As part of a heightened security plan, President Trump authorized a National Guard deployment in New Orleans, commencing Tuesday, following a vehicle-ramming attack on Bourbon Street last year. This deployment, similar to previous security enhancements for events like the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras, will focus on the French Quarter and will not participate in immigration enforcement. With over 800 local, state, and federal law enforcement officials involved, the Guard will support local efforts to enhance capabilities, reduce crime, and restore public trust. This increased presence, including 350 Guard members, will remain through the Carnival season, with plans for the Guard to depart after Mardi Gras in February.
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Kennedy Center New Year’s Eve concerts canceled after addition of Trump’s name. It seems the announcement of the name change, morphing the prestigious Kennedy Center into something bearing Donald Trump’s moniker, has set off a chain reaction, and a rather predictable one at that. The New Year’s Eve concerts, a staple for many, are now casualties. It’s a bit of a domino effect, isn’t it? One decision – the name change – and the entire celebratory lineup crumbles.
The whole situation does beg the question: what were they expecting? The Kennedy Center is a monument to a past president, John F.… Continue reading
AP News reports that federal authorities have arrested four individuals in Southern California who are suspected of planning coordinated bombing attacks on New Year’s Eve. The suspects, allegedly members of an offshoot of the Turtle Island Liberation Front, were arrested in Lucerne Valley while preparing to test improvised explosive devices. The group had planned to target several locations across Southern California, including ICE agents and vehicles, and faces charges including conspiracy and possession of a destructive device. Authorities found bomb-making materials at a desert campsite where the suspects were arrested.
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The Dutch Senate has approved a nationwide ban on consumer fireworks, slated to begin at the end of 2026. While the upcoming New Year’s Eve will still allow fireworks, the State Secretary of Infrastructure and Water Management will draft a General Administrative Order to determine conditions for organized firework shows. This ban, long sought after by emergency services and initiated by MPs Jesse Klaver and Esther Ouwehand, aims to improve safety and well-being for both people and animals during New Year’s celebrations.
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In a New Year’s Eve attack, Russia launched 111 drones targeting Ukrainian cities. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted most, but one civilian was killed and damage inflicted. President Zelensky expressed condolences and gratitude to the military and emergency services for their tireless efforts. The successful defense involved the downing of 63 drones and the disruption of 46 decoys.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood