December 31, 2023 - Sunday

[WORLD] The Biden administration has bypassed Congress to approve an emergency weapons sale to Israel, despite calls to end civilian deaths in the conflict.

The US has approved a $147.5m emergency weapons sale to Israel, bypassing Congress for the second time in a month. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cited Israel's "defensive needs" as the reason for the immediate approval. The package includes items needed to make shells for previously purchased 155mm shells. The move comes despite the Biden administration calling for an end to civilian deaths in the conflict.

No sources available.

[NATION] Massive waves and coastal flooding continue to cause havoc along the California coast for a third day.

Massive waves, reaching over 20 feet, and coastal flooding have resulted in water rescues, car washaways, and injuries to onlookers. Beach closures and flooding have been reported along the California coast, causing damage to homes and businesses. Ventura County has been particularly affected, with waves breaching seawalls and causing flooding in a hotel. Seal Beach has also experienced serious flooding at businesses, including The Beach House. Evacuation warnings were issued, but later lifted in Ventura County. Southern California authorities are warning of potential coastal evacuations due to dangerous surf and coastal flooding.

No sources available.

[BUSINESS] Stores like Walmart and Target are open with normal operating hours on New Year's Day, while Costco is closed.

As New Year's Day approaches, it's important to check store hours as some businesses may have reduced hours or may be closed. Walmart and Target will be open with regular hours, while all Costco warehouses will be closed. CVS Pharmacy locations may have normal hours, but some non-24 locations may have adjusted hours. It's always a good idea to call ahead or check online for the most accurate information.

No sources available.

[TECHNOLOGY] Smartphone manufacturers, excluding Apple, are still investing in foldable phones despite their lack of mainstream popularity.

Smartphone makers, excluding Apple, believe that foldable phones will help rejuvenate the mobile market. Despite the fact that foldable phones have a market share of just over 1%, Samsung continues to invest heavily in marketing its 5G Galaxy Z series. However, other players like Google, OnePlus, Tecno, and Motorola are now challenging Samsung's dominance in the foldable phone market. With 2024 expected to bring significant advancements in foldable phone technology, including the release of the Galaxy S24, an iPhone 16, and a Pixel 9, foldable phones are likely to capture the attention of consumers with their novel and innovative designs.

No sources available.

[SPORTS] The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Detroit Lions with a 20-19 win, marked by dramatic two-point conversion attempts and a controversial call.

The Dallas Cowboys snapped a two-game losing streak with a close 20-19 win over the Detroit Lions. The Lions had an opportunity to take the lead in the final minute with a two-point conversion, but it was called back due to an illegal touching penalty on offensive lineman Taylor Decker. The Cowboys recovered the ensuing onside kick to secure the victory. The game was marked by momentum shifts and the induction of a new member into the Cowboys' Ring of Honor.

No sources available.

[SCIENCE] SpaceX successfully launched the secretive military spaceplane X-37B into orbit after several delays, while details of the mission remain undisclosed.

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket launched the U.S. military's X-37B spaceplane into orbit for its seventh unmanned mission. The purpose of this secretive mission is unknown to the public, but the spaceplane is conducting a variety of research projects. Two weeks prior, China also launched a mysterious spacecraft that deployed six objects into low-Earth orbit. Another Falcon 9 rocket was launched just a few hours later from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This mission marks the seventh liftoff for the X-37B and the first time it rides on SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket.

No sources available.

[HEALTH] A 9-year-old girl from Clermont County, Ohio, has become the first child to die from the flu this season.

Ohio health officials have reported the first pediatric flu death of the season, with a 9-year-old girl from Clermont County being the victim. The Ohio Department of Health stated that the number of flu-related hospitalizations in the state is currently below the five-year average for this time of year. However, with flu season typically peaking between December and February, health officials are urging people to remain vigilant and consider getting vaccinated.

No sources available.

[ENTERTAINMENT] Paula Abdul has filed a lawsuit against "American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe for sexual assault. Lythgoe denies the allegations.

Paula Abdul has filed a lawsuit against Nigel Lythgoe, executive producer of "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance," accusing him of sexually assaulting her on two separate occasions. Abdul alleges that the incidents occurred in the early 2000s and in 2015. Lythgoe has vehemently denied the claims, calling them false and offensive. Abdul's lawsuit also includes allegations of harassment, gender violence, and negligence.

No sources available.