Transgender woman fights off man who tried to slit her throat on first date
Summary
A transgender woman in Houston, Texas fought off a man who allegedly tried to slit her throat during their first date. Despite informing him about her transgender identity beforehand, the date turned violent. The woman managed to fight back and the man was later charged with assault. This incident highlights the vulnerability of the transgender community and the prevalence of violence against them.
Parts of Appalachian Trail closed due to rapidly spreading wildfire, warnings issued to I-40 drivers
Summary
The Appalachian Trail has been closed from Interstate 40 to Max Patch due to a rapidly spreading wildfire. This has prompted warnings for drivers on Interstate 40 in the North Carolina mountains. The fire has burned nearly 12,000 acres and has caused reduced visibility on the highway. Cold Springs Brown Gap roads have also been closed due to the fire. The North Carolina Air Quality Forecast Center has issued air quality alerts, and strong winds and heavy rainfall are expected in the region. The fire started on November 16 due to a traffic accident.
Chuck Schumer Believes the Time for Cannabis Legalization Has Come with the SAFER Act
Summary
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is optimistic about federal marijuana legalization in the near future, thanks to the SAFER Act. The act aims to reduce risks for cannabis businesses and provide access to banking services, which has been a challenge for the industry. Schumer highlights the growing public support for recreational cannabis, as seen in Ohio’s recent vote legalizing marijuana. The SAFER Banking Act, previously approved by the Senate Banking Committee, could provide legal protection to banks working with cannabis retailers and allow financial institutions to offer more small business loans. Proponents argue that passing the act will enhance public safety and reduce burglaries in the cash-heavy cannabis industry. The bill would also address racial disparities in marijuana arrests, as black Americans are disproportionately targeted. However, the timing for securing the necessary Republican votes remains uncertain.
U.S. faces winter wave as COVID hospital admissions climb in 14 states
Summary
14 U.S. states are experiencing a significant surge in coronavirus hospitalizations as winter approaches. The overall increase in the country is 8.6%, with higher spikes observed in the upper Midwest, parts of the South Atlantic, and southern Mountain regions. The rise is attributed to colder weather, which promotes increased virus transmission. Vermont leads with a 70% rise, followed by Iowa and Alaska at 60%. While some states may have startling increases, they represent a relatively low number of hospital admissions. This underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and adaptable in the face of shifting infection rates.
A man in California had his concealed carry permit temporarily suspended after defending his family from armed intruders. The incident has sparked a debate on concealed carry laws and Second Amendment rights. The suspension allegedly came as a result of the man “yelling” at LAPD officers who responded to the incident. Social media has responded with outrage over the perceived injustice, with many questioning the consequences individuals face when exercising their right to self-defense.
