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Prosecutors weigh charges for son of slain filmmaker Rob Reiner

Nick Reiner, 32, was arrested and jailed on Sunday night as a suspect in his parents’ murders

International News via Reuters:

Prosecutors in Los Angeles were weighing possible criminal charges on Tuesday for the son of Hollywood actor-director and political activist Rob Reiner and his wife Michele, who were found slain in their home over the weekend.

Nick Reiner, 32, was arrested and jailed on Sunday night as a suspect in his parents’ murders. Prominent Los Angeles defense attorney Alan Jackson, representing Reiner, said his client would not make a court appearance on Tuesday as he had not yet been medically cleared to do so. 

“He will be here hopefully tomorrow,” Jackson said outside of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center in downtown Los Angeles, where suspects typically are arraigned. 

The Los Angeles County District Attorney planned to hold a news briefing at 1 p.m. PT (2100 GMT) to provide details about the case. The Los Angeles Police Department’s homicide investigators presented their findings to prosecutors on Tuesday, and they were under review, the DA’s office said.

Police and prosecutors have revealed few details about the circumstances of the killings, and autopsy results have yet to be released. But various news outlets, citing unnamed sources, have said that Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife, Michele, 70, appeared to have been stabbed or slashed.

Local media reported that Nick Reiner had been seen quarreling with his parents on Saturday night at a holiday party hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien. 

Nick Reiner has publicly acknowledged battles with drug addiction and periods of homelessness that occurred when he refused to seek treatment for substance abuse, saying he entered rehab for the first of many instances at age 15. Those experiences inspired the movie “Being Charlie,” co-written by Reiner and his father.

“It was the most personal thing I’ve ever been involved in,” Rob Reiner told podcaster Marc Maron in 2016.

FROM MEATHEAD TO ACCLAIMED FILMMAKER

As an actor, Rob Reiner was best remembered for his role on the TV comedy “All in the Family” as Mike “Meathead” Stivic, the son-in-law and liberal foil of the lead character, working-class bigot Archie Bunker, played by Carroll O’Connor.

Reiner went on to a prolific Hollywood career as a filmmaker, directing such popular movies as “This Is Spinal Tap,” “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally…,” “Stand by Me,” “A Few Good Men,” “Misery” and “The American President.”  

A sequel to the mockumentary “This is Spinal Tap” was released this year, 41 years after the original.

His wife, Michele, was at one time a photographer who captured the image of Donald Trump that appears on the cover of his book “Trump: The Art of the Deal.”

Rob Reiner, a native of New York City and son of the late comedy writer and actor Carl Reiner, also was well known for his political activism and as a supporter of the Democratic Party.        

Reporting by Jane Ross and Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Andrew Hay and Brad Brooks; Editing by Bill Berkrot

France says cattle disease under control as farm protests continue

Lumpy skin disease is a virus spread by insects that affects cattle and buffalo, causing blisters and reducing milk production

International News via Reuters:

France said on Monday the lumpy skin disease affecting cattle is under control in the country even as farmers continue a second week of protests against the government’s handling of the virus by blocking highways with tractors and dumping manure.

Lumpy skin disease is a virus spread by insects that affects cattle and buffalo, causing blisters and reducing milk production. While not harmful to humans, it often results in trade restrictions and severe economic losses.

French rules require the entire herd be culled when an outbreak is detected, a measure some unions consider excessive and cruel.

“Today, we no longer have a single case of lumpy skin disease in France, so the situation is under control,” French Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard told BFM TV.

“So we must remain hopeful that we can defeat this disease, and we can do it,” she added.

Genevard was traveling to Haute-Garonne in southwestern France to launch a campaign to vaccinate an additional one million cattle in affected regions, on top of the one million already inoculated.

By December 14, 113 outbreaks of lumpy skin disease had been detected and 3,300 cattle had been slaughtered in France this year, accounting for 0.02% of the French herd, the ministry said.

Genevard, backed by the country’s largest farm union FNSEA, says the policy of total stamping out is indispensable.

If unchecked, the disease could wipe out 1.5 million cattle or 10% of the French herd, she told Le Parisien.

Reporting by Sybille de La Hamaide; Editing by Chris Reese

Trott holds firm as Cardiff Frustrate Chelsea in Stalemate

HALF-TIME: Cardiff City 0 Chelsea 0

League One high-flyers Cardiff City have defied the odds to go into the break level with Premier League giants Chelsea in a pulsating Carabao Cup quarter-final.

Cardiff City, backed by a deafening Cardiff City Stadium crowd, have more than held their own against Enzo Maresca’s world-star roster.Goalkeeper Nathan Trott has been the standout for the hosts, maintaining his sensational run of form to keep the scores level at the interval.

Manager Brian Barry-Murphy signaled his intent by making five changes to the side that defeated Doncaster Rovers. Perry Ng, Dylan Lawlor, Joel Colwill, David Turnbull, and Callum Robinson were all drafted into a starting XI that has looked remarkably composed against top-flight opposition.

The parity on the pitch was noted by Sky Sports co-commentator Alan Smith midway through the half. “It’s not obvious which team is the Premier League outfit and the League One outfit,” Smith remarked. “Nothing to separate the teams so far”.

While Cardiff have restricted Chelsea to long-range efforts for much of the half, Chelsea finally carved out a clear opening in the 31st minute.

Moisés Caicedo, proving his worth in the engine room, turned sharply in midfield and drove into the heart of the Cardiff defense. He slid a weighted pass through to Marc Guiu, who found himself with a clear sight of goal. Guiu hesitated momentarily before unleashing a left-footed strike, but Trott reacted brilliantly, parrying the goal-bound effort with his left leg to keep his clean sheet intact.

Chelsea have dominated possession, but as the whistle blew for half-time, it is the Welsh side dreaming of a historic semi-final berth.

OpenAI taps former UK finance minister Osborne to lead global Stargate expansion

Osborne, who served as chancellor of the exchequer from 2010 to 2016, will take up the role in January and will oversee the expansion of OpenAI for Countries, OpenAI said

International News via Reuters:

OpenAI has appointed former British finance minister George Osborne as managing director and head of its “OpenAI for Countries” initiative, the company said on Tuesday, as the ChatGPT maker ramps up efforts to work with governments on national AI strategies.

Osborne, who served as chancellor of the exchequer from 2010 to 2016, will take up the role in January and will oversee the expansion of OpenAI for Countries, OpenAI said.

OpenAI for Countries is an overseas expansion of the $500 billion ‘Stargate’ initiative to build data centres in the U.S.

The company describes OpenAI for Countries as a way to ensure AI systems are built on democratic values while supporting local innovation ecosystems, education, and infrastructure.

OpenAI said Osborne is expected to participate in its event at the World Economic Forum in Davos next month.

Osborne’s appointment underscores growing global interest in AI as core national infrastructure and the geopolitical stakes around how it is governed.

Reporting by Kritika Lamba in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber

Holiday shopping in full swing

An update now on a story we reported recently … retailers getting together to provide added value this holiday season, with late night shopping – including Sundays – and special offers.

Kendal Trott caught up with Rebbeca Singleton, founder and CEO of TABS Bermuda, to find out how things are going.

Architects selected to design Seniors Day Care

The Government confirmed a total of four firms responded to their request for proposals for the new facility

Botelho Woods Architects rendition of the new seniors day care. Photo: Government of Bermuda

Architechtural firm, Botelho Woods Architects has been successful in its bid to develop a new Seniors Day Care centre.


The Government confirmed a total of four firms responded to their request for proposals with Botelho Woods selected to develop concept designs in consultation with clinicians, dementia experts and other service providers.


Minister of Social Development and Seniors, Tinee Furbert said that the project would directly support seniors and offer subsidised relief to families in the ‘sandwich generation’ who are raising children and working while caring for seniors parents.

She added, “The new Seniors Day Centre will provide essential relief to families by offering high-quality, professional care and specialised programming during the work week, taking into consideration seniors living with dementia.”


According to a news release, the proposed design provides a fully accessible, dementia-friendly environment able to accommodate a minimum of 50 clients with key features including activity rooms, clinical spaces, multiple dining areas, an industrial kitchen, and secure indoor and outdoor garden areas with safe walking routes.


A government spokeserson said, “The plans utilise two existing buildings, which will undergo renovation and be linked by a new central entrance and a spacious wrap-around porch to enhance access, safety and flow throughout the facility.”

Its part of the government’s National Seniors Strategy 2024 which identified the urgent need to expand access to day services to ensure that Bermuda’s ageing population has the support required to age in place, while easing pressures on working families caring for their senior relatives.

Street poll: How do we make our roads safer?

With so many road accidents occurring in recent days, we reached out to the public to ask what the priorities should be when it comes to road safety.
Kendal Trott reports.

Youth invited to help shape future of electoral system

Young Bermudians are encouraged to share their views at a Town Hall on Monday, December 22

The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation, the Hon. Diallo V. Rabain, JP, MP, invites young Bermudians to participate in a Youth Electoral Reform Town Hall to share their views on how Bermuda’s overall electoral system can be strengthened for future generations.

The town hall will take place on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Cedarbridge Academy, Kalmar Richards Room. Members of the public who are unable to attend in person may register and join online here:Youth Electoral Reform Town Hall Registration. Light refreshments will be served.

This engagement session forms part of the Government’s ongoing work to modernise Bermuda’s electoral system and to ensure that the voices of young people are meaningfully included in shaping the future of the island’s democracy. The discussion is particularly relevant for young voters who faced barriers to participation in recent elections, including Bermudian students studying overseas.

A strong democracy depends on the participation of every generation. This forum provides our youth an opportunity to share their experiences, voice their ideas, and contribute to reforms that reflect the realities of today’s voters.

The discussion will focus on key areas under consideration as part of broader electoral reform, including:

  • Implementing absentee voting for eligible Bermudian Students studying overseas;
  • Establishing clear and transparent standards for political parties and campaign financing;
  • Ensuring the voters’ register remains accurate, private, and transparent;
  • Embracing practical modernisation of our electoral systems and technology; and
  • Setting consistent and fair rules for polling day administration.

The town hall will include a brief presentation followed by a moderated discussion, allowing attendees to ask questions and contribute directly to the conversation.

Minister Rabain explained, “Democracy works best when everyone has a voice, and that includes our young people. This town hall is about listening to their experiences, ideas, and ensuring that Bermuda’s electoral system works for the next generation. I encourage young Bermudians, especially students, to join us, share their perspectives, and help shape a system that is fair, accessible, and reflective of the people it serves.”

Young Bermudians are encouraged to attend in person or register online to participate and take part in this important conversation on the future of Bermuda’s elections.

‘Restoration is progressing at a significant pace’

Wayne Caines, who chairs a regional power corporation, issues update on hurricane recovery in Jamaica

(Castries, Saint Lucia – Tuesday, December 16, 2025) – The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) reaffirmed its full regional support for Jamaica following a high-level visit to the island by CARILEC’s Board of Directors.

As part of the visit, CARILEC convened its 141st Meeting of the Board of Directors in Jamaica on Sunday, December 7, underscoring the importance of situating regional governance alongside real-time operational realities. The delegation visited the Incident Command Centre, at JPS’s Headquarters in Kingston, System Control, and a Regional Command Centre, in Montego Bay, where teams are directing a complex, island-wide restoration effort involving generation, transmission, and distribution networks.

The meeting was followed by an extensive island-wide assessment on Monday, December 8, during which Directors observed power restoration efforts and crisis-management operations first-hand, and engaged directly with regional crews supporting the restoration.

Since Hurricane Melissa impacted Jamaica in October 2025, CARILEC has supported JPS through the deployment of approximately 170 lineworkers and critical equipment from utilities across the Caribbean, coordinated through the CARILEC Disaster Assistance Programme (CDAP), in collaboration with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), and assistance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, of the United Kingdom (UK FCDO).  Progress continues at a strong pace, with approximately 80% of the island now restored, with remaining areas requiring focused attention due to severe infrastructure damage.

“It was important and intentional for the CARILEC Board to hold its meeting in Jamaica,” said Wayne Caines, Chairman of CARILEC. “This was a clear demonstration of regional solidarity and a strong signal of confidence. What we saw on the ground was a disciplined, well-led, and highly coordinated national response operating under extremely challenging conditions. Restoration is progressing at a significant pace, and Jamaica is very much open for business and firmly on the path to full recovery. CARILEC is proud to stand with Jamaica at this critical moment, and I commend Hugh Grant and the entire JPS team for their extraordinary leadership and execution.”

What is unfolding in Jamaica underscores the real and enduring value of CARILEC as a regional institution. The Directors’ visit reflects the power of shared expertise, coordinated action, and collective responsibility in moments of crisis. CARILEC remains fully committed to standing with JPS through every phase of restoration, maintaining sustained engagement, unwavering support, and a shared resolve to rebuild stronger and more resilient energy systems for the Caribbean.

About CARILEC:

The Caribbean Electric Utility Service Corporation (CARILEC) is an Association of over one hundred and twenty (120) energy solution providers and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry in the Caribbean. CARILEC was established in 1989 with nine (9) members as part of an Electric Utilities modernization project funded by USAID. CARILEC’s mandate is to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, capacity building, business development, advocacy, and mutual assistance.

Knife and drugs seized as prowler is arrested

Around 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, police responded to a report of a prowler at a residence on Middle Road, Southampton.

Upon arrival, officers observed a male at the location. He was unable to provide a reasonable excuse for his presence at the residence.

A subsequent search of the individual resulted in the recovery of a knife, along with a quantity of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Further checks, revealed the subject had several outstanding warrants.

He was subsequently arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug equipment, possession of a bladed article in a public place, as well as outstanding warrants.

Spread cheer … but not germs

Government issues a reminder that flu shots are still available, as festive gatherings heighten the risk of infection

Stock image

The Ministry of Health is reminding the public that flu season is not over and urges residents to protect themselves, their families, and friends by getting vaccinated. The influenza vaccine is available at the Department of Health’s Hamilton Health Clinic, located at 67 Victoria Street. The cost is $20 for individuals under 65 and free for those aged 65 and older. Appointments can be booked by calling 444-0720.

The Hon. Kim Wilson, JP, MP, Minister of Health, stated: “As Bermuda enters the festive and travel season, the Ministry of Health urges everyone to take extra precautions to protect themselves, their families, and the wider community. This is a time when gatherings, celebrations, and travel increase, and we want all residents to enjoy the holidays safely. By practising good hygiene, staying home when unwell, and keeping vaccinations up to date, we can reduce the spread of illness and protect those most vulnerable.”

The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit has observed an increase in reports of fever and respiratory symptoms, including common cold, COVID-19, influenza, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and strep throat. There has also been a rise in gastroenteritis cases, including Campylobacter, Clostridioides difficile, E. coli, and Salmonella.

To help keep our community safe during this season, the Ministry advises residents to:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
  • Stay home when ill and avoid attending work, school, or public gatherings if experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
  • Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening.
  • Take extra care with young children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
  • Stay up to date with recommended vaccines, including influenza and COVID-19.
    Travel safely by carrying hand sanitiser, wearing masks in crowded settings, and being mindful of food and water safety.

The Ministry continues to monitor cases closely and encourages all residents to remain vigilant. By practising preventive measures, we can reduce the spread of illness and ensure a healthier holiday period for all.