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Today’s Sponsor: Ground News
Today’s Rundown:
- NEW YEAR’S EVE FIRE AT SWISS ALPINE BAR KILLS DOZENS, INJURES OVER 100: A devastating fire tore through a crowded alpine bar in Switzerland during New Year’s Eve celebrations, killing dozens of people and injuring more than 100 others. Authorities say the blaze spread rapidly in the packed venue, trapping many patrons before they could escape. Emergency crews from multiple regions responded, and hospitals activated mass-casualty protocols. Investigators are examining whether overcrowding, flammable decorations, or electrical issues played a role. Swiss officials have promised a full safety review of similar venues nationwide.
- ZOHRAN MAMDANI SWORN IN AS NYC MAYOR, SIGNALS PROGRESSIVE SHIFT: Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City’s mayor and immediately outlined an ambitious progressive agenda. In his inaugural address, Mamdani emphasized housing affordability, public transit investment, and expanded social services. He also pledged to challenge powerful real estate and corporate interests, a stance that energized supporters and worried business leaders. Mamdani’s victory marked a major generational and ideological shift in city politics. Early policy battles with the City Council and state leaders are expected.
- TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ENDS FEDERAL LEASE FOR D.C. CITY GOLF COURSES: The Trump administration has ended the federal lease that allows Washington, D.C., to operate several municipal golf courses on federal land. Officials said the move is part of a broader review of federal property use and lease terms. District leaders criticized the decision, warning it could disrupt public recreation and city revenue. The golf courses, which are open to the public and relatively affordable, sit on land managed by the National Park Service. Negotiations or legal challenges could follow as the city seeks to keep the courses open.
- WILL SMITH SUED BY TOURING VIOLINIST OVER ALLEGED HARASSMENT, RETALIATION: Actor Will Smith is facing a lawsuit from a touring violinist who alleges sexual harassment and retaliation during Smith’s concert tour. The plaintiff claims Smith made unwanted advances and later punished him professionally after he objected. Smith’s representatives have denied the allegations and say they will fight the lawsuit in court. The case adds to ongoing scrutiny of workplace conduct in the entertainment industry. No court ruling has been made, and the claims remain unproven.
- SEARCH CONTINUES AFTER ELDERLY PASSENGER GOES OVERBOARD ON CRUISE SHIP: A search is underway after a 77-year-old woman went overboard from a Holland America Line ship. The incident occurred while the vessel was at sea, prompting an immediate response from the crew and the U.S. Coast Guard. Rescue teams deployed aircraft and ships to scour the area, but the woman had not been found as of the latest update. Officials have not said how she fell into the water. The case highlights ongoing safety concerns aboard large cruise ships.
- OLE MISS STUNS GEORGIA IN SUGAR BOWL TO REACH CFP SEMIFINALS: Ole Miss Rebels defeated the Georgia Bulldogs in a dramatic Sugar Bowl matchup to advance to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Ole Miss built an early lead, survived a Georgia comeback, and sealed the win with late defensive stops. The victory marks one of the biggest postseason wins in program history. Georgia, a recent national champion, was eliminated despite entering the game as a favorite. Ole Miss now prepares for its first-ever CFP semifinal appearance.
- BETTY BOOP, BLONDIE, AND NANCY DREW ENTER PUBLIC DOMAIN IN 2026: Iconic characters Betty Boop, Blondie, and Nancy Drew are set to enter the public domain in 2026. This means creators will be free to use the original versions of these characters without permission or licensing fees. Legal experts note that later adaptations and trademarks may still be protected. The change is expected to spark new films, books, and reinterpretations. Similar public-domain releases in recent years have already fueled creative and commercial projects.
- ‘BLAZING SADDLES’ TO STREAM ON HBO MAX STARTING JANUARY 2026: The classic comedy Blazing Saddles will join the HBO Max streaming library beginning January 1, 2026. The Mel Brooks film has long been both celebrated and debated for its use of satire and offensive language to critique racism. HBO Max says the movie will stream uncut, with contextual disclaimers for viewers. The addition comes as platforms increasingly restore older films while providing modern context. Fans and critics alike see the move as part of a broader reassessment of controversial classics.
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