GOP scrapping spending bill with RFK plan

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GOP Scrapping Spending Bill, and RFK Bill With It

President-elect Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and several Republican congresspeople are now opposing the once-bipartisan spending bill lawmakers had agreed on earlier this week. Musk specifically railed against the provision giving D.C. renewed control over RFK stadium. Congress must pass a new budget before Saturday to prevent a government shutdown. [Washington Post 🔒]

DC Council Closes Year With 10+ New Bills

The DC Council wrapped up its 2024 session by passing a flurry of bills that would have expired at the end of the year. Bills include $515 million for renovations at Capital One Arena, apartment soundproofing requirements, and a rehabilitation program for juveniles in D.C.’s justice system. [City Cast DC 🎧]

Rockville High School Addresses Racist Incidents

Wootton High School in Rockville had a public town hall to discuss two recent racist incidents, but media were barred from entering. The first occurred in May, when a 9th grader printed 1,000 pages with a racist slur. In December, a slur was written on a Black student's desk. [ABC7]

Infamous ‘90s Drug Lord Dies

D.C. cocaine kingpin Rayful Edmond has died at the age of 60. Edmond was convicted of running a highly successful cocaine ring in the ‘80s that was largely blamed for D.C.’s sky-high murder rate. He was released on parole a few months ago after 35 years in prison. [NBC4]

Restaurant Bans Patrons Under 30

A Mediterranean restaurant on Capitol Hill, Café 8, is banning patrons under 30 after 8:30 p.m. in an attempt to keep noise and crime down around area. But it is unclear if it’s legal under D.C.’s Human Rights Act. [Washington Post 🔒]

7 Christmas Towns in Virginia That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

Christmas in Virginia is a magical time of year. Nowhere is that truer than in small towns, which seem to come alive with the holiday spirit. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of the best Christmas towns with some of the best Christmas lights in Virginia that promise to enchant residents and visitors alike. So bundle up in your coziest winter jacket and prepare to be absolutely charmed!

1. Williamsburg

Long considered one of the most festive Christmas towns in Virginia, Williamsburg offers endless seasonal activities for all to enjoy. Whether you're fascinated by historic holiday traditions or curious to check out Busch Gardens Christmas Town and its 10 million lights, you'll be positively enchanted by your visit.

2. Fredericksburg

Another historic town in Virginia, Fredericksburg knows how to embrace the holiday magic. Some seasonal events you'll want to check out include the annual Fredericksburg Christmas Market and the holiday parade downtown, which kicks off at the beginning of the holiday season.

3. Richmond

The capital of Virginia sure knows how to celebrate all things holiday-related, and Christmas is no exception! There are so many things to do in Richmond over Christmastime, including the Dominion GardenFest of Lights which are some of the best Christmas lights in Virginia, and the Kings Dominion Winter Fest. Or, simply take a stroll and admire the houses all decked out in lights.

4. Roanoke

Next up on our list is a southwestern Virginia town that never disappoints this time of year. Roanoke offers lots of family-friendly holiday activities, including some of the most magical Christmas light displays in Virginia at Illuminights at Explore Park and the annual Roanoke County Christmas Tree lighting.

5. Alexandria

No list of charming Christmas towns in Virginia is complete without a mention of Alexandria and specifically, Old Town Alexandria. A charming place to explore year-round, this destination is absolutely enchanting during the holiday season. Stop by Market Square to admire the 40-foot tree or enjoy visiting the small businesses selling all kinds of unique gifts.

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