient privacy when aggregating sensitive information. Furthermore, progressing beyond retrospective design and validation of AI models remains a hurdle, as does ensuring equitable access to advanced tools and sufficient computational resources to meet the varied needs of individual users. Integrating expert-in-the-loop systems utilizing no-code AI platforms is also crucial, enabling non-technical medical professionals to effectively utilize and interact with AI tools without extensive programming expertise.


## Accelerating Medical AI Development Through Data Integration and Research Platforms


To expedite the development of medical AI, several established initiatives have made substantial progress in real-world data integration and analytics. These include i2b2/TranSMART and OHDSI/OMOP, which have significantly advanced data integration capabilities. Large-scale research platforms, such as the All of Us Research Program and the UK Biobank, have also emerged to support AI research and data science studies. These platforms offer standardized, longitudinal real-world data, with both initiatives providing electronic health record (EHR) data in the OMOP common data model (CDM) format, alongside secure, cloud-based environments designed for high-performance computing.


## The Mayo Clinic Platform: A Data-Driven Approach to Healthcare Innovation


Since 2019, **Mayo Clinic** has been developing the **Mayo Clinic Platform (MCP)**, a dedicated initiative focused on transforming healthcare through data science and digital health technologies. Leveraging a vast array of standardized clinical data, advanced analytics, and collaborative networks like the **Mayo Clinic Care Network**, the platform aims to improve patient care and streamline health outcomes. The MCP fosters innovation by providing healthcare organizations, providers, and digital health companies with access to real-time insights and enabling the deployment of cutting-edge solutions.


## Demonstration Projects Enabled by the Mayo Clinic Platform


The **Mayo Clinic Platform** facilitates real-world clinical research and AI innovation through practical applications. Four representative research projects utilizing real-world EHR data and integrated MCP tools demonstrate the platform’s capabilities. These projects showcase how the MCP facilitates scalable, reproducible, and collaborative research, highlighting the platform’s integrative features, including standardized multi-institutional data, privacy-preserving design, and accessible analytical environments. Rather than providing exhaustive technical details, this study emphasizes the platform’s capabilities.


## Key Contributions of the Mayo Clinic Platform for Real-World AI Research


The **Mayo Clinic Platform** plays a critical role in enabling clinical studies using real-world EHR data. While other platforms have contributed to AI research, the MCP environment uniquely integrates federated, multi-institutional data with standardized OMOP CDM formatting and embeds comprehensive research tools within a single cloud-based environment. This approach ensures interoperability with existing data standards and expands accessibility for external researchers through a subscription-based model, supporting both open-source and proprietary analytic pipelines. By combining secure, de-identified data access, code-free interfaces, and AI-ready computing environments, the MCP serves as a next-generation platform bridging real-world data analytics and AI-driven translational medicine.


## Platform Architecture and Accessibility


The **Mayo Clinic Platform** is a secure, cloud-based data science environment designed to accelerate research and innovation through access to large-scale, de-identified, standardized clinical data and integrated analytical tools. The platform employs a multilayered de-identification strategy to safeguard patient privacy, ensuring full compliance with HIPAA and institutional governance policies. Researchers access the MCP through a secure, cloud-hosted environment, providing scalable computational resources and preconfigured support for open-source analytical frameworks such as Python, R, and TensorFlow.


## Research Projects and Tools Utilized


Four distinct clinical research projects were designed to showcase the MCP’s capabilities. These included: (1) simulating drug efficacy randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for heart failure patients using real-world data; (2) assessing the impact of antihypertensive medications on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) risk; (3) building a model to predict the progression from Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) using EHR data and deep learning; and (4) developing a deep learning model to predict Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) after liver transplantation. Key tools utilized within the MCP included the Cohort Visualizer (for cohort creation and analysis), the Schema Visualizer (for data schema exploration), and Workspaces (providing coding environments and computational resources).


## Future Directions and Conclusion


While this study focused on structured EHR data, the MCP also supports the processing and analysis of unstructured data, including clinical notes and medical images. Future research will incorporate these additional data types to broaden research opportunities and facilitate cross-validation across institutions. The **Mayo Clinic Platform** is poised to revolutionize clinical research by advancing multimodal AI, real-world evidence generation, and global data collaboration. By integrating diverse data types, ensuring robust validation, and fostering a collaborative research community, the MCP aims to accelerate medical innovation and drive the future of precision medicine and proactive healthcare.

Mayo Clinic Platform: AI Powers Real-World Healthcare Insights

## Brentford Aim to Advance in FA Cup Against Macclesfield


**Brentford** are set to face Macclesfield in a fourth-round **FA Cup** encounter on Monday evening, seeking to sidestep the fate of numerous other teams felled by the competition’s renowned giant-killers. The Premier League side enters the match riding a wave of positive momentum, having climbed into the top seven of the league table. This ascent is underpinned by strong performances, including a recent 1-1 draw against league leaders **Arsenal**.

The team’s journey to this stage began with a convincing 2-0 victory over **Sheffield Wednesday** in the third round, a result orchestrated by manager **Keith Andrews**. A win against Macclesfield would represent a significant milestone for Brentford, marking only the second time in nearly two decades that they’ve reached the fifth round of the competition. Notably, a considerable disparity exists between the two clubs, with 122 league places separating them.


## Team Selection and Injury Updates for Brentford


Manager **Keith Andrews** faces a challenging schedule, necessitating strategic player rotation within the squad. To safeguard the fitness of key players, talisman **Igor Thiago** is expected to feature among the substitutes. This tactical decision opens the door for 19-year-old **Kaye Furo** to spearhead the attack, potentially marking his professional debut.

Several other personnel changes are anticipated. **Nathan Collins** returns to the defensive lineup after a period on the bench, partnering with **Ethan Pinnock** to form a robust central defensive pairing. However, **Kevin Schade** is unavailable due to suspension. Long-term injuries continue to sideline **Fábio Carvalho** and **Josh Dasilva**, further influencing team selection.


## Goalkeeping Change and Predicted Lineup


**Hakon Valdimarsson** will start in goal, providing **Caoimhín Kelleher** with a deserved respite following his recent impressive performances in the Premier League. The midfield will be anchored by **Yehor Yarmolyuk** and **Jordan Henderson**, with **Mikkel Damsgaard** providing creative spark. **Romelle Donovan** and **Reiss Nelson** are expected to offer attacking width. It’s worth noting that this marks the first time Brentford have faced non-league opposition as a top-flight side in the FA Cup.

**Brentford** predicted XI: Valdimarsson; Hickey, Collins, Pinnock, Henry; Yarmolyuk, Henderson, Damsgaard; Donovan, Furo, Nelson.


## Match Details: Kick-Off Time and Broadcast Information


The **FA Cup** fourth-round tie is scheduled to take place at the Leasing.com Stadium on Monday, February 16, 2026. The match is set to kick off at 19:30 GMT. Viewers in the UK can watch the game live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, with pre-match coverage beginning at 19:00 GMT.

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