Today’s roundup highlights Merriam-Webster’s tech-themed word of the year, President Trump’s proposal to build very small cars in U.S. factories, and the reunion of Michelle “Shelley” Newton after an alleged abduction more than 40 years ago. Other top stories include the Green Belt’s transformation into an 860-mile wildlife refuge and surprising dolphin-orca interactions off British Columbia. Plus: a drone-assisted water rescue near Seattle and cultural news from a Chanel subway runway to rising local tensions in an Appalachian town.
Tiny Cars, Wildlife Havens and Unlikely Friendships: Today’s Top Stories
A kei car in Sapporo, Japan. - Edgar Su/Reuters
Catch up on today’s most engaging stories: from Merriam-Webster’s tech-focused word of the year to surprising wildlife friendships and urgent human-interest reports. Below are concise summaries of the day’s top headlines, plus a quick quiz and where to find more.
Merriam-Webster Picks A Tech-Focused Word Of The Year
Merriam-Webster chose a word of the year that reflects how people relate to technology, nodding to the era of viral, often absurd videos — including the many talking-cat clips that have proliferated online.
Can Tiny Cars Solve Rising Prices?
President Donald Trump has suggested that U.S. factories build the very small cars common in parts of Asia and Europe to help reduce vehicle costs. Experts warn the plan faces complex challenges including production logistics, safety standards and regulatory hurdles.
Long-Lost Woman Reunited In Kentucky
Michelle “Shelley” Newton, who was allegedly abducted by her mother more than 40 years ago as a toddler, was recently reunited with family in Kentucky after a tipster came forward with crucial information.
Uniforms, Comfort And Participation
Concerns about tight or revealing athletic uniforms are prompting debate and policy changes. Some girls and young women report feeling uncomfortable enough to leave sports, and elite female athletes are pressing organizations to update uniform rules to be more inclusive.
The Green Belt: From Cold War Headache To Wildlife Refuge
The 860-mile Green Belt tracing the former border between West and East Germany — once among Europe’s most dangerous stretches — has become a thriving corridor for wildlife and a conservation success story.
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
Unusual Dolphin-Orca Interactions
Researchers off the coast of British Columbia have observed dolphins engaging amicably with orcas, long considered predators of dolphins. Scientists say they are beginning to understand the ecological or behavioral reasons behind these interactions.
Drone-Assisted Water Rescue Near Seattle
During rising floodwaters near Seattle, a man stranded on the roof of his car received a safety vest delivered by drone, which kept him afloat until a rescue helicopter arrived.
Other Notable Developments
Authorities said the son of Rob and Michele Reiner will be charged with murder in their deaths. The search for a person of interest in the Brown University shooting continues as the FBI releases a new video timeline. Separately, Fox News personality Pete Hegseth said a full video of a follow-up strike on an alleged drug boat will not be released to the public.
Culture And Features
Chanel staged a runway show in the New York City subway, transforming a gritty setting into a high-fashion backdrop. Tensions are rising in an Appalachian town over a growing White supremacist compound. Also: a longtime investigator discusses illicit antiquities trafficking, and a profile explores Warren Buffett’s calm, disciplined investing style.
Quiz: White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles gave candid, sometimes unflattering assessments of President Trump in interviews with which outlet? A. Wall Street Journal B. The New York Times C. Fox News D. Vanity Fair
Answer: D. Vanity Fair — In interviews with Vanity Fair, Wiles described the president as having “an alcoholic’s personality,” despite his reputation as a teetotaler.
This edition of 5 Things PM was edited and produced by CNN’s Kimberly Richardson and Jordan D. Brown. For more CNN news and newsletters, create an account at CNN.com.
