Early data suggests carjackings and car thefts fell in 2024
The pandemic crime spike has largely subsided — with the exception of carjacking and car thefts. Those crimes remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.
National
What the Israel-Hezbollah war did to Lebanon's cultural heritage sites
Part of a Crusader castle crumbled. An 18th century minaret felled. Church mosaics burned. Archaeologists are assessing damage to UNESCO World Heritage Sites from Israeli strikes on Lebanon and Syria.
The Reddit community revives the holiday spirit after popular Secret Santa events end
Swapping presents with strangers on the internet is a favorite pastime for many Reddit users. After two popular holiday gift exchanges ended, bereft merrymakers are set on keeping the tradition going.
Biden commutes sentences of 37 federal death row prisoners
Opponents of the death penalty had urged President Biden to take this step, given the number of executions that took place during President-elect Donald Trump's first term.
Undocumented people are among most vulnerable to climate-fueled disasters
Many undocumented people are not eligible for federal financial disaster aid and several remain fearful even when help is offered.
K-pop's uncertain English-language future
Cultural differences are a key charm of Korea's exploding pop market. When its stars start directly courting American listeners, is it even K-pop anymore?
Why Trump's tariffs on Mexico would mean higher avocado prices at the grocery store
Most avocados consumed in the U.S. are grown in Mexico. Here's what Trump's proposed tariffs would mean for prices at the grocery store and for the avocado industry.
There's a new translation of Dante's 'The Divine Comedy.' Why?
Dante Alighieri is one of the pillars of Western literature. And his texts have been translated into English dozens of times. With two new translations of his work out now, it's worth asking – why do we keep returning to this well?
'May love rest gently in your broken heart': What to say to a grieving friend
When a good friend's loved one passes away, it can be hard to find the right thing to say. NPR readers share words of comfort they've shared with others — or wish they'd heard themselves.
Interfaith families find meaning in 'Chrismukkah'
This year the first night of Hanukkah falls on Christmas Day. Here's how some interfaith families are preparing to celebrate both holidays.