Hostages Taken in Sydney, December 16, 2014
On the morning of December 15, Australian immigrant Sheikh Haron held 40 people hostage at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe in Sydney, Australia.    One of Haron’s  demands included  a banner from police with “IS” printed on it, standing for the  Islamic State, the jihadist group of Muslims. The siege ended after 17 hours. Two hostages were killed as well as the lone terrorist.

Taliban Slaughter at Pakistan School, December 15, 2014
Around 10:00 am, Taliban terrorists burst into a Pakistani school killing 141 students and staff. As many as 100 students, mostly between 14-16 years old, were killed during an assembly in the school’s auditorium. Pakistan’s military raided the school. The seven terrorists were found dead.

CIA Comes Clean About Torture Methods, December 9, 2014
The CIA released a report disclosing the torture tactics that were used when questioning suspects from the 9/11 attacks.  The George W. Bush administration and several Congressman are among those being criticized for the interrogation protocol.

Ferguson Decision Made, Darren Wilson Will Not Be Indicted, November 24, 2014
The grand jury analyzing the shooting of Michael Brown by police officer Darren Wilson announced that Wilson would not be indicted.  Violent protests including use of tear gas, fire, and looting occurred after the announcement.

ISIS Murders Yet Another American, November 16 2014
U. S. aid worker Peter Kassig was killed by ISIS in Syria.  Details are emerging as to whether he was beheaded or shot.

Sony Hackers Demands Continue, November 24, 2014
Sony Pictures Entertainment was robbed of data including movies that have yet not been released along with confidential emails between Sony executives.  The group that hacked Sony says they will not distribute the information if their demands are met.  As of December 17, 2014, the hackers threatened to blow up movie theaters if Sony releases the movie, The Interview, into theaters.

Blackhawks Give Hope to Chicago Sports
Despite the Bears’ losing record, the Blackhawks have had an auspicious start.  They lead the Western conference with 21 wins and only 9 losses.