In Minnesota, more people are taking firearms classes amid protests against federal immigration enforcement. Erin Gittins, a local resident, got a permit to carry a handgun for protection due to concerns about protest-related unrest. Gun shops report increased interest in firearms training following recent high-profile incidents.
Key Facts
Erin Gittins obtained a permit to carry a handgun in Minnesota due to concerns over protests against federal immigration enforcement.
Protests in Minneapolis have escalated following fatal shootings by federal officers.
Gittins took a $99 firearms training course in Anoka, Minnesota, focusing on gun safety and state laws.
She then applied for a carry permit and purchased a Sig Sauer P322 pistol.
Local gun shops report a significant increase in people seeking firearms training, particularly women.
The increase in interest followed the deaths of two individuals and related protests.
Mike Briggs, a head firearms instructor, noted that fear of protesters motivates many new customers.
Pierre Poilievre, the leader of Canada's Conservative Party, has urged national unity before a leadership vote. This comes after his party lost the election to the Liberals, and amid growing separatist movements in Alberta and Quebec. He emphasized issues like affordability and crime in his speech to rally support.
Key Facts
Pierre Poilievre is the leader of Canada's Conservative Party.
He called for unity in Canada before an important leadership vote.
The Conservative party triggered the vote after losing to the Liberals last April.
Poilievre's speech focused on affordability and crime, and he promised smaller government.
There are rising separatist movements in Alberta and Quebec.
Poilievre blamed the Liberal party for people losing hope in the Canadian confederation.
He remains popular within his party despite losing his seat last year.
Two Conservative MPs recently joined the Liberals, raising questions about party unity.
The United States has approved a $6.67 billion arms sale to Israel. This includes 30 Apache attack helicopters and infantry assault vehicles. The deal is part of the US's commitment to support Israel's defense capabilities.
Key Facts
The US approved $6.67 billion in military sales to Israel.
This includes $3.8 billion for 30 Apache attack helicopters.
An additional $1.98 billion is for infantry assault vehicles.
An extra $150 million will be spent on light utility helicopters.
Boeing and Lockheed Martin will supply the Apache helicopters.
Israeli forces have used Apache helicopters in Gaza and the West Bank.
The State Department says the sale supports US interests by strengthening Israel's defense.
The US regularly provides military aid to Israel, often as aid instead of sales.
The U.S. Senate approved a spending plan to avoid a government shutdown, but a short shutdown may still occur because the House of Representatives can't vote on it until after the deadline. The shutdown is partly due to disagreements on immigration policies and recent incidents involving immigration enforcement.
Key Facts
The Senate passed the spending package with a vote of 71 to 29.
The House of Representatives is out of session until Monday, delaying further action.
The shutdown will begin on Saturday but could be resolved next week.
Immigration policies and recent incidents in Minneapolis sparked Democratic opposition.
Two U.S. citizens were killed by federal agents in Minneapolis, causing controversy.
The Senate package separates Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding for further negotiation.
DHS funding is extended for two weeks to allow time for talks on policy changes.
Democrats want to limit aggressive immigration enforcement methods.
A new documentary about Melania Trump, titled "Melania: 20 Days to History," offers a look into her life leading up to President Trump's 2025 inauguration. Co-produced by Melania Trump, the film mostly shows her traveling, attending events, and spending time with her close friends. It also touches on personal topics, like her mother's death.
Key Facts
The documentary is called "Melania: 20 Days to History."
Melania Trump co-produced the film with director Brett Ratner.
The film shows Melania's activities before President Trump's January 2025 inauguration.
It has drawn attention and criticism regarding its timing and funding.
Much of the film features Melania in transit or at public events.
Melania opens up about her grief over her mother's death in January 2024.
The documentary includes some personal insights into Melania's life, such as her favorite music.
Amazon MGM Studios distributed the documentary across US cinemas.
Young people, known as Gen Z, are finding themselves increasingly lonely, with some turning to AI chatbots like ChatGPT for companionship. A report highlights that many in this age group in England find it easier to talk to AI than to humans, especially after the isolation experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. A documentary titled "Generation Lonely" explores this issue, indicating AI might not be a long-term solution to loneliness.
Key Facts
Gen Z includes people born between 1997 and 2012.
Many young people from Gen Z feel lonely, especially after Covid-19 lockdowns.
A study found 33% of Brits aged 16-29 feel lonely often or some of the time.
In England, 39% of young people aged 11-18 use chatbots for advice and support.
21% of young people in the North West of England find it easier to talk to AI than to people.
In the documentary "Generation Lonely," 23-year-old Paisley shared his reliance on AI chatbots due to loneliness.
Experts like Adam Farricker highlight the importance of having trusted human adults for support, rather than relying solely on AI.
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 will start on February 7, with matches held in India and Sri Lanka. Twenty teams will compete across eight stadiums to win the cricket title. Key matches include the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Key Facts
The T20 World Cup begins on February 7, 2026.
Matches will be played in five stadiums in India and three in Sri Lanka.
Twenty cricket teams are competing for the title.
The Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest stadium involved, hosting seven matches, including the final.
Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host the most matches in India, including a semifinal.
Eden Gardens in Kolkata will host seven matches and possibly the first semifinal.
Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi will host some key matches, including one featuring the Indian team.
The tournament includes iconic venues known for hosting previous major cricket events.
The article provides tips on how to avoid extra costs when flying with budget airlines. It highlights strategies like packing efficiently, using clothing with large pockets, and understanding luggage rules to minimize additional fees.
Key Facts
easyJet was recently criticized for misleading claims about low carry-on bag fees.
Many budget airlines charge low ticket prices but make money through extra fees for luggage and seat selection.
Travelers are advised to pack light, share luggage, or use bags that comply with airline size rules to avoid fees.
Airlines tend to charge more for adding luggage at the airport or closer to the departure date.
Travelers should check the specific luggage size rules of each airline.
Some travel hacks include using clothes with large pockets or bags with removable wheels to save on baggage costs.
Sarah Taylor, a fan of the Netflix show Bridgerton, was surprised with an invitation to the season four premiere in Paris. She thought she was attending a work-related first aid course, but it turned into a Regency-era ball arranged by Netflix as a promotional event. Taylor and her friend Hannah Hardy, who nominated her for the surprise, enjoyed attending the premiere and meeting the cast.
Key Facts
Sarah Taylor, a Bridgerton fan, thought she was going to a first aid course but was surprised with a ball event as part of a Netflix promotion.
Netflix organized this surprise as part of their promotion for Bridgerton's fourth season.
Taylor was invited to the season four premiere of Bridgerton in Paris.
Taylor's friend Hannah Hardy nominated her for this surprise because she felt Taylor deserved it for her kindness.
Local businesses in Newark, including a bakery and town council, helped plan the event.
The event included Regency-era costumes and decorations to match the show's theme.
Taylor's experience was filmed and shared on Netflix's social media.
The UK's tax authority has extended phone and webchat services as the deadline for filing the 2024-25 tax returns approaches. Those who fail to file by the end of January 31 face automatic fines and further penalties. Millions have already submitted their returns, but there is concern about those who leave it to the last minute.
Key Facts
The deadline for the 2024-25 tax returns is January 31.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has opened phone lines and expanded digital support to help last-minute filers.
Those who miss the deadline face a £100 fine, with additional penalties possible.
Over 10 million returns have been filed, but many are expected to file on the last day.
People with more than one source of income, like self-employment or property letting, must file a return.
As of now, people earning over £150,000 are exempt if they didn't need to file for other reasons.
Some taxpayers could miss out on tax relief for pensions or other schemes if they don't file correctly.
Penalties for late filing can increase over time and may include additional charges and interest.
Taxpayers should be cautious of scams from fraudsters pretending to be HMRC officials.
Many parents want smartphones banned in schools, but worry about tracking their children. Schools in England have varying phone policies, and a potential legal ban is being discussed. The government aims to create more consistent rules about phone use in schools.
Key Facts
Some parents support bans on smartphones in schools for new students.
A school's ban means students can only use basic phones that allow calls and texts.
The House of Lords will discuss a bill to legally ban smartphones in schools.
The government has suggested schools should not allow phones by default.
Most English schools already limit phone use during school hours.
Teachers say enforcing phone-free policies is hard without legal backing.
Research shows banning phones during school doesn't always stop usage.
Students say they prefer having their phones for emergencies even if they can't use them in school.
More than three million documents about the late Jeffrey Epstein have been released by the U.S. Department of Justice. These documents include emails linking Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to Epstein and suggest a meeting was arranged with a Russian woman. Other names mentioned in the documents include Peter Mandelson, Bill Gates, and President Donald Trump, though many of the allegations are unverified.
Key Facts
Over three million documents related to Jeffrey Epstein have been released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
An email from 2010 suggests Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor invited Epstein to Buckingham Palace after Epstein was released from house arrest.
"The Duke" email account, linked to Mountbatten-Windsor, discussed arranging a meeting with a 26-year-old Russian woman.
Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing and has not responded to these latest revelations.
Peter Mandelson's partner received bank transfers from Epstein in 2009, with Mandelson expressing regret over their past friendship.
Bill Gates was mentioned in the documents, but his spokesperson denied the claims as false.
President Trump's name appears again, with unverified allegations, which the White House has dismissed.
The Financial Times reports President Trump will appoint Kevin Warsh as the new Federal Reserve chair.
A coyote named Floyd swam to Alcatraz Island, sparking interest and monitoring from scientists. His presence is significant because it's the first documented coyote sighting on Alcatraz since it became a national park in 1972. Floyd's stay depends on his impact on the seabird population and whether he can find enough food and water.
Key Facts
Floyd is a coyote who swam over a mile to Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay.
Scientists are monitoring Floyd because his presence could affect the island's bird population.
Alcatraz Island has no natural sources of fresh water, which could affect Floyd's ability to survive long-term.
Floyd is the first recorded coyote on Alcatraz since it became part of the National Park Service in 1972.
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area confirmed Floyd's presence after observing him on the island.
Alcatraz Island is known for its closed federal prison and status as a seabird sanctuary.
Local experts believe Floyd may have left the mainland due to increased population pressures from other coyotes.
More than 200 people died in a mine collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, near Goma city. The collapse, which occurred during the rainy season, affected miners, children, and market women, some of whom were rescued but injured. Authorities and local miners report that people may still be trapped underground.
Key Facts
Over 200 people died in a mine collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine in DRC.
The mine is located near Goma city in the North Kivu province.
The collapse happened on Wednesday during the rainy season.
Injured people were taken to local health facilities for treatment.
The mine produces 15% of the world's coltan, used in electronics.
The area is controlled by the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda.
M23 rebels have been accused of using resources from the mine to fund their rebellion.
Despite DRC's rich mineral resources, over 70% of the population lives in poverty.
Harry Styles announced a world tour that includes only seven cities, with multiple shows in a few places like London, Amsterdam, and New York. This approach reflects a growing trend where artists play more shows in fewer locations due to high costs and logistics. Some fans face high costs for travel and accommodation to attend his concerts.
Key Facts
Harry Styles' 2026 "world tour" includes performances in only seven cities.
He plans to perform 67 shows, with extended stays in cities like London, Amsterdam, and New York.
Styles will perform 30 shows in New York City and 12 in London.
This trend of performing in fewer cities is partly due to the rising cost of tour production.
Artists like Beyonce and Coldplay have also chosen to perform many shows in fewer locations.
High travel and accommodation costs impact fans, some of whom choose to return home right after concerts.
The cost and logistics of moving large concert productions are major factors in this approach.
A statue of Seve Ballesteros, a famous golfer, was stolen and found in pieces in Santander, Spain. Police arrested a man suspected of trying to sell the statue's bronze for money.
Key Facts
The statue of golfer Seve Ballesteros was found chopped up in Santander, northern Spain.
It was valued at around 30,000 euros, but it means a lot to the local community and fans.
Police found the statue cut in half, with the arms broken, while investigating metal trading centres.
A 22-year-old man with a history of copper theft was arrested.
The statue weighed 100 kg and showed Ballesteros celebrating his 1984 British Open win.
It was created by sculptor Salvador Garcia Ceballos in 2009 and installed in Pedrena in 2017.
Ballesteros was a well-known golfer who died in 2011 at the age of 54.
The Recording Academy has split the Grammy Award for best country album into two categories: best traditional country album and best contemporary country album. This decision came after Beyoncé won the country album category at the 2025 Grammy Awards, prompting discussions about the genre's evolution. The shift aims to honor both traditional country music and its modern influences from genres like pop and hip-hop.
Key Facts
The Grammy Award for best country album is now split into two: traditional and contemporary.
Beyoncé won the 2025 Grammy for best country album, which sparked widespread surprise and discussion.
The Recording Academy says the new categories recognize both country music's roots and its modern influences.
Modern sounds in country music include pop, rap, and hip-hop elements.
The change has been seen by some as a reaction to Beyoncé's win, though it was reportedly considered for years.
Previous Grammy changes include creating new awards and modifying existing ones to keep up with music trends.
The decision is part of a broader pattern of updating Grammy categories to reflect evolving music styles.
A London court ruled that Saudi Arabia is responsible for hacking and assaulting Ghanem al-Masarir, a YouTuber known for criticizing the Saudi royal family. Al-Masarir's phones were hacked using spyware, and he was attacked in London by individuals linked to the Saudi government. The court ordered Saudi Arabia to pay over £3 million in compensation.
Key Facts
Ghanem al-Masarir is a YouTuber who criticized the Saudi Arabian royal family.
In 2018, his iPhones were hacked with the Pegasus spyware.
The spyware allowed access to his location, camera, microphone, and personal data.
Al-Masarir was harassed and beaten in London in August 2018 by men linked to Saudi Arabia.
A London court ruled that the attack and hacking were directed by Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia was ordered to pay al-Masarir more than £3 million as compensation.
Al-Masarir received threatening messages and was harassed even after the attack.
He is a British citizen living in London and has been in the UK for over 20 years.
Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman indicated in a private meeting that if President Trump does not act on his threats against Iran, the country could become more powerful. This contrasts with previous Saudi public warnings against escalating tensions. Despite increased U.S. military presence, there are no substantial ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran.
Key Facts
Prince Khalid bin Salman privately urged for action against Iran, stating inaction could strengthen it.
His statement differs from previous Saudi advice to avoid escalating conflicts.
The U.S. has increased its military forces in the Gulf, but President Trump has not finalized a decision on a strike.
There are no meaningful negotiations happening between the U.S. and Iran.
Saudi Arabia publicly expressed a preference for diplomacy and respect for Iran's sovereignty.
Prince Khalid's meeting in Washington included high-level officials and focused on potential U.S. military action.
Saudi Arabia previously advised against U.S. military strikes on Iran.
In a recent meeting, Prince Khalid rejected the notion that Saudi Arabia is distancing itself from Israel.
