::THE SLICE REPORT WITH MONA AUSTIN

  The U.S. Postal Service is honoring Phillis Wheatley (1753-1784), the first author of African descent in the American Colonies to publish a book, with the 49th stamp in the Black Heritage series. Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at 11 a.m. EST Where: Old South Meeting House 310 Washington St. Boston, MA 02108 The first-day-of-issue event for the Phillis Wheatley Black Heritage stamp is free and open to the public. The event is free and open to the public.   Attendees are encouraged to register at  https://www.usps.com/philliswheatleystamp WHO IS PHYLLIS WHEATLEY Born in West Africa and brought to Boston on a slave ship, Phillis Wheatley was enslaved but educated in the Wheatley household. Wheatley published her first collection, "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral," in 1773. This collection showcased her impressive mastery of various poetic forms, including hymns, elegies, and narrative verse, securing her place in history. Freed from slavery that same year, sh...

For over 50 years of her 85 years of life, R&B and Soul music legend Candi Staton has been a successful recording artist. From "Young Hearts" to "Victims" she has delivered heartful hits and never won a Grammy. Her 32nd album, "Back to My Roots" has been nominated in the Best Gospel Roots category after 40 years. The album consists of 12 tracks with the artist dusting off spiritual and inspirational classics along with some notable assists and originals.   “I’m so surprised ,” says Staton. “I know  it’s  a  cliché  but  it’s   always nice just to be  nominated. I was nominated  before and a couple of times I was always up against Aretha Franklin who I  love  but  I  had  no chance of winning  against her . She just  dominated in  that   era.  I’m   proud   o f this album and  at this stage of my life,  I  hope  I can finally bring one home before I leave th...

The United States has carried out an operation involving the Maduro regime in Venezuela. Nicolás Maduro and his wife were reportedly taken into custody on allegations related to narco‑terrorism operations and are expected to be transported to New York for legal proceedings. Officials stated that Maduro was considered an illegitimate leader who came to power unfairly, and that intervention was necessary. At a press conference in Palm Springs, questions were raised about the overnight operation conducted by joint U.S. military forces. Officials said the United States would temporarily oversee aspects of Venezuela’s governance and oil industry, with some proceeds intended for reinvestment in the country and some designated as repayment to the United States. Secretary of State Marco Rubio appeared alongside other officials and emphasized the element of surprise in the operation, describing the administration as action‑oriented. Officials stated that the United States would assist in stabil...

  South Carolina health officials are reporting a growing measles outbreak in the northwest part of the state, including Greenville and Spartanburg counties. The Department of Public Health says there are now 185 confirmed measles cases, up nine cases since Tuesday. The vast majority of those infected—172 people—were unvaccinated. Four were partially vaccinated, one was fully vaccinated, and several cases are still under investigation. Most of the cases are in children ages five to 17, followed by children under five years old. Health officials say 223 people are currently in quarantine, with three in isolation. Quarantines could last through January 24. Doctors and public health leaders are urging parents to check vaccination records and to contact a healthcare provider immediately if symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, or rash appear.

Official 2025 White House gingerbread cake Melania Trump's Presa Director Nick Clemmons And Press Aid Olivia Wales. Scene from the East Room   Mirror in the East Room Giant jack featured in the game room garlanf White Chriatmas lillies and velvet wrapped presents under the tree. By Mona Austin  On the first of December, First Lady  Melania Trump revealed the first White House  Christmas decorations of  her husband's second term. The Slice News went inside for a tour before the residence was open to the public  looking specifically for the "wow factor."  Contained on one floor due to White House renovations it was the shortest tour yet.  The set up was a mix of classic charm and  contempary innovation.  Following the theme "Home Is Where the Heart Is" Creative Director Herve Leger kept jdeas inside of the box maintaining a traditional  feel.  The highly scrutinized dramatic elements of the past were left out and replaced with st...

  REPORT: The Cost of Energy Rose in 2025. Here Is What You Should Know About Why... Why Energy Bills Are Rising in 2025 A report released by Climate Power indicates a 13% increase in the cost if energy in 2025. The reason fir the uptick is a reflection of a convergence of policy shifts, market pressures, and infrastructure challenges that have intensified since President Donald Trump returned to office. In a nutshell market watchers are uncertain. Climate Power’s findings are already fueling debate over whether current energy policies are benefiting consumers or utilities. Critics argue the increases undermine promises of “energy dominance” translating into lower household costs, while supporters blame global market forces and inflation. For many households—especially low-income and fixed-income families—the rising energy burden is becoming a kitchen-table economic issue, with implications heading into the next election cycle. While the national average increase is 13%, the impa...

In honor of America turning 250, The Slice News is offering two and a half centuries worth of history in an 16 week series. To promote learning and  academic debate the information is presented as flashes of facts that can be explored. Many of the facts pertain to the contributions of foundationl Black Americans' contribution to American society as well as some details about and the world that have hidden, ommitted and altreed knowledgebeen  It is our intention to educate, empower and help heal the hurt of racism that lingers from the past.   History Class Is In Session As the nation begins its countdown to America’s 250th birthday, this moment offers an opportunity not just to celebrate the country’s past, but to reflect honestly on who built it, shaped it, and expanded its promise. Blacks Paving America at 250 and Beyond is a new historical series dedicated to illuminating the undeniable role African Americans have played in defining the contours of the United Sta...