Oaklanders often criticize the news media for focusing disproportionately on the horrifying or the scandalous. And let's face it: this is a complicated city with its share of challenges to overcome. At The Oaklandside, we're not immune to overdoing it on the doom and gloom. Yet so much to revel in happens here, too. Triumphs, progress, creation, and joy - thanks in large part to people in the city looking out for their neighbors, holding the powerful accountable, and building on their visions for what the city can be.
The year started out strong, with the National Zoo's new giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao making their public debut in January. Despite the cold temperatures, fans waited outside the gates in anticipation, some donning panda gear in homage to the black-and-white bears. After a grueling 14 months without laying eyes on a panda, we could finally rest easy knowing DC's most beloved residents were back in the mix.
Shutshow: The White House plans to find ways to fund federal law enforcement officers and the WIC program, moves that indicate the administration is settling in for a long shutdown. We're on Day 14. ( Punchbowl News) People serving in the US Coast Guard will also get paid, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said. ( NBC News) Meanwhile, President Trump's
Kirk shooting latest: Authorities continue to search for the person who shot and killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk during an appearance at Utah Valley University Wednesday. Two people taken into custody were released. ( Salt Lake Tribune) Utah Governor Spencer Cox called the shooting an "assassination" and said state officials were working with the feds to find Kirk's killer. ( Deseret News) Authorities are "searching for a new person of interest." ( AP)