According to the annual report from Christchurch City Libraries Ngā Kete Wānanga o Ōtautahi, readers’ tastes are diverse and wide-ranging.
Popular genres include thrillers, local memoirs, fantasy, and classics. This variety reflects the broad interests of the community and highlights the library’s commitment to providing a rich and varied collection for all readers.
https://www.thepress.co.nz/culture/360923997/most-popular-books-year-christchurch-libraries
An Ohio man who once appeared on a short-lived reality show about swingers has been arrested and is facing sex crime charges.
According to reports from local outlets WLWT and WKRC, Tony McCollister, who starred on the A&E series *Neighbors with Benefits*, was arrested on Tuesday, Dec. 23. Jail records show he was charged with pandering obscenity involving a minor and sexual conduct with an animal.
Court documents obtained by WLWT allege that McCollister, 43, knowingly uploaded child sexual abuse imagery to his Google account and engaged in sexual conduct with two different dogs that he owned. Authorities said both crimes occurred on Nov. 23.
Court filings also reveal that McCollister lives at a home just outside of South Lebanon, Ohio, owned by a woman named Erica Grove. Court records state that Grove is also facing a misdemeanor charge of sexual conduct with an animal and was served with a court summons on Dec. 23.
Additional information about the case was not provided in court filings, the local outlet reported. Grove did not appear on *Neighbors with Benefits*, and her relationship to McCollister is not known.
Sexual conduct with an animal is classified as a misdemeanor. Pandering obscenity is a felony and could result in up to eight years in prison and a $15,000 fine for McCollister if convicted.
Grove is set to be arraigned on Tuesday, Dec. 30, while a judge set McCollister’s bond at $250,000 on Thursday, Dec. 25. McCollister was also ordered to have no contact with children or pets. His next court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 30, according to records.
McCollister and his wife appeared as one of three main couples on the A&E series in 2015. The show, which highlighted their lifestyle as swingers, was canceled after just two episodes following backlash from viewers.
Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE’s free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage, and details of intriguing unsolved cases.
https://people.com/reality-star-who-starred-in-show-about-swingers-arrested-for-alleged-child-animal-sex-crimes-11876670
**New York Officially Becomes a ‘Purple Heart State’**
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — New York has officially joined a growing number of states in recognizing and honoring the sacrifices of military service members by declaring itself a “Purple Heart State.” Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation in early November to adopt the designation as part of a larger package of bills focused on honoring veterans and current service members.
“Our veterans and service members made the selfless choice to step up to protect our nation and our liberties,” Hochul said after signing the bills. “Signing this legislative package ensures that those who served our country face fewer barriers to employment and benefits and are properly honored for their commitment to our country.”
The Purple Heart is awarded to service members wounded or killed in combat. By becoming a Purple Heart State, New York joins the ranks of states such as Ohio, Washington, and Virginia in formally recognizing the sacrifices of these heroes.
New York is also home to the Purple Heart Hall of Honor, located in the Hudson River Valley—the nation’s only repository dedicated to preserving and collecting the stories of Purple Heart recipients.
Assemblymember John McDonald, a Democrat representing part of upstate New York, sponsored the Purple Heart State legislation and expressed gratitude after the governor’s signature. “I was proud to sponsor this legislation designating New York as a Purple Heart State so that we, as New Yorkers, can collectively express our gratitude to the approximately 1.8 million Purple Heart recipients nationwide for their sacrifice and courage,” he said. “I thank Governor Hochul for signing this important bill into law and for her continued support of our veterans.”
With this new designation, New York continues to demonstrate its commitment to honoring the bravery and service of veterans, both past and present.
https://www.silive.com/news/2025/12/new-york-becomes-latest-designated-purple-heart-state.html
Motorola Signature is coming soon, and it’s most likely getting a flagship chipset.
Stay tuned for more updates as we learn about the device’s specifications and features. This could mark a significant step for Motorola, positioning the Signature series as a strong contender in the high-end smartphone market.
https://www.phonearena.com/news/motorola-teases-its-first-flagship-slab-smartphone-in-almost-two-years_id176890
I vividly remember the evening of January 7, 2025. We had closed the shelter early as warnings of life-threatening winds intensified and the Palisades fire began to burn. In my role as Chief Programs & Services Officer, I stayed behind to ensure the animals were safe and our staff made it home.
Just after 6 p.m., while on sectors with our Chief Veterinarian, I saw flames erupt in the foothills—and felt the weight of what was coming. As the animal disaster response agency in a fire-prone region, we had faced emergencies before, including the Bobcat fire in 2020. We thought we were prepared, but this fire would test us in new ways.
The shelter reopened that night for emergency intake. Around 10 p.m., a colleague called me: “You’d better come down here,” she said. A line of people and their pets stretched from our front doors all the way to Central Park. Dogs on leashes, cats in carriers, and other pets waited alongside their families. There was even a horse being walked down Raymond Avenue. In that moment, I knew this day would change our lives forever.
We made a defining decision right then and there: we would help anyone who needed it—human or animal—in the very best way we could.
The first 72 hours were a whirlwind. Hundreds of animals arrived in need of immediate care. Staff offices, our spay/neuter clinic, and training rooms became temporary housing, while adoptable animals were transferred to partner shelters across the state to create space.
Many animals were still trapped behind fire lines, including pets and livestock. With fire-trained search and rescue teams from LA County and national partners, we mobilized quickly to reach them. Injured animals—pets, livestock, and wildlife—arrived in our ICU, many suffering from severe burns and smoke inhalation. Our veterinary team treated each pet as if it were their own, providing lifesaving care, free of charge, for as long as needed.
I couldn’t be prouder of our amazing staff and volunteers who worked through exhaustion and heartbreak. There were tears, sleepless nights, and endless worry, but no one ever said, “I can’t do this.”
During this unprecedented time, our community showed up for us in ways for which we will forever be indebted. People came to the shelter ready to lend a hand wherever needed. Thousands of calls and emails poured in with offers to adopt or foster pets. Monetary donations enabled us to continue our lifesaving work without pause.
The steady stream of people seeking safe shelter for their pets was replaced with a line of cars filled to the brim with donations of pet food, litter, and water. Local restaurants dropped off food to our staff and volunteers, helping us get through the incredibly long days.
Our work continued long after the flames were extinguished. Pets whose families lost everything in the fire stayed in our care for months, and some remain with us to this day. We found homes for dozens of fire-impacted animals who had no home to return to, provided veterinary vouchers to families in need of medical support for their pets, and connected displaced residents with pet-friendly housing resources.
A year later, I reflect with pride and gratitude. We saved countless lives and positively impacted thousands of people. We could only accomplish this by working together with our community.
The Eaton fire changed us forever. We emerged stronger, more united, and more committed than ever to helping animals and people in our community. Together, we continue to rebuild, celebrate the wins, and honor the courage, compassion, and resilience that carried us through that January night.
To learn more and support Pasadena Humane’s Eaton fire response efforts, visit [pasadenahumane.org/firematch](https://pasadenahumane.org/firematch).
https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2025/12/26/column-eaton-fire-disaster-response-was-an-outpouring-of-love-to-pets/
Obesity is a major global health issue that significantly increases the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease and fatty liver disease, also known as MASLD. With more people worldwide adopting high-calorie diets and leading sedentary lifestyles, these health problems are becoming increasingly common.
Now, scientists have made an important discovery that could pave the way for a new class of drugs aimed at combating obesity and its related diseases.
### A Key Enzyme in Fat Production: SCoR2
Researchers from University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University have identified an enzyme called SCoR2 that plays a crucial role in the body’s fat-making process. Their findings were published in the journal *Science Signaling*.
SCoR2 works by removing a small gas molecule called nitric oxide from proteins that regulate fat storage. Nitric oxide has many vital functions in the body, one of which is to inhibit the production of fat and cholesterol. When SCoR2 removes nitric oxide from these proteins, it essentially activates the body’s fat-producing system.
### Blocking SCoR2: A Promising Approach
The research team discovered that by blocking the activity of SCoR2—either through genetic modification or with a newly developed drug—they could prevent fat production. In tests conducted on mice, this drug not only halted weight gain but also protected the liver from damage. Additionally, it lowered levels of bad cholesterol.
Dr. Jonathan Stamler, the lead researcher and professor at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University, commented on the significance of this discovery:
**“We have a new class of drug that prevents weight gain and lowers cholesterol—a potential therapy for obesity and cardiovascular disease, with additional liver health benefits.”**
### How the Drug Works
In the liver, nitric oxide normally inhibits the proteins that create fat and cholesterol. In fat tissue, it blocks the genes responsible for producing enzymes that store fat. By preventing SCoR2 from removing nitric oxide, the drug enables nitric oxide to continue these protective functions, thereby preventing the buildup of fat and cholesterol.
### Looking Ahead: Clinical Trials on the Horizon
The research team plans to advance this promising drug into clinical trials, expected to commence in about 18 months. Dr. Stamler and his colleagues are optimistic that this discovery could lead to a first-in-class medication that not only prevents weight gain but also improves heart and liver health.
If successful, this new therapy could become a powerful tool in the fight against obesity and its associated complications, helping millions of people live longer, healthier lives.
—
### Additional Health Information
– If you are concerned about heart disease, read about studies indicating that **herbal supplements may harm your heart rhythm** and how **eating eggs can help reduce heart disease risk**.
– For more on heart health, see recent research showing that **apple juice could benefit your heart**, and findings that **yogurt consumption may help lower mortality risk from heart disease**.
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*This study is published in the journal* Science Signaling.
https://knowridge.com/2025/12/study-finds-how-to-controls-both-weight-gain-and-cholesterol-levels/
In what could be his final home game at Arrowhead Stadium on Christmas against the Denver Broncos, Travis Kelce shared a special moment with fellow Chiefs legend and tight end Tony Gonzalez before taking the field. The occasion was charged with emotion, as fans and players alike contemplated the possibility of this being Kelce’s last appearance on his home turf.
When asked if he had caught his final pass from close friend Patrick Mahomes, Kelce remained reflective, stating that no matter what, they would always be able to play catch outside of the Chiefs’ field. He acknowledged the deep bond they share and the impact their relationship has had on his career.
Addressing the inevitable question of whether this Christmas game would mark his final run out of the Chiefs’ tunnel, Kelce revealed that the decision is still weighing heavily on him. He mentioned the importance of speaking with his brother, Jason Kelce, who recently retired at the peak of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. The two brothers co-host and run the “New Heights” podcast, which has rapidly gained influence in the sports media world since its launch a few years ago—especially notable considering they faced each other in the Super Bowl.
Although Kelce did not confirm that Thursday’s game would be his last, he openly admitted that the end of his illustrious career is near. He shared that he has contemplated retirement several times but was continually drawn back into the spotlight as part of one of the greatest dynasties in American football history.
“I feel like I can’t even look my guy, Coach Andy Reid,” Kelce confessed in a pre-game interview with Amazon Prime. “I feel like I disappoint or I just let him down in some way.”
Kelce’s journey began when the Chiefs drafted him in the 3rd round with the 63rd overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft out of the University of Cincinnati. His first professional catch came in 2014, recording three receptions for 49 yards against the Tennessee Titans, with Alex Smith at quarterback. The following year, Kelce earned his first Pro Bowl selection—one of 11 throughout his career.
In 2015, he started all 16 games, amassing 72 receptions for 875 yards and five touchdowns. That breakout season marked the beginning of the Chiefs’ decade-long streak of postseason appearances, including a playoff victory over the Houston Texans before falling to Tom Brady’s New England Patriots in the second round.
Over the years, Kelce has been named a First-Team All-Pro tight end four times, trailing only fellow Chiefs legend Tony Gonzalez by two selections.
Looking ahead, Kelce and the Chiefs will travel to Las Vegas next weekend to conclude the 2025 season facing the Raiders.
—
**More news:**
– [Travis Kelce’s Retirement Odds Rise Before Possible Final Chiefs Home Game]
– [4 NFL Head Coaches on the Brink of Being Fired]
https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/travis-kelce-addresses-his-nfl-future-ahead-of-christmas-game-vs-broncos-11270818
Hasta el momento, son cuatro selecciones que jugarán su primera Copa del Mundo en la edición de México, Estados Unidos y Canadá del 2026.
Este hecho representa un hito importante en la historia del torneo, ya que nuevas naciones tendrán la oportunidad de competir en el escenario más grande del fútbol internacional.
La inclusión de estos equipos promete aportar frescura y emoción al campeonato, ampliando la diversidad y el alcance global del evento.
https://www.si.com/mx/futbol/que-selecciones-debutaran-en-mundial-2026
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un observed the test-firing of a long-range surface-to-air missile shortly before visiting the construction site of a nearly 9,000-ton nuclear-powered submarine on Wednesday.
During his visit, Kim remarked that South Korea also plans to build a nuclear-powered submarine, which would “worsen” regional stability, according to South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency. Newsweek reached out to the U.S. State Department via submission form on Wednesday evening for comment.
**Why It Matters**
North Korea continues to develop weapons despite United Nations sanctions targeting its nuclear and ballistic missile programs—both of which remain destabilizing forces in the region. In October, the Hermit Kingdom unveiled a missile allegedly capable of striking far-range targets. North Korean officials claim the Hwasong-20 missile could hit the continental United States, although this capability has yet to be demonstrated.
**What To Know**
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korea’s state-run news agency, published striking photos of Kim touring the construction site of the 8,700-ton submarine. Flanked by workers and officials, Kim examined the vessel, which is part of the country’s broader effort to modernize its navy. This initiative is one of five key policies the ruling party is pursuing to enhance its defense capabilities, according to KCNA.
Kim also oversaw the test of new missiles designed to improve the country’s capacity to produce advanced missile types. The missile demonstrated reportedly has a range of up to 124 miles.
During his visit to the submarine construction site, Kim emphasized that such developments are necessary in a world that is “by no means peaceful.” He further stated that North Korea has no choice but to develop these capabilities in response to South Korea’s plans to build a similar vessel, which he described as a “threat to its security that must be countered.”
Kim added, “The DPRK regards it as an offensive act severely violating its security and maritime sovereignty.”
**What People Are Saying**
U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this month commented on border security:
“We have one of the strongest borders anywhere in the world. There’s one country that probably has a stronger border. North Korea has a stronger border. North Korea has seven walls of wire. Each of them has a million volts of electricity going through it. So if you get over one, you’re dead the next one. If you get over one, you’re in very bad shape. If you get over two, you’ve set a record. I think we give North Korea the safest border. But ours is pretty safe.”
—
This latest missile and submarine development underscores ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and highlights the challenges facing regional security amid continued weapons advancements by North Korea.
https://www.newsweek.com/photo-shows-north-koreas-new-nuclear-powered-sub-as-kim-tests-missiles-11268986
An early-season struggle has come back to hurt the Knicks. Dealing with teams that pressure ball handlers aggressively—especially with quick, athletic guards—was something that gave them problems earlier in the season. The Knicks are not particularly quick or athletic, and physicality can at times throw them off their rhythm.
They dealt with it well in wins over the Magic and Spurs in the NBA Cup semifinal and final, and looked to have taken a step forward. But they’ve since lost two of their past three games to the 76ers and Timberwolves, and that physicality discrepancy was a big reason why.
“Not great,” Josh Hart said of how they handled it against the Timberwolves. “They did a good job of getting into the ball. It was kind of getting us out of rhythm and those kinds of things. Give them credit, they played good and we didn’t play well enough today.”
This struggle has resulted in an uptick in turnovers. The Knicks committed 18 and 19 turnovers, respectively, in the two losses to the 76ers and Timberwolves. For the season, they average just 13.7 turnovers per game.
The 76ers had a 14-point advantage in points scored off turnovers. It was less glaring against the Timberwolves, though they still had a two-point advantage on the Knicks and used the turnovers to stymie Knicks’ comeback attempts. Hart led the way with six turnovers in that game.
It is in this area that Jalen Brunson’s absence has been most felt beyond scoring. As the Knicks’ primary orchestrator, Brunson did not commit a single turnover in the two previous games before Tuesday, recording 69 points and 17 assists in that stretch.
“It’s gonna be hard to win on the road if you have 19 turnovers for 22 points off those turnovers,” Knicks coach Mike Brown said after Tuesday’s game. “And part of it those turnovers led to easy baskets in transition. Give Minnesota credit, because they brought a lot of physicality to the game and created a lot of those turnovers.”
The Knicks have been complaining to officials about fouls instead of matching the Timberwolves’ physicality. Frustration boiled over in the third quarter when Hart was assessed a flagrant 1 for hitting out at Rudy Gobert’s knees. Hart had been knocked to the ground battling for a rebound with Gobert and believed he was fouled.
That flagrant was the wrong kind of aggression the Knicks needed.
“I talked to all of our vets,” Brown said. “The officials, they’re not gonna help you win the game. They’re human. They’re gonna make mistakes out there. And we, as a team, starting with me, we have to try to leave the referees alone, because we’re good enough to still go win games.”
https://nypost.com/2025/12/24/sports/the-same-knicks-issue-is-rearing-its-head-once-again/
