Page 12 – NewsFinale

Gaudreau Family Faces Tough Decision Over Johnny’s Olympics Invitation

February 25, 2026

Gaudreau Family Faces Tough Decision Over Johnny’s Olympics Invitation

Before embarking on their journey to Milan, Jane and Guy Gaudreau grappled with a decision that tugged at their hearts. They had received an invitation from USA Hockey to witness the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team face Slovakia in the semifinals. However, the couple was initially reluctant to accept, as reported recently. The specter of their son Johnny’s absence loomed large over the decision.

The memory of Johnny Gaudreau, a talented young athlete, remains vivid in their lives. Before his untimely passing in 2024, Johnny, alongside his brother Matthew, was tragically killed in an accident involving an alleged drunk driver. Johnny had been on the cusp of making the 2026 Olympic team, dedicating himself to rigorous training in hopes of securing a spot. In a heartfelt conversation with the Philadelphia Inquirer, his sister Katie shared these aspirations that had been so close to fruition.

Last week, USA Hockey extended an invitation to the Gaudreau family, offering them the chance to attend not only the semifinals but also the finals, should the U.S. team advance. Initially, Jane and Guy declined. The thought of attending such an event without Johnny, and knowing that their daughters, Katie and Kristen, could not join them, made the prospect almost unbearable.

Auston Matthews #34, Zach Werenski #8 and Matthew Tkachuk #19 of Team United States celebrate the victory and Gold Medal with a jersey of Johnny Gaudreau during the Men`s Ice Hockey final match between USA and Canada on day sixteen of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. — Auston Matthews, Zach Werenski and Matthew Tkachuk of Team United States celebrate the victory and Gold Medal with a jersey of Johnny Gaudreau on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. Getty Images

However, as Katie later recounted, the family’s perspective shifted the following day. The opportunity to honor Johnny’s memory and connect with the sport he loved began to outweigh their initial reluctance. The Gaudreaus found themselves reconsidering, drawn by the chance to feel Johnny’s presence in the arena where he had once dreamed of competing.

The feeling changed the next day, Katie explained.

“My mom was like, ‘I really didn’t sleep,’” she said. “‘I think John would want us to go. I think we should go.’”

Katie knew the trip could be an emotional one for her parents, but she told her mother she could always skip the gold medal game if the first contest was too hard for them. But not being there at all meant they wouldn’t have the chance to honor Johnny or Matthew.

“‘So this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to honor the boys. And keep their legacy alive. And that’s what we do, every day. We wake up and we just want to honor the boys’ legacy,’” Katie recalled telling her mom.

Jane and Guy, along with Johnny’s widow, Meredith, and their two oldest kids, Noa and Johnny Jr., made the trip to Italy.

The family of the late Johnny Gaudreau celebrate after the Men's Gold Medal match between Canada and the United States on day 16 of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. — The family of the late Johnny Gaudreau celebrate after the Men’s Gold Medal match between Canada and the United States on day 16 of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. Getty Images

The family was in the stands when the United States beat Slovakia and then again when they captured gold in a thrilling 2-1 overtime win over Canada on Sunday.

After capturing the gold, Team USA carried a jersey around the ice with Gaudreau’s name and invited Noa and Johnny Jr. onto the ice to be part of the team photo.

“I was like, ‘There’s no way they’re going to do that. There’s no way,’” Katie said. “When they did that, I lost it. I’m so proud. I’m so happy that the kids got to experience that, because this is what John wanted. The team did an amazing job.”

Johnny and Matthew were tragically killed in New Jersey in August 2024 when a purported drunk driver struck them while riding their bicycles. They were home in Oldmans Township for Katie’s wedding that was supposed to take place the next day.

Both brothers died at the scene.

The case against the driver is still in court.

Inside the Tension: Why Savannah Guthrie’s Reward Plea for Kidnapped Mom Was Halted by Authorities

News

NewsFinale Journal

February 25, 2026

Inside the Tension: Why Savannah Guthrie’s Reward Plea for Kidnapped Mom Was Halted by Authorities

Savannah Guthrie initially planned to announce a substantial $1 million reward immediately following the disappearance of her mother, Nancy, but the sheriff overseeing the case advised against it, according to insider sources.

On Tuesday, the Today Show anchor officially declared the reward as she made an emotional appeal to those responsible for her mother’s disappearance. Nancy, 84, went missing from her Tucson, Arizona residence 24 days prior.

Fox News reporter Michael Ruiz revealed that Savannah and her family were eager to post the reward from the outset. However, law enforcement suggested they delay the announcement. The authorities were concerned that an early reward might overwhelm the system established to manage the influx of tips, which were already pouring in naturally by the tens of thousands.

Now, with the seven-figure reward finally in place, it is being offered in collaboration with investigators. Despite the relentless search efforts, there have been no developments in identifying any suspects or persons of interest in the case.

He added that the family are now offering the seven figure sum ‘in coordination with investigators’ – with the search for Nancy, so far leading to no suspects or persons of interest.

The claim that law enforcement stopped Savannah from offering a reward early comes amid mounting scrutiny on Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, who has faced allegations that he bungled the investigation.

This has included claims that Nanos failed to deploy a crucial search-and-rescue aircraft in the initial hours of the search, released the crime scene early, and issued contradictory messages to the public.

With the search at risk of going cold with no arrests made, the investigation hit a major snag last week as DNA found on a glove near the home – briefly regarded as the best piece of evidence – failed to offer any leads.

Savannah Guthrie wanted to offer a huge $1 million reward on the first day of the search for her missing mom Nancy, but was stopped by the sheriff leading her case, sources said

On Tuesday, Savannah eventually offered a $1 million reward for her kidnapped mother, after the weeks-long search has yielded no answers

In her tearful video appeal on Tuesday, Savannah conceded for the first time that her mother may be dead, but said her family are still holding out hope.

‘We need to know where she is, we need her to come home,’ the Today host said in a video posted to her Instagram account.

She said the family still believes that Nancy could come home, as her sister Annie describes their ongoing hunt as ‘blowing on the embers of hope’.

‘We also know that she may be lost, she may already be gone. She may have already gone home to the lord that she loves,’ Guthrie said through her tears.

The journalist added that if Nancy, 84, has died, they will ‘accept it,’ but the family still needs closure.

‘But we need to know where she is. We need her to come home. For that reason, we are offering a family reward of up to $1 million for any information that leads us to her recovery,’ Guthrie said.

She pleaded directly with Nancy’s kidnapper and anyone with information about her whereabouts, saying: ‘If you’ve been waiting and you haven’t been sure, let this be your sign to please come forward.

‘Tell what you know and help us bring our beloved mom home so that we can either celebrate a glorious, miraculous homecoming or celebrate the beautiful, brave, noble and courageous life that she has lived. Please be the light in the dark.’

On Tuesday, the Today host has conceded for the first time that Nancy Guthrie may be dead

Claims that Savannah was stopped from offering a reward early in the investigation comes amid mounting scrutiny on Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos’s handling of the case

Nancy was last seen at her home just outside Tucson on January 31 and was reported missing February 1. Police believe she was kidnapped, abducted or otherwise taken against her will

Savannah acknowledged in her video that there are millions of other families in the same position, and revealed that her family has also donated $500,000 to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

She applauded the organization’s work and for ‘helping families who are coping with loss and actively looking for those who are lost’.

‘We are hoping that the attention that has been given to our mom and our family will extend to all the families like ours, who are in need, and need prayers and need support,’ Guthrie said.

Her tearful announcement of a $1 million reward is seen by critics of Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos within his own department as a sign of her exasperation with the handling of the case, which they believe should now be led by the FBI.

One senior serving officer told the Daily Mail: ‘The case is getting cold and the public interest is waning because Nanos refuses to hold press conferences like a normal agency leader. This will hopefully spark more attention.

‘I hope the family’s next move will be to publicly demand Nanos hand the case over to the Feds.’

Investigators said a glove found two miles from Nancy Guthrie’s home failed to match DNA from her property – days after it raised hopes as it had appeared to match one worn by a masked suspect seen on Nancy’s doorbell camera on the night of her disappearance

Investigators also said a masked suspect spotted outside Nancy’s home in Tucson, Arizona, apparently visited the house prior to her abduction

It comes as investigators revealed that chilling pieces of footage of an unidentified suspect standing at Guthrie’s door may have been recorded at different dates – indicating that the suspect had visited Nancy’s home before her February 1 abduction.

Sources told ABC the agency believes that the suspect may have stalked the home beforehand, as cops released an image showing the individual at her door without the backpack and gun seen in other footage.

The images are not timestamped, though, and authorities said ‘any suggestion that the photographs were taken on different days is purely speculative’.

It is now believed that the suspect approached the door the first time, noticed the camera, and was scared off, only to return later, when he was seen tampering with the device and putting branches in front of the lens.

If it is the same person, ‘it could indicate that the person was there surveilling the place before the abduction happened,’ Jason Peck, a former FBI agent, told ABC.

‘The fact that there was preparation and planning, which makes it more of a sophisticated type of criminal activity than someone just showing up.’

Democrats Spotlight Immigration Challenges: Marimar Martinez’s Story Takes Center Stage at Trump’s State of the Union

NewsFinale Journal

February 25, 2026

Democrats Spotlight Immigration Challenges: Marimar Martinez’s Story Takes Center Stage at Trump’s State of the Union

The news scene in Chicago last autumn was heavily influenced by the Department of Homeland Security’s immigration initiative known as “Midway Blitz.”

Interest in the Trump administration’s immigration policies intensified following the deaths of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis earlier this year.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

In Brighton Park, federal agents fatally shot Marimar Martinez five times. Initially facing federal charges, her case collapsed. She is set to attend the State of the Union as a guest of Representative Jesus “Chuy” Garcia.

“Her presence highlights how this administration’s harsh policies and disregard for the law are endangering lives, affecting people like her, and instilling fear in communities across the nation,” stated Garcia, who represents Chicago’s Southwest Side.

SEE ALSO | Stay tuned for live updates from the State of the Union

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi’s guest will be 21-year-old University of Illinois-Chicago student Jaime, whose undocumented father was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and after four difficult days at the Broadview detention facility, self-deported.

“We need to be more compassionate, as a country towards those that may be undocumented, like my like my father,” Jaime said. “Why are we deporting people with a simple civil violation?”

Rep. Brad Schneider’s guest will be Rick Woldenberg. He and his company, Vernon Hills-based Learning Resources, challenged President Donald Trump tariffs and won before the Supreme Court. It is a case he says was all about the rule of law, not the president himself.

READ MORE | How to watch Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address and what to know

“Honestly, as an American citizen, my hope is that President Trump does a very good job as our leader. We kind of need him to do that. So, I’m interested to know what his plans are,” said Woldenberg.

The president is expected to address the economy and affordability, especially with the midterm elections this year, making the case that he has taking the country in the right direction.

“The challenge is going to be, if people were really feeling it, if they’re feeling in their pocketbook, if they’re feeling it as a kitchen table, and he’s got to convince them that they need to stay with him, that he’s got a plan,” said ABC7 political analyst Laura Washington.

Dozens of Democrats will not attend the joint session this year, opting for alternative events. Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Chicago, is among them.

“I’m holding a town hall with Indivisible where my constituents can talk about their concerns, what’s happening, what they what their concerns are about the president and where we should go from here,” Quigley said.

Australian Cricket Legend Urges Abolition of Historic Tradition Following Boxing Day Test Debacle

AU

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February 25, 2026
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In a bold move that has stirred conversations among cricket enthusiasts, former Australian cricketer and coach Darren Lehmann has advocated for the abolition of the traditional coin toss in Test cricket. This call to action comes in the wake of the recent two-day contest witnessed during the Boxing Day Ashes Test in Melbourne, which many fans found unsatisfactory.

Lehmann challenges the longstanding tradition, a staple of Test matches since the sport’s inception in 1877. His argument highlights the undue influence the toss can have on match outcomes, especially on pitches such as the one at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), which can be either overly challenging for batters or too benign to yield a definitive result.

The debate over the toss’s impact has gained traction among experts, who argue that the coin flip often plays an outsized role in determining the course of the game. The MCG pitch, in particular, has been criticized for its unpredictability, leading some to believe that the advantage of winning the toss can skew the fairness of the match.

Echoing this sentiment, a cricket fan expressed on social media platform X that, given the prevalence of “ridiculous pitches,” visiting teams should be given the option to choose instead of relying on a coin’s fall. This perspective was notably endorsed by former Test player Jason Gillespie, adding weight to the argument.

In response, Lehmann has voiced his support for this radical change, suggesting that eliminating the toss could restore balance and excitement to the game. His stance has ignited a broader discussion on whether tradition should bend in favor of fairness in the modern era of cricket.

‘Get rid of the toss, away team chooses. Simple as that,’ he replied to the cricket fan and Gillespie.

Former Australian batsman and coach Darren Lehmann (pictured left with Travis Head) wants to see the coin toss scrapped in Test cricket

Lehmann’s call comes after a shocking wicket produced another lopsided contest as England beat Australia inside two days in Melbourne (pictured, England star Brydon Carse)

Lehmann and other experts believe winning the toss has become too much of an advantage due to the use of very lopsided pitches like the MCG’s Boxing Day track

Lehmann has long been an advocate for eradicating the coin toss, vocally opposing it after Australia beat New Zealand in 2015.

‘That is one that should definitely come in to cricket, where the opposition gets the right to choose what they want to do,’ Lehmann said.

‘I reckon it will stop all the wickets suiting the home team.’

Lehmann expanded on the issue the following year in his autobiography, Coach.

‘The biggest challenge to the longest format, for me at least, comes not from Twenty20 but from the surfaces on which matches are being played,’ Lehmann said.

‘Put simply, those surfaces are either far too bland or, conversely, are far too heavily weighted in favour of the home side. In both instances, that does Test cricket no good at all.

‘On the other hand, no one wants to see 600 plays 500 on pitches that offer the bowlers nothing. Producing tracks like that is the surest way to kill off the format.

‘My solution to ensure the best possible pitches are produced is, at international level, to do away with the toss, with the visiting side given the option of whether they want to bat or bowl.

Shane Warne was a big advocate for getting rid of the toss and just letting the away side pick whether to bat or bowl

Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has also pushed for the coin toss to be scrapped by the International Cricket Council

‘That way the result is not decided by the toss of the coin, host boards have a greater incentive to produce decent pitches that are fair to both sides.

‘And the chances are that after five days the better side – rather than the one that has called correctly and thus been able to take advantage of favourable conditions – is the one that will come out on top.’

While England won the toss in Melbourne and chose to bowl first on the green top, other nations have had serious issues with the toss.

India recently lost its 14th coin toss in succession, at odds of about one in 16,000, which has played its role in the team losing a Test series in South Africa and drawing a series in England.

The late, great Shane Warne also called for the coin toss to be scrapped ahead of India’s tour of Australia in 2018.

‘The visiting team, in this instance it would be India, they choose what they want to do in every Test match,’ he said.

‘The same goes on in India, so if India want to prepare huge turning wickets, Australia say ‘we bat first’.

‘If Australia want to produce green seaming wickets, they (India) decide we’re going to bowl first. Get rid of the toss, the away team chooses what they want to do.’

West Indian great Michael Holding is one of many former international stars who also want to see the end of the coin toss

And former Australian captain Allan Border has also previously suggested the toss be axed, at least on a trial basis.

‘I’m in the camp for no toss and letting the visiting side decide,’ Border said in July.

‘Traditionally it shouldn’t play such an important role in the game but it has become that way.

‘I don’t think we need to fiddle around with Test cricket too much but it has become an issue because all visiting sides feel like they get stitched up by pitch preparation.

‘Of course, the only way to do these things is to trial them first.’

The ICC seriously considered investigating the removal of the coin toss in 2018, in notes that became public, but no action has been taken since.

‘There is serious concern about the current level of home team interference in Test pitch preparation,’ notes from the ICC briefing read.

‘And more than one committee member believes that the toss should be automatically awarded to the visiting team in each match, although there are some others on the committee who do not share that view.’

International superstars Ricky Ponting, Michael Holding, Ian Botham and Steve Waugh have also suggested the toss be abandoned in the past.

”The minor setback there in my opinion, is that tosses are big for television. It makes for good tension, everyone is focused on that coin when it’s in the air and the winning captain’s decision and so on,’ Holding wrote for Wisden in 2015.

‘But that isn’t relevant now, times have changed and interest is waning in Test match cricket. What you need to do now is to make sure you have even contests between bat and ball.

‘For that, there should be no toss and the visiting captain should be allowed to decide what he wants to do after inspecting the pitch.’

Waugh previously argued the psychological effect could be significant.

‘I don’t mind that, I think that’s not such a bad thing,’ Waugh told SEN in 2015.

‘At the end of the day I think there’s probably too much emphasis placed on the toss and the conditions away from home. I don’t mind the authorities looking at some other options.’

Lawmakers Pressed to Address ‘Monopolistic’ Concerns Surrounding iPhone Payment Systems

AU

NewsFinale Journal
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February 25, 2026
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In brief

A parliamentary inquiry will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday to hear practices of credit card companies and digital payment systems

Banks and fintech lobby groups have long complained that Apple exclusively control the mobile payment market on its iOS system.

The heat is once again on the government to tackle what some critics call Apple’s ‘monopoly’ over digital payments on iPhones. This issue takes center stage as a parliamentary inquiry into Australia’s payment ecosystem unfolds this Tuesday and Wednesday.

The shift from cash and physical cards to digital payment methods has been remarkable. According to a report by the Australian Banking Association published in July last year, Australians made over four billion mobile wallet transactions in 2024, a figure that starkly contrasts with the dwindling number of ATM cash withdrawals.

For a while now, banks and financial services have been vocal about the uneven playing field. They argue that they endure more rigorous regulatory oversight compared to international tech giants like Apple.

This inquiry, which was announced last December, aims to scrutinize the practices of credit card companies and digital wallet systems in Australia. It will also delve into the interchange fees levied by credit cards and examine the Buy Now Pay Later initiatives.

READ MORE

In its submission, the Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has criticized Apple’s role as a gatekeeper for contactless payments. They contend that Apple’s policies have hindered Australian banks, fintechs, and other payment providers from launching fully functional digital wallet services on the iOS platform.

Last September, parliament passed the amendment to Australia’s payment system law, expanding the Reserve Bank’s power to regulate digital wallets launched by the tech platforms.

However, the AFIA argued the amendment didn’t address the ongoing barrier for banks and fintechs to fully launch their digital wallet services on Apple, as the Silicon Valley giant still owns the exclusive access to iPhone’s Near Field Communication chip, which is the key infrastructure for mobile wallets.

“If left unchanged, it is likely to entrench monopoly-like market positions that demonstrate very little value to Australians,” the AFIA said in its submission.

READ MORE

Simon Birmingham, chief executive at the Australian Banking Association, also accused big tech platforms of enjoying the benefits of banks’ investment in payment infrastructure, without paying for it.

“Australian banks and other domestic players have done the heavy lifting to fund and build some of the safest and most advanced payments infrastructure in the world,” he said in the submission.

“It’s critical we preserve the ability of domestic players to continue to invest in our payments system — or we risk enabling an inevitable offshoring of these capabilities.”

In its previous submissions to a 2023 inquiry on digital payment systems, Apple said it “does not itself provide financial or payment services in Australia.”

“In its simplest form, Apple Wallet is a digital reproduction of a physical wallet – and no more a ‘payment system’ or ‘participant’ than an actual physical wallet would be – however made more efficient, seamless and secure,” the company argued.

In its opening statement on Tuesday, the Reserve Bank said it will conduct a consultation in mid-2026 to discuss issues that should be prioritised when it executes its expanded power in regulating the payment ecosystem.

“The committee’s inquiry is a timely opportunity to consider the role that these entities, and domestic and international card schemes, play in the Australian payments system,” Reserve Bank’s Head of Payments Policy Ellis Connolly said.

Alongside banking and financial representatives, Apple, credit card giants Visa, Mastercard and American Express are also set to appear at the inquiry.

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Unlock Ageless Flexibility: Master the Toe-Touch Challenge at 60+

Health

NewsFinale Journal
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February 25, 2026
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Why does the ability to touch your toes matter? Experts weigh in.

As we grow older, maintaining flexibility becomes increasingly important. Not only does it support the health of your muscles and joints, but it also enhances your overall mobility, reduces injury risk, and helps you maintain an active, self-reliant lifestyle. Good flexibility allows you to reach objects on high shelves, easily get in and out of vehicles, and comfortably bend down to tie your shoes.

But how can you accurately assess your flexibility? A simple test can help: if you’re over 60 and can touch your toes, your flexibility is likely above average compared to your peers.

“Touching your toes is fundamental,” says Brandt Passalacqua, C-IAYT, director of Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy. “It involves the coordinated effort of the fascia running from your feet to your head, as well as the muscles in your feet, calves, hamstrings, and back. It also requires hip hinge ability. Without adequate range of motion in these areas, we begin to compensate, increasing the likelihood of injury.”

“Touching your toes is a basic necessity. The fascia from the feet to the head, as well as the muscles of the feet, calves, hamstrings, and back, all need to work in tandem. In addition, it requires the ability to hinge at the hips. The more these areas lack range of motion and length, the more we compensate when we move, and that’s how injury happens,” explains Brandt Passalacqua, C-IAYT, director of Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy.

Why Being Able To Touch Your Toes Matters

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Being able to touch your toes after age 60 goes beyond testing your flexibility. According to Denise Chakoian, Rhode Island certified fitness trainer and owner of Core Cycle and Fitness LaGree, it’s an inside look into how your entire body is functioning.

“When you reach for the floor, your entire posterior chain—hamstrings, lower back, glutes, and calves—has to work together simultaneously,” Chakoian explains. “That’s the same chain you rely on every time you pick something up, get in and out of a car, or catch yourself from a fall. If it’s locked up in a gym test, it’s locked up in real life, too.”

4 Standing Exercises That Build Muscle the Old-School Way After 60

Working The Posterior Chain

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Falls are the leading cause of injury after 60, and a stiff posterior chain can increase that risk. Flexibility plays a key role in reaction time; while you may not think about it on the regular, your body relies on it when it’s needed most.

“There’s also a brain component: flexibility requires your nervous system to trust a movement, not just the muscle being long enough,” Chakoian adds. “Staying flexible means keeping that communication between your brain and body open as you age. You can fake your way through a lot of fitness tests. This one you can’t.”

5 Daily Exercises That Rebuild Lost Muscle Faster Than the Gym After 50

Keeping Your Posterior Chain Mobile

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Your muscles, joints, and connective tissues play a key role in climbing stairs, walking, getting up from the floor, and recovering after a stumble.

“When they stop moving well together, the body starts compensating—and compensation is how injuries happen,” Chakoian tells us. “Keeping this chain mobile isn’t about fitness performance. It’s about keeping your body honest and reducing the hidden wear that builds up over decades.”

5 Bodyweight Exercises That Fight Muscle Loss After 40

Form Cues for Reaching Toward Your Toes

When performing the toe touch, Chakoian recommends starting from a seated forward fold position—reaching toward your toes while sitting on a chair or the ground.

“This gives you all the same stretch with none of the balance risk. Master this before you ever stand up and fold forward,” she stresses.

In addition, hinge from your hips—not your waist. It may be common to automatically round your lower back—but refrain.

“Think about pushing your hips back as you fold forward, like you’re closing a car door with your backside. That shifts the work where it belongs—into the hamstrings—and protects your spine. Soft knees are fine. A slight bend in the knees is not cheating. It actually allows the pelvis to tilt properly and takes compressive force off the lower back,” Chakoian points out.

Make sure to breathe into each stretch. Every time you exhale is a solid chance to release a bit further. Allow your breathing to do the work.

If You Can Do These 8 Lower-Body Moves, Your Leg Strength Is Elite

Red Flags To Look Out For

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In addition to performing the exercise with proper form, there are certain red flags to be mindful of. If you notice the following, stop immediately: sharp pain or any sensation that runs down your leg, or dizziness.

“Mild pulling and discomfort is normal. Pain is information—and it’s telling you to back off,” Chakoian says.

Trump’s 2024 Election Lawsuit Over Unauthorized Classic Song Usage Quietly Concludes

Crime

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February 25, 2026
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Left: Left: Grammy award winning musician Isaac Hayes in May of 2000 (Scott Weiner / MediaPunch /IPX). Right: President Donald Trump listens to a question from a reporter before signing an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Monday, March 31, 2025 (Pool via AP).

One of the lawsuits from the 2024 election cycle involving Donald Trump’s campaign and unauthorized use of music at rallies is wrapping up amicably, leaving the plaintiff content with the outcome.

The lawsuit, filed by the estate of Isaac Hayes, was addressed in a joint stipulation submitted to federal court on Monday. Both the estate and the Trump campaign informed U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash Jr. of their decision to permanently dismiss the lawsuit, agreeing to cover their own legal fees and costs.

As of early Tuesday afternoon, the court records did not yet show any action taken by Judge Thrash, but the resolution of the copyright dispute seems to be a foregone conclusion, ending much more quietly than it began.

Isaac Hayes III, son of the legendary artist known for “Hold On, I’m Coming,” had been vocal in opposing the Trump campaign’s use of his father’s music at political events, particularly due to the campaign’s perceived affiliation with the Hayes estate.

In a radio interview, Hayes III expressed his concerns: “I’ve mentioned multiple times that I come from a family of seven sisters. Donald Trump has made derogatory remarks about women and Vice President Kamala Harris. He’s been held accountable for sexual misconduct. For me, it’s not just political—it’s about distancing from the character and conduct associated with that campaign.”

“I don’t necessarily want to inject my father’s music into politics because I feel that, that all types of people around the world love Isaac Hayes so I don’t think his music should be used in a political fashion,” he added. “And so, I don’t want that. But Donald Trump is definitely not the person. I don’t want people to hear ‘Hold On, I’m Coming’ and think of Donald Trump at all, in any shape or form.”

Litigation over unauthorized use of the song followed, in the same vein as other lawsuits by other artists.

Now Hayes has said on his verified account that the case was “mutually resolved,” referring to the joint stipulation to dismiss.

Official Statement from the Hayes Family and the Estate of Isaac Hayes

The Hayes family and the Estate of Isaac Hayes, Jr. announce that the lawsuit filed against Donald John Trump and Donald J. Trump for President 2024, Inc., regarding their use of “Hold On, I’m Comin” has been… pic.twitter.com/0I5LzoA3NG

— Isaac Hayes III (@IsaacHayes3) February 23, 2026

What did the lawsuit accomplish? According to Hayes, it was about principle and he’s “satisfied” with the defense of it.

“This resolution represents more than the conclusion of a legal matter. It reaffirms the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and copyrights, especially as they relate to legacy, ownership, and the responsible use of creative works,” the post said, not mentioning a financial component to the dismissal. “Isaac Hayes, Jr. dedicated his life to his craft, and his contributions to music and culture carry enduring value. As stewards of his legacy, we remain committed to ensuring that his work is respected and properly protected.”

“[W]e are satisfied with the outcome,” Hayes added, thanking attorney James Walker.

Unveiling the Mystery: Missing Mom Found Alive After 24 Years – The Untold Story

US

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February 25, 2026
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The long-missing mother of three, who reemerged after 24 years, reportedly left due to marital dissatisfaction and struggles with alcohol, according to revelations by the Daily Mail.

Michele Hundley Smith disappeared at the age of 38, after leaving her residence in Eden, North Carolina, on December 9, 2001, intending to do some Christmas shopping in Martinsville, Virginia.

However, she did not return from that shopping trip.

Her disappearance was not reported by her family until three weeks later, leaving them in suspense for nearly 25 years, hoping for her eventual safe return.

Finally, advancements in technology and enhanced information sharing brought a surprising end to this decades-long mystery last Friday, reuniting Smith with her past.

Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office revealed Smith had been found alive and well at a mystery location in North Carolina.

Cops went to see Smith, now 62, after they received ‘new information’ in the investigation, which involved several agencies including the FBI.

Michele Hundley Smith, who went missing 24 years ago, was found on February 20 ‘alive and well’ in North Carolina

They said Smith asked them to keep her location secret – dealing a blow to any immediate hopes of a family reunion.

In an interview with the Daily Mail, Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page revealed that Smith told his officers there were ‘ongoing domestic issues’ at the time she left but he said she wouldn’t elaborate.

Meanwhile, Smith’s daughter Amanda told the Daily Mail she is still processing her emotions over the news and her brothers, Gary and Kevin, said the complex situation was a ‘lot to comprehend’ but they are hopeful for future contact.

Years ago, Amanda had painted a troubled picture of her parents’ marriage.

Speaking on the Vanished podcast in 2018, she said her mother had been unhappy and struggling with alcohol in the months before she disappeared.

However, Sheriff Page said he was not aware of any police reports of domestic violence at the time.

The sheriff revealed that prior to her final disappearance, Smith had gone ‘It wasn’t 100 per cent unusual’ for her, he said

But after she didn’t return home for weeks, her family became concerned and officially reported her missing on December 31, he said.

When officers went to see Smith, ‘they determined that she had left on her own accord and she was safe, the sheriff added.

Amanda Hundley (pictured with her two daughters) was 14 when her mother went missing. She says she now feels ‘ecstatic’ but ‘heartbroken’ after learning Michele is alive but does not want to reunite

‘We notified her family and let them know that she was okay, that she’d been located, but at that time, she didn’t want to make contact.’

He declined to share specifics of the February 19 tip that led detectives to her, saying only that advancements in technology and information sharing had led to the breakthrough in the case.

‘We share a lot of information and a lot of times that information will connect with somebody who’s had a contact from different sources.

‘When that information came back to us, we followed up on it.’

Katy Gregg, District Attorney for Caswell and Rockingham County, told the Daily Mail she met with detectives on Tuesday and based on their investigation, they have decided there will be no charges.

‘I support their decision,’ said Gregg.

Smith’s disappearance has haunted her family for years, leaving many unanswered questions.

Amanda addressed her mother in 2018, saying ‘I’m not mad at you if you did leave’, but pleaded for answers

Amanda had also appeared on a podcast about her mother, revealing Smith had been struggling with alcohol because she was ‘unhappy’ with her marriage at the time

But life has also gone on without her.

Smith’s husband Randy has moved on with another partner, while her three children, Melissa, 44, Amanda, 39, and Randal, 33, have married and had children of their own.

Smith’s mother, Margaret, tragically died in November, just three months before she would have learned that her daughter was alive.

She had spent years searching for her daughter, hiring a private investigator, and asking relatives to give their DNA to databases for comparisons in case her body was found.

An online obituary for Margaret, who died aged 83 on November 5, describes Smith as her ‘most important crowning accomplishment’ in life, without making any mention of her disappearance.

Amanda – who told the Daily Mail she is still ‘processing’ her emotions over the news – wrote on Facebook: ‘As far as my opinions and feelings on my mom…I am ecstatic, I am p***ed, I am heartbroken, I am all over the map!

‘Will I have a relationship once more with my mom? Honestly, I can’t answer that because I don’t even know.’

‘My initial reaction would be yes absolutely but then I think of all the hurt…But even then, my mom is only human just as we all are,’ she wrote.

Smith disappeared in December of 2001 at 38 years old while Christmas shopping, leaving behind her three children, aged 19, 14, and 7

Amanda previously told how her mom disappeared the night she was going to buy Christmas gifts for her and her siblings.

Amanda was 14 when her mother went missing. She had an older sister, Melissa, who was 19 at the time and a brother Randal, 7.

She told the The Vanished podcast in 2018 that prior to her disappearance, her mother had lost her job at a veterinary practice.

She said she had been struggling with alcohol because she was unhappy in her marriage and had been arguing with their dad, her husband, a truck driver.

Amanda has consistently insisted her father is a ‘good man’ who had not done anything wrong.

‘If she wanted to leave my dad, that’s one thing, but to leave us, I just don’t see it happening. She loved us, and she bragged about us to her mom,’ she told the podcast.

Before she went missing, Amanda said her mother told her she had lost her driving license over a ticket for going over a yellow line when she was taking one of her husband’s friends home.

A month before she went missing, on November 11, 2001, Smith was charged with driving under the influence, according to Rockingham District court records seen by the Daily Mail.

Online records show an arrest record was never served and printed records of the case have since been destroyed, court staff said.

Amanda told the podcast there were several tantalizing developments in the years the family were searching for her mom.

She said when she was 19, a letter from Cumberland, Maryland, addressed to her and her mom arrived at the house.

It claimed Amanda’s social security number was used in an ambulance ride, without giving further details.

She said her Smith had taken her and her brother Randal’s social security cards with her in her purse.

But when Amanda followed up, she came up against a brick wall.

Another time, a woman with the same name was arrested in Arizona, but Amanda says she knew by the woman’s voice and her picture that it wasn’t her mother.

Smith’s family are now wrestling with the extraordinary news she has been found safe, against her decision not to contact them.

A Facebook page dedicated to her missing mother, Bring Michele Hundley Smith Home, said that Smith had been driving her forest green 1995 Pontiac Trans Sport van which was never found when she disappeared

‘I am still in shock, it’s one day at a time, I’m just thankful that she’s alive,’ her cousin Barbara Byrd told the Daily Mail.

Asked why Michele left and stayed under the radar for so long, she replied: ‘I have no clue, because the last time that I physically saw Michele was on November 24, 2001, when she came to the funeral home for my grandfather, who had passed away.

‘I spoke to her and her mom, but there was nothing I could honestly say that I remember would give me any inclination of what made her go.’

She fears the many questions over Michele’s disappearance could remain unanswered.

‘My question is, how does she stay hidden with this world of technology for so long?

‘A lot of the stuff, we don’t know what happened. She’s the only one that can answer that question.

‘She’s probably not going to answer that question, but she might surprise us.

‘She doesn’t want no one to know where she’s at.

‘If she sees any of these reports, what I’m going to say to her is that she is still loved by people.

‘People are hurt and it’s not me that needs the answers to why she left.

‘It’s her husband, her two daughters, her son, her two brothers.’

Smith’ daughter, Melissa Martin, said on Facebook it was ‘great to know she’s alive after 24 years, just hoping she decides to contact someone, because right now she doesn’t want contact.’

Smith’s brothers, Gary and Kevin, told the Daily Mail the ‘complex situation’ was a ‘lot to comprehend’ but they are hopeful for future contact.

‘We want Michele to know that we are so glad she is alive, we love her, we are not mad at her, all is forgiven,’ they said in a statement.

‘We would love to be in contact with her, but we understand that she has decided she doesn’t want contact as of now, and we respect her wishes.

‘Although we hope for future contact with our sister, we want to make it known that we do not and cannot speak on behalf of the rest of our family.

‘We will not share details regarding her disappearance all these years ago. That is not our story to tell.’

Former ‘American Idol’ Contestant Caleb Flynn Accused of Staging Crime Scene in Alleged Shooting Incident Involving Wife, According to Criminal Complaint

Crime

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February 25, 2026
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In a chilling turn of events, former “American Idol” contestant Caleb Flynn is facing accusations of murdering his wife, Ashley Flynn. Recent court documents suggest that Caleb may have manipulated evidence to mislead investigators.

According to a detective cited in a criminal complaint reviewed by Oxygen, the crime scene appeared to have been deliberately staged. “Officers were [led astray] by the staging of the crime scene,” the detective noted, indicating potential deliberate deception.

The incident unfolded on February 16 when the 39-year-old Caleb made a frantic 911 call, reporting what he described as a burglary. The call recording, obtained by Oxygen, captures Caleb’s claim of a home invasion. He described a scenario where the garage door was “wide open,” yet no intruders were visible, only his wife and their two daughters, who he mentioned were asleep.

In the distressing call, Caleb can be heard saying, “My wife, she’s got two shots to her head. There’s blood everywhere.” This harrowing scene he described painted a grim picture of the events inside their home.

“My wife, she’s got two shots to her head,” Caleb said on the call. “There’s blood everywhere.”

Caleb told the dispatcher that he tried rubbing his wife’s leg, but she was unresponsive. The 37-year-old teacher was pronounced dead when help arrived, according to a police press release. The former singer used a 9mm handgun to shoot his wife, police alleged in the complaint.

Three days later, Caleb was arrested, per a press release from the Tipp City Police Department, which cited his charges: one count of murder, two counts of felonious assault, and two counts of tampering with evidence.

Caleb is held at the Miami County Jail on a $2 million bond. He pleaded not guilty during a Feb. 20 arraignment. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb 26.

“I just want to take care of my daughters,” Caleb told the judge, in a video conference from jail. “I’m not a risk.”

Caleb appeared on season 12 of American Idol at the encouragement of his wife.

“I absolutely love the Lord, I love my wife more than anything,” Caleb said on the show. “She is very, very pretty … but, you know, I’m just a normal person who absolutely loves to sing.”

Debunked: No Connection Between Detroit Lions Owner Sheila Ford Hamp and Charlie Kirk Towel Giveaway

Celeb Zone

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February 25, 2026
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A rumor circulating on social media claimed that Sheila Ford Hamp, the owner of the Detroit Lions, had announced plans to distribute 80,000 red and blue towels in Charlie Kirk’s honor. This claim has been proven false.

The Detroit Lions have not issued any such announcement and have previously decided against tributes for the conservative commentator.

The Viral Claim About the Lions’ Towel Tribute

On Facebook, a page named “Great Lake Warriors” posted that Sheila Ford Hamp was set to give away 80,000 red-and-blue towels to fans at Ford Field. The post, which attracted tens of thousands of likes, suggested that images and quotes of Charlie Kirk would be displayed for 15 minutes before a game, warning that the towels could spark a political controversy.

The claim was further amplified by an article on a website called ‘Work Top News,’ which quoted a supposed university sociologist to lend credibility to its story.

Fact Check: The Rumor is Officially Debunked

This claim has been debunked. A fact-checking report confirmed that Sheila Ford Hamp has not made any announcements about the Detroit Lions honoring Charlie Kirk.

No legitimate news outlets have reported any plans for the NFL team to hand out these towels, and the link in the viral Facebook post directs users to an unreliable website. The Lions have not released any official statements regarding future tributes to Kirk.

The Lions’ Actual Stance on Charlie Kirk Tributes

The Detroit Lions were one of several NFL teams that chose not to hold a moment of silence for Charlie Kirk following his death in September. This decision was made during their game against the Chicago Bears on September 14 and was consistent with the NFL’s policy of letting individual clubs decide on such tributes.

Sad to say, the Detroit Lions did not pay tribute to Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence. Shameful and petty pic.twitter.com/H6yPGmkQzc

— JP (@JohnIsa69517391) September 15, 2025

Other teams, including the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens, also opted out, while teams like the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys held moments of silence.

Understanding Sheila Ford Hamp’s Role

Sheila Ford Hamp is the principal owner and chairwoman of the Detroit Lions, a role she took over from her mother in June 2020. Her leadership marks the first time in NFL history that team ownership passed between two women. A descendant of the Ford and Firestone families, her primary source of income and professional focus is the management of the Lions franchise.

Fabricated stories often use the names of well-known organizations and figures to gain traction. This particular rumor employed several common tactics, including citing a fake expert and framing the event as a “breaking news” secret to create a sense of urgency and importance. The viral nature of the post on social media platforms demonstrates how quickly misinformation can reach a wide audience before it is fact-checked.