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Major Cyberattack Disrupts US Healthcare System: Change Healthcare, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, falls victim to a nation-state cyber threat, causing widespread disruptions across the US healthcare system. Pharmacies cant process prescriptions, doctors face payment delays, and patients struggle to access essential medications. The company disconnects systems to prevent further spread, but service interruptions persist. UnitedHealth Group confirms the attack and is working to restore systems, but no timeline is provided. This incident highlights the growing vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats.

Newark and Paterson police departments face significant upheaval as a court ruling invalidates a 2019 civil service exam, potentially demoting dozens of sergeants and lieutenants. The controversy centers around alleged racial bias in the last ten questions of the exam, affecting officers from minority backgrounds. Police unions are appealing the decision, warning of catastrophic consequences if widespread demotions occur. Officials have stated that promotions are conditional, and retaking the test next year may be the only way for officers to secure their positions permanently.

This holiday season, a significant number of Americans are cutting back on spending due to rising prices, with forty-one percent planning to spend less on gifts and celebrations. This marks the largest jump in reduced spending since inflation began to surge in two thousand twenty-two. High prices are now the main factor influencing both how much people spend and where they choose to shop. Sixty-one percent of Americans believe their earnings are not keeping pace with the cost of living, with lower-income households struggling the most. Additionally, fifty-seven percent of Americans are carrying debt into the holiday season, reflecting a widespread concern about financial stability.

Job Market Slowdown: New Jerseys Resilience Amidst National Trends - Experts predict a decelerating national economy, with private sector job gains slowing down. New Jerseys economy shows unexpected strength, but affordability remains a challenge. Unemployment rate at 5.2%, higher than the national average. New Jerseys job market could serve as an early indicator for broader national trends.

Todays horoscope, December 18, 2025, emphasizes discipline in relationships and prioritizing whats most important. Birthday celebrants like Christina Aguilera, Katie Holmes, Brad Pitt, and Steven Spielberg are advised to weigh options before acting. Sagittarius should trust instincts, Capricorns should find growth in new pursuits, Aquarians should lead with a genuine attitude, and Pisces should focus on completing tasks. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, and Scorpio receive specific guidance for their signs.

The Montclair School District is grappling with a $20 million budget deficit, leading to staffing cuts and a failed voter referendum. A new special election is planned for March 10, 2026, to present revised referendum questions, potentially involving tax increases. The district is seeking community involvement to help bridge the gap.

Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill embarks on a statewide tour, visiting Matthews Diner in Waldwick, Bergen County, to connect with constituents and understand their concerns. She engages directly with residents, acknowledging their primary concern about rising costs of living. Sherrill plans to address high utility costs and aims to unite people on common issues, even in areas where she won by a narrow margin.

False Claims of Dulce Maria Alavezs Death Spread Online: Prosecutors Debunk Rumors A recent social media post falsely claimed that Dulce Maria Alavez, a 5-year-old girl missing since 2019, was found deceased in a wooded area. The post, which was riddled with errors, caused distress and confusion. However, prosecutors quickly debunked these claims, stating that no one had reported finding any remains. Dulce disappeared during a family outing at Bridgeton City Park in 2019, sparking a massive search and garnering significant media attention. Despite the years that have passed, investigators continue to search for clues using age-progression photos and artificial intelligence. This incident serves as a reminder of the rapid spread of misinformation online, especially concerning sensitive cases like missing persons.

Powerball jackpot soars to $1.25 billion, offering a cash option of $572.1 million, making it the sixth largest Powerball jackpot and the eleventh biggest US lottery jackpot ever. Drawings occur three times a week, with tickets costing $2 and an optional $1 Power Play. Odds of winning the jackpot are one in 292 million, but smaller prizes are more common. Winners can choose between a lump sum or annuity paid out over 30 years. Many states now allow lottery winners to remain anonymous.