Here's what happens during a partial government shutdown

Fox News reports on a new study suggesting that being bilingual may help in preventing dementia. With over 6.7 million Americans over 65 affected by Alzheimer's disease, the holiday season can be particularly stressful for those with dementia and their caregivers. Experts recommend maintaining daily routines, preparing family members for any changes in behavior, and staying consistent during the holidays to help reduce stress and anxiety for dementia patients. Full Article

American hostage Austin Tice's siblings appeal for his release after 12 years missing in Syria, following President Biden's statement on U.S. efforts to bring him home. A team of U.S. officials, including Special Envoy Roger Carstens and Assistant Secretary Barbara Leaf, is in Damascus to gather information on missing Americans under the Assad regime and engage with Syrian people on their vision for the country's future, as well as meeting with U.S.-designated terrorist group Hayat...

The first U.S. diplomats to visit Syria since President Bashar Assad's ouster are in Damascus to meet with the country's new leadership. They are seeking information on the whereabouts of missing American journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared years ago. The visit marks a significant diplomatic step in the relationship between the two nations. Full Article

In a thrilling game, the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Boston Bruins 3-2 after Mattias Ekholm scored the game-winning goal in overtime, following Connor McDavid's tying goal in the final minutes of regulation. Leon Draisaitl contributed with three assists, reaching 900 career points, while Zach Hyman had a goal and an assist for the Oilers. Both teams showcased strong performances, with the Oilers winning nine of their last eleven games and the Bruins having won their...

Regulators voted to continue using the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility despite objections from activists and residents, planning to wind down the site as demand for natural gas decreases. The California Public Utilities Commission approved a proposal to potentially close the facility once peak demand falls, aiming to protect residents and maintain energy system reliability. Although the closure may not happen until 2039, the commission plans to assess the situation biennially to ensure a...

The crypto market experienced significant losses, with Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin, and Solana all dropping by double digits after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's comments on inflation projections. Dogecoin, known for its sensitivity to macroeconomic news, plummeted 20%, leading to panic selling and over $1.2 billion in liquidations, particularly in long positions. Despite some altcoins like Fartcoin gaining attention, the overall sentiment in the market remains bearish as Bitcoin fell below $100,000, signaling vulnerability and...