NPR News Now: January 5, 2025, 4 AM EST

Hosted by Dale Willman

Farewell to Former President Jimmy Carter

Timestamp: 00:17

NPR’s Dale Willman opens the episode with the solemn news of former President Jimmy Carter’s passing at the age of 100. Carter’s flag-draped casket arrived in Atlanta by motorcade, where military members paid their respects. Sophie Gradas of Georgia Public Broadcasting reports that Carter will lie in repose at the Carter Center until Monday morning, marking the start of a six-day series of observances.

Timestamp: 00:44 – 01:14

Sophie Gradas highlights the upcoming funeral procession, which will travel to Washington, D.C., before returning to Georgia for Carter’s burial on January 9th at the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. Robyn Thomas, a National Park Service employee, shares her personal reflection:

“He's got a lot of people that work for him and care about him and care about this town and care about what he cared about. I really am just proud to be just a small part of it.” – Robyn Thomas (01:04)

Enhanced Security at Joint Base San Antonio

Timestamp: 01:27

Dale Willman transitions to national security, reporting on increased measures at Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), the largest joint military base in the United States. Following attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas on New Year’s Day, JBSA has suspended the Trusted Traveler program, enforcing 100% ID checks for all personnel and visitors.

Timestamp: 01:41 – 02:23

Jerry Clayton from Texas Public Radio provides detailed coverage:

“A social media post from Joint Base San Antonio states that 100% ID checks will be enforced for all personnel and visitors entering any JBSA location. All vehicle occupants must show ID.” – Jerry Clayton (01:41)

These changes affect multiple military bases nationwide and are a direct response to recent attacks carried out by individuals connected to the U.S. military.

Severe Winter Storm Impacts the Central and Eastern US

Timestamp: 02:23

The National Weather Service warns of a major storm bringing heavy snow and ice across the central and eastern United States. Lead forecaster Bob Orvik elaborates on the storm’s severity.

Timestamp: 02:32 – 02:55

“We do expect an axis of Snowfall totals of 6 to 12 inches, stretching anywhere from eastern Kansas, northern Missouri, eastward across parts of southern Illinois, southern Indiana, northern Kentucky, southern Ohio, into the D.C. Baltimore area. And it's going to be pretty impactful.” – Bob Orvik (02:32)

Orvik emphasizes the storm's potential to disrupt travel and daily activities, with winter storm warnings already in effect in regions like Kansas City, which recently experienced freezing rain.

Peace Talks in Qatar Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict

Timestamp: 02:55

Dale Willman updates listeners on international affairs, noting that peace negotiations are underway in Qatar. The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are mediating to establish a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Meanwhile, Gaza’s health ministry reports that at least 59 people have been killed in the past 24 hours due to ongoing conflicts.

Reopening of Santa Cruz Wharf After Storm Damage

Timestamp: 03:50

Nick Alton from KQED shares a heartening story from Santa Cruz, California, where residents celebrate the reopening of their wharf two weeks after it suffered significant damage from record swells. A 150-foot section of the wooden pier was torn off by nearly 20-foot waves while workers were inspecting repair efforts.

Timestamp: 04:16 – 04:28

Norm Daly, one of the repair workers, comments on the challenges posed by climate change:

“I think the wharf is well suited to survive most impacts. It's hard to tell exactly what those impacts are going to be, but in the moment, the wharf is 100% safe.” – Norm Daly (04:16)

City officials are contemplating redesigning the wharf with climate resilience in mind to prevent future damages.

President Biden Honors 19 Individuals with Presidential Medal of Freedom

Timestamp: 04:37

As President Joe Biden’s term approaches its end, he awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Notable recipients include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor Denzel Washington, and musician Bono.

Conclusion

Dale Willman wraps up the episode by encapsulating the day’s key stories, from national security and severe weather to significant political honors and community resilience in Santa Cruz. This comprehensive summary ensures listeners stay informed on critical events shaping the nation and the world.

This summary is based on the NPR News Now episode released on January 5, 2025. For the full podcast experience, listeners are encouraged to tune in directly to NPR.