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Former Special Counsel Jack Smith testified before the House Judiciary Committee, defending his investigations into Donald Trump for retaining classified documents and attempting to overturn the 2020 election results. In the 255-page transcript released on New Year's Eve, Smith asserted that he had developed proof beyond reasonable doubt of Trump's criminal conduct, including willfully retaining classified materials at his social club and obstructing justice. Smith expressed concern that Trump seeks retribution against him and others involved in the prosecutions, noting that he and his staff were fired after Trump returned to office. Both criminal cases ended following Trump's re-election, with Trump having pleaded not guilty to all charges and consistently denying any wrongdoing. # Key Takeaways

A warehouse facility in Highland Park, Michigan, was identified in media reports as a potential site for a new Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing center, prompting concern among local officials and community members. Ashley Capital, the development firm operating the 446,500 square-foot Means Logistics Park building, has clarified that the property is currently leased to DTE Energy and therefore unavailable for such use. Local leaders including Highland Park Mayor Glenda McDonald and State Senator Stephanie Chang have expressed opposition to any ICE facility in their area and have been attempting to contact federal officials for verification. The reports stem from a Washington Post story revealing Trump administration plans to establish 16 detention facilities capable of holding over 80,000 immigrant detainees to accelerate deportations.

President Trump announced he is withdrawing National Guard troops from several Democratic-led cities including Chicago and Los Angeles following a Supreme Court decision that limited his authority to deploy military forces for domestic law enforcement purposes. The Supreme Court ruled in Trump v Illinois that the president lacked the power to send troops into Chicago, prompting the administration to also abandon legal efforts to maintain troop control in California. While hundreds of troops had been deployed to cities like Chicago and Portland, they had not yet begun street patrols due to ongoing legal challenges from state and local officials who argued the deployments were unnecessary and authoritarian. Trump justified the original deployments as necessary for fighting crime and illegal immigration, while critics including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson celebrated the withdrawal as a victory against presidential overreach.

Trump Media and Technology Group, the company operating Donald Trump's Truth Social platform, announced it will distribute a new cryptocurrency token to shareholders, with each shareholder receiving one token per share owned. This initiative represents another crypto venture for the Trump family, which has already generated hundreds of millions of dollars through various digital asset projects, though these ventures have sparked concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The token will be distributed via Crypto.com and operate on the Cronos blockchain, with the company promising future rewards such as discounts on Trump Media products. While Trump Media shares initially rose following the announcement, the company's stock has declined over 60% this year, and the broader cryptocurrency market faces challenges, with Bitcoin heading toward an annual loss and Trump's TRUMP meme-coin losing more than 90% of its value since January.

Five U.S. states will begin restricting what foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits on New Year's Day, prohibiting items such as soda, candy, and energy drinks for program recipients. This initiative, championed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, aims to prevent taxpayer funds from supporting unhealthy food purchases that contribute to chronic diseases. A total of 18 states have requested permission to implement similar restrictions, with additional states planning to roll out bans throughout 2026. Critics argue these changes will create confusion and hardship for the nearly 42 million Americans who depend on SNAP, particularly since the program is already experiencing strain from recent disruptions.

Following a Washington Post report identifying Highland Park as one of 16 potential sites for new federal immigrant processing facilities, local officials and a property developer have pushed back against the claim. Ashley Capital's vice president confirmed that the warehouse building mentioned in the report is already leased to DTE Energy and cannot be used for immigration detention purposes, though it remains unclear how the location ended up on the reported list. Highland Park Mayor Glenda McDonald and State Senator Stephanie Chang have expressed opposition to hosting such a facility and are attempting to get clarification from federal authorities, who have not responded to their inquiries. The controversy comes amid broader concerns about increased immigration enforcement in Michigan communities and follows the recent detention of students from a Detroit high school at a separate ICE facility.

JPMorgan Chase's Houston Community Manager Cheri Green recently conducted a fraud prevention workshop at the Chase Lyons and Lockwood Community Center in Houston's Fifth Ward to address the rising threat of holiday scams. Research shows nearly 40 percent of Black adults in America have been scam targets, with approximately 20 percent suffering financial losses, and senior citizens face heightened vulnerability during the hectic holiday period. The workshop took place at Houston's only Chase community center exclusively dedicated to financial education, which regularly offers free programs throughout the year on various money management topics. The initiative aims to help community members recognize and avoid scams during the holidays when people are distracted by shopping and celebrations, making them easier targets for fraudsters.

President Donald Trump issued his first vetoes since returning to office, rejecting two bipartisan bills that had wide congressional support. One bill, sponsored by Republican Representative Lauren Boebert, would have reduced Colorado communities' costs for a water pipeline project, which Trump deemed economically unviable and harmful to federal repayments. The second bill aimed to assist Florida's Miccosukee tribe with flooding prevention, but Trump accused the tribe of unauthorized development and obstructing immigration policies by opposing the "Alligator Alcatraz" detention facility. Both vetoes have sparked controversy, with Boebert suggesting possible political retaliation and the actions potentially leading to override attempts by Congress in the new year.

California's Assembly Bill 422, authored by Assemblymember Corey Jackson and signed by Governor Newsom, becomes effective January 1st and modifies requirements for the State Seal of Civic Engagement awarded to high school students. The legislation mandates that the Superintendent of Public Instruction propose revised criteria by 2027, which the State Board of Education must act upon by 2028, emphasizing students' understanding of democratic institutions including a free press and library access. While district participation remains voluntary, the program has expanded significantly from 103 schools issuing 5,359 seals in 2020-21 to 345 schools awarding 15,627 seals in 2023-24. The bill, which received unanimous bipartisan support in both legislative chambers, aims to strengthen civic education and combat misinformation among California's youth.

Dr. John E. Warren reflects on the annual tradition of publishing a memorial list of community members who died during the year, framing it not as a somber exercise but as motivation for the living to use their time wisely and purposefully. He urges readers to focus on collective action through voting and economic power, advocating for redirecting the four trillion dollars the community spends annually toward businesses that respect and support them. Warren emphasizes moving from rigid political allegiances to interest-based coalitions and practicing financial discipline by prioritizing needs over immediate wants. The piece concludes with gratitude to the newspaper's supporters and a call to broaden perspectives beyond individual concerns to help others and honor those who have passed. # Key Takeaways

Three West African nations governed by military juntas—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—have announced reciprocal travel restrictions against American citizens following the Trump administration's expanded travel ban. These countries were among several nations placed under complete entry restrictions by the United States, with the policy taking effect January 1st and citing American security concerns. The African governments justified their countermeasures by invoking principles of reciprocity, mutual respect, and sovereign equality, with Mali expressing disappointment about the lack of consultation. These three nations have recently formed their own regional alliance and strengthened ties with Russia after relations deteriorated with Western powers and neighboring West African states. # Key Takeaways

Tatiana Schlossberg, a 35-year-old climate journalist and granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy, has passed away after battling acute myeloid leukemia. She publicly shared her diagnosis in November through a deeply personal essay, revealing she had been given less than a year to live after being diagnosed in May 2024, shortly after giving birth to her second child. Despite undergoing chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, her prognosis remained poor. She leaves behind her husband George Moran, two young children, and a notable legacy as an environmental journalist who authored a book on climate impact and wrote extensively for major publications including The New York Times. # Key Takeaways

Acclaimed actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. has passed away at age 71 following a brief illness in New York, as confirmed by his manager Brian Liebman. The performer gained recognition for portraying a corrupt politician on HBO's The Wire, where he became famous for his distinctive profane catchphrase inspired by his uncle. Throughout his career, he maintained a close creative partnership with filmmaker Spike Lee, appearing in six of the director's movies, and earned additional acclaim for his comedic portrayal of a defense secretary on the political satire Veep. His diverse body of work spanned numerous acclaimed television series and films, establishing him as a respected character actor in Hollywood. # Key Takeaways

Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder turned alleged drug kingpin, has had $40 million worth of motorcycles seized by Mexican authorities in coordinated raids across Mexico City and surrounding areas. The seizures, which included 62 motorcycles (mostly high-end Ducatis), luxury artwork, drugs, and two Olympic gold medals of unknown origin, follow last month's confiscation of a $13 million Mercedes hypercar from Wedding's assets. Currently featured on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list with a $15 million reward, Wedding allegedly built a major narcotics trafficking empire after his 2011 release from federal prison for cocaine distribution. U.S. officials believe he is hiding under the protection of Mexican drug cartels and compare his criminal operations to notorious figures like Pablo Escobar and El Chapo. # Key Takeaways

Richard Smallwood, a 77-year-old gospel music pioneer from Washington, D.C., passed away Tuesday in Maryland from kidney failure complications. The Grammy-nominated artist revolutionized gospel music by blending classical composition with traditional Black church sounds, creating contemporary classics like "Total Praise" and "Center of My Joy" that became staples in churches worldwide. A Howard University graduate and founding member of its Gospel Choir, Smallwood influenced generations of musicians across multiple genres and was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2006. His five-decade career left an enduring legacy through his innovative compositions, teaching, and ministry that bridged faith and entertainment for diverse audiences.

This article chronicles major events in Washington D.C. and the surrounding region throughout 2025, a year marked by significant political turmoil and community resilience. The year began with President Biden signing legislation for the RFK Stadium campus revitalization, followed by President Trump's inauguration and implementation of sweeping policy changes including elimination of DEI programs and pardons for officers involved in civilian deaths. Throughout the year, D.C. residents faced federal government overreach including a 43-day shutdown, removal of Black Lives Matter Plaza, deployment of National Guard troops to city streets, and threats to home rule. Despite these challenges, the community celebrated important milestones including the opening of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, WorldPride festivities marking 50 years of D.C. Pride, the 30th anniversary of the Million Man March, and the Washington Informer's 60th anniversary, while political transitions included Mayor Bowser announcing she would not seek reelection and MPD Chief Pamela Smith's resignation.

Several musicians have withdrawn from scheduled performances at the Kennedy Center following a controversial board decision to rename the historic venue to include President Donald Trump's name alongside President John F. Kennedy's. Jazz ensemble The Cookers, dance company Doug Varone and Dancers, and folk singer Kristy Lee joined earlier cancellations, citing concerns about artistic freedom and the treatment of American history. Kennedy Center president Richard Grenell has responded by characterizing the cancellations as politically motivated stunts by left-wing activists, and has even demanded $1 million in damages from one performer. Legal questions surround the renaming since the center was originally designated by Congress in 1964, with members of the Kennedy family and lawmakers arguing that any official name change requires congressional approval.

Lead contamination in American schools is disproportionately harming Black students across cities like Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee, with exposure causing irreversible learning disabilities and developmental problems. The crisis stems from aging school infrastructure built before lead-based materials were banned in 1978, combined with outdated city water pipes that continue to deliver contaminated water to predominantly Black, underfunded school districts. While wealthier communities can quickly fundraise for filtration systems, low-income Black communities lack these resources and often remain uninformed about the risks their children face daily. Despite federal infrastructure funding intended to replace lead service lines, inconsistent implementation and recent dismantling of CDC prevention programs have left vulnerable communities without adequate protection or accountability. Advocates like Dionna Brown, herself a victim of Flint's water crisis, argue that systemic change requires community-led action, transparent communication from schools, and sustained public attention to address what amounts to ongoing environmental injustice. # Key Takeaways

Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies released its 2025 report revealing a severe housing affordability crisis affecting American families, with existing home sales dropping for the first time in three decades due to rising prices and interest rates. The median home price has surged 60% since 2019 to $412,500, requiring an annual income of $126,700 that only one in seven renter households can afford, while home insurance costs have jumped 57% and property taxes continue climbing nationwide. Black and Latino families face particularly stark challenges, with homeownership gaps remaining stuck at approximately 27 percentage points compared to white families, and last year's data showing 771,480 people experiencing homelessness. Climate-related disasters have driven insurance companies to raise premiums dramatically or exit certain markets entirely, with some homeowners in Miami paying over $11,000 annually for coverage. Congressional Democrats have reintroduced legislation offering $100 billion in down payment assistance to first-generation homebuyers, though potential federal housing budget cuts loom as an additional threat.

In response to an executive order signed in March to dismantle the Department of Education, Black families are increasingly exploring alternatives to traditional public schools due to concerns about inadequate resources, surveillance-heavy environments, and systemic inequities. Many public schools are investing heavily in security measures like metal detectors and resource officers rather than addressing educational needs, prompting parents to seek homeschooling, charter schools, and other options. The author argues that Black communities have historically created their own educational solutions and urges families not to wait for federal guidance but instead to proactively engage with local school boards, build community networks, and create new educational models. With the potential dismantling of the Department of Education looming, parents are encouraged to research available school choice programs immediately and develop grassroots educational alternatives, including microschools, to ensure their children receive quality education regardless of federal policy changes.

On Christmas Eve, a toy distribution event organized by Dr. Carroll took place at Jacob's Center Market Creek, where numerous local families received holiday assistance through a drive-through format due to inclement weather. Various community groups volunteered their time, including Lincoln High School's football team and cheer squad, the Haitian Bridge Alliance, and The Science Fiction Coalition through Light Of the City sponsorship. Despite challenging rainy and windy conditions, volunteers remained committed to serving their neighbors and demonstrating community solidarity. The event showcased how San Diego residents support one another during the holidays, with volunteers emphasizing the importance of helping families in need during the festive season.

The Never Leave One Behind organization (NLOB), led by President Larry Price, conducted its annual Joy to the World Merry Christmas tour, distributing toys, bicycles, and gift cards to various community locations throughout San Diego. The nonprofit, which has operated since 1987, collected donations from supporters including Father Gus and Tom Blake, then delivered them to sites such as St. Stephen's Church of God in Christ and The Robinson Group of Lemon Grove. The organization also provided assistance to homeless individuals and flood victims in Southeast San Diego with clothing, gift cards, and food. Additionally, an anonymous donor pledged to match contributions up to ten thousand dollars for the third annual Johnnie Lee Gibson scholarship fund.

The Friends of Malcolm X Library organized a Kwanzaa celebration on December 27, 2025, at the Malcolm X Library, focusing on the holiday's third day principle of Kujichagulia, which represents self-determination. The afternoon event brought community members together through various cultural activities including poetry performances, musical presentations, arts and crafts, and educational programming. According to the organization's secretary, the celebration aimed to provide attendees with meaningful cultural experiences while demonstrating how library resources can support community members in practicing self-determination in their daily lives. The gathering concluded with a traditional candle-lighting ceremony and a communal meal shared among participants. # Key Takeaways

The Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity hosted their 2025 Holiday Scholarship Ball at the Del Mar Hilton in San Diego, attracting over 300 formally dressed attendees on December 13th. The elegant fundraising gala featured the fraternity's first-ever visit from a sitting General President, Lucien J. Metellus, Jr., who traveled from Baltimore along with other national fraternity officers. The event raised $114,800 through sponsorships, grants, donations, and silent auction proceeds to support the fraternity's "Go-to High-School, Go-to-College" program, which provides tutoring, leadership workshops, college tours, and scholarships to underrepresented students in San Diego County. During the celebration, San Diego Fire-Rescue Chief Robert Logan presented a mayoral proclamation designating January 22, 2026, as "Zeta Sigma Lambda Day" to commemorate the chapter's 1957 founding. # Key Takeaways

Washington D.C. residents and activists are intensifying their push for statehood and home rule protection following President Trump's temporary federal takeover of the city's police department and other actions that diminished local autonomy. Community leaders are developing multiple strategies for 2026, including legislative pressure, grassroots mobilization, and cultural campaigns to raise national awareness about D.C.'s lack of self-governance. Activists emphasize the urgency of building community-based support systems as the district faces anticipated federal budget cuts and continued challenges to its limited autonomy. The movement combines political advocacy with cultural initiatives to transform local issues affecting over 700,000 Washingtonians into a broader national conversation about democratic representation and self-determination.

California Senate Bill 648, authored by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas and signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, takes effect January 1st to combat tip theft affecting service industry workers. The legislation addresses a significant problem where employers illegally withhold gratuities from employees, with studies showing employers steal between $2 billion and $4.6 billion annually from California workers through various wage violations. The new law empowers the state's Labor Commissioner to investigate tip theft cases, issue citations, and pursue civil action against violating employers, closing a previous enforcement gap. Workers can also pursue private legal action with civil penalties ranging from $250 to $1,000 per violation, providing stronger protections for restaurant servers, hotel staff, hairdressers, and other service workers who depend on tips.

Federal investigators are examining childcare facilities in Minnesota following viral allegations by a right-wing content creator claiming Somali-operated centers are fraudulently collecting government funds without actually providing childcare services. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a large-scale investigation into alleged childcare fraud, while state regulators who recently inspected the facilities in question found licensing violations related to safety and operations but no immediate evidence of financial fraud. The probe occurs amid the Trump administration's expanded immigration enforcement targeting Minnesota's substantial Somali community, which the President has publicly criticized. Minnesota's Democratic Governor Tim Walz has accused federal officials of using the investigation as a pretext for targeting immigrant communities rather than genuinely addressing fraud concerns.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States conducted a strike on a dock facility in Venezuela allegedly used for loading drug-trafficking vessels, marking what would be the first known US military operation inside Venezuelan territory if confirmed. According to media reports citing anonymous sources, the CIA carried out the drone strike, though Trump declined to confirm which agency was responsible and provided limited details about the location or timing. This operation represents a significant escalation in the Trump administration's pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the US has designated as leading a "narco-terrorist" organization and whose government has been labeled a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The strike follows approximately 30 US attacks on alleged drug-smuggling boats in international waters since September, which have killed over 100 people, though the US has provided no public evidence that these vessels were actually carrying drugs. # Key Takeaways