Author: Lester Holt
Lester Holt
Lester Holt is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 25 years of experience reporting on Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Journalism from California State University, Sacramento. Throughout his career, he has contributed to outlets such as NBC News, MSNBC, and The New York Times. Known for his clear reporting and insightful storytelling, Lester delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on national and global developments.
Washington Expands Maritime Offensive Against Smuggling Networks The U.S. military launched a second strike this week on boats accused of trafficking narcotics in the eastern Pacific Ocean, leaving three people dead, according to defense officials. The latest action follows an earlier operation that killed two individuals, reflecting a growing U.S. campaign aimed at dismantling drug networks operating in international waters. Pentagon: Targets Were Operating on Known Trafficking Routes Officials said the vessels were intercepted in open waters frequently used by smuggling operations and were believed to be controlled by a group designated as a terrorist organization. The Pentagon confirmed the…
Millions Could Lose Access to SNAP in November As the federal budget impasse drags on, at least 25 U.S. states have announced plans to pause food assistance programs starting in November. The move could affect millions of low-income families who depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for daily groceries. Officials from states including Texas, California, and Pennsylvania say benefit payments cannot be processed without renewed federal funding, leaving households uncertain about how they will afford food next month. USDA Warns Funding Is Nearly Exhausted The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers SNAP, has confirmed that its remaining contingency…
Federal Stop Leads to Exchange of Gunfire An immigration enforcement operation in South Los Angeles turned violent on Tuesday when shots were fired, wounding both a deputy U.S. marshal and an undocumented man. The Department of Homeland Security said Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, working with the U.S. Marshals Service, attempted to stop a vehicle tied to an immigration case. According to officials, the driver tried to flee and crashed into federal vehicles, prompting officers to open fire. The man was hit in the arm, while a marshal suffered a hand injury caused by a ricocheted bullet. Suspect Hospitalized and…
President Donald Trump has awarded conservative activist Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors. The medal recognizes Kirk’s influence on American political discourse and his role in shaping public debate. The award was presented in a formal ceremony at the White House. Officials described it as a tribute to Kirk’s work in advancing civic engagement and political activism across the United States. “Charlie Kirk has made a lasting impact on American politics,” Trump said. “His voice inspired countless people to participate in democracy and defend the principles of our nation.” Kirk, who passed…
Boeing freighter ends up in the sea after failed landingTwo airport security officers were killed when a cargo jet overshot the runway at Hong Kong International Airport in the early hours of Monday morning. The Boeing 747-400, operated by ACT Airlines on behalf of Emirates SkyCargo, was arriving from Dubai when it careened off the north runway shortly before 4 a.m. local time. The aircraft broke through the airport’s boundary fence and came to rest with its nose submerged in coastal waters. The four crew members were pulled from the plane and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators search…
Hunting Operations Continue Amid Federal FurloughsDuring the partial government shutdown in October 2025, which led to the furlough of thousands of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) employees, the Trump administration confirmed that hunting activities would continue in roughly 600 National Wildlife Refuges nationwide. Internal guidance indicated that all scheduled hunts should proceed, while other refuge services, including visitor centers and educational programs, were temporarily suspended. The decision has drawn criticism from conservation organizations and some lawmakers, who question the prioritization of recreational hunting over other federal responsibilities. Limited Staff Maintain Essential FunctionsAlthough most FWS personnel were furloughed, a small…
Governor Acts After Learning of Military ExerciseCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom ordered a temporary shutdown of part of Interstate 5 near Camp Pendleton following news of a planned Marines live-fire event. The demonstration, marking the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, was expected to feature artillery fire and amphibious maneuvers near the heavily traveled highway. Newsom said the proximity of live ammunition to public roadways created an unacceptable safety risk, describing the event as “irresponsible and poorly planned.” State Officials Criticize Federal HandlingAccording to Newsom’s office, state agencies received little notice before the event was announced. The governor said the lack of communication…
The Sun Travel Awards 2025 celebrated the best in the travel industry, recognizing companies, destinations, and services that excelled over the past year. The event highlighted achievements across airlines, tour operators, and holiday destinations, reflecting ongoing innovation and quality in travel. Emirates retained its title as Best Airline, demonstrating consistent service, comfort, and global connectivity. The airline’s continued investment in modern fleets and passenger experience contributed to its recognition. Travelers praised Emirates for reliability and a premium flying experience across its international network. Jet2holidays was named Best Short Haul Operator. The company has built a strong reputation for delivering value-driven…
Credit Worries Cross the AtlanticEuropean private equity markets came under heavy pressure this week as renewed fears over the health of U.S. regional banks unsettled global investors. A string of disappointing U.S. lending updates, including mounting loan losses, has raised concerns about the stability of credit markets worldwide, sending shockwaves through Europe’s debt-dependent investment industry. Rising Borrowing Costs Hit Deal ActivityThe prospect of tighter credit conditions has left private equity firms scrambling to adjust. With banks pulling back on new lending and financing costs rising, dealmaking momentum has slowed sharply. Analysts say valuations are being recalibrated as investors brace for…
Court Steps In Over Potentially Improper TerminationsA federal judge in San Francisco has ordered a temporary halt to the Trump administration’s plan to lay off more than 4,100 government employees during the ongoing shutdown. U.S. District Judge Susan Illston ruled that the proposed workforce reductions may have been politically motivated and did not comply with required legal procedures. Agencies impacted include Commerce, Education, Energy, EPA, HHS, HUD, Homeland Security, and Treasury. Unions Challenge the Layoff PlansLabor organizations, including the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and AFSCME, have filed a lawsuit contending that the administration’s layoff strategy violates the Antideficiency…
