December’s US inflation rate rose to 2.9%, driven largely by a 40%+ surge in energy prices and a staggering 36%+ increase in egg prices due to avian flu. However, core inflation remained lower than anticipated at 3.2%, easing concerns of a renewed inflation wave. This relatively positive data, contrasting with strong job growth, created uncertainty regarding future Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. Market reactions were initially positive, but anxieties persist about potential inflationary pressures from upcoming policy changes.
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The FDA has banned Red No. 3, a synthetic red food dye linked to cancer in animal studies, following decades of review and advocacy by consumer groups. Used in numerous products including candy and cereals, the ban will take effect January 15, 2027 for food manufacturers, with dietary supplement manufacturers receiving an extension. This decision aligns with international regulations where Red No. 3 is already restricted or banned, and reflects the FDA’s mandate to prohibit cancer-causing food additives. The agency cited evidence of tumors in rats exposed to high levels of the dye.
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Despite overwhelming evidence of abuse, including a suicide note stating “I was murdered,” Ryan Wellings was acquitted of manslaughter in the death of his ex-partner, Kiena Dawes. Wellings was convicted of assault and coercive control, but the family believes justice has not been served and Kiena’s voice has not been fully heard. The case highlights the rarity of manslaughter charges in suicide cases stemming from domestic abuse, despite the significant number of women who die by suicide after experiencing abuse. Kiena’s family and advocates continue to call for increased accountability for abusers in such situations.
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First United American Companies, a firm linked to Alex Jones, has significantly increased its bid for Infowars to over $7 million, more than doubling its previous offer. This follows a voided auction where The Onion’s parent company, Global Tetrahedron, had initially won with a lower bid. The trustee overseeing Jones’ bankruptcy will now evaluate both the new offers from First United American and the expected renewed bid from Global Tetrahedron. The sale proceeds will primarily benefit the Sandy Hook families awarded damages in defamation lawsuits against Jones. The future of Infowars and the specifics of the sale process remain undetermined, pending court approval.
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Meta plans to reduce its global workforce by approximately 5%, accelerating its typical performance-based cuts. This decision, announced by Mark Zuckerberg, anticipates a challenging year ahead for the company. The affected roles will not be refilled until later in 2025. The specific geographic distribution of the layoffs remains undisclosed.
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Governor Newsom’s executive order protects Los Angeles County fire victims from predatory real estate practices by prohibiting undervalue offers on fire-damaged homes for three months. This action, mirroring a similar Hawaii order, targets speculators exploiting vulnerable residents in areas like Altadena, hard-hit by the Eaton Fire. The order directs state agencies to inform the public of their rights and resources, with violations potentially resulting in criminal prosecution. The governor also announced additional measures, including expedited debris removal and a legislative request for $2.5 billion in fire aid.
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A video surfaced showing a Trump supporter live-streaming his drive on the anniversary of the January 6th Capitol riot, during which he boasted of his actions and played altered versions of “YMCA.” While claiming God had cleared a path, he crashed his car into a median. The incident drew comparisons to a similar crash involving pro-Trump merchandise sellers and sparked mixed reactions online, with some seeing it as karmic justice and others expressing relief at the occupants’ safety. The driver’s actions and statements were particularly noteworthy given the context of the January 6th anniversary.
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Australian scientists have confirmed a new species of funnel-web spider, significantly larger and possessing more potent venom glands than its infamous cousin. Dubbed “big boy,” *Atrax christenseni* can reach 9cm in length and, despite its enhanced venom, is neutralized by the existing antivenom. The discovery was made near Newcastle, and the spider’s classification as a separate species was confirmed by a collaborative research team. While posing a significant threat, no human fatalities from funnel-web bites have been recorded since the development of the antivenom.
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President Biden will remove Cuba from the US State Sponsors of Terrorism list, reversing a Trump-era decision. This action, part of a prisoner release deal facilitated by the Catholic Church, is intended to normalize relations and alleviate Cuba’s economic hardship. The deal includes the release of hundreds of prisoners, potentially including those detained following 2021 anti-government protests. While Cuba welcomes the move, the decision’s long-term impact remains uncertain, particularly given potential future administrations’ policies.
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John Q. Hosedrinker