UPDATE: A bus driver has been awarded the title of ‘Star of the Month’ for his exceptional efforts in promoting mental health awareness among colleagues and the community. Leigh Barker, who works with Stagecoach East Midlands in Newark, received a commendation certificate and a £100 Love2Shop voucher for his dedication to this crucial cause.

Barker’s advocacy focuses on the charity Andy’s Man Club, which aims to break the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. His initiatives include branding two of Stagecoach’s buses with the message #ITSOKAYTOTALK, ensuring that the conversation about mental health remains a priority. One colleague praised Barker’s unwavering commitment, stating, “I would like to nominate Leigh for his ongoing work in raising awareness of mental health, keeping it at the front of everyone’s minds.”

In early 2025, Stagecoach East Midlands took a significant step by wrapping two vehicles in Andy’s Man Club branding, a move that further demonstrates the company’s commitment to mental health awareness. The charity provides free peer-to-peer support groups across the UK, encouraging men to talk openly about their struggles.

Matt Cranwell, managing director of Stagecoach East Midlands, expressed pride in Barker’s accomplishments, noting, “Leigh’s actions led to the partnership we now have with Andy’s Man Club—a partnership that other Stagecoach operating companies are eager to join.” He emphasized that such commendations reflect core values like “we are stronger together” and “we support communities,” which Barker exemplifies daily.

Barker’s recognition is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health advocacy. His work not only impacts his colleagues but also resonates throughout the wider community, encouraging others to engage in vital conversations about mental health.

As discussions surrounding mental health continue to evolve, initiatives like Barker’s are crucial for fostering a supportive environment. The recognition he has received stands as an example for others in the industry, showcasing how individual efforts can create significant change.

For those inspired by Barker’s story, consider getting involved with local mental health initiatives or simply start a conversation with someone who may need support. Together, we can contribute to a culture where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized.

UPDATE: In a surprising twist, the late David McCallum, best known for his role as Donald “Ducky” Mallard on NCIS, is revealed to be the creator of one of the most recognizable hooks in hip-hop history. The tribute episode titled “The Edge” aired in 2025, honoring McCallum following his passing in 2023.

McCallum, who captivated audiences as a medical examiner on NCIS, was not just a beloved actor but also a talented musician. His instrumental track “The Edge” from his album, Music: A Bit More of Me, released during his rise to fame in the 1960s, found renewed life when it was sampled in Dr. Dre‘s iconic single “The Next Episode“, featuring Snoop Dogg. This song has become a staple in hip-hop culture, further solidifying McCallum’s impact on modern music.

The use of “The Edge” has extended beyond just hip-hop; it has been featured in films like The Dictator and Baby Driver, showcasing its versatility and enduring popularity. The hook has been sampled in various tracks by artists such as M.I.A. and Masta Ace, making McCallum’s music a significant part of the hip-hop landscape.

The NCIS prequel series, NCIS: Origins, paid heartfelt homage to his legacy, with actor Adam Campbell portraying a young Ducky. The episode not only featured McCallum’s original music but also highlighted his dual legacy as an actor and musician.

This revelation has sparked renewed interest in McCallum’s life and career, with fans expressing their appreciation for his contributions to both television and music. As hip-hop continues to evolve, McCallum’s influence remains a testament to the unexpected intersections of art and culture.

For fans of NCIS and hip-hop alike, the legacy of David McCallum is a powerful reminder of how one individual can impact multiple generations. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as more tributes and reflections surface in honor of McCallum’s remarkable life.

UPDATE: Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel unleashed a scathing critique of Donald Trump during his first show of 2026, condemning the former president’s recent tirades on Truth Social. Kimmel highlighted that Trump made an astonishing 556 posts during the two-week holiday break, with 89 posts alone in a single hour on January 5.

Kimmel’s monologue captured the urgency of Trump’s unhinged rants, stating, “Since we left for break, Trump posted on Truth Social 556 times. Behold, the ramblings of a madman. That is real.” His comments come as Trump continues to dominate headlines with his erratic online behavior.

During the show, Kimmel showcased screenshots of Trump’s posts, particularly focusing on two Christmas addresses. He recounted how Trump, in a festive yet alarming mood on Christmas Eve, threatened to “terminate” Kimmel’s show after making a series of posts criticizing the media. At 12:36 AM, Trump wrote, “If Network NEWSCASTS, and their Late Night Shows, are almost 100% Negative to President Donald J. Trump, shouldn’t their very valuable Broadcast Licenses be terminated? I say, YES!”

Kimmel quipped, “This is the vision of sugar plums that are dancing in his head as he goes to sleep,” mocking Trump’s unsettling messages. He further pointed out Trump’s ominous closing statement: “Enjoy what may be your last Merry Christmas!” Kimmel questioned the intent behind such a remark, suggesting a troubling outlook from the former president.

Just hours earlier on January 5, Trump continued his late-night posting spree, addressing topics including immigration and government corruption. One particular post questioned, “Tell me again, why do we pay tax money to a broken, lying, thieving government?”

This latest episode has sparked widespread conversations about Trump’s mental state and the implications of his words. Kimmel’s biting satire underscores the alarming reality of a former president whose social media activity raises significant concerns.

As the nation navigates these turbulent political waters, all eyes remain on Trump’s ongoing social media presence and its potential ramifications. Kimmel’s critique serves as a reminder of the urgency surrounding Trump’s rhetoric and its impact on public discourse.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and watch for Kimmel’s next take on Trump’s latest musings.

BREAKING: Day 1 of CES 2026 in Las Vegas has kicked off with a flurry of exciting announcements from tech powerhouses like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. While cutting-edge chips and revolutionary AI platforms dominated discussions, the crowd was particularly captivated by Jensen Huang and his delightful robot companions, showcasing the human side of technology.

The annual Consumer Electronics Show, which launched on January 5, 2026, is a pivotal platform for both major corporations and startups to unveil innovative products expected to hit the market this year. This year, the spotlight is firmly on artificial intelligence, with virtually every major announcement tied to AI advancements.

Officials and industry leaders are claiming that AI will serve as the backbone for upcoming consumer technology, aiming to engage a market hungry for smarter, more intuitive devices. The atmosphere is electric as attendees flock to booths, eager to witness the latest in tech innovation.

Latest insights highlight that the industry is not just focused on hardware; companies are diving deep into AI-driven software solutions. From enhanced gaming experiences to smart home integrations, the potential applications seem limitless. This year’s CES is set to redefine consumer expectations as tech firms race to create products that seamlessly integrate AI.

As the event unfolds, AP reporters are on-site, delivering live updates and exclusive insights from the ground. With more announcements expected throughout the week, the tech landscape is poised for significant shifts that could impact consumers and businesses alike.

WHAT’S NEXT: Watch for more updates as companies continue to reveal their latest innovations at CES. Key themes to follow include sustainability in technology and how AI will enhance everyday life, making it a must-see event for tech enthusiasts and industry professionals around the globe.

Stay tuned for continuous coverage as we bring you the latest developments from CES 2026, where the future of technology is being unveiled right before our eyes!