Courtesy: Governor Newsom’s X Account
By Olivia Graffeo
Here’s your weekly recap of news from around the city, nation, and world:
1. Man Commits Eleven Robberies Aboard Scooter Wielding Knife
Over the months of November and December, a man riding a dark colored scooter robbed eleven men throughout Brooklyn and Queens. With most of the robberies taking place in the late-night or early-morning hours, the suspect rode up on a scooter, targeting victims for cash, cellphones, and jewelry. The crimes occurred in the Brooklyn areas of Bushwick and East New York, as well as Ridgewood in Queens. The man is said to wield a silver knife, which he uses to threaten his victims. While there have been no reports of injuries from the robber, he could be considered dangerous.
2. Poll Shows Nearly Half of Respondents Consider Biden a “Failed President”
In a recent USA Today/Suffolk University poll, 44% of those surveyed said they believed history would consider Joe Biden a failed president. Another 27% said they would consider him a fair president, with even lower numbers considering him “good” or “great.” With Donald Trump about to take the White House for a second time next week, 44% of the survey’s respondents also reported that they believe history will view him as a failed president as well. Biden’s presidency has been rife with turmoil, with many citing disapproval of his handling of military pullout of Afghanistan as well as rising inflation rates. Biden’s approval rate dipped into the negatives in the fall of 2021, and never raised back into positives.
3. Hamas Accepts Draft Cease Agreement
After fifteen months of war and tens of thousands dead, a ceasefire deal might have finally been reached between the state of Israel and Hamas. Negotiators of all sides have confirmed that Hamas believes talks to be in “the final stage,” which would allow for a ceasefire. “I believe we will get a ceasefire,” “It’s right on the brink. It’s closer than it’s ever been before,” and word could come within hours, or days,” said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The ceasefire would bring respite to Gaza, where 90% of the population has been displaced and at risk of starvation. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet would have to approve the agreement, world leaders are optimistic about this particular ceasefire. Civilians on both sides, Israelis and Palestinians, have been protesting fervently for a stop to the war.
4. Some Lawmakers Pushing for Delay in January 19th TikTok Ban
TikTok, the popular social media platform with over 150 million American users, is set to be banned in the United States on Sunday, January 19th. The decision to ban the app from being downloaded in the country was due to its Chinese owners, with many citing issues of foreign security. However, citizens and some lawmakers have spoken against the planned ban, declaring it an infringement on free speech. Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey recently announced his plan to submit legal action to U.S. courts in order to delay the ban by another 270 days, allowing for more arguments to be heard. Not only do many believe a ban negates their first amendment rights, but it would also hurt thousands of content creators who use the app as a form of employment. While President-Elector Donald Trump was in favor of banning the app in his first term, he has now changed his tune and has called for a delay on the ban so his administration can solve the issue through compromise.
5. Los Angeles Wildfires Continue to Rage, 25 People Dead
The wildfires that have consumed Southern California have continued burning this week. The destruction has caused the deaths of 25 people as well as 60 miles of land. Los Angeles County firefighters have reported that they are bracing for the Santa Ana winds to reach the fires, which are expected to fan the flames and cause even more devastation. While forecasters believe this week’s fires won’t be as dangerous as last week’s, residents continue to worry. Experts have commented on the fires, noting that climate change could be making an impact in the large-scale wildfires. “Climate change, including increased heat, extended drought, and a thirsty atmosphere, has been a key driver in increasing the risk and extent of wildfires in the western United States,” said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. While firefighters work to stop the flames from growing, 88,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate. Many who have been displaced by the fires are facing further challenges in securing housing. Though illegal, some rents have increased since the emergency began, making housing even harder to acquire for those who need it most.
6. John F. Kennedy International Airport Invites Queens Businesses to Open Storefronts in Terminal 6
The Queens Economic Development Corporation has announced that John F. Kennedy Airport is inviting headquartered Queens businesses to open locations within Terminal 6. Businesses now have an opportunity to expand and open a kiosk or storefront in the new terminal. According to the QEDC, “The purpose of this program is to create meaningful opportunities for local businesses within the community of Queens. Businesses that participate will receive help with: outreach, procurement, day-to-day operations, marketing, funding for design, construction, and basic fixturing.” The deadline to submit an application is January 17th.
