A deadly helicopter crash in Ukraine kills top Ukrainian authorities and children on the ground; the U.S. and China are meeting to discuss the outlook of our economies; and Congressman George Santos finds himself on two House committees. These stories and more highlight your daily morning rundown for Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023.
Ukraine helicopter crash
At least 16 people are dead and 30 others injured after a helicopter came crashing down near a kindergarten.
Among those on board the helicopter and killed were Ukraine’s secretary of state and two other top officials within its interior ministry.
All nine people on board and seven civilians on the ground died, including three children. The crash is under investigation.
U.S., China discuss economies amid differences
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is meeting with her Chinese counterpart today, discussing the world’s two largest economies.
The two countries don’t have much middle ground as tensions remain high over differences on Taiwan, COVID, and the war in Ukraine.
Both economies had slow growth in 2022. Trade and technology were both part of the discussions between the U.S. and China.
The meeting in China comes one day before the U.S. is expected to hit its debt ceiling. Ray Bogan has a full report detailing a warning from Yellen, ahead of the U.S. reaching its limit.
Santos’ seat on two House committees
Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., surrounded by controversy over a false resume, has new assignments in the House chamber. According to reports, he’s been given a seat on two committees — the Small Business Committee and the Science, Space, and Technology Committee.
Santos is under investigation as federal prosecutors are looking at his campaign finances. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said since the people elected Santos, it will be business as usual.
Other House members are seeking further investigations into Santos.
Plane issues mayday alert, safely lands
A plane traveling from New Zealand to Sydney has landed safely after it used a “may-day call” following a problem with one of its engines. One of its two engines failed while flying over the Pacific Ocean.
Pilots dealt with the problem for more than an hour before being able to safely land.
Passengers on board described it as just feeling like turbulence. They were unaware that a mayday call was sent out. This type of alert is issued only when a flight is in grave danger.
Nursing homes misdiagnosing schizophrenia
The federal government says it will begin a crackdown on nursing homes they suspect are over-prescribing antipsychotic drugs and mis-diagnosing residents with schizophrenia.
Less than 1% of the population is said to have schizophrenia, a serious disorder that causes delusions and scrambled thinking. Yet in recent years, about 100 nursing homes have reported 20% or more of their residents being schizophrenic. Those cases are suspected of not being properly diagnosed, yet nursing home staff still administer antipsychotic drugs. This type of medication is used to sedate patients.
The investigation was launched just this month and will target nursing homes already on their radar.
Sundance Film Festival returns
After two years of being virtual, the Sundance Film Festival will be returning to Park City, Utah, starting tomorrow.
The festival lasts for 10 days. It showcases dozens of independent films, and honors the art behind the filmmaking industry.
