The Roar keeps you updated with local news, recent events and interesting stories ― everything you need to know for this week:
1. On Wednesday, Brussels, Belgium canceled its New Year’s Eve fireworks and celebrations due to terror threats. Several other European countries increased security among worries after the Paris attacks last year.
2. Saudi Arabia executed 47 people on Saturday including Shi’ite clerk Nimr al-Nimr, prompting Iran to sever diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia.
3. Fifteen men have formed an armed militia in Oregon and have taken over a government building. The militiamen, who are all ranchers, have taken the building in protest of the treatment of two ranchers who were ordered to report to prison for arson.
4. Governors in Illinois and Missouri have declared states of emergency due to record flooding on the Mississippi River earlier this week. This flooding follows record highs around the country during Christmas.
5. Comedian Bill Cosby was charged on Wednesday with three counts of aggravated indecent assault, narrowly missing Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations.
6. In his last year in office, President Obama has made multiple promise to curtail the spread of guns. This was preceded by Texas’ open carry law going into effect on January 1.
7. Japan and Korea have reached a settlement over the use of “comfort women” during the second World War; the agreement includes a formal apology from the Japanese government and approximately $8.3 million to fund a foundation to provide care for the victims.
8. As attorney general, Governor Greg Abbot greatly increased the resources, including assault rifles, handguns, and tactical gear, and training of a white-collar crime unit at the cost of millions to taxpayers. Abbot’s crime unit investigated cyber crimes and Medicaid.
9. CSISD is seeking feedback on the proposed school calendars for the 2016-2017 school year. Voting for either option will be available until January 8.
10. Classes at Texas A&M University will resume on January 19. Until then, everyone else will be able to drive down Texas in a timely manner.
