NPR News Now: December 17, 2024, 1 AM EST – Detailed Summary
Hosted by Shea Stevens of NPR, this episode of "NPR News Now" provides a comprehensive update on the latest national and international news. The following sections encapsulate the key stories, enriched with notable quotes and insights from various contributors.
Tragic School Shooting in Madison, Wisconsin
Host Introduction:
Shea Stevens opens the episode with breaking news about a tragic incident at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin.
Details of the Incident:
At [00:20], Stevens reports that police have identified Natalie Rupnau, a 15-year-old student, as the shooter responsible for fatally wounding two individuals and injuring six others during a late morning study hall session.
Police Statement:
Madison Police Chief Sean Barnes provides further insight at [00:38], stating, "I don't know why the 15-year-old opened fire inside a late morning study hall... or how Rupnau obtained a handgun." Barnes also mentions that Rupnau’s parents are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation during this profoundly difficult time.
Heroic Actions:
At [01:09], Barnes credits a second grader for making the crucial first 911 call, which was instrumental in the swift police response. Rupnau was later found with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound and tragically died en route to a hospital.
Community Impact:
The incident has left a lasting scar on the Madison community. Barnes remarks, "This has been a rough day for our city. This has been a sad day. This is going to be a day that will be etched in the collective minds and memories of all those from Madison."
Political Developments: Trump and Biden Statements
Donald Trump’s Position on Eric Adams and Public Health:
At [01:27], Stevens reports that President-elect Donald Trump announced his willingness to consider pardoning Eric Adams, the New York City mayor, should Adams face indictment and conviction for any illegal activities. Additionally, Trump dismissed concerns regarding the discontinuation of the polio vaccine, emphasizing its continued availability in the United States.
President Biden’s Hanukkah Message:
During the White House’s final Hanukkah celebration, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden conveyed their steadfast support to the community. At [02:05], Chief Sean Barnes quotes Biden: "I know this year's Hanukkah falls on the hearts that are still very heavy. It's the second Hanukkah since the horrors of October 7th. Over a thousand slaughtered, hundreds taken hostage."
Biden’s Call for Optimism:
At [02:18], Stevens highlights Biden’s urging to the public to "shine the light of optimism and to keep the faith," reflecting on the ongoing trauma from the October 2023 attack on Israel and his commitment to securing the release of hostages in Gaza.
European Union Engages with Syria’s New Leadership
EU’s Diplomatic Efforts:
Stevens transitions to international affairs, reporting that the European Union (EU) has initiated dialogues with Syria's emerging leadership to discuss the potential lifting of sanctions. At [02:31], Gaia Kalis, EU Foreign Policy Chief, elaborates: "I sent a top diplomat to meet with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, the Islamist groups now in power in Damascus... it's too early to say whether sanctions can be lifted based on the behavior of HTS."
Conditions for Sanctions Relief:
Kalis outlines the prerequisites for considering the removal of sanctions, emphasizing "respect for minority and women's rights" and the prevention of civil conflict among ethnic and religious groups. She also notes internal EU pressures, stating that "some ministers are demanding Syria remove all Russian influence in the country."
EU’s Strategic Approach:
At [03:00], Kalis adds, "We need to have the plan ready when we see the steps, then we also are ready to act positively in this regard," indicating the EU’s preparedness to respond favorably should Syria meet the outlined conditions.
Ex-FBI Informant’s Guilty Plea in Biden-Related Bribery Scheme
Case Overview:
At [03:16], Stevens reports that Alexander Smirnoff, a former FBI informant, has pleaded guilty to fabricating a bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden. Smirnoff admitted to falsely claiming that a Ukrainian energy company had paid millions to the Bidens during the 2015 campaign.
Implications of the Fabrication:
These allegations spurred multiple investigations, which were subsequently closed in August 2020. Smirnoff, aged 44, is slated for sentencing in January [03:16].
Quote from Smirnoff:
While not directly quoted in this segment, the gravity of Smirnoff’s admission underscores the manipulation of narratives that can influence political landscapes.
Marvel’s "Kraven the Hunter" Sets Record Low Box Office Opening
Box Office Performance:
Stevens also covers entertainment news, noting that the new Marvel film, "Kraven the Hunter," has set an undesirable record with an opening weekend gross of just $11 million. NPR’s Bob Mondello provides an in-depth analysis at [03:55].
Analysis by Mondello:
Mondello humorously references the film’s critical reception:
- Craven’s Dad: "So it turns out Craven's dad was right."
- Warby Parker Clip: "He is weak like his mother."
He explains, "Leave him. The character recovers, but his movie won't," highlighting that despite the character's resilience, the movie failed to capture audiences. The film, with a production budget exceeding $100 million, struggled due to delays caused by the pandemic and an unfavorable December release window. Contrastingly, films like "Wicked" and "Moana" more than doubled "Kraven the Hunter’s" earnings during the same period.
Iconic Characters and Works Enter Public Domain
Public Domain Milestone:
At [04:31], Stevens informs listeners that as of January 1st, several iconic characters and literary works will enter the public domain in the United States. Notably, Popeye the Sailor and other creations from 1929 will become freely available for public use.
Additional Works:
The transition includes classic literature such as Ernest Hemingway’s "Farewell to Arms" and William Faulkner’s "The Sound and the Fury." Additionally, early films by Alfred Hitchcock and original Mickey Mouse works entered the public domain last year, expanding the cultural landscape accessible to creators and the public alike.
Conclusion:
This episode of "NPR News Now" delivers a succinct yet thorough overview of significant events ranging from local tragedies and political maneuvers to international diplomacy, legal developments, entertainment industry updates, and cultural milestones. Through clear sections and attributed quotes, the summary provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the day's most pressing news.