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Eastern Ontario is bracing for dangerously cold temperatures, with Environment Canada issuing warnings as the mercury plunges. The wind chill could make it feel as low as –35 degrees Celsius Thursday night.

Extreme Cold Grips Eastern Ontario

Temperatures in Ottawa, Kingston, and Pembroke are expected to remain around –25 C well into Friday morning. While Friday night may offer a slight reprieve, the Ottawa Valley could see temperatures drop back to –25 C on Saturday night. A wind chill forecast for Saturday is not yet available.

Maniwaki is forecast to reach –20 C over the next few nights, with the wind chill making it feel closer to –30 C. These conditions pose significant risks to those exposed to the elements.

Protecting Yourself from the Cold

Health Canada recommends dressing in layers, including a wind-resistant outer layer, and protecting extremities like hands, feet, ears, and nose. Staying active is also advised to promote blood flow.

Even on sunny days, such as Saturday, Health Canada advises wearing sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm to prevent windburn. Consuming alcohol is discouraged, as it can create a false sense of warmth.

Municipalities are responding to the cold weather in various ways. Libraries are being encouraged as warming spaces during the day. Several cities, including Belleville and Cornwall, have opened overnight warming centres. Kingston has extended the operation of a temporary warming centre at the Artillery Park Aquatics Centre until Monday morning.

Ottawa has asked individuals who typically sleep outdoors to seek shelter in emergency or transitional facilities, a move that has faced some criticism. The city maintains a map of warming locations, accessible through its public health website, and residents can call 311 for shelter referrals.

In the event of a medical emergency, such as hypothermia, authorities urge the public to call 911.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are under a cold warning?

Environment Canada has issued cold warnings across eastern Ontario, specifically mentioning Ottawa, Kingston, and Pembroke.

What does Health Canada recommend to stay safe?

Health Canada recommends dressing in layers, protecting extremities, staying active, and avoiding alcohol.

Where can people find warming centres in Ottawa?

The City of Ottawa maintains a map of warming locations, available on the Ottawa Public Health website, and people can call 311 for shelter referrals.

As the cold weather persists, it is possible that warnings may be extended or expanded to include additional areas. Residents should continue to monitor forecasts and heed the advice of public health officials. It is also possible that additional warming centres may open as demand increases.

Negotiations continue between the White House and Congressional leaders as a potential partial government shutdown looms at the end of the week.

Funding Standoff Centers on Homeland Security

On Thursday afternoon, Democrats blocked a vote to advance a six-bill funding package, seeking concessions from Republicans and the White House regarding federal immigration enforcement. The core of the dispute now centers on the length of a temporary funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), allowing time to reach a longer-term agreement that would limit practices of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, according to multiple senators from both parties.

The speed of ongoing discussions underscores the White House’s desire to avoid another shutdown, as well as a tacit acknowledgement from Republicans of the political risks of inaction amid growing public protest over ICE’s tactics. President Donald Trump stated, “I hope we don’t have a shutdown. I think we’re close. The Democrats, I don’t think they want it either.”

Democrats Link Funding to ICE Policy Changes

Democrats are seeking to capitalize on widespread discontent following the fatal shootings of two American citizens in Minneapolis this month. They have stated they will not support a short-term funding extension for DHS lasting more than two weeks. The Trump administration, however, has proposed six weeks. Senator Markwayne Mullin argued that the Congress would require at least two weeks to renegotiate, consider, and approve new funding legislation for DHS, stating, “It’s very little time. We can’t do it in two weeks.” He added that even a six-week extension may be a realistic timeframe, given the procedural steps involved.

Despite the earlier setback, Republican leader John Thune expressed confidence that lawmakers will ultimately support a final agreement with “a good, strong vote on both sides.”

What Happens Next?

If an agreement is reached and the Senate approves an updated package, it must then be approved by the House of Representatives, potentially delaying final approval until Monday, given the chamber’s near-equal division. A proposal under consideration would provide funding for other agencies – including Defense, Health and Human Services, Labor, Education, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development – through September, while only temporarily extending funding for DHS to allow for continued negotiations.

Even if a partial government shutdown occurs and DHS does not receive funding, ICE will continue to operate due to funding from a previously approved internal policy package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is at the heart of the disagreement?

The primary point of contention is the length of a temporary funding extension for the Department of Homeland Security, as Democrats seek concessions regarding ICE practices.

What did President Trump say about the possibility of a shutdown?

President Trump stated, “I hope we don’t have a shutdown. I think we’re close. The Democrats, I don’t think they want it either.”

What are the Democrats demanding regarding ICE?

Democrats are seeking changes to ICE tactics and protocols, including restricting the use of warrants, ending roving patrols, applying a use-of-force policy comparable to state and local law enforcement, and requiring ICE agents to remove masks and wear body cameras.

Given the ongoing negotiations and the stated positions of both parties, will Congress be able to reach an agreement and avert a government shutdown?

James Rondeau, director of the Art Institute of Chicago, has publicly addressed an incident that occurred last April during a flight from Chicago to Munich. This marks his first extensive discussion of the event since returning to his position last May following a voluntary leave of absence.

Incident on Flight

According to a CBS News report, Rondeau began removing his clothing mid-flight. The report also stated that Rondeau had consumed alcohol and taken prescription medication, leading to police being called to the plane.

Following the incident, Rondeau took a month and a half of voluntary leave. Upon his return, the Art Institute’s board released a statement expressing their “confidence in James Rondeau’s leadership and ability to continue as the president and director.” Rondeau initially expressed regret for the incident.

Recent Statements and Future Plans

In a recently published profile co-authored by the Chicago Star Tribune and WBEZ, Rondeau described the incident as a “very low moment both personally and professionally,” and voiced his gratitude for the board’s support. He stated, “As cliché as it is, every challenge is an opportunity…that presented a number of opportunities for me to move forward with a healthy work-life balance and an attentive understanding to wellness.”

Rondeau also indicated plans for the Art Institute—one of the largest and most visited museums in the United States—to expand. The museum received a $75 million donation in 2024 from Aaron I. Fleischman and Lin Lougheed intended for new galleries, but details regarding the expansion have not yet been released. Rondeau stated, “We have very concrete aspirations,” but emphasized, “We do not have an approved building project.”

He further explained that maintaining the museum’s standing among global institutions requires ongoing investment in facilities and visitor experience, stating, “If we spent a decade letting our peers refine their facilities…and we didn’t do that, we would fall behind.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened during the incident on the plane?

According to a CBS News report, James Rondeau began taking his clothes off during a flight from Chicago to Munich after having consumed alcohol and taken prescription medication. Police were called to the plane as a result.

What was the Art Institute of Chicago’s response to the incident?

The Art Institute of Chicago’s board issued a statement expressing confidence in James Rondeau’s leadership and ability to continue as president and director after he returned from a voluntary leave of absence.

Does the Art Institute of Chicago have plans to expand?

James Rondeau hinted at plans for the museum to expand, following a $75 million donation received in 2024, but stated that there is currently no approved building project.

How might the Art Institute of Chicago balance maintaining its current strengths with the need to evolve and improve its facilities to remain competitive on a global scale?

Edward Harris, chair of Warwickshire county council, has resigned from his position and from Reform UK following revelations of unsafe conditions at two rental properties he owns in Staffordshire. The findings were reported by Tamworth borough council, which described Harris as a “rogue landlord.”

Council Chair Resigns Amidst Rental Property Concerns

According to Tamworth council, the two properties—houses of multiple occupation—were unlicensed and exhibited “multiple serious safety failures.” These included a lack of heating and hot water, non-functioning fire alarms, inadequate cooking facilities, and unsafe outdoor access. The six-bedroom properties, the council stated, “failed to meet even the most basic of living standards and legal requirements.”

Harris acknowledged “full accountability” for the condition of the properties and expressed “contrition” in a statement released Thursday, stating his willingness to rectify the issues. He cited the news coverage as a distraction from the council’s work and stated his resignation was a matter of “noble duty.”

Tamworth council stated that Harris, along with the management agent Touchstone, had been repeatedly warned about the “dangerous conditions” but failed to address them. Residents reported living without hot water for as long as two years, resorting to boiling kettles and using electric showers.

Political Implications

The situation presents a challenge for Reform UK, particularly as the party’s candidate in the upcoming Gorton and Denton byelection, Matt Goodwin, has prioritized tackling issues with HMOs. Lee Anderson MP, the party’s chief whip, has also previously voiced concerns regarding the increasing number of poorly managed HMOs.

George Finch, the Reform leader of the council, acknowledged Harris’s resignation and thanked him for his service, but declined to comment further pending an investigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific safety failures were identified at the properties?

According to Tamworth council, the properties lacked heating and access to hot water, had no working fire alarms, inadequate cooking facilities, and unsafe access to outdoor areas.

What action has Tamworth council taken?

Tamworth council issued two emergency prohibition notices and is considering further enforcement action regarding the properties owned by Edward Harris. Residents have been offered support and advice.

What has Edward Harris said about the situation?

Harris stated he takes “full accountability” for the condition of the homes and expressed “contrition,” adding that he is willing to correct the issues.

As investigations continue, it remains to be seen what further actions may be taken by Tamworth council or other regulatory bodies. The situation could also influence public perception of Reform UK and its stance on housing standards.

President Donald Trump announced today, January 29, 2026, that he has directed U.S. officials to reopen Venezuelan airspace to commercial travel. This decision follows a conversation with the current leadership in Venezuela after the arrest of Nicolás Maduro.

Restoration of Air Travel and Economic Implications

“I just spoke with the president of Venezuela and informed her that we are opening up all commercial airspace,” Trump stated to reporters during a cabinet meeting at the White House. He further assured that U.S. citizens will soon be able to travel to Venezuela safely.

Commercial airlines largely suspended flights to Caracas following a November 21st warning from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This warning preceded a January 3rd aerial operation that resulted in the removal of President Maduro from power. The airspace closure had been repeatedly extended.

Trump also indicated that major U.S. oil companies are traveling to Venezuela to explore potential projects. “We have the big oil companies heading to Venezuela, inspecting and choosing their locations, and they are going to bring back tremendous wealth to Venezuela and to the United States,” he explained.

The President described relations with the new Venezuelan government as “very solid, very good.” He stated, “Venezuela, in fact, is going to make more money than ever before and that’s a good thing.”

Financial Oversight of Venezuelan Oil Revenue

On Wednesday, Washington announced a control scheme for Venezuelan oil revenue. Funds are deposited in Qatar and then transferred to the Rodríguez government with monthly spending oversight. The stated goal is to stabilize Venezuela and ensure that oil revenues benefit the Venezuelan people.

A possible next step could be increased diplomatic engagement between the two countries. It is also likely that the U.S. will continue to monitor the situation in Venezuela closely, particularly regarding the use of oil revenue. Analysts expect further announcements regarding specific investment projects by U.S. oil companies in the coming weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the airspace closure begin?

Commercial airlines largely suspended flights to Caracas following a warning from the FAA on November 21st.

What is the purpose of the financial control scheme?

The scheme aims to stabilize Venezuela and ensure that oil revenues benefit the Venezuelan people, with funds deposited in Qatar and transferred to the Rodríguez government under monthly spending oversight.

What did President Trump say about U.S. citizens traveling to Venezuela?

President Trump assured that U.S. citizens will soon be able to travel to Venezuela and will be safe there.

How might this shift in U.S. policy toward Venezuela impact regional dynamics and international energy markets?

A Southwest Airlines flight safely aborted its takeoff at San Antonio International Airport on January 27 after a smaller aircraft mistakenly entered the runway while the 737 had already been cleared for departure.

Incident Details

Southwest Flight 4996, bound for Dallas, was instructed to discontinue its takeoff roll. According to Laura Swift, a Southwest spokesperson, this action was taken “due to a potential conflict with another aircraft.” Swift also stated that Southwest “appreciates the professionalism of its Pilots and Flight Attendants in addressing the situation,” emphasizing the airline’s commitment to customer and employee safety.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the incident, stating that air traffic control cancelled the Southwest flight’s takeoff clearance when the smaller plane entered the runway. Rick Breitenfeldt, an FAA spokesperson, indicated the event occurred around 1:40 p.m. local time and that the FAA is currently investigating.

FlightAware tracking data shows that Southwest Flight 4996 ultimately arrived in Dallas approximately two hours behind schedule after departing without further incident.

Runway Safety Concerns

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding runway safety. The FAA reported 1,520 runway incursions between January and November 2025, indicating this is a persistent issue within the aviation system. Data for December 2025 is not yet available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the Southwest flight to abort takeoff?

The Southwest flight aborted takeoff because a Pilatus PC-12 aircraft made a wrong turn onto the runway while the Southwest flight had already received clearance for departure.

Was anyone injured in the incident?

No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

Is the FAA taking action following this event?

Yes, the FAA is investigating the incident that occurred around 1:40 p.m. local time on Tuesday, Jan. 27.

Given the ongoing investigation, it is possible the FAA may issue new guidance or implement additional safety measures at San Antonio International Airport, or at other airports nationwide, to prevent similar incidents. Further analysis of the event could also lead to recommendations for improved pilot training or air traffic control procedures.

A significant number of Naperville residents have recently achieved academic milestones, marking completions of degree programs and recognition for outstanding scholastic performance. These accomplishments span a diverse range of institutions across the United States, reflecting the broad educational pursuits of students from the Illinois community.

Graduation Achievements

Several students completed bachelor’s degrees this season. Sebastian Perez Aburto and Nicholas Hayden Myers both earned bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University. Michael Steven Becker completed a bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security Engineering at the same institution, while Brandon Bloedorn focused his studies on Industrial Technology. Other graduates from Iowa State include Nicholas Casamassimo in Supply Chain Management, Ethan Czyzewicz in Aerospace Engineering.

Northern Illinois University saw a particularly large cohort of graduates. Leena Alam earned two bachelor’s degrees, one in Accountancy and another in Political Science. Mihir Barve received a master’s degree in Data Analytics, and Catherine Fanthorpe completed a master’s degree in Education. Allyson Hahn was awarded a doctorate in Mathematical Science. Further graduates from Northern Illinois University include Elizabeth Hofemann, Ayesha Khan, Ben Kuefler, Jayden Lowe, Maegan Miller, Jeffrey Northrup, Mark Ragei, Natalie Sayenko, Eric Schaschwary, Karen Sung, Peter Wong, Zane Yu, and Brian Zhan, representing fields from Biological Sciences to Operations & Information Management.

Lily Hoffman graduated from Hofstra University in New York. Additional bachelor’s degree recipients include students from institutions such as the University of Central Arkansas, Loras College, Wabash College, South Dakota State University, Quincy University, and the Universities of Illinois.

Academic Honors

Recognition also extends to students achieving high academic standing. Phillip Gaponenko and Bridget Bissegger were honored at Samford University in Alabama. Anna Jaworski received recognition from the University of Central Arkansas, while Grace A. Skarbek was acknowledged by Loras College. St. Mary’s College in Indiana recognized ten students: Sophia Bracken, Colleen Considine, Nicole De Guzman, Colleen Kacedan, Alexa Maul, Kailey Nichols, Grace O’Donnell, Allison Perrino, Catherine Rao, Mary Weber, and Lauren Wincup.

Further honors were bestowed upon students at institutions including the College of Charleston, St. Cloud State University, Miami University, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and others.

Looking Ahead

As these graduates embark on new chapters, they may pursue careers in their respective fields, continue their education with advanced degrees, or explore other opportunities. It is likely that many will contribute to the workforce, bringing their newly acquired skills and knowledge to bear on challenges and innovations. The students recognized for academic honors may be poised to take on leadership roles within their fields of study. Further academic pursuits or professional development are possible next steps for these accomplished individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of degrees were awarded?

The degrees awarded include bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and a doctorate, spanning fields such as Mechanical Engineering, Cyber Security Engineering, Accountancy, Data Analytics, and Mathematical Science.

How many students were recognized?

The list includes recognitions for over 60 students from Naperville.

Where did most of the graduates attend university?

Northern Illinois University had the largest number of graduates listed from Naperville.

What impact might this level of academic success have on the Naperville community?