Chicago-area residents, charities step up LA wildfire relief efforts – NBC Chicago

Protests erupted during the confirmation hearing for Sen. Marco Rubio as he was repeatedly interrupted by protesters, including one shouting in Spanish and others being removed by Capitol Police. Protesters were warned not to disrupt proceedings or face removal from the hearing for at least a year. Rubio, who was nominated to lead the Department of State under the second Trump administration, faced interruptions from protesters wearing Code Pink shirts and anti-Rubio stickers. Full Article

Faiz Shakir, a former campaign manager for Senator Bernie Sanders and progressive Democratic strategist, has entered the race for chairman of the Democratic National Committee, aiming to reshape the party's image as the party of the working class and rebuild public trust. Shakir, known for his work with Sanders and traditional Democratic leaders, highlighted the need for a bolder vision and criticized the current candidates for lacking innovation. The contest, dominated by two state party...

Ali Riley's wedding day was overshadowed by the devastating wildfire that destroyed her childhood home in Pacific Palisades just days before the ceremony, leaving her parents homeless. Despite the loss, the wedding served as an emotional and spiritual refuge for the community, including those who had also lost their homes, bringing joy and hope during a difficult time. The event, though logistically challenging, ultimately provided a sense of resilience and unity, symbolizing the strength and...

Walgreens CEO Tim Wentworth discussed the ongoing struggle with shoplifting at the retailer's stores during a recent earnings call, mentioning creative solutions being implemented. Inventory losses have impacted profits, prompting efforts to address the issue, while other retailers like Walmart and T.J. Maxx are testing new technologies like body cameras and apps to prevent theft. Despite financial struggles and store closures, Walgreens saw a significant stock increase following better-than-expected results, with plans for customer-focused initiatives...

In December, consumer prices rose 0.4 percent from November, with the Consumer Price Index up 2.9 percent from a year earlier, driven by a sharp increase in grocery prices. Core inflation slowed slightly to 3.2 percent, but overall progress in fighting inflation has stalled, leading the Federal Reserve to consider holding interest rates steady amid concerns about President-elect Donald J. Trump's proposed policies impacting the economy. Full Article

The secret to the perfect gift for coffee lovers lies in the perfect brew. From innovative brewing gadgets to indulgent gourmet beans, there are a variety of unique and practical options to enhance their coffee experience. Whether it's a burr grinder for precision grounds or a smart mug for keeping beverages hot, these gifts cater to their love of java. Consider a pour-over coffee maker for a hands-on brewing experience or an electric milk frother...