SUMMARY: President Biden signed a bill on Saturday to prevent a government shutdown, following Congress’s late approval of a temporary funding plan. The deal funds the government until March 14 and allocates $100 billion for disaster aid and $10 billion for agricultural assistance. House Speaker Mike Johnson claimed the compromise was favorable for the country, despite former President Trump’s demand for a debt limit increase. The bill passed the House 366-34 and the Senate 85-11. With Republicans holding a slim majority, Johnson’s leadership faces scrutiny, as future debt discussions are set for the new Congress.

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SUMMARY: The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Park Service have approved a plan to prohibit commercial air tours over Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Arizona. The ban, effective in 180 days, will cover the park and a half-mile radius outside its boundary. This decision aims to protect the cultural and spiritual significance of the area to the Navajo Nation. Canyon de Chelly, known for its striking sandstone cliffs and prehistoric rock art, is one of the most visited national monuments. The move is part of broader efforts to regulate air tours at national parks, addressing safety and environmental concerns.

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SUMMARY: Fort Lauderdale has completed a crucial pump project to combat flooding in the River Oaks and Edgewood neighborhoods. The new stormwater systems, inaugurated on Friday, aim to protect properties from future storms following the devastating floods of 2023. The project features two pump stations with six pumps, costing over $10 million and finished 18 months ahead of schedule. Mayor Dean Trantalis highlighted past infrastructure shortcomings and emphasized the necessity of such investments, which are part of a larger $50 million effort to enhance stormwater systems amid climate change concerns. Community representatives expressed ongoing struggles with flooding challenges.

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