Fans show support after ‘Quad God’ Ilia Malinin’s vulnerable social media posts

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February 14, 2026

CDC INVESTIGATES NEW CRUISE SHIP OUTBREAK AFTER DOZENS REPORT GASTROINTESTINAL ILLNESS

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A beloved cruise line has abruptly shut down and canceled all future bookings.

Alaskan Dream Cruises announced Feb. 4 that it would halt all operations — disrupting upcoming vacation plans.

The small-ship cruise line, which was based in Sitka and offered sailings to Southeast Alaska, said guests who had booked reservations would receive refunds and information on next steps in an email.

“Our guests are being fully refunded any deposits or payments they’ve made, but we sincerely hope they choose to visit our state with another company if they’re able,” Zak Kirkpatrick, a company spokesperson, told Fox News Digital.

“Guests were offered a transfer program with UnCruise Adventures, which is another well-established small ship expedition line,” he also said.

Alaskan Dream Cruises shocked travelers when the line announced it would be ceasing operations. (James D. Morgan)

The parent company will continue to operate but will shift its priorities, it said.

“Alaskan Dream Cruises has made a strategic decision to conclude operations of its Alaska Native-owned, Sitka-based small-ship cruise line, effective Feb. 4, 2026,” the company said in a statement.

LUXURY CRUISE LINE GOES ‘ADULTS ONLY’ TO CREATE MORE ‘TRANQUIL ENVIRONMENT’ FOR GUESTS

“This decision reflects a deliberate realignment of the company’s business focus to strengthen its core operations and ensure long-term sustainability,” the statement continued.

Alaska Dream Cruises has no current voyages scheduled, as the ships typically sail from May through September.

Alaskan Dream Cruises consistently received stellar reviews from travelers. (Hasan Akbas/Anadolu)

The company’s fleet of 10- to 76-guest vessels was considered unusual because it was a more intimate experience.

Focusing on Alaskan heritage, the voyages would navigate remote fjords and narrow channels inaccessible to large ships.

MAN TRAVELS THE WORLD ON A CRUISE SHIP FOR FREE AFTER QUITTING HIS DAY JOB: ‘HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH’

“This decision was intentional and necessary,” owner Jamey Cagle said in the statement.

“After careful evaluation of our long-term objectives, we determined that concluding cruise operations allows us to responsibly focus our resources where they will have the greatest impact.”

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The company had a 4.7 rating on Google Reviews. Yet the cruise ship operator — owned by a family from the Tlingit tribe and founders of the Sitka-based maritime business Allen Marine — faced an increasingly competitive cruise industry.

“Our guests are being fully refunded,” said a spokesperson from the company. (John McDonnell/The Washington Post)

“Alaskan Dream Cruises certainly faced a unique set of challenges as a cruise line based in Sitka, Alaska— there are high overheads in the industry, and it’s a well-capitalized landscape,” said Kirkpatrick, the company spokesperson.

“However, the current demand for visiting Alaska is a very good thing for our region and state.”

The global cruise industry reported a record 37.7 million passengers in 2025, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 2025 report. But even large cruise operators felt a financial crunch in 2025.

“Alaskan Dream Cruises certainly faced a unique set of challenges.”

Some of the challenges in the industry were rising fuel and labor costs and higher port fees, according to Caribbean News Digital.

Fans of the company flocked to Facebook to recount their voyages.

A Carnival cruise ship departs in Miami. The global cruise industry reported a record 37.7 million passengers in 2025, according to the Cruise Lines International Association. (iStock)

“I want to say that this is truly a loss for Alaska tourism,” one traveler wrote on Facebook. “The trip we took in 2024 was truly the best vacation we have ever had.”

Another person commented, “This makes me incredibly sad. Our cruise with you was one of our best vacations, and we have referred many to you since we did our cruise in 2021.”

Alaskan Dream Cruises Shuts Down in 2026

Previous passengers of the cruise line flocked to Facebook to praise the company. (Hasan Akbas/Anadolu)

“So sad to hear … They have always been a great alternative to large ship cruising,” a traveler wrote on a CruiseCritic message board.

Another agreed, saying, “So heartbreaking. They were such an amazing outfit. I’m sure it was just so difficult competing against the giants.”

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Harbor pilot falls from boat near Emerald Princess cruise in Kauai in ‘man overboard’ alert

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February 14, 2026

RESCUE OPERATION UNDERWAY AFTER POSSIBLE OVERBOARD INCIDENT ON CARNIVAL CRUISE SHIP

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Cruise passengers expecting to visit Kauai, Hawaii, this week faced a scary “man overboard” alert.

The Emerald Princess was about to enter a port at Nāwiliwili Harbor on the southeast side of the island on Feb 10. As the ship approached, a harbor pilot who was climbing a rope ladder from a pilot boat next to the ship slipped and fell into the water, according to Kauai Now and other accounts.

“Scary situation off the coast of Kaua‘i on the [Princess Cruises] Emerald Princess,” user whereswaltertravel — otherwise known as travel agent and founder Walter Biscardi Jr. of Florida — wrote in a Feb. 10 Instagram post.

“Our pilot slipped on the ladder trying to board the ship in very rough weather conditions,” he added. Biscardi was a passenger on the cruise.

Witnesses said the pilot tried multiple times to board the ship during rough seas before he lost his footing.

Passengers on a Hawaii cruise ship such as the one above were stunned when a harbor pilot slipped while climbing into a small boat and fell into the water. (James D. Morgan)

One passenger said the harbor pilot fell around 10 to 20 feet from the ship’s hull, not alongside it.

The crew on the boat worked quickly to rescue the pilot. Video shows that the man was pulled back onto the small vessel within minutes.

ISLAND CRACKS DOWN AS TOURISTS ARE SLAPPED WITH NEW FEES, FED-UP LOCALS REVOLT

He did not seem to be injured, according to Cruise Hive.

“Fortunately, the crew on the boat were able to retrieve him safely,” Biscardi wrote on Instagram.

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“Our port call is waived … but none of that matters when a life and death situation unfolds.”

After the cruise’s port call on Kauai was canceled due to the emergency, it traveled on to Maui — where the ship was slated for its next port call.

Passengers on the Emerald Princess couldn't stop in Kauai.

Due to an emergency situation, passengers of the cruise ship never got off at the port in Kauai. (Patrick Pleu)

“Thanks to God for a quick recovery and a well-trained crew … [the harbor pilot] is healthy and fine,” a passenger told Cruise Hive.

“I am amazed [at] how [the] well-trained and efficient Emerald staff handled everything quickly and professionally. Well done, crew.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Princess Cruise Line for comment.

The 3,090-passenger cruise ship departed Los Angeles on Feb. 4 for a 16-night Hawaii voyage, with Kauai scheduled as the first port call.

Trish Walters of Portland, Oregon, another passenger, recounted the frightening incident on social media.

Replying to a Facebook post by her husband, she mentioned how choppy the waters were that day.

“Very windy — and kinda scary,” Walters wrote.

“We could see the breakwaters for the Kaua‘i port, but the ship needed lots of room to fit into the harbor; the wind was pushing us pretty good, so the captain and port folks decided it was too dangerous to try.”

Emerald Princess passengers saw a man overboard

The crew on the boat were able to retrieve the harbor pilot during the scary incident. (Patrick Pleul)

Strong winds caused massive breaking waves along the shorelines of the island, according to Cruise Hive.

The National Weather Service recently issued a high surf advisory.

“We will come back to visit another day,” Biscardi said.

“Thankful for the safety of the pilot and for the work all pilots do to help make our cruises amazing.”

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Virginia student ‘grateful’ for America after seeing young criminals in harsh conditions

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February 14, 2026

FIRST LADY MELANIA TRUMP PRAISED FOR ‘UNWAVERING COMMITMENT’ TO BATTLE-SCARRED VICTIMS

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A young American student felt motivated to step out of her comfort zone and give others a helping hand in life — and wound up learning about harsh sentencing practices in other countries and seeing the United States in a new light.

Tess Emanuel, a high school senior, spent two summers traveling to Kenya and working there as a volunteer.

“I grew up being told that I needed to do things to help others and serve others,” the teen, who is from McLean, Virginia, told Fox News Digital.

After doing her research, she discovered Better Me, a nonprofit focused on education, training and life skills for children and young people in remote locations who are trying to turn their lives around. Signing on in a volunteer capacity, she embarked on missions to Kenya during two separate summers.

Working with the Kisumu Children’s Remand Home, a correctional facility located in Kisumu, she and other volunteers taught lessons to children of all ages.

Tess Emanuel of McLean, Virginia, volunteered for two summers with a nonprofit created to help children in unfortunate circumstances. (Tess Emanuel)

“I worked with children who were serving time for their crimes or waiting for trials,” she said.

“At first, I was very intimidated because I heard I would be working with criminals and didn’t know what to expect.”

Emanuel said she worked with youngsters charged with theft and robbery — but learned the larger context of the crimes they committed and the desperate circumstances in which they’d been living.

They had been stealing food and resources to survive.

Emanuel said she “worked with children who were serving time for their crimes or waiting for trials,” she said. Many of the children had been stealing food in order to survive. (Tess Emanuel)

“After speaking with them more, I quickly learned it was mainly the fault of the system and the government that they were under — rather than malintentions on [the children’s] part,” she said, sharing her opinions.

“I learned how important it is to listen to others and not let judgments or certain categorizations really define how you view a person,” she said.

Volunteer work can “create positive change in ourselves, others and the world.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Better Me for comment.

On its website, the organization says “the transformative power of volunteerism” can “create positive change in ourselves, others and the world.”

“I always had the understanding that not everyone else had that privilege, so I was researching organizations to work with children in Africa … I’ve always just had a curiosity about Africa,” said the young woman from Virginia. (Tess Emanuel)

It also says its “volunteer program is tailor-made for open-minded individuals who are eager to expand their horizons, challenge common misconceptions and gain invaluable knowledge, skills and real-world experiences.”

Emanuel said the volunteers would work there three to four times a week, teaching English lessons to the children as well as life skills.

“You could talk about hygiene, public speaking, manners, religious lessons. It was really cool to plan your own lessons and really teach them whatever you knew a lot about,” she said.

Volunteers also spent time at the Korando School, home to 200 students, including some 90 orphans.

“[Students would] often just be outside playing, and you could play sports with them,” she said.

“You could read to them, which was my favorite thing to do. And you could do swim lessons with the kids.”

The students’ favorite activity was swimming, she said.

“I learned how important it is to listen to others and not let judgments or certain categorizations really define how you view a person,” said Emanuel. (Tess Emanuel)

Volunteers would all eat dinner together — and on Wednesdays, they enjoyed karaoke night. On weekends, volunteers went on safaris or explored nearby towns.

Emanuel noted the transition back to the United States taught her new insights each summer.

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She felt immensely blessed and lucky for her family, her school, her friends and the resources she previously took for granted, she said.

“I’ve always been a very grateful person, and I’ve understood that I live very nicely and that not everyone has that, but I did not realize the extent to which other people had to live in those conditions,” said Emanuel.

The transition back to the United States taught her enormous lessons.

“And I think it just made me very, very grateful for my position. And it made me feel as if I had a duty to continue giving back.”

Before she heads to the University of Virginia this fall, she has launched fundraisers for the schools where she volunteered.

She’s also helped sponsor three kids over the past two years, assisting in covering the cost of new clothes and school supplies as well as healthcare costs.

“I really hope to bring [along other volunteers] that have that same passion and desire to explore the world with me,” said Emanuel. (Tess Emanuel)

Her plan is to share the word about Better Me in the years ahead.

“I really hope to bring [other volunteers] that have that same passion and desire to explore the world with me. It’s one of the best things I’ve done with my life — and I would recommend it to anyone.”

Ashley J. DiMella is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Cotton demands FDA investigate Chinese drug ingredients in weight loss drugs

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February 13, 2026

JELLY ROLL’S WIFE SAYS WEIGHT LOSS DRUG SENT HER INTO ‘WORST SUICIDAL DEPRESSION’

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FIRST ON FOX: A Senate Republican is demanding the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigate whether illegal Chinese ingredients are making their way into weight loss drugs in the United States.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., called on FDA Commissioner Martin Makary to probe how far unregulated and illegal Chinese active pharmaceutical ingredients have penetrated the U.S. supply chain — and whether they have ended up in popular weight loss drugs.

“China’s access to America’s pharmaceutical supply chain presents national security risks as well as significant health risks to American patients,” Cotton wrote in a letter to Makary first obtained by Fox News Digital.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., called on FDA Commissioner Martin Makary to probe just how widespread illegal and unregulated Chinese pharmaceutical ingredients are in the U.S., and how widespread they are in non-FDA regulated weight loss drugs. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call, Inc. via Getty Images)

Cotton’s concern follows recent reports from the FDA and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that between September 2023 and January 2025, authorities intercepted 195 illegal shipments of active pharmaceutical ingredients.

He noted that the ingredients were “likely used in compounded weight loss medications” that entered the U.S. market. Of those shipments, roughly 60 originated from China and Hong Kong.

“It is estimated that as of January 2026, up to 1.5 million American patients could be using unregulated compounded weight loss medications that may contain potentially dangerous ingredients from Chinese manufacturers,” Cotton wrote.

EXAMINING THE NEXT THREAT FROM COMMUNIST CHINA: OUR HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

person stands on scale holding GLP1 injection

Americans turn to risky unregulated sellers for GLP-1 weight loss drugs. (iStock)

The ingredients are typically used in compounded versions of GLP-1 weight loss drugs that are marketed as alternatives to FDA-approved medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy.

Earlier this month, the Department of Health and Human Services announced it would refer telehealth company Hims & Hers to the Justice Department for “potential violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act” over its planned sale of a compounded, non-FDA-approved weight loss drug.

Makary similarly said the FDA would “take decisive steps to restrict GLP-1 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) intended for use in non-FDA-approved compounded drugs that are being mass-marketed by companies — including Hims & Hers and other compounding pharmacies — as alternatives to FDA-approved drugs.”

FETTERMAN BUCKS DEMOCRATS, SAYS PARTY PUT POLITICS OVER COUNTRY IN DHS SHUTDOWN STANDOFF

The company announced last week that it would remove its weight loss pill, billed as a cheaper alternative to Wegovy, from the market following mounting pressure from federal agencies.

Cotton acknowledged that move and called for similar investigations going forward.

“I encourage further investigations into other entities that expose American patients to dangerous, unregulated Chinese APIs,” Cotton wrote.

Alex Miller is a writer for Fox News Digital covering the U.S. Senate.

JetBlue flight security issue leads to temporary Aruba airport shutdown

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February 13, 2026

FLIGHT PASSENGER MISTAKENLY BOARDS WRONG PLANE, LANDS IN SURPRISING COUNTRY AFTER MANY HOURS

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JetBlue passengers on a flight from Boston to Aruba were stuck on a plane for hours Monday while authorities investigated a “security-related situation.”

When the flight landed at Queen Beatrix International Airport on Feb. 9, the pilot was directed to park in an alternate location. The reason cited was a “security-related situation,” JetBlue told Boston station WCVB News Center 5.

Frustrated passengers were kept onboard for nearly two hours after landing, the station said.

One traveler told the outlet that law enforcement officers boarded the aircraft and checked passports individually. Then they were allowed to exit row by row. A K9 unit was also brought in to inspect luggage.

“The flight was met by law enforcement who conducted additional screenings and customers have since disembarked,” the airline said.

A security issue on a JetBlue flight briefly shut down Aruba’s airport Monday, with passengers kept onboard for nearly two hours after landing. (Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto/Getty Images)

“The safety of our customers and crew members is JetBlue’s first priority, and further inquiries should be directed to law enforcement.”

During the incident, airport operations were temporarily suspended. In notices shared on social media, Queen Beatrix International Airport said access to the terminal was restricted while authorities assessed the situation.

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“Due to a security-related situation, airport operations are temporarily paused. The situation is being managed by the appropriate authorities, and safety remains our top priority,” the airport said in a Facebook post.

About an hour later, the airport issued an update stating that operations would remain suspended for another 90 minutes or so.

K9 police dog smelling a brown suitcase during airport screenings.

A passenger said officers boarded the plane, checked passports individually and brought in a K9 unit, such as the one shown above, to inspect luggage. (iStock)

Travelers inside the terminal were instructed to remain there — while those who had not yet entered were asked to wait outside until passenger processing resumed.

On social media, some passengers reported disruptions to connecting travel plans as a result of the delay, including missed or rerouted flights.

Travelers waiting in line at check-in counters inside Aruba Airport, with self-service kiosks and airline signage visible.

Passengers reported that the delay at the airport disrupted connecting travel plans, resulting in missed or rerouted flights. (iStock)

“We sat in the airport for three extra hours and many people missed connecting flights,” one user on Facebook said.

“Messed up my whole day,” a Reddit user commented.

Later in the day, Aruba Airport Authority N.V. confirmed in a press release that airport operations had fully resumed.

Fox News Digital reached out to JetBlue for further comment.

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

Albania protests erupt over alleged corruption scandal involving government

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February 13, 2026

STATE DEPARTMENT STAYS QUIET AS ALBANIA REINSTATES DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER ACCUSED OF CORRUPTION

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Thousands of anti-government protesters violently faced off against riot police outside government buildings in Albania’s capital, Tirana, earlier this week, as people called for the resignation of the government following a massive corruption scandal.

The main Albanian opposition party called for people to take to the streets and demand the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku after she was indicted by a special prosecutor who alleged she had been improperly influenced in her decision to favor one company in a tender for the construction of a 3.7-mile tunnel in southern Albania.

Albania’s Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime suspended Balluku from the government in November, but Prime Minister Edi Rama took the issue to the country’s Constitutional Court, which reinstated Balluku in December.

Anti-government protests in Albania’s capital Tirana escalated tension on Tuesday, Feb. 10, as demonstrators threw Molotov cocktails and other objects at the prime minister’s office on Feb. 10, 2026. (Anadolu Agency via Reuters)

Balluku denied the allegations, calling the accusations against her amounted to “mudslinging, insinuations, half-truths and lies.” Rama has refused to dismiss her.

The corruption allegations touched off widespread outrage, sparking protests in recent months.

“The wave of popular protests in Albania reflects a growing societal backlash against what critics describe as the increasingly autocratic rule of Prime Minister Edi Rama,” Agim Nesho, former Albanian ambassador to the U.S. and the United Nations, told Fox News Digital.

“Over more than a decade in power, Rama is accused of centralizing authority and personalizing state institutions, while his government has faced persistent allegations of cooperation with organized crime and the misuse of public funds and public assets for the benefit of politically connected clients,” Nesho claimed.

Police officers hold shields outside the Prime Minister’s office during an anti-government protest, triggered by a corruption investigation into Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, in Tirana, Albania, Feb. 10, 2026. (Florion Goga/Reuters)

The shady circumstances surrounding Rama’s most important ally and the lack of accountability reinforces the sentiment that is pervasive in Albanian society that their government is rife with corruption. With both the incumbent government and opposition figures accused of corruption, public confidence in institutions and the justice system has steadily been eroded.

ITALY ROCKED BY ANARCHIST-LED RIOTS AS OVER 100 POLICE INJURED, MELONI CONDEMNS VIOLENCE

Albania has a long legacy of government corruption and ranks 91st out of 182 countries in Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index.

The protests on Tuesday turned violent when supporters of Berisha’s opposition Democratic Party threw rocks and Molotov cocktails at government offices in Tirana. Security forces responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Albania Prime Minister Edi Rama and his deputy Belinda Balluku.

Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama (R) and Deputy Prime Minister of Albania and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku (R) attend a press conference in the Shpirag region in Berat province, Albania on Aug. 23, 2023. (Albanian Prime Ministry / Handout/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Berisha claims the protests have been peaceful, and people are only voicing their opposition to Rama’s increasing autocratic rule and his attacks of the justice system.

At least 16 protesters were treated for injuries and 13 protesters were arrested, according to The Associated Press.

Observers of the region believe Berisha, who was prime minister from 2005 to 2013 and faced his own corruption charges, is angling to topple the socialist prime minister and main political rival, Rama, and return to power.

The turmoil in Albania comes as the country has long sought European Union membership, which began in 2014 when it became an official candidate for accession. While the 2025 annual European Commission report stated that Albania made significant strides in judicial reforms and combating organized crime, the latest allegations against Rami’s government will complicate its path to EU membership.

People gather during a demonstration held in Tirana, the capital of Albania, in support of former Prime Minister Sali Berisha, who was under house arrest from December 2023 to November 2024 on corruption charges and is currently under judicial supervision by the Albanian Special Appeal Court for Corruption and Organized Crime (GJPAKKO). (Olsi Shehu/Anadolu via Getty Images)

The United States helped implement Albania’s judicial reform process, including the creation of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK). The State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) invested millions to foster democratic progress in Albania and assisted in combating Albania’s struggles with corruption and strengthening its weak institutions.

Nesho warned the U.S. and European Union need to get serious with policy in the Western Balkans and help move Albania closer to European integration.

“If Washington and Brussels continue to look the other way — failing to enforce the rule of law, restore real checks and balances, and cut the regime’s ties to organized crime and drug trafficking — Albania risks drifting into the orbit of Eastern-style autocracy,” Nesho said.

Roman camps are unearthed in Germany’s Saxony-Anhalt state by archaeologists

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February 13, 2026

ANCIENT ROMAN FORT YIELDS 2,000-YEAR-OLD FRUIT THAT SURVIVED THE CENTURIES, PLUS OTHER TREASURES

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Archaeologists recently unearthed the remains of ancient Roman marching camps in Saxony-Anhalt — a first for one of Eastern Germany’s larger states.

The discovery was announced by the State Office for Heritage Management and Archaeology of Saxony-Anhalt (LDA Saxony-Anhalt) in January.

The camps were found at a site between the northern Harz Mountains and the Elbe River.

Pictures from the site show aerials of the field — as well as a cross-section of sediment layers exposed during archaeological work.

Radiocarbon analysis determined that the camps were likely established in the early third century A.D.

A historical illustration depicts Roman forces operating in ancient Germania, paired with a modern, generic view of Saxony-Anhalt, the region where archaeologists have now identified the easternmost Roman marching camps to date. (iStock)

Officials say the site “documents Roman advances in the third century A.D.,” providing physical archaeological evidence that had previously been missing in the region.

“Until now, concrete evidence for these campaigns had been lacking in the territory of Saxony-Anhalt,” LDA Saxony-Anhalt said in a translated press release.

‘UNEXPECTED’ ROMAN-ERA DISCOVERIES UNEARTHED IN BIBLICAL CITY MENTIONED IN BOOK OF REVELATION

“In particular, the highly standardized marching camps that the Roman military constructed daily after reaching a marching destination were expected.”

Archaeologists used metal detectors to unearth over 1,500 artifacts, including nails, coins and fragments of fibulas, or brooches.

The camps are believed to date to the early third century based on radiocarbon analysis conducted at the site. (Landesamt für Denkmalpflege und Archäologie Sachsen-Anhalt, Thomas Koiki)

They also uncovered remnants of V-shaped defensive ditches, a hallmark of Roman military camps used to prevent enemy entry.

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“These are the northeastern-most Roman camps in free Germania identified to date,” the release said.

“Written sources provide only a limited picture of Roman military campaigns in inner Germania, making archaeological discoveries particularly important.”

“The discoveries represent an archaeological sensation, made possible largely through volunteer heritage conservators and modern remote-sensing technology.”

Rome made repeated attempts to push its frontier into what is now Germany, but never succeeded in fully conquering or holding the territory.

By the third century, however, Roman armies advanced further into Germanic territory.

The newly identified site lies between the northern Harz Mountains and the Elbe River, officials said. (GeoBasis-DE / LVermGeo ST, Datenlizenz Deutschland – Namensnennung)

“From the third century A.D. onward, major changes occurred in the Germanic region, with new tribal confederations posing a serious threat to the Roman Empire,” said the release.

“Written sources provide only a limited picture of Roman military campaigns in inner Germania, making archaeological discoveries particularly important.”

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“Until now, Saxony-Anhalt lacked structural evidence of Roman troop movements toward the Elbe, especially marching camps.”

More than 1,500 artifacts were recovered during surveys, including nails, coins and fragments of Roman-era brooches. (Landesamt für Denkmalpflege und Archäologie Sachsen-Anhalt, Anika Tauschensky)

The latest discoveries join a list of other recent Roman-era finds in Germany.

Last summer, excavators found a mysterious Roman-era settlement site in North Rhine-Westphalia, complete with building remains and artifacts.

In January, Fox News Digital spoke with German officials about a hoard of Roman coins that was recently seized by authorities — years after a metal detectorist found them.

Beloved ‘Sandcastle Man’ Bill Pavlacka parts ways with Hotel del Coronado

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February 13, 2026

GIRL CAUGHT ON VIDEO PULLING SINGLE SQUARE AS 63,000-BEER-COASTER TOWER FOR GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS COLLAPSES

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For nearly two decades, families posed for photos beside his towering sandcastles, couples got engaged in front of them, and holiday visitors returned year after year to see what he would build next.

Now, the man affectionately known as “The Sandcastle Man” is no longer building on the stretch of Southern California beach where he became a Coronado fixture.

Hotel del Coronado confirmed to Fox News Digital that it and sand artist Bill Pavlacka “have parted ways” effective Feb. 5, ending his nearly 20-year run crafting elaborate sculptures on Coronado Beach outside the historic resort.

“We can confirm that Hotel del Coronado and The Sandcastle Man have parted ways effective February 5. We wish The Sandcastle Man continued success,” a hotel spokesperson said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

Bill Pavlacka, known as “The Sandcastle Man,” poses beside one of his sand sculptures on Coronado Beach in California. The longtime beach fixture recently parted ways with the Hotel del Coronado after nearly two decades building on the resort’s beachfront. (Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)

The hotel did not provide any additional details about the decision.

Pavlacka’s sand creations, ranging from whimsical holiday displays to custom wedding proposals, anniversary tributes and birthday messages have long-drawn crowds along the iconic shoreline adjacent to San Diego.

The circumstances surrounding his departure were detailed in a letter and interview quotes reported by The San Diego Union-Tribune, as well as in statements Pavlacka shared on social media.

The Union-Tribune reported that Pavlacka was formally notified in a letter from the hotel’s human resources director that he was no longer permitted to operate on hotel property. According to the newspaper, the letter said that in recent months a new incident had come to light “involving consumption of alcohol, resulting in a negative guest experience.”

TIKTOK-FAMOUS HOOTERS GIRLS BUILT VIRAL FOLLOWING, BUT LANDLORD HAD FINAL SAY ABOUT THEIR FUTURE

A detailed sandcastle with heart-shaped carvings reading

A sandcastle sculpture created by Bill Pavlacka sits on Coronado Beach in Southern California with the Hotel del Coronado in the background. Pavlacka has built proposal displays, holiday scenes and custom creations along the beachfront for nearly 20 years. (Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)

Pavlacka denied that allegation in an interview with the Union-Tribune.

“There was no alcohol. I don’t drink alcohol out there,” he said. “I asked the hotel guy who complained, ‘Did you see me drinking?’ He said, ‘We’re not going to go there.’ If they want me out of there, that’s OK. I’m not going to fight and argue with them.”

The Union-Tribune also reported the letter stated Pavlacka was “no longer permitted to operate ‘The Sandcastle Man’ or any other business on the premises of the Hotel del Coronado… explicitly including the Hotel’s beach.”

The newspaper further reported that the hotel owns portions of the beachfront and, citing the California Coastal Commission, has the right to control that property so long as public access is not denied.

Pavlacka told the Union-Tribune he believes the decision may have been influenced by messages he sometimes carved into his sculptures. The newspaper reported the hotel letter said that as a condition of operating on the hotel’s beach property, Pavlacka’s sandcastle content was to be “neutral” and “free of political or controversial messages.”

Pavlacka said he had incorporated phrases such as “I believe in freedom of speech” and “I love democracy,” along with a quote attributed to Mark Twain: “Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please.”

He said the messages were interpreted as political.

Exterior view of the Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, California

The historic Hotel del Coronado is seen in Coronado, Calif. The beachfront resort confirmed it has “parted ways” with longtime sand sculpture artist Bill Pavlacka, known locally as “The Sandcastle Man.” (Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)

“The hotel always says I do not work for them, but they kicked me off the property,” he told the Union-Tribune. “But I have tremendous support in San Diego and almost all the feedback I’ve gotten is positive. So I can’t understand why all of a sudden things changed.”

Local supporters echoed that sentiment.

“Bill is hardworking and quiet and never have we ever seen him drinking,” Kimberly Weed told the Coronado Times. “This is a huge loss for the people of San Diego, and everyone loves ‘The Sandcastle Man.’ Bring him back and appreciate the joy it brings people from all over the world.”

Ken Fitzgerald told the outlet, “There is nothing controversial, much less offensive, about a quote from one of America’s greatest authors about the importance of truth and objective reality in our nation’s civic life.”

Pavlacka addressed the split in a Facebook post.

“After nearly two decades, Hotel del Coronado and I have parted ways. Building sandcastles in front of the hotel, and meeting guests from all over the world, has meant everything to me,” he wrote.

“While I’m saddened this chapter has ended, I’m excited for greater creative freedom ahead,” he added, directing supporters to find him “just north of the main lifeguard tower on Coronado Beach.”

The San Diego skyline from Centennial Park in Coronado, Calif. (Christopher A. Jones via Getty Images)

In his interview with the Union-Tribune, Pavlacka said he plans to continue building sandcastles elsewhere.

“I won’t give up, I’ll still build sandcastles. It may not be here, it will be somewhere,” he said.

Pavlacka also publishes a price list on “The Sandcastle Man” website.

The page states: “Sandcastles and lessons on Hotel Del Coronado property must be pre-approved by the hotel.” It adds that prices are subject to change based on design complexity and may include add-ons such as music, lights, rose petals and travel fees.

Pavlacka is currently seeking donations per his most recent Facebook post.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Pavlacka for additional comment.

Jasmine Baehr is a Breaking News Writer for Fox News Digital, where she covers politics, the military, faith and culture.

Greece expands its ‘golden’ visa program for wealthy Americans seeking new residency

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February 12, 2026

US OFFICIALS SOUND ALARM ON ‘GOLDEN’ VISAS, CITING SECURITY RISKS, RELAXED REQUIREMENTS

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With the growing popularity of “golden” visas among wealthy Americans, one country is expanding the pathways for those interested in gaining citizenship in this fashion.

Greece has introduced the “Greek Startup ecosystem” — expanding citizenship opportunities beyond just an investment in real estate.

Those eligible can invest around $259,000 in select startups listed on the country’s National Startup Registry, according to the official platform Elevate Greece (EG), in sectors that include real estate, defense and finance.

“A strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship drives the public and private sectors to join forces through Elevate Greece and reach out into global markets, promoting Greece as a major innovation hub in Southeast Europe,” the EG website says.

Americans have been increasingly seeking second citizenship residencies as an “insurance” against global uncertainty, as Fox News Digital previously reported.

Greece is opening a new citizenship pathway for international entrepreneurs through startup investments. (Mehmet Emin Menguarslan/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Canada-based Mohamed Bennis, senior vice president at Arton Capital, a global financial advisory and consultancy firm, told Fox News Digital that “golden” visa programs have become “mainstream” today.

“We’re seeing a clear shift away from passive real estate toward more active investments that directly support the local economy — including startups, operating businesses and private equity, with more risk but also more potential reward,” said Bennis.

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He added that countries need to innovate and adapt to new investor expectations.

“Greece is playing to win, using popular residency policy tools to pull in tech money, while other countries are still stuck in red tape,” said Bennis.

Those eligible for the new program in Greece can invest around $259,000 in select startups that are listed on the country’s National Startup Registry. (iStock)

“This is a country saying, ‘If you invest and build, we’ll make it easy for you to stay.'”

“America pioneered the idea that capital and entrepreneurship should be welcomed, not punished.”

Arton Capital advises high-net-worth individuals on the process of investing in citizenship or residency all around the world.

“America pioneered the idea that capital and entrepreneurship should be welcomed, not punished,” said Bennis.

“The Trump Gold Card made that clear — and I think Greece is following that logic.”

The Trump Gold Card was launched in December to provide a new, streamlined path to U.S. citizenship.

“This is a country saying, ‘If you invest and build, we’ll make it easy for you to stay,'” said an expert in citizenship residency and investment programs. (iStock)

The card is a visa for individuals who can provide substantial benefit to the United States.

It requires a nonrefundable $15,000 processing fee and a $1 million gift after vetting, with expedited review once fees and documents are submitted, according to TrumpCard.gov.