January 15th marks the founding of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the first Greek-lettered sorority established by Black American college women. Founded in 1908 at Howard University, AKA has a rich history of service and advocacy.
1. North Texas White Supremacists Ordered to Pay $2.75 Million
A Massachusetts judge has ordered a group of North Texas white supremacists, who are members of the organization Patriot Front, to pay $2.75 million in damages to a Black man they brutally assaulted in Boston in 2022. The victim, Charles Murrell III, endured severe physical and emotional trauma during the attack, which occurred outside a local grocery store. The Anti-Defamation League and Southern Poverty Law Centered called the verdict “a critical component in dismantling the operations of hate groups in the United States”, adding that the judge’s decision sends a strong message against hate crimes and white supremacist violence, holding these individuals accountable for their actions and deterring future acts of hate.
2. Arctic Blast Expected to Bring Plunging Temperatures Next Week
North Texas is bracing for an arctic blast set to arrive this weekend and hold into next week, with forecasters predicting plummeting temperatures and the potential for more icy conditions and snow. While there is no winter storm warning issued, officials are urging residents to prepare for frigid conditions. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly below freezing, with wind chills potentially reaching dangerous levels.
3. Texas Legislature Back in Session: Property Tax Relief Remains Top Priority
The Texas Legislature convened today for the start of the 89th legislative session, with the issues of water supply, power grid, health care and public school workforce shortages, and property taxes around the state being key issues. Private school vouchers are also set to be front and center as the Governor expects newly elected officials to side with him on passing the controversial legislation.
4. Los Angeles Fires Continue to Rage, Mayor Bass Faces Growing Scrutiny
Wildfires continue to rage across Los Angeles County, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes and causing widespread devastation. Mayor Karen Bass has come under increasing scrutiny for the city’s response to the crisis, with critics citing her recent trip to Ghana, insufficient resources, slow response times, and a lack of coordination among agencies. Mayor Bass has defended her administration’s efforts, stating that the city is working tirelessly to contain the fires and assist displaced residents. However, the ongoing crisis has put a significant strain on the city’s resources and highlighted the challenges of addressing the impacts of climate change.
5. Confirmation Hearings for Key Cabinet Positions Continue
The Senate is currently holding confirmation hearings for several key cabinet positions in the incoming Trump administration. Nominees are facing tough questioning from both Democrats and Republicans on a range of issues, including their qualifications, policy positions, and past experiences. These hearings are crucial for determining the direction of the administration’s agenda and ensuring that qualified individuals are appointed to key positions. The confirmation process is often contentious, with nominees facing scrutiny from both sides of the aisle.
