AP PHOTOS: Scenes of devastation from the aftermath of the Indian Ocean tsunami

Beginning in the new year, Ron Grossman will be writing occasional columns on Chicago for the Sunday Life+Travel section, alongside his regular history features. In a preview, Grossman reflects on his childhood experiences in Albany Park, where he navigated the intersection of Jewish and non-Jewish traditions during the holiday season. Through anecdotes of Hanukkah celebrations, cultural exchanges, and historical teachings, he vividly portrays the diverse and rich tapestry of his upbringing in a pluralistic American...

2024 was defined by a series of dramatic events, with the attempted assassination of Donald Trump leading to a unifying moment for the Republican Party and an increase in his popularity. Joe Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race due to concerns about his age and competence left Democrats in a state of uncertainty. Trump's historic conviction on felony counts related to hush money payments did not significantly impact his political standing, signaling a shift in...

Sarah Wright, 37, was arrested in Florida for allegedly hitting a 16-year-old boy with her truck, covering her license plate, and fleeing the scene. The teenager suffered a serious head laceration and arm injury but is expected to recover. Wright was located, arrested, and booked on charges of leaving the scene of a crash with injuries and driving with a suspended license. Full Article

Alissa McCommon, a former Tennessee teacher, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for raping a 12-year-old boy and becoming pregnant as a result of the assault. She pleaded guilty to multiple sex charges involving possible victims and will have to register as a Violent Sex Offender. McCommon exploited her position of authority to form relationships with students, sending explicit messages and violating release conditions by contacting victims, leading to her arrest and subsequent imprisonment...

In Austin, Texas, another body was found in Lady Bird Lake, adding to the mystery of at least 6 other bodies discovered in the lake throughout 2024. The latest victim, identified as 73-year-old Thi Lang Nguyen, was found near the 1st Street Bridge and Cesar Chavez. Despite police not suspecting foul play, the community remains concerned as most deaths have been attributed to accidental drownings near nightclubs and bars. Full Article

Two U.S. Navy pilots ejected safely over the Red Sea after their F/A-18 fighter jet was shot down by friendly fire from the USS Gettysburg, part of the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group. One pilot may have sustained minor injuries during the ejection, and a full investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the incident, which occurred in the region between Africa and the Middle East. The incident comes amidst ongoing...