A history of the Panama Canal — and why Trump can’t take it back on his own

By WILL WEISSERT, JUAN ZAMORANO and GARY FIELDS PANAMA CITY (AP) — Teddy Roosevelt once declared the Panama Canal “one of the feats to which the people of this republic will look back with the highest pride.” More than a century later, Donald Trump is threatening to take back the waterway for the same republic. Related Articles National Politics | President-elect Trump wants to again rename North America’s tallest peak National Politics | Inside the Gaetz ethics report, a trove of new details alleging payments for sex and drug use National Politics | An analyst looks ahead to how the US economy might fare under Trump National Politics | Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal National Politics | House Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of ‘regularly’ paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl The president-elect is decrying increased fees Panama has imposed to use the waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. He says if things don’t change after he takes office next month, “We will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America

Pandas An An and Ke Ke celebrate their 1st Christmas in Hong Kong

HONG KONG (AP) — A pair of five-year-old pandas, named An An and Ke Ke, celebrated their first Christmas early in a Hong Kong park Monday, munching on special treats and looking cute for the cameras. An An, the male panda, was presented with an ice slab that had “Merry Christmas” written on it with sweet potato and carrots while Ke Ke, his female companion, got a snowman garnished with slices of carrot and apple in a special press event before visitors streamed to the park. China sent the pair to Hong Kong in late September in a bid to boost tourism in the city. They were quarantined for a couple of months before they made their debut to enthusiastic visitors at the city’s Ocean Park theme park, joining four other pandas. An An is described as intelligent and active while Ke Ke is known to have a gentle temperament and is a good climber. Giant Panda An An celebrates Christmas near a Christmas tree stacked from bamboos at Ocean Park in Hong Kong, Monday, Dec. 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Katie Tam) Pandas are widely seen

Portion of Santa Cruz Wharf collapses amid high surf with 2 people rescued

By Dave Pehling Updated on: December 23, 2024 / 10:36 PM EST / CBS San Francisco Santa Cruz wharf partially collapses as California coast hit by large waves Santa Cruz wharf partially collapses as California coast hit by large waves 02:36 A part of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapsed Monday afternoon during a high-surf warning, with authorities confirming two people had to be pulled from the water. The collapse of the municipal wharf was just one of multiple impacts in the weather-battered region as high surf and flooding led to multiple road closures and some coastal evacuations in Capitola. A portion of the Santa Cruz Wharf collapses during high surf. Santa Cruz Fire Department Santa Cruz officials later said that the collapse happened at around 12:45 p.m. The National Weather Service Bay Area X account posted information and video from an X user about the collapse at 1:1:18 p.m. Monday. KPIX First Alert Weather:  Current conditions, alerts, maps for your area “A portion of the Santa Cruz pier has collapsed, and is floating away,” the post read. “Look at the ominous wave action on the

Year in Review: Biggest moments in San Diego sports from 2024

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — It was a banner year for San Diego sports, full of big announcements and exciting moments. Before we head into the new year, FOX 5 and KUSI are taking a look back at some of the most notable moments in local sports this year. Year in review: San Diego’s top stories of 2024 Dylan Cease throws second no-hitter in San Diego Padres history Dylan Cease pitched the second no-hitter in Padres history with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals back in July that completed a three-game sweep. He joins homegrown pitcher Joe Musgrove, who recorded the franchise’s first no-hitter back in 2021. San Diego Padres starting pitcher Dylan Cease celebrates his no-hitter at the end of the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Thursday, July 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/John McDonnell) Padres turn triple play to clinch playoff spot with 4-2 win over Dodgers Manny Machado and the San Diego Padres clinched a spot in this season’s Major League Baseball playoffs in September after a stunning game-ending triple play to preserve a 4-2 win

High surf advisory issued for coastal San Diego County

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — San Diegans planning to go to the beach or out in the water should be careful the next few days, according to the National Weather Service. A high surf advisory issued over the weekend will continue until 4 a.m. Wednesday, bringing waves of between 6 to 12 feet tall with sets reaching up to 13 feet, NWS said. Strong low pressure system brings high rip current risk to San Diego beaches The high surf and high seas will create some “treacherous” conditions, and inexperienced swimmers are advised not to go into the water until the advisory is lifted, according to NWS. A similar advisory has been issued in Orange County, with waves expected to reach between 5 to 8 feet and sets up to 11 feet on west-facing beaches. There is also a small craft advisory issued for outer coastal waters (30 to 60 nautical miles) with seas reaching between 8 to 11 feet high, NWS stated. Strong rip currents are also expected along the coast.

Bill Clinton hospitalized for “testing and observation” after developing fever

By Kathryn Watson Updated on: December 23, 2024 / 6:54 PM EST / CBS News Former President Bill Clinton hospitalized Former President Bill Clinton hospitalized with a fever 00:35 Former President Bill Clinton checked into a Washington, D.C., hospital Monday afternoon for “testing and observation after developing a fever,” an aide said in a statement.  “President Clinton was admitted to MedStar Georgetown University Hospital this afternoon for testing and observation after developing a fever,” Angel Ureña, Clinton’s deputy chief of staff, wrote on X. “He remains in good spirits and deeply appreciates the excellent care he is receiving.” Clinton, 78, was also hospitalized  in Southern California for an infection that reached his blood in 2021, but was released after six days.  Clinton underwent a possibly lifesaving quadruple coronary bypass surgery in September 2004. In February 2010 , he was hospitalized to open a clogged heart artery after suffering chest pains. Two stents were placed inside the artery as part of a medical procedure that is common for people with severe heart disease. During the presidential campaign, he hit the trail on behalf of Vice President

Former CFO stole $300K from California furniture business: police

A former CFO and controller of a Laguna Beach furniture manufacturing company has been arrested and charged with stealing more than $300,000 from the business in a scheme that spanned two years, authorities said. According to the Laguna Beach Police Department, Rebecca Buehler was arrested following an investigation into her finances, which showed she allegedly diverted company funds for her own personal expenses, including luxury handbags, alcohol and a high-end SUV. Buehler was hired in 2018 by the unnamed business, which had been built up by its owner over the span of two decades. But as the company fell on hard times, the owner made the decision to close due to declining sales and losses, officials said. But when the victim went to close out his business’s bank account, he discovered a major discrepancy in the account balance. He contacted local authorities to investigate the missing money, which led to a forensic review of financial records that confirmed the theft, which they said contributed to the business’s closure in 2024. “These expenditures were made by diverting funds from the company’s business account to support her

Santa Cruz pier partially collapses amid heavy waves, 2 people rescued

(KRON) — A portion of the Santa Cruz Wharf has collapsed and is floating away Monday, according to the National Weather Service. Three people went into the water when the pier section collapsed, according to the Santa Cruz Police Department. Two of them were rescued by lifeguards, and a third person self-rescued. All three were treated and released, according to Santa Cruz Fire Department officials. Heavenly investigating incident on Comet Express chairlift The incident occurred about 12:45 p.m., officials said. About 150 feet of pier section at the end of the wharf collapsed. The collapsed portion, according to Santa Cruz Parks & Rec officials, included a restroom building and construction equipment that was present to repair the wharf from previous storm damage. The wharf was immediately evacuated and will remain closed indefinitely, officials said. The collapse comes amid a major swell that is expected to bring wave heights up to 26 feet high to parts of the Central Coast. The swell is expected to last through Tuesday. Photo: Roger Bernstein “You are risking your life, and those of the people that would need to try

Deputies responding to traffic crash find man killed by gunfire

Authorities are investigating after a man was found shot dead at the site of a vehicle collision over the weekend. It happened in Moreno Valley Sunday around 7:20 p.m., according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies from the Moreno Valley Station responded to reports of a major traffic collision on the 13000 block of Leota Court, where they discovered a man who was dead from multiple gunshot wounds. The scene was secured with crime tape, and the area was closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as authorities investigated. Homicide detectives have since taken over the case, but no additional information has been released. The victim’s identity, including his name or age, has not yet been released. The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact Central Homicide Unit Investigator Ortiz at 760-578–2091.

Mega Millions jackpot climbs to $970M ahead of Christmas Eve drawing

The Mega Millions jackpot continues to grow ahead of Tuesday night’s drawing. The jackpot now stands at an estimated value of $970 million, California Lottery officials announced Monday. No one won the jackpot during Friday night’s drawing. The winning numbers were 2, 20, 51, 56 and 67, with a Mega number of 19. To win the jackpot, a ticket must display all six numbers. No California lotto player has ever won a Mega Millions jackpot this big According to game officials, if there is a winner in the next drawing, it would mark only the second time a Mega Millions jackpot has been hit on Christmas Eve. The first time it happened was Christmas Eve 2002 when a lottery player won the $69 million prize but never claimed the jackpot. Those interested in trying their luck in the next lottery drawing can purchase their tickets until 7:45 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Tickets cost $2, and the drawing will be at 8 p.m.

Greenland says no thanks to Trump purchase idea — again

WASHINGTON —  If President-elect Donald Trump’s assertion that the United States should have control of Greenland sounds familiar, that’s because he’s said it before — during his first term as president. Back in 2019, Trump’s call caused a brief diplomatic tiff with Denmark, under whose sovereignty the vast island falls. Then as now, the suggestion was met with derision in some quarters, but it spotlighted serious questions about the icy territory’s strategic significance in an era of accelerating climate change. Trump’s commentary also pointed up a quandary faced by U.S. allies, which will become more pressing within a few weeks, when the Oval Office changes hands: whether smaller and less powerful states ought to greet startling declarations from Washington with silence, conciliation, throat-clearing obfuscation or clearly stated opposition — especially since the issue in question might simply go away anyway. Sometimes, Trump ultimately defuses such flaps by saying he was only joking. At other times, he hints that those who defy him might face consequences later. Denmark is a member of the European Union, which is already preparing for a potentially tense relationship with the incoming

Who’s who in the ‘It Ends With Us’ controversy

The behind-the-scenes machinery of modern Hollywood burst into the open over the weekend as actor Blake Lively filed a legal complaint accusing her “It Ends With Us” director and co-star Justin Baldoni of harassment and creating a hostile on-set working environment. Also included in the complaint are allegations that Baldoni hired crisis PR operatives to wage a sophisticated online smear campaign against Lively as the movie was being released last summer. As detailed in exhibits accompanying the legal filing, crisis management expert Melissa Nathan responded to a request from Baldoni by saying, “You know we can bury anyone.” An adaptation of the popular novel by Colleen Hoover, the romantic drama “It Ends With Us,” details an abusive relationship. Released by Sony Pictures, the film has grossed more than $350 million worldwide. Below is a primer on the key figures involved in the scandal. Blake Lively Lively had her first breakout role in 2005’s “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” and its 2008 sequel. She reached a new level of stardom thanks to her leading role in the hit television series “Gossip Girl,” running from 2007

The Container Store files for bankruptcy amid stiff competition

Container Store Group Inc. has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection amid steep losses, slumping sales and increased competition. Business in its stores and online will continue as usual while it restructures, the Texas-based home goods, storage and custom closets chain said late Sunday. Customer deposits for in-home services will be honored, and merchandise orders will be delivered as normal. “The Container Store is here to stay,” Chief Executive Satish Malhotra said in a statement. “Our strategy is sound, and we believe the steps we are taking today will allow us to continue to advance our business.” The Container Store peaked in its 2021 fiscal year, when the company exceeded $1 billion in sales for the first time and posted record earnings as consumers spent heavily on home remodeling and redecorating projects during months of pandemic quarantine. A national decluttering craze, set off by organization expert Marie Kondo, also benefited the chain. But since then, the Container Store has struggled. Part of the company’s struggles are due to competition from rivals including Target, Walmart and Amazon, which often sell storage items that are similarly stylish

Shohei Ohtani used to follow Michael Jordan from Japan. Now his third AP award ties NBA legend

While growing up in Japan, Shohei Ohtani followed the careers of Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. “I would see their accolades and how they were successful in the United States,” he told the Associated Press through a translator. Ohtani is like Mike now — and one step closer to Tiger — after being named the AP’s male athlete of the year for the third time in the last four years. The Dodgers superstar tied Jordan with his third AP award, only trailing Woods, who is a four-time winner, along with LeBron James and Lance Armstrong. Jordan received the honor each time after leading the Chicago Bulls to NBA titles from 1991 to 1993. Woods won it as a golfer in 1997, 1999, 2000 and 2006. James was the recipient in 2013, 2016, 2018 and 2020, and Armstrong from 2002 to 2005. Ohtani appreciates the honor, but the two-way player already seems to be looking ahead to 2025, when he has a shot of tying the record for most times receiving the award. “I’m very honored,” he said. ”Obviously all the hard work has paid off.

NYC police charge man with murder of woman set on fire on subway

Man accused of lighting woman on fire on subway charged with murder Man accused of lighting woman on fire on subway charged with murder 02:37 NEW YORK — A man faces first-degree murder charges for allegedly setting a sleeping woman on fire on the New York City subway. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was charged Monday with first- and second-degree murder and arson in the wake of  the shocking crime on an F train in Coney Island, Brooklyn over the weekend, police said.  Zapeta, who sources said could be arraigned Monday evening, was taken into custody the day of the fire on the subway after police said three teenagers recognized him from photos released by the NYPD. Police said body camera footage and cameras inside the subway cars spotted him sitting on the platform watching the woman burn to death.  Zapeta is in New York illegally, according to immigration officials. He reentered the U.S. sometime after being sent back to Guatemala in 2018, they said.    Woman set on fire on subway in Brooklyn An image from New York City police of a man suspected of lighting

How to watch the 2025 Rose Parade on KTLA 5

We’re just days away from massive floral floats taking to the streets of Pasadena for the 136th Rose Parade presented by Honda. The theme for the Tournament of Roses parade is “The Best Day Ever!” with tennis legend Billie Jean King serving as the parade’s grand marshal. The beautiful floats will embark on the 5 1/2 mile route down Colorado Boulevard on New Year’s Day. The route begins at the corner of Green Street and Orange Grove Boulevard, then heads north on Orange Grove at a 2 1/2-mile per hour pace, and turns east onto Colorado Boulevard where the majority of the parade viewing takes place. Near the end of the route, the parade turns north onto Sierra Madre Boulevard and concludes at Villa Street. The parade takes place on Jan. 1, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. At 1:00 p.m., the parade will be followed by the 111th Rose Bowl football game at the Rose Bowl Stadium. How to take public transit to the 2025 Rose Parade How to watch the Rose Parade on television: L.A.’s Very Own KTLA 5 is your local home for live coverage of

Azusa teen killed in stabbing ID’ed by family

The 17-year-old girl who was fatally stabbed in Azusa on Friday has been identified by her family, according to reports. Angelina Gonzales, an Azusa High School student, was the victim in the attack in the 300 block of North Solano Avenue, which is near campus, her family told the Los Angeles Daily News. Southern California teen girl stabbed to death, suspect in custody Her school district described her as a cheerleader, wrestler and award-winning artist whose work has been displayed in the U.S. Capitol. “Her creative talents and vibrant personality enriched our community in countless ways,” the district said in a statement. Gonzales was stabbed multiple times, and an 18-year-old acquaintance of hers was taken into custody after the attack. His identity, the nature of their relationship and a possible motive behind the attack have not been released.

Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond opens at Disneyland

Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond, the new retail shop adjacent to the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland, will officially open today. The Disney Parks Instagram page made the announcement on Monday and showcased some first looks into the shop. Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond next to Haunted Mansion at Disneyland Park is an all-new retail shop. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond next to Haunted Mansion at Disneyland Park is an all-new retail shop. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond next to Haunted Mansion at Disneyland Park is an all-new retail shop. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort) “The repurposed Mansion carriage house is decorated with eclectic furniture, including a crystal ball, fainting couch, and the original parlor chandelier that Leota used in séances. Musical instruments are featured throughout the shop, reminiscent of the Haunted Mansion seance room with its floating instruments,” Disneyland said in a news release. ‘Bluey’ coming to Disney parks and cruise line The new retail store also features a portrait honoring Disney Imagineer Leota Toombs Thomas, whose likeness was used to bring Madame Leota to life. The shop will be home to Haunted Mansion

Elderly woman killed by hit-and-run driver in Santa Monica

Police are searching for a hit-and-run driver in Santa Monica they say fled the scene of a crash that left a woman dead Sunday night. Officers were sent to the intersection of Chelsea Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard around 6:40 p.m. after dispatchers received multiple calls regarding a vehicle striking a pedestrian. “Responding Santa Monica Police Department and Fire Department personnel located an elderly female victim who had been struck by a vehicle,” a spokesperson for the Police Department stated. The unidentified victim was pronounced dead at the scene, the spokesperson confirmed. The suspect vehicle was last seen heading eastbound on Wilshire Boulevard at a high rate of speed. No further details about the suspect or vehicle were immediately available.

Improve your sleep with the best blackout curtains

Which blackout curtains are best? Blackout curtains are essential for any bedroom with lots of natural light, and they have a lot of other benefits that buyers love as a bonus. Many buy curtains for their design, but choosing a model that effectively blocks light is just as important for those with bright bedrooms. This Eclipse Fresno Black 52-by-84-Inch Modern Single Panel Blackout Curtain offers a single curtain panel at a reasonable price that helps insulate heat, reduce noise, and block light. What to know before you buy blackout curtains Location Where you plan to put your curtains may influence which ones are best for you. Primarily, the best blackout curtains should offer light-blocking qualities and decorative benefits. Many install blackout curtains in bright bedrooms to help block light while they try to sleep in the morning. Other benefits of these curtains include their heat-insulating and noise-reducing qualities, which can also come in handy in bedrooms. Still, it’s not uncommon to install blackout curtains in living rooms and offices, or in other places where it may be helpful to have more control over light levels.

Inside the Gaetz ethics report, a trove of new details alleging payments for sex and drug use

By LISA MASCARO and ALANNA DURKIN RICHER WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Ethics Committee’s long-awaited report on Matt Gaetz documents a trove of salacious allegations, including sex with an underage girl, that tanked the Florida Republican’s bid to lead the Justice Department. Citing text messages, travel receipts, online payments and testimony, the bipartisan committee paints a picture of a lifestyle in which Gaetz and others connected with younger women for drug-fueled parties, events or trips, with the expectation the women would be paid for their participation. The former congressman, who filed a last-minute lawsuit to try to block the report’s release on Monday, slammed the committee’s findings. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing and has insisted he never had sex with a minor. And a Justice Department investigation into the allegations ended without any criminal charges filed against him. “Giving funds to someone you are dating — that they didn’t ask for — and that isn’t ‘charged’ for sex is now prostitution?!?” Gaetz wrote in one post on Monday. “There is a reason they did this to me in a Christmas Eve-Eve report and not in