Hannah’s Story from 9News Queensland celebrated another significant achievement by winning its third national award at the Walkley Foundation event.

In Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz, players control one of six characters, including two new ones, to recover stolen golden bananas. The game involves navigating through ten worlds using the Wii remote, avoiding obstacles, and collecting bananas for points and lives. For the first time, the game features boss battles and unique character attributes. Additionally, it offers 50 party mini-games, including returning favorites from previous titles, playable solo or in multiplayer mode.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District will waive day-use fees at its 16 reservoirs on Veterans Day, covering boat launch ramps and swimming beaches. The waiver does not extend to camping services or specialized facilities. The initiative, which began in 2006, is part of the corps' efforts to honor military service members. The corps also offers fee-free days on other occasions, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and National Public Lands Day. As a major federal provider of outdoor recreation, the corps encourages visitors to check with reservoir projects for open recreation areas and provides resources for locating sites.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District is hosting a virtual public meeting and comment period for the draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Assessment for the Tar Pamlico River Basin flood-risk management study. The meeting aims to gather community input on proposed federal actions to mitigate flood damage along the Tar River and its tributaries. It will include a presentation and a Q&A session, with options to join online or in-person in Nashville, NC. Community feedback is sought to shape the corps' operations and initiatives.

The study investigates the impact of long-term organic farming and floral diversity on the stability of bee communities in agroecosystems. It compares organic farms with conventional ones, suggesting that organic practices promote biodiversity and pollination services. The research focuses on 36 diversified organic farms in the Puget Lowland region of Washington State, USA, and uses species abundance models and beta diversity equations to analyze data over three years. The findings indicate that long-term organic farming leads to more stable bee communities, with less species turnover and enhanced pollinator conservation. The study also highlights the influence of landscape context and plant diversity on pollinator community composition and stability.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, in collaboration with FEMA, will hold a public information session on March 20, 2024, at Shanksville-Stonycreek High School to discuss an upcoming flood study for Lake Stonycreek in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The session will include a presentation and Q&A segment, providing details on the study's purpose, procedures, and schedule. The flood study aims to update FEMA mapping and the county’s flood insurance study by assessing properties around the lake and conducting hydrologic analyses.

The Irish bTB eradication programme aims to address bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in Ireland, a significant animal health challenge with substantial financial and emotional costs. The programme, required under EU legislation, has evolved since its inception in 1954, integrating scientific research, stakeholder engagement, and policy development. Recent strategic changes include addressing the role of badgers in bTB transmission, improving diagnostics, and managing disease outbreaks. Research has informed policy on badger culling, vaccination, and cattle movement surveillance. Despite achieving a low bTB herd incidence in 2016, the expansion of the dairy sector led to increased bTB levels. The programme adapts to new scientific understanding, tools, and economic concerns, with ongoing research into diagnostics, wildlife management, and molecular epidemiology. The Covid19 pandemic necessitated temporary adaptations to the programme, emphasizing the importance of flexible policy-making and stakeholder communication.

Abacus Media Rights has pre-sold the drama series 'The Boy That Never Was,' based on Karen Perry's novel, to UKTV and France Télévisions. Filmed in Morocco and Ireland, the series is produced by Subotica and commissioned by RTÉ with support from Screen Ireland. The series, co-written by Jo Spain and David Logan, features a star-studded cast including Colin Morgan and is directed by Hannah Quinn. The series is set for delivery in April 2024 and is praised for its high-quality writing and production.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District will commence construction of stone fish reefs on the Monongahela River near Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, starting October 30. This $2.4 million project aims to mitigate habitat loss due to the removal of Elizabeth Locks and Dam. The construction, part of the Lower Monongahela River project, will not affect private property or commercial navigation. The project involves coordination with multiple federal and state agencies and aims to enhance ecosystem connectivity between river pools.

EU diplomats reviewed the final withdrawal agreement without changes, despite concerns over the backstop provisions on fishing rights. British negotiators resisted guaranteeing European fleets access to UK waters post-transition, leading to mixed reactions among EU ministers.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District's dam safety team conducts regular inspections and maintenance to prevent flooding disasters. The team, comprising various engineering disciplines, ensures the structural integrity and operational safety of 16 reservoirs and 23 locks. Highlighting the importance of community awareness and emergency preparedness, the article details significant projects like the East Branch Dam Cutoff Wall Rehabilitation. The team's efforts are crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of local communities, with a focus on continuous monitoring and proactive measures.

The President's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget request includes over $122 million for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District's civil works program. This funding aims to maintain the reliability of the region's inland waterways, enhance the environment, and reduce flood risks in the upper Ohio River Valley. The budget allocates $40 million for the operation and maintenance of 16 flood risk-management reservoirs and $78 million for navigation on the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers. Additionally, $3 million is designated for the Kinzua Dam Safety Modification Project. The budget reflects a decrease from the previous fiscal year due to completed maintenance projects. The Pittsburgh District covers 26,000 square miles, including parts of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, and New York, and manages various water resource and infrastructure projects.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has announced a Sources Sought Notice for the Shallow Land Disposal Area (SLDA) in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, to seek information for follow-on remediation services valued between $250 - $500 million. The current contract, held by Jacobs Technology Inc., is deemed insufficient to complete the work, prompting the need for a new contract. The SLDA site, historically used for radioactive waste disposal, is undergoing remediation under the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program (FUSRAP). The USACE emphasizes its commitment to public health and safety, with physical remediation expected to start in spring 2025.

234 migrants disembarked from the MV Lifeline in Malta, marking the end of a journey that highlighted Europe's shift towards stricter migration policies. The ship's captain, Claus-Peter Reisch, faces legal action, and the vessel may be impounded. Maltese authorities are investigating whether the captain disobeyed the Libyan coastguard. This incident follows recent EU summit decisions on migration.

European leaders met to decide on the new heads of the EU institutions, with a significant focus on the candidacy of Manfred Weber, supported by Angela Merkel. However, Weber's bid for the European Commission presidency faced strong opposition, notably from Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa, who predicted 'almost absolute rejection.' French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of strategy and method over individual names. The selection process remains contentious and unresolved.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District is offering recreation opportunities at select reservoirs in eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania for the April 8 solar eclipse. Activities include an interpretive program at Michael J. Kirwan Reservoir and additional parking at Mosquito Creek Lake in Ohio. In Pennsylvania, Shenango River Lake and Tionesta Lake will open specific camping areas. The district emphasizes safety precautions for visitors, especially around water. The Pittsburgh District manages extensive water resources and facilities across multiple states.

Far-right MEPs from the ENF group face repaying £350,000 in noncompliant expenses, as revealed by an EY audit. Nicolas Bay of the National Front defends the group's actions, while German Green MEP Ska Keller criticizes the misuse of EU funds. The scandal highlights ongoing issues with MEP expenses, including past incidents involving Jean-Marie Le Pen.

Theresa May faced accusations of capitulation as Britain conceded to Spanish demands over Gibraltar to secure approval for her Brexit deal. Sir Tim Barrow, Britain's EU ambassador, clarified that Gibraltar would be included in a future trade deal with the EU only with Spain's consent. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez threatened to veto Brexit and called for joint sovereignty talks over Gibraltar. May pledged to support Gibraltar's citizens.

India's first Driver Advisory Council (DAC), led by Aapti Institute in collaboration with Uber, has expanded to nine cities, including Jaipur, Guwahati, and Kochi. The council aims to improve the platform experience for gig workers by facilitating dialogue between drivers and Uber. Recent changes based on DAC recommendations include advanced payment disbursement times, increased transparency in earnings, and a pilot feature called 'Extra Choice' to give drivers more trip options. Uber executives and various labor experts participated in discussions to further enhance the gig economy's regulatory framework.

India’s first Driver Advisory Council (DAC), led by Aapti Institute in collaboration with Uber, has expanded to nine cities, including Jaipur, Guwahati, and Kochi. The Council, representing tens of thousands of driver partners, aims to improve dialogue between drivers and the platform. Uber has implemented several changes based on DAC recommendations, such as advanced payment disbursement and enhanced trip transparency. The initiative is praised for its participatory governance model and potential to shape gig work regulations.

Emily O’Reilly, the EU's independent watchdog, has sharply criticized the European Commission's handling of Martin Selmayr's promotion to secretary-general. Her report condemns the process as an ambush orchestrated by Jean-Claude Juncker, which has been met with staunch resistance from the Commission. The controversy highlights significant concerns about transparency and governance within the EU's top echelons.

The study examines the trends and factors associated with the early slaughter of dairy calves in Ireland from 2018 to 2022. It highlights that a small cohort of dairy herds, particularly larger and recently established ones, are responsible for the majority of calf slaughters. The practice has increased over the years, influenced by factors such as herd size, breed type, and bovine TB breakdowns. The study underscores the socio-ethical concerns and economic implications of early calf slaughter, suggesting that targeted policy interventions and industry engagement could mitigate the issue.

Jean-Claude Juncker is considering extending his term as president of the European Commission beyond its scheduled end in November 2019. The potential extension is due to the anticipated parliamentary stalemate in the upcoming European elections, which could complicate the election of his successor. Juncker's commission, led by Martin Selmayr, may continue for an additional two to three months, with Juncker himself possibly seeking an extra year.

The Salzburg summit saw tensions rise as UK Prime Minister Theresa May's approach to Brexit negotiations was met with frustration by EU leaders. May's comments on the Irish backstop and attempts to bypass EU negotiator Michel Barnier were particularly contentious. EU leaders, including Leo Varadkar and Emmanuel Macron, emphasized the need for a united front and criticized the UK's strategy. The summit highlighted the urgency of reaching a Brexit agreement, with an emergency November summit contingent on progress in October.

Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief negotiator, has cautioned against a 'pointless' Brexit delay, reflecting a tougher EU stance on extending the deadline. While EU leaders are open to a deadline extension if justified, there is growing opposition to a short-term extension that may only extend uncertainty. As the March 12 vote on Theresa May’s deal approaches, the EU remains firm on the Irish backstop, and discussions continue on the terms of a potential delay beyond the March 29 deadline.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day-use fees at its recreation areas nationwide on National Public Lands Day, Sept. 23, encouraging public participation in volunteer activities. The waiver excludes camping and specialized facilities. Volunteers will receive a fee-free coupon valid for one year. The initiative aims to support over 60 USACE projects, continuing a tradition of public service and environmental conservation. USACE has been a key participant in National Public Lands Day since 1994, managing over 400 lake and river projects across 43 states.

Uber's Driver Advisory Council (DAC), India's first platform for gig workers to voice issues and improve their experience, has expanded to nine cities. The DAC, a collaboration between Aapti Institute and Uber, now includes Jaipur, Guwahati, and Kochi, alongside six existing cities. The council, now with 45 members, aims to facilitate dialogue between drivers and Uber. Recent changes implemented by Uber, based on DAC feedback, include daily payment settlements, more transparency for drivers, and increased trip choice. The DAC, which has been operational since March 2022, is considered a global best practice, with similar models in other countries. Uber remains committed to supporting gig workers' rights on its platform.

India’s first Driver Advisory Council (DAC), led by Aapti Institute in collaboration with Uber, has expanded to nine cities, including Jaipur, Guwahati, and Kochi. The Council, representing tens of thousands of driver partners, aims to enhance transparency and ease of use on the Uber platform. Recent changes include advanced payment disbursement times, cash-free parking at nine airports, and features like upfront destination and estimated fare visibility. The DAC, which includes 45 members this year, facilitates dialogue between drivers and Uber, addressing issues such as earnings, social security, and app experience. Uber remains committed to supporting gig workers' rights.

Pattern of Plants, an orchestral performance by Japanese composer Mamoru Fujieda, captivated audiences with its blend of traditional Japanese instruments and early baroque works. The performance, inspired by the electrical activity of plants and brought to life by a cross-cultural ensemble, showcased Fujieda's fascination with flora. Despite the lack of a cohesive narrative flow, the individual compositions were compelling. The Eleventh Hour Theatre's setting enhanced the experience, though an introductory segment could have provided more context. Fujieda's explanation of his creative process added depth to the performance, which was a harmonious intersection of traditional Japanese influences, Western early music, poetry, and modern science.

Woodridge State High School won the Resilient Australia School Award, recognizing their community resilience efforts. Principal Kathleen Janecek, Deputy Principal Andrew Walsmley, and Business Manager Andrew Byrne attended the awards ceremony, expressing excitement and pride in their achievement. The award highlights the school's collaborative and innovative approach to building resilience.

Youghiogheny River Lake celebrated its 75th anniversary with various activities including speeches, a time capsule and tree planting ceremony, dam tours, and rock painting. The event highlighted the dam's historical significance since its completion in 1943 and operational status from 1948, emphasizing its contributions to flood protection, pollution alleviation, recreation, and improved navigation on the Monongahela and Ohio rivers.

Youghiogheny River Lake celebrated its 75th anniversary with various activities including speeches, a time capsule and tree planting ceremony, dam tours, and booths hosted by partner organizations. The lake, operational since 1948, has provided significant flood protection, alleviated waterway pollution, and offered recreational opportunities, saving downstream communities over $716 million in flood damages.

To scream safely without damaging your voice, use less air, open your throat in advance, make extra noise in your soft palate, stabilize your neck, engage your back muscles, bend your legs, and always warm up and cool down your voice. Seeking vocal training from a professional is also recommended to protect your vocal cords.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District will hold a Change of Command ceremony on August 4, where Colonel Adam Czekanski will transfer command to Colonel Nicholas Melin. The ceremony, presided over by Major General William Graham, symbolizes the transfer of responsibility and authority. Colonel Melin, who has an extensive educational and professional background, will lead the Pittsburgh District in managing the region's water resource infrastructure and flood-risk management. The district covers the upper Ohio River Basin and supports commercial navigation and flood-damage reduction.

Woodcock Creek Lake Dam, constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, celebrates its 50th anniversary. The dam has successfully prevented flooding in Saegertown and Meadville since 1973, saving over $38 million in flood damages. Community leaders and residents, including Charles Lawrence and Mayor Jaime Kinder, commemorated the event, highlighting the dam's role in flood prevention and community recreation. Future projects aim to enhance the lake's facilities, including the restoration of the Bossard Nature Center. The celebration included placing items in a time capsule to be opened on the dam's 100th anniversary.

Community leaders, Corps of Engineers employees, and the public celebrated the 50th anniversary of Woodcock Creek Dam in Saegertown, Pennsylvania. The dam, constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, has significantly reduced flooding along French Creek, saving local communities from catastrophic floods and preventing over $38 million in flood damages since 1973.

The annual general meeting of Kollect on Demand Holding AB (publ) took place on June 20, 2023, in Stockholm. Key resolutions included the adoption of financial statements, profit allocation, discharge of board members from liability, and re-election of board members and auditors. An incentive program for employees and authorization for the board to issue new shares and other financial instruments were also approved.

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a complex, multi-host disease with significant economic impact. Whole-genome sequencing of 619 Mycobacterium bovis isolates from badgers and cattle in a Northern Ireland hotspot revealed that cattle are the primary drivers of the local epidemic, with more frequent transmission from cattle to badgers than vice versa. Genetic analysis of badger populations showed no significant correlation with the spatial distribution of M. bovis genetic diversity, indicating limited badger-to-badger transmission. The study suggests that while badgers play a minor role in disease transmission, their involvement may still be crucial for disease persistence. The findings highlight the context-dependent nature of M. bovis transmission dynamics and the challenges in generalizing the role of wildlife in disease spread.

Margaret Pelcher, a civil engineer, inspects the spillway tainter gates at Berlin Dam in Berlin Center, Ohio, as part of the Pittsburgh District's multidisciplinary dam safety team. This team, consisting of various engineering specialists, conducts regular inspections and maintains emergency action plans to ensure community safety in potential dam risk scenarios.

The Pittsburgh District's multidisciplinary dam safety team, which includes various engineering specialists, performs periodic inspections at all 16 reservoirs and 23 locks in the district. Civil engineer Margaret Pelcher was involved in an intermediate inspection at Berlin Center, Ohio, on May 19, 2023. The team also develops and maintains emergency action plans and collaborates with emergency managers and first responders to ensure community safety in dam risk scenarios.

The Pittsburgh District's multidisciplinary dam safety team, which includes engineers from various specialties, conducts periodic inspections at all 16 reservoirs and 23 locks in the district. Civil engineer Carolyn Wehner inspected the middle wall gallery at Braddock Locks and Dam on May 15, 2023. The team also develops and maintains emergency action plans and collaborates with emergency managers and first responders to protect communities against any dam-related risks.

The Pittsburgh District's multidisciplinary dam safety team, including engineers from various specialties, conducts periodic inspections at all 16 reservoirs and 23 locks in the district. On May 15, 2023, civil engineer Alex Diciro inspected Braddock Locks and Dam in Braddock, Pennsylvania. The team also develops and maintains emergency action plans and collaborates with emergency managers and first responders to protect communities against any dam-related risks.

Hozier has released a surprise 'Unheard EP' featuring four previously unreleased songs recorded during the sessions for his latest album 'Unreal Unearth'. The EP includes collaborations with Canadian singer-songwriter Allison Russell. This release follows his successful 2023 live shows and precedes his upcoming UK headline shows in July. Hozier continues to support the LGBTQ+ community and speaks out against oppressive attitudes.

Laura Codruta-Kovesi, Romania’s former top corruption prosecutor, jailed numerous corrupt officials and politicians, facing severe backlash including surveillance and dismissal. Her efforts to become the European Union’s first chief prosecutor were met with resistance, reflecting the EU's hesitance and the ruling elite's attempts to silence her. Despite these challenges, Kovesi remains a vocal and determined adversary of corruption.

Laura Codruta-Kovesi, Romania’s former top corruption prosecutor, who jailed numerous corrupt officials, faced significant backlash from the ruling elite, including being fired and banned from leaving the country. Despite these challenges, she continues to fight for her appointment as the European Union’s first chief prosecutor, highlighting the EU's hesitance in her appointment.

The 73 Britons set to be announced as members of the European Parliament will join one of the world's largest parliaments and receive substantial salaries and allowances. MEPs earn an annual salary of £90,576, with additional allowances for general expenses, staff, and travel, significantly higher than the salaries and expenses of UK MPs.

The 73 Britons set to be announced as members of the European Parliament will join one of the world's largest parliaments and receive substantial salaries and allowances. MEPs earn an annual salary of £90,576, with additional allowances for general expenses, staff, and travel, significantly higher than the salaries and expenses of UK MPs.

The European Union is set to undergo a significant leadership change, with five key positions to be filled in the coming months. The process, described humorously as a 'Game of Thrones' scenario, is expected to be contentious, especially with the rise of populist parties in the European Parliament elections. The most notable appointment will be the successor to Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the European Commission.

Matteo Salvini, the Italian far-right leader, positioned himself as the head of Europe's growing populist movement during a rally in Milan's Piazza del Duomo. Representatives from ten different radical right parties across Europe joined him, advocating for anti-immigration policies and criticizing French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The event, marked by slogans like 'Italy first' and 'Common sense in Europe,' saw tens of thousands of supporters marching peacefully through Milan.

Matteo Salvini, the Italian far-right leader, positioned himself as the head of Europe's growing populist movement during a rally in Milan's Piazza del Duomo. Representatives from ten different radical right parties across Europe joined him, advocating for anti-immigration policies and criticizing French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The event, marked by slogans like 'Italy first' and 'Common sense in Europe,' drew tens of thousands of supporters and passed peacefully through Milan's commercial center.

Matteo Salvini, the Italian far-right leader, positioned himself as the leader of Europe's growing populist movement during a rally in Milan. Representatives from 11 different radical right parties across Europe joined him, advocating for nationalist and anti-immigration policies ahead of the European Parliament elections. The event, marked by slogans like 'Italy first' and 'Common sense in Europe,' drew tens of thousands of supporters and proceeded peacefully through Milan.

Matteo Salvini, the Italian far-right leader, positioned himself as the leader of Europe's growing populist movement during a rally in Milan. Representatives from 11 different radical right parties across Europe joined the event, which saw tens of thousands of people march peacefully through Milan. The rally, held ahead of the European Parliament elections, featured speeches denouncing immigration and proclaiming themselves as the 'voice of the people.'

Inge Herlaar and Martijn van Halen, who share striking similarities, discovered they are half-siblings through genetic material linked to Jan Karbaat, a prominent Dutch fertility doctor. Karbaat secretly impregnated clients with his own semen, fathering at least 49 children. The scandal has captivated the Netherlands, raising questions about the extent of Karbaat's actions, as he treated approximately 6,000 women.

Inge Herlaar and Martijn van Halen, who share striking similarities, discovered they are half-siblings through genetic material left by Jan Karbaat, a prominent Dutch fertility doctor. Karbaat secretly impregnated at least 49 women with his own sperm, raising ethical and legal concerns. The case has captivated the Netherlands, with potential implications for hundreds more children.

EU governments are preparing for a disorderly Brexit, now seen as a likely outcome due to political confusion in the UK. The European Commission and senior EU envoys express pessimism, citing the UK's parliamentary turmoil as evidence of an impending no-deal Brexit.

Viktor Orban, Hungary's leader, is at risk of being expelled from the European People's Party (EPP) after a motion was forced onto the agenda of an upcoming EPP assembly. The move comes after Orban's Fidesz party launched a state-funded poster campaign in Hungary that accused Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission, of being pro-migration. This has led to internal EPP factions considering at least a suspension of Fidesz, which could signal the formation of a new right-wing alliance within the EU.

Theresa May's hopes for a Brexit deal were dashed as EU diplomats dismissed any progress and warned of potential failure within weeks. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier's briefing led to a bleak assessment of May's plan to deliver Brexit by March 29, with expectations of either a deadline extension or a no-deal departure. There is no consensus among the 27 EU members on the length of an extension, with suggestions ranging from three months to 21 months to allow for a British rethink.

Emily O’Reilly, the European ombudsman, has been investigating the use and abuse of power within EU institutions since her appointment in 2013. Her recent investigation concluded that the fast-track appointment of Martin Selmayr as the EU's top official broke the rules, sparking significant controversy. O’Reilly emphasizes the ombudsman's role as a watchdog rather than an advocate, highlighting the importance of accountability within the EU.

As the UK approaches Brexit day on March 29, EU leaders are considering how to respond to a likely British request for an extension. Some EU diplomats believe a delay is almost inevitable to avoid a no-deal exit, but there is skepticism about whether an extension would lead to a viable deal in the Commons. The article highlights the uncertainty and strategic considerations surrounding the Brexit deadline.

As the UK approaches the Brexit deadline on March 29, EU leaders are considering how to respond to a potential British request for an extension. Some EU diplomats believe an extension is almost inevitable to avoid a no-deal Brexit, but there is skepticism about whether an extension would be beneficial if it only delays the decision without securing a majority for a deal in the UK Parliament.

Liviu Dragnea, Romania's most powerful man and leader of the ruling Social Democratic Party, was conspicuously absent from the launch of the country's presidency of the European Union. Despite a public approval rating of only 5% and being a convicted vote fraudster barred from holding formal public office, Dragnea has maintained his influence, outlasting five prime ministers in five years. His absence at the EU presidency launch is seen as a defiant act by critics.

Spain’s far-right Vox party, which recently gained significant traction in regional elections, is part of a broader populist movement expected to secure a substantial portion of votes in the upcoming European Parliament elections. This shift poses a challenge to the traditional centre-left and centre-right parties that have dominated European politics for decades. Key issues include Vox's stance on Gibraltar, Catalan separatism, and controversial social policies.

Marciena, a small town in Latvia, has become a ghost town as young people have left since Latvia joined the EU and free movement became possible. Ausma Zarina, an 81-year-old retired teacher, reflects on the exodus from her hometown, spending Christmas away from her family who now live in Britain.

European diplomats are frustrated with the ongoing Brexit negotiations, viewing other issues like migration, rule of law crises in Hungary and Poland, and the eurozone's future as more existential threats to the EU. Hungary faces significant unrest over labor laws, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government responding harshly to protests. Italy's Matteo Salvini reached a budget compromise with the EU, risking backlash over unfulfilled promises. In France, Emmanuel Macron's spending promises have temporarily quelled protests but may conflict with EU rules. Angela Merkel remains a key strategic thinker amid these challenges.

EU officials are preparing emergency measures to address potential economic disruptions from a no-deal Brexit. The European Commission will release contingency plans for 13 critical areas, while the UK plans to charter ships for essential supplies amid fears of a blockade at Dover-Calais. Officials express growing concern over the likelihood of a chaotic exit as the deadline approaches.

Prime Minister Theresa May has reportedly secured concessions from Brussels to keep the UK in a customs union temporarily, aiming to avoid a hard border in Ireland. UK negotiators have convinced Brussels to include a basic outline of this arrangement in the withdrawal agreement, giving it legal standing. The exact legal wording is still under negotiation.

Europe’s conservative parties, led by the European People’s Party (EPP), are set to select their lead candidate for the upcoming European parliament elections. The EPP, which includes Angela Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union, will convene in Helsinki to choose a successor to Jean-Claude Juncker as the European Commission leader. However, there are concerns that the candidates lack the charisma and appeal of populist figures like Italy’s Matteo Renzi. Manfred Weber, a prominent candidate, is among those vying for the position.

Tarek Al-Wazir, a candidate with Yemeni heritage and local leader of the Greens, could become the minister-president of Hesse in the regional elections, signaling another setback for Chancellor Angela Merkel. The Greens are experiencing a surge of support in Germany, indicating a significant shift in the political landscape, particularly in regions like Hesse, known for Frankfurt and its cultural heritage.

Michel Barnier's position as the EU's chief negotiator remains strong, with EU27 leaders expressing full confidence in his leadership during a recent summit. The leaders, including Donald Tusk and Angela Merkel, emphasized unity and the urgency of the Brexit situation, while Mateusz Morawiecki called for creative thinking to address the challenges.

A referendum in Macedonia could result in the country being renamed North Macedonia, resolving a long-standing identity dispute with Greece and paving the way for EU and NATO membership. The deal faces opposition from nationalists in both countries and is influenced by Russian interests. The historical context of Alexander the Great and the ancient Greek province of Macedonia underscores the complexity of the issue.

EU diplomats are expediting plans to manage potential chaos from a no-deal Brexit, fearing that upcoming summits may not yield an agreement with Britain. Martin Selmayr, the EU’s top civil servant, briefed ambassadors on contingency plans to maintain essential trade and travel if Brexit talks fail, particularly due to deadlock over the Irish border. The plan includes granting the European Commission special powers to coordinate emergency efforts within five days.

Mainstream European conservatives are concerned that Hungarian leader Viktor Orban is planning to leave the European People’s Party (EPP) and form a new far-right alliance. This alliance could unite populist right-wing parties from several European countries, challenging the EPP's dominance in the European parliament. The possibility of this shift became more likely after a significant number of EPP MEPs opposed Orban in a recent parliamentary vote condemning his 'illiberal state'.

Martin Selmayr, known as the 'Brussels Monster', is a potential successor to Jean-Claude Juncker as European Commission president. Angela Merkel, who raised concerns in 2013, now seeks a German for the top EU job. The upcoming year will see a shift in leadership across four key EU institutions, influencing the bloc's approach to Brexit, migration, and internal tensions.

Liam Fox, the international trade secretary, warns that Britain is likely to leave the European Union without a deal, estimating the chances at 60-40. He criticizes the European Commission for prioritizing EU rules over economic wellbeing, which he believes will result in a no-deal Brexit. Concerns are growing over the potential failure of negotiations, and Downing Street has not disclosed the outcomes of Theresa May's recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding her Chequers plan for post-Brexit relations with the EU.

Manos Tsaliagos, a 51-year-old firefighter, is celebrated for his heroic efforts in rescuing survivors during the wildfires in Mati, Greece, which claimed at least 87 lives. Among those he saved was Zoe Holohan, an Irishwoman on her honeymoon, found unconscious and covered in ash in the boot of a car. The article highlights the bravery and quick actions of Tsaliagos amidst the devastating fires.

Russian agents are allegedly funding violence in the Balkans to disrupt a political agreement that would facilitate Nato expansion. Intelligence sources claim that payments were made to Macedonian politicians, nationalists, and football hooligans to incite riots against the deal with Greece. Relations between Moscow and Athens have deteriorated as a result of these actions, adding to evidence of the Kremlin's efforts to destabilize European countries by fostering political divisions and violence.

EU ministers will be urged to expedite plans to deploy 10,000 border guards to manage migration at a summit in Austria. The 'axis of the willing,' comprising Italy, Austria, and Germany's interior minister, Horst Seehofer, will advocate for immediate action. Austria's vice-chancellor, Heinz-Christian Strache, emphasizes the urgency of strengthening Frontex, the EU border agency, which currently has 1,500 guards.

Germany faces a potential political crisis as a significant rift within the conservative alliance may lead to the collapse of the government and the end of Angela Merkel's 13-year tenure as chancellor. The conflict centers around a disagreement over migration policies between Merkel and her interior minister, Horst Seehofer, who is considering implementing border controls in defiance of Merkel's more open refugee policy.

Slovenia's recent elections have shifted the political landscape, with the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) led by Janez Jansa, known for his anti-immigrant stance, winning 25% of the vote. This victory positions Jansa to initiate coalition talks and signals a potential rise of another radical right-wing government in Europe, as traditional conservative parties see a decline. Despite Slovenia's history as a peaceful nation, largely unaffected by the Balkan wars, it is now experiencing a populist movement.

Italy is poised to present a significant challenge to the European Union by planning to defy its budget regulations and expel half a million illegal migrants. These radical proposals, unprecedented in western Europe, have been endorsed by the Five Star Movement through an online poll and are being promoted by the right-wing League at public meetings. This development represents a potential shake-up of EU policy frameworks established since the 2008 financial crisis and the 2015 migrant crisis.

Milo Djukanovic, a long-standing political figure in Montenegro, is expected to be re-elected as president, marking nearly three decades in power. His tenure has seen significant events, including an alleged Kremlin-backed coup attempt in 2016 aimed at preventing Montenegro from joining Nato. Djukanovic's political longevity is compared to that of Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko, highlighting his dominance in the Balkan region.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is expected to secure a fourth term in the upcoming elections, bolstered by propaganda tactics that stoke fear of Muslim immigration. Critics argue that these tactics, including misleading leaflets depicting Islamist militants, are designed to manipulate public sentiment against immigration.

European leaders are set to expel Russian spies across the continent in response to the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury. Despite initial resistance from figures such as Jean-Claude Juncker, Theresa May secured promises for concerted action during a summit that also addressed Brexit and Donald Trump's steel tariffs.

Wolfgang Preiszler, a leading member of the right-wing Freedom Party (FPO) and head of a police unit, ordered raids on Austria's domestic intelligence agency BVT, leading to political uproar. The raids, which included seizing computer hard drives from BVT offices and staff homes, have sparked concerns that the FPO is attempting to control key parts of the intelligence service and weaken scrutiny of right-wing groups. This has resulted in a political scandal for Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, only three months into his tenure.