California to become first US state to phase out ultra-processed foods from school meals

Jonathan Rinderknecht, charged with igniting the deadly Palisades fire in California, will remain in jail as a federal magistrate in Florida ruled on Thursday. Prosecutors highlighted his potential traits of an arsonist and concerns from his family regarding his mental health. This case is significant as it underscores the serious implications of arson and the ongoing challenges of mental health issues, particularly in relation to public safety.

Jonathan Rinderknecht, charged with igniting the deadly Palisades fire in California, will remain in jail as a federal magistrate in Florida ruled on Thursday. Prosecutors highlighted his potential traits of an arsonist and concerns from his family regarding his mental health. This case is significant as it underscores the serious implications of arson and the ongoing challenges of mental health issues, particularly in relation to public safety.

Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist and vocalist of the rock band Kiss, recently admitted to being a 'horrible driver' after a car crash in Malibu, California. He reportedly passed out at the wheel but reassured fans that he is 'completely fine' following the incident. This news is significant as it highlights the importance of road safety and the potential dangers of driving while unwell, even for celebrities.

Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist and vocalist of the rock band Kiss, recently admitted to being a 'horrible driver' after a car crash in Malibu, California. He reportedly passed out at the wheel but reassured fans that he is 'completely fine' following the incident. This news is significant as it highlights the importance of road safety and the potential dangers of driving while unwell, even for celebrities.

Billionaire Tom Steyer has made headlines by donating $12 million to support Proposition 50, a crucial ballot measure aimed at redrawing California's congressional districts this November. This significant financial backing highlights the importance of fair representation in politics and could reshape the political landscape in the state, making it a pivotal moment for voters.

Billionaire Tom Steyer has made headlines by donating $12 million to support Proposition 50, a crucial ballot measure aimed at redrawing California's congressional districts this November. This significant financial backing highlights the importance of fair representation in politics and could reshape the political landscape in the state, making it a pivotal moment for voters.

In a recent WhatsApp group chat, parents like Gabriela Rangel are grappling with the emotional toll of raising children amid rising violence, including school shootings. This conversation highlights the challenges parents face in explaining such distressing events to their kids while trying to maintain a sense of safety and normalcy. It matters because it reflects a broader societal concern about the impact of violence on families and the urgent need for dialogue and solutions.

In a recent WhatsApp group chat, parents like Gabriela Rangel are grappling with the emotional toll of raising children amid rising violence, including school shootings. This conversation highlights the challenges parents face in explaining such distressing events to their kids while trying to maintain a sense of safety and normalcy. It matters because it reflects a broader societal concern about the impact of violence on families and the urgent need for dialogue and solutions.

A recent study has raised alarms about the potential for catastrophic back-to-back earthquakes on the US west coast. It suggests that a high-magnitude quake in the Pacific north-west could trigger another on California's San Andreas fault, leading to unprecedented destruction. This finding is significant as it highlights the interconnectedness of seismic activity in the region, intensifying fears about the long-predicted 'big one' that could devastate major cities.

A recent study has raised alarms about the potential for catastrophic back-to-back earthquakes on the US west coast. It suggests that a high-magnitude quake in the Pacific north-west could trigger another on California's San Andreas fault, leading to unprecedented destruction. This finding is significant as it highlights the interconnectedness of seismic activity in the region, intensifying fears about the long-predicted 'big one' that could devastate major cities.

This holiday season, shoppers in California are gearing up to spend 4.6% more than last year, but it's not out of confidence—it's driven by fear of rising prices due to expected tariffs. This trend highlights how economic concerns are influencing consumer behavior, pushing people to buy gifts earlier to avoid higher costs later. It's a reflection of the current economic climate and the anxiety surrounding inflation.

This holiday season, shoppers in California are gearing up to spend 4.6% more than last year, but it's not out of confidence—it's driven by fear of rising prices due to expected tariffs. This trend highlights how economic concerns are influencing consumer behavior, pushing people to buy gifts earlier to avoid higher costs later. It's a reflection of the current economic climate and the anxiety surrounding inflation.

In a significant political shake-up, Hannah Thomas has initiated legal action against New South Wales, while Allegra Spender has resigned from the parliamentary sports club following a ban related to gambling sponsorship. This move comes after fellow independent Monique Ryan also stepped down, highlighting growing concerns over the influence of gambling in politics. These developments matter as they reflect a broader push for accountability and transparency in governance, especially regarding the ethics of sponsorships in public institutions.

A tragic incident occurred in Bendigo, where a 15-year-old boy lost his life after being struck by a truck outside his school. The accident happened on High Street at around 8:30 AM on Friday, and despite the efforts of emergency services, the boy was pronounced dead at the scene. This heartbreaking event highlights the ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety, especially near schools, and serves as a reminder for drivers to remain vigilant in these areas.

A massive Russian attack on Kyiv has left the Ukrainian capital in darkness, severely damaging energy infrastructure and injuring nine people. This assault, described by the air force as unprecedented, has not only disrupted power and water supplies but also sparked a fire in a high-rise apartment building. The targeting of critical infrastructure highlights the ongoing conflict's impact on civilians and raises concerns about the humanitarian situation in Ukraine.

Moscow's envoy, Vladimir Tarabrin, has accused the West of hypocrisy regarding Ukraine's alleged use of banned chemical agents. This claim comes as Russia presents new evidence to support its allegations, highlighting a growing tension in international relations. The situation is significant as it raises questions about the enforcement of international laws on chemical warfare and the potential implications for global security.

A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck Mindanao in the Philippines, prompting the seismology agency to issue a tsunami warning for coastal areas, including parts of Indonesia. The president of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos, has directed agencies to assist with evacuations and provide support to those affected. This situation is critical as it highlights the vulnerability of coastal communities to natural disasters and the importance of timely responses to ensure public safety.

Kiev is experiencing widespread blackouts following a Russian drone strike that targeted a key thermal power plant in the city. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and the impact of military actions on civilian infrastructure, raising concerns about energy security and the well-being of residents during the colder months.