The new year is still fresh, but so much has happened. 2024 was a crazy year, and 2025 might get even crazier. In this article, we’re highlighting what’s going on lately in politics and pop culture. We’re just in March, and so many noteworthy events have already happened.
U.S. Federal Aid Freeze: In January 2025, the Trump administration ordered a comprehensive freeze on federal aid, impacting various programs nationwide. This move faced legal challenges, leading to a temporary block by U.S. Judge Loren AliKhan on January 28, 2025.
Boom Supersonic XB-1 Milestone: On January 29, 2025, the Boom Supersonic XB-1 aircraft successfully broke the sound barrier over the Mojave Desert, marking a significant aviation achievement.
FDA Approval of Non-Opioid Pain Treatment: The FDA approved a novel non-opioid treatment for moderate to severe acute pain on January 30, 2025, aiming to provide alternatives amid the ongoing opioid crisis.
Los Angeles Wildfires: In January 2025, devastating wildfires swept through Los Angeles, severely impacting communities such as Pacific Palisades and Altadena. The fires destroyed numerous homes and businesses, including a McDonald's near Pasadena. Residents faced mandatory evacuations, and significant criticism was directed at local leadership for handling the crisis. In response to the wildfires, the California capital enacted legislation providing $2.5 billion in immediate disaster relief to support response and recovery efforts. Governor Newsom also suspended certain permit and review requirements to expedite the rebuilding process for affected residents. The Travelers Companies, Inc. reported an anticipated insured loss of $1.7 billion due to the California wildfires, significantly affecting their first-quarter profits. Despite this substantial loss, analysts still expect the company to post a profit, though reduced from previous estimates. In the aftermath of the fires, notable figures supported affected residents. Meghan Markle shared a video showcasing donations from Billie Eilish to a family that lost their home, highlighting efforts to provide relief to those impacted by the disaster.
Grammy Awards Highlights: The 2025 Grammy Awards were eventful. Beyoncé made history by winning both Album of the Year and Best Country Album. Kendrick Lamar secured five awards, including Song and Record of the Year, for his track "Not Like Us." The ceremony also featured memorable performances and political statements, notably Shakira's critique of U.S. deportation policies during her acceptance speech.
Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show: Kendrick Lamar headlined the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, marking the first time a solo rap artist led the event. His performance included tracks from his latest album, "GNX," and featured guest appearances by SZA and DJ Mustard. Lamar stood between a divided U.S. flag, visually representing the tension and contradictions in American society. The performance featured a notable line: “This revolution will be televised. You picked the right time, but I'm the wrong guy.”
Dance Blue: On February 24, 2024, the long-awaited DanceBlue dance and fundraiser arrived, and Lafayette students raised $46,089.24. DanceBlue is an annual tradition started at the University of Kentucky (UK) in 2006. The year-round fundraiser accumulates into the 24-hour no-sit, no-sleep dance marathon. All of the money students raise at DanceBlue is donated to the Golden Matrix Fund, a clinic that helps fund and provide care and support for sick children.
Trump Gaza: An artificial intelligence ad posted to President Donald Trump’s social media account late Tuesday shows images of what appears to be decimated Gaza streets and neighborhoods replaced with images of beach hotels, dancing women, and shops selling gold over a pulsating soundtrack. Trump’s proposal to develop Gaza’s Mediterranean coast into a Riviera replete with luxury casinos and resorts has been heavily criticized in the Middle East, as it even depicts Donald Trump as a king.
Despite much going on, we wish everyone a journey with nothing but luck. It’s been a new start, but we hope to have a great year. All we can do is look up.