Newsweek shared a story about pets in their "Pet of the Week" feature, highlighting a dog named Riley Riot who is known for escaping from various enclosures. Other finalists included a cat named Pavi, a protective dog named Max, and a pair of cats, Casper and Cosmo, who were adopted from a shelter. The feature encourages readers to submit pictures and stories of their own pets for next week's lineup.
Key Facts
Riley Riot, a dog known for escaping any confinement, won Newsweek's "Pet of the Week."
Riley could escape from crates, harnesses, and even car windows.
Pavi, a cat adopted from PetSmart, charmed his owner Justin Johnson at first sight.
Max, a dog described as a "guardian angel," offers comfort and protection to owner Deon Ortiz.
Cats Casper and Cosmo were adopted from a shelter after being returned due to shyness.
Newsweek invites readers to submit their own pet stories for a chance to be featured.
Four people went to the hospital after a protest outside the Iranian embassy in London. The protest was linked to anti-government demonstrations in Iran. Some protesters were arrested, and the police imposed measures to control the situation.
Key Facts
Four people were taken to the hospital after a protest at the Iranian embassy in London.
Some protesters were arrested, including one who climbed onto the embassy roof.
Police officers were injured by objects thrown at them during the protest.
The protest was related to ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Iran, where over 2,600 protesters have reportedly died.
A protester was arrested for removing a flag and charges of damage and assault on police.
The police issued a dispersal order to manage the disorder at the site.
A significant police presence remains to prevent further incidents.
The Iranian ambassador in London was recently summoned regarding the situation in Iran.
The mayor of Yokohama, Japan, Takeharu Yamanaka, apologized for calling his staff offensive names like "human scum." He initially denied the accusations but later admitted to some during a news conference. An investigation may occur due to these allegations.
Key Facts
Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka is accused of making offensive remarks about his staff.
The accusations include words like "idiot" and "human scum."
A top human resource official, Jun Kubota, publicly accused Yamanaka and demanded an apology.
Yamanaka initially denied the claims but later admitted to some and apologized.
The mayor denied making other comments, such as insulting staff's appearance.
An investigation might take place, possibly led by the deputy mayor.
Jun Kubota insists Yamanaka hasn't fully admitted to all allegations.
Two parents who work in science are using specific methods to help their two-year-old daughter develop strong thinking skills. They encourage her to explain her thoughts, struggle with problems a bit before getting help, and learn from their own mistakes. They want to ensure she can think independently, especially in a world where artificial intelligence is common.
Key Facts
Upasna Gautam and Dr. Christopher Menges are the parents from Texas actively applying techniques to help their toddler's brain development.
Their methods include encouraging their daughter to explain her thinking and letting her solve problems on her own before intervening.
They avoid completing their daughter's sentences to promote independent thinking.
These practices are based on research from developmental psychology and pediatric expert advice.
Gautam emphasized that these techniques do not require special skills and can be done without special tools or extra time.
They believe it is essential for their daughter to develop the ability to think on her own as AI becomes more prevalent.
An educational psychologist supported their approach, saying it helps kids learn to think, not just compete with machines.
Prince William hired Liza Ravenscroft, a crisis management expert, to help the royal family handle potential issues. This comes amid challenges such as declining support for the monarchy among young people and past scandals involving Prince Andrew. Liza Ravenscroft's experience is seen as valuable for navigating these situations.
Key Facts
Prince William has added a crisis management expert, Liza Ravenscroft, to his communications team.
Liza Ravenscroft previously worked at Edelman, a public relations agency, specializing in crisis and risk management.
There is declining support for the British monarchy, particularly among younger people aged 16 to 24.
A survey showed that 67% of young people preferred an elected head of state over a monarchy.
Prince Andrew's past ties with Jeffrey Epstein and related allegations have been a significant issue for the monarchy.
To reduce backlash, King Charles III stripped Prince Andrew of his royal titles.
Prince Harry is seeking to reinstate his protective security detail for visits to the UK, which might increase his family’s presence there.
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has projected that Lake Mead's water level will drop to 1,036.5 feet by the end of November 2027. This prediction comes as Western U.S. states work on new plans for managing water from the Colorado River, which supplies water to millions of people and acres of farmland.
Key Facts
Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the United States.
It is part of the Colorado River system, which supports over 5 million acres of farmland and supplies water to 40 million people in the Western U.S.
The Bureau of Reclamation predicts Lake Mead's water level will fall to 1,036.5 feet by November 2027.
This level would be lower than any recorded at the end of a month in 2022.
Poor snowpack and dry soil are contributing factors to the low water supply forecasts for the Colorado River.
Federal officials are considering new plans for managing the Colorado River's resources as current agreements approach their 2026 expiration.
As of the latest data, Lake Mead is 33 percent full, with around 8.7 million acre-feet of water in storage.
A fan at the Africa Cup of Nations stood still for the entire game to honor Patrice Lumumba, the first prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Lumumba is remembered for leading the country's fight for independence and losing his life because of it.
Key Facts
A Congolese fan stood for 90 minutes during an Africa Cup of Nations game.
The fan's gesture was to honor Patrice Lumumba.
Lumumba was the first prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
He is known for his role in the country's independence movement.
Patrice Lumumba lost his life because of his fight for independence.
The gesture highlights the continuing impact of colonial history and Lumumba's legacy.
An Indonesia Air Transport plane disappeared from radar while flying in South Sulawesi. A search and rescue operation is underway to locate the aircraft and its 11 people on board. Authorities are focusing their search near the Leang-Leang area in Maros.
Key Facts
An Indonesia Air Transport plane went missing from radar in South Sulawesi.
The plane, an ATR 42-500, was traveling from Yogyakarta to Makassar.
Basarnas, the Indonesian search and rescue agency, is leading the search.
There are 11 people on board, including eight crew members and three passengers.
The last communication from the plane was at 1:17 p.m. local time.
Search efforts are focused around Leang-Leang area in Maros Regency.
Unverified social media footage suggests possible debris at Mount Bulusaraung.
The situation is developing, and more updates are expected.
More than 100 people have died due to heavy rains and flooding across Southern Africa. South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe are the most affected, with thousands of homes destroyed and communities cut off. Further severe weather is expected, and rescue efforts are ongoing.
Key Facts
Heavy rain has caused floods that killed over 100 people in Southern Africa.
South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe are the hardest-hit countries.
The Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces in South Africa reported at least 30 deaths.
In South Africa, army helicopters are rescuing people from rooftops and trees.
Zimbabwe has reported at least 70 deaths and over 1,000 homes destroyed.
In Mozambique, 103 people have died, and more than 200,000 are affected.
Flooding in Mozambique has worsened food shortages by damaging crops.
The La Nina weather pattern may be causing heavier rain in the region.
Health officials in Berkeley, California, have issued a warning about an outbreak of leptospirosis, a bacterial disease spread by rats, in a homeless area. The bacteria pose a particular threat to dogs and can spread through contaminated water or soil. Officials have advised pet owners to vaccinate their animals and avoid potentially contaminated areas.
Key Facts
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease often transmitted by rat urine.
The outbreak in Berkeley impacts both homeless encampments and local dogs.
No human cases reported so far, but both animals and people are at risk.
The bacteria thrive in warm weather and stagnant water after heavy rain.
Dogs are at higher risk as they do not avoid puddles like humans do.
The affected area is labeled a 'red zone,' and residents are encouraged to relocate.
Vaccinations for dogs and free-roaming cats are strongly advised.
Symptoms in humans include flu-like signs, and infected dogs might vomit or urinate abnormally.
Becky Phillips, a first-time homebuyer from the U.K., purchased a retro-style house with 1970s decor. She shares her enthusiasm for the home's unique character and has received widespread attention on TikTok for showcasing its distinctive features. Phillips plans to retain the original charm while making some necessary updates.
Key Facts
Becky Phillips is a first-time homebuyer who recently purchased a house with 1970s decor.
The home is known for its bold colors, patterns, and unique features like saloon doors and a serving hatch.
Phillips documented her home journey on TikTok, gaining over 626,000 views and 47,500 likes.
The kitchen is her favorite room, noted for its retro style and well-preserved appliances.
Some updates are needed, like replacing ceiling tiles and carpets for safety reasons.
Phillips intends to keep the home's original personality and charm while making it her own.
She encourages others to personalize their homes, emphasizing that decor can be fun and expressive.
The article is a personal story by a woman named Joanna, who gave her baby up for adoption as a teenager. Years later, her birth son contacted her, calling her "Mom" for the first time. The story explores her journey from feeling unworthy of being a mother to learning to embrace that role.
Key Facts
Joanna had her first child as a teenager and placed the baby for adoption.
She struggled with feelings of unworthiness in her role as a mother after the adoption.
Joanna later had two daughters and continued to grapple with motherhood.
Her birth son reached out to her later in life, calling her "Mom," which was significant to her.
Joanna's birth son came out as transgender, and she learned to support him and her daughters.
Despite initial struggles, Joanna worked to become a more present mother and role model.
A former U.K. lawmaker claims that the Iranian government may have used toxic chemicals against protesters. These anti-government protests began due to economic grievances and opposition to the country's leadership. No confirmed cases of banned chemical weapons have been verified yet.
Key Facts
A former U.K. lawmaker suggested Iran might have used toxic chemicals on protesters.
Iranian protests started due to economic issues and opposition to religious leadership.
The report claims the chemical use might have led to some protestors dying days later.
Iran is a signatory to the Chemical Weapons Convention, which bans such chemical weapon use.
If true, these actions could have severe legal and political consequences for Iran.
No verified use of prohibited chemical agents in these protests has been confirmed.
Over 3,000 deaths related to the protests have been reported by a U.S.-based organization.
A winter storm is affecting Wisconsin, Michigan, and Alaska, leading the National Weather Service to issue warnings. The warnings highlight that heavy snow and low visibility are expected, making travel unsafe in these areas. Residents are advised to stay off the roads due to hazardous conditions.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for Wisconsin, Michigan, and Alaska.
In Wisconsin, areas such as Bayfield and Douglas Counties could see up to 4 more inches of snow, with warnings lasting until 6 p.m. CST.
Slippery roads and possible power outages are concerns in Wisconsin.
In Michigan, Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties have warnings in place until 7 p.m. EST, with up to 6 inches of snow expected.
The heaviest snow in Michigan is predicted near Lake Superior's higher terrain.
In Alaska, 5 to 10 inches of snow is expected, with winds reaching 40 mph.
Alaska's storm warnings are in effect until 3 a.m. AKST, affecting areas like the Lower Koyukuk Valley.
A winter storm warning means severe winter conditions are expected, and travel could become dangerous.
A high school teacher named Dylan Wade lets his students choose his haircut each year to better connect with them. This tradition has made him popular online, with his haircuts becoming more creative and wild over the years. He believes this approach helps make the classroom fun and less stressful for students.
Key Facts
Dylan Wade is a 29-year-old high school teacher.
He started letting students choose his haircut four years ago.
The haircuts have included a mohawk, zigzag designs, and other creative styles.
Wade's tradition began while he was still in teacher training.
His rules for the haircuts include no hair dye, nothing offensive, and no changes to his eyebrows.
The idea has gone viral, with his video receiving nearly 6 million views on TikTok.
He uses this tradition to create a fun and supportive classroom environment.
Wade's experience in high school inspired him to become a teacher who builds inclusive relationships.
Robert Jenrick, a known Conservative figure, has left the UK Conservative Party to join Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. Some Conservatives accuse him of dishonesty, while Jenrick asserts he made his decision to switch parties based on current political beliefs. This move highlights tensions between the Conservative Party and Reform UK.
Key Facts
Robert Jenrick, a known figure in the UK Conservative Party, has left to join Reform UK.
He was dismissed from the Conservative Party before announcing his defection.
Jenrick claims he decided to leave the Conservative Party after Christmas.
Some Conservatives feel betrayed, accusing Jenrick of lying about his intentions.
Jenrick appeared publicly with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, confirming his switch.
The move has caused significant discussions about trust and political strategy.
Jenrick has expressed the need for clearer positions on policies within Reform UK.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, disagrees with Robert Jenrick's claim that Britain is broken. After being dismissed from his position, Jenrick joined the Reform UK party, criticizing the Conservative government for its handling of immigration. Badenoch argues the Conservative Party is stronger without Jenrick and claims that Reform UK will not succeed.
Key Facts
Kemi Badenoch is the leader of the UK's Conservative Party.
Robert Jenrick was dismissed from his ministerial position and then joined Reform UK.
Jenrick criticized the Conservative government for not effectively handling rising immigration.
Badenoch insisted that Britain is not broken and that the country still holds global influence.
She believes the Conservatives are best suited to solve the UK's problems.
Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, praised Jenrick for resigning on principle.
Badenoch claims Jenrick's criticisms stem from ambition, not principles.
A toddler named Cecilia, who lives in Louisiana, has a rare genetic condition called CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), which causes her to have developmental delays and experience extreme sleeping patterns, including sleeping for 24 hours straight. Her adoptive mother, Melinda Collier, explains how the condition affects Cecilia’s daily life, development, and the family's coping strategies.
Key Facts
Cecilia has a condition called CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) that affects development and sleep.
CDD can cause seizures, developmental delays, and sleep disturbances.
The disorder affects about 1 in 40,000 to 60,000 live births.
Cecilia sleeps for 24 hours straight, about four times a month, and then stays awake for 24 hours.
She has been seizure-free since May 2025 but still faces other challenges.
During her 24-hour naps, she might wake briefly but needs to be fed and changed.
Cecilia’s development is similar to that of a 7-month-old, even though she is 22 months old.
Her family supports her needs with patience, adapting to her unique sleep and activity patterns.
Justice Secretary David Lammy stopped Jake Fahri, the person convicted of killing Jimmy Mizen, from moving to an open prison. Fahri made music under a pseudonym, referencing the murder, which led to concerns about public safety. Lammy's decision was about ensuring protection for the public.
Key Facts
Jake Fahri was sentenced to life in prison in 2009 for killing Jimmy Mizen.
Fahri was released on licence in 2023 but was recalled to prison after making music that referenced the murder.
Justice Secretary David Lammy blocked Fahri's transfer to an open prison for public safety reasons.
Fahri admitted to being the artist known as TEN, who released the music.
The Parole Board had recommended this transfer, saying he could reflect on his actions in an open prison.
Myanmar's military-supported party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), is leading in the ongoing general election, having secured a significant number of seats in the first two rounds of voting. The election takes place amid conflicts and allegations of unfairness. The final voting round is scheduled for January 25, with the announcement of final results expected by late January.
Key Facts
The USDP is on track to win 182 seats, which is more than half of the 330-seat lower house.
The election is happening in three phases due to conflicts in Myanmar, with the first two phases completed.
The USDP won 86 out of 100 seats available in the second phase of voting.
The final voting phase is set for January 25, and some areas are not participating because of ongoing fighting.
Critics argue the election is not free or fair, claiming it seeks to legitimize military power after it seized control in 2021.
More than 4,800 candidates from 57 political parties are competing in the election.
The election occurs as Myanmar faces accusations of genocide against the Rohingya people at the International Court of Justice.
A new law imposes penalties for public criticism of the election, resulting in charges against over 330 people.
