A couple from Ohio started recording a video message each New Year’s Eve since they got married in 2014, to watch a decade later with their future family. Their original 2014 video, watched with their four children in 2024, went viral, gaining millions of views online. The couple has continued this tradition, which studies show can improve family closeness and holiday enjoyment.
Key Facts
Sarah Sutter and her husband started a tradition of making video messages every New Year’s Eve since their marriage in 2014.
They watch these videos 10 years later to see how their family has changed.
The video from 2014 was watched with their four children in 2024 and went viral, with 3.4 million views on Instagram.
The couple, initially without children, now has five and several farm animals.
Studies show family traditions can strengthen family bonds and make holidays more enjoyable.
Followers on social media responded positively to the idea, with over 103,000 likes on the video.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called a missile strike on Kharkiv a "heinous" attack by Russia. Two missiles hit the city center, injuring at least 16 people. Zelensky emphasized that Russia continues the war despite international peace efforts.
Key Facts
The missile strike took place in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city.
At least 16 people were reported injured from the attack.
Ukrainian President Zelensky described the attack as "heinous."
Zelensky criticized Russia for prolonging the war.
The attack happened during peace talks led by the United States.
Zelensky communicated about the event on a social media platform called X.
He stressed that Russia seems unwilling to end the war.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Photos of Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, appearing with him at a significant North Korean site have sparked rumors about her role as a possible future leader. Her public appearances with Kim on several important occasions suggest she might be groomed as his successor, continuing the Kim family dynasty. The discussion around North Korea's leadership succession is ongoing and includes other potential contenders like Kim's sister, Kim Yo Jong.
Key Facts
North Korean state media released photos of Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun.
Kim Ju Ae first appeared publicly in 2022 and has since joined her father on various high-profile occasions.
Speculation about her role as a potential successor has increased due to her frequent public appearances with Kim.
Kim Ju Ae is believed to be in her early teens.
The visit to the mausoleum included paying respects to past leaders of North Korea's ruling family.
The appearance suggests a focus on family image and stability within the Kim dynasty.
There is ongoing speculation about North Korea's line of succession, including figures like Kim Yo Jong.
Kim Ju Ae’s name was revealed by Dennis Rodman and later confirmed by South Korean intelligence.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in central London now have to pay a congestion charge. The change took effect on January 2, 2024, and EV drivers can receive a discount if they use Auto Pay. The congestion charge for regular vehicles also increased from £15 to £18.
Key Facts
EV drivers in central London must now pay a congestion charge.
The change began on January 2, 2024.
Regular vehicles have seen an increase in the congestion charge from £15 to £18.
EVs can get a 25% discount on the fee if registered for Auto Pay, reducing the charge to £13.50 a day.
Electric vans and similar vehicles can receive a 50% discount with Auto Pay registration.
The congestion charge applies between 07:00 and 18:00 on weekdays and between 12:00 and 18:00 on weekends and bank holidays.
The discount rates for EVs are set to decrease further in 2030.
By 2027, new applicants will get a 90% residents' discount only if they drive EVs.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Israel's foreign ministry criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for revoking the city’s adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. The move drew backlash from various groups, although some praised Mamdani for keeping measures to combat antisemitism in place.
Key Facts
Israel condemned Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s decision to revoke the IHRA definition of antisemitism on his first day in office.
The IHRA definition describes antisemitism as a perception of Jews that may manifest as hate.
Mamdani faced criticism during his campaign for his views on Israel and support for the Palestinian cause.
Rabbi Chanina Sperlin praised Mamdani for maintaining the Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism.
Mamdani stated that addressing antisemitism is a serious commitment for his administration.
Mamdani took office after former Mayor Eric Adams was indicted and his corruption case dismissed.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Investigators are working to identify the victims and determine the cause of a fire at a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which occurred on New Year's Eve 2026. The fire resulted in about 40 deaths and injured approximately 115 people. Efforts to identify those affected are ongoing, with officials using dental and DNA samples due to the severity of some injuries.
Key Facts
The fire happened at a bar in Crans-Montana, a town in the Swiss Alps, during a New Year's Eve party.
Approximately 40 people died, and about 115 others were injured.
The process of identifying victims is challenging because some bodies are severely burned.
Swiss officials are using dental records and DNA samples for identification.
Witnesses described scenes of panic with people trying to escape the fire.
The exact number of people present when the fire started is still unclear.
Italy reports 47 deaths, and both Italy and France have nationals among the missing.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin stated the fire was a significant disaster and has ordered national mourning.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The National Weather Service issued a weather alert for Lake Mead and nearby areas due to dense fog, which could make driving conditions dangerous. A wind advisory was also in place, warning of strong winds that could create hazardous boating conditions.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a weather alert for Lake Mead and surrounding areas.
Dense fog is expected, reducing visibility to a quarter mile or less.
The foggy conditions may lead to dangerous driving situations.
The NWS advises drivers to slow down, use headlights, and keep extra distance between vehicles.
Cities affected by the alert include Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, and more.
A wind advisory was also issued, forecasting north winds of 15 to 25 miles per hour with gusts up to 45 miles per hour.
Boating conditions on lakes like Lake Mead and Lake Havasu are expected to be hazardous due to waves and wind.
Calmer weather conditions are expected to return after Monday.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
U.S. citizens are now banned from entering Mali and Burkina Faso after these countries enacted reciprocal travel restrictions against the United States. This action follows President Donald Trump's inclusion of these nations in a list of countries with travel bans to the U.S. The bans from Mali and Burkina Faso took effect immediately.
Key Facts
Mali and Burkina Faso have banned U.S. citizens from entering their countries.
The bans are in response to President Trump's ban on citizens from these two African countries entering the U.S.
The U.S. travel ban, expanded on December 16, includes Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria.
The travel bans from Mali and Burkina Faso are effective immediately.
The Trump administration's travel bans aim to address national security and counterterrorism goals.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are currently governed by military juntas.
The U.S. State Department advises Americans against traveling to these countries due to security concerns.
The bans by Trump administration came into effect on January 1, 2026.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Lily Phillips, a content creator on OnlyFans from the U.K., recently shared that she was baptized, aiming to renew her Christian faith. Her baptism video went viral, sparking widespread reactions on social media regarding the sincerity of her religious commitment and its impact on her adult entertainment career.
Key Facts
Lily Phillips is a 24-year-old OnlyFans creator from the U.K.
She was baptized on December 28, 2025, to renew her relationship with Christianity.
Phillips grew up in a Christian family and was baptized as a baby.
She shared her baptism video on Instagram, which received over 5.5 million views.
Phillips mentioned her adult career is now less of a priority as she focuses on other areas of life.
Social media users are divided on whether her baptism is genuine or a publicity stunt.
Phillips previously went viral for participating in a challenge where she slept with 101 men in one day.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The U.S. State Department has announced a new strategic focus for foreign aid in the Indo-Pacific region, competing with China for influence. Under President Trump's administration, U.S. aid will align with national interests and focus on strengthening alliances and security in the area. There are plans to collaborate with various countries on economic and security initiatives, including technology sharing and port infrastructure improvement.
Key Facts
The U.S. is focusing on foreign aid in the Indo-Pacific region to compete with China.
President Trump's administration paused billions in foreign aid prioritizing American interests.
New aid strategies are aligned with the U.S. National Security Strategy.
Key partnerships include initiatives with the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Palau, and Taiwan.
The U.S. is deploying artificial intelligence applications in Asia-Pacific economies.
The U.S. works on improving maritime security around Sri Lanka and infrastructure in Papua New Guinea.
Collaboration with Australia, Japan, and India aims to enhance port infrastructure.
Economic support extends to Pacific islands, benefiting U.S. fishing industries and employment.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Two cousins, Abdullah Nattat and Diaa Abu Nahl, from Gaza experienced life-changing injuries due to air strikes. Both lost their legs and Diaa additionally lost his wife and two young daughters in the attacks.
Key Facts
Abdullah Nattat, a performer in Gaza, lost both legs after an air strike in September.
He was injured while returning from a market during an Israeli military operation.
Abdullah's cousin, Diaa Abu Nahl, also lost one leg and sustained severe injuries to the other.
Diaa's wife and two daughters were killed in a July air strike on their family home.
Both cousins, once colleagues at wedding events, now share similar traumatic experiences.
Abdullah and Diaa's injuries require ongoing medical treatment and surgeries.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
NATO member Romania sent F-16 fighter jets to monitor its border with Ukraine after detecting Russian drones near the area. The Romanian Ministry of National Defence confirmed no NATO airspace was breached by the drones.
Key Facts
Romanian F-16 fighter jets were sent as a response to Russian drone activity.
The drones were launched toward Ukrainian ports close to Romania's border.
Romanian officials confirmed no violation of NATO airspace.
The alert involved using the RO-Alert system to inform people in northern Tulcea County.
The alert lasted from 11:50 a.m. to 12:22 p.m.
The proximity of the action raised regional security and NATO readiness concerns.
Under NATO's Article 5, an attack on one member could trigger a collective response.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A Disney employee was injured by a 400-pound fake boulder during a live performance at Walt Disney World. The incident happened at the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular show. The employee is recovering with support from the theme park.
Key Facts
A 400-pound prop boulder hit a Disney employee during a live show.
The incident took place at the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Walt Disney World.
Video footage shows the boulder rolling towards the audience.
The employee moved into the boulder's path to protect the audience.
Other workers quickly assisted the injured staff member.
The theme park stated that the injured employee is now recovering.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A new law in California will require tortillas and corn masa flour to have folic acid added starting January 1, 2026. This measure aims to reduce birth defects in Latino communities by increasing folic acid consumption among pregnant women. The law exempts small producers and sets a precedent as the first of its kind in the United States.
Key Facts
The law mandates folic acid addition to corn masa flour and tortillas sold in California.
It aims to reduce neural tube defects in infants, a condition that can affect the brain and spine.
The law specifically targets Latina women, who are less likely to consume enough folic acid.
Small producers, such as local restaurants making tortillas from scratch, are exempt from this requirement.
The law requires 0.7 milligrams of folic acid per pound in corn masa flour and 0.4 milligrams per pound in wet corn masa products.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that fortifying grains has previously reduced birth defects.
Some manufacturers, like Gruma, already fortify their products with folic acid.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed the law on September 28, 2024, following unanimous legislative approval.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
At least seven people died and many are missing after a boat with about 200 migrants trying to reach Europe capsized off The Gambia's coast. Ninety-six people were rescued, and search efforts continue for those still missing. The boat, which was heading to Spain's Canary Islands, was found stuck on a sandbank.
Key Facts
A boat carrying about 200 migrants capsized off The Gambia's coast.
At least seven people have died, and many others are missing.
The incident happened near Jinack village in the North Bank Region.
Ninety-six migrants have been rescued from the accident.
The Gambian Navy and local fishing boats are involved in search-and-rescue operations.
The boat was on its way to the Canary Islands, a common route for African migrants.
Over 47,000 people reached the Canary Islands in 2024, and more than 9,000 have died trying, according to estimates.
The identities of some victims are still being verified, as they are not all Gambian nationals.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
People trying to register as NHS dental patients at Lodge Causeway Dental Centre in Bristol complained they were told they must pay for a hygienist appointment before signing up. The practice admitted it offered the appointments but stated it was misunderstood as mandatory to register as NHS patients.
Key Facts
Lodge Causeway Dental Centre held open days in September and October for new NHS patients.
Patients claimed they were asked to pay £69 for a hygienist appointment to register.
A patient named Alice Worthington said she paid the fee despite not needing the appointment.
The dental practice reportedly saw 2,591 NHS patients but only conducted 108 hygienist appointments.
The practice said payments for hygienist appointments were automatically set up and apologized for the confusion.
NHS contracts do not allow refusal of NHS service if a patient declines additional paid services.
Some patients waited in line for hours without initially being informed of the potential fee.
The British Dental Association highlighted patients should not feel pressured to pay for extra services to access NHS care.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
President Trump has warned that the U.S. is prepared to respond if Iran uses force against protesters. Russia has become a main supplier of naphtha, a liquid used to export Venezuela's heavy oil, while Iran has been supplying drones. The U.S. is increasing efforts to limit these activities through sanctions and enforcement measures.
Key Facts
President Trump warned Iran that the U.S. is ready to act if they attack protesters.
A tanker with Russian naphtha entered Venezuelan waters, supplying vital material for their oil exports.
Russia is now a key provider of naphtha to Venezuela, replacing Iran as the main source.
The U.S. government has identified a connection between Iran and Venezuela for drone sales and assembly.
U.S. sanctions have impacted Venezuela’s oil exports, reducing them significantly as enforcement measures take hold.
Iran is reportedly offering weapons for sale in exchange for cryptocurrency, marking a new approach to arms sales.
The U.S. has increased sanctions on Iranian and Venezuelan vessels to disrupt their oil and drone trades.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
China recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Rocket Force, highlighting its missile capabilities that can reach any part of the world. The Rocket Force, part of China's military reforms, is central to deterring potential U.S. intervention, particularly over Taiwan. The Pentagon has noted China's military growth, including its naval and missile advancements, as significant.
Key Facts
China marked the 10th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force, created in 2015.
The Rocket Force is part of China's push to become a world-leading military power.
China's military modernization includes expanding its navy and missile systems.
The Rocket Force plays a strategic role in countering potential U.S. military actions, especially in the western Pacific.
The DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missile is reported to have a range of over 12,427 miles, indicating its global reach.
China's Rocket Force is designed to uphold national security through nuclear and conventional missile capabilities.
In August 2022, the Rocket Force conducted a missile drill around Taiwan after a high-profile visit by a U.S. official.
The Pentagon has expressed concerns about the growing threat from China's expanding military capabilities.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Lucy Campbell, a historian in Cape Town, South Africa, leads tours to share her perspective on the city's colonial history. She emphasizes the impact of colonialism on Indigenous populations and how these historical injustices continue to affect people today, particularly in terms of land ownership and social inequality. Campbell critiques city monuments and museums, arguing they often fail to fully represent the history of enslaved and Indigenous people.
Key Facts
Lucy Campbell is a 65-year-old activist and historian in Cape Town, South Africa.
She conducts tours that focus on the city's colonial history and its impact.
Campbell notably covers the Castle of Good Hope, a site symbolizing colonial violence.
The castle was built by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in the 17th century.
Campbell discusses the displacement of the Indigenous Khoi people by European settlers.
She highlights ongoing issues like land ownership inequalities that stem from colonial times.
Campbell criticizes monuments and museums for not fully acknowledging the history of the enslaved and Indigenous people.
Rights groups have raised concerns about the treatment of agricultural workers in South Africa, noting historical continuity in abuses.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
This week, the West Coast of the United States, including parts of California, Washington, and Oregon, is facing warnings of possible flooding due to high tides, known as king tides. The National Weather Service and local authorities have issued coastal flood warnings and advisories, recommending caution and preparation in affected areas.
Key Facts
King tides, which are unusually high tides, are expected to affect the West Coast.
Coastal flooding may impact California, Washington, and Oregon.
The National Weather Service has warned of potential flooding in low-lying areas.
Warnings are in place from Friday morning to Sunday afternoon.
Roads and properties in flood-prone areas could be affected.
Authorities advise not to drive through flooded roads.
Additional advisories are in place for specific coastal areas, including the San Francisco Bay.
The California Governor’s Office recommends safety precautions in affected areas.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
