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September 19, 2025

Trump says TV networks opposed to him should 'maybe' lose licence

of News Article President Donald Trump has suggested revoking TV network licenses following ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel, who made controversial comments about the Charlie Kirk murder suspect. The suspension came after pressure from the administration, including threats of regulatory action from FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who called Kimmel's remarks "the sickest conduct possible." This has sparked significant backlash from fellow late-night hosts, former President Barack Obama, Hollywood figures, and media unions who view it as an attack on free speech, while some conservatives have defended the actions against Kimmel as appropriate consequences for offensive commentary.

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September 19, 2025

US blocks UN call for Gaza ceasefire for sixth time

The United States has vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and hostage release, despite unanimous support from all 14 other council members. U.S. deputy Middle East envoy Morgan Ortagus justified the veto by stating the resolution failed to condemn Hamas or recognize Israel's right to self-defense. The resolution had described Gaza's humanitarian situation as "catastrophic" while calling for Israel to lift aid restrictions. UN members expressed profound disappointment with the U.S. veto, which comes as Gaza faces a worsening humanitarian crisis with thousands fleeing amid ongoing Israeli military operations that have killed over 65,000 Palestinians since October 2023.

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September 19, 2025

US revokes visas of Indian executives over alleged fentanyl trafficking

The US embassy in India has revoked and denied visas for certain Indian business executives and corporate leaders allegedly involved in trafficking fentanyl precursor chemicals. These chemicals are used to produce synthetic opioids that have caused numerous overdose deaths in the US. The embassy announced that individuals connected to companies known for trafficking these precursors, along with their close family members, may be ineligible for US travel and will face heightened scrutiny when applying for visas. This action is part of the Trump administration's efforts to combat dangerous synthetic narcotics, with the embassy expressing gratitude to Indian officials for their cooperation in addressing this shared challenge.

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September 19, 2025

Brendan Carr's emboldened FCC takes on Trump's media foes

ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel's show after he made controversial comments following Charlie Kirk's murder, becoming the latest media personality affected by the Trump administration's campaign against perceived liberal bias. The suspension occurred shortly after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatened action against media companies if they didn't push back against Kimmel, with Nexstar Media and Sinclair quickly suspending the program on their ABC affiliates. This follows a pattern where media companies have settled lawsuits with President Trump, agreed to policy changes, or faced regulatory pressure, including CBS canceling Stephen Colbert's "The Late Show" weeks earlier. The controversy has raised concerns about government pressure on media companies and free speech implications, with even some conservatives expressing misgivings.

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September 18, 2025

Sarah Smith: Trump visit showed UK's warm relations - and limited influence

President Donald Trump's recent state visit to the UK included a banquet at Windsor Castle hosted by the King and Queen, which Trump reportedly considered the highlight of his trip, followed by talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers. During their meeting, the leaders discussed challenging topics like Gaza, Ukraine, and Palestinian statehood, maintaining a warm relationship despite policy disagreements. The carefully orchestrated visit, featuring ceremonial displays including the British Army's Red Devils flying national flags, achieved its diplomatic purpose of strengthening personal connections without resolving fundamental policy differences. According to Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles, while the visit was successful socially, it would not alter US positions on trade, tariffs, or international affairs.

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September 18, 2025

House Republicans Advance Bills to Alter D.C. Crime Laws

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed two controversial bills impacting Washington, D.C.'s local governance: one eliminating the District's Judicial Nomination Commission and transferring judge nomination power directly to the president, and another expanding police discretion for vehicle pursuits beyond the current limitation of violent felony cases only. Both measures passed primarily along party lines, with Republicans arguing the changes are necessary to fill judicial vacancies and improve law enforcement effectiveness, while Democrats warned about potential dangers and defended D.C.'s home rule. These bills join two other recently passed GOP-backed crime measures targeting D.C., collectively representing one of the most significant congressional interventions in the District's governance in years, though their fate in the Senate remains uncertain.

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September 18, 2025

Commanders’ $3.7 Billion Stadium Deal Approved by D.C. Council

The D.C. Council has approved a $3.7 billion development package that will bring the Washington Commanders football team back to the District with a new 65,000-seat stadium at the former RFK Stadium site. Mayor Muriel Bowser described this as "the largest economic development project in D.C. history," which includes over $1 billion in taxpayer funding for infrastructure and amenities. The comprehensive plan extends beyond a stadium to include 6,000 new homes, environmental protections, and community benefits such as rental assistance and small business grants for low-income neighborhoods. Despite some opposition and last-minute tensions, the measure passed with an 11-2 vote, prompting celebration from team officials and long-time fans.

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September 18, 2025

Rep. Glenn Ivey Reintroduces George Floyd Policing Act

Representative Glenn Ivey has reintroduced the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which aims to improve police accountability through measures including racial bias training, banning chokeholds and no-knock warrants, expanding body camera usage, and reforming qualified immunity. Although the bill previously passed the House in 2021, Senate Republicans have blocked its progress, while President Biden enacted some aspects via executive order that were subsequently reversed by President Trump in February 2024. The Floyd family expressed gratitude for the reintroduction, viewing it as a crucial step toward preventing similar tragedies nearly five years after George Floyd's death. Attorney Ben Crump also commended the effort, describing it as a critical measure to address systemic injustice in law enforcement.

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September 18, 2025

The Collins Council Report: RENTAL Act, the Commanders’ Return, and Public Safety Questions

of "The Collins Council Report" The D.C. Council recently reconvened after recess to address several significant legislative matters, including passing the RENTAL Act and the Robert F. Kennedy Campus Redevelopment Act. During their September 17 legislative meeting, council members debated numerous amendments to both acts, with the RENTAL Act passing 10-3 and the RFK Campus Redevelopment Act passing 11-2. Simultaneously, the council has been contending with federal intrusion, as President Trump federalized the Metropolitan Police Department and congressional Republicans advanced legislation threatening D.C.'s local autonomy. The council also approved increased compensation for police officers and began discussions about extending the District's emergency juvenile curfew.

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September 18, 2025

A Black Student Was Found Hanging From a Tree. Police Say There’s No Sign of Foul Play

A 21-year-old Black college student was found hanging from a tree at Delta State University in Mississippi, with campus police stating there were no signs of foul play or ongoing threats. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, local police, and sheriff's deputies are assisting in the death investigation. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump has been retained by the student's family to conduct an independent investigation, while U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson has called for FBI involvement. The incident has stirred online rumors evoking Mississippi's history of racist violence, despite the county coroner's preliminary examination finding no injuries consistent with assault.

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September 18, 2025

Income Inequality Dipped and Fewer People Moved, According to Largest Survey of US Life

The U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey revealed several demographic and economic shifts in the United States from 2023 to 2024. Income inequality decreased nationally by nearly half a percent as median household income rose slightly from $80,002 to $81,604, with significant drops in ten states and Puerto Rico. The country became more demographically diverse with increasing Asian and Hispanic populations, while the non-Hispanic white population declined. Housing costs increased for both homeowners with mortgages and renters, and fewer Americans changed residences compared to previous years, continuing a downward mobility trend that began before the pandemic. Additionally, the survey showed a higher percentage of unmarried individuals and more people with college degrees across the nation.

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September 18, 2025

Racial Abuse of Black Players Spikes Early in European Soccer Season

The early 2024-25 European soccer season has been marked by a concerning surge in racist incidents targeting Black players across multiple leagues, with anti-discrimination campaigners noting incidents have more than doubled compared to the same period last year. Players like Antoine Semenyo, Christopher Antwi-Adjei, Weston McKennie, and Kylian Mbappé have all been victims of racist abuse from spectators in recent matches. Despite numerous initiatives from governing bodies like FIFA and UEFA, racism persists in soccer stadiums and on social media, leading frustrated players to call for tougher penalties against offenders. FIFA's latest response includes forming a 16-member "Players' Voice Panel" featuring soccer legends like George Weah and Didier Drogba to advise on anti-racism initiatives, while experts debate whether the problem stems from broader political trends or from structural issues within soccer itself.

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September 18, 2025

What Is Montessori Education?

The Montessori approach to education emphasizes the critical developmental period from birth to age three, when children's brains develop most rapidly. Montessori Infant & Toddler programs provide much more than basic childcare, offering environments designed by specially trained teachers to foster independence, exploration, and development across all areas. These programs also support families through parent education and group experiences. The American Montessori Society (AMS) identifies five essential components for high-quality Montessori education, with approximately 15% of member schools achieving accreditation status. Additionally, over 500 public schools nationwide now offer Montessori programs as a parent choice option, typically admitting students through lotteries due to high demand.

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September 18, 2025

He Quit a Vogue Job Nobody Quits. Can Edward Enninful Build Something Bigger?

Edward Enninful, after a successful six-year tenure as editor-in-chief of British Vogue, has launched a new media and entertainment business called EE72, featuring a print magazine titled 72. The venture represents Enninful's decision to leave one of fashion's top jobs at age 50 to create something independent and agile, without the constraints of legacy media. Despite challenging times for print publications, Enninful's new magazine notably contains no traditional advertising pages, instead pursuing a business model centered on brand partnerships across digital platforms, print, and events. The inaugural issue features Julia Roberts on the cover, interviewed by George Clooney, and includes diverse content spanning fashion, art, wellness, and design that reflects Enninful's long-standing commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

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September 18, 2025

Trump Administration Boosts HBCU Funding After Cutting Grants for Hispanic-Serving Colleges

The Trump administration is redirecting nearly $500 million in federal funding from various minority-serving programs toward historically Black colleges and tribal colleges. This reallocation represents a 48% funding increase for HBCUs and more than doubles funding for tribal colleges, coming primarily from cuts to Hispanic-serving institution grants and other programs. Education Secretary Linda McMahon justified the change by stating they're moving money away from "ineffective and discriminatory programs" toward those supporting student success. The redistribution also includes $60 million for charter schools and $137 million for American history and civics grants, enabled by a stopgap funding bill that gives the executive branch more authority over spending decisions.

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September 18, 2025

Robert Turner Covington

Robert Turner Covington (1932-2025) was a dedicated pharmacist who graduated from Howard University in 1954 and served in the Navy before establishing a successful career in pharmacy. After meeting and marrying Carrie Smith in the late 1950s, he co-owned Fed Mart Pharmacy from 1967-1977, later opening Bob's Pharmacy in National City, and finally working at Park Blvd Pharmacy until 2009. Throughout his career, Covington was known for his trustworthiness, knowledge, and patient demeanor, while also being actively involved in several organizations including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the Boule, and Fidelity Lodge #10 Prince Hall Masons. He passed away on July 20, 2025, leaving behind his wife Carrie, two sons Ronald and Corey, and numerous family members and friends.

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September 18, 2025

A Look At “In Spite Of” Instead Of “Because Of”

The article discusses the current attacks on civil rights gains for Black Americans, highlighting how collective action is needed to counter these challenges. The author, Dr. John E. Warren, points to historical examples like lunch counter sit-ins as evidence of how Black Americans previously overcame segregation through unified efforts. He urges the community not to rely solely on government programs but to harness their own economic power, educational resources, and voting rights to protect their interests. Warren emphasizes that Black excellence stems from preparation and qualification rather than diversity initiatives, and calls for renewed collective action reminiscent of the civil rights movement.

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September 18, 2025

Rita Darlene Ansley

Rita Darlene (Murry) Ansley, born in 1945 in Houston, lived most of her life in San Diego after relocating there in 1961. A devoted member of the 31st Street Seventh-day Adventist Church, Rita was known for her unwavering faith, evangelism efforts, and compassionate service including feeding the homeless. She was married to Booker Terry Ansley for many years and raised two sons, Patrick and Reginald, while serving as a guiding presence for her siblings and extended family. Rita passed away on August 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy characterized by wisdom, kindness, and spiritual devotion that profoundly impacted her family, church community, and friends.

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September 18, 2025

Sheffield: Detroit Would Fight Back Against Trump Deployment of National Guard

Detroit City Council president and mayoral frontrunner Mary Sheffield stated she would actively oppose any Trump administration attempts to deploy National Guard troops in Detroit, emphasizing this would not address public safety concerns. Her comments came after Vice President J.D. Vance suggested sending National Guard to Detroit to combat crime, despite the city reporting significant crime reductions in recent years. Sheffield highlighted the traumatic history of National Guard deployment during the 1967 Detroit Riots and advocated instead for community violence intervention programs, youth programming, education, mental health, and housing investments. The article notes that Detroit reported 252 homicides in 2023—the lowest number since 1966—though the per capita rate remains higher than in the past.

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September 18, 2025

ABC takes Jimmy Kimmel off air over Charlie Kirk comments

ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show following controversial comments he made about the shooting of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk. During his Monday night monologue, Kimmel claimed the "Maga Gang" was trying to score political points from Kirk's killing, which prompted FCC Chair Brendan Carr to threaten action against Disney and ABC. Shortly after ABC's announcement, President Trump celebrated on social media, incorrectly stating Kimmel's show had been cancelled. The suspension has sparked protests from Kimmel's fans and support from Hollywood figures, with several actors and organizations condemning the decision as an attack on free speech.

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September 18, 2025

US judge orders deportation of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil

A US immigration judge has ordered the deportation of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil to Algeria or Syria, claiming he omitted information from his green card application. Khalil, a 30-year-old permanent US resident who gained prominence during Columbia University's Gaza war protests, was detained for three months by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in March as part of the Trump administration's crackdown on campus antisemitism. His lawyers have announced they will appeal the deportation order and note that existing federal court orders prevent the government from deporting or detaining him. Khalil, who recently became a father while detained, has characterized the deportation effort as political retaliation for his free speech activities supporting Palestine.

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September 18, 2025

Body found in car registered to D4vd identified as missing teen

Authorities have identified decomposing remains found in an impounded Tesla as 15-year-old Celeste Rivas, who had been missing since April 2024. The vehicle, registered to 20-year-old singer D4vd (David Anthony Burke), was discovered at a Hollywood tow yard on September 8 after being abandoned in the Hollywood Hills five days earlier. Police report that the cause and time of death remain unknown, and the body appeared to have been deceased for an extended period. D4vd, known for viral hits like "Here With Me" and "Romantic Homicide," is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

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September 18, 2025

Paper Checks Ending for Federal Benefits on Sept. 30

The federal government will cease issuing paper checks for Social Security, veterans' benefits, tax refunds, and other programs starting September 30, 2023, as mandated by Executive Order 14247. Approximately 5 million Americans, including seniors and people with disabilities, will need to transition to electronic payments through either direct deposit or the Direct Express debit card system. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that this transition will reduce fraud, theft, and payment delays, while critics warn the deadline could create challenges for vulnerable populations. Limited waivers will be available for people over 90, those in remote areas, or individuals with certain disabilities.

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September 17, 2025

Coastal Cleanup Day

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September 17, 2025

DL Booker Day

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September 17, 2025

'Pay attention' - Spirit aircraft warned as it gets too close to Air Force One

A Spirit Airlines flight received urgent warnings from air traffic controllers after flying parallel to Air Force One during President Trump's journey to the UK. The aircraft were eight miles apart, which didn't violate FAA safety regulations but raised sufficient concern for controllers to repeatedly instruct the Spirit pilots to turn away and "pay attention." Spirit Airlines confirmed that Flight 1300 followed proper procedures and landed safely in Boston as scheduled, while the FAA's preliminary investigation verified that required separation between the aircraft was maintained throughout the incident.

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September 17, 2025

Three officers killed in Pennsylvania shooting, with two others critical

A shooting in North Codorus Township, Pennsylvania resulted in the deaths of three police officers and left two others critically injured while they were conducting a follow-up investigation on a domestic-related case. The gunman was fatally shot by police during the incident, which occurred around 2:00 PM local time and briefly forced a nearby school in Spring Grove to shelter in place. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visited the area to meet with families of the slain officers and ordered state flags to be lowered to half-mast in their honor. Officials stated there is no ongoing threat to the public as the investigation continues, with the FBI providing assistance to local and state authorities.

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September 17, 2025

Cracks in the System: D.C. Residents Struggle With Sidewalk Hazards and Delayed Repairs

Washington, D.C.'s deteriorating sidewalks pose significant safety hazards for residents and visitors, with complaints about uneven surfaces, cracked pavement, and tree-root damage across the city's 1,500 miles of walkways. Despite the D.C. Department of Transportation's (DDOT) official repair timeline of 270 days, many sidewalk hazards remain unfixed for over a year, leading to community-led initiatives like Sidewalk Palooza where residents collectively submit repair requests through the 311 system. Critics note that sidewalk maintenance receives less priority than road repairs, disproportionately affecting seniors, disabled residents, and lower-income communities, with noticeable quality disparities between neighborhoods despite a $5 million funding increase approved by the D.C. Council in 2023.

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September 17, 2025

Remembering the Four Little Girls

The article commemorates the 62nd anniversary of the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, which killed four young Black girls: Addie Mae Collins, Dennis McNair, Cynthia Wesley, and Carol Robertson. Alabama Congresswoman Terri Sewell states that this anniversary prompts reflection on civil rights, voting rights, and civil liberties that defined the civil rights movement. Various leaders highlight how the tragic bombing by white supremacists represented a dehumanizing act of violence against Black Americans while also serving as a catalyst for national awareness about racial injustice in America. The article notes that a fifth person, Sara Collins Rudolph (Addie Mae's sister), survived the bombing but lost an eye and bears physical scars from the attack.

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September 17, 2025

Bipartisan bill seeks to reinstate national suicide hotline for LGBTQ+ youth

Senators Tammy Baldwin (D) and Lisa Murkowski (R) introduced a bipartisan bill to restore national emergency suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth that were eliminated by the Trump administration in July. The legislation would modify the Public Health Service Act to reinstate these specialized services and require the Health and Human Services Secretary to maintain them. According to the Trevor Project, over 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth seriously consider suicide annually, and calls to their crisis hotline increased by 700 percent after Trump's 2024 election victory. The 988 hotline, originally established through bipartisan legislation signed by Trump in 2020, has received nearly 1.5 million contacts from young Americans seeking specialized LGBTQ+ services since its launch in July 2022.

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