Episode Details

Good morning and welcome to BTW Daily News. I’m your host, and today is December 31, 2025. It’s the last day of the year, and we’ve got a quick rundown of the headlines that matter most.Let’s start with Minnesota. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has paused federal child‑care funding in Minnesota after allegations of fraud and misuse of subsidies. The pause comes as state auditors review dozens of childcare centers that may have benefited from unapproved funding.Turning to the entertainment world, actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., best known for his roles on “The Wire” and “Veep,” has died at 71. Whitlock left a lasting legacy on television and film, and his passing is a significant loss to the industry.In a tragic political note, JFK’s granddaughter, philanthropist Tatiana Schlossberg, died at 35 after a long battle with cancer. Schlossberg was celebrated for her advocacy work and her commitment to public service.Across the Atlantic, a disaster struck near Peru’s famous Machu Picchu. A tourist train collided head‑on with another vehicle, killing one person and injuring dozens. Rescue teams are working through the rugged Andes to help those impacted.In sports, Arsenal dominated Aston Villa with a 4‑1 victory. The win places Arsenal firmly in title contention for the Premier League, and their attacking prowess stunned the opposition.Meanwhile, in Ukraine, Russian drones hit the Odesa port, injuring six, including children. The attack has heightened tensions as the conflict in the region continues to flare.In the business arena, Meta confirmed a deal to acquire Singapore‑based AI startup Manus for more than $2 billion. The acquisition aims to accelerate Meta’s development of autonomous agent technology across its platforms.Turning to the Middle East, Israel announced it would suspend operations of several aid groups in Gaza. The move has sparked concerns from humanitarian organizations about critical support reaching civilians.Back on the court, Kawhi Leonard delivered a career‑best 55‑point performance for the Los Angeles Clippers, extending their winning streak and showcasing his leadership on the floor.And a tech roundup: SoftBank’s $40 billion investment in OpenAI is complete, securing an 11% stake in the AI leader and solidifying its role in the evolving technology landscape.That wraps our top stories for today. Thank you for listening to BTW Daily News. Have a wonderful New Year’s Eve—stay safe, stay informed, and good night.