Syrian Christians attend first Christmas Eve service since al-Assad’s fall

In the last two decades, The Polar Express has become a festive classic, starring Tom Hanks in multiple roles including The Conductor, Santa, The Hero Boy, The Hero Boy’s Dad, The Ebenezer Scrooge Puppet, The Ghost on the Train, and The Narrator. Originally wanting to play just one character, Hanks ended up portraying six due to emerging CGI technology. The film, directed by Robert Zemeckis, follows characters that are memories from the Hero Boy's real...

Contingency plans are being made in Whitehall for a potential increase in demand for state school places, as private schools may close due to fee hikes. Smaller schools charging less in competitive areas are seen as the most at risk. Labour's removal of VAT exemption and business rates relief for private schools has sparked opposition, with the government estimating the tax will raise significant funds for state schools. Full Article

A "massive missile attack" struck Ukraine's Kharkiv, with Mayor Igor Terekhov reporting multiple explosions and incoming ballistic missiles. Russian forces shot down Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine launched Kalibr cruise missiles. The escalation comes as Russia advances in eastern Ukraine ahead of US president-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. Full Article

On December 26, 2024, Aaj Ka Panchang notes the observance of Mandala Pooja and Saphala Ekadashi, with Ekadashi and Dwadashi Tithis of Krishna Paksha occurring. Sunrise is predicted at 7:12 AM and sunset at 5:32 PM, while the day's Nakshatra is Swati until 6:09 PM, transitioning to Vishakha. Shubh Muhurat includes Pratah Sandhya from 5:50 AM to 7:12 AM, with Rahu Kalam from 1:39 PM to 2:57 PM and Yamaganda Muhurat from 7:12 AM to...

Donald Trump revealed that during a Christmas visit, he urged hockey legend Wayne Gretzky to run for prime minister. Trump made the comments in a video, stating that he believes Gretzky would win if he decided to run for the position. The interaction between Trump and Gretzky occurred during a visit to Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. Full Article

The Howick RSA has awarded its 2024 tertiary scholarships to Stephanie Ly of Ormiston Senior College and Vina Lomawai of Howick College, who received their awards at the Howick and Pakuranga Community Sports Centre. Madeleine East, chair of the RSA's welfare trusts, commended the high standard of applicants and wished the students success in their university studies. Howick RSA president Barry Dreyer highlighted the financial support provided to the scholars over two years and the...