this is Shades of the Day — bringing you different shades of opinion in news & culture so that you can see the big picture quickly. We believe that seeing multiple POVs is the best way to stay informed.

It’s Tuesday, December 31 — here’s what you’ll find in today’s edition:

• New charges in Liam Payne’s death

• New Year’s Eve in Times Square

• Biden’s legacy dilemma

• 6 quick hits of news from the last 24 hours

New charges in Payne’s death

NBC: In light of Liam Payne's tragic fall at the Casa Sur Palermo Hotel, NBC says authorities are charging five individuals for gross negligence.

WaPo says the five people were not specifically named, but they include the hotel manager, some staff, and Liam's friend -- They face one to five years in prison for “culpable homicide”.

Yahoo supports the charges: The five involved ignored Payne's clear intoxication and vulnerability, leading to his death.

But this redditor questions the decision to charge hotel workers -- what exactly were they supposed to do? Blaming hotel staff just isn't logical, they had nothing to do with it.

Another Redditor says the real blame should come for people who exploited him as a child -- that's where he developed his serious dependency issues!

NYE in Times Square

Spending New Year’s Eve in Times Square is dazzling -- just be prepared for tight security. NBC says there are no specific threats yet, but NYPD faces a “heightened threat environment” due to global tensions.

Either way, Fox 5 says it’s worth it: Times Square’s iconic countdown and stars like Rita Ora and the Jonas Brothers make it a can’t-miss event.

But keep in mind, NBC News shares that watching the ball drop comes with rules: No umbrellas allowed and good luck finding a restroom!

NPR says the grand tradition’s been a part of New Year celebrations for over a century. The ball drop’s now beloved by millions, both present in Times Square or watching from their couches.

Lastly, plan to shell out some cash: NYPost says prime views come with a price tag, and places like the Marriott Marquis offer extravagant ways to enjoy the night.

Biden’s legacy dilemma

NPR: As Biden's presidency wraps up, key issues including immigration and economic inflation loom over his legacy. Can he secure a Democratic successor against Trump's political resurgence?

AJC: Amid these concerns, questions about Biden's health transparency add another layer. Politicians like Fetterman set a high bar for openness that Biden hasn't met yet, which affects public trust.

Federal News Network: Behind the scenes, Biden races against time constraints with legislative choices. This procedural deadline pressure becomes another test of his decision-making.

NY Times: While dealing with these challenges, Biden shows signs of introspection, planning a visit to Pope Francis for solace. This reflects his regrets and a search for guidance.

1) Chinese firms, such as Boviet Solar with its $294M plant in NC, open U.S. sites to sidestep potential tariffs.

2) Chinese state hackers penetrated U.S. Treasury systems using a stolen key from BeyondTrust, causing a major cyber incident.

3) Walmart's new viral sensation, the "Wirkin," is an affordable dupe of the $10k+ Hermès Birkin, offering style on a budget.

4) Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit faces public fallout from son Marius Borg Høiby's arrests, affecting monarchy's trustworthiness.

5) Federal appeals court upholds $5 million defamation verdict in Trump/Carroll case.

6) New UCL research reveals that regular exercise significantly enhances memory and cognitive abilities.