A dog named Benjamin was found abandoned by the road and had a microchip, which led to a disappointing response from the listed owner. The microchip revealed Benjamin's age and some health problems. Eventually, Shelly Straub, who had been looking for a papillon dog, adopted him.
Key Facts
Benjamin, a papillon dog, was found abandoned on the side of the road.
A microchip in Benjamin provided a phone number, but the contact stated, "It's not our dog."
The microchip showed that Benjamin was around 15 months old.
The dog had health issues, including worms and giardia, and had not been neutered.
Shelly Straub, who had lost her previous papillon, decided to adopt Benjamin.
Straub believed finding Benjamin was a type of fate or "divine intervention."
A report found that microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be returned to their owners compared to those without microchips.
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Costa Rica is having a presidential election where the current ruling party aims to continue its leadership. Many voters have not yet decided which candidate to support. The election will happen on February 1, and if no candidate gets enough votes, a second round of voting will occur in April.
Key Facts
Costa Rica's ruling party hopes to stay in power after the election.
Many voters in Costa Rica have not decided on a candidate yet.
The election is on February 1, with another round in April if needed.
Voting in Costa Rica is mandatory, but there are no penalties for not voting.
Over 3.7 million people in Costa Rica can vote.
One-third of the population is unsure about who to vote for.
President Rodrigo Chaves cannot run again due to term limits.
The leading candidate from Chaves's party promises to continue his policies.
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A potato stored in a kitchen pantry went viral on TikTok after its sprouting roots scared two young girls, who thought it looked like a creature. The incident sparked widespread laughter and comments, highlighting the common experience of forgotten produce sprouting unexpectedly. Experts explain that potatoes sprout naturally when conditions like warmth and humidity are right.
Key Facts
A potato left in a pantry sprouted, frightening two young girls who mistook it for something scary.
The event was filmed and shared on TikTok, gaining more than 17 million views in five days.
Potatoes can sprout when conditions such as warmth and humidity simulate growth.
The sprouts from potatoes are not safe to eat and should be removed, according to the Food Network.
Potatoes are tubers, meaning they store nutrients and can grow new shoots under the right conditions.
The video resonated with many as a humorous example of common childhood fears.
Newsweek reached out to the TikTok user for more information but could not verify all details.
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A student in Arizona captured a video of her pet mini pig, Polly, eating her homework. The video went viral on Instagram, drawing amused reactions from viewers.
Key Facts
A mini pig named Polly ate a student's homework in Arizona.
The incident was captured on video and shared on Instagram, reaching 1.5 million views.
The student's mother described the family's shock upon discovering the pig's actions.
Polly the pig displayed cleverness by deliberately rummaging through the backpack.
The family shared the video to show the chaotic but amusing life with a mini pig.
Viewers on Instagram shared their own similar experiences and found the video entertaining.
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China has built a large navy with many ships, partly using technology from old Russian vessels. These Russian ships helped China grow its naval power, and experts say China might stop using them in the next decade or so. China's partnership with Russia helps both countries counter the influence of the United States.
Key Facts
China has the biggest navy by the number of ships, with over 370 vessels.
China bought old warships and submarines from Russia to boost its navy.
The Russian ships are gradually being replaced by Chinese-made designs.
China and Russia support each other on international issues, including tensions in Taiwan and the war in Ukraine.
China aims to have nine aircraft carriers by 2035, more than the U.S. has in the Pacific region.
The Sovremenny-class destroyers and Kilo-class submarines from Russia are among the Russian-origin assets in China's fleet.
The Chinese Navy first bought Russian ships after facing tensions with the West in the late 20th century.
China used Russian technology to learn how to build and operate aircraft carriers.
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The Maldives has expressed interest in taking control of the Chagos Archipelago, currently held by the UK, with an offer to let the U.S. continue using the military base on Diego Garcia. This proposal comes amid a dispute between the U.S. and UK over the islands and increasing competition in the Indian Ocean region involving the U.S., China, and India.
Key Facts
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has proposed a deal involving the Chagos Archipelago.
The UK currently controls the Chagos Archipelago, home to the U.S. military base Diego Garcia.
An agreement was made to transfer the islands from the UK to Mauritius, which President Trump has criticized.
President Muizzu offers to maintain the U.S. military presence if the Maldives gains control.
The Chagos islands have no current inhabitants and are designated as a marine conservation area.
The Maldives has experience managing marine conservation areas critical to their economy.
The Chagos Archipelago has been under UK control since the early 19th century.
The geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean involves several major countries, including the U.S., China, and India.
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A second woman has claimed that Jeffrey Epstein sent her to the UK to have a sexual encounter with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, once known as Prince Andrew, in 2010. Her lawyer stated she visited Andrew's residence at Windsor and toured Buckingham Palace. Andrew has denied any wrongdoing linked to Epstein.
Key Facts
A new allegation involves Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, previously called Prince Andrew, and Jeffrey Epstein.
The claim says Epstein arranged for a woman to visit Andrew in the UK in 2010.
The woman was in her twenties during the alleged event.
She is not British, according to the report.
Andrew has consistently denied any wrongful acts related to Epstein.
Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted criminal who passed away in jail in 2019.
A previous accuser, Virginia Giuffre, claimed a similar encounter with Andrew in 2001 when she was 17.
Virginia Giuffre died by suicide in April 2022.
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Birth rates in Türkiye are falling, and this is creating concerns for NATO because a lower birth rate can impact future military and economic strengths. Many NATO countries are experiencing similar demographic challenges as populations age, which may increase social costs and decrease available funds for defense. NATO countries are also trying to balance investments in technology and personnel due to these demographic shifts.
Key Facts
Birth rates in Türkiye have dropped from 2.1 births per woman in 2016 to 1.48, as reported by the Turkish Statistical Institute.
A total fertility rate (TFR) of 2.1 is needed to maintain a stable population without immigration.
Many NATO countries are experiencing low birth rates and aging populations.
An aging population in the European Union comprised 21.6% of people aged 65 and over in 2024.
NATO members, including Türkiye, face increased defense spending due to global tensions, with a goal of committing 5% of GDP to defense by 2035.
Technological advancements like AI and robotics are expected to help with the challenges of shrinking military forces.
Increased social spending on pensions and health care may divert funds away from defense.
NATO countries may need to rely on private sector innovation for military technologies.
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A Canadian woman, Nicole Grigorov, traveled to Costa Rica for cosmetic surgery but developed a life-threatening condition called sepsis after the operation. She has since undergone multiple amputations and is learning to live without her hands and feet.
Key Facts
Nicole Grigorov, a Canadian mother, went to Costa Rica for cosmetic surgery in September.
She had a "mommy makeover," which included a tummy tuck and breast lift.
After the surgery, she developed sepsis, a severe and often deadly response to infection.
Sepsis led to her organ failure, a heart attack, and she was put on life support.
Grigorov was in a coma for three weeks and had a 5 percent survival rate.
As a result, her fingers and toes needed to be amputated due to the infection.
The surgery cost $22,000, and she had saved for years to afford it.
She originally planned to have the surgery in Canada but chose Costa Rica instead.
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Winter storm warnings have been announced for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. These areas could see snow accumulations up to 4 inches and strong winds up to 60 mph, which might cause hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service advises caution and preparation for those in the affected regions.
Key Facts
Winter storm warnings are in effect for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.
Up to 4 inches of snow and winds up to 60 mph are expected in some areas.
The National Weather Service warns of possible blizzard-like conditions with blowing and drifting snow.
In North Carolina, some areas might experience black ice and winds up to 60 mph.
South Carolina's upstate may face treacherous roads, especially around the Interstate 77 corridor.
Parts of Georgia could see light snow, black ice, and strong winds overnight into Sunday.
Virginia is likely to experience up to 2 inches of snow and winds up to 55 mph by Sunday evening.
The NWS suggests motorists use extreme caution and delay travel if possible.
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Fela Kuti, a Nigerian musician known as the 'father of Afrobeat,' posthumously received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, making him the first African to achieve this honor. The award was given at a ceremony in Los Angeles, decades after his death in 1997. Fela's family and fans hope this recognition will further spread his music and ideas.
Key Facts
Fela Kuti received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award posthumously.
He is the first African musician to receive this award.
The award ceremony took place in Los Angeles.
Fela Kuti passed away in 1997.
His family attended the ceremony and expressed mixed feelings about the timing of the recognition.
Fela was known for being anti-establishment and cared little for awards.
Fela's music style includes jazz and highlife.
He was born in Nigeria and later studied music in London.
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A U.S. envoy has arrived in Venezuela to reopen a diplomatic mission seven years after it was closed. This follows the U.S. capture of Venezuela's then-president, Nicolas Maduro, who now faces charges in New York. Both countries are working on improving relations and making deals, especially concerning Venezuela's oil industry.
Key Facts
A U.S. envoy, Laura Dogu, has arrived in Caracas to reopen a U.S. diplomatic mission.
The reopening comes after the U.S. captured Nicolas Maduro, the former president of Venezuela.
Maduro is charged with drug trafficking and narcoterrorism in New York.
Venezuela and the U.S. previously cut diplomatic ties in February 2019.
The two countries are discussing a "roadmap" to resolve differences through diplomatic talks.
Venezuela has agreed to export up to $2 billion in crude oil to the U.S.
A new Venezuelan law will allow more private involvement in its oil industry and require that legal disputes be settled outside Venezuelan courts.
The U.S. plans to loosen some sanctions on Venezuela's oil sector.
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On February 1, Russian attacks on Ukraine resulted in several casualties and significant damage in various regions. Ukraine faced energy issues after a blackout in Kyiv, which officials attributed to weather conditions. U.S. officials met with Russian counterparts to discuss potential peace efforts in Ukraine.
Key Facts
Russian attacks in Ukraine killed at least three people and injured several others across different regions.
Ukraine reported damage to infrastructure, including homes, shops, and railway systems.
A blackout affected parts of Kyiv, with energy services attributing it to ice buildup on power lines.
SpaceX restricted some Starlink operations in Ukraine to prevent aiding Russian drone attacks.
The U.S. conducted peace discussions with Russian officials, with President Trump’s administration involved.
Ukrainian officials engaged in discussions with global partners about energy needs and peace negotiations.
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The article discusses the movie "Just Mercy," which focuses on attorney Bryan Stevenson's fight against injustice. The story is based on real events from 1988, highlighting Stevenson's effort to help people facing severe legal challenges.
Key Facts
"Just Mercy" is a movie that depicts a story of justice and redemption.
The film is based on true events from the year 1988.
Bryan Stevenson is the main character, an attorney who seeks to fight against injustice.
Stevenson attended Harvard Law School, which is one of the top law schools in the U.S.
The movie was first shown in 2019.
The central theme is about helping individuals whose lives are at serious risk due to legal issues.
"Just Mercy" is available to watch for a limited time.
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Pakistan's military reported that it killed 92 militants in the Balochistan province. The attacks led to the deaths of 15 security personnel and 18 civilians. The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attacks, while Pakistan accused India of supporting the militants, which India has denied.
Key Facts
Pakistan's military says 92 militants were killed in Balochistan.
The attacks resulted in the deaths of 15 security personnel and 18 civilians.
The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for these attacks.
Pakistan accused India of aiding the militants; India denied these claims.
Quetta and other cities experienced multiple coordinated attacks.
Mobile phone services and regional train services were temporarily suspended in Balochistan.
The region has a long history of ethnic insurgency since 1948.
Balochistan is rich in natural resources, but locals say they don't benefit from them.
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The UK's oldest surviving Indian restaurant, Veeraswamy, may close after 99 years due to a dispute over its lease with the Crown Estate. Supporters are petitioning King Charles III to help save the restaurant, which they regard as a significant cultural landmark. The Crown Estate argues the building needs renovation, which isn't possible with the restaurant staying.
Key Facts
Veeraswamy is a historic Indian restaurant in London, established in 1926.
The restaurant is facing closure because its lease might not be renewed by the Crown Estate.
Supporters gathered over 18,000 signatures in a petition to keep Veeraswamy open.
The petition, intended for King Charles III, aims to highlight the restaurant's cultural importance.
The Crown Estate says the building requires refurbishment that doesn't allow the restaurant to remain.
Veeraswamy's history includes notable visitors like Mahatma Gandhi and Winston Churchill.
Celebrity chefs and the Soho Society support efforts to preserve the restaurant as part of London’s heritage.
The restaurant first introduced the popular combination of curry and beer to the UK.
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Four women, previously abused and manipulated by a man named Aaron Swan, banded together to finally bring him to justice. Swan, a registered sex offender, was involved in a series of abusive relationships over two decades, affecting the lives of several women. Their collective efforts led to his conviction for domestic violence and other crimes.
Key Facts
Aaron Swan was a registered sex offender living in the Scottish Borders.
He engaged in abusive relationships with multiple women over more than 20 years.
The women involved included Jenni, Natalie, Robyn, and Shannon.
Swan was convicted of domestic violence and rape.
Jenni met Swan at 16 and moved in with him despite her family’s objections.
Natalie met Swan at 17 and their relationship quickly became intense.
Robyn met Swan at work when she was 18 and became obsessed with him.
The women worked together to report Swan's actions, leading to his conviction.
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The 2026 Grammy Awards will take place in Los Angeles, featuring high-profile nominees like Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, and Bad Bunny. There are 95 awards to be given out, with the biggest prizes being highly contested. Key categories include Album of the Year, where Bad Bunny could make history with a win for a Spanish language album.
Key Facts
The 2026 Grammy Awards will occur in Los Angeles.
Kendrick Lamar leads with nine nominations for his album, GNX.
Lady Gaga and Bad Bunny are also top contenders, with seven and six nominations, respectively.
There are 95 categories, including Album of the Year and Best Artwork.
Bad Bunny could win Album of the Year, which would be the first for a Spanish language album.
Milli Vanilli's Fab Morvan might receive a Grammy for his memoir audiobook.
Olivia Dean is a strong favorite for Best New Artist, following her successful year.
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Newspapers are reporting new photos of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor linked to Jeffrey Epstein's case. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer suggests Andrew should testify in the U.S. Congress about Epstein. There are ongoing discussions about political pressure on Andrew to share any information he has.
Key Facts
Photos of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor related to Jeffrey Epstein have been released.
The pictures are causing a media stir and discussions.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer believes Andrew should testify in the U.S. Congress.
Andrew has openly denied any wrongdoing connected to Epstein.
Media reports suggest increasing political pressure on Andrew to speak out.
Lawyer Spencer Kuvin claims more incriminating photos and videos might be released.
Andrew insists he was unaware of Epstein's criminal behavior during their association.
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A major trial in Norway involves Marius Borg Høiby, a step-relative of the Norwegian royal family. He faces serious charges, including the alleged rape of four women and other crimes. The royal family is distancing itself from the trial, emphasizing that Høiby is not a public figure or a part of the royal family.
Key Facts
Marius Borg Høiby is on trial for 38 charges, including the alleged rape of four women.
The trial involves alleged incidents of physical abuse, property damage, drug charges, and driving offences.
Høiby is the stepson of Norway's Crown Prince Haakon, but the royal family is not attending the trial.
The court has banned pictures of Høiby during the trial, but many media outlets are covering the event.
Høiby has admitted to some lesser offences but denies the majority of accusations, especially those regarding sexual abuse and violence.
One of his accusers, former girlfriend Nora Haukland, has publicly alleged physical abuse by Høiby.
The allegations include a charge of transporting 3.5kg of marijuana added recently to the case.
Testimonies from several women, including public figures, are expected to play a significant role in the trial.
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