Iniaes

Young Italian Golfer Feared Dead as Resort Fire Kills 40 in Crans-Montana

Authorities say 40 people died in a blaze at the resort of Crans-Montana. Separate reports claim a young Italian golfer is feared dead and that around 100 people are in critical condition, but no further official details were provided.

Russia urges the United States to stop pursuing a tanker bound for Venezuela that claims a Russian flag

Russia has sent a diplomatic note to Washington asking it to end the U.S. Coast Guard’s pursuit of a large oil tanker headed toward Venezuela after the vessel began claiming Russian registration. U.S. officials say the ship—tracked for weeks and suspected of links to Iranian oil shipments—was effectively unflagged during the initial encounter, refused boarding, and only later painted a Russian flag and sought registration under a new name, Marinera. The United States continues to treat the tanker as stateless and is pressing enforcement actions, while Venezuela considers naval escorts and Maduro says he is open to talks with Washington on drug trafficking.

Anthony Joshua’s driver charged after crash in Nigeria that killed two

Anthony Joshua’s driver has been charged following a crash in Nigeria in which Joshua was a passenger. The collision, which happened on Monday, killed two members of his team.

Leicester Tigers’ coaching changes helped Olly Cracknell earn Wales call-ups

Olly Cracknell says the frequent turnover of head coaches at Leicester Tigers created an opportunity that helped him finally achieve his goal of being selected for Wales.

FBI Foils Alleged ISIS-Inspired New Year’s Eve Attack

U.S. law enforcement said it stopped a New Year’s Eve attack in North Carolina that officials described as inspired by ISIS and involving knives and hammers. Christan Sturdivant, 18, of Mint Hill, was charged with providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization and has not yet entered a plea. Investigators said a search of his home found a handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026” outlining plans to stab up to 20 people and attack responding police officers.

Year in Review: Key Global Events That Shaped a Turbulent 2025

Our pick of the major global news events that shaped a turbulent 2025, spanning high-profile diplomatic visits, coups, trade wars, and emerging political leaders that reshaped the global landscape.

British Security Researcher Receives Invite-Only Australian Visa After Finding Government System Flaw

British security researcher Jacob Riggs plans to move from London to Sydney within the next year after being granted Australia’s most restrictive invite-only visa, following his discovery of a critical vulnerability in a government system.

Commentator Says Keir Starmer Is Unlikely to Resolve the Cost of Living Crisis as New Data Shows Pressures Persist

Keir Starmer faced criticism on GB News after new Retail Economics figures suggested the cost of living crisis is continuing, with the poorest households seeing their discretionary income fall by 2.1% between Labour’s July 2024 election win and October 2025. Commentator James Matthewson argued the government is struggling to break the deadlock over inflation and rising essentials such as energy and food, and said Starmer lacks the leadership needed to turn the situation around. He suggested Angela Rayner as an alternative leader, while the discussion also pointed to inflation and policy choices as key drivers of worsening living standards.

Which programming resource changed your career?

One programmer says reading “Operating Systems: Three Easy Pieces” was a turning point, delivering major insights and the confidence to take on more complex projects. They ask others to share specific books, courses, or learning moments that similarly transformed their programming careers.

Gwynedd council rejects touring caravan site plans again

Revised proposals for a 13-pitch touring caravan site at Berth Ddu, Bwlchtocyn near Abersoch were refused again by Cyngor Gwynedd. Councillors said the site sits in open countryside inside the Llŷn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and would not blend into the landscape, despite cuts from 15 to 13 pitches plus a hedge, facilities block, and landscaping. Officers also flagged policy conflicts, access concerns, cumulative caravan pressure locally, potential harm to visual quality and character, and a lack of solid evidence on the loss of high-quality agricultural land.

BTS set full group comeback with new album

BTS are scheduled to return with a new album featuring all seven members on March 20, their first full group release in nearly four years. The pop industrial complex once again prepares to print money using extremely choreographed feelings.

Rooftop fire hits office building in Philadelphia’s Fishtown

Fire crews responded to a rooftop fire at an office building in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood after video showed flames shooting from the roof. No further details were included in the summary.

Mike Nesbitt to step down as Ulster Unionist Party leader

Mike Nesbitt will stand down as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party. The current health minister shared the decision with assembly members and party officers on Friday morning.

Breton culture in 2025, UNESCO megaliths, festivals, and political organising

Rémy Penneg outlines 2025 Breton cultural highlights for Welsh readers, including Brittany’s megalithic sites newly recognized by UNESCO, extensive religious heritage, and a packed calendar of major music festivals. He also points to Breizh A Live, a Breton language rally in Carhaix mixing concerts and activism, plus the launch of Yes Breizh in 2025, a volunteer-led push for greater devolution while strengthening ties with Wales.

Samsung shares hit record high on “Samsung is back” HBM4 optimism

Samsung shares in South Korea rose 7.4% to a record high after co-CEO Jun Young Hyun told employees customers are praising the competitiveness of its next-generation high-bandwidth memory chips, HBM4. Samsung is aiming for a turnaround after losing HBM share to SK Hynix, with hopes that AI-driven demand and rising memory prices will lift earnings. Capital markets, as ever, heard a slogan and started throwing confetti.

Brennan Johnson expected in Crystal Palace squad after Tottenham move

Wales forward Brennan Johnson is expected to be included in Crystal Palace’s squad for Sunday against Newcastle United after finalising his move from Tottenham.

High profile legal cases slated for 2026 trials

Several high-profile legal cases are scheduled to go to trial in 2026, drawing significant public attention. Details were not provided in the summary, which is a very efficient way to say, “trust us, it is juicy.”

Major overnight Russian drone attack hits Zaporizhzhia

Russia carried out one of its largest overnight drone attacks on Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia on Friday, striking dozens of buildings but with no reported casualties. Ukraine said it intercepted most of the drones.

Trump backs off proposed pasta tariffs

The U.S. government eased up on proposed duties that could have nearly doubled the price of Italian pasta brands, after political pressure over the cost of living. The administration had accused 13 Italian producers, including Barilla and premium makers like La Molisana and Pastificio Lucio Garofalo, of dumping pasta in the U.S., and threatened tariffs up to 92%. Nothing says “serious economic policy” like nearly declaring war on spaghetti.

New Year Quiz on AI Bands, Sydney Sweeney, and Demon Hunters

A 2026 New Year quiz challenges readers to see how much they remember about last year’s biggest pop culture moments and scandals, including AI bands, Sydney Sweeney, and demon hunters.

BBC Weather forecasts snow in London for four consecutive days as maps show a red warning

BBC Weather experts are forecasting snow in London for four days in a row, with forecast maps indicating a red warning. Temperatures are expected to be very low, bringing a notably cold start to 2026.

BBC faces new accusations of bias over Gaza coverage and limited reporting on Iran

The BBC is facing renewed criticism over its Middle East coverage, with Alex Gandler of the Israeli embassy in London alleging the broadcaster devotes far more attention to Gaza than to unrest and conflict in Iran. The claims come amid reports of deaths during Iran’s largest protests in three years over worsening economic conditions, and broader questions about mainstream media coverage of the protests. The dispute follows earlier backlash over a BBC Gaza documentary that Ofcom said was “materially misleading” for not disclosing the narrator’s family connection to Hamas, after which the BBC apologised and removed the programme online.

Notable birthdays on Jan. 3 include Florence Pugh and Danica McKellar

Jan. 3 features several notable birthdays, including actor Florence Pugh turning 30 and actor Danica McKellar turning 51.

Jan. 2: West Virginia Coal Mine Explosion Kills 12

On Jan. 2, 2006, a methane gas explosion at a coal mine in Upshur County, West Virginia, killed 12 men.

Famous birthdays on Jan. 2: Paz Vega and Renée Elise Goldsberry

Jan. 2 marks the birthdays of actor Paz Vega, who turns 50, and actor Renée Elise Goldsberry, who turns 55.

Marks & Spencer slippers praised for long-lasting comfort

Shoppers say Marks & Spencer slippers are soft and comfortable, with some reporting they’ve bought the same style for around 10 years.

Lee Waters Says Jo Stevens Is the Most Anti-Devolution Labour Welsh Secretary Since George Thomas

Former Welsh Labour minister and Llanelli MS Lee Waters said on the Senedd Sources podcast that Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens is the most anti-devolution Labour Welsh Secretary since George Thomas, arguing she holds strongly unionist views that clash with Labour policy in Wales. His remarks come amid growing frustration among Welsh Labour MSs over what they see as the UK Labour government bypassing devolved powers, including a Whitehall-run town centre funding scheme using Internal Market Act powers. Waters was among 11 backbenchers who wrote to Keir Starmer calling the approach a “constitutional outrage,” urging respect for Wales’s devolved settlement and further devolution.

Wales forward Aaron Wainwright set to join Leicester

Wales number eight Aaron Wainwright is expected to leave the Dragons at the end of the season and move to Leicester.

Ice and Snow Across the UK in an Early 2026 Cold Spell

The UK is seeing a wintry start to 2026, with ice and snow affecting several areas. Scotland is expected to be hit hardest, and weather warnings remain in place until Sunday.

Maduro Says Venezuela Is Open to Talks With the United States on Drug Trafficking

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro said in an interview on state television that Venezuela is willing to hold talks with the United States on drug trafficking, while sidestepping a question about a reported attack in Venezuela that the U.S. has claimed.

Aaron Wainwright set to leave Welsh rugby for a move to a leading English club

Wales international Aaron Wainwright is expected to quit Welsh rugby and join one of England’s biggest clubs, dealing another setback to the Welsh game.

Mayor Mamdani Targets Negligent Landlords on His First Day in Office

Mayor Zohran Mamdani began his first day in office by announcing housing-focused executive orders aimed at tightening landlord accountability and speeding up new development. He revived the Mayor’s Office to Protect Tenants to prioritize resolving 311 complaints and hazardous conditions, launched the LIFT task force to identify city-owned sites for housing, and created the SPEED task force to cut permitting and procedural delays, both overseen by Deputy Mayor Lila Joseph. Mamdani also said the city will intervene in a bankruptcy case involving Pinnacle Realty, citing thousands of hazardous violations and tenant complaints, and pledged action to keep homes safe, habitable, and affordable while reducing displacement.

Record Snowfall in Alaska Sinks Boats and Raises Avalanche Risk

Juneau, Alaska, is facing record winter weather after about 82 inches of snow in December, far above normal, with eight boats reported sunk in the harbor during the storm. City harbor crews say they are running out of pumps and resources, while the Coast Guard warns heavy snow can destabilize vessels and create environmental hazards. Avalanche danger has also increased along Thane Road, where crews are carrying out hazard-reduction work and keeping the road closed until it is safe.

Blind Items Revealed #45: Jennifer Lawrence Reportedly Supports Auction Jewelry Amid Marriage Rumors

Blind Items Revealed #45 claims Jennifer Lawrence and husband Cooke Maroney have been facing marital strain after he reportedly left his job following a personal blow-up and has struggled to find his next move. Lawrence has recently appeared at major events wearing Sotheby’s-bound jewelry—twice since his departure—prompting speculation that the appearances could be a small income-generating sideline as her recent films are described as underperforming.

Montgomery County Business Owner Hospitalized With Rare Flesh-Eating Bacterial Infection

A Montgomery County business owner remains in the hospital recovering after being diagnosed with a rare flesh-eating bacterial infection.

Two Killed and One Injured in New Year’s Day Triple Shooting in Northeast Philadelphia

Two men were killed and a third person was injured in a triple shooting on New Year’s Day in Northeast Philadelphia.

Allegations of Stalking Involving Former Teen Star Jonathan Brandis

A blind-item account alleges that former teen actor Jonathan Brandis, described as struggling after mistreatment in the industry, became fixated on his first girlfriend after learning she was dating a minor co-star during a film shoot. He reportedly followed the co-star on set, obtained the co-star’s address through payroll, and then stalked both the co-star and the ex-girlfriend, leading to a restraining order. The account claims he threatened to have the co-star blacklisted unless he ended the relationship, and that police later warned Brandis without making an arrest.

Travel disruption expected as ice and snow affect the UK

Travel disruption is expected across the UK as ice and snow spread, with the most severe conditions forecast for Scotland. Weather warnings remain in place there until Sunday.

Blind Item #43: Allegations About a Famous Actor and a Secret Child

A blind-item claim alleges that a foreign-born, permanently A-list actor with one publicly acknowledged child used hush money to make another child’s mother disappear after she sought a paternity test, and later arranged for the child’s adoption. The claim further alleges the actor enlisted a powerful aviation mogul friend to have the mother killed when she resurfaced, while the actor’s acknowledged child’s mother remains alive.

Northeast Philadelphia triple shooting leaves two dead

On New Year’s Day in Northeast Philadelphia, a triple shooting killed two men and left another person injured.

Blind item claims Ilia Malinin is being groomed as a 2026 “golden boy”

“Blind Items Revealed #29” alleges figure skater Ilia Malinin is getting a major PR push heading into the 2026 Olympics, including talk of a possible Vanity Fair cover. It also claims sponsors are wary due to rumored fan drama and allegations about private behavior that could trigger reputational fallout. These are unverified claims, filed under the “internet whisper economy.”

Usman Khawaja criticises “unfair” coverage and racial stereotyping as he retires

Retiring Australia batter Usman Khawaja says media coverage and commentary from some former players treated him unfairly. He also criticised what he described as racial stereotypes while announcing his retirement from international cricket.

Report says Reese Witherspoon may exit “The Morning Show” after current season

A report claims Reese Witherspoon is preparing to leave her role on the streaming drama “The Morning Show” after the current season. It also says she plans a hard-charging awards campaign next year, because nothing says “art” like turning your performance into a full-time lobbying operation.

Manchester City slip behind Arsenal, Guardiola vents

Manchester City have fallen behind Arsenal in the Premier League title race, prompting Pep Guardiola to express frustration and question whether it’s truly a two-team battle. With Arsenal leading, City have little margin for error.

Swiss ski resort bar fire dominates front pages

Friday’s front pages are led by a deadly bar fire in a Swiss ski resort that has reportedly killed dozens, pushing other major stories into the background. When tragedy hits at that scale, the media’s usual circus acts get shoved offstage, as they should.

Rumor mill links Marion Cotillard, Brad Pitt, and “The Morning Show” casting

Speculation continues that Marion Cotillard may appear on “The Morning Show,” alongside revived rumors about one of her children being fathered by Brad Pitt. The claim also suggests Jennifer Aniston is backing Cotillard’s appearance as a jab at Angelina Jolie, because in Celebrity Land, even casting decisions are apparently used as passive-aggressive Post-it notes.

Iran protests intensify amid economic deterioration, clashes reported

Protests across Iran over the deteriorating economy intensified Thursday, with clashes reported between demonstrators and police in several provinces. In Lorestan province, at least three protesters were reported killed and 17 wounded during an attack on a police station, according to the semiofficial Fars News Agency.

Trump administration eases tariffs on Italian pasta brands

The Italian government said the United States has pulled back on duties previously imposed on several Italy-based pasta brands. Nothing screams “serious trade strategy” like yanking tariffs on pasta, the diplomatic equivalent of choosing your next policy with a grocery cart.

Philadelphia area stays chilly through weekend, warmer shift ahead

AccuWeather says cold conditions will persist in the Philadelphia region through the weekend, followed by a change in weather patterns that brings warmer temperatures.

Pope Leo XIV begins 2026 with a call for peace

Pope Leo XIV marked the start of 2026 by urging peace, highlighting countries scarred by conflict and families suffering from violence.

Robert Rodriguez affair rumors resurface

One blind item alleges director Robert Rodriguez had a years-long affair with circus artist and nightclub figure Anya Sapozhnikova while married to producer and actress Elizabeth Avellán, involving heavy partying and drug use in New York City. It also claims Sapozhnikova later inspired a film connected to mental-health struggles, and that the relationship contributed to Rodriguez’s divorce and later tensions involving actress Rose McGowan. (Unverified gossip, in case the “blind item” label did not scream it loudly enough.)

More “maxwellhill” speculation, because the internet cannot quit anything

A piece claims Ghislaine Maxwell, previously linked online to the Reddit account “maxwellhill,” would resume heavy Reddit posting if given internet access in prison. It suggests she may now be posting under a different handle to avoid attention, while noting the old account has not been deleted and that some past comments may still be viewable despite frequent deletions. It also alleges early Reddit figures praised the account’s contributions, and that any current activity is mostly limited to yoga-related threads. (Yes, yoga: the ancient practice of stretching, breathing, and pretending your online footprint does not exist.)

Goo Goo Dolls milestone, “Iris” hits 3 billion Spotify streams

The Goo Goo Dolls’ hit song “Iris” has surpassed 3 billion streams on Spotify. Proof that time is a flat circle, and we are all still standing in the metaphorical rain insisting we do not want the world to see us, while the world very much does.

Wholesome sports anime reportedly draws a disturbing underground fandom

A report says a popular foreign animated sports series, created by women for a female audience and known for a wholesome tone and shirtless male characters, has attracted an unsettling underground fandom. The item alleges a major fan-art platform is allowing disturbing material related to the series to be posted and sold, and urges the platform to take action.

Philadelphia police investigate New Year’s Day triple shooting

Philadelphia police are investigating a triple shooting in Northeast Philadelphia on New Year’s Day that left two people dead.

Vehicle crashes into Cheltenham Township home, ignites fire, driver flees

Officials say a vehicle hit a house at 808 Chelten Hills Dr. in Cheltenham Township around 4 a.m. Thursday, igniting both the car and the front of the home. Fire crews responded quickly; the house was unoccupied due to prior foundation-related safety issues, and the driver fled on foot and has not been found. No firefighter injuries were reported, and the home was boarded up and re-posted as unsafe.

Haiku OS NVIDIA graphics work shows renewed progress

NVIDIA graphics support on the BeOS-inspired, open-source Haiku operating system is reportedly advancing again, driven by work involving NVIDIA’s open kernel modules alongside the NVK driver and Zink-based Vulkan-to-OpenGL translation. A niche triumph, but in a world where basic software support often feels like a luxury, we take our victories where we can get them.

Jared Leto “cult leader” claims, via blind item

Another blind item alleges actor Jared Leto, described as a cult leader, promises celibacy to followers until he finds a “Queen,” then purportedly encourages followers to compete for the role, has sex with multiple women, and later reframes it as a “meditation experience” while continuing the search. These claims are presented as unverified gossip, which is also the only appropriate container for them.

Philadelphia Mummers Parade Suspends String Band Competition Due to High Winds

Organizers of Philadelphia’s Mummers Parade suspended the string band competition after sustained winds around 30 mph and damage during unloading and setup raised safety concerns. Officials said conditions made it unsafe for performers to compete using props, prioritizing participant safety.

Chelsea and manager Enzo Maresca part ways after 18 months

Chelsea have ended their 18-month partnership with manager Enzo Maresca, less than six months after he led the club to Club World Cup success. The split comes after a period in which results and internal momentum reportedly deteriorated, raising questions about how a recent high point turned into a rapid breakdown.

Why Chelsea and Enzo Maresca Parted Ways

Questions are being raised about what went wrong between Chelsea and Enzo Maresca after his departure less than six months after leading the club to Club World Cup success, marking a rapid breakdown in what initially looked like a winning partnership.

ACA health insurance subsidies expire, raising premiums for millions in 2026

Enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits expired at the start of the new year, setting up higher insurance costs in 2026 for millions of people who buy coverage on their own and do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare. Democrats pushed for an extension, some moderate Republicans sought a fix, and President Donald Trump briefly signaled interest before retreating amid conservative opposition, but no agreement was reached before the deadline. Lawmakers may revisit the issue, with a House vote expected in January, though passage is uncertain as health care costs loom over the midterm election year.

Shock in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Day

A fire broke out in the town’s central, lively area, as reported by the BBC’s Silvia Costeloe.

European Space Agency Confirms Another Security Breach After Hackers Claim Major Data Theft

The European Space Agency has confirmed another security incident after a cybercriminal posted on BreachForums claiming to have stolen data, including source code, confidential documents, API tokens, and credentials. The attacker alleges they accessed ESA-linked external servers on December 18 and remained connected for about a week, exfiltrating private Bitbucket repositories, CI/CD pipeline data, Terraform files, and hardcoded credentials. ESA said the incident may have affected only a very small number of external servers used for unclassified engineering and scientific collaboration, and it has launched a forensic security investigation.

Breach Roundup: Clop Linked to Korean Air Vendor Breach

A vendor incident affected Korean Air this week. Separately, a China-linked APT was tied to hijacked software updates, a critical zero-day vulnerability remained unpatched, Condé Nast reported leaked data, La Poste suffered service disruptions, and South Korean police extradited a suspect connected to a malware operation.

Fireworks Spark Major House Fire in Riverview, Florida on New Year’s Day

Fireworks ignited a major house fire early Thursday in Riverview, Florida, prompting multiple 911 calls around 12:49 a.m. on Mile Marsh Drive. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue found the home fully engulfed, with flames threatening a neighboring house.

US announces new strikes on suspected drug-trafficking boats as Coast Guard searches for survivors

The U.S. announced strikes on five suspected drug-trafficking vessels, including a Dec. 30 operation targeting three boats traveling in a convoy along known trafficking routes and a separate New Year’s Eve strike on two more vessels. U.S. Southern Command said people on two of the Dec. 30 boats jumped into the water before the vessels sank, prompting the Coast Guard to launch a search-and-rescue effort and alert other mariners. The strikes come amid scrutiny of earlier operations, and the U.S. says its broader anti-“narco-terrorism” campaign has involved at least 34 strikes and at least 115 deaths.

Chelsea lose Enzo Maresca, because stability is apparently a forbidden art

Chelsea and “long-term planning” continue their iconic long-distance relationship. Enzo Maresca is out with the club sitting fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal—proving once again that at Stamford Bridge the manager is less a strategist and more a seasonal decoration.

Russia touts the PAK DA stealth bomber, big promises, tiny public progress

Russia is promoting the PAK DA as a next-generation, stealth-focused strategic bomber meant to replace aging Tu-95s and complement modernized Tu-160Ms. The pitch is a long-endurance flying-wing “missile truck” built for lower detectability as air defenses improve. The catch: key specifications are unconfirmed, and visible prototype progress appears limited—which is one way to keep a stealth project “undetectable.”

Philadelphia gets an Arctic front, snow squalls, then a brighter afternoon

AccuWeather says an Arctic front arrives in the Philadelphia region today, bringing early-morning snow squalls followed by a brighter afternoon. Wind chills stay in the teens, because winter enjoys doing the most.

RSPB celebrates 25 years of UK conservation wins, while warning the threats are still piling up

The RSPB is marking the new year by highlighting 25 years of conservation gains across the UK, including woodland, peatland, wetland, and saltmarsh restoration. It points to successes like Ramsey Island seabird recovery after rat eradication, upland restoration at Geltsdale in the Pennines, Caledonian woodland expansion at Abernethy, and wetland creation at Frampton Marsh. The charity also notes sharp increases in bittern numbers and the return of common cranes, while warning that climate change, intensive agriculture, development, habitat loss, and government inaction still threaten nature.

New Year’s resolutions feel tougher, because everyone is exhausted and the calendar is not a therapist

Researchers point to worsening mental wellbeing, ongoing uncertainty, and “change fatigue” making fresh starts feel unrealistic and emotionally draining. The “fresh start effect” can help, but stress and lack of control push people toward risk-focused thinking. Work exploring “possibility thinking” suggests lasting change needs opportunity, motivation, and ability to act reinforcing each other, with goals shaped by real constraints like time, money, and caregiving. More workable approaches include small adjustments instead of dramatic reinvention, and sharing responsibility across families, workplaces, or communities.

Climate resolutions that fail versus ones that stick, spoiler: martyrdom is not a strategy

A guide to climate New Year’s resolutions argues durable change comes from realistic, positive habits rather than total self-denial. “Stickier” goals include buying second-hand clothes regularly, building eco-friendly plans into social time, adding more plant-based meals by focusing on foods you actually like, and writing to your MP to push for policy change. Resolutions likely to fail include swearing off flying entirely, overhauling every lifestyle choice at once, and trying to convert sceptical friends or family—alternatives include taking trains where possible and leading by example.

Ultimate Wales road trip mapped with 21 stops for 2026

A UK travel guide has laid out an “ultimate Wales road trip” of about 200 miles, from Cardiff to Caerphilly, with 21 stops across north and south Wales. Highlights include the Gower Peninsula, Tenby, St Davids, Portmeirion, Eryri (Snowdonia) and Yr Wyddfa, Zip World at Penrhyn Quarry, Caernarfon and Conwy castles, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Hay-on-Wye, and Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) with Pen y Fan, plus practical notes on access, weather, and possible closures.

Deadly New Year’s Eve explosion at bar in Crans-Montana

Police say several people were killed and others injured in an explosion at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve.

Dry January tips for sticking with a month off alcohol

A set of Dry January suggestions aims to help people complete four weeks without alcohol, drawing on the experience of a social drinker who goes teetotal for three months each year.

Pick one realistic habit change to simplify life and cut impact

Advice urges people to choose a single manageable habit, such as spending less, eating healthier, or decluttering, to simplify routines, reduce costs, and lower climate impact.

Roberto Carlos recovering after preventative medical procedure

Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos says he is in hospital and recovering well after what he described as a preventative medical procedure.

Row over demolition of Ruthin’s former Rhos Street School for affordable homes

A local campaigner has criticised Denbighshire councillors after they approved plans to demolish Ruthin’s former Victorian Rhos Street School to build 20 affordable homes. The committee unanimously backed the housing association, citing the building’s unlisted status, long-term dereliction, and unsuccessful marketing. Supporters pointed to housing need and suggested a commemorative plaque.

January 1 celebrity birthdays

Musician Winter and actor Angourie Rice are among those turning 25 on January 1, alongside other notable birthdays on the date.

On this date, the first Tournament of Roses parade

On Jan. 1, 1890, the first Tournament of Roses parade was held in Pasadena, California.

MyLondon highlights 2025 stories that helped ordinary Londoners

As 2026 begins, MyLondon is reflecting on 12 reports from 2025 that it says made a positive difference in the lives of ordinary people across the city.

Women’s Super League transfer window opens with focus on potential moves

With the January transfer window open in the Women’s Super League, attention is on possible club switches and out-of-contract players who could be available.

World welcomes 2026 with fireworks, light shows, and heightened security

Cities including Sydney, Paris, and New York City marked the start of 2026 with large public celebrations, while some places celebrated more quietly. In Japan, temple bells rang at midnight, and some people climbed mountains to watch the first sunrise of the year.

Todd Murphy expects England to target him in final Ashes Test

Australia spinner Todd Murphy says he is ready for England to go after him as a main target in the final Ashes Test in Sydney.

EU carbon border tax begins, exporters face CO2-linked costs

The EU’s carbon border tax takes effect on 1 January 2026, requiring steel and aluminium exporters to pay for the CO2 emissions tied to their production. Critics argue it is protectionist and warn it could harm trade and fuel disputes.

Labour confirms major British passport redesign as ministers welcome a "new era"

A redesigned UK passport has come into effect, marking the first full overhaul in five years. The cover now features King Charles’s insignia, and the Home Office says the document includes upgraded anti-forgery security features such as holographic and translucent elements. Around 300 of the new passports are already in circulation, with a wider rollout planned as existing stock is replaced. Interior pages highlight UNESCO-linked landscapes across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while current passports remain valid until their expiry date.

Tuberville criticizes Mamdani for using the Quran at his swearing-in

Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama criticized incoming New York mayor Zohran Mamdani for choosing to be sworn in with the Quran. In a post on X, Tuberville wrote, “The enemy is inside the gates,” and shared a screenshot referencing coverage of Mamdani’s decision.

Versatile velvet coat suitable for evenings out or casual wear with jeans

A simple, flattering velvet coat designed to work for a dressy evening out or styled casually with jeans.

2026 Mummers Parade: Key Information

Philadelphia will ring in the New Year with the 2026 Mummers Parade, celebrating its 125th year. The long-running holiday tradition was recently named the best parade in the nation and is set to begin at 9.

Trump pauses plans to deploy the National Guard in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Portland

President Donald Trump said he is, for now, ending his push to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon, after legal challenges stalled the effort.

Man Charged With Fatally Shooting His Brother After an Argument in Philadelphia’s Eastwick Neighborhood

Police say two brothers argued over money in Philadelphia’s Eastwick neighborhood on Wednesday night, and the dispute ended when one brother allegedly shot the other, killing him.

Philadelphia Holds Its First Free New Year’s Eve Concert and Fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Philadelphia hosted its first-ever free New Year’s Eve concert and fireworks show on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, drawing hundreds of people Wednesday night.

Mummers to Hold 125th New Year’s Day Parade in Philadelphia

Crowds are expected to line Broad Street in Philadelphia Thursday morning for the 125th Mummers Parade, continuing the city’s long-running New Year’s Day tradition.

American Heart Association Review Reopens Debate Over Whether Light Drinking Benefits Heart Health

The American Heart Association has sparked renewed controversy with a scientific review in Circulation suggesting that light alcohol consumption—about one to two drinks a day—poses no added risk for coronary disease, stroke, sudden death, and possibly heart failure, and may even lower risk. Public health groups and many physicians dispute the conclusion, citing recent research linking even modest drinking to cardiovascular harm and cancer risk, and noting conflicts with CDC guidance and the association’s own messaging that prefers limited or no alcohol. Critics also accuse the review of selectively using evidence and raise concerns about an author’s past ties to the alcohol industry, while the association says the paper was not intended as clinical guidance and its patient advice has not changed.

AccuWeather reports continued cold weather to start 2026 in the Philadelphia area

AccuWeather says the Philadelphia region will begin 2026 with a continued cold pattern, with winds strengthening again on New Year’s Day and making conditions feel even colder.

Prominent California Farmer Pleads Not Guilty to Murder Charge in Arizona Shooting of Estranged Wife

A prominent California farmer has pleaded not guilty to a murder charge stemming from the fatal shooting of his estranged wife at her home in Arizona.