Why Flags Are Half-Mast in Five States Today, This Weekend

The Philippines is sending a new vessel to replace the coast guard ship Teresa Magbanua at Sabina Shoal after China demanded its withdrawal, citing it as "illegally stranded." China's coast guard criticized the Philippines for infringing on its territorial sovereignty. The replacement ship is being sent to Sabina Shoal following the return of the Teresa Magbanua to port on Sunday. Full Article

The Cleveland Cavaliers have had an active offseason, securing their young squad's future and making changes off the court, but the question remains if all key players will stay after the 2024-25 season's Feb. trade deadline. On The Lowe Post podcast, ESPN's Zach Lowe made a bold prediction regarding the Cavaliers, who are coming off a successful 48-34 season and a playoff run to the second round. Full Article

Venture capitalists in Silicon Valley are highly regarded for their role in funding startups and driving technological advancements. The endorsement of former President Donald Trump and his running mate JD Vance by some prominent VCs caused a stir in the industry. In response, Vice President Kamala Harris gained support from hundreds of VCs, creating a notable divide within the community. Full Article

Billionaire spacewalker Jared Isaacman and his crew returned to Earth after a five-day trip aboard SpaceX's capsule, marking the highest journey since NASA's moonwalkers. The crew included two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot, successfully completing the first private spacewalk at an orbit of nearly 460 miles above Earth, splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida's Dry Tortugas. Full Article

Nine people were injured in central Israel as they rushed to shelters following air raid sirens triggered by a ballistic missile launched from Yemen that landed in an open field near Tel Aviv, according to the Israel Defense Forces. This incident marked the first sirens in months and included Ben Gurion international airport, where footage showed individuals seeking shelter. The airport has since resumed normal operations. Full Article

The death toll in Myanmar from flooding and landslides caused by Typhoon Yagi has risen to at least 74, with 89 people still missing, according to Myanmar's state television. Difficulties in gathering information have led to concerns that the actual number of casualties may be higher. The official death toll announced by the military government more than doubled from 33 to 74, with the typhoon also impacting Vietnam, northern Thailand, and Laos. Full Article