Christmas carols, celebrated for their beauty and emotional range, evoke the universal 'Christmas spirit' and have diverse origins. Notable carols like 'Silent Night', 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing', and 'Joy to the World' have rich histories, while lesser-known ones like 'What Child Is This?' and 'Veni Veni Emmanuel' offer unique stories. The article highlights the contributions of composers and the cultural significance of carols, encouraging readers to explore beyond familiar tunes.

The article explores the possibility that we are currently in the era of the Red Horseman of Revelation, focusing on the first two horsemen, Pestilence and War. It draws parallels between the COVID-19 pandemic and the rider of the white horse, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict with the rider of the red horse. The article discusses the implications of these events in the context of biblical prophecy, suggesting that they may be harbingers of the End Times. It also touches on the potential for economic upheaval and the rise of the Antichrist, emphasizing the importance of the Great Commission for Christians in these times.

A large sign fell onto Lansdowne Street near Fenway Park in Boston, striking an individual on Friday night. The person suffered minor injuries and is expected to recover. The incident occurred around 6:37 p.m. as many people were out for the evening. The sign, made of a thin piece of wood, fell from an undetermined location. Boston police closed off a section of the sidewalk and workers removed the sign.

A Family Dollar store in Danvers, Massachusetts, was found to be selling several expired food products. Boston 25 News discovered items with past 'best-by' or 'sell-by' dates, including Ragu spaghetti sauce, Red Baron frozen pizza, and Betty Crocker cake mix. The store manager removed the expired items after being shown them and referred to the corporate office. Massachusetts regulations allow the sale of past-date foods under certain conditions, but there were no signs indicating such at the Danvers store. Shoppers expressed concerns over public health and the lack of monitoring for expiration dates.

A Family Dollar store in Danvers, Massachusetts, was found to be selling several expired food products. Boston 25 News reported nearly a dozen items with past 'best-by' or 'sell-by' dates, including Ragu spaghetti sauce, Red Baron pizza, and Betty Crocker cake mix. The store manager removed the expired items after being shown them and referred further inquiries to the corporate office. Massachusetts regulations allow the sale of past-date foods under certain conditions, but there were no signs indicating such at the store. Shoppers expressed concern over the lack of monitoring and potential public health risks.

Gary Ferguson, a Persian Gulf War veteran, is at risk of losing his home due to a cracked foundation and an insurance battle with Union Mutual. After waiving a home inspection to secure the purchase in March 2022, he discovered significant structural damage. Union Mutual denied his claim and dropped him as a customer, stating that foundation damage is not covered. The repair costs are estimated between $50,000 and $75,000, which Ferguson cannot afford. He has been unable to find insurance coverage from other companies and is facing a steep increase in his mortgage due to force-place homeowner's insurance. Home inspector Jameson Malgeri warns against waiving inspections and supports Massachusetts legislation to protect home buyers.

United and Alaska Airlines have canceled flights involving Boeing 737 MAX 9 jetliners for inspections after an incident. Passengers are entitled to full refunds or rebooking on another airline at no cost if flights are canceled. Consumer advocate Teresa Murray emphasizes the importance of being polite when dealing with cancellations and knowing one's rights, especially if the cancellation is due to airline's fault, where additional compensation like hotel and ground transportation may be provided.

United and Alaska Airlines have canceled flights involving Boeing 737 MAX 9 jets for inspections after an incident. Passengers are entitled to refunds or rebooking for cancellations, with additional rights if the cause is within the airline's control. Consumer advocate Teresa Murray emphasizes the importance of being polite when dealing with cancellations.

Due to an expected weekend storm, traffic on Route 1 near Gillette Stadium will be reduced to three lanes to accommodate snow plows. Officials advise Patriots fans to leave early for Sunday's game against the Jets and to dress warmly. Parking lots will open at 9 a.m., and the Foxborough Dept. of Public Works is prepared for snow removal on streets and sidewalks.

A Family Dollar store in Danvers, Massachusetts, was found to have several expired food products on its shelves, including items like Ragu spaghetti sauce and Red Baron frozen pizza. Despite regulations allowing the sale of past-date food under certain conditions, the store did not have any signs indicating the products were expired. The store manager removed the expired items after being informed by Boston 25 News. Shoppers expressed concerns about the public health implications and the need for better monitoring of sell-by dates.

With Christmas just ten days away, experts Trae Bodge and Andrea Woroch provide tips to ensure online orders arrive on time. They recommend placing orders by December 18 to avoid delays, noting that most retailers guarantee on-time shipping by this date. Bodge suggests considering in-store pickups for added assurance. If a retailer misses its shipping deadline, customers may receive free return shipping or a full refund. The U.S. Postal Service has also set deadlines for various shipping options to ensure packages arrive before December 25.

With Christmas just ten days away, experts Trae Bodge and Andrea Woroch offer advice on ensuring online orders arrive on time. They recommend placing orders by December 18 to avoid delays, noting that most retailers guarantee on-time shipping by this date. Bodge suggests considering in-store pickups for added assurance. If retailers miss their shipping deadlines, they often offer free return shipping or refunds. The U.S. Postal Service has set deadlines for various shipping options to ensure packages arrive by December 25.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik announced an investigation into Harvard, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania following a controversial congressional hearing on antisemitism. The investigation, led by the Education and Workforce Committee, aims to hold these institutions accountable for their responses to antisemitism on campuses. University presidents faced backlash for their testimony, particularly from Republican lawmakers and the White House. Harvard has stated it will cooperate with the investigation. A group representing Jewish students has also taken action, flying a banner reading 'Harvard hates Jews' over Ivy League campuses.

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell is proposing new regulations to ban hidden and surprise fees, known as 'junk fees', to protect consumers and ensure price transparency. The regulations would require businesses to disclose total prices upfront, clarify optional fees, and simplify cancellation of trial offers and recurring charges. A public hearing is scheduled for December 20, with the potential for the regulations to take effect shortly after. Campbell emphasizes the importance of these regulations for low and middle-income consumers, particularly in the context of budget constraints. Boston resident Patti Burris supports the initiative, suggesting Massachusetts could lead other states in this effort.

A Waltham police officer, Paul Tracey, and a National Grid worker, Roderick Jackson, were killed in a hit-and-run crash on Totten Pond Road. The suspect, Peter Simon, is charged with manslaughter and armed robbery. After the crash, Simon stole a police cruiser and was later apprehended. The incident is under investigation by State Police Detectives, crime scene technicians, MSP Collision Recon, the Middlesex District Attorney's Office, and Waltham Police.

The Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group's 38th annual Trouble in Toyland report highlights the risks of 'smart toys' that can collect and transmit sensitive data, including children's geo-location, which could lead to security concerns and increase the risk of fraud, scams, or identity theft. The report specifically mentions concerns with Meta's Quest VR headset's data collection practices. MASSPIRG and Fairplay have found these platforms to be fraught with risks for kids. MASSPIRG advises parents to understand toy features, test them, and read privacy policies to protect their children's information.

Temu, a Chinese-owned shopping app, has faced numerous consumer complaints regarding poor quality and shipping delays. Despite its popularity and rapid growth, with a corporate office in Boston and over 100 million customers worldwide, the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and the Better Business Bureau have received significant complaints. A security guard at the Boston headquarters was unable to provide contact with the company, and a call center in the Philippines was the only point of contact. A Temu spokesperson in New York City addressed concerns, citing a higher BBB rating compared to industry peers and normal logistics operations. Consumer blogger Andrea Woroch experienced satisfactory service but noted shipping and delivery issues, advising caution for holiday shoppers.

Consumer advocates warn that online scams increase during Black Friday, with Massachusetts residents losing over $226 million to internet scams in 2022. Christopher Maxwell, a reformed scammer from Nigeria, collaborates with Social Catfish to educate consumers on avoiding scams. Key scams include fake stores, bogus gift cards, and phony shipping notifications. Social Catfish advises verifying URLs, performing reverse searches, and using official tracking websites to protect against scams.

The Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group has issued its 38th annual Trouble in Toyland report, highlighting the risks posed by 'smart toys' that can collect and transmit sensitive data, including children's geo-location. The report specifically mentions concerns with Meta's Quest VR headset and its data practices. MASSPIRG and Fairplay advise parents to understand toy features, test them personally, and read privacy policies to protect their children's information from potential breaches or hacks.

An investigation by 25 Investigates and Cox Media Group found that 80 percent of paper receipts from various businesses in Massachusetts contained Bisphenol S (BPS), a chemical that can disrupt the endocrine system and is linked to reproductive issues and certain cancers. UMass Amherst's Dr. Laura Vandenberg highlighted the risks associated with BPS, which acts like estrogen in the body. The Ecology Center tested receipts from 22 local businesses, with many testing positive for BPS. Some companies, like TJX, have phased out phenol-based coatings in their receipts, while others, such as Target, did not respond to inquiries despite their receipts testing positive for BPS. The Paper Receipts Converting Association claims BPS is a safer alternative to BPA, but Vandenberg and other studies suggest otherwise, advocating for consumers to decline paper receipts when possible.

A large fire erupted on the upper floors of an apartment building on Gore Street in Cambridge, with flames and smoke visible. The Cambridge Fire Department responded with a significant presence, and 16 people have been displaced, though no injuries were reported. Resident Baba Kolley described a hasty evacuation upon realizing the severity of the situation. The Salvation Army is ready to assist those affected. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and updates will follow as more information is available.

Denneno’s Pizza in Stoughton, Massachusetts, is closing after 68 years, leading to a surge in customer demand. Owner Mark Denneno decided to retire after his 69th birthday, citing changing times and age. Customers, including Beth Bosquet and Joe Lundin, expressed their admiration for the pizza, with some waiting hours for their final orders. The restaurant will serve its last pizza on Saturday.

Denneno’s Pizza in Stoughton is closing after 68 years, leading to a surge in customer demand. Owner Mark Denneno decided to retire after his 69th birthday, citing changing times and age. Customers, including Beth Bosquet and Joe Lundin, expressed their admiration for the pizza, with some waiting hours for their final orders. The restaurant will serve its last pizza on Saturday.

Authorities have not released the names of all 18 victims of the Lewiston, Maine mass shootings, but family members have begun sharing their stories. Joe Walker, a manager at Schemengees Bar & Grille, died trying to stop the shooter, Robert Card. Other victims include Bill Bracket and Peyton Brewer Ross. The community is mourning the loss, with schools in the area closing temporarily due to the ongoing manhunt.

The Biden Administration announced a Federal Trade Commission proposal to ban hidden and misleading fees across various industries, aiming to protect consumers and promote fair competition. The rule would require businesses to disclose full prices upfront, with non-compliant companies facing fines and refund obligations. The FTC Chair Lina M. Khan and MASSPIRG Legislative Director Deirdre Cummings expressed support for the measure, which is expected to take effect early next year. Consumers are advised on how to protect themselves from junk fees in the meantime.

Attention shifts to New Hampshire voters ahead of the Republican Primary, with former President Donald Trump maintaining a lead but showing signs of weakening support. A recent poll indicates Trump's support among New Hampshire Republicans has dropped to 44%, while Nikki Haley's support has risen to 28%. Both Trump and Haley have scheduled events in the state. Voters express mixed feelings about Trump, with some undecided and others critical of his past actions and controversies.

The Biden Administration announced a proposed rule by the Federal Trade Commission to ban hidden and misleading fees, aiming to protect consumers from billions of dollars in junk fees. The rule would require businesses to show the full price upfront and would apply to various industries, including event sales, hotels, and car rentals. Companies failing to comply would face fines and be required to provide refunds. The proposal has received positive feedback from consumer advocates like MASSPIRG, with expectations for implementation by early next year.

Aidan Kearney, a Massachusetts blogger known as 'Turtleboy,' had his bail revoked by a Dedham District Court judge following an alleged assault and battery incident involving his ex-girlfriend. Kearney, who turned himself in, is accused of shoving and threatening his ex-girlfriend after learning she was to testify before a grand jury. This incident follows Kearney's arraignment on 16 felony charges related to witness intimidation. The courtroom was filled with Kearney's supporters, and his attorney argued that the accusations were fabricated. Kearney has also been leading a movement to support Karen Read, who is charged with the murder of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe.

The article highlights the rise of sports streaming scams, particularly targeting high school sports fans. The Better Business Bureau and various high school associations, including the M.I.A.A. and the Illinois High School Association, warn about scammers capturing personal information through fake streaming links. They advise checking directly with schools or leagues and using secure payment methods. The article provides tips on how to stay safe online, emphasizing the importance of verifying the legitimacy of streaming links and profiles.

The author shares their experience of having a daughter with Down syndrome, emphasizing the joy and value she brings to their lives. They participated in the National Down Syndrome Society’s Buddy Walk in New York City, where their daughter was honored. The author reflects on the high rate of abortions for babies with Down syndrome and argues against it, suggesting that the world is better with these individuals. They criticize the notion of 'mercy killing' and advocate for the value of every human life, regardless of medical complexity.

The Mass. Public Interest Research Group (MASSPIRG) warns parents about the sale of recalled toys online, highlighting that it was able to purchase five recalled toys, including three from eBay. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled 17 toys in 2023, and MASSPIRG emphasizes the illegality of selling recalled products. Despite eBay's efforts to monitor and notify consumers of recalls, issues persist. Lawmakers are also urging companies to prevent the sale of recalled products. Parents are advised to stay informed about recalled toys through the CPSC website and saferproducts.gov.

An active search is underway for Corporal Samuel Wanjiru, a U.S. Marine from Massachusetts, who was swept away by dangerous currents at La Pared beach in Luquillo, Puerto Rico. Multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard and local emergency services, are involved in the search. The Coast Guard has issued warnings about hazardous water conditions in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, urging beachgoers to heed weather advisories. The situation highlights the severe risks posed by high surf and rip currents in the region.

Massachusetts is facing a shortage of snow plow contractors as winter approaches, with MassDOT reporting a 4% decrease in vendor participation compared to last year despite increased rates. Local officials attribute the shortage to factors such as bad hours, unpredictable winters, and high insurance premiums. Chelmsford Town Manager Paul Cohen and business owner Michele Monteiro highlight the challenges and financial uncertainties that contribute to the dwindling number of plow drivers.

More than 8,700 Massachusetts workers are owed $10.4 million in unpaid wages, according to the U.S. Dept. of Labor. The federal government has created a searchable database to help workers claim their money. DOL spokesperson Karla Falcon emphasized the importance of workers receiving their earned wages and highlighted the agency's efforts to investigate wage violations. Cambridge employment attorney David Belfort described wage theft as a pervasive issue in Massachusetts. The Wage & Hour Division can hold unclaimed money for three years before transferring it to the U.S. Treasury Dept.

The Mass. Public Interest Research Group (MASSPIRG) has issued a warning about the sale of recalled toys online, highlighting that it was able to purchase five recalled toys, including three from eBay. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled 17 toys in 2023, and MASSPIRG's findings indicate ongoing issues with recalled products being sold. eBay stated it is working with regulators to prevent such sales. The U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee is also urging companies to do more to prevent the sale of recalled products. Parents are advised to stay informed about recalled toys through the CPSC website.

With winter approaching, replacing windows can significantly improve home warmth but can be costly. Kevin Brasler from Boston Consumers’ Checkbook advises getting multiple estimates, avoiding companies that require home consultations, and not paying large deposits upfront. He also warns against being oversold on unnecessary window features. The article emphasizes practical steps to save money on window replacements.

A Waltham police officer, Paul Tracey, and a National Grid worker, Roderick Jackson, were killed in a hit-and-run crash on Totten Pond Road. Peter Simon, charged with manslaughter and armed robbery, allegedly caused the crash and fled the scene, later stealing a police cruiser before being apprehended. The incident is under investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies. The Greg Hill Foundation has set up a fund for the victims.

Keolis, the transportation company, announced that it does not foresee further disruptions on the Newburyport/Rockport line after canceling 11 trains due to crew availability issues. Despite the cancellations, hourly service between Boston and Salem resumed by late Sunday afternoon. The City of Salem and the MBTA are collaborating with Keolis to provide additional weekend services during the Halloween season. Local businesses, like Harrison’s Comics, emphasize the importance of public transportation for foot traffic. Salem Police advise against driving downtown due to heavy traffic and limited parking, recommending alternative transportation options.

Laura Johnson, daughter of Mary Aikens, who was seriously injured in a Falmouth road accident, expresses no ill will towards the 19-year-old driver involved. Aikens remains unconscious with a traumatic brain injury at Tufts Medical Center. Johnson emphasizes the need for the driver to find peace and not let the incident derail his life. This is the second pedestrian accident in the area recently, raising concerns about the safety of the crosswalk. The police investigation is ongoing, and it is unclear if charges will be filed.

The collapse of Baltimore's Key Bridge is expected to significantly disrupt automotive cargo shipments on the East Coast, particularly affecting the Port of Baltimore, which handles the majority of vehicles delivered to the region. Experts like Yossi Sheffi from MIT and Ryan Petersen from Flexport highlight the logistical challenges and potential shortages that may arise. Companies like Ford and GM are diverting shipments to other ports. Despite the disruption, the overall U.S. economy is not expected to suffer major damage as the supply chain adapts.

Undercover shoppers from Consumers’ Checkbook found significant price discrepancies for routine 30,000-mile maintenance on a 2020 Toyota Camry LE across 229 auto repair shops. Prices ranged from under $200 to over $1,400, with some shops recommending unnecessary services. Kevin Brasler, Executive Editor of Consumers’ Checkbook, advises consumers to avoid maintenance packages and opt for individual services to save money. He also suggests that drivers familiarize themselves with their vehicle's maintenance requirements and perform simple tasks like replacing air filters themselves to cut costs.

A Family Dollar store in Danvers was found to have several expired food products on its shelves, with some items having passed their 'best-by' or 'sell-by' dates by several weeks or months. Despite multiple requests for comment, Family Dollar did not respond, and the store manager acknowledged the issue, removing the expired items after being shown by Boston 25 News. Massachusetts regulations allow the sale of past-date food if it is wholesome, segregated, and clearly marked, but no such markings were found in the store. Shoppers expressed surprise and concern over the expired products, emphasizing the importance of up-to-date food for public health.

Investors and speculators have significantly impacted housing prices in Greater Boston, with 21% of home sales from 2004 to 2018 attributed to them, according to a Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) report. The report highlights that investors often pay with cash, buy homes at discounts, and flip properties for profit, making it harder for families and owner-occupants to purchase homes. The findings have prompted calls for rent control and tenant protections, particularly from housing advocacy groups like City Life/Vida Urbana.

Boston rent prices have surged by up to 23 percent from 2022, with significant increases across various types of rental units. Gaby Obando, a resident of Jamaica Plain, experienced a $200 rent hike, highlighting the growing unaffordability. Data from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council indicates that rental prices are rising unsustainably, particularly affecting families and lower-income households. While areas like Arlington and Quincy remain more affordable, the overall trend shows a continuous increase in rent prices, with no immediate ceiling in sight.

Massachusetts drivers experience more car crashes in the fall than any other season, according to CARFAX. Editor-in-Chief Patrick Olsen attributes this to deer mating season, earlier sunsets, and wet leaves. CARFAX's analysis of 2022 crash data shows that 72% of U.S. drivers live in states where fall is the peak season for accidents. Olsen offers safety tips such as checking tire pressure, keeping windshields clean, and slowing down. Vermont is the only New England state with more winter crashes.

Massachusetts drivers experience more car crashes in the fall than any other season, according to CARFAX. Editor-in-Chief Patrick Olsen attributes this to deer mating season, earlier sunsets, and wet leaves, which increase the risk of accidents. CARFAX's analysis of 2022 crash data shows that 72 percent of U.S. drivers live in states where fall is the peak season for accidents. Olsen advises drivers to check tire pressure, keep windshields clean, and slow down to prevent collisions. Vermont is the only New England state with more winter crashes than fall.

Gary Ferguson, a Persian Gulf War veteran, faces losing his home in Danvers due to severe foundation damage. After waiving a home inspection during the purchase, Ferguson's insurance claim was denied by Union Mutual, which subsequently dropped his coverage. Unable to afford the costly repairs or find new insurance, Ferguson's situation highlights the risks of waiving home inspections. Home inspector Jameson Malgeri advocates for legislation to make home inspections a right in Massachusetts, aiming to protect future home buyers from similar predicaments.

The Mass. Public Interest Research Group (MASSPIRG) has issued a warning about recalled toys being sold online, highlighting the ease with which these products can still be purchased despite being pulled from store shelves. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled 17 toys in 2023, and MASSPIRG was able to buy five of these online. eBay, one of the platforms where recalled toys were found, stated it is working with regulators to block or remove such items. Lawmakers are also taking action, with the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee urging companies to do more to prevent the sale of recalled products. Parents are advised to stay informed about recalled toys through the CPSC website and saferproducts.gov.

More than 20% of Massachusetts drivers are behind on basic vehicle maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, according to a Carfax report. Carfax Editor-in-Chief Patrick Olsen highlights the financial and mechanical risks of neglecting these services. The report indicates that 30% of drivers are behind on oil changes, 45% on tire rotations, and 22% on both. Jamaica Plain driver Evelyn Collie emphasizes the long-term benefits of regular maintenance, sharing her experience of a Jeep lasting 19 years due to diligent care.

A 25 Investigates and Cox Media Group investigation found that 80% of paper receipts from various businesses in Massachusetts contain Bisphenol S (BPS), a chemical linked to reproductive and developmental issues. The study tested 240 receipts from eight states, revealing widespread BPS presence. Experts like Dr. Laura Vandenberg from UMass Amherst warn of BPS's harmful effects, while some businesses and organizations defend its use as a safer alternative to BPA. The investigation highlights the need for regulatory action and consumer awareness regarding the potential health risks of handling paper receipts.

Gaby Obando, a resident of Jamaica Plain, faces a $200 rent increase, reflecting a broader trend of rising rental prices in Boston. Data from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council indicates that rent prices have surged across various unit types, with two and three-bedroom apartments experiencing the highest increases. Jessie Partridge Guerrero from MAPC highlights the unsustainable nature of these prices, particularly for families and lower-income households. While areas like Arlington and Quincy remain more affordable, the overall trend suggests a continuous rise in rental costs.

A potential government shutdown is unlikely to affect student loan servicers, meaning payments would still be due, according to Betsy Mayotte of The Institute of Student Loan Advisors. However, a shutdown could result in furloughed Department of Education employees, potentially delaying processes like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program and the rollout of the FAFSA Simplification Act. In Massachusetts, around 902,000 residents owe a combined $30.8 billion in student loan debt. Boston University graduate Colin Tonkiss is preparing for a paycheck-to-paycheck situation when repayments resume in October.

Traders Union provides information on brokers and Forex, CFD, and cryptocurrency markets, emphasizing that trading involves high risks and is not suitable for everyone. The website clarifies that it does not offer financial services or investment advice and is not a broker. It also states that 75-89% of traders lose their invested funds, while only 11-25% earn a profit. Traders Union offers its services for free, funded by advertising revenue, and maintains that its content is objective and independent of its advertisers.

The article is a culinary journey of an English teacher in Hanoi, Vietnam, exploring the city's Bun Cha offerings. Bun Cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish, is a favorite of the author, who sets out to find the perfect Bun Cha after realizing he doesn't know what constitutes a 'good' Bun Cha. The journey includes visits to various restaurants, including Mai Anh Bun Cha, Bun Cha 37 Phan Chu Trinh, and Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously visited by President Barack Obama. The author seeks recommendations from locals, the Hanoi Foodies Facebook group, and expert chefs like Hungazit and Quang Dung. The quest leads to a realization that the 'perfect' Bun Cha is subjective and that the experience of enjoying the dish in different settings is as important as the taste. The article concludes with the author's appreciation for the cultural significance of Bun Cha and his intention to continue exploring the dish's variations.

The Tet Zodiac exhibition in Hanoi celebrates the Vietnamese New Year by reflecting on the past twelve years of the Zodiac through art. Held at Arch Café & Bar, the exhibition features the work of eleven artists, each representing a year from 2010-2022 with its corresponding zodiac animal through various art forms. Canadian expat and artist Duncan Griffiths, who organized the event, was inspired by the concept of synchronicity, particularly the connection between the Year of the Rat and the COVID-19 pandemic. The exhibition includes diverse interpretations of zodiac animals and significant events, such as Liz Blanco's paintings related to the #MeToo movement and the Year of the Dog. The venue owner, Kyle Gonzales, aims to create a cultural hub for artists at Arch. The exhibition, which runs from January 13th to January 28th, offers a space for reflection on the past years and the diverse perspectives of different artists.

The article discusses the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV), particularly in Vietnam, where a national study revealed that 63% of women have experienced some form of violence. HopeBox, a social enterprise founded by Huong Dang, is highlighted for its work in training and employing GBV victims to help them achieve economic independence. The article features interviews with HopeBox's Marketing and Partnerships Manager, Eleanor Sander O’Hearn, and other key figures involved in the 'Move for Hope' campaign, which aims to raise funds and awareness for the cause. The campaign has enlisted the support of local fitness communities, including CrossFit Tay Ho and Star Kickboxing, as well as the Vietnam Swans women's AFL team. The article emphasizes the importance of community support and the role of social enterprises in empowering women to overcome the challenges posed by GBV.

Blue Note Resto Bar, a music venue in Ba Dinh, has undergone renovations and is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The venue hosts weekly events, with Friday nights being particularly notable. Alexander Jerome, a musician with a long history at Blue Note, used to run these events and still participates in the Tuesday open mic nights. The venue has improved its sound system and aesthetics, moving away from its previous dive bar image. Despite the challenges of reopening after the pandemic and the departure of many foreign customers, owner Thien and musicians like Jerome are optimistic about Blue Note's future. They hope to expand the venue and continue to attract both performers and audiences, aiming to make Blue Note a central hub for live music in Hanoi.

The article highlights the beauty and attractions of Mai Chau, a valley-based small town in the Hoa Binh province of Northern Vietnam. It is an ideal destination for both travelers and residents looking for a short getaway from the city. The town is accessible from Hanoi, with various transportation options available, including motorbike, local bus, and 'limousine' services. Accommodations range from luxury resorts like Mai Chau Ecolodge and Mai Chau Mountain Resort to budget-friendly homestays in Lac Village. Attractions include the Mai Chau Top View Café, Gò Lào Waterfall, Hoa Binh Lake, and local nightlife with limited but fitting options. The article also provides a travel guide with suggestions for getting to Mai Chau, accommodation, and activities, emphasizing the region's natural beauty and peaceful environment.

Younes Ainar and Khadija Bouguedra are a married couple from Algeria who have relocated to Vietnam, finding similarities between their homeland and Vietnam in terms of revolutionary history and cultural norms. Younes is an architect who integrates Vietnam's rich culture and history into modern structures, while Khadija, a fashion designer, innovates with Algerian-Vietnamese fusion beauty products. Younes's architectural projects, such as TACH SPACES and Complex 01, aim to preserve Vietnamese character while adding modern design. Khadija has created popular skincare products by combining ingredients from Algeria and Vietnam. The couple appreciates the cultural commonalities between the two countries, especially in terms of family values and societal norms. They also share a deep connection and mutual understanding, which they consider essential for their marriage. This article is part of the Vietnam Times' Expat Spotlight series, which features members of Vietnam's expat community and their contributions.

The article discusses the evolution of queer cinema in Vietnam and how it reflects the changing attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community. It highlights several influential LGBTQ+ themed films, starting with 'Chơi vơi (Adrift)' in 2009, which was one of the first Vietnamese films to explore non-heterosexual themes. The romantic comedy 'Để Mai Tính (Fool For Love/Let Mai Decide)' in 2010, while commercially successful, faced criticism for its portrayal of a gay character. 'Hot boy Nổi Loạn (Hot Boy Rebel/ Lost in Paradise)' in 2011 was dubbed Vietnam's first gay film and dealt with serious issues like repression and prostitution. 'Yêu (Love)' in 2015 was noted for its mainstream production and cast. 'Song Lang' in 2018 received international acclaim for its portrayal of a bond between two men. Lastly, 'Thưa Mẹ Con Đi (Goodbye Mother)' in 2019 tackled the challenge of coming out to a traditional family. The article suggests that the positive trend in media representation is indicative of a broader societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in Vietnam.

BAKED and Friends, a cafe-bakery in Hanoi, Vietnam, is gaining popularity for its American/English/Australian style desserts, particularly its cookies, which some expats claim are the best in Vietnam. The owner, Sheereen Amran, a Singaporean who moved to Hanoi in 2016, started BAKED as a home-based business after working as a pastry chef and head chef at local restaurants. Despite the challenges during COVID lockdowns, Sheereen perfected her cookie recipe, which has become a hit among both locals and expats. BAKED, which opened a Tay Ho location in July 2021, also offers cupcakes, brownies, ice cream, and truffles, with vegan and gluten-free options. Sheereen is considering future expansions, including a possible second branch.

James Argent, known from 'The Only Way Is Essex', is training for a new reality series 'Sink Or Swim!' by swimming the English Channel. He was seen at Kent reservoir Bewl Water in blue Speedo shorts and a red cap, preparing for the challenge. Argent, who aims to lose weight for 'Dancing On Ice', has been warned by doctors about his health due to weight gain. His on-off girlfriend Gemma Collins has given him an ultimatum regarding his weight and lifestyle for their relationship to continue.