Category: World

  • Christmas Light Controllers Recalled: Safety Alert for Shoppers

    Christmas Light Controllers Recalled: Safety Alert for Shoppers

    More than 44,600 Christmas light controllers sold at stores like Cracker Barrel, Target, and Walmart are being recalled because they can cause fires. The warning comes from the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Mr Christmas LLC.

    These light controllers, made by Mr Christmas LLC in Memphis, Tennessee, have wireless receivers that can overheat when plugged in, creating a fire hazard. The company reported at least ten cases of overheating, with one resulting in a fire. Luckily, no injuries have been reported.

    Mr Christmas is recalling these light controllers for safety and is asking customers to stop using them. If you return your controller, which costs between $25 and $40, you will get a full refund.

    The controllers sold at Cracker Barrel and Walmart are called “Christmas Light Controller.” At Target, they are sold under the brand name “Tree Lighting Switch.”

    If you bought one of these products, please stop using it and go to the Mr Christmas website or the CPSC website for details on how to return it.

    Leslie Hermanson, the President of Mr. Christmas, said, “As a 91-year-old family business, nothing is more important than the safety of families. If you bought one of these products this season, we urge you to return it.”

    Remember, controllers made before 2024 are not part of this recall.

  • Iran to Reopen Syria Embassy Amid Safety Concerns

    Iran to Reopen Syria Embassy Amid Safety Concerns

    On Tuesday, Iran’s foreign ministry announced that it plans to reopen its embassy in Syria once certain conditions are met. The Iranian embassy in Damascus was damaged after rebel groups took control of the city, forcing diplomats to leave.

    Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei mentioned that before the embassy can reopen, the safety of the staff and the embassy itself must be ensured. He did not provide a specific timeline for when this would happen. Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Iran has supported Bashar al-Assad, the president of Syria.

    After Assad’s fall, Iran is now trying to separate itself from him and focus on the long-standing friendship between the two countries. Baqaei emphasized that Iran’s presence in Syria is not about supporting any specific person or group but is based on principles and an invitation from the Syrian government.

    He also criticized Israel for conducting air strikes in Syria and claimed that this action has violated Syria’s territorial integrity. Recently, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas stated that Russia and Iran should not have a role in Syria now that Assad is gone. Baqaei responded, calling her comments a “joke,” stating that foreign powers can no longer dictate policies in the region.

  • Tragic Shooting at Madison Christian School: 5 Dead, Many Hurt

    Tragic Shooting at Madison Christian School: 5 Dead, Many Hurt

    On Monday morning, there was a very sad and scary shooting at a private Christian school called Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin. It happened around 11 a.m. Many people were hurt, and sadly, five people lost their lives, including the shooter, who was a student at the school.

    When police arrived, they found several people who had been shot. The police said that the shooter was a minor and confirmed that the danger was over. They also mentioned that no police officers fired their guns during the incident.

    Casualties and Injuries

    Seven other people were taken to hospitals. Their injuries varied from minor to serious. Right now, it’s not clear if the people who died or who were hurt were students, teachers, or other staff members.

    Community Impact

    Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes expressed deep sadness for the families and the entire school community. He acknowledged the emotional pain caused by this tragic event. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers also shared his condolences and praised the first responders for their quick actions.

    As investigations continue, the police have closed off roads around the school, and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) are helping local officers gather information.

  • Trump May Pardon Mayor Eric Adams Facing Bribery Charges”

    Trump May Pardon Mayor Eric Adams Facing Bribery Charges”

    Donald Trump, who is about to become president again, said he might think about helping Mayor Eric Adams from New York City, who is in trouble for bribery charges. During a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate on Monday, a reporter asked if Trump would support the former police officer. Trump simply replied that he would “look at” a pardon for Adams. This situation is developing, so stay tuned for more updates!

  • 12 Indian Nationals Die from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Georgia

    12 Indian Nationals Die from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Georgia

    During a sad incident, 12 Indian people were found dead in a restaurant in Georgia because of carbon monoxide poisoning. This happened at a popular ski area called Gudauri.

    The Indian embassy in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, expressed deep condolences for the families of the victims. They are working with local authorities to gather more information and provide all possible help.

    Georgia’s police stated that when they first checked the place, they did not find any signs of injury or violence. They mentioned that while the Indian mission confirmed all victims were Indian, local officials said that 11 were foreign nationals and one was a Georgian citizen.

    So what happened? It seems that a generator was placed inside a closed area near the bedrooms of the building. When the electricity went out on Friday night, the owners turned on the oil-powered generator. Unfortunately, the generator produced carbon monoxide, which suffocated everyone inside.

    Local police have started an investigation under a law that covers negligent manslaughter. They are also conducting a forensic examination to find out exactly how they died. Georgia’s Interior Ministry has stated that they are actively working on the investigation, gathering information, and interviewing people involved in the case.

    Gudauri is well-known for skiing and snowboarding, located high in the Caucasus mountains at about 2,200 meters above sea level.

  • Assad’s Escape: How He Left Syria Amidst Chaos

    Assad’s Escape: How He Left Syria Amidst Chaos

    Former Syrian leader Bashar Assad has shared his first comments since being overthrown by rebel groups. He said he had no plans to leave Syria after the fighting reached Damascus. However, after insurgents attacked the capital, he left the city on December 8 with help from Russian forces. Assad explained that he traveled to the Russian military base in Latakia, a coastal area, where he intended to keep fighting. Later that night, after the base was attacked by drones, the Russians decided to move him to Russia for safety. Assad clarified that he did not leave as part of a pre-planned escape, despite earlier reports.

  • Estonia Calls for 2.5% Defense Spending from NATO Amid Russian Threats

    Estonia Calls for 2.5% Defense Spending from NATO Amid Russian Threats

    Estonia has decided to ask leaders of the northern European NATO countries, who are led by the UK, to spend at least 2.5% of their money (GDP) on defense. This is because of worries about Russia. Right now, only 23 out of the 32 NATO countries plan to spend the NATO goal of 2% of their GDP on defense.

    Michal, a leader in Estonia, told Reuters recently, “Everyone in NATO and the EU feels that we need to spend more on defense because of what’s happening around the world and with Russia.” He believes that Europe, being the richest area in the world, should invest more in defense and security.

    This week, Michal is hosting leaders of a group called the Joint Expeditionary Force in Tallinn. They will discuss Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, which could cause serious environmental problems. Since the war in Ukraine began nearly three years ago, Estonia has doubled its defense budget and plans to reach 3.2% of GDP in 2024.

    UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer mentioned in July that he wants to raise UK defense spending to 2.5% of GDP but only when the UK can afford it after reviewing its defense strategy.

    Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump has spoken about ending the war in Ukraine quickly, but he hasn’t shared his plans. Michal stressed the need for lasting peace and suggested using 200 to 300 billion euros from Russia’s frozen assets worldwide to help rebuild Ukraine. He also wants to tax Russian goods to collect an additional 300 billion euros, which he believes would prevent Russia from continuing attacks and strengthen Ukraine’s military.

    “Ukraine is part of Europe and should be in NATO,” Michal added.

  • Royal Family Plans Big Christmas Celebration at Sandringham This Year

    Royal Family Plans Big Christmas Celebration at Sandringham This Year

    This year, the Royal Family is excited to celebrate Christmas at their Sandringham home. King Charles and Kate Middleton want to make this holiday special for their family. After facing a tough year with personal challenges, they are looking forward to a calm and joyful Christmas together.

    Royal expert Jennie Bond shared some details about their plans with OK! Magazine. This Christmas will be all about family, with King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Kate Middleton hosting 45 family members at Sandringham.

    When asked about accommodations, Bond mentioned that Catherine’s parents might stay at Anmer Hall. However, she thinks they’ll only host close family there, while the York family will be at Wood Farm. No matter where everyone stays, the royals want to come together to support each other and create a happy atmosphere.

    Prince William recently attended an event for military families and joked, “We’ll be in Norfolk, at Sandringham. We’ll be 45 for Christmas. It won’t be quiet; it will be noisy.” He added, “Am I ready for Christmas? No way!”

    This year, the Royal Family will focus on making the celebrations fun for the children, as they have more kids in their family now. Bond explained that after everything they’ve been through, it means a lot to King Charles and Queen Camilla to have their family close. With more kids around, Christmas will be filled with joy and laughter, just like it should be.

    Prince Harry and Meghan will not be joining the family in the UK for Christmas, but the rest of the Royal Family will enjoy their traditional holiday together in Norfolk.

  • Canada’s Tough Challenge with U.S.-Bound Migrants”

    Canada’s Tough Challenge with U.S.-Bound Migrants”

    Canada is trying to stop migrants from crossing into the United States, but it’s not easy. Six concrete blocks have been placed at a rural road leading to the U.S.-Canada border to prevent cars from driving over, yet people can still jump over them on foot.

    Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer Daniel Dubois says these blocks aren’t enough. They’ve set up more cameras and sensors, but it’s tough to catch every migrant. Canada also promised to send more officers to the border because U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened high tariffs if Canada doesn’t control migrant crossings better.

    In the past year, Canada turned back about 1,000 people who tried to cross into the country at unofficial spots, while U.S. authorities caught over 23,000 trying to head to America. Most migrant activity is still happening at the southern U.S. border with Mexico, where the numbers are much higher.

    Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller told a group that Canada needs to show the U.S. it has a strong immigration system. He said Canada is facing a “credibility challenge” regarding its border security.

    The RCMP patrols a 105-mile section of the border that’s known for migrant crossings. They rely on tips from the public and surveillance cameras. They can’t arrest people in Canada unless they’re breaking the law, even if they suspect those people might try to cross into the U.S.

    Experts don’t believe new technology or extra officers will significantly stop crossings. Many think these efforts are just to give the appearance of security.

    Advocates for refugees say that making it harder for migrants to cross the border only puts them in more danger. This year, at least nine people died near the Quebec-New York border after a rule change allowed either country to send asylum seekers back.

    Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc has not commented on these plans. Some experts suggest that Canada should prevent migrants from arriving in the first place. Canada has started denying more visas and turning away travelers at the border.

    Terry Rowe, a resident near the border, set up cameras and ended up recording migrants passing by his house. He has shared many videos with U.S. border patrol.

    As the situation changes, Canadian authorities are preparing for an increase in migrants fleeing the potential deportations promised by Trump. RCMP officer Charles Poirier said they are ready for a possible surge, as Rowe notices more people coming from the U.S. to Canada.

  • Heartbreaking Accident Claims Life of Young Student in Memphis, U.S

    Heartbreaking Accident Claims Life of Young Student in Memphis, U.S

    A heartbreaking accident happened on Friday when a 26-year-old woman from Tenali, Andhra Pradesh, lost her life in a crash in the United States. Nagasri Vandana Parimala, who was studying for her master’s degree in data science, got into a collision with a truck in Memphis, Tennessee. She was driving with two friends, who were badly hurt in the crash.

    Vandana moved to the U.S. in December 2022 and worked hard as a conference assistant at her university. She was responsible for organizing events and creating important reports while studying. On the fateful Friday night, she was driving home from work after picking up her friends when the accident occurred near Rockwood Avenue in Memphis. Although she was quickly taken to the hospital, Vandana sadly passed away from her injuries. Her friends suffered serious injuries, with one reported to be in critical condition.

    Vandana’s family was informed about her death by local authorities in Tennessee. The minister of Andhra Pradesh, Nadendla Manohar, expressed his condolences and offered support to her family. Her father, Ganesh, who runs a business in Tenali, mentioned that the Telugu Association of North America is helping bring her body back to Tenali for her final rites.

    Before moving to the U.S., Vandana worked at a company in Chennai from January 2021 to December 2022. She was a source code professional and earned her bachelor’s degree in technology (electronics and communications) in 2020 from a private college in her hometown.