NPR News Now: January 4, 2025, 6 PM EST

Hosted by NPR's Windsor Johnston, this episode of NPR News Now delivers the latest updates on significant national and international events. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key topics covered.

1. President Jimmy Carter’s Funeral Services

Location and Procession:
Former President Jimmy Carter's funeral services were held in Atlanta, the city of his birth and upbringing. Family members, friends, and military personnel gathered to honor his legacy. The funeral motorcade commenced in southern Georgia and is scheduled to arrive in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, where Carter will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol Building. The official state funeral is planned for January 9th at the National Cathedral.

Notable Quote:
Jason Carter, President Carter's grandson, remarked on his grandfather's enduring legacy:
“Celebrating this incredible life and a life that I think we can all agree is as full and powerful as any life can be. As someone said, it's amazing what you can cram into 100 years.”
— [00:41]

2. Rise in Vehicular Attacks in Western Cities

Incident in New Orleans:
A tragic vehicular attack in New Orleans resulted in the loss of 14 lives. Such intentional vehicular assaults have become increasingly common tactics employed by terrorist groups and individuals targeting major Western urban centers.

Responses and Preventative Measures:

• Public Safety Initiatives:
  Cities have responded by installing barriers to protect urban areas. However, as demonstrated in New Orleans, determined attackers can sometimes circumvent these measures.
• Expert Insights:
  Brian Stevens, a consultant with Teneo, emphasized the growing need for businesses to reassess their security strategies:
  “I am hearing from a lot of clients and a lot of partners that they have the need to revisit what they've done in the past.”
  — [01:52]

Academic Perspective:
Greg Schill, a law professor at the University of Iowa, suggested that reducing car dependency could mitigate such threats. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the challenges in implementing pedestrian-friendly initiatives due to significant opposition:
“It's a complex problem with no cut and dried solution.”
— [01:58]

3. Resumption of Ceasefire Talks in Gaza

Current Status:
Ceasefire negotiations aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza have recommenced after recent stalls. Both parties have attributed the lack of progress to each other.

Statements from Hamas:
Bassem Naim, a senior Hamas leader, issued a rare video statement in English, highlighting the severe suffering of Palestinians under continuous Israeli airstrikes and advocating for a permanent ceasefire:
“To secure and deliver the necessary needs to confront the tragic circumstances, especially in the face of the cold winter season.”
— [02:43]

Israeli Stance:
Israel has accused Hamas of impeding the deal by withholding a comprehensive list of hostages and presenting additional demands. The Israeli position insists that any ceasefire must be temporary.

U.S. Involvement:
National Security Adviser John Kirby announced that the United States will remain actively engaged in the negotiations until President Biden departs office later in the month.
— [02:53]

4. Passing of Filmmaker Jeff Baena

Circumstances of Death:
Jeff Baena, a notable film director and screenwriter best known for his work on indie films such as "The Little Hours" and co-writing "I Heart Huckabees," was found deceased at his Los Angeles home. He was 47 years old.

Investigation Details:
The Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating the cause of death. While Baena's family has not officially confirmed his passing, a death certificate from the county medical examiner lists a man matching his name and birthdate as having died at a Hollywood residence. The specific cause and manner of death remain undetermined.

Personal Life:
Baena was married to actress Aubrey Plaza since 2021. Plaza has yet to make a public statement regarding her husband's death. Baena hailed from Miami, graduated from New York University, and collaborated frequently with filmmakers Robert Zemeckis and David O. Russell.

Notable Quote from Reporter Chloe Veltman:
“According to a spokesperson for the county of Los Angeles medical examiner's office, the cause and manner of death have yet to be determined.”
— [03:38]

5. Major Winter Storm Preparedness Across the Country

Forecast Details:
A significant winter storm is approaching, with the National Weather Service predicting heavy snowfall and ice accumulation across the Central Plains, Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic states. The storm is expected to bring blizzard conditions, potentially making travel hazardous and disrupting air travel schedules.

Impact Areas:

• Central Kansas to Ohio:
  Heavy snowfall is anticipated, affecting daily commutes and transportation networks.
• Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic States:
  Blizzard conditions could lead to severe travel difficulties, emphasizing the need for residents to prepare accordingly.

Advice for Travelers and Residents:
Authorities urge individuals to stay informed about weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the storm.

Conclusion:
This episode of NPR News Now provided critical updates on national mourning for a former president, escalating urban security threats, ongoing international conflicts, the untimely death of a filmmaker, and impending severe weather conditions. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for the developments in these areas.