JQJO — Your world, one story at a time · Page 1063

Washington — President Donald Trump told the nation on Wednesday that tariffs and passed legislation have driven investment and economic growth, and announced a $1,776 'Warrior Dividend' payment to about 1.45 million service members before Christmas. The Pentagon later confirmed the one-time payment will be distributed as a housing allowance supplement to eligible active-duty personnel and certain reservists; roughly $2.6 billion will cover the cost. Multiple outlets reported Trump credited tariffs and a tax bill for the funds, while senior defense officials said the payout stems from congressionally approved housing supplement provisions. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Washington U.S. forces launched airstrikes in central Syria Friday targeting Islamic State fighters infrastructure and weapons sites after a Dec. 13 ambush killed two Iowa National Guard members and a U.S. civilian interpreter. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Operation Hawkeye Strike on social media calling it a declaration of vengeance and saying it did not mark the start of a new war. U.S. and allied aircraft including F-15s A-10s AH-64 Apaches and F-16s plus HIMARS systems struck multiple locations across central Syria. President Trump pledged retaliation and officials said strikes could follow. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

United States: Local officials and meteorologists reported varied winter conditions across multiple regions this week. In Los Angeles on Dec. 12 Councilmember Heather Hutt staged a faux-snow event that drew more than 2,000 residents. Detroit faced a cold front with gusts above 40 mph and gale warnings on Lakes Huron and Erie. AccuWeather forecasts placed Syracuse’s white-Christmas odds near 60%, and Western New York above 80%. Monarch Mountain reported about 50 inches of snow and used snow-farming to maintain terrain. Denver and Washington, D.C., expect unseasonably warm temperatures on Christmas. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research sources today.

United States — High winds and storm systems swept parts of the country this week, prompting warnings, disruptions and measures. Meteorological agencies and utility companies issued high wind warnings and watches from the Plains to the Northeast, forecasting gusts ranging from 30 to over 70 mph in exposed areas. Transit services and ferries canceled or warned of delays, state transportation agencies restricted high-profile vehicles, and fire departments issued bans amid dry conditions. Utilities activated storm response teams and urged outage enrollment. Snow and rain accompanied mountain impacts, with winter storm warnings for elevations. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Washington, President Trump signed an executive order Thursday that reclassifies marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, directing the Justice Department and DEA to implement the change and opening federal avenues for medical research, potential tax adjustments for licensed businesses, and expanded banking access; states retain their own marijuana laws. Officials said the order acknowledges medical use but does not legalize recreational use nationwide. Industry groups, veteran advocates and state regulators responded this week with statements on anticipated impacts and next steps as federal agencies begin review, and congressional oversight reviews continue. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Washington — The U.S. Justice Department admitted Wednesday that the Federal Aviation Administration and the Army played roles in the Jan. 29 midair collision that killed 67 people near Reagan National Airport. Court filings in a lawsuit filed by a victim’s family said an FAA air traffic controller failed to follow procedures and Army helicopter pilots did not maintain vigilance, and also named American Airlines and partner PSA as defendants. At least 28 bodies were recovered from the Potomac. The admission allows families to pursue damages and could prompt regulatory and legislative reviews. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Washington: The US House of Representatives on Dec. 18 approved a bill that would criminalize gender-affirming medical treatments for minors, including surgeries and some hormonal interventions. Sponsored by Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the measure passed 216–211 and now moves to the Senate, where its prospects are uncertain. The text classifies certain procedures as "genital or bodily mutilation" and would impose penalties up to ten years' imprisonment. Three Democrats joined supporters; four Republicans opposed the bill. Civil rights groups described the legislation as extreme. The House action follows state-level bans and debate. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.