As Thanksgiving approaches, New Yorkers are feeling the pinch of rising food costs, with the price of a traditional holiday meal significantly higher than the national average. According to the New York Farm Bureau, a Thanksgiving meal for 10 people in New York will cost an average of $66, or $6.60 per person, marking a 20 percent increase compared to the national average of $55.18. This contrasts with the national trend, which saw a 5 percent decrease from 2024. In New York City, shoppers have reported noticeable price hikes for holiday staples like turkeys, yams, and vegetables. Lisa Smith, a 77-year-old retiree from Brooklyn, shared that while she can manage her grocery expenses, the rising costs have impacted her other expenditures, such as travel and transportation. Major retailers like Walmart and Target are offering low-cost meal deals to alleviate the burden, with ShopRite providing free turkeys or hams to loyalty cardholders who spend $400 during a specified period. The American Farm Bureau Federation noted that the average cost of a 16-pound frozen turkey in New York is $28.27, compared to $21.50 nationwide. Amanda Powers, Director of Communications at the New York Farm Bureau, attributed the higher prices to labor shortages, rising farm wages, and increased production costs. Meanwhile, Angel Hernandez, a 53-year-old from Queens, expressed concern over the high cost of food, particularly turkeys, as he prepares to celebrate Thanksgiving with his 10-year-old son. Deloitte’s 2025 Thanksgiving Index indicates that food costs have risen at a more normal historical rate, with an estimated $76.50 for a meal serving eight people, up 0.6 percent from 2024. Despite the challenges, some New Yorkers, like Ella Sauter, find relief through their jobs, which provide food assistance, easing the financial strain of the holiday season.
分类： society
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Cargo ship fire in Los Angeles nearly contained after shelter-in-place order lifted
A significant fire aboard the container ship One Henry Hudson, docked at the Port of Los Angeles, was nearly under control by Saturday afternoon. Authorities are still evaluating whether the burning of hazardous materials has caused substantial environmental contamination. The blaze, which erupted on Friday night, led to a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby communities due to fears of airborne hazardous substances. The order was lifted by morning, and the ship was moved offshore, where fireboats continued to douse a small section still ablaze, according to Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Adam Van Gerpen.
The fire, believed to be electrical in origin, started below deck and spread to multiple levels, causing a mid-deck explosion. Approximately 100 cargo containers, some containing lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous waste, were burned. However, it remains unclear which specific materials were affected. All 23 crew members were safely accounted for, and no injuries were reported.
A safety zone of half a nautical mile and a temporary flight restriction were established around the vessel. Port operations resumed by morning, and over 100 firefighters were deployed to combat the blaze at North America’s busiest seaport. The 1,102-foot (336-meter) ship is operated by Ocean Network Express, headquartered in Singapore. The company expressed gratitude to first responders and pledged full cooperation with investigations. The ship had previously docked in Japan, stopping in Kobe, Nagoya, and Tokyo before arriving in Los Angeles.
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Our babies were taken after ‘biased’ parenting test – now we’re fighting to get them back
Keira, a 39-year-old Greenlandic mother, recounts the heart-wrenching moment her newborn daughter, Zammi, was taken from her arms just two hours after birth. ‘I started counting the minutes from the moment she was born,’ Keira recalls, her voice trembling. ‘When they took her, I sobbed uncontrollably, whispering ‘sorry’ to my baby. It felt like a part of my soul died.’ Keira’s story is not unique. She is one of many Greenlandic families living in Denmark who have had their children removed by social services following parental competency tests, known as FKUs. These tests, which include cognitive tasks, personality assessments, and interviews, have been criticized for being culturally biased and linguistically inappropriate, as they are conducted in Danish rather than Kalaallisut, the native language of most Greenlanders. In May 2023, the Danish government banned the use of FKUs on Greenlandic families after decades of criticism, but the tests continue to be used on other families. Despite the ban, only 10 cases involving FKUs have been reviewed, and no children have been returned to their families. Keira’s 2024 assessment concluded she lacked ‘sufficient parental competencies,’ a decision she disputes. She remains hopeful, keeping a cot and baby clothes ready for Zammi’s return. Meanwhile, other Greenlandic parents, like Johanne and Ulrik, whose son was adopted in 2020, face even steeper odds. The Danish government has stated it will not reopen adoption cases, leaving many families in limbo. The emotional toll on these parents is immense, as they fight to reclaim their children and preserve their cultural heritage.
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The Christian converts the US is deporting back to Iran
In a troubling turn of events, Iranian Christian converts seeking asylum in the United States are facing deportation back to Iran, where they fear persecution and imprisonment. One such individual, Danesh (a pseudonym), fled Iran in October 2024 after enduring repeated detentions and alleged torture due to his involvement in the Mahsa Amini protests and subsequent conversion to Christianity. Despite being granted protection from removal by an immigration judge, Danesh was forcibly moved from a Texas detention center to a military airfield in Louisiana and placed on a deportation flight to Nicaragua. From there, he was routed through Venezuela and Turkey, ultimately fearing a forced return to Iran. Danesh managed to escape in Istanbul, but his story is not unique. Several Iranian Christian converts have reported similar experiences, with their asylum claims rejected and sensitive information about their religious conversions allegedly mishandled by US authorities. This situation contrasts sharply with President Trump’s vocal condemnation of Christian persecution abroad, particularly in Nigeria. The US has recently made unprecedented changes to its immigration policy, including arranging a chartered flight to Iran via Qatar, despite the lack of diplomatic ties and Iran’s poor human rights record. Dozens of Iranians, including the wife of an Iranian Christian convert now living in the US, were deported on this flight. Upon arrival, they were questioned about their religious activities, though not immediately arrested. However, the wife has since been summoned by Iranian intelligence, heightening fears for her safety. Legal experts and advocates argue that the US immigration system is failing to adequately assess the risks faced by Iranian Christian converts, leading to inconsistent asylum outcomes even within the same household. For example, Marjan, a Christian convert, was granted asylum in California, while her husband, Reza, was ordered to be removed to a third country. As the US continues its crackdown on illegal immigration, the plight of Iranian Christian converts highlights the complexities and potential dangers of deportation policies.
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Japan’s first female leader faces a taboo over entering the male-only sumo ring
Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, has sparked a national debate over the long-standing taboo barring women from entering the sumo ring. While Takaichi’s historic election in October marked a significant milestone for gender equality in Japan, her stance on traditional gender roles has raised questions about whether she will challenge this cultural norm. The issue came to the forefront as the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament concluded, with the winner traditionally receiving the Prime Minister’s Cup from the prime minister. However, Takaichi, who was attending the G20 summit in South Africa, missed the opportunity to make a decision this time. Her next chance will be during the New Year’s tournament in Tokyo. The controversy over women’s exclusion from the sumo ring is part of a broader debate about gender equality in Japan, where women are still banned from certain sacred spaces and festivals due to historical beliefs about female ‘impurity.’ Despite efforts to eliminate such bans, they persist in some religious and cultural practices. Sumo, with its 1,500-year history, has faced criticism for its exclusion of women, though the Japan Sumo Association denies that the ban is rooted in Shinto beliefs about impurity. Takaichi, a staunch conservative, has not indicated whether she will challenge the tradition, but her decision could have significant implications for Japan’s evolving gender dynamics.
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Dubai Run 2025: RTA announces list of roads affected, closure timings
As Dubai prepares for the highly anticipated Dubai Run 2025, the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) has released detailed information regarding road closures and alternative routes to ensure a smooth event. Scheduled for Sunday, November 23, 2025, the Dubai Run is a flagship event of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, transforming the city into a massive running track. The RTA has announced that road closures will be in effect from 3:00 AM to 10:00 AM on the event day. Participants are advised to plan their journeys in advance and utilize the suggested alternative routes to avoid disruptions. The event offers flexible start times for registered participants, beginning as early as 4:00 AM, with the official run commencing at 6:30 AM and the start line closing at 8:00 AM. The RTA has also shared a video highlighting the affected roads, encouraging residents and visitors to stay informed and prepared. This annual event not only promotes fitness and wellness but also showcases Dubai’s commitment to fostering a healthy and active community.
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Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed offers condolences on passing of Osama Ahmed Al Shaafar
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has expressed profound condolences on the passing of Osama Ahmed Al Shaafar, a distinguished former member of the Federal National Council (FNC) and President of the Asian Cycling Confederation. Al Shaafar, who also served as the President of the UAE Cycling Federation, passed away abroad on November 19, 2025. The FNC announced his demise with a statement reflecting on his significant contributions and legacy. Funeral prayers were held on November 20 at Al-Khair Mosque, followed by his burial at Al-Quoz Cemetery. Dato’ Amarjit Singh Gill, President of the Asian Cycling Confederation, and the broader cycling community also extended their heartfelt condolences, praising Al Shaafar’s leadership and enduring impact. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, joined in mourning, offering solace to the Al Shaafar family during this challenging time.
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Salik updates toll rates ahead of Dubai Run on November 23
In preparation for the upcoming Dubai Run on November 23, 2025, Salik, Dubai’s toll gate system, has announced revised rates for the event day. The adjustments aim to accommodate the expected surge in traffic due to the city-wide fitness event, which is part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. During the morning peak hours from 6am to 10am, toll rates will increase to Dh6, up from the usual Dh4 on Sundays. Evening peak hours from 4pm to 8pm will remain at Dh4, while low-peak rates of Dh4 will apply from 10am to 4pm and 8pm to 1am. Salik confirmed these changes via social media on Friday, November 21. The Dubai Run offers flexible start times for registered participants, beginning as early as 4am, with the official start at 6.30am and the start line closing at 8am. The event features two routes: a 5km flat route suitable for all ages and abilities, starting near the Museum of the Future and passing iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera, and a 10km route designed for experienced runners, which includes crossing the Dubai Canal Bridge and looping along Sheikh Zayed Road. The event underscores Dubai’s commitment to promoting health and fitness among its residents and visitors.
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From injuries to fatalities: Top 10 deadliest Airshow disasters in history
Airshows, often celebrated for their breathtaking aerial displays and thrilling performances, have a darker side marked by tragic accidents that have left indelible scars on aviation history. While these events are designed to entertain and inspire, they have occasionally turned into scenes of devastation, claiming lives and leaving communities in mourning. Here, we revisit the ten most catastrophic airshow disasters that have shaped the narrative of aviation safety and risk management.
1. **Sknyliv Airshow (2002, Ukraine)**: The deadliest airshow accident occurred when a Ukrainian Air Force Sukhoi Su-27 crashed during a low-altitude maneuver, killing 77 spectators, including 28 children, and injuring 543. Both pilots survived but faced legal consequences.
2. **Ramstein Airshow (1988, West Germany)**: A mid-air collision involving Italian Air Force jets resulted in a fiery crash that killed 70 people, including three pilots, and injured hundreds more.
3. **Golden West Sport Aviation Show (1972, USA)**: A Canadair Sabre Mk. 5 failed to gain altitude, crashing into an ice cream parlor and killing 22 people, including members of a Little League football team.
4. **Reno Air Races (2011, USA)**: A modified racing aircraft lost control, crashing into spectators and killing 10 people. Investigations revealed structural failures caused by excessive modifications.
5. **Ostend Airshow (1997, Belgium)**: A Royal Jordanian Falcons pilot lost control, crashing near spectators and killing nine people, including the pilot.
6. **Paris Airshow (1973, France)**: The Tupolev Tu-144 supersonic airliner broke apart mid-flight, killing all five crew members and eight people on the ground.
7. **Canary Islands Airshow (1984, Spain)**: A Spanish aerobatic team pilot lost control, crashing and killing five people, including himself.
8. **Royal Air Force Station Crash (1952, UK)**: A prototype Avro Vulcan bomber crashed during a test flight, killing all four crew members and three spectators.
9. **Bartlesville Biplane Exposition (1996, USA)**: A mid-air collision between two biplanes resulted in an explosion that killed all four pilots.
10. **Indian Air Force Day (1989, India)**: A Mirage 2000 crashed during a low-altitude maneuver, killing the pilot and one spectator.
These tragedies serve as stark reminders of the inherent risks in aviation displays, prompting ongoing efforts to enhance safety protocols and prevent future disasters.
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UAE launches Thai Select’s Culinary Trail ahead of 2025 festival
In anticipation of the Thai Select Festival 2025, the UAE has launched an innovative digital campaign titled ‘Tastes of Thailand: The Road to the Festival.’ This initiative, spearheaded by Thai Select—a certification by Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce—aims to highlight authentic Thai cuisine across the Emirates. From November 18 to November 27, over 30 influencers in food, travel, and lifestyle will visit Thai Select-certified restaurants, documenting their unique dishes, chef stories, and cultural elements. The campaign, under the hashtag #RoadToThaiSelectFestival2025, invites the public to explore these culinary gems and prepare for the grand festival in November 2025. The festival, set to take place at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, promises an immersive experience with authentic Thai food, live performances, and cooking demonstrations. Pitichai Ratananaka, director of Thai Trade Centre Dubai, emphasized the campaign’s goal to deepen cultural ties and showcase Thailand’s culinary excellence.