Daily News Song - World News

Headlines in a Minor Key Verse 1 In Munich they spoke with the cold of a lab-lit room, Saying a dart frog’s poison rode a prison’s gloom. They named the means and motive, the open door they see, Rang the chemical watchdog, called it a broken treaty. His widow, voice steady, says the proof is in the light, Calls the man at the summit a killer who must face the night. Sources: NBC News PBS News TIME Al Jazeera CNN UK Government Chorus Hold up the light, write it plain, let the truth be told, From cells to squares, from courtrooms to the snowy roads. We’ve learned the cost of secrets, the way the dark takes hold— But we will not go quiet, we are made of dawn and gold. Verse 2 A Justice chief turned the key, flung wide a haunted vault, A tidal wave of pages where the powerful walk in chalk. A prince now under questions, old lords set down their crowns, A portside titan stepping back as ripples circle towns. From banks to ancient campuses, hands are pulled away, And in the House they’re asking who watched the watchers’ play. Sources: Fox News NPR CBS News Al Jazeera CNN Chorus Hold up the light, write it plain, let the truth be told, From cells to squares, from courtrooms to the snowy roads. We’ve learned the cost of secrets, the way the dark takes hold— But we will not go quiet, we are made of dawn and gold. Verse 3 An anchor’s mother vanished in the blue before the dawn, A doorbell’s eye went sightless, a heartbeat’s whisper gone. A glove with other DNA lay down a shadowed lane, A masked face at her threshold, and no one yet to blame. The tips fall like a rainfall, the maps glow on the wall, They’re chasing threads of midnight through the hum of every call. Sources: CNN NPR NBC News Verse 4 In Geneva, paper maps unfold like winter wings, They bargain over borders and the shield a promise brings. The clock is set in Washington, the room is thin with air, Alliance voices counting wounds, while Moscow claims new squares. They speak of eastern city names, of guardians who’d stay, Of how to keep a broken land from breaking one more day. Sources: Al Jazeera PBS News France 24 SBS News Verse 5 In Moscow’s narrow hallway came the echo of a gun, A spymaster went under and the ambulance did run. Sanctions marked his history, from Salisbury’s cold stain, To midnight code and headlines in a long, relentless rain. Another name in shadows where the blame lines cross and bend, Another page of quiet wars that never seem to end. Sources: NBC News Al Jazeera CNN Moscow Times Washington Post Verse 6 In Munich streets a river rose, a chorus fierce and clear, They called for Tehran’s rulers to be swept out of the year. They lifted Pahlavi’s name and asked for ballots, not a throne, He said he’d take the challenge, guide them through the unknown. A sea of flags and pleading hands beneath a winter sky, A promise in the open air that something new could rise. Sources: CNN Bridge So strike the match in every room where secrets learned to breathe, Unlock the file, trace the glove, and don’t let mercy leave. Let Geneva’s bells go ringing, let the prison gates unfreeze, Let stairwells purge their gun-smoke ghosts, let cities bend their knees. Final Chorus Hold up the light, write it plain, let the truth be told, From cells to squares, from courtrooms to the snowy roads. We’ve paid the price of silence, now hear the thunder roll— We will not go quiet, we are made of dawn and gold, We will not go quiet—bring the morning, break the hold.

Chords From a Restless World Verse 1 — Navalny In the cold beyond the fence line, a name they tried to still, A rare and bitter whisper from a rainforest kill. A coalition said the labs all spoke the same hard word, Means and motive in the shadows where the steel doors whirred. His widow stood in Munich, thunder in her breath, Called it what it sounded like—a weapon dressed as death. They’re taking it to watchdogs meant to guard the dawn, While denials rise like smoke, and drift, and then are gone. Sources: 5 European nations say Alexei Navalny was poisoned and blame the Kremlin Alexey Navalny: Russian opposition figure killed by toxin found in poison dart frogs Russia poisoned opposition leader Alexei Navalny with dart frog toxin Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned by deadly 'dart frog' toxin Chorus Hold on, world, to the fragile thread, Truth is bruised but not yet dead. When the night leans in and the headlines roar, Raise your voice till we reach the shore. If the ground gives way beneath our feet, We’ll keep time with a stubborn beat— Hold on, world, let the heart decide, Through the flood and the fire, we ride. Verse 2 — DHS Shutdown At the stroke of sleepless hours, the lock slid into place, Not for walls or weary gates, but paychecks and their grace. An argument on borders born of lives cut short, Demands for cams and open faces, warrants from the court. Some keep working without wages, duty in their hands, While travelers and storm lines learn the cost of tangled plans. The chamber lights lie empty; calendars drift on, And a vast, unpaid procession keeps the engines on. Sources: What to know on the DHS government shutdown 5 things to know about the shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security DHS shutdown begins as funding expires without a deal in Congress A partial government shutdown is about to hit DHS Verse 3 — Washington Post Layoffs In a newsroom built of thunder, someone dimmed the sky, Shelved the games and all the pages where the books could fly. Foreign windows shuttered, Metro’s voice run thin, And the captain left the wheelhouse right after the din. A legend called it darkest, the union named it wrong, Said the richest chose to falter where they should be strong. Ever since an axed endorsement split the faithful sea, The clicks grew quiet, doors swung shut where truth should be. Sources: Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post conducts widespread layoffs Washington Post lays off one-third of its newsroom Bezos orders layoffs at 'Washington Post' Days after big layoffs at The Washington Post, publisher Will Lewis says he's stepping down Chorus Hold on, world, to the fragile thread, Truth is bruised but not yet dead. When the night leans in and the headlines roar, Raise your voice till we reach the shore. If the ground gives way beneath our feet, We’ll keep time with a stubborn beat— Hold on, world, let the heart decide, Through the flood and the fire, we ride. Verse 4 — Bangladesh Election On the streets that once were shouting, now the ballots sing, A party swept back over lands that lost their king. A leader home from exile steps toward the chair, A faithful ally rises higher than it ever dared. The winner speaks of unity, of stitching what was torn, While neighbors tip their hats to greet a brighter morn. They blessed a rule to limit crowns, to break the iron mold, And students taste the promise that their courage bought and sold. Sources: Bangladesh election results 2026: Who won, who lost, what's next? Bangladesh PM-in-waiting Rahman appeals for unity as BNP sweeps polls A historic election in Bangladesh brings BNP to power 2026 Bangladeshi general election - Wikipedia Verse 5 — Munich Security Conference In Munich, winter gathered armor, handshakes, restless minds, From war-scarred maps to wired dreams, the future’s tangled lines. A president from embattled fields made the case for light, Transatlantic echoes tuning keys for what is right. Out in streets, a record chorus beat against the cold, And truths about a fallen man were timed and told. Between the panels and the protests, one refrain was heard: Safety is a fragile song that needs a living word. Sources: Munich Security Conference 2026 62nd Munich Security Conference - Wikipedia Updates: World leaders gather in Munich for 2nd day of security conference Verse 6 — SpaceX Crew-12 Then a spark cut through the doubt and found a waiting dawn, A ship of four rose steady, and the night was gone. They docked where Earth keeps vigil, where the blue turns black, Where skeleton crews were counting every breath and back. Meir and Hathaway, Adenot, Fedyaev too, Carrying quiet medicines and futures to renew. For moons we haven’t walked yet, for red dust still to rise, They set the lab lights burning in the silence of the skies. Sources: SpaceX, NASA launch new ISS crew to end a month of skeleton staffing On their way! 4 people on NASA Crew-12 mission launch to International Space Station Watch the NASA SpaceX Crew-12 mission dock with the ISS SpaceX launches Crew-12 mission to International Space Station Final Chorus — Exciting Ending Hold on, world, the engines cry, From the prison gates to the star-bright sky. When the ink runs thin and the borders fray, Let the ballots, boots, and rockets say: We are more than what we fear, More than headlines, more than tears. Count it down—hearts ignite— Three, two—no, sing—into the light! Hold on, world—make the darkness yield— Raise your voice, and be the field.

Headlines on the Wire Verse 1 — DHS Standoff After midnight’s warning signs, the gates went half‑closed tight, A funding fight in marble halls spilled out into the night. They’re calling for body cams and badges you can’t hide, No profiling at the doorstep, a warrant to go inside. But the engines keep on humming where the border fences run, A mega bill from days ago keeps that mission on. While flyers line for screening, and storms still call for aid, The Coast Guard hearts keep beating, some working without pay. Sources: Trump revokes EPA finding on greenhouse gas threat - CNBC Trump's EPA will stop regulating greenhouse gases - NPR Trump's EPA revokes the endangerment finding - CBS News EPA Repeals Legal Basis for Regulating Greenhouse Gases - World Resources Institute Chorus Hold on, hold out, the world keeps turning, Pages flare but we keep learning. Headlines roar, the chords grow higher, Sing through smoke, become the choir. If the old maps burn in the wind’s desire, We’ll draw new roads with a steadfast wire. Hold the light, hold the line, Till the morning reads a kinder sign. Verse 2 — EPA Rollback Then a pen crossed out a finding that once named the poisoned air, Unfastened rules on tailpipes and the power plant’s share. They called it liberation, said the costs would all fall down, But California raised its voice, and suits rose town to town. A former voice from yesteryear warned health was on the line, And clerks began their counting for a courthouse, long, uphill climb. From chamber door to highest bench, the echoes set to ring, Over what we owe the children, and the breath in everything. Sources: CEO of Dubai's largest port replaced after ties to Epstein revealed - CBS News Dubai-based DP World replaces chief named in Epstein files - Al Jazeera Meet the high-profile Emirati business leader linked to Epstein 'torture' email - CNBC Powerful Dubai tycoon replaced after DOJ reveals emails with Epstein - CNN Chorus Hold on, hold out, the world keeps turning, Pages flare but we keep learning. Headlines roar, the chords grow higher, Sing through smoke, become the choir. If the old maps burn in the wind’s desire, We’ll draw new roads with a steadfast wire. Hold the light, hold the line, Till the morning reads a kinder sign. Verse 3 — Ports and Shadows Across the seas, the harbor lights fell cold on hidden mail, A titan of the trade stepped down, caught in a haunted trail. A chilling line about a “torture” tape, the island’s whispered name, Masseuses in the margins, and a long‑kept, sordid frame. Investors pulled the handbrake, the ships still moved the world, New captains took the tally where the DP banners swirled. A congressman said, I see you, in that dark‑replying thread, And silence felt like thunder in the places power treads. Sources: Partial government shutdown looms as ICE negotiations stall - The Washington Post US Department of Homeland Security to go into shutdown due to funding lapse - Al Jazeera Senate fails to advance DHS funding - CBS News What to know on the DHS government shutdown - NBC News Verse 4 — Munich Divide In Munich’s vaulted meeting rooms, the snow fell on the past, A chancellor said the rulebook’s gone, the old world couldn’t last. A deep cut crossed the ocean, and a warning found its tone: Even giants on a good day can’t afford to walk alone. He spoke of talks with Paris, of a different kind of shield, While a statesman from across the sea said old truths had been unsealed. Another leader answered back, defended Europe’s say, As Zelensky carried winter’s war and hopes for a brokered day. Sources: Germany's Merz warns America it cannot 'go it alone' - NBC News Rubio and European leaders agree: The old world order 'no longer exists' - CNN Munich Security Conference 2026 Live - Euronews Munich Security Conference: Europe Blames U.S. for Upending World Order - Foreign Policy Chorus Hold on, hold out, the world keeps turning, Pages flare but we keep learning. Headlines roar, the chords grow higher, Sing through smoke, become the choir. If the old maps burn in the wind’s desire, We’ll draw new roads with a steadfast wire. Hold the light, hold the line, Till the morning reads a kinder sign. Verse 5 — Tucson Missing Down in Tucson, desert dusk keeps secrets in its hand, An anchor’s mother vanished like a footprint in the sand. The Bureau raised the bounty, a shadow came in black, A hiker’s pack on camera, an Ozark‑lettered pack. A man who wrote a ransom note walked out to daylight’s breath, While agents knocked on every door, to push back against death. She was last seen on a winter night; the family holds the phone, And every porch light burning says: please bring this mother home. Sources: Man accused of sending fake ransom note to Nancy Guthrie's family released - WRAL NPR U.S. News Headlines Verse 6 — Dhaka Dawning In Dhaka’s streets the ballots bloomed where students once stood fast, The rising tide that swept a throne has found its voice at last. A leader back from exile breathes a promise to the square, While an old flag sits outside the race, its colors in the air. An Islamist opposition takes the benches face to face, A vote to cap the seasons of a prime minister’s place. From Delhi’s nod to embassy calls, the greetings cross the sky, A country writes a chapter where the future learns to fly. Sources: Bangladesh election results 2026: Who won, who lost, what's next? - Al Jazeera Bangladesh's BNP claims landslide win - Al Jazeera Tarique Rahman's BNP wins big in historic parliamentary vote - CNN A historic election in Bangladesh brings BNP to power - NPR Final Chorus — Raise It Higher Hold on, hold out, the world keeps turning, Pages flare but we keep learning. Headlines roar, the chords grow higher, Sing through smoke, become the choir. If the old maps burn in the wind’s desire, We’ll draw new roads with a steadfast wire. Beat the drum, ring the bell, lift the names from grief and fire, From courtrooms, ports, and border lines—to hope we all conspire. One more time, raise it higher, Till the morning reads a kinder sign.

Headlines in a Minor Key Verse 1 — DHS showdown The clock leans hard toward shutdown on a border made of bills, Senate winds blew back the drafts with immigration chills. They’re asking for real warrants, for cameras on the vests, After shots in Minneapolis put justice to the test. Airports, storms, and coastlines brace while pay is held at sea, The ones called “essential” still show up faithfully. Sources: Trump administration says it is ending its immigration surge in Minnesota Trump border czar Tom Homan announces Minnesota immigration surge is ending Tom Homan announces end of ICE operation Metro Surge in Minnesota Trump administration to end Minnesota immigration crackdown Chorus Oh the world keeps turning, headlines hum in a minor key, We count the heartbeats, not the tallies on a screen. Raise a hand for mercy, hold a light for what should be— Truth is a long road home, come walk that road with me. Verse 2 — Metro Surge ends In the North, the sirens softened, “Metro Surge” was called to end, Tom Homan closed the chapter, but the wounds are slow to mend. Renee Good and Alex Pretti—names the night will not release, Protests thundered through the cities, begging power to choose peace. The governor called it tragic, pitched a fund to help the street, Polls turned cold as winter steel beneath the marching feet. Sources: Iran's President apologises to 'all those affected' by protests, crackdown Pezeshkian calls for unity as Iran marks 1979 Revolution anniversary Iran protests 2026: UK and international response Iran's president apologises for brutal protests crackdown Verse 3 — Iran’s apology In Tehran, the leader whispered, “We are shamed before our own,” Candles for the fallen where the seeds of hunger’d grown. He vowed to help the families, said the atom won’t be armed, As Washington keeps talking, hoping tempers can be calmed. The echoes of the crackdown chase the dusk across the land, May the grieving find an answer in an open, outstretched hand. Sources: Nancy Guthrie disappearance: FBI reveals description of suspect Bitcoin reportedly sent to wallet associated with Nancy Guthrie's ransom letter Chorus Oh the world keeps turning, headlines hum in a minor key, We count the heartbeats, not the tallies on a screen. Raise a hand for mercy, hold a light for what should be— Truth is a long road home, come walk that road with me. Verse 4 — The Tucson search In Tucson, porch lights flicker for a mother gone at night, A doorbell’s blinded eyelid, tiled floor stained with fright. The Bureau sketched a stranger as the phones began to ring, A cruel fake ransom faltered, then was severed from its sting. Cold coins on chains of code were traced across the wire, May every lead burn brighter, like a beacon set on fire. Sources: Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,449 War - Ukrinform The Russia-Ukraine War Report Card, Feb. 11, 2026 Verse 5 — War’s gray morning Kyiv woke to windows breathing dust and bitter rain, An ambulance in Kharkiv met a drone and met the pain. A family’s quiet story ended under falling sky, While back across the border, flames at oil towers rise. From capitals in Europe came a careful, measured “no” To a polished peace committee dressed for someone else’s show. Sources: Partial government shutdown looms as ICE negotiations stall DHS shutdown all but certain as Democrats and Trump White House can't cut deal DHS expected to shut down as immigration talks falter A partial government shutdown is about to hit DHS Verse 6 — The grand jury’s no A jury in the federal hush said, “Not today, no case,” For a senator and colleagues who had spoken to the base: “Disobey what isn’t lawful”—that was all the video held, Justice pushed the charge, but then the public gateway held. Mark Kelly named the playbook, said it tasted of control, Even rivals breathed a sigh, feeling brakes upon the roll. Sources: Trump administration updates - February 11, 2026 Live updates: Trump meets with Netanyahu Final Chorus — Exciting ending Oh the world keeps turning, but tonight we choose to see, We count the heartbeats, not the tallies on a screen. Raise a hand for mercy, raise a living, fearless plea— Truth is a drumline now, come crash it, wild and free. Tag Strike up the streetlamp choir, ring out the breaking day, From shutdown lines to open doors, we’ll sing it anyway. Name the lost, lift the fallen, let the last first be— Headlines in a minor key, resolve to A to C.

Storms, Secrets, and the Turning Hour Verse 1 A vault of papers breathes like thunder on the hill, Lawmakers in quiet rooms turn pages, hold their chill. Howard Lutnick says he went to that far shore, Ro Khanna read the names that everyone’s heard before. Old notes say Trump told Palm Beach cops he was relieved, Survivors cry, “You showed us, while the powerful stay screened.” Pam Bondi faced a fire of questions, smoke and glare— Truth’s a fragile lantern in a courthouse of despair. Sources: February 10, 2026 – Trump administration updates - CNN Struggling to navigate the Epstein files? Here is a visual guide - Al Jazeera Members of Congress will be able to view unredacted Epstein files - NBC News Massive trove of Epstein files released by DOJ - CBS News Chorus Hold fast, hold on, to the brittle, blazing light, When storms break hearts and power dims the night. Raise your voice, keep the door to daylight open wide, Let mercy be the current, let the truth decide. Verse 2 In Hong Kong, ink was branded as a crime of breath, Jimmy Lai stood tall as headlines met a harsher test. Under a new iron law, his paper’s flame went low, Rights defenders called it cruel, said justice turned to stone. Colleagues chained by pages, Western capitals implore, “Free the press, free the pen,” from shore to distant shore. Sources: Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison - CNN Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison - Al Jazeera Hong Kong: Publisher Jimmy Lai Sentenced to 20 Years - Human Rights Watch Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison - Committee to Protect Journalists Chorus Hold fast, hold on, to the brittle, blazing light, When storms break hearts and power dims the night. Raise your voice, keep the door to daylight open wide, Let mercy be the current, let the truth decide. Verse 3 Gezani roared through Toamasina’s tender frame, Roofs unstitched from rafters, streets forgot their names. Homes now drink the flood, the lines have all gone black, Too many counted missing, too many won’t come back. The UN moves like rain, the president walks the scars, The storm drifts westward slowly, still speaking to the stars. Sources: 'Monstrous': Cyclone Gezani hits Madagascar, leaving at least 20 dead - Al Jazeera Tropical Cyclone Gezani Hits Madagascar and Kills at Least 20 - US News Cyclone Gezani Tears Through Madagascar, Kills at Least 31 - Reuters via US News Chorus Hold fast, hold on, to the brittle, blazing light, When storms break hearts and power dims the night. Raise your voice, keep the door to daylight open wide, Let mercy be the current, let the truth decide. Verse 4 We lost a face that held a thousand coming-of-age skies, James Van Der Beek met the end with courage in his eyes. Kimberly shared the news, a family braced by grace, Bills stacked like mountains, love filled every space. Friends from screens and stages laid their flowers in the feed, A spouse and many children, a legacy of need. Sources: James Van Der Beek, 'Dawson's Creek' star, has died - CNN James Van Der Beek, 'Dawson's Creek' star, dies at 48 after cancer battle - NBC News James Van Der Beek, 'Dawson's Creek' star, dies at 48 after cancer diagnosis - CBS News Chorus Hold fast, hold on, to the brittle, blazing light, When storms break hearts and power dims the night. Raise your voice, keep the door to daylight open wide, Let mercy be the current, let the truth decide. Verse 5 In Oman’s shadowed rooms, the whispers try again, Araghchi meets the envoys, ink between the men. Trump says, “Deal—or something hard, like once before,” Steel floats on the water, missiles crouch on floors. From Tehran, wary voices say war won’t make it right, “Talk through the thunder, let reason end the fight.” Sources: Early Edition: February 11, 2026 - Just Security Headlines for February 11, 2026 - Democracy Now! Wednesday morning news: February 11, 2026 - WORLD Chorus Hold fast, hold on, to the brittle, blazing light, When storms break hearts and power dims the night. Raise your voice, keep the door to daylight open wide, Let mercy be the current, let the truth decide. Verse 6 At the White House gates, two old allies share a room, Netanyahu and Trump weigh candles against doom. No final map was drawn, but talks must carry on, Gaza in the margins, old strikes like a ghosted song. Another fleet may gather, or a promise may take wing— Will we choose the drums of war, or let the diplomats sing? Sources: After 3-hour meeting, Trump says he 'insisted' to Netanyahu that Iran talks continue - Times of Israel Trump, Netanyahu end meeting with no deal on Iran strategy - The Hill Live updates: Trump meets with Netanyahu to discuss Iran relations - CNN Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to meet with Trump at the White House - NPR Final Chorus and Coda Hold fast, hold on, to the brittle, blazing light, When storms break hearts and power dims the night. Raise your voice, keep the door to daylight open wide, Let mercy be the current, let the truth decide. So sing for the silenced and the soaked and the brave, For the newsroom in chains and the names they couldn’t save. For the family in mourning and the sea-bitten town, For the table where rivals could finally sit down. Let the last note rise above engines and roar— A promise, not a warning; an open, human door.

Wires, Borders, and Secrets Verse 1 Sirens on the river, winter gnaws the wire, Engines hum above the grids, a city starved of fire. A promised pause is over, the dark comes back to stay, Kitchens burn with candles while the front line shifts its clay. Tenements without a heartbeat, breath turned into steam, A power plant remembers when the lights were more than dreams. Sources: Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,445 The Russia-Ukraine War Report Card, Feb. 4, 2026 Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,447 Chorus Hold the line, keep the lamps alive, From frozen streets to marble heights. Every border, bargain, shadowed drive— We’re stitching day from broken nights. Raise a song where the headlines fray, Let truth be loud when the world turns gray. Verse 2 Clock hands on the Capitol, a gate about to close, Badges in the spotlight where a colder wind now blows. Mothers at the airports, storm maps in a van, Coastlines, codes, and motorcades all tied to one thin plan. After shots in Minneapolis, demands for eyes and names, A warrant at the doorway, an end to roving games. Sources: This week on the Hill: DHS shutdown inching closer as funding deadline looms House narrowly passes bill to end shutdown, but divisive DHS funding fight remains ICE negotiations could lead to a DHS shutdown. Its effects would go beyond immigration The clock runs down on DHS funding as lawmakers look for a path out of another shutdown fight Chorus Hold the line, keep the lamps alive, From frozen streets to marble heights. Every border, bargain, shadowed drive— We’re stitching day from broken nights. Raise a song where the headlines fray, Let truth be loud when the world turns gray. Verse 3 A motorcade to Washington, the blinds are drawn inside, A prime minister with dossiers, a president who decides. Talk of deeper curbs on rockets, quiet wars by proxy hands, And a promise to unwrite a rule that shaped the climate’s plans. Meetings pulled in early, whispers sharpened thin, Maps of desert ranges where the sky remembers sin. Sources: Why Iran, not Gaza, is expected to top agenda for Trump-Netanyahu meeting in Washington Netanyahu to hold urgent meeting with Trump Wednesday amid Iran negotiations Netanyahu to meet Trump on Feb. 11 as Iran talks set to continue Netanyahu to discuss potential Iran strikes with Trump as Washington and Tehran resume talks Verse 4 A screen inside a hearing room, a voice that will not speak, “Grant me grace,” she says, “I’ll tell you everything you seek.” Names like thunderclouds are drifting over sealed file drawers, A chair calls it a letdown as the press waits at the doors. She swears she holds the stories that could wash the altars clean, While justice sifts the ashes of an island’s shattered sheen. Sources: Ghislaine Maxwell refuses US Congress testimony on Epstein, seeks clemency Ghislaine Maxwell invokes 5th Amendment in closed-door House Oversight deposition Epstein files fallout grows as Ghislaine Maxwell pleads Fifth before Congress Maxwell Offers to Prove Trump 'Innocent' in Exchange for Clemency Chorus Hold the line, keep the lamps alive, From frozen streets to marble heights. Every border, bargain, shadowed drive— We’re stitching day from broken nights. Raise a song where the headlines fray, Let truth be loud when the world turns gray. Verse 5 A pistol coughs in Moscow, a shadow on the snow, A general of secrets falls where winter traffic flows. The watchers say the trail runs west, to cities trimmed with flags, But the names they cast like anchors never answer, never brag. Silence hums in telegrams, denials left unsent, While the chessboard counts its pieces by the shape of each event. Sources: Portal:Current events/February 2026 - Wikipedia Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,447 Ukraine war latest updates: Kyiv carried out 3 offensive operations in 2025 Verse 6 The hills of ancient olives watch a ledger cross its lines, New papers let the buyers come where fences once confined. The chamber at the UN warns the door to peace grows thin, A truce by the sea is brittle while the settlers press again. From Riyadh up to Brussels, from Cairo to the Strand, A chorus says these measures carve a future out of sand. Sources: West Bank: New Israeli measures further erode prospects for two-State solution Why Iran, not Gaza, is expected to top agenda for Trump-Netanyahu meeting Final Chorus Hold the line, keep the lamps alive, From frozen streets to marble heights. Every border, bargain, shadowed drive— We’re stitching day from broken nights. Coda Light the grid, fund the guard, Cut the fuse on secrets charred. Truth to power, lock to key, Open roads to what can be. Raise your hands, lift your voice, Turn the dark into a choice— Strike the chord, let it ring, Till wires hum and people sing.

The Ink and the Iron Verse 1 — Hong Kong Harbor lights on paper ghosts, the presses long gone still, A tycoon of free words faces decades on the hill. Under a new hard law, the harshest swing so far, “Collusion” in the charge, “sedition” in the scar. From London to Taipei the calls ring out for release, Rights watchers say it’s cruel, a slow undoing of peace. Sources: Jimmy Lai: Hong Kong media tycoon sentenced to 20 years in prison after landmark national security trial Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison China critic and former media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in Hong Kong Hong Kong democracy activist Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years in prison for national security offenses Jimmy Lai jailed for 20 years in Hong Kong after nat. security conviction Chorus Hold, hold, the ink and the iron, Ballots and bars, thunder and lyres. We sing between sirens, we pray through the wire, Summer deadlines, winter choirs— Keep your light, keep your wire, keep your fire. Verse 2 — Ukraine Talks A clock in a distant capital points toward summer’s start, Miami on the map while blackouts bruise the heart. Swarms in the night sky, the grid hums, then it dies, A line in Donbas sand, a mirror trade of lives. They bargain through the static, through smoke and stubborn will, A table waits for footsteps that haven’t learned to be still. Sources: U.S. gave Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach a peace deal, Zelenskyy says Zelenskyy says US set June deadline for peace deal, as Russia launches new attacks on energy sites Zelensky says US wants Ukraine-Russia peace deal by June US has given Ukraine and Russia June deadline to end war: Zelenskyy Zelenskyy says U.S. gave Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach agreement to end war Verse 3 — UK Turmoil Rain over Westminster, resignations at the door, A chief and a voice of message don’t stand there anymore. An envoy crowned and questioned for ties that stain the page, Files widened out the shadow, now police test the cage. One call for a leader’s exit, one pledge to hold the line, A government on thin ice hums a fragile rhyme. Sources: UK PM's chief of staff resigns over Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador despite Epstein links Epstein files: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's chief of staff quits Pressure grows on UK PM Starmer as Scottish Labour leader urges him to quit Why the Epstein scandal is Keir Starmer's most perilous moment yet after chief of staff resigns Chorus Hold, hold, the ink and the iron, Ballots and bars, thunder and lyres. We sing between sirens, we pray through the wire, Summer deadlines, winter choirs— Keep your light, keep your wire, keep your fire. Verse 4 — Moscow Shot On a Moscow street a spymaster drops, then breathes again, Stitches chase the bullets, surgeons pull him back to men. The foreign minister points his finger toward Kyiv’s door, While silence answers questions that echo from the war. Sanctions on his shoulders, Skripal whispered in the rain, A suspect flown from desert heat to cold and guarded panes. Sources: Russian military intelligence general Vladimir Alekseyev shot in Moscow Russian general shot and wounded in Moscow, in latest attack on top military leaders Top Russian general shot in Moscow as talks stall on Ukraine ceasefire Senior Russian officer shot in Moscow in apparent assassination attempt Verse 5 — Japan’s Wave Across the rising sun a first breaks through the glass, A snap roll of the dice becomes a roaring mass. A mandate wide enough to bend the upper room, Talk of pacifist pages turned, new shields to bloom. Young hearts lift her banner, old lines shift their ground, Conservatives and cautions in a single thunder sound. Sources: Japan's Takaichi to pursue conservative agenda after election landslide Japan's Sanae Takaichi secures parliamentary majority in election win Japan's Takaichi tightens grip on power with stunning victory in snap election Japan's Takaichi Wins Big in Snap Election: What to Know Japan's Sanae Takaichi wins a supermajority after gambling on a snap election Chorus Hold, hold, the ink and the iron, Ballots and bars, thunder and lyres. We sing between sirens, we pray through the wire, Summer deadlines, winter choirs— Keep your light, keep your wire, keep your fire. Verse 6 — Portugal’s Tide By the Atlantic walls a moderate claims the hall, A runoff rare as comets paints near every district tall. The far-right’s tide recedes, the map turns ocean blue, Europe leans and listens for what the winds will do. A ceremonial seal that still can clear the stage, He vows to bridge the waters with a careful, steady page. Sources: Center-left Socialist candidate wins over populist in Portugal's presidential runoff Portugal elects Socialist Party's Seguro as president in landslide Portugal chooses between a moderate and a populist in runoff presidential election Seguro wins Portugal presidency with 66.2% of vote Final Chorus and Ending Hold, hold, the ink and the iron, Ballots and bars, thunder and lyres. We sing between sirens, we pray through the wire, Summer deadlines, winter choirs— Keep your light, keep your wire, keep your fire. Raise up the roof of the world tonight, Let pens be drums and truth be bright. From Hong Kong’s quay to Kyiv’s gate, From London rain to Moscow’s slate, From Tokyo’s dawn to Lisbon’s sea— Let law be just, let captives free, Let votes ring clear, let wars cease firing, And let our last line land like lightning.

Paper Cuts and Peace Talks Verse 1 In a city of headlines, the lights went dim, Newsroom chairs spun with nobody in them. Sports went silent, bookshelves bare, The daily voices hushed in the air. A publisher stepped down after the storm, A numbers man moved in to keep the form. The guild cried out to the man with the keys, “Undo this harm or set us free.” An old editor called it the darkest morn, Blamed a choice not to take a stand before dawn, Said readers left when the compass broke, And the paper’s promise thinned to smoke. Sources: Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post conducts widespread layoffs Washington Post lays off one-third of its newsroom Washington Post CEO resigns after sweeping layoffs Bezos orders layoffs at 'Washington Post' Sweeping layoffs at The Washington Post will do 'enormous damage' Chorus Paper cuts and peace talks, we’re bleeding and we’re bold, From battlefields to boardrooms where the stories are told. Hold on through the feedback, hold out for the dawn, The ink of our tomorrow is still being drawn. Verse 2 By desert towers and mirrored glass, Rivals met, let a moment pass. A summer line drawn thin as thread, While maps of the east stay heavy with lead. They swapped the promise of sons and brothers, But the stones in the boots still grind each other. Donbas lingers like a tolling bell, One side says leave, the other says never sell. Miami breezes might carry the plea, If the heat of pride can cool at sea. Sources: US gave Ukraine and Russia June deadline to reach peace agreement US has given Ukraine and Russia June deadline to end war: Zelenskyy Ukraine says first day of peace talks with Russia 'productive' Chorus Paper cuts and peace talks, we’re bleeding and we’re bold, From battlefields to boardrooms where the stories are told. Hold on through the feedback, hold out for the dawn, The ink of our tomorrow is still being drawn. Verse 3 On Downing Street, a whisper turned to flame, A loyal hand stepped back and named his name. He owned the call that crossed the foam, Sent a man to Washington who should’ve stayed home. Old shadows from an island’s shore, Tangled emails, unlocked doors. They said the harm was trust itself, And knocking on a lord’s high shelf, The badges came to seize the threads Of secrets carried on guilty breaths. Sources: UK PM's chief of staff resigns over Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador Morgan McSweeney - Wikipedia McSweeney resigns as British PM's chief of staff Irish man Morgan McSweeney resigns as Keir Starmer's chief of staff Verse 4 In Oman’s hush, with curtains drawn, Messages traveled before the dawn. They called it a start, not the end of the maze, Said the capitals would measure the days. A President smiled at the tone of the room, While fears of thunder gathered and loomed. Envoys spoke in careful art, An admiral’s shadow played its part. Between the sabers and the sand, A narrow bridge reached hand to hand. Sources: Iran says talks with US in Oman 'a good start' CNN Politics: Trump Administration News NPR World News Chorus Paper cuts and peace talks, we’re bleeding and we’re bold, From battlefields to boardrooms where the stories are told. Hold on through the feedback, hold out for the dawn, The ink of our tomorrow is still being drawn. Verse 5 The War Department turned from crimson halls, Called the ivy’s echo unfit for calls. Said the campus chant has lost the way, Pulled its programs and walked away. A framed degree returned in spite, Courtroom sparks lit up the night. A fortune dangled like a chain, While other towers brace for rain. Between the barracks and the bell, A lesson’s cost is hard to tell. Sources: Pentagon to end military training at 'woke' Harvard Pentagon says it's cutting ties with 'woke' Harvard Pentagon Says It Will Cut Academic Ties With Harvard University Pentagon cuts academic ties with 'woke' Harvard Verse 6 January’s wind cut deep and cold, The hiring drum beat faint and old. A driver’s giant lost its deal, Restructures turned the factory wheel. Tariffs, borders, tilted plans, AI humming in idle vans. Some blamed markets, some blamed code, As paychecks vanished down the road. The want ads whispered, thin and few, While hopeful hearts stitched something new. Sources: The job market was already 'slim pickings.' New data shows it just got worse US Treasury Economy Statement CBS News Bridge We are headlines on a kitchen table, Coffee rings and fables, A chorus caught between the wars, Between closed doors and open shores. Final Chorus and Ending Paper cuts and peace talks, we’re bleeding and we’re bold, From battlefields to boardrooms where the stories are told. Hold on through the feedback, hold out for the dawn, The ink of our tomorrow is still being drawn. So lift your pens and strike the chords, Call back the truth, unbind the swords. Let summer wind unmake the war, Let classrooms, newsrooms, hire once more. From Oman’s hush to Miami’s light, From Fleet Street ghosts to Harvard’s night, We’ll tune this fractured, roaring song— Turn up the heart, and play it strong.

Open Lines, Twin Flames Verse 1 — The treaty turned to dust The treaty turned to dust The last paper promise between old rivals blew away, Cold metal glints where ink once held the day. The UN’s quiet thunder called it a grave hour, A president said, start anew, bring another power. And the wind learned a word it hoped we’d forgotten: Arms unbound, red buttons, fears unsoftened. Sources: UN chief warns of 'grave moment' as final US-Russia nuclear arms treaty expires Why it matters that the U.S.-Russia New START nuclear treaty expired Fears of new nuclear arms race grow as key U.S.-Russia treaty expires New START Nuclear Arms Control Treaty Expires Between Russia, U.S. Chorus Hold the line, light the flame, Sing the names we’re afraid to name. When the sky feels close to breaking, Keep the call, keep the faith in making Open lines, twin flames, Across our fault lines, say our names. We are more than what divides us, We are bridges if we try this. Verse 2 — After Abu Dhabi In the heat of the Gulf, a door found its hinge, War maps folded back on the table’s edge. Voices in uniforms cleared a dusty wire, Prisoners crossed midnight toward home and fire. After long winters with phones gone still, Two old armies tried learning will. Sources: 'Washington Post' CEO Will Lewis resigns after massive layoffs announced Washington Post publisher Will Lewis abruptly steps down, days after massive layoffs gut the newspaper Washington Post publisher Will Lewis resigns just days after paper enacts mass layoffs Will Lewis steps down as publisher and chief executive of The Washington Post Verse 3 — Whispers in Oman Across a quiet sea, messages bent the air, Indirect syllables, careful as a prayer. Witkoff and Kushner carried stateside light, An admiral lingered, a shadow in sight. Tehran and Washington called it a good start, And promised to answer with a measured heart. Sources: Iran says talks with US in Oman 'a good start', more discussions expected February 6, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode February 6, 2026 – Trump administration news, Congress still in funding stalemate Chorus Hold the line, light the flame, Sing the names we’re afraid to name. When the sky feels close to breaking, Keep the call, keep the faith in making Open lines, twin flames, Across our fault lines, say our names. We are more than what divides us, We are bridges if we try this. Verse 4 — Newsprint and nightfall A publisher slipped out as pink slips fell, A party flashed cameras while a newsroom yelled. The guild said the exit was overdue rain, A finance hand steadies a ship in pain. Ink on sleeves, courage in the halls, A great old paper still answers calls. Sources: Milan Cortina 2026: First gold medals and record-setting hometown hero Everything that happened on Friday, February 6 at the Winter Olympics From San Siro to the Dolomites: A multi-site opening sets the tone for Milano Cortina 2026 Verse 5 — Classrooms and uniforms The Pentagon’s voice cut the ivy vine, Said the campus had drifted past the line. Training and fellowships turned to no, Other towers of brick await the blow. A standoff tall as a courthouse wall, Words like woke haunt the mess hall. Sources: Pentagon says it's cutting ties with 'woke' Harvard, discontinuing military training and fellowships Pentagon says it's cutting ties with 'woke' Harvard, ending military training Pentagon Says It Will Cut Academic Ties With Harvard University Verse 6 — From San Siro to the snow A stadium roared and the mountains sang, Mariah’s shine, Bocelli’s rang. Laura raised a lantern bright, Twin flames climbed different nights. From nearly every corner they came to play, And ski on the sky where the peaks make way. Sources: U.S. and Russia agree to reestablish military dialogue after Ukraine talks US and Russia agree to re-establish military dialogue after Ukraine peace talks in Abu Dhabi Ukraine, Russia conduct POW swap after trilateral talks with US end Bridge Pick up, pick up, every ringing phone, From Tahrir’s dust to the Dolomite stone. Sign what you can, undo what you must, Send them home, rebuild trust. Let the presses roll, let the teachers teach, Let the hard words meet the outstretched reach. If the last deal dies, write a better one, If the dark says stay, run toward the sun. Final Chorus — Exciting ending Hold the line, light the flame, Call me by our braver name. When the night starts detonating, We’ll be here, illuminating: Open lines, twin flames, Over borders, over blame. Drums in the heart, boots on the ground, Voices rise—turn it around. Outro From paper to mountain, from lecture to base, From gulf water whispers to a thawing face— If this is our hour and the fuse is low, Then talk, then sing, then let mercy grow. Open lines, twin flames—go, go, go.

Headlines Without a Net Verse 1 — Plutonium skies The clock ran out on a paper shield, and silence filled the halls, For the first time in generations, there’s no ceiling on the fall. The UN rang a warning bell, called it a grave and fragile hour, Two giants hold most of the world’s fire, and both can raise the power. One leader says the deal was bad, wants a shiny brand-new frame, Moscow answers, step too close and we’ll answer just the same. And in the wings a rising state won’t pull a chair up yet— Old frost starts breathing warmer—headlines without a net. Sources: UN chief warns of 'grave moment' as final US-Russia nuclear arms treaty expires Fears of new nuclear arms race grow as key U.S.-Russia treaty expires Why it matters that the U.S.-Russia New START nuclear treaty expired The expiration of New START: what it means and what's next New START - Wikipedia Chorus Hold me through the breaking news, while the world rewrites the rules, Treaties break and markets shake, the future tests our tools. If the past has run out of ink, let our better angels choose— Sing louder than the sirens, don’t let the daylight lose. Verse 2 — Muscat whispers Across the dunes in Muscat rooms, they spoke through separate doors, An admiral’s ribbons glinted, with a carrier just offshore. Envoys traded careful lines, only one file on the table, Tehran said keep it narrow, Washington pressed the fable Of zero in the core of things, and locks on every gate; Sanctions, oil, and dignity, they’ll take it back to state. Oman set down a welcome rug, to steady nervous feet, And the White House kept its options wide, should talking fall to heat. Sources: US and Iran conclude high-stakes talks in Oman U.S. holds indirect talks with Iran US-Iran updates: FM Araghchi says latest round of talks 'a good start' Iran and US to reopen nuclear talks in Oman US-Iran nuclear talks conclude in Oman Chorus Hold me through the breaking news, while the world rewrites the rules, Treaties break and markets shake, the future tests our tools. If the past has run out of ink, let our better angels choose— Sing louder than the sirens, don’t let the daylight lose. Verse 3 — The coworker made of code A new colleague took an empty chair and quietly read the room, Sorted files, drafted lines, plugged straight into the loom. An upgraded mind with longer reach, remembering every thread, And markets felt the earth tilt hard, old castles filled with dread. Legal names and cloud kings slipped, as boards did midnight math, A founder warned the junior ranks might feel the first hard draft. We’re cheering what we summoned, and flinching at its teeth— A brilliance that can write our jobs while asking for our grief. Sources: Anthropic's new AI tool sends shudders through software stocks Anthropic Opus 4.6: The AI that shook software stocks gets a big update Anthropic AI Tool Sparks Selloff From Software to Broader Market AI fears pummel software stocks Why a new AI tool hammered some software stocks this week Verse 4 — The presses dim A storied newsroom dimmed its lights, cut beats we used to trust— Sports and books, far-flung desks, folded into dust. A former chief called darkest days, the guild said this was choice, While the owner’s shadow lengthened over every quiet voice. They killed a nod in campaign time, and some readers walked away, Search went thin as machines rose, and ad winds couldn’t stay. But somewhere in that empty space, a stubborn pencil hums— The truth keeps tapping at the glass, to hear the printing drums. Sources: Washington Post lays off one-third of its newsroom Washington Post announces massive layoffs Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post conducts widespread layoffs Bezos orders layoffs at Washington Post The Washington Post lays off a third of its staff Verse 5 — Five rings, frayed edges In the city of five rings to come, a chair now feels the heat, Old emails surfaced flirting lines, a name too dark to meet. He says he never shared their world, just one long-ago flight, Regret now loops the evening news, apologizing light. Supervisors call for change, a senator adds her name, The mayor holds her counsel, while the Olympic torch stays flame. The committee speaks of full trust still, the crowd won’t soon forget— How easily the brightest stage can trip on tangled nets. Sources: LA Olympics chief faces calls to resign after flirty emails with Maxwell revealed LA County supervisors call on Casey Wasserman to resign Calls grow for LA28 chair Casey Wasserman to resign Citing Epstein files, calls grow for LA Olympics chief to step down LA Olympics chairman Casey Wasserman urged to resign Verse 6 — Beef and borders From pampas grass to prairie wind, the tariffs start to fall, Beef ships swell to ease the pinch at dinner’s weary call. Poultry heads the other way, red tape thins for pork, A handshake spans the hemisphere, stamped by the highest fork. But ranchers on the county roads say futures stand at stake, And party lines draw dusty scars across the family gate. A bargain made to cool a cart can warm a bitter fight— Who feeds a nation’s table, and who gets priced from sight? Sources: Argentina and U.S. sign a major trade deal to slash tariffs Trump signs executive order quadrupling beef imports from Argentina Trump strikes deal to allow $800M in beef imports from Argentina Trump Boosts Argentina Beef Imports in Affordability Push Bridge All these pages turning faster than our hands can keep them bound, From warheads in the open air to jobs gone underground, From whispers in the desert night to lights out in the press— We’re tracing sparks across the dark, betting love can do the rest. Final Chorus Hold me through the breaking news, while the world rewrites the rules, Treaties break and markets shake, the future tests our tools. If the past has run out of ink, let our better angels choose— Sing louder than the sirens, don’t let the daylight lose. Ending So raise your voice like floodlights, Clap your hands like thunder’s met— We’ll write a kinder headline yet, On this wire without a net.

Headlines in the Key of Uncertain Days Verse 1 — Minnesota Drawdown In the cold up north, the buses pulled away, After nights of sirens and candlelit sway. Renee Nicole Good, Alex Pretti in the dawn, Two names the protests carry on and on. Tom Homan said the footprint’s getting small, Body cams coming to watch it all. The mayor says this surge should end for good, Bipartisan worry knocking on the wood. Sources: US border security chief withdrawing 700 immigration agents from Minnesota Border czar Tom Homan says 700 ICE and CBP officers are leaving Minneapolis Trump admin to withdraw 700 immigration agents from Minnesota 700 federal agents to leave Minnesota 'effective immediately' Chorus Headlines hum like power lines in a stormy sky, We’re walking that wire between doubt and why. Hold your neighbor close, keep your courage high, ’Cause the world keeps turning and we’re learning how to try. Verse 2 — New START Expires The last old lock on the war-room door fell through, A treaty turned to echoes, nothing left to do. The UN called it grave, a warning in the rain, While Russia’s unbound, yet open to talk again. A promise of a newer deal that widens who’s inside, But without a line on limits, nerves are hard to hide. We’re counting what we cannot say out loud, Praying thunderheads will spare the crowd. Sources: Why it matters that the U.S.-Russia New START nuclear treaty expired Fears of new nuclear arms race grow as key U.S.-Russia treaty expires UN chief warns of 'grave moment' as final US-Russia nuclear arms treaty expires Last Russia-US treaty on nuclear arms control set to expire Chorus Headlines hum like power lines in a stormy sky, We’re walking that wire between doubt and why. Hold your neighbor close, keep your courage high, ’Cause the world keeps turning and we’re learning how to try. Verse 3 — U.S.–Iran Talks in Oman They moved the table farther from the shouting sea, From plans in Turkey to Oman’s quiet plea. Tehran said, keep it nuclear, nothing else in view, Arab capitals whispered, don’t let talks fall through. Washington’s wary, but the chairs are set, With threats like shadows that we won’t forget. If words can lift what sabers weigh, Let the ink be heavier today. Sources: Iran and US agree to high-stakes nuclear talks in Oman US-Iran nuclear talks set for Oman on Friday, Tehran confirms Iran and the U.S. will hold nuclear talks Friday in Oman U.S.-Iran nuclear talks back on after Arab leaders lobby White House Verse 4 — Life Sentence for the Attempted Assassin Down in Florida, on a manicured green, A letter spelled the darkness that the world had seen. The gavel called it evil, deliberate and clear, An attack on the ballot, the heartbeat we revere. A life behind a door that won’t swing wide, With an appeal still planned for the other side. The law stood up where bullets tried, Democracy breathing, shaken but alive. Sources: Ryan Wesley Routh Sentenced to Life in Prison for Attempted Assassination of President Donald J. Trump Ryan Routh, convicted of trying to assassinate Trump, sentenced to life in prison Attempted Trump assassin Ryan Routh sentenced to life in prison Ryan Routh sentenced to life in prison for Trump assassination attempt Verse 5 — South Carolina Measles In Spartanburg the measles found a crack, A maternity ward, the line on a factory track. Mostly the unprotected felt the fever’s claim, Rise in shots as nurses call each name. Detention halls worry what a cough might do, And a nation guards a status it could lose. We learned this once; we’ll learn it twice— Community is not a roll of dice. Sources: South Carolina measles outbreak hits 876 with 29 new cases Measles continues to spread in the US, but with some letup South Carolina measles outbreak at 876 cases 2025 Measles Outbreak - South Carolina Department of Public Health Verse 6 — Washington Post Layoffs A newsroom’s lights flickered in a different age, Sports and books and voices cleared from the page. They blamed the hungry engines that scrape the search, While the guild cried out from a hollowed church. Subscribers drifted from a golden peak, And the boss took heat for trimming what we speak. Foreign desks thinned where the world begins, Who keeps watch when we box the lens? Sources: Washington Post lays off one-third of its newsroom The Washington Post lays off a third of its staff Bezos orders layoffs at Washington Post Jeff Bezos remains committed to Washington Post amid brutal layoffs Bridge Body cams rolling, treaties torn thin, Talks in the desert, may mercy begin. Vaccines rising, bylines fall, Justice echoes down the hall. We’re stitching every headline to a common thread— A promise to the living and a prayer for the dead. Final Chorus (Exciting Ending) Headlines roar like jet planes in a midnight sky, But we can light the runway where our futures fly. Link your hands to mine, lift the weary high, ’Cause the world keeps turning and we’re learning how to try— Turn the cameras on truth, set the pens to the page, Trade the rattle of sabers for a wiser stage. From the ward to the pressroom, from the border to the bay, We’ll sing it louder, stronger—let tomorrow find a way.

Cold Skies, Bright Torches Verse 1 On the eve of talks in desert light, the northern skies went black, A swarm of steel and static broke an energy ceasefire pact. Zelenskyy said they waited for the deepest winter sting, Kyiv’s towers shivered silent while the sirens tried to sing. On a roadside in the mines, a bus met fire and smoke, And Abu Dhabi’s careful words felt fragile as they spoke. Sources: Russia hits Ukraine energy targets with hundreds of drones, missiles, ahead of talks Russia resumes night strikes on major Ukrainian cities, ending brief reprieve agreed between Putin and Trump Russia bombards Ukraine with drones and missiles a day before planned peace talks Russia unleashes 521 missiles and drones on Ukraine in 2026's largest attack Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin bright line, Between the cold and the flame, between the wrong and the right. Headlines thunder, but the hearts still rhyme— We bend, we breathe, we carry the light. Verse 2 Under Florida sun and whispering pines, a rifle in the rough, Ryan Routh faced judgment day; the gavel answered tough. Judge Aileen Cannon named the plot deliberate and grim, A letter left in shaking ink said, “I failed you,” thin and dim. He fell against the courtroom’s edge, a storm within his skin, And all the guards of fortune closed the circle in. Sources: Ryan Routh, convicted of trying to assassinate Trump, sentenced to life in prison Ryan Wesley Routh Sentenced to Life in Prison for Attempted Assassination Ryan Routh sentenced to life in prison for Trump golf course assassination attempt Ryan Routh sentenced to life in prison in Trump 2024 assassination attempt Verse 3 Peter Mandelson took the floor, then stepped away from Lords, Epstein shadows, emails raw, and market-moving chords. The Met unsealed an inquiry into public trust betrayed, Old cables from across the sea and bailout hints conveyed. Starmer said the country’s faith was bartered in the dark, A title’s weight set down, a name that lost its spark. Sources: UK police launch investigation into ex-envoy Mandelson over Epstein ties British politician Peter Mandelson faces pressure to quit House of Lords after latest Epstein files release Criminal investigation launched into Mandelson over 'misconduct' in relation to Epstein emails Mandelson Resigns After UK Refers Epstein Emails to Police Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin bright line, Between the cold and the flame, between the wrong and the right. Headlines thunder, but the hearts still rhyme— We bend, we breathe, we carry the light. Verse 4 At the paper owned by Bezos, the newsroom dimmed its glow, Sports went quiet, Books fell shut, a podcast whispered low. The Middle East desk vanished like a byline in the rain, Marty Baron called it one of journalism’s hardest pains. Critics watched the handshakes and a power’s polished grin, While the Amazon beat fell silent where O’Donovan had been. Sources: Bezos orders layoffs at 'Washington Post' Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post conducts widespread layoffs, gutting a third of its staff Washington Post Layoffs Cut More Than 300 Employees at Jeff Bezos Paper Washington Post lays off one-third of its newsroom Verse 5 A pen stroke in the West Wing ended shutters on the state, The House stitched up a fragile patch with bridges small but brave. Most halls got humming once again, with one left on a clock, While Minneapolis ghosts pressed ICE for cameras on the shock. Crossed aisles, tight margins, a bargain in the night, Demands for boundaried badges under protest’s candlelight. Sources: Trump signs bill to end government shutdown and fund DHS for two weeks Trump signs funding bill to end shutdown after package clears House US House passes $1.2 trillion spending package to end government shutdown House passes funding package to end partial government shutdown Verse 6 Then the Alps breathed out a cheer and San Siro turned to song, Mariah, Bocelli, Pausini carried winter on. Curling stones slid early, ski mountaineers took flight, Lindsey Vonn said “I’ll be there,” through tendon, heart, and fight. The pros laced up their country’s flags, Snoop lifted up the torch, Twin cauldrons lit the valleys like two sunrise-splitting forts. Sources: Winter Olympics 2026 guide: All you need to know about the Milan Cortina Games Olympic Opening Ceremony - Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games Lindsey Vonn 'confident' to ski at 2026 Winter Olympics despite ruptured ACL Snoop Dogg carries Olympic torch ahead of 2026 Winter Games in Italy Final Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin bright line, Between the cold and the flame, between the wrong and the right. From blackouts to bylines, from courtrooms to ice, We bend, we breathe, we carry the light. Outro (Exciting Ending) Let the drums roll under Milan’s stars, Let Kyiv’s windows blaze again like scars that turned to art. Raise your voice for truth that’s paid in ink and time— We’re the crowd, we’re the choir, And the torch is still on fire, We bend, we breathe, we carry the light.

Pages, Rockets, and Restless Nights Verse 1 — Artemis holds her breath On the coast by the tall white flame, hydrogen whispered through the seams. Reid, Victor, Christina, Jeremy stepped back from the silver dream. They said, not yet, not until it’s safe— we’ll circle that pearl when it’s right. Quarantine loosens, training hums, we’ll fly when we can trust the night. Sources: Department of Justice Publishes 3.5 Million Responsive Pages in Compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act Powerful people, random redactions: 4 things to know about the latest Epstein files Breaking down some boldface names in the Epstein files What latest released files show about Epstein's ties with prominent figures Chorus Hold on to the thread in a world untied, truth is heavy but it shines when tried. Turn the lamps on every street and stage, keep faith, keep watch, keep turning the page. We’re louder together than the dark we face, hold fast, hold kind, hold space. Verse 2 — A flood of files A river of paper breaks the dam, names like thunder scrawl the sky. Power sits in the margins’ glow, but justice says it’s passing by. Victims’ doors left bare by hands that swore to shield their names, and far away, titles fall, resignations echo blame. Sources: Savannah Guthrie's Mother Remains Missing, Sheriff Shares Updates on Investigation What we know about Savannah Guthrie's missing mother Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, missing in Arizona; 'I believe she was abducted,' sheriff says Savannah Guthrie asks for prayers after her mother's disappearance Search continues for Savannah Guthrie's mom: 'We don't know where she is,' sheriff says Chorus Hold on to the thread in a world untied, truth is heavy but it shines when tried. Turn the lamps on every street and stage, keep faith, keep watch, keep turning the page. We’re louder together than the dark we face, hold fast, hold kind, hold space. Verse 3 — Cameras in the cold Kristi Noem says clip them on, every badge with a second sight. In Minneapolis, sirens ache— a coroner called one death a fight that shouldn’t have ended, not like that. A child walked out with his dad at last. Refugees with spotless hands say cuffs came quick and hope came fast with a lawsuit rising like a dawn. They promise lenses, promise light. Sources: Paris prosecutors summon Elon Musk after raid on X's French offices French authorities raid X offices in Paris, summon Musk in cybercrime probe Paris prosecutors raid X offices in France and summon Elon Musk French offices of Elon Musk's X platform raided by Paris cybercrime unit Paris prosecutor's cybercrime unit searches X office, Musk summoned Verse 4 — Paris knocks on X In Paris, doors gave way to boots, the platform faced a storm of claims: child abuse images and coded lies, deepfakes in borrowed names, denial dressed as speech itself, and algorithms tilting scales. They summoned voices at the top to speak before the tales. The platform called it theater, cruel, the watchdogs crossed the sea, and prosecutors signed off with a note: we’ll speak where we are free. Sources: ICE in Minnesota: DHS deploying body cameras to all federal agents Refugees relive the trauma they fled as ICE targets them in Minnesota Minnesota citizens detained by ICE are left rattled, even weeks later Chorus Hold on to the thread in a world untied, truth is heavy but it shines when tried. Turn the lamps on every street and stage, keep faith, keep watch, keep turning the page. We’re louder together than the dark we face, hold fast, hold kind, hold space. Verse 5 — Curtains and crowns He stamped his name on the river’s hall and promised walls reborn. Said lock the doors for years to come, tear down, reveal the form. Artists took their bows elsewhere, opera packed its scores. Kin and Congress raised their hands, asked who the temple’s for. What of the symphony, what of the art, what of the people’s place? A promise of faster, finer things, and a long, uncertain wait. Sources: NASA delays Artemis II moon mission launch NASA delays Artemis II moon launch after issues during rehearsal NASA delays the launch of Artemis II lunar mission by at least a month NASA Conducts Artemis II Fuel Test, Eyes March for Launch Opportunity Verse 6 — Desert missing A porch light burns in Tucson dusk, a church bench kept a space. The sheriff says she did not go, that house a haunted place. She walks not far but thinks so clear, the bureau combs the lines. They’re reading notes that smell of fear, and watching for a sign. Savannah left the bright world’s stage, to stand with grief and pray. A whisper: bring her safely home— let love outshine the fray. Sources: Kennedy Center to close for 2 years for construction in July, Trump says Trump says Kennedy Center will close for two years for renovations Trump says steel to be 'fully exposed' in Kennedy Center rebuild but 'not ripping it down' Trump announces 2-year closure of Kennedy Center for 'complete rebuilding' Final Chorus Hold on to the thread in a world untied, truth is heavy but it shines when tried. Turn the lamps on every street and stage, keep faith, keep watch, keep turning the page. We’re louder together than the dark we face, hold fast, hold kind, hold space. Ending Light the rockets, guard the names, film the badges, break the chains, raise the curtains, search the plains— turn the lights on, lift our gaze. We won’t look away, we won’t look away.

Borders, Pages, Stages, and Stars Verse 1 At Rafah, the gates breathe open just a crack, A ceasefire whisper carried on desert tracks. Egypt readies stretchers, sirens soft and low, EU coats at checkpoints watch the slow stream flow. Thousands wait with scans and scars to mend, Closed since spring, now a trickle toward an end. Sources: Gaza's Rafah border crossing with Egypt reopens for limited traffic Key Gaza border crossing reopens, a step forward in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire Gaza's Rafah crossing reopens for limited traffic Gaza: Limited Rafah crossing reopening sparks hope – but also 'massive trepidation' Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin lines of hope, Thread them through the dark like a sailor’s rope. Grief in the headlines, faith in the seams, We build by daylight what we lost in dreams. Hold on, world, don’t let go of the light— Small doors open, and hearts make them wide. Verse 2 In the steppe, a bus of miners never made it home, A drone found steel and bone on a gravel road alone. Hard hats, lunch pails, and an energy badge, A mother’s ward struck, sirens roll past the damage. Leaders book their seats for talks in desert air, Peace gets scheduled while the smoke hangs there. Sources: Russian drone strike kills 15 in Dnipro as Zelenskyy says more talks next week Russian drone attack on bus in Ukraine kills at least 12 Russian drone strike on bus in Ukraine kills 12 miners Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin lines of hope, Thread them through the dark like a sailor’s rope. Grief in the headlines, faith in the seams, We build by daylight what we lost in dreams. Hold on, world, don’t let go of the light— Small doors open, and hearts make them wide. Verse 3 Boxes burst with secrets, the files spill to the floor, A trove of names and shadows we’ve heard before. Power in the margins, but no verdicts in the ink, Some wounds exposed again where redactions break and shrink. The keepers of the record claim the law is done, Yet halls on the Hill ask why only part has run. Sources: Massive trove of Epstein files released by DOJ What's inside the latest Epstein files released by the Justice Department US Department of Justice releases 3 million new Epstein files DOJ releases tranche of Epstein files, says it has met its legal obligations Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin lines of hope, Thread them through the dark like a sailor’s rope. Grief in the headlines, faith in the seams, We build by daylight what we lost in dreams. Hold on, world, don’t let go of the light— Small doors open, and hearts make them wide. Verse 4 Moira’s lilt goes quiet, but the laugh still rings, From winter porches to quirky gilded things. Home alone no longer, the candles crowd the stage, Friends and heroes gather, write love across the page. Sketches bow on Saturday, the spotlight takes a knee, A queen of odd and tender leaves the key. Sources: Catherine O'Hara dies at 71. She starred in 'Schitt's Creek' and 'Home Alone' Seth Rogen, Eugene Levy and more pay tribute to Catherine O'Hara after her death Catherine O'Hara Dead at 71 Hollywood mourns the death of two-time Emmy winner Catherine O'Hara at age 71 Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin lines of hope, Thread them through the dark like a sailor’s rope. Grief in the headlines, faith in the seams, We build by daylight what we lost in dreams. Hold on, world, don’t let go of the light— Small doors open, and hearts make them wide. Verse 5 The clock ran out on paychecks and reports, A shuttered wing of government and frayed, impatient courts. Money for the border tied to how the badges act, Body cams and oversight in a bitter, careful pact. The House stacks bills like timber for a bridge, While the jobs page waits on a silent ridge. Sources: Government shutdown live updates as funding fight turns to the House WATCH LIVE: House convenes during partial government shutdown The House races to end shutdown Chorus Hold on, world, to the thin lines of hope, Thread them through the dark like a sailor’s rope. Grief in the headlines, faith in the seams, We build by daylight what we lost in dreams. Hold on, world, don’t let go of the light— Small doors open, and hearts make them wide. Verse 6 A riverfront temple to overtures and plays Goes dark on Independence, for long rebuilding days. A new name sparked walkouts, the balcony stands bare, A family’s wary voices drift across the air. Glass steps back, the opera waits offstage, The symphony asks where to set its page. Sources: Kennedy Center to close for construction for 2 years, Trump says Trump says Kennedy Center will close in July for two-year renovation Trump announces 2-year closure of Kennedy Center for 'complete rebuilding' Trump says he's closing the Kennedy Center for renovations. We have questions Final Chorus Hold on, world, strike the match and raise it high, From border dust to concert sky. Let the miners’ names be sung like steel, Let the paper mountain turn its wheel. Keep the lights for laughter that we’ve known, And when the halls go dark, we’ll make our own. Hold on, world—this fragile, blazing tide, Small doors open, and hearts make them wide. Hold on— We’re the chorus on the other side.

Ballots, Borders, and Breaking Storms Verse 1 Down in Texas where the highways hum, A door swung open and a blue tide come. A House seat filled, a Capitol step, A veteran’s voice that the county won’t forget. Long-red lines felt a shift in the night, Union boots laced for a longer fight. The party chiefs called it a warning bell, Saying change blows quiet before it starts to yell. Sources: Khamenei warns US of 'regional war' if Iran is attacked Iran's supreme leader warns any U.S. attack would spark 'regional war' Iran's supreme leader warns any US attack would spark 'regional war' U.S. regional allies push diplomatic offramp as Iran's supreme leader warns of 'regional war' Iran's Khamenei warns any U.S. attack would spark 'regional war' Chorus Headlines in the wind, hearts on the wire, Borders and ballots, smoke and fire. Every tide is turning, every road is torn, But mercy keeps on knocking like a break of dawn. Hold on to one another when the sirens moan— We’re building out of weather what we call home. Verse 2 Downtown L.A., drums through the day, “ICE out” rising where the sidewalks sway. Sunset fell, the mood turned rough, Bottles, sparks, and a winter of cuffs. Officers braced while the lines grew thin, Pepper in the air and the crowd pressed in. By morning count, the streets were sore, But the voices still echoed, “We can’t ignore.” Sources: Pakistan forces kill 145 militants in two-day battle after wave of attacks Pakistan says it has killed 145 'Indian-backed terrorists' in Balochistan after deadly attacks At least 145 people killed in multiple attacks in southwestern Pakistan Pakistan forces kill 145 militants after attacks in Balochistan 'Army alone can't neutralise grievances': What fuels Balochistan violence Chorus Headlines in the wind, hearts on the wire, Borders and ballots, smoke and fire. Every tide is turning, every road is torn, But mercy keeps on knocking like a break of dawn. Hold on to one another when the sirens moan— We’re building out of weather what we call home. Verse 3 Across the desert where the tankers crawl, A warning rolled like thunder: “Touch and it’s all.” The old man of Tehran raised a shaken fist, Said Washington hungers for oil in the mist. He named dissent a coup in disguise, Jailed the streets and shuttered the cries. Branded Europe’s armies with a bitter brand, Drew a line in sand after sand after sand. Sources: Gaza's Rafah border crossing with Egypt to reopen for limited travel Monday Gaza border crossing buzzes with activity after years of near-complete closure Israel partially reopens Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza in pilot Israel reopens Rafah crossing for limited passage of Gaza residents Verse 4 Balochistan shook with a single spark, Hospitals and markets torn in the dark. A rebel flag claimed the sorrow and smoke, While families counted each missing spoke. Islamabad pointed past the border’s seam, Delhi said no to the blame-filled stream. Women, children folded into prayer, And foreign cash paused, weighed by the air. Sources: Democrat Christian Menefee wins special election for U.S. House seat in Texas Democrat Taylor Rehmet wins a reliably Republican Texas state Senate seat, stunning GOP Democrat Taylor Rehmet flips GOP-held Texas state Senate seat in special election Fort Worth Democrat Rehmet wins Texas Senate seat Chorus Headlines in the wind, hearts on the wire, Borders and ballots, smoke and fire. Every tide is turning, every road is torn, But mercy keeps on knocking like a break of dawn. Hold on to one another when the sirens moan— We’re building out of weather what we call home. Verse 5 Rafah woke like a rusted gate, A pilot light flickered at a battered state. After so long closed by a season of war, An opening whispered along the border’s floor. The last hostage found in a field of grief, Cleared the path for a little relief. With Egypt and Europe steadying the door, Sick hearts prayed for a passage to shore. Sources: Live updates: Arrests made hours after hundreds gathered for another anti-ICE protest in downtown Los Angeles Verse 6 Then the ocean spun a cyclonic vow, Carolina silver under heavy boughs. Governor’s pen drew a line through the storm, Florida shivered past the usual norm. Flakes kissed palms by the Tampa bay, Power lines sagged in a frozen sway. Runways emptied, sky wrote “No,” But children learned the quiet art of snow. Sources: Bomb cyclone brings historic snow to North Carolina, flurries to Florida Bomb cyclone brings bitter cold and snow to the Southeast Powerful storm hits an East Coast still buried under last week's snow Live updates: Nor'easter 'bomb cyclone' hammers Carolinas with record snow Bomb cyclone to focus most of its furious snow on Carolinas Final Chorus Headlines in the wind, hearts on the wire, Borders and ballots, smoke and fire. Every tide is turning, every road is torn, But mercy keeps on knocking like a break of dawn. Raise your lantern high when the night storms blow— We’ll sing above the engines, above the undertow. From the streets to the deserts to the drifted loam, We’re building out of weather what we call home. We’re building out of weather what we call home.

Hold the Line, Light the Night Verse 1 Again they marched through Minneapolis streets, Against the cold blue glare of Operation Metro Surge. Renee Good, Alex Pretti carried in the chants, A strike of silence called across the land. From Los Angeles to New York and Boston bells, Some met the cuffs, some met the push—still they yelled. Sources: Demonstrators in Minneapolis, across U.S. protest ICE - CBS News Minnesota Photos: Thousands once again protest ICE in Minneapolis and across the U.S. - NPR Anti-ICE protests take place nationwide - ABC News Second 'National Day of Action' planned to demand 'ICE Out' of Minnesota - FOX 9 Chorus Hold the line, light the night, From courthouse steps to harbor tide. Keep your hand in mine, we’ll be alright, The world is shaking, but we won’t hide. Verse 2 In Los Angeles, bright lights turned to sirens by the stage, Don Lemon pulled from the crowd by federal hands. Charged for the story he told at Cities Church in St. Paul, About a protest that tested prayer and protest halls. “I will not be silenced,” he said to the cameras’ glare— Rights to worship, rights to speak, both laid bare. Sources: U.S. warns Iran over planned military drills - NBC News What to know about the Strait of Hormuz as Iran plans military drill - ABC News Iran to hold live-fire drills in Strait of Hormuz - Fox News US-Iran tensions: The diplomatic scramble to prevent a war - Al Jazeera Chorus Hold the line, light the night, From courthouse steps to harbor tide. Keep your hand in mine, we’ll be alright, The world is shaking, but we won’t hide. Verse 3 Past the midnight bell, doors hissed shut in D.C., Defense, state, treasury, health gone dim. The Senate stitched a bridge, the House stayed away, A split deal with the White House to buy a breath for homeland debate. Hakeem Jeffries said no fast track on this ride— The stall could linger like a winter tide. Sources: Former CNN journalist Don Lemon released following arrest - ABC News Feds arrest Don Lemon, Minnesota journalist and 2 others over church protest - NPR Former CNN anchor Don Lemon appears in court - CBS News Don Lemon arrested after covering protest at Minnesota church - NBC News Chorus Hold the line, light the night, From courthouse steps to harbor tide. Keep your hand in mine, we’ll be alright, The world is shaking, but we won’t hide. Verse 4 At the Strait of Hormuz, the Guards write fire on the sea, U.S. steel on the horizon, the Lincoln cutting deep. A “massive armada,” said Trump to the wind, CENTCOM warning, don’t churn the water thin. Inside Iran the toll of protest weighs like stone, While neighbors hustle prayers through a diplomat’s phone. Sources: What to know about the partial government shutdown - NPR Partial government shutdown begins as funding lapses despite Senate deal - CBS News Jeffries says Dems won't help fast-track Senate-passed funding measure - ABC News U.S. government partially shuts down - CNBC Chorus Hold the line, light the night, From courthouse steps to harbor tide. Keep your hand in mine, we’ll be alright, The world is shaking, but we won’t hide. Verse 5 A word from the Kremlin to Trump: pause the bombs over Kyiv, To make room for talks while blackouts blur the eve. Zelensky cautious—no ceasefire inked, no direct line, Just a brittle promise in a frost-bit time. The hush is short, the nights still long, Faint sparks trying to warm a city’s song. Sources: Confusion in Kyiv and Moscow after Trump says Putin agreed to pause attacks - NBC News Russia says it agreed to pause strikes on Kyiv until Sunday at Trump's request - CNN/KRDO Trump says Putin agreed to temporary halt in energy attacks on Ukraine - PBS News Trump says Russia to pause bombing Kyiv during extreme winter conditions - Al Jazeera Chorus Hold the line, light the night, From courthouse steps to harbor tide. Keep your hand in mine, we’ll be alright, The world is shaking, but we won’t hide. Verse 6 In Pretoria they stamped a passport: you must go, Persona non grata for the envoy from Jerusalem’s row. Insults at Ramaphosa from official lines, unannounced visits too, Then Israel answered—sent South Africa’s voice from Palestine through. Since The Hague heard Gaza’s cry, the rift’s grown wide, Washington watching with a tightening stride. Sources: South Africa orders expulsion of Israeli envoy - Al Jazeera South Africa expels Israel's top diplomat - PBS News South Africa expels Israel's top diplomat in a move that could prompt a strong reaction from the US - Washington Post Diplomatic ties fray further as South Africa and Israel kick out each other's envoys - Jewish Telegraphic Agency Final Chorus / Outro Hold the line, light the night, From courthouse steps to harbor tide. Raise your phones like lanterns bright, Let the straits and embassies hear our side. Bang on the rails, let sirens harmonize, From shuttered halls to winter skies. We are memory, we are spark, we are the fight— Hold the line, light the night—till dark breaks into light.

Storms in the Streets, Secrets in the Night Verse 1 — Streets and Sirens From New York to the Rose City, school bells turned to drums, In Minneapolis and Los Angeles, a restless chorus hums. They called a stay-at-home strike, don’t buy, don’t clock in, don’t roam, Operation Metro Surge met a nation that said “home.” Two names echo in the winter air, Renée and Alex gone, Under federal lights in Minneapolis, the candles still burn on. At a church the cameras gathered, and Don Lemon faced the dawn, When the cuffs came off by evening, the chants kept moving on. Sources: Live updates: ICE protests spread; Don Lemon released after arrest - NBC News Nationwide strike called Friday to protest ICE - CBS News Minnesota Hundreds of students walk out of class across Portland to protest ICE - OPB Operation Metro Surge - Wikipedia Chorus Storms in the streets, storms on the sea, Truth in the files, and a clock that won’t sleep. Hands to the heart, eyes to the sky, We’re holding our breath while the headlines fly. Turn the lights on, say the names right, Storms in the streets, secrets in the night. Verse 2 — Carrier on the Horizon A carrier cuts the desert wind where sea and sand collide, The Lincoln’s steel horizon meets a world with nowhere to hide. “Time is running out,” one voice says, another says “we’re ready,” With fingers on the trigger and a prayer to hold it steady. Tehran talks to Ankara while dragons and bears plead calm, Last year’s war still whispers like powder on a palm. In a narrow strait of tempers, where history coils tight, Every flare on the water begs someone to choose the light. Sources: Iran prepares for war as US military 'armada' approaches - Al Jazeera US-Iran tensions soar: What do both sides want? - Al Jazeera Likelihood Of US Strikes On Iran 'Very High' Amid Military Buildup - RFE/RL US Aircraft Carrier Arrives in the Middle East as Tensions With Iran Remain High - Military.com Chorus Storms in the streets, storms on the sea, Truth in the files, and a clock that won’t sleep. Hands to the heart, eyes to the sky, We’re holding our breath while the headlines fly. Turn the lights on, say the names right, Storms in the streets, secrets in the night. Verse 3 — The Files Boxes, drives, and binders spill a century of dust, The Act said open every door, and the hinges had to trust. The deputy faced the questions: no shelter for the crowned, Victims’ words and redactions where the darkest crimes are found. Interviews from long nights, a spreadsheet’s bitter haze, Unverified, unnamed wounds threaded through the maze. Some pages never see daylight, for the living and the lost, Because safety is a boundary no truth should try to cross. Sources: DOJ releases tranche of Epstein files, says it has met its legal obligations - NPR DOJ releasing 3 million pages of Epstein files, 'didn't protect' Trump, deputy AG says - ABC News Epstein files live updates on today's DOJ release - CBS News US Department of Justice releases 3 million new Epstein documents - Al Jazeera Verse 4 — The Gavel A judge weighed every syllable of precedent and pain, Said the heaviest old sentence would not ride this train. The man accused of stalking, of a CEO’s last breath, Won’t face the needle’s silence, but still could meet a living death. The law can sound like thunder, tortured, strange, and stark, Bound by higher rulings as it gropes across the dark. Autumn holds a courtroom where a jury takes its seat, And justice, slow and careful, learns again to find its feet. Sources: Luigi Mangione will not face the death penalty after judge nixes two federal counts - NBC News Luigi Mangione latest: Death penalty off the table, judge rules - ABC News Luigi Mangione won't face death penalty in CEO murder case - CNBC Judge rules Luigi Mangione should not face death penalty - NPR Verse 5 — Winter’s Second Knock Carolina pines lean low, Georgia fields brace tight, Virginia’s coast looks eastward at a wall of white. Appalachian backs are burdened, fences drift and groan, Fern already left her scars on power lines and bone. The plows remember last week, the sirens still recall, How ice can break a valley and snow can bury all. Now another breath of winter draws a darker line, And porch lamps glow like lighthouses, one by one, in time. Sources: Snowstorm headed to Southeast: North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia declare state of emergency - ABC News Nor'easter to bring blizzard-like snow - Washington Post Over 100 fatalities confirmed after major January 2026 U.S. winter storm - Watchers.news January 2026 North American winter storm - Wikipedia Verse 6 — Midnight on the Hill The Senate passed a lifeboat, but midnight’s still a knife, The House returns on Monday, and a pause divides our life. Most halls stay lit till autumn, one department counts the days, A brief reprieve for border lines while parties test their ways. An ICU nurse named Alex moves the needle through the crowd, Body cams on, no masks to hide, that’s what the floor allowed. The clock keeps warning softly as the chamber doors swing wide, Hold tight to what is human when the rulebooks collide. Sources: Senate votes to fund government ahead of Friday deadline but will negotiate restrictions on ICE - ABC News Senate passes funding deal, but government will still partially shutdown at midnight - CNBC Live updates: Senate votes to approve government funding deal - NBC News Bridge — Hold Fast From campuses to coastlines, from courtrooms into rain, From redacted pages trembling to a carrier’s iron chain, From candles under steeples to a dome that splits the night, We are not made for hiding, we are desperate for the light. Final Chorus — The Turn Storms in the streets, storms on the sea, Truth in the files, and a clock that won’t sleep. Hands to the heart, eyes to the sky, We won’t look away, we will testify. Turn the lights on, drop the masks, make it right— Let the storm break, let the truth bite— Storms in the streets, secrets in the night, And a new day rising, ready to fight.

Before The Clock Strikes Midnight Verse 1 — Funding Deal Ink on the Hill, just before the lights would dim, A handshake across the aisle, edges frayed and thin. They split the homeland from the rest to keep the doors open wide, After grief in Minneapolis, two flags hung side by side. President and Senate found a patchwork way to stand, Averted the quiet crash with a last‑minute plan. Sources: Trump threatens Iran with 'far worse' attack - CBS News Iran rejects Trump's threats, says ready to respond - Al Jazeera Trump says 'massive Armada' heading to Iran - ABC News Trump warns Iran time for nuclear deal is running out - NBC News Chorus Hold on, world, while the anchors drag and the winds ignite, While the headlines howl and the clock leans into night. We bend and breathe, through the storm and satellite, Hand in hand, we keep the light. Verse 2 — Threats Over Iran An armada rolls through waters where deserts meet the sea, A carrier’s steel shadow and a warning on TV. “Make a deal,” the message says, “or worse will come again,” While Tehran answers steady, “our fingers won’t pretend.” They say a spark from far away could set the whole sky to war, Two shores stare down the distance, counting what they’re fighting for. Sources: Iran slams 'selective outrage' after EU labels IRGC - Al Jazeera EU Designates Iran's Revolutionary Guards As Terrorist Organization - RFE/RL EU agrees to designate Iran's IRGC as terrorist group - Euronews Chorus Hold on, world, while the anchors drag and the winds ignite, While the headlines howl and the clock leans into night. We bend and breathe, through the storm and satellite, Hand in hand, we keep the light. Verse 3 — EU and the IRGC Across the old continent, every minister agreed, They penned the Guards beside the names that taught the world to bleed. France turned the page it held, and the chorus tightened ranks, “Repression has a reckoning,” they said without thanks. Tehran called it reckless, “illogical” and “unfair,” Warnings crossed the borders, heavy in the air. Sources: Democrats say they've reached agreement to avert shutdown - ABC News Trump backs Senate government funding deal - CNBC Senate to move ahead with spending deal - NPR Verse 4 — The Clock They set the clock a heartbeat closer than it’s ever been, Citing fire, rising seas, and code that lies within. They say the hardest truth is time we cannot buy, And every second squandered is a match against the sky. Disinformation’s whisper rides an artificial wind, While the needles draw the margins where the night begins. Sources: 'Doomsday Clock' 2026: How close we are to self-annihilation - ABC News 'Doomsday Clock' Moves Closer to Midnight Than Ever - TIME Doomsday Clock - Wikipedia Verse 5 — Southeast Storm A white roar gathers low from Georgia to the capes, The Carolinas brace as the coastal water shapes. Virginia prays the lines hold, Tennessee pulls tight, A governor calls emergency before the fall of night. Last week’s cold left neighborhoods in darkness, flights on hold, Even Florida’s far green fields are bracing for the cold. Sources: Potential blizzard headed to Southeast - ABC News Nor'easter to bring blizzard-like snow - Washington Post Winter storm updates: Dozens dead across US - ABC News Verse 6 — Amazon Layoffs In glass and chrome, a memo hums of “cutting through the dust,” “Reduce the layers, own the work,” and trust the learning rust. Another wave across the desks, as AI takes the stage, Efficiency’s bright promise turning someone else’s page. They’re given time to look within the sprawling hive of screens, While warehouses keep beating to the rhythm of machines. Sources: Amazon laying off about 16,000 corporate workers - CNBC Amazon announces layoffs - About Amazon Amazon announces wave of layoffs - KOMO News Chorus Hold on, world, while the anchors drag and the winds ignite, While the headlines howl and the clock leans into night. We bend and breathe, through the storm and satellite, Hand in hand, we keep the light. Ending So raise your voice above the sirens, let the steel ships hear you sing, Let the snow fall soft and wiser, let the colder hours ring. Turn the fear into a lantern, lift it high and burn it bright— Not tonight, not tonight, we keep the light.

Rails, Runways, Ballots, Borders Verse 1 In Minneapolis at a town hall, a voice on a bright-lit stage, Calling for a cabinet reckoning, to scrap the iron cage. A man rushed in with a syringe, a bitter splash of fear, But she stood firm, unhurt, spoke on; the feds drew near. They named a charge, they took him in, the crowd held fast and strong, While President Trump cast doubt and said she staged the wrong. A city aching from agents’ shots in a winter’s recent pain, The mic went quiet, then it sang again. Sources: Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar attacked during town hall meeting Rep. Ilhan Omar rushed by man on stage and sprayed with liquid at town hall event Man arrested after Ilhan Omar attacked during town hall in Minneapolis FBI takes over investigation into town hall attack on Rep. Ilhan Omar Chorus Hold your breath, the world keeps turning under thunder and grace, Rails and runways, ballots and borders, one fragile place. Some nights burn, some pens sign, some towers finally see— Through the noise, we keep the beat of a planet, a we. Verse 2 On rails through Kharkiv’s open dark, a passenger train in flight, From western towns to front-line fields, in a knife-edge winter night. Drones with foreign fingerprints struck steel and painted fire, Lives were lost, cars set ablaze, the tracks a funeral pyre. The president named it terrorism; no soldier on that car, Peace talks whisper in the cold as grids go dim and far. Railways trimmed the service back; the frost cut to the bone, A nation counted names alone. Sources: Russian strike on passenger train in northeastern Ukraine kills 5 Russia strikes passenger train in Ukraine, killing five Russia strikes civilian train in Ukraine, killing five, in an attack Zelensky calls 'terrorism' As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with deadly strike on train, is Starlink helping Moscow target civilians? Chorus Hold your breath, the world keeps turning under thunder and grace, Rails and runways, ballots and borders, one fragile place. Some nights burn, some pens sign, some towers finally see— Through the noise, we keep the beat of a planet, a we. Verse 3 In Fulton County’s humming hub, with boxes, dust, and locks, Agents served a warrant writ, went sifting through the stocks. They’re combing through that last big vote where claims still spin and spark, Some shout retribution loud, a partisan remark. The law says keep the pages safe; a lawsuit waits nearby, Though audits signed the tally clear, beneath Atlanta’s sky. The chain of custody unspools in fluorescent daylight’s glow, Democracy auditing itself to prove what people know. Sources: FBI conducts search at Fulton County election office in Georgia FBI agents search election hub in Fulton County, Georgia FBI executing search order connected with 2020 election at Fulton County elections center FBI searches Georgia county election hub in connection with Trump's 2020 election loss Chorus Hold your breath, the world keeps turning under thunder and grace, Rails and runways, ballots and borders, one fragile place. Some nights burn, some pens sign, some towers finally see— Through the noise, we keep the beat of a planet, a we. Verse 4 On Capitol Hill a clock ticks loud; the lights begin to fade, A budget wrestles border cops for room that must be made. After hometown shootings by the badge that guards the gate, Leaders vow to stall the cash until the rules abate. One side holds a slimmer edge but needs a wider door, Most offices could shutter soon while ICE would march once more, On money kept from days ago; the roads and shelters wait, For votes that never cross the gate. Sources: Most of the government could shut down this weekend. ICE operations would carry on. The government is barreling toward a partial shutdown over DHS funding Funding deal begins to unravel as Senate Democrats vow to oppose DHS bill Senate Democrats to vote against DHS funding Chorus Hold your breath, the world keeps turning under thunder and grace, Rails and runways, ballots and borders, one fragile place. Some nights burn, some pens sign, some towers finally see— Through the noise, we keep the beat of a planet, a we. Verse 5 By the river at the capital, two birds met in the sky— A jet with paying passengers, a Black Hawk passing by. The board said it was preventable, a map drawn far too near, A tower thin on staff and hope, too much left to the ear. They found sick altimeters, old warnings stacked like stone, Close calls piled up for years that never reached the throne. Now push the beacons lower still; let cautions sing below, So pilots hear the future shout, not learn it from the smoke. Sources: NTSB finds a series of 'systemic failures' led to D.C. midair crash $400 GPS device could have prevented deadly midair crash near DC: NTSB chair Federal investigators blame systemic failures for deadly DCA crash Investigators say deadly midair collision near DC followed years of ignored warnings about traffic Chorus Hold your breath, the world keeps turning under thunder and grace, Rails and runways, ballots and borders, one fragile place. Some nights burn, some pens sign, some towers finally see— Through the noise, we keep the beat of a planet, a we. Verse 6 Across the seas a handshake grew from seasons of delay, A trade wind loosed from tariff ropes to open up the way. Machines and medicine, the grapes that turn to gold, Cars once locked behind tall walls now rolling through the toll. For India, cloth and leather craft, bright gems and woven dreams, Find welcome ports and open gates with less at all the seams. Students, skilled hands crossing too, and talk of shared defense, A market stitched across the world, a bridge that finally bends. Sources: India, EU agree on 'mother of all' trade deals India and the EU clinch the 'mother of all deals' in a historic trade agreement India-EU trade deal: What does it do to tariffs and who benefits? 'Mother of all deals': How India-EU trade deal creates $27 trillion market Final Chorus / Outro So raise your eyes—let sirens warn, not write the songs we sing, Let trains run safe, let votes stay true, let halls hear everything. From Kyiv’s night to Georgia’s vaults, from Minneapolis rain, To deals that span the salted blue—turn the wheel again. Beat the drum, light the lights, count us in on the downbeat now, We bend, we blaze, we build—take a final, fearless bow.

Storms, Silences, and the Wires Between Us Verse 1 — The Winter Storm A spine of ice ran down the map, the sky turned iron gray, Airports slept on cots of snow, the runways lost their way. New York wore a heavy crown it hadn’t felt in years, In Texas, young hearts slipped beneath a pond and disappeared. The grids blinked like tired eyes, the cold bit through the bone, Airlines said they’d never seen a storm cut this close to home. Sirens, shovels, prayers and salt, a nation held its breath, And whispered, let the next front pass without another test. Sources: ABC News - Winter storm updates: Dozens dead across US NPR - U.S. winter storm deaths rise and power outages linger Al Jazeera - At least 30 dead as severe winter storm coats US in snow and ice Euronews - Death toll rises to 30 as freezing temperatures continue NBC New York - Snowfall totals; transit nightmare ongoing Chorus Oh, under one wide, restless sky, We’re counting candles, not the time. Through war and whiteout, deals and doubt, We carry one small flame around. From broken wires to healing hands, From trading floors to frozen lands, We fall, we mend, we speak, we try— Still singing under one wide sky. Verse 2 — Kharkiv in the Dark Most of Kharkiv lost its light, the night became a wall, Apartments cracked, a school went still, a child’s drawing on a hall. In Kyiv, sacred stones were bruised, a monastery scarred, In Odesa, windows wept and sirens wrote the stars. A general called for more to shield the cities from the rain, Saying what they used to catch is slipping through again. And somewhere at a table set for talks that never last, They set another date for hope to try and cut the past. Sources: Al Jazeera - Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,433 Radio Free Europe - New Round Of Russian Strikes Kill Four Ukrinform - War updates Chorus Oh, under one wide, restless sky, We’re counting candles, not the time. Through war and whiteout, deals and doubt, We carry one small flame around. From broken wires to healing hands, From trading floors to frozen lands, We fall, we mend, we speak, we try— Still singing under one wide sky. Verse 3 — Capitol Standoff Down on the Hill the clock ran thin, the doors half open, cold, They argued over border lines and what the jails should hold. A leader tried to split the bills, to send the easy through, But stalemates love a winter storm, and weather stalled it too. The odds climbed like a barroom bet with no one strong enough To call it off and keep the lights on ships and planes and trucks. They said the guards would carry on, the rest might fade to gray, While headlines circled, waiting for a final yea or nay. Sources: NBC News - Most of the government could shut down this weekend CNBC - The government is barreling toward a partial shutdown Fortune - Government shutdown odds hit 77% CNBC - Alex Pretti killing: Government shutdown odds grow Verse 4 — The Mother of All Deals Across an ocean, ink ran bright, a handshake broke the seal, After half a lifetime’s chase they named it mother of all deals. Tariffs on the heavy steel, on engines, meds, and dyes, Fell like autumn scales of rust from markets’ watchful eyes. A port of bankers opened up, the waves of trade grew wide, Two giants found a common step beneath the changing tides. With other powers raising walls and tariffs ringing steel, They wagered on a longer game, and turned the spinning wheel. Sources: Al Jazeera - India, EU agree on 'mother of all' trade deals NPR - India and EU clinch 'mother of all deals' in free trade agreement CNBC - India-EU trade deal: What does it do to tariffs European Commission - EU-India agreements Verse 5 — The Healer’s Farewell In Atlanta morning, quietly, a teacher took his rest, The man who drew a circle round a flame and quelled a pest. Ring the bell for ring vaccination, wisdom cut and clean, He taught the world to chase the spark, not sweep a crowded scene. From CDC to Carter’s porch, to gates that open wide, He wore a medal not for shine but lives he pulled from night. They called him baseball’s greatest name in halls of public health, He left us maps for ending plagues and ways to measure wealth. Sources: STAT News - Public health giant William Foege has died at 89 The Spokesman-Review - William Foege, medical pioneer who helped stamp out smallpox Philadelphia Inquirer - William Foege, 89, leader in smallpox eradication Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Dr. Bill Foege, former CDC director, dies at 89 Verse 6 — Circuits and Power Out on the edge of server farms where deserts meet the grid, A chipmaker doubled down on dreams the future can’t keep hid. They’re hunting land and lines and volts, the hardest things to scale, While racks of humming iron chase a thought across the veil. A scrappy shop of rented clouds stood up to titan heights, With GPUs like lanterns lit in code’s unending night. By decade’s end they aim to stitch a million minds in glass, Where capital and roadmaps point to where the sparks will land. Sources: Tech Startups - Top Tech News Today, January 26, 2026 Bridge Snow on the runway, smoke on the nave, Voices in chambers, brave after brave. Contracts and wire, memory and code, A healer’s old compass for a hard, new road. Final Chorus and Ending Oh, under one wide, restless sky, We’re counting candles, not the time. Through war and whiteout, deals and doubt, We carry one small flame around. From broken wires to healing hands, From trading floors to frozen lands, We fall, we mend, we speak, we try— Still singing under one wide sky. Light it, lift it, pass it on— Let the storm break, let the dark be gone. Raise the gates, mend the lines, Hold the center while the world realigns. Call the names, sign the seals, Shield the cities, close the deals, For the healer, for the child, For the future running wild— Keep singing under one wide sky.