NPR News Now: Episode Summary – January 5, 2025

Released on January 6, 2025

Terror Attack in New Orleans

[00:18] Dale Willman reports on the tragic New Year's Day terror attack in New Orleans. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified Shamsuddin Jabbar as the perpetrator, who conducted the attack that resulted in 14 fatalities.

[00:36] Robbie Griffiths provides further insights:

• Jabbar visited New Orleans twice prior to the attack, specifically filming the French Quarter with hands-free smart glasses.
• His travels extended to Cairo, Egypt, and Ontario, Canada, last summer, though connections between these trips and the attack remain unclear.
• The FBI maintains that Jabbar acted alone, despite his ISIS-inspired motives.
• New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell announced the city is enhancing security measures ahead of upcoming events like Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl.

Notable Quote:

"Jabbar, who was inspired by the terrorist group ISIS to drive a truck into revelers in the early hours of New Year's Day, traveled to both Cairo and Ontario from his home in Houston last summer." – Robbie Griffiths [00:36]

President Biden's Final Weeks and Legacy Protection

[01:15] Dale Willman introduces the focus on President Joe Biden's strategies to safeguard his legacy as his term concludes amidst the impending transition to President Donald Trump.

[01:24] Mara Liasson elaborates on Biden's actions:

• Implementing legal measures to hinder Trump's ability to dismantle parts of his administration, including plans to fire tens of thousands of civil servants.
• Considering a preemptive pardon for former Representative Liz Cheney, who played a key role in the January 6 investigations, countering Trump's threats to incarcerate her.
• Proposing a permanent ban on oil and gas drilling in federal waters, which would require congressional approval to reverse.
• Informing Congress about an $8 billion weapons sale to Israel, marking another of Biden's final significant decisions.

Notable Quote:

"Biden is trying to Trump-proof his accomplishments." – Mara Liasson [01:24]

Impact of the Polar Vortex Across the United States

[02:04] Dale Willman highlights the severe weather conditions caused by a polar vortex affecting the central United States, leading to heavy snowfall, icy roads, and power outages.

[02:23] Sharon Kirschbaum, a transportation official, outlines the city's preparedness:

• Deployment of approximately 250 plows equipped for heavy and light snowfall.
• Initiation of salting and chemical treatments at noon.
• Commitment to continuous snow removal until the storm subsides.

Notable Quote:

"We have about 250 heavy and light plows that are queued up... we're going to work until it's done." – Sharon Kirschbaum [02:23]

Congressional Efforts Amidst Severe Weather and New York's Congestion Pricing

[02:38] Dale Willman reports that despite the harsh weather, Congress is proceeding to certify the results of the November presidential election. Concurrently, New York City has launched its new congestion pricing initiative aimed at reducing traffic and improving air quality.

Details on Congestion Pricing:

• Drivers entering downtown Manhattan during peak hours will incur a $9 toll.
• Revenue generated will fund repairs of the city's aging subway system and other public transit infrastructure.

Notable Quote:

"Under the plan, many drivers will pay $9 to drive into the busiest part of the city during peak hours." – Dale Willman [02:38]

Tribute to Richard Foreman, Avant-Garde Theater Icon

[03:31] Jeff London mourns the passing of Richard Foreman, a renowned playwright, director, and producer who died at 87 due to pneumonia complications. Foreman was a pivotal figure in the avant-garde off-Broadway scene.

Highlights of Foreman's Career:

• Founded the Ontological Hysteric Theater in 1968, located in New York's East Village.
• Known for innovative productions like "Dream Tantras for Western Massachusetts" and collaborations with composer Stanley Silverman.
• Received a MacArthur Grant at 58 and succeeded in mainstream venues, including a celebrated "Threepenny Opera" at Lincoln Center.

Notable Quote:

"Richard Foreman established his own Company in 1968 called the Ontological Hysteric Theater and located in the East Village." – Jeff London [03:31]

Box Office Highlights for Early 2025

[04:18] Dale Willman covers the latest box office standings:

• "Walt Disney's Mufasa" leads with $23.8 million, marking the Lion King prequel's third week.
• "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" holds the second spot after topping the charts for two weeks.
• Other films in the top five include "Nosferatu," "Moana 2," and "Wicked."
• The 2025 box office is experiencing a substantial increase, being 20% higher than the same period last year.

Notable Quote:

"Less than a week into the New Year, the 2025 box office is already up about 20% over the same week last year." – Dale Willman [04:18]

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights presented in the January 5, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners and non-listeners alike.