What Happens if You Refuse to Recognize That We Are in a Death Spiral? You end up in a place of denial, much like an addict who can’t see the wreckage they’re causing. You might notice things aren’t “feeling good” anymore, a general sense of unease that permeates daily life. This is often the first sign, a creeping dread that something is fundamentally wrong. But rather than acknowledging the problem, the response can be to lash out, to blame everyone else, to become defensive and aggressive.
Refusing to see the decline means you’re missing the big picture, the context, the patterns that have been repeating themselves.… Continue reading
The Powerball jackpot has climbed to an estimated $1.1 billion, with a cash value of $503.4 million, after no one won Saturday night’s drawing. This marks the second time this year the game has reached or exceeded $1 billion. A winner on Monday would claim the sixth-largest jackpot in Powerball history, ending a 42-drawing streak without a top prize winner. The odds of winning are nearly 1 in 292.2 million, and the next drawing is scheduled for Monday at 10:59 p.m. ET.
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After the attack on Sydney, Netanyahu’s immediate response was to point the finger at Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and it’s a move that has sparked considerable debate. The core of Netanyahu’s criticism rests on a letter sent to Albanese in August, where he reportedly warned the Australian government about its policies, claiming they were fostering antisemitism within the country. This assertion, made in the wake of a horrific incident, is understandably generating strong reactions, particularly given the timing and context. It is important to note that many people are understandably hurt by Netanyahu’s commentary, in light of the tragedy.
The immediate reaction from various corners is one of condemnation, with many criticizing Netanyahu’s comments as insensitive and opportunistic.… Continue reading
Indiana lawmakers voted against Trump’s midcycle redistricting push, opting to maintain existing election maps despite pressure from the former president to gerrymander them in favor of Republicans. Trump’s frustration focused on state Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray, the primary opponent of redistricting, who favored flipping a current district instead. Trump threatened to support primary challengers against those who didn’t adhere to his agenda, as evidenced by a social media post targeting Bray.
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On the evening of December 14th, unidentified drones targeted the Moscow region, prompting reports of explosions and social media footage capturing both the drones and the blasts. While Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin remained silent, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have intercepted 56 drones across multiple regions, including two over the Moscow region. This incident follows similar drone activity on December 11th and November 30th, leading to temporary airport closures and heightened security measures. No official comments regarding the impact on Moscow have been made.
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A pro-Russian agent network, linked to the Federal Security Service, was discovered in Austria running a disinformation campaign disguised as “Ukrainian Nazis.” The operation, led by Austrian citizen Jan Marsalek, formerly of Wirecard, and Bulgarian national Orlin Rusev, produced and disseminated far-right symbols and propaganda aimed at discrediting Ukraine and reinforcing Russian narratives across several European countries. The network created websites mimicking Ukrainian military groups, while simultaneously using far-right symbols in Ukrainian colors, and coupled them with offensive messaging to stir up animosity. Rusev was later arrested in London, alongside others convicted of spying for Russia.
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President Trump expressed uncertainty about Republicans retaining control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections, attributing this to the historical trend of the ruling party losing seats and the potential for his economic policies to not fully materialize in time. Trump acknowledged the challenges posed by voter frustration over the cost of living and the potential for Democrats to capitalize on these issues. Despite these concerns, he remained optimistic, forecasting improved economic conditions by the election season, while also advocating for redistricting efforts to bolster Republican prospects. The president’s candid assessment highlights the political realities of midterm elections and the importance of tangible results for voters.
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A shop owner, identified as 43-year-old Ahmed al Ahmed, is being hailed a hero after he bravely tackled and disarmed one of the gunmen during the Bondi Beach shooting. Video footage shows al Ahmed running towards the attacker from behind, wresting the shotgun away before pointing it back at him. Despite being shot twice during the incident and requiring surgery, al Ahmed’s quick actions have been widely praised as potentially saving numerous lives. Both the Premier of New South Wales and the Prime Minister of Australia have lauded his bravery, calling him a genuine hero.
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The article examines the precarious position of House Speaker Mike Johnson, highlighting his declining support within the Republican party. Historically, Republican Speakers, including Boehner, Ryan, and McCarthy, have faced internal opposition and ousting. Johnson’s challenges stem from multiple sources, including Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene’s efforts to remove him, and a growing discontent among various factions within the caucus. These concerns include Johnson’s perceived dismissiveness towards female members, and dissatisfaction with his handling of policy issues and the legislative agenda. As a result, Johnson faces a potential rebellion, with members employing tactics like discharge petitions to circumvent his authority, threatening his ability to remain in leadership.
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The arrival of a new nephrologist in Shelby, North Carolina, anticipated to alleviate the workload of local kidney doctors, was expected this fall. Patients were already booked to see the incoming specialist. However, the details of the incoming doctor’s arrival and the reasons for the delayed arrival are not mentioned in this section of the article. Therefore, the effect on patients and the medical staff is still unknown.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker