Today in Chicago History: Illinois recognizes MLK Day

Israel sent tanks into the West Bank for the first time since 2002, with the military preparing for "an extended stay" to combat terrorism in refugee camps, particularly in Jenin. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered increased military activity to thwart terrorism and prevent the return of residents who have fled the territory, with troops expected to remain for at least a year. This move comes amid a fragile ceasefire...

Germany's opposition conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, won the national election, with the far-right Alternative for Germany coming in second. International reactions included U.S. President Trump praising the result as a victory against the prevailing agenda, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis congratulating Merz as Germany's next chancellor, and Czech Prime Minister Fiala expressing support for German-Czech cooperation. Austrian far-right leader Kickl noted a "gaping hole" in the political system, while Italian Deputy Prime Minister Salvini praised...

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended President Trump's firing of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., stating he was "not the right man for the moment." Hegseth also removed the chief of naval operations and military lawyers, arguing for a fresh approach. Senator Jack Reed criticized the firings as unjustified and a move to make the Defense Department subservient to the president, while Hegseth defended the decisions and emphasized...

President Zelensky of Ukraine expressed willingness to step down for peace, amidst criticism from Trump and Russia, while rejecting a minerals deal proposed by the U.S. He announced a coalition meeting in support of Ukraine's war effort but faces pressure from Trump to sign the deal, which lacks security guarantees and demands $500 billion in repayments, leading to escalating tensions between the two leaders. Full Article

President Trump's rapid pace of executive orders and policy changes has left Democrats and the media struggling to keep up, with Trump's radical transparency and ability to explain his actions keeping voters engaged and on board. Trump's customer relations approach, akin to a moving foreman, includes visiting Fort Knox to reassure Americans about the gold reserve, ensuring a long runway of goodwill as his administration continues to transform America. Full Article

Underreported mold levels, lab shopping, and fear of retaliation among concerned cannabis workers are boiling in Massachusetts' marijuana industry, as the Cannabis Control Commission warns of mold in retail products. Despite no reported illnesses or recalls, labs like ProVerde Laboratories in Milford report significant safety concerns, with over half of samples failing safety criteria. Health risks from moldy marijuana include respiratory issues and allergic reactions, highlighting the need for consumer protection and worker safety in...