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Jo Koy to host the 2024 Golden Globe Awards, bringing humor and heritage to the stage

Jo Koy, the acclaimed 52-year-old comedian, is set to host the 2024 Golden Globe Awards, bringing his unique energy and humor to one of Hollywood’s most prestigious events. The ceremony, which celebrates the best in TV and film, is scheduled for January 7 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Koy’s excitement about this opportunity is palpable, as he views it as a significant milestone in his career and a chance to honor his Filipino heritage.

In a statement, Koy expressed his enthusiasm and the personal significance of this role, saying, “I’ve stepped onto a lot of stages around the world in my career, but this one is going to be extra special. I’m so excited to be hosting the Golden Globes this year. This is that moment where I get to make my Filipino family proud. Mahal Kita, (Google it)!” ‘Mahal kita,’ which means ‘I love you’ in Filipino, reflects Koy’s pride in his roots and his desire to celebrate this achievement with his community.

The event organizers are equally excited about having Koy as the host. Golden Globes president Helen Hoehne remarked, “We are thrilled to have Jo host the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards and bring his infectious energy and relatable humor to kick off Hollywood’s award season. We can’t wait to see what he has in store for the stars in the room and a global audience. We know Jo is bringing his A-game.”

The showrunners, Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner, also expressed their anticipation, highlighting Koy’s genuine brand of comedy and their expectations for a show filled with laughter. They are confident that Koy’s presence will make the event enjoyable for both the honorees and viewers worldwide.

This year’s nominations, announced earlier in the month, saw ‘Barbie’ and ‘Succession’ leading with nine nominations each, closely followed by ‘Oppenheimer’ with eight. The 2024 Golden Globes will also introduce two new categories: Cinematic and Box Office Achievement, and Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television, adding new dimensions to the awards.

Koy’s role as the host of the Golden Globes marks a significant moment in his career and is a testament to his talent and appeal as a comedian. His presence is expected to add fresh and vibrant energy to the ceremony, making it a memorable event in the award season calendar.

Lionfish at SEALIFE Manchester named after Mary Earps

A lionfish at SEALIFE Manchester has been named in honor of England goalkeeper Mary Earps, following her recent accolade as BBC Sports Personality of the Year. This unique tribute celebrates Earps’ remarkable achievements in 2023, including being named the Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper in February and earning the FIFA World Cup Golden Glove during the summer tournament.

Earps’ exceptional performances have not only been recognized globally but also within her club, Manchester United, where she was named in the PFA Women’s Super League Team of the Year for the 2022/23 season. Additionally, her outstanding displays on the international stage earned her the title of England Women’s Player of the Year.

The decision to name a lionfish after Earps at SEA LIFE Manchester is symbolic, given the fish’s association with the Lionesses, the nickname for the England women’s football team. Lionfish, known for their venomous fin spines, are predominantly found in warm tropical waters. They rely on their unique coloration and distinctive fins to deter predators, mirroring the formidable presence Earps has on the football field.

Jenn McDonough, General Manager at SEA LIFE Manchester, expressed pride in Earps’ achievements and her influence on the popularity of women’s football. McDonough highlighted Earps’ role as a motivational figure, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence. The naming of the lionfish after Earps is not just a celebration of her sporting accomplishments but also a recognition of her positive impact off the field.

SEA LIFE Manchester hopes that Earps will one day visit the aquarium to meet her namesake, further strengthening the connection between the football star and this unique gesture of appreciation.

Derek Hough feels ‘immense relief’ as hayley erbert recovers from skull surgery

In a heartfelt expression of relief and gratitude, Derek Hough, renowned for his role as a judge on “Dancing with the Stars,” shared an update on his wife Hayley Erbert’s medical journey. Erbert recently underwent a critical skull surgery, a procedure that has drawn considerable attention and concern from fans and well-wishers.

The surgery, known as a cranioplasty, was necessitated following an earlier emergency craniectomy that Erbert had to undergo. This complex medical situation required the removal of a part of her skull, with the recent surgery focusing on its replacement. The decision for this operation came earlier than anticipated, raising concerns among their followers.

Hough, in his update, conveyed the successful completion of the surgery, emphasizing the immense relief and overwhelming joy he felt. His message, shared on Instagram, was accompanied by a poignant image of him sitting beside Erbert in the hospital, reflecting the emotional weight of the experience.

The couple’s journey has been closely followed by their fans, especially since Hough had been open about Erbert’s condition and the upcoming surgery. He previously informed fans that the surgery was scheduled early on December 20, highlighting the urgency and significance of the procedure, according to NBC.

The support and prayers from fans have been a source of strength for the couple, as Hough noted in his messages. He expressed his belief in the power of these prayers and the positive intentions behind them, contributing significantly to Erbert’s recovery.

This medical episode marks a challenging phase in the couple’s life, one that they have navigated with resilience and openness. The successful surgery not only brings relief to Hough and Erbert but also to the many fans who have been ardently supporting them through this ordeal.

As they move forward from this surgery, the focus now shifts to Erbert’s recovery and rehabilitation. The dance community, along with their broader fan base, continues to send their best wishes and hopes for a swift and complete recovery.

Unraveling the Truth: Christmas tree pattern hair loss explained

Recent investigations into the relationship between Christmas treats and hair loss have revealed some intriguing insights. While the concept of “Christmas tree pattern hair loss” has been discussed, it’s important to clarify that this term refers to a specific pattern of hair thinning rather than being directly caused by festive treats.

Christmas Tree Pattern Hair Loss

The Belgravia Centre, a leading hair clinic, has shed light on a condition known as Christmas tree pattern hair loss, also known as Olsen pattern or female pattern hair loss. This condition is characterized by a gradual thinning of hair across the top of the scalp, resembling the shape of a Christmas tree when the hair is parted in the middle. It’s more common in women and varies in presentation, with some experiencing hair loss mainly on their temples and crown.

Causes and Aggravating Factors

The primary cause of this type of hair loss is genetic, often starting after puberty and potentially worsening after menopause. The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a significant role, affecting specific follicles on the scalp and leading to hair miniaturization. Various factors can exacerbate this condition, including dietary deficiencies (especially iron and vitamin D), certain medications, sudden weight loss, emotional stress, androgen excess, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), abnormal thyroid function, and hormonal changes during menopause.

Treatment and Management

Effective management of Christmas tree pattern hair loss involves consulting a specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatments may include topical minoxidil, low-level laser light therapy, and dietary supplements. Addressing underlying medical conditions and maintaining overall health are also crucial for managing this hair loss pattern.

Misconceptions and Clarifications

While there are claims linking Christmas diets and certain plants to hair loss, these are not directly related to the Christmas tree pattern hair loss. The condition is primarily genetic and hormonal, with lifestyle and health factors playing a secondary role.

While the festive season and its associated treats might bring joy, they do not directly cause the specific pattern of hair loss discussed. It’s essential to understand the genetic and hormonal underpinnings of this condition and seek appropriate medical advice for treatment and management.

Prague University Shooting: A Tragic Day in Czech History

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On December 22, 2023, the Czech Republic witnessed its worst-ever mass shooting when a student opened fire at Charles University in Prague, killing 14 and injuring 25 others. The attack, which began around 15:00 local time at the Faculty of Arts building, plunged the nation into mourning and sparked a search for answers.

The Attack and Its Aftermath

The gunman, identified as 24-year-old David Kozak, a student at the university, embarked on a killing spree that spanned the corridors and classrooms of the university. The victims, including the gunman’s father, were caught in a seemingly random act of violence. President Petr Pavel, expressing his deep sorrow, urged for unity and cautioned against using the tragedy for political attacks or spreading misinformation.

Dramatic social media footage captured the chaos, showing people leaping from the building’s ledge and crowds fleeing the historic Charles Bridge. Inside the university, students and staff barricaded themselves, using furniture to block doors. This was reported by BBC.

International Response and Mourning

The incident has drawn international attention, with US President Joe Biden and the UN Secretary-General expressing their condolences and readiness to assist. The Czech government declared a national day of mourning, with flags at half-mast and a minute of silence observed nationwide.

The Search for Motive

Authorities are piecing together the motive behind this heinous act. Kozak, who had no prior criminal record, was found with a significant arsenal of weapons and ammunition. There were reports of him planning to commit suicide, and he is suspected in the deaths of a young man and his two-month-old daughter found earlier in a forest near Prague.

Europe’s History of Mass Shootings

This tragedy ranks among the deadliest mass shootings in Europe this century, recalling similar incidents in Norway, Germany, Switzerland, and Serbia. It underscores the ongoing challenge of gun violence and the need for vigilance in public safety.

Charles University: A Historic Institution

Founded in 1347, Charles University is not only the Czech Republic’s oldest and largest university but also one of Europe’s most venerable educational institutions. The attack on such a historic site adds a layer of tragedy to the already devastating loss of life.

Earthquake shakes Islamabad and surrounding areas in Pakistan

Islamabad, Pakistan – A 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding areas in Pakistan in the early hours of Friday, causing residents to fearfully leave their homes. The tremors, which occurred around 5:30 am, were also felt in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to ARY news, the earthquake’s depth was recorded at 16 kilometers.

Despite the intensity of the quake, there have been no reports of casualties or property damage in Islamabad or Rawalpindi. This incident follows a series of seismic activities in the region, including a 3.3-magnitude earthquake in Gilgit last month and a mild 3.1-magnitude quake in Karachi in October.

The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) in Islamabad confirmed the tremors in Gilgit and Karachi, with the epicenter of the previous event being 84 kilometers northwest of Gilgit.

In related news, Dunya News reported that a 3.2 magnitude earthquake also hit Islamabad and surrounding areas on Wednesday, with tremors felt in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and other locations. The epicenter of this seismic activity was identified as Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan, located 25 kilometers deep.

Geo News also reported earthquake tremors in parts of Islamabad and surrounding cities, including Rawalpindi, Attock, and Chakwal, just days after a 5.8 magnitude quake hit the federal capital and its suburbs.

The recent series of earthquakes in Pakistan highlights the region’s vulnerability to seismic activities and underscores the importance of preparedness and resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.

Al-Shabab commander killed in joint US-Somali operation

The Somali government recently announced a significant development in the fight against terrorism, confirming the death of a senior al-Shabab commander in a US air strike. The operation, which took place near Jilib on December 17, was a collaborative effort between the Somali National Forces and the US military, targeting Maalim Ayman, a key figure linked to attacks in Somalia and Kenya.

The Ministry of Information of Somalia described Ayman’s death as a crucial victory, stating, “His destruction is the removal of a thorn in the body of the Somali people.” This statement underscores the impact Ayman had on the region’s security and the relief his demise brings to the people affected by al-Shabab’s activities.

US Africa Command, responsible for military relations with African nations, confirmed the success of the operation. They reported that one al-Shabab militant was killed in the strike conducted on December 17 near Jilib. Importantly, the report emphasized that there were no civilian casualties, a critical aspect considering the complexities of military operations in populated areas.

The command’s statement highlighted the broader implications of this operation, noting, “This is another step towards defeating a terrorist group that is undermining the peace and development of Somalia.” However, the US Africa Command did not specifically mention the slain militant by name in their statement.

The death of Maalim Ayman marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the Horn of Africa. Al-Shabab, an extremist group with ties to al-Qaeda, has been a persistent threat in the region, carrying out attacks in Somalia and neighboring countries. The successful operation against Ayman is a testament to the increasing effectiveness of the collaborative efforts between the Somali government and international partners like the US in addressing the challenges posed by such terrorist groups.

This development is expected to have a substantial impact on al-Shabab’s operations, potentially disrupting their activities and providing a window of opportunity for further actions to ensure stability and peace in the region.

The White House is preparing a new proposal for the release of Gershkovich and Whelan

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WASHINGTON —
The White House said it was preparing a new proposal for Russia to secure the release of journalist Evan Gershkovich and another imprisoned American.

“We are working hard to understand what we can do to come up with a different proposal that might be more successful,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said.

The Kremlin rejected the previous offer.

Wall Street Journal journalist Hershkovitch was taken into custody in March on espionage charges that he, his employer and the U.S. government vigorously deny.

Experts say Gershkovich’s jailing underscores Moscow’s decades-long crackdown on press freedom.

The other American in question is Paul Whelan, a former US Marine arrested in Moscow in 2018. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison on espionage charges, which he and the US government deny.

“We are always encouraged by signs that the government is working towards the release of Evan and Paul. We very much hope that these efforts will soon bear fruit,” Wall Street Journal assistant editor Paul Beckett told VOA.

Beckett leads the newspaper’s campaign for Gershkowitz’s release.

The news from the White House comes a day after Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington was “actively working” to free Gershkovitch and Whelan.

“As for Russia, Evan and Paul Whelan. All I can say is that we are actively working on this, and we will try everything to find the right path to bring them home, as quickly as possible,” Blinken said Wednesday at a year-end news conference.

Earlier this month, the State Department said Russia had rejected a “substantial” offer to release Gershkovich and Whelan.

Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow wanted to “reach an agreement” with Washington on the release of Gershkovich and Whelan.

The Wall Street Journal reported in September that Moscow is seeking the return of Russian hitman Vadim Krasikov, who is currently imprisoned in Germany, possibly in exchange for Gershkovich and Whelan.

In announcing a prisoner swap with Venezuela on Wednesday, US President Joe Biden said the release of detained Americans would continue to be a priority for his administration.

“We continue to focus closely on the release of hostages in Gaza and unjustly detained Americans around the world, including Evan Gershkovitch and Paul Whelan,” Biden said in a statement.

US and Chinese military leaders held talks for the first time in a year

A senior US military leader held a virtual meeting with his Chinese counterpart on Thursday, the US Defense Department said.

It was the first such conversation in more than a year amid expectations of the restoration of extensive ties between the military departments of the two countries.

The video conference was the result of an agreement reached last month between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping to renew military ties that Beijing severed after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in August 2022.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Charles Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Gen. Liu Zhenli addressed “a range of global and regional security issues” during their talks, Brown’s office said.

Liu is the chief of the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission (CMC), the military body responsible for China’s combat operations and military planning.

Pentagon officials say communication between the two militaries is critical to preventing potential incidents from escalating into conflict.

“General Brown discussed the importance of working together to responsibly manage competition, avoid miscalculation, and maintain open and direct lines of communication,” Brown’s office said. “General Brown reiterated the importance of the People’s Liberation Army engaging in substantive dialogue to reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings.”

Brown said he sent Liu a welcoming letter last month saying he was open to a meeting.

According to an official statement from China’s Ministry of Defense late Thursday, Liu responded that the key to developing a healthy, stable and sustainable military relationship between the US and China is to “understand China correctly.”

U.S. officials have warned that even with some restoration of military communications, establishing truly functional dialogue between the two sides may take time.

Some analysts believe China is seeking an ambiguous defense relationship where Beijing can limit what the PLA sees as U.S. military provocations in the region.

Washington and Beijing disagree on many issues, from the future of a democratically governed Taiwan to territorial claims in the South China Sea.

Diplomatic relations are still being restored after the US shot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon in February.

On the Taiwan issue, which China considers an internal matter, Liu said the Chinese military will “resolutely defend the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, including the island.”

Liu also called on the United States to respect China’s territorial sovereignty as well as China’s maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

The United States has created a coalition to protect shipping in the Red Sea

In total, more than 20 countries have agreed to participate in a new U.S.-led coalition protecting commercial shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement as more countries join the effort, the Pentagon said Thursday.

However, new Pentagon developments suggest that at least eight countries that signed up to the agreement have refused to be publicly identified, a sign of political sensitivity over the Red Sea operation as regional tensions rise over the war between Israel and Hamas (an organization designated as terrorist by the United States).

“We now have more than 20 countries signed up to participate,” said Major General Patrick Ryder, noting the announcements from Greece and Australia. “We are allowing other countries to join them and discuss the possibility of their participation.”

The United States launched Operation Prosperity Sentinel two days ago, saying more than a dozen countries had agreed to participate in the effort, which would include joint patrols of the Red Sea waters near Yemen.

Each country will contribute, Ryder said, calling it a “coalition of the willing.”

“In some cases it will be ships. In other cases, this may include personnel or other types of support,” he told a briefing.

The Red Sea crisis stems from a war between Israel and the Islamist group Hamas, which rules Gaza.

The war began on October 7 when Hamas militants swept across the Gaza border into southern Israel, where they killed about 1,200 people, mostly Israeli and foreign civilians.

Israel’s retaliatory bombing and incursion into the Gaza Strip, which Israeli officials say aims to destroy Hamas, has killed about 20,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials in the densely populated coastal enclave.

Iranian proxies, including the Houthis and Lebanese Hezbollah, have fired missiles at Israel since the conflict began.

Meanwhile, the Houthis have stepped up their attacks in the Red Sea, threatening to attack all ships heading to Israel and warning shipping companies against dealing with Israeli port companies.

The attacks have disrupted a key trade route that links Europe and North America to Asia via the Suez Canal and have caused container shipping costs to soar as many companies now seek to ship their goods via alternative, often longer routes.

In response, the US, British and French navies shot down Houthi drones and missiles. It was a defensive move that some critics in Washington said did not go far enough to send a message to the Houthis that they should stop attacking the ships.