Happening in the World: Iran told the International Atomic Energy Agency that they are planning to accelerate enriching uranium in breach of the deal negotiated in 2015. Iran stated that they plan to build new facilities in bomb-proof underground facilities. This move puts pressure on the incoming Biden administration to negotiate with Iran. Biden previously stated that he would return to the deal if Iran continued abiding by the agreement. (Reuters)

Happening in the US:  The US House of Representatives passed a bill to decriminalize marijuana and expunge nonviolent federal drug offenses relating to marijuana. It currently seems unlikely that the bill will pass the Senate. However, the bill symbolizes growing momentum for federal marijuana legalization, marked by Election Day passage of marijuana legalization bills across the U.S. (NBC News)

Happening in NYC: Mayor de Blasio stated that vaccines are predicted to arrive in New York City by December 15. He stated that the vaccines will first be distributed to healthcare workers and nursing homes, followed by essential workers like firefighters. Vaccine misinformation is a likely challenge. De Blasio also announced a pandemic response institute in midtown to research and prepare responses.  (CBS New York)

Happening in Our Community:  Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway is speaking this Wednesday at Columbia’s World Leaders Forum.  Solberg will be speaking about Norway’s efforts to establish the UN COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund and how the Fund is managed. (Registration here)

Food of the Week: roasted nuts (not on an open fire)

Image Courtesy of Bwog Archives