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Thousands gather at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, to remember victims of a mass shooting and honor the communitys resilience. The attack, driven by antisemitism, has deeply affected Australians, but stories of heroism and unity have emerged, inspiring a national mood of solidarity.

In his annual year-end news conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the U.S.-backed peace plan for Ukraine, warning of expanded territorial gains if Kyiv rejects his proposals. The conference, a platform for Putin to communicate directly with the Russian populace and global community, has long served as a means to solidify his authority and articulate his perspectives on various topics. Meanwhile, the U.S., under President Trump, has been pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the Ukraine conflict, but has faced significant obstacles due to differing demands from Moscow and Kyiv.

Asian markets rise following Bank of Japans rate hike, U.S. futures show mixed performance amid cooling inflation and potential rate cuts, global investors largely unfazed by Japans ten-year bond yield surpassing two percent, U.S. dollar strengthens against Japanese yen, European markets gain after Bank of England cuts rates and ECB holds steady, Federal Reserves next move uncertain due to recent volatility and data delays, investors await December inflation update for clarity.

Dallas Stars triumph over San Jose Sharks in a high-scoring match, with Wyatt Johnston and Roope Hintz leading the way. Despite a strong performance from the Sharks, the Stars secure a five to three victory, setting the stage for their next game against Anaheim.

President Trump suspends green card lottery program following Brown University and MIT shootings, as suspect was a Portuguese national who obtained legal permanent residence in 2017. The diversity visa program, which offers up to 50,000 green cards annually, is now under review. The move is expected to face legal challenges, as the lottery was established by Congress. The President has historically opposed this program and has aimed to limit or eliminate various paths to legal immigration.

Marion Thomas, CEO of Blessed Angels Senior Center, overcame adversity to find purpose. Losing her father at 14, she faced financial hardship, missing out on childhood activities. Despite severe pain from a herniated disc, she was told she might never work again. At her lowest, she was on 14 medications and depressed. A turning point came when she volunteered at a food pantry, leading her to open Blessed Angels Senior Center, providing meals and essential items to families. Her prescription for life: faith, service, and staying busy.

The Dallas Mavericks triumphed over the Detroit Pistons in overtime, 116-114, after blowing an 18-point lead. Cooper Flagg scored 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Anthony Davis secured the win with a game-winning dunk. Despite their 11-18 record, the Mavericks have won 6 of their last 8 games. Cade Cunningham had a triple-double for the Pistons, but they lost, dropping to 21-6. The Pistons face Charlotte on Saturday, while the Mavericks visit Philadelphia.

James Talarico and Bobby Pulido, U.S. Senate and Congressional hopefuls respectively, have formed an early alliance in South Texas, aiming to attract Latino voters who supported Trump. Talarico, a state representative from Austin, and Pulido, a Tejano music star, praised each others bipartisan appeal. Talaricos second visit to the Rio Grande Valley generated excitement, while Pulido campaigns to flip Texass fifteenth Congressional District back to the Democrats. Meanwhile, Talaricos opponent, Jasmine Crockett, faces scrutiny over comments about Latino voters, which she clarified as highlighting shared struggles between Black and Brown communities. A new poll shows Talarico trailing Crockett by eight points, with lower name recognition.