SUMMARY: President Donald Trump has issued an executive order directing federal agencies to target foreign groups posing threats to U.S. citizens, specifically designating Mexican cartels, the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang, and Salvadoran MS-13 as foreign terrorist organizations. He asserts these cartels present a national security threat, engaging in violence and drug trafficking that destabilizes the Western Hemisphere and impacts the U.S. The order establishes a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, requiring relevant agencies to eliminate these organizations’ presence in the U.S. Trump acts following persistent calls from Texas Governor Greg Abbott and other Republican leaders for such measures.

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SUMMARY: A report by the Florida auditor general’s office revealed multiple issues in Mexico Beach, Florida, including turnover in key management positions, delayed financial reports, and procurement violations. From 2020 to 2024, the city saw multiple firings and resignations among its administrators, with the city administrator position unfilled for 78 days and the accountant role vacant for 495 days. The city’s financial reports were filed late, with the 2020-2021 report 173 days late and the 2021-2022 report 362 days late. Additionally, over $1 million in unbid purchases were found. The city also misclassified a part-time accountant, risking potential tax penalties.

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SUMMARY: A rare winter storm brought significant snowfall to North Carolina beaches on January 21, 2025, covering much of the 301-mile coastline. Snow accumulation was particularly notable, with the National Weather Service reporting up to 8 inches in the Outer Banks and around 5-6 inches in Wilmington. Areas like Hatteras Island received about an inch, while Morehead City measured 5.8 inches. This unusual weather pattern saw heavier snow near the ocean and lesser amounts inland, causing dangerous travel conditions. Nationally, over 2,300 flights were canceled, and snowplows were deployed in Florida, marking the first significant snowfall in New Orleans in over a decade.

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