everybody's friend. she was a wonderful person who was very caring and put others first. steven matthew forsyth, who was 45 years old and lived in west lynn. he had two children and was a loving husband according to his family and offered, his family offered the statement in part saying he had a great sense of humor and a zest for life. he had a vision and belief in others that brought great joy and value to many lives. dead too soon, just before christmas. back now to our top story this afternoon. that is the escalation of the violence in syria and new concerns that al qaeda loyalists could be gaining the upper hand in the battle for control of that country. this comes as president obama joins the international community in recognizing another rebel group hoping to overthrow the assad regime. listen here.