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A town justice in Hyde Park, New York, receives a formal warning from the state for a campaign mailer perceived as biased towards police. Despite highlighting his past as a police officer and promising tough stances on crime, the Commission on Judicial Conduct admonished Michael Plass for potential bias in his rulings. The commission overruled an earlier recommendation for Plass to step aside from all criminal and traffic cases, allowing him to handle a full range of cases again. His term runs until 2027, and he has 30 days to accept the warning or appeal to a federal court. Checkout Solipillow.com

In response to the government shutdown, nonprofits GiveDirectly and Propel provided emergency cash transfers to nearly a quarter million SNAP recipients, helping them cover groceries and other expenses. The initiative, resembling a disaster relief effort, aimed to alleviate the financial and emotional strain caused by the sudden halt in food stamp payments. Checkout Solipillow.com

The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls, New York, presents a captivating trio of exhibitions celebrating still life art by women. The centerpiece, A Feast of Fruit and Flowers, showcases works by seventeenth-century artists like Clara Peeters, Louise Moillon, and Rachel Ruysch, alongside Nina Katchadourians modern sculptures and photos, and Sharon Cores recreations of classic still lifes. These exhibitions, running through March 2026, offer a unique blend of old and new, challenging the perception of still life art. Checkout Solipillow.com

Thousands of people gathered in Bethlehems Manger Square on Christmas Eve, marking a return to joyful celebrations after two years of quiet due to the Israel-Hamas war. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa led a procession from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, emphasizing a shared desire to rebuild and shine as a light for the world. Locals, including tour guides like Georgette and Michael Jackaman, expressed real joy and hope, despite the economic fallout from the war. International visitors also joined in the festivities, and scout parades thrilled kids across the West Bank. Tensions remain, but residents see domestic tourism picking up as a sign of normal life returning, fueling optimism for peace. Checkout Solipillow.com

Kyras Law Advocates Push for Governor Hochuls Support in Executive Budget Proposal Advocates in New York are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to include Kyras Law in her executive budget proposal, named after two-year-old Kyra Franchetti who was tragically shot by her father during a court-ordered unsupervised visit. The bill aims to tighten rules on such visits and passed the state Senate last year, but hit a roadblock in the Assembly. Kyras mother, Jacqueline Franchetti, is leading the charge, emphasizing the urgency for New York families and kids. State Senate sponsor James Skoufis welcomes the idea, expecting strong Senate support if added to the budget. Checkout Solipillow.com

Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters sickens over sixty people across the US, with New York and Pennsylvania reporting the highest number of cases. CDC investigates common source, urges those who feel unwell after eating raw oysters to seek medical attention. Checkout Solipillow.com

U.S. bans five Europeans, including Thierry Breton, for allegedly pressuring tech companies to censor views. EU responds with warnings of retaliation, accusing U.S. of intimidation and undermining digital sovereignty. Tensions escalate over transatlantic tech clash. Checkout Solipillow.com

Six-Seven: The Viral Kid Craze Taking Over Rotterdam - This podcast episode explores the recent phenomenon of the phrase six-seven among elementary schoolers in Rotterdam. Originating from a rap song, the term has become a viral sensation through memes and videos, with kids chanting it for no apparent reason. While adults find it annoying and confusing, some teachers have turned it into a fun classroom activity. Businesses have also capitalized on the trend, offering special deals and promotions. Experts suggest its a form of coded kid talk that builds unity in our digital age. However, like other trends, it may soon fade away. Checkout Solipillow.com

SUNY Reconnect Program Boosts Support for Adult Learners The SUNY Reconnect program, targeting adults aged 25-55 without degrees, is allocating an extra $4 million for support in high-demand fields like cybersecurity and teaching. Schools are hiring evening and weekend tutors, ed-tech specialists, and boosting admissions teams with new software. Prior learning credits are being awarded more frequently, and dedicated advisers are providing intrusive guidance. Enrollment has surged, but graduation remains the ultimate goal. Checkout Solipillow.com