December 19, 2024

Don’t forget to see the FUN STUFF section at the bottom of the newsletter!

NATION

The US central bank has cut interest rates for a third time, despite concerns that the move will deliver a boost to the economy that risks reigniting inflation. The decision was expected, setting the Federal Reserve's key lending rate in a target range of 4.25% to 4.5%.

WORLD

Throughout the Northern Hemisphere, the day of the solstice has the fewest hours of possible sunlight and the night has the most hours of darkness. In the Southern Hemisphere, where this solstice marks the beginning of summer, days are now longest and nights shortest. See article for solstice date and time.

BUSINESS

HEALTH

For every extra year a person’s body aged faster than normal, their risk of developing colon polyps went up by 16%, according to the study. Unlike your actual age, which is simply the number of years you’ve been alive, your biological age shows how well (or poorly) your body is functioning

ENTERTAINMENT

Almost 40 years after the original movie was released, Sony Pictures announced in September 2022 that the sixth film in The Karate Kid franchise was in the works. Karate Kid: Legends is set to hit theatres on May 30, 2025 — and fans can expect to see both new and old faces in the next installment of their favorite martial arts drama.

TRAVEL

As a reminder, Southwest earlier this year announced it would begin selling assigned and extra-legroom seats in late 2025, for flights departing in early 2026. The move will be a dramatic departure from the carrier's signature open-seating policy that's been around for half a century.

FOOD

If you’re looking for a reason to celebrate in January when the weather is cold and the holidays are over, then Goldfish has the answer. Everyone’s favorite snack brand with all its feel-good childhood nostalgia is expanding its Crisps and Sweet Grahams lineup with five new permanent additions inspired by popular chip flavors and the decadent desserts.

NOSTALGIA

Despite the smooth sail of the show, it seems all is not fully well, as speculations about its future have become increasingly high, with critics claiming that Maggie Sajak, the daughter of Pat Sajak, the former longtime host, is being tipped to take over as Ryan might not be at his job for a long time.

FUN STUFF

TODAY IN HISTORY

WORD OF THE DAY

NATIONAL DAY