2025 Top Stories: The Year in Review

As we close the chapter on 2025, it’s time to reflect on the stories that resonated most with our readers. From community triumphs and cultural celebrations to pressing social issues and environmental concerns, this year’s top stories highlight the resilience, creativity, and challenges faced by communities across the nation. Here’s a look at the 20 most-read articles that shaped conversations and inspired action in 2025. Check out 2025 top stories.

1. DC Black Church Initiative Calls for Eleanor Holmes Norton to Step Down

DC Delegate. Image by Logo graphics / Brittanica

The DC Black Church Initiative respectfully urged Eleanor Holmes Norton to step aside after decades of service, advocating for a new generation of leadership while celebrating her remarkable legacy.
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2. Three Michigan Dispensaries Set New Standards in Cannabis Retail

Vive Dispensary, Michigan. Image by https://vivedispo.com/products/apparel/

This feature explored how dispensaries like Vive Cannabis Co., Luxury Loud, and Twisted Bee are redefining cannabis retail with community-focused initiatives and premium products.
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3. Top Issues Faced by the Black Community in 2025

This article delved into critical challenges, including civil rights erosion, educational inequities, and healthcare disparities, urging collective action for systemic change.
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4. Nelly’s Black and White Ball 2025: A Night of Glamour and Giving Back

Nelly’s iconic charity gala returned, raising funds for Make-A-Wish Missouri and scholarships for Harris-Stowe State University students.
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5. Michigan Central Station Reopens After 112 Years

Illuminated facade of Michigan Central Station at night, showcasing its historic architecture and grand reopening after 112 years.
Michigan Central Station reopens after 112 years, a beacon of Detroit’s revitalization and historic preservation.

The reopening of this historic Detroit landmark symbolized the city’s revitalization and commitment to preserving its heritage.
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6. Greek-Inspired Accessories to Shine at Your Next Divine 9 Picnic

Atlanta greek Picnic 2023. Image Instagram

A guide to stylish accessories for Divine 9 events, celebrating heritage and community with lapel pins, necklaces, and more.
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7. 89th St: A Hub for Black-Owned Businesses in East St. Louis

Devon Moody, founder of The 89th Collective, smiling confidently in a professional portrait.
Devon Moody, founder of The 89th Collective, leading a movement for Black-owned businesses in East St. Louis.

The 89th Collective emerged as a beacon for Black entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and economic empowerment in East St. Louis.
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8. Something is Wrong with Lake Itasca, the Source of the Mississippi River

Two women sit on rocks at the headwaters of the Mississippi River, where Lake Itasca begins its journey to the Gulf of Mexico.
Visitors enjoy the serene headwaters of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca, a site rich in history and natural beauty.


Environmental concerns about Lake Itasca’s declining health raised alarms about climate change and its impact on natural landmarks.
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9. Stars and the City: Celebrities Who Live or Were Born in St. Louis

Stylish portrait of Cedric The Entertainer in a blue fedora and tracksuit jacket, exuding confidence and charm. Image courtesy The Comedy Store.

This piece celebrated St. Louis-born stars like Nelly and Cedric the Entertainer, highlighting their philanthropic efforts.
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10. Understanding the New Home Care Eligibility Rules in Missouri

An informative graphic about Missouri's updated home care eligibility rules, highlighting expanded access for seniors and disabled adults.
Missouri’s new home care rules aim to provide better access to in-home and community-based services for those in need.

A breakdown of Missouri’s updated home care regulations, aimed at expanding access for seniors and disabled adults.
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11. State Rep. Kimberly Ann Collins’ STL Christmas Extravaganza Serves 2,000 Families

A heartwarming event that brought holiday cheer to thousands of families in St. Louis.
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12. MN Paid Family Leave: A New Era for Families

Governor Walz speaking about MN Paid Family Leave and its benefits for families in the Twin Cities.
Governor Walz announces the launch of MN Paid Family Leave, ensuring job-protected paid leave for families across Minnesota. Image credit: Shutterstock.

Minnesota’s groundbreaking paid family leave program launched, offering stability for families across the state.
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13. Highly Toxic Hemlock Spreads Across the Midwest

A warning about the spread of poison hemlock and its impact on public health and agriculture.
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14. Will County Joliet IL: Norovirus Outbreak and Community News

Microscopic view of green virus particles, representing the norovirus outbreak in Will County Joliet IL.
Norovirus outbreak in Will County Joliet IL disrupts schools, highlighting public health concerns. Image courtesy of CDC.

A look at how a public health crisis disrupted schools and highlighted community resilience.
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15. Federal Immigration Enforcement and Property Tax Hikes in Chicago

Suburban house with a "Property Tax Increase" sign, Chicago skyline in the background, and a calendar showing December 15 as the due date.
A suburban home with a “Property Tax Increase” sign, set against the Chicago skyline, highlights the impact of rising taxes.

Exploring the challenges of rising taxes and federal policies impacting Chicago communities.
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16. The City of St. Louis Faces Challenges with City Services

A split image of a smiling woman with glasses and a bow-tied top next to a nighttime St. Louis cityscape featuring the Gateway Arch.
Megan Green, President Board of Alderman, St. Louis , MO.

A deep dive into the city’s struggles with population decline and underfunded infrastructure.
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17. The Best States for Black People in 2025

A guide to the most promising states for Black Americans seeking opportunity and community.
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18. Social Issues Affecting Detroit’s African American Community

An exploration of economic, educational, and healthcare challenges in Detroit.
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19. Rene Knott Launches The Rundown Podcast

Rene Knott hosting The Rundown with Rene Knott, a podcast celebrating St. Louis stories and culture, seated on a leather sofa.
Rene Knott launches The Rundown, a podcast spotlighting St. Louis stories and culture.

A celebration of St. Louis stories and culture through Rene Knott’s new podcast.
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20. SSM Health Faces Backlash Over Cardinal Glennon Goals

Red Christmas stocking filled with coal, symbolizing SSM Health’s $74M minority participation gap, against a cobblestone street background.
A red Christmas stocking filled with coal symbolizes SSM Health’s $74M shortfall in minority participation goals for the Cardinal Glennon project.

A controversy over unmet diversity goals in a major St. Louis healthcare project.
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Looking Ahead to 2026

These stories reflect the triumphs, challenges, and conversations that defined 2025. As we step into 2026, we remain committed to amplifying voices, celebrating communities, and addressing the issues that matter most. Thank you for being part of our journey—here’s to another year of impactful storytelling!

#2025TopStories #CommunityHighlights #CulturalMilestones

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