Three young Palestinian students were shot in Burlington, Vermont on Saturday night while walking to a family dinner near the University of Vermont campus. The victims, Hisham Awartani, Tahseen Ahmed, and Kinnan Abdalhamid, were wearing keffiyeh scarves and speaking Arabic when they were confronted and shot by a man. Two of the victims are in stable condition, while the third has more serious injuries. Authorities have arrested a suspect, Jason J. Eaton, and are conducting a thorough investigation. The families of the victims have urged the police to treat the attack as a hate crime.
Police Chief Jon Murad has expressed sympathies for the victims and their families and said that federal investigatory and prosecutorial partners have been contacted to prepare for possible hate crime charges. Mayor Miro Weinberger is set to join Murad at a press conference to discuss the investigation.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Authorities collected evidence during a search of Eaton's apartment and have scheduled his arraignment for Monday. The families are calling for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims.
After weeks of striking, Portland Public Schools (PPS) has reached a tentative agreement with the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT), according to PPS School Board Chair Gary Hollands. The deal was announced on Sunday, and school will resume on Monday after a two-hour delay.
The strike, which began on November 1, was initiated by teachers demanding increased wages, smaller class sizes, and more preparation time. This was the first time in history that PPS teachers went on strike. Bargaining for a new contract had been ongoing since January.
In the agreement, teachers will receive a cumulative cost of living increase of 13.8% over the next three years. Additionally, around half of the teachers in the district will benefit from a 10.6% wage increase through yearly step increases. The agreement also includes the creation of class-size thresholds to address concerns over large classes.
PPS had proposed a salary increase of over 13% in their most recent compensation offer, but the teachers' union stated that there were still disagreements on compensation.
The details of the agreement were shared by PPS after the cancellation of three scheduled meetings where the collective bargaining agreement was to be considered.
Overall, it seems that the PPS teachers' strike will come to an end, bringing relief to both students and parents who have been affected by the prolonged strike.
Congress is facing a tight deadline to pass a foreign aid package that would provide assistance to important U.S. allies, Ukraine and Israel. The House and Senate are currently engaged in tough negotiations on how to move forward with President Joe Biden's emergency request for foreign aid. Various issues, such as Israel's war in Gaza, funding sources, and immigration reform, are obstacles to reaching an agreement.
One major point of contention is an Israel-only aid bill, which is currently stalled due to disagreements over funding sources. House Republicans have proposed cuts to the Internal Revenue Service budget to pay for the assistance, a provision that has been met with opposition from Democrats.
Another challenge lies in maintaining support for aid to Ukraine, as some Republicans have linked it to immigration reform. However, there is bipartisan support for providing aid to both Israel and Ukraine, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has expressed hope for reaching an agreement that satisfies both sides.
The details of the aid package and its resemblance to President Biden's original request remain uncertain. In addition to assistance for Israel and Ukraine, Biden had also requested funds for humanitarian aid in Gaza, border security, and efforts to address the China challenge.
With only three weeks left on the legislative calendar, Congress is under pressure to find common ground and pass the much-needed foreign aid package.
Former President Donald Trump's appearance at the South Carolina-Clemson football game on Saturday drew mixed reactions from the crowd. While some fans cheered for Trump, others were seen visibly booing. Trump was invited as a guest of South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, who has also endorsed him for president. This visit to the state is seen by the South Carolina Democratic Party as a desperate attempt by Trump to gain traction in his campaign. The game was particularly interesting because former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who is a member of Clemson's board of trustees, was also present. Trump's presence at the game has sparked debate and raised questions about the level of support he still has in South Carolina and how it may impact the upcoming GOP primary in the state.
New York Republican, George Santos, is facing a potential expulsion from Congress following a scathing report by the House Ethics Committee. The report found substantial evidence of lawbreaking by Santos, including the misuse of campaign funds for personal expenses. Despite surviving two previous expulsion votes, many of his colleagues who previously opposed the effort now support it, citing the findings of the committee's investigation. Santos himself has admitted that he expects to be expelled once the resolution reaches the floor.
During a recent appearance on X Spaces, Santos delivered a defiant and combative speech, taunting and obscenities aimed at his congressional colleagues. He also accused some of them of having committed felonies and others of inappropriate relationships with lobbyists. Refusing to address the specifics of the report, Santos denounced it as "slanderous" and claimed it was designed to force him out of his seat.
The House Ethics Committee report revealed that Santos used campaign funds for personal purchases at luxury retailers and adult content websites, while causing the campaign to file false or incomplete reports. The congressman failed to cooperate with the investigation and repeatedly evaded requests for information. The resolution for Santos's expulsion is expected to be successful when Congress returns from Thanksgiving break.
If expelled, Santos would become the sixth member of Congress to face such consequences. However, he defiantly stated that he would wear expulsion as a "badge of honor."
Sierra Leone has imposed a nationwide curfew following an attack on a military barracks in the capital city, Freetown. Gunmen attempted to break into the armoury at the Wilberforce barracks in the early hours of Sunday, but the attack was repelled by security forces. The government has declared a curfew with immediate effect and advised citizens to stay indoors. There are reports that some inmates have escaped from the central prison in Freetown, although the exact number is unclear. President Julius Maada Bio posted on social media that there had been a breach of security and unidentified individuals attacked the military armoury. The political situation in Sierra Leone has been tense since President Maada Bio's re-election in a disputed election in June. This incident comes after a series of coups and attempted coups in West and Central Africa since 2020. The government has assured the public that it is in control of the situation and security forces are working to apprehend those responsible.
AccuWeather meteorologists are warning that the Great Lakes region could be in for several days of lake-effect snow, with the potential for over a foot of snow in some states. This wintry weather is expected to result from the same storm that brought heavy snow to the Rockies over Thanksgiving.
Following the initial swath of snow, cold air will move over the relatively warmer Great Lakes, creating intense bands of lake-effect snow. These bands may even produce thunder and lightning, known as thundersnow. The event is anticipated to last several days, with peak intensity expected from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning.
While snow showers are expected to reach more than half a dozen states, the heaviest accumulation is likely to occur closer to the lakes. Northern Michigan, northwestern Pennsylvania, and northern New York are expected to be the most impacted, with 1-2 feet of snow forecasted. Areas that typically don't experience lake-effect snow, such as Detroit and northern New England, may also see some bursts of heavy snow.
Lake effect snow warnings and winter storm watches have been issued for northern counties starting Monday. Accumulation will gradually increase through Wednesday, with higher totals in elevated areas. Buffalo area residents are not expecting significant snowfall on Monday, but travel in Chautauqua County and Cattaraugus County may be hazardous due to lake-effect snow. Tuesday snowfall locations are uncertain at this time, as wind direction will determine the areas most affected.
Russia has announced that it successfully prevented multiple drone attacks from Ukraine, including on its capital city, Moscow. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that a total of 20 Ukrainian drones were destroyed over the past day, with 11 being shot down in the Moscow, Tula, Kaluga, and Bryansk regions. The ministry later confirmed that an additional nine drones were also destroyed in the same areas. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin stated that there were no injuries or damage as a result of the attacks. However, one drone crashed into an apartment building in the Tula region, causing minor damage and a slight cut to one person.
In addition to the drone attacks, Russian air defenses reportedly destroyed two S-200 anti-aircraft missiles over the Sea of Azov. Meanwhile, the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) in eastern Ukraine experienced a power outage after an attack damaged its power system. Russian-backed head of the DPR, Denis Pushilin, assured that efforts are underway to restore electricity as soon as possible. The recent drone attacks come after Russia initiated its largest drone attack on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, resulting in the interception of 71 Shahed drones.
The exact details of the attack are unclear, as the federal Bureau of Prisons has not released additional information for "privacy and safety reasons." However, Chauvin's condition was confirmed as stable by a spokesperson for Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison's office and Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara.
O'Hara and the prosecutors in Chauvin's case have condemned the attack, stating that regardless of his crimes, Chauvin deserves to be safe while serving his sentence. Ellison emphasized that Chauvin should not be subjected to retaliation or violence.
This incident marks the second high-profile attack on a federal prisoner in the past five months. Chauvin's lawyer has expressed disappointment in the lack of information provided by the prison, highlighting the importance of empathy in recognizing the impact on Chauvin and his loved ones.
Overall, the stabbing of Derek Chauvin in prison raises questions about inmate safety and the need for accountability in ensuring the well-being of all incarcerated individuals, regardless of their crimes.
Families of the 41 construction workers trapped in the collapsed tunnel in Uttarkashi are facing an agonizing wait as the rescue operation is delayed due to a broken drilling machine. Among those waiting are Chaudhary, who has been at the tunnel site for the past 11 days after traveling almost 600km (372 miles) from his village in Uttar Pradesh to be closer to his son. Chaudhary, who lost his eldest son in a construction accident two years ago, prays that his son will be rescued safely.
Meanwhile, medical experts and doctors are working with the families outside the tunnel, providing counseling and coaching on communication. They are advising the families on what to say and what not to say to their trapped loved ones, encouraging them to maintain hope and avoid emotional conversations that might break the workers' stoicism.
As the days pass, the trapped workers are growing restless and despondent. The doctors and officials on site are doing their best to provide motivation and support, not only to the workers but also to their families, who anxiously wait for any positive news. In addition to mental fortitude, the workers are also receiving lessons on hygiene.
The rescue operation continues, and officials assure that the trapped workers are in good health as they receive regular food deliveries through a small pipe.
A winter storm watch has been issued for several counties in Ohio and New York as a cold front brings in lake-effect snow. According to the National Weather Service, the watch will last until late Tuesday night in Ohio and until Wednesday morning in New York. Heavy snow accumulations of 7 to 12 inches with local amounts up to 15 inches are expected in the most persistent lake effect snows, and some areas could see totals of up to 2 feet. Travel is expected to be very difficult, if not impossible, with hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility. Strong winds gusting up to 35 mph will also contribute to blowing and drifting snow. The heaviest snow bands are forecasted to remain south of Buffalo and Watertown in New York. In Ohio, areas that could see the highest chance of snow include Lake, Geauga, Ashtabula, and Cuyahoga counties. The winter storm is expected to impact the region from Monday through Tuesday, with the potential for power outages due to downed tree branches and power lines. As always, it is advised to stay updated with the latest weather alerts and take precautions when traveling in areas affected by the storm.
Fans of the Grand Theft Auto series are eagerly awaiting the release of GTA 6, and a recent leak analysis has shed light on the extent of the game's massive map. The game is rumored to be set in Miami, or Vice City as it is known in the series, and the map will be built based on Miami and the larger Florida region, including the Florida Keys.
A leak posted by JasonFromGTA6_2 on Twitter shows GTA 6's map placed over GTA 5's massive Los Santos map, revealing the enormous size of the leaked map. The analysis also suggests that the game may include representations of other states bordering Florida, such as Georgia. This would make the map incredibly diverse, featuring locations such as Savannah, Disneyworld, the Everglades, and the Blue Ridge Mountain region.
The leaked map is generating excitement among fans, who believe that GTA 6 will be even bigger than its predecessor, GTA 5. The game is set to be one of the biggest gaming releases of all time and is expected to surpass GTA 5 in terms of cost and scope.
As fans eagerly await the release of the GTA 6 trailer, which is rumored to be coming in December, the leaked map has only added to the anticipation and speculation surrounding the game. Will GTA 6's map be the largest in the series? Only time will tell, but fans are already imagining the possibilities of exploring a vast and varied virtual world.
With Cyber Monday just around the corner, many popular retailers like West Elm and AllModern are offering impressive deals on furniture. Whether you're in need of a new nightstand or a cozy sectional, there are tempting discounts of up to 70% off to be found. Not only can you save on large furniture items, but you can also find deals on home decor like mirrors and throws.
To sweeten the deals even more, retailers are offering extra markdowns on clearance items and free shipping. And if you're worried about your new pieces arriving in time for the holidays, most items are in-stock and ready to ship.
If you missed out on Black Friday, don't worry. Many retailers are extending their discounts through the weekend and into Cyber Monday. You'll have ample time to save on everything from loveseats to bedroom sets.
Whether you're hosting guests for the holidays or planning a big family meal, now is the perfect time to upgrade your home for less. So, are Cyber Monday furniture deals worth it? With the impressive discounts and incentives being offered, it's definitely worth checking out the deals and snagging a bargain for your home.
Police in Niagara Falls are using 3D-scanning technology to investigate the cause of a deadly high-speed crash on the Rainbow Bridge. The incident occurred when a 2022 Bentley driven by Kurt Villani and his wife Monica crashed into a barrier at around 100mph, resulting in a massive fireball. The couple was killed instantly. The FBI later confirmed that there was no explosive material or terrorism connection involved in the crash.
Niagara Falls Police Department Chief John Faso stated that digitally recreating the scene using 3D-scanning technology will be a challenging task. The police are looking at the possibility of a medical incident or a vehicle malfunction as potential causes of the crash. The investigation will rely on the car's Event Data Recorder, similar to an aircraft's "black box," to analyze information about how the car was driven.
Friends and community members mourn the loss of the couple, describing them as hardworking with deep ties to the Grand Island community. Kurt Villani Sr., Kurt Villani's father, started the family's hardware business nearly four decades ago. The police investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the crash, although the condition of the vehicle and human remains may pose challenges to uncovering the truth.
As Cyber Monday kicks into gear, many shoppers are wondering if the clothing deals are worth it. The New York Post has compiled a list of the top Cyber Monday clothing and style deals from popular retailers like Amazon, lululemon, and Madewell. With discounts on sweaters, cashmere options, running shoes, and puffer coats, there are plenty of wardrobe essentials to refresh or give as gifts.
According to the Insider Reviews team, Cyber Monday is a great time to snag deals on clothing and accessories. From their research, they recommend adding cozy sweaters and cashmere options to your cart, as well as comfortable running or walking shoes. Puffer coats and outerwear staples are also worth considering at a discount.
However, it's important to note that prices can vary and not all deals are equal. Make sure to compare prices, read reviews, and check the return policy before making a purchase. Additionally, be cautious of limited sizes, colors, or specific conditions mentioned in the deal descriptions.
Whether you're shopping for yourself or looking for a gift for someone else, Cyber Monday clothing deals offer an opportunity to save on stylish and practical items. Just be sure to do your research and shop wisely.
After a four-day truce in the fighting, 13 Israeli hostages were handed over to the Red Cross, and another 11 captives, mostly Thai and one from the Philippines, were released by Hamas. The released hostages shared horrific accounts of the atrocities on October 7th when they were abducted and their treatment during captivity. However, the ordeal is not over for the 200 remaining captives still held in Gaza, and the war between Israel and Hamas is expected to continue. The deal for the release of hostages was brokered through Qatari, Egyptian, and American mediation, with Hamas agreeing to free 50 Israeli hostages in exchange for the truce and the release of 150 Palestinians in Israeli prisons. This agreement comes amidst mounting pressure in Israel to bring the hostages home and growing international outrage over the destruction caused by the war. The release of the hostages will further fuel the debate on whether Israel should prioritize saving more hostages or focus on destroying Hamas to ensure the safety of Israelis and the stability of the Gaza Strip.
Congress is facing a race against time to pass a foreign aid package that would provide assistance to key U.S. allies, including Ukraine and Israel. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has announced plans to hold a vote on President Joe Biden's request for billions of dollars in aid as early as the week of December 4th. However, negotiations have been complicated by various issues, including funding sources for the aid, Israel's war in Gaza, and immigration reform. Republicans are seeking border security policy changes as part of any spending bill, which Schumer has identified as the biggest obstacle to delivering aid to Ukraine and Israel. Bipartisan negotiations have been ongoing, but finding a compromise has proven to be exceedingly difficult. Both houses of Congress are under pressure to reach an agreement with only three weeks left on the legislative calendar. The outcome of the negotiations and the details of the aid package, including the amount of funding, are still uncertain.
Sierra Leone's president, Julius Maada Bio, has declared a nationwide curfew following an attack on the country's main military barracks in the capital, Freetown. Gunmen targeted the barracks and overran detention centers, including a major prison. The attack occurred amid a surge of coups in the region, raising fears of a breakdown of order. The Pademba Road Prisons, which held over 2,000 inmates, were also attacked, with some prisoners being abducted while others were released. Security forces managed to push back the assailants to the outskirts of the city, where fighting is ongoing. The government and security forces claim to be in control of the situation. However, gunshots were still heard in the city hours after the government assured residents of calm. It remains unclear who is behind the attack and whether any arrests have been made. Sierra Leone, with a population of 8 million people and one of the lowest scores on the U.N. Human Development Index, is among the poorest countries in the world.
According to reports, Odell Beckham Jr. is expected to play against the Chargers on Sunday night. Despite being listed as "questionable" due to a shoulder injury, Beckham has been practicing and his status is trending towards probable. This will be Beckham's first time playing at SoFi Stadium since tearing his ACL in Super Bowl LVI. The Ravens' wide receiver will have the opportunity to take advantage of the Chargers' poor pass defense and could see more targets with tight end Mark Andrews out due to an ankle injury. The Ravens' offense will also have Zay Flowers active, further bolstering their receiving corps. Meanwhile, cornerback Marlon Humphrey will be inactive for a second consecutive game due to a calf injury, which could strain Baltimore's defense against Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. The Ravens will have to rely on their depth to fill in for inactive players such as linebackers Malik Harrison and Trenton Simpson.
An Israeli-linked oil tanker has been seized by attackers off the coast of Yemen, according to reports from intelligence firm Ambrey and the tanker's management company, Zodiac Maritime. The Liberian-flagged tanker, named Central Park, was reportedly seized by unidentified armed individuals in the Gulf of Aden. The vessel is managed by Zodiac Maritime, which is part of Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer's Zodiac Group. The company referred to the incident as a "suspected piracy incident" and expressed its priority of ensuring the safety of the 22 crew members onboard. The tanker is carrying a full cargo of phosphoric acid. The attack comes in the midst of heightened tensions between Israel and Hamas, with at least two other recent maritime attacks being linked to the ongoing conflict. The identity of the attackers remains unknown, and it is unclear why the vessel was targeted. The U.S. defense official has confirmed the incident and stated that "US and coalition forces are in the vicinity and we are closely monitoring the situation." Details regarding the response to the attack and the current status of the vessel remain undisclosed.
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As winter weather swept through the Kansas City area, locals experienced their first snowfall of the season. Although Kansas received the brunt of the storm, most areas in Kansas City, Missouri, also saw some snow accumulation. The snowfall amounts varied depending on the location, with totals expected to be between two and four inches in the Kansas City metro area.
While some areas are currently experiencing slushy conditions on untreated or unplowed side streets, warming temperatures as the sun comes out are expected to help thaw the roads. However, caution is advised as the slush may refreeze as temperatures drop later in the evening. The Missouri Department of Transportation and KanDrive both provide real-time updates on road conditions for travelers.
In Topeka, the capital city of Kansas, the National Weather Service reported the snowiest November day in 135 years. Topeka received 7.2 inches of snow over the weekend, making it the second-highest one-day November snowfall total since records began in 1887. The highest snowfall total of 12 inches was recorded near Hutchinson.
Looking ahead, law enforcement officials advised against driving during the wintry conditions, and crews have been working to plow streets and roads. Sunny skies and gradually warming temperatures are expected in the coming days, with a slight chance of rain on Thursday night.
Overall, the first snowstorm of the year left its mark on the Kansas City area, but residents can expect improving conditions as the storm moves further east and temperatures rise.
Sources:
- FOX4
- KCTV
- Topeka Capital-Journal
Russia has placed Meta Platforms' spokesperson, Andy Stone, on a wanted list on unspecified charges, according to the Russian news agency TASS. The details of the investigation and charges have not been disclosed by the Russian Interior Ministry. This move comes after Russia classified Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as a "terrorist and extremist" organization, leading to possible criminal investigations and fines for users in Russia. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Meta's social platforms have been banned in Russia. In March 2022, the Russian investigative committee opened a criminal investigation into Meta's employees, including Stone, accusing him of inciting extremist activity by lifting a ban on calls for violence against the Russian military on its platforms. Meta's press office has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Sources:
- Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/russia-puts-metas-spokesperson-wanted-list-state-tass-2023-11-26/
- Hindustan Times: https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/russia-puts-meta-s-spokesperson-on-wanted-list-launches-criminal-investigation-101641523744469.html
- The Associated Press: https://apnews.com/article/facilitating-terrorism-business-technology-russia-mark-zuckerberg-18f32bed01f1a9ba70cc0f331811457a
Winter weather is on its way to Metro Detroit, with accumulating snow expected on Sunday. According to the 4Warn Weather forecast, snow is set to move into the region throughout the day on Sunday, with around an inch or so of accumulation possible by Sunday night.
While this system is not expected to be very strong, it will have enough moisture to leave some accumulating snow behind. Most places in Metro Detroit should see around an inch of snowfall, with a slight chance of a rain/snow mix along the lakeshore.
Temperatures will reach the middle 30s by early Sunday afternoon before dropping into the lower 30s in the evening. The snow is expected to continue into late Sunday night before tapering off.
This first significant snowfall of the season may impact holiday travel for those returning home after the Thanksgiving weekend. Motorists should exercise caution on the roads and allow for extra travel time.
After the snow moves out, Metro Detroit can expect warmer temperatures later in the week, with highs reaching the middle 40s by midweek. However, a cold start to the week is expected, with gusty winds and temperatures in the teens on Monday and Tuesday.
Keep an eye on the forecast for any changes and stay safe on the roads this winter season.
The Chicago Bears will be without three key players when they take on the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football. Starting cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, running back D'Onta Foreman, and swing tackle Larry Borom have all been ruled out for the game. Stevenson suffered an ankle injury that limited his practice participation, while Foreman has been dealing with an ankle issue for several weeks. Borom was not expected to play due to illness.
The absence of Stevenson means rookie Terell Smith will likely start opposite Jaylon Johnson. There may also be a rotation involving Jaylon Jones at outside corner. In Foreman's absence, Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson will be responsible for the running back duties. Borom's absence may prompt the Bears to elevate Aviante Collins from the practice squad to serve as a backup tackle.
The Vikings, meanwhile, have listed defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga, corner Akayleb Evans, and wide receiver Justin Jefferson as questionable for the game. Jefferson, in particular, is a crucial player for the Vikings, and his presence could greatly impact the outcome.
In a thrilling Western Conference semifinal matchup, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over the Seattle Sounders. The game was marked by a goal from Golden Boot Award winner Denis Bouanga and an outstanding performance from LAFC goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau, who made seven crucial saves.
The only goal of the game came in the 30th minute when Timothy Tillman delivered a pass to Cristian Olivera, who set up Bouanga for a powerful shot into the far side netting. This goal proved to be enough for LAFC to secure their spot in the conference final.
Crepeau showcased his skills early on with two impressive saves in the opening minutes of the match. Throughout the game, he continued to make key saves, including tipping shots from Alex Roldan and Joao Paulo over the crossbar in the 80th and 81st minutes.
The Sounders, who had a league-record 19-game home unbeaten streak dating back to 2014, were unable to find the back of the net. Despite several scoring opportunities, Crepeau's exceptional performance denied them any chance of a comeback.
With this win, LAFC will now face the Houston Dynamo in the conference final on Saturday. Both teams will be vying for a spot in the MLS Cup as they seek to continue their journey towards the championship title.