Two charities in the South East of England received nearly £300,000 to help older residents facing financial difficulties. The funds aim to improve the financial situations and living conditions of older people, particularly those who rent homes privately in coastal areas.
Key Facts
The total funding awarded is approximately £300,000.
Citizens Advice Swale received £149,997 from Independent Age.
Age UK East Sussex received £150,000 from the same source.
The funding targets older residents in financial hardship, especially private renters in coastal communities.
Independent Age focuses on improving financial wellbeing and housing safety for elderly people.
Hannah Lison of Independent Age stated the funding will help continue and expand the charities' support efforts.
A California woman reunited her golden retriever, Kermit, with his mother and siblings for his first birthday. The gathering of the dog's family was shared on TikTok and quickly gained popularity online.
Key Facts
A woman named Mary Graham organized a birthday surprise for her golden retriever, Kermit, by reuniting him with his mother and siblings.
Mary Graham shared the reunion on TikTok, where the video gained tens of thousands of views.
Kermit turned one year old on January 17.
The puppy owners had been in contact since acquiring their dogs and remained connected through a Facebook group created by the breeder.
Despite scheduling challenges, a reunion was planned for Kermit's first birthday with all dogs and their owners meeting at a central location.
The dogs, including Kermit's mom, recognized each other and spent two hours playing together.
This reunion was the first for the breeder to witness a full litter reunion.
The video of the event attracted widespread engagement on TikTok, with many users commenting on the joyful scene.
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani told New Yorkers to stay home due to heavy snow and suggested passing the time with activities like reading. Mamdani shared how the city prepared for the storm, including converting sanitation trucks into snow plows and holding remote classes for students. His approach received mixed reactions online, with some people praising his communication style and others questioning his visibility during the storm.
Key Facts
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani advised New Yorkers to stay indoors during a snowstorm.
Mamdani encouraged reading through the public library during the storm.
The mayor discussed converting sanitation trucks into snow plows.
All school classes were set to be held remotely due to the storm.
Mamdani posted a video that showed him talking about storm preparations.
Online reactions included praise for his clear and engaging communication.
Some people saw his storm response as effective, while others criticized his lack of visibility.
A post defending Mamdani's efforts received over 46,000 likes on social media.
Episode 3 of "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" Season 1 will be available on HBO and HBO Max on February 1, 2026. New episodes come out every Sunday until February 22, 2026, and viewers need an HBO Max subscription to watch.
Key Facts
Episode 3 airs on February 1, 2026, on HBO and HBO Max.
An HBO Max subscription is required to watch the series.
The series airs new episodes every Sunday until February 22, 2026.
Basic HBO Max subscription costs $10.99 per month or $109.99 annually.
A no-ads HBO Max subscription is $18.99 per month or $184.99 annually.
Episode 3 will be available on HBO Max at 10 pm ET/PT.
Episode runtimes are between 42 and 33 minutes.
The series is set 100 years before "Game of Thrones" and follows Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle challenged President Trump after he made comments about NATO's role in the Afghanistan War. Trump later praised the UK's military efforts in the conflict. This incident comes amid ongoing visa-related discussions about Prince Harry's residency in the United States.
Key Facts
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle responded to President Trump's comments on NATO’s involvement in the Afghanistan War.
Trump suggested European NATO forces, including Britain's, were less active on the front lines.
Prince Harry, who served in Afghanistan, highlighted the sacrifices of British military personnel, mentioning 457 soldiers who died.
Meghan supported Harry’s response with an Instagram post about his military service.
Trump later acknowledged the bravery of UK soldiers, referencing their casualties in Afghanistan.
Prince Harry's immigration status in the U.S. has been under scrutiny due to past drug use mentioned in his autobiography.
The Heritage Foundation attempted to access Harry’s immigration records, claiming public interest.
A judge ruled to protect Harry’s privacy, siding with the government's argument over the Freedom of Information Act case.
A mayor in the southern Philippines survived an attack when his armored vehicle was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade. The attack happened in Shariff Aguak, an area known for political violence. Three suspects were killed in a shootout with police and the army.
Key Facts
The attack occurred in the town of Shariff Aguak in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Philippines.
The mayor, Akmad Ampatuan, survived when the rocket hit his armored car.
This was the fourth attempt on Ampatuan's life since 2014.
The suspects fled the scene but were later involved in a shootout with authorities, resulting in the deaths of three of them.
The leader of the attack was identified as Budtong "Rap-Rap" Pendatun, who had three outstanding arrest warrants.
The attack happened in an area classified as an election hotspot due to its history of violence.
Two security personnel of the mayor suffered minor injuries.
The police and military are investigating if there were security failures.
Israel plans to reopen the Gaza Strip's Rafah crossing with Egypt after searching for the body of the last Israeli hostage taken by Hamas. A military operation is underway in Gaza to locate the remains of police officer Master Sgt. Ran Gvili. The crossing will open once this search is complete, as part of the ongoing peace efforts mediated by the U.S.
Key Facts
Israel has agreed to reopen the Rafah crossing with Egypt, linked to retrieving the body of an Israeli hostage.
The Rafah crossing has remained mostly closed since May 2024.
The search for Master Sgt. Ran Gvili's body is taking place in northern Gaza.
The operation includes specialized units like rabbis and dental experts with mobile X-ray machines.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced a limited reopening for pedestrian passage, pending a full Israeli inspection.
Hamas has provided information on the possible location of Gvili's body.
The move to reopen the crossing is part of President Trump's peace plan for Gaza.
The plan involves a ceasefire, release of hostages, and a new Palestinian government for Gaza.
A woman in Spain bought a secondhand purse that contained vintage cosmetics from the 1940s to 1970s. This unexpected find went viral on Reddit, attracting attention as thrifting gains popularity worldwide. Experts advise against using old makeup due to health risks.
Key Facts
A woman in Spain bought a secondhand red purse and found vintage cosmetics inside.
The cosmetics included old nail varnishes and makeup from brands like Christian Dior.
The items are estimated to be from the 1940s to the 1970s.
The discovery gained over 16,000 upvotes on Reddit.
Thrifting is popular for being budget-friendly and offering unique finds.
A survey indicated 66% of Americans thrift to save money, and many enjoy searching for unique items.
Experts warn against using old cosmetics due to potential for bacteria, mold, and other risks.
Common signs that makeup should not be used include strange smells, changes in texture, and separation.
A TikTok video showing a dog and a cat with matching fur coats walking together has gained over 2 million views. The video highlights how pets of different species can live together peacefully when introduced properly.
Key Facts
A TikTok video shows a dog and a cat with nearly identical orange-and-white fur coats walking side by side.
The video has gotten more than 2 million views and over 679,000 likes.
Meagan Chandler, the pet owner, did not choose the dog to match the cat's appearance.
Around 42% of U.S. pet owners have both dogs and cats, according to Pew Research Center.
Experts suggest that dogs and cats can live peacefully if introduced slowly and carefully.
Dr. Travis Arndt notes that there is no innate reason for dogs and cats to dislike each other.
The Animal Humane Society recommends gradual steps when introducing cats and dogs, like keeping them separate initially and then using positive reinforcement.
The Israel Defense Forces announced that the remains of Ran Gvili, who was the last hostage in Gaza, have been returned to Israel. Gvili, a member of the Israeli Police Special Forces, died on October 7, 2023, and his remains have now been recovered as part of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
Key Facts
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed returning Ran Gvili's remains from Gaza to Israel.
Gvili was the last hostage held in Gaza.
He was a member of the Israeli Police Special Forces.
Gvili died in combat on October 7, 2023.
His body was taken to the Gaza Strip after his death.
The recovery of his remains fulfilled a key condition of the ceasefire deal with Hamas.
This marks the return of all hostages from Gaza to Israel.
A kitten named Teddy, born with a condition called swimmer syndrome, has gained attention online for overcoming challenges to learn how to walk. Teddy's owner shared a video of his progress, showing the kitten's determination and hard work with daily physical therapy. The video became popular on TikTok, drawing many views and likes.
Key Facts
Teddy is a kitten born with swimmer syndrome, a condition affecting his legs.
Swimmer syndrome causes a kitten's legs to splay out, making it hard to walk.
Teddy's owner used techniques like taping and physiotherapy to help him.
A video showcasing Teddy's progress went viral on TikTok.
The video has been liked over 94,000 times and viewed over 714,000 times.
Food was used as a motivator to help Teddy build strength.
The kitten gradually learned to stand and walk, surprising his family.
Teddy's story highlights the importance of early intervention for this condition.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called China and India "good neighbours, friends, and partners." He expressed optimism about their relationship, which has been improving after tensions at the border. India and China plan to enhance cooperation and trade despite previous disputes and global economic challenges.
Key Facts
President Xi Jinping described China and India as "good neighbours, friends, and partners."
Xi's statement was made on India's Republic Day and highlighted improving relations.
The two countries faced border tensions in 2020, resulting in soldiers' deaths and economic restrictions.
Trade between India and China continued and surpassed $130 billion annually.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Xi in August 2024 at a summit in China.
President Trump's tariff war has impacted both Indian and Chinese economies.
Xi and Modi met in October 2024 at a BRICS summit in Russia to rebuild relations.
Direct flights between India and China are set to resume after five years.
There is a growing trend on social media, especially on TikTok and Instagram, to relive and celebrate 2016. This trend, marked by nostalgia for elements of that year like music, fashion, and social media filters, is also being discussed in a podcast episode. A survey showed that many people remember 2016 for its music, cultural moments, and political events.
Key Facts
Social media, such as TikTok and Instagram, are seeing people nostalgic for 2016.
The trend includes sharing old music, styles, and social media filters from 2016.
A podcast episode explores why people are revisiting 2016.
A survey of 120 people highlighted music and culture from 2016 as memorable.
Key memories include music from artists like Beyoncé and Drake.
2016 was also a year of significant political and cultural events.
The Rio Summer Olympics occurred in 2016.
Some people associate 2016 with events that happened before the U.S. presidential election that year.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani about recent detainee transfers from Syria to Iraq and urged Iraq to remain independent from Iran. The conversation is part of a larger discussion amid rising tensions between the US and Iran. The US military has begun moving ISIL detainees from Syria to Iraq as part of a new strategy in the region.
Key Facts
Marco Rubio is the US Secretary of State and communicated with Iraq's Prime Minister on these issues.
The US has transferred 150 ISIL-linked detainees from a facility in Syria to Iraq.
Up to 7,000 detainees are planned to be moved to Iraq.
The US historically worked with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against ISIL but now partners more with Syrian and Iraqi governments.
Iraq expects Nouri al-Maliki’s return as Prime Minister; his earlier term saw US ties strained.
President Trump announced the movement of US warships towards Iran amid heightened tensions.
The US has concerns about Iran's influence in Iraq through pro-Iranian armed groups known as the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF).
Recent clashes in Syria ended with the Syrian government gaining more control over areas previously held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The United States, which had supported the SDF, helped to broker a ceasefire and backed the reintegration of the SDF into the Syrian state. This change allows the U.S. to work more closely with the Syrian government.
Key Facts
The Syrian government gained territory from the SDF, especially in Arab-majority areas.
The U.S. brokered a ceasefire and supported the Syrian government's stance on the SDF reintegration.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa granted citizenship to Kurds and recognized Kurdish as a national language.
The Syrian military showed strong performance against the US-backed SDF.
The Syrian government gained control of important oil and gas fields, aiding its economic recovery.
The U.S. sees potential for cooperation with the Syrian government under President al-Sharaa.
The situation remains changeable and further developments are possible.
Netflix announced a new hockey-themed TV show that has faced backlash due to its storyline, which resembles a real-life bus crash involving a junior hockey team in Canada. Critics say the show's timing and subject matter are insensitive, particularly to those affected by the 2018 Humboldt Broncos tragedy. The series depicts a Minnesota community dealing with the aftermath of a fatal bus crash that impacts a local high school hockey team.
Key Facts
Netflix announced a new eight-episode series about a Minnesota high school hockey team.
The show features actress Michelle Monaghan and is set in a small town affected by a fatal bus crash.
The series is linked to 21 Laps Entertainment and involves creators Nick Naveda and Bridget Bedard.
People associate the show's storyline with the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash in Canada, which killed 16 people.
Critics have accused Netflix of being insensitive due to the similarities to the real-life tragedy.
The story focuses on the town's community and high school hockey team coping with grief and loss.
Social media users, particularly from Canada, have voiced their disapproval of the premise.
The series aims to show themes of resilience and the unifying power of sports.
At least three people died in a fire at a biscuit factory near Trikala, Greece. Two people are missing after the incident that took place early Monday. An investigation is underway to determine what caused the fire.
Key Facts
The fire occurred at the Violanta biscuit factory near Trikala, Greece.
Three people died in the fire, and two are still missing.
The fire started in the early hours of Monday.
Thirteen workers were present when the fire began.
Eight workers managed to escape from the factory.
A loud explosion was heard before the fire began.
40 firefighters and 13 fire trucks were sent to the site.
Six workers and a firefighter were hospitalized with breathing problems.
Western leaders met in Paris to discuss new security guarantees for Ukraine if a ceasefire with Russia is agreed upon. The plan includes a U.S.-led monitoring system and possibly deploying multinational forces from countries like France and the UK to help Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said they are ready to present a security agreement for approval, but details on enforcement are still unclear.
Key Facts
Over 30 Western countries' leaders met in Paris to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.
The plan includes a U.S.-led ceasefire monitoring system.
France and the UK might lead multinational forces to support Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy announced readiness to present the plan to U.S. Congress and Ukrainian Parliament.
Details of the security guarantees are not fully disclosed yet.
Some Ukrainian officials express doubt about the effectiveness of these guarantees.
Concerns exist about Ukraine relying too much on allies for its security.
Ukraine aims to improve its defense capabilities with more investment and arms.
The popular TV show "The Traitors" is being turned into a stage play in London. The theatrical version will offer a new story following the show's original concept of uncovering traitors. The play is set to debut next year and is backed by Studio Lambert and Neal Street Productions.
Key Facts
"The Traitors," a well-known BBC TV show, is being adapted into a stage play.
The producers aim to keep the drama and popularity of the TV version.
Studio Lambert and Neal Street Productions are creating the theatrical show.
The play will have a new story inspired by the TV format of revealing traitors.
John Finnemore, a writer known for "Good Omens," will write the play.
Rob Hastie, deputy artistic director at London's National Theatre, will direct.
The TV show concluded its fourth series recently and had a highly-watched finale.
The play will premiere in an unspecified London venue next year.
The article discusses the impact of the Arab Spring protests in Egypt 15 years later, highlighting that 37 million Egyptians were born after the events and have no first-hand memory of it. Egypt, with a young population and ongoing challenges like unemployment, continues to adapt to changes since the 2011 protests that led to President Hosni Mubarak's resignation.
Key Facts
The Arab Spring in Egypt began on January 25 and lasted for 18 days, ending with President Hosni Mubarak's resignation on February 11, 2011.
About 37 million Egyptians, or 31% of the population, were born after the Arab Spring and have no personal memory of the event.
Egypt has a median age of about 24 years, with more than half the population under 24, making it one of the younger nations globally.
The population of Egypt has grown from 83 million in 2011 to nearly 120 million in 2023.
The unemployment rate in Egypt has decreased from 12% in 2011 to 6.4% in 2023, although youth unemployment remains around 14.9%.
The Egyptian economy faces challenges with a high demand for jobs, needing to create 1.5 million jobs annually but currently creating only about 600,000 per year.
Egypt's currency value has decreased significantly from 5.8 Egyptian pounds per US dollar in 2011 to about 47 pounds per dollar in 2023.
More than 80% of Egyptians are active internet users, primarily driven by the country’s youth.
