NPR News Now: Episode Summary (January 9, 2025, 7 AM EST)

Host: Korva Coleman
Release Date: January 9, 2025
Description: The latest news in five minutes. Updated hourly.

1. Devastating Wildfires Continue to Raze Los Angeles

Timestamp: [00:15] – [01:46]

NPR's Korva Coleman reports on the ongoing wildfire crisis in the Los Angeles area, where three major fires—the Palisades, Eaton, and Hearst—are still burning uncontrollably. These blazes have consumed tens of thousands of acres and destroyed approximately 2,000 structures. The situation is exacerbated by the powerful Santa Ana winds, which have intensified the fires' spread.

Key Points:

• Firefighting Efforts: LA Fire Captain Eric Scott noted a slight improvement in fire containment overnight.

  "We've had a little help from Mother Nature, especially in comparison to yesterday's significant winds. They've died down a little bit. So our aircraft is making some strategic water drops." [00:38]

• Weather Concerns: The National Weather Service warns of potential wind gusts up to 70 mph, which could reignite the fires. In response, California authorities have ordered the evacuation of 130,000 residents in Southern California.

• Evacuation Stories: In Santa Monica, residents like Lisa France, who is on crutches following surgery, rushed to evacuate as the Palisades fire rapidly approached her home.

  "I'm scared because I just... I've seen what they do. There's just not enough resources and they just can't fight everything. So if it catches here, if something an ember or something catches here, that's it." [01:34]

France expressed relief at finding an affordable motel room along the 405 Freeway, though she lacks renters insurance.

2. Nation Mourns Former President Jimmy Carter

Timestamp: [01:57] – [02:49]

The United States enters a national day of mourning following the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. A state funeral is underway at the Washington National Cathedral, with all living U.S. presidents in attendance.

Key Points:

• Memorial Service: NPR's Tamara Keith highlights that President Joe Biden, Carter's contemporary since the 1970s, will be the sole speaker.

  "The White House says he will remember Carter as a man of great character, decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong." [02:09]

• Eulogies and Tributes: Due to Carter's longevity, eulogies by former President Gerald Ford and former Vice President Walter Mondale will be delivered posthumously by their sons. Additionally, country stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood will perform Carter's favorite song, "Imagine" by John Lennon.

• National Impact: In honor of Carter, all federal government offices and the U.S. Postal Service are closed. The U.S. Stock Market also observes a closure, a tradition dating back to the 1865 assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.

3. Severe Winter Storm Brings Harsh Conditions to the South

Timestamp: [02:49] – [03:46]

A potent winter storm is settling over much of the Southern United States, prompting numerous weather advisories.

Key Points:

• Affected Areas: States from New Mexico to the Carolinas are under winter storm watches, warnings, and advisories. Northern Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana can expect significant snowfall, while Tennessee and Kentucky face potential ice accumulation.

• Impact: The storm poses challenges for transportation, power supply, and daily activities across the affected regions.

4. Girl Scouts Announces Retirement of Two Cookie Flavors

Timestamp: [03:46] – [04:27]

Girl Scouts USA revealed the retirement of two cookie flavors, much to the disappointment of cookie enthusiasts.

Key Points:

• Retired Flavors:

  • Toast Yays: A French toast-flavored cookie.
  • Scout's S'mores: Inspired by the classic campfire treat.
    These flavors, introduced in 2021 and 2017 respectively, will no longer be available after this season.

• Fan Favorites Remain: Popular varieties like Thin Mints and Peanut Butter Patties will continue to be sold, ensuring fans still have their beloved choices.

  "Do not worry, your Thin Mints and your peanut butter patties are safe." [03:46]

• Cultural Impact: Alexis Gibson reminisced about the Toast Yays on TikTok in 2023, highlighting the emotional connection fans have with the Girl Scouts' cookie lineup.

5. Japanese Crime Leader Admits to Nuclear Material Trafficking

Timestamp: [04:27] – [04:55]

In a significant legal development, a Japanese national alleged to be a leader of an organized crime ring has pleaded guilty in a U.S. federal court in Manhattan.

Key Points:

• Charges: Takeshi Ibisawa admitted conspiring to traffic nuclear materials to various countries, notably Iran.

• Modus Operandi: Authorities revealed that Ibisawa was unaware he was communicating with a confidential source, who was impersonating an Iranian general.

• Legal Implications: This case underscores the complexities of international trafficking operations and the challenges in dismantling covert networks.

Additional Notes

• Advertisements Skipped: This summary excludes promotional content, advertisements, and non-informative segments such as intros and outros to focus solely on the core news.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key topics discussed in the NPR News Now episode released on January 9, 2025. For detailed coverage and additional stories, please listen to the full episode or visit NPR's official website.